Impact of a process improvement program in a production software environment: Are we any better?

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Heller, Gerard H.; Page, Gerald T.

1990-01-01

For the past 15 years, Computer Sciences Corporation (CSC) has participated in a process improvement program as a member of the Software Engineering Laboratory (SEL), which is sponsored by GSFC. The benefits CSC has derived from involvement in this program are analyzed. In the environment studied, it shows that improvements were indeed achieved, as evidenced by a decrease in error rates and costs over a period in which both the size and the complexity of the developed systems increased substantially. The principles and mechanics of the process improvement program, the lessons CSC has learned, and how CSC has capitalized on these lessons are also discussed.

21 CFR 882.5870 - Implanted peripheral nerve stimulator for pain relief.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Implanted peripheral nerve stimulator for pain....5870 Implanted peripheral nerve stimulator for pain relief. (a) Identification. An implanted peripheral nerve stimulator for pain relief is a device that is used to stimulate electrically a peripheral nerve...

21 CFR 876.5870 - Sorbent hemoperfusion system.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... system. (a) Identification. A sorbent hemoperfusion system is a device that consists of an extracorporeal blood system similar to that identified in the hemodialysis system and accessories (§ 876.5820) and a... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Sorbent hemoperfusion system. 876.5870 Section 876...

Ada Compiler Validation Summary Report: Certificate Number: 900121S1. 10251 Computer Sciences Corporation MC Ada V1.2.Beta/Concurrent Computer Corporation Concurrent/Masscomp 5600 Host To Concurrent/Masscomp 5600 (Dual 68020 Processor Configuration) Target

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-04-23

developed Ada Real - Time Operating System (ARTOS) for bare machine environments(Target), ACW 1.1I0. " ; - -M.UIECTTERMS Ada programming language, Ada...configuration) Operating System: CSC developed Ada Real - Time Operating System (ARTOS) for bare machine environments Memory Size: 4MB 2.2...Test Method Testing of the MC Ado V1.2.beta/ Concurrent Computer Corporation compiler and the CSC developed Ada Real - Time Operating System (ARTOS) for

Four-Year Summary, Educational and Commercial Utilization of a Chemical Information Center, Part II.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schipma, Peter B., Ed.

The major objective of the Illinois Institute of Technology Retrieval Institute (IITRI) Computer Search Center (CSC) is to educate and link industry, academia, and government institutions to chemical and other scientific information systems and sources. The CSC is in full operation providing services to users from a variety of machine-readable…

Four-Year Summary, Educational and Commercial Utilization of a Chemical Information Center. Part I.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schipma, Peter B., Ed.

The major objective of the Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT) Computer Search Center (CSC) is to educate and link industry, academia, and government institutions to chemical and other scientific information systems and sources. The CSC is in full operation providing services to users from a variety of machine-readable data bases with minimal…

The neural and computational bases of semantic cognition.

PubMed

Ralph, Matthew A Lambon; Jefferies, Elizabeth; Patterson, Karalyn; Rogers, Timothy T

2017-01-01

Semantic cognition refers to our ability to use, manipulate and generalize knowledge that is acquired over the lifespan to support innumerable verbal and non-verbal behaviours. This Review summarizes key findings and issues arising from a decade of research into the neurocognitive and neurocomputational underpinnings of this ability, leading to a new framework that we term controlled semantic cognition (CSC). CSC offers solutions to long-standing queries in philosophy and cognitive science, and yields a convergent framework for understanding the neural and computational bases of healthy semantic cognition and its dysfunction in brain disorders.

Communications among elements of a space construction ensemble

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Davis, Randal L.; Grasso, Christopher A.

1989-01-01

Space construction projects will require careful coordination between managers, designers, manufacturers, operators, astronauts, and robots with large volumes of information of varying resolution, timeliness, and accuracy flowing between the distributed participants over computer communications networks. Within the CSC Operations Branch, we are researching the requirements and options for such communications. Based on our work to date, we feel that communications standards being developed by the International Standards Organization, the CCITT, and other groups can be applied to space construction. We are currently studying in depth how such standards can be used to communicate with robots and automated construction equipment used in a space project. Specifically, we are looking at how the Manufacturing Automation Protocol (MAP) and the Manufacturing Message Specification (MMS), which tie together computers and machines in automated factories, might be applied to space construction projects. Together with our CSC industrial partner Computer Technology Associates, we are developing a MAP/MMS companion standard for space construction and we will produce software to allow the MAP/MMS protocol to be used in our CSC operations testbed.

Dual-Band Operation of a Microstrip Patch Antenna on a Duroid 5870 Substrate for Ku- and K-Bands

PubMed Central

Islam, M. M.; Islam, M. T.; Faruque, M. R. I.

2013-01-01

The dual-band operation of a microstrip patch antenna on a Duroid 5870 substrate for Ku- and K-bands is presented. The fabrication of the proposed antenna is performed with slots and a Duroid 5870 dielectric substrate and is excited by a 50 Ω microstrip transmission line. A high-frequency structural simulator (HFSS) is used which is based on the finite element method (FEM) in this research. The measured impedance bandwidth (2 : 1 VSWR) achieved is 1.07 GHz (15.93 GHz–14.86 GHz) on the lower band and 0.94 GHz (20.67–19.73 GHz) on the upper band. A stable omnidirectional radiation pattern is observed in the operating frequency band. The proposed prototype antenna behavior is discussed in terms of the comparisons of the measured and simulated results. PMID:24385878

Dual-band operation of a microstrip patch antenna on a Duroid 5870 substrate for Ku- and K-bands.

PubMed

Islam, M M; Islam, M T; Faruque, M R I

2013-01-01

The dual-band operation of a microstrip patch antenna on a Duroid 5870 substrate for Ku- and K-bands is presented. The fabrication of the proposed antenna is performed with slots and a Duroid 5870 dielectric substrate and is excited by a 50 Ω microstrip transmission line. A high-frequency structural simulator (HFSS) is used which is based on the finite element method (FEM) in this research. The measured impedance bandwidth (2 : 1 VSWR) achieved is 1.07 GHz (15.93 GHz-14.86 GHz) on the lower band and 0.94 GHz (20.67-19.73 GHz) on the upper band. A stable omnidirectional radiation pattern is observed in the operating frequency band. The proposed prototype antenna behavior is discussed in terms of the comparisons of the measured and simulated results.

Combinatorial Algorithms to Enable Computational Science and Engineering: Work from the CSCAPES Institute

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

Boman, Erik G.; Catalyurek, Umit V.; Chevalier, Cedric

2015-01-16

This final progress report summarizes the work accomplished at the Combinatorial Scientific Computing and Petascale Simulations Institute. We developed Zoltan, a parallel mesh partitioning library that made use of accurate hypergraph models to provide load balancing in mesh-based computations. We developed several graph coloring algorithms for computing Jacobian and Hessian matrices and organized them into a software package called ColPack. We developed parallel algorithms for graph coloring and graph matching problems, and also designed multi-scale graph algorithms. Three PhD students graduated, six more are continuing their PhD studies, and four postdoctoral scholars were advised. Six of these students and Fellowsmore » have joined DOE Labs (Sandia, Berkeley), as staff scientists or as postdoctoral scientists. We also organized the SIAM Workshop on Combinatorial Scientific Computing (CSC) in 2007, 2009, and 2011 to continue to foster the CSC community.« less

[Key effect genes responding to nerve injury identified by gene ontology and computer pattern recognition].

PubMed

Pan, Qian; Peng, Jin; Zhou, Xue; Yang, Hao; Zhang, Wei

2012-07-01

In order to screen out important genes from large gene data of gene microarray after nerve injury, we combine gene ontology (GO) method and computer pattern recognition technology to find key genes responding to nerve injury, and then verify one of these screened-out genes. Data mining and gene ontology analysis of gene chip data GSE26350 was carried out through MATLAB software. Cd44 was selected from screened-out key gene molecular spectrum by comparing genes' different GO terms and positions on score map of principal component. Function interferences were employed to influence the normal binding of Cd44 and one of its ligands, chondroitin sulfate C (CSC), to observe neurite extension. Gene ontology analysis showed that the first genes on score map (marked by red *) mainly distributed in molecular transducer activity, receptor activity, protein binding et al molecular function GO terms. Cd44 is one of six effector protein genes, and attracted us with its function diversity. After adding different reagents into the medium to interfere the normal binding of CSC and Cd44, varying-degree remissions of CSC's inhibition on neurite extension were observed. CSC can inhibit neurite extension through binding Cd44 on the neuron membrane. This verifies that important genes in given physiological processes can be identified by gene ontology analysis of gene chip data.

75 FR 24748 - Notice of Determinations Regarding Eligibility To Apply for Worker Adjustment Assistance

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-05-05

..., 2008. TA-W-71,598: Computer Sciences Corporation (CSC), Financial Services Group--Life Business, Irving..., PA. TA-W-71,672: BBDO Detroit, Leased Workers from New Dimensions and Computer Aid, Inc., Troy, MI...

Design of WLAN microstrip antenna for 5.17 - 5.835 GHz

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bugaj, Jarosław; Bugaj, Marek; Wnuk, Marian

2017-04-01

This paper presents the project of miniaturized WLAN Antenna made in microstrip technique working at a frequency of 5.17 - 5.835 GHz in 802.11ac IEEE standard. This dual layer antenna is designed on RT/duroid 5870 ROGERS CORPORATION substrate with dielectric constant 2.33 and thickness of 3.175 mm. The antenna parameters such as return loss, VSWR, gain and directivity are simulated and optimized using commercial computer simulation technology microwave studio (CST MWS). The paper presents the results of discussed numerical analysis.

Measuring the Computer-Related Self-Concept

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Langheinrich, Jessica; Schönfelder, Mona; Bogner, Franz X.

2016-01-01

A positive self-concept supposedly affects a student's well-being as well as his or her perception of individual competence at school. As computer-based learning is becoming increasingly important in school, a positive computer-related self-concept (CSC) might help to enhance cognitive achievement. Consequently, we focused on establishing a short,…

75 FR 7582 - Access by EPA Contractors to Information Claimed as Confidential Business Information (CBI...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-02-22

... subcontractor, Computer Sciences Corporation (CSC), of the same address, provide IT support services related to... Vista Computer Services, under Contract Number 68-W3-0032. From October 1, 1998 until March 31, 2004, the contractor was Vista Computer Services, under Contract Number 68-W-98-230. From April 1, 2004...

75 FR 55739 - Export Trade Certificate of Review

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-09-14

... Carlyle Group, Washington, DC; Computer Sciences Corporation (CSC) moved from El Segundo, CA, to Falls... Niles, OH, to Pittsburgh, PA; Science Applications International Corporation has moved from San Diego...

Provision of Information to the Research Staff.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Williams, Martha E.

The Information Sciences section at Illinois Institute of Technology Research Institute (IITRI) is now operating a Computer Search Center (CSC) for handling numerous machine-readable data bases. The computer programs are generalized in the sense that they will handle any incoming data base. This is accomplished by means of a preprocessor system…

Chipster: user-friendly analysis software for microarray and other high-throughput data.

PubMed

Kallio, M Aleksi; Tuimala, Jarno T; Hupponen, Taavi; Klemelä, Petri; Gentile, Massimiliano; Scheinin, Ilari; Koski, Mikko; Käki, Janne; Korpelainen, Eija I

2011-10-14

The growth of high-throughput technologies such as microarrays and next generation sequencing has been accompanied by active research in data analysis methodology, producing new analysis methods at a rapid pace. While most of the newly developed methods are freely available, their use requires substantial computational skills. In order to enable non-programming biologists to benefit from the method development in a timely manner, we have created the Chipster software. Chipster (http://chipster.csc.fi/) brings a powerful collection of data analysis methods within the reach of bioscientists via its intuitive graphical user interface. Users can analyze and integrate different data types such as gene expression, miRNA and aCGH. The analysis functionality is complemented with rich interactive visualizations, allowing users to select datapoints and create new gene lists based on these selections. Importantly, users can save the performed analysis steps as reusable, automatic workflows, which can also be shared with other users. Being a versatile and easily extendable platform, Chipster can be used for microarray, proteomics and sequencing data. In this article we describe its comprehensive collection of analysis and visualization tools for microarray data using three case studies. Chipster is a user-friendly analysis software for high-throughput data. Its intuitive graphical user interface enables biologists to access a powerful collection of data analysis and integration tools, and to visualize data interactively. Users can collaborate by sharing analysis sessions and workflows. Chipster is open source, and the server installation package is freely available.

Chipster: user-friendly analysis software for microarray and other high-throughput data

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background The growth of high-throughput technologies such as microarrays and next generation sequencing has been accompanied by active research in data analysis methodology, producing new analysis methods at a rapid pace. While most of the newly developed methods are freely available, their use requires substantial computational skills. In order to enable non-programming biologists to benefit from the method development in a timely manner, we have created the Chipster software. Results Chipster (http://chipster.csc.fi/) brings a powerful collection of data analysis methods within the reach of bioscientists via its intuitive graphical user interface. Users can analyze and integrate different data types such as gene expression, miRNA and aCGH. The analysis functionality is complemented with rich interactive visualizations, allowing users to select datapoints and create new gene lists based on these selections. Importantly, users can save the performed analysis steps as reusable, automatic workflows, which can also be shared with other users. Being a versatile and easily extendable platform, Chipster can be used for microarray, proteomics and sequencing data. In this article we describe its comprehensive collection of analysis and visualization tools for microarray data using three case studies. Conclusions Chipster is a user-friendly analysis software for high-throughput data. Its intuitive graphical user interface enables biologists to access a powerful collection of data analysis and integration tools, and to visualize data interactively. Users can collaborate by sharing analysis sessions and workflows. Chipster is open source, and the server installation package is freely available. PMID:21999641

Maximizing reuse: Applying common sense and discipline

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Waligora, Sharon; Langston, James

1992-01-01

Computer Sciences Corporation (CSC)/System Sciences Division (SSD) has maintained a long-term relationship with NASA/Goddard, providing satellite mission ground-support software and services for 23 years. As a partner in the Software Engineering Laboratory (SEL) since 1976, CSC has worked closely with NASA/Goddard to improve the software engineering process. This paper examines the evolution of reuse programs in this uniquely stable environment and formulates certain recommendations for developing reuse programs as a business strategy and as an integral part of production. It focuses on the management strategy and philosophy that have helped make reuse successful in this environment.

Multiplication free neural network for cancer stem cell detection in H-and-E stained liver images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Badawi, Diaa; Akhan, Ece; Mallah, Ma'en; Üner, Ayşegül; ćetin-Atalay, Rengül; ćetin, A. Enis

2017-05-01

Markers such as CD13 and CD133 have been used to identify Cancer Stem Cells (CSC) in various tissue images. It is highly likely that CSC nuclei appear as brown in CD13 stained liver tissue images. We observe that there is a high correlation between the ratio of brown to blue colored nuclei in CD13 images and the ratio between the dark blue to blue colored nuclei in H&E stained liver images. Therefore, we recommend that a pathologist observing many dark blue nuclei in an H&E stained tissue image may also order CD13 staining to estimate the CSC ratio. In this paper, we describe a computer vision method based on a neural network estimating the ratio of dark blue to blue colored nuclei in an H&E stained liver tissue image. The neural network structure is based on a multiplication free operator using only additions and sign operations. Experimental results are presented.

Pancreatic cancer stem cell markers and exosomes - the incentive push

PubMed Central

Heiler, Sarah; Wang, Zhe; Zöller, Margot

2016-01-01

Pancreatic cancer (PaCa) has the highest death rate and incidence is increasing. Poor prognosis is due to late diagnosis and early metastatic spread, which is ascribed to a minor population of so called cancer stem cells (CSC) within the mass of the primary tumor. CSC are defined by biological features, which they share with adult stem cells like longevity, rare cell division, the capacity for self renewal, differentiation, drug resistance and the requirement for a niche. CSC can also be identified by sets of markers, which for pancreatic CSC (Pa-CSC) include CD44v6, c-Met, Tspan8, alpha6beta4, CXCR4, CD133, EpCAM and claudin7. The functional relevance of CSC markers is still disputed. We hypothesize that Pa-CSC markers play a decisive role in tumor progression. This is fostered by the location in glycolipid-enriched membrane domains, which function as signaling platform and support connectivity of the individual Pa-CSC markers. Outside-in signaling supports apoptosis resistance, stem cell gene expression and tumor suppressor gene repression as well as miRNA transcription and silencing. Pa-CSC markers also contribute to motility and invasiveness. By ligand binding host cells are triggered towards creating a milieu supporting Pa-CSC maintenance. Furthermore, CSC markers contribute to the generation, loading and delivery of exosomes, whereby CSC gain the capacity for a cell-cell contact independent crosstalk with the host and neighboring non-CSC. This allows Pa-CSC exosomes (TEX) to reprogram neighboring non-CSC towards epithelial mesenchymal transition and to stimulate host cells towards preparing a niche for metastasizing tumor cells. Finally, TEX communicate with the matrix to support tumor cell motility, invasion and homing. We will discuss the possibility that CSC markers are the initial trigger for these processes and what is the special contribution of CSC-TEX. PMID:27468191

Cushing's Syndrome and Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis Hyperactivity in Chronic Central Serous Chorioretinopathy.

PubMed

van Haalen, Femke M; van Dijk, Elon H C; Dekkers, Olaf M; Bizino, Maurice B; Dijkman, Greet; Biermasz, Nienke R; Boon, Camiel J F; Pereira, Alberto M

2018-01-01

Central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC), a specific form of macular degeneration, has been reported as presenting manifestation of Cushing's syndrome. Furthermore, CSC has been associated with both exogenous hypercortisolism and endogenous Cushing's syndrome. It is important to know whether CSC patients should be screened for Cushing's syndrome. Although hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis hyperactivity in CSC has been suggested, no detailed evaluation of the HPA axis has been performed in a large cohort of CSC patients. This study aimed to investigate whether Cushing's syndrome prevalence is increased among chronic CSC (cCSC) patients and whether detailed endocrinological phenotyping indicates hyperactivity of the HPA axis. Cross-sectional study. 86 cCSC patients and 24 controls. Prevalence of Cushing's syndrome, HPA axis activity. None of the cCSC patients met the clinical or biochemical criteria of Cushing's syndrome. However, compared to controls, HPA axis activity was increased in cCSC patients, reflected by higher 24 h urinary free cortisol, and accompanying higher waist circumference and diastolic blood pressure, whereas circadian cortisol rhythm and feedback were not different. Chronic CSC patients did not report more stress or stress-related problems on questionnaires. No case of Cushing's syndrome was revealed in a large cohort of cCSC patients. Therefore, we advise against screening for Cushing's syndrome in CSC patients, unless additional clinical features are present. However, our results indicate that cCSC is associated with hyperactivity of the HPA axis, albeit not accompanied with perception of more psychosocial stress.

Computer graphics and the graphic artist

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Taylor, N. L.; Fedors, E. G.; Pinelli, T. E.

1985-01-01

A centralized computer graphics system is being developed at the NASA Langley Research Center. This system was required to satisfy multiuser needs, ranging from presentation quality graphics prepared by a graphic artist to 16-mm movie simulations generated by engineers and scientists. While the major thrust of the central graphics system was directed toward engineering and scientific applications, hardware and software capabilities to support the graphic artists were integrated into the design. This paper briefly discusses the importance of computer graphics in research; the central graphics system in terms of systems, software, and hardware requirements; the application of computer graphics to graphic arts, discussed in terms of the requirements for a graphic arts workstation; and the problems encountered in applying computer graphics to the graphic arts. The paper concludes by presenting the status of the central graphics system.

Radiopacifier Particle Size Impacts the Physical Properties of Tricalcium Silicate–based Cements

PubMed Central

Saghiri, Mohammad Ali; Gutmann, James L.; Orangi, Jafar; Asatourian, Armen; Sheibani, Nader

2016-01-01

Introduction The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of radiopaque additive, bismuth oxide, particle size on the physical properties, and radiopacity of tricalcium silicate–based cements. Methods Six types of tricalcium silicate cement (CSC) including CSC without bismuth oxide, CSC + 10% (wt%) regular bismuth oxide (particle size 10 μm), CSC + 20% regular bismuth oxide (simulating white mineral trioxide aggregate [WMTA]) as a control, CSC + 10% nano bismuth oxide (particle size 50–80 nm), CSC + 20% nano-size bismuth oxide, and nano WMTA (a nano modification of WMTA comprising nanoparticles in the range of 40–100 nm) were prepared. Twenty-four samples from each group were divided into 4 groups and subjected to push-out, surface microhardness, radiopacity, and compressive strength tests. Data were analyzed by 1-way analysis of variance with the post hoc Tukey test. Results The push-out and compressive strength of CSC without bismuth oxide and CSC with 10% and 20% nano bismuth oxide were significantly higher than CSC with 10% or 20% regular bismuth oxide (P < .05). The surface micro-hardness of CSC without bismuth oxide and CSC with 10% regular bismuth oxide had the lowest values (P < .05). The lowest radiopacity values were seen in CSC without bismuth oxide and CSC with 10% nano bismuth oxide (P < .05). Nano WMTA samples showed the highest values for all tested properties (P < .05) except for radiopacity. Conclusions The addition of 20% nano bismuth oxide enhanced the physical properties of CSC without any significant changes in radiopacity. Regular particle-size bismuth oxide reduced the physical properties of CSC material for tested parameters. PMID:25492489

Design Document for the Moods Data Management System (MDMS) Version 1.0

DTIC Science & Technology

1994-08-01

1 1.3 Document Overview ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 2 RERENCED DOCUMENTS .................... 2 3 PRELIM[INARY DESIGN... 3 3.1.1.1 CSC-: Grpical User Interfce(GUI).......... 3 3.1.112 CSC-2: Data Management Module (DMM) .................. 4 3.1.1.3 CSC- 3 : Data...5 3.1.1.6 GUI-DMM (CSC-1ICSC-2) internal interface................5 3.1.1.7 GUI-DAM (CSC-1/CSC- 3 ) Internal Interface................5

75 FR 65518 - Notice of Determinations Regarding Eligibility To Apply for Worker Adjustment Assistance

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-10-25

... reasons, these petitions were deemed invalid. TA-W No. Subject firm Location Impact date 74,488 Computer Sciences Newark, DE Corporation (CSC). 74,496 Hallmark Cards, Inc......... Kansas City, MO The following...

The Chandra Source Catalog : Automated Source Correlation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hain, Roger; Evans, I. N.; Evans, J. D.; Glotfelty, K. J.; Anderson, C. S.; Bonaventura, N. R.; Chen, J. C.; Davis, J. E.; Doe, S. M.; Fabbiano, G.; Galle, E.; Gibbs, D. G.; Grier, J. D.; Hall, D. M.; Harbo, P. N.; He, X.; Houck, J. C.; Karovska, M.; Lauer, J.; McCollough, M. L.; McDowell, J. C.; Miller, J. B.; Mitschang, A. W.; Morgan, D. L.; Nichols, J. S.; Nowak, M. A.; Plummer, D. A.; Primini, F. A.; Refsdal, B. L.; Rots, A. H.; Siemiginowska, A. L.; Sundheim, B. A.; Tibbetts, M. S.; Van Stone, D. W.; Winkelman, S. L.; Zografou, P.

2009-01-01

Chandra Source Catalog (CSC) master source pipeline processing seeks to automatically detect sources and compute their properties. Since Chandra is a pointed mission and not a sky survey, different sky regions are observed for a different number of times at varying orientations, resolutions, and other heterogeneous conditions. While this provides an opportunity to collect data from a potentially large number of observing passes, it also creates challenges in determining the best way to combine different detection results for the most accurate characterization of the detected sources. The CSC master source pipeline correlates data from multiple observations by updating existing cataloged source information with new data from the same sky region as they become available. This process sometimes leads to relatively straightforward conclusions, such as when single sources from two observations are similar in size and position. Other observation results require more logic to combine, such as one observation finding a single, large source and another identifying multiple, smaller sources at the same position. We present examples of different overlapping source detections processed in the current version of the CSC master source pipeline. We explain how they are resolved into entries in the master source database, and examine the challenges of computing source properties for the same source detected multiple times. Future enhancements are also discussed. This work is supported by NASA contract NAS8-03060 (CXC).

Silibinin strongly inhibits the growth kinetics of colon cancer stem cell-enriched spheroids by modulating interleukin 4/6-mediated survival signals

PubMed Central

Agarwal, Chapla; Agarwal, Rajesh

2014-01-01

Involvement of cancer stem cells (CSC) in initiation, progression, relapse, and therapy-resistance of colorectal cancer (CRC) warrants search for small molecules as ‘adjunct-therapy’ to target both colon CSC and bulk tumor population. Herein, we assessed the potential of silibinin to eradicate colon CSC together with associated molecular mechanisms. In studies examining how silibinin modulates dynamics of CSC spheroids in terms of its effect on kinetics of CSC spheroids generated in presence of mitogenic and interleukin (IL)-mediated signaling which provides an autocrine/paracrine amplification loop in CRC, silibinin strongly decreased colon CSC pool together with cell survival of bulk tumor cells. Silibinin effect on colon CSC was mediated via blocking of pro-tumorigenic signaling, notably IL-4/-6 signaling that affects CSC population. These silibinin effects were associated with decreased mRNA and protein levels of various CSC-associated transcription factors, signaling molecules and markers. Furthermore, 2D and 3D differentiation assays indicated formation of more differentiated clones by silibinin. These results highlight silibinin potential to interfere with kinetics of CSC pool by shifting CSC cell division to asymmetric type via targeting various signals associated with the survival and multiplication of colon CSC pool. Together, our findings further support clinical usefulness of silibinin in CRC intervention and therapy. PMID:24970802

Extra-virgin olive oil contains a metabolo-epigenetic inhibitor of cancer stem cells

PubMed Central

Corominas-Faja, Bruna; Cuyàs, Elisabet; Lozano-Sánchez, Jesús; Cufí, Sílvia; Verdura, Sara; Fernández-Arroyo, Salvador; Borrás-Linares, Isabel; Martin-Castillo, Begoña; Martin, Ángel G; Lupu, Ruth; Nonell-Canals, Alfons; Micol, Vicente; Joven, Jorge; Segura-Carretero, Antonio; Menendez, Javier A

2018-01-01

Abstract Targeting tumor-initiating, drug-resistant populations of cancer stem cells (CSC) with phytochemicals is a novel paradigm for cancer prevention and treatment. We herein employed a phenotypic drug discovery approach coupled to mechanism-of-action profiling and target deconvolution to identify phenolic components of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) capable of suppressing the functional traits of CSC in breast cancer (BC). In vitro screening revealed that the secoiridoid decarboxymethyl oleuropein aglycone (DOA) could selectively target subpopulations of epithelial-like, aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH)-positive and mesenchymal-like, CD44+CD24−/low CSC. DOA could potently block the formation of multicellular tumorspheres generated from single-founder stem-like cells in a panel of genetically diverse BC models. Pretreatment of BC populations with noncytotoxic doses of DOA dramatically reduced subsequent tumor-forming capacity in vivo. Mice orthotopically injected with CSC-enriched BC-cell populations pretreated with DOA remained tumor-free for several months. Phenotype microarray-based screening pointed to a synergistic interaction of DOA with the mTOR inhibitor rapamycin and the DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) inhibitor 5-azacytidine. In silico computational studies indicated that DOA binds and inhibits the ATP-binding kinase domain site of mTOR and the S-adenosyl-l-methionine (SAM) cofactor-binding pocket of DNMTs. FRET-based Z-LYTE™ and AlphaScreen-based in vitro assays confirmed the ability of DOA to function as an ATP-competitive mTOR inhibitor and to block the SAM-dependent methylation activity of DNMTs. Our systematic in vitro, in vivo and in silico approaches establish the phenol-conjugated oleoside DOA as a dual mTOR/DNMT inhibitor naturally occurring in EVOO that functionally suppresses CSC-like states responsible for maintaining tumor-initiating cell properties within BC populations. PMID:29452350

Harnessing the power of emerging petascale platforms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mellor-Crummey, John

2007-07-01

As part of the US Department of Energy's Scientific Discovery through Advanced Computing (SciDAC-2) program, science teams are tackling problems that require computational simulation and modeling at the petascale. A grand challenge for computer science is to develop software technology that makes it easier to harness the power of these systems to aid scientific discovery. As part of its activities, the SciDAC-2 Center for Scalable Application Development Software (CScADS) is building open source software tools to support efficient scientific computing on the emerging leadership-class platforms. In this paper, we describe two tools for performance analysis and tuning that are being developed as part of CScADS: a tool for analyzing scalability and performance, and a tool for optimizing loop nests for better node performance. We motivate these tools by showing how they apply to S3D, a turbulent combustion code under development at Sandia National Laboratory. For S3D, our node performance analysis tool helped uncover several performance bottlenecks. Using our loop nest optimization tool, we transformed S3D's most costly loop nest to reduce execution time by a factor of 2.94 for a processor working on a 503 domain.

77 FR 12320 - Information Collection Request: GFIRST Conference Stakeholder Evaluation

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-02-29

... Communications (CS&C), National Cyber Security Division (NCSD), United States Computer Emergency Readiness Team... personal information provided. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The purpose of DHS's premier cyber conference is to continually seek to enhance collaborative efforts between cyber constituencies, partners and...

Cartographic services contract...for everything geographic

USGS Publications Warehouse

,

2003-01-01

The U.S. Geological Survey's (USGS) Cartographic Services Contract (CSC) is used to award work for photogrammetric and mapping services under the umbrella of Architect-Engineer (A&E) contracting. The A&E contract is broad in scope and can accommodate any activity related to standard, nonstandard, graphic, and digital cartographic products. Services provided may include, but are not limited to, photogrammetric mapping and aerotriangulation; orthophotography; thematic mapping (for example, land characterization); analog and digital imagery applications; geographic information systems development; surveying and control acquisition, including ground-based and airborne Global Positioning System; analog and digital image manipulation, analysis, and interpretation; raster and vector map digitizing; data manipulations (for example, transformations, conversions, generalization, integration, and conflation); primary and ancillary data acquisition (for example, aerial photography, satellite imagery, multispectral, multitemporal, and hyperspectral data); image scanning and processing; metadata production, revision, and creation; and production or revision of standard USGS products defined by formal and informal specification and standards, such as those for digital line graphs, digital elevation models, digital orthophoto quadrangles, and digital raster graphics.

75 FR 51849 - Investigations Regarding Certifications of Eligibility To Apply for Worker Adjustment Assistance

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-08-23

... Kimble Chase Life Science Vineland, NJ 08/04/10 07/14/10 and Research Products, LLC (Company). 74464.../10 74488 Computer Sciences Newark, DE 08/06/10 07/30/10 Corporation (CSC) (State/ One-Stop). 74489...

Restricted access processor - An application of computer security technology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mcmahon, E. M.

1985-01-01

This paper describes a security guard device that is currently being developed by Computer Sciences Corporation (CSC). The methods used to provide assurance that the system meets its security requirements include the system architecture, a system security evaluation, and the application of formal and informal verification techniques. The combination of state-of-the-art technology and the incorporation of new verification procedures results in a demonstration of the feasibility of computer security technology for operational applications.

Regulation of Ovarian Cancer Stem Cells or Tumor-Initiating Cells

PubMed Central

Kwon, Mi Jeong; Shin, Young Kee

2013-01-01

Cancer stem cells or tumor-initiating cells (CSC/TICs), which can undergo self-renewal and differentiation, are thought to play critical roles in tumorigenesis, therapy resistance, tumor recurrence and metastasis. Tumor recurrence and chemoresistance are major causes of poor survival rates of ovarian cancer patients, which may be due in part to the existence of CSC/TICs. Therefore, elucidating the molecular mechanisms responsible for the ovarian CSC/TICs is required to develop a cure for this malignancy. Recent studies have indicated that the properties of CSC/TICs can be regulated by microRNAs, genes and signaling pathways which also function in normal stem cells. Moreover, emerging evidence suggests that the tumor microenvironments surrounding CSC/TICs are crucial for the maintenance of these cells. Similarly, efforts are now being made to unravel the mechanism involved in the regulation of ovarian CSC/TICs, although much work is still needed. This review considers recent advances in identifying the genes and pathways involved in the regulation of ovarian CSC/TICs. Furthermore, current approaches targeting ovarian CSC/TICs are described. Targeting both CSC/TICs and bulk tumor cells is suggested as a more effective approach to eliminating ovarian tumors. Better understanding of the regulation of ovarian CSC/TICs might facilitate the development of improved therapeutic strategies for recurrent ovarian cancer. PMID:23528891

Selective Targeting of Cancer Stem Cells by 2-Aminodihydroquinoline Analogs.

PubMed

Park, Heejoo; Yu, Yeongji; Kim, Hyejin; Lee, Eun; Lee, Hani; Jeon, Raok; Kim, Woo-Young

2017-04-01

Many aminodihydroquinoline compounds have been studied to determine their cytotoxicity to cancer cells. However, anti-cancer stem cells (CSCs) activity of aminodihydroquinoline has not been tested in spite that CSC is believed to do an important roles in chemotherapy resistance and recurrence. The CSC selective targeting activities of 10 recently synthesized 2-aminodihydroquinoline analogs were examined on CSCs and bulk culture of a glioblastoma cell line. A diethylaminopropyl substituted aminodihydroquinoline, 5h, showed a strong anti-CSC effect and general cytotoxicity. However, a benzyl substituted aminodihydroquinoline, 5i, displayed the most effective anti-CSC effect, with no or small significant cytotoxic effect in bulk culture conditions. While 5h temporarily enhanced CSC marker-positive cells and eventually suppressed the CSC population, which is similar to other cytotoxic anticancer reagents reported, 5i selectively eliminated CSC marker-positive cells based on fluorescence activated cell sorter (FACS) analysis. 5h also temporarily activated some genes associated with signaling required for CSC, while 5i selectively suppressed these genes supporting that the differential effects are resulted from different molecular responses. In addition, the selective CSC effect is also found against a colon cancer cell line. Collectively, we suggest that these two novel aminodihydroquinoline compounds possess novel anti-CSC effects in colon and brain tumor derived cell lines probably through independent pathways.

Wide-angle display developments by computer graphics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fetter, William A.

1989-01-01

Computer graphics can now expand its new subset, wide-angle projection, to be as significant a generic capability as computer graphics itself. Some prior work in computer graphics is presented which leads to an attractive further subset of wide-angle projection, called hemispheric projection, to be a major communication media. Hemispheric film systems have long been present and such computer graphics systems are in use in simulators. This is the leading edge of capabilities which should ultimately be as ubiquitous as CRTs (cathode-ray tubes). These assertions are not from degrees in science or only from a degree in graphic design, but in a history of computer graphics innovations, laying groundwork by demonstration. The author believes that it is timely to look at several development strategies, since hemispheric projection is now at a point comparable to the early stages of computer graphics, requiring similar patterns of development again.

Flow field measurements in the cell culture unit

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Walker, Stephen; Wilder, Mike; Dimanlig, Arsenio; Jagger, Justin; Searby, Nancy

2002-01-01

The cell culture unit (CCU) is being designed to support cell growth for long-duration life science experiments on the International Space Station (ISS). The CCU is a perfused loop system that provides a fluid environment for controlled cell growth experiments within cell specimen chambers (CSCs), and is intended to accommodate diverse cell specimen types. Many of the functional requirements depend on the fluid flow field within the CSC (e.g., feeding and gas management). A design goal of the CCU is to match, within experimental limits, all environmental conditions, other than the effects of gravity on the cells, whether the hardware is in microgravity ( micro g), normal Earth gravity, or up to 2g on the ISS centrifuge. In order to achieve this goal, two steps are being taken. The first step is to characterize the environmental conditions of current 1g cell biology experiments being performed in laboratories using ground-based hardware. The second step is to ensure that the design of the CCU allows the fluid flow conditions found in 1g to be replicated from microgravity up to 2g. The techniques that are being used to take these steps include flow visualization, particle image velocimetry (PIV), and computational fluid dynamics (CFD). Flow visualization using the injection of dye has been used to gain a global perspective of the characteristics of the CSC flow field. To characterize laboratory cell culture conditions, PIV is being used to determine the flow field parameters of cell suspension cultures grown in Erlenmeyer flasks on orbital shakers. These measured parameters will be compared to PIV measurements in the CSCs to ensure that the flow field that cells encounter in CSCs is within the bounds determined for typical laboratory experiments. Using CFD, a detailed simulation is being developed to predict the flow field within the CSC for a wide variety of flow conditions, including microgravity environments. Results from all these measurements and analyses of the CSC flow environment are presented and discussed. The final configuration of the CSC employs magnetic stir bars with angled paddles to achieve the necessary flow requirements within the CSC.

U.S. Air Force Engineering and Services Hardware Requirements

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1991-04-01

This document proposes a path to meet the communications-computer systems (CSC) requirements of Air Force Engineering and Services (E and S) in the mid-to-late 1990s. It reflects the philosophies that guide E and S upper- level management as it carri...

Identification, expansion and characterization of cancer cells with stem cell properties from head and neck squamous cell carcinomas

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

Kaseb, Hatem O.; Department of Clinical Pathology, National Cancer Institute; Fohrer-Ting, Helene

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a major public health concern. Recent data indicate the presence of cancer stem cells (CSC) in many solid tumors, including HNSCC. Here, we assessed the stem cell (SC) characteristics, including cell surface markers, radioresistance, chromosomal instability, and in vivo tumorigenic capacity of CSC isolated from HNSCC patient specimens. We show that spheroid enrichment of CSC from early and short-term HNSCC cell cultures was associated with increased expression of CD44, CD133, SOX2 and BMI1 compared with normal oral epithelial cells. On immunophenotyping, five of 12 SC/CSC markers were homogenously expressed in all tumormore » cultures, while one of 12 was negative, four of 12 showed variable expression, and two of the 12 were expressed heterogeneously. We showed that irradiated CSCs survived and retained their self-renewal capacity across different ionizing radiation (IR) regimens. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analyses of parental and clonally-derived tumor cells revealed different chromosome copy numbers from cell to cell, suggesting the presence of chromosomal instability in HNSCC CSC. Further, our in vitro and in vivo mouse engraftment studies suggest that CD44+/CD66− is a promising, consistent biomarker combination for HNSCC CSC. Overall, our findings add further evidence to the proposed role of HNSCC CSCs in therapeutic resistance. - Highlights: • Spheroid enrichment selects cancer stem cells (CSC) from head & neck tumors (HNSCC). • Compared to normal epithelial cells, isolated CSC express increased SC/CSC markers. • Isolated CSC display enhanced radioresistance, clonogenicity and tumorigenicity. • HNSCC CSC express chromosomal instability. • CD44+/CD66− is a promising, consistent biomarker for HNSCC CSC.« less

Targeting proapoptotic protein BAD inhibits survival and self-renewal of cancer stem cells.

PubMed

Sastry, K S R; Al-Muftah, M A; Li, Pu; Al-Kowari, M K; Wang, E; Ismail Chouchane, A; Kizhakayil, D; Kulik, G; Marincola, F M; Haoudi, A; Chouchane, L

2014-12-01

Emerging evidence suggests that the resistance of cancer stem cells (CSC) to many conventional therapies is one of the major limiting factors of cancer therapy efficacy. Identification of mechanisms responsible for survival and self-renewal of CSC will help design new therapeutic strategies that target and eliminate both differentiated cancer cells and CSC. Here we demonstrated the potential role of proapoptotic protein BAD in the biology of CSC in melanoma, prostate and breast cancers. We enriched CD44(+)/CD24(-) cells (CSC) by tumorosphere formation and purified this population by FACS. Both spheres and CSC exhibited increased potential for proliferation, migration, invasion, sphere formation, anchorage-independent growth, as well as upregulation of several stem cell-associated markers. We showed that the phosphorylation of BAD is essential for the survival of CSC. Conversely, ectopic expression of a phosphorylation-deficient mutant BAD induced apoptosis in CSC. This effect was enhanced by treatment with a BH3-mimetic, ABT-737. Both pharmacological agents that inhibit survival kinases and growth factors that are involved in drug resistance delivered their respective cytotoxic and protective effects by modulating the BAD phosphorylation in CSC. Furthermore, the frequency and self-renewal capacity of CSC was significantly reduced by knocking down the BAD expression. Consistent with our in vitro results, significant phosphorylation of BAD was found in CD44(+) CSC of 83% breast tumor specimens. In addition, we also identified a positive correlation between BAD expression and disease stage in prostate cancer, suggesting a role of BAD in tumor advancement. Our studies unveil the role of BAD in the survival and self-renewal of CSC and propose BAD not only as an attractive target for cancer therapy but also as a marker of tumor progression.

Canopy structural complexity as a continental predictor of primary production: Using NEON to transform understanding of forest structure-function

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Atkins, J. W.; Fahey, R. T.; Gough, C. M.; Hardiman, B. S.

2016-12-01

Ecosystem structure-function relationships represent a long-standing research area for ecosystem science. Relationships between canopy structural complexity (CSC) and net primary productivity (NPP), have been characterized for a limited number of sites, yet whether these relationships are conserved across eco-climatic boundaries remains unknown. We hypothesize an underlying mechanistic basis for global NPP-CSC linkages to include improved resource-use efficiency as CSC increases, examined here by correlating CSC with measures of light-use efficiency and nitrogen-use efficiency. Here we present a broad, continental scale analysis of CSC-NPP linkages. We are using multiple NEON sites coupled with other sites across a diverse array of temperate forest types spanning six eco-climatic domains of the continental United States to examine CSC-NPP relationships. Portable canopy LiDAR (PCL) data were used to calculate a suite of CSC metrics at the plot-level within each site. Ongoing work compares CSC to co-located measurements of wood net primary production estimated from the incremental change in woody biomass calculated using tree allometries. Results to date show CSC is highly variable across forest sites and may provide additional explanatory power for predicting NPP that is independent of other commonly used forest structural attributes such as leaf area index. CSC metrics such as rugosity vary widely across sites—ranging from high values (30 - 35) in complex canopies such as the Great Smoky Mountains to low values in open, savanna systems like North-Central Florida (< 0.5 - 2). NPP, and light- and nitrogen-use calculations are underway and will be paired with site-level CSC, with the expectation that CSC, resource-use efficiency, and NPP are positively correlated. Advancing understanding of how and why CSC affects forest NPP across a broad spatial dimension could transform mechanistic understanding of ecosystem structure-carbon cycling relationships, and greatly improve carbon cycling models and remote sensing applications, while providing a crucial linkage between the two.

40 CFR 62.5870 - Identification of plan.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

...) APPROVAL AND PROMULGATION OF STATE PLANS FOR DESIGNATED FACILITIES AND POLLUTANTS Minnesota Existing Large... combustors in Minnesota and should apply only to these sources. [63 FR 43083, Aug. 12, 1998] ...

40 CFR 62.5870 - Identification of plan.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

...) APPROVAL AND PROMULGATION OF STATE PLANS FOR DESIGNATED FACILITIES AND POLLUTANTS Minnesota Existing Large... combustors in Minnesota and should apply only to these sources. [63 FR 43083, Aug. 12, 1998] ...

40 CFR 62.5870 - Identification of plan.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

...) APPROVAL AND PROMULGATION OF STATE PLANS FOR DESIGNATED FACILITIES AND POLLUTANTS Minnesota Existing Large... combustors in Minnesota and should apply only to these sources. [63 FR 43083, Aug. 12, 1998] ...

40 CFR 62.5870 - Identification of plan.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

...) APPROVAL AND PROMULGATION OF STATE PLANS FOR DESIGNATED FACILITIES AND POLLUTANTS Minnesota Existing Large... combustors in Minnesota and should apply only to these sources. [63 FR 43083, Aug. 12, 1998] ...

40 CFR 62.5870 - Identification of plan.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

...) APPROVAL AND PROMULGATION OF STATE PLANS FOR DESIGNATED FACILITIES AND POLLUTANTS Minnesota Existing Large... combustors in Minnesota and should apply only to these sources. [63 FR 43083, Aug. 12, 1998] ...

21 CFR 882.5870 - Implanted peripheral nerve stimulator for pain relief.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) MEDICAL DEVICES NEUROLOGICAL DEVICES Neurological Therapeutic Devices § 882... the stimulating pulses across the patient's skin to the implanted receiver. (b) Classification. Class...

Stem cells in gastrointestinal cancers: The road less travelled

PubMed Central

Mikhail, Sameh; Zeidan, Amer

2014-01-01

Cancer stem cells (CSC) are thought to be malignant cells that have the capacity to initiate and maintain tumor growth and survival. Studies have described CSC in various gastrointestinal neoplasms such as colon, pancreas and liver and gastroesophageal tumors. The mechanism by which CSC develop remains unclear. Several studies have explored the role of dysregulation of the Wnt/β-catenin, transformation growth factor-beta and hedhog pathways in generation of CSC. In this review, we discuss the various molecular abnormalities that may be related to formation of CSC in gastrointestinal malignancies, strategies to identify CSC and therapeutic strategies that are based on these concepts. Identification and targeting CSC is an intriguing area and may provide a new therapeutic option for patients with cancer including gastrointestinal malignancies. Although great progress has been made, many issues need to be addressed. Precise targeting of CSC will require precise isolation and characterization of those cells. This field is also evolving but further research is needed to identify markers that are specific for CSC. Although the application of this field has not entered the clinic yet, there continues to be significant optimism about its potential utility in overcoming cancer resistance and curing patients with cancer. PMID:25426257

Cancer stem cells in hepatocellular carcinoma: Therapeutic implications based on stem cell biology.

PubMed

Chiba, Tetsuhiro; Iwama, Atsushi; Yokosuka, Osamu

2016-01-01

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the sixth most common cancer and the third most frequent cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Despite advances in its diagnosis and treatment, the prognosis of patients with advanced HCC remains unfavorable. Recent advances in stem cell biology and associated technologies have enabled the identification of minor components of tumorigenic cells, termed cancer stem cells (CSC) or tumor-initiating cells, in cancers such as HCC. Furthermore, because CSC play a central role in tumor development, metastasis and recurrence, they are considered to be a therapeutic target in cancer treatment. Hepatic CSC have been successfully identified using functional and cell surface markers. The analysis of purified hepatic CSC has revealed the molecular machinery and signaling pathways involved in their maintenance. In addition, epigenetic transcriptional regulation has been shown to be important in the development and maintenance of CSC. Although inhibitors of CSC show promise as CSC-targeting drugs, novel therapeutic approaches for the eradication of CSC are yet to be established. In this review, we describe recent progress in hepatic CSC research and provide a perspective on the available therapeutic approaches based on stem cell biology. © 2015 The Japan Society of Hepatology.

CSC-3436 switched tamoxifen-induced autophagy to apoptosis through the inhibition of AMPK/mTOR pathway.

PubMed

Wu, Sheng-Tang; Sun, Guang-Huan; Cha, Tai-Lung; Kao, Chien-Chang; Chang, Sun-Yran; Kuo, Sheng-Chu; Way, Tzong-Der

2016-08-15

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) lacks specific therapeutic target and limits to chemotherapy and is essential to develop novel therapeutic regimens. Increasing studies indicated that tamoxifen, a selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), has anti-tumor therapeutic effect in estrogen receptor α (ERα)-negative tumor. Here, we determined whether autophagy was activated by tamoxifen in TNBC cells. Moreover, CSC-3436 displayed strong and selective growth inhibition on cancer cells. Next, we investigated the anti-proliferation effect of combination of CSC-3436 plus tamoxifen on cell death in TNBC cells. Our study found that tamoxifen induces autophagy in TNBC cells. Endoplasmic reticulum stress and AMPK/mTOR contributed tamoxifen-induced autophagy. Interestingly, in combination treatment with CSC-3436 enhanced the anti-proliferative effect of tamoxifen. We found that CSC-3436 switched tamoxifen-induced autophagy to apoptosis via cleavage of ATG-5. Moreover, AMPK/mTOR pathway may involve in CSC-3436 switched tamoxifen-induced autophagy to apoptosis. The combination of tamoxifen and CSC-3436 produced stronger tumor growth inhibition compared with CSC-3436 or tamoxifen alone treatments in vivo. These data indicated that CSC-3436 combined with tamoxifen may be a potential approach for treatment TNBC.

Cancer stem cells and personalized cancer nanomedicine.

PubMed

Gener, Petra; Rafael, Diana Fernandes de Sousa; Fernández, Yolanda; Ortega, Joan Sayós; Arango, Diego; Abasolo, Ibane; Videira, Mafalda; Schwartz, Simo

2016-02-01

Despite the progress in cancer treatment over the past years advanced cancer is still an incurable disease. Special attention is pointed toward cancer stem cell (CSC)-targeted therapies, because this minor cell population is responsible for the treatment resistance, metastatic growth and tumor recurrence. The recently described CSC dynamic phenotype and interconversion model of cancer growth hamper even more the possible success of current cancer treatments in advanced cancer stages. Accordingly, CSCs can be generated through dedifferentiation processes from non-CSCs, in particular, when CSC populations are depleted after treatment. In this context, the use of targeted CSC nanomedicines should be considered as a promising tool to increase CSC sensitivity and efficacy of specific anti-CSC therapies.

Selenium suppresses leukemia through the action of endogenous eicosanoids

PubMed Central

Gandhi, Ujjawal H.; Kaushal, Naveen; Hegde, Shailaja; Finch, Emily R.; Kudva, Avinash K.; Kennett, Mary J.; Jordan, Craig T.; Paulson, Robert F.; Prabhu, K. Sandeep

2014-01-01

Eradicating cancer stem-like cells (CSC) may be essential to fully eradicate cancer. Metabolic changes in CSC could hold a key to their targeting. Here we report that the dietary micronutrient selenium can trigger apoptosis of CSC derived from chronic or acute myelogenous leukemias when administered at supraphysiological but non-toxic doses. In leukemia CSC, selenium treatment activated ATM-p53-dependent apoptosis accompanied by increased intracellular levels of reactive oxygen species. Importantly, the same treatment did not trigger apoptosis in hematopoietic stem cells. Serial transplantation studies with BCR-ABL-expressing CSC revealed that the selenium status in mice was a key determinant of CSC survival. Selenium action relied upon the endogenous production of the cyclooxygenase-derived prostaglandins Δ12-PGJ2 and 15d-PGJ2. Accordingly, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and NADPH oxidase inhibitors abrogated the ability of selenium to trigger apoptosis in leukemia CSC. Our results reveal how selenium-dependent modulation of arachidonic acid metabolism can be directed to trigger apoptosis of primary human and murine CSC in leukemia. PMID:24872387

A new strategic neurosurgical planning tool for brainstem cavernous malformations using interactive computer graphics with multimodal fusion images.

PubMed

Kin, Taichi; Nakatomi, Hirofumi; Shojima, Masaaki; Tanaka, Minoru; Ino, Kenji; Mori, Harushi; Kunimatsu, Akira; Oyama, Hiroshi; Saito, Nobuhito

2012-07-01

In this study, the authors used preoperative simulation employing 3D computer graphics (interactive computer graphics) to fuse all imaging data for brainstem cavernous malformations. The authors evaluated whether interactive computer graphics or 2D imaging correlated better with the actual operative field, particularly in identifying a developmental venous anomaly (DVA). The study population consisted of 10 patients scheduled for surgical treatment of brainstem cavernous malformations. Data from preoperative imaging (MRI, CT, and 3D rotational angiography) were automatically fused using a normalized mutual information method, and then reconstructed by a hybrid method combining surface rendering and volume rendering methods. With surface rendering, multimodality and multithreshold techniques for 1 tissue were applied. The completed interactive computer graphics were used for simulation of surgical approaches and assumed surgical fields. Preoperative diagnostic rates for a DVA associated with brainstem cavernous malformation were compared between conventional 2D imaging and interactive computer graphics employing receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. The time required for reconstruction of 3D images was 3-6 hours for interactive computer graphics. Observation in interactive mode required approximately 15 minutes. Detailed anatomical information for operative procedures, from the craniotomy to microsurgical operations, could be visualized and simulated three-dimensionally as 1 computer graphic using interactive computer graphics. Virtual surgical views were consistent with actual operative views. This technique was very useful for examining various surgical approaches. Mean (±SEM) area under the ROC curve for rate of DVA diagnosis was significantly better for interactive computer graphics (1.000±0.000) than for 2D imaging (0.766±0.091; p<0.001, Mann-Whitney U-test). The authors report a new method for automatic registration of preoperative imaging data from CT, MRI, and 3D rotational angiography for reconstruction into 1 computer graphic. The diagnostic rate of DVA associated with brainstem cavernous malformation was significantly better using interactive computer graphics than with 2D images. Interactive computer graphics was also useful in helping to plan the surgical access corridor.

Channel Storage change: a new remote sensed surface water measurement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Coss, S. P.; Durand, M. T.; Yi, Y.; Guo, Q.; Shum, C. K.; Allen, G. H.; Pavelsky, T.

2017-12-01

Here we present river channel storage change (CSC) measurements for 17 major world rivers from 2002-2016. We combined interpolated daily 1 km resolution Global River Radar Altimeter Time Series (GRRATS) river surface elevation data with static widths from the global river Global River Widths from Landsat (GRWL) dataset, to generate preliminary channel storage measurements. CSC is a previously unmeasured component of the terrestrial water balance It is a fundamental Earth science quantity with global bearing on floodplains, ecology, and geochemistry. CSC calculations require only remote sensed data, making them an ideal tool for studying remote regions where hydrological data is not easily accessible. CSC is uniquely suited to determine the role of hydrologic and hydraulic controls in basins with strong seasonal cycles (freeze-up and break-up). The cumulative CSC anomaly can impart spatial details that discharge measurements cannot. With this new measurement, we may be able to determine critical hydrological and hydraulic controls on rapidly changing systems like Arctic rivers. Results for Mississippi River indicate that peak CSC anomaly was the highest in 2011 (12.6 km3) and minimum CSC anomaly was in 2012 (-12.2 km3). Peak CSC has most frequently occurs in May (5 years), but has come as late in the year as July, and as early as January. Results for the Yukon River indicate that peak CSC anomaly was the highest in 2013 (13.9 km3) and minimum CSC anomaly was in 2010 (-14.2 km3). Peak CSC has most frequently come in early to mid-June (4-18), but has occurred in May (19-31) four years in the study period (three of the last 6 years) and once on April 30th.

Anti-cancer stem cell activity of a hedgehog inhibitor GANT61 in estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer cells.

PubMed

Kurebayashi, Junichi; Koike, Yoshikazu; Ohta, Yusuke; Saitoh, Wataru; Yamashita, Tetsumasa; Kanomata, Naoki; Moriya, Takuya

2017-05-01

Estradiol (E2) increases not only the cell growth but also the cancer stem cell (CSC) proportion in estrogen receptor (ER)-positive breast cancer cells. It has been suggested that the non-canonical hedgehog (Hh) pathway activated by E2 plays an important role in the regulation of CSC proportion in ER-positive breast cancer cells. We studied anti-CSC activity of a non-canonical Hh inhibitor GANT61 in ER-positive breast cancer cells. Effects of GANT61 on the cell growth, cell cycle progression, apoptosis and CSC proportion were investigated in four ER-positive breast cancer cell lines. CSC proportion was measured using either the mammosphere assay or CD44/CD24 assay. Expression levels of pivotal molecules in the Hh pathway were measured. Combined effects of GANT61 with antiestrogens on the anti-cell growth and anti-CSC activities were investigated. E2 significantly increased the cell growth and CSC proportion in all ER-positive cell lines. E2 increased the expression levels of glioma-associated oncogene (GLI) 1 and/or GLI2. GANT61 decreased the cell growth in association with a G1-S cell cycle retardation and increased apoptosis. GANT61 decreased the E2-induced CSC proportion measured by the mammosphere assay in all cell lines. Antiestrogens also decreased the E2-induced cell growth and CSC proportion. Combined treatments of GANT61 with antiestrogens additively enhanced anti-cell growth and/or anti-CSC activities in some ER-positive cell lines. In conclusion, the non-canonical Hh inhibitor GANT61 inhibited not only the cell growth but also the CSC proportion increased by E2 in ER-positive breast cancer cells. GANT61 enhanced anti-cell growth and/or anti-CSC activities of antiestrogens in ER-positive cell lines. © 2017 The Authors. Cancer Science published by John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd on behalf of Japanese Cancer Association.

Inequality in cataract blindness and services: moving beyond unidimensional analyses of social position.

PubMed

Ramke, Jacqueline; Zwi, Anthony B; Lee, Arier C; Blignault, Ilse; Gilbert, Clare E

2017-04-01

Inequalities in cataract blindness are well known, but data are rarely disaggregated to explore the combined effects of a range of axes describing social disadvantage. We examined inequalities in cataract blindness and services at the intersection of three social axes. Three dichotomous social variables (sex (male/female); place of residence (urban/rural); literacy (literate/illiterate)) from cross-sectional national blindness surveys in Pakistan (2001-2004; n=16 507) and Nigeria (2005-2007; n=13 591) were used to construct eight subgroups, with disadvantaged subgroups selected a priori (ie, women, rural dwellers, illiterate). In each data set, the social distribution of cataract blindness, cataract surgical coverage (CSC) and effective cataract surgical coverage (eCSC) were examined. Inequalities were assessed comparing the best-off and worst-off subgroups using rate differences and rate ratios (RRs). Logistic regression was used to assess cumulative effects of multiple disadvantage. Disadvantaged subgroups experienced higher prevalence of cataract blindness, lower CSC and lower eCSC in both countries. A social gradient was present for CSC and eCSC, with coverage increasing as social position improved. Relative inequality in eCSC was approximately twice as high as CSC (Pakistan: eCSC RR 2.7 vs CSC RR 1.3; Nigeria: eCSC RR 8.7 vs CSC RR 4.1). Cumulative disadvantage was observed for all outcomes, deteriorating further with each additional axis along which disadvantage was experienced. Each outcome tended to be worse with the addition of each layer of social disadvantage. Illiterate, rural women fared worst in both settings. Moving beyond unidimensional analyses of social position identified subgroups in most need; this permits a more nuanced response to addressing the inequitable distribution of cataract blindness. 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/.

The prevalence of cervical myelopathy among subjects with narrow cervical spinal canal in a population-based magnetic resonance imaging study: the Wakayama Spine Study.

PubMed

Nagata, Keiji; Yoshimura, Noriko; Hashizume, Hiroshi; Muraki, Shigeyuki; Ishimoto, Yuyu; Yamada, Hiroshi; Takiguchi, Noboru; Nakagawa, Yukihiro; Minamide, Akihito; Oka, Hiroyuki; Kawaguchi, Hiroshi; Nakamura, Kozo; Akune, Toru; Yoshida, Munehito

2014-12-01

A narrow cervical spinal canal (CSC) is a well-known risk factor for cervical myelopathy (CM). However, no epidemiologic data of the CSC based on a population-based cohort are available. The purpose of the study was to investigate the age-related differences in CSC diameters on plain radiographs and to examine the associated magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) abnormalities including cervical cord compression and increased signal intensity (ISI) as well as the clinical CM with the narrow CSC. This was a cross-sectional study. Data were obtained from the baseline survey of the Wakayama Spine Study that was performed from 2008 to 2010 in a western part of Japan. Finally, a total of 959 subjects (319 men and 640 women; mean age, 66.4 years) were included. The outcome measures included in the study were the CSC diameter at C5 level on plain radiographs, cervical cord compression and ISI on sagittal T2-weighted MRI, and physical signs related to CM (eg, the Hoffmann reflex, hyperreflexia of the patellar tendon, the Babinski reflex, sensory and motor function, and bowel/bladder symptoms). The age-related differences of CSC diameters in men and women were investigated by descriptive statistics. The prevalence of MRI abnormalities and clinical CM was compared among the groups divided by the CSC diameter (less than 13, 13-15, and 15 mm or more). In addition, a logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the association of the CSC diameter with cervical cord compression/clinical CM after overall adjustment for age, sex, and body mass index. The CSC diameter was narrower with increasing age in both men and women. The prevalence of cervical cord compression, ISI, and the clinical CM was significantly higher in the narrower CSC group. The prevalence of cervical cord compression, ISI, and CM among subjects with CSC diameter less than 13 mm was 38.0%, 5.4%, and 10.1%, respectively. In the logistic model, the CSC diameter was a significant predictive factor for the clinical CM (p<.0001). This study firstly confirmed the age-related differences in CSC diameters and the significant association of the narrow CSC diameter with CM in a population-based cohort. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Radial and temporal variations in surface heat transfer during cryogen spray cooling.

PubMed

Franco, Walfre; Liu, Jie; Wang, Guo-Xiang; Nelson, J Stuart; Aguilar, Guillermo

2005-01-21

Cryogen spray cooling (CSC) is a heat extraction process that protects the epidermis from thermal damage during dermatologic laser surgery. The objective of the present work is to investigate radial and temporal variations in the heat transferred through the surface of a skin phantom during CSC. A fast-response thermal sensor is used to measure surface temperatures every 1 mm across a 16 mm diameter of the sprayed surface of the phantom. An analytical expression based on Fourier's law and Duhamel's theorem is used to compute surface heat fluxes from temperature measurements. Results show that radial and temporal variations of the boundary conditions have a strong influence on the homogeneity of heat extraction from the skin phantom. However, there is a subregion of uniform cooling whose size is time dependent. It is also observed that the surface heat flux undergoes a marked dynamic variation, with a maximum heat flux occurring at the centre of the sprayed surface early in the spurt followed by a quick decrease. The study shows that radial and temporal variations of boundary conditions must be taken into account and ideally controlled to guarantee uniform protection during CSC of human skin.

Human sense utilization method on real-time computer graphics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maehara, Hideaki; Ohgashi, Hitoshi; Hirata, Takao

1997-06-01

We are developing an adjustment method of real-time computer graphics, to obtain effective ones which give audience various senses intended by producer, utilizing human sensibility technologically. Generally, production of real-time computer graphics needs much adjustment of various parameters, such as 3D object models/their motions/attributes/view angle/parallax etc., in order that the graphics gives audience superior effects as reality of materials, sense of experience and so on. And it is also known it costs much to adjust such various parameters by trial and error. A graphics producer often evaluates his graphics to improve it. For example, it may lack 'sense of speed' or be necessary to be given more 'sense of settle down,' to improve it. On the other hand, we can know how the parameters in computer graphics affect such senses by means of statistically analyzing several samples of computer graphics which provide different senses. We paid attention to these two facts, so that we designed an adjustment method of the parameters by inputting phases of sense into a computer. By the way of using this method, it becomes possible to adjust real-time computer graphics more effectively than by conventional way of trial and error.

Color graphics, interactive processing, and the supercomputer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith-Taylor, Rudeen

1987-01-01

The development of a common graphics environment for the NASA Langley Research Center user community and the integration of a supercomputer into this environment is examined. The initial computer hardware, the software graphics packages, and their configurations are described. The addition of improved computer graphics capability to the supercomputer, and the utilization of the graphic software and hardware are discussed. Consideration is given to the interactive processing system which supports the computer in an interactive debugging, processing, and graphics environment.

Therapeutic potential of the metabolic modulator phenformin in targeting the stem cell compartment in melanoma.

PubMed

Petrachi, Tiziana; Romagnani, Alessandra; Albini, Adriana; Longo, Caterina; Argenziano, Giuseppe; Grisendi, Giulia; Dominici, Massimo; Ciarrocchi, Alessia; Dallaglio, Katiuscia

2017-01-24

Melanoma is the most dangerous and treatment-resistant skin cancer. Tumor resistance and recurrence are due to the persistence in the patient of aggressive cells with stem cell features, the cancer stem cells (CSC). Recent evidences have shown that CSC display a distinct metabolic profile as compared to tumor bulk population: a promising anti-tumor strategy is therefore to target specific metabolic pathways driving CSC behavior. Biguanides (metformin and phenformin) are anti-diabetic drugs able to perturb cellular metabolism and displaying anti-cancer activity. However, their ability to target the CSC compartment in melanoma is not known. Here we show that phenformin, but not metformin, strongly reduces melanoma cell viability, growth and invasion in both 2D and 3D (spheroids) models. While phenformin decreases melanoma CSC markers expression and the levels of the pro-survival factor MITF, MITF overexpression fails to prevent phenformin effects. Phenformin significantly reduces cell viability in melanoma by targeting both CSC (ALDHhigh) and non-CSC cells and by significantly reducing the number of viable cells in ALDHhigh and ALDHlow-derived spheroids. Consistently, phenformin reduces melanoma cell viability and growth independently from SOX2 levels. Our results show that phenformin is able to affect both CSC and non-CSC melanoma cell viability and growth and suggests its potential use as anti-cancer therapy in melanoma.

Therapeutic potential of the metabolic modulator phenformin in targeting the stem cell compartment in melanoma

PubMed Central

Albini, Adriana; Longo, Caterina; Argenziano, Giuseppe; Grisendi, Giulia; Dominici, Massimo; Ciarrocchi, Alessia; Dallaglio, Katiuscia

2017-01-01

Melanoma is the most dangerous and treatment-resistant skin cancer. Tumor resistance and recurrence are due to the persistence in the patient of aggressive cells with stem cell features, the cancer stem cells (CSC). Recent evidences have shown that CSC display a distinct metabolic profile as compared to tumor bulk population: a promising anti-tumor strategy is therefore to target specific metabolic pathways driving CSC behavior. Biguanides (metformin and phenformin) are anti-diabetic drugs able to perturb cellular metabolism and displaying anti-cancer activity. However, their ability to target the CSC compartment in melanoma is not known. Here we show that phenformin, but not metformin, strongly reduces melanoma cell viability, growth and invasion in both 2D and 3D (spheroids) models. While phenformin decreases melanoma CSC markers expression and the levels of the pro-survival factor MITF, MITF overexpression fails to prevent phenformin effects. Phenformin significantly reduces cell viability in melanoma by targeting both CSC (ALDHhigh) and non-CSC cells and by significantly reducing the number of viable cells in ALDHhigh and ALDHlow-derived spheroids. Consistently, phenformin reduces melanoma cell viability and growth independently from SOX2 levels. Our results show that phenformin is able to affect both CSC and non-CSC melanoma cell viability and growth and suggests its potential use as anti-cancer therapy in melanoma. PMID:28036292

Cancer Stem-like Cells Act via Distinct Signaling Pathways in Promoting Late Stages of Malignant Progression.

PubMed

da Silva-Diz, Victoria; Simón-Extremera, Pilar; Bernat-Peguera, Adrià; de Sostoa, Jana; Urpí, Maria; Penín, Rosa M; Sidelnikova, Diana Pérez; Bermejo, Oriol; Viñals, Joan Maria; Rodolosse, Annie; González-Suárez, Eva; Moruno, Antonio Gómez; Pujana, Miguel Ángel; Esteller, Manel; Villanueva, Alberto; Viñals, Francesc; Muñoz, Purificación

2016-03-01

Cancer stem-like cells (CSC) play key roles in long-term tumor propagation and metastasis, but their dynamics during disease progression are not understood. Tumor relapse in patients with initially excised skin squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) is characterized by increased metastatic potential, and SCC progression is associated with an expansion of CSC. Here, we used genetically and chemically-induced mouse models of skin SCC to investigate the signaling pathways contributing to CSC function during disease progression. We found that CSC regulatory mechanisms change in advanced SCC, correlating with aggressive tumor growth and enhanced metastasis. β-Catenin and EGFR signaling, induced in early SCC CSC, were downregulated in advanced SCC. Instead, autocrine FGFR1 and PDGFRα signaling, which have not been previously associated with skin SCC CSC, were upregulated in late CSC and promoted tumor growth and metastasis, respectively. Finally, high-grade and recurrent human skin SCC recapitulated the signaling changes observed in advanced mouse SCC. Collectively, our findings suggest a stage-specific switch in CSC regulation during disease progression that could be therapeutically exploited by targeting the PDGFR and FGFR1 pathways to block relapse and metastasis of advanced human skin SCC. ©2015 American Association for Cancer Research.

How Computer Graphics Work.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Prosise, Jeff

This document presents the principles behind modern computer graphics without straying into the arcane languages of mathematics and computer science. Illustrations accompany the clear, step-by-step explanations that describe how computers draw pictures. The 22 chapters of the book are organized into 5 sections. "Part 1: Computer Graphics in…

78 FR 5870 - Community Development Financial Institutions Fund: Proposed Collection; Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-01-28

... DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY Community Development Financial Institutions Fund: Proposed Collection...)). Currently, the Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Fund, an office within the Department of... Kuchar, Associate Program [[Page 5871

Computer Graphics.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Halpern, Jeanne W.

1970-01-01

Computer graphics have been called the most exciting development in computer technology. At the University of Michigan, three kinds of graphics output equipment are now being used: symbolic printers, line plotters or drafting devices, and cathode-ray tubes (CRT). Six examples are given that demonstrate the range of graphics use at the University.…

General aviation design synthesis utilizing interactive computer graphics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Galloway, T. L.; Smith, M. R.

1976-01-01

Interactive computer graphics is a fast growing area of computer application, due to such factors as substantial cost reductions in hardware, general availability of software, and expanded data communication networks. In addition to allowing faster and more meaningful input/output, computer graphics permits the use of data in graphic form to carry out parametric studies for configuration selection and for assessing the impact of advanced technologies on general aviation designs. The incorporation of interactive computer graphics into a NASA developed general aviation synthesis program is described, and the potential uses of the synthesis program in preliminary design are demonstrated.

The Chandra Source Catalog 2.0: Data Processing Pipelines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miller, Joseph; Allen, Christopher E.; Budynkiewicz, Jamie A.; Gibbs, Danny G., II; Paxson, Charles; Chen, Judy C.; Anderson, Craig S.; Burke, Douglas; Civano, Francesca Maria; D'Abrusco, Raffaele; Doe, Stephen M.; Evans, Ian N.; Evans, Janet D.; Fabbiano, Giuseppina; Glotfelty, Kenny J.; Graessle, Dale E.; Grier, John D.; Hain, Roger; Hall, Diane M.; Harbo, Peter N.; Houck, John C.; Lauer, Jennifer L.; Laurino, Omar; Lee, Nicholas P.; Martínez-Galarza, Juan Rafael; McCollough, Michael L.; McDowell, Jonathan C.; McLaughlin, Warren; Morgan, Douglas L.; Mossman, Amy E.; Nguyen, Dan T.; Nichols, Joy S.; Nowak, Michael A.; Plummer, David A.; Primini, Francis Anthony; Rots, Arnold H.; Siemiginowska, Aneta; Sundheim, Beth A.; Tibbetts, Michael; Van Stone, David W.; Zografou, Panagoula

2018-01-01

With the construction of the Second Chandra Source Catalog (CSC2.0), came new requirements and new techniques to create a software system that can process 10,000 observations and identify nearly 320,000 point and compact X-ray sources. A new series of processing pipelines have been developed to allow for deeper more complete exploration of the Chanda observations. In CSC1.0 there were 4 general pipelines, whereas in CSC2.0 there are 20 data processing pipelines that have been organized into 3 distinct phases of operation - detection, master matching and source property characterization.With CSC2.0, observations within one arcminute of each other are stacked before searching for sources. The detection phase of processing combines the data, adjusts for shifts in fine astrometry, detects sources, and assesses the likelihood that sources are real. During the master source phase, detections across stacks of observations are analyzed for coverage of the same source to produce a master source. Finally, in the source property phase, each source is characterized with aperture photometry, spectrometry, variability and other properties at theobservation, stack and master levels over several energy bands.We present how these pipelines were constructed and the challenges we faced in how we processed data ranging from virtually no counts to millions of counts, how pipelines were tuned to work optimally on a computational cluster, and how we ensure the data produced was correct through various quality assurance steps.This work has been supported by NASA under contract NAS 8-03060 to the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory for operation of the Chandra X-ray Center.

A review of CARE’s Community Score Card experience and evidence

PubMed Central

Gullo, Sara; Galavotti, Christine; Altman, Lara

2016-01-01

The global community’s growing enthusiasm for the potential of social accountability approaches to improve health system performance and accelerate health progress makes it imperative that we learn from social accountability intervention implementation experience and results. To this end, we carried out a review of Cooperative for Assistance and Relief Everywhere, Inc. (CARE)’s experience with the Community Score Card© (CSC)—a social accountability approach CARE developed in Malawi. We reviewed projects that CARE implemented between 2002 and 2013 that employed the CSC and that had at least one evaluation in English. We systematically collected and synthesized information from evaluations on the projects’ characteristics, CSC-related outcomes and challenges. Eight projects, spanning five countries, met our inclusion criteria. The projects applied the CSC to various focus areas, mostly health. We identified one to three evaluations, mostly qualitative, for each project. While the evaluations had many limitations, consistency of the results, as well as the range of outcomes, suggests that the CSC is contributing to significant changes. All projects reported CSC-related governance outcomes and service outcomes. There is promising evidence that the CSC can contribute to citizen empowerment, service provider and power-holder effectiveness, accountability and responsiveness and spaces for negotiation between the two that are expanded, effective and inclusive. There is also evidence that the CSC may contribute to improvements in service availability, access, utilization and quality. The CSC seems particularly suited to building trust and strengthening relationships between the community and service providers and to improving the user-centred dimension of quality. All of the projects reported challenges, with ensuring national responsiveness and inclusion of marginalized groups in the CSC process proving to be the most intractable. To improve health system performance and accelerate health progress we recommend further CSC use, enhancements and research. PMID:27190223

En face choroidal vascular feature imaging in acute and chronic central serous chorioretinopathy using swept source optical coherence tomography.

PubMed

Lee, Won June; Lee, Jung Wook; Park, Seung Hun; Lee, Byung Ro

2017-05-01

To evaluate the variable depth tomographic features of choroidal vasculature in acute and chronic central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) using swept source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT) en face imaging. We retrospectively reviewed the en face SS-OCT images of 29 patients that presented with acute (12 eyes) or chronic (17 eyes) CSC. All of the patient eyes underwent 6×6 macular scans with SS-OCT (DRI OCT-1, Topcon, Tokyo, Japan), fluorescein angiography and indocyanine green angiography. The en face image was used to investigate the choroidal vasculature of each layer. Moreover, we determined that some parts corresponded to choriocapillaris and Sattler's layer attenuation, whereas choroidal vessel dilatation was associated with Haller's layer. At Haller's layer level, choroidal vessel dilatation was observed in 11 of 12 acute CSC (91.7%) and 15 of 17 chronic CSC (88.2%). In acute CSC, choroidal vessel dilatation was divided into focal (9/11; 81.8%) and diffuse (2/11; 18.2%) patterns. The chronic CSC cases demonstrated different patterns of choroidal vessel dilatation: focal (5/15; 33.3%) and diffuse (10/15; 66.6%). Ten of the acute CSC eyes (83.3%) and 14 of the chronic CSC eyes (82.4%) were found to have obscured choriocapillaris and Sattler's layers on en face imaging. En face imaging of SS-OCT is useful when combined with angiography in CSC for evaluating choroidal vessel dilatation at Haller's layer and to identify obscured upper layers. We identified different choroidal vessel dilatation patterns between acute and chronic CSC. These findings might be useful for pathophysiological understanding of CSC. 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/.

Payload specialist Ronald Parise checks on ASTRO-2 payload

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1995-01-01

Payload specialist Ronald A. Parise, a senior scientist in the Space Observatories Department of Computer Sciences Corporation (CSC), checks on the ASTRO-2 payload (out of frame in the cargo bay of the Space Shuttle Endeavour). Parise is on the aft flight deck of the Earth orbiting Endeavour during STS-67.

Testicular cells exhibit similar molecular responses to cigarette smoke condensate ex vivo and in vivo.

PubMed

Esakky, Prabagaran; Hansen, Deborah A; Drury, Andrea M; Felder, Paul; Cusumano, Andrew; Moley, Kelle H

2018-01-01

Male exposure to cigarette smoke is associated with seminal defects and with congenital anomalies and childhood cancers in offspring. In mice, paternal exposure to cigarette smoke condensate (CSC) causes molecular defects in germ cells and phenotypic effects in their offspring. Here we used an ex vivo testicular explant model and in vivo exposure to determine the concentration at which CSC impairs spermatogenesis and offspring development. We explanted testis tissue at postnatal day (P)5.5 and cultured it until P11.5. Assessment of growth parameters by analyzing expression of cell-specific markers revealed that the explant system maintained structural and functional integrity. We exposed the P5.5 to -11.5 explants to various concentrations (40-160 µg/ml) of CSC and confirmed that nicotine in the CSC was metabolized to cotinine. We assessed various growth and differentiation parameters, as well as testosterone production, and observed that many spermatogenesis features were impaired at 160 µg/ml CSC. The same parameters were impaired by a similar CSC concentration in vivo Finally, females mated to males that were exposed to 160 µg/ml CSC neonatally had increased rates of pup resorption. We conclude that male exposure to CSC impairs offspring development and that the concentration at which CSC impairs spermatogenesis is similar in vivo and ex vivo. Given that the concentrations of CSC we used contained similar doses of nicotine as human smokers are exposed to, we argue that our model mimics human male reproductive effects of smoking.-Esakky, P., Hansen, D. A., Drury, A. M., Felder, P., Cusumano, A., Moley, K. H. Testicular cells exhibit similar molecular responses to cigarette smoke condensate ex vivo and in vivo . © FASEB.

A review on the mechanism, risk evaluation, and prevention of coal spontaneous combustion in China.

PubMed

Kong, Biao; Li, Zenghua; Yang, Yongliang; Liu, Zhen; Yan, Daocheng

2017-10-01

In recent years, the ecology, security, and sustainable development of modern mines have become the theme of coal mine development worldwide. However, spontaneous combustion of coal under conditions of oxygen supply and automatic exothermic heating during coal mining lead to coalfield fires. Coal spontaneous combustion (CSC) causes huge economic losses and casualties, with the toxic and harmful gases produced during coal combustion not only polluting the working environment, but also causing great damage to the ecological environment. China is the world's largest coal producer and consumer; however, coal production in Chinese mines is seriously threatened by the CSC risk. Because deep underground mining methods are commonly adopted in Chinese coal mines, coupling disasters are frequent in these mines with the coalfield fires becoming increasingly serious. Therefore, in this study, we analyzed the development mechanism of CSC. The CSC risk assessment was performed from the aspects of prediction, detection, and determination of the "dangerous area" in a coal mine (i.e., the area most susceptible to fire hazards). A new geophysical method for CSC determination is proposed and analyzed. Furthermore, the main methods for CSC fire prevention and control and their advantages and disadvantages are analyzed. To eventually construct CSC prevention and control integration system, future developmental direction of CSC was given from five aspects. Our results can present a reference for the development of CSC fire prevention and control technology and promote the protection of ecological environment in China.

Computer graphics application in the engineering design integration system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Glatt, C. R.; Abel, R. W.; Hirsch, G. N.; Alford, G. E.; Colquitt, W. N.; Stewart, W. A.

1975-01-01

The computer graphics aspect of the Engineering Design Integration (EDIN) system and its application to design problems were discussed. Three basic types of computer graphics may be used with the EDIN system for the evaluation of aerospace vehicles preliminary designs: offline graphics systems using vellum-inking or photographic processes, online graphics systems characterized by direct coupled low cost storage tube terminals with limited interactive capabilities, and a minicomputer based refresh terminal offering highly interactive capabilities. The offline line systems are characterized by high quality (resolution better than 0.254 mm) and slow turnaround (one to four days). The online systems are characterized by low cost, instant visualization of the computer results, slow line speed (300 BAUD), poor hard copy, and the early limitations on vector graphic input capabilities. The recent acquisition of the Adage 330 Graphic Display system has greatly enhanced the potential for interactive computer aided design.

Engineering computer graphics in gas turbine engine design, analysis and manufacture

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lopatka, R. S.

1975-01-01

A time-sharing and computer graphics facility designed to provide effective interactive tools to a large number of engineering users with varied requirements was described. The application of computer graphics displays at several levels of hardware complexity and capability is discussed, with examples of graphics systems tracing gas turbine product development, beginning with preliminary design through manufacture. Highlights of an operating system stylized for interactive engineering graphics is described.

A modern approach to storing of 3D geometry of objects in machine engineering industry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sokolova, E. A.; Aslanov, G. A.; Sokolov, A. A.

2017-02-01

3D graphics is a kind of computer graphics which has absorbed a lot from the vector and raster computer graphics. It is used in interior design projects, architectural projects, advertising, while creating educational computer programs, movies, visual images of parts and products in engineering, etc. 3D computer graphics allows one to create 3D scenes along with simulation of light conditions and setting up standpoints.

Distributed computation of graphics primitives on a transputer network

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ellis, Graham K.

1988-01-01

A method is developed for distributing the computation of graphics primitives on a parallel processing network. Off-the-shelf transputer boards are used to perform the graphics transformations and scan-conversion tasks that would normally be assigned to a single transputer based display processor. Each node in the network performs a single graphics primitive computation. Frequently requested tasks can be duplicated on several nodes. The results indicate that the current distribution of commands on the graphics network shows a performance degradation when compared to the graphics display board alone. A change to more computation per node for every communication (perform more complex tasks on each node) may cause the desired increase in throughput.

An Object-Oriented Graphical User Interface for a Reusable Rocket Engine Intelligent Control System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Litt, Jonathan S.; Musgrave, Jeffrey L.; Guo, Ten-Huei; Paxson, Daniel E.; Wong, Edmond; Saus, Joseph R.; Merrill, Walter C.

1994-01-01

An intelligent control system for reusable rocket engines under development at NASA Lewis Research Center requires a graphical user interface to allow observation of the closed-loop system in operation. The simulation testbed consists of a real-time engine simulation computer, a controls computer, and several auxiliary computers for diagnostics and coordination. The system is set up so that the simulation computer could be replaced by the real engine and the change would be transparent to the control system. Because of the hard real-time requirement of the control computer, putting a graphical user interface on it was not an option. Thus, a separate computer used strictly for the graphical user interface was warranted. An object-oriented LISP-based graphical user interface has been developed on a Texas Instruments Explorer 2+ to indicate the condition of the engine to the observer through plots, animation, interactive graphics, and text.

Advanced Certification Program for Computer Graphic Specialists. Final Performance Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Parkland Coll., Champaign, IL.

A pioneer program in computer graphics was implemented at Parkland College (Illinois) to meet the demand for specialized technicians to visualize data generated on high performance computers. In summer 1989, 23 students were accepted into the pilot program. Courses included C programming, calculus and analytic geometry, computer graphics, and…

S-Acylation of the cellulose synthase complex is essential for its plasma membrane localization.

PubMed

Kumar, Manoj; Wightman, Raymond; Atanassov, Ivan; Gupta, Anjali; Hurst, Charlotte H; Hemsley, Piers A; Turner, Simon

2016-07-08

Plant cellulose microfibrils are synthesized by a process that propels the cellulose synthase complex (CSC) through the plane of the plasma membrane. How interactions between membranes and the CSC are regulated is currently unknown. Here, we demonstrate that all catalytic subunits of the CSC, known as cellulose synthase A (CESA) proteins, are S-acylated. Analysis of Arabidopsis CESA7 reveals four cysteines in variable region 2 (VR2) and two cysteines at the carboxy terminus (CT) as S-acylation sites. Mutating both the VR2 and CT cysteines permits CSC assembly and trafficking to the Golgi but prevents localization to the plasma membrane. Estimates suggest that a single CSC contains more than 100 S-acyl groups, which greatly increase the hydrophobic nature of the CSC and likely influence its immediate membrane environment. Copyright © 2016, American Association for the Advancement of Science.

Results from a pilot study of a computer-based role-playing game for young people with psychosis.

PubMed

Olivet, Jeffrey; Haselden, Morgan; Piscitelli, Sarah; Kenney, Rachael; Shulman, Alexander; Medoff, Deborah; Dixon, Lisa

2018-03-15

Recent research on first episode psychosis (FEP) has demonstrated the effectiveness of coordinated specialty care (CSC) models to support young adults and their families, yet few tools exist to promote engagement in care. This study aimed to develop a prototype computer-based role-playing game (RPG) designed for young people who have experienced FEP, and conduct a pilot study to determine feasibility and test whether the game improves consumers' attitudes toward treatment and recovery. Twenty young people with FEP who were receiving services at a CSC program enrolled in the study and played the game for 1 hour. Pre- and post-quantitative assessments measured change in hope, recovery, stigma, empowerment and engagement in treatment. Qualitative interviews explored participants' experience with the game and ideas for further product development. Participants showed significant increase in positive attitudes toward recovery. The qualitative findings further demonstrated the game's positive impact across these domains. Of all game features, participants most highly valued video testimonials of other young adults with FEP telling their stories of hope and recovery. These findings provide modest support for the potential benefits of this type of computer-based RPG, if further developed for individuals experiencing psychosis. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd.

A study of computer graphics technology in application of communication resource management

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Jing; Zhou, Liang; Yang, Fei

2017-08-01

With the development of computer technology, computer graphics technology has been widely used. Especially, the success of object-oriented technology and multimedia technology promotes the development of graphics technology in the computer software system. Therefore, the computer graphics theory and application technology have become an important topic in the field of computer, while the computer graphics technology becomes more and more extensive in various fields of application. In recent years, with the development of social economy, especially the rapid development of information technology, the traditional way of communication resource management cannot effectively meet the needs of resource management. In this case, the current communication resource management is still using the original management tools and management methods, resource management equipment management and maintenance, which brought a lot of problems. It is very difficult for non-professionals to understand the equipment and the situation in communication resource management. Resource utilization is relatively low, and managers cannot quickly and accurately understand the resource conditions. Aimed at the above problems, this paper proposes to introduce computer graphics technology into the communication resource management. The introduction of computer graphics not only makes communication resource management more vivid, but also reduces the cost of resource management and improves work efficiency.

41 CFR 101-28.306-5 - Safeguards.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... these access codes that orders are accepted by the CSC and these codes determine the ship-to points for all orders filled by the CSC with the exception of orders picked up at the CSC by the customer. GSA...

41 CFR 101-28.306-5 - Safeguards.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... these access codes that orders are accepted by the CSC and these codes determine the ship-to points for all orders filled by the CSC with the exception of orders picked up at the CSC by the customer. GSA...

Short-term efficacy of intravitreal dobesilate in central serous chorioretinopathy

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Purpose To report the anatomic and functional outcome of intravitreal dobesilate to treat recurrent central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC). Methods This is an interventional case report in which dobesilate was intravitreally injected in a case of recurrent CSC. Main measures included fundoscopy, Snellen visual acuity (VA) testing, fluorescein angiography and optical coherence tomography (OCT). Results We present anatomical and functional evidences, obtained as early as eleven days after the treatment, of the efficacy of intravitreal dobesilate, in the treatment of chronic CSC condition. The effect after intravitreal dobesilate injection for CSC might be related to the normalization of retinal architecture. Conclusions Intravitreal dobesilate may be an effective treatment option for recurrent CSC. PMID:22788836

Computer Recreations.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dewdney, A. K.

1989-01-01

Discussed are three examples of computer graphics including biomorphs, Truchet tilings, and fractal popcorn. The graphics are shown and the basic algorithm using multiple iteration of a particular function or mathematical operation is described. An illustration of a snail shell created by computer graphics is presented. (YP)

Susceptibility to cytotoxic T cell lysis of cancer stem cells derived from cervical and head and neck tumor cell lines.

PubMed

Liao, Tian; Kaufmann, Andreas M; Qian, Xu; Sangvatanakul, Voramon; Chen, Chao; Kube, Tina; Zhang, Guoyou; Albers, Andreas E

2013-01-01

To explore cancer stem cell susceptibility to a host's cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL)-mediated immune response. We compared the susceptibility of putative CSC generated from cancer cell lines to immunologic recognition and killing by alloantigen-specific CD8(+) CTL. CSC-enriched spheroid culture-derived cells (SDC) exhibited higher expression of ALDH, ICAM1 and of stem/progenitor cell markers on all 3 tumor cell lines investigated and lower MHC class I on the cervical cancer cell line as compared to their monolayer-derived cells (MDC). The expression of ICAM1 and MHCI was upregulated by IFN-γ treatment. CSC populations were less sensitive to MHC class I-restricted alloantigen-specific CD8(+) CTL lysis as compared to matched MDC. IFN-γ pretreatment resulted in over-proportionally enhanced lysis of SDC. Finally, the subset of ALDH(high) expressing SDC presented more sensitivity toward CD8(+) CTL killing than the ALDH(low) SDC. Tumor therapy resistance has been attributed to cancer stem cells (CSC). We show in vitro susceptibility of CSC to CTL-mediated lysis. Immunotherapy targeting of ALDH(+) CSC may therefore be a promising approach. Our results and method may be helpful for the development and optimization of adjuvants, as here exemplified for INF-γ, for CSC-targeted vaccines, independent of the availability of CSC-specific antigens.

The Chandra Source Catalog 2.0: Interfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

D'Abrusco, Raffaele; Zografou, Panagoula; Tibbetts, Michael; Allen, Christopher E.; Anderson, Craig S.; Budynkiewicz, Jamie A.; Burke, Douglas; Chen, Judy C.; Civano, Francesca Maria; Doe, Stephen M.; Evans, Ian N.; Evans, Janet D.; Fabbiano, Giuseppina; Gibbs, Danny G., II; Glotfelty, Kenny J.; Graessle, Dale E.; Grier, John D.; Hain, Roger; Hall, Diane M.; Harbo, Peter N.; Houck, John C.; Lauer, Jennifer L.; Laurino, Omar; Lee, Nicholas P.; Martínez-Galarza, Rafael; McCollough, Michael L.; McDowell, Jonathan C.; Miller, Joseph; McLaughlin, Warren; Morgan, Douglas L.; Mossman, Amy E.; Nguyen, Dan T.; Nichols, Joy S.; Nowak, Michael A.; Paxson, Charles; Plummer, David A.; Primini, Francis Anthony; Rots, Arnold H.; Siemiginowska, Aneta; Sundheim, Beth A.; Van Stone, David W.

2018-01-01

Easy-to-use, powerful public interfaces to access the wealth of information contained in any modern, complex astronomical catalog are fundamental to encourage its usage. In this poster,I present the public interfaces of the second Chandra Source Catalog (CSC2). CSC2 is the most comprehensive catalog of X-ray sources detected by Chandra, thanks to the inclusion of Chandra observations public through the end of 2014 and to methodological advancements. CSC2 provides measured properties for a large number of sources that sample the X-ray sky at fainter levels than the previous versions of the CSC, thanks to the stacking of single overlapping observations within 1’ before source detection. Sources from stacks are then crossmatched, if multiple stacks cover the same area of the sky, to create a list of unique, optimal CSC2 sources. The properties of sources detected in each single stack and each single observation are also measured. The layered structure of the CSC2 catalog is mirrored in the organization of the CSC2 database, consisting of three tables containing all properties for the unique stacked sources (“Master Source”), single stack sources (“Stack Source”) and sources in any single observation (“Observation Source”). These tables contain estimates of the position, flags, extent, significances, fluxes, spectral properties and variability (and associated errors) for all classes of sources. The CSC2 also includes source region and full-field data products for all master sources, stack sources and observation sources: images, photon event lists, light curves and spectra.CSCview, the main interface to the CSC2 source properties and data products, is a GUI tool that allows to build queries based on the values of all properties contained in CSC2 tables, query the catalog, inspect the returned table of source properties, browse and download the associated data products. I will also introduce the suite of command-line interfaces to CSC2 that can be used in alternative to CSCview, and will present the concept for an additional planned cone-search web-based interface.This work has been supported by NASA under contract NAS 8-03060 to the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory for operation of the Chandra X-ray Center.

Is There Computer Graphics after Multimedia?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Booth, Kellogg S.

Computer graphics has been driven by the desire to generate real-time imagery subject to constraints imposed by the human visual system. The future of computer graphics, when off-the-shelf systems have full multimedia capability and when standard computing engines render imagery faster than real-time, remains to be seen. A dedicated pipeline for…

Multimedia Learning System and Its Effect on Self-Efficacy in Database Modeling and Design: An Exploratory Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cheung, Waiman; Li, Eldon Y.; Yee, Lester W.

2003-01-01

Metadatabase modeling and design integrate process modeling and data modeling methodologies. Both are core topics in the information technology (IT) curriculum. Learning these topics has been an important pedagogical issue to the core studies for management information systems (MIS) and computer science (CSc) students. Unfortunately, the learning…

Laserprinter applications in a medical graphics department.

PubMed

Lynch, P J

1987-01-01

Our experience with the Apple Macintosh and LaserWriter equipment has convinced us that lasergraphics holds much current and future promise in the creation of line graphics and typography for the biomedical community. Although we continue to use other computer graphics equipment to produce color slides and an occasional pen-plotter graphic, the most rapidly growing segment of our graphics workload is in material well-suited to production on the Macintosh/LaserWriter system. At present our goal is to integrate all of our computer graphics production (color slides, video paint graphics and monochrome print graphics) into a single Macintosh-based system within the next two years. The software and hardware currently available are capable of producing a wide range of science graphics very quickly and inexpensively. The cost-effectiveness, versatility and relatively low initial investment required to install this equipment make it an attractive alternative for cost-recovery departments just entering the field of computer graphics.

Chandra Source Catalog: User Interfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bonaventura, Nina; Evans, I. N.; Harbo, P. N.; Rots, A. H.; Tibbetts, M. S.; Van Stone, D. W.; Zografou, P.; Anderson, C. S.; Chen, J. C.; Davis, J. E.; Doe, S. M.; Evans, J. D.; Fabbiano, G.; Galle, E.; Gibbs, D. G.; Glotfelty, K. J.; Grier, J. D.; Hain, R.; Hall, D. M.; He, X.; Houck, J. C.; Karovska, M.; Lauer, J.; McCollough, M. L.; McDowell, J. C.; Miller, J. B.; Mitschang, A. W.; Morgan, D. L.; Nichols, J. S.; Nowak, M. A.; Plummer, D. A.; Primini, F. A.; Refsdal, B. L.; Siemiginowska, A. L.; Sundheim, B. A.; Winkelman, S. L.

2010-03-01

The CSCview data mining interface is available for browsing the Chandra Source Catalog (CSC) and downloading tables of quality-assured source properties and data products. Once the desired source properties and search criteria are entered into the CSCview query form, the resulting source matches are returned in a table along with the values of the requested source properties for each source. (The catalog can be searched on any source property, not just position.) At this point, the table of search results may be saved to a text file, and the available data products for each source may be downloaded. CSCview save files are output in RDB-like and VOTable format. The available CSC data products include event files, spectra, lightcurves, and images, all of which are processed with the CIAO software. CSC data may also be accessed non-interactively with Unix command-line tools such as cURL and Wget, using ADQL 2.0 query syntax. In fact, CSCview features a separate ADQL query form for those who wish to specify this type of query within the GUI. Several interfaces are available for learning if a source is included in the catalog (in addition to CSCview): 1) the CSC interface to Sky in Google Earth shows the footprint of each Chandra observation on the sky, along with the CSC footprint for comparison (CSC source properties are also accessible when a source within a Chandra field-of-view is clicked); 2) the CSC Limiting Sensitivity online tool indicates if a source at an input celestial location was too faint for detection; 3) an IVOA Simple Cone Search interface locates all CSC sources within a specified radius of an R.A. and Dec.; and 4) the CSC-SDSS cross-match service returns the list of sources common to the CSC and SDSS, either all such sources or a subset based on search criteria.

NW CSC annual report fiscal year 2013

USGS Publications Warehouse

Bisbal, Gustavo A.

2013-01-01

The Northwest Climate Science Center (NW CSC) was established in 2010 as one of eight regional Climate Science Centers created by the Department of the Interior (DOI). The NW CSC encompasses Washing-ton, Oregon, Idaho, and western Montana and has overlapping boundaries with three Landscape Conservation Cooperatives (LCCs): the Great Northern, the Great Basin, and the North Pacific. With guidance from its Executive Stakeholder Advisory Committee (ESAC), the NW CSC and its partner LCCs are addressing the highest priority regional climate science needs of Northwest natural and cultural resource managers. Climate Science Centers tap into the scientific expertise of both the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and academic institutions. The NW CSC is supported by an academic consortium with the capacity to generate climate science and tools in a coordinated fashion, serving stakeholders across the Northwest region. This consortium is primarily represented by Oregon State University (OSU), the University of Id-ho (UI), and the University of Washington (UW). The academic consortium and USGS provide capabilities in climate science, ecology, impacts and vulnerability assessment, modeling, adaptation planning, and advanced information technology, all necessary to address and respond to climate change in the Northwest. University members also recruit and train graduate students and early-career scientists. This Annual Report summarizes progress for the goals set out in the NW CSC Strategic Plan for 2012-2015 (http://www.doi.gov/csc/northwest/upload/Northwest-CSC-Strategic-Plan.cfm) and the NW CSC Work-plan for Fiscal Year (FY) 2013 (October 1, 2012 through September 30, 2013). The report follows the structure of the Strategic Plan, which describes the five core services (Executive, Science, Data, Communications, and Education and Training) provided by the NW CSC in support of the stated vision: Our Vision: To become nationally recognized as a best-practice model for the provision of climate science and decision support tools to address conservation and management issues in the Pacific Northwest Region.

"The difference is in the tomato at the end": Understanding the motivations and practices of cannabis growers operating within Belgian Cannabis Social Clubs.

PubMed

Pardal, Mafalda

2018-03-11

In Belgium, Cannabis Social Clubs (CSCs) collectively organize the cultivation and distribution of cannabis for the personal use of their members. In this paper we seek to improve understanding of the motivations and practices of cannabis growers operating within CSCs, shedding light on the cultivation process. We draw on data gathered through face-to-face semi-structured interviews with the directors of seven active Belgian CSCs (n = 21) and CSC growers (n = 23). These data are complemented by additional fieldwork and a review of policies relating to CSCs', including bylaws and growing protocols. The Belgian CSCs rely on single and multiple in-house grower arrangements. Most CSC growers had been cultivating cannabis prior to joining their current CSC, albeit growing in different contexts (non-commercial and commercial). The CSC growers discussed both ideological and pragmatic motives for operating within a CSC. Cultivation took place indoors and followed organic practices. Despite their small-scale (20 plants on average), the grow sites used specialized equipment. The growers reported receiving financial compensation to cover production costs. This paper offers new insights into a particular sector of domestic cannabis cultivation - CSC growers and their practices within those collectives - which has not been studied previously. The Belgian CSCs have decentralized production among small-scale grow sites, at a size comparable to that found in other small-scale cultivation studies. In terms of motivations and practices, CSC growers share some features typically ascribed to small-scale cannabis cultivators. At the same time, CSC growers seemed particularly engaged with the CSC model and willing to adhere to the (self-)regulated practices developed by the organizations. This had implications for the way cultivation was organized and for the role of the grower within the CSC. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Cell division patterns and chromosomal segregation defects in oral cancer stem cells.

PubMed

Kaseb, Hatem O; Lewis, Dale W; Saunders, William S; Gollin, Susanne M

2016-09-01

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a serious public health problem caused primarily by smoking and alcohol consumption or human papillomavirus. The cancer stem cell (CSC) theory posits that CSCs show unique characteristics, including self-renewal and therapeutic resistance. Examining biomarkers and other features of CSCs is critical to better understanding their biology. To this end, the results show that cellular SOX2 immunostaining correlates with other CSC biomarkers in OSCC cell lines and marks the rare CSC population. To assess whether CSC division patterns are symmetrical, resulting in two CSC, or asymmetrical, leading to one CSC and one cancer cell, cell size and fluorescence intensity of mitotic cells stained with SOX2 were analyzed. Asymmetrical SOX2 distribution in ≈25% of the mitoses analyzed was detected. Chromosomal instability, some of which is caused by chromosome segregation defects (CSDs), is a feature of cancer cells that leads to altered gene copy numbers. We compare chromosomal instability (as measured by CSDs) between CSCs (SOX2+) and non-CSCs (SOX2-) from the same OSCC cell lines. CSDs were more common in non-CSCs (SOX2-) than CSCs (SOX2+) and in symmetrical CSC (SOX2+) mitotic pairs than asymmetrical CSC (SOX2+/SOX2-) mitotic pairs. CSCs showed fewer and different types of CSDs after ionizing radiation treatment than non-CSCs. Overall, these data are the first to demonstrate both symmetrical and asymmetrical cell divisions with CSDs in OSCC CSC. Further, the results suggest that CSCs may undergo altered behavior, including therapeutic resistance as a result of chromosomal instability due to chromosome segregation defects. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Characterization of cancer stem cell properties of CD24 and CD26-positive human malignant mesothelioma cells

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

Yamazaki, Hiroto; Naito, Motohiko; Ghani, Farhana Ishrat

2012-03-16

Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer We focused on CD24 and CD26 for further analysis of CSC properties in MM. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Their expressions were correlated with chemoresistance, cell growth, and invasion. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Their expressions were also correlated with several cancer related genes. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The expression of each marker was correlated with different CSC property in Meso1. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Phosphorylation of ERK by EGF was regulated by expression of CD26, but not CD24. -- Abstract: Malignant mesothelioma (MM) is an asbestos-related malignancy characterized by rapid growth and poor prognosis. In our previous study, we have demonstrated that several cancer stem cell (CSC) markers correlated with CSCmore » properties in MM cells. Among these markers, we focused on two: CD24, the common CSC marker, and CD26, the additional CSC marker. We further analyzed the CSC properties of CD24 and CD26-positve MM cells. We established RNAi-knockdown cells and found that these markers were significantly correlated with chemoresistance, proliferation, and invasion potentials in vitro. Interestingly, while Meso-1 cells expressed both CD24 and CD26, the presence of each of these two markers was correlated with different CSC property. In addition, downstream signaling of these markers was explored by microarray analysis, which revealed that their expressions were correlated with several cancer-related genes. Furthermore, phosphorylation of ERK by EGF stimulation was significantly affected by the expression of CD26, but not CD24. These results suggest that CD24 and CD26 differentially regulate the CSC potentials of MM and could be promising targets for CSC-oriented therapy.« less

DNA adduct formation in mice following dermal application of smoke condensates from cigarettes that burn or heat tobacco

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

Lee, C.K.; Brown, B.G.; Reed, E.A.

A prototype cigarette that heats tobacco (test cigarette), developed by R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company, has yielded consistently negative results in several in vivo and in vitro genetic toxicology tests. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the potential of cigarette smoke condensate (CSC) from the test cigarette to induce DNA adducts in mouse tissues and compare the results with those obtained with CSC from a reference tobacco-burning cigarette (1R4F). CD-1 mice were skin-painted with CSF from reference and test cigarettes three times a week for 4 weeks. The highest mass of CSC applied was 180 mg tar permore » week per animal for both reference and test cigarette. DNA adducts were analyzed in skin and lung tissues using the [sup 32]P-postlabeling method with the P[sub 1] nuclease modification. Distinct diagonal radioactive zones (DRZ) were observed in the DNA from both skin and lung tissues of animals dosed with reference CSC, whereas no corresponding DRZ were observed from the DNA of animals dosed with either test CSC or acetone (solvent control). The relative adduct labeling (RAL) values of skin and lung DNA from reference CSC-treated animals were significantly greater than those of the test CSC-treated animals. The RAL values of the test CSC-treated animals were no greater than those of solvent controls. The negative results in DNA adduct assays with test CSC are consistent with all previous results of in vivo and in vitro genetic toxicology testing on this cigarette and provide additional evidence that smoke condensate from the test cigarette is not genotoxic. 31 refs., 4 figs., 2 tabs.« less

CD10-/ALDH- cells are the sole cisplatin-resistant component of a novel ovarian cancer stem cell hierarchy.

PubMed

Ffrench, Brendan; Gasch, Claudia; Hokamp, Karsten; Spillane, Cathy; Blackshields, Gordon; Mahgoub, Thamir Mahmoud; Bates, Mark; Kehoe, Louise; Mooney, Aoibhinn; Doyle, Ronan; Doyle, Brendan; O'Donnell, Dearbhaile; Gleeson, Noreen; Hennessy, Bryan T; Stordal, Britta; O'Riain, Ciaran; Lambkin, Helen; O'Toole, Sharon; O'Leary, John J; Gallagher, Michael F

2017-10-19

It is long established that tumour-initiating cancer stem cells (CSCs) possess chemoresistant properties. However, little is known of the mechanisms involved, particularly with respect to the organisation of CSCs as stem-progenitor-differentiated cell hierarchies. Here we aimed to elucidate the relationship between CSC hierarchies and chemoresistance in an ovarian cancer model. Using a single cell-based approach to CSC discovery and validation, we report a novel, four-component CSC hierarchy based around the markers cluster of differentiation 10 (CD10) and aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH). In a change to our understanding of CSC biology, resistance to chemotherapy drug cisplatin was found to be the sole property of CD10 - /ALDH - CSCs, while all four CSC types were sensitive to chemotherapy drug paclitaxel. Cisplatin treatment quickly altered the hierarchy, resulting in a three-component hierarchy dominated by the cisplatin-resistant CD10 - /ALDH - CSC. This organisation was found to be hard-wired in a long-term cisplatin-adapted model, where again CD10 - /ALDH - CSCs were the sole cisplatin-resistant component, and all CSC types remained paclitaxel-sensitive. Molecular analysis indicated that cisplatin resistance is associated with inherent- and adaptive-specific drug efflux and DNA-damage repair mechanisms. Clinically, low CD10 expression was consistent with a specific set of ovarian cancer patient samples. Collectively, these data advance our understanding of the relationship between CSC hierarchies and chemoresistance, which was shown to be CSC- and drug-type specific, and facilitated by specific and synergistic inherent and adaptive mechanisms. Furthermore, our data indicate that primary stage targeting of CD10 - /ALDH - CSCs in specific ovarian cancer patients in future may facilitate targeting of recurrent disease, before it ever develops.

Analysis of the color alteration and radiopacity promoted by bismuth oxide in calcium silicate cement.

PubMed

Marciano, Marina Angélica; Estrela, Carlos; Mondelli, Rafael Francisco Lia; Ordinola-Zapata, Ronald; Duarte, Marco Antonio Hungaro

2013-01-01

The aim of the study was to determine if the increase in radiopacity provided by bismuth oxide is related to the color alteration of calcium silicate-based cement. Calcium silicate cement (CSC) was mixed with 0%, 15%, 20%, 30% and 50% of bismuth oxide (BO), determined by weight. Mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) was the control group. The radiopacity test was performed according to ISO 6876/2001. The color was evaluated using the CIE system. The assessments were performed after 24 hours, 7 and 30 days of setting time, using a spectrophotometer to obtain the ΔE, Δa, Δb and ΔL values. The statistical analyses were performed using the Kruskal-Wallis/Dunn and ANOVA/Tukey tests (p<0.05). The cements in which bismuth oxide was added showed radiopacity corresponding to the ISO recommendations (>3 mm equivalent of Al). The MTA group was statistically similar to the CSC/30% BO group (p>0.05). In regard to color, the increase of bismuth oxide resulted in a decrease in the ΔE value of the calcium silicate cement. The CSC group presented statistically higher ΔE values than the CSC/50% BO group (p<0.05). The comparison between 24 hours and 7 days showed higher ΔE for the MTA group, with statistical differences for the CSC/15% BO and CSC/50% BO groups (p<0.05). After 30 days, CSC showed statistically higher ΔE values than CSC/30% BO and CSC/50% BO (p<0.05). In conclusion, the increase in radiopacity provided by bismuth oxide has no relation to the color alteration of calcium silicate-based cements.

Graphic artist in computerland

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

Dolberg, K.M.

1983-01-01

The field of computer graphics is rapidly opening up to the graphic artist. It is not necessary to be a programming expert to enter this fascinating world. The capabilities of the medium are astounding: neon and metallic effects, translucent plastic and clear glass effects, sensitive 3-D shadings, limitless textures, and above all color. As with any medium, computer graphics has its advantages, such as speed, ease of form manipulation, and a variety of type fonts and alphabets. It also has its limitations, such as data input time, final output turnaround time, and not necessarily being the right medium for themore » job at hand. And finally, it is the time- and cost-saving characteristics of computer-generated visuals, opposed to original artwork, that make computer graphics a viable alternative. This paper focuses on parts of the computer graphics system in use at the Los Alamos National Laboratory to provide specific examples.« less

Central serous chorioretinopathy treatment with spironolactone: a challenge-rechallenge case.

PubMed

Ryan, Edwin H; Pulido, Christine M

2015-01-01

To present a case of central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) treatment with spironolactone in a challenge-rechallenge pattern. At presentation, fundus photography, fluorescein angiography, spectral domain optical coherence tomography, and enhanced depth imaging ocular coherence tomography were performed in both eyes. The patient was prescribed 25 mg spironolactone daily along with serum potassium monitoring. At follow-ups, spectral domain optical coherence tomography and enhanced depth imaging ocular coherence tomography were performed. A 37-year-old white male accountant presenting with CSC. Spironolactone treatment resolved the CSC. After the patient discontinued treatment, it returned. After returning to daily treatment, the CSC again resolved. Spironolactone was an effective treatment of CSC in this case. Other groups have reported similar findings with eplerenone, a similar drug.

77 FR 47432 - 21st Century Conservation Service Corps Advisory Committee

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-08-08

... programs, career training and youth employment opportunities; and (5) developing pathways for 21 CSC... development of certification criteria for 21CSC providers and individual certification of 21CSC members; (3... partnership opportunities with corporations, private businesses or entities, foundations, and non- profit...

Fucosylation is a common glycosylation type in pancreatic cancer stem cell-like phenotypes.

PubMed

Terao, Naoko; Takamatsu, Shinji; Minehira, Tomomi; Sobajima, Tomoaki; Nakayama, Kotarosumitomo; Kamada, Yoshihiro; Miyoshi, Eiji

2015-04-07

To evaluate/isolate cancer stem cells (CSCs) from tissue or cell lines according to various definitions and cell surface markers. Lectin microarray analysis was conducted on CSC-like fractions of the human pancreatic cancer cell line Panc1 by establishing anti-cancer drug-resistant cells. Changes in glycan structure of CSC-like cells were also investigated in sphere-forming cells as well as in CSC fractions obtained from overexpression of CD24 and CD44. Several types of fucosylation were increased under these conditions, and the expression of fucosylation regulatory genes such as fucosyltransferases, GDP-fucose synthetic enzymes, and GDP-fucose transporters were dramatically enhanced in CSC-like cells. These changes were significant in gemcitabine-resistant cells and sphere cells of a human pancreatic cancer cell line, Panc1. However, downregulation of cellular fucosylation by knockdown of the GDP-fucose transporter did not alter gemcitabine resistance, indicating that increased cellular fucosylation is a result of CSC-like transformation. Fucosylation might be a biomarker of CSC-like cells in pancreatic cancer.

An introduction to real-time graphical techniques for analyzing multivariate data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Friedman, Jerome H.; McDonald, John Alan; Stuetzle, Werner

1987-08-01

Orion I is a graphics system used to study applications of computer graphics - especially interactive motion graphics - in statistics. Orion I is the newest of a family of "Prim" systems, whose most striking common feature is the use of real-time motion graphics to display three dimensional scatterplots. Orion I differs from earlier Prim systems through the use of modern and relatively inexpensive raster graphics and microprocessor technology. It also delivers more computing power to its user; Orion I can perform more sophisticated real-time computations than were possible on previous such systems. We demonstrate some of Orion I's capabilities in our film: "Exploring data with Orion I".

The Chandra Source Catalog: Storage and Interfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

van Stone, David; Harbo, Peter N.; Tibbetts, Michael S.; Zografou, Panagoula; Evans, Ian N.; Primini, Francis A.; Glotfelty, Kenny J.; Anderson, Craig S.; Bonaventura, Nina R.; Chen, Judy C.; Davis, John E.; Doe, Stephen M.; Evans, Janet D.; Fabbiano, Giuseppina; Galle, Elizabeth C.; Gibbs, Danny G., II; Grier, John D.; Hain, Roger; Hall, Diane M.; He, Xiang Qun (Helen); Houck, John C.; Karovska, Margarita; Kashyap, Vinay L.; Lauer, Jennifer; McCollough, Michael L.; McDowell, Jonathan C.; Miller, Joseph B.; Mitschang, Arik W.; Morgan, Douglas L.; Mossman, Amy E.; Nichols, Joy S.; Nowak, Michael A.; Plummer, David A.; Refsdal, Brian L.; Rots, Arnold H.; Siemiginowska, Aneta L.; Sundheim, Beth A.; Winkelman, Sherry L.

2009-09-01

The Chandra Source Catalog (CSC) is part of the Chandra Data Archive (CDA) at the Chandra X-ray Center. The catalog contains source properties and associated data objects such as images, spectra, and lightcurves. The source properties are stored in relational databases and the data objects are stored in files with their metadata stored in databases. The CDA supports different versions of the catalog: multiple fixed release versions and a live database version. There are several interfaces to the catalog: CSCview, a graphical interface for building and submitting queries and for retrieving data objects; a command-line interface for property and source searches using ADQL; and VO-compliant services discoverable though the VO registry. This poster describes the structure of the catalog and provides an overview of the interfaces.

Interactive graphical computer-aided design system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Edge, T. M.

1975-01-01

System is used for design, layout, and modification of large-scale-integrated (LSI) metal-oxide semiconductor (MOS) arrays. System is structured around small computer which provides real-time support for graphics storage display unit with keyboard, slave display unit, hard copy unit, and graphics tablet for designer/computer interface.

SIGMA--A Graphical Approach to Teaching Simulation.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schruben, Lee W.

1992-01-01

SIGMA (Simulation Graphical Modeling and Analysis) is a computer graphics environment for building, testing, and experimenting with discrete event simulation models on personal computers. It uses symbolic representations (computer animation) to depict the logic of large, complex discrete event systems for easier understanding and has proven itself…

Development of a Traditional/Computer-aided Graphics Course for Engineering Technology.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Anand, Vera B.

1985-01-01

Describes a two-semester-hour freshman course in engineering graphics which uses both traditional and computerized instruction. Includes course description, computer graphics topics, and recommendations. Indicates that combining interactive graphics software with development of simple programs gave students a better foundation for upper-division…

The Chandra Source Catalog 2.0: Building The Catalog

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grier, John D.; Plummer, David A.; Allen, Christopher E.; Anderson, Craig S.; Budynkiewicz, Jamie A.; Burke, Douglas; Chen, Judy C.; Civano, Francesca Maria; D'Abrusco, Raffaele; Doe, Stephen M.; Evans, Ian N.; Evans, Janet D.; Fabbiano, Giuseppina; Gibbs, Danny G., II; Glotfelty, Kenny J.; Graessle, Dale E.; Hain, Roger; Hall, Diane M.; Harbo, Peter N.; Houck, John C.; Lauer, Jennifer L.; Laurino, Omar; Lee, Nicholas P.; Martínez-Galarza, Juan Rafael; McCollough, Michael L.; McDowell, Jonathan C.; Miller, Joseph; McLaughlin, Warren; Morgan, Douglas L.; Mossman, Amy E.; Nguyen, Dan T.; Nichols, Joy S.; Nowak, Michael A.; Paxson, Charles; Primini, Francis Anthony; Rots, Arnold H.; Siemiginowska, Aneta; Sundheim, Beth A.; Tibbetts, Michael; Van Stone, David W.; Zografou, Panagoula

2018-01-01

To build release 2.0 of the Chandra Source Catalog (CSC2), we require scientific software tools and processing pipelines to evaluate and analyze the data. Additionally, software and hardware infrastructure is needed to coordinate and distribute pipeline execution, manage data i/o, and handle data for Quality Assurance (QA) intervention. We also provide data product staging for archive ingestion.Release 2 utilizes a database driven system used for integration and production. Included are four distinct instances of the Automatic Processing (AP) system (Source Detection, Master Match, Source Properties and Convex Hulls) and a high performance computing (HPC) cluster that is managed to provide efficient catalog processing. In this poster we highlight the internal systems developed to meet the CSC2 challenge.This work has been supported by NASA under contract NAS 8-03060 to the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory for operation of the Chandra X-ray Center.

GPUs: An Emerging Platform for General-Purpose Computation

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-08-01

programming; real-time cinematic quality graphics Peak stream (26) License required (limited time no- cost evaluation program) Commercially...folding.stanford.edu (accessed 30 March 2007). 2. Fan, Z.; Qiu, F.; Kaufman, A.; Yoakum-Stover, S. GPU Cluster for High Performance Computing. ACM/IEEE...accessed 30 March 2007). 8. Goodnight, N.; Wang, R.; Humphreys, G. Computation on Programmable Graphics Hardware. IEEE Computer Graphics and

Graphical User Interface Programming in Introductory Computer Science.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Skolnick, Michael M.; Spooner, David L.

Modern computing systems exploit graphical user interfaces for interaction with users; as a result, introductory computer science courses must begin to teach the principles underlying such interfaces. This paper presents an approach to graphical user interface (GUI) implementation that is simple enough for beginning students to understand, yet…

The feasibility of using computer graphics in environmental evaluations : interim report, documenting historic site locations using computer graphics.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1981-01-01

This report describes a method for locating historic site information using a computer graphics program. If adopted for use by the Virginia Department of Highways and Transportation, this method should significantly reduce the time now required to de...

Oklahoma's Mobile Computer Graphics Laboratory.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McClain, Gerald R.

This Computer Graphics Laboratory houses an IBM 1130 computer, U.C.C. plotter, printer, card reader, two key punch machines, and seminar-type classroom furniture. A "General Drafting Graphics System" (GDGS) is used, based on repetitive use of basic coordinate and plot generating commands. The system is used by 12 institutions of higher education…

Traditional Engineering Graphics versus Computer-Aided Drafting: A View from Academe.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Foster, Robert J.

1987-01-01

Argues for a legitimate role of manually expressed engineering graphics within engineering education as a needed support for computer-assisted drafting work. Discusses what and how students should learn as well as trends in engineering graphics education. Compares and contrasts manual and computer drafting methods. (CW)

A Program of Continuing Research on Representing, Manipulating, and Reasoning about Physical Objects

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-09-30

graphics with the goal of automatically converting complex graphics models into forms more appropriate for radiosity computation. 2.4 Least Constraint We...to computer graphics with the goal of automatically 7 converting complex graphics models into forms more appropriate for radiosity com- putation. 8 4

Engineering Graphics Educational Outcomes for the Global Engineer: An Update

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Barr, R. E.

2012-01-01

This paper discusses the formulation of educational outcomes for engineering graphics that span the global enterprise. Results of two repeated faculty surveys indicate that new computer graphics tools and techniques are now the preferred mode of engineering graphical communication. Specifically, 3-D computer modeling, assembly modeling, and model…

GPU-computing in econophysics and statistical physics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Preis, T.

2011-03-01

A recent trend in computer science and related fields is general purpose computing on graphics processing units (GPUs), which can yield impressive performance. With multiple cores connected by high memory bandwidth, today's GPUs offer resources for non-graphics parallel processing. This article provides a brief introduction into the field of GPU computing and includes examples. In particular computationally expensive analyses employed in financial market context are coded on a graphics card architecture which leads to a significant reduction of computing time. In order to demonstrate the wide range of possible applications, a standard model in statistical physics - the Ising model - is ported to a graphics card architecture as well, resulting in large speedup values.

CSC attains VPP Star Demonstration status

NASA Image and Video Library

2009-12-09

CSC Inc. at NASA's John C. Space Center was presented a Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP) Star Demonstration banner by the Occupational Safety and Health administration (OSHA) during a Dec. 9 ceremony. From left, CSC Employee Safety Committee members LaSonya Pulliam (l to r), Jim Sever, Stacy Brunson, Debbie Duke, Sheliah Wilson, Fred Voss and Beth Nguyen, and CSC Program Manager Tony Lisotta received the banner. OSHA established VPP in 1982 as a proactive safety management model so organizations and their employees could be recognized for excellence in safety and health.

Bone marrow-derived fibrocytes promote stem cell-like properties of lung cancer cells.

PubMed

Saijo, Atsuro; Goto, Hisatsugu; Nakano, Mayuri; Mitsuhashi, Atsushi; Aono, Yoshinori; Hanibuchi, Masaki; Ogawa, Hirohisa; Uehara, Hisanori; Kondo, Kazuya; Nishioka, Yasuhiko

2018-05-01

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) represent a minor population that have clonal tumor initiation and self-renewal capacity and are responsible for tumor initiation, metastasis, and therapeutic resistance. CSCs reside in niches, which are composed of diverse types of stromal cells and extracellular matrix components. These stromal cells regulate CSC-like properties by providing secreted factors or by physical contact. Fibrocytes are differentiated from bone marrow-derived CD14 + monocytes and have features of both macrophages and fibroblasts. Accumulating evidence has suggested that stromal fibrocytes might promote cancer progression. However, the role of fibrocytes in the CSC niches has not been revealed. We herein report that human fibrocytes enhanced the CSC-like properties of lung cancer cells through secreted factors, including osteopontin, CC-chemokine ligand 18, and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1. The PIK3K/AKT pathway was critical for fibrocytes to mediate the CSC-like functions of lung cancer cells. In human lung cancer specimens, the number of tumor-infiltrated fibrocytes was correlated with high expression of CSC-associated protein in cancer cells. These results suggest that fibrocytes may be a novel cell population that regulates the CSC-like properties of lung cancer cells in the CSC niches. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Program Aids Specification Of Multiple-Block Grids

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sorenson, R. L.; Mccann, K. M.

1993-01-01

3DPREP computer program aids specification of multiple-block computational grids. Highly interactive graphical preprocessing program designed for use on powerful graphical scientific computer workstation. Divided into three main parts, each corresponding to principal graphical-and-alphanumerical display. Relieves user of some burden of collecting and formatting many data needed to specify blocks and grids, and prepares input data for NASA's 3DGRAPE grid-generating computer program.

COINGRAD; Control Oriented Interactive Graphical Analysis and Design.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Volz, Richard A.; And Others

The computer is currently a vital tool in engineering analysis and design. With the introduction of moderately priced graphics terminals, it will become even more important in the future as rapid graphic interaction between the engineer and the computer becomes more feasible in computer-aided design (CAD). To provide a vehicle for introducing…

Design and Curriculum Considerations for a Computer Graphics Program in the Arts.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Leeman, Ruedy W.

This history and state-of-the-art review of computer graphics describes computer graphics programs and proposed programs at Sheridan College (Canada), the Rhode Island School of Design, the University of Oregon, Northern Illinois University, and Ohio State University. These programs are discussed in terms of their philosophy, curriculum, student…

Effects of Comprehensive Stroke Care Capabilities on In-Hospital Mortality of Patients with Ischemic and Hemorrhagic Stroke: J-ASPECT Study

PubMed Central

Iihara, Koji; Nishimura, Kunihiro; Kada, Akiko; Nakagawara, Jyoji; Ogasawara, Kuniaki; Ono, Junichi; Shiokawa, Yoshiaki; Aruga, Toru; Miyachi, Shigeru; Nagata, Izumi; Toyoda, Kazunori; Matsuda, Shinya; Miyamoto, Yoshihiro; Suzuki, Akifumi; Ishikawa, Koichi B.; Kataoka, Hiroharu; Nakamura, Fumiaki; Kamitani, Satoru

2014-01-01

Background The effectiveness of comprehensive stroke center (CSC) capabilities on stroke mortality remains uncertain. We performed a nationwide study to examine whether CSC capabilities influenced in-hospital mortality of patients with ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke. Methods and Results Of the 1,369 certified training institutions in Japan, 749 hospitals responded to a questionnaire survey regarding CSC capabilities that queried the availability of personnel, diagnostic techniques, specific expertise, infrastructure, and educational components recommended for CSCs. Among the institutions that responded, data on patients hospitalized for stroke between April 1, 2010 and March 31, 2011 were obtained from the Japanese Diagnosis Procedure Combination database. In-hospital mortality was analyzed using hierarchical logistic regression analysis adjusted for age, sex, level of consciousness on admission, comorbidities, and the number of fulfilled CSC items in each component and in total. Data from 265 institutions and 53,170 emergency-hospitalized patients were analyzed. Mortality rates were 7.8% for patients with ischemic stroke, 16.8% for patients with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), and 28.1% for patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Mortality adjusted for age, sex, and level of consciousness was significantly correlated with personnel, infrastructural, educational, and total CSC scores in patients with ischemic stroke. Mortality was significantly correlated with diagnostic, educational, and total CSC scores in patients with ICH and with specific expertise, infrastructural, educational, and total CSC scores in patients with SAH. Conclusions CSC capabilities were associated with reduced in-hospital mortality rates, and relevant aspects of care were found to be dependent on stroke type. PMID:24828409

Effects of comprehensive stroke care capabilities on in-hospital mortality of patients with ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke: J-ASPECT study.

PubMed

Iihara, Koji; Nishimura, Kunihiro; Kada, Akiko; Nakagawara, Jyoji; Ogasawara, Kuniaki; Ono, Junichi; Shiokawa, Yoshiaki; Aruga, Toru; Miyachi, Shigeru; Nagata, Izumi; Toyoda, Kazunori; Matsuda, Shinya; Miyamoto, Yoshihiro; Suzuki, Akifumi; Ishikawa, Koichi B; Kataoka, Hiroharu; Nakamura, Fumiaki; Kamitani, Satoru

2014-01-01

The effectiveness of comprehensive stroke center (CSC) capabilities on stroke mortality remains uncertain. We performed a nationwide study to examine whether CSC capabilities influenced in-hospital mortality of patients with ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke. Of the 1,369 certified training institutions in Japan, 749 hospitals responded to a questionnaire survey regarding CSC capabilities that queried the availability of personnel, diagnostic techniques, specific expertise, infrastructure, and educational components recommended for CSCs. Among the institutions that responded, data on patients hospitalized for stroke between April 1, 2010 and March 31, 2011 were obtained from the Japanese Diagnosis Procedure Combination database. In-hospital mortality was analyzed using hierarchical logistic regression analysis adjusted for age, sex, level of consciousness on admission, comorbidities, and the number of fulfilled CSC items in each component and in total. Data from 265 institutions and 53,170 emergency-hospitalized patients were analyzed. Mortality rates were 7.8% for patients with ischemic stroke, 16.8% for patients with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), and 28.1% for patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Mortality adjusted for age, sex, and level of consciousness was significantly correlated with personnel, infrastructural, educational, and total CSC scores in patients with ischemic stroke. Mortality was significantly correlated with diagnostic, educational, and total CSC scores in patients with ICH and with specific expertise, infrastructural, educational, and total CSC scores in patients with SAH. CSC capabilities were associated with reduced in-hospital mortality rates, and relevant aspects of care were found to be dependent on stroke type.

The connection between the primary care and the physical activity sector: professionals' perceptions.

PubMed

Leenaars, Karlijn E F; Florisson, Annemiek M E; Smit, Eva; Wagemakers, Annemarie; Molleman, Gerard R M; Koelen, Maria A

2016-09-21

To stimulate physical activity (PA) and guide primary care patients towards local PA facilities, Care Sport Connectors (CSC), to whom a broker role has been ascribed, were introduced in 2012 in the Netherlands. The aim of this study is to assess perceptions of primary care, welfare, and sport professionals towards the CSC role and the connection between the primary care and the PA sector. Nine focus groups were held with primary care, welfare and sport professionals within the CSC network. In these focus groups the CSC role and the connection between the sectors were discussed. Both top-down and bottom-up codes were used to analyse the focus groups. Professionals ascribed three roles to the CSC: 1) broker role, 2) referral, 3) facilitator. Professionals were enthusiastic about how the current connection was established. However, barriers relating to their own sector were currently hindering the connection: primary care professionals' lack of time, money and knowledge, and the lack of suitable PA activities and instructors for the target group. This study provides further insight into the CSC role and the connection between the sectors from the point of view of primary care, welfare, and sport professionals. Professionals found the CSC role promising, but barriers are currently hindering the collaboration between both sectors. More time for the CSC and changes in the way the primary care and PA sector are organized seem to be necessary to overcome the identified barriers and to make a success of the connection. Dutch Trial register NTR4986 . Registered 14 December 2014.

Metabolomic mapping of cancer stem cells for reducing and exploiting tumor heterogeneity.

PubMed

Cuyàs, Elisabet; Verdura, Sara; Fernández-Arroyo, Salvador; Bosch-Barrera, Joaquim; Martin-Castillo, Begoña; Joven, Jorge; Menendez, Javier A

2017-11-21

Personalized cancer medicine based on the analysis of tumors en masse is limited by tumor heterogeneity, which has become a major obstacle to effective cancer treatment. Cancer stem cells (CSC) are emerging as key drivers of inter- and intratumoral heterogeneity. CSC have unique metabolic dependencies that are required not only for specific bioenergetic/biosynthetic demands but also for sustaining their operational epigenetic traits, i.e. self-renewal, tumor-initiation, and plasticity. Given that the metabolome is the final downstream product of all the -omic layers and, therefore, most representative of the biological phenotype, we here propose that a novel approach to better understand the complexity of tumor heterogeneity is by mapping and cataloging small numbers of CSC metabolomic phenotypes. The narrower metabolomic diversity of CSC states could be employed to reduce multidimensional tumor heterogeneity into dynamic models of fewer actionable sub-phenotypes. The identification of the driver nodes that are used differentially by CSC states to metabolically regulate self-renewal and tumor initation and escape chemotherapy might open new preventive and therapeutic avenues. The mapping of CSC metabolomic states could become a pioneering strategy to reduce the dimensionality of tumor heterogeneity and improve our ability to examine changes in tumor cell populations for cancer detection, prognosis, prediction/monitoring of therapy response, and detection of therapy resistance and recurrent disease. The identification of driver metabolites and metabolic nodes accounting for a large amount of variance within the CSC metabolomic sub-phenotypes might offer new unforeseen opportunities for reducing and exploiting tumor heterogeneity via metabolic targeting of CSC.

VTGRAPH - GRAPHIC SOFTWARE TOOL FOR VT TERMINALS

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wang, C.

1994-01-01

VTGRAPH is a graphics software tool for DEC/VT or VT compatible terminals which are widely used by government and industry. It is a FORTRAN or C-language callable library designed to allow the user to deal with many computer environments which use VT terminals for window management and graphic systems. It also provides a PLOT10-like package plus color or shade capability for VT240, VT241, and VT300 terminals. The program is transportable to many different computers which use VT terminals. With this graphics package, the user can easily design more friendly user interface programs and design PLOT10 programs on VT terminals with different computer systems. VTGRAPH was developed using the ReGis Graphics set which provides a full range of graphics capabilities. The basic VTGRAPH capabilities are as follows: window management, PLOT10 compatible drawing, generic program routines for two and three dimensional plotting, and color graphics or shaded graphics capability. The program was developed in VAX FORTRAN in 1988. VTGRAPH requires a ReGis graphics set terminal and a FORTRAN compiler. The program has been run on a DEC MicroVAX 3600 series computer operating under VMS 5.0, and has a virtual memory requirement of 5KB.

Serum erythropoietin levels in patients with central serous chorioretinopathy

PubMed Central

Turgut, Burak; Ilhan, Nevin; Uyar, Fatma Yayla; Celiker, Ulku; Demir, Tamer; Koca, Suleyman Serdar

2010-01-01

Objective To evaluate the levels of erythropoietin (EPO) in the serum in patients with central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC). Methods An institutional comperative clinical study. The serum EPO levels were measured with the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method, of 15 patients with active CSC (Group 1), 15 patients with inactive CSC (Group 2) and 15 healthy volunteers (Group 3). Kruskal–Wallis variance analysis and Mann–Whitney U test were used for statistical analysis. Results The patient and control groups were matched for age and sex. There was no statistically significant variation with regard to age and gender among the groups (P > 0.05). The mean serum EPO concentrations in patients with active CSC (Group 1), inactive CSC (Group 2) and in healthy controls (Group 3) were 11.39 ± 3.01 mlU/mL, 11.79 ± 3.78 mlU/mL and 11.95 ± 3.27 mlU/mL, respectively. There was no significant variation among the serum EPO concentrations of the study groups (P > 0.05). Conclusion These findings suggest no role of serum EPO in pathogenesis of CSC. PMID:28539767

Serum erythropoietin levels in patients with central serous chorioretinopathy.

PubMed

Turgut, Burak; Ilhan, Nevin; Uyar, Fatma Yayla; Celiker, Ulku; Demir, Tamer; Koca, Suleyman Serdar

2010-01-01

To evaluate the levels of erythropoietin (EPO) in the serum in patients with central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC). An institutional comperative clinical study. The serum EPO levels were measured with the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method, of 15 patients with active CSC (Group 1), 15 patients with inactive CSC (Group 2) and 15 healthy volunteers (Group 3). Kruskal-Wallis variance analysis and Mann-Whitney U test were used for statistical analysis. The patient and control groups were matched for age and sex. There was no statistically significant variation with regard to age and gender among the groups ( P > 0.05). The mean serum EPO concentrations in patients with active CSC (Group 1), inactive CSC (Group 2) and in healthy controls (Group 3) were 11.39 ± 3.01 mlU/mL, 11.79 ± 3.78 mlU/mL and 11.95 ± 3.27 mlU/mL, respectively. There was no significant variation among the serum EPO concentrations of the study groups ( P > 0.05). These findings suggest no role of serum EPO in pathogenesis of CSC.

The Critical, Clinical Role of Interferon-Beta in Regulating Cancer Stem Cell Properties in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer.

PubMed

Doherty, Mary R; Jackson, Mark W

2018-05-11

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) the deadliest form of this disease currently lacks a targeted therapy and is characterized by increased risk of metastasis and presence of therapeutically resistant cancer stem cells (CSC). Recent evidence has demonstrated that the presence of an interferon (IFN)/signal transducer of activated transcription 1 (STAT1) gene signature correlates with improved therapeutic response and overall survival in TNBC patients. In agreement with these clinical observations, our recent work has demonstrated, in a cell model of TNBC that CSC have intrinsically repressed IFN signaling. Administration of IFN-β represses CSC properties, inducing a less aggressive non-CSC state. Moreover, an elevated IFN-β gene signature correlated with repressed CSC-related genes and an increased presence of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes in TNBC specimens. We therefore propose that IFN-β be considered as a potential therapeutic option in the treatment of TNBC, to repress the CSC properties responsible for therapy failure. Future studies aim to improve methods to target delivery of IFN-β to tumors, to maximize therapeutic efficacy while minimizing systemic side effects.

Flow cytometric techniques for detection of candidate cancer stem cell subpopulations in canine tumour models.

PubMed

Blacking, T M; Waterfall, M; Samuel, K; Argyle, D J

2012-12-01

The cancer stem cell (CSC) hypothesis proposes that tumour growth is maintained by a distinct subpopulation of 'CSC'. This study applied flow cytometric methods, reported to detect CSC in both primary and cultured cancer cells of other species, to identify candidate canine subpopulations. Cell lines representing diverse canine malignancies, and cells derived from spontaneous canine tumours, were evaluated for expression of stem cell-associated surface markers (CD34, CD44, CD117 and CD133) and functional properties [Hoecsht 33342 efflux, aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) activity]. No discrete marker-defined subsets were identified within established cell lines; cells derived directly from spontaneous tumours demonstrated more heterogeneity, although this diminished upon in vitro culture. Functional assays produced variable results, suggesting context-dependency. Flow cytometric methods may be adopted to identify putative canine CSC. Whilst cell lines are valuable in assay development, primary cells may provide a more rewarding model for studying tumour heterogeneity in the context of CSC. However, it will be essential to fully characterize any candidate subpopulations to ensure that they meet CSC criteria. © 2011 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Paternal exposure to cigarette smoke condensate leads to reproductive sequelae and developmental abnormalities in the offspring of mice.

PubMed

Esakky, Prabagaran; Hansen, Deborah A; Drury, Andrea M; Felder, Paul; Cusumano, Andrew; Moley, Kelle H

2016-10-01

Paternal smoking is associated with infertility, birth defects and childhood cancers. Our earlier studies using cigarette smoke condensate (CSC) demonstrated several deleterious changes in male germ cells. Here, we hypothesize that chronic paternal exposure to CSC causes molecular and phenotypic changes in the sire and the offspring, respectively. In this mouse study, CSC caused DNA damage and cytotoxicity in testes via accumulation of benzo(a)pyrene (B[a]P) and cotinine. Decreased expression of growth arrest and DNA damage inducible alpha (Gadd45a), aryl hydrocarbon receptor (Ahr), and cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 1A (P21) was seen in CSC exposed testes. Apoptotic germ cell death was detected by induction of Fas, FasL, and activated caspase-3. The CSC-exposed males displayed reduction in sperm motility and fertilizing ability and sired pups with reduced body weight and crown-rump length, and smaller litter size with higher numbers of resorption. This model of CSC exposure demonstrates testicular toxicity and developmental defects in the offspring. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Temporomandibular joint dysfunction after mandibular fracture in children: a 10-year review.

PubMed

Leuin, Shelby C; Frydendall, Emily; Gao, Dexiang; Chan, Kenny H

2011-01-01

To collect demographic and clinical data on pediatric mandibular fractures and to assess temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction in patients with condylar and subcondylar (C/SC) fractures. Retrospective case series of pediatric mandibular fractures (1999-2009) with follow-up telephone questionnaire of patients with C/SC fractures. Collected data included age, gender, unilateral vs bilateral C/SC fracture, presence of concomitant fracture, velocity of injury, and treatment modality. Tertiary care children's hospital. Of 164 patients with mandibular fractures, 83 (50.6%) had C/SC fractures, of which 45 (54.2%) completed the questionnaire. Helkimo Anamnestic Dysfunction Index (A(i)) quantification of TMJ dysfunction after C/SC fracture and treatment modality of C/SC fractures. Of the 164 patients, 122 (74.4%) were male (median age, 10.4 years; age range, 0.6-19.0 years). Of the 83 patients with C/SC fractures, 61 (73.5%) were male (median age, 9.1 years; age range, 1.1-18.7 years); 66 (79.5%) had unilateral fractures and 17 (20.5%) had bilateral fractures. The A(i) distribution of the 45 patients who completed the questionnaire was as follows: 15 (33.3%) none, 6 (13.3%) mild, and 24 (53.3%) severe. Females have more severe dysfunction than do males (95% confidence interval, 1.6-140.0; P = .02). No other significant predictors of treatment modality or TMJ dysfunction were identified. Patients with bilateral fracture are 8.1 times (95% confidence interval, 1.0-66.1 times; P = .05) more likely to have closed reduction than are those with unilateral fracture. This is one of the largest series of pediatric C/SC fractures reported in the recent literature. Findings are significant for increased severity of TMJ dysfunction in females and higher incidence of closed reduction in patients with bilateral C/SC fracture.

Building non-traditional collaborations to innovatively address climate-related scientific and management needs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bamzai, A.; Mcpherson, R. A.

2014-12-01

The South Central Climate Science Center (SC-CSC) is one of eight regional centers formed by the U.S. Department of the Interior in order to provide decision makers with the science, tools, and information they need to address the impacts of climate variability and change on their areas of responsibility. The SC-CSC is operated through the U.S. Geological Survey, in partnership with a consortium led by the University of Oklahoma that also includes Texas Tech University, Oklahoma State University, Louisiana State University, the Chickasaw Nation, the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, and NOAA's Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Lab (GFDL). The SC-CSC is distinct from all other CSCs in that we have strategically included non-traditional collaborators directly within our governing consortium. The SC-CSC is the only CSC to include any Tribal nations amongst our consortium (the Chickasaw Nation and the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma) and to employ a full-time tribal liaison. As a result and in partnership with Tribes, we are able to identify the unique challenges that the almost 70 federally recognized Tribes within our region face. We also can develop culturally sensitive research projects or outreach efforts that bridge western science and traditional knowledge to address their needs. In addition, the SC-CSC is the only CSC to include another federal institution (GFDL) amongst our consortium membership. GFDL is a world-leader in climate modeling and model interpretation. Partnering GFDL's expertise in the evaluation of climate models and downscaling methods with the SC-CSC's stakeholder-driven approach allows for the generation and dissemination of guidance documents and training to accompany the high quality datasets already in development. This presentation will highlight the success stories and co-benefits of the SC-CSC's collaborations with Tribal nations and with GFDL, as well as include information on how other partners can connect to our ongoing efforts.

The Chandra Source Catalog: User Interface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bonaventura, Nina; Evans, I. N.; Harbo, P. N.; Rots, A. H.; Tibbetts, M. S.; Van Stone, D. W.; Zografou, P.; Anderson, C. S.; Chen, J. C.; Davis, J. E.; Doe, S. M.; Evans, J. D.; Fabbiano, G.; Galle, E.; Gibbs, D. G.; Glotfelty, K. J.; Grier, J. D.; Hain, R.; Hall, D. M.; He, X.; Houck, J. C.; Karovska, M.; Lauer, J.; McCollough, M. L.; McDowell, J. C.; Miller, J. B.; Mitschang, A. W.; Morgan, D. L.; Nichols, J. S.; Nowak, M. A.; Plummer, D. A.; Primini, F. A.; Refsdal, B. L.; Siemiginowska, A. L.; Sundheim, B. A.; Winkelman, S. L.

2009-01-01

The Chandra Source Catalog (CSC) is the definitive catalog of all X-ray sources detected by Chandra. The CSC is presented to the user in two tables: the Master Chandra Source Table and the Table of Individual Source Observations. Each distinct X-ray source identified in the CSC is represented by a single master source entry and one or more individual source entries. If a source is unaffected by confusion and pile-up in multiple observations, the individual source observations are merged to produce a master source. In each table, a row represents a source, and each column a quantity that is officially part of the catalog. The CSC contains positions and multi-band fluxes for the sources, as well as derived spatial, spectral, and temporal source properties. The CSC also includes associated source region and full-field data products for each source, including images, photon event lists, light curves, and spectra. The master source properties represent the best estimates of the properties of a source, and are presented in the following categories: Position and Position Errors, Source Flags, Source Extent and Errors, Source Fluxes, Source Significance, Spectral Properties, and Source Variability. The CSC Data Access GUI provides direct access to the source properties and data products contained in the catalog. The user may query the catalog database via a web-style search or an SQL command-line query. Each query returns a table of source properties, along with the option to browse and download associated data products. The GUI is designed to run in a web browser with Java version 1.5 or higher, and may be accessed via a link on the CSC website homepage (http://cxc.harvard.edu/csc/). As an alternative to the GUI, the contents of the CSC may be accessed directly through a URL, using the command-line tool, cURL. Support: NASA contract NAS8-03060 (CXC).

RenderMan design principles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Apodaca, Tony; Porter, Tom

1989-01-01

The two worlds of interactive graphics and realistic graphics have remained separate. Fast graphics hardware runs simple algorithms and generates simple looking images. Photorealistic image synthesis software runs slowly on large expensive computers. The time has come for these two branches of computer graphics to merge. The speed and expense of graphics hardware is no longer the barrier to the wide acceptance of photorealism. There is every reason to believe that high quality image synthesis will become a standard capability of every graphics machine, from superworkstation to personal computer. The significant barrier has been the lack of a common language, an agreed-upon set of terms and conditions, for 3-D modeling systems to talk to 3-D rendering systems for computing an accurate rendition of that scene. Pixar has introduced RenderMan to serve as that common language. RenderMan, specifically the extensibility it offers in shading calculations, is discussed.

The use of graphics in the design of the human-telerobot interface

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stuart, Mark A.; Smith, Randy L.

1989-01-01

The Man-Systems Telerobotics Laboratory (MSTL) of NASA's Johnson Space Center employs computer graphics tools in their design and evaluation of the Flight Telerobotic Servicer (FTS) human/telerobot interface on the Shuttle and on the Space Station. It has been determined by the MSTL that the use of computer graphics can promote more expedient and less costly design endeavors. Several specific examples of computer graphics applied to the FTS user interface by the MSTL are described.

Fluorescent CSC models evidence that targeted nanomedicines improve treatment sensitivity of breast and colon cancer stem cells.

PubMed

Gener, Petra; Gouveia, Luis Pleno; Sabat, Guillem Romero; de Sousa Rafael, Diana Fernandes; Fort, Núria Bergadà; Arranja, Alexandra; Fernández, Yolanda; Prieto, Rafael Miñana; Ortega, Joan Sayos; Arango, Diego; Abasolo, Ibane; Videira, Mafalda; Schwartz, Simo

2015-11-01

To be able to study the efficacy of targeted nanomedicines in marginal population of highly aggressive cancer stem cells (CSC), we have developed a novel in vitro fluorescent CSC model that allows us to visualize these cells in heterogeneous population and to monitor CSC biological performance after therapy. In this model tdTomato reporter gene is driven by CSC specific (ALDH1A1) promoter and contrary to other similar models, CSC differentiation and un-differentiation processes are not restrained and longitudinal studies are feasible. We used this model for preclinical validation of poly[(d,l-lactide-co-glycolide)-co-PEG] (PLGA-co-PEG) micelles loaded with paclitaxel. Further, active targeting against CD44 and EGFR receptors was validated in breast and colon cancer cell lines. Accordingly, specific active targeting toward surface receptors enhances the performance of nanomedicines and sensitizes CSC to paclitaxel based chemotherapy. Many current cancer therapies fail because of the failure to target cancer stem cells. This surviving population soon proliferates and differentiates into more cancer cells. In this interesting article, the authors designed an in vitro cancer stem cell model to study the effects of active targeting using antibody-labeled micelles containing chemotherapeutic agent. This new model should allow future testing of various drug/carrier platforms before the clinical phase. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The Chandra Source Catalog 2.0: Estimating Source Fluxes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Primini, Francis Anthony; Allen, Christopher E.; Miller, Joseph; Anderson, Craig S.; Budynkiewicz, Jamie A.; Burke, Douglas; Chen, Judy C.; Civano, Francesca Maria; D'Abrusco, Raffaele; Doe, Stephen M.; Evans, Ian N.; Evans, Janet D.; Fabbiano, Giuseppina; Gibbs, Danny G., II; Glotfelty, Kenny J.; Graessle, Dale E.; Grier, John D.; Hain, Roger; Hall, Diane M.; Harbo, Peter N.; Houck, John C.; Lauer, Jennifer L.; Laurino, Omar; Lee, Nicholas P.; Martínez-Galarza, Juan Rafael; McCollough, Michael L.; McDowell, Jonathan C.; McLaughlin, Warren; Morgan, Douglas L.; Mossman, Amy E.; Nguyen, Dan T.; Nichols, Joy S.; Nowak, Michael A.; Paxson, Charles; Plummer, David A.; Rots, Arnold H.; Siemiginowska, Aneta; Sundheim, Beth A.; Tibbetts, Michael; Van Stone, David W.; Zografou, Panagoula

2018-01-01

The Second Chandra Source Catalog (CSC2.0) will provide information on approximately 316,000 point or compact extended x-ray sources, derived from over 10,000 ACIS and HRC-I imaging observations available in the public archive at the end of 2014. As in the previous catalog release (CSC1.1), fluxes for these sources will be determined separately from source detection, using a Bayesian formalism that accounts for background, spatial resolution effects, and contamination from nearby sources. However, the CSC2.0 procedure differs from that used in CSC1.1 in three important aspects. First, for sources in crowded regions in which photometric apertures overlap, fluxes are determined jointly, using an extension of the CSC1.1 algorithm, as discussed in Primini & Kashyap (2014ApJ...796…24P). Second, an MCMC procedure is used to estimate marginalized posterior probability distributions for source fluxes. Finally, for sources observed in multiple observations, a Bayesian Blocks algorithm (Scargle, et al. 2013ApJ...764..167S) is used to group observations into blocks of constant source flux.In this poster we present details of the CSC2.0 photometry algorithms and illustrate their performance in actual CSC2.0 datasets.This work has been supported by NASA under contract NAS 8-03060 to the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory for operation of the Chandra X-ray Center.

Contrasting hypoxic effects on breast cancer stem cell hierarchy is dependent on ER-α status.

PubMed

Harrison, Hannah; Rogerson, Lynsey; Gregson, Hannah J; Brennan, Keith R; Clarke, Robert B; Landberg, Göran

2013-02-15

Tumor hypoxia is often linked to decreased survival in patients with breast cancer and current therapeutic strategies aim to target the hypoxic response. One way in which this is done is by blocking hypoxia-induced angiogenesis. Antiangiogenic therapies show some therapeutic potential with increased disease-free survival, but these initial promising results are short lived and followed by tumor progression. We hypothesized that this may be due to altered cancer stem cell (CSC) activity resulting from increased tumor hypoxia. We studied the effects of hypoxia on CSC activity, using in vitro mammosphere and holoclone assays as well as in vivo limiting dilution experiments, in 13 patient-derived samples and four cell lines. There was a HIF-1α-dependent CSC increase in ER-α-positive cancers following hypoxic exposure, which was blocked by inhibition of estrogen and Notch signaling. A contrasting decrease in CSC was seen in ER-α-negative cancers. We next developed a xenograft model of cell lines and patient-derived samples to assess the hypoxic CSC response. Varying sizes of xenografts were collected and analyzed for HIF1-α expression and CSC. The same ER-α-dependent contrasting hypoxic-CSC response was seen validating the initial observation. These data suggest that ER-α-positive and negative breast cancer subtypes respond differently to hypoxia and, as a consequence, antiangiogenic therapies will not be suitable for both subgroups.

Tissue Factor promotes breast cancer stem cell activity in vitro.

PubMed

Shaker, Hudhaifah; Harrison, Hannah; Clarke, Robert; Landberg, Goran; Bundred, Nigel J; Versteeg, Henri H; Kirwan, Cliona C

2017-04-18

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a subpopulation of cells that can self-renew and initiate tumours. The clotting-initiating protein Tissue Factor (TF) promotes metastasis and may be overexpressed in cancer cells with increased CSC activity. We sought to determine whether TF promotes breast CSC activity in vitro using human breast cancer cell lines. TF expression was compared in anoikis-resistant (CSC-enriched) and unselected cells. In cells sorted into of TF-expressing and TF-negative (FACS), and in cells transfected to knockdown TF (siRNA) and overexpress TF (cDNA), CSC activity was compared by (i) mammosphere forming efficiency (MFE) (ii) holoclone colony formation (Hc) and (iii) ALDH1 activity. TF expression was increased in anoikis-resistant and high ALDH1-activity T47D cells compared to unselected cells. FACS sorted TF-expressing T47Ds and TF-overexpressing MCF7s had increased CSC activity compared to TF-low cells. TF siRNA cells (MDAMB231,T47D) had reduced CSC activity compared to control cells. FVIIa increased MFE and ALDH1 in a dose-dependent manner (MDAMB231, T47D). The effects of FVIIa on MFE were abrogated by TF siRNA (T47D). Breast CSCs (in vitro) demonstrate increased activity when selected for high TF expression, when induced to overexpress TF, and when stimulated (with FVIIa). Targeting the TF pathway in vivo may abrogate CSC activity.

Inhibition of RAD51 by siRNA and Resveratrol Sensitizes Cancer Stem Cells Derived from HeLa Cell Cultures to Apoptosis

PubMed Central

Ruíz, Graciela; Valencia-González, Heriberto A.; León-Galicia, Ismael; García-Villa, Enrique

2018-01-01

Cervical cancer is the second most frequent tumor type in women worldwide with cases developing clinical recurrence, metastasis, and chemoresistance. The cancer stem cells (CSC) may be implicated in tumor resistance to therapy. RESveratrol (RES), a natural compound, is an antioxidant with multiple beneficial activities. We previously determined that the expression of RAD51 is decreased by RES. The aim of our study was to examine molecular mechanism by which CSC from HeLa cultures exhibit chemoresistance. We hypothesized CSC repair more efficiently DNA breaks and that RAD51 plays an important role in this mechanism. We found that CSC, derived from cervical cancer cell lines, overexpress RAD51 and are less sensitive to Etoposide (VP16). We inhibited RAD51 in CSC-enriched cultures using RES or siRNA against RAD51 messenger RNA and observed a decrease in cell viability and induction of apoptosis when treated simultaneously with VP16. In addition, we found that inhibition of RAD51 expression using RES also sensitizes CSC to VP16 treatment. Our results suggest that resveratrol is effective to sensitize cervical CSC because of RAD51 inhibition, targeting high RAD51 expressing CD49f-positive cells, which supports the possible therapeutic application of RES as a novel agent to treat cancer. PMID:29681946

Interplay of Computer and Paper-Based Sketching in Graphic Design

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pan, Rui; Kuo, Shih-Ping; Strobel, Johannes

2013-01-01

The purpose of this study is to investigate student designers' attitude and choices towards the use of computers and paper sketches when involved in a graphic design process. 65 computer graphic technology undergraduates participated in this research. A mixed method study with survey and in-depth interviews was applied to answer the research…

Graphical Man/Machine Communications

DTIC Science & Technology

Progress is reported concerning the use of computer controlled graphical displays in the areas of radiaton diffusion and hydrodynamics, general...ventricular dynamics. Progress is continuing on the use of computer graphics in architecture. Some progress in halftone graphics is reported with no basic...developments presented. Colored halftone perspective pictures are being used to represent multivariable situations. Nonlinear waveform processing is

Comparison of Electromagnetic Simulation Results with Experimental Data for an Aperture-Coupled C-Band Patch Antenna

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-11-01

then adhesive bonded. The 5870 has a relative dielectric constant of approximately εr = 2.33 as measured with the split cavity method by Damaskos ...in figure 3. 4 Damaskos , Inc., Concordville, PA http://www.damaskosinc.com/. 5 Wiltron Company

21 CFR 876.5870 - Sorbent hemoperfusion system.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... extracorporeal blood system. The device is used in the treatment of poisoning, drug overdose, hepatic coma, or... the treatment of poisoning and drug overdose. The special controls for this device are: (i) The device... electrical components, appropriate analysis and testing must be conducted to verify electrical safety and...

KSC-2010-5870

NASA Image and Video Library

2010-12-17

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Brown pelicans search for fish in brackish water at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida around dawn. Kennedy coexists with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, habitat to more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fish and 65 amphibians and reptiles. Photo credit: NASA/Frank Michaux

77 FR 5870 - Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Diabetes Mellitus

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-02-06

... certified that he has had no severe hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the... had no severe hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of... hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or...

41 CFR 101-28.306 - Customer supply center (CSC) accounts and related controls.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... PROCUREMENT 28-STORAGE AND DISTRIBUTION 28.3-Customer Supply Centers § 101-28.306 Customer supply center (CSC... 41 Public Contracts and Property Management 2 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 true Customer supply center (CSC) accounts and related controls. 101-28.306 Section 101-28.306 Public Contracts and Property...

Computer-Graphics Emulation of Chemical Instrumentation: Absorption Spectrophotometers.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gilbert, D. D.; And Others

1982-01-01

Describes interactive, computer-graphics program emulating behavior of high resolution, ultraviolet-visible analog recording spectrophotometer. Graphics terminal behaves as recording absorption spectrophotometer. Objective of the emulation is study of optimization of the instrument to yield accurate absorption spectra, including…

[The cultivation and identification of lacrimal gland adenoid cystic cancer stem cells].

PubMed

Lyu, Jianmei; He, Yanjin; Xie, Lianfeng; Liu, Xun; Zhu, Limin

2015-10-01

To isolate and cultivate the Lacrimal gland Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma cells line, study Cancer Stem Cells properties. Experimental study. Lacrimal gland adenoid cystic carcinoma cancer stem cells were cultivated in serum-free suspension culture and the morphological changes were observed. Cells were divided into two groups, the LACC-CSC experimental group and the LACC control group. The flow cytometry instrument was used to detect the expression of classical stem cell markers CD133 and ABCG2. Transwell chamber was used to detect the cancer stem cell aggressivity and differentiated into the vascular endothelial cells. The tumorigenic force in vitro xenotransplantation were applied. LACC cells can grow suspensively after vaccinated in serum free medium and form tumor microspheres after 10-12 days. Flow cytometry experiments showed that the expression ratio of stem cell markers CD133 in LACC-CSC was (35.67 ± 6.86)%, significantly different to LACC with (0.46 ± 0.48)%, (t = 8.867, P < 0.05). Similarly, the expression ratio of stem cell marker ABCG2 in LACC-CSC was (39.99 ± 4.54)%, significantly different to LACC with (6.75 ± 1.34)%, (t = -9.932, P < 0.05). In vitro experiment of Matrigel invasion, LACC-CSC went through the matrigel basement membrane averagely (32.60 ± 8.79)/HP contrary to LACC with average (10.20 ± 2.77)/HP after 24 hours, showing statistically significance (t = 5.433, P < 0.05) between the two groups. After training for 48 hours, the difference between two groups was still obvious (t = 5.779, P < 0.05) with LACC-CSC average (62.60 ± 4.83)/HP to LACC (44.00 ± 5.34)/HP. When induced by serum medium containing VEGF and bFGF, LACC-CSC grew adherent gradually and cell morphological changes occurred after continuous induction to long spindle cells. When cultured into three-dimensional matrix structure they formed vessel samples and expressed vascular endothelial marker CD31 and CD34. Transplanted tumor in vitro experiment, mice of LACC-CSC group grew tumors in 9 days with 100% tumorigenic rate, whereas LACC group 12 days with 100% tumorigenic rate. LACC-CSC can be obtained through serum-free culture method. LACC-CSC grew suspensively and expressed classical stem cell markers. LACC-CSC were identified as cancer stem cells with stronger migration and invasion. LACC-CSC have tumorigenic force and multi-directional differentiation potential with general characteristics of the stem cell.

Identification of a unique hepatocellular carcinoma line, Li-7, with CD13(+) cancer stem cells hierarchy and population change upon its differentiation during culture and effects of sorafenib.

PubMed

Yamada, Takeshi; Abei, Masato; Danjoh, Inaho; Shirota, Ryoko; Yamashita, Taro; Hyodo, Ichinosuke; Nakamura, Yukio

2015-04-11

Cancer stem cell (CSC) research has highlighted the necessity of developing drugs targeting CSCs. We investigated a hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cell line that not only has CSC hierarchy but also shows phenotypic changes (population changes) upon differentiation of CSC during culture and can be used for screening drugs targeting CSC. Based on a hypothesis that the CSC proportion should decrease upon its differentiation into progenitors (population change), we tested HCC cell lines (HuH-7, Li-7, PLC/PRF/5, HLF, HLE) before and after 2 months culture for several markers (CD13, EpCAM, CD133, CD44, CD90, CD24, CD166). Tumorigenicity was tested using nude mice. To evaluate the CSC hierarchy, we investigated reconstructivity, proliferation, ALDH activity, spheroid formation, chemosensitivity and microarray analysis of the cell populations sorted by FACS. Only Li-7 cells showed a population change during culture: the proportion of CD13 positive cells decreased, while that of CD166 positive cells increased. The high tumorigenicity of the Li-7 was lost after the population change. CD13(+)/CD166(-) cells showed slow growth and reconstructed the bulk Li-7 populations composed of CD13(+)/CD166(-), CD13(-)/CD166(-) and CD13(-)/CD166(+) fractions, whereas CD13(-)/CD166(+) cells showed rapid growth but could not reproduce any other population. CD13(+)/CD166(-) cells showed high ALDH activity, spheroid forming ability and resistance to 5-fluorouracil. Microarray analysis demonstrated higher expression of stemness-related genes in CD166(-) than CD166(+) fraction. These results indicated a hierarchy in Li-7 cells, in which CD13(+)/CD166(-) and CD13(-)/CD166(+) cells serve as slow growing CSCs and rapid growing progenitors, respectively. Sorafenib selectively targeted the CD166(-) fraction, including CD13(+) CSCs, which exhibited higher mRNA expression for FGF3 and FGF4, candidate biomarkers for sorafenib. 5-fluorouracil followed by sorafenib inhibited the growth of bulk Li-7 cells more effectively than the reverse sequence or either alone. We identified a unique HCC line, Li-7, which not only shows heterogeneity for a CD13(+) CSC hierarchy, but also undergoes a "population change" upon CSC differentiation. Sorafenib targeted the CSC in vitro, supporting the use of this model for screening drugs targeting the CSC. This type of "heterogeneous, unstable" cell line may prove more useful in the CSC era than conventional "homogeneous, stable" cell lines.

Chandra Source Catalog: User Interface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bonaventura, Nina; Evans, Ian N.; Rots, Arnold H.; Tibbetts, Michael S.; van Stone, David W.; Zografou, Panagoula; Primini, Francis A.; Glotfelty, Kenny J.; Anderson, Craig S.; Chen, Judy C.; Davis, John E.; Doe, Stephen M.; Evans, Janet D.; Fabbiano, Giuseppina; Galle, Elizabeth C.; Gibbs, Danny G., II; Grier, John D.; Hain, Roger; Hall, Diane M.; Harbo, Peter N.; He, Helen; Houck, John C.; Karovska, Margarita; Kashyap, Vinay L.; Lauer, Jennifer; McCollough, Michael L.; McDowell, Jonathan C.; Miller, Joseph B.; Mitschang, Arik W.; Morgan, Douglas L.; Mossman, Amy E.; Nichols, Joy S.; Nowak, Michael A.; Plummer, David A.; Refsdal, Brian L.; Siemiginowska, Aneta L.; Sundheim, Beth A.; Winkelman, Sherry L.

2009-09-01

The Chandra Source Catalog (CSC) is intended to be the definitive catalog of all X-ray sources detected by Chandra. For each source, the CSC provides positions and multi-band fluxes, as well as derived spatial, spectral, and temporal source properties. Full-field and source region data products are also available, including images, photon event lists, light curves, and spectra. The Chandra X-ray Center CSC website (http://cxc.harvard.edu/csc/) is the place to visit for high-level descriptions of each source property and data product included in the catalog, along with other useful information, such as step-by-step catalog tutorials, answers to FAQs, and a thorough summary of the catalog statistical characterization. Eight categories of detailed catalog documents may be accessed from the navigation bar on most of the 50+ CSC pages; these categories are: About the Catalog, Creating the Catalog, Using the Catalog, Catalog Columns, Column Descriptions, Documents, Conferences, and Useful Links. There are also prominent links to CSCview, the CSC data access GUI, and related help documentation, as well as a tutorial for using the new CSC/Google Earth interface. Catalog source properties are presented in seven scientific categories, within two table views: the Master Source and Source Observations tables. Each X-ray source has one ``master source'' entry and one or more ``source observation'' entries, the details of which are documented on the CSC ``Catalog Columns'' pages. The master source properties represent the best estimates of the properties of a source; these are extensively described on the following pages of the website: Position and Position Errors, Source Flags, Source Extent and Errors, Source Fluxes, Source Significance, Spectral Properties, and Source Variability. The eight tutorials (``threads'') available on the website serve as a collective guide for accessing, understanding, and manipulating the source properties and data products provided by the catalog.

Resistance to Cell Death and Its Modulation in Cancer Stem Cells

PubMed Central

Safa, Ahmad R.

2017-01-01

Accumulating evidence has demonstrated that human cancers arise from various tissues of origin that initiate from cancer stem cells (CSCs) or cancer-initiating cells. The extrinsic and intrinsic apoptotic pathways are dysregulated in CSCs, and these cells play crucial roles in tumor initiation, progression, cell death resistance, chemo- and radiotherapy resistance, and tumor recurrence. Understanding CSC-specific signaling proteins and pathways is necessary to identify specific therapeutic targets that may lead to the development of more efficient therapies selectively targeting CSCs. Several signaling pathways—including the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), maternal embryonic leucine zipper kinase (MELK), NOTCH1, and Wnt/β-catenin—and expression of the CSC markers CD133, CD24, CD44, Oct4, Sox2, Nanog, and ALDH1A1 maintain CSC properties. Studying such pathways may help to understand CSC biology and lead to the development of potential therapeutic interventions to render CSCs more sensitive to cell death triggered by chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Moreover, recent demonstrations of dedifferentiation of differentiated cancer cells into CSC-like cells have created significant complexity in the CSCs hypothesis. Therefore, any successful therapeutic agent or combination of drugs for cancer therapy must eliminate not only CSCs but differentiated cancer cells and the entire bulk of tumor cells. This review article expands on the CSC hypothesis and paradigm with respect to major signaling pathways and effectors that regulate CSC apoptosis resistance. Moreover, selective CSC apoptotic modulators and their therapeutic potential for making tumors more responsive to therapy are discussed. The use of novel therapies, including small-molecule inhibitors of specific proteins in signaling pathways that regulate stemness, proliferation and migration of CSCs, immunotherapy, and noncoding microRNAs may provide better means of treating CSCs. PMID:27915972

Investigation of MACC1 Gene Expression in Head and Neck Cancer and Cancer Stem Cells.

PubMed

Evran, Ebru; Şahin, Hilal; Akbaş, Kübra; Çiğdem, Sadik; Gündüz, Esra

2016-12-01

By investigating the MACC1 gene (metastasis-associated in colon cancer 1) in cancer stem cells (CSC) resistant to chemotherapy and in cancer stem cells (CSC) resistant to chemotherapy and in cancer cells (CS) sensitive to chemotherapy we determineda steady expression in both types of cells in head and neck cancer. In conformity with the result we examined if this gene could be a competitor gene for chemotherapy. According to literature, the MACC1 gene shows a clear expression in head and neck cancer cells [1]. Here we examined MACC1 expression in CSC and investigated it as a possible biomarker. Our experiments were performed in the UT -SCC -74 in primary head and neck cancer cell line. We examined the MACC -1 gene expression by Real Time PCR from both isolated CSC and CS. Expression of MACC -1 gene of cancer stem cells showed an two-fold increase compared with cancer cells. Based on the positive expression of MACC1 in both CS and CSC, this gene may serve as a potential biomarker in head and neck cancer. By comparing the results of this study with the novel features of MACC1, two important hypotheses could be examined. The first hypothesis is that MACC1 is a possible transcripton factor in colon cancer, which influences a high expression of CSC in head and neck and affects the expression of three biomarkers of the CSC control group biomarkers. The second hypothesisis is that the positive expression of MACC1 in patients with a malignant prognosis of tongue cancer, which belongs to head and neck cancer types, operates a faster development of CSC to cancer cells.

Cognitive spare capacity: evaluation data and its association with comprehension of dynamic conversations

PubMed Central

Keidser, Gitte; Best, Virginia; Freeston, Katrina; Boyce, Alexandra

2015-01-01

It is well-established that communication involves the working memory system, which becomes increasingly engaged in understanding speech as the input signal degrades. The more resources allocated to recovering a degraded input signal, the fewer resources, referred to as cognitive spare capacity (CSC), remain for higher-level processing of speech. Using simulated natural listening environments, the aims of this paper were to (1) evaluate an English version of a recently introduced auditory test to measure CSC that targets the updating process of the executive function, (2) investigate if the test predicts speech comprehension better than the reading span test (RST) commonly used to measure working memory capacity, and (3) determine if the test is sensitive to increasing the number of attended locations during listening. In Experiment I, the CSC test was presented using a male and a female talker, in quiet and in spatially separated babble- and cafeteria-noises, in an audio-only and in an audio-visual mode. Data collected on 21 listeners with normal and impaired hearing confirmed that the English version of the CSC test is sensitive to population group, noise condition, and clarity of speech, but not presentation modality. In Experiment II, performance by 27 normal-hearing listeners on a novel speech comprehension test presented in noise was significantly associated with working memory capacity, but not with CSC. Moreover, this group showed no significant difference in CSC as the number of talker locations in the test increased. There was no consistent association between the CSC test and the RST. It is recommended that future studies investigate the psychometric properties of the CSC test, and examine its sensitivity to the complexity of the listening environment in participants with both normal and impaired hearing. PMID:25999904

The Cognitive Symptom Checklist-Work in cancer patients is related with work functioning, fatigue and depressive symptoms: a validation study.

PubMed

Dorland, H F; Abma, F I; Roelen, C A M; Smink, A; Feuerstein, M; Amick, B C; Ranchor, A V; Bültmann, U

2016-06-01

The study objectives are to translate the 21-item Cognitive Symptom Checklist-Work (CSC-W21) to Dutch (CSC-W DV) and to validate the CSC-W DV in working cancer patients. The CSC-W21 was cross-culturally translated and adapted to a Dutch version. In this 19-item version, the dichotomous response option was changed to an ordinal five-point scale. A validation study of the CSC-W DV was conducted among cancer patients who had returned to work during or following cancer treatment. Internal consistency (Cronbach's α), structural validity (exploratory factor analysis) and construct validity (hypothesis testing) were evaluated. In a cohort of 364 cancer patients, 341 (94 %) completed the CSC-W DV (aged 50.6 ± 8.6 years, 60 % women). Exploratory factor analysis revealed two subscales 'working memory' and 'executive function'. The internal consistency of the total scale and subscales was high (Cronbach's α = 0.93-0.95). Hypothesis testing showed that self-reported cognitive limitations at work were related to work functioning (P < 0.001), fatigue (P = 0.001) and depressive symptoms (P < 0.001), but not to self-rated health (P = 0.14). The CSC-W DV showed high internal consistency and reasonable construct validity for measuring work-specific cognitive symptoms in cancer patients. The CSC-W DV was associated in expected ways with work functioning, fatigue and depressive symptoms. It is important to enhance knowledge about cognitive symptoms at work in cancer patients, to guide and support cancer patients as good as possible when they are back at work and to improve their work functioning over time.

Cell plasticity and heterogeneity in cancer.

PubMed

Marjanovic, Nemanja D; Weinberg, Robert A; Chaffer, Christine L

2013-01-01

Heterogeneity within a given cancer arises from diverse cell types recruited to the tumor and from genetic and/or epigenetic differences amongst the cancer cells themselves. These factors conspire to create a disease with various phenotypes. There are 2 established models of cancer development and progression to metastatic disease. These are the clonal evolution and cancer stem cell models. The clonal evolution theory suggests that successive mutations accumulating in a given cell generate clonal outgrowths that thrive in response to microenvironmental selection pressures, dictating the phenotype of the tumor. The alternative cancer stem cell (CSC) model suggests that cancer cells with similar genetic backgrounds can be hierarchically organized according to their tumorigenic potential. Accordingly, CSCs reside at the apex of the hierarchy and are thought to possess the majority of a cancer's tumor-initiating and metastatic ability. A defining feature of this model is its apparent unidirectional nature, whereby CSCs undergo symmetric division to replenish the CSC pool and irreversible asymmetric division to generate daughter cells (non-CSCs) with low tumorigenic potential. However, evolving evidence supports a new model of tumorigenicity, in which considerable plasticity exists between the non-CSC and CSC compartments, such that non-CSCs can reacquire a CSC phenotype. These findings suggest that some tumors may adhere to a plastic CSC model, in which bidirectional conversions are common and essential components of tumorigenicity. Accumulating evidence surrounding the plasticity of cancer cells, in particular, suggests that aggressive CSCs can be created de novo within a tumor. Given the current focus on therapeutic targeting of CSCs, we discuss the implications of non-CSC-to-CSC conversions on the development of future therapies. © 2012 American Association for Clinical Chemistry

Full Stokes finite-element modeling of ice sheets using a graphics processing unit

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seddik, H.; Greve, R.

2016-12-01

Thermo-mechanical simulation of ice sheets is an important approach to understand and predict their evolution in a changing climate. For that purpose, higher order (e.g., ISSM, BISICLES) and full Stokes (e.g., Elmer/Ice, http://elmerice.elmerfem.org) models are increasingly used to more accurately model the flow of entire ice sheets. In parallel to this development, the rapidly improving performance and capabilities of Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) allows to efficiently offload more calculations of complex and computationally demanding problems on those devices. Thus, in order to continue the trend of using full Stokes models with greater resolutions, using GPUs should be considered for the implementation of ice sheet models. We developed the GPU-accelerated ice-sheet model Sainō. Sainō is an Elmer (http://www.csc.fi/english/pages/elmer) derivative implemented in Objective-C which solves the full Stokes equations with the finite element method. It uses the standard OpenCL language (http://www.khronos.org/opencl/) to offload the assembly of the finite element matrix on the GPU. A mesh-coloring scheme is used so that elements with the same color (non-sharing nodes) are assembled in parallel on the GPU without the need for synchronization primitives. The current implementation shows that, for the ISMIP-HOM experiment A, during the matrix assembly in double precision with 8000, 87,500 and 252,000 brick elements, Sainō is respectively 2x, 10x and 14x faster than Elmer/Ice (when both models are run on a single processing unit). In single precision, Sainō is even 3x, 20x and 25x faster than Elmer/Ice. A detailed description of the comparative results between Sainō and Elmer/Ice will be presented, and further perspectives in optimization and the limitations of the current implementation.

Survey of Advanced Technologies in Japan, Vol. 3: Database Reports

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-05-01

INDUSTRIAL CO. LTD. Y NEC CORPORATION, CSC INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY RESEARCH LABORATORIES Y THE UNIVERSITY OF ELECTRO-COMMUNICATIONS Y TOKYO INSTITUTE...77 by the National *"eau of Standards, and is an outgrowth of research performed by IBM. which was based on information theory, using computer...Y COMMUNICATION RESEARCH LABORATORY, MINISTRY OF POSTS AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS Y MATSUSHITA ELECTRONICS CORP., ELECTRONICS RESEARCH LABORATORY Y

Targeting cancer stem cell-specific markers and/or associated signaling pathways for overcoming cancer drug resistance.

PubMed

Ranji, Peyman; Salmani Kesejini, Tayyebali; Saeedikhoo, Sara; Alizadeh, Ali Mohammad

2016-10-01

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a small subpopulation of tumor cells with capabilities of self-renewal, dedifferentiation, tumorigenicity, and inherent chemo-and-radio therapy resistance. Tumor resistance is believed to be caused by CSCs that are intrinsically challenging to common treatments. A number of CSC markers including CD44, CD133, receptor tyrosine kinase, aldehyde dehydrogenases, epithelial cell adhesion molecule/epithelial specific antigen, and ATP-binding cassette subfamily G member 2 have been proved as the useful targets for defining CSC population in solid tumors. Furthermore, targeting CSC markers through new therapeutic strategies will ultimately improve treatments and overcome cancer drug resistance. Therefore, the identification of novel strategies to increase sensitivity of CSC markers has major clinical implications. This review will focus on the innovative treatment methods such as nano-, immuno-, gene-, and chemotherapy approaches for targeting CSC-specific markers and/or their associated signaling pathways.

Curriculum Design of Computer Graphics Programs: A Survey of Art/Design Programs at the University Level.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McKee, Richard Lee

This master's thesis reports the results of a survey submitted to over 30 colleges and universities that currently offer computer graphics courses or are in the planning stage of curriculum design. Intended to provide a profile of the computer graphics programs and insight into the process of curriculum design, the survey gathered data on program…

Interactive computer graphics and its role in control system design of large space structures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reddy, A. S. S. R.

1985-01-01

This paper attempts to show the relevance of interactive computer graphics in the design of control systems to maintain attitude and shape of large space structures to accomplish the required mission objectives. The typical phases of control system design, starting from the physical model such as modeling the dynamics, modal analysis, and control system design methodology are reviewed and the need of the interactive computer graphics is demonstrated. Typical constituent parts of large space structures such as free-free beams and free-free plates are used to demonstrate the complexity of the control system design and the effectiveness of the interactive computer graphics.

A CURRICULUM FOR ENGLISH, GRADE 6, UNITS 58-70.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nebraska Univ., Lincoln. Curriculum Development Center.

GRADE-SIX UNITS OF THE NEBRASKA ENGLISH CURRICULUM CULMINATE THE ELEMENTS OF ALL PREVIOUS UNITS AND POINT TOWARD A MORE ANALYTICAL STUDY OF LITERATURE. "THE SEVEN VOYAGES OF SINBAD" IS USED TO REVIEW THE FOLK-TALE "PSEUDO-GENRE." LEWIS CARROLL'S "ALICE" STORIES AND "A WRINKLE IN TIME" ILLUSTRATE THE FANCIFUL…

Cancer Stem Cells and Chemoresistance: The Smartest Survives the Raid

PubMed Central

Zhao, Jihe

2016-01-01

Chemoresistant metastatic relapse of minimal residual disease plays a significant role for poor prognosis of cancer. Growing evidence supports a critical role of cancer stem cell (CSC) behind the mechanisms for this deadly disease. This review briefly introduces the basics of the conventional chemotherapies, updates the CSC theories, highlights the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which CSC smartly designs and utilizes multiple lines of self-defense to avoid being killed by chemotherapy, and concisely summarizes recent progress in studies on CSC-targeted therapies in the end, with the hope to help guide future research towards developing more effective therapeutic strategies to eradicate tumor cells in the patients. PMID:26899500

Key Issues in Instructional Computer Graphics.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wozny, Michael J.

1981-01-01

Addresses key issues facing universities which plan to establish instructional computer graphics facilities, including computer-aided design/computer aided manufacturing systems, role in curriculum, hardware, software, writing instructional software, faculty involvement, operations, and research. Thirty-seven references and two appendices are…

The acceptance of the collagen sponge diaphragm as an intravaginal contraceptive in human volunteers.

PubMed

Chvapil, M; Heine, M W; Horton, H

1976-12-01

Two types of highly resilient and liquid-absorbent collagen sponge contraceptives (CSC) in the shape of cylindrical cups (6 cm wide and 2.5 cm thick) were evaluated for acceptance as an intravaginal contraceptive method for a period of 3 months in 27 volunteers. Parameters such as retention, odor, irritation, itching, discharge, and convenience for the user and her sexual partner were tested. Average retention time was 7 to 9 days (range, 2 to 28 days); still, most sexually active volunteers preferred to remove the CSC every 3 to 4 days, rinse them in tap water, and reinsert them. Odor was noticed by users in 4% of the tested sponges and in 30% of all volunteers by medical personnel at the time of removal of the CSC from the vagina. No irritation, itching, or discharge was reported. The CSC alone did not cause any inconvenience to the user or partner, while the CSC with inserted rubber ring was felt by both partners and was found to be dislocated. This study indicates good acceptance of the CSC in intravaginal use. Studies to evaluate the efficacy of collagen sponges as mechanical contraceptive barriers are in progress.

Interactive computer graphics - Why's, wherefore's and examples

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gregory, T. J.; Carmichael, R. L.

1983-01-01

The benefits of using computer graphics in design are briefly reviewed. It is shown that computer graphics substantially aids productivity by permitting errors in design to be found immediately and by greatly reducing the cost of fixing the errors and the cost of redoing the process. The possibilities offered by computer-generated displays in terms of information content are emphasized, along with the form in which the information is transferred. The human being is ideally and naturally suited to dealing with information in picture format, and the content rate in communication with pictures is several orders of magnitude greater than with words or even graphs. Since science and engineering involve communicating ideas, concepts, and information, the benefits of computer graphics cannot be overestimated.

A System for Generating Instructional Computer Graphics.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nygard, Kendall E.; Ranganathan, Babusankar

1983-01-01

Description of the Tektronix-Based Interactive Graphics System for Instruction (TIGSI), which was developed for generating graphics displays in computer-assisted instruction materials, discusses several applications (e.g., reinforcing learning of concepts, principles, rules, and problem-solving techniques) and presents advantages of the TIGSI…

Ability of thermochemical calculation to treat organic peroxides

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Osmont, Antoine; Baudin, Gérard; Genetier, Marc

2017-06-01

Since 3 years, the CEA Gramat is developing a new thermochemical code, called SIAME, funded by DGA to help French defense industry at conceiving new explosives compositions. It enables the calculation of CJ detonation and deflagration points and combustion of explosives. The accuracy of the code has been checked on several compositions containing PETN, RDX, HMX, TNT, NTO. The error on the velocity of detonation is 3%. To enlarge the domain of validity of the code, organic peroxides have been considered. It is known that thermochemical simulation is in failure regarding compounds as simple as hydrogen peroxide. The computed velocity of detonation is 5720 m/s when shock planar impact gives 6150 m/s. The same discrepancy is found for TATP, with a calculated value at 5870 m/s when 5290 has been measured. Detonation velocity of TATP has been measured at two different densities. These velocities agree with other published values. A closer look at the enthalpy of formation of TATP has revealed that it comes from an article of 1932. Ab initio computations have given a totally different value, leading to better agreement with experiment.

The development of an engineering computer graphics laboratory

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Anderson, D. C.; Garrett, R. E.

1975-01-01

Hardware and software systems developed to further research and education in interactive computer graphics were described, as well as several of the ongoing application-oriented projects, educational graphics programs, and graduate research projects. The software system consists of a FORTRAN 4 subroutine package, in conjunction with a PDP 11/40 minicomputer as the primary computation processor and the Imlac PDS-1 as an intelligent display processor. The package comprises a comprehensive set of graphics routines for dynamic, structured two-dimensional display manipulation, and numerous routines to handle a variety of input devices at the Imlac.

Graphics Software For VT Terminals

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wang, Caroline

1991-01-01

VTGRAPH graphics software tool for DEC/VT computer terminal or terminals compatible with it, widely used by government and industry. Callable in FORTRAN or C language, library program enabling user to cope with many computer environments in which VT terminals used for window management and graphic systems. Provides PLOT10-like package plus color or shade capability for VT240, VT241, and VT300 terminals. User can easily design more-friendly user-interface programs and design PLOT10 programs on VT terminals with different computer systems. Requires ReGis graphics set terminal and FORTRAN compiler.

An application of interactive computer graphics technology to the design of dispersal mechanisms

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Richter, B. J.; Welch, B. H.

1977-01-01

Interactive computer graphics technology is combined with a general purpose mechanisms computer code to study the operational behavior of three guided bomb dispersal mechanism designs. These studies illustrate the use of computer graphics techniques to discover operational anomalies, to assess the effectiveness of design improvements, to reduce the time and cost of the modeling effort, and to provide the mechanism designer with a visual understanding of the physical operation of such systems.

Momentary symptoms of Borderline Personality Disorder as a product of trait personality and social context

PubMed Central

Hepp, Johanna; Carpenter, Ryan W.; Lane, Sean P.

2016-01-01

Past studies identify Five Factor Model (FFM) domains that are characteristic of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), including those associated with specific BPD symptoms, at a between-person level. The present study replicated these between-person associations and extended past research by assessing whether the FFM explains within-person variance in the manifestation of momentary BPD symptoms in the presence or absence of close social contact (CSC). We measured CSC and the BPD core symptoms negative affectivity, impulsivity, and interpersonal problems in 74 BPD patients and in a clinical control group of 40 depressed patients over the course of 28 days, six times a day. The FFM domains showed specificity in predicting momentary BPD symptoms and interacted with CSC in doing so. In particular, for BPD individuals only, momentary impulsivity and interpersonal problems were associated with higher Neuroticism and Extraversion and lower Agreeableness, and these associations were especially strong in situations involving CSC. Negative affectivity was predicted by Neuroticism for both groups of individuals, and this association was generally unaffected by CSC. Overall, experiencing CSC was positively associated with momentary BPD symptoms. Thus, both the FFM and CSC were associated with BPD patients’ experience of symptoms in everyday life. Furthermore, specific FFM trait domains were particularly impactful in contexts where BPD symptoms are more likely to be manifested, providing further evidence that person-by-situation interactions are important for understanding BPD symptoms in the moment. PMID:26901455

Effectiveness of collaborative stepped care for anxiety disorders in primary care: a pragmatic cluster randomised controlled trial.

PubMed

Muntingh, Anna; van der Feltz-Cornelis, Christina; van Marwijk, Harm; Spinhoven, Philip; Assendelft, Willem; de Waal, Margot; Adèr, Herman; van Balkom, Anton

2014-01-01

Collaborative stepped care (CSC) may be an appropriate model to provide evidence-based treatment for anxiety disorders in primary care. In a cluster randomised controlled trial, the effectiveness of CSC compared to care as usual (CAU) for adults with panic disorder (PD) or generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) in primary care was evaluated. Thirty-one psychiatric nurses who provided their services to 43 primary care practices in the Netherlands were randomised to deliver CSC (16 psychiatric nurses, 23 practices) or CAU (15 psychiatric nurses, 20 practices). CSC was provided by the psychiatric nurses (care managers) in collaboration with the general practitioner and a consultant psychiatrist. The intervention consisted of 3 steps, namely guided self-help, cognitive behavioural therapy and antidepressants. Anxiety symptoms were measured with the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) at baseline and after 3, 6, 9 and 12 months. We recruited 180 patients with a DSM-IV diagnosis of PD or GAD, of whom 114 received CSC and 66 received usual primary care. On the BAI, CSC was superior to CAU [difference in gain scores from baseline to 3 months: -5.11, 95% confidence interval (CI) -8.28 to -1.94; 6 months: -4.65, 95% CI -7.93 to -1.38; 9 months: -5.67, 95% CI -8.97 to -2.36; 12 months: -6.84, 95% CI -10.13 to -3.55]. CSC, with guided self-help as a first step, was more effective than CAU for primary care patients with PD or GAD.

IQGAP1 Is Involved in Enhanced Aggressive Behavior of Epithelial Ovarian Cancer Stem Cell-Like Cells During Differentiation.

PubMed

Huang, Lu; Xu, Shanshan; Hu, Dongxiao; Lu, Weiguo; Xie, Xing; Cheng, Xiaodong

2015-05-01

Wide metastasis is one of characteristics of ovarian cancer. Cancer stem cells, as a source in cancer invasion and metastasis, possess powerful potential of differentiation. Scaffolding IQ domain GTPase-activating protein 1 (IQGAP1) plays a key role in the invasion and metastasis of cancer cells, but IQGAP1's role in cancer stem cells including ovarian cancer was unclear. Spheroid culture with serum-free medium was used for enriching ovarian cancer stem cell-like cells (CSC-LCs) from 3AO cell line, and a medium with 10% fetal bovine serum was used to induce the differentiation of CSC-LCs. Immunofluorescence was for detecting the stem markers OCT4 and SOX2. The quantitative real-time-polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting were performed to determine the messenger RNA and protein expression of IQGAP1, respectively. The capacity of cell invasion was evaluated by transwell chamber assay. Ovarian CSC-LCs obtained through spheroid culture showed irregularly elongated appearance, CD24 negative, and OCT4 and SOX2 positive. IQGAP1 expression was decreased in ovarian CSC-LCs compared with parental 3AO cells, but increased de novo during the differentiation of CSC-LCs. Knockdown of IQGAP1 by specific small interfering RNA remarkably weakened invasion capacity of 2-day differentiated ovarian CSC-LCs. Increased IQGAP1 expression during the differentiation of CSC-LCs is involved in an aggressive cell behavior, which may contribute to metastasis of ovarian cancer.

Biometric characteristics of eyes with central serous chorioretinopathy.

PubMed

Oh, Jong-Hyun; Oh, Jaeryung; Togloom, Ariunaa; Kim, Seong-Woo; Huh, Kuhl

2014-03-13

To investigate the biometric characteristics of eyes with idiopathic central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC). Medical records of 52 consecutive patients with unilateral CSC were reviewed. Central serous chorioretinopathy was diagnosed using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) and fluorescein angiography. Data collected for comparison with fellow eyes were refractive error, biometric measurements using partial coherence interferometry, and SD-OCT parameters. Mean time from subjective symptom onset to initial visit was 8.3 ± 12.29 weeks. Mean axial length (AL) was shorter in CSC eyes than in fellow eyes by 0.24 ± 0.379 mm (P < 0.001), and mean anterior chamber depth (ACD) was shallower in CSC eyes than in fellow eyes by 0.03 ± 0.088 mm (P = 0.021). Central serous chorioretinopathy eyes also had thicker subfoveal choroidal thickness (CT) than fellow eyes by 34.0 ± 45.93 μm (P < 0.001). Differences in spherical equivalents between CSC and fellow eyes correlated with AL differences (r = -0.690, P < 0.001) and CT differences (r = 0.473, P = 0.001). On multiple linear regression analysis, the differences in ACD between CSC and fellow eyes were significantly correlated with AL differences (P = 0.032) and symptom duration (P = 0.019). Biometric characteristics such as AL and ACD were different between eyes with CSC and fellow eyes. Variations in biometry, which correlated with CT differences, might be related to differences in refractive errors between eyes.

Living Color Frame System: PC graphics tool for data visualization

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Truong, Long V.

1993-01-01

Living Color Frame System (LCFS) is a personal computer software tool for generating real-time graphics applications. It is highly applicable for a wide range of data visualization in virtual environment applications. Engineers often use computer graphics to enhance the interpretation of data under observation. These graphics become more complicated when 'run time' animations are required, such as found in many typical modern artificial intelligence and expert systems. Living Color Frame System solves many of these real-time graphics problems.

Graphical Requirements for Force Level Planning. Volume 2

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-09-01

technology review includes graphics algorithms, computer hardware, computer software, and design methodologies. The technology can either exist today or...level graphics language. 7.4 User Interface Design Tools As user interfaces have become more sophisticated, they have become harder to develop. Xl...Setphen M. Pizer, editors. Proceedings 1986 Workshop on Interactive 31) Graphics , October 1986. 18 J. S. Dumas. Designing User Interface Software. Prentice

The Graphical User Interface: Crisis, Danger, and Opportunity.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Boyd, L. H.; And Others

1990-01-01

This article describes differences between the graphical user interface and traditional character-based interface systems, identifies potential problems posed by graphic computing environments for blind computer users, and describes some programs and strategies that are being developed to provide access to those environments. (Author/JDD)

The use of computer graphics in the visual analysis of the proposed Sunshine Ski Area expansion

Treesearch

Mark Angelo

1979-01-01

This paper describes the use of computer graphics in designing part of the Sunshine Ski Area in Banff National Park. The program used was capable of generating perspective landscape drawings from a number of different viewpoints. This allowed managers to predict, and subsequently reduce, the adverse visual impacts of ski-run development. Computer graphics have proven,...

The Performance Improvement of the Lagrangian Particle Dispersion Model (LPDM) Using Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) Computing

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-08-01

access to the GPU for general purpose processing .5 CUDA is designed to work easily with multiple programming languages , including Fortran. CUDA is a...Using Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) Computing by Leelinda P Dawson Approved for public release; distribution unlimited...The Performance Improvement of the Lagrangian Particle Dispersion Model (LPDM) Using Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) Computing by Leelinda

Computer Corner: Computer Graphics for the Vibrating String.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Smith, David A.; Cunningham, R. Stephen

1986-01-01

Computer graphics are used to display the sum of the first few terms of the series solution for the problem of the vibrating string frequently discussed in introductory courses on differential equations. (MNS)

Effect of spurt duration on the heat transfer dynamics during cryogen spray cooling.

PubMed

Aguilar, Guillermo; Wang, Guo-Xiang; Nelson, J Stuart

2003-07-21

Although cryogen spray cooling (CSC) is used to minimize the risk of epidermal damage during laser dermatologic surgery, optimization of the current cooling approach is needed to permit the safe use of higher light doses, which should improve the therapeutic outcome in many patients. The objective of this study was to measure the effect of spurt duration (delta t) on the heat transfer dynamics during CSC using a model skin phantom. A fast-response temperature sensor was constructed to record the changes in surface temperature during CSC. Temperature measurements as a function of delta t at two nozzle-to-skin distances (z = 50 and 20 mm) were performed. The average surface heat fluxes (q) and heat transfer coefficients (h) for each delta t were computed using an inverse heat conduction problem algorithm. It was observed that q undergoes a marked dynamic variation during the entire delta t, with a maximum heat flux (qc) occurring early in the spurt (5-15 ms), followed by a quick decrease. The estimated qc vary from 450 to 600 kW m(-2), corresponding to h maxima of 10 and 17-22 kW m(-2) K(-1) for z = 50 and 20 mm, respectively. For z = 50 mm, spurts longer than 40 ms do not increase the total heat removal (Q) within the first 200 ms. However, for z = 20 mm, delta t longer than 100 ms are required to achieve the same Q. It is shown that the heat transfer dynamics and the time it takes to reach qc during CSC can be understood through classic boiling theory as a transition from transient to nucleate boiling. Based on the results of this model skin phantom, it is shown that spurts longer than 40 ms have a negligible impact on both q and Q within clinically relevant cooling times (10-100 ms).

Cigarette smoke-induced DNA damage and repair detected by the comet assay in HPV-transformed cervical cells.

PubMed

Moktar, Afsoon; Ravoori, Srivani; Vadhanam, Manicka V; Gairola, C Gary; Gupta, Ramesh C

2009-12-01

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the causative factor in the development and progression of cervical cancers in >97% of the cases, although insufficient. Epidemiological studies suggest an elevated risk of cervical cancer for cigarette smokers; therefore, we examined cigarette smoke-induced DNA damage and repair in HPV16-transformed human ectocervical cells (ECT1/E6 E7). Cells were treated with cigarette smoke condensate (CSC) for 72 h to assess the formation of single- and double-strand DNA breaks, measured by alkaline and neutral single cell gel electrophoresis assays, respectively. The mean tail length of cells with single-strand breaks was increased by 1.8-, 2.7- and 3.7-fold (p<0.001) after treatment with 4, 8 and 12 microg/ml CSC, respectively. The tail length with double-strand breaks was also increased dose-dependently. These results were further supported by measurement of the mean tail moment: the increase in both single- and double-strand breaks were much more pronounced with increasing concentration of CSC, by up to 23.5-fold (p<0.0001 for both assays). To examine the DNA repair, cells were treated with CSC for 72 h, followed by CSC withdrawal and re-incubation of the cells with fresh medium for 24, 48, or 72 h. Both single- and double-strand DNA breaks were removed during the initial 24 h but no further removal of the damage was observed. Up to 80% of residual single- and double-strand DNA breaks (p<0.05) were found to persist at all CSC concentrations examined. Ellagic acid, a known antioxidant and free-radical scavenger, was found to significantly inhibit DNA breaks induced by CSC. Thus, free radicals may be a plausible source of CSC-induced DNA damage. These data show that CSC-mediated DNA strand breaks are highly persistent, and suggest that persistence of cigarette smoke-associated DNA damage in the presence of HPV infection may lead to increased mutations in cervical cells and ultimately higher cancer risk.

Integrating Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) graphics and extended memory packages with CLIPS

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Callegari, Andres C.

1990-01-01

This paper addresses the question of how to mix CLIPS with graphics and how to overcome PC's memory limitations by using the extended memory available in the computer. By adding graphics and extended memory capabilities, CLIPS can be converted into a complete and powerful system development tool, on the other most economical and popular computer platform. New models of PCs have amazing processing capabilities and graphic resolutions that cannot be ignored and should be used to the fullest of their resources. CLIPS is a powerful expert system development tool, but it cannot be complete without the support of a graphics package needed to create user interfaces and general purpose graphics, or without enough memory to handle large knowledge bases. Now, a well known limitation on the PC's is the usage of real memory which limits CLIPS to use only 640 Kb of real memory, but now that problem can be solved by developing a version of CLIPS that uses extended memory. The user has access of up to 16 MB of memory on 80286 based computers and, practically, all the available memory (4 GB) on computers that use the 80386 processor. So if we give CLIPS a self-configuring graphics package that will automatically detect the graphics hardware and pointing device present in the computer, and we add the availability of the extended memory that exists in the computer (with no special hardware needed), the user will be able to create more powerful systems at a fraction of the cost and on the most popular, portable, and economic platform available such as the PC platform.

Architectures for single-chip image computing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gove, Robert J.

1992-04-01

This paper will focus on the architectures of VLSI programmable processing components for image computing applications. TI, the maker of industry-leading RISC, DSP, and graphics components, has developed an architecture for a new-generation of image processors capable of implementing a plurality of image, graphics, video, and audio computing functions. We will show that the use of a single-chip heterogeneous MIMD parallel architecture best suits this class of processors--those which will dominate the desktop multimedia, document imaging, computer graphics, and visualization systems of this decade.

Coronal Heating Topology: The Interplay of Current Sheets and Magnetic Field Lines

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

Rappazzo, A. F.; Velli, M.; Matthaeus, W. H.

2017-07-20

The magnetic topology and field line random walk (FLRW) properties of a nanoflare-heated and magnetically confined corona are investigated in the reduced magnetohydrodynamic regime. Field lines originating from current sheets form coherent structures, called current sheet connected (CSC) regions, which extend around them. CSC FLRW is strongly anisotropic, with preferential diffusion along the current sheets’ in-plane length. CSC FLRW properties remain similar to those of the entire ensemble but exhibit enhanced mean square displacements and separations due to the stronger magnetic field intensities in CSC regions. The implications for particle acceleration and heat transport in the solar corona and wind,more » and for solar moss formation are discussed.« less

Spaceflight tracking and data network operational reliability computer output for MTBF and availability. Appendix V to CSC-1-395

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Seneca, V. I.; Mlynarczyk, R. H.

1974-01-01

Tables of data are provided to show the availability of Skylab data to selected ground stations during the phases of Skylab preflight, Skylab unmanned condition, and Skylab manned condition. The mean time between failure (MTBF) of the same Skylab functions is tabulated for the selected ground stations. All reliability data are based on a 90 percent confidence interval.

Orthorectification by Using Gpgpu Method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sahin, H.; Kulur, S.

2012-07-01

Thanks to the nature of the graphics processing, the newly released products offer highly parallel processing units with high-memory bandwidth and computational power of more than teraflops per second. The modern GPUs are not only powerful graphic engines but also they are high level parallel programmable processors with very fast computing capabilities and high-memory bandwidth speed compared to central processing units (CPU). Data-parallel computations can be shortly described as mapping data elements to parallel processing threads. The rapid development of GPUs programmability and capabilities attracted the attentions of researchers dealing with complex problems which need high level calculations. This interest has revealed the concepts of "General Purpose Computation on Graphics Processing Units (GPGPU)" and "stream processing". The graphic processors are powerful hardware which is really cheap and affordable. So the graphic processors became an alternative to computer processors. The graphic chips which were standard application hardware have been transformed into modern, powerful and programmable processors to meet the overall needs. Especially in recent years, the phenomenon of the usage of graphics processing units in general purpose computation has led the researchers and developers to this point. The biggest problem is that the graphics processing units use different programming models unlike current programming methods. Therefore, an efficient GPU programming requires re-coding of the current program algorithm by considering the limitations and the structure of the graphics hardware. Currently, multi-core processors can not be programmed by using traditional programming methods. Event procedure programming method can not be used for programming the multi-core processors. GPUs are especially effective in finding solution for repetition of the computing steps for many data elements when high accuracy is needed. Thus, it provides the computing process more quickly and accurately. Compared to the GPUs, CPUs which perform just one computing in a time according to the flow control are slower in performance. This structure can be evaluated for various applications of computer technology. In this study covers how general purpose parallel programming and computational power of the GPUs can be used in photogrammetric applications especially direct georeferencing. The direct georeferencing algorithm is coded by using GPGPU method and CUDA (Compute Unified Device Architecture) programming language. Results provided by this method were compared with the traditional CPU programming. In the other application the projective rectification is coded by using GPGPU method and CUDA programming language. Sample images of various sizes, as compared to the results of the program were evaluated. GPGPU method can be used especially in repetition of same computations on highly dense data, thus finding the solution quickly.

Remnant living cells that escape cell loss in late-stage tumors exhibit cancer stem cell-like characteristics

PubMed Central

Chen, Y-L; Wang, S-Y; Liu, R-S; Wang, H-E; Chen, J-C; Chiou, S-H; Chang, C A; Lin, L-T; Tan, D T W; Lee, Y-J

2012-01-01

A balance between cell proliferation and cell loss is essential for tumor progression. Although up to 90% of cells are lost in late-stage carcinomas, the progression and characteristics of remnant living cells in tumor mass are unclear. Here we used molecular imaging to track the progression of living cells in a syngeneic tumor model, and ex vivo investigated the properties of this population at late-stage tumor. The piggyBac transposon system was used to stably introduce the dual reporter genes, including monomeric red fluorescent protein (mRFP) and herpes simplex virus type-1 thymidine kinase (HSV1-tk) genes for fluorescence-based and radionuclide-based imaging of tumor growth in small animals, respectively. Iodine-123-labeled 5-iodo-2′-fluoro-1-beta-𝒟-arabinofuranosyluracil was used as a radiotracer for HSV1-tk gene expression in tumors. The fluorescence- and radionuclide-based imaging using the single-photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography revealed that the number of living cells reached the maximum at 1 week after implantation of 4T1 tumors, and gradually decreased and clustered near the side of the body until 4 weeks accompanied by enlargement of tumor mass. The remnant living cells at late-stage tumor were isolated and investigated ex vivo. The results showed that these living cells could form mammospheres and express cancer stem cell (CSC)-related biomarkers, including octamer-binding transcription factor 4, SRY (sex-determining region Y)-box 2, and CD133 genes compared with those cultured in vitro. Furthermore, this HSV1-tk-expressing CSC-like population was sensitive to ganciclovir applied for the suicide therapy. Taken together, the current data suggested that cells escaping from cell loss in late-stage tumors exhibit CSC-like characteristics, and HSV1-tk may be considered a theranostic agent for targeting this population in vivo. PMID:23034334

Mitostemness.

PubMed

Cuyàs, Elisabet; Verdura, Sara; Folguera-Blasco, Núria; Bastidas-Velez, Cristian; Martin, Ángel G; Alarcón, Tomás; Menendez, Javier A

2018-06-09

Unraveling the key mechanisms governing the retention versus loss of the cancer stem cell (CSC) state would open new therapeutic avenues to eradicate cancer. Mitochondria are increasingly recognized key drivers in the origin and development of CSC functional traits. We here propose the new term "mitostemness" to designate the mitochondria-dependent signaling functions that, evolutionary rooted in the bacterial origin of mitochondria, regulate the maintenance of CSC self-renewal and resistance to differentiation. Mitostemness traits, namely mitonuclear communication, mitoproteome components, and mitochondrial fission/fusion dynamics, can be therapeutically exploited to target the CSC state. We briefly review the pre-clinical evidence of action of investigational compounds on mitostemness traits and discuss ongoing strategies to accelerate the clinical translation of new mitostemness drugs. The recognition that the bacterial origin of present-day mitochondria can drive decision-making signaling phenomena may open up a new therapeutic dimension against life-threating CSCs. New therapeutics aimed to target mitochondria not only as biochemical but also as biophysical and morpho-physiological hallmarks of CSC might certainly guide improvements to cancer treatment.

Modeling the Effect of Cigarette Smoke on Hexose Utilization in Spermatocytes

PubMed Central

Esakky, Prabagaran; Debosch, Brian J.; Schoeller, Erica L.; Chi, Maggie M.; Moley, Kelle H.

2015-01-01

We set out to determine whether the addition of an aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) antagonist has an effect on glucose/fructose utilization in the spermatocyte when exposed to cigarette smoke condensate (CSC). We exposed male germ cells to 5 and 40 μg/mL of CSC ± 10 μmol/L of AHR antagonist at various time points. Immunoblot expression of specific glucose/fructose transporters was compared to control. Radiolabeled uptake of 2-deoxyglucose (2-DG) and fructose was also performed. Spermatocytes utilized fructose nearly 50-fold more than 2-DG. Uptake of 2-DG decreased after CSC + AHR antagonist exposure. Glucose transporters (GLUTs) 9a and 12 declined after CSC + AHR antagonist exposure. Synergy between CSC and the AHR antagonist in spermatocytes may disrupt the metabolic profile in vitro. Toxic exposures alter energy homeostasis in early stages of male germ cell development, which could contribute to later effects explaining decreases in sperm motility in smokers. PMID:24803506

Adjustable patella grapple versus cannulated screw and cable technique for treatment of transverse patellar fractures.

PubMed

Yan, Ning; Yang, Anli; Liu, Xiaodong; Cai, Feng; Liu, Liang; Chang, Shimin

2014-03-01

Although the cannulated screw and cable (CSC) tension band technique is an effective method for fixation of transverse patellar fractures, it has shortcomings, such as extensive soft tissue damage, osseous substance damage, and complex manipulation. We conducted a retrospective comparison of the adjustable patella grapple (APG) technique and the CSC tension band technique. We retrospectively reviewed 78 patients with transverse patellar fractures (45 in the APG group and 33 in the CSC group). Follow-up was 18 months. Comparison criteria were operation time, fracture reduction, fracture healing time, the knee injury and osteoarthritis outcome score for knee function, and complications. The APG group showed shorter operation time and equal fracture reduction, fracture healing time, and knee function compared with the CSC group. Eleven patients in the APG group experienced skin irritation generated by implants. There was no complication in the CSC group. The APG technique should be considered as an alternative method for treatment of transverse patellar fractures.

Heat-transfer dynamics during cryogen spray cooling of substrate at different initial temperatures.

PubMed

Jia, Wangcun; Aguilar, Guillermo; Wang, Guo-Xiang; Nelson, J Stuart

2004-12-07

Cryogen spray cooling (CSC) is used to minimize the risk of epidermal damage during laser dermatologic therapy. However, the dominant mechanisms of heat transfer during the transient cooling process are incompletely understood. The objective of this study is to elucidate the physics of CSC by measuring the effect of initial substrate temperature (T0) on cooling dynamics. Cryogen was delivered by a straight-tube nozzle onto a skin phantom. A fast-response thermocouple was used to record the phantom temperature changes before, during and after the cryogen spray. Surface heat fluxes (q") and heat-transfer coefficients (h) were computed using an inverse heat conduction algorithm. The maximum surface heat flux (q"max) was observed to increase with T0. The surface temperature corresponding to q"max also increased with T0 but the latter has no significant effect on h. It is concluded that heat transfer between the cryogen spray and skin phantom remains in the nucleate boiling region even if T0 is 80 degrees C.

A Graphical Approach to Quantitative Structural Geology.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

De Paor, Declan G.

1986-01-01

Describes how computer graphic methods can be used in teaching structural geology. Describes the design of a graphics workstation for the Apple microcomputer. Includes a listing of commands used with software to plot structures in a digitized form. Argues for the establishment of computer laboratories for structural geology classes. (TW)

A Laboratory Application of Microcomputer Graphics.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gehring, Kalle B.; Moore, John W.

1983-01-01

A PASCAL graphics and instrument interface program for a Z80/S-100 based microcomputer was developed. The computer interfaces to a stopped-flow spectrophotometer replacing a storage oscilloscope and polaroid camera. Applications of this system are discussed, indicating that graphics and analog-to-digital boards have transformed the computer into…

Computer Graphics and Physics Teaching.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bork, Alfred M.; Ballard, Richard

New, more versatile and inexpensive terminals will make computer graphics more feasible in science instruction than before. This paper describes the use of graphics in physics teaching at the University of California at Irvine. Commands and software are detailed in established programs, which include a lunar landing simulation and a program which…

Learning with Interactive Computer Graphics in the Undergraduate Neuroscience Classroom

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pani, John R.; Chariker, Julia H.; Naaz, Farah; Mattingly, William; Roberts, Joshua; Sephton, Sandra E.

2014-01-01

Instruction of neuroanatomy depends on graphical representation and extended self-study. As a consequence, computer-based learning environments that incorporate interactive graphics should facilitate instruction in this area. The present study evaluated such a system in the undergraduate neuroscience classroom. The system used the method of…

Inexpensive Timeshared Graphics on the SIGMA 7.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bork, Alfred M.

This paper gives a technical description of various computer graphics programs developed on the Sigma 7 computer. Terminals used are the Adage 100 and the Tektronix 4002-4010. Commands are Metasymbol procedures which access Metasymbol library subroutines; programs can also be coupled with FORTRAN programs. Available, inexpensive graphic terminals…

Computer Graphics and Metaphorical Elaboration for Learning Science Concepts.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

ChanLin, Lih-Juan; Chan, Kung-Chi

This study explores the instructional impact of using computer multimedia to integrate metaphorical verbal information into graphical representations of biotechnology concepts. The combination of text and graphics into a single metaphor makes concepts dual-coded, and therefore more comprehensible and memorable for the student. Visual stimuli help…

Central serous chorioretinopathy and phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors: a case-control postmarketing surveillance study.

PubMed

French, Dustin D; Margo, Curtis E

2010-02-01

The purpose of this study was to determine if there is an increased risk of central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) associated with prescription exposure to phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) inhibitors. A case-control study linking 2 National Veterans Health Administration databases (clinical and pharmacy) for fiscal years 2004 to 2005. The likelihood of past exposure to PDE-5 inhibitors among newly diagnosed patients with CSC, identified through International Classification of Diseases, 9th Edition, Clinical Modification codes, was compared with 2 age-matched control groups after excluding subjects with risk factors for CSC. Among 577 men, aged 59 years and younger with newly diagnosed CSC during the study year, 111 were prescribed a PDE-5 inhibitor (19.2%). The proportions of age-matched controls prescribed a PDE-5 inhibitor in the 2 groups were 18.5% and 21.5%. The odds ratio of exposure was 1.05 (95% confidence limit: 0.74-1.22) and 0.87 (95% confidence limit: 0.68-1.12). Patients with CSC had no increase in prescription exposure to PDE-5 inhibitors than did age-matched control subjects. Although the findings in this study do not support an association between CSC and PDE-5 inhibitors, postmarketing surveillance methods for drug-related side effects have acknowledged limitations.

Camelina sativa cake improved unsaturated fatty acids in ewe's milk.

PubMed

Szumacher-Strabel, Malgorzata; Cieślak, Adam; Zmora, Pawel; Pers-Kamczyc, Emilia; Bielińska, Sylwia; Stanisz, Marek; Wójtowski, Jacek

2011-08-30

Camelina sativa cake (CSC), a rich source of unsaturated fatty acids, in the case of ruminants, may improve the energy value of a diet and also increase the unsaturated fatty acid content in milk. Effects of basal diet (control), basal diet plus 30 g kg(-1) of CSC in dietary dry matter (DM), basal diet plus 60 g kg(-1) of CSC in dietary dry matter on milk production and the fatty acid composition of ewe's milk with particular emphasis on the monoenes and conjugated isomers of linoleic acid content were examined. Elevated concentration of total monounsaturated fatty acids, the effect of an increase in monounsaturated fatty acids in the trans configuration, as well as the increased content of total polyunsaturated fatty acids, resulted from CSC supplementation. Total saturated fatty acid concentration was decreased. Milk from CSC-supplemented ewes was characterized by increased levels of beneficial nutritional factors, including mono- and n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, and was also by lower atherogenic and thrombogenic indices. Taking into consideration all the obtained results and recommended fat concentrations in a daily ruminant ration, we recommend supplementing a dairy ewe's diet with 30 g kg(-1) DM of CSC cake in practice. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry.

Graphics supercomputer for computational fluid dynamics research

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liaw, Goang S.

1994-11-01

The objective of this project is to purchase a state-of-the-art graphics supercomputer to improve the Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) research capability at Alabama A & M University (AAMU) and to support the Air Force research projects. A cutting-edge graphics supercomputer system, Onyx VTX, from Silicon Graphics Computer Systems (SGI), was purchased and installed. Other equipment including a desktop personal computer, PC-486 DX2 with a built-in 10-BaseT Ethernet card, a 10-BaseT hub, an Apple Laser Printer Select 360, and a notebook computer from Zenith were also purchased. A reading room has been converted to a research computer lab by adding some furniture and an air conditioning unit in order to provide an appropriate working environments for researchers and the purchase equipment. All the purchased equipment were successfully installed and are fully functional. Several research projects, including two existing Air Force projects, are being performed using these facilities.

Fundus autofluorescence imaging patterns in central serous chorioretinopathy according to chronicity.

PubMed

Lee, W J; Lee, J-H; Lee, B R

2016-10-01

PurposeTo investigate the time-period characteristics associated with morphologic changes in central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) using fundus autofluorescence (FAF).Patients and methodsRetrospective, cross-sectional observational case series. Patients were classified into three groups: acute and chronic according to the onset of subjective symptoms of 6 weeks and sequelae patients who have history and symptoms but no serous retinal detachment (SRD). We compared FAF images to obtain characteristic findings according to the chronicity.ResultsA total of 52 eyes were included in this study. Acute CSC eyes were characterized by decreased FAF intensity at the leakage point in 13/22 eyes (56.5%) and staining patterns with various levels of fluorescence signal (hyperautofluorescent (10 eyes, 43.5%), hypoautofluorescent (1 eye, 4.3%), and minimal changes (12 eyes, 52.2%)) in the area of SRD. In chronic CSC eyes, hyperautofluorescent (14 eyes, 63.6%) or minimal changes (8 eyes, 36.4%) were observed in the area of SRD. Discrete dots with increased FAF intensity were observed in chronic CSC eyes (P<0.001). Eyes with sequelae of CSC had mixed FAF patterns over areas of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) atrophy in seven eyes (100%, P<0.001)) and descending tracts which showed various FAF intensities according to the RPE and photoreceptor status (P<0.001).ConclusionFAF imaging patterns in CSC eyes differ according to the course of the disease, reflecting RPE and outer retinal changes. Detailed investigation using FAF could help to estimate the duration of CSC and determine the proper treatment modality.

Cigarette smoke-induced cell cycle arrest in spermatocytes [GC-2spd(ts)] is mediated through crosstalk between Ahr-Nrf2 pathway and MAPK signaling.

PubMed

Esakky, Prabagaran; Hansen, Deborah A; Drury, Andrea M; Moley, Kelle H

2015-02-01

Our earlier studies have demonstrated that the cigarette smoke in the form of cigarette smoke condensate (CSC) causes growth arrest of a mouse spermatocyte cell line [GC-2spd(ts)] through activation of the AHR-NRF2 pathway. The present study demonstrates the CSC-activated p38 and ERK MAPK signaling in GC-2spd(ts) via arylhydrocarbon receptor (AHR). Pharmacological inhibition by using AHR-antagonist, or p38 MAPK and ERK (MEK1) inhibitors significantly abrogates CSC-induced growth arrest by AHR and MAPK inactivation. QRT-PCR, western blot, and immunofluorescence of Ahr-target of Nrf2, and stress-inducible growth suppressive Atf3 and E2f4 following treatments indicate a crosstalk among these pathways. Regulation of Atf3 by Nrf2 and Ahr through RNA interference suggests the existence of a cross-regulatory loop between the targets. CSC induction of E2f4 via Atf3 and its regulation by pharmacological inhibitors reveal a possible regulatory mechanism of growth inhibitory CSC. SiRNA silencing of Ahr, Nrf2, Atf3, and E2f4 genes and downregulation of cyclins by CSC corroborate the growth inhibitory effect of cigarette smoke. Thus, the data obtained suggest that the CSC-mediated MAPKs and AHR-NRF2 crosstalks lay the molecular basis for the growth arrest and cell death of spermatocytes. © The Author (2014). Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Journal of Molecular Cell Biology, IBCB, SIBS, CAS. All rights reserved.

Northwest Climate Science Center: Integrating Regional Research, Conservation and Natural Resource Management

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mote, P.; Bisbal, G.

2012-12-01

The Northwest Climate Science Center (NW CSC) was established in 2010, among the first three of eight regional Climate Science Centers created by the Department of the Interior (DOI). The NW CSC is supported by an academic consortium (Oregon State University, University of Idaho, and the University of Washington), which has the capacity to generate and coordinate decision-relevant science related to climate, thus serving stakeholders across the Pacific Northwest region. The NW CSC has overlapping boundaries with three Landscape Conservation Cooperatives (LCCs): the Great Northern, the Great Basin, and the North Pacific. Collaboration between the NW CSC and these three LCCs addresses the highest priority regional climate science needs of Northwest natural and cultural resource managers. Early in 2012, the NW CSC released its first Strategic Plan for the period 2012-2015. The plan offers a practical blueprint for operation and describes five core services that the NW CSC provides to the Northwest community. These core services emphasize (a) bringing together the regional resource management and science communities to calibrate priorities and ensure efficient integration of climate science resources and tools when addressing practical issues of regional significance; (b) developing and implementing a stakeholder-driven science agenda which highlights the NW CSC's regional leadership in generating scenarios of the future environment of the NW; (c) supporting and training graduate students at the three consortium universities, including through an annual 'Climate science boot camp'; (d) providing a platform for effective climate-change-related communication among scientists, resource managers, and the general public; and (e) national leadership in data management and climate scenario development.

The effect of artificial seawater on SERS spectra of amino acids-Ag colloids: an experiment of prebiotic chemistry.

PubMed

Nascimento, Fernanda C; Carneiro, Cristine E A; de Santana, Henrique; Zaia, Dimas A M

2014-01-24

The large enhancement of signal observed in surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) could be helpful for identifying amino acids on the surface of other planets, in particular for Mars, as well as in prebiotic chemistry experiments of interaction minerals/amino acids. This paper reports the effect of several substances (NaCl, MgCl2, KBr, CaSO4, K2SO4, MgSO4, KI, NH4Cl, SrCl2, CaCl2, Na2SO4, KOH, NaOH, H3BO3) on the SERS spectra of colloid of sodium citrate-CSC and colloid of sodium borohydride-CSB. The effect of four different artificial seawaters and these artificial seawaters plus amino acids (α-Ala-alanine, Gly-glycine, Cys-cysteine, AIB-2-aminoisobutiric acid) on SERS spectra using both CSC and CSB was also studied. For CSC, the effect of water, after dilution of the colloid, was the appearance of several absorption bands belonging to sodium citrate in the SERS spectrum. In general, artificial seawaters enhanced several bands in SERS spectra using CSC and CSB and CSC was more sensitive to those artificial seawaters than CSB. The identification of Gly, α-Ala and AIB using CSC or CSB was not possible because several bands belonging to artificial seawaters, sodium citrate or sodium borohydride were enhanced. On the other hand, artificial seawaters did not interfere in the SERS spectra of Cys using CSC or CSB, although the interaction of Cys with each colloid was different. For CSC the band at 2568 cm(-1) (S-H stretching) of Cys vanished and for CSB the intensity of this band decreased, indicating the -SH of Cys was bonded to Ag to form -S-Ag. Thus SERS spectroscopy could be used for Cys detection on Mars soils using Mars land rovers as well as to study the interaction between Cys and minerals in prebiotic chemistry experiments. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The effect of artificial seawater on SERS spectra of amino acids-Ag colloids: An experiment of prebiotic chemistry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nascimento, Fernanda C.; Carneiro, Cristine E. A.; Santana, Henrique de; Zaia, Dimas A. M.

2014-01-01

The large enhancement of signal observed in surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) could be helpful for identifying amino acids on the surface of other planets, in particular for Mars, as well as in prebiotic chemistry experiments of interaction minerals/amino acids. This paper reports the effect of several substances (NaCl, MgCl2, KBr, CaSO4, K2SO4, MgSO4, KI, NH4Cl, SrCl2, CaCl2, Na2SO4, KOH, NaOH, H3BO3) on the SERS spectra of colloid of sodium citrate-CSC and colloid of sodium borohydride-CSB. The effect of four different artificial seawaters and these artificial seawaters plus amino acids (α-Ala-alanine, Gly-glycine, Cys-cysteine, AIB-2-aminoisobutiric acid) on SERS spectra using both CSC and CSB was also studied. For CSC, the effect of water, after dilution of the colloid, was the appearance of several absorption bands belonging to sodium citrate in the SERS spectrum. In general, artificial seawaters enhanced several bands in SERS spectra using CSC and CSB and CSC was more sensitive to those artificial seawaters than CSB. The identification of Gly, α-Ala and AIB using CSC or CSB was not possible because several bands belonging to artificial seawaters, sodium citrate or sodium borohydride were enhanced. On the other hand, artificial seawaters did not interfere in the SERS spectra of Cys using CSC or CSB, although the interaction of Cys with each colloid was different. For CSC the band at 2568 cm-1 (S-H stretching) of Cys vanished and for CSB the intensity of this band decreased, indicating the -SH of Cys was bonded to Ag to form -S-Ag. Thus SERS spectroscopy could be used for Cys detection on Mars soils using Mars land rovers as well as to study the interaction between Cys and minerals in prebiotic chemistry experiments.

CK2 phosphorylates and inhibits TAp73 tumor suppressor function to promote expression of cancer stem cell genes and phenotype in head and neck cancer.

PubMed

Lu, Hai; Yan, Carol; Quan, Xin Xin; Yang, Xinping; Zhang, Jialing; Bian, Yansong; Chen, Zhong; Van Waes, Carter

2014-10-01

Cancer stem cells (CSC) and genes have been linked to cancer development and therapeutic resistance, but the signaling mechanisms regulating CSC genes and phenotype are incompletely understood. CK2 has emerged as a key signal serine/threonine kinase that modulates diverse signal cascades regulating cell fate and growth. We previously showed that CK2 is often aberrantly expressed and activated in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC), concomitantly with mutant (mt) tumor suppressor TP53, and inactivation of its family member, TAp73. Unexpectedly, we observed that classical stem cell genes Nanog, Sox2, and Oct4, are overexpressed in HNSCC with inactivated TAp73 and mtTP53. However, the potential relationship between CK2, TAp73 inactivation, and CSC phenotype is unknown. We reveal that inhibition of CK2 by pharmacologic inhibitors or siRNA inhibits the expression of CSC genes and side population (SP), while enhancing TAp73 mRNA and protein expression. Conversely, CK2 inhibitor attenuation of CSC protein expression and the SP by was abrogated by TAp73 siRNA. Bioinformatic analysis uncovered a single predicted CK2 threonine phosphorylation site (T27) within the N-terminal transactivation domain of TAp73. Nuclear CK2 and TAp73 interaction, confirmed by co-immunoprecipitation, was attenuated by CK2 inhibitor, or a T27A point-mutation of this predicted CK2 threonine phospho-acceptor site of TAp73. Further, T27A mutation attenuated phosphorylation, while enhancing TAp73 function in repressing CSC gene expression and SP cells. A new CK2 inhibitor, CX-4945, inhibited CSC related SP cells, clonogenic survival, and spheroid formation. Our study unveils a novel regulatory mechanism whereby aberrant CK2 signaling inhibits TAp73 to promote the expression of CSC genes and phenotype.

Differential discriminative-stimulus effects of cigarette smoke condensate and nicotine in nicotine-discriminating rats.

PubMed

Lee, Jun-Yeob; Choi, Mee Jung; Choe, Eun Sang; Lee, Young-Ju; Seo, Joung-Wook; Yoon, Seong Shoon

2016-06-01

Although it is widely accepted that nicotine plays a key role in tobacco dependence, nicotine alone cannot account for all of the pharmacological effects associated with cigarette smoke found in preclinical models. Thus, the present study aimed to determine the differential effects of the interoceptive cues of nicotine alone versus those of cigarette smoke condensate (CSC) in nicotine-trained rats. First, the rats were trained to discriminate nicotine (0.4mg/kg, subcutaneous [s.c.]) from saline in a two-lever drug discrimination paradigm. Then, to clarify the different neuropharmacological mechanisms underlying the discriminative-stimulus effects in the nicotine and CSC in nicotine-trained rats, either the α4β2 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) antagonist dihydro-β-erythroidine (DHβE; 0.3-1.0mg/kg, s.c.) or the α7 nAChR antagonist methyllycaconitine citrate (MLA; 5-10mg/kg, intraperitoneal [i.p.]) was administered prior to the injection of either nicotine or CSC. Separate set of experiments was performed to compare the duration of action of the discriminative-stimulus effects of CSC and nicotine. CSC exhibited a dose-dependent nicotine generalization, and interestingly, 1.0mg/kg of DHβE antagonized the discriminative effects of nicotine (0.4mg/kg) but not CSC (0.4mg/kg nicotine content). However, pretreatment with MLA had no effect. In the time-course study, CSC had a relatively longer half-life in terms of the discriminative-stimulus effects compared with nicotine alone. Taken together, the present findings indicate that CSC has a distinct influence on interoceptive effects relative to nicotine alone and that these differential effects might be mediated, at least in part, by the α4β2, but not the α7, nAChR. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Lung volume changes during cleaning of closed endotracheal suction catheters: a randomized crossover study using electrical impedance tomography.

PubMed

Corley, Amanda; Sharpe, Nicola; Caruana, Lawrence R; Spooner, Amy J; Fraser, John F

2014-04-01

Airway suctioning in mechanically ventilated patients is required to maintain airway patency. Closed suction catheters (CSCs) minimize lung volume loss during suctioning but require cleaning post-suction. Despite their widespread use, there is no published evidence examining lung volumes during CSC cleaning. The study objectives were to quantify lung volume changes during CSC cleaning and to determine whether these changes were preventable using a CSC with a valve in situ between the airway and catheter cleaning chamber. This prospective randomized crossover study was conducted in a metropolitan tertiary ICU. Ten patients mechanically ventilated via volume-controlled synchronized intermittent mandatory ventilation (SIMV-VC) and requiring manual hyperinflation (MHI) were included in this study. CSC cleaning was performed using 2 different brands of CSC (one with a valve [Ballard Trach Care 72, Kimberly-Clark, Roswell, Georgia] and one without [Portex Steri-Cath DL, Smiths Medical, Dublin, Ohio]). The maneuvers were performed during both SIMV-VC and MHI. Lung volume change was measured via impedance change using electrical impedance tomography. A mixed model was used to compare the estimated means. During cleaning of the valveless CSC, significant decreases in lung impedance occurred during MHI (-2563 impedance units, 95% CI 2213-2913, P < .001), and significant increases in lung impedance occurred during SIMV (762 impedance units, 95% CI 452-1072, P < .001). In contrast, cleaning of the CSC with a valve in situ resulted in non-significant lung volume changes and maintenance of normal ventilation during MHI and SIMV-VC, respectively (188 impedance units, 95% CI -136 to 511, P = .22; and 22 impedance units, 95% CI -342 to 299, P = .89). When there is no valve between the airway and suction catheter, cleaning of the CSC results in significant derangements in lung volume. Therefore, the presence of such a valve should be considered essential in preserving lung volumes and uninterrupted ventilation in mechanically ventilated patients.

Measuring Student Teachers' Practices and Beliefs about Teaching Mathematics Using the Rasch Model

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kaspersen, Eivind; Pepin, Birgit; Sikko, Svein Arne

2017-01-01

Several attempts have been made to measure and categorize beliefs and practices of mathematics teachers [Swan, M. 2006. "Designing and Using Research Instruments to Describe the Beliefs and Practices of Mathematics Teachers." "Research in Education" 75 (1): 58-70]. One of the reasons for measuring both beliefs and practices is…

40 CFR 63.5870 - How do I calculate annual uncontrolled and controlled organic HAP emissions from my wet-out area...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... SOURCE CATEGORIES National Emissions Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants: Reinforced Plastic... according to usage within each end product/thickness combination. (3) For each end product/thickness combination being produced, select the formula with the highest usage rate for testing. (4) If not already...

International Ultraviolet Explorer (IUE) satellite mission analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cook, R. A.; Griffin, J. H.

1975-01-01

The results are presented of the mission analysis performed by Computer Sciences Corporation (CSC) in support of the International Ultraviolet Explorer (IUE) satellite. The launch window is open for three separate periods (for a total time of 7 months) during the year extending from July 20, 1977, to July 20, 1978. The synchronous orbit shadow constraint limits the launch window to approximately 88 minutes per day. Apogee boost motor fuel was computed to be 455 pounds (206 kilograms) and on-station weight was 931 pounds (422 kilograms). The target orbit is elliptical synchronous, with eccentricity 0.272 and 24 hour period.

The Chandra Source Catalog: Spectral Properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Doe, Stephen; Siemiginowska, Aneta L.; Refsdal, Brian L.; Evans, Ian N.; Anderson, Craig S.; Bonaventura, Nina R.; Chen, Judy C.; Davis, John E.; Evans, Janet D.; Fabbiano, Giuseppina; Galle, Elizabeth C.; Gibbs, Danny G., II; Glotfelty, Kenny J.; Grier, John D.; Hain, Roger; Hall, Diane M.; Harbo, Peter N.; He, Xiang Qun (Helen); Houck, John C.; Karovska, Margarita; Kashyap, Vinay L.; Lauer, Jennifer; McCollough, Michael L.; McDowell, Jonathan C.; Miller, Joseph B.; Mitschang, Arik W.; Morgan, Douglas L.; Mossman, Amy E.; Nichols, Joy S.; Nowak, Michael A.; Plummer, David A.; Primini, Francis A.; Rots, Arnold H.; Sundheim, Beth A.; Tibbetts, Michael S.; van Stone, David W.; Winkelman, Sherry L.; Zografou, Panagoula

2009-09-01

The first release of the Chandra Source Catalog (CSC) contains all sources identified from eight years' worth of publicly accessible observations. The vast majority of these sources have been observed with the ACIS detector and have spectral information in 0.5-7 keV energy range. Here we describe the methods used to automatically derive spectral properties for each source detected by the standard processing pipeline and included in the final CSC. Hardness ratios were calculated for each source between pairs of energy bands (soft, medium and hard) using the Bayesian algorithm (BEHR, Park et al. 2006). The sources with high signal to noise ratio (exceeding 150 net counts) were fit in Sherpa (the modeling and fitting application from the Chandra Interactive Analysis of Observations package, developed by the Chandra X-ray Center; see Freeman et al. 2001). Two models were fit to each source: an absorbed power law and a blackbody emission. The fitted parameter values for the power-law and blackbody models were included in the catalog with the calculated flux for each model. The CSC also provides the source energy flux computed from the normalizations of predefined power-law and black-body models needed to match the observed net X-ray counts. In addition, we provide access to data products for each source: a file with source spectrum, the background spectrum, and the spectral response of the detector. This work is supported by NASA contract NAS8-03060 (CXC).

WE-E-BRE-10: Level of Breast Cancer Stem Cell Correlated with Tumor Radioresistence: An Indication for Individualized Breast Cancer Therapy Adapted to Cancer Stem Cell Fractions

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

Qi, S; Pajonk, F; McCloskey, S

2014-06-15

Purposes: The presence of cancer stem cells (CSCs) in a solid tumor could result in poor tumor control probability. The purposes are to study CSC radiosensitivity parameters α and β and their correlation to CSC levels to understand the underlying radioresistance mechanisms and enable individualized treatment design. Methods: Four established breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7, T47D, MDA-MB-231, and SUM159PT) were irradiated in vitro using single radiation doses of 0, 2, 4, 6, 8 or 10 Gy. The fractions of CSCs in each cell lines were determined using cancer stem cell markers. Mammosphere assays were also performed to better estimate themore » number of CSCs and represent the CSC repopulation in a human solid tumor. The measured cell surviving fractions were fitted using the Linear-quadratic (LQ) model with independent fitting parameters: α-TC, β-TC (TCs), α-CSC, β-CSC (CSCs), and fs (the percentage of CSCs in each sample). Results: The measured fs increased following the irradiation by MCF-7 (0.1%), T47D (0.9%), MDA-MB-231 (1.18%) and SUM159T (2.46%), while decreasing surviving curve slopes were observed, indicating greater radioresistance, in the opposite order. The fitting yielded the radiosensitive parameters for the MCF-7: α-TC=0.1±0.2Gy{sup −1}, β-TC= 0.08 ±0.14Gy{sup −2}, α-CSC=0.04±0.07Gy{sup −1}, β-CSC =0.02±0.3Gy{sup −2}; for the SUM159PT, α-TC=0.08±0.25 Gy{sup −1}, β-TC=0.02±0.02Gy{sup −2}, α-CSC=0.04±0.18Gy{sup −1}, β-CSC =0.004±0.24Gy{sup −2}. In the mammosphere assay, where fs were higher than the corresponding cell line assays, there was almost no shoulder found in the surviving curves (more radioresistant in mammosphere assays) yielding β-CSC of approximately 0. Conclusion: Breast cancer stem cells were more radioresistant characterized by smaller α and β values compared to differentiated breast cancer cells. Percentage of breast cancer stem cells strongly correlated to overall tumor radioresistance. This observation suggested the feasibility of individualized radiotherapy prescription based on the fractions of cancer stem cells found in biopsy.« less

Comparative study of cryogen spray cooling with R-134a and R-404a: implications for laser treatment of dark human skin

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dai, Tianhong; Yaseen, Mohammad A.; Diagaradjane, Parmeswaran; Chang, David W.; Anvari, Bahman

2006-07-01

Cutaneous laser treatment in dark skin patients is challenging due to significant light absorption by the melanin at the basal layer of epidermis, which can result in irreversible nonspecific thermal injury to the epidermis. Cryogen spray cooling (CSC) with R-134a (boiling point ≈ -26.2°C at 1 atm), which is currently used during cutaneous laser treatment, has shown poor efficacy in protecting dark human skin. We investigated the potential of CSC with R-404a (boiling point ≈ -46.5°C at 1 atm), which has a lower boiling point than R-134a, for improved therapeutic outcome in dark human skin at three levels: in vitro (epoxy resin skin phantom), ex vivo (normal dark human skin sample), and in vivo (skin of the rabbit external ear). The skin phantom was used to acquire the surface and internal temperature profiles in response to CSC with R-134a or R-404a at various spurt durations, based upon which CSC-induced heat removal from the skin phantom was estimated using an algorithm that solved a one-dimensional inverse heat conduction problem. CSC with R-404a increased the temperature reductions within the phantom and subsequently the amount of heat removal from the phantom in comparison to that with R-134a. Normal ex vivo Fitzpatrick types V-VI human skin samples were used to investigate the thermal response of dark human skin epidermis to CSC (R-134a or R-404a) at various spurt durations in conjunction with 595-nm pulsed dye laser irradiation at various radiant exposures. Cryogen R-404a increased the threshold radiant exposures for irreversible thermal injury to the epidermis in dark pigmentation skin. No obvious CSC-induced morphological changes to human skin was observed when sprayed with R404-a spurts using durations up to 300 ms. In vivo rabbit ear vasculature was used as a model of cutaneous anomalies to assess the influences of CSC (with R-134a or R-404a) on the photothermolysis of dermal blood vessels. CSC (R-134a or R-404a) with the spurt durations of 100 to 300 ms increased the most superficial depth of thermally damaged dermal blood vessel compared with the sites without CSC, implying possible nonspecific cooling of superficial dermal blood vessels by the cryogen spurts with the settings applied.

Program Aids Visualization Of Data

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Truong, L. V.

1995-01-01

Living Color Frame System (LCFS) computer program developed to solve some problems that arise in connection with generation of real-time graphical displays of numerical data and of statuses of systems. Need for program like LCFS arises because computer graphics often applied for better understanding and interpretation of data under observation and these graphics become more complicated when animation required during run time. Eliminates need for custom graphical-display software for application programs. Written in Turbo C++.

Adaptive-optics optical coherence tomography processing using a graphics processing unit.

PubMed

Shafer, Brandon A; Kriske, Jeffery E; Kocaoglu, Omer P; Turner, Timothy L; Liu, Zhuolin; Lee, John Jaehwan; Miller, Donald T

2014-01-01

Graphics processing units are increasingly being used for scientific computing for their powerful parallel processing abilities, and moderate price compared to super computers and computing grids. In this paper we have used a general purpose graphics processing unit to process adaptive-optics optical coherence tomography (AOOCT) images in real time. Increasing the processing speed of AOOCT is an essential step in moving the super high resolution technology closer to clinical viability.

For Drafting Programs--Computer Graphics in Industrial Tech.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sutliff, Ron

1980-01-01

Posits that computer-aided drafting and design should be introduced to students in industrial technology programs. Discusses ways the technical educator can get involved in computer graphics to familiarize students with it without a large outlay of money. (JOW)

Computer Instructional Aids for Undergraduate Control Education.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Volz, Richard A.; And Others

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

Graphics with Special Interfaces for Disabled People.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tronconi, A.; And Others

The paper describes new software and special input devices to allow physically impaired children to utilize the graphic capabilities of personal computers. Special input devices for computer graphics access--the voice recognition card, the single switch, or the mouse emulator--can be used either singly or in combination by the disabled to control…

Quantum rendering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lanzagorta, Marco O.; Gomez, Richard B.; Uhlmann, Jeffrey K.

2003-08-01

In recent years, computer graphics has emerged as a critical component of the scientific and engineering process, and it is recognized as an important computer science research area. Computer graphics are extensively used for a variety of aerospace and defense training systems and by Hollywood's special effects companies. All these applications require the computer graphics systems to produce high quality renderings of extremely large data sets in short periods of time. Much research has been done in "classical computing" toward the development of efficient methods and techniques to reduce the rendering time required for large datasets. Quantum Computing's unique algorithmic features offer the possibility of speeding up some of the known rendering algorithms currently used in computer graphics. In this paper we discuss possible implementations of quantum rendering algorithms. In particular, we concentrate on the implementation of Grover's quantum search algorithm for Z-buffering, ray-tracing, radiosity, and scene management techniques. We also compare the theoretical performance between the classical and quantum versions of the algorithms.

Computer architectures for computational physics work done by Computational Research and Technology Branch and Advanced Computational Concepts Group

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1985-01-01

Slides are reproduced that describe the importance of having high performance number crunching and graphics capability. They also indicate the types of research and development underway at Ames Research Center to ensure that, in the near term, Ames is a smart buyer and user, and in the long-term that Ames knows the best possible solutions for number crunching and graphics needs. The drivers for this research are real computational physics applications of interest to Ames and NASA. They are concerned with how to map the applications, and how to maximize the physics learned from the results of the calculations. The computer graphics activities are aimed at getting maximum information from the three-dimensional calculations by using the real time manipulation of three-dimensional data on the Silicon Graphics workstation. Work is underway on new algorithms that will permit the display of experimental results that are sparse and random, the same way that the dense and regular computed results are displayed.

The effects of 3D interactive animated graphics on student learning and attitudes in computer-based instruction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moon, Hye Sun

Visuals are most extensively used as instructional tools in education to present spatially-based information. Recent computer technology allows the generation of 3D animated visuals to extend the presentation in computer-based instruction. Animated visuals in 3D representation not only possess motivational value that promotes positive attitudes toward instruction but also facilitate learning when the subject matter requires dynamic motion and 3D visual cue. In this study, three questions are explored: (1) how 3D graphics affects student learning and attitude, in comparison with 2D graphics; (2) how animated graphics affects student learning and attitude, in comparison with static graphics; and (3) whether the use of 3D graphics, when they are supported by interactive animation, is the most effective visual cues to improve learning and to develop positive attitudes. A total of 145 eighth-grade students participated in a 2 x 2 factorial design study. The subjects were randomly assigned to one of four computer-based instructions: 2D static; 2D animated; 3D static; and 3D animated. The results indicated that: (1) Students in the 3D graphic condition exhibited more positive attitudes toward instruction than those in the 2D graphic condition. No group differences were found between the posttest score of 3D graphic condition and that of 2D graphic condition. However, students in the 3D graphic condition took less time for information retrieval on posttest than those in the 2D graphic condition. (2) Students in the animated graphic condition exhibited slightly more positive attitudes toward instruction than those in the static graphic condition. No group differences were found between the posttest score of animated graphic condition and that of static graphic condition. However, students in the animated graphic condition took less time for information retrieval on posttest than those in the static graphic condition. (3) Students in the 3D animated graphic condition exhibited more positive attitudes toward instruction than those in other treatment conditions (2D static, 2D animated, and 3D static conditions). No group differences were found in the posttest scores among four treatment conditions. However, students in the 3D animated condition took less time for information retrieval on posttest than those in other treatment conditions.

Light reflection models for computer graphics.

PubMed

Greenberg, D P

1989-04-14

During the past 20 years, computer graphic techniques for simulating the reflection of light have progressed so that today images of photorealistic quality can be produced. Early algorithms considered direct lighting only, but global illumination phenomena with indirect lighting, surface interreflections, and shadows can now be modeled with ray tracing, radiosity, and Monte Carlo simulations. This article describes the historical development of computer graphic algorithms for light reflection and pictorially illustrates what will be commonly available in the near future.

Graphics Flutter Analysis Methods, an interactive computing system at Lockheed-California Company

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Radovcich, N. A.

1975-01-01

An interactive computer graphics system, Graphics Flutter Analysis Methods (GFAM), was developed to complement FAMAS, a matrix-oriented batch computing system, and other computer programs in performing complex numerical calculations using a fully integrated data management system. GFAM has many of the matrix operation capabilities found in FAMAS, but on a smaller scale, and is utilized when the analysis requires a high degree of interaction between the engineer and computer, and schedule constraints exclude the use of batch entry programs. Applications of GFAM to a variety of preliminary design, development design, and project modification programs suggest that interactive flutter analysis using matrix representations is a feasible and cost effective computing tool.

ERM TLB Teaching-Learning Behavior News

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

LeBold, William K., Ed.

1978-01-01

Describes a graduate electrical engineering mini-course, computer graphics gaming and simulation, classroom management and student progress records, student reaction to instruction, and computer graphics in undergraduate education. (SL)

Cancer stem cell-related gene expression as a potential biomarker of response for first-in-class imipridone ONC201 in solid tumors.

PubMed

Prabhu, Varun V; Lulla, Amriti R; Madhukar, Neel S; Ralff, Marie D; Zhao, Dan; Kline, Christina Leah B; Van den Heuvel, A Pieter J; Lev, Avital; Garnett, Mathew J; McDermott, Ultan; Benes, Cyril H; Batchelor, Tracy T; Chi, Andrew S; Elemento, Olivier; Allen, Joshua E; El-Deiry, Wafik S

2017-01-01

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) correlate with recurrence, metastasis and poor survival in clinical studies. Encouraging results from clinical trials of CSC inhibitors have further validated CSCs as therapeutic targets. ONC201 is a first-in-class small molecule imipridone in Phase I/II clinical trials for advanced cancer. We have previously shown that ONC201 targets self-renewing, chemotherapy-resistant colorectal CSCs via Akt/ERK inhibition and DR5/TRAIL induction. In this study, we demonstrate that the anti-CSC effects of ONC201 involve early changes in stem cell-related gene expression prior to tumor cell death induction. A targeted network analysis of gene expression profiles in colorectal cancer cells revealed that ONC201 downregulates stem cell pathways such as Wnt signaling and modulates genes (ID1, ID2, ID3 and ALDH7A1) known to regulate self-renewal in colorectal, prostate cancer and glioblastoma. ONC201-mediated changes in CSC-related gene expression were validated at the RNA and protein level for each tumor type. Accordingly, we observed inhibition of self-renewal and CSC markers in prostate cancer cell lines and patient-derived glioblastoma cells upon ONC201 treatment. Interestingly, ONC201-mediated CSC depletion does not occur in colorectal cancer cells with acquired resistance to ONC201. Finally, we observed that basal expression of CSC-related genes (ID1, CD44, HES7 and TCF3) significantly correlate with ONC201 efficacy in >1000 cancer cell lines and combining the expression of multiple genes leads to a stronger overall prediction. These proof-of-concept studies provide a rationale for testing CSC expression at the RNA and protein level as a predictive and pharmacodynamic biomarker of ONC201 response in ongoing clinical studies.

Cancer stem cell-related gene expression as a potential biomarker of response for first-in-class imipridone ONC201 in solid tumors

PubMed Central

Zhao, Dan; Kline, Christina Leah B.; Van den Heuvel, A. Pieter J.; Lev, Avital; Garnett, Mathew J.; McDermott, Ultan; Benes, Cyril H.; Batchelor, Tracy T.; Chi, Andrew S.; Elemento, Olivier; Allen, Joshua E.

2017-01-01

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) correlate with recurrence, metastasis and poor survival in clinical studies. Encouraging results from clinical trials of CSC inhibitors have further validated CSCs as therapeutic targets. ONC201 is a first-in-class small molecule imipridone in Phase I/II clinical trials for advanced cancer. We have previously shown that ONC201 targets self-renewing, chemotherapy-resistant colorectal CSCs via Akt/ERK inhibition and DR5/TRAIL induction. In this study, we demonstrate that the anti-CSC effects of ONC201 involve early changes in stem cell-related gene expression prior to tumor cell death induction. A targeted network analysis of gene expression profiles in colorectal cancer cells revealed that ONC201 downregulates stem cell pathways such as Wnt signaling and modulates genes (ID1, ID2, ID3 and ALDH7A1) known to regulate self-renewal in colorectal, prostate cancer and glioblastoma. ONC201-mediated changes in CSC-related gene expression were validated at the RNA and protein level for each tumor type. Accordingly, we observed inhibition of self-renewal and CSC markers in prostate cancer cell lines and patient-derived glioblastoma cells upon ONC201 treatment. Interestingly, ONC201-mediated CSC depletion does not occur in colorectal cancer cells with acquired resistance to ONC201. Finally, we observed that basal expression of CSC-related genes (ID1, CD44, HES7 and TCF3) significantly correlate with ONC201 efficacy in >1000 cancer cell lines and combining the expression of multiple genes leads to a stronger overall prediction. These proof-of-concept studies provide a rationale for testing CSC expression at the RNA and protein level as a predictive and pharmacodynamic biomarker of ONC201 response in ongoing clinical studies. PMID:28767654

Ciprofloxacin mediates cancer stem cell phenotypes in lung cancer cells through caveolin-1-dependent mechanism.

PubMed

Phiboonchaiyanan, Preeyaporn Plaimee; Kiratipaiboon, Chayanin; Chanvorachote, Pithi

2016-04-25

Cancer stem cells (CSCs), a subpopulation of cancer cells with high aggressive behaviors, have been identified in many types of cancer including lung cancer as one of the key mediators driving cancer progression and metastasis. Here, we have reported for the first time that ciprofloxacin (CIP), a widely used anti-microbial drug, has a potentiating effect on CSC-like features in human non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells. CIP treatment promoted CSC-like phenotypes, including enhanced anchorage-independent growth and spheroid formation. The known lung CSC markers: CD133, CD44, ABCG2 and ALDH1A1 were found to be significantly increased, while the factors involving in epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT): Slug and Snail, were depleted. Also, self-renewal transcription factors Oct-4 and Nanog were found to be up-regulated in CIP-treated cells. The treatment of CIP on CSC-rich populations obtained from secondary spheroids resulted in the further increase of CSC markers. In addition, we have proven that the mechanistic insight of the CIP induced stemness is through Caveolin-1 (Cav-1)-dependent mechanism. The specific suppression of Cav-1 by stably transfected Cav-1 shRNA plasmid dramatically reduced the effect of CIP on CSC markers as well as the CIP-induced spheroid formation ability. Cav-1 was shown to activate protein kinase B (Akt) and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathways in CSC-rich population; however, such an effect was rarely found in the main lung cancer cells population. These findings reveal a novel effect of CIP in positively regulating CSCs in lung cancer cells via the activation of Cav-1, Akt and ERK, and may provoke the awareness of appropriate therapeutic strategy in cancer patients. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Estimated Impact of Emergency Medical Service Triage of Stroke Patients on Comprehensive Stroke Centers: An Urban Population-Based Study.

PubMed

Katz, Brian S; Adeoye, Opeolu; Sucharew, Heidi; Broderick, Joseph P; McMullan, Jason; Khatri, Pooja; Widener, Michael; Alwell, Kathleen S; Moomaw, Charles J; Kissela, Brett M; Flaherty, Matthew L; Woo, Daniel; Ferioli, Simona; Mackey, Jason; Martini, Sharyl; De Los Rios la Rosa, Felipe; Kleindorfer, Dawn O

2017-08-01

The American Stroke Association recommends that Emergency Medical Service bypass acute stroke-ready hospital (ASRH)/primary stroke center (PSC) for comprehensive stroke centers (CSCs) when transporting appropriate stroke patients, if the additional travel time is ≤15 minutes. However, data on additional transport time and the effect on hospital census remain unknown. Stroke patients ≥20 years old who were transported from home to an ASRH/PSC or CSC via Emergency Medical Service in 2010 were identified in the Greater Cincinnati area population of 1.3 million. Addresses of all patients' residences and hospitals were geocoded, and estimated travel times were calculated. We estimated the mean differences between the travel time for patients taken to an ASRH/PSC and the theoretical time had they been transported directly to the region's CSC. Of 929 patients with geocoded addresses, 806 were transported via Emergency Medical Service directly to an ASRH/PSC. Mean additional travel time of direct transport to the CSC, compared with transport to an ASRH/PSC, was 7.9±6.8 minutes; 85% would have ≤15 minutes added transport time. Triage of all stroke patients to the CSC would have added 727 patients to the CSC's census in 2010. Limiting triage to the CSC to patients with National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score of ≥10 within 6 hours of onset would have added 116 patients (2.2 per week) to the CSC's annual census. Emergency Medical Service triage to CSCs based on stroke severity and symptom duration may be feasible. The impact on stroke systems of care and patient outcomes remains to be determined and requires prospective evaluation. © 2017 American Heart Association, Inc.

Wnt5a Is Associated with Cigarette Smoke-Related Lung Carcinogenesis via Protein Kinase C

PubMed Central

Sung, Jae Sook; Ju, Hyun Jung; Kim, Hyun Kyung; Park, Kyong Hwa; Lee, Jong Won; Koh, In Song; Kim, Yeul Hong

2013-01-01

Wnt5a is overexpressed during the progression of human non-small cell lung cancer. However, the roles of Wnt5a during smoking-related lung carcinogenesis have not been clearly elucidated. We investigated the associations between Wnt5a and the early development of cigarette smoke related lung cancer using human bronchial epithelial (HBE) cells (NHBE, BEAS-2B, 1799, 1198 and 1170I) at different malignant stages established by exposure to cigarette smoke condensate (CSC). Abnormal up-regulation of Wnt5a mRNA and proteins was detected in CSC-exposed transformed 1198 and tumorigenic 1170I cells as compared with other non-CSC exposed HBE cells. Tumor tissues obtained from smokers showed higher Wnt5a expressions than matched normal tissues. In non-CSC exposed 1799 cells, treatment of recombinant Wnt5a caused the activations of PKC and Akt, and the blockage of Wnt5a and PKC significantly decreased the viabilities of CSC-transformed 1198 cells expressing high levels of Wnt5a. This reduced cell survival rate was associated with increased apoptosis via the down-regulation of Bcl2 and the induction of cleaved poly ADP-ribose polymerase. Moreover, CSC-treated 1799 cells showed induction of Wnt5a expression and enhanced colony-forming capacity. The CSC-induced colony forming efficiency was suppressed by the co-incubation with a PKC inhibitor. In conclusion, these results suggest that cigarette smoke induces Wnt5a-coupled PKC activity during lung carcinogenesis, which causes Akt activity and anti-apoptosis in lung cancer. Therefore, current study provides novel clues for the crucial role of Wnt5a in the smoking-related lung carcinogenesis. PMID:23349696

Wnt5a is associated with cigarette smoke-related lung carcinogenesis via protein kinase C.

PubMed

Whang, Young Mi; Jo, Ukhyun; Sung, Jae Sook; Ju, Hyun Jung; Kim, Hyun Kyung; Park, Kyong Hwa; Lee, Jong Won; Koh, In Song; Kim, Yeul Hong

2013-01-01

Wnt5a is overexpressed during the progression of human non-small cell lung cancer. However, the roles of Wnt5a during smoking-related lung carcinogenesis have not been clearly elucidated. We investigated the associations between Wnt5a and the early development of cigarette smoke related lung cancer using human bronchial epithelial (HBE) cells (NHBE, BEAS-2B, 1799, 1198 and 1170I) at different malignant stages established by exposure to cigarette smoke condensate (CSC). Abnormal up-regulation of Wnt5a mRNA and proteins was detected in CSC-exposed transformed 1198 and tumorigenic 1170I cells as compared with other non-CSC exposed HBE cells. Tumor tissues obtained from smokers showed higher Wnt5a expressions than matched normal tissues. In non-CSC exposed 1799 cells, treatment of recombinant Wnt5a caused the activations of PKC and Akt, and the blockage of Wnt5a and PKC significantly decreased the viabilities of CSC-transformed 1198 cells expressing high levels of Wnt5a. This reduced cell survival rate was associated with increased apoptosis via the down-regulation of Bcl2 and the induction of cleaved poly ADP-ribose polymerase. Moreover, CSC-treated 1799 cells showed induction of Wnt5a expression and enhanced colony-forming capacity. The CSC-induced colony forming efficiency was suppressed by the co-incubation with a PKC inhibitor. In conclusion, these results suggest that cigarette smoke induces Wnt5a-coupled PKC activity during lung carcinogenesis, which causes Akt activity and anti-apoptosis in lung cancer. Therefore, current study provides novel clues for the crucial role of Wnt5a in the smoking-related lung carcinogenesis.

Autologous c-Kit+ Mesenchymal Stem Cell Injections Provide Superior Therapeutic Benefit as Compared to c-Kit+ Cardiac-Derived Stem Cells in a Feline Model of Isoproterenol-Induced Cardiomyopathy.

PubMed

Taghavi, Sharven; Sharp, Thomas E; Duran, Jason M; Makarewich, Catherine A; Berretta, Remus M; Starosta, Tim; Kubo, Hajime; Barbe, Mary; Houser, Steven R

2015-10-01

Cardiac- (CSC) and mesenchymal-derived (MSC) CD117+ isolated stem cells improve cardiac function after injury. However, no study has compared the therapeutic benefit of these cells when used autologously. MSCs and CSCs were isolated on day 0. Cardiomyopathy was induced (day 28) by infusion of L-isoproterenol (1,100 ug/kg/hour) from Alzet minipumps for 10 days. Bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) was infused via minipumps (50 mg/mL) to identify proliferative cells during the injury phase. Following injury (day 38), autologous CSC (n = 7) and MSC (n = 4) were delivered by intracoronary injection. These animals were compared to those receiving sham injections by echocardiography, invasive hemodynamics, and immunohistochemistry. Fractional shortening improved with CSC (26.9 ± 1.1% vs. 16.1 ± 0.2%, p = 0.01) and MSC (25.1 ± 0.2% vs. 12.1 ± 0.5%, p = 0.01) as compared to shams. MSC were superior to CSC in improving left ventricle end-diastolic (LVED) volume (37.7 ± 3.1% vs. 19.9 ± 9.4%, p = 0.03) and ejection fraction (27.7 ± 0.1% vs. 19.9 ± 0.4%, p = 0.02). LVED pressure was less in MSC (6.3 ± 1.3 mmHg) as compared to CSC (9.3 ± 0.7 mmHg) and sham (13.3 ± 0.7); p = 0.01. LV BrdU+ myocytes were higher in MSC (0.17 ± 0.03%) than CSC (0.09 ± 0.01%) and sham (0.06 ± 01%); p < 0.001. Both CD117+ isolated CSC and MSC therapy improve cardiac function and attenuate pathological remodeling. However, MSC appear to confer additional benefit. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Cigarette smoke-induced cell death of a spermatocyte cell line can be prevented by inactivating the Aryl hydrocarbon receptor

PubMed Central

Esakky, P; Hansen, D A; Drury, A M; Cusumano, A; Moley, K H

2015-01-01

Cigarette smoke exposure causes germ cell death during spermatogenesis. Our earlier studies demonstrated that cigarette smoke condensate (CSC) causes spermatocyte cell death in vivo and growth arrest of the mouse spermatocyte cell line (GC-2spd(ts)) in vitro via the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR). We hypothesize here that inactivation of AHR could prevent the CSC-induced cell death in spermatocytes. We demonstrate that CSC exposure generates oxidative stress, which differentially regulates mitochondrial apoptosis in GC-2spd(ts) and wild type (WT) and AHR knockout (AHR-KO) mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs). SiRNA-mediated silencing of Ahr augments the extent of CSC-mediated cellular damage while complementing the AHR-knockout condition. Pharmacological inhibition using the AHR-antagonist (CH223191) modulates the CSC-altered expression of apoptotic proteins and significantly abrogates DNA fragmentation though the cleavage of PARP appears AHR independent. Pretreatment with CH223191 at concentrations above 50 μM significantly prevents the CSC-induced activation of caspase-3/7 and externalization of phosphatidylserine in the plasma membrane. However, MAPK inhibitors alone or together with CH223191 could not prevent the membrane damage upon CSC addition and the caspase-3/7 activation and membrane damage in AHR-deficient MEF indicates the interplay of multiple cell signaling and cytoprotective ability of AHR. Thus the data obtained on one hand signifies the protective role of AHR in maintaining normal cellular homeostasis and the other, could be a potential prophylactic therapeutic target to promote cell survival and growth under cigarette smoke exposed environment by receptor antagonism via CH223191-like mechanism. Antagonist-mediated inactivation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor blocks downstream events leading to cigarette smoke-induced cell death of a spermatocyte cell line. PMID:27551479

Cancer stem cell-like cells from a single cell of oral squamous carcinoma cell lines

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

Felthaus, O.; Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University of Regensburg; Ettl, T.

2011-04-01

Research highlights: {yields} Four oral squamous cancer cell lines (OSCCL) were analyzed for cancer stem cells (CSCs). {yields} Single cell derived colonies of OSCCL express CSC-marker CD133 differentially. {yields} Monoclonal cell lines showed reduced sensitivity for Paclitaxel. {yields} In situ CD133{sup +} cells are slow cycling (Ki67-) indicating a reduced drug sensitivity. {yields} CD133{sup +} and CSC-like cells can be obtained from single colony forming cells of OSCCL. -- Abstract: Resistance of oral squamous cell carcinomas (OSCC) to conventional chemotherapy or radiation therapy might be due to cancer stem cells (CSCs). The development of novel anticancer drugs requires a simplemore » method for the enrichment of CSCs. CSCs can be enriched from OSCC cell lines, for example, after cultivation in serum-free cell culture medium (SFM). In our study, we analyzed four OSCC cell lines for the presence of CSCs. CSC-like cells could not be enriched with SFM. However, cell lines obtained from holoclone colonies showed CSC-like properties such as a reduced rate of cell proliferation and a reduced sensitivity to Paclitaxel in comparison to cells from the parental lineage. Moreover, these cell lines differentially expressed the CSC-marker CD133, which is also upregulated in OSCC tissues. Interestingly, CD133{sup +} cells in OSCC tissues expressed little to no Ki67, the cell proliferation marker that also indicates reduced drug sensitivity. Our study shows a method for the isolation of CSC-like cell lines from OSCC cell lines. These CSC-like cell lines could be new targets for the development of anticancer drugs under in vitro conditions.« less

Systemic approaches identify a garlic-derived chemical, Z-ajoene, as a glioblastoma multiforme cancer stem cell-specific targeting agent.

PubMed

Jung, Yuchae; Park, Heejoo; Zhao, Hui-Yuan; Jeon, Raok; Ryu, Jae-Ha; Kim, Woo-Young

2014-07-01

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is one of the most common brain malignancies and has a very poor prognosis. Recent evidence suggests that the presence of cancer stem cells (CSC) in GBM and the rare CSC subpopulation that is resistant to chemotherapy may be responsible for the treatment failure and unfavorable prognosis of GBM. A garlic-derived compound, Z-ajoene, has shown a range of biological activities, including anti-proliferative effects on several cancers. Here, we demonstrated for the first time that Z-ajoene specifically inhibits the growth of the GBM CSC population. CSC sphere-forming inhibition was achieved at a concentration that did not exhibit a cytotoxic effect in regular cell culture conditions. The specificity of this inhibitory effect on the CSC population was confirmed by detecting CSC cell surface marker CD133 expression and biochemical marker ALDH activity. In addition, stem cell-related mRNA profiling and real-time PCR revealed the differential expression of CSC-specific genes, including Notch, Wnt, and Hedgehog, upon treatment with Z-ajoene. A proteomic approach, i.e., reverse-phase protein array (RPPA) and Western blot analysis, showed decreased SMAD4, p-AKT, 14.3.3 and FOXO3A expression. The protein interaction map (http://string-db.org/) of the identified molecules suggested that the AKT, ERK/p38 and TGFβ signaling pathways are key mediators of Z-ajoene's action, which affects the transcriptional network that includes FOXO3A. These biological and bioinformatic analyses collectively demonstrate that Z-ajoene is a potential candidate for the treatment of GBM by specifically targeting GBM CSCs. We also show how this systemic approach strengthens the identification of new therapeutic agents that target CSCs.

Influence of direct admission to Comprehensive Stroke Centers on the outcome of acute stroke patients treated with intravenous thrombolysis.

PubMed

Pérez de la Ossa, Natalia; Millán, Mónica; Arenillas, Juan F; Sánchez-Ojanguren, Josep; Palomeras, Ernest; Dorado, Laura; Guerrero, Cristina; Dávalos, Antoni

2009-08-01

Acute stroke patients can be transferred directly to a Comprehensive Stroke Center (CSC), where acute stroke expertise is provided 24 h a day, seven days a week, and thrombolytic treatment is administered; or they may initially receive attention at an unspecialized community hospital with secondary transfer to the CSC. Our aim is to analyze the influence of previous attention at unspecialized community hospitals on the outcome of ischemic stroke patients treated with thrombolysis. We studied 153 consecutive ischemic stroke patients treated with t-PA over a 30-month period. The primary outcome variable was functional independence at 90 days (Rankin scale, mRS

PDGFRα depletion attenuates glioblastoma stem cells features by modulation of STAT3, RB1 and multiple oncogenic signals.

PubMed

Cenciarelli, Carlo; Marei, Hany E; Felsani, Armando; Casalbore, Patrizia; Sica, Gigliola; Puglisi, Maria Ausiliatrice; Cameron, Angus J M; Olivi, Alessandro; Mangiola, Annunziato

2016-08-16

Platelet derived growth factor receptors (PDGFRs) play an important role in tumor pathogenesis, and they are frequently overexpressed in glioblastoma (GBM). Earlier we have shown a higher protein expression of PDGFR isoforms (α and β) in peritumoral-tissue derived cancer stem cells (p-CSC) than in tumor core (c-CSC) of several GBM affected patients. In the current study, in order to assess the activity of PDGFRα/PDGF-AA signaling axis, we performed time course experiments to monitor the effects of exogenous PDGF-AA on the expression of downstream target genes in c-CSC vs p-CSC. Interestingly, in p-CSC we detected the upregulation of Y705-phosphorylated Stat3, concurrent with a decrement of Rb1 protein in its active state, within minutes of PDGF-AA addition. This finding prompted us to elucidate the role of PDGFRα in self-renewal, invasion and differentiation in p-CSC by using short hairpin RNA depletion of PDGFRα expression. Notably, in PDGFRα-depleted cells, protein analysis revealed attenuation of stemness-related and glial markers expression, alongside early activation of the neuronal marker MAP2a/b that correlated with the induction of tumor suppressor Rb1. The in vitro reduction of the invasive capacity of PDGFRα-depleted CSC as compared to parental cells correlated with the downmodulation of markers of epithelial-mesenchymal transition phenotype and angiogenesis. Surprisingly, we observed the induction of anti-apoptotic proteins and compensatory oncogenic signals such as EDN1, EDNRB, PRKCB1, PDGF-C and PDGF-D. To conclude, we hypothesize that the newly discovered PDGFRα/Stat3/Rb1 regulatory axis might represent a potential therapeutic target for GBM treatment.

Effects of computer-based graphic organizers to solve one-step word problems for middle school students with mild intellectual disability: A preliminary study.

PubMed

Sheriff, Kelli A; Boon, Richard T

2014-08-01

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of computer-based graphic organizers, using Kidspiration 3© software, to solve one-step word problems. Participants included three students with mild intellectual disability enrolled in a functional academic skills curriculum in a self-contained classroom. A multiple probe single-subject research design (Horner & Baer, 1978) was used to evaluate the effectiveness of computer-based graphic organizers to solving mathematical one-step word problems. During the baseline phase, the students completed a teacher-generated worksheet that consisted of nine functional word problems in a traditional format using a pencil, paper, and a calculator. In the intervention and maintenance phases, the students were instructed to complete the word problems using a computer-based graphic organizer. Results indicated that all three of the students improved in their ability to solve the one-step word problems using computer-based graphic organizers compared to traditional instructional practices. Limitations of the study and recommendations for future research directions are discussed. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Regulation of HIF-1-Alpha, miR-200, and Markers of Cancer Stem Cells by CDF Under Hypoxic Condition

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-04-01

tumors. It has been well recognized that cancer stem cells (CSCs) and epithelial-to- mesenchymal transition (EMT) phenotypic cells are associated with...epithelial-to- mesenchymal transition (EMT), cancer stem cell (CSC) functions, and inflammation, which contribute to radiation therapy and chemotherapy... Hypoxia induces the VEGF and IL-6 cytokine production in PCa cells and its CSC-like sphere forming cells . ● The CSC-like sphere forming

Diverse Targets of β-Catenin during the Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Define Cancer Stem Cells and Predict Disease Relapse.

PubMed

Chang, Yi-Wen; Su, Ying-Jhen; Hsiao, Michael; Wei, Kuo-Chen; Lin, Wei-Hsin; Liang, Chi-Lung; Chen, Shin-Cheh; Lee, Jia-Lin

2015-08-15

Wnt signaling contributes to the reprogramming and maintenance of cancer stem cell (CSC) states that are activated by epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). However, the mechanistic relationship between EMT and the Wnt pathway in CSC is not entirely clear. Chromatin immunoprecipitation with high-throughput sequencing (ChIP-seq) indicated that EMT induces a switch from the β-catenin/E-cadherin/Sox15 complex to the β-catenin/Twist1/TCF4 complex, the latter of which then binds to CSC-related gene promoters. Tandem coimmunoprecipitation and re-ChIP experiments with epithelial-type cells further revealed that Sox15 associates with the β-catenin/E-cadherin complex, which then binds to the proximal promoter region of CASP3. Through this mechanism, Twist1 cleavage is triggered to regulate a β-catenin-elicited promotion of the CSC phenotype. During EMT, we documented that Twist1 binding to β-catenin enhanced the transcriptional activity of the β-catenin/TCF4 complex, including by binding to the proximal promoter region of ABCG2, a CSC marker. In terms of clinical application, our definition of a five-gene CSC signature (nuclear β-catenin(High)/nuclear Twist1(High)/E-cadherin(Low)/Sox15(Low)/CD133(High)) may provide a useful prognostic marker for human lung cancer. ©2015 American Association for Cancer Research.

In vitro and in vivo characterization of stem-like cells from canine osteosarcoma and assessment of drug sensitivity.

PubMed

Gatti, Monica; Solari, Agnese; Pattarozzi, Alessandra; Campanella, Chiara; Thellung, Stefano; Maniscalco, Lorella; De Maria, Raffaella; Würth, Roberto; Corsaro, Alessandro; Bajetto, Adriana; Ratto, Alessandra; Ferrari, Angelo; Daga, Antonio; Barbieri, Federica; Florio, Tullio

2018-02-01

Cancer stem cell (CSC) self-renewing and drug resistance cause treatment failure and tumor recurrence. Osteosarcoma is an aggressive bone tumor characterized by biological and molecular heterogeneity, possibly dependent on CSCs. CSC identification in osteosarcoma and their efficient targeting are still open questions. Spontaneous canine osteosarcoma shares clinical and biological features with the human tumors, representing a model for translational studies. We characterized three CSC-enriched canine osteosarcoma cultures. In serum-free conditions, these CSC cultures grow as anchorage-independent spheroids, show mesenchymal-like properties and in vivo tumorigenicity, recapitulating the heterogeneity of the original osteosarcoma. Osteosarcoma CSCs express stem-related factors (Sox2, Oct4, CD133) and chemokine receptors and ligands (CXCR4, CXCL12) involved in tumor proliferation and self-renewal. Standard drugs for osteosarcoma treatment (doxorubicin and cisplatin) affected CSC-enriched and parental primary cultures, showing different efficacy within tumors. Moreover, metformin, a type-2 diabetes drug, significantly inhibits osteosarcoma CSC viability, migration and self-renewal and, in co-treatment with doxorubicin and cisplatin, enhances drug cytotoxicity. Collectively, we demonstrate that canine osteosarcoma primary cultures contain CSCs exhibiting distinctive sensitivity to anticancer agents, as a reliable experimental model to assay drug efficacy. We also provide proof-of-principle of metformin efficacy, alone or in combination, as pharmacological strategy to target osteosarcoma CSCs. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Metabolic engineering to expand the substrate spectrum of Pseudomonas putida toward sucrose.

PubMed

Löwe, Hannes; Schmauder, Lukas; Hobmeier, Karina; Kremling, Andreas; Pflüger-Grau, Katharina

2017-08-01

Sucrose is an important disaccharide used as a substrate in many industrial applications. It is a major component of molasses, a cheap by-product of the sugar industry. Unfortunately, not all industrially relevant organisms, among them Pseudomonas putida, are capable of metabolizing sucrose. We chose a metabolic engineering approach to circumvent this blockage and equip P. putida with the activities necessary to consume sucrose. Therefore, we constructed a pair of broad-host range mini-transposons (pSST - sucrose splitting transposon), carrying either cscA, encoding an invertase able to split sucrose into glucose and fructose, or additionally cscB, encoding a sucrose permease. Introduction of cscA was sufficient to convey sucrose consumption and the additional presence of cscB had no further effect, though the sucrose permease was built and localized to the membrane. Sucrose was split extracellularly by the activity of the invertase CscA leaking out of the cell. The transposons were also used to confer sucrose consumption to Cupriavidus necator. Interestingly, in this strain, CscB acted as a glucose transporter, such that C. necator also gained the ability to grow on glucose. Thus, the pSST transposons are functional tools to extend the substrate spectrum of Gram-negative bacterial strains toward sucrose. © 2017 The Authors. MicrobiologyOpen published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Choroidal hemodynamic changes during isometric exercise in patients with inactive central serous chorioretinopathy.

PubMed

Tittl, Michael; Maar, Noemi; Polska, Elzbieta; Weigert, Günther; Stur, Michael; Schmetterer, Leopold

2005-12-01

Imaging studies suggest that the choroidal vasculature may be altered in central serous chorioretinopathy. Little is known, however, about the regulation of ocular blood flow in patients with central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC). The hypothesis for the present study was that choroidal blood flow changes during an increase in ocular perfusion pressure induced by isometric exercise may be altered in CSC. An observer-masked, two-cohort study was performed in 14 nonsmoking patients with chronic-relapsing but inactive CSC and in 14 healthy nonsmoking volunteers. Both groups were matched for age and sex. Subfoveal choroidal blood flow (CBF) was assessed with laser Doppler flowmetry, and ocular perfusion pressure (OPP) was calculated from mean arterial pressure (MAP) and intraocular pressure (IOP). Changes of CBF during isometric exercise over a period of 6 minutes were measured. Whereas the increase of MAP, the pulse rate, and the OPP were comparable between the two study groups, subfoveal CBF increased significantly more in the group of patients with CSC (P < 0.001). IOP remained unchanged in both groups during isometric exercise. At an 85% increase in OPP, subfoveal CBF was approximately twice as high in the patients with CSC compared with the healthy control group. The data indicate an abnormal subfoveal CBF regulation in patients with relapsing CSC compared with age-matched, nonsmoking, healthy volunteers during isometric exercise.

Topical fundus pulsation measurement in patients with active central serous chorioretinopathy.

PubMed

Tittl, Michael; Polska, Elzbieta; Kircher, Karl; Kruger, Andreas; Maar, Noemi; Stur, Michael; Schmetterer, Leopold

2003-07-01

To determine regional pulsatile choroidal blood flow using laser interferometry in patients with active central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC). The study compared an equally sized age-, sex-, and refractive error-matched control group of healthy volunteers obtained from the Department of Clinical Pharmacology with 18 consecutive patients who had newly diagnosed active, unilateral CSC obtained from the University of Vienna Eye Clinic, Vienna, Austria. Regional fundus pulsation amplitude as assessed using laser interferometry. The median age of the patients was 40 years; the male-female ratio was 16:2. Foveal fundus pulsation amplitude was significantly higher in eyes with CSC (mean [SD], 5.5 [1.7] micro m) than in the eyes of the control subjects (4.1 [1.1] micro m; P =.005). In addition, eyes with CSC had a significantly higher variability in fundus pulsation amplitude (mean [SD], 48% [20%]) assessed at different fundus locations around the leak than the controls did (20% [9%]; P<.001). To our knowledge, this is the first study that measures topical fundus pulsations in patients who have active, unilateral CSC. These data indicate a generally increased foveal pulsatile choroidal blood flow and an abnormal distribution of fundus pulsation amplitude in the area close to the leak. Whether these findings reinforce the concept that choroidal perfusion abnormalities play a role in the pathogenesis of CSC remains to be established.

Case Study: Audio-Guided Learning, with Computer Graphics.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Koumi, Jack; Daniels, Judith

1994-01-01

Describes teaching packages which involve the use of audiotape recordings with personal computers in Open University (United Kingdom) mathematics courses. Topics addressed include software development; computer graphics; pedagogic principles for distance education; feedback, including course evaluations and student surveys; and future plans.…

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

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cheng, Wan-Lee

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

Cancer stem cells: A product of clonal evolution?

PubMed

van Niekerk, Gustav; Davids, Lester M; Hattingh, Suzèl M; Engelbrecht, Anna-Mart

2017-03-01

The cancer stem cell (CSC) model has emerged as a prominent paradigm for explaining tumour heterogeneity. CSCs in tumour recurrence and drug resistance have also been implicated in a number of studies. In fact, CSCs are often identified by their expression of drug-efflux proteins which are also highly expressed in normal stem cells. Similarly, pro-survival or proliferation signalling often exhibited by stem cells is regularly reported as being upregulated by CSC. Here we review evidence suggesting that many aspects of CSCs are more readily described by clonal evolution. As an example, cancer cells often exhibit copy number gains of genes involved in drug-efflux proteins and pro-survival signalling. Consequently, clonal selection for stem cell traits may result in cancer cells developing "stemness" traits which impart a fitness advantage, without strictly following a CSC model. Finally, since symmetric cell division would give rise to more cells than asymmetric division, it is expected that more advanced tumours would depart from a CSC. Collectively, these observations suggest clonal evolution may explain many aspects of the CSC. © 2016 UICC.

Toward a Singleton Undergraduate Computer Graphics Course in Small and Medium-Sized Colleges

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Shesh, Amit

2013-01-01

This article discusses the evolution of a single undergraduate computer graphics course over five semesters, driven by a primary question: if one could offer only one undergraduate course in graphics, what would it include? This constraint is relevant to many small and medium-sized colleges that lack resources, adequate expertise, and enrollment…

RADIK: An Interactive Graphics and Text Editor.

DTIC Science & Technology

RADIK is an interactive graphics and text editing system designed for use with an ADAGE AGT/10 graphics computer, either in a stand-alone mode, or in...designing RADIK . A brief summary of results and applications is presented and implementation of RADIK is proposed. Assembly language computer programs developed during the work are appended for reference. (Author)

Young Children and Turtle Graphics Programming: Generating and Debugging Simple Turtle Programs.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cuneo, Diane O.

Turtle graphics is a popular vehicle for introducing children to computer programming. Children combine simple graphic commands to get a display screen cursor (called a turtle) to draw designs on the screen. The purpose of this study was to examine young children's abilities to function in a simple computer programming environment. Four- and…

Visual Debugging of Object-Oriented Systems With the Unified Modeling Language

DTIC Science & Technology

2004-03-01

to be “the systematic and imaginative use of the technology of interactive computer graphics and the disciplines of graphic design , typography ... Graphics volume 23 no 6, pp893-901, 1999. [SHN98] Shneiderman, B. Designing the User Interface. Strategies for Effective Human-Computer Interaction...System Design Objectives ................................................................................ 44 3.3 System Architecture

Computer graphics for management: An abstract of capabilities and applications of the EIS system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Solem, B. J.

1975-01-01

The Executive Information Services (EIS) system, developed as a computer-based, time-sharing tool for making and implementing management decisions, and including computer graphics capabilities, was described. The following resources are available through the EIS languages: centralized corporate/gov't data base, customized and working data bases, report writing, general computational capability, specialized routines, modeling/programming capability, and graphics. Nearly all EIS graphs can be created by a single, on-line instruction. A large number of options are available, such as selection of graphic form, line control, shading, placement on the page, multiple images on a page, control of scaling and labeling, plotting of cum data sets, optical grid lines, and stack charts. The following are examples of areas in which the EIS system may be used: research, estimating services, planning, budgeting, and performance measurement, national computer hook-up negotiations.

Interventions for central serous chorioretinopathy: a network meta-analysis

PubMed Central

Salehi, Mahsa; Wenick, Adam S; Law, Hua Andrew; Evans, Jennifer R; Gehlbach, Peter

2016-01-01

Background Central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) is characterized by serous detachment of the neural retina with dysfunction of the choroid and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). The effects on the retina are usually self limited, although some people are left with irreversible vision loss due to progressive and permanent photoreceptor damage or RPE atrophy. There have been a variety of interventions used in CSC, including, but not limited to, laser treatment, photodynamic therapy (PDT), and intravitreal injection of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) agents. However, it is not known whether these or other treatments offer significant advantages over observation or other interventions. At present there is no evidence-based consensus on the management of CSC. Due in large part to the propensity for CSC to resolve spontaneously or to follow a waxing and waning course, the most common initial approach to treatment is observation. It remains unclear whether this is the best approach with regard to safety and efficacy. Objectives To compare the relative effectiveness of interventions for central serous chorioretinopathy. Search methods We searched CENTRAL (which contains the Cochrane Eyes and Vision Trials Register) (2015, Issue 9), Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid MEDLINE In-Process and Other Non-Indexed Citations, Ovid MEDLINE Daily, Ovid OLDMEDLINE (January 1946 to February 2014), EMBASE (January 1980 to October 2015), the ISRCTN registry (www.isrctn.com/editAdvancedSearch), ClinicalTrials.gov (www.clinicaltrials.gov) and the World Health Organization (WHO) International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) (www.who.int/ictrp/search/en). We did not use any date or language restrictions in the electronic searches for trials. We last searched the electronic databases on 5 October 2015. Selection criteria Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared any intervention for CSC with any other intervention for CSC or control. Data collection and analysis Two review authors independently selected studies and extracted data. We pooled data from all studies using a fixed-effect model. For interventions applied to the eye (i.e. not systemic interventions), we synthesized direct and indirect evidence in a network meta-analysis model. Main results We included 25 studies with 1098 participants (1098 eyes) and follow-up from 16 weeks to 12 years. Studies were conducted in Europe, North and South America, Middle East, and Asia. The trials were small (most trials enrolled fewer than 50 participants) and poorly reported; often it was unclear whether key aspects of the trial, such as allocation concealment, had been done. A substantial proportion of the trials were not masked. The studies considered a variety of treatments: anti-VEGF (ranibizumab, bevacizumab), PDT (full-dose, half-dose, 30%, low-fluence), laser treatment (argon, krypton and micropulse laser), beta-blockers, carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, Helicobactor pylori treatment, and nutritional supplements (Icaps, lutein); there were only one or two trials contributing data for each comparison. We downgraded for risk of bias and imprecision for most analyses, reflecting study limitations and imprecise estimates. Network meta-analysis (as planned in our protocol) did not help to resolve this uncertainty due to a lack of trials, and problems with intransitivity, particularly with respect to acute or chronic CSC. Low quality evidence from two trials suggested little difference in the effect of anti-VEGF (ranibizumab or bevacizumab) or observation on change in visual acuity at six months in acute CSC (mean difference (MD) 0.01 LogMAR (logarithm of the minimal angle of resolution), 95% confidence interval (CI) −0.02 to 0.03; 64 participants). CSC had resolved in all participants by six months. There were no significant adverse effects noted. Low quality evidence from one study (58 participants) suggested that half-dose PDT treatment of acute CSC probably results in a small improvement in vision (MD −0.10 logMAR, 95% CI −0.18 to −0.02), less recurrence (risk ratio (RR) 0.10, 95% CI 0.01 to 0.81) and less persistent CSC (RR 0.12, 95% CI 0.01 to 1.02) at 12 months compared to sham treatment. There were no significant adverse events noted. Low quality evidence from two trials (56 participants) comparing anti-VEGF to low-fluence PDT in chronic CSC found little evidence for any difference in visual acuity at 12 months (MD 0.03 logMAR, 95% CI −0.08 to 0.15). There was some evidence that more people in the anti-VEGF group had recurrent CSC compared to people treated with PDT but, due to inconsistency between trials, it was difficult to estimate an effect. More people in the anti-VEGF group had persistent CSC at 12 months (RR 6.19, 95% CI 1.61 to 23.81; 34 participants). Two small trials of micropulse laser, one in people with acute CSC and one in people with chronic CSC, provided low quality evidence that laser treatment may lead to better visual acuity (MD −0.20 logMAR, 95% CI −0.30 to −0.11; 45 participants). There were no significant adverse effects noted. Other comparisons were largely inconclusive. We identified 12 ongoing trials covering the following interventions: aflibercept and eplerenone in acute CSC; spironolactone, eplerenone, lutein, PDT, and micropulse laser in chronic CSC; and micropulse laser and oral mifepristone in two trials where type of CSC not clearly specified. Authors’ conclusions CSC remains an enigmatic condition in large part due to a natural history of spontaneous improvement in a high proportion of people and also because no single treatment has provided overwhelming evidence of efficacy in published RCTs. While a number of interventions have been proposed as potentially efficacious, the quality of study design, execution of the study and the relatively small number of participants enrolled and followed to revealing endpoints limits the utility of existing data. It is not clear whether there is a clinically important benefit to treating acute CSC which often resolves spontaneously as part of its natural history. RCTs comparing individual treatments to the natural history would be valuable in identifying potential treatment groups for head-to-head comparison. Of the interventions studied to date, PDT or micropulse laser treatment appear the most promising for study in future trials. PMID:26691378

75 FR 5870 - Proposed Collection; Comment Request for the HCTC Medicare Family Member Registration Form

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-02-04

... HCTC Medicare Family Member Registration Form AGENCY: Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Treasury. ACTION... effort to reduce paperwork and respondent burden, invites the general public and other Federal agencies... required by the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, Public Law 104-13 (44 U.S.C. 3506(c)(2)(A)). Currently...

Change and Persistence of Personal Identities after the Transition to Retirement

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Teuscher, Ursina

2010-01-01

This study addresses the question of how retired people's self-image differs from that of working people, and what factors predict people's self-definition as professionals or retirees. Seven hundred ninety-two Swiss persons aged 58-70 (386 men, 406 women; 349 not retired, 443 retired) were asked to rate the importance of different…

L3 Interactive Data Language

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

Hohn, Michael; Adams, Paul

2006-09-05

The L3 system is a computational steering environment for image processing and scientific computing. It consists of an interactive graphical language and interface. Its purpose is to help advanced users in controlling their computational software and assist in the management of data accumulated during numerical experiments. L3 provides a combination of features not found in other environments; these are: - textual and graphical construction of programs - persistence of programs and associated data - direct mapping between the scripts, the parameters, and the produced data - implicit hierarchial data organization - full programmability, including conditionals and functions - incremental executionmore » of programs The software includes the l3 language and the graphical environment. The language is a single-assignment functional language; the implementation consists of lexer, parser, interpreter, storage handler, and editing support, The graphical environment is an event-driven nested list viewer/editor providing graphical elements corresponding to the language. These elements are both the represenation of a users program and active interfaces to the values computed by that program.« less

Analysis of the Optimum Receiver Design Problem Using Interactive Computer Graphics.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-12-01

7 _AD A115 498A l AR FORCE INST OF TECH WR16HT-PATTERSON AF8 OH SCHOO--ETC F/6 9/2 ANALYSIS OF THE OPTIMUM RECEIVER DESIGN PROBLEM USING INTERACTI...ANALYSIS OF THE OPTIMUM RECEIVER DESIGN PROBLEM USING INTERACTIVE COMPUTER GRAPHICS THESIS AFIT/GE/EE/81D-39 Michael R. Mazzuechi Cpt USA Approved for...public release; distribution unlimited AFIT/GE/EE/SlD-39 ANALYSIS OF THE OPTIMUM RECEIVER DESIGN PROBLEM USING INTERACTIVE COMPUTER GRAPHICS THESIS

Discrim: a computer program using an interactive approach to dissect a mixture of normal or lognormal distributions

USGS Publications Warehouse

Bridges, N.J.; McCammon, R.B.

1980-01-01

DISCRIM is an interactive computer graphics program that dissects mixtures of normal or lognormal distributions. The program was written in an effort to obtain a more satisfactory solution to the dissection problem than that offered by a graphical or numerical approach alone. It combines graphic and analytic techniques using a Tektronix1 terminal in a time-share computing environment. The main program and subroutines were written in the FORTRAN language. ?? 1980.

A study of methods to predict and measure the transmission of sound through the walls of light aircraft. A survey of techniques for visualization of noise fields

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Marshall, S. E.; Bernhard, R.

1984-01-01

A survey of the most widely used methods for visualizing acoustic phenomena is presented. Emphasis is placed on acoustic processes in the audible frequencies. Many visual problems are analyzed on computer graphic systems. A brief description of the current technology in computer graphics is included. The visualization technique survey will serve as basis for recommending an optimum scheme for displaying acoustic fields on computer graphic systems.

X based interactive computer graphics applications for aerodynamic design and education

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Benson, Thomas J.; Higgs, C. Fred, III

1995-01-01

Six computer applications packages have been developed to solve a variety of aerodynamic problems in an interactive environment on a single workstation. The packages perform classical one dimensional analysis under the control of a graphical user interface and can be used for preliminary design or educational purposes. The programs were originally developed on a Silicon Graphics workstation and used the GL version of the FORMS library as the graphical user interface. These programs have recently been converted to the XFORMS library of X based graphics widgets and have been tested on SGI, IBM, Sun, HP and PC-Lunix computers. The paper will show results from the new VU-DUCT program as a prime example. VU-DUCT has been developed as an educational package for the study of subsonic open and closed loop wind tunnels.

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

Ding, Laura; Harvey, Stephen P.; Teeter, Glenn

We demonstrate the potential of X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) to characterize new carrier-selective contacts (CSC) for solar cell application. We show that XPS not only provides information about the surface chemical properties of the CSC material, but that operando XPS, i.e. under light bias condition, can also directly measure the photovoltage that develops at the CSC/absorber interface, revealing device relevant information without the need of assembling a full solar cell. We present the application of the technique to molybdenum oxide hole-selective contact films on a crystalline silicon absorber.

Measuring Cognitive Load in Test Items: Static Graphics versus Animated Graphics

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dindar, M.; Kabakçi Yurdakul, I.; Inan Dönmez, F.

2015-01-01

The majority of multimedia learning studies focus on the use of graphics in learning process but very few of them examine the role of graphics in testing students' knowledge. This study investigates the use of static graphics versus animated graphics in a computer-based English achievement test from a cognitive load theory perspective. Three…

СD44+/CD24- markers of cancer stem cells in patients with breast cancer of different molecular subtypes.

PubMed

Chekhun, S V; Zadvorny, T V; Tymovska, Yu O; Anikusko, M F; Novak, O E; Polishchuk, L Z

2015-03-01

To determine frequency of tumors with immunohistochemical markers of cancer stem cells (CSC) CD44+/CD24- in patients with breast cancer (BC) of different molecular subtype and to evaluate their prognostic value. Surgical material of 132 patients with BC stage I-II, age from 23 to 75 years, mean age - 50.2 ± 3.1 years was studied. Clinical, immunohistochemical (expression CD44+/CD24-), morphological, statistical. BC is characterized by heterogeneity of molecular subtypes and expression of markers (CD44+/CD24-). Immunohistochemical study of expression of CSC markers in surgical material has detected their expression in 34 (25.4%) patients with BC of different molecular subtypes. The highest frequency of cells with expression of CSC marker was observed in patients with basal molecular subtype (44.8% patients). Most of BC patients with phenotype CD44+/CD24 had stage I of tumor process (34.3%). Statistical processing of data has showen that Yule colligation coefficient equaled 0.28 (р > 0.05) that argues poor correlation between stage of tumor process and number of tumors with positive expression of CSC markers. Statistical processing of data has showen high correlation between presence of cells with expression of CSC markers and metastases of BC in regional lymph nodes (Yule colligation coefficient equals 0.943; р < 0.5). Difference in overall survival of patients with BC of basal molecular subtype depending on expression of CSC CD44+/CD24- markers was detected. Survival of patients with basal BC was reliably higher at lack in tumors of cells with CSC markers CD44+/CD24- and, correspondingly, lower at presence of such cells (р < 0.05). In patients with BC of luminal (A and B), HER-2-positive subtypes, significant change in survival of patients depending on expression of CSC markers was not determined (р > 0.05). Significance of tumor cells with markers CD44+/CD24- within the limits of molecular subtype of BC may be additional criterion for advanced biological characteristic of BC, and in patients with BC of basal molecular subtype - for predictive evaluation of individual potential of tumor to aggressive clinical course.

Association of Helicobacter pylori with central serous chorioretinopathy: hypotheses regarding pathogenesis.

PubMed

Giusti, Cristiano

2004-01-01

Central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) is a serous macular detachment that usually affects young people and leads fortunately to a spontaneous resolution and a good visual prognosis in most patients. Nevertheless, although in a small percentage of subjects only, it may also develop a chronic or progressive disease with widespread decompensation of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and severe vision loss. The aetiopathogenesis of the disease is still not completely understood and no effective treatment is available at this time. However, an interesting association has been recently highlighted between CSC and the Helicobacter pylori infection. In particular, in a first case report recurrences of the disease were always associated with HP-positivity whereas improvements of both retinal findings and visual acuity were significantly correlated with a successful eradication of the bacterium using the conventional antimicrobial triple-therapy. In a second study, the prevalence of HP infection was found to be significantly higher in CSC-affected subjects compared to age- and sex-matched controls from the same country. Much speculation surrounds the role potentially played by HP in determining CSC. In particular, CSC seems not to be more a merely RPE disease but the final result of a general involvement of the choroidal microcirculation. In fact, several vascular abnormalities, such as localized vasoconstriction and impaired fibrinolysis, have been demonstrated during CSC whose "end-points" might be a focal occlusion of the choriocapillaries with decreased foveal choroidal blood flow, secondary RPE defects and serous macular detachment. Moreover, a HP-dependent immune mechanism, based on a "molecular mimicry" between pathogenic antigens expressed on the bacterium and homologous host proteins (e.g., those of the endothelial vascular wall), might also be involved in the pathophysiology of CSC. In this case, a genetically determined susceptibility of the subject could be an important and limiting factor. Although further multicenter, randomized, case-control trials are necessary to confirm the role potentially played by the HP infection in the pathogenesis of CSC, if this hypothesis would be confirmed in the near future, a novel antimicrobial approach to the disease might be possible waiting for a successful vaccine therapy that will surely stimulate the scientific interest of many authors. Copyright 2004 Elsevier Ltd.

Graphics and composite material computer program enhancements for SPAR

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Farley, G. L.; Baker, D. J.

1980-01-01

User documentation is provided for additional computer programs developed for use in conjunction with SPAR. These programs plot digital data, simplify input for composite material section properties, and compute lamina stresses and strains. Sample problems are presented including execution procedures, program input, and graphical output.

Concept Learning through Image Processing.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cifuentes, Lauren; Yi-Chuan, Jane Hsieh

This study explored computer-based image processing as a study strategy for middle school students' science concept learning. Specifically, the research examined the effects of computer graphics generation on science concept learning and the impact of using computer graphics to show interrelationships among concepts during study time. The 87…

Private Security Contractors in Iraq: Background, Legal Status, and Other Issues

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-08-25

Directorate. 25 Peter Eisler , “Attacks on U.S. Convoys Plummet; Shipments Crucial to Rebuilding Iraq,” USA Today, July 22, 2008, p. A1; August Cole, “U.S...contracts. Named DynCorp since 1987 , it was acquired in 2003 by Computer Sciences Corporation (CSC) and now has nearly 14,000 employees in 30...5,000 security professionals, government officials, and corporate executives and their families worldwide.40 EOD Technologies, Inc., founded in 1987

Chitin based heteroatom-doped porous carbon as electrode materials for supercapacitors.

PubMed

Zhou, Jie; Bao, Li; Wu, Shengji; Yang, Wei; Wang, Hui

2017-10-01

Chitin biomass has received much attention as an amino-functional polysaccharide precursor for synthesis of carbon materials. Rich nitrogen and oxygen dual-doped porous carbon derived from cicada slough (CS), a renewable biomass mainly composed of chitin, was synthesized and employed as electrode materials for electrochemical capacitors, for the first time ever. The cicada slough-derived carbon (CSC) was prepared by a facile process via pre-carbonization in air, followed by KOH activation. The weight ratio of KOH and char plays an important role in fabricating the microporous structure and tuning the surface chemistry of CSC. The obtained CSC had a large specific surface area (1243-2217m 2 g -1 ), fairly high oxygen content (28.95-33.78 at%) and moderate nitrogen content (1.47-4.35 at%). The electrochemical performance of the CS char and CSC as electrodes for capacitors was evaluated in a three-electrode cell configuration with 6M KOH as the electrolyte. Electrochemical studies showed that the as-prepared CSC activated at the KOH-to-char weight ratio of 2 exhibited the highest specific capacitance (266.5Fg -1 at a current density of 0.5Ag -1 ) and excellent rate capability (196.2Fg -1 remained at 20Ag -1 ) and cycle durability. In addition, the CSC-2-based symmetrical device possessed the desirable energy density and power density of about 15.97Whkg -1 and 5000Wkg -1 at 5Ag -1 , respectively. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Clinically significant changes in the emotional condition of relatives of patients with severe traumatic brain injury during sub-acute rehabilitation.

PubMed

Norup, Anne; Kristensen, Karin Spangsberg; Poulsen, Ingrid; Nielsen, Christina Löfvquist; Mortensen, Erik Lykke

2013-09-01

To investigate clinically significant change in the emotional condition of relatives of patients with severe traumatic brain injury during sub-acute rehabilitation. Participants were 62 pairs of relatives and patients. Relatives completed the anxiety and depression scales from the Symptom Checklist-90-R (SCL-90-R) when the patients were admitted to sub-acute rehabilitation and at discharge. Improvement in emotional condition was investigated using the following criteria: (i) statistically reliable improvement; and (ii) clinically significant change (CSC). At admission, 53.2% and 58.1% of relatives had scores above cut-off values on the anxiety and depression scales, respectively. On the anxiety scale 69.7% of these experienced a reliable improvement according to the Reliable Change Index (RCI) and 45.5% also obtained CSC, as their end-point was below the cut-off value. On the depression scale the corresponding figures were 44.4% and 41.7%, respectively. When comparing relatives with and without CSC, we found that CSC in symptoms of anxiety was associated with significantly better functional improvement during rehabilitation and a shorter period of post-traumatic amnesia in the patients. Of the relatives who reported scores above cut-off values on the anxiety and depression scales at patient's admission, approximately 40% experienced CSC in anxiety and depression during the patient's rehabilitation. Relatives of patients experiencing improvement during inpatient rehabilitation are more likely to experience CSC in anxiety.

Application of Computer Graphics to Graphing in Algebra and Trigonometry. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Morris, J. Richard

This project was designed to improve the graphing competency of students in elementary algebra, intermediate algebra, and trigonometry courses at Virginia Commonwealth University. Computer graphics programs were designed using an Apple II Plus computer and implemented using Pascal. The software package is interactive and gives students control…

Computer Art--A New Tool in Advertising Graphics.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wassmuth, Birgit L.

Using computers to produce art began with scientists, mathematicians, and individuals with strong technical backgrounds who used the graphic material as visualizations of data in technical fields. People are using computer art in advertising, as well as in painting; sculpture; music; textile, product, industrial, and interior design; architecture;…

The Use of Computer Graphics in the Design Process.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Palazzi, Maria

This master's thesis examines applications of computer technology to the field of industrial design and ways in which technology can transform the traditional process. Following a statement of the problem, the history and applications of the fields of computer graphics and industrial design are reviewed. The traditional industrial design process…

Graphic Design Is Not a Medium.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gruber, John Edward, Jr.

2001-01-01

Discusses graphic design and reviews its development from analog processes to a digital tool with the use of computers. Topics include graphical user interfaces; the need for visual communication concepts; transmedia as opposed to repurposing; and graphic design instruction in higher education. (LRW)

A graphics subsystem retrofit design for the bladed-disk data acquisition system. M.S. Thesis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Carney, R. R.

1983-01-01

A graphics subsystem retrofit design for the turbojet blade vibration data acquisition system is presented. The graphics subsystem will operate in two modes permitting the system operator to view blade vibrations on an oscilloscope type of display. The first mode is a real-time mode that displays only gross blade characteristics, such as maximum deflections and standing waves. This mode is used to aid the operator in determining when to collect detailed blade vibration data. The second mode of operation is a post-processing mode that will animate the actual blade vibrations using the detailed data collected on an earlier data collection run. The operator can vary the rate of payback to view differring characteristics of blade vibrations. The heart of the graphics subsystem is a modified version of AMD's ""super sixteen'' computer, called the graphics preprocessor computer (GPC). This computer is based on AMD's 2900 series of bit-slice components.

DDP-516 Computer Graphics System Capabilities

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1972-06-01

This report describes the capabilities of the DDP-516 Computer Graphics System. One objective of this report is to acquaint DOT management and project planners with the system's current capabilities, applications hardware and software. The Appendix i...

An Interactive Version of MULR04 With Enhanced Graphic Capability

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Burkholder, Joel H.

1978-01-01

An existing computer program for computing multiple regression analyses is made interactive in order to alleviate core storage requirements. Also, some improvements in the graphics aspects of the program are included. (JKS)

Real-time interactive simulation: using touch panels, graphics tablets, and video-terminal keyboards

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

Venhuizen, J.R.

1983-01-01

A Simulation Laboratory utilizing only digital computers for interactive computing must rely on CRT based graphics devices for output devices, and keyboards, graphics tablets, and touch panels, etc., for input devices. The devices all work well, with the combination of a CRT with a touch panel mounted on it as the most flexible combination of input/output devices for interactive simulation.

Three varieties of realism in computer graphics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ferwerda, James A.

2003-06-01

This paper describes three varieties of realism that need to be considered in evaluating computer graphics images and defines the criteria that need to be met if each kind of realism is to be achieved. The paper introduces a conceptual framework for thinking about realism in images, and describes a set of research tools for measuring image realism and assessing its value in graphics applications.

The Triangle: a Multiprocessor Architecture for Fast Curve and Surface Generation.

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-08-01

design , curves and surfaces, graphics hardware. 20...curves, B-splines, computer-aided geometric design ; curves and sur- faces, graphics hardware. (k 12). -/ .... This work was supported in part by the...34 Electronic Design , October 30, 1986. 21. M. A. Penna and R. R. Patterson, Projective Geometry and its Applications to Computer Graphics , Prentice-Hall, Englewood Cliffs, N.J., 1985. 70,e, 41100vr -~ ~ - -- --

Fast Constrained Spectral Clustering and Cluster Ensemble with Random Projection

PubMed Central

Liu, Wenfen

2017-01-01

Constrained spectral clustering (CSC) method can greatly improve the clustering accuracy with the incorporation of constraint information into spectral clustering and thus has been paid academic attention widely. In this paper, we propose a fast CSC algorithm via encoding landmark-based graph construction into a new CSC model and applying random sampling to decrease the data size after spectral embedding. Compared with the original model, the new algorithm has the similar results with the increase of its model size asymptotically; compared with the most efficient CSC algorithm known, the new algorithm runs faster and has a wider range of suitable data sets. Meanwhile, a scalable semisupervised cluster ensemble algorithm is also proposed via the combination of our fast CSC algorithm and dimensionality reduction with random projection in the process of spectral ensemble clustering. We demonstrate by presenting theoretical analysis and empirical results that the new cluster ensemble algorithm has advantages in terms of efficiency and effectiveness. Furthermore, the approximate preservation of random projection in clustering accuracy proved in the stage of consensus clustering is also suitable for the weighted k-means clustering and thus gives the theoretical guarantee to this special kind of k-means clustering where each point has its corresponding weight. PMID:29312447

DEspR roles in tumor vasculo-angiogenesis, invasiveness, CSC-survival and anoikis resistance: a 'common receptor coordinator' paradigm.

PubMed

Herrera, Victoria L; Decano, Julius L; Tan, Glaiza A; Moran, Ann M; Pasion, Khristine A; Matsubara, Yuichi; Ruiz-Opazo, Nelson

2014-01-01

A priori, a common receptor induced in tumor microvessels, cancer cells and cancer stem-like cells (CSCs) that is involved in tumor angiogenesis, invasiveness, and CSC anoikis resistance and survival, could underlie contemporaneous coordination of these events rather than assume stochasticity. Here we show that functional analysis of the dual endothelin1/VEGFsignal peptide receptor, DEspR, (formerly named Dear, Chr.4q31.2) supports the putative common receptor paradigm in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and glioblastoma (GBM) selected for their invasiveness, CD133+CSCs, and polar angiogenic features. Unlike normal tissue, DEspR is detected in PDAC and GBM microvessels, tumor cells, and CSCs isolated from PDAC-Panc1 and GBM-U87 cells. DEspR-inhibition decreased angiogenesis, invasiveness, CSC-survival and anoikis resistance in vitro, and decreased Panc1-CSC and U87-CSC xenograft tumor growth, vasculo-angiogenesis and invasiveness in nude(nu/nu) rats, suggesting that DEspR activation would coordinate these tumor progression events. As an accessible, cell-surface 'common receptor coordinator', DEspR-inhibition defines a novel targeted-therapy paradigm for pancreatic cancer and glioblastoma.

DEspR Roles in Tumor Vasculo-Angiogenesis, Invasiveness, CSC-Survival and Anoikis Resistance: A ‘Common Receptor Coordinator’ Paradigm

PubMed Central

Herrera, Victoria L.; Decano, Julius L.; Tan, Glaiza A.; Moran, Ann M.; Pasion, Khristine A.; Matsubara, Yuichi; Ruiz-Opazo, Nelson

2014-01-01

A priori, a common receptor induced in tumor microvessels, cancer cells and cancer stem-like cells (CSCs) that is involved in tumor angiogenesis, invasiveness, and CSC anoikis resistance and survival, could underlie contemporaneous coordination of these events rather than assume stochasticity. Here we show that functional analysis of the dual endothelin1/VEGFsignal peptide receptor, DEspR, (formerly named Dear, Chr.4q31.2) supports the putative common receptor paradigm in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and glioblastoma (GBM) selected for their invasiveness, CD133+CSCs, and polar angiogenic features. Unlike normal tissue, DEspR is detected in PDAC and GBM microvessels, tumor cells, and CSCs isolated from PDAC-Panc1 and GBM-U87 cells. DEspR-inhibition decreased angiogenesis, invasiveness, CSC-survival and anoikis resistance in vitro, and decreased Panc1-CSC and U87-CSC xenograft tumor growth, vasculo-angiogenesis and invasiveness in nudenu/nu rats, suggesting that DEspR activation would coordinate these tumor progression events. As an accessible, cell-surface ‘common receptor coordinator’, DEspR-inhibition defines a novel targeted-therapy paradigm for pancreatic cancer and glioblastoma. PMID:24465725

Chitosan promotes cancer progression and stem cell properties in association with Wnt signaling in colon and hepatocellular carcinoma cells

PubMed Central

Chang, Po-Hsiang; Sekine, Keisuke; Chao, Hsiao-Mei; Hsu, Shan-hui; Chern, Edward

2017-01-01

Cancer stem cells (CSCs), a small population of cancer cells, have been considered to be the origin of cancer initiation, recurrence, and metastasis. Tumor microenvironment provides crucial signals for CSCs to maintain stem cell properties and promotes tumorigenesis. Therefore, establishment of an appropriate cell culture system to mimic the microenvironment for CSC studies is an important issue. In this study, we grew colon and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells on chitosan membranes and evaluated the tumor progression and the CSC properties. Experimental results showed that culturing cancer cells on chitosan increased cell motility, drug resistance, quiescent population, self-renewal capacity, and the expression levels of stemness and CSC marker genes, such as OCT4, NANOG, CD133, CD44, and EpCAM. Furthermore, we demonstrated that chitosan might activate canonical Wnt/β-catenin-CD44 axis signaling in CD44positive colon cancer cells and noncanonical Wnt-STAT3 signaling in CD44negative HCC cells. In conclusion, chitosan as culture substrates activated the essential signaling of CSCs and promoted CSC properties. The chitosan culture system provides a convenient platform for the research of CSC biology and screening of anticancer drugs. PMID:28367998

Engineering Design Graphics: Into the 21st Century

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Harris, La Verne Abe; Meyers, Frederick

2007-01-01

Graphical plans for construction of machinery and architecture have evolved over the last 6,000 years beginning from hieroglyphics to drawings on printable media, from the "Golden Age" of engineering graphics to the innovation of computer graphics and prototyping. The evolution of engineering design graphics as a profession has also evolved. Years…

Program Helps Generate And Manage Graphics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Truong, L. V.

1994-01-01

Living Color Frame Maker (LCFM) computer program generates computer-graphics frames. Graphical frames saved as text files, in readable and disclosed format, easily retrieved and manipulated by user programs for wide range of real-time visual information applications. LCFM implemented in frame-based expert system for visual aids in management of systems. Monitoring, diagnosis, and/or control, diagrams of circuits or systems brought to "life" by use of designated video colors and intensities to symbolize status of hardware components (via real-time feedback from sensors). Status of systems can be displayed. Written in C++ using Borland C++ 2.0 compiler for IBM PC-series computers and compatible computers running MS-DOS.

The use of computer graphic simulation in the development of on-orbit tele-robotic systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fernandez, Ken; Hinman, Elaine

1987-01-01

This paper describes the use of computer graphic simulation techniques to resolve critical design and operational issues for robotic systems used for on-orbit operations. These issues are robot motion control, robot path-planning/verification, and robot dynamics. The major design issues in developing effective telerobotic systems are discussed, and the use of ROBOSIM, a NASA-developed computer graphic simulation tool, to address these issues is presented. Simulation plans for the Space Station and the Orbital Maneuvering Vehicle are presented and discussed.

5. VIEW OF A GLOVE BOX FIREWALL DETAIL. THE FIREWALL ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

5. VIEW OF A GLOVE BOX FIREWALL DETAIL. THE FIREWALL WAS A SAFETY FEATURE TO PREVENT THE SPREAD OF FIRE BETWEEN INTERCONNECTED GLOVE BOXES. PLUTONIUM IS PYROPHORIC, AND MAY IGNITE IN THE PRESENCE OF OXYGEN. (5/8/70) - Rocky Flats Plant, Plutonium Manufacturing Facility, North-central section of Plant, just south of Building 776/777, Golden, Jefferson County, CO

77 FR 32631 - Public Utility District No. 1 of Klickitat County, Washington; Notice of Preliminary Permit...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-06-01

...-long earth embankment dam enclosing an upper reservoir; (2) an upper reservoir, with a surface area of... above mean sea level (msl); (3) a 295-foot- high, 5,870-foot-long earth embankment dam enclosing a lower... system and would use water from the Columbia River for initial fill and make-up water. The estimated...

40 CFR 63.5870 - How do I calculate annual uncontrolled and controlled organic HAP emissions from my wet-out area...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... apply to each formula applied on each line, determine how much of each formula for each end product is... controlled oven organic HAP emissions estimation equations or factors to each formula. You must determine the... coated end products. This step creates end product/thickness combinations. (2) Identify each formula used...

40 CFR 63.5870 - How do I calculate annual uncontrolled and controlled organic HAP emissions from my wet-out area...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... apply to each formula applied on each line, determine how much of each formula for each end product is... controlled oven organic HAP emissions estimation equations or factors to each formula. You must determine the... coated end products. This step creates end product/thickness combinations. (2) Identify each formula used...

40 CFR 63.5870 - How do I calculate annual uncontrolled and controlled organic HAP emissions from my wet-out area...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... apply to each formula applied on each line, determine how much of each formula for each end product is... controlled oven organic HAP emissions estimation equations or factors to each formula. You must determine the... coated end products. This step creates end product/thickness combinations. (2) Identify each formula used...

40 CFR 63.5870 - How do I calculate annual uncontrolled and controlled organic HAP emissions from my wet-out area...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... each formula applied on each line, determine how much of each formula for each end product is applied... controlled oven organic HAP emissions estimation equations or factors to each formula. You must determine the... coated end products. This step creates end product/thickness combinations. (2) Identify each formula used...

General-Purpose Software For Computer Graphics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rogers, Joseph E.

1992-01-01

NASA Device Independent Graphics Library (NASADIG) is general-purpose computer-graphics package for computer-based engineering and management applications which gives opportunity to translate data into effective graphical displays for presentation. Features include two- and three-dimensional plotting, spline and polynomial interpolation, control of blanking of areas, multiple log and/or linear axes, control of legends and text, control of thicknesses of curves, and multiple text fonts. Included are subroutines for definition of areas and axes of plots; setup and display of text; blanking of areas; setup of style, interpolation, and plotting of lines; control of patterns and of shading of colors; control of legends, blocks of text, and characters; initialization of devices; and setting of mixed alphabets. Written in FORTRAN 77.

Use of graphics in the design office at the Military Aircraft Division of the British Aircraft Corporation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Coles, W. A.

1975-01-01

The CAD/CAM interactive computer graphics system was described; uses to which it has been put were shown, and current developments of the system were outlined. The system supports batch, time sharing, and fully interactive graphic processing. Engineers using the system may switch between these methods of data processing and problem solving to make the best use of the available resources. It is concluded that the introduction of on-line computing in the form of teletypes, storage tubes, and fully interactive graphics has resulted in large increases in productivity and reduced timescales in the geometric computing, numerical lofting and part programming areas, together with a greater utilization of the system in the technical departments.

Fundamentals of computer graphics for artists and designers

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

Riley, B.A.

1986-01-01

This tutorial provides introductory information about computer graphics slanted towards novice users from artist/designer backgrounds. The goal is to describe the applications and terminology sufficiently to provide a base of knowledge for discussions with vendors.

Identification of natural images and computer-generated graphics based on statistical and textural features.

PubMed

Peng, Fei; Li, Jiao-ting; Long, Min

2015-03-01

To discriminate the acquisition pipelines of digital images, a novel scheme for the identification of natural images and computer-generated graphics is proposed based on statistical and textural features. First, the differences between them are investigated from the view of statistics and texture, and 31 dimensions of feature are acquired for identification. Then, LIBSVM is used for the classification. Finally, the experimental results are presented. The results show that it can achieve an identification accuracy of 97.89% for computer-generated graphics, and an identification accuracy of 97.75% for natural images. The analyses also demonstrate the proposed method has excellent performance, compared with some existing methods based only on statistical features or other features. The method has a great potential to be implemented for the identification of natural images and computer-generated graphics. © 2014 American Academy of Forensic Sciences.

The Department of the Interior Southeast Climate Science Center synthesis report 2011–15—Projects, products, and science priorities

USGS Publications Warehouse

Varela Minder, Elda; Lascurain, Aranzazu R.; McMahon, Gerard

2016-09-28

IntroductionIn 2009, the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) Secretary Ken Salazar established a network of eight regional Climate Science Centers (CSCs) that, along with the Landscape Conservation Cooperatives (LCCs), would help define and implement the Department's climate adaptation response. The Southeast Climate Science Center (SE CSC) was established at North Carolina State University (NCSU) in Raleigh, North Carolina, in 2010, under a 5-year cooperative agreement with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), to identify and address the regional challenges presented by climate change and variability in the Southeastern United States. All eight regional CSC hosts, including NCSU, were selected through a competitive process.Since its opening, the focus of the SE CSC has been on working with partners in the identification and development of research-based information that can assist managers, including cultural and natural resource managers, in adapting to global change processes, such as climate and land use change, that operate at local to global scales and affect resources important to the DOI mission. The SE CSC was organized to accomplish three goals:Provide co-produced, researched based, actionable science that supports transparent global change adaptation decisions.Convene conversations among decision makers, scientists, and managers to identify key ecosystem adaptation decisions driven by climate and land use change, the values and objectives that will be used to make decisions, and the research-based information needed to assess adaptation options.Build the capacity of natural resource professionals, university faculty, and students to understand and frame natural resource adaptation decisions and develop and use research-based information to make adaptation decisions.This report provides an overview of the SE CSC and the projects developed by the SE CSC since its inception. An important goal of this report is to provide a framework for understanding the evolution of the SE CSC science agenda, which has evolved over the first 5 years of the Center’s operation.

Optimum 3D Matrix Stiffness for Maintenance of Cancer Stem Cells Is Dependent on Tissue Origin of Cancer Cells

PubMed Central

Jabbari, Esmaiel; Sarvestani, Samaneh K.; Daneshian, Leily; Moeinzadeh, Seyedsina

2015-01-01

Introduction The growth and expression of cancer stem cells (CSCs) depend on many factors in the tumor microenvironment. The objective of this work was to investigate the effect of cancer cells’ tissue origin on the optimum matrix stiffness for CSC growth and marker expression in a model polyethylene glycol diacrylate (PEGDA) hydrogel without the interference of other factors in the microenvironment. Methods Human MCF7 and MDA-MB-231 breast carcinoma, HCT116 colorectal and AGS gastric carcinoma, and U2OS osteosarcoma cells were used. The cells were encapsulated in PEGDA gels with compressive moduli in the 2-70 kPa range and optimized cell seeding density of 0.6x106 cells/mL. Micropatterning was used to optimize the growth of encapsulated cells with respect to average tumorsphere size. The CSC sub-population of the encapsulated cells was characterized by cell number, tumorsphere size and number density, and mRNA expression of CSC markers. Results The optimum matrix stiffness for growth and marker expression of CSC sub-population of cancer cells was 5 kPa for breast MCF7 and MDA231, 25 kPa for colorectal HCT116 and gastric AGS, and 50 kPa for bone U2OS cells. Conjugation of a CD44 binding peptide to the gel stopped tumorsphere formation by cancer cells from different tissue origin. The expression of YAP/TAZ transcription factors by the encapsulated cancer cells was highest at the optimum stiffness indicating a link between the Hippo transducers and CSC growth. The optimum average tumorsphere size for CSC growth and marker expression was 50 μm. Conclusion The marker expression results suggest that the CSC sub-population of cancer cells resides within a niche with optimum stiffness which depends on the cancer cells’ tissue origin. PMID:26168187

The effect of canaloplasty with suprachoroidal drainage combined with cataract surgery - 1-year results.

PubMed

Seuthe, Anna-Maria; Januschowski, Kai; Mariacher, Siegfried; Ebner, Martina; Opitz, Natalia; Szurman, Peter; Boden, Karl

2018-02-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate the safety and efficacy of phacocanaloplasty with suprachoroidal drainage (PCscD) and to compare its intraocular pressure (IOP)-lowering and drug-sparing effect to canaloplasty with suprachoroidal drainage (CscD). The study retrospective interventional study included patients with open-angle glaucoma or secondary forms of glaucoma who underwent either CscD or PCscD between the year 2011 and 2014 in Knappschaft Eye Clinic Sulzbach. Primary end-points were IOP reduction and the number of IOP-lowering medication after 12 months. Secondary end-points were intraoperative and postoperative complications. A total of 328 eyes were included, 193 were treated with CscD and 135 underwent PCscD. Canaloplasty with scD achieved an IOP reduction of 37.0% (from 20.9 ± 3.6 mmHg to 13.2 ± 2.6 mmHg) after 1 year, whereas PCscD showed a significant higher reduction of 47.4% (from 23.2 ± 5.1 mmHg to 12.2 ± 1.7 mmHg). Reduction in IOP-lowering medication was higher after PCscD (from 3.6 ± 0.6 to 0.2 ± 0.5) than after CscD (from 3.5 ± 0.8 to 0.7 ± 1.0). Twelve months after surgery 55.5% in the CscD group and 80.2% in the PCscD group were free of IOP-lowering medication. In both groups, no severe or sight-threatening complications occurred. Combining cataract surgery and CscD achieves a higher IOP reduction, and patients postoperatively need less IOP-lowering medication than after CscD alone. © 2017 Acta Ophthalmologica Scandinavica Foundation. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

The development of a malignant tumor is due to a desperate asexual self-cloning process in which cancer stem cells develop the ability to mimic the genetic program of germline cells

PubMed Central

Vinnitsky, Vladimir

2014-01-01

To date there is no explanation why the development of almost all types of solid tumors occurs sharing a similar scenario: (1) creation of a cancer stem cell (CSC), (2) CSC multiplication and formation of a multicellular tumor spheroid (TS), (3) vascularization of the TS and its transformation into a vascularized primary tumor, (4) metastatic spreading of CSCs, (5) formation of a metastatic TSs and its transformation into metastatic tumors, and (6) potentially endless repetition of this cycle of events. The above gaps in our knowledge are related to the biology of cancer and specifically to tumorigenesis, which covers the process from the creation of a CSC to the formation of a malignant tumor and the development of metastases. My Oncogerminative Theory of Tumorigenesis considers tumor formation as a dynamic self-organizing process that mimics a self-organizing process of early embryo development. In the initial step in that process, gene mutations combined with epigenetic dysregulation cause somatic cells to be reprogrammed into CSCs, which are immortal pseudo-germline cells. Mimicking the behavior of fertilized germline cells, the CSC achieves immortality by passing through the stages of its life-cycle and developing into a pseudo-blastula-stage embryo, which manifests in the body as a malignant tumor. In this view, the development of a malignant tumor from a CSC is a phenomenon of developmental biology, which we named a desperate asexual self-cloning event. The theory explains seven core characteristics of malignant tumors: (1) CSC immortality, (2) multistep development of a malignant tumor from a single CSC, (3) heterogeneity of malignant tumor cell populations, (4) metastatic spread of CSCs, (5) invasive growth, (6) malignant progression, and (7) selective immune tolerance toward cancer cells. The Oncogerminative Theory of Tumorigenesis suggests new avenues for discovery of revolutionary therapies to treat, prevent, and eradicate cancer. PMID:28232878

Computer Graphics in Research: Some State -of-the-Art Systems

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Reddy, R.; And Others

1975-01-01

A description is given of the structure and functional characteristics of three types of interactive computer graphic systems, developed by the Department of Computer Science at Carnegie-Mellon; a high-speed programmable display capable of displaying 50,000 short vectors, flicker free; a shaded-color video display for the display of gray-scale…

LCFM - LIVING COLOR FRAME MAKER: PC GRAPHICS GENERATION AND MANAGEMENT TOOL FOR REAL-TIME APPLICATIONS

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Truong, L. V.

1994-01-01

Computer graphics are often applied for better understanding and interpretation of data under observation. These graphics become more complicated when animation is required during "run-time", as found in many typical modern artificial intelligence and expert systems. Living Color Frame Maker is a solution to many of these real-time graphics problems. Living Color Frame Maker (LCFM) is a graphics generation and management tool for IBM or IBM compatible personal computers. To eliminate graphics programming, the graphic designer can use LCFM to generate computer graphics frames. The graphical frames are then saved as text files, in a readable and disclosed format, which can be easily accessed and manipulated by user programs for a wide range of "real-time" visual information applications. For example, LCFM can be implemented in a frame-based expert system for visual aids in management of systems. For monitoring, diagnosis, and/or controlling purposes, circuit or systems diagrams can be brought to "life" by using designated video colors and intensities to symbolize the status of hardware components (via real-time feedback from sensors). Thus status of the system itself can be displayed. The Living Color Frame Maker is user friendly with graphical interfaces, and provides on-line help instructions. All options are executed using mouse commands and are displayed on a single menu for fast and easy operation. LCFM is written in C++ using the Borland C++ 2.0 compiler for IBM PC series computers and compatible computers running MS-DOS. The program requires a mouse and an EGA/VGA display. A minimum of 77K of RAM is also required for execution. The documentation is provided in electronic form on the distribution medium in WordPerfect format. A sample MS-DOS executable is provided on the distribution medium. The standard distribution medium for this program is one 5.25 inch 360K MS-DOS format diskette. The contents of the diskette are compressed using the PKWARE archiving tools. The utility to unarchive the files, PKUNZIP.EXE, is included. The Living Color Frame Maker tool was developed in 1992.

The Role of Biomaterials on Cancer Stem Cell Enrichment and Behavior

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ordikhani, Faride; Kim, Yonghyun; Zustiak, Silviya P.

2015-11-01

The theory of cancer stem cells (CSCs) and their role in cancer metastasis, tumorigenicity and resistance to therapy is slowly shifting the emphasis on the search for cancer cure: more evidence is surfacing that a successful therapy should be geared against this rare cancer cell population. Unfortunately, CSCs are difficult to culture in vitro which severely limits the progress of CSC research. This review gives a brief overview of CSCs and their microenvironment, with particular focus on studies that used in vitro biomaterial-based models and biomaterial/CSC interfaces for the enrichment of CSCs. Biomaterial properties relevant to CSC behaviors are also addressed. While the discussed research field is still in its infancy, it appears that in vitro cancer models that include a biomaterial can support CSC enrichment and this has proved indispensable to the study of their biology as well as the development of novel cancer therapies.

Calcium silicate-based cements: composition, properties, and clinical applications.

PubMed

Dawood, Alaa E; Parashos, Peter; Wong, Rebecca H K; Reynolds, Eric C; Manton, David J

2017-05-01

Mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) is a calcium silicate-based cement (CSC) commonly used in endodontic procedures involving pulpal regeneration and hard tissue repair, such as pulp capping, pulpotomy, apexogenesis, apexification, perforation repair, and root-end filling. Despite the superior laboratory and clinical performance of MTA in comparison with previous endodontic repair cements, such as Ca(OH) 2 , MTA has poor handling properties and a long setting time. New CSC have been commercially launched and marketed to overcome the limitations of MTA. The aim of the present review was to explore the available literature on new CSC products, and to give evidence-based recommendations for the clinical use of these materials. Within the limitations of the available data in the literature regarding the properties and performance of the new CSC, the newer products could be promising alternatives to MTA; however, further research is required to support this assumption. © 2015 Wiley Publishing Asia Pty Ltd.

Maintenance of Mitochondrial Oxygen Homeostasis by Cosubstrate Compensation

PubMed Central

Kueh, Hao Yuan; Niethammer, Philipp; Mitchison, Timothy J.

2013-01-01

Mitochondria maintain a constant rate of aerobic respiration over a wide range of oxygen levels. However, the control strategies underlying oxygen homeostasis are still unclear. Using mathematical modeling, we found that the mitochondrial electron transport chain (ETC) responds to oxygen level changes by undergoing compensatory changes in reduced electron carrier levels. This emergent behavior, which we named cosubstrate compensation (CSC), enables the ETC to maintain homeostasis over a wide of oxygen levels. When performing CSC, our ETC models recapitulated a classic scaling relationship discovered by Chance [Chance B (1965) J. Gen. Physiol. 49:163-165] relating the extent of oxygen homeostasis to the kinetics of mitochondrial electron transport. Analysis of an in silico mitochondrial respiratory system further showed evidence that CSC constitutes the dominant control strategy for mitochondrial oxygen homeostasis during active respiration. Our findings indicate that CSC constitutes a robust control strategy for homeostasis and adaptation in cellular biochemical networks. PMID:23528093

Visual Information (6)

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-12-01

definition 33., below). 7. Commercial VI Production. A completed VI production, purchased off-the- shelf; i.e., from the stocks of a vendor. 8. Computer ...Generated Graphics. The production of graphics through an electronic medium based on a computer or computer techniques. 9. Contract VI Production. A VI...displays, presentations, and exhibits prepared manually, by machine, or by computer . 16. Indirect Costs. An item of cost (or the aggregate thereof) that is

Space Spurred Computer Graphics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1983-01-01

Dicomed Corporation was asked by NASA in the early 1970s to develop processing capabilities for recording images sent from Mars by Viking spacecraft. The company produced a film recorder which increased the intensity levels and the capability for color recording. This development led to a strong technology base resulting in sophisticated computer graphics equipment. Dicomed systems are used to record CAD (computer aided design) and CAM (computer aided manufacturing) equipment, to update maps and produce computer generated animation.

A Theoretical Analysis of Learning with Graphics--Implications for Computer Graphics Design.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

ChanLin, Lih-Juan

This paper reviews the literature pertinent to learning with graphics. The dual coding theory provides explanation about how graphics are stored and precessed in semantic memory. The level of processing theory suggests how graphics can be employed in learning to encourage deeper processing. In addition to dual coding theory and level of processing…

Cigarette smoke condensate inhibits collagen gel contraction and prostaglandin E2 production in human gingival fibroblasts.

PubMed

Romero, A; Cáceres, M; Arancibia, R; Silva, D; Couve, E; Martínez, C; Martínez, J; Smith, P C

2015-06-01

Granulation tissue remodeling and myofibroblastic differentiation are critically important events during wound healing. Tobacco smoking has a detrimental effect in gingival tissue repair. However, studies evaluating the effects of cigarette smoke on these events are lacking. We used gingival fibroblasts cultured within free-floating and restrained collagen gels to simulate the initial and final steps of the granulation tissue phase during tissue repair. Collagen gel contraction was stimulated with serum or transforming growth factor-β1. Cigarette smoke condensate (CSC) was used to evaluate the effects of tobacco smoke on gel contraction. Protein levels of alpha-smooth muscle actin, β1 integrin, matrix metalloproteinase-3 and connective tissue growth factor were evaluated through Western blot. Prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) levels were determined through ELISA. Actin organization was evaluated through confocal microscopy. CSC reduced collagen gel contraction induced by serum and transforming growth factor-β1 in restrained collagen gels. CSC also altered the development of actin stress fibers in fibroblasts cultured within restrained collagen gels. PGE(2) levels were strongly diminished by CSC in three-dimensional cell cultures. However, other proteins involved in granulation tissue remodeling and myofibroblastic differentiation such as alpha-smooth muscle actin, β1 integrin, matrix metalloproteinase-3 and connective tissue growth factor, were unmodified by CSC. CSC may alter the capacity of gingival fibroblasts to remodel and contract a collagen matrix. Inhibition of PGE(2) production and alterations of actin stress fibers in these cells may impair proper tissue maturation during wound healing in smokers. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Optical quality in central serous chorioretinopathy.

PubMed

Lee, Kyungmin; Sohn, Joonhong; Choi, Jong Gil; Chung, Sung Kun

2014-12-02

To assess optical quality and intraocular scattering using the Optical Quality Analysis System (OQAS) in central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) and to determine the effects of retinal changes on optical quality. This was a prospective, case-control study. Participants were 29 patients with diagnosis of CSC. The control group consisted of the patients' unaffected eyes. Initial logMAR visual acuity, central macular thickness (by spectral domain optical coherence tomography), and optical quality parameters including modulation transfer function (MTF) cutoff frequency, Strehl (2-dimensional) ratio, and OQAS values at 100%, 20%, and 9% contrast levels were investigated. Objective scattering index (OSI) at 4.0-mm pupil size was assessed in both eyes by using the OQAS. After 3 months of treatment, which included observation and focal laser or injections of antivascular endothelial growth factor, every CSC-affected eye was followed. Main outcome measures were differences between clinical parameters of the CSC-affected eye and those of the control eye and changes in those parameters according to the clinical course of CSC over 3 months. In CSC-affected eyes, the MTF cutoff was significantly reduced (P = 0.01), and OSI was significantly increased (P = 0.03). As macular thickness decreased, OSI decreased but did not become normalized compared to the control eye, nor was it statistically significantly correlated with central macular thickness change. Retinal change affected optical quality and intraocular scatter. Therefore, when the severity of a cataract is assessed using the OQAS, retinal status should be considered when interpreting OQAS values. Copyright 2014 The Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc.

Self-Renewal and CSCs In Vitro Enrichment: Growth as Floating Spheres

PubMed Central

Mehta, Pooja; Novak, Caymen; Raghavan, Shreya; Ward, Maria; Mehta, Geeta

2018-01-01

Cancer stem cells (CSC) are a vital component to the progression and reoccurrence of cancers, making them a primary target of study for both fundamental understanding of cancer biology and the development of effective and targeted treatments. CSCs reside in a complex 3D microenvironment, and the 3D spheroids are an indispensable tool in tumor biology due to their 3D structure and replication of the tumor microenvironment. Within this chapter the methodology for CSC isolation, suspension culture in hanging drop model, and characterization assays for CSC are described. First, the methodology for identifying and isolating CSCs from patient tumors, ascites, or cancer cell lines is described through the use of FACS analysis. Next, a detailed description of 3D hanging drop model for generating CSC spheroids is provided, followed by maintenance and monitoring techniques for extended 3D culture. Analysis methods are described for the quantification of CSC spheroid proliferation and viability tracking, throughout culture by on-plate alamarBlue fluorescence. Additional viability assays are described utilizing confocal microscopy with Live/Dead Viability/Cytotoxicity Kit. The characterization of CSCs populations within spheroids is described through FACS analysis. Further, an immunohistochemistry procedure is described for cell-cell and cell-matrix interaction assessment. Finally, several notes and tips for successful experiments with 3D CSC spheroids on the hanging drop model are provided. These methods are not only applicable to CSCs within a variety of tumor cell types, for not only understanding the fundamental tumor biology, but also for drug screening and development of preclinical chemotherapeutic strategies. PMID:28986887

Structural analyses of the CRISPR protein Csc2 reveal the RNA-binding interface of the type I-D Cas7 family.

PubMed

Hrle, Ajla; Maier, Lisa-Katharina; Sharma, Kundan; Ebert, Judith; Basquin, Claire; Urlaub, Henning; Marchfelder, Anita; Conti, Elena

2014-01-01

Upon pathogen invasion, bacteria and archaea activate an RNA-interference-like mechanism termed CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats). A large family of Cas (CRISPR-associated) proteins mediates the different stages of this sophisticated immune response. Bioinformatic studies have classified the Cas proteins into families, according to their sequences and respective functions. These range from the insertion of the foreign genetic elements into the host genome to the activation of the interference machinery as well as target degradation upon attack. Cas7 family proteins are central to the type I and type III interference machineries as they constitute the backbone of the large interference complexes. Here we report the crystal structure of Thermofilum pendens Csc2, a Cas7 family protein of type I-D. We found that Csc2 forms a core RRM-like domain, flanked by three peripheral insertion domains: a lid domain, a Zinc-binding domain and a helical domain. Comparison with other Cas7 family proteins reveals a set of similar structural features both in the core and in the peripheral domains, despite the absence of significant sequence similarity. T. pendens Csc2 binds single-stranded RNA in vitro in a sequence-independent manner. Using a crosslinking - mass-spectrometry approach, we mapped the RNA-binding surface to a positively charged surface patch on T. pendens Csc2. Thus our analysis of the key structural and functional features of T. pendens Csc2 highlights recurring themes and evolutionary relationships in type I and type III Cas proteins.

Transforming the Force: A Comparative Analysis of the Department of Defense’s (DOD’s) Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-09-01

the smaller ERP companies that produce specialized ERPs for particular industries. Five former IBM employees founded SAP and created the first ERP...Computer Sciences Corporations (CSC), Price Waterhouse Coopers, EDS, and IBM [2]. Selecting the right integrators is critical because they are the link... IBM was chosen as the integrator for the NEMAIS pilot. 5. Pilot Results and Road Ahead Between late 1998 and early 2002, the four Navy pilots took

Private Security Contractors in Iraq: Background, Legal Status, and Other Issues

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-09-29

Directorate. 25 Peter Eisler , “Attacks on U.S. Convoys Plummet; Shipments Crucial to Rebuilding Iraq,” USA Today, July 22, 2008, p. A1; August Cole...Air Force contracts. Named DynCorp since 1987 , it was acquired in 2003 by Computer Sciences Corporation (CSC) and now has nearly 14,000 employees in 30...in 1987 and based in Lenoir City, Tennessee, is an employee-owned firm with offices in the United States, Afghanistan, Iraq, and Kuwait. The company

Development, Feasibility, and Small-Scale Implementation of a Web-Based Prognostic Tool—Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Cancer Survival Calculator

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

Background Population datasets and the Internet are playing an ever-growing role in the way cancer information is made available to providers, patients, and their caregivers. The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Cancer Survival Calculator (SEER*CSC) is a Web-based cancer prognostic tool that uses SEER data, a large population dataset, to provide physicians with highly valid, evidence-based prognostic estimates for increasing shared decision-making and improving patient-provider communication of complex health information. Objective The aim of this study was to develop, test, and implement SEER*CSC. Methods An iterative approach was used to develop the SEER*CSC. Based on input from cancer patient advocacy groups and physicians, an initial version of the tool was developed. Next, providers from 4 health care delivery systems were recruited to do formal usability testing of SEER*CSC. A revised version of SEER*CSC was then implemented in two health care delivery sites using a real-world clinical implementation approach, and usage data were collected. Post-implementation follow-up interviews were conducted with site champions. Finally, patients from two cancer advocacy groups participated in usability testing. Results Overall feedback of SEER*CSC from both providers and patients was positive, with providers noting that the tool was professional and reliable, and patients finding it to be informational and helpful to use when discussing their diagnosis with their provider. However, use during the small-scale implementation was low. Reasons for low usage included time to enter data, not having treatment options in the tool, and the tool not being incorporated into the electronic health record (EHR). Patients found the language in its current version to be too complex. Conclusions The implementation and usability results showed that participants were enthusiastic about the use and features of SEER*CSC, but sustained implementation in a real-world clinical setting faced significant challenges. As a result of these findings, SEER*CSC is being redesigned with more accessible language for a public facing release. Meta-tools, which put different tools in context of each other, are needed to assist in understanding the strengths and limitations of various tools and their place in the clinical decision-making pathway. The continued development and eventual release of prognostic tools should include feedback from multidisciplinary health care teams, various stakeholder groups, patients, and caregivers. PMID:28729232

Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) Graphics Processing Board (GPB) Radiation Test Evaluation Report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Salazar, George A.; Steele, Glen F.

2013-01-01

Large round trip communications latency for deep space missions will require more onboard computational capabilities to enable the space vehicle to undertake many tasks that have traditionally been ground-based, mission control responsibilities. As a result, visual display graphics will be required to provide simpler vehicle situational awareness through graphical representations, as well as provide capabilities never before done in a space mission, such as augmented reality for in-flight maintenance or Telepresence activities. These capabilities will require graphics processors and associated support electronic components for high computational graphics processing. In an effort to understand the performance of commercial graphics card electronics operating in the expected radiation environment, a preliminary test was performed on five commercial offthe- shelf (COTS) graphics cards. This paper discusses the preliminary evaluation test results of five COTS graphics processing cards tested to the International Space Station (ISS) low earth orbit radiation environment. Three of the five graphics cards were tested to a total dose of 6000 rads (Si). The test articles, test configuration, preliminary results, and recommendations are discussed.

Evaluating virtual hosted desktops for graphics-intensive astronomy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meade, B. F.; Fluke, C. J.

2018-04-01

Visualisation of data is critical to understanding astronomical phenomena. Today, many instruments produce datasets that are too big to be downloaded to a local computer, yet many of the visualisation tools used by astronomers are deployed only on desktop computers. Cloud computing is increasingly used to provide a computation and simulation platform in astronomy, but it also offers great potential as a visualisation platform. Virtual hosted desktops, with graphics processing unit (GPU) acceleration, allow interactive, graphics-intensive desktop applications to operate co-located with astronomy datasets stored in remote data centres. By combining benchmarking and user experience testing, with a cohort of 20 astronomers, we investigate the viability of replacing physical desktop computers with virtual hosted desktops. In our work, we compare two Apple MacBook computers (one old and one new, representing hardware and opposite ends of the useful lifetime) with two virtual hosted desktops: one commercial (Amazon Web Services) and one in a private research cloud (the Australian NeCTAR Research Cloud). For two-dimensional image-based tasks and graphics-intensive three-dimensional operations - typical of astronomy visualisation workflows - we found that benchmarks do not necessarily provide the best indication of performance. When compared to typical laptop computers, virtual hosted desktops can provide a better user experience, even with lower performing graphics cards. We also found that virtual hosted desktops are equally simple to use, provide greater flexibility in choice of configuration, and may actually be a more cost-effective option for typical usage profiles.

Configurable software for satellite graphics

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

Hartzman, P D

An important goal in interactive computer graphics is to provide users with both quick system responses for basic graphics functions and enough computing power for complex calculations. One solution is to have a distributed graphics system in which a minicomputer and a powerful large computer share the work. The most versatile type of distributed system is an intelligent satellite system in which the minicomputer is programmable by the application user and can do most of the work while the large remote machine is used for difficult computations. At New York University, the hardware was configured from available equipment. The levelmore » of system intelligence resulted almost completely from software development. Unlike previous work with intelligent satellites, the resulting system had system control centered in the satellite. It also had the ability to reconfigure software during realtime operation. The design of the system was done at a very high level using set theoretic language. The specification clearly illustrated processor boundaries and interfaces. The high-level specification also produced a compact, machine-independent virtual graphics data structure for picture representation. The software was written in a systems implementation language; thus, only one set of programs was needed for both machines. A user can program both machines in a single language. Tests of the system with an application program indicate that is has very high potential. A major result of this work is the demonstration that a gigantic investment in new hardware is not necessary for computing facilities interested in graphics.« less

Integration of rocket turbine design and analysis through computer graphics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hsu, Wayne; Boynton, Jim

1988-01-01

An interactive approach with engineering computer graphics is used to integrate the design and analysis processes of a rocket engine turbine into a progressive and iterative design procedure. The processes are interconnected through pre- and postprocessors. The graphics are used to generate the blade profiles, their stacking, finite element generation, and analysis presentation through color graphics. Steps of the design process discussed include pitch-line design, axisymmetric hub-to-tip meridional design, and quasi-three-dimensional analysis. The viscous two- and three-dimensional analysis codes are executed after acceptable designs are achieved and estimates of initial losses are confirmed.

Interactive Computing and Graphics in Undergraduate Digital Signal Processing. Microcomputing Working Paper Series F 84-9.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Onaral, Banu; And Others

This report describes the development of a Drexel University electrical and computer engineering course on digital filter design that used interactive computing and graphics, and was one of three courses in a senior-level sequence on digital signal processing (DSP). Interactive and digital analysis/design routines and the interconnection of these…

ResidPlots-2: Computer Software for IRT Graphical Residual Analyses

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Liang, Tie; Han, Kyung T.; Hambleton, Ronald K.

2009-01-01

This article discusses the ResidPlots-2, a computer software that provides a powerful tool for IRT graphical residual analyses. ResidPlots-2 consists of two components: a component for computing residual statistics and another component for communicating with users and for plotting the residual graphs. The features of the ResidPlots-2 software are…

Interactive computer graphics system for structural sizing and analysis of aircraft structures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bendavid, D.; Pipano, A.; Raibstein, A.; Somekh, E.

1975-01-01

A computerized system for preliminary sizing and analysis of aircraft wing and fuselage structures was described. The system is based upon repeated application of analytical program modules, which are interactively interfaced and sequence-controlled during the iterative design process with the aid of design-oriented graphics software modules. The entire process is initiated and controlled via low-cost interactive graphics terminals driven by a remote computer in a time-sharing mode.

Iconographic dental typography. A dental character font for computer graphics.

PubMed

McCormack, J

1991-06-08

The recent massive increase in available memory for microcomputers now allows multiple font faces to be stored in computer RAM memory for instant access to the screen and for printed output. Fonts can be constructed in which the characters are not just letters or numbers, but are miniature graphic icons--in this instance pictures of teeth. When printed on an appropriate laser printer, this produces printed graphics of publishing quality.

Graphics and Flow Visualization of Computer Generated Flow Fields

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kathong, M.; Tiwari, S. N.

1987-01-01

Flow field variables are visualized using color representations described on surfaces that are interpolated from computational grids and transformed to digital images. Techniques for displaying two and three dimensional flow field solutions are addressed. The transformations and the use of an interactive graphics program for CFD flow field solutions, called PLOT3D, which runs on the color graphics IRIS workstation are described. An overview of the IRIS workstation is also described.

Taming Crowded Visual Scenes

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-08-12

Nolan Warner, Mubarak Shah. Tracking in Dense Crowds Using Prominenceand Neighborhood Motion Concurrence, IEEE Transactions on Pattern Analysis...of  computer  vision,   computer   graphics  and  evacuation  dynamics  by  providing  a  common  platform,  and  provides...areas  that  includes  Computer  Vision,  Computer   Graphics ,  and  Pedestrian   Evacuation  Dynamics.  Despite  the

Designer: A Knowledge-Based Graphic Design Assistant.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Weitzman, Louis

This report describes Designer, an interactive tool for assisting with the design of two-dimensional graphic interfaces for instructional systems. The system, which consists of a color graphics interface to a mathematical simulation, provides enhancements to the Graphics Editor component of Steamer (a computer-based training system designed to aid…

CHARGE Image Generator: Theory of Operation and Author Language Support. Technical Report 75-3.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gunwaldsen, Roger L.

The image generator function and author language software support for the CHARGE (Color Halftone Area Graphics Environment) Interactive Graphics System are described. Designed initially for use in computer-assisted instruction (CAI) systems, the CHARGE Interactive Graphics System can provide graphic displays for various applications including…

Using Three-Dimensional Interactive Graphics To Teach Equipment Procedures.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hamel, Cheryl J.; Ryan-Jones, David L.

1997-01-01

Focuses on how three-dimensional graphical and interactive features of computer-based instruction can enhance learning and support human cognition during technical training of equipment procedures. Presents guidelines for using three-dimensional interactive graphics to teach equipment procedures based on studies of the effects of graphics, motion,…

Cinnamides as selective small-molecule inhibitors of a cellular model of breast cancer stem cells.

PubMed

Germain, Andrew R; Carmody, Leigh C; Nag, Partha P; Morgan, Barbara; Verplank, Lynn; Fernandez, Cristina; Donckele, Etienne; Feng, Yuxiong; Perez, Jose R; Dandapani, Sivaraman; Palmer, Michelle; Lander, Eric S; Gupta, Piyush B; Schreiber, Stuart L; Munoz, Benito

2013-03-15

A high-throughput screen (HTS) was conducted against stably propagated cancer stem cell (CSC)-enriched populations using a library of 300,718 compounds from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Molecular Libraries Small Molecule Repository (MLSMR). A cinnamide analog displayed greater than 20-fold selective inhibition of the breast CSC-like cell line (HMLE_sh_Ecad) over the isogenic control cell line (HMLE_sh_eGFP). Herein, we report structure-activity relationships of this class of cinnamides for selective lethality towards CSC-enriched populations. Copyright © 2013. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

The relation of somatotypes and stress response to central serous chorioretinopathy.

PubMed

Schwartz, Roy; Rozenberg, Assaf; Loewenstein, Anat; Goldstein, Michaella

2017-12-01

To investigate a possible relationship between central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) and specific body types and compositions (somatotypes), and to examine the cortisol stress response among CSC patients of different somatotypes in comparison with healthy subjects. Prospective case-control study. A group of 28 patients with a previous or current diagnosis of CSC was compared with a group of 26 healthy subjects. Anthropometric measurements were used to estimate somatotype ratings in all subjects. Serum cortisol was measured at rest and following a stress-inducing computerized test in order to estimate response to stress in both groups. The main outcome measures included somatotype categorization and the change in serum cortisol following stress in both groups. No significant difference in somatotype composition was found between the groups. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups in the elevation of cortisol following the stress-inducing test. The sample size was too small to exclude or find any significant difference between the different 13 subgroups of somatotype composition in the elevation of cortisol. Our study did not show a typical somatotype related to CSC. While previous studies showed higher cortisol values in CSC patients, we did not see a higher elevation in blood cortisol following a stress response in this group in comparison with healthy subjects.

A novel sol-gel-derived calcium silicate cement with short setting time for application in endodontic repair of perforations

PubMed Central

Lee, Bor-Shiunn; Lin, Hong-Ping; Chan, Jerry Chun-Chung; Wang, Wei-Chuan; Hung, Ping-Hsuan; Tsai, Yu-Hsin; Lee, Yuan-Ling

2018-01-01

Mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) is the most frequently used repair material in endodontics, but the long setting time and reduced mechanical strength in acidic environments are major shortcomings. In this study, a novel sol-gel-derived calcium silicate cement (sCSC) was developed using an initial Ca/Si molar ratio of 3, with the most effective mixing orders of reactants and optimal HNO3 catalyst volumes. A Fourier transform infrared spectrometer, scanning electron microscope with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and X-ray powder diffractometer were used for material characterization. The setting time, compressive strength, and microhardness of sCSC after hydration in neutral and pH 5 environments were compared with that of MTA. Results showed that sCSC demonstrated porous microstructures with a setting time of ~30 min, and the major components of sCSC were tricalcium silicate, dicalcium silicate, and calcium oxide. The optimal formula of sCSC was sn200, which exhibited significantly higher compressive strength and microhardness than MTA, irrespective of neutral or pH 5 environments. In addition, both sn200 and MTA demonstrated good biocompatibility because cell viability was similar to that of the control. These findings suggest that sn200 merits further clinical study for potential application in endodontic repair of perforations. PMID:29386894

A novel sol-gel-derived calcium silicate cement with short setting time for application in endodontic repair of perforations.

PubMed

Lee, Bor-Shiunn; Lin, Hong-Ping; Chan, Jerry Chun-Chung; Wang, Wei-Chuan; Hung, Ping-Hsuan; Tsai, Yu-Hsin; Lee, Yuan-Ling

2018-01-01

Mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) is the most frequently used repair material in endodontics, but the long setting time and reduced mechanical strength in acidic environments are major shortcomings. In this study, a novel sol-gel-derived calcium silicate cement (sCSC) was developed using an initial Ca/Si molar ratio of 3, with the most effective mixing orders of reactants and optimal HNO 3 catalyst volumes. A Fourier transform infrared spectrometer, scanning electron microscope with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and X-ray powder diffractometer were used for material characterization. The setting time, compressive strength, and microhardness of sCSC after hydration in neutral and pH 5 environments were compared with that of MTA. Results showed that sCSC demonstrated porous microstructures with a setting time of ~30 min, and the major components of sCSC were tricalcium silicate, dicalcium silicate, and calcium oxide. The optimal formula of sCSC was sn200, which exhibited significantly higher compressive strength and microhardness than MTA, irrespective of neutral or pH 5 environments. In addition, both sn200 and MTA demonstrated good biocompatibility because cell viability was similar to that of the control. These findings suggest that sn200 merits further clinical study for potential application in endodontic repair of perforations.

Direct observation of the effects of cellulose synthesis inhibitors using live cell imaging of Cellulose Synthase (CESA) in Physcomitrella patens.

PubMed

Tran, Mai L; McCarthy, Thomas W; Sun, Hao; Wu, Shu-Zon; Norris, Joanna H; Bezanilla, Magdalena; Vidali, Luis; Anderson, Charles T; Roberts, Alison W

2018-01-15

Results from live cell imaging of fluorescently tagged Cellulose Synthase (CESA) proteins in Cellulose Synthesis Complexes (CSCs) have enhanced our understanding of cellulose biosynthesis, including the mechanisms of action of cellulose synthesis inhibitors. However, this method has been applied only in Arabidopsis thaliana and Brachypodium distachyon thus far. Results from freeze fracture electron microscopy of protonemal filaments of the moss Funaria hygrometrica indicate that a cellulose synthesis inhibitor, 2,6-dichlorobenzonitrile (DCB), fragments CSCs and clears them from the plasma membrane. This differs from Arabidopsis, in which DCB causes CSC accumulation in the plasma membrane and a different cellulose synthesis inhibitor, isoxaben, clears CSCs from the plasma membrane. In this study, live cell imaging of the moss Physcomitrella patens indicated that DCB and isoxaben have little effect on protonemal growth rates, and that only DCB causes tip rupture. Live cell imaging of mEGFP-PpCESA5 and mEGFP-PpCESA8 showed that DCB and isoxaben substantially reduced CSC movement, but had no measureable effect on CSC density in the plasma membrane. These results suggest that DCB and isoxaben have similar effects on CSC movement in P. patens and Arabidopsis, but have different effects on CSC intracellular trafficking, cell growth and cell integrity in these divergent plant lineages.

The Chandra Source Catalog 2.0: Early Cross-matches

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rots, Arnold H.; Allen, Christopher E.; Anderson, Craig S.; Budynkiewicz, Jamie A.; Burke, Douglas; Chen, Judy C.; Civano, Francesca Maria; D'Abrusco, Raffaele; Doe, Stephen M.; Evans, Ian N.; Evans, Janet D.; Fabbiano, Giuseppina; Gibbs, Danny G., II; Glotfelty, Kenny J.; Graessle, Dale E.; Grier, John D.; Hain, Roger; Hall, Diane M.; Harbo, Peter N.; Houck, John C.; Lauer, Jennifer L.; Laurino, Omar; Lee, Nicholas P.; Martínez-Galarza, Rafael; McCollough, Michael L.; McDowell, Jonathan C.; Miller, Joseph; McLaughlin, Warren; Morgan, Douglas L.; Mossman, Amy E.; Nguyen, Dan T.; Nichols, Joy S.; Nowak, Michael A.; Paxson, Charles; Plummer, David A.; Primini, Francis Anthony; Siemiginowska, Aneta; Sundheim, Beth A.; Tibbetts, Michael; Van Stone, David W.; Zografou, Panagoula

2018-01-01

Cross-matching the Chandra Source Catalog (CSC) with other catalogs presents considerable challenges, since the Point Spread Function (PSF) of the Chandra X-ray Observatory varies significantly over the field of view. For the second release of the CSC (CSC2) we have been developing a cross-match tool that is based on the Bayesian algorithms by Budavari, Heinis, and Szalay (ApJ 679, 301 and 705, 739), making use of the error ellipses for the derived positions of the sources.However, calculating match probabilities only on the basis of error ellipses breaks down when the PSFs are significantly different. Not only can bonafide matches easily be missed, but the scene is also muddied by ambiguous multiple matches. These are issues that are not commonly addressed in cross-match tools. We have applied a satisfactory modification to the algorithm that, although not perfect, ameliorates the problems for the vast majority of such cases.We will present some early cross-matches of the CSC2 catalog with obvious candidate catalogs and report on the determination of the absolute astrometric error of the CSC2 based on such cross-matches.This work has been supported by NASA under contract NAS 8-03060 to the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory for operation of the Chandra X-ray Center.

The Wnt/β-catenin signaling/Id2 cascade mediates the effects of hypoxia on the hierarchy of colorectal-cancer stem cells.

PubMed

Dong, Hye-Jin; Jang, Gyu-Beom; Lee, Hwa-Yong; Park, Se-Ra; Kim, Ji-Young; Nam, Jeong-Seok; Hong, In-Sun

2016-03-11

Hypoxia, a feature common to most solid tumors, is known to regulate many aspects of tumorigenesis. Recently, it was suggested that hypoxia increased the size of the cancer stem-cell (CSC) subpopulations and promoted the acquisition of a CSC-like phenotype. However, candidate hypoxia-regulated mediators specifically relevant to the stemness-related functions of colorectal CSCs have not been examined in detail. In the present study, we showed that hypoxia specifically promoted the self-renewal potential of CSCs. Through various in vitro studies, we found that hypoxia-induced Wnt/β-catenin signaling increased the occurrence of CSC-like phenotypes and the level of Id2 expression in colorectal-cancer cells. Importantly, the levels of hypoxia-induced CSC-sphere formation and Id2 expression were successfully attenuated by treatment with a Wnt/β-catenin-signaling inhibitor. We further demonstrated, for the first time, that the degree of hypoxia-induced CSC-sphere formation (CD44(+) subpopulation) in vitro and of tumor metastasis/dissemination in vivo were markedly suppressed by knocking down Id2 expression. Taken together, these data suggested that Wnt/β-catenin signaling mediated the hypoxia-induced self-renewal potential of colorectal-cancer CSCs through reactivating Id2 expression.

Effects of Cetuximab and Erlotinib on the behaviour of cancer stem cells in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.

PubMed

Setúbal Destro Rodrigues, Maria Fernanda; Gammon, Luke; Rahman, Muhammad M; Biddle, Adrian; Nunes, Fabio Daumas; Mackenzie, Ian C

2018-03-02

The therapeutic responses of many solid tumours to chemo- and radio-therapies are far from fully effective but therapies targeting malignancy-related cellular changes show promise for further control. In head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is commonly overexpressed and investigation of agents that block this receptor indicate a limited response when used alone but an ability to enhance the actions of other drugs. The hierarchical stem cell patterns present in tumours generate cellular heterogeneity and this is further complicated by cancer stem cells (CSC) shifting between epithelial (Epi-CSC) and mesenchymal (EMT-CSC) states. To clarify how such heterogeneity influences responses to EGFR blocking, we examined the effects of Cetuximab and Erlotinib on the cell sub-populations in HNSCC cell lines. These agents reduced cell proliferation for all subpopulations but induced little cell death. They did however induce large shifts of cells between the EMT-CSC, Epi-CSC and differentiating cell compartments. Loss of EMT-CSCs reduced cell motility and is expected to reduce invasion and metastasis. EGFR blocking also induced shifts of Epi-CSCs into the differentiating cell compartment which typically has greater sensitivity to chemo/radiation, an effect expected to enhance the overall response of tumour cell populations to adjunctive therapies.

Antitumor immunity and cancer stem cells.

PubMed

Schatton, Tobias; Frank, Markus H

2009-09-01

Self-renewing cancer stem cells (CSC) capable of spawning more differentiated tumor cell progeny are required for tumorigenesis and neoplastic progression of leukemias and several solid cancers. The mechanisms by which CSC cause tumor initiation and growth are currently unknown. Recent findings that suggest a negative correlation between degrees of host immunocompetence and rates of cancer development raise the possibility that only a restricted minority of malignant cells, namely CSC, may possess the phenotypic and functional characteristics to evade host antitumor immunity. In human malignant melanoma, a highly immunogenic cancer, we recently identified malignant melanoma initiating cells (MMIC), a novel type of CSC, based on selective expression of the chemoresistance mediator ABCB5. Here we present evidence of a relative immune privilege of ABCB5(+) MMIC, suggesting refractoriness to current immunotherapeutic treatment strategies. We discuss our findings in the context of established immunomodulatory functions of physiologic stem cells and in relation to mechanisms responsible for the downregulation of immune responses against tumors. We propose that the MMIC subset might be responsible for melanoma immune evasion and that immunomodulation might represent one mechanism by which CSC advance tumorigenic growth and resistance to immunotherapy. Accordingly, the possibility of an MMIC-driven tumor escape from immune-mediated rejection has important implications for current melanoma immunotherapy.

Antitumor Immunity and Cancer Stem Cells

PubMed Central

Schatton, Tobias; Frank, Markus H.

2010-01-01

Self-renewing cancer stem cells (CSC) capable of spawning more differentiated tumor cell progeny are required for tumorigenesis and neoplastic progression of leukemias and several solid cancers. The mechanisms by which CSC cause tumor initiation and growth are currently unknown. Recent findings that suggest a negative correlation between degrees of host immunocompetence and rates of cancer development raise the possibility that only a restricted minority of malignant cells, namely CSC, may possess the phenotypic and functional characteristics to evade host antitumor immunity. In human malignant melanoma, a highly immunogenic cancer, we recently identified malignant melanoma initiating cells (MMIC), a novel type of CSC, based on selective expression of the chemoresistance mediator ABCB5. Here we present evidence of a relative immune privilege of ABCB5+ MMIC, suggesting refractoriness to current immunotherapeutic treatment strategies. We discuss our findings in the context of established immunomodulatory functions of physiologic stem cells and in relation to mechanisms responsible for the downregulation of immune responses against tumors. We propose that the MMIC subset might be responsible for melanoma immune evasion and that immunomodulation might represent one mechanism by which CSC advance tumorigenic growth and resistance to immunotherapy. Accordingly, the possibility of an MMIC-driven tumor escape from immune-mediated rejection has important implications for current melanoma immunotherapy. PMID:19796244

Effects of Cetuximab and Erlotinib on the behaviour of cancer stem cells in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

PubMed Central

Setúbal Destro Rodrigues, Maria Fernanda; Gammon, Luke; Rahman, Muhammad M.; Biddle, Adrian; Nunes, Fabio Daumas; Mackenzie, Ian C.

2018-01-01

The therapeutic responses of many solid tumours to chemo- and radio-therapies are far from fully effective but therapies targeting malignancy-related cellular changes show promise for further control. In head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is commonly overexpressed and investigation of agents that block this receptor indicate a limited response when used alone but an ability to enhance the actions of other drugs. The hierarchical stem cell patterns present in tumours generate cellular heterogeneity and this is further complicated by cancer stem cells (CSC) shifting between epithelial (Epi-CSC) and mesenchymal (EMT-CSC) states. To clarify how such heterogeneity influences responses to EGFR blocking, we examined the effects of Cetuximab and Erlotinib on the cell sub-populations in HNSCC cell lines. These agents reduced cell proliferation for all subpopulations but induced little cell death. They did however induce large shifts of cells between the EMT-CSC, Epi-CSC and differentiating cell compartments. Loss of EMT-CSCs reduced cell motility and is expected to reduce invasion and metastasis. EGFR blocking also induced shifts of Epi-CSCs into the differentiating cell compartment which typically has greater sensitivity to chemo/radiation, an effect expected to enhance the overall response of tumour cell populations to adjunctive therapies. PMID:29568372

Increased anxiety, voluntary alcohol consumption and ethanol-induced place preference in mice following chronic psychosocial stress.

PubMed

Bahi, Amine

2013-07-01

Stress exposure is known to be a risk factor for alcohol use and anxiety disorders. Comorbid chronic stress and alcohol dependence may lead to a complicated and potentially severe treatment profile. To gain an understanding of the interaction between chronic psychosocial stress and drug exposure, we studied the effects of concomitant chronic stress exposure on alcohol reward using two-bottle choice and ethanol-conditioned place preference (CPP). The study consisted of exposure of the chronic subordinate colony (CSC) mice "intruders" to an aggressive "resident" mouse for 19 consecutive days. Control mice were single housed (SHC). Ethanol consumption using two-bottle choice paradigm and ethanol CPP acquisition was assessed at the end of this time period. As expected, CSC exposure increased anxiety-like behavior and reduced weight gain as compared to SHC controls. Importantly, in the two-bottle choice procedure, CSC mice showed higher alcohol intake than SHC. When testing their response to ethanol-induced CPP, CSC mice achieved higher preference for the ethanol-paired chamber. In fact, CSC exposure increased ethanol-CPP acquisition. Taken together, these data demonstrate the long-term consequences of chronic psychosocial stress on alcohol intake in male mice, suggesting chronic stress as a risk factor for developing alcohol consumption and/or anxiety disorders.

Working alliance inventory applied to virtual and augmented reality (WAI-VAR): psychometrics and therapeutic outcomes

PubMed Central

Miragall, Marta; Baños, Rosa M.; Cebolla, Ausiàs; Botella, Cristina

2015-01-01

This study examines the psychometric properties of the Working Alliance Inventory-Short (WAI-S) adaptation to Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) therapies (WAI-VAR). The relationship between the therapeutic alliance (TA) with VR and AR and clinically significant change (CSC) is also explored. Seventy-five patients took part in this study (74.7% women, Mage = 34.41). Fear of flying and adjustment disorder patients received VR therapy, and cockroach phobia patients received AR therapy. Psychometric properties, CSC, one-way ANOVA, Spearman’s Correlations and Multiple Regression were calculated. The WAI-VAR showed a unidimensional structure, high internal consistency and adequate convergent validity. “Not changed” patients scored lower on the WAI-VAR than “improved” and “recovered” patients. Correlation between the WAI-VAR and CSC was moderate. The best fitting model for predicting CSC was a linear combination of the TA with therapist (WAI-S) and the TA with VR and AR (WAI-VAR), due to the latter variable slightly increased the percentage of variability accounted for in CSC. The WAI-VAR is the first validated instrument to measure the TA with VR and AR in research and clinical practice. This study reveals the importance of the quality of the TA with technologies in achieving positive outcomes in the therapy. PMID:26500589

Working alliance inventory applied to virtual and augmented reality (WAI-VAR): psychometrics and therapeutic outcomes.

PubMed

Miragall, Marta; Baños, Rosa M; Cebolla, Ausiàs; Botella, Cristina

2015-01-01

This study examines the psychometric properties of the Working Alliance Inventory-Short (WAI-S) adaptation to Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) therapies (WAI-VAR). The relationship between the therapeutic alliance (TA) with VR and AR and clinically significant change (CSC) is also explored. Seventy-five patients took part in this study (74.7% women, M age = 34.41). Fear of flying and adjustment disorder patients received VR therapy, and cockroach phobia patients received AR therapy. Psychometric properties, CSC, one-way ANOVA, Spearman's Correlations and Multiple Regression were calculated. The WAI-VAR showed a unidimensional structure, high internal consistency and adequate convergent validity. "Not changed" patients scored lower on the WAI-VAR than "improved" and "recovered" patients. Correlation between the WAI-VAR and CSC was moderate. The best fitting model for predicting CSC was a linear combination of the TA with therapist (WAI-S) and the TA with VR and AR (WAI-VAR), due to the latter variable slightly increased the percentage of variability accounted for in CSC. The WAI-VAR is the first validated instrument to measure the TA with VR and AR in research and clinical practice. This study reveals the importance of the quality of the TA with technologies in achieving positive outcomes in the therapy.

Stem cells as the root of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma

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

Balic, Anamaria; Dorado, Jorge; Alonso-Gomez, Mercedes

2012-04-01

Emerging evidence suggests that stem cells play a crucial role not only in the generation and maintenance of different tissues, but also in the development and progression of malignancies. For the many solid cancers, it has now been shown that they harbor a distinct subpopulation of cancer cells that bear stem cell features and therefore, these cells are termed cancer stem cells (CSC) or tumor-propagating cells. CSC are exclusively tumorigenic and essential drivers for tumor progression and metastasis. Moreover, it has been shown that pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma does not only contain one homogeneous population of CSC rather than diverse subpopulationsmore » that may have evolved during tumor progression. One of these populations is called migrating CSC and can be characterized by CXCR4 co-expression. Only these cells are capable of evading the primary tumor and traveling to distant sites such as the liver as the preferred site of metastatic spread. Clinically even more important, however, is the observation that CSC are highly resistant to chemo- and radiotherapy resulting in their relative enrichment during treatment and rapid relapse of disease. Many laboratories are now working on the further in-depth characterization of these cells, which may eventually allow for the identification of their Achilles heal and lead to novel treatment modalities for fighting this deadly disease.« less

Caryophyllane sesquiterpenes inhibit DNA-damage by tobacco smoke in bacterial and mammalian cells.

PubMed

Di Giacomo, Silvia; Abete, Lorena; Cocchiola, Rossana; Mazzanti, Gabriela; Eufemi, Margherita; Di Sotto, Antonella

2018-01-01

In the present study, the ability of the natural sesquiterpene β-caryophyllene (CRY) and its metabolite β-caryophyllene oxide (CRYO) to inhibit the genotoxicity of a condensate of cigarette smoke (CSC) was evaluated both in bacterial and mammalian cells. Also, the inhibition of the CSC-mediated STAT3 phosphorylation and intracellular oxidative stress was evaluated as potential chemopreventive mechanism. Under our experimental conditions, both the sesquiterpenes exhibited antimutagenic properties, being CRY the most potent compound. The antimutagenicity was highlighted in all experimental protocols, being particularly strong in the co- and post-treatments. The test substances also reduced the micronuclei frequency induced by CSC, with a major effectiveness of CRY. CRY was also able to reduce the CSC-mediated increase of the Y705- pSTAT3 levels, in spite of a lacking effect of CRYO. Furthermore, the sesquiterpenes CRY and CRYO displayed a moderate antioxidant activity, with a 25 % and 40 % inhibition of the ROS-levels increased by CSC, respectively. On the basis of these results, CRY seems to be a multi-target chemopreventive agent, although the genoprotective and antioxidant effects of CRYO suggest that both compounds deserve to be deeply investigated for a possible application in the prevention and treatment of different smoke-related ailments. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Cancer stem cell drugs target K-ras signaling in a stemness context

PubMed Central

Najumudeen, A K; Jaiswal, A; Lectez, B; Oetken-Lindholm, C; Guzmán, C; Siljamäki, E; Posada, I M D; Lacey, E; Aittokallio, T; Abankwa, D

2016-01-01

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are considered to be responsible for treatment relapse and have therefore become a major target in cancer research. Salinomycin is the most established CSC inhibitor. However, its primary mechanistic target is still unclear, impeding the discovery of compounds with similar anti-CSC activity. Here, we show that salinomycin very specifically interferes with the activity of K-ras4B, but not H-ras, by disrupting its nanoscale membrane organization. We found that caveolae negatively regulate the sensitivity to this drug. On the basis of this novel mechanistic insight, we defined a K-ras-associated and stem cell-derived gene expression signature that predicts the drug response of cancer cells to salinomycin. Consistent with therapy resistance of CSC, 8% of tumor samples in the TCGA-database displayed our signature and were associated with a significantly higher mortality. Using our K-ras-specific screening platform, we identified several new candidate CSC drugs. Two of these, ophiobolin A and conglobatin A, possessed a similar or higher potency than salinomycin. Finally, we established that the most potent compound, ophiobolin A, exerts its K-ras4B-specific activity through inactivation of calmodulin. Our data suggest that specific interference with the K-ras4B/calmodulin interaction selectively inhibits CSC. PMID:26973241

76 FR 20974 - Owyhee Hydro, LLC; of Preliminary Permit Application Accepted for Filing and Soliciting Comments...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-04-14

...-foot-long, 15.5- foot diameter concrete-lined low-pressure tunnel; (4) a 5,870-foot- long, 15.5-foot-diameter concrete-lined pressure shaft; (5) a 1,815- foot-long, 18.6-foot-diameter concrete-lined tailrace... storage capacity of 8,235-acre-foot; (3) a 1,190-foot-long, 15.5-foot-diameter concrete-lined low-pressure...

The development of the Canadian Mobile Servicing System Kinematic Simulation Facility

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Beyer, G.; Diebold, B.; Brimley, W.; Kleinberg, H.

1989-01-01

Canada will develop a Mobile Servicing System (MSS) as its contribution to the U.S./International Space Station Freedom. Components of the MSS will include a remote manipulator (SSRMS), a Special Purpose Dexterous Manipulator (SPDM), and a mobile base (MRS). In order to support requirements analysis and the evaluation of operational concepts related to the use of the MSS, a graphics based kinematic simulation/human-computer interface facility has been created. The facility consists of the following elements: (1) A two-dimensional graphics editor allowing the rapid development of virtual control stations; (2) Kinematic simulations of the space station remote manipulators (SSRMS and SPDM), and mobile base; and (3) A three-dimensional graphics model of the space station, MSS, orbiter, and payloads. These software elements combined with state of the art computer graphics hardware provide the capability to prototype MSS workstations, evaluate MSS operational capabilities, and investigate the human-computer interface in an interactive simulation environment. The graphics technology involved in the development and use of this facility is described.

Microcomputer Simulated CAD for Engineering Graphics.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Huggins, David L.; Myers, Roy E.

1983-01-01

Describes a simulated computer-aided-graphics (CAD) program at The Pennsylvania State University. Rationale for the program, facilities, microcomputer equipment (Apple) used, and development of a software package for simulating applied engineering graphics are considered. (JN)

Artwork Interactive Design System (AIDS) program description

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnson, B. T.; Taylor, J. F.

1976-01-01

An artwork interactive design system is described which provides the microelectronic circuit designer/engineer a tool to perform circuit design, automatic layout modification, standard cell design, and artwork verification at a graphics computer terminal using a graphics tablet at the designer/computer interface.

Computer Graphics Instruction in VizClass

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Grimes, Douglas; Warschauer, Mark; Hutchinson, Tara; Kuester, Falko

2005-01-01

"VizClass" is a university classroom environment designed to offer students in computer graphics and engineering courses up-to-date visualization technologies. Three digital whiteboards and a three-dimensional stereoscopic display provide complementary display surfaces. Input devices include touchscreens on the digital whiteboards, remote…

Computer-aided design of large-scale integrated circuits - A concept

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schansman, T. T.

1971-01-01

Circuit design and mask development sequence are improved by using general purpose computer with interactive graphics capability establishing efficient two way communications link between design engineer and system. Interactive graphics capability places design engineer in direct control of circuit development.

Use of a graphics processing unit (GPU) to facilitate real-time 3D graphic presentation of the patient skin-dose distribution during fluoroscopic interventional procedures

PubMed Central

Rana, Vijay; Rudin, Stephen; Bednarek, Daniel R.

2012-01-01

We have developed a dose-tracking system (DTS) that calculates the radiation dose to the patient’s skin in real-time by acquiring exposure parameters and imaging-system-geometry from the digital bus on a Toshiba Infinix C-arm unit. The cumulative dose values are then displayed as a color map on an OpenGL-based 3D graphic of the patient for immediate feedback to the interventionalist. Determination of those elements on the surface of the patient 3D-graphic that intersect the beam and calculation of the dose for these elements in real time demands fast computation. Reducing the size of the elements results in more computation load on the computer processor and therefore a tradeoff occurs between the resolution of the patient graphic and the real-time performance of the DTS. The speed of the DTS for calculating dose to the skin is limited by the central processing unit (CPU) and can be improved by using the parallel processing power of a graphics processing unit (GPU). Here, we compare the performance speed of GPU-based DTS software to that of the current CPU-based software as a function of the resolution of the patient graphics. Results show a tremendous improvement in speed using the GPU. While an increase in the spatial resolution of the patient graphics resulted in slowing down the computational speed of the DTS on the CPU, the speed of the GPU-based DTS was hardly affected. This GPU-based DTS can be a powerful tool for providing accurate, real-time feedback about patient skin-dose to physicians while performing interventional procedures. PMID:24027616

Use of a graphics processing unit (GPU) to facilitate real-time 3D graphic presentation of the patient skin-dose distribution during fluoroscopic interventional procedures.

PubMed

Rana, Vijay; Rudin, Stephen; Bednarek, Daniel R

2012-02-23

We have developed a dose-tracking system (DTS) that calculates the radiation dose to the patient's skin in real-time by acquiring exposure parameters and imaging-system-geometry from the digital bus on a Toshiba Infinix C-arm unit. The cumulative dose values are then displayed as a color map on an OpenGL-based 3D graphic of the patient for immediate feedback to the interventionalist. Determination of those elements on the surface of the patient 3D-graphic that intersect the beam and calculation of the dose for these elements in real time demands fast computation. Reducing the size of the elements results in more computation load on the computer processor and therefore a tradeoff occurs between the resolution of the patient graphic and the real-time performance of the DTS. The speed of the DTS for calculating dose to the skin is limited by the central processing unit (CPU) and can be improved by using the parallel processing power of a graphics processing unit (GPU). Here, we compare the performance speed of GPU-based DTS software to that of the current CPU-based software as a function of the resolution of the patient graphics. Results show a tremendous improvement in speed using the GPU. While an increase in the spatial resolution of the patient graphics resulted in slowing down the computational speed of the DTS on the CPU, the speed of the GPU-based DTS was hardly affected. This GPU-based DTS can be a powerful tool for providing accurate, real-time feedback about patient skin-dose to physicians while performing interventional procedures.

Combining 3D structure of real video and synthetic objects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Man-Bae; Song, Mun-Sup; Kim, Do-Kyoon

1998-04-01

This paper presents a new approach of combining real video and synthetic objects. The purpose of this work is to use the proposed technology in the fields of advanced animation, virtual reality, games, and so forth. Computer graphics has been used in the fields previously mentioned. Recently, some applications have added real video to graphic scenes for the purpose of augmenting the realism that the computer graphics lacks in. This approach called augmented or mixed reality can produce more realistic environment that the entire use of computer graphics. Our approach differs from the virtual reality and augmented reality in the manner that computer- generated graphic objects are combined to 3D structure extracted from monocular image sequences. The extraction of the 3D structure requires the estimation of 3D depth followed by the construction of a height map. Graphic objects are then combined to the height map. The realization of our proposed approach is carried out in the following steps: (1) We derive 3D structure from test image sequences. The extraction of the 3D structure requires the estimation of depth and the construction of a height map. Due to the contents of the test sequence, the height map represents the 3D structure. (2) The height map is modeled by Delaunay triangulation or Bezier surface and each planar surface is texture-mapped. (3) Finally, graphic objects are combined to the height map. Because 3D structure of the height map is already known, Step (3) is easily manipulated. Following this procedure, we produced an animation video demonstrating the combination of the 3D structure and graphic models. Users can navigate the realistic 3D world whose associated image is rendered on the display monitor.

Dimensionality of visual complexity in computer graphics scenes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ramanarayanan, Ganesh; Bala, Kavita; Ferwerda, James A.; Walter, Bruce

2008-02-01

How do human observers perceive visual complexity in images? This problem is especially relevant for computer graphics, where a better understanding of visual complexity can aid in the development of more advanced rendering algorithms. In this paper, we describe a study of the dimensionality of visual complexity in computer graphics scenes. We conducted an experiment where subjects judged the relative complexity of 21 high-resolution scenes, rendered with photorealistic methods. Scenes were gathered from web archives and varied in theme, number and layout of objects, material properties, and lighting. We analyzed the subject responses using multidimensional scaling of pooled subject responses. This analysis embedded the stimulus images in a two-dimensional space, with axes that roughly corresponded to "numerosity" and "material / lighting complexity". In a follow-up analysis, we derived a one-dimensional complexity ordering of the stimulus images. We compared this ordering with several computable complexity metrics, such as scene polygon count and JPEG compression size, and did not find them to be very correlated. Understanding the differences between these measures can lead to the design of more efficient rendering algorithms in computer graphics.

The Chandra Source Catalog 2.0: Spectral Properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McCollough, Michael L.; Siemiginowska, Aneta; Burke, Douglas; Nowak, Michael A.; Primini, Francis Anthony; Laurino, Omar; Nguyen, Dan T.; Allen, Christopher E.; Anderson, Craig S.; Budynkiewicz, Jamie A.; Chen, Judy C.; Civano, Francesca Maria; D'Abrusco, Raffaele; Doe, Stephen M.; Evans, Ian N.; Evans, Janet D.; Fabbiano, Giuseppina; Gibbs, Danny G., II; Glotfelty, Kenny J.; Graessle, Dale E.; Grier, John D.; Hain, Roger; Hall, Diane M.; Harbo, Peter N.; Houck, John C.; Lauer, Jennifer L.; Lee, Nicholas P.; Martínez-Galarza, Juan Rafael; McDowell, Jonathan C.; Miller, Joseph; McLaughlin, Warren; Morgan, Douglas L.; Mossman, Amy E.; Nichols, Joy S.; Paxson, Charles; Plummer, David A.; Rots, Arnold H.; Sundheim, Beth A.; Tibbetts, Michael; Van Stone, David W.; Zografou, Panagoula; Chandra Source Catalog Team

2018-01-01

The second release of the Chandra Source Catalog (CSC) contains all sources identified from sixteen years' worth of publicly accessible observations. The vast majority of these sources have been observed with the ACIS detector and have spectral information in 0.5-7 keV energy range. Here we describe the methods used to automatically derive spectral properties for each source detected by the standard processing pipeline and included in the final CSC. The sources with high signal to noise ratio (exceeding 150 net counts) were fit in Sherpa (the modeling and fitting application from the Chandra Interactive Analysis of Observations package) using wstat as a fit statistic and Bayesian draws method to determine errors. Three models were fit to each source: an absorbed power-law, blackbody, and Bremsstrahlung emission. The fitted parameter values for the power-law, blackbody, and Bremsstrahlung models were included in the catalog with the calculated flux for each model. The CSC also provides the source energy fluxes computed from the normalizations of predefined absorbed power-law, black-body, Bremsstrahlung, and APEC models needed to match the observed net X-ray counts. For sources that have been observed multiple times we performed a Bayesian Blocks analysis will have been performed (see the Primini et al. poster) and the most significant block will have a joint fit performed for the mentioned spectral models. In addition, we provide access to data products for each source: a file with source spectrum, the background spectrum, and the spectral response of the detector. Hardness ratios were calculated for each source between pairs of energy bands (soft, medium and hard). This work has been supported by NASA under contract NAS 8-03060 to the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory for operation of the Chandra X-ray Center.

Effective correlator for RadioAstron project

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sergeev, Sergey

This paper presents the implementation of programme FX-correlator for Very Long Baseline Interferometry, adapted for the project "RadioAstron". Software correlator implemented for heterogeneous computing systems using graphics accelerators. It is shown that for the task interferometry implementation of the graphics hardware has a high efficiency. The host processor of heterogeneous computing system, performs the function of forming the data flow for graphics accelerators, the number of which corresponds to the number of frequency channels. So, for the Radioastron project, such channels is seven. Each accelerator is perform correlation matrix for all bases for a single frequency channel. Initial data is converted to the floating-point format, is correction for the corresponding delay function and computes the entire correlation matrix simultaneously. Calculation of the correlation matrix is performed using the sliding Fourier transform. Thus, thanks to the compliance of a solved problem for architecture graphics accelerators, managed to get a performance for one processor platform Kepler, which corresponds to the performance of this task, the computing cluster platforms Intel on four nodes. This task successfully scaled not only on a large number of graphics accelerators, but also on a large number of nodes with multiple accelerators.

A High Performance VLSI Computer Architecture For Computer Graphics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chin, Chi-Yuan; Lin, Wen-Tai

1988-10-01

A VLSI computer architecture, consisting of multiple processors, is presented in this paper to satisfy the modern computer graphics demands, e.g. high resolution, realistic animation, real-time display etc.. All processors share a global memory which are partitioned into multiple banks. Through a crossbar network, data from one memory bank can be broadcasted to many processors. Processors are physically interconnected through a hyper-crossbar network (a crossbar-like network). By programming the network, the topology of communication links among processors can be reconfigurated to satisfy specific dataflows of different applications. Each processor consists of a controller, arithmetic operators, local memory, a local crossbar network, and I/O ports to communicate with other processors, memory banks, and a system controller. Operations in each processor are characterized into two modes, i.e. object domain and space domain, to fully utilize the data-independency characteristics of graphics processing. Special graphics features such as 3D-to-2D conversion, shadow generation, texturing, and reflection, can be easily handled. With the current high density interconnection (MI) technology, it is feasible to implement a 64-processor system to achieve 2.5 billion operations per second, a performance needed in most advanced graphics applications.

Guide to making time-lapse graphics using the facilities of the National Magnetic Fusion Energy Computing Center

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

Munro, J.K. Jr.

1980-05-01

The advent of large, fast computers has opened the way to modeling more complex physical processes and to handling very large quantities of experimental data. The amount of information that can be processed in a short period of time is so great that use of graphical displays assumes greater importance as a means of displaying this information. Information from dynamical processes can be displayed conveniently by use of animated graphics. This guide presents the basic techniques for generating black and white animated graphics, with consideration of aesthetic, mechanical, and computational problems. The guide is intended for use by someone whomore » wants to make movies on the National Magnetic Fusion Energy Computing Center (NMFECC) CDC-7600. Problems encountered by a geographically remote user are given particular attention. Detailed information is given that will allow a remote user to do some file checking and diagnosis before giving graphics files to the system for processing into film in order to spot problems without having to wait for film to be delivered. Source listings of some useful software are given in appendices along with descriptions of how to use it. 3 figures, 5 tables.« less

Nucleolin overexpression in breast cancer cell sub-populations with different stem-like phenotype enables targeted intracellular delivery of synergistic drug combination.

PubMed

Fonseca, Nuno A; Rodrigues, Ana S; Rodrigues-Santos, Paulo; Alves, Vera; Gregório, Ana C; Valério-Fernandes, Ângela; Gomes-da-Silva, Lígia C; Rosa, Manuel Santos; Moura, Vera; Ramalho-Santos, João; Simões, Sérgio; Moreira, João Nuno

2015-11-01

Breast cancer stem cells (CSC) are thought responsible for tumor growth and relapse, metastization and active evasion to standard chemotherapy. The recognition that CSC may originate from non-stem cancer cells (non-SCC) through plastic epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition turned these into relevant cell targets. Of crucial importance for successful therapeutic intervention is the identification of surface receptors overexpressed in both CSC and non-SCC. Cell surface nucleolin has been described as overexpressed in cancer cells as well as a tumor angiogenic marker. Herein we have addressed the questions on whether nucleolin was a common receptor among breast CSC and non-SCC and whether it could be exploited for targeting purposes. Liposomes functionalized with the nucleolin-binding F3 peptide, targeted simultaneously, nucleolin-overexpressing putative breast CSC and non-SCC, which was paralleled by OCT4 and NANOG mRNA levels in cells from triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) origin. In murine embryonic stem cells, both nucleolin mRNA levels and F3 peptide-targeted liposomes cellular association were dependent on the stemness status. An in vivo tumorigenic assay suggested that surface nucleolin overexpression per se, could be associated with the identification of highly tumorigenic TNBC cells. This proposed link between nucleolin expression and the stem-like phenotype in TNBC, enabled 100% cell death mediated by F3 peptide-targeted synergistic drug combination, suggesting the potential to abrogate the plasticity and adaptability associated with CSC and non-SCC. Ultimately, nucleolin-specific therapeutic tools capable of simultaneous debulk multiple cellular compartments of the tumor microenvironment may pave the way towards a specific treatment for TNBC patient care. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Curcumin Chemosensitizes 5-Fluorouracil Resistant MMR-Deficient Human Colon Cancer Cells in High Density Cultures

PubMed Central

Shakibaei, Mehdi; Buhrmann, Constanze; Kraehe, Patricia; Shayan, Parviz; Lueders, Cora; Goel, Ajay

2014-01-01

Objective Treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a clinical challenge, as more than 15% of patients are resistant to 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU)-based chemotherapeutic regimens, and tumor recurrence rates can be as high as 50–60%. Cancer stem cells (CSC) are capable of surviving conventional chemotherapies that permits regeneration of original tumors. Therefore, we investigated the effectiveness of 5-FU and plant polyphenol (curcumin) in context of DNA mismatch repair (MMR) status and CSC activity in 3D cultures of CRC cells. Methods High density 3D cultures of CRC cell lines HCT116, HCT116+ch3 (complemented with chromosome 3) and their corresponding isogenic 5-FU-chemo-resistant derivative clones (HCT116R, HCT116+ch3R) were treated with 5-FU either without or with curcumin in time- and dose-dependent assays. Results Pre-treatment with curcumin significantly enhanced the effect of 5-FU on HCT116R and HCR116+ch3R cells, in contrast to 5-FU alone as evidenced by increased disintegration of colonospheres, enhanced apoptosis and by inhibiting their growth. Curcumin and/or 5-FU strongly affected MMR-deficient CRC cells in high density cultures, however MMR-proficient CRC cells were more sensitive. These effects of curcumin in enhancing chemosensitivity to 5-FU were further supported by its ability to effectively suppress CSC pools as evidenced by decreased number of CSC marker positive cells, highlighting the suitability of this 3D culture model for evaluating CSC marker expression in a close to vivo setting. Conclusion Our results illustrate novel and previously unrecognized effects of curcumin in enhancing chemosensitization to 5-FU-based chemotherapy on DNA MMR-deficient and their chemo-resistant counterparts by targeting the CSC sub-population. (246 words in abstract). PMID:24404205

Curcumin chemosensitizes 5-fluorouracil resistant MMR-deficient human colon cancer cells in high density cultures.

PubMed

Shakibaei, Mehdi; Buhrmann, Constanze; Kraehe, Patricia; Shayan, Parviz; Lueders, Cora; Goel, Ajay

2014-01-01

Treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a clinical challenge, as more than 15% of patients are resistant to 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU)-based chemotherapeutic regimens, and tumor recurrence rates can be as high as 50-60%. Cancer stem cells (CSC) are capable of surviving conventional chemotherapies that permits regeneration of original tumors. Therefore, we investigated the effectiveness of 5-FU and plant polyphenol (curcumin) in context of DNA mismatch repair (MMR) status and CSC activity in 3D cultures of CRC cells. High density 3D cultures of CRC cell lines HCT116, HCT116+ch3 (complemented with chromosome 3) and their corresponding isogenic 5-FU-chemo-resistant derivative clones (HCT116R, HCT116+ch3R) were treated with 5-FU either without or with curcumin in time- and dose-dependent assays. Pre-treatment with curcumin significantly enhanced the effect of 5-FU on HCT116R and HCR116+ch3R cells, in contrast to 5-FU alone as evidenced by increased disintegration of colonospheres, enhanced apoptosis and by inhibiting their growth. Curcumin and/or 5-FU strongly affected MMR-deficient CRC cells in high density cultures, however MMR-proficient CRC cells were more sensitive. These effects of curcumin in enhancing chemosensitivity to 5-FU were further supported by its ability to effectively suppress CSC pools as evidenced by decreased number of CSC marker positive cells, highlighting the suitability of this 3D culture model for evaluating CSC marker expression in a close to vivo setting. Our results illustrate novel and previously unrecognized effects of curcumin in enhancing chemosensitization to 5-FU-based chemotherapy on DNA MMR-deficient and their chemo-resistant counterparts by targeting the CSC sub-population. (246 words in abstract).

Corneo-scleral contact lenses in an uncommon case of keratoconus with high hyperopia and astigmatism.

PubMed

Porcar, Esteban; Montalt, Juan Carlos; España-Gregori, Enrique; Peris-Martínez, Cristina

2017-10-01

To analyse the visual quality achieved by fitting corneo-scleral contact lenses (CScL) in an uncommon case of bilateral keratoconus, high hyperopia and astigmatism. A 45-year-old man presented for eye examination due to the unsatisfactory quality of his vision wearing soft toric contact lenses. He presented high hyperopia and astigmatism with bilateral keratoconus. He was fitted with CScL to correct his irregular astigmatism and ocular aberrations. A diagnostic trial set was used in the fitting process and he was assessed according to standardised fitting methodology. Visual acuity, corneal topography, biometry and ocular aberrations were evaluated. The follow-up period was 1year. The best spectacle-corrected visual acuity was 20/32 with +8.00/-4.50×30° for the right eye (RE) and 20/25 with +7.75/-2.25×120° for the left eye (LE). After CScL fitting, visual acuity was improved to 20/20 and 20/16 for the RE and LE, respectively. The patient wore these contact lenses an average of 13h a day. The total high order aberrations decreased by approximately 79% in the RE (2.37-0.50μm) and 47% in the LE (1.04-0.55μm) after CScL fitting. Visual quality and wearing time were maintained after 1year wearing CScL. In addition, no adverse ocular effects were found during this period. The present case report describes how the patient had CScL fitted successfully for management of keratoconus with high hyperopia and astigmatism. They provided optimal visual quality, along with prolonged use times and no adverse effects to the cornea. Copyright © 2017 British Contact Lens Association. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Bitter melon juice exerts its efficacy against pancreatic cancer via targeting both bulk and cancer stem cells.

PubMed

Dhar, Deepanshi; Deep, Gagan; Kumar, Sushil; Wempe, Michael F; Raina, Komal; Agarwal, Chapla; Agarwal, Rajesh

2018-05-04

Pancreatic cancer (PanC) is one of the deadliest malignancies worldwide and frontline treatment with gemcitabine becomes eventually ineffective due to increasing PanC resistance, suggesting additional approaches are needed to manage PanC. Recently, we have shown the efficacy of bitter melon juice (BMJ) against PanC cells, including those resistant to gemcitabine. Since cancer stem cells (CSCs) are actively involved in PanC initiation, progression, relapse and drug-resistance, here we assessed BMJ ability in targeting pancreatic cancer-associated cancer stem cells (PanC-CSCs). We found BMJ efficacy against CD44 + /CD24 + /EpCAM high enriched PanC-CSCs in spheroid assays; BMJ also increased the sensitivity of gemcitabine-resistant PanC-CSCs. Exogenous addition of BMJ to PanC-CSC generated spheroids (not pre-exposed to BMJ) also significantly reduced spheroid number and size. Mechanistically, BMJ effects were associated with a decrease in the expression of genes and proteins involved in PanC-CSC renewal and proliferation. Specifically, immunofluorescence staining showed that BMJ decreases protein expression/nuclear localization of CSC-associated transcription factors SOX2, OCT4 and NANOG, and CSC marker CD44. Immunohistochemical analysis of MiaPaCa2 xenografts from BMJ treated animals also showed a significant decrease in the levels of CSC-associated transcription factors. Together, these results show BMJ potential in targeting PanC-CSC pool and associated regulatory pathways, suggesting the need for further investigation of its efficacy against PanC growth and progression including gemcitabine-resistant PanC. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Anti-cell growth and anti-cancer stem cell activities of the non-canonical hedgehog inhibitor GANT61 in triple-negative breast cancer cells.

PubMed

Koike, Yoshikazu; Ohta, Yusuke; Saitoh, Wataru; Yamashita, Tetsumasa; Kanomata, Naoki; Moriya, Takuya; Kurebayashi, Junichi

2017-09-01

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) exhibits biologically aggressive behavior and has a poor prognosis. Novel molecular targeting agents are needed to control TNBC. Recent studies revealed that the non-canonical hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway plays important roles in the regulation of cancer stem cells (CSCs) in breast cancer. Therefore, the anti-cell growth and anti-CSC effects of the non-canonical Hh inhibitor GANT61 were investigated in TNBC cells. The effects of GANT61 on cell growth, cell cycle progression, apoptosis, and the proportion of CSCs were investigated in three TNBC cell lines. Four ER-positive breast cancer cell lines were also used for comparisons. The expression levels of effector molecules in the Hh pathway: glioma-associated oncogene (GLI) 1 and GLI2, were measured. The combined effects of GANT61 and paclitaxel on anti-cell growth and anti-CSC activities were also investigated. Basal expression levels of GLI1 and GLI2 were significantly higher in TNBC cells than in ER-positive breast cancer cells. GANT61 dose-dependently decreased cell growth in association with G1-S cell cycle retardation and increased apoptosis. GANT61 significantly decreased the CSC proportion in all TNBC cell lines. Paclitaxel decreased cell growth, but not the CSC proportion. Combined treatments of GANT61 and paclitaxel more than additively enhanced anti-cell growth and/or anti-CSC activities. The non-canonical Hh inhibitor GANT61 decreased not only cell growth, but also the CSC population in TNBC cells. GANT61 enhanced the anti-cell growth activity of paclitaxel in these cells. These results suggest for the first time that GANT61 has potential as a therapeutic agent in the treatment of patients with TNBC.

tPA Prescription and Administration Errors within a Regional Stroke System

PubMed Central

Chung, Lee S; Tkach, Aleksander; Lingenfelter, Erin M; Dehoney, Sarah; Rollo, Jeannie; de Havenon, Adam; DeWitt, Lucy Dana; Grantz, Matthew Ryan; Wang, Haimei; Wold, Jana J; Hannon, Peter M; Weathered, Natalie R; Majersik, Jennifer J

2015-01-01

Background IV tPA utilization in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) requires weight-based dosing and a standardized infusion rate. In our regional network, we have tried to minimize tPA dosing errors. We describe the frequency and types of tPA administration errors made in our comprehensive stroke center (CSC) and at community hospitals (CHs) prior to transfer. Methods Using our stroke quality database, we extracted clinical and pharmacy information on all patients who received IV tPA from 2010–11 at the CSC or CH prior to transfer. All records were analyzed for the presence of inclusion/exclusion criteria deviations or tPA errors in prescription, reconstitution, dispensing, or administration, and analyzed for association with outcomes. Results We identified 131 AIS cases treated with IV tPA: 51% female; mean age 68; 32% treated at CSC, 68% at CH (including 26% by telestroke) from 22 CHs. tPA prescription and administration errors were present in 64% of all patients (41% CSC, 75% CH, p<0.001), the most common being incorrect dosage for body weight (19% CSC, 55% CH, p<0.001). Of the 27 overdoses, there were 3 deaths due to systemic hemorrhage or ICH. Nonetheless, outcomes (parenchymal hematoma, mortality, mRS) did not differ between CSC and CH patients nor between those with and without errors. Conclusion Despite focus on minimization of tPA administration errors in AIS patients, such errors were very common in our regional stroke system. Although an association between tPA errors and stroke outcomes was not demonstrated, quality assurance mechanisms are still necessary to reduce potentially dangerous, avoidable errors. PMID:26698642

Communication in conversation in stroke patients.

PubMed

Rousseaux, Marc; Daveluy, Walter; Kozlowski, Odile

2010-07-01

In stroke patients, it has been suggested that communication disorders could result from lexical and syntactic disorders in left hemisphere lesions and from pragmatics problems in right lesions. However, we have little information on patient behaviour in dyadic communication, especially in conversation. Here, we analyzed the various processes participating in communication difficulties at the rehabilitation phase (1-6 months) post-stroke, in order to define the main mechanisms of verbal and non-verbal communication (VC, NVC) disorders and their relationship with aphasic disorders. Sixty-three patients were recruited, who belonged to six groups, with left or right cortico-sub-cortical (L-CSC, R-CSC) or sub-cortical (L-SC, R-SC), frontal (Fro) or posterior fossa (PF) lesions. They were compared with an equivalent control group (gender, age, education level). We used the Lille Communication Test, which comprises three parts: participation to communication (greeting, attention, engagement), verbal communication (verbal comprehension, speech outflow, intelligibility, word production, syntax, verbal pragmatics and verbal feedback) and non-verbal communication (understanding gestures, affective expressivity, producing gestures, pragmatics and feedback). We also used the Functional Communication Profile and the Boston Diagnostic Aphasia Examination (BDAE). Decrease in participation was found in L-CSC, R-CSC and Fro patients. Verbal communication was essentially disrupted in L-SCS and L-SC groups, including by verbal pragmatic disorders, and to a lesser degree in frontal patients. Nonverbal communication was mainly affected in R-CSC patients, especially by pragmatic difficulties. L-CSC patients showed an increase in gesture production, compensating for aphasia. In conclusion, communication disorders were relatively complex and could not be summarised by syntactical and lexical difficulties in left stroke and pragmatic problems in right stroke. The former also showed severe verbal pragmatic difficulties. Frontal stroke also resulted in evident verbal and non-verbal disorders.

Investigating the Impact of Computer Technology on the Teaching and Learning of Graphic Arts in Nigeria Osun State College of Education Ila-Orangun as a Case Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Abass, Bada Tayo

2012-01-01

This paper focused on the use of computer technology in the teaching and learning of graphic arts in Nigeria colleges of Education. Osun State Colleges of Education Ila-Orangun was used as a case study. The population of the study consisted of all Graphic students in Nigeria colleges of Education. 50 subjects were used for the study while…

Simulation of Robot Kinematics Using Interactive Computer Graphics.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Leu, M. C.; Mahajan, R.

1984-01-01

Development of a robot simulation program based on geometric transformation softwares available in most computer graphics systems and program features are described. The program can be extended to simulate robots coordinating with external devices (such as tools, fixtures, conveyors) using geometric transformations to describe the…

Target Information Processing: A Joint Decision and Estimation Approach

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-03-29

ground targets ( track - before - detect ) using computer cluster and graphics processing unit. Estimation and filtering theory is one of the most important...targets ( track - before - detect ) using computer cluster and graphics processing unit. Estimation and filtering theory is one of the most important

Computer Graphics Simulations of Sampling Distributions.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gordon, Florence S.; Gordon, Sheldon P.

1989-01-01

Describes the use of computer graphics simulations to enhance student understanding of sampling distributions that arise in introductory statistics. Highlights include the distribution of sample proportions, the distribution of the difference of sample means, the distribution of the difference of sample proportions, and the distribution of sample…

PC graphics generation and management tool for real-time applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Truong, Long V.

1992-01-01

A graphics tool was designed and developed for easy generation and management of personal computer graphics. It also provides methods and 'run-time' software for many common artificial intelligence (AI) or expert system (ES) applications.

Computer graphics in architecture and engineering

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Greenberg, D. P.

1975-01-01

The present status of the application of computer graphics to the building profession or architecture and its relationship to other scientific and technical areas were discussed. It was explained that, due to the fragmented nature of architecture and building activities (in contrast to the aerospace industry), a comprehensive, economic utilization of computer graphics in this area is not practical and its true potential cannot now be realized due to the present inability of architects and structural, mechanical, and site engineers to rely on a common data base. Future emphasis will therefore have to be placed on a vertical integration of the construction process and effective use of a three-dimensional data base, rather than on waiting for any technological breakthrough in interactive computing.

Animation graphic interface for the space shuttle onboard computer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wike, Jeffrey; Griffith, Paul

1989-01-01

Graphics interfaces designed to operate on space qualified hardware challenge software designers to display complex information under processing power and physical size constraints. Under contract to Johnson Space Center, MICROEXPERT Systems is currently constructing an intelligent interface for the LASER DOCKING SENSOR (LDS) flight experiment. Part of this interface is a graphic animation display for Rendezvous and Proximity Operations. The displays have been designed in consultation with Shuttle astronauts. The displays show multiple views of a satellite relative to the shuttle, coupled with numeric attitude information. The graphics are generated using position data received by the Shuttle Payload and General Support Computer (PGSC) from the Laser Docking Sensor. Some of the design considerations include crew member preferences in graphic data representation, single versus multiple window displays, mission tailoring of graphic displays, realistic 3D images versus generic icon representations of real objects, the physical relationship of the observers to the graphic display, how numeric or textual information should interface with graphic data, in what frame of reference objects should be portrayed, recognizing conditions of display information-overload, and screen format and placement consistency.

Graphical workstation capability for reliability modeling

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bavuso, Salvatore J.; Koppen, Sandra V.; Haley, Pamela J.

1992-01-01

In addition to computational capabilities, software tools for estimating the reliability of fault-tolerant digital computer systems must also provide a means of interfacing with the user. Described here is the new graphical interface capability of the hybrid automated reliability predictor (HARP), a software package that implements advanced reliability modeling techniques. The graphics oriented (GO) module provides the user with a graphical language for modeling system failure modes through the selection of various fault-tree gates, including sequence-dependency gates, or by a Markov chain. By using this graphical input language, a fault tree becomes a convenient notation for describing a system. In accounting for any sequence dependencies, HARP converts the fault-tree notation to a complex stochastic process that is reduced to a Markov chain, which it can then solve for system reliability. The graphics capability is available for use on an IBM-compatible PC, a Sun, and a VAX workstation. The GO module is written in the C programming language and uses the graphical kernal system (GKS) standard for graphics implementation. The PC, VAX, and Sun versions of the HARP GO module are currently in beta-testing stages.

77 FR 3488 - 21st Century Conservation Service Corps Advisory Committee

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-01-24

... corps programs, career training and youth employment opportunities; (5) and developing pathways for 21... development of certification criteria for 21CSC providers and individual certification of 21CSC members; (3... partnership opportunities with corporations, private businesses or entities, foundations, and non- profit...

Statistical Characterization of the Chandra Source Catalog

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Primini, Francis A.; Houck, John C.; Davis, John E.; Nowak, Michael A.; Evans, Ian N.; Glotfelty, Kenny J.; Anderson, Craig S.; Bonaventura, Nina R.; Chen, Judy C.; Doe, Stephen M.; Evans, Janet D.; Fabbiano, Giuseppina; Galle, Elizabeth C.; Gibbs, Danny G.; Grier, John D.; Hain, Roger M.; Hall, Diane M.; Harbo, Peter N.; He, Xiangqun Helen; Karovska, Margarita; Kashyap, Vinay L.; Lauer, Jennifer; McCollough, Michael L.; McDowell, Jonathan C.; Miller, Joseph B.; Mitschang, Arik W.; Morgan, Douglas L.; Mossman, Amy E.; Nichols, Joy S.; Plummer, David A.; Refsdal, Brian L.; Rots, Arnold H.; Siemiginowska, Aneta; Sundheim, Beth A.; Tibbetts, Michael S.; Van Stone, David W.; Winkelman, Sherry L.; Zografou, Panagoula

2011-06-01

The first release of the Chandra Source Catalog (CSC) contains ~95,000 X-ray sources in a total area of 0.75% of the entire sky, using data from ~3900 separate ACIS observations of a multitude of different types of X-ray sources. In order to maximize the scientific benefit of such a large, heterogeneous data set, careful characterization of the statistical properties of the catalog, i.e., completeness, sensitivity, false source rate, and accuracy of source properties, is required. Characterization efforts of other large Chandra catalogs, such as the ChaMP Point Source Catalog or the 2 Mega-second Deep Field Surveys, while informative, cannot serve this purpose, since the CSC analysis procedures are significantly different and the range of allowable data is much less restrictive. We describe here the characterization process for the CSC. This process includes both a comparison of real CSC results with those of other, deeper Chandra catalogs of the same targets and extensive simulations of blank-sky and point-source populations.

Repeated Administration of Cigarette Smoke Condensate Increases Glutamate Levels and Behavioral Sensitization

PubMed Central

Ryu, In Soo; Kim, Jieun; Seo, Su Yeon; Yang, Ju Hwan; Oh, Jeong Hwan; Lee, Dong Kun; Cho, Hyun-Wook; Lee, Kyuhong; Yoon, Seong Shoon; Seo, Joung-Wook; Shim, Insop; Choe, Eun Sang

2018-01-01

Nicotine, a nicotinic acetylcholine receptor agonist, produces the reinforcing effects of tobacco dependence by potentiating dopaminergic and glutamatergic neurotransmission. Non-nicotine alkaloids in tobacco also contribute to dependence by activating the cholinergic system. However, glutamatergic neurotransmission in the dorsal striatum associated with behavioral changes in response to cigarette smoking has not been investigated. In this study, the authors investigated alterations in glutamate levels in the rat dorsal striatum related to behavioral alterations after repeated administration of cigarette smoke condensate (CSC) using the real-time glutamate biosensing and an open-field behavioral assessment. Repeated administration of CSC including 0.4 mg nicotine (1.0 mL/kg/day, subcutaneous) for 14 days significantly increased extracellular glutamate concentrations more than repeated nicotine administration. In parallel with the hyperactivation of glutamate levels, repeated administration of CSC-evoked prolonged hypersensitization of psychomotor activity, including locomotor and rearing activities. These findings suggest that the CSC-induced psychomotor activities are closely associated with the elevation of glutamate concentrations in the rat dorsal striatum. PMID:29615877

Sympathetic Chain Schwannoma Resembling Carotid Body Tumour.

PubMed

Najeeb, Tallat; Khan, Musaddiq

2016-06-01

Schwannomas are rare, benign nerve sheath tumours of parapharyngeal space. Differential diagnosis should include salivary gland tumours, paragangliomas, neurofibromas, and metastatic lymph nodes. The tumours may arise from vagus nerve and cervical sympathetic chain (CSC). Diagnosis is usually made by imaging techniques: contrast CT, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA). Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) is useful diagnostic procedure but poor results are seen in neurogenic tumours. Rarely, a vascular CSC schwannoma at the level of carotid arteries bifurcation may mimic carotid body tumour (CBT) on imaging techniques, especially if they are vascular, causing splaying of internal and external carotid arteries. Clinically patient was asymptomatic except for a pulsatile swelling in neck for 5 years. The presented case resembled CBTclinically, on ultrasound and on imaging techniques causing splaying of carotid arteries. FNAC was inconclusive and was always hemorrhagic. During operation, it was found to be CSC schwannoma just posterior to carotid body. CSC was sacrificed and patient developed Horner syndrome postoperatively.

Alloy Design Workbench-Surface Modeling Package Developed

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Abel, Phillip B.; Noebe, Ronald D.; Bozzolo, Guillermo H.; Good, Brian S.; Daugherty, Elaine S.

2003-01-01

NASA Glenn Research Center's Computational Materials Group has integrated a graphical user interface with in-house-developed surface modeling capabilities, with the goal of using computationally efficient atomistic simulations to aid the development of advanced aerospace materials, through the modeling of alloy surfaces, surface alloys, and segregation. The software is also ideal for modeling nanomaterials, since surface and interfacial effects can dominate material behavior and properties at this level. Through the combination of an accurate atomistic surface modeling methodology and an efficient computational engine, it is now possible to directly model these types of surface phenomenon and metallic nanostructures without a supercomputer. Fulfilling a High Operating Temperature Propulsion Components (HOTPC) project level-I milestone, a graphical user interface was created for a suite of quantum approximate atomistic materials modeling Fortran programs developed at Glenn. The resulting "Alloy Design Workbench-Surface Modeling Package" (ADW-SMP) is the combination of proven quantum approximate Bozzolo-Ferrante-Smith (BFS) algorithms (refs. 1 and 2) with a productivity-enhancing graphical front end. Written in the portable, platform independent Java programming language, the graphical user interface calls on extensively tested Fortran programs running in the background for the detailed computational tasks. Designed to run on desktop computers, the package has been deployed on PC, Mac, and SGI computer systems. The graphical user interface integrates two modes of computational materials exploration. One mode uses Monte Carlo simulations to determine lowest energy equilibrium configurations. The second approach is an interactive "what if" comparison of atomic configuration energies, designed to provide real-time insight into the underlying drivers of alloying processes.

Risk of Clinically Significant Prostate Cancer Associated With Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System Category 3 (Equivocal) Lesions Identified on Multiparametric Prostate MRI.

PubMed

Sheridan, Alison D; Nath, Sameer K; Syed, Jamil S; Aneja, Sanjay; Sprenkle, Preston C; Weinreb, Jeffrey C; Spektor, Michael

2018-02-01

The objective of this study is to determine the frequency of clinically significant cancer (CSC) in Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System (PI-RADS) category 3 (equivocal) lesions prospectively identified on multiparametric prostate MRI and to identify risk factors (RFs) for CSC that may aid in decision making. Between January 2015 and July 2016, a total of 977 consecutively seen men underwent multiparametric prostate MRI, and 342 underwent MRI-ultrasound (US) fusion targeted biopsy. A total of 474 lesions were retrospectively reviewed, and 111 were scored as PI-RADS category 3 and were visualized using a 3-T MRI scanner. Multiparametric prostate MR images were prospectively interpreted by body subspecialty radiologists trained to use PI-RADS version 2. CSC was defined as a Gleason score of at least 7 on targeted biopsy. A multivariate logistic regression model was constructed to identify the RFs associated with CSC. Of the 111 PI-RADS category 3 lesions, 81 (73.0%) were benign, 11 (9.9%) were clinically insignificant (Gleason score, 6), and 19 (17.1%) were clinically significant. On multivariate analysis, three RFs were identified as significant predictors of CSC: older patient age (odds ratio [OR], 1.13; p = 0.002), smaller prostate volume (OR, 0.94; p = 0.008), and abnormal digital rectal examination (DRE) findings (OR, 3.92; p = 0.03). For PI-RADS category 3 lesions associated with zero, one, two, or three RFs, the risk of CSC was 4%, 16%, 62%, and 100%, respectively. PI-RADS category 3 lesions for which two or more RFs were noted (e.g., age ≥ 70 years, gland size ≤ 36 mL, or abnormal DRE findings) had a CSC detection rate of 67% with a sensitivity of 53%, a specificity of 95%, a positive predictive value of 67%, and a negative predictive value of 91%. Incorporating clinical parameters into risk stratification algorithms may improve the ability to detect clinically significant disease among PI-RADS category 3 lesions and may aid in the decision to perform biopsy.

TMPRSS4 induces cancer stem cell-like properties in lung cancer cells and correlates with ALDH expression in NSCLC patients.

PubMed

de Aberasturi, Arrate L; Redrado, Miriam; Villalba, Maria; Larzabal, Leyre; Pajares, Maria J; Garcia, Javier; Evans, Stephanie R; Garcia-Ros, David; Bodegas, Maria Elena; Lopez, Lissett; Montuenga, Luis; Calvo, Alfonso

2016-01-28

Metastasis involves a series of changes in cancer cells that promote their escape from the primary tumor and colonization to a new organ. This process is related to the transition from an epithelial to a mesenchymal phenotype (EMT). Recently, some authors have shown that migratory cells with an EMT phenotype share properties of cancer stem cells (CSCs), which allow them to form a new tumor mass. The type II transmembrane serine protease TMPRSS4 is highly expressed in some solid tumors, promotes metastasis and confers EMT features to cancer cells. We hypothesized that TMPRSS4 could also provide CSC properties. Overexpression of TMPRSS4 reduces E-cadherin and induces N-cadherin and vimentin in A549 lung cancer cells, supporting an EMT phenotype. These changes are accompanied by enhanced migration, invasion and tumorigenicity in vivo. TMPRSS4 expression was highly increased in a panel of lung cancer cells cultured as tumorspheres (a typical assay to enrich for CSCs). H358 and H441 cells with knocked-down TMPRSS4 levels were significantly less able to form primary and secondary tumorspheres than control cells. Moreover, they showed a lower proportion of ALDH+ cells (examined by FACS analysis) and lower expression of some CSC markers than controls. A549 cells overexpressing TMPRSS4 conferred the opposite phenotype and were also more sensitive to the CSC-targeted drug salinomycin than control cells, but were more resistant to regular chemotherapeutic drugs (cisplatin, gemcitabine and 5-fluorouracil). Analysis of 70 NSCLC samples from patients revealed a very significant correlation between TMPRSS4 expression and CSC markers ALDH (p = 0.0018) and OCT4 (p = 0.0004), suggesting that TMPRSS4 is associated with a CSC phenotype in patients' tumors. These results show that TMPRSS4, in addition to inducing EMT, can also promote CSC features in lung cancer; therefore, CSC-targeting drugs could be an appropriate treatment for TMPRSS4+ tumors. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Assessing stemness and proliferation properties of the newly established colon cancer 'stem' cell line, CSC480 and novel approaches to identify dormant cancer cells.

PubMed

Alowaidi, Faisal; Hashimi, Saeed Mujahid; Alqurashi, Naif; Alhulais, Reem; Ivanovski, Saso; Bellette, Bernadette; Meedenyia, Adrian; Lam, Alfred; Wood, Stephen

2018-06-01

To date two questions that remain unanswered regarding cancer are the following: i) how is it initiated, and ii) what is the role that cancer stem cells (CSCs) play in the disease process? Understanding the biology of CSCs and how they are generated is pivotal for the development of successful treatment regimens. To date, the lack of a representative cell model has prevented the successful identification and eradication of CSCs in vivo. The current methods of CSC identification are dependent on the protocol used to generate these cells, which has introduced variation and made the identification process more complicated. Furthermore, the list of possible markers is increasing in complexity. This is further confounded by the fact that there is insufficient information to determine whether the cells these markers detect are truly self‑renewing stem cells or, instead, progenitor cells. In the present study, we investigated a novel cell line model, CSC480, which can be employed to assess CSC markers and for testing novel therapeutic regimens. CSC480 cells have been revealed to express markers of CSCs such as CD44, ALDH1 and Sox2, that have lower expression in the SW480 cell line. CSC480 cells also expressed higher levels of the cancer resistance marker, ABCG2 and had higher proliferative and growth capacity than SW480 cells. In the present study, we also evaluated a novel approach to identify different cell types present in heterogeneous cancer cell populations according to their proliferative ability using the proliferation marker 5‑ethynyl‑2'‑deoxyuridine (EdU). Furthermore, using EdU, we identified dormant cells with a modified label‑retaining cell (LRC) protocol. Through this novel LRC method, we assessed newly discovered markers of stemness to ascertain their capability to identify quiescent from dividing CSCs. In conclusion, the CSC480 cell line was an important model to be used in unravelling the underlying mechanisms that control fast‑dividing and partially self‑renewing stem cells (SCs) that may give rise to cancer.

Microenvironmental Modulation of Decorin and Lumican in Temozolomide-Resistant Glioblastoma and Neuroblastoma Cancer Stem-Like Cells.

PubMed

Farace, Cristiano; Oliver, Jaime Antonio; Melguizo, Consolacion; Alvarez, Pablo; Bandiera, Pasquale; Rama, Ana Rosa; Malaguarnera, Giulia; Ortiz, Raul; Madeddu, Roberto; Prados, Jose

2015-01-01

The presence of cancer stem cells (CSCs) or tumor-initiating cells can lead to cancer recurrence in a permissive cell-microenvironment interplay, promoting invasion in glioblastoma (GBM) and neuroblastoma (NB). Extracellular matrix (ECM) small leucine-rich proteoglycans (SLRPs) play multiple roles in tissue homeostasis by remodeling the extracellular matrix (ECM) components and modulating intracellular signaling pathways. Due to their pan-inhibitory properties against receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs), SLRPs are reported to exert anticancer effects in vitro and in vivo. However, their roles seem to be tissue-specific and they are also involved in cancer cell migration and drug resistance, paving the way to complex different scenarios. The aim of this study was to determine whether the SLRPs decorin (DCN) and lumican (LUM) are recruited in cell plasticity and microenvironmental adaptation of differentiated cancer cells induced towards stem-like phenotype. Floating neurospheres were generated by applying CSC enrichment medium (neural stem cell serum-free medium, NSC SFM) to the established SF-268 and SK-N-SH cancer cell lines, cellular models of GBM and NB, respectively. In both models, the time-dependent synergistic activation of DCN and LUM was observed. The highest DCN and LUM mRNA/protein expression was detected after cell exposure to NSC SFM for 8/12 days, considering these cells as SLRP-expressing (SLRP+) CSC-like. Ultrastructural imaging showed the cellular heterogeneity of both the GBM and NB neurospheres and identified the inner living cells. Parental cell lines of both GBM and NB grew only in soft agar + NSC SFM, whereas the secondary neurospheres (originated from SLRP+ t8 CSC-like) showed lower proliferation rates than primary neurospheres. Interestingly, the SLRP+ CSC-like from the GBM and NB neurospheres were resistant to temozolomide (TMZ) at concentrations >750 μM. Our results suggest that GBM and NB CSC-like promote the activation of huge quantities of SLRP in response to CSC enrichment, simultaneously acquiring TMZ resistance, cellular heterogeneity, and a quiescent phenotype, suggesting a novel pivotal role for SLRP in drug resistance and cell plasticity of CSC-like, allowing cell survival and ECM/niche modulation potential.

Microenvironmental Modulation of Decorin and Lumican in Temozolomide-Resistant Glioblastoma and Neuroblastoma Cancer Stem-Like Cells

PubMed Central

Melguizo, Consolacion; Alvarez, Pablo; Bandiera, Pasquale; Rama, Ana Rosa; Malaguarnera, Giulia; Ortiz, Raul; Madeddu, Roberto; Prados, Jose

2015-01-01

The presence of cancer stem cells (CSCs) or tumor-initiating cells can lead to cancer recurrence in a permissive cell–microenvironment interplay, promoting invasion in glioblastoma (GBM) and neuroblastoma (NB). Extracellular matrix (ECM) small leucine-rich proteoglycans (SLRPs) play multiple roles in tissue homeostasis by remodeling the extracellular matrix (ECM) components and modulating intracellular signaling pathways. Due to their pan-inhibitory properties against receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs), SLRPs are reported to exert anticancer effects in vitro and in vivo. However, their roles seem to be tissue-specific and they are also involved in cancer cell migration and drug resistance, paving the way to complex different scenarios. The aim of this study was to determine whether the SLRPs decorin (DCN) and lumican (LUM) are recruited in cell plasticity and microenvironmental adaptation of differentiated cancer cells induced towards stem-like phenotype. Floating neurospheres were generated by applying CSC enrichment medium (neural stem cell serum-free medium, NSC SFM) to the established SF-268 and SK-N-SH cancer cell lines, cellular models of GBM and NB, respectively. In both models, the time-dependent synergistic activation of DCN and LUM was observed. The highest DCN and LUM mRNA/protein expression was detected after cell exposure to NSC SFM for 8/12 days, considering these cells as SLRP-expressing (SLRP+) CSC-like. Ultrastructural imaging showed the cellular heterogeneity of both the GBM and NB neurospheres and identified the inner living cells. Parental cell lines of both GBM and NB grew only in soft agar + NSC SFM, whereas the secondary neurospheres (originated from SLRP+ t8 CSC-like) showed lower proliferation rates than primary neurospheres. Interestingly, the SLRP+ CSC-like from the GBM and NB neurospheres were resistant to temozolomide (TMZ) at concentrations >750 μM. Our results suggest that GBM and NB CSC-like promote the activation of huge quantities of SLRP in response to CSC enrichment, simultaneously acquiring TMZ resistance, cellular heterogeneity, and a quiescent phenotype, suggesting a novel pivotal role for SLRP in drug resistance and cell plasticity of CSC-like, allowing cell survival and ECM/niche modulation potential. PMID:26230845

Consumer agency in cannabis supply - Exploring auto-regulatory documents of the cannabis social clubs in Spain.

PubMed

Belackova, Vendula; Wilkins, Chris

2018-04-01

There is growing experience with the not-for-profit, consumer-driven cannabis social club (CSC) model that builds on self-supply, self-organization and harm-reduction; these are principles upon which people who use drugs (PWUD) have been engaging for decades. Recent legalization of cannabis in a number of jurisdictions and the related challenges in regulating production, sale, taxation and health-related matters have raised interest in non-commercial models of cannabis supply. The "codes of conduct" (CsoC) of CSC federations in Spain might reveal whether a consumer-based model could overcome these challenges. To examine the content of the CSC auto-regulatory documents, an online search using key terms to identify the CsoC was conducted. Six documents were found; analysis of the main thematic categories and overarching themes was conducted. It was discussed how these corresponded to the areas of cannabis policy regulation and what the main limitations of the CSC model were. The CsoC detailed the rules for CSC administration, not-for-profit aims, "invitation only" and other conditions of membership, collective cultivation and security as well as for operation of the consumption venue and health-related initiatives. The themes in the CsoC overlapped with cannabis regulatory areas as outlined internationally. Concern over cannabis prices and potency was missing in the CsoC. The potential strengths of the CSC model might include safe environment for peer-delivered harm reduction practice, preventing illicit transactions, quality control, shifting economic surplus to the consumers and increased consumer responsibility. The limitations of the CSC model include high threshold, disguised motives, tax revenue and the risk of both under- and over-regulation. CSCs represent an opportunity to enhance consumer agency and responsibility. The right "to be self-supplied" with psychoactive substances can be granted to consumer associations - but authorities need to provide a framework to facilitate this voluntary self-organization, including minimum standards around public health and safety, and to involve consumers in the development of these regulations. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Interactive computer programs for the graphic analysis of nucleotide sequence data.

PubMed Central

Luckow, V A; Littlewood, R K; Rownd, R H

1984-01-01

A group of interactive computer programs have been developed which aid in the collection and graphical analysis of nucleotide and protein sequence data. The programs perform the following basic functions: a) enter, edit, list, and rearrange sequence data; b) permit automatic entry of nucleotide sequence data directly from an autoradiograph into the computer; c) search for restriction sites or other specified patterns and plot a linear or circular restriction map, or print their locations; d) plot base composition; e) analyze homology between sequences by plotting a two-dimensional graphic matrix; and f) aid in plotting predicted secondary structures of RNA molecules. PMID:6546437

Computer graphics testbed to simulate and test vision systems for space applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cheatham, John B.

1991-01-01

Research activity has shifted from computer graphics and vision systems to the broader scope of applying concepts of artificial intelligence to robotics. Specifically, the research is directed toward developing Artificial Neural Networks, Expert Systems, and Laser Imaging Techniques for Autonomous Space Robots.

Textbook Factor Demand Curves.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Davis, Joe C.

1994-01-01

Maintains that teachers and textbook graphics follow the same basic pattern in illustrating changes in demand curves when product prices increase. Asserts that the use of computer graphics will enable teachers to be more precise in their graphic presentation of price elasticity. (CFR)

RIP-REMOTE INTERACTIVE PARTICLE-TRACER

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rogers, S. E.

1994-01-01

Remote Interactive Particle-tracing (RIP) is a distributed-graphics program which computes particle traces for computational fluid dynamics (CFD) solution data sets. A particle trace is a line which shows the path a massless particle in a fluid will take; it is a visual image of where the fluid is going. The program is able to compute and display particle traces at a speed of about one trace per second because it runs on two machines concurrently. The data used by the program is contained in two files. The solution file contains data on density, momentum and energy quantities of a flow field at discrete points in three-dimensional space, while the grid file contains the physical coordinates of each of the discrete points. RIP requires two computers. A local graphics workstation interfaces with the user for program control and graphics manipulation, and a remote machine interfaces with the solution data set and performs time-intensive computations. The program utilizes two machines in a distributed mode for two reasons. First, the data to be used by the program is usually generated on the supercomputer. RIP avoids having to convert and transfer the data, eliminating any memory limitations of the local machine. Second, as computing the particle traces can be computationally expensive, RIP utilizes the power of the supercomputer for this task. Although the remote site code was developed on a CRAY, it is possible to port this to any supercomputer class machine with a UNIX-like operating system. Integration of a velocity field from a starting physical location produces the particle trace. The remote machine computes the particle traces using the particle-tracing subroutines from PLOT3D/AMES, a CFD post-processing graphics program available from COSMIC (ARC-12779). These routines use a second-order predictor-corrector method to integrate the velocity field. Then the remote program sends graphics tokens to the local machine via a remote-graphics library. The local machine interprets the graphics tokens and draws the particle traces. The program is menu driven. RIP is implemented on the silicon graphics IRIS 3000 (local workstation) with an IRIX operating system and on the CRAY2 (remote station) with a UNICOS 1.0 or 2.0 operating system. The IRIS 4D can be used in place of the IRIS 3000. The program is written in C (67%) and FORTRAN 77 (43%) and has an IRIS memory requirement of 4 MB. The remote and local stations must use the same user ID. PLOT3D/AMES unformatted data sets are required for the remote machine. The program was developed in 1988.

Visual design for the user interface, Part 1: Design fundamentals.

PubMed

Lynch, P J

1994-01-01

Digital audiovisual media and computer-based documents will be the dominant forms of professional communication in both clinical medicine and the biomedical sciences. The design of highly interactive multimedia systems will shortly become a major activity for biocommunications professionals. The problems of human-computer interface design are intimately linked with graphic design for multimedia presentations and on-line document systems. This article outlines the history of graphic interface design and the theories that have influenced the development of today's major graphic user interfaces.

GENOTOXICITY OF TOBACCO SMOKE AND TOBACCO SMOKE CONDENSATE: A REVIEW

EPA Science Inventory

Genotoxicity of Tobacco Smoke and Tobacco Smoke Condensate: A Review
Abstract
This report reviews the literature on the genotoxicity of main-stream tobacco smoke and cigarette smoke condensate (CSC) published since 1985. CSC is genotoxic in nearly all systems in which it h...

Application of computer graphics in the design of custom orthopedic implants.

PubMed

Bechtold, J E

1986-10-01

Implementation of newly developed computer modelling techniques and computer graphics displays and software have greatly aided the orthopedic design engineer and physician in creating a custom implant with good anatomic conformity in a short turnaround time. Further advances in computerized design and manufacturing will continue to simplify the development of custom prostheses and enlarge their niche in the joint replacement market.

Long Non-Coding RNA HOTAIR Regulates the Proliferation, Self-Renewal Capacity, Tumor Formation and Migration of the Cancer Stem-Like Cell (CSC) Subpopulation Enriched from Breast Cancer Cells.

PubMed

Deng, Jia; Yang, Mengchang; Jiang, Rong; An, Ning; Wang, Xiaoshan; Liu, Bin

2017-01-01

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play important roles in the malignant behavior of cancer. HOTAIR, a well-studied lncRNA, contributes to breast cancer development, and overexpression of HOTAIR predicts a poor prognosis. However, the regulatory role of HOTAIR in the cancer stem-like cell (CSC) subpopulation remains largely unknown. Our goal was to determine the regulatory functions of HOTAIR in the processes of self-renewal capacity, tumor formation and proliferation of CSCs derived from breast cancer. We first enriched and incubated the CSC population derived from breast cancer cell line MCF7 (CSC-MCF7) or MDA-MB-231 (MB231, CSC-MB231). Self-renewal capacity and tumor formation were assessed in vitro and in vivo to determine the stemness of CSCs. We assessed the impact on ectopically upregulated or downregulated expression of HOTAIR in CSCs by soft agar, self-renewal capacity and CCK-8 assays. The functional domain of HOTAIR was determined by truncation. RT-qPCR and semiquantitative Western blotting were performed to detect the expression levels of genes of interest. Chromatin IP (ChIP) was employed to detect the transcriptional regulatory activity of p53 on its target gene. After the identification of CSC properties, RT-qPCR analysis revealed that HOTAIR, but not other cancer-associated lncRNAs, is highly upregulated in both CSC-MCF7 and CSC-MB231 populations compared with MCF7 and MB231 populations. By modulating the level of HOTAIR expression, we showed that HOTAIR tightly regulates the proliferation, colony formation, migration and self-renewal capacity of CSCs. Moreover, full-length HOTAIR transcriptionally inhibits miR-34a specifically, leading to upregulation of Sox2, which is targeted by miR-34a. Ectopic introduction of miR-34a mimics reverses the effects of HOTAIR on the physiological processes of CSCs, indicating that HOTAIR affects these processes, including self-renewal capacity; these effects are dependent on the regulation of Sox2 via miR-34a. Interestingly, tight transcriptional regulation of p53 by HOTAIR was found; accordingly, p21 is indirectly regulated by HOTAIR, resulting in cell cycle entry. These results suggest that HOTAIR is a key regulator of proliferation, colony formation, invasion and self-renewal capacity in breast CSCs, which occurs in part through regulation of Sox2 and p53.

Reprogramming of non-genomic estrogen signaling by the stemness factor SOX2 enhances the tumor-initiating capacity of breast cancer cells.

PubMed

Vazquez-Martin, Alejandro; Cufí, Sílvia; López-Bonet, Eugeni; Corominas-Faja, Bruna; Cuyàs, Elisabet; Vellon, Luciano; Iglesias, Juan Manuel; Leis, Olatz; Martín, Angel G; Menendez, Javier A

2013-11-15

The restoration of pluripotency circuits by the reactivation of endogenous stemness factors, such as SOX2, may provide a new paradigm in cancer development. The tumoral stem cell reprogramming hypothesis, i.e., the ability of stemness factors to redirect normal and differentiated tumor cells toward a less-differentiated and stem-like state, adds new layers of complexity to cancer biology, because the effects of such reprogramming may remain dormant until engaged later in response to (epi)genetic and/or (micro)environmental events. To test this hypothesis, we utilized an in vitro model of a SOX2-overexpressing cancer stem cell (CSC)-like cellular state that was recently developed in our laboratory by employing Yamanaka's nuclear reprogramming technology in the estrogen receptor α (ERα)-positive MCF-7 breast cancer cell line. Despite the acquisition of distinct molecular features that were compatible with a breast CSC-like cellular state, such as strong aldehyde dehydrogenase activity, as detected by ALDEFLUOR, and overexpression of the SSEA-4 and CD44 breast CSC markers, the tumor growth-initiating ability of SOX2-overexpressing CSC-like MCF-7 cells solely occurred in female nude mice supplemented with estradiol when compared with MCF-7 parental cells. Ser118 phosphorylation of estrogen receptor α (ERα), which is a pivotal integrator of the genomic and nongenomic E 2/ERα signaling pathways, drastically accumulated in nuclear speckles in the interphase nuclei of SOX2-driven CSC-like cell populations. Moreover, SOX2-positive CSC-like cells accumulated significantly higher numbers of actively dividing cells, and the highest levels of phospho-Ser118-ERα occurred when chromosomes lined up on a metaphase plate. The previously unrecognized link between E 2/ERα signaling and SOX2-driven stem cell circuitry may significantly impact our current understanding of breast cancer initiation and progression, i.e., SOX2 can promote non-genomic E 2 signaling that leads to nuclear phospho-Ser118-ERα, which ultimately exacerbates genomic ER signaling in response to E 2. Because E 2 stimulation has been recently shown to enhance breast tumor-initiating cell survival by downregulating miR-140, which targets SOX2, the establishment of a bidirectional cross-talk interaction between the stem cell self-renewal regulator, SOX2, and the local and systemic ability of E 2 to increase breast CSC activity may have profound implications for the development of new CSC-directed strategies for breast cancer prevention and therapy.

AKT2 siRNA delivery with amphiphilic-based polymeric micelles show efficacy against cancer stem cells.

PubMed

Rafael, Diana; Gener, Petra; Andrade, Fernanda; Seras-Franzoso, Joaquin; Montero, Sara; Fernández, Yolanda; Hidalgo, Manuel; Arango, Diego; Sayós, Joan; Florindo, Helena F; Abasolo, Ibane; Schwartz, Simó; Videira, Mafalda

2018-11-01

Development of RNA interference-based therapies with appropriate therapeutic window remains a challenge for advanced cancers. Because cancer stem cells (CSC) are responsible of sustaining the metastatic spread of the disease to distal organs and the progressive gain of resistance of advanced cancers, new anticancer therapies should be validated specifically for this subpopulation of cells. A new amphihilic-based gene delivery system that combines Pluronic ® F127 micelles with polyplexes spontaneously formed by electrostatic interaction between anionic siRNA and cationic polyethylenimine (PEI) 10K, was designed (PM). Resultant PM gather the requirements for an efficient and safe transport of siRNA in terms of its physicochemical characteristics, internalization capacity, toxicity profile and silencing efficacy. PM were loaded with a siRNA against AKT2, an important oncogene involved in breast cancer tumorigenesis, with a special role in CSC malignancy. Efficacy of siAKT2-PM was validated in CSC isolated from two breast cancer cell lines: MCF-7 and Triple Negative MDA-MB-231 corresponding to an aggressive subtype of breast cancer. In both cases, we observed significant reduction on cell invasion capacity and strong inhibition of mammosphere formation after treatment. These results prompt AKT2 inhibition as a powerful therapeutic target against CSC and pave the way to the appearance of more effective nanomedicine-based gene therapies aimed to prevent CSC-related tumor recurrence.

The Segmental Morphometric Properties of the Horse Cervical Spinal Cord: A Study of Cadaver

PubMed Central

Bahar, Sadullah; Bolat, Durmus; Selcuk, Muhammet Lutfi

2013-01-01

Although the cervical spinal cord (CSC) of the horse has particular importance in diseases of CNS, there is very little information about its segmental morphometry. The objective of the present study was to determine the morphometric features of the CSC segments in the horse and possible relationships among the morphometric features. The segmented CSC from five mature animals was used. Length, weight, diameter, and volume measurements of the segments were performed macroscopically. Lengths and diameters of segments were measured histologically, and area and volume measurements were performed using stereological methods. The length, weight, and volume of the CSC were 61.6 ± 3.2 cm, 107.2 ± 10.4 g, and 95.5 ± 8.3 cm3, respectively. The length of the segments was increased from C 1 to C 3, while it decreased from C 3 to C 8. The gross section (GS), white matter (WM), grey matter (GM), dorsal horn (DH), and ventral horn (VH) had the largest cross-section areas at C 8. The highest volume was found for the total segment and WM at C 4, GM, DH, and VH at C 7, and the central canal (CC) at C 3. The data obtained not only contribute to the knowledge of the normal anatomy of the CSC but may also provide reference data for veterinary pathologists and clinicians. PMID:23476145

Cancer stem-like cell related protein CD166 degrades through E3 ubiquitin ligase CHIP in head and neck cancer.

PubMed

Xiao, Meng; Yan, Ming; Zhang, Jianjun; Xu, Qin; Qi, Shengcai; Wang, Xu; Chen, Wantao

2017-04-01

Our previous studies have identified that CD166 works as a cancer stem-like cell (CSC) marker in epithelial cancers with a large repertoire of cellular functions. However, the post-translational regulatory mechanisms underlying CD166 turnover remain elusive. Several independent studies have reported that E3 ubiquitin ligase CHIP revealed significant biological effects through ubiquitin proteasome pathway on some kinds of malignant tumors. With analyzing the effects of CHIP expressions on stem-like cell populations, we found that CHIP represses CSC characteristics mainly targeting the CSC related protein CD166 in head and neck cancer (HNC). To investigate the role and relationship between CD166 and CHIP, HNC tissues and cell lines were used in this study. A significant negative correlation was observed between the expression levels of CHIP and CD166 in HNC patient samples. We also found that CHIP directly regulates the stability of CD166 protein through the ubiquitin proteasome system, which was also identified participating in the regulation of CSC behaviors in HNCs. Our findings demonstrate that CHIP-CD166-proteasome axis participates in regulating CSC properties in HNCs, suggesting that the regulation of CD166 by CHIP could provide new options for diagnosing and treating in the patients with HNCs. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Reconstruction of radial bone defect in rat by calcium silicate biomaterials.

PubMed

Oryan, Ahmad; Alidadi, Soodeh

2018-05-15

Despite many attempts, an appropriate therapeutic method has not yet been found to enhance bone formation, mechanical strength and structural and functional performances of large bone defects. In the present study, the bone regenerative potential of calcium silicate (CS) biomaterials combined with chitosan (CH) as calcium silicate/chitosan (CSC) scaffold was investigated in a critical radial bone defect in a rat model. The bioimplants were bilaterally implanted in the defects of 20 adult Sprague-Dawley rats. The rats were euthanized and the bone specimens were harvested at the 56th postoperative day. The healed radial bones were evaluated by three-dimensional CT, radiology, histomorphometric analysis, biomechanics, and scanning electron microscopy. The XRD analysis of the CS biomaterial showed its similarity to wollastonite (β-SiCO 3 ). The degradation rate of the CSC scaffold was much higher and it induced milder inflammatory reaction when compared to the CH alone. More bone formation and higher biomechanical performance were observed in the CSC treated group in comparison with the CH treated ones in histological, CT scan and biomechanical examinations. Scanning electron microscopic observation demonstrated the formation of more hydroxyapatite crystals in the defects treated with CSC. This study showed that the CSC biomaterials could be used as proper biodegradable materials in the field of bone reconstruction and tissue engineering. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

China: Domestic Change and Foreign Policy.

DTIC Science & Technology

1995-01-01

prepared for the RAND- Sejong Project on East Asia’s Potential for Instability and Crisis, February 1995. Political-Military Leadership Trends 15...prepared for the RAND- Sejong Project on East Asia’s Potential for Instability and Crisis, February 1995. Swaine, Michael D., "Strategic Appraisal... King , "Prospects for Democratization in China," Problems of Communism, Vol. 41, May-June 1992, pp. 58-70. Wolf, Charles, Jr., et al., Long-Term

Users guide for EASI graphics

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

Sasser, D.W.

1978-03-01

EASI (Estimate of Adversary Sequence Interruption) is an analytical technique for measuring the effectiveness of physical protection systems. EASI Graphics is a computer graphics extension of EASI which provides a capability for performing sensitivity and trade-off analyses of the parameters of a physical protection system. This document reports on the implementation of EASI Graphics and illustrates its application with some examples.

Graphic Design for the Computer Age; Visual Communication for all Media.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hamilton, Edward A.

Because of the rapid pace of today's world, graphic designs which communicate at a glance are needed in all information areas. The essays in this book deal with various aspects of graphic design. These brief essays, each illustrated with graphics, concern the following topics: a short history of visual communication, information design, the merits…

Selective Retina Therapy in Acute and Chronic-Recurrent Central Serous Chorioretinopathy.

PubMed

Framme, Carsten; Walter, Andreas; Berger, Lieselotte; Prahs, Philipp; Alt, Clemens; Theisen-Kunde, Dirk; Kowal, Jens; Brinkmann, Ralf

2015-01-01

Selective retina therapy (SRT), the confined laser heating and destruction of retinal pigment epithelial cells, has been shown to treat acute types of central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) successfully without damaging the photoreceptors and thus avoiding laser-induced scotoma. However, a benefit of laser treatment for chronic forms of CSC is questionable. In this study, the efficacy of SRT by means of the previously used 1.7-µs and shorter 300-ns pulse duration was evaluated for both types of CSC, also considering re-treatment for nonresponders. In a two-center trial, 26 patients were treated with SRT for acute (n = 10) and chronic-recurrent CSC (n = 16). All patients presented with subretinal fluid (SRF) in OCT and leakage in fluorescein angiography (FA). SRT was performed using a prototype SRT laser system (frequency-doubled Q-switched Nd:YLF-laser, wavelength 527 nm) with adjustable pulse duration. The following irradiation settings were used: a train of 30 laser pulses with a repetition rate of 100 Hz and pulse durations of 300 ns and 1.7 µs, pulse energy 120-200 µJ, retinal spot size 200 µm. Because SRT lesions are invisible, FA was always performed 1 h after treatment to demonstrate laser outcome (5-8 single spots in the area of leakage). In cases where energy was too low, as indicated by missing FA leakage, energy was adjusted and the patient re-treated immediately. Observation intervals were after 4 weeks and 3 months. In case of nonimprovement of the disease after 3 months, re-treatment was considered. Of 10 patients with active CSC that presents focal leakage in FA, 5 had completely resolved fluid after 4 weeks and all 10 after 3 months. Mean visual acuity increased from 76.6 ETDRS letters to 85.0 ETDRS letters 3 months after SRT. Chronic-recurrent CSC was characterized by less severe SRF at baseline in OCT and weaker leakage in FA than in acute types. Visual acuity changed from baseline 71.6 to 72.8 ETDRS letters after 3 months. At this time, SRF was absent in 3 out of 16 patients (19%), FA leakage had come to a complete stop in 6 out of 16 patients (38%). In 6 of the remaining chronic CSC patients, repeated SRT with higher pulse energy was considered because of persistent leakage activity. After the re-treatment, SRF resolved completely in 5 patients (83.3%) after only 25 days. SRT showed promising results in treating acute CSC, but was less effective in chronic cases. Interestingly, re-treatment resulted in enhanced fluid resolution and dry conditions after a considerably shorter time in most patients. Therefore, SRT including re-treatment if necessary might be a valuable CSC treatment alternative even in chronic-recurrent cases. © 2015 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Web-Compatible Graphics Visualization Framework for Online Instruction and Assessment of Hardware Concepts

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chandramouli, Magesh; Chittamuru, Siva-Teja

2016-01-01

This paper explains the design of a graphics-based virtual environment for instructing computer hardware concepts to students, especially those at the beginner level. Photorealistic visualizations and simulations are designed and programmed with interactive features allowing students to practice, explore, and test themselves on computer hardware…

Mouse Driven Window Graphics for Network Teaching.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Makinson, G. J.; And Others

Computer enhanced teaching of computational mathematics on a network system driving graphics terminals is being redeveloped for a mouse-driven, high resolution, windowed environment of a UNIX work station. Preservation of the features of networked access by heterogeneous terminals is provided by the use of the X Window environment. A dmonstrator…

KINPLOT: An Interactive Pharmacokinetics Graphics Program for Digital Computers.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wilson, Robert C.; And Others

1982-01-01

Inability to see the relevance of mathematics to understanding the time course of drugs in the body may discourage interest in pharmacokinetics. A UNC-developed computer graphics simulation program helps visualize the nature of pharmacokinetic-patient interactions, generates classroom handouts, and is used in the pharmaceuticals industry to…

Using Computer-Assisted Multiple Representations in Learning Geometry Proofs

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wong, Wing-Kwong; Yin, Sheng-Kai; Yang, Hsi-Hsun; Cheng, Ying-Hao

2011-01-01

Geometry theorem proving involves skills that are difficult to learn. Instead of working with abstract and complicated representations, students might start with concrete, graphical representations. A proof tree is a graphical representation of a formal proof, with each node representing a proposition or given conditions. A computer-assisted…

Interactive computer graphics applications for compressible aerodynamics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Benson, Thomas J.

1994-01-01

Three computer applications have been developed to solve inviscid compressible fluids problems using interactive computer graphics. The first application is a compressible flow calculator which solves for isentropic flow, normal shocks, and oblique shocks or centered expansions produced by two dimensional ramps. The second application couples the solutions generated by the first application to a more graphical presentation of the results to produce a desk top simulator of three compressible flow problems: 1) flow past a single compression ramp; 2) flow past two ramps in series; and 3) flow past two opposed ramps. The third application extends the results of the second to produce a design tool which solves for the flow through supersonic external or mixed compression inlets. The applications were originally developed to run on SGI or IBM workstations running GL graphics. They are currently being extended to solve additional types of flow problems and modified to operate on any X-based workstation.

The design and implementation of CRT displays in the TCV real-time simulation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Leavitt, J. B.; Tariq, S. I.; Steinmetz, G. G.

1975-01-01

The design and application of computer graphics to the Terminal Configured Vehicle (TCV) program were described. A Boeing 737-100 series aircraft was modified with a second flight deck and several computers installed in the passenger cabin. One of the elements in support of the TCV program is a sophisticated simulation system developed to duplicate the operation of the aft flight deck. This facility consists of an aft flight deck simulator, equipped with realistic flight instrumentation, a CDC 6600 computer, and an Adage graphics terminal; this terminal presents to the simulator pilot displays similar to those used on the aircraft with equivalent man-machine interactions. These two displays form the primary flight instrumentation for the pilot and are dynamic images depicting critical flight information. The graphics terminal is a high speed interactive refresh-type graphics system. To support the cockpit display, two remote CRT's were wired in parallel with two of the Adage scopes.

A novel graphical user interface for ultrasound-guided shoulder arthroscopic surgery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tyryshkin, K.; Mousavi, P.; Beek, M.; Pichora, D.; Abolmaesumi, P.

2007-03-01

This paper presents a novel graphical user interface developed for a navigation system for ultrasound-guided computer-assisted shoulder arthroscopic surgery. The envisioned purpose of the interface is to assist the surgeon in determining the position and orientation of the arthroscopic camera and other surgical tools within the anatomy of the patient. The user interface features real time position tracking of the arthroscopic instruments with an optical tracking system, and visualization of their graphical representations relative to a three-dimensional shoulder surface model of the patient, created from computed tomography images. In addition, the developed graphical interface facilitates fast and user-friendly intra-operative calibration of the arthroscope and the arthroscopic burr, capture and segmentation of ultrasound images, and intra-operative registration. A pilot study simulating the computer-aided shoulder arthroscopic procedure on a shoulder phantom demonstrated the speed, efficiency and ease-of-use of the system.

41 CFR 101-28.306-4 - Expiration or cancellation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... time unless canceled by the Commissioner, FSS, GSA, or by a GSA Regional Administrator. (b) CSC... in organization or accounting structures that might have an impact on their CSC accounts. (d) The... cancellations may be directed by the GSA Regional Administrator in coordination with FSS Central Office. Under...

41 CFR 101-28.306-4 - Expiration or cancellation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... time unless canceled by the Commissioner, FSS, GSA, or by a GSA Regional Administrator. (b) CSC... in organization or accounting structures that might have an impact on their CSC accounts. (d) The... cancellations may be directed by the GSA Regional Administrator in coordination with FSS Central Office. Under...

41 CFR 101-28.306-4 - Expiration or cancellation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... time unless canceled by the Commissioner, FSS, GSA, or by a GSA Regional Administrator. (b) CSC... in organization or accounting structures that might have an impact on their CSC accounts. (d) The... cancellations may be directed by the GSA Regional Administrator in coordination with FSS Central Office. Under...

41 CFR 101-28.306-1 - Establishment of a CSC account by a customer activity.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... account by a customer activity. (a) Eligible agencies should contact the GSA Regional Federal Supply... Federal Property Management Regulations System FEDERAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT REGULATIONS SUPPLY AND... will provide assistance to agencies in the establishment of the CSC account, brief personnel on the use...

41 CFR 101-28.306-1 - Establishment of a CSC account by a customer activity.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... account by a customer activity. (a) Eligible agencies should contact the GSA Regional Federal Supply... Federal Property Management Regulations System FEDERAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT REGULATIONS SUPPLY AND... will provide assistance to agencies in the establishment of the CSC account, brief personnel on the use...

41 CFR 101-28.306-1 - Establishment of a CSC account by a customer activity.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... account by a customer activity. (a) Eligible agencies should contact the GSA Regional Federal Supply... Federal Property Management Regulations System FEDERAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT REGULATIONS SUPPLY AND... will provide assistance to agencies in the establishment of the CSC account, brief personnel on the use...

41 CFR 101-28.306-1 - Establishment of a CSC account by a customer activity.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... account by a customer activity. (a) Eligible agencies should contact the GSA Regional Federal Supply... Federal Property Management Regulations System FEDERAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT REGULATIONS SUPPLY AND... will provide assistance to agencies in the establishment of the CSC account, brief personnel on the use...

41 CFR 101-28.306-1 - Establishment of a CSC account by a customer activity.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... account by a customer activity. (a) Eligible agencies should contact the GSA Regional Federal Supply... Federal Property Management Regulations System FEDERAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT REGULATIONS SUPPLY AND... will provide assistance to agencies in the establishment of the CSC account, brief personnel on the use...

41 CFR 109-28.306 - Customer supply center (CSC) accounts and related controls.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... MANAGEMENT REGULATIONS SUPPLY AND PROCUREMENT 28-STORAGE AND DISTRIBUTION 28.3-Customer Supply Centers § 109-28.306 Customer supply center (CSC) accounts and related controls. ... 41 Public Contracts and Property Management 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Customer supply center...

Broadening the interface bandwidth in simulation based training

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Somers, Larry E.

1989-01-01

Currently most computer based simulations rely exclusively on computer generated graphics to create the simulation. When training is involved, the method almost exclusively used to display information to the learner is text displayed on the cathode ray tube. MICROEXPERT Systems is concentrating on broadening the communications bandwidth between the computer and user by employing a novel approach to video image storage combined with sound and voice output. An expert system is used to combine and control the presentation of analog video, sound, and voice output with computer based graphics and text. Researchers are currently involved in the development of several graphics based user interfaces for NASA, the U.S. Army, and the U.S. Navy. Here, the focus is on the human factors considerations, software modules, and hardware components being used to develop these interfaces.

GPU-powered Shotgun Stochastic Search for Dirichlet process mixtures of Gaussian Graphical Models

PubMed Central

Mukherjee, Chiranjit; Rodriguez, Abel

2016-01-01

Gaussian graphical models are popular for modeling high-dimensional multivariate data with sparse conditional dependencies. A mixture of Gaussian graphical models extends this model to the more realistic scenario where observations come from a heterogenous population composed of a small number of homogeneous sub-groups. In this paper we present a novel stochastic search algorithm for finding the posterior mode of high-dimensional Dirichlet process mixtures of decomposable Gaussian graphical models. Further, we investigate how to harness the massive thread-parallelization capabilities of graphical processing units to accelerate computation. The computational advantages of our algorithms are demonstrated with various simulated data examples in which we compare our stochastic search with a Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithm in moderate dimensional data examples. These experiments show that our stochastic search largely outperforms the Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithm in terms of computing-times and in terms of the quality of the posterior mode discovered. Finally, we analyze a gene expression dataset in which Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithms are too slow to be practically useful. PMID:28626348

GPU-powered Shotgun Stochastic Search for Dirichlet process mixtures of Gaussian Graphical Models.

PubMed

Mukherjee, Chiranjit; Rodriguez, Abel

2016-01-01

Gaussian graphical models are popular for modeling high-dimensional multivariate data with sparse conditional dependencies. A mixture of Gaussian graphical models extends this model to the more realistic scenario where observations come from a heterogenous population composed of a small number of homogeneous sub-groups. In this paper we present a novel stochastic search algorithm for finding the posterior mode of high-dimensional Dirichlet process mixtures of decomposable Gaussian graphical models. Further, we investigate how to harness the massive thread-parallelization capabilities of graphical processing units to accelerate computation. The computational advantages of our algorithms are demonstrated with various simulated data examples in which we compare our stochastic search with a Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithm in moderate dimensional data examples. These experiments show that our stochastic search largely outperforms the Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithm in terms of computing-times and in terms of the quality of the posterior mode discovered. Finally, we analyze a gene expression dataset in which Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithms are too slow to be practically useful.

The mission events graphic generator software: A small tool with big results

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lupisella, Mark; Leibee, Jack; Scaffidi, Charles

1993-01-01

Utilization of graphics has long been a useful methodology for many aspects of spacecraft operations. A personal computer based software tool that implements straight-forward graphics and greatly enhances spacecraft operations is presented. This unique software tool is the Mission Events Graphic Generator (MEGG) software which is used in support of the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) Project. MEGG reads the HST mission schedule and generates a graphical timeline.

Graphics Processing Unit Assisted Thermographic Compositing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ragasa, Scott; Russell, Samuel S.

2012-01-01

Objective Develop a software application utilizing high performance computing techniques, including general purpose graphics processing units (GPGPUs), for the analysis and visualization of large thermographic data sets. Over the past several years, an increasing effort among scientists and engineers to utilize graphics processing units (GPUs) in a more general purpose fashion is allowing for previously unobtainable levels of computation by individual workstations. As data sets grow, the methods to work them grow at an equal, and often greater, pace. Certain common computations can take advantage of the massively parallel and optimized hardware constructs of the GPU which yield significant increases in performance. These common computations have high degrees of data parallelism, that is, they are the same computation applied to a large set of data where the result does not depend on other data elements. Image processing is one area were GPUs are being used to greatly increase the performance of certain analysis and visualization techniques.

Simulation of rain floods on Willow Creek, Valley County, Montana

USGS Publications Warehouse

Parrett, Charles

1986-01-01

The Hydrologic Engineering Center-1 rainfall-runoff simulation model was used to assess the effects of a system of reservoirs and waterspreaders in the 550-sq mi Willow Creek Basin in northeastern Montana. For simulation purposes, the basin was subdivided into 100 subbasins containing 84 reservoirs and 14 waterspreaders. Precipitation input to the model was a 24-hr duration, 100-yr frequency synthetic rainstorm developed from National Weather Service data. Infiltration and detention losses were computed using the U.S. Soil Conservation Service Curve Number concept, and the dimensionless unit hydrograph developed by the U.S. Soil Conservation Service was used to compute runoff. Channel and reservoir flow routing was based on the modified Puls storage routing procedure. Waterspreaders were simulated by assuming that each dike in a spreader system functions as a reservoir, with only an emergency spillway discharging directly into the next dike. Waterspreader and reservoir volumes were calculated from surface areas measured on maps. The first simulation run was made with no structures in place, and resulted in a 100-yr frequency peak at the mouth of Willow Creek of 22,700 cu ft/sec. With all structures in place, the 100-yr frequency peak was decreased by 74% to 5,870 cu ft/sec. (USGS)

Application of computer generated color graphic techniques to the processing and display of three dimensional fluid dynamic data

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Anderson, B. H.; Putt, C. W.; Giamati, C. C.

1981-01-01

Color coding techniques used in the processing of remote sensing imagery were adapted and applied to the fluid dynamics problems associated with turbofan mixer nozzles. The computer generated color graphics were found to be useful in reconstructing the measured flow field from low resolution experimental data to give more physical meaning to this information and in scanning and interpreting the large volume of computer generated data from the three dimensional viscous computer code used in the analysis.

Graphics mini manual

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Taylor, Nancy L.; Randall, Donald P.; Bowen, John T.; Johnson, Mary M.; Roland, Vincent R.; Matthews, Christine G.; Gates, Raymond L.; Skeens, Kristi M.; Nolf, Scott R.; Hammond, Dana P.

1990-01-01

The computer graphics capabilities available at the Center are introduced and their use is explained. More specifically, the manual identifies and describes the various graphics software and hardware components, details the interfaces between these components, and provides information concerning the use of these components at LaRC.

Alternatives for Saving and Viewing CAD Graphics for the Web.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Harris, La Verne Abe; Sadowski, Mary A.

2001-01-01

Introduces some alternatives for preparing and viewing computer aided design (CAD) graphics for Internet output on a budget, without the fear of copyright infringement, and without having to go back to college to learn a complex graphic application. (Author/YDS)

Systems engineering studies of on-orbit assembly operation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Morgenthaler, George W.

1991-01-01

While the practice of construction has a long history, the underlying theory of construction is relatively young. Very little has been documented as to techniques of logistic support, construction planning, construction scheduling, construction testing, and inspection. The lack of 'systems approaches' to construction processes is certainly one of the most serious roadblocks to the construction of space structures. System engineering research efforts at CSC are aimed at developing concepts and tools which contribute to a systems theory of space construction. The research is also aimed at providing means for trade-offs of design parameters for other research areas in CSC. Systems engineering activity at CSC has divided space construction into the areas of orbital assembly, lunar base construction, interplanetary transport vehicle construction, and Mars base construction. A brief summary of recent results is given. Several models for 'launch-on-time' were developed. Launch-on-time is a critical concept to the assembly of such Earth-orbiting structures as the Space Station Freedom, and to planetary orbiters such as the Mars transfer vehicle. CSC has developed a launch vehicle selection model which uses linear programming to find optimal combinations of launch vehicles of various sizes (Atlas, Titan, Shuttles, HLLV's) to support SEI missions. Recently, the Center developed a cost trade-off model for studying on orbit assembly logistics. With this model it was determined that the most effective size of the HLLV would be in the range of 120 to 200 metric tons to LEO, which is consistent with the choices of General Stafford's Synthesis Group Report. A second-generation Dynamic Construction Activities Model ('DYCAM') process model has been under development, based on our past results in interruptability and our initial DYCAM model. This second-generation model is built on the paradigm of knowledge-based expert systems. It is aimed at providing answers to two questions: (1) what are some necessary or sufficient conditions for judging conceptual designs of spacecraft?, and (2) can a methodology be formulated such that these conditions may be used to provide computer-aided tools for evaluating conceptual designs and planning for space assembly sequences? Early simulation results indicate that the DYCAM model has a clear ability to emulate and simulate human orbital construction processes.

GRAPHICS MANAGER (GFXMGR): An interactive graphics software program for the Advanced Electronics Design (AED) graphics controller, Model 767

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

Faculjak, D.A.

1988-03-01

Graphics Manager (GFXMGR) is menu-driven, user-friendly software designed to interactively create, edit, and delete graphics displays on the Advanced Electronics Design (AED) graphics controller, Model 767. The software runs on the VAX family of computers and has been used successfully in security applications to create and change site layouts (maps) of specific facilities. GFXMGR greatly benefits graphics development by minimizing display-development time, reducing tedium on the part of the user, and improving system performance. It is anticipated that GFXMGR can be used to create graphics displays for many types of applications. 8 figs., 2 tabs.

Advanced mathematical on-line analysis in nuclear experiments. Usage of parallel computing CUDA routines in standard root analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grzeszczuk, A.; Kowalski, S.

2015-04-01

Compute Unified Device Architecture (CUDA) is a parallel computing platform developed by Nvidia for increase speed of graphics by usage of parallel mode for processes calculation. The success of this solution has opened technology General-Purpose Graphic Processor Units (GPGPUs) for applications not coupled with graphics. The GPGPUs system can be applying as effective tool for reducing huge number of data for pulse shape analysis measures, by on-line recalculation or by very quick system of compression. The simplified structure of CUDA system and model of programming based on example Nvidia GForce GTX580 card are presented by our poster contribution in stand-alone version and as ROOT application.

Human-computer interfaces applied to numerical solution of the Plateau problem

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Elias Fabris, Antonio; Soares Bandeira, Ivana; Ramos Batista, Valério

2015-09-01

In this work we present a code in Matlab to solve the Problem of Plateau numerically, and the code will include human-computer interface. The Problem of Plateau has applications in areas of knowledge like, for instance, Computer Graphics. The solution method will be the same one of the Surface Evolver, but the difference will be a complete graphical interface with the user. This will enable us to implement other kinds of interface like ocular mouse, voice, touch, etc. To date, Evolver does not include any graphical interface, which restricts its use by the scientific community. Specially, its use is practically impossible for most of the Physically Challenged People.

Performance evaluation of throughput computing workloads using multi-core processors and graphics processors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dave, Gaurav P.; Sureshkumar, N.; Blessy Trencia Lincy, S. S.

2017-11-01

Current trend in processor manufacturing focuses on multi-core architectures rather than increasing the clock speed for performance improvement. Graphic processors have become as commodity hardware for providing fast co-processing in computer systems. Developments in IoT, social networking web applications, big data created huge demand for data processing activities and such kind of throughput intensive applications inherently contains data level parallelism which is more suited for SIMD architecture based GPU. This paper reviews the architectural aspects of multi/many core processors and graphics processors. Different case studies are taken to compare performance of throughput computing applications using shared memory programming in OpenMP and CUDA API based programming.

[Computer graphic display of retinal examination results. Software improving the quality of documenting fundus changes].

PubMed

Jürgens, Clemens; Grossjohann, Rico; Czepita, Damian; Tost, Frank

2009-01-01

Graphic documentation of retinal examination results in clinical ophthalmological practice is often depicted using pictures or in handwritten form. Popular software products used to describe changes in the fundus do not vary much from simple graphic programs that enable to insert, scale and edit basic graphic elements such as: a circle, rectangle, arrow or text. Displaying the results of retinal examinations in a unified way is difficult to achieve. Therefore, we devised and implemented modern software tools for this purpose. A computer program enabling to quickly and intuitively form graphs of the fundus, that can be digitally archived or printed was created. Especially for the needs of ophthalmological clinics, a set of standard digital symbols used to document the results of retinal examinations was developed and installed in a library of graphic symbols. These symbols are divided into the following categories: preoperative, postoperative, neovascularization, retinopathy of prematurity. The appropriate symbol can be selected with a click of the mouse and dragged-and-dropped on the canvas of the fundus. Current forms of documenting results of retinal examinations are unsatisfactory, due to the fact that they are time consuming and imprecise. Unequivocal interpretation is difficult or in some cases impossible. Using the developed computer program a sketch of the fundus can be created much more quickly than by hand drawing. Additionally the quality of the medica documentation using a system of well described and standardized symbols will be enhanced. (1) Graphic symbols used to document the results of retinal examinations are a part of everyday clinical practice. (2) The designed computer program will allow quick and intuitive graphical creation of fundus sketches that can be either digitally archived or printed.

Volumetric graphics in liquid using holographic femtosecond laser pulse excitations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kumagai, Kota; Hayasaki, Yoshio

2017-06-01

Much attention has been paid to the development of three-dimensional volumetric displays in the fields of optics and computer graphics, and it is a dream of we display researchers. However, full-color volumetric displays are challenging because many voxels with different colors have to be formed to render volumetric graphics in real three-dimensional space. Here, we show a new volumetric display in which microbubble voxels are three-dimensionally generated in a liquid by focused femtosecond laser pulses. Use of a high-viscosity liquid, which is the key idea of this system, slows down the movement of the microbubbles, and as a result, volumetric graphics can be displayed. This "volumetric bubble display" has a wide viewing angle and simple refresh and requires no addressing wires because it involves optical access to transparent liquid and achieves full-color graphics composed on light-scattering voxels controlled by illumination light sources. In addition, a bursting of bubble graphics system using an ultrasonic vibrator also has been demonstrated. This technology will open up a wide range of applications in three-dimensional displays, augmented reality and computer graphics.

Computer-aided light sheet flow visualization using photogrammetry

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stacy, Kathryn; Severance, Kurt; Childers, Brooks A.

1994-01-01

A computer-aided flow visualization process has been developed to analyze video images acquired from rotating and translating light sheet visualization systems. The computer process integrates a mathematical model for image reconstruction, advanced computer graphics concepts, and digital image processing to provide a quantitative and a visual analysis capability. The image reconstruction model, based on photogrammetry, uses knowledge of the camera and light sheet locations and orientations to project two-dimensional light sheet video images into three-dimensional space. A sophisticated computer visualization package, commonly used to analyze computational fluid dynamics (CFD) results, was chosen to interactively display the reconstructed light sheet images with the numerical surface geometry for the model or aircraft under study. The photogrammetric reconstruction technique and the image processing and computer graphics techniques and equipment are described. Results of the computer-aided process applied to both a wind tunnel translating light sheet experiment and an in-flight rotating light sheet experiment are presented. The capability to compare reconstructed experimental light sheet images with CFD solutions in the same graphics environment is also demonstrated.

Computer-Aided Light Sheet Flow Visualization

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stacy, Kathryn; Severance, Kurt; Childers, Brooks A.

1993-01-01

A computer-aided flow visualization process has been developed to analyze video images acquired from rotating and translating light sheet visualization systems. The computer process integrates a mathematical model for image reconstruction, advanced computer graphics concepts, and digital image processing to provide a quantitative and visual analysis capability. The image reconstruction model, based on photogrammetry, uses knowledge of the camera and light sheet locations and orientations to project two-dimensional light sheet video images into three-dimensional space. A sophisticated computer visualization package, commonly used to analyze computational fluid dynamics (CFD) data sets, was chosen to interactively display the reconstructed light sheet images, along with the numerical surface geometry for the model or aircraft under study. A description is provided of the photogrammetric reconstruction technique, and the image processing and computer graphics techniques and equipment. Results of the computer aided process applied to both a wind tunnel translating light sheet experiment and an in-flight rotating light sheet experiment are presented. The capability to compare reconstructed experimental light sheet images and CFD solutions in the same graphics environment is also demonstrated.

Computer-aided light sheet flow visualization

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stacy, Kathryn; Severance, Kurt; Childers, Brooks A.

1993-01-01

A computer-aided flow visualization process has been developed to analyze video images acquired from rotating and translating light sheet visualization systems. The computer process integrates a mathematical model for image reconstruction, advanced computer graphics concepts, and digital image processing to provide a quantitative and visual analysis capability. The image reconstruction model, based on photogrammetry, uses knowledge of the camera and light sheet locations and orientations to project two-dimensional light sheet video images into three-dimensional space. A sophisticated computer visualization package, commonly used to analyze computational fluid dynamics (CFD) data sets, was chosen to interactively display the reconstructed light sheet images, along with the numerical surface geometry for the model or aircraft under study. A description is provided of the photogrammetric reconstruction technique, and the image processing and computer graphics techniques and equipment. Results of the computer aided process applied to both a wind tunnel translating light sheet experiment and an in-flight rotating light sheet experiment are presented. The capability to compare reconstructed experimental light sheet images and CFD solutions in the same graphics environment is also demonstrated.

New Advances and Challenges of Targeting Cancer Stem Cells.

PubMed

Dashzeveg, Nurmaa K; Taftaf, Rokana; Ramos, Erika K; Torre-Healy, Luke; Chumakova, Anastasia; Silver, Daniel J; Alban, Tyler J; Sinyuk, Maksim; Thiagarajan, Praveena S; Jarrar, Awad M; Turaga, Soumya M; Saygin, Caner; Mulkearns-Hubert, Erin; Hitomi, Masahiro; Rich, Jeremy N; Gerson, Stanton L; Lathia, Justin D; Liu, Huiping

2017-10-01

The second International Cancer Stem Cell Conference in Cleveland, Ohio, on September 20-23, 2016, convened 330 attendees from academic, industrial, and clinical organizations. It featured a debate on the concepts and challenges of the cancer stem cells (CSC) as well as CSC-centered scientific sessions on clinical trials, genetics and epigenetics, tumor microenvironment, immune suppression, metastasis, therapeutic resistance, and emerging novel concepts. The conference hosted 35 renowned speakers, 100 posters, 20 short talks, and a preconference workshop. The reported advances of CSC research and therapies fostered new collaborations across national and international borders, and inspired the next generation's young scientists. Cancer Res; 77(19); 5222-7. ©2017 AACR . ©2017 American Association for Cancer Research.

Learning with Interactive Computer Graphics in the Undergraduate Neuroscience Classroom

PubMed Central

Pani, John R.; Chariker, Julia H.; Naaz, Farah; Mattingly, William; Roberts, Joshua; Sephton, Sandra E.

2014-01-01

Instruction of neuroanatomy depends on graphical representation and extended self-study. As a consequence, computer-based learning environments that incorporate interactive graphics should facilitate instruction in this area. The present study evaluated such a system in the undergraduate neuroscience classroom. The system used the method of adaptive exploration, in which exploration in a high fidelity graphical environment is integrated with immediate testing and feedback in repeated cycles of learning. The results of this study were that students considered the graphical learning environment to be superior to typical classroom materials used for learning neuroanatomy. Students managed the frequency and duration of study, test, and feedback in an efficient and adaptive manner. For example, the number of tests taken before reaching a minimum test performance of 90% correct closely approximated the values seen in more regimented experimental studies. There was a wide range of student opinion regarding the choice between a simpler and a more graphically compelling program for learning sectional anatomy. Course outcomes were predicted by individual differences in the use of the software that reflected general work habits of the students, such as the amount of time committed to testing. The results of this introduction into the classroom are highly encouraging for development of computer-based instruction in biomedical disciplines. PMID:24449123

Chemical Engineering and Instructional Computing: Are They in Step? (Part 2).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Seider, Warren D.

1988-01-01

Describes the use of "CACHE IBM PC Lessons for Courses Other than Design and Control" as open-ended design oriented problems. Presents graphics from some of the software and discusses high-resolution graphics workstations. Concludes that computing tools are in line with design and control practice in chemical engineering. (MVL)

Some research advances in computer graphics that will enhance applications to engineering design

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Allan, J. J., III

1975-01-01

Research in man/machine interactions and graphics hardware/software that will enhance applications to engineering design was described. Research aspects of executive systems, command languages, and networking used in the computer applications laboratory are mentioned. Finally, a few areas where little or no research is being done were identified.

Emphasizing Planning for Essay Writing with a Computer-Based Graphic Organizer

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Evmenova, Anya S.; Regan, Kelley; Boykin, Andrea; Good, Kevin; Hughes, Melissa; MacVittie, Nichole; Sacco, Donna; Ahn, Soo Y.; Chirinos, David

2016-01-01

The authors conducted a multiple-baseline study to investigate the effects of a computer-based graphic organizer (CBGO) with embedded self-regulated learning strategies on the quantity and quality of persuasive essay writing by students with high-incidence disabilities. Ten seventh- and eighth-grade students with learning disabilities, emotional…

Constructing Stylish Characters on Computer Graphics Systems.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Goldman, Gary S.

1980-01-01

Computer graphics systems typically produce a single, machine-like character font. At most, these systems enable the user to (1) alter the aspect ratio (height-to-width ratio) of the characters, (2) specify a transformation matrix to slant the characters, and (3) define a virtual pen table to change the lineweight of the plotted characters.…

A "Service-Learning Approach" to Teaching Computer Graphics

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hutzel, Karen

2007-01-01

The author taught a computer graphics course through a service-learning framework to undergraduate and graduate students in the spring of 2003 at Florida State University (FSU). The students in this course participated in learning a software program along with youths from a neighboring, low-income, primarily African-American community. Together,…

The Generative Effects of Instructional Organizers with Computer-Based Interactive Video.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kenny, Richard F.

This study compared the use of three instructional organizers--the advance organizer (AO), the participatory pictorial graphic organizer (PGO), and the final form pictorial graphic organizer (FGO)--in the design and use of computer-based interactive video (CBIV) programs. That is, it attempted to determine whether a less generative or more…

Digital-Computer Processing of Graphical Data. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Freeman, Herbert

The final report of a two-year study concerned with the digital-computer processing of graphical data. Five separate investigations carried out under this study are described briefly, and a detailed bibliography, complete with abstracts, is included in which are listed the technical papers and reports published during the period of this program.…

Probabilistic Inference in General Graphical Models through Sampling in Stochastic Networks of Spiking Neurons

PubMed Central

Pecevski, Dejan; Buesing, Lars; Maass, Wolfgang

2011-01-01

An important open problem of computational neuroscience is the generic organization of computations in networks of neurons in the brain. We show here through rigorous theoretical analysis that inherent stochastic features of spiking neurons, in combination with simple nonlinear computational operations in specific network motifs and dendritic arbors, enable networks of spiking neurons to carry out probabilistic inference through sampling in general graphical models. In particular, it enables them to carry out probabilistic inference in Bayesian networks with converging arrows (“explaining away”) and with undirected loops, that occur in many real-world tasks. Ubiquitous stochastic features of networks of spiking neurons, such as trial-to-trial variability and spontaneous activity, are necessary ingredients of the underlying computational organization. We demonstrate through computer simulations that this approach can be scaled up to neural emulations of probabilistic inference in fairly large graphical models, yielding some of the most complex computations that have been carried out so far in networks of spiking neurons. PMID:22219717

Multiprocessor graphics computation and display using transputers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ellis, Graham K.

1988-01-01

A package of two-dimensional graphics routines was developed to run on a transputer-based parallel processing system. These routines were designed to enable applications programmers to easily generate and display results from the transputer network in a graphic format. The graphics procedures were designed for the lowest possible network communication overhead for increased performance. The routines were designed for ease of use and to present an intuitive approach to generating graphics on the transputer parallel processing system.

Program for Generating Graphs and Charts

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ackerson, C. T.

1986-01-01

Office Automation Pilot (OAP) Graphics Database system offers IBM personal computer user assistance in producing wide variety of graphs and charts and convenient data-base system, called chart base, for creating and maintaining data associated with graphs and charts. Thirteen different graphics packages available. Access graphics capabilities obtained in similar manner. User chooses creation, revision, or chartbase-maintenance options from initial menu; Enters or modifies data displayed on graphic chart. OAP graphics data-base system written in Microsoft PASCAL.

A Cell Model to Evaluate Chemical Effects on Adult Human Cardiac Progenitor Cell Differentiation and Function

EPA Science Inventory

Adult cardiac stem cells (CSC) and progenitor cells (CPC) represent a population of cells in the heart critical for its regeneration and function over a lifetime. The impact of chemicals on adult human CSC/CPC differentiation and function is unknown. Research was conducted to dev...

Colon Cancer Chemoprevention by Flavonoid Silibinin | Division of Cancer Prevention

Cancer.gov

DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Cancer stem cells (CSC) are now recognized as the main cause for initiation, promotion and progression of most of the cancers, including colorectal cancer (CRC). Despite this fact, efficacy of chemopreventive agents towards CSC generation leading to cancer initiation and tumorigenesis has not yet been well- defined. |

Sister M. Madeleva Wolff, C.S.C.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Petit, M. Loretta

2006-01-01

Sister M. Madeleva Wolff, C.S.C., teacher, essayist, poet, and college administrator, through her creative ability and innovative practices made possible major contributions to Catholic education in her lifetime. Without her strong personality and boundless energy, many of her dreams for an ideal college curriculum would not have come to fruition.…

Cigarette smoke condensate induces differential expression and promoter methylation profiles of critical genes involved in lung cancer in NL-20 lung cells in vitro: short-term and chronic exposure.

PubMed

Word, Beverly; Lyn-Cook, Lascelles E; Mwamba, Bibi; Wang, Honggang; Lyn-Cook, Beverly; Hammons, George

2013-01-01

Establishing early diagnostic markers of harm is critical for effective prevention programs and regulation of tobacco products. This study examined effects of cigarette smoke condensate (CSC) on expression and promoter methylation profile of critical genes (DAPK, ECAD, MGMT, and RASSF1A) involved in lung cancer development in different human lung cell lines. NL-20 cells were treated with 0.1-100 μg/ml of CSC for 24 to 72 hrs for short-term exposures. DAPK expression or methylation status was not significantly affected. However, CSC treatment resulted in changes in expression and promoter methylation profile of ECAD, MGMT, and RASSF1A. For chronic studies, cells were exposed to 1 or 10 μg/ml CSC up to 28 days. Cells showed morphological changes associated with transformation and changes in invasion capacities and global methylation status. This study provides critical data suggesting that epigenetic changes could serve as an early biomarker of harm due to exposure to cigarette smoke.

Lipidomics of tobacco leaf and cigarette smoke.

PubMed

Dunkle, Melissa N; Yoshimura, Yuta; T Kindt, Ruben; Ortiz, Alexia; Masugi, Eri; Mitsui, Kazuhisa; David, Frank; Sandra, Pat; Sandra, Koen

2016-03-25

Detailed lipidomics experiments were performed on the extracts of cured tobacco leaf and of cigarette smoke condensate (CSC) using high-resolution liquid chromatography coupled to quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-Q-TOF MS). Following automated solid-phase extraction (SPE) fractionation of the lipid extracts, over 350 lipids could be annotated. From a large-scale study on 22 different leaf samples, it was determined that differentiation based on curing type was possible for both the tobacco leaf and the CSC extracts. Lipids responsible for the classification were identified and the findings were correlated to proteomics data acquired from the same tobacco leaf samples. Prediction models were constructed based on the lipid profiles observed in the 22 leaf samples and successfully allowed for curing type classification of new tobacco leaves. A comparison of the leaf and CSC data provided insight into the lipidome changes that occur during the smoking process. It was determined that lipids which survive the smoking process retain the same curing type trends in both the tobacco leaf and CSC data. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Dynamic Interactions Between Cancer Stem Cells And Their Stromal Partners.

PubMed

Park, Tea Soon; Donnenberg, Vera S; Donnenberg, Albert D; Zambidis, Elias T; Zimmerlin, Ludovic

2014-03-01

The cancer stem cell (CSC) paradigm presumes the existence of self-renewing cancer cells capable of regenerating all tumor compartments and exhibiting stem cell-associated phenotypes. Recent interpretations of the CSC hypothesis envision stemness as a dynamic trait of tumor-initiating cells rather than a defined and unique cell type. Bidirectional crosstalk between the tumor microenvironment and the cancer bulk is well described in the literature and the tumor-associated stroma, vasculature and immune infiltrate have all been implicated as direct contributors to tumor development. These non-neoplastic cell types have also been shown to organize specific niches within the tumor bulk where they can control the intra-tumor CSC content and alter the fate of CSCs and tumor progenitors during tumorigenesis to acquire phenotypic features for invasion, metastasis and dormancy. Despite the complexity of the tumor-stroma interactome, novel therapeutic approaches envision combining tumor-ablative treatment with manipulation of the tumor microenvironment. We will review the currently available literature that provides clues about the complex cellular network that regulate the CSC phenotype and its niches during tumor progression.

Formation of wood secondary cell wall may involve two type cellulose synthase complexes in Populus.

PubMed

Xi, Wang; Song, Dongliang; Sun, Jiayan; Shen, Junhui; Li, Laigeng

2017-03-01

Cellulose biosynthesis is mediated by cellulose synthases (CesAs), which constitute into rosette-like cellulose synthase complexe (CSC) on the plasma membrane. Two types of CSCs in Arabidopsis are believed to be involved in cellulose synthesis in the primary cell wall and secondary cell walls, respectively. In this work, we found that the two type CSCs participated cellulose biosynthesis in differentiating xylem cells undergoing secondary cell wall thickening in Populus. During the cell wall thickening process, expression of one type CSC genes increased while expression of the other type CSC genes decreased. Suppression of different type CSC genes both affected the wall-thickening and disrupted the multilaminar structure of the secondary cell walls. When CesA7A was suppressed, crystalline cellulose content was reduced, which, however, showed an increase when CesA3D was suppressed. The CesA suppression also affected cellulose digestibility of the wood cell walls. The results suggest that two type CSCs are involved in coordinating the cellulose biosynthesis in formation of the multilaminar structure in Populus wood secondary cell walls.

Evaluation and applications of the clinically significant change method with the Violence Risk Scale-Sexual Offender version: implications for risk-change communication.

PubMed

Olver, Mark E; Beggs Christofferson, Sarah M; Wong, Stephen C P

2015-02-01

We examined the use of the clinically significant change (CSC) method with the Violence Risk Scale-Sexual Offender version (VRS-SO), and its implications for risk communication, in a combined sample of 945 treated sexual offenders from three international settings, followed up for a minimum 5 years post-release. The reliable change (RC) index was used to identify thresholds of clinically meaningful change and to create four CSC groups (already okay, recovered, improved, unchanged) based on VRS-SO dynamic scores and amount of change made. Outcome analyses demonstrated important CSC-group differences in 5-year rates of sexual and violent recidivism. However, when baseline risk was controlled via Cox regression survival analysis, the pattern and magnitude of CSC-group differences in sexual and violent recidivism changed to suggest that observed variation in recidivism base rates could be at least partly explained by pre-existing group differences in risk level. Implications for communication of risk-change information and applications to clinical practice are discussed. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Documentation of a multiple-technique computer program for plotting major-ion composition of natural waters

USGS Publications Warehouse

Briel, L.I.

1993-01-01

A computer program was written to produce 6 different types of water-quality diagrams--Piper, Stiff, pie, X-Y, boxplot, and Piper 3-D--from the same file of input data. The Piper 3-D diagram is a new method that projects values from the surface of a Piper plot into a triangular prism to show how variations in chemical composition can be related to variations in other water-quality variables. This program is an analytical tool to aid in the interpretation of data. This program is interactive, and the user can select from a menu the type of diagram to be produced and a large number of individual features. Alternatively, these choices can be specified in the data file, which provides a batch mode for running the program. The program does not display water-quality diagrams directly; plots are written to a file. Four different plot- file formats are available: device-independent metafiles, Adobe PostScript graphics files, and two Hewlett-Packard graphics language formats (7475 and 7586). An ASCII data-table file is also produced to document the computed values. This program is written in Fortran '77 and uses graphics subroutines from either the PRIOR AGTK or the DISSPLA graphics library. The program has been implemented on Prime series 50 and Data General Aviion computers within the USGS; portability to other computing systems depends on the availability of the graphics library.

Polyhydroxyalkanoate production from sucrose by Cupriavidus necator strains harboring csc genes from Escherichia coli W.

PubMed

Arikawa, Hisashi; Matsumoto, Keiji; Fujiki, Tetsuya

2017-10-01

Cupriavidus necator H16 is the most promising bacterium for industrial production of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) because of their remarkable ability to accumulate them in the cells. With genetic modifications, this bacterium can produce poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexanoate) (PHBHHx), which has better physical properties, as well as poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) using plant oils and sugars as a carbon source. Considering production cost, sucrose is a very attractive raw material because it is inexpensive; however, this bacterium cannot assimilate sucrose. Here, we used the sucrose utilization (csc) genes of Escherichia coli W to generate C. necator strains that can assimilate sucrose. Especially, glucose-utilizing recombinant C. necator strains harboring the sucrose hydrolase gene (cscA) and sucrose permease gene (cscB) of E. coli W grew well on sucrose as a sole carbon source and accumulated PHB. In addition, strains introduced with a crotonyl-CoA reductase gene (ccr), ethylmalonyl-CoA decarboxylase gene (emd), and some other genetic modifications besides the csc genes and the glucose-utilizing mutations produced PHBHHx with a 3-hydroxyhexanoate (3HHx) content of maximum approximately 27 mol% from sucrose. Furthermore, when one of the PHBHHx-producing strains was cultured with sucrose solution in a fed-batch fermentation, PHBHHx with a 3HHx content of approximately 4 mol% was produced and reached 113 g/L for 65 h, which is approximately 1.5-fold higher than that produced using glucose solution.

An analysis of heat removal during cryogen spray cooling and effects of simultaneous airflow application.

PubMed

Torres, J H; Tunnell, J W; Pikkula, B M; Anvari, B

2001-01-01

Cryogen spray cooling (CSC) is a method used to protect the epidermis from non-specific thermal injury that may occur as a result of various dermatological laser procedures. However, better understanding of cryogen deposition and skin thermal response to CSC is needed to optimize the technique. Temperature measurements and video imaging were carried out on an epoxy phantom as well as human skin during CSC with and without simultaneous application of airflow which was intended to accelerate cryogen evaporation from the substrate surface. An inverse thermal conduction model was used to estimate heat flux and total heat removed. Lifetime of the cryogen film deposited on the surface of skin and epoxy phantom lasted several hundred milliseconds beyond the spurt, but could be reduced to the spurt duration by application of airflow. Values over 100 J/cm(3) were estimated for volumetric heat removed from the epidermis using CSC. "Film cooling" instead of "evaporative cooling" appears to be the dominant mode of CSC on skin. Estimated values of heat removed from the epidermis suggest that a cryogen spurt as long as 200 milliseconds is required to counteract heat generated by high laser fluences (e.g., in treatment of port wine stains) in patients with high concentration of epidermal melanin. Additional cooling beyond spurt termination can be avoided by simultaneous application of airflow, although it is unclear at the moment if avoiding the additional cooling would be beneficial in the actual clinical situation. Copyright 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

The developing cancer stem-cell model: clinical challenges and opportunities.

PubMed

Vermeulen, Louis; de Sousa e Melo, Felipe; Richel, Dick J; Medema, Jan Paul

2012-02-01

During the past decade, a stem-cell-like subset of cancer cells has been identified in many malignancies. These cells, referred to as cancer stem cells (CSCs), are of particular interest because they are believed to be the clonogenic core of the tumour and therefore represent the cell population that drives growth and progression. Many efforts have been made to design therapies that specifically target the CSC population, since this was predicted to be the crucial population to eliminate. However, recent insights have complicated the initial elegant model, by showing a dominant role for the tumour microenvironment in determining CSC characteristics within a malignancy. This is particularly important since dedifferentiation of non-tumorigenic tumour cells towards CSCs can occur, and therefore the CSC population in a neoplasm is expected to vary over time. Moreover, evidence suggests that not all tumours are driven by rare CSCs, but might instead contain a large population of tumorigenic cells. Even though these results suggest that specific targeting of the CSC population might not be a useful therapeutic strategy, research into the hierarchical cellular organisation of malignancies has provided many important new insights in the biology of tumours. In this Personal View, we highlight how the CSC concept is developing and influences our thinking on future treatment for solid tumours, and recommend ways to design clinical trials to assess drugs that target malignant disease in a rational fashion. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

BORIS up-regulates OCT4 via histone methylation to promote cancer stem cell-like properties in human liver cancer cells.

PubMed

Liu, Qiuying; Chen, Kefei; Liu, Zhongjian; Huang, Yuan; Zhao, Rongce; Wei, Ling; Yu, Xiaoqin; He, Jingyang; Liu, Jun; Qi, Jianguo; Qin, Yang; Li, Bo

2017-09-10

Accumulating evidence has revealed the importance of cancer stem cells (CSCs) in chemoresistance and recurrence. BORIS, a testes-specific CTCF paralog, has been shown to be associated with stemness traits of embryonic cancer cells and epithelial CSCs. We previously reported that BORIS is correlated with the expression of the CSC marker CD90 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). These results encourage us to wonder whether BORIS exerts functions on CSC-like traits of human liver cancer cells. Here, we report that BORIS was enriched in HCC tissues. Exogenous overexpression of BORIS promoted CSC-like properties, including self-renewal, chemoresistance, migration and invasion in Huh7 and HCCLM3 cells. Conversely, BORIS knockdown suppressed CSC-like properties in SMMC-7721 and HepG2 cells and inhibited tumorigenicity in SMMC-7721 cells. Moreover, BORIS alteration did not affect the DNA methylation status of the minimal promoter and exon 1 region of OCT4. However, BORIS overexpression enhanced the amount of BORIS bound on the OCT4 promoter and increased H3K4me2, while reducing H3K27me3; BORIS depletion decreased BORIS and H3K4me2 on the OCT4 promoter, while increasing H3K27me3. These results revealed that BORIS is associated with the CSC-like traits of human liver cancer cells through the epigenetic regulation of OCT4. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Chemopreventive Effect of PSP Through Targeting of Prostate Cancer Stem Cell-Like Population

PubMed Central

Liu, Ji; Lee, Davy Tak-Wing; Chiu, Yung-Tuen; Ma, Stephanie; Ng, Irene Oi-Lin; Wong, Yong-Chuan; Chan, Franky Leung; Ling, Ming-Tat

2011-01-01

Recent evidence suggested that prostate cancer stem/progenitor cells (CSC) are responsible for cancer initiation as well as disease progression. Unfortunately, conventional therapies are only effective in targeting the more differentiated cancer cells and spare the CSCs. Here, we report that PSP, an active component extracted from the mushroom Turkey tail (also known as Coriolus versicolor), is effective in targeting prostate CSCs. We found that treatment of the prostate cancer cell line PC-3 with PSP led to the down-regulation of CSC markers (CD133 and CD44) in a time and dose-dependent manner. Meanwhile, PSP treatment not only suppressed the ability of PC-3 cells to form prostaspheres under non-adherent culture conditions, but also inhibited their tumorigenicity in vivo, further proving that PSP can suppress prostate CSC properties. To investigate if the anti-CSC effect of PSP may lead to prostate cancer chemoprevention, transgenic mice (TgMAP) that spontaneously develop prostate tumors were orally fed with PSP for 20 weeks. Whereas 100% of the mice that fed with water only developed prostate tumors at the end of experiment, no tumors could be found in any of the mice fed with PSP, suggesting that PSP treatment can completely inhibit prostate tumor formation. Our results not only demonstrated the intriguing anti-CSC effect of PSP, but also revealed, for the first time, the surprising chemopreventive property of oral PSP consumption against prostate cancer. PMID:21603625

Targeting signal transduction pathways of cancer stem cells for therapeutic opportunities of metastasis.

PubMed

Iqbal, Waqas; Alkarim, Saleh; AlHejin, Ahmed; Mukhtar, Hasan; Saini, Kulvinder S

2016-11-15

Tumor comprises of heterogeneous population of cells where not all the disseminated cancer cells have the prerogative and "in-build genetic cues" to form secondary tumors. Cells with stem like properties complemented by key signaling molecules clearly have shown to exhibit selective growth advantage to form tumors at distant metastatic sites. Thus, defining the role of cancer stem cells (CSC) in tumorigenesis and metastasis is emerging as a major thrust area for therapeutic intervention. Precise relationship and regulatory mechanisms operating in various signal transduction pathways during cancer dissemination, extravasation and angiogenesis still remain largely enigmatic. How the crosstalk amongst circulating tumor cells (CTC), epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) process and CSC is coordinated for initiating the metastasis at secondary tissues, and during cancer relapse could be of great therapeutic interest. The signal transduction mechanisms facilitating the dissemination, infiltration of CSC into blood stream, extravasations, progression of metastasis phenotype and angiogenesis, at distant organs, are the key pathologically important vulnerabilities being elucidated. Therefore, current new drug discovery focus has shifted towards finding "key driver genes" operating in parallel signaling pathways, during quiescence, survival and maintenance of stemness in CSC. Understanding these mechanisms could open new horizons for tackling the issue of cancer recurrence and metastasis-the cause of ~90% cancer associated mortality. To design futuristic & targeted therapies, we propose a multi-pronged strategy involving small molecules, RNA interference, vaccines, antibodies and other biotechnological modalities against CSC and the metastatic signal transduction cascade.

Finasteride is effective for the treatment of central serous chorioretinopathy

PubMed Central

Moisseiev, E; Holmes, A J; Moshiri, A; Morse, L S

2016-01-01

Purpose To evaluate the safety and efficacy of finasteride treatment in patients with central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC). Methods Retrospective review of 29 eyes of 23 patients who were treated with finasteride for CSC. Previous medical and ocular history, steroid use, length of finasteride treatment, additional treatments for CSC, visual acuity (VA), central macular thickness (CMT), and presence of subretinal fluid (SRF) throughout the follow-up period, and the occurrence of any complications were recorded. Results Initial VA was 0.29±0.31 logMAR, and a trend towards improved VA was noted after 3 months (0.25±0.36 logMAR; P=0.07). VA was significantly improved at the final follow-up (0.23±0.27 logMAR; P=0.024). Initial CMT was 354±160 μm, and was significantly reduced after 1 month of treatment (284±77 μm; P=0.002) and this was maintained to the end of follow-up (247±85 μm; P=0.001). A significant reduction in SRF presence was found at all time points, with an overall 75.9% rate of complete resolution. Following discontinuation, SRF recurrence was noted in 37.5% of cases. No adverse events were recorded. Conclusions Finasteride is a safe and effective treatment for CSC. It may be a possible new option for the initial management of patient with CSC, and a suggested treatment approach is presented. PMID:27055675

Cancer Stem Cells (CSCs) and Mechanisms of Their Regulation: Implications for Cancer Therapy

PubMed Central

Bao, Bin; Ahmad, Aamir; Azmi, Asfar S.; Ali, Shadan; Sarkar, Fazlul H.

2013-01-01

The identification of small subpopulations of cancer stem cells (CSCs) from blood mononuclear cells in human acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in 1997 was the landmark observation for recognizing the potential role of CSCs in tumor aggressiveness. Two critical properties contribute to the functional role of CSCs in the establishment and recurrence of cancerous tumors: their self-renewal capacity and their potential to differentiate into unlimited heterogeneous populations of cancer cells. These findings suggest that CSCs may represent novel therapeutic targets for the treatment and/or prevention of tumor progression as they appear to be involved in cell migration, invasion, metastasis, and treatment resistance, all of which lead to poor clinical outcomes. The identification of CSC-specific markers, the isolation and characterization of CSCs from malignant tissues, and targeting strategies for the destruction of CSCs provides a novel opportunity for cancer research. Described in this overview is the potential implication of several common CSC markers in the identification of CSC subpopulation restricted to common malignant diseases e.g., leukemia, breast, prostate, pancreatic and lung cancers. The role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in the regulation of CSC function is also discussed, as are several methods commonly used in CSC research. The potential role of the anti-diabetic drug metformin that has been shown to have effects on CSCs, and known function as an anti-tumor agent, provides an example of this new class of chemotherapeutics. PMID:23744710

Analyzing Sliding Stability of Structures Using the Modified Computer Program GWALL. Revision,

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-11-01

R136 954 RNRLYZING SLIDING STRBILITY OF STRUCTURES USING THE i/i MODIFIED COMPUTER PRO..(U) ARMY ENGINEER WATERRYS EXPERIMENT STATION VICKSBURG MS...GWALL and/or the graphics software package, Graphics Compati- bility System (GCS). Input Features 4. GWALL is very easy to use because it allows the...Prepared Data File 9. Time-sharing computer systems do not always respond quickly to the userts commands, especially when there are many users

IMP: Interactive mass properties program. Volume 1: Program description

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stewart, W. A.

1976-01-01

A method of computing a weights and center of gravity analysis of a flight vehicle using interactive graphical capabilities of the Adage 340 computer is described. The equations used to calculate area, volume, and mass properties are based on elemental surface characteristics. The input/output methods employ the graphic support of the Adage computer. Several interactive program options are available for analyzing the mass properties of a vehicle. These options are explained.

Three-dimensional photoacoustic tomography based on graphics-processing-unit-accelerated finite element method.

PubMed

Peng, Kuan; He, Ling; Zhu, Ziqiang; Tang, Jingtian; Xiao, Jiaying

2013-12-01

Compared with commonly used analytical reconstruction methods, the frequency-domain finite element method (FEM) based approach has proven to be an accurate and flexible algorithm for photoacoustic tomography. However, the FEM-based algorithm is computationally demanding, especially for three-dimensional cases. To enhance the algorithm's efficiency, in this work a parallel computational strategy is implemented in the framework of the FEM-based reconstruction algorithm using a graphic-processing-unit parallel frame named the "compute unified device architecture." A series of simulation experiments is carried out to test the accuracy and accelerating effect of the improved method. The results obtained indicate that the parallel calculation does not change the accuracy of the reconstruction algorithm, while its computational cost is significantly reduced by a factor of 38.9 with a GTX 580 graphics card using the improved method.

Animated computer graphics models of space and earth sciences data generated via the massively parallel processor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Treinish, Lloyd A.; Gough, Michael L.; Wildenhain, W. David

1987-01-01

The capability was developed of rapidly producing visual representations of large, complex, multi-dimensional space and earth sciences data sets via the implementation of computer graphics modeling techniques on the Massively Parallel Processor (MPP) by employing techniques recently developed for typically non-scientific applications. Such capabilities can provide a new and valuable tool for the understanding of complex scientific data, and a new application of parallel computing via the MPP. A prototype system with such capabilities was developed and integrated into the National Space Science Data Center's (NSSDC) Pilot Climate Data System (PCDS) data-independent environment for computer graphics data display to provide easy access to users. While developing these capabilities, several problems had to be solved independently of the actual use of the MPP, all of which are outlined.

Computer systems and methods for the query and visualization of multidimensional databases

DOEpatents

Stolte, Chris; Tang, Diane L; Hanrahan, Patrick

2014-04-29

In response to a user request, a computer generates a graphical user interface on a computer display. A schema information region of the graphical user interface includes multiple operand names, each operand name associated with one or more fields of a multi-dimensional database. A data visualization region of the graphical user interface includes multiple shelves. Upon detecting a user selection of the operand names and a user request to associate each user-selected operand name with a respective shelf in the data visualization region, the computer generates a visual table in the data visualization region in accordance with the associations between the operand names and the corresponding shelves. The visual table includes a plurality of panes, each pane having at least one axis defined based on data for the fields associated with a respective operand name.

Computer systems and methods for the query and visualization of multidimensional databases

DOEpatents

Stolte, Chris [Palo Alto, CA; Tang, Diane L [Palo Alto, CA; Hanrahan, Patrick [Portola Valley, CA

2011-02-01

In response to a user request, a computer generates a graphical user interface on a computer display. A schema information region of the graphical user interface includes multiple operand names, each operand name associated with one or more fields of a multi-dimensional database. A data visualization region of the graphical user interface includes multiple shelves. Upon detecting a user selection of the operand names and a user request to associate each user-selected operand name with a respective shelf in the data visualization region, the computer generates a visual table in the data visualization region in accordance with the associations between the operand names and the corresponding shelves. The visual table includes a plurality of panes, each pane having at least one axis defined based on data for the fields associated with a respective operand name.