Electromechanical wave imaging (EWI) validation in all four cardiac chambers with 3D electroanatomic mapping in canines in vivo.

PubMed

Costet, Alexandre; Wan, Elaine; Bunting, Ethan; Grondin, Julien; Garan, Hasan; Konofagou, Elisa

2016-11-21

Characterization and mapping of arrhythmias is currently performed through invasive insertion and manipulation of cardiac catheters. Electromechanical wave imaging (EWI) is a non-invasive ultrasound-based imaging technique, which tracks the electromechanical activation that immediately follows electrical activation. Electrical and electromechanical activations were previously found to be linearly correlated in the left ventricle, but the relationship has not yet been investigated in the three other chambers of the heart. The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between electrical and electromechanical activations and validate EWI in all four chambers of the heart with conventional 3D electroanatomical mapping. Six (n  =  6) normal adult canines were used in this study. The electrical activation sequence was mapped in all four chambers of the heart, both endocardially and epicardially using the St Jude's EnSite 3D mapping system (St. Jude Medical, Secaucus, NJ). EWI acquisitions were performed in all four chambers during normal sinus rhythm, and during pacing in the left ventricle. Isochrones of the electromechanical activation were generated from standard echocardiographic imaging views. Electrical and electromechanical activation maps were co-registered and compared, and electrical and electromechanical activation times were plotted against each other and linear regression was performed for each pair of activation maps. Electromechanical and electrical activations were found to be directly correlated with slopes of the correlation ranging from 0.77 to 1.83, electromechanical delays between 9 and 58 ms and R 2 values from 0.71 to 0.92. The linear correlation between electrical and electromechanical activations and the agreement between the activation maps indicate that the electromechanical activation follows the pattern of propagation of the electrical activation. This suggests that EWI may be used as a novel non-invasive method to accurately characterize and localize sources of arrhythmias.

Arrhythmia Mechanism and Scaling Effect on the Spectral Properties of Electroanatomical Maps With Manifold Harmonics.

PubMed

Sanroman-Junquera, Margarita; Mora-Jimenez, Inmaculada; Garcia-Alberola, Arcadio; Caamano, Antonio J; Trenor, Beatriz; Rojo-Alvarez, Jose L

2018-04-01

Spatial and temporal processing of intracardiac electrograms provides relevant information to support the arrhythmia ablation during electrophysiological studies. Current cardiac navigation systems (CNS) and electrocardiographic imaging (ECGI) build detailed 3-D electroanatomical maps (EAM), which represent the spatial anatomical distribution of bioelectrical features, such as activation time or voltage. We present a principled methodology for spectral analysis of both EAM geometry and bioelectrical feature in CNS or ECGI, including their spectral representation, cutoff frequency, or spatial sampling rate (SSR). Existing manifold harmonic techniques for spectral mesh analysis are adapted to account for a fourth dimension, corresponding to the EAM bioelectrical feature. Appropriate scaling is required to address different magnitudes and units. With our approach, simulated and real EAM showed strong SSR dependence on both the arrhythmia mechanism and the cardiac anatomical shape. For instance, high frequencies increased significantly the SSR because of the "early-meets-late" in flutter EAM, compared with the sinus rhythm. Besides, higher frequency components were obtained for the left atrium (more complex anatomy) than for the right atrium in sinus rhythm. The proposed manifold harmonics methodology opens the field toward new signal processing tools for principled EAM spatiofeature analysis in CNS and ECGI, and to an improved knowledge on arrhythmia mechanisms.

Distinctive Left Ventricular Activations Associated With ECG Pattern in Heart Failure Patients.

PubMed

Derval, Nicolas; Duchateau, Josselin; Mahida, Saagar; Eschalier, Romain; Sacher, Frederic; Lumens, Joost; Cochet, Hubert; Denis, Arnaud; Pillois, Xavier; Yamashita, Seigo; Komatsu, Yuki; Ploux, Sylvain; Amraoui, Sana; Zemmoura, Adlane; Ritter, Philippe; Hocini, Mélèze; Haissaguerre, Michel; Jaïs, Pierre; Bordachar, Pierre

2017-06-01

In contrast to patients with left bundle branch block (LBBB), heart failure patients with narrow QRS and nonspecific intraventricular conduction delay (NICD) display a relatively limited response to cardiac resynchronization therapy. We sought to compare left ventricular (LV) activation patterns in heart failure patients with narrow QRS and NICD to patients with LBBB using high-density electroanatomic activation maps. Fifty-two heart failure patients (narrow QRS [n=18], LBBB [n=11], NICD [n=23]) underwent 3-dimensional electroanatomic mapping with a high density of mapping points (387±349 LV). Adjunctive scar imaging was available in 37 (71%) patients and was analyzed in relation to activation maps. LBBB patients typically demonstrated (1) a single LV breakthrough at the septum (38±15 ms post-QRS onset); (2) prolonged right-to-left transseptal activation with absence of direct LV Purkinje activity; (3) homogeneous propagation within the LV cavity; and (4) latest activation at the basal lateral LV. In comparison, both NICD and narrow QRS patients demonstrated (1) multiple LV breakthroughs along the posterior or anterior fascicles: narrow QRS versus LBBB, 5±2 versus 1±1; P =0.0004; NICD versus LBBB, 4±2 versus 1±1; P =0.001); (2) evidence of early/pre-QRS LV electrograms with Purkinje potentials; (3) rapid propagation in narrow QRS patients and more heterogeneous propagation in NICD patients; and (4) presence of limited areas of late activation associated with LV scar with high interindividual heterogeneity. In contrast to LBBB patients, narrow QRS and NICD patients are characterized by distinct mechanisms of LV activation, which may predict poor response to cardiac resynchronization therapy. © 2017 American Heart Association, Inc.

First experience with zero-fluoroscopic ablation for supraventricular tachycardias using a novel impedance and magnetic-field-based mapping system.

PubMed

Walsh, Katie A; Galvin, Joseph; Keaney, John; Keelan, Edward; Szeplaki, Gabor

2018-02-23

Zero- and near-zero-fluoroscopic ablation techniques reduce the harmful effects of ionizing radiation during invasive electrophysiology procedures. We aimed to test the feasibility and safety of a zero-fluoroscopic strategy using a novel integrated magnetic and impedance-based electroanatomical mapping system for radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of supraventricular tachycardias (SVTs). We retrospectively studied 92 consecutive patients undergoing electrophysiology studies with/without RFA for supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) performed by a single operator at a single center. The first 42 (Group 1) underwent a conventional fluoroscopic-guided approach and the second 50 (Group 2) underwent a zero-fluoroscopic approach using the Ensite Precision ™ 3-D magnetic and impedance-based mapping system (Abbott Inc). Group 1 comprised 14 AV-nodal re-entrant tachycardia (AVNRT), 12 typical atrial flutter, 4 accessory pathway (AP), 2 atrial tachycardia (AT), and 9 diagnostic EP studies (EPS). Group 2 comprised 16 AVNRT, 17 atrial flutter, 6 AP, 3 AT, 2 AV-nodal ablations, and 7 EPS. A complete zero-fluoroscopic approach was achieved in 94% of Group 2 patients. All procedures were acutely successful, and no complications occurred. There was a significant reduction in fluoroscopy dose, dose area product, and time (p < 0.0001, for all), with no difference in procedure times. Ablation time for typical atrial flutter was shorter in Group 2 (p = 0.006). A zero-fluoroscopic strategy for diagnosis and treatment of SVTs using this novel 3D-electroanatomical mapping system is feasible in majority of patients, is safe, reduces ionizing radiation exposure, and does not compromise procedural times, success rates, or complication rates.

Ablation of hypertrophic septum using radiofrequency energy: an alternative for gradient reduction in patient with hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy?

PubMed

Riedlbauchová, Lucie; Janoušek, Jan; Veselka, Josef

2013-06-01

Alcohol septal ablation and surgical myectomy represent accepted therapeutic options for treatment of symptomatic patients with hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy. Long-term experience with radiofrequency ablation of arrhythmogenic substrates raised a question if this technique might be effective for left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) gradient reduction. We report on a 63-year-old patient with recurrence of symptoms 1 year after alcohol septal ablation (ASA) leading originally to a significant reduction of both symptoms and gradient. Due to a new increase of gradient in the LVOT up to 200 mm Hg with corresponding worsening of symptoms and due to refusal of surgical myectomy by the patient, endocardial radiofrequency ablation of the septal hypertrophy (ERASH) was indicated. Radiofrequency ablation was performed in the LVOT using irrigated-tip ablation catheter; the target site was identified using intracardiac echocardiography and electroanatomical CARTO mapping. ERASH caused an immediate gradient reduction due to hypokinesis of the ablated septum. At 2-month follow-up exam, significant clinical improvement was observed, together with persistent gradient reduction assessed with Doppler echocardiography. Echocardiography and magnetic resonance revealed persistent septal hypokinesis and slight thinning of the ablated region. Septal ablation using radiofrequency energy may be a promising alternative or adjunct to the treatment of hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy. Intracardiac echocardiography and electroanatomical CARTO mapping enable exact lesion placement and preservation of atrioventricular conduction.

Prospective randomized comparison of rotational angiography with three-dimensional reconstruction and computed tomography merged with electro-anatomical mapping: a two center atrial fibrillation ablation study.

PubMed

Anand, Rishi; Gorev, Maxim V; Poghosyan, Hermine; Pothier, Lindsay; Matkins, John; Kotler, Gregory; Moroz, Sarah; Armstrong, James; Nemtsov, Sergei V; Orlov, Michael V

2016-08-01

To compare the efficacy and accuracy of rotational angiography with three-dimensional reconstruction (3DATG) image merged with electro-anatomical mapping (EAM) vs. CT-EAM. A prospective, randomized, parallel, two-center study conducted in 36 patients (25 men, age 65 ± 10 years) undergoing AF ablation (33 % paroxysmal, 67 % persistent) guided by 3DATG (group 1) vs. CT (group 2) image fusion with EAM. 3DATG was performed on the Philips Allura Xper FD 10 system. Procedural characteristics including time, radiation exposure, outcome, and navigation accuracy were compared between two groups. There was no significant difference between the groups in total procedure duration or time spent for various procedural steps. Minor differences in procedural characteristics were present between two centers. Segmentation and fusion time for 3DATG or CT-EAM was short and similar between both centers. Accuracy of navigation guided by either method was high and did not depend on left atrial size. Maintenance of sinus rhythm between the two groups was no different up to 24 months of follow-up. This study did not find superiority of 3DATG-EAM image merge to guide AF ablation when compared to CT-EAM fusion. Both merging techniques result in similar navigation accuracy.

Scar Homogenization Versus Limited-Substrate Ablation in Patients With Nonischemic Cardiomyopathy and Ventricular Tachycardia.

PubMed

Gökoğlan, Yalçın; Mohanty, Sanghamitra; Gianni, Carola; Santangeli, Pasquale; Trivedi, Chintan; Güneş, Mahmut F; Bai, Rong; Al-Ahmad, Amin; Gallinghouse, G Joseph; Horton, Rodney; Hranitzky, Patrick M; Sanchez, Javier E; Beheiry, Salwa; Hongo, Richard; Lakkireddy, Dhanunjaya; Reddy, Madhu; Schweikert, Robert A; Dello Russo, Antonio; Casella, Michela; Tondo, Claudio; Burkhardt, J David; Themistoclakis, Sakis; Di Biase, Luigi; Natale, Andrea

2016-11-01

Scar homogenization improves long-term ventricular arrhythmia-free survival compared with standard limited-substrate ablation in patients with post-infarction ventricular tachycardia (VT). Whether such benefit extends to patients with nonischemic cardiomyopathy and scar-related VT is unclear. The aim of this study was to assess the long-term efficacy of an endoepicardial scar homogenization approach compared with standard ablation in this population. Consecutive patients with dilated nonischemic cardiomyopathy (n = 93), scar-related VTs, and evidence of low-voltage regions on the basis of pre-defined criteria on electroanatomic mapping (i.e., bipolar voltage <1.5 mV) underwent either standard VT ablation (group 1 [n = 57]) or endoepicardial ablation of all abnormal potentials within the electroanatomic scar (group 2 [n = 36]). Acute procedural success was defined as noninducibility of any VT at the end of the procedure; long-term success was defined as freedom from any ventricular arrhythmia at follow-up. Acute procedural success rates were 69.4% and 42.1% after scar homogenization and standard ablation, respectively (p = 0.01). During a mean follow-up period of 14 ± 2 months, single-procedure success rates were 63.9% after scar homogenization and 38.6% after standard ablation (p = 0.031). After multivariate analysis, scar homogenization and left ventricular ejection fraction were predictors of long-term success. During follow-up, the rehospitalization rate was significantly lower in the scar homogenization group (p = 0.035). In patients with dilated nonischemic cardiomyopathy, scar-related VT, and evidence of low-voltage regions on electroanatomic mapping, endoepicardial homogenization of the scar significantly increased freedom from any recurrent ventricular arrhythmia compared with a standard limited-substrate ablation. However, the success rate with this approach appeared to be lower than previously reported with ischemic cardiomyopathy, presumably because of the septal and midmyocardial distribution of the scar in some patients. Copyright © 2016 American College of Cardiology Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Reasons for recurrent ventricular tachycardia after catheter ablation of post-infarction ventricular tachycardia.

PubMed

Yokokawa, Miki; Desjardins, Benoit; Crawford, Thomas; Good, Eric; Morady, Fred; Bogun, Frank

2013-01-08

The purpose of this study was to assess the determinants of ventricular tachycardia (VT) recurrence in patients who underwent VT ablation for post-infarction VT. The factors that predict recurrence of VT after catheter ablation in patients with prior infarctions are not well described. Catheter ablation was performed in 98 consecutive patients (88 males [90%]; mean age 67 ± 10 years; ejection fraction 27 ± 13%) with post-infarction VT. Electrograms from the implantable cardioverter-defibrillator were analyzed, and VTs were classified as clinical, nonclinical, or new clinical. A total of 725 VTs were induced during the ablation procedure. All VTs were targeted. In 76 patients, 105 clinical VTs were inducible. Critical sites were identified with entrainment mapping and pace-mapping (≥10 of 12 matching leads) for 75 of 105 clinical VTs (71%) and for 278 of 620 nonclinical VTs (45%). Post-ablation, the clinical VT was not inducible in any patient, and all VTs were rendered noninducible in 63% of the patients. Over a mean follow-up period of 35 ± 23 months, 65 of 98 patients (66%) had no recurrent VTs and 33 (34%) had VT recurrence. A new VT occurred in 26 of 33 patients (79%), and a prior clinical VT recurred in 7 patients (21%). Patients with recurrent VT had a larger scar area as assessed by electroanatomic mapping compared with patients without recurrent VTs (93 ± 40 cm(2) vs. 69 ± 30 cm(2); p = 0.002). In patients with repeat procedures, the majority of inducible VTs for which a critical area could be identified were at a distance of 6 ± 3 mm to the prior ablation lesions. Patients with recurrent VTs have a larger scar as assessed by electroanatomic mapping. Most recurrent VTs were new, and the majority of these VTs were mapped to the vicinity of prior ablation lesions in patients with repeat procedures. Copyright © 2013 American College of Cardiology Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Family history of atrial fibrillation as a predictor of atrial substrate and arrhythmia recurrence in patients undergoing atrial fibrillation catheter ablation.

PubMed

Kapur, Sunil; Kumar, Saurabh; John, Roy M; Stevenson, William G; Tedrow, Usha B; Koplan, Bruce A; Epstein, Laurence M; MacRae, Calum A; Michaud, Gregory F

2018-06-01

A commonly held notion is that patients with a family history of atrial fibrillation (AF) have worse atrial substrate and higher rates of arrhythmia recurrence following ablation. We sought to examine differences in atrial substrate and catheter ablation outcomes in patients with a 1st degree family member with paroxysmal or persistent AF (PeAF) compared to those without. A total of 256 consecutive patients undergoing their 1st ablation for AF (123 paroxysmal, 133 persistent) with >1 year follow up were included. The presence of one 1st-degree family relative was defined as a 'positive family history'. Clinical characteristics, electroanatomic map findings, ablation characteristics and outcomes were compared in patients with and without a positive family history of AF. Patients with paroxysmal fibrillation with a positive family history (n = 57; 46%) had similar clinical characteristics and arrhythmia recurrence after catheter ablation as those without. Of those that recurred, patients with a positive family history were more likely to have progressed to PeAF (P = 0.05). Patients with PeAF with a positive family history (n = 75; 56%) had similar clinical characteristics, electroanatomic mapping findings and ablation characteristics, but worse long term arrhythmia free survival (P = 0.04). The presence of a 1st-degree family member with AF does not impact the clinical outcomes of catheter ablation for paroxysmal AF. However, a positive family history is associated with worse arrhythmia free survival in patients with PeAF. This finding is not explained by differences in clinical characteristics, atrial substrate assessed by voltage maps or ablation characteristics.

Toward magnetic resonance-guided electroanatomical voltage mapping for catheter ablation of scar-related ventricular tachycardia: a comparison of registration methods.

PubMed

Tao, Qian; Milles, Julien; VAN Huls VAN Taxis, Carine; Lamb, Hildo J; Reiber, Johan H C; Zeppenfeld, Katja; VAN DER Geest, Rob J

2012-01-01

Integration of preprocedural delayed enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DE-MRI) with electroanatomical voltage mapping (EAVM) may provide additional high-resolution substrate information for catheter ablation of scar-related ventricular tachycardias (VT). Accurate and fast image integration of DE-MRI with EAVM is desirable for MR-guided ablation. Twenty-six VT patients with large transmural scar underwent catheter ablation and preprocedural DE-MRI. With different registration models and EAVM input, 3 image integration methods were evaluated and compared to the commercial registration module CartoMerge. The performance was evaluated both in terms of distance measure that describes surface matching, and correlation measure that describes actual scar correspondence. Compared to CartoMerge, the method that uses the translation-and-rotation model and high-density EAVM input resulted in a registration error of 4.32±0.69 mm as compared to 4.84 ± 1.07 (P <0.05); the method that uses the translation model and high-density EAVM input resulted in a registration error of 4.60 ± 0.65 mm (P = NS); and the method that uses the translation model and a single anatomical landmark input resulted in a registration error of 6.58 ± 1.63 mm (P < 0.05). No significant difference in scar correlation was observed between all 3 methods and CartoMerge (P = NS). During VT ablation procedures, accurate integration of EAVM and DE-MRI can be achieved using a translation registration model and a single anatomical landmark. This model allows for image integration in minimal mapping time and is likely to reduce fluoroscopy time and increase procedure efficacy. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Left ventricular lead placement in the latest activated region guided by coronary venous electroanatomic mapping.

PubMed

Rad, Masih Mafi; Blaauw, Yuri; Dinh, Trang; Pison, Laurent; Crijns, Harry J; Prinzen, Frits W; Vernooy, Kevin

2015-01-01

Left ventricular (LV) lead placement in the latest activated region is an important determinant of response to cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). We investigated the feasibility of coronary venous electroanatomic mapping (EAM) to guide LV lead placement to the latest activated region. Twenty-five consecutive CRT candidates with left bundle-branch block underwent intra-procedural coronary venous EAM using EnSite NavX. A guidewire was used to map the coronary veins during intrinsic activation, and to test for phrenic nerve stimulation (PNS). The latest activated region, defined as the region with an electrical delay >75% of total QRS duration, was located anterolaterally in 18 (basal, n = 10; mid, n = 8) and inferolaterally in 6 (basal, n = 3; mid, n = 3). In one patient, identification of the latest activated region was impeded by limited coronary venous anatomy. In patients with >1 target vein (n = 12), the anatomically targeted inferolateral vein was rarely the vein with maximal electrical delay (n = 3). A concordant LV lead position was achieved in 18 of 25 patients. In six patients, this was hampered by PNS (n = 4), lead instability (n = 1), and coronary vein stenosis (n = 1). Coronary venous EAM can be used intraprocedurally to guide LV lead placement to the latest activated region free of PNS. This approach especially contributes to optimization of LV lead electrical delay in patients with multiple target veins. Conventional anatomical LV lead placement strategy does not target the vein with maximal electrical delay in many of these patients. Published on behalf of the European Society of Cardiology. All rights reserved. © The Author 2014. For permissions please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Cost Analysis of Periprocedural Imaging in Patients Undergoing Catheter Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation

PubMed Central

Pokorney, Sean D.; Hammill, Bradley G.; Qualls, Laura G.; Steinberg, Benjamin A.; Curtis, Lesley H.; Piccini, Jonathan P.

2014-01-01

Cardiovascular imaging is an important part of procedural planning and safety for catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF). However, the costs of imaging surrounding catheter ablation of AF have not been described. Medicare fee-for-service data were used to evaluate Medicare expenditures before, during, and after catheter ablation for AF from July 2007 to December 2009. Among 11,525 patients who underwent catheter ablation for AF, the mean overall expenditure on the day of the procedure was $14,455 (SD $7,441). The mean imaging expenditure in the periprocedural period, which included the 30 days before the catheter ablation and the day of the ablation itself, was $884 (SD $455). Periprocedural imaging expenditures varied by the imaging strategy used, ranging from a mean of $557 (SD $269) for patients with electroanatomic mapping only to $1,234 (SD $461) for patients with electroanatomic mapping, transesophageal echocardiogram, and computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging. Mean patient-level imaging expenditures varied by provider (mean $872, SD $249). Periprocedural imaging expenditures also varied by patient risk, with mean expenditures of $862 (SD $444) for patients with a CHADS2 score of ≥2 compared with $907 (SD $466) for CHADS2 score <2 (p <0.001). In conclusion, peri-procedural imaging accounts for approximately 6% of mean Medicare expenditures for catheter ablation of AF. The expenditures for periprocedural imaging vary both at the patient and at the provider level and they are inversely related to stroke risk by CHADS2 score. PMID:24952929

Quantitative Analysis of Electro-Anatomical Maps: Application to an Experimental Model of Left Bundle Branch Block/Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy

PubMed Central

Duchateau, Nicolas; Kostantyn Butakov, Constantine Butakoff; Andreu, David; Fernández-Armenta, Juan; Bijnens, Bart; Berruezo, Antonio; Sitges, Marta; Camara, Oscar

2017-01-01

Electro-anatomical maps (EAMs) are commonly acquired in clinical routine for guiding ablation therapies. They provide voltage and activation time information on a 3-D anatomical mesh representation, making them useful for analyzing the electrical activation patterns in specific pathologies. However, the variability between the different acquisitions and anatomies hampers the comparison between different maps. This paper presents two contributions for the analysis of electrical patterns in EAM data from biventricular surfaces of cardiac chambers. The first contribution is an integrated automatic 2-D disk representation (2-D bull’s eye plot) of the left ventricle (LV) and right ventricle (RV) obtained with a quasi-conformal mapping from the 3-D EAM meshes, that allows an analysis of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) lead positioning, interpretation of global (total activation time), and local indices (local activation time (LAT), surrogates of conduction velocity, inter-ventricular, and transmural delays) that characterize changes in the electrical activation pattern. The second contribution is a set of indices derived from the electrical activation: speed maps, computed from LAT values, to study the electrical wave propagation, and histograms of isochrones to analyze regional electrical heterogeneities in the ventricles. We have applied the proposed methods to look for the underlying physiological mechanisms of left bundle branch block (LBBB) and CRT, with the goal of optimizing the therapy by improving CRT response. To better illustrate the benefits of the proposed tools, we created a set of synthetically generated and fully controlled activation patterns, where the proposed representation and indices were validated. Then, the proposed analysis tools are used to analyze EAM data from an experimental swine model of induced LBBB with an implanted CRT device. We have analyzed and compared the electrical activation patterns at baseline, LBBB, and CRT stages in four animals: two without any structural disease and two with an induced infarction. By relating the CRT lead location with electrical dyssynchrony, we evaluated current hypotheses about lead placement in CRT and showed that optimal pacing sites should target the RV lead close to the apex and the LV one distant from it. PMID:29164019

Intermittent capture of the right ventricular outflow tract by atrial pacing in a patient with a dual-chamber pacemaker.

PubMed

Pastori, Julio Daniel; Garro, Hugo Ariel; Baranchuk, Adrián; Chiale, Pablo Ambrosio

2012-01-01

We describe a previously unreported phenomenon of intermittent outflow right ventricular tract capture from the atrial lead of a dual-chamber pacemaker. This was more obvious at slower paced atrial rates and disappeared by decreasing the atrial pulses voltage. Electroanatomical mapping showed that the onset of activation was nearly simultaneous at the insertion site of the atrial lead and at an intermediate level of the right ventricular outflow tract. This exceptional finding might be erroneously diagnosed as due to pseudo-pseudo fusion beats. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Magnetic electroanatomical mapping for ablation of focal atrial tachycardias.

PubMed

Marchlinski, F; Callans, D; Gottlieb, C; Rodriguez, E; Coyne, R; Kleinman, D

1998-08-01

Uniform success for ablation of focal atrial tachycardias has been difficult to achieve using standard catheter mapping and ablation techniques. In addition, our understanding of the complex relationship between atrial anatomy, electrophysiology, and surface ECG P wave morphology remains primitive. The magnetic electroanatomical mapping and display system (CARTO) offers an on-line display of electrical activation and/or signal amplitude related to the anatomical location of the recorded sites in the mapped chamber. A window of electrical interest is established based on signals timed from an electrical reference that usually represents a fixed electrogram recording from the coronary sinus or the atrial appendage. This window of electrical interest is established to include atrial activation prior to the onset of the P wave activity associated with the site of origin of a focal atrial tachycardia. Anatomical and electrical landmarks are defined with limited fluoroscopic imaging support and more detailed global chamber and more focal atrial mapping can be performed with minimal fluoroscopic guidance. A three-dimensional color map representing atrial activation or voltage amplitude at the magnetically defined anatomical sites is displayed with on-line data acquisition. This display can be manipulated to facilitate viewing from any angle. Altering the zoom control, triangle fill threshold, clipping plane, or color range can all enhance the display of a more focal area of interest. We documented the feasibility of using this single mapping catheter technique for localizing and ablating focal atrial tachycardias. In a consecutive series of 8 patients with 9 focal atrial tachycardias, the use of the single catheter CARTO mapping system was associated with ablation success in all but one patient who had a left atrial tachycardia localized to the medial aspect of the orifice of the left atrial appendage. Only low power energy delivery was used in this patient because of the unavailability of temperature monitoring in the early version of the Navistar catheter, the location of the arrhythmia, and the history of arrhythmia control with flecainide. No attempt was made to limit fluoroscopy time in our study population. Nevertheless, despite data acquisition from 120-320 anatomically distinct sites during global and more detailed focal atrial mapping, total fluoroscopy exposure was typically < 30 minutes and was as little as 12 minutes. The detailed display capabilities of the CARTO system appear to offer the potential of enhancing our understanding of atrial anatomy, atrial activation, and their relationship to surface ECG P wave morphology during focal atrial tachycardias.

In Situ Optical Mapping of Voltage and Calcium in the Heart

PubMed Central

Ewart, Paul; Ashley, Euan A.; Loew, Leslie M.; Kohl, Peter; Bollensdorff, Christian; Woods, Christopher E.

2012-01-01

Electroanatomic mapping the interrelation of intracardiac electrical activation with anatomic locations has become an important tool for clinical assessment of complex arrhythmias. Optical mapping of cardiac electrophysiology combines high spatiotemporal resolution of anatomy and physiological function with fast and simultaneous data acquisition. If applied to the clinical setting, this could improve both diagnostic potential and therapeutic efficacy of clinical arrhythmia interventions. The aim of this study was to explore this utility in vivo using a rat model. To this aim, we present a single-camera imaging and multiple light-emitting-diode illumination system that reduces economic and technical implementation hurdles to cardiac optical mapping. Combined with a red-shifted calcium dye and a new near-infrared voltage-sensitive dye, both suitable for use in blood-perfused tissue, we demonstrate the feasibility of in vivo multi-parametric imaging of the mammalian heart. Our approach combines recording of electrophysiologically-relevant parameters with observation of structural substrates and is adaptable, in principle, to trans-catheter percutaneous approaches. PMID:22876327

Integration of electro-anatomical and imaging data of the left ventricle: An evaluation framework.

PubMed

Soto-Iglesias, David; Butakoff, Constantine; Andreu, David; Fernández-Armenta, Juan; Berruezo, Antonio; Camara, Oscar

2016-08-01

Integration of electrical and structural information for scar characterization in the left ventricle (LV) is a crucial step to better guide radio-frequency ablation therapies, which are usually performed in complex ventricular tachycardia (VT) cases. This integration requires finding a common representation where to map the electrical information from the electro-anatomical map (EAM) surfaces and tissue viability information from delay-enhancement magnetic resonance images (DE-MRI). However, the development of a consistent integration method is still an open problem due to the lack of a proper evaluation framework to assess its accuracy. In this paper we present both: (i) an evaluation framework to assess the accuracy of EAM and imaging integration strategies with simulated EAM data and a set of global and local measures; and (ii) a new integration methodology based on a planar disk representation where the LV surface meshes are quasi-conformally mapped (QCM) by flattening, allowing for simultaneous visualization and joint analysis of the multi-modal data. The developed evaluation framework was applied to estimate the accuracy of the QCM-based integration strategy on a benchmark dataset of 128 synthetically generated ground-truth cases presenting different scar configurations and EAM characteristics. The obtained results demonstrate a significant reduction in global overlap errors (50-100%) with respect to state-of-the-art integration techniques, also better preserving the local topology of small structures such as conduction channels in scars. Data from seventeen VT patients were also used to study the feasibility of the QCM technique in a clinical setting, consistently outperforming the alternative integration techniques in the presence of sparse and noisy clinical data. The proposed evaluation framework has allowed a rigorous comparison of different EAM and imaging data integration strategies, providing useful information to better guide clinical practice in complex cardiac interventions. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Myocardial Scar Imaging by Standard Single-Energy and Dual-Energy Late Enhancement Computed Tomography: Comparison to Pathology and Electroanatomical Map in an Experimental Chronic Infarct Porcine Model

PubMed Central

Truong, Quynh A.; Thai, Wai-ee; Wai, Bryan; Cordaro, Kevin; Cheng, Teresa; Beaudoin, Jonathan; Xiong, Guanglei; Cheung, Jim W.; Altman, Robert; Min, James K.; Singh, Jagmeet P.; Barrett, Conor D.; Danik, Stephan

2015-01-01

Background Myocardial scar is a substrate for ventricular tachycardia and sudden cardiac death. Late enhancement computed tomography (CT) imaging can detect scar, but it remains unclear whether newer late enhancement dual-energy (LE-DECT) acquisition has benefit over standard single-energy late enhancement (LE-CT). Objective We aim to compare late enhancement CT using newer LE-DECT acquisition and single-energy LE-CT acquisitions to pathology and electroanatomical map (EAM) in an experimental chronic myocardial infarction (MI) porcine study. Methods In 8 chronic MI pigs (59±5 kg), we performed dual-source CT, EAM, and pathology. For CT imaging, we performed 3 acquisitions at 10 minutes post-contrast: LE-CT 80 kV, LE-CT 100 kV, and LE-DECT with two post-processing software settings. Results Of the sequences, LE-CT 100 kV provided the best contrast-to-noise ratio (all p≤0.03) and correlation to pathology for scar (ρ=0.88). While LE-DECT overestimated scar (both p=0.02), LE-CT images did not (both p=0.08). On a segment basis (n=136), all CT sequences had high specificity (87–93%) and modest sensitivity (50–67%), with LE-CT 100 kV having the highest specificity of 93% for scar detection compared to pathology and agreement with EAM (κ 0.69). Conclusions Standard single-energy LE-CT, particularly 100kV, matched better to pathology and EAM than dual-energy LE-DECT for scar detection. Larger human trials as well as more technical-based studies that optimize varying different energies with newer hardware and software are warranted. PMID:25977115

Electroanatomic Mapping-Guided Catheter Ablation of Supraventricular Tachycardia in Children with Ebstein's Anomaly.

PubMed

Ergul, Yakup; Koca, Serhat; Akdeniz, Celal; Tuzcu, Volkan

2018-06-07

In Ebstein's anomaly (EA), tachycardia substrates are complex, and accessory pathway (AP) ablations are often challenging. This study demonstrates the utility of the EnSite Velocity system (St. Jude Medical, St Paul, MN) in the catheter ablation of supraventricular tachycardia in children with EA. Twenty patients [Female/Male = 8/12, median age 11.5 years (2.6-18)] with EA who underwent catheter ablation guided by the EnSite Velocity system between December 2011 and December 2016 were retrospectively evaluated. Five patients had severe EA, and two of them were at Fontan palliation pathway. The most common indications for ablations were palpitations/syncope and treatment-resistant arrhythmias. Thirty-one tachycardia substrate foci (21 manifest AP, 2 concealed AP, 4 Mahaim AP, 3 focal atrial tachycardias, and 1 typical atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia) were detected in 20 patients. There were multiple tachycardia substrates in 11 patients (55%). The patient-based acute procedure success rate was 19/20 (95%), and the tachycardia-based success rate was 30/31 (97%). The mean procedure time was 170 ± 43 min (90-265). Fluoroscopy was not used in 15 (75%) patients. The mean fluoroscopy time in the remaining five patients was 3.6 ± 2.9 min (0.7-7.8). During a mean follow-up of 35.1 ± 20.3 months (6-60), tachycardia recurred in four patients (4/19, 21%). No complications were seen. Catheter ablation of arrhythmias can be performed effectively and safely in pediatric EA patients by using a limited fluoroscopic approach with the help of electroanatomical mapping systems. However, the rate of tachycardia recurrence at follow-up remains high.

Different regions of latest electrical activation during left bundle-branch block and right ventricular pacing in cardiac resynchronization therapy patients determined by coronary venous electro-anatomic mapping.

PubMed

Mafi Rad, Masih; Blaauw, Yuri; Dinh, Trang; Pison, Laurent; Crijns, Harry J; Prinzen, Frits W; Vernooy, Kevin

2014-11-01

Current targeted left ventricular (LV) lead placement strategy is directed at the latest activated region during intrinsic activation. However, cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is most commonly applied by simultaneous LV and right ventricular (RV) pacing without contribution from intrinsic conduction. Therefore, targeting the LV lead to the latest activated region during RV pacing might be more appropriate. We investigated the difference in LV electrical activation sequence between left bundle-branch block (LBBB) and RV apex (RVA) pacing using coronary venous electro-anatomic mapping (EAM). Twenty consecutive CRT candidates with LBBB underwent intra-procedural coronary venous EAM during intrinsic activation and RVA pacing using EnSite NavX. Left ventricular lead placement was aimed at the latest activated region during LBBB according to current recommendations. In all patients, LBBB was associated with a circumferential LV activation pattern, whereas RVA pacing resulted in activation from the apex of the heart to the base. In 10 of 20 patients, RVA pacing shifted the latest activated region relative to LBBB. In 18 of 20 patients, the LV lead was successfully positioned in the latest activated region during LBBB. For the whole study population, LV lead electrical delay, expressed as percentage of QRS duration, was significantly shorter during RVA pacing than during LBBB (72 ± 13 vs. 82 ± 5%, P = 0.035). Right ventricular apex pacing alters LV electrical activation pattern in CRT patients with LBBB, and shifts the latest activated region in a significant proportion of these patients. These findings warrant reconsideration of the current practice of LV lead targeting for CRT. © 2014 The Authors. European Journal of Heart Failure © 2014 European Society of Cardiology.

Image integration into 3-dimensional-electro-anatomical mapping system facilitates safe ablation of ventricular arrhythmias originating from the aortic root and its vicinity.

PubMed

Jularic, Mario; Akbulak, Ruken Özge; Schäffer, Benjamin; Moser, Julia; Nuehrich, Jana; Meyer, Christian; Eickholt, Christian; Willems, Stephan; Hoffmann, Boris A

2018-03-01

During ablation in the vicinity of the coronary arteries establishing a safe distance from the catheter tip to the relevant vessels is mandatory and usually assessed by fluoroscopy alone. The aim of the study was to investigate the feasibility of an image integration module (IIM) for continuous monitoring of the distance of the ablation catheter tip to the main coronary arteries during ablation of ventricular arrhythmias (VA) originating in the sinus of valsalva (SOV) and the left ventricular summit part of which can be reached via the great cardiac vein (GCV). Of 129 patients undergoing mapping for outflow tract arrhythmias from June 2014 till October 2015, a total of 39 patients (52.4 ± 18.1 years, 17 female) had a source of origin in the SOV or the left ventricular summit. Radiofrequency (RF) ablation was performed when a distance of at least 5 mm could be demonstrated with IIM. A safe distance in at least one angiographic plane could be demonstrated in all patients with a source of origin in the SOV, whereas this was not possible in 50% of patients with earliest activation in the summit area. However, using the IIM a safe position at an adjacent site within the GCV could be obtained in three of these cases and successful RF ablation performed safely without any complications. Ablation was successful in 100% of patients with an origin in the SOV, whereas VAs originating from the left ventricular summit could be abolished completely in only 60% of cases. Image integration combining electroanatomical mapping and fluoroscopy allows assessment of the safety of a potential ablation site by continuous real-time monitoring of the spatial relations of the catheter tip to the coronary vessels prior to RF application. It aids ablation in anatomically complex regions like the SOV or the ventricular summit providing biplane angiograms merged into the three-dimensional electroanatomical map. Published on behalf of the European Society of Cardiology. All rights reserved. © The Author 2017. For permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Focal Atrial Tachycardia Arising from the Inferior Vena Cava

PubMed Central

Lim, Yeong-Min; Uhm, Jae-Sun

2017-01-01

The inferior vena cava (IVC) is a rare site of focal atrial tachycardia (AT). Here, we report a 20-year-old woman who underwent catheter ablation for anti-arrhythmic drug-resistant AT originating from the IVC. She had undergone open-heart surgery for patch closure of an atrial septal defect 17 years previously and permanent pacemaker implantation for sinus node dysfunction 6 years previously. The AT focus was at the anterolateral aspect of the IVC-right atrial junction, and it was successfully ablated under three-dimensional electroanatomical-mapping guidance. We suspect that the mechanism of this tachycardia was associated with previous IVC cannulation for open-heart surgery. PMID:28541006

Ventricular tachycardia storm originating from interventricular septum successfully treated with surgical cryoablation with electroanatomic and electrophysiological mapping before dual valve replacement.

PubMed

Kawamura, Iwanari; Fukamizu, Seiji; Miyazawa, Satoshi; Hojo, Rintaro; Ito, Fusahiko; Watanabe, Masazumi; Nishizaki, Mitsuhiro; Sakurada, Harumizu; Hiraoka, Masayasu

2018-02-01

A 58-year-old man with dilated cardiomyopathy was admitted with heart failure. He had a history of two catheter ablation procedures for ventricular tachycardia (VT) originating from the intraventricular septum (IVS). Before dual valve replacement (DVR), he suffered a VT storm. An electrophysiological study revealed an extended low-voltage area at the IVS with the exit of the induced VT at the anterior side. Radiofrequency application was performed at the VT exit as a landmark for surgical cryoablation (SA). During the DVR, SA was performed at the IVS using this landmark. After SA, the patient had no ventricular tachyarrhythmia.

Local activation time sampling density for atrial tachycardia contact mapping: how much is enough?

PubMed

Williams, Steven E; Harrison, James L; Chubb, Henry; Whitaker, John; Kiedrowicz, Radek; Rinaldi, Christopher A; Cooklin, Michael; Wright, Matthew; Niederer, Steven; O'Neill, Mark D

2018-02-01

Local activation time (LAT) mapping forms the cornerstone of atrial tachycardia diagnosis. Although anatomic and positional accuracy of electroanatomic mapping (EAM) systems have been validated, the effect of electrode sampling density on LAT map reconstruction is not known. Here, we study the effect of chamber geometry and activation complexity on optimal LAT sampling density using a combined in silico and in vivo approach. In vivo 21 atrial tachycardia maps were studied in three groups: (1) focal activation, (2) macro-re-entry, and (3) localized re-entry. In silico activation was simulated on a 4×4cm atrial monolayer, sampled randomly at 0.25-10 points/cm2 and used to re-interpolate LAT maps. Activation patterns were studied in the geometrically simple porcine right atrium (RA) and complex human left atrium (LA). Activation complexity was introduced into the porcine RA by incomplete inter-caval linear ablation. In all cases, optimal sampling density was defined as the highest density resulting in minimal further error reduction in the re-interpolated maps. Optimal sampling densities for LA tachycardias were 0.67 ± 0.17 points/cm2 (focal activation), 1.05 ± 0.32 points/cm2 (macro-re-entry) and 1.23 ± 0.26 points/cm2 (localized re-entry), P = 0.0031. Increasing activation complexity was associated with increased optimal sampling density both in silico (focal activation 1.09 ± 0.14 points/cm2; re-entry 1.44 ± 0.49 points/cm2; spiral-wave 1.50 ± 0.34 points/cm2, P < 0.0001) and in vivo (porcine RA pre-ablation 0.45 ± 0.13 vs. post-ablation 0.78 ± 0.17 points/cm2, P = 0.0008). Increasing chamber geometry was also associated with increased optimal sampling density (0.61 ± 0.22 points/cm2 vs. 1.0 ± 0.34 points/cm2, P = 0.0015). Optimal sampling densities can be identified to maximize diagnostic yield of LAT maps. Greater sampling density is required to correctly reveal complex activation and represent activation across complex geometries. Overall, the optimal sampling density for LAT map interpolation defined in this study was ∼1.0-1.5 points/cm2. Published on behalf of the European Society of Cardiology

Single-site access robot-assisted epicardial mapping with a snake robot: preparation and first clinical experience.

PubMed

Neuzil, Petr; Cerny, Stepan; Kralovec, Stepan; Svanidze, Oleg; Bohuslavek, Jan; Plasil, Petr; Jehlicka, Pavel; Holy, Frantisek; Petru, Jan; Kuenzler, Richard; Sediva, Lucie

2013-06-01

CardioARM, a highly flexible "snakelike" medical robotic system (Medrobotics, Raynham, MA), has been developed to allow physicians to view, access, and perform complex procedures intrapericardially on the beating heart through a single-access port. Transthoracic epicardial catheter mapping and ablation has emerged as a strategy to treat arrhythmias, particularly ventricular arrhythmias, originating from the epicardial surface. The aim of our investigation was to determine whether the CardioARM could be used to diagnose and treat ventricular tachycardia (VT) of epicardial origin. Animal and clinical studies of the CardioARM flexible robot were performed in hybrid surgical-electrophysiology settings. In a porcine model study, single-port pericardial access, navigation, mapping, and ablation were performed in nine animals. The device was then used in a small, single-center feasibility clinical study. Three patients, all with drug-refractory VT and multiple failed endocardial ablation attempts, underwent epicardial mapping with the flexible robot. In all nine animals, navigation, mapping, and ablation were successful without hemodynamic compromise. In the human study, all three patients demonstrated a favorable safety profile, with no major adverse events through a 30-day follow-up. Two cases achieved technical success, in which an electroanatomic map of the epicardial ventricle surface was created; in the third case, blood obscured visualization. These results, although based on a limited number of experimental animals and patients, show promise and suggest that further clinical investigation on the use of the flexible robot in patients requiring epicardial mapping of VT is warranted.

The Acoustic Lens Design and in Vivo Use of a Multifunctional Catheter Combining Intracardiac Ultrasound Imaging and Electrophysiology Sensing

PubMed Central

Stephens, Douglas N.; Cannata, Jonathan; Liu, Ruibin; Zhao, Jian Zhong; Shung, K. Kirk; Nguyen, Hien; Chia, Raymond; Dentinger, Aaron; Wildes, Douglas; Thomenius, Kai E.; Mahajan, Aman; Shivkumar, Kalyanam; Kim, Kang; O’Donnell, Matthew; Sahn, David

2009-01-01

A multifunctional 9F intracardiac imaging and electrophysiology mapping catheter was developed and tested to help guide diagnostic and therapeutic intracardiac electrophysiology (EP) procedures. The catheter tip includes a 7.25-MHz, 64-element, side-looking phased array for high resolution sector scanning. Multiple electrophysiology mapping sensors were mounted as ring electrodes near the array for electrocardiographic synchronization of ultrasound images. The catheter array elevation beam performance in particular was investigated. An acoustic lens for the distal tip array designed with a round cross section can produce an acceptable elevation beam shape; however, the velocity of sound in the lens material should be approximately 155 m/s slower than in tissue for the best beam shape and wide bandwidth performance. To help establish the catheter’s unique ability for integration with electrophysiology interventional procedures, it was used in vivo in a porcine animal model, and demonstrated both useful intracardiac echocardiographic visualization and simultaneous 3-D positional information using integrated electroanatomical mapping techniques. The catheter also performed well in high frame rate imaging, color flow imaging, and strain rate imaging of atrial and ventricular structures. PMID:18407850

Biatrial Electrical and Structural Atrial Changes in Heart Failure: Electroanatomic Mapping in Persistent Atrial Fibrillation in Humans.

PubMed

Prabhu, Sandeep; Voskoboinik, Aleksandr; McLellan, Alex J A; Peck, Kah Y; Pathik, Bhupesh; Nalliah, Chrishan J; Wong, Geoff R; Azzopardi, Sonia M; Lee, Geoffrey; Mariani, Justin; Ling, Liang-Han; Taylor, Andrew J; Kalman, Jonathan M; Kistler, Peter M

2018-01-01

This study sought to characterize the biatrial substrate in heart failure (HF) and persistent atrial fibrillation (PeAF). Atrial fibrillation (AF) and HF frequently coexist; however, the contribution of HF to the biatrial substrate in PeAF is unclear. Consecutive patients with PeAF and normal left ventricular (NLV) systolic function (left ventricular ejection fraction [LVEF] >55%) or idiopathic cardiomyopathy (LVEF ≤45%) undergoing AF ablation were enrolled. In AF, pulmonary vein (PV) cycle length (PVCL) was recorded via a multipolar catheter in each PV and in the left atrial appendage for 100 consecutive cycles. After electrical cardioversion, biatrial electroanatomic mapping was performed. Complex electrograms, voltage, scarring, and conduction velocity were assessed. Forty patients, 20 patients with HF (mean age: 62 ± 8.9 years; AF duration: 15 ± 11 months; LVEF: 33 ± 8.4%) and 20 with NLV (mean age: 59 ± 6.7 years; AF duration: 14 ± 9.1 months; p = 0.69; mean LVEF: 61 ± 3.6%; p < 0.001), were enrolled. HF reduced biatrial tissue voltage (p < 0.001) with greater voltage heterogeneity (p < 0.001). HF was associated with significantly more biatrial fractionation (left atrium [LA]: 30% vs. 9%; p < 0.001; right atrium [RA]: 28% vs. 11%; p < 0.001), low voltage (<0.5 mV) (LA: 23% vs. 6%; p = 0.002; RA: 20% vs 11%; p = 0.006), and scarring (<0.05 mV) in the LA (p = 0.005). HF was associated with a slower average PVCL (185 vs. 164 ms; p = 0.016), which correlated significantly with PV antral bipolar voltage (R = -0.62; p < 0.001) and fractionation (R = 0.46; p = 0.001). HF is associated with significantly reduced biatrial tissue voltage, fractionation, and prolongation of PVCL. Advanced biatrial remodeling may have implications for invasive and noninvasive rhythm control strategies in patients with AF and HF. Copyright © 2018 American College of Cardiology Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Catheter-induced linear lesions in the left atrium in patients with atrial fibrillation: an electroanatomic study.

PubMed

Ernst, Sabine; Ouyang, Feifan; Löber, Felix; Antz, Matthias; Kuck, Karl-Heinz

2003-10-01

In this study using radiofrequency current and the electroanatomic mapping system CARTO, four line designs were tested in 84 patients suffering from drug-refractory atrial fibrillation (AFib). Prevention of AFib by trigger elimination within the pulmonary veins (PVs) has been recently reported, but the success may be lesser in patients with chronic AFib or large atria requiring linear lesion deployment. Type A encircled the ostia of all four PVs with a connection to the mitral annulus (MA). In type B, three lines connected anatomic barriers. Type C encircled both septal and lateral PVs with connections between PVs and to the MA. Type D encircled PVs only. In the initial 12 patients (type D/1), line validation was performed without, and in 23 patients (type D/2) with, an additional catheter inside the encircled PVs. The ability to achieve completeness of all intended lines was 5% in type A, 21% in type B, 29% in C, 66% in type D/1, and 61% in type D/2. This resulted in stable sinus rhythm in 19% (4/21 patients) in type A, 32% (6/19 patients) in type B, 50% (7/14 patients) in type C, 58% (7/12 patients) in type D/1, and 65% (15/23 patients) in type D/2, respectively, over a mean follow-up of 620 +/- 376 days. Besides thromboembolic events (one stroke and one transient ischemic attack), total occlusion of a PV was a major complication in one patient, and acute tamponade in two patients. Complete lesions in the left atrium were difficult to achieve using conventional radiofrequency current technology, but were associated with sinus rhythm in 74% of patients during long-term follow-up, whereas incomplete lesions led mostly to recurrences of AFib or gap-related atrial tachycardia.

Right diaphragmatic paralysis following endocardial cryothermal ablation of inappropriate sinus tachycardia.

PubMed

Vatasescu, Radu; Shalganov, Tchavdar; Kardos, Attila; Jalabadze, Khatuna; Paprika, Dora; Gyorgy, Margit; Szili-Torok, Tamas

2006-10-01

Inappropriate sinus tachycardia (IST) is a rare disorder amenable to catheter ablation when refractory to medical therapy. Radiofrequency (RF) catheter modification/ablation of the sinus node (SN) is the usual approach, although it can be complicated by right phrenic nerve paralysis. We describe a patient with IST, who had symptomatic recurrences despite previous acutely successful RF SN modifications, including the use of electroanatomical mapping/navigation system. We decided to try transvenous cryothermal modification of the SN. We used 2 min applications at -85 degrees C at sites of the earliest atrial activation guided by activation mapping during isoprenaline infusion. Every application was preceded by high output stimulation to reveal phrenic nerve proximity. During the last application, heart rate slowly and persistently fell below 85 bpm despite isoprenaline infusion, but right diaphragmatic paralysis developed. At 6 months follow-up, the patient was asymptomatic and the diaphragmatic paralysis had partially resolved. This is the first report, we believe, of successful SN modification for IST by endocardial cryoablation, although this case also demonstrates the considerable risk of right phrenic nerve paralysis even with this ablation energy.

Model-based imaging of cardiac electrical function in human atria

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Modre, Robert; Tilg, Bernhard; Fischer, Gerald; Hanser, Friedrich; Messnarz, Bernd; Schocke, Michael F. H.; Kremser, Christian; Hintringer, Florian; Roithinger, Franz

2003-05-01

Noninvasive imaging of electrical function in the human atria is attained by the combination of data from electrocardiographic (ECG) mapping and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). An anatomical computer model of the individual patient is the basis for our computer-aided diagnosis of cardiac arrhythmias. Three patients suffering from Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome, from paroxymal atrial fibrillation, and from atrial flutter underwent an electrophysiological study. After successful treatment of the cardiac arrhythmia with invasive catheter technique, pacing protocols with stimuli at several anatomical sites (coronary sinus, left and right pulmonary vein, posterior site of the right atrium, right atrial appendage) were performed. Reconstructed activation time (AT) maps were validated with catheter-based electroanatomical data, with invasively determined pacing sites, and with pacing at anatomical markers. The individual complex anatomical model of the atria of each patient in combination with a high-quality mesh optimization enables accurate AT imaging, resulting in a localization error for the estimated pacing sites within 1 cm. Our findings may have implications for imaging of atrial activity in patients with focal arrhythmias.

Multifunctional Catheters Combining Intracardiac Ultrasound Imaging and Electrophysiology Sensing

PubMed Central

Stephens, Douglas N.; Cannata, Jonathan; Liu, Ruibin; Zhao, Jian Zhong; Shung, K. Kirk; Nguyen, Hien; Chia, Raymond; Dentinger, Aaron; Wildes, Douglas; Thomenius, Kai E.; Mahajan, Aman; Shivkumar, Kalyanam; Kim, Kang; O’Donnell, Matthew; Nikoozadeh, Amin; Oralkan, Omer; Khuri-Yakub, Pierre T.; Sahn, David J.

2015-01-01

A family of 3 multifunctional intracardiac imaging and electrophysiology (EP) mapping catheters has been in development to help guide diagnostic and therapeutic intracardiac EP procedures. The catheter tip on the first device includes a 7.5 MHz, 64-element, side-looking phased array for high resolution sector scanning. The second device is a forward-looking catheter with a 24-element 14 MHz phased array. Both of these catheters operate on a commercial imaging system with standard software. Multiple EP mapping sensors were mounted as ring electrodes near the arrays for electrocardiographic synchronization of ultrasound images and used for unique integration with EP mapping technologies. To help establish the catheters’ ability for integration with EP interventional procedures, tests were performed in vivo in a porcine animal model to demonstrate both useful intracardiac echocardiographic (ICE) visualization and simultaneous 3-D positional information using integrated electroanatomical mapping techniques. The catheters also performed well in high frame rate imaging, color flow imaging, and strain rate imaging of atrial and ventricular structures. The companion paper of this work discusses the catheter design of the side-looking catheter with special attention to acoustic lens design. The third device in development is a 10 MHz forward-looking ring array that is to be mounted at the distal tip of a 9F catheter to permit use of the available catheter lumen for adjunctive therapy tools. PMID:18986948

Multifunctional catheters combining intracardiac ultrasound imaging and electrophysiology sensing.

PubMed

Stephens, D N; Cannata, J; Liu, Ruibin; Zhao, Jian Zhong; Shung, K K; Nguyen, Hien; Chia, R; Dentinger, A; Wildes, D; Thomenius, K E; Mahajan, A; Shivkumar, K; Kim, Kang; O'Donnell, M; Nikoozadeh, A; Oralkan, O; Khuri-Yakub, P T; Sahn, D J

2008-07-01

A family of 3 multifunctional intracardiac imaging and electrophysiology (EP) mapping catheters has been in development to help guide diagnostic and therapeutic intracardiac EP procedures. The catheter tip on the first device includes a 7.5 MHz, 64-element, side-looking phased array for high resolution sector scanning. The second device is a forward-looking catheter with a 24-element 14 MHz phased array. Both of these catheters operate on a commercial imaging system with standard software. Multiple EP mapping sensors were mounted as ring electrodes near the arrays for electrocardiographic synchronization of ultrasound images and used for unique integration with EP mapping technologies. To help establish the catheters' ability for integration with EP interventional procedures, tests were performed in vivo in a porcine animal model to demonstrate both useful intracardiac echocardiographic (ICE) visualization and simultaneous 3-D positional information using integrated electroanatomical mapping techniques. The catheters also performed well in high frame rate imaging, color flow imaging, and strain rate imaging of atrial and ventricular structures. The companion paper of this work discusses the catheter design of the side-looking catheter with special attention to acoustic lens design. The third device in development is a 10 MHz forward-looking ring array that is to be mounted at the distal tip of a 9F catheter to permit use of the available catheter lumen for adjunctive therapy tools.

Dynamic approximate entropy electroanatomic maps detect rotors in a simulated atrial fibrillation model.

PubMed

Ugarte, Juan P; Orozco-Duque, Andrés; Tobón, Catalina; Kremen, Vaclav; Novak, Daniel; Saiz, Javier; Oesterlein, Tobias; Schmitt, Clauss; Luik, Armin; Bustamante, John

2014-01-01

There is evidence that rotors could be drivers that maintain atrial fibrillation. Complex fractionated atrial electrograms have been located in rotor tip areas. However, the concept of electrogram fractionation, defined using time intervals, is still controversial as a tool for locating target sites for ablation. We hypothesize that the fractionation phenomenon is better described using non-linear dynamic measures, such as approximate entropy, and that this tool could be used for locating the rotor tip. The aim of this work has been to determine the relationship between approximate entropy and fractionated electrograms, and to develop a new tool for rotor mapping based on fractionation levels. Two episodes of chronic atrial fibrillation were simulated in a 3D human atrial model, in which rotors were observed. Dynamic approximate entropy maps were calculated using unipolar electrogram signals generated over the whole surface of the 3D atrial model. In addition, we optimized the approximate entropy calculation using two real multi-center databases of fractionated electrogram signals, labeled in 4 levels of fractionation. We found that the values of approximate entropy and the levels of fractionation are positively correlated. This allows the dynamic approximate entropy maps to localize the tips from stable and meandering rotors. Furthermore, we assessed the optimized approximate entropy using bipolar electrograms generated over a vicinity enclosing a rotor, achieving rotor detection. Our results suggest that high approximate entropy values are able to detect a high level of fractionation and to locate rotor tips in simulated atrial fibrillation episodes. We suggest that dynamic approximate entropy maps could become a tool for atrial fibrillation rotor mapping.

Usefulness of ventricular endocardial electric reconstruction from body surface potential maps to noninvasively localize ventricular ectopic activity in patients

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lai, Dakun; Sun, Jian; Li, Yigang; He, Bin

2013-06-01

As radio frequency (RF) catheter ablation becomes increasingly prevalent in the management of ventricular arrhythmia in patients, an accurate and rapid determination of the arrhythmogenic site is of important clinical interest. The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that the inversely reconstructed ventricular endocardial current density distribution from body surface potential maps (BSPMs) can localize the regions critical for maintenance of a ventricular ectopic activity. Patients with isolated and monomorphic premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) were investigated by noninvasive BSPMs and subsequent invasive catheter mapping and ablation. Equivalent current density (CD) reconstruction (CDR) during symptomatic PVCs was obtained on the endocardial ventricular surface in six patients (four men, two women, years 23-77), and the origin of the spontaneous ectopic activity was localized at the location of the maximum CD value. Compared with the last (successful) ablation site (LAS), the mean and standard deviation of localization error of the CDR approach were 13.8 and 1.3 mm, respectively. In comparison, the distance between the LASs and the estimated locations of an equivalent single moving dipole in the heart was 25.5 ± 5.5 mm. The obtained CD distribution of activated sources extending from the catheter ablation site also showed a high consistency with the invasively recorded electroanatomical maps. The noninvasively reconstructed endocardial CD distribution is suitable to predict a region of interest containing or close to arrhythmia source, which may have the potential to guide RF catheter ablation.

Slow Pathway Radiofrequency Ablation Using Magnetic Navigation: A Description of Technique and Retrospective Case Analysis.

PubMed

Bhaskaran, Abhishek; Albarri, Maha; Ross, Neil; Al Raisi, Sara; Samanta, Rahul; Roode, Leonette; Nadri, Fazlur; Ng, Jeanette; Thomas, Stuart; Thiagalingam, Aravinda; Kovoor, Pramesh

2017-12-01

The Magnetic Navigation System (MNS) catheter was shown to be stable in the presence of significant cardiac wall motion and delivered more effective lesions compared to manual control. This stability could potentially make AV junctional re-entrant tachycardia (AVNRT) ablation safer. The aim of this study is to describe the method of mapping and ablation of AVNRT with MNS and 3-D electro-anatomical mapping system (CARTO, Biosense Webster, Diamond bar, CA, USA) anatomical mapping, with a view to improve the safety of ablation. The method of precise mapping and ablation with MNS is described. Consecutive AVNRT cases (n=30) from 2012 January to 2015 November, in which magnetic navigation was used, are analysed. Ablation was successful in 27 (90%) out of 30 patients. In three cases, ablation was abandoned due to the proximity of the three-dimensional His image to the potential ablation site. No complications, including AV nodal injury, occurred. The distance from the nearest His position to successful ablation site in both LAO and RAO projections of CARTO images was 26.4±8.8 and 27±7.7mm respectively. Only in two (9%) patients, ablation needed to be extended superior to the plane of coronary sinus ostium, towards the His bundle region, to achieve slow pathway modification. AVNRT ablation with MNS allows for accurate mapping of the AV node and stable ablation at a safe distance, which could help avoid AV nodal injury. We recommend this modality for younger patients with AVNRT. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Sensor-Based Electromagnetic Navigation (Mediguide®): How Accurate Is It? A Phantom Model Study.

PubMed

Bourier, Felix; Reents, Tilko; Ammar-Busch, Sonia; Buiatti, Alessandra; Grebmer, Christian; Telishevska, Marta; Brkic, Amir; Semmler, Verena; Lennerz, Carsten; Kaess, Bernhard; Kottmaier, Marc; Kolb, Christof; Deisenhofer, Isabel; Hessling, Gabriele

2015-10-01

Data about localization reproducibility as well as spatial and visual accuracy of the new MediGuide® sensor-based electroanatomic navigation technology are scarce. We therefore sought to quantify these parameters based on phantom experiments. A realistic heart phantom was generated in a 3D-Printer. A CT scan was performed on the phantom. The phantom itself served as ground-truth reference to ensure exact and reproducible catheter placement. A MediGuide® catheter was repeatedly tagged at selected positions to assess accuracy of point localization. The catheter was also used to acquire a MediGuide®-scaled geometry in the EnSite Velocity® electroanatomic mapping system. The acquired geometries (MediGuide®-scaled and EnSite Velocity®-scaled) were compared to a CT segmentation of the phantom to quantify concordance. Distances between landmarks were measured in the EnSite Velocity®- and MediGuide®-scaled geometry and the CT dataset for Bland-Altman comparison. The visualization of virtual MediGuide® catheter tips was compared to their corresponding representation on fluoroscopic cine-loops. Point localization accuracy was 0.5 ± 0.3 mm for MediGuide® and 1.4 ± 0.7 mm for EnSite Velocity®. The 3D accuracy of the geometries was 1.1 ± 1.4 mm (MediGuide®-scaled) and 3.2 ± 1.6 mm (not MediGuide®-scaled). The offset between virtual MediGuide® catheter visualization and catheter representation on corresponding fluoroscopic cine-loops was 0.4 ± 0.1 mm. The MediGuide® system shows a very high level of accuracy regarding localization reproducibility as well as spatial and visual accuracy, which can be ascribed to the magnetic field localization technology. The observed offsets between the geometry visualization and the real phantom are below a clinically relevant threshold. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Multimodal Examination of Atrial Fibrillation Substrate: Correlation of Left Atrial Bipolar Voltage Using Multi-Electrode Fast Automated Mapping, Point-by-Point Mapping, and Magnetic Resonance Image Intensity Ratio.

PubMed

Zghaib, Tarek; Keramati, Ali; Chrispin, Jonathan; Huang, Dong; Balouch, Muhammad A; Ciuffo, Luisa; Berger, Ronald D; Marine, Joseph E; Ashikaga, Hiroshi; Calkins, Hugh; Nazarian, Saman; Spragg, David D

2018-01-01

Bipolar voltage mapping, as part of atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation, is traditionally performed in a point-by-point (PBP) approach using single-tip ablation catheters. Alternative techniques for fibrosis-delineation include fast-anatomical mapping (FAM) with multi-electrode circular catheters, and late gadolinium-enhanced magnetic-resonance imaging (LGE-MRI). The correlation between PBP, FAM, and LGE-MRI fibrosis assessment is unknown. In this study, we examined AF substrate using different modalities (PBP, FAM, and LGE-MRI mapping) in patients presenting for an AF ablation. LGE-MRI was performed pre-ablation in 26 patients (73% males, age 63±8years). Local image-intensity ratio (IIR) was used to normalize myocardial intensities. PBP- and FAM-voltage maps were acquired, in sinus rhythm, prior to ablation and co-registered to LGE-MRI. Mean bipolar voltage for all 19,087 FAM voltage points was 0.88±1.27mV and average IIR was 1.08±0.18. In an adjusted mixed-effects model, each unit increase in local IIR was associated with 57% decrease in bipolar voltage (p<0.0001). IIR of >0.74 corresponded to bipolar voltage <0.5 mV. A total of 1554 PBP-mapping points were matched to the nearest FAM-point. In an adjusted mixed-effects model, log-FAM bipolar voltage was significantly associated with log-PBP bipolar voltage (ß=0.36, p<0.0001). At low-voltages, FAM-mapping distribution was shifted to the left compared to PBP-mapping; at intermediate voltages, FAM and PBP voltages were overlapping; and at high voltages, FAM exceeded PBP-voltages. LGE-MRI, FAM and PBP-mapping show good correlation in delineating electro-anatomical AF substrate. Each approach has fundamental technical characteristics, the awareness of which allows proper assessment of atrial fibrosis.

A Prospective Study of Ripple Mapping the Post-Infarct Ventricular Scar to Guide Substrate Ablation for Ventricular Tachycardia.

PubMed

Luther, Vishal; Linton, Nick W F; Jamil-Copley, Shahnaz; Koa-Wing, Michael; Lim, Phang Boon; Qureshi, Norman; Ng, Fu Siong; Hayat, Sajad; Whinnett, Zachary; Davies, D Wyn; Peters, Nicholas S; Kanagaratnam, Prapa

2016-06-01

Post-infarct ventricular tachycardia is associated with channels of surviving myocardium within scar characterized by fractionated and low-amplitude signals usually occurring late during sinus rhythm. Conventional automated algorithms for 3-dimensional electro-anatomic mapping cannot differentiate the delayed local signal of conduction within the scar from the initial far-field signal generated by surrounding healthy tissue. Ripple mapping displays every deflection of an electrogram, thereby providing fully informative activation sequences. We prospectively used CARTO-based ripple maps to identify conducting channels as a target for ablation. High-density bipolar left ventricular endocardial electrograms were collected using CARTO3v4 in sinus rhythm or ventricular pacing and reviewed for ripple mapping conducting channel identification. Fifteen consecutive patients (median age 68 years, left ventricular ejection fraction 30%) were studied (6 month preprocedural implantable cardioverter defibrillator therapies: median 19 ATP events [Q1-Q3=4-93] and 1 shock [Q1-Q3=0-3]). Scar (<1.5 mV) occupied a median 29% of the total surface area (median 540 points collected within scar). A median of 2 ripple mapping conducting channels were seen within each scar (length 60 mm; initial component 0.44 mV; delayed component 0.20 mV; conduction 55 cm/s). Ablation was performed along all identified ripple mapping conducting channels (median 18 lesions) and any presumed interconnected late-activating sites (median 6 lesions; Q1-Q3=2-12). The diastolic isthmus in ventricular tachycardia was mapped in 3 patients and colocated within the ripple mapping conducting channels identified. Ventricular tachycardia was noninducible in 85% of patients post ablation, and 71% remain free of ventricular tachycardia recurrence at 6-month median follow-up. Ripple mapping can be used to identify conduction channels within scar to guide functional substrate ablation. © 2016 American Heart Association, Inc.

Dynamic Approximate Entropy Electroanatomic Maps Detect Rotors in a Simulated Atrial Fibrillation Model

PubMed Central

Ugarte, Juan P.; Orozco-Duque, Andrés; Tobón, Catalina; Kremen, Vaclav; Novak, Daniel; Saiz, Javier; Oesterlein, Tobias; Schmitt, Clauss; Luik, Armin; Bustamante, John

2014-01-01

There is evidence that rotors could be drivers that maintain atrial fibrillation. Complex fractionated atrial electrograms have been located in rotor tip areas. However, the concept of electrogram fractionation, defined using time intervals, is still controversial as a tool for locating target sites for ablation. We hypothesize that the fractionation phenomenon is better described using non-linear dynamic measures, such as approximate entropy, and that this tool could be used for locating the rotor tip. The aim of this work has been to determine the relationship between approximate entropy and fractionated electrograms, and to develop a new tool for rotor mapping based on fractionation levels. Two episodes of chronic atrial fibrillation were simulated in a 3D human atrial model, in which rotors were observed. Dynamic approximate entropy maps were calculated using unipolar electrogram signals generated over the whole surface of the 3D atrial model. In addition, we optimized the approximate entropy calculation using two real multi-center databases of fractionated electrogram signals, labeled in 4 levels of fractionation. We found that the values of approximate entropy and the levels of fractionation are positively correlated. This allows the dynamic approximate entropy maps to localize the tips from stable and meandering rotors. Furthermore, we assessed the optimized approximate entropy using bipolar electrograms generated over a vicinity enclosing a rotor, achieving rotor detection. Our results suggest that high approximate entropy values are able to detect a high level of fractionation and to locate rotor tips in simulated atrial fibrillation episodes. We suggest that dynamic approximate entropy maps could become a tool for atrial fibrillation rotor mapping. PMID:25489858

Contemporary Diagnosis and Management of Atrial Flutter: A Continuum of Atrial Fibrillation and Vice Versa?

PubMed

Manolis, Antonis S

Atrial flutter (AFlu) is usually a fast (>240 bpm) and regular right atrial macroreentrant tachycardia, with a constrained critical region of the reentry circuit located at the cavotricuspid isthmus (CTI; typical CTI-dependent AFlu). However, a variety of right and left atrial tachycardias, resulting from different mechanisms, can also present as AFlu (atypical non-CTI-dependent AFlu). The electrocardiogram can provide clues to its origin and location; however, additional entrainment and more sophisticated electroanatomical mapping techniques may be required to identify its mechanism, location, and target area for a successful ablation. Although atrial fibrillation and AFlu are 2 separate arrhythmias, they often coexist before and after drug and/or ablation therapies. Indeed, there appears to be a close interrelationship between these 2 arrhythmias, and one may "transform" into the other. These issues are discussed in this overview, and practical algorithms are proposed to guide AFlu localization and illustrate the AFlu and atrial fibrillation continuum.

Standardized unfold mapping: a technique to permit left atrial regional data display and analysis.

PubMed

Williams, Steven E; Tobon-Gomez, Catalina; Zuluaga, Maria A; Chubb, Henry; Butakoff, Constantine; Karim, Rashed; Ahmed, Elena; Camara, Oscar; Rhode, Kawal S

2017-10-01

Left atrial arrhythmia substrate assessment can involve multiple imaging and electrical modalities, but visual analysis of data on 3D surfaces is time-consuming and suffers from limited reproducibility. Unfold maps (e.g., the left ventricular bull's eye plot) allow 2D visualization, facilitate multimodal data representation, and provide a common reference space for inter-subject comparison. The aim of this work is to develop a method for automatic representation of multimodal information on a left atrial standardized unfold map (LA-SUM). The LA-SUM technique was developed and validated using 18 electroanatomic mapping (EAM) LA geometries before being applied to ten cardiac magnetic resonance/EAM paired geometries. The LA-SUM was defined as an unfold template of an average LA mesh, and registration of clinical data to this mesh facilitated creation of new LA-SUMs by surface parameterization. The LA-SUM represents 24 LA regions on a flattened surface. Intra-observer variability of LA-SUMs for both EAM and CMR datasets was minimal; root-mean square difference of 0.008 ± 0.010 and 0.007 ± 0.005 ms (local activation time maps), 0.068 ± 0.063 gs (force-time integral maps), and 0.031 ± 0.026 (CMR LGE signal intensity maps). Following validation, LA-SUMs were used for automatic quantification of post-ablation scar formation using CMR imaging, demonstrating a weak but significant relationship between ablation force-time integral and scar coverage (R 2  = 0.18, P < 0.0001). The proposed LA-SUM displays an integrated unfold map for multimodal information. The method is applicable to any LA surface, including those derived from imaging and EAM systems. The LA-SUM would facilitate standardization of future research studies involving segmental analysis of the LA.

Towards optical spectroscopic anatomical mapping (OSAM) for lesion validation in cardiac tissue (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Singh-Moon, Rajinder P.; Zaryab, Mohammad; Hendon, Christine P.

2017-02-01

Electroanatomical mapping (EAM) is an invaluable tool for guiding cardiac radiofrequency ablation (RFA) therapy. The principle roles of EAM is the identification of candidate ablation sites by detecting regions of abnormal electrogram activity and lesion validation subsequent to RF energy delivery. However, incomplete lesions may present interim electrical inactivity similar to effective treatment in the acute setting, despite efforts to reveal them with pacing or drugs, such as adenosine. Studies report that the misidentification and recovery of such lesions is a leading cause of arrhythmia recurrence and repeat procedures. In previous work, we demonstrated spectroscopic characterization of cardiac tissues using a fiber optic-integrated RF ablation catheter. In this work, we introduce OSAM (optical spectroscopic anatomical mapping), the application of this spectroscopic technique to obtain 2-dimensional biodistribution maps. We demonstrate its diagnostic potential as an auxiliary method for lesion validation in treated swine preparations. Endocardial lesion sets were created on fresh swine cardiac samples using a commercial RFA system. An optically-integrated catheter console fabricated in-house was used for measurement of tissue optical spectra between 600-1000nm. Three dimensional, Spatio-spectral datasets were generated by raster scanning of the optical catheter across the treated sample surface in the presence of whole blood. Tissue optical parameters were recovered at each spatial position using an inverse Monte Carlo method. OSAM biodistribution maps showed stark correspondence with gross examination of tetrazolium chloride stained tissue specimens. Specifically, we demonstrate the ability of OSAM to readily distinguish between shallow and deeper lesions, a limitation faced by current EAM techniques. These results showcase the OSAMs potential for lesion validation strategies for the treatment of cardiac arrhythmias.

Predicting protein contact map using evolutionary and physical constraints by integer programming.

PubMed

Wang, Zhiyong; Xu, Jinbo

2013-07-01

Protein contact map describes the pairwise spatial and functional relationship of residues in a protein and contains key information for protein 3D structure prediction. Although studied extensively, it remains challenging to predict contact map using only sequence information. Most existing methods predict the contact map matrix element-by-element, ignoring correlation among contacts and physical feasibility of the whole-contact map. A couple of recent methods predict contact map by using mutual information, taking into consideration contact correlation and enforcing a sparsity restraint, but these methods demand for a very large number of sequence homologs for the protein under consideration and the resultant contact map may be still physically infeasible. This article presents a novel method PhyCMAP for contact map prediction, integrating both evolutionary and physical restraints by machine learning and integer linear programming. The evolutionary restraints are much more informative than mutual information, and the physical restraints specify more concrete relationship among contacts than the sparsity restraint. As such, our method greatly reduces the solution space of the contact map matrix and, thus, significantly improves prediction accuracy. Experimental results confirm that PhyCMAP outperforms currently popular methods no matter how many sequence homologs are available for the protein under consideration. http://raptorx.uchicago.edu.

Technical Note: A 3-D rendering algorithm for electromechanical wave imaging of a beating heart.

PubMed

Nauleau, Pierre; Melki, Lea; Wan, Elaine; Konofagou, Elisa

2017-09-01

Arrhythmias can be treated by ablating the heart tissue in the regions of abnormal contraction. The current clinical standard provides electroanatomic 3-D maps to visualize the electrical activation and locate the arrhythmogenic sources. However, the procedure is time-consuming and invasive. Electromechanical wave imaging is an ultrasound-based noninvasive technique that can provide 2-D maps of the electromechanical activation of the heart. In order to fully visualize the complex 3-D pattern of activation, several 2-D views are acquired and processed separately. They are then manually registered with a 3-D rendering software to generate a pseudo-3-D map. However, this last step is operator-dependent and time-consuming. This paper presents a method to generate a full 3-D map of the electromechanical activation using multiple 2-D images. Two canine models were considered to illustrate the method: one in normal sinus rhythm and one paced from the lateral region of the heart. Four standard echographic views of each canine heart were acquired. Electromechanical wave imaging was applied to generate four 2-D activation maps of the left ventricle. The radial positions and activation timings of the walls were automatically extracted from those maps. In each slice, from apex to base, these values were interpolated around the circumference to generate a full 3-D map. In both cases, a 3-D activation map and a cine-loop of the propagation of the electromechanical wave were automatically generated. The 3-D map showing the electromechanical activation timings overlaid on realistic anatomy assists with the visualization of the sources of earlier activation (which are potential arrhythmogenic sources). The earliest sources of activation corresponded to the expected ones: septum for the normal rhythm and lateral for the pacing case. The proposed technique provides, automatically, a 3-D electromechanical activation map with a realistic anatomy. This represents a step towards a noninvasive tool to efficiently localize arrhythmias in 3-D. © 2017 American Association of Physicists in Medicine.

Optimal contact definition for reconstruction of contact maps.

PubMed

Duarte, Jose M; Sathyapriya, Rajagopal; Stehr, Henning; Filippis, Ioannis; Lappe, Michael

2010-05-27

Contact maps have been extensively used as a simplified representation of protein structures. They capture most important features of a protein's fold, being preferred by a number of researchers for the description and study of protein structures. Inspired by the model's simplicity many groups have dedicated a considerable amount of effort towards contact prediction as a proxy for protein structure prediction. However a contact map's biological interest is subject to the availability of reliable methods for the 3-dimensional reconstruction of the structure. We use an implementation of the well-known distance geometry protocol to build realistic protein 3-dimensional models from contact maps, performing an extensive exploration of many of the parameters involved in the reconstruction process. We try to address the questions: a) to what accuracy does a contact map represent its corresponding 3D structure, b) what is the best contact map representation with regard to reconstructability and c) what is the effect of partial or inaccurate contact information on the 3D structure recovery. Our results suggest that contact maps derived from the application of a distance cutoff of 9 to 11A around the Cbeta atoms constitute the most accurate representation of the 3D structure. The reconstruction process does not provide a single solution to the problem but rather an ensemble of conformations that are within 2A RMSD of the crystal structure and with lower values for the pairwise average ensemble RMSD. Interestingly it is still possible to recover a structure with partial contact information, although wrong contacts can lead to dramatic loss in reconstruction fidelity. Thus contact maps represent a valid approximation to the structures with an accuracy comparable to that of experimental methods. The optimal contact definitions constitute key guidelines for methods based on contact maps such as structure prediction through contacts and structural alignments based on maximum contact map overlap.

Optimal contact definition for reconstruction of Contact Maps

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

Background Contact maps have been extensively used as a simplified representation of protein structures. They capture most important features of a protein's fold, being preferred by a number of researchers for the description and study of protein structures. Inspired by the model's simplicity many groups have dedicated a considerable amount of effort towards contact prediction as a proxy for protein structure prediction. However a contact map's biological interest is subject to the availability of reliable methods for the 3-dimensional reconstruction of the structure. Results We use an implementation of the well-known distance geometry protocol to build realistic protein 3-dimensional models from contact maps, performing an extensive exploration of many of the parameters involved in the reconstruction process. We try to address the questions: a) to what accuracy does a contact map represent its corresponding 3D structure, b) what is the best contact map representation with regard to reconstructability and c) what is the effect of partial or inaccurate contact information on the 3D structure recovery. Our results suggest that contact maps derived from the application of a distance cutoff of 9 to 11Å around the Cβ atoms constitute the most accurate representation of the 3D structure. The reconstruction process does not provide a single solution to the problem but rather an ensemble of conformations that are within 2Å RMSD of the crystal structure and with lower values for the pairwise average ensemble RMSD. Interestingly it is still possible to recover a structure with partial contact information, although wrong contacts can lead to dramatic loss in reconstruction fidelity. Conclusions Thus contact maps represent a valid approximation to the structures with an accuracy comparable to that of experimental methods. The optimal contact definitions constitute key guidelines for methods based on contact maps such as structure prediction through contacts and structural alignments based on maximum contact map overlap. PMID:20507547

Quantitative Analysis of Localized Sources Identified by Focal Impulse and Rotor Modulation Mapping in Atrial Fibrillation

PubMed Central

Benharash, Peyman; Buch, Eric; Frank, Paul; Share, Michael; Tung, Roderick; Shivkumar, Kalyanam; Mandapati, Ravi

2015-01-01

Background New approaches to ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF) include focal impulse and rotor modulation (FIRM) mapping, and initial results reported with this technique have been favorable. We sought to independently evaluate the approach by analyzing quantitative characteristics of atrial electrograms used to identify rotors and describe acute procedural outcomes of FIRM-guided ablation. Methods and Results All FIRM-guided ablation procedures (n=24; 50% paroxysmal) at University of California, Los Angeles Medical Center were included for analysis. During AF, unipolar atrial electrograms collected from a 64-pole basket catheter were used to construct phase maps and identify putative AF sources. These sites were targeted for ablation, in conjunction with pulmonary vein isolation in most patients (n=19; 79%). All patients had rotors identified (mean, 2.3±0.9 per patient; 72% in left atrium). Prespecified acute procedural end point was achieved in 12 of 24 (50%) patients: AF termination (n=1), organization (n=3), or >10% slowing of AF cycle length (n=8). Basket electrodes were within 1 cm of 54% of left atrial surface area, and a mean of 31 electrodes per patient showed interpretable atrial electrograms. Offline analysis revealed no differences between rotor and distant sites in dominant frequency or Shannon entropy. Electroanatomic mapping showed no rotational activation at FIRM-identified rotor sites in 23 of 24 patients (96%). Conclusions FIRM-identified rotor sites did not exhibit quantitative atrial electrogram characteristics expected from rotors and did not differ quantitatively from surrounding tissue. Catheter ablation at these sites, in conjunction with pulmonary vein isolation, resulted in AF termination or organization in a minority of patients (4/24; 17%). Further validation of this approach is necessary. PMID:25873718

Determination of contact maps in proteins: A combination of structural and chemical approaches

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

Wołek, Karol; Cieplak, Marek, E-mail: mc@ifpan.edu.pl; Gómez-Sicilia, Àngel

2015-12-28

Contact map selection is a crucial step in structure-based molecular dynamics modelling of proteins. The map can be determined in many different ways. We focus on the methods in which residues are represented as clusters of effective spheres. One contact map, denoted as overlap (OV), is based on the overlap of such spheres. Another contact map, named Contacts of Structural Units (CSU), involves the geometry in a different way and, in addition, brings chemical considerations into account. We develop a variant of the CSU approach in which we also incorporate Coulombic effects such as formation of the ionic bridges andmore » destabilization of possible links through repulsion. In this way, the most essential and well defined contacts are identified. The resulting residue-residue contact map, dubbed repulsive CSU (rCSU), is more sound in its physico-chemical justification than CSU. It also provides a clear prescription for validity of an inter-residual contact: the number of attractive atomic contacts should be larger than the number of repulsive ones — a feature that is not present in CSU. However, both of these maps do not correlate well with the experimental data on protein stretching. Thus, we propose to use rCSU together with the OV map. We find that the combined map, denoted as OV+rCSU, performs better than OV. In most situations, OV and OV+rCSU yield comparable folding properties but for some proteins rCSU provides contacts which improve folding in a substantial way. We discuss the likely residue-specificity of the rCSU contacts. Finally, we make comparisons to the recently proposed shadow contact map, which is derived from different principles.« less

Contact USDA-ARS | USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map

Science.gov Websites

USDA Logo Agricultural Research Service United States Department of Agriculture Mapping by PRISM / Help / Contact USDA-ARS Topics How to Use This Website Contact USDA-ARS Contact USDA Agricultural Mapping, please contact the USDA Agricultural Research Service by sending an e-mail to phzm@ars.usda.gov

Cryo-balloon catheter localization in fluoroscopic images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kurzendorfer, Tanja; Brost, Alexander; Jakob, Carolin; Mewes, Philip W.; Bourier, Felix; Koch, Martin; Kurzidim, Klaus; Hornegger, Joachim; Strobel, Norbert

2013-03-01

Minimally invasive catheter ablation has become the preferred treatment option for atrial fibrillation. Although the standard ablation procedure involves ablation points set by radio-frequency catheters, cryo-balloon catheters have even been reported to be more advantageous in certain cases. As electro-anatomical mapping systems do not support cryo-balloon ablation procedures, X-ray guidance is needed. However, current methods to provide support for cryo-balloon catheters in fluoroscopically guided ablation procedures rely heavily on manual user interaction. To improve this, we propose a first method for automatic cryo-balloon catheter localization in fluoroscopic images based on a blob detection algorithm. Our method is evaluated on 24 clinical images from 17 patients. The method successfully detected the cryoballoon in 22 out of 24 images, yielding a success rate of 91.6 %. The successful localization achieved an accuracy of 1.00 mm +/- 0.44 mm. Even though our methods currently fails in 8.4 % of the images available, it still offers a significant improvement over manual methods. Furthermore, detecting a landmark point along the cryo-balloon catheter can be a very important step for additional post-processing operations.

Prospective study of atrial fibrillation termination during ablation guided by automated detection of fractionated electrograms.

PubMed

Porter, Michael; Spear, William; Akar, Joseph G; Helms, Ray; Brysiewicz, Neil; Santucci, Peter; Wilber, David J

2008-06-01

Complex fractionated atrial electrograms (CFAE) may identify critical sites for perpetuation of atrial fibrillation (AF) and provide useful targets for ablation. Current assessment of CFAE is subjective; automated detection algorithms may improve reproducibility, but their utility in guiding ablation has not been tested. In 67 patients presenting for initial AF ablation (42 paroxysmal, 25 persistent), LA and CS mapping were performed during induced or spontaneous AF. CFAE were identified by an online automated computer algorithm and displayed on electroanatomical maps. A mean of 28 +/- 18 sites/patient were identified (20 +/- 13% of mapped sites), and were more frequent during persistent AF. CFAE occurred most commonly within the CS, on the atrial septum, and around the pulmonary veins. Ablation initially targeting CFAE terminated AF in 88% of paroxysmal AF, but only 20% of persistent AF (P < 0.001). Subsequently, additional ablation was performed in all patients (PV isolation for paroxysmal AF, PV isolation + mitral and roof lines for persistent AF). Minimum follow-up was 1 year. One-year freedom from recurrent atrial arrhythmias without antiarrhythmic drug therapy after a single procedure was 90% for paroxysmal AF, and 68% for persistent AF. Ablation guided by automated detection of CFAE proved feasible, and was associated with a high AF termination rate in paroxysmal, but not persistent AF. As an adjunct to conventional techniques, it was associated with excellent long-term single procedure outcomes in both groups. Criteria for identifying optimal CFAE sites for ablation, and selection of patients most likely to benefit, require additional study.

CIDR

Science.gov Websites

Completed Projects Publications Contact Information NIH Contacts CIDR Contacts ___________________ -Contact Us -Privacy Policy -Site Map Search You are here: CIDR>Contact Information> CIDR Contacts CIDR 1812 Ashland Ave Suite 200 Baltimore, MD 21205 Contact Us | Privacy Policy | Site Map | Get Adobe

Spatial resolution of pace mapping of idiopathic ventricular tachycardia/ectopy originating in the right ventricular outflow tract.

PubMed

Bogun, Frank; Taj, Majid; Ting, Michael; Kim, Hyungjin Myra; Reich, Stephen; Good, Eric; Jongnarangsin, Krit; Chugh, Aman; Pelosi, Frank; Oral, Hakan; Morady, Fred

2008-03-01

Pace mapping has been used to identify the site of origin of focal ventricular arrhythmias. The spatial resolution of pace mapping has not been adequately quantified using currently available three-dimensional mapping systems. The purpose of this study was to determine the spatial resolution of pace mapping in patients with idiopathic ventricular tachycardia or premature ventricular contractions originating in the right ventricular outflow tract. In 16 patients with idiopathic ventricular tachycardia/ectopy from the right ventricular outflow tract, comparisons and classifications of pace maps were performed by two observers (good pace map: match >10/12 leads; inadequate pace map: match < or =10/12 leads) and a customized MATLAB 6.0 program (assessing correlation coefficient and normalized root mean square of the difference (nRMSd) between test and template signals). With an electroanatomic mapping system, the correlation coefficient of each pace map was correlated with the distance between the pacing site and the effective ablation site. The endocardial area within the 10-ms activation isochrone was measured. The ablation procedure was effective in all patients. Sites with good pace maps had a higher correlation coefficient and lower nRMSd than sites with inadequate pace maps (correlation coefficient: 0.96 +/- 0.03 vs 0.76 +/- 0.18, P <.0001; nRMSd: 0.41 +/- 0.16 vs 0.89 +/- 0.39, P <.0001). Using receiver operating characteristic curves, appropriate cutoff values were >0.94 for correlation coefficient (sensitivity 81%, specificity 89%) and < or =0.54 for nRMSd (sensitivity 76%, specificity 80%). Good pace maps were located a mean of 7.3 +/- 5.0 mm from the effective ablation site and had a mean activation time of -24 +/- 7 ms. However, in 3 (18%) of 16 patients, the best pace map was inadequate at the effective ablation site, with an endocardial activation time at these sites of -25 +/- 12 ms. Pace maps with correlation coefficient > or =0.94 were confined to an area of 1.8 +/- 0.6 cm2. The 10-ms isochrone measured 1.2 +/- 0.7 cm2. The spatial resolution of a good pace map for targeting ventricular tachycardia/ectopy is 1.8 cm2 in the right ventricular outflow tract and therefore is inferior to the spatial resolution of activation mapping as assessed by isochronal activation. In approximately 20% of patients, pace mapping is unreliable in identifying the site of origin, possibly due a deeper site of origin and preferential conduction via fibers connecting the focus to the endocardial surface.

CIDR

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Completed Projects Publications Contact Information NIH Contacts CIDR Contacts ___________________ -Contact Us -Privacy Policy -Site Map Search You are here: CIDR>Contact Us Contact Us The CIDR facility is Contact Us | Privacy Policy | Site Map | Get Adobe Reader Subscribe to CIDR News photo of 1812 Ashland

Construction of adhesion maps for contacts between a sphere and a half-space: Considering size effects of the sphere.

PubMed

Zhang, Yuyan; Wang, Xiaoli; Li, Hanqing; Yang, Weixu

2015-11-15

Previous adhesion maps, such as the JG (Johnson-Greenwood) and YCG (Yao-Ciavarella-Gao) maps, are used to guide the selection of Bradley, DMT, M-D, JKR and Hertz models. However, when the size of the contact sphere decreases to the small scale, the applicability of JG and YCG maps is limited because the assumptions regarding the contact region profile, interaction between contact bodies and sphere shape in the classical models constituting these two maps are no longer valid. To avoid this limitation, in this paper, a new numerical model considering size effects of the sphere is established first and then introduced into the new adhesion maps together with the YGG (Yao-Guduru-Gao) model and Hertz model. Regimes of these models in the new map under a certain sphere radius are demarcated by the criteria related to the relative force differences and the ratio of contact radius to sphere radius. In addition, the approaches at pull-off, jump-in and jump-out for different Tabor parameters and sphere radii are provided in the new maps. Finally, to make the new maps more feasible, the numerical results of approaches, force and contact radius involved in the maps are formularized by using the piecewise fitting. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

High Voltage Guided Pulmonary Vein Isolation in Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation.

PubMed

Boles, Usama; Gul, Enes E; Enriquez, Andres; Lee, Howard; Riegert, Dave; Andres, Adrian; Baranchuk, Adrian; Redfearn, Damian; Glover, Benedict; Simpson, Chris; Abdollah, Hoshiar; Michael, Kevin

2017-01-01

Ablation of the pulmonary vein (PV) antrum using an electroanatomic mapping system is standard of care for point-by-point pulmonary vein isolation (PVI). Focused ablation at critical areas is more likely to achieve intra-procedural PV isolation and decrease the likelihood for reconnection and recurrence of atrial fibrillation (AF). Therefore this prospective pilot study is to investigate the short-term outcome of a voltage-guided circumferential PV ablation (CPVA) strategy. We recruited patients with a history of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF). The EnSite NavX system (St. Jude Medical, St Paul, Minnesota, USA) was employed to construct a three-dimensional geometry of the left atrium (LA) and voltage map. CPVA was performed; with radiofrequency (RF) targeting sites of highest voltage first in a sequential clockwise fashion then followed by complete the gaps in circumferential ablation. Acute and short-term outcomes were compared to a control group undergoing conventional standard CPVA using the same 3D system. Follow-up was scheduled at 3, 6 and 12 months. Thirty-four paroxysmal AF patients with a mean age of 40 years were included. Fourteen patients (8 male) underwent voltage mapping and 20 patients underwent empirical, non-voltage guided standard CPVA. A mean of 54 ± 12 points per PV antrum were recorded. Mean voltage for right and left PVs antra were 1.7±0.1 mV and 1.9±0.2 mV, respectively. There was a trend towards reduced radiofrequency time (40.9±17.4 vs. 48.1±15.5 mins; p=0.22). Voltage-guided CPVA is a promising strategy in targeting critical points for PV isolation with a lower trend of AF recurrence compared with a standard CPVA in short-term period. Extended studies to confirm these findings are warranted.

Friction Mapping as a Tool for Measuring the Elastohydrodynamic Contact Running-in Process

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-10-01

ARL-TR-7501 ● OCT 2015 US Army Research Laboratory Friction Mapping as a Tool for Measuring the Elastohydrodynamic Contact...Research Laboratory Friction Mapping as a Tool for Measuring the Elastohydrodynamic Contact Running-in Process by Stephen Berkebile Vehicle...YYYY) October 2015 2. REPORT TYPE Final 3. DATES COVERED (From - To) 1 January–30 June 2015 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE Friction Mapping as a Tool for

3D and 4D echo--applications in EP laboratory procedures.

PubMed

Kautzner, Josef; Peichl, Petr

2008-08-01

3D echocardiography allows imaging and analysis of cardiovascular structures as they move in time and space, thus creating possibility for creation of 4D datasets (3D + time). Intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) further broadens the spectrum of echocardiographic techniques by allowing detailed imaging of intracardiac anatomy with 3D reconstructions. The paper reviews the current status of development of 3D and 4D echocardiography in electrophysiology. In ablation area, 3D echocardiography can enhance the performance of catheter ablation for complex arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation. Currently, several strategies to obtain 3D reconstructions from ICE are available. One involves combination with electroanatomical mapping system; others create reconstruction from standard phased-array or single-element ICE catheter using special rotational or pull-back devices. Secondly, 3D echocardiography may be used for precise assessment of cardiac dyssynchrony before cardiac resynchronization therapy. Its reliable detection is expected to minimize number of non-responders to this treatment and optimize left ventricular lead positioning to get maximum hemodynamic benefit. The main potential benefit of 3D and 4D echocardiography in electrophysiology lie in real-time guidance of complex ablation procedures and precise assessment of cardiac dyssynchrony.

Navigation for fluoroscopy-guided cryo-balloon ablation procedures of atrial fibrillation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bourier, Felix; Brost, Alexander; Kleinoeder, Andreas; Kurzendorfer, Tanja; Koch, Martin; Kiraly, Attila; Schneider, Hans-Juergen; Hornegger, Joachim; Strobel, Norbert; Kurzidim, Klaus

2012-02-01

Atrial fibrillation (AFib), the most common arrhythmia, has been identified as a major cause of stroke. The current standard in interventional treatment of AFib is the pulmonary vein isolation (PVI). PVI is guided by fluoroscopy or non-fluoroscopic electro-anatomic mapping systems (EAMS). Either classic point-to-point radio-frequency (RF)- catheter ablation or so-called single-shot-devices like cryo-balloons are used to achieve electrically isolation of the pulmonary veins and the left atrium (LA). Fluoroscopy-based systems render overlay images from pre-operative 3-D data sets which are then merged with fluoroscopic imaging, thereby adding detailed 3-D information to conventional fluoroscopy. EAMS provide tracking and visualization of RF catheters by means of electro-magnetic tracking. Unfortunately, current navigation systems, fluoroscopy-based or EAMS, do not provide tools to localize and visualize single shot devices like cryo-balloon catheters in 3-D. We present a prototype software for fluoroscopy-guided ablation procedures that is capable of superimposing 3-D datasets as well as reconstructing cyro-balloon catheters in 3-D. The 3-D cyro-balloon reconstruction was evaluated on 9 clinical data sets, yielded a reprojected 2-D error of 1.72 mm +/- 1.02 mm.

HiC-spector: a matrix library for spectral and reproducibility analysis of Hi-C contact maps.

PubMed

Yan, Koon-Kiu; Yardimci, Galip Gürkan; Yan, Chengfei; Noble, William S; Gerstein, Mark

2017-07-15

Genome-wide proximity ligation based assays like Hi-C have opened a window to the 3D organization of the genome. In so doing, they present data structures that are different from conventional 1D signal tracks. To exploit the 2D nature of Hi-C contact maps, matrix techniques like spectral analysis are particularly useful. Here, we present HiC-spector, a collection of matrix-related functions for analyzing Hi-C contact maps. In particular, we introduce a novel reproducibility metric for quantifying the similarity between contact maps based on spectral decomposition. The metric successfully separates contact maps mapped from Hi-C data coming from biological replicates, pseudo-replicates and different cell types. Source code in Julia and Python, and detailed documentation is available at https://github.com/gersteinlab/HiC-spector . koonkiu.yan@gmail.com or mark@gersteinlab.org. Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online. © The Author(s) 2017. Published by Oxford University Press.

Genome contact map explorer: a platform for the comparison, interactive visualization and analysis of genome contact maps

PubMed Central

Kumar, Rajendra; Sobhy, Haitham

2017-01-01

Abstract Hi-C experiments generate data in form of large genome contact maps (Hi-C maps). These show that chromosomes are arranged in a hierarchy of three-dimensional compartments. But to understand how these compartments form and by how much they affect genetic processes such as gene regulation, biologists and bioinformaticians need efficient tools to visualize and analyze Hi-C data. However, this is technically challenging because these maps are big. In this paper, we remedied this problem, partly by implementing an efficient file format and developed the genome contact map explorer platform. Apart from tools to process Hi-C data, such as normalization methods and a programmable interface, we made a graphical interface that let users browse, scroll and zoom Hi-C maps to visually search for patterns in the Hi-C data. In the software, it is also possible to browse several maps simultaneously and plot related genomic data. The software is openly accessible to the scientific community. PMID:28973466

Geologic map of the west-central Buffalo National River region, northern Arkansas

USGS Publications Warehouse

Hudson, Mark R.; Turner, Kenzie J.

2014-01-01

This report provides a geologic map database of the map area that improves understanding of the regional geologic framework and its influence on the regional groundwater flow system. Furthermore, additional edits were made to the Ponca and Jasper quadrangles in the following ways: new control points on important contacts were obtained using modern GPS; recent higher resolution elevation data allowed further control on placement of contacts; some new contacts were added, in particular the contact separating the upper and lower Everton Formation.

Adhesion design maps for bio-inspired attachment systems.

PubMed

Spolenak, Ralph; Gorb, Stanislav; Arzt, Eduard

2005-01-01

Fibrous surface structures can improve the adhesion of objects to other surfaces. Animals, such as flies and geckos, take advantage of this principle by developing "hairy" contact structures which ensure controlled and repeatable adhesion and detachment. Mathematical models for fiber adhesion predict pronounced dependencies of contact performance on the geometry and the elastic properties of the fibers. In this paper the limits of such contacts imposed by fiber strength, fiber condensation, compliance, and ideal contact strength are modeled for spherical contact tips. Based on this, we introduce the concept of "adhesion design maps" which visualize the predicted mechanical behavior. The maps are useful for understanding biological systems and for guiding experimentation to achieve optimum artificial contacts.

Computation of wheel-rail contact force for non-mapping wheel-rail profile of Translohr tram

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ji, Yuanjin; Ren, Lihui; Zhou, Jinsong

2017-09-01

Translohr tram has steel wheels, in V-like arrangements, as guide wheels. These operate over the guide rails in inverted-V arrangements. However, the horizontal and vertical coordinates of the guide wheels and guide rails are not always mapped one-to-one. In this study, a simplified elastic method is proposed in order to calculate the contact points between the wheels and the rails. By transforming the coordinates, the non-mapping geometric relationship between wheel and rail is converted into a mapping relationship. Considering the Translohr tram's multi-point contact between the guide wheel and the guide rail, the elastic-contact hypothesis take into account the existence of contact patches between the bodies, and the location of the contact points is calculated using a simplified elastic method. In order to speed up the calculation, a multi-dimensional contact table is generated, enabling the use of simulation for Translohr tram running on curvatures with different radii.

Identification of residue pairing in interacting β-strands from a predicted residue contact map.

PubMed

Mao, Wenzhi; Wang, Tong; Zhang, Wenxuan; Gong, Haipeng

2018-04-19

Despite the rapid progress of protein residue contact prediction, predicted residue contact maps frequently contain many errors. However, information of residue pairing in β strands could be extracted from a noisy contact map, due to the presence of characteristic contact patterns in β-β interactions. This information may benefit the tertiary structure prediction of mainly β proteins. In this work, we propose a novel ridge-detection-based β-β contact predictor to identify residue pairing in β strands from any predicted residue contact map. Our algorithm RDb 2 C adopts ridge detection, a well-developed technique in computer image processing, to capture consecutive residue contacts, and then utilizes a novel multi-stage random forest framework to integrate the ridge information and additional features for prediction. Starting from the predicted contact map of CCMpred, RDb 2 C remarkably outperforms all state-of-the-art methods on two conventional test sets of β proteins (BetaSheet916 and BetaSheet1452), and achieves F1-scores of ~ 62% and ~ 76% at the residue level and strand level, respectively. Taking the prediction of the more advanced RaptorX-Contact as input, RDb 2 C achieves impressively higher performance, with F1-scores reaching ~ 76% and ~ 86% at the residue level and strand level, respectively. In a test of structural modeling using the top 1 L predicted contacts as constraints, for 61 mainly β proteins, the average TM-score achieves 0.442 when using the raw RaptorX-Contact prediction, but increases to 0.506 when using the improved prediction by RDb 2 C. Our method can significantly improve the prediction of β-β contacts from any predicted residue contact maps. Prediction results of our algorithm could be directly applied to effectively facilitate the practical structure prediction of mainly β proteins. All source data and codes are available at http://166.111.152.91/Downloads.html or the GitHub address of https://github.com/wzmao/RDb2C .

Rotational X-ray angiography: a method for intra-operative volume imaging of the left-atrium and pulmonary veins for atrial fibrillation ablation guidance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Manzke, R.; Zagorchev, L.; d'Avila, A.; Thiagalingam, A.; Reddy, V. Y.; Chan, R. C.

2007-03-01

Catheter-based ablation in the left atrium and pulmonary veins (LAPV) for treatment of atrial fibrillation in cardiac electrophysiology (EP) are complex and require knowledge of heart chamber anatomy. Electroanatomical mapping (EAM) is typically used to define cardiac structures by combining electromagnetic spatial catheter localization with surface models which interpolate the anatomy between EAM point locations in 3D. Recently, the incorporation of pre-operative volumetric CT or MR data sets has allowed for more detailed maps of LAPV anatomy to be used intra-operatively. Preoperative data sets are however a rough guide since they can be acquired several days to weeks prior to EP intervention. Due to positional and physiological changes, the intra-operative cardiac anatomy can be different from that depicted in the pre-operative data. We present an application of contrast-enhanced rotational X-ray imaging for CT-like reconstruction of 3D LAPV anatomy during the intervention itself. Depending on the heart size a single or two selective contrastenhanced rotational acquisitions are performed and CT-like volumes are reconstructed with 3D filtered back projection. In case of dual injection, the two volumes depicting the left and right portions of the LAPV are registered and fused. The data sets are visualized and segmented intra-procedurally to provide anatomical data and surface models for intervention guidance. Our results from animal and human experiments indicate that the anatomical information from intra-operative CT-like reconstructions compares favorably with preacquired imaging data and can be of sufficient quality for intra-operative guidance.

Diagnosis and ablation of multiform fascicular tachycardia.

PubMed

Sung, Raphael K; Kim, Albert M; Tseng, Zian H; Han, Frederick; Inada, Keiichi; Tedrow, Usha B; Viswanathan, Mohan N; Badhwar, Nitish; Varosy, Paul D; Tanel, Ronn; Olgin, Jeffrey E; Stephenson, William G; Scheinman, Melvin

2013-03-01

Fascicular tachycardia (FT) is an uncommon cause of monomorphic sustained ventricular tachycardia (VT). We describe 6 cases of FT with multiform QRS morphologies. Six of 823 consecutive VT cases were retrospectively analyzed and found attributable to FT with multiform QRS patterns, with 3 cases exhibiting narrow QRS VT as well. All underwent electrophysiology study including fascicular potential mapping, entrainment pacing, and electroanatomic mapping. The first 3 cases describe similar multiform VT patterns with successful ablation in the upper mid septum. Initially, a right bundle branch block (RBBB) VT with superior axis was induced. Radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) targeting the left posterior fascicle (LPF) resulted in a second VT with RBBB inferior axis. RFCA in the upper septum just apical to the LBB potential abolished VT in all cases. Cases 4 and 5 showed RBBB VT with alternating fascicular block compatible with upper septal dependent VT, resulting in bundle branch reentrant VT (BBRT) after ablation of LPF and left anterior fascicle (LAF). Finally, Cases 5 and 6 demonstrated spontaneous shift in QRS morphology during VT, implicating participation of a third fascicle. In Case 6, successful ablation was achieved over the proximal LAF, likely representing insertion of the auxiliary fascicle near the proximal LAF. Multiform FTs show a reentrant mechanism using multiple fascicular branches. We hypothesize that retrograde conduction over the septal fascicle produces alternate fascicular patterns as well as narrow VT forms. Ablation of the respective fascicle was successful in abolishing FT but does not preclude development of BBRT unless septal fascicle is targeted and ablated. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Use of Intracardiac Echocardiography in Interventional Cardiology: Working With the Anatomy Rather Than Fighting It.

PubMed

Enriquez, Andres; Saenz, Luis C; Rosso, Raphael; Silvestry, Frank E; Callans, David; Marchlinski, Francis E; Garcia, Fermin

2018-05-22

The indications for catheter-based structural and electrophysiological procedures have recently expanded to more complex scenarios, in which an accurate definition of the variable individual cardiac anatomy is key to obtain optimal results. Intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) is a unique imaging modality able to provide high-resolution real-time visualization of cardiac structures, continuous monitoring of catheter location within the heart, and early recognition of procedural complications, such as pericardial effusion or thrombus formation. Additional benefits are excellent patient tolerance, reduction of fluoroscopy time, and lack of need for general anesthesia or a second operator. For these reasons, ICE has largely replaced transesophageal echocardiography as ideal imaging modality for guiding certain procedures, such as atrial septal defect closure and catheter ablation of cardiac arrhythmias, and has an emerging role in others, including mitral valvuloplasty, transcatheter aortic valve replacement, and left atrial appendage closure. In electrophysiology procedures, ICE allows integration of real-time images with electroanatomic maps; it has a role in assessment of arrhythmogenic substrate, and it is particularly useful for mapping structures that are not visualized by fluoroscopy, such as the interatrial or interventricular septum, papillary muscles, and intracavitary muscular ridges. Most recently, a three-dimensional (3D) volumetric ICE system has also been developed, with potential for greater anatomic information and a promising role in structural interventions. In this state-of-the-art review, we provide guidance on how to conduct a comprehensive ICE survey and summarize the main applications of ICE in a variety of structural and electrophysiology procedures. © 2018 American Heart Association, Inc.

Analysis and visualization of intracardiac electrograms in diagnosis and research: Concept and application of KaPAVIE.

PubMed

Oesterlein, Tobias Georg; Schmid, Jochen; Bauer, Silvio; Jadidi, Amir; Schmitt, Claus; Dössel, Olaf; Luik, Armin

2016-04-01

Progress in biomedical engineering has improved the hardware available for diagnosis and treatment of cardiac arrhythmias. But although huge amounts of intracardiac electrograms (EGMs) can be acquired during electrophysiological examinations, there is still a lack of software aiding diagnosis. The development of novel algorithms for the automated analysis of EGMs has proven difficult, due to the highly interdisciplinary nature of this task and hampered data access in clinical systems. Thus we developed a software platform, which allows rapid implementation of new algorithms, verification of their functionality and suitable visualization for discussion in the clinical environment. A software for visualization was developed in Qt5 and C++ utilizing the class library of VTK. The algorithms for signal analysis were implemented in MATLAB. Clinical data for analysis was exported from electroanatomical mapping systems. The visualization software KaPAVIE (Karlsruhe Platform for Analysis and Visualization of Intracardiac Electrograms) was implemented and tested on several clinical datasets. Both common and novel algorithms were implemented which address important clinical questions in diagnosis of different arrhythmias. It proved useful in discussions with clinicians due to its interactive and user-friendly design. Time after export from the clinical mapping system to visualization is below 5min. KaPAVIE(2) is a powerful platform for the development of novel algorithms in the clinical environment. Simultaneous and interactive visualization of measured EGM data and the results of analysis will aid diagnosis and help understanding the underlying mechanisms of complex arrhythmias like atrial fibrillation. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Genome-wide maps of nuclear lamina interactions in single human cells.

PubMed

Kind, Jop; Pagie, Ludo; de Vries, Sandra S; Nahidiazar, Leila; Dey, Siddharth S; Bienko, Magda; Zhan, Ye; Lajoie, Bryan; de Graaf, Carolyn A; Amendola, Mario; Fudenberg, Geoffrey; Imakaev, Maxim; Mirny, Leonid A; Jalink, Kees; Dekker, Job; van Oudenaarden, Alexander; van Steensel, Bas

2015-09-24

Mammalian interphase chromosomes interact with the nuclear lamina (NL) through hundreds of large lamina-associated domains (LADs). We report a method to map NL contacts genome-wide in single human cells. Analysis of nearly 400 maps reveals a core architecture consisting of gene-poor LADs that contact the NL with high cell-to-cell consistency, interspersed by LADs with more variable NL interactions. The variable contacts tend to be cell-type specific and are more sensitive to changes in genome ploidy than the consistent contacts. Single-cell maps indicate that NL contacts involve multivalent interactions over hundreds of kilobases. Moreover, we observe extensive intra-chromosomal coordination of NL contacts, even over tens of megabases. Such coordinated loci exhibit preferential interactions as detected by Hi-C. Finally, the consistency of NL contacts is inversely linked to gene activity in single cells and correlates positively with the heterochromatic histone modification H3K9me3. These results highlight fundamental principles of single-cell chromatin organization. VIDEO ABSTRACT. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Do managed alcohol programs change patterns of alcohol consumption and reduce related harm? A pilot study.

PubMed

Vallance, Kate; Stockwell, Tim; Pauly, Bernie; Chow, Clifton; Gray, Erin; Krysowaty, Bonnie; Perkin, Kathleen; Zhao, Jinhui

2016-05-09

Managed alcohol programs (MAPs) are a harm reduction strategy for people with severe alcohol dependence and unstable housing. MAPs provide controlled access to alcohol usually alongside accommodation, meals, and other supports. Patterns of alcohol consumption and related harms among MAP participants and controls from a homeless shelter in Thunder Bay, Ontario, were investigated in 2013. Structured interviews were conducted with 18 MAP and 20 control participants assessed as alcohol dependent with most using non-beverage alcohol (NBA). Qualitative interviews were conducted with seven participants and four MAP staff concerning perceptions and experiences of the program. Program alcohol consumption records were obtained for MAP participants, and records of police contacts and use of health services were obtained for participants and controls. Some participants' liver function test (LFT) results were available for before and after MAP entry. Compared with periods off the MAP, MAP participants had 41 % fewer police contacts, 33 % fewer police contacts leading to custody time (x (2) = 43.84, P < 0.001), 87 % fewer detox admissions (t = -1.68, P = 0.06), and 32 % fewer hospital admissions (t = -2.08, P = 0.03). MAP and control participants shared similar characteristics, indicating the groups were broadly comparable. There were reductions in nearly all available LFT scores after MAP entry. Compared with controls, MAP participants had 43 % fewer police contacts, significantly fewer police contacts (-38 %) that resulted in custody time (x (2) = 66.10, P < 0.001), 70 % fewer detox admissions (t = -2.19, P = 0.02), and 47 % fewer emergency room presentations. NBA use was significantly less frequent for MAP participants versus controls (t = -2.34, P < 0.05). Marked but non-significant reductions were observed in the number of participants self-reporting alcohol-related harms in the domains of home life, legal issues, and withdrawal seizures. Qualitative interviews with staff and MAP participants provided additional insight into reductions of non-beverage alcohol use and reductions of police and health-care contacts. It was unclear if overall volume of alcohol consumption was reduced as a result of MAP participation. The quantitative and qualitative findings of this pilot study suggest that MAP participation was associated with a number of positive outcomes including fewer hospital admissions, detox episodes, and police contacts leading to custody, reduced NBA consumption, and decreases in some alcohol-related harms. These encouraging trends are being investigated in a larger national study.

Multi-contact Variable-Compliance Manipulation in Extreme Clutter

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-06-16

house to find eggs and young. (b) When noodling , people find catfish holes from which to pull fish out. (c)-(d) A person makes contact along his...Figure 7: Haptic Map of detected rigid contacts. by mapping all the rigid taxels at every time- instant . For visualizing the haptic map, we use point...the environment while reaching into clutter. (a) A raccoon reaches into a bird house to find eggs and young. (b) When noodling , people find catfish

Atrial fibrillation ablation using cryoballoon technology: Recent advances and practical techniques.

PubMed

Chen, Shaojie; Schmidt, Boris; Bordignon, Stefano; Bologna, Fabrizio; Perrotta, Laura; Nagase, Takahiko; Chun, K R Julian

2018-04-16

Atrial fibrillation (AF) affects 1-2% of the population, and its prevalence is estimated to double in the next 50 years as the population ages. AF results in impaired patients' life quality, deteriorated cardiac function, and even increased mortality. Antiarrhythmic drugs frequently fail to restore sinus rhythm. Catheter ablation is a valuable treatment approach for AF, even as a first-line therapy strategy in selected patients. Effective electrical pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) is the cornerstone of all AF ablation strategies. Use of radiofrequency (RF) catheter in combination of a three-dimensional electroanatomical mapping system is the most established ablation approach. However, catheter ablation of AF is challenging even sometimes for experienced operators. To facilitate catheter ablation of AF without compromising the durability of the pulmonary vein isolation, "single shot" ablation devices have been developed; of them, cryoballoon ablation, is by far the most widely investigated. In this report, we review the current knowledge of AF and discuss the recent evidence in catheter ablation of AF, particularly cryoballoon ablation. Moreover, we review relevant data from the literature as well as our own experience and summarize the key procedural practical techniques in PVI using cryoballoon technology, aiming to shorten the learning curve of the ablation technique and to contribute further to reduction of the disease burden. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Unipolar Endocardial Voltage Mapping in the Right Ventricle: Optimal Cutoff Values Correcting for Computed Tomography-Derived Epicardial Fat Thickness and Their Clinical Value for Substrate Delineation.

PubMed

Venlet, Jeroen; Piers, Sebastiaan R D; Kapel, Gijsbert F L; de Riva, Marta; Pauli, Philippe F G; van der Geest, Rob J; Zeppenfeld, Katja

2017-08-01

Low endocardial unipolar voltage (UV) at sites with normal bipolar voltage (BV) may indicate epicardial scar. Currently applied UV cutoff values are based on studies that lacked epicardial fat information. This study aimed to define endocardial UV cutoff values using computed tomography-derived fat information and to analyze their clinical value for right ventricular substrate delineation. Thirty-three patients (50±14 years; 79% men) underwent combined endocardial-epicardial right ventricular electroanatomical mapping and ablation of right ventricular scar-related ventricular tachycardia with computed tomographic image integration, including computed tomography-derived fat thickness. Of 6889 endocardial-epicardial mapping point pairs, 547 (8%) pairs with distance <10 mm and fat thickness <1.0 mm were analyzed for voltage and abnormal (fragmented/late potential) electrogram characteristics. At sites with endocardial BV >1.50 mV, the optimal endocardial UV cutoff for identification of epicardial BV <1.50 mV was 3.9 mV (area under the curve, 0.75; sensitivity, 60%; specificity, 79%) and cutoff for identification of abnormal epicardial electrogram was 3.7 mV (area under the curve, 0.88; sensitivity, 100%; specificity, 67%). The majority of abnormal electrograms (130 of 151) were associated with transmural scar. Eighty-six percent of abnormal epicardial electrograms had corresponding endocardial sites with BV <1.50 mV, and the remaining could be identified by corresponding low endocardial UV <3.7 mV. For identification of epicardial right ventricular scar, an endocardial UV cutoff value of 3.9 mV is more accurate than previously reported cutoff values. Although the majority of epicardial abnormal electrograms are associated with transmural scar with low endocardial BV, the additional use of endocardial UV at normal BV sites improves the diagnostic accuracy resulting in identification of all epicardial abnormal electrograms at sites with <1.0 mm fat. © 2017 American Heart Association, Inc.

The effect of activation rate on left atrial bipolar voltage in patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation.

PubMed

Williams, Steven E; Linton, Nick; O'Neill, Louisa; Harrison, James; Whitaker, John; Mukherjee, Rahul; Rinaldi, Christopher A; Gill, Jaswinder; Niederer, Steven; Wright, Matthew; O'Neill, Mark

2017-09-01

Bipolar voltage is used during electroanatomic mapping to define abnormal myocardium, but the effect of activation rate on bipolar voltage is not known. We hypothesized that bipolar voltage may change in response to activation rate. By examining corresponding unipolar signals we sought to determine the mechanisms of such changes. LA extrastimulus mapping was performed during CS pacing in 10 patients undergoing first time paroxysmal atrial fibrillation ablation. Bipolar and unipolar electrograms were recorded using a PentaRay catheter (4-4-4 spacing) and indifferent IVC electrode, respectively. An S1S2 pacing protocol was delivered with extrastimulus coupling interval reducing from 350 to 200 milliseconds. At each recording site (119 ± 37 per LA), bipolar peak-to-peak voltage, unipolar peak to peak voltage and activation delay between unipole pairs was measured. Four patterns of bipolar voltage/extrastimulus coupling interval curves were seen: voltage attenuation with plateau voltage >1 mV (48 ± 15%) or <1 mV (22 ± 15%), and voltage unaffected by coupling interval with plateau voltage >1 mV (17 ± 10%) or <1 mV (13 ± 8%). Electrograms showing bipolar voltage attenuation were associated with significantly greater unipolar voltage attenuation at low (25 ± 28 mV/s vs. 9 ± 11 mV/s) and high (23 ± 29 mV/s vs. 6 ± 12 mV/s) plateau voltage sites (P < 0.001). There was a small but significant increase in conduction delay between unipole pairs at sites showing bipolar voltage attenuation (P = 0.026). Bipolar electrogram voltage is dependent on activation rate at a significant proportion of sites. Changes in unipolar voltage and timing underlie these effects. These observations have important implications for use of voltage mapping to delineate abnormal atrial substrate. © 2017 The Authors. Journal of Cardiovascular Electrophysiology published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The effect of activation rate on left atrial bipolar voltage in patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation

PubMed Central

Linton, Nick; O'Neill, Louisa; Harrison, James; Whitaker, John; Mukherjee, Rahul; Rinaldi, Christopher A.; Gill, Jaswinder; Niederer, Steven; Wright, Matthew; O'Neill, Mark

2017-01-01

Abstract Introduction Bipolar voltage is used during electroanatomic mapping to define abnormal myocardium, but the effect of activation rate on bipolar voltage is not known. We hypothesized that bipolar voltage may change in response to activation rate. By examining corresponding unipolar signals we sought to determine the mechanisms of such changes. Methods and results LA extrastimulus mapping was performed during CS pacing in 10 patients undergoing first time paroxysmal atrial fibrillation ablation. Bipolar and unipolar electrograms were recorded using a PentaRay catheter (4‐4‐4 spacing) and indifferent IVC electrode, respectively. An S1S2 pacing protocol was delivered with extrastimulus coupling interval reducing from 350 to 200 milliseconds. At each recording site (119 ± 37 per LA), bipolar peak‐to‐peak voltage, unipolar peak to peak voltage and activation delay between unipole pairs was measured. Four patterns of bipolar voltage/extrastimulus coupling interval curves were seen: voltage attenuation with plateau voltage >1 mV (48 ± 15%) or <1 mV (22 ± 15%), and voltage unaffected by coupling interval with plateau voltage >1 mV (17 ± 10%) or <1 mV (13 ± 8%). Electrograms showing bipolar voltage attenuation were associated with significantly greater unipolar voltage attenuation at low (25 ± 28 mV/s vs. 9 ± 11 mV/s) and high (23 ± 29 mV/s vs. 6 ± 12 mV/s) plateau voltage sites (P < 0.001). There was a small but significant increase in conduction delay between unipole pairs at sites showing bipolar voltage attenuation (P = 0.026). Conclusions Bipolar electrogram voltage is dependent on activation rate at a significant proportion of sites. Changes in unipolar voltage and timing underlie these effects. These observations have important implications for use of voltage mapping to delineate abnormal atrial substrate. PMID:28639747

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Voltage and pace-capture mapping of linear ablation lesions overestimates chronic ablation gap size.

PubMed

O'Neill, Louisa; Harrison, James; Chubb, Henry; Whitaker, John; Mukherjee, Rahul K; Bloch, Lars Ølgaard; Andersen, Niels Peter; Dam, Høgni; Jensen, Henrik K; Niederer, Steven; Wright, Matthew; O'Neill, Mark; Williams, Steven E

2018-04-26

Conducting gaps in lesion sets are a major reason for failure of ablation procedures. Voltage mapping and pace-capture have been proposed for intra-procedural identification of gaps. We aimed to compare gap size measured acutely and chronically post-ablation to macroscopic gap size in a porcine model. Intercaval linear ablation was performed in eight Göttingen minipigs with a deliberate gap of ∼5 mm left in the ablation line. Gap size was measured by interpolating ablation contact force values between ablation tags and thresholding at a low force cut-off of 5 g. Bipolar voltage mapping and pace-capture mapping along the length of the line were performed immediately, and at 2 months, post-ablation. Animals were euthanized and gap sizes were measured macroscopically. Voltage thresholds to define scar were determined by receiver operating characteristic analysis as <0.56 mV (acutely) and <0.62 mV (chronically). Taking the macroscopic gap size as gold standard, error in gap measurements were determined for voltage, pace-capture, and ablation contact force maps. All modalities overestimated chronic gap size, by 1.4 ± 2.0 mm (ablation contact force map), 5.1 ± 3.4 mm (pace-capture), and 9.5 ± 3.8 mm (voltage mapping). Error on ablation contact force map gap measurements were significantly less than for voltage mapping (P = 0.003, Tukey's multiple comparisons test). Chronically, voltage mapping and pace-capture mapping overestimated macroscopic gap size by 11.9 ± 3.7 and 9.8 ± 3.5 mm, respectively. Bipolar voltage and pace-capture mapping overestimate the size of chronic gap formation in linear ablation lesions. The most accurate estimation of chronic gap size was achieved by analysis of catheter-myocardium contact force during ablation.

New Substrate-Guided Method of Predicting Slow Conducting Isthmuses of Ventricular Tachycardia: Preliminary Analysis to the Combined Use of Voltage Limit Adjustment and Fast-Fourier Transform Analysis.

PubMed

Kuroki, Kenji; Nogami, Akihiko; Igarashi, Miyako; Masuda, Keita; Kowase, Shinya; Kurosaki, Kenji; Komatsu, Yuki; Naruse, Yoshihisa; Machino, Takeshi; Yamasaki, Hiro; Xu, Dongzhu; Murakoshi, Nobuyuki; Sekiguchi, Yukio; Aonuma, Kazutaka

2018-04-01

Several conducting channels of ventricular tachycardia (VT) can be identified using voltage limit adjustment (VLA) of substrate mapping. However, the sensitivity or specificity to predict a VT isthmus is not high by using VLA alone. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of the combined use of VLA and fast-Fourier transform analysis to predict VT isthmuses. VLA and fast-Fourier transform analyses of local ventricular bipolar electrograms during sinus rhythm were performed in 9 postinfarction patients who underwent catheter ablation for a total of 13 monomorphic VTs. Relatively higher voltage areas on an electroanatomical map were defined as high voltage channels (HVCs), and relatively higher fast-Fourier transform areas were defined as high-frequency channels (HFCs). HVCs were classified into full or partial HVCs (the entire or >30% of HVC can be detectable, respectively). Twelve full HVCs were identified in 7 of 9 patients. HFCs were located on 7 of 12 full HVCs. Five VT isthmuses (71%) were included in the 7 full HVC+/HFC+ sites, whereas no VT isthmus was found in the 5 full HVC+/HFC- sites. HFCs were identical to 9 of 16 partial HVCs. Eight VT isthmuses (89%) were included in the 9 partial HVC+/HFC+ sites, whereas no VT isthmus was found in the 7 partial HVC+/HFC- sites. All HVC+/HFC+ sites predicted VT isthmus with a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 80%. Combined use of VLA and fast-Fourier transform analysis may be a useful method to detect VT isthmuses. © 2018 American Heart Association, Inc.

Real-time MRI guidance of cardiac interventions.

PubMed

Campbell-Washburn, Adrienne E; Tavallaei, Mohammad A; Pop, Mihaela; Grant, Elena K; Chubb, Henry; Rhode, Kawal; Wright, Graham A

2017-10-01

Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is appealing to guide complex cardiac procedures because it is ionizing radiation-free and offers flexible soft-tissue contrast. Interventional cardiac MR promises to improve existing procedures and enable new ones for complex arrhythmias, as well as congenital and structural heart disease. Guiding invasive procedures demands faster image acquisition, reconstruction and analysis, as well as intuitive intraprocedural display of imaging data. Standard cardiac MR techniques such as 3D anatomical imaging, cardiac function and flow, parameter mapping, and late-gadolinium enhancement can be used to gather valuable clinical data at various procedural stages. Rapid intraprocedural image analysis can extract and highlight critical information about interventional targets and outcomes. In some cases, real-time interactive imaging is used to provide a continuous stream of images displayed to interventionalists for dynamic device navigation. Alternatively, devices are navigated relative to a roadmap of major cardiac structures generated through fast segmentation and registration. Interventional devices can be visualized and tracked throughout a procedure with specialized imaging methods. In a clinical setting, advanced imaging must be integrated with other clinical tools and patient data. In order to perform these complex procedures, interventional cardiac MR relies on customized equipment, such as interactive imaging environments, in-room image display, audio communication, hemodynamic monitoring and recording systems, and electroanatomical mapping and ablation systems. Operating in this sophisticated environment requires coordination and planning. This review provides an overview of the imaging technology used in MRI-guided cardiac interventions. Specifically, this review outlines clinical targets, standard image acquisition and analysis tools, and the integration of these tools into clinical workflow. 1 Technical Efficacy: Stage 5 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2017;46:935-950. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

Larger low voltage zone in endocardial unipolar map compared with that in epicardial bipolar map indicates difficulty in eliminating ventricular tachycardia by catheter ablation.

PubMed

Miyamoto, Koji; Noda, Takashi; Satomi, Kazuhiro; Wada, Mitsuru; Nakajima, Ikutaro; Ishibashi, Kohei; Okamura, Hideo; Noguchi, Teruo; Anzai, Toshihisa; Yasuda, Satoshi; Ogawa, Hisao; Shimizu, Wataru; Aiba, Takeshi; Kamakura, Shiro; Kusano, Kengo

2016-08-01

Patients with ischemic and non-ischemic cardiomyopathy often have substrate for ventricular tachycardia (VT) in the endocardium (ENDO), epicardium (EPI), and/or intramural. Although it has been reported that the ENDO unipolar (UNI) voltage map is useful in detecting EPI substrate, its feasibility to detect intramural scarring and its usefulness in radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) remain unclear. To assess the relationship between the left ventricle (LV) ENDO UNI voltage map and the LV EPI bipolar (BIP) voltage map, and to determine the usefulness of the ENDO UNI voltage map to guide RFCA for VT in patients with cardiomyopathy undergoing combined ENDO- and EPI RFCA. Eleven patients with VT undergoing detailed ENDO and EPI electroanatomical mapping of the LV were included (mean age 59 ± 11 years, 9 men). We assessed the value of the LV ENDO UNI voltage map in identifying EPI and/or intramural substrate in these 11 patients with non-ischemic or ischemic cardiomyopathy. The underlying heart disease was dilated cardiomyopathy in 4 patients, cardiac sarcoidosis in 3, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in 2, and ischemic heart disease in 2 patients. The mean LV ejection fraction was 24 ± 7 %. The low voltage zone (LVZ) was defined as <1.5 mV for LV ENDO BIP electrograms (EGMs), <8.3 mV for LV ENDO UNI EGMs, and <1.0 mV for LV EPI BIP EGMs. The surface area of each LVZ was measured. We also measured the LVZ of the spatial overlap between ENDO UNI and EPI BIP voltage maps using the transparency mode on CARTO software. We performed RFCA at the ENDO and EPI based on activation and/or substrate maps, targeting the LVZ and/or abnormal EGMs. The LVZ was present in the LV ENDO BIP voltage map in 10 of 11 patients (42 ± 33 cm(2)), and in the LV ENDO UNI voltage map in 10 of 11 patients (72 ± 45 cm(2)). The LVZ was present in the EPI BIP voltage map in 9 of 11 patients (70 ± 61 cm(2)), and the LVZ in the ENDO UNI voltage map was also seen in all 9 patients. The location of the LVZ in the EPI BIP map matched that in 45 ± 28 % of ENDO UNI voltage maps. The LVZ in the ENDO UNI voltage map was larger than that in the EPI BIP voltage map in 6 of 11 patients, and RFCA failed in 5 of these 6 patients. In the remaining 5 patients with a smaller LVZ in the ENDO UNI voltage map compared with the EPI BIP voltage map or no LVZ both at ENDO UNI and EPI BIP voltage map, VT was successfully eliminated in 4 of 5 patients. The LV ENDO UNI voltage map is useful in detecting EPI substrate in patients with cardiomyopathy. A larger LVZ in the ENDO UNI voltage map compared to that in the EPI BIP voltage map may indicate the presence of intramural substrate, which leads to difficulty in eliminating VT, even with combined ENDO- and EPI RFCA.

Mapping-guided characterization of mechanical and electrical activation patterns in patients with normal systolic function using a sensor-based tracking technology.

PubMed

Piorkowski, Christopher; Breithardt, Ole-A; Razavi, Hedi; Nabutovsky, Yelena; Rosenberg, Stuart P; Markovitz, Craig D; Arya, Arash; Rolf, Sascha; John, Silke; Kosiuk, Jedrzej; Olson, Eric; Eitel, Charlotte; Huo, Yan; Döring, Michael; Richter, Sergio; Ryu, Kyungmoo; Gaspar, Thomas; Prinzen, Frits W; Hindricks, Gerhard; Sommer, Philipp

2017-10-01

In times of evolving cardiac resynchronization therapy, intra-procedural characterization of left ventricular (LV) mechanical activation patterns is desired but technically challenging with currently available technologies. In patients with normal systolic function, we evaluated the feasibility of characterizing LV wall motion using a novel sensor-based, real-time tracking technology. Ten patients underwent simultaneous motion and electrical mapping of the LV endocardium during sinus rhythm using electroanatomical mapping and navigational systems (EnSite™ NavX™ and MediGuide™, SJM). Epicardial motion data were also collected simultaneously at corresponding locations from accessible coronary sinus branches. Displacements at each mapping point and times of electrical and mechanical activation were combined over each of the six standard LV wall segments. Mechanical activation timing was compared with that from electrical activation and preoperative 2D speckle tracking echocardiography (echo). MediGuide-based displacement data were further analysed to estimate LV chamber volumes that were compared with echo and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The lateral and septal walls exhibited the largest (12.5 [11.6-15.0] mm) and smallest (10.2 [9.0-11.3] mm) displacement, respectively. Radial displacement was significantly larger endocardially than epicardially (endo: 6.7 [5.0-9.1] mm; epi: 3.8 [2.4-5.6] mm), while longitudinal displacement was significantly larger epicardially (endo: 8.0 [5.0-10.6] mm; epi: 10.3 [7.4-13.8] mm). Most often, the anteroseptal/anterior and lateral walls showed the earliest and latest mechanical activations, respectively. 9/10 patients had concordant or adjacent wall segments of latest mechanical and electrical activation, and 6/10 patients had concordant or adjacent wall segments of latest mechanical activation as measured by MediGuide and echo. MediGuide's LV chamber volumes were significantly correlated with MRI (R2= 0.73, P < 0.01) and echo (R2= 0.75, P < 0.001). The feasibility of mapping-guided intra-procedural characterization of LV wall motion was established. http://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: CT01629160. Published on behalf of the European Society of Cardiology. All rights reserved. © The Author 2016. For permissions please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

The shadow map: a general contact definition for capturing the dynamics of biomolecular folding and function.

PubMed

Noel, Jeffrey K; Whitford, Paul C; Onuchic, José N

2012-07-26

Structure-based models (SBMs) are simplified models of the biomolecular dynamics that arise from funneled energy landscapes. We recently introduced an all-atom SBM that explicitly represents the atomic geometry of a biomolecule. While this initial study showed the robustness of the all-atom SBM Hamiltonian to changes in many of the energetic parameters, an important aspect, which has not been explored previously, is the definition of native interactions. In this study, we propose a general definition for generating atomically grained contact maps called "Shadow". The Shadow algorithm initially considers all atoms within a cutoff distance and then, controlled by a screening parameter, discards the occluded contacts. We show that this choice of contact map is not only well behaved for protein folding, since it produces consistently cooperative folding behavior in SBMs but also desirable for exploring the dynamics of macromolecular assemblies since, it distributes energy similarly between RNAs and proteins despite their disparate internal packing. All-atom structure-based models employing Shadow contact maps provide a general framework for exploring the geometrical features of biomolecules, especially the connections between folding and function.

Usefullness of three-dimensional templating software to quantify the contact state between implant and femur in total hip arthroplasty.

PubMed

Inoue, Daisuke; Kabata, Tamon; Maeda, Toru; Kajino, Yoshitomo; Fujita, Kenji; Hasegawa, Kazuhiro; Yamamoto, Takashi; Takagi, Tomoharu; Ohmori, Takaaki; Tsuchiya, Hiroyuki

2015-12-01

It would be ideal if surgeons could precisely confirm whether the planned femoral component achieves the best fit and fill of implant and femur. However, the cortico-cancellous interfaces can be difficult to standardize using plain radiography, and therefore, determining the contact state is a subjective decision by the examiner. Few reports have described the use of CT-based three-dimensional templating software to quantify the contact state of stem and femur in detail. The purpose of this study was to use three-dimensional templating software to quantify the implant-femur contact state and develop a technique to analyze the initial fixation pattern of a cementless femoral stem. We conducted a retrospective review of 55 hips in 53 patients using a short proximal fit-and-fill anatomical stem (APS Natural-Hip™ System). All femurs were examined by density mapping which can visualize and digitize the contact state. We evaluated the contact state of implant and femur by using density mapping. The varus group (cases that had changed varus 2° by 3 months after surgery) consisted of 11 hips. The varus group showed no significant difference with regard to cortical contact in the proximal medial portion (Gruen 7), but the contact area in the distal portion (Gruen 3 and Gruen 5) was significantly lower than that of non-varus group. Density mapping showed that the stem only has to be press-fit to the medial calcar, but also must fill the distal portion of the implant in order to achieve the ideal contact state. Our results indicated that quantifying the contact state of implant and femur by using density mapping is a useful technique to accurately analyze the fixation pattern of a cementless femoral stem.

Accurate Prediction of Protein Contact Maps by Coupling Residual Two-Dimensional Bidirectional Long Short-Term Memory with Convolutional Neural Networks.

PubMed

Hanson, Jack; Paliwal, Kuldip; Litfin, Thomas; Yang, Yuedong; Zhou, Yaoqi

2018-06-19

Accurate prediction of a protein contact map depends greatly on capturing as much contextual information as possible from surrounding residues for a target residue pair. Recently, ultra-deep residual convolutional networks were found to be state-of-the-art in the latest Critical Assessment of Structure Prediction techniques (CASP12, (Schaarschmidt et al., 2018)) for protein contact map prediction by attempting to provide a protein-wide context at each residue pair. Recurrent neural networks have seen great success in recent protein residue classification problems due to their ability to propagate information through long protein sequences, especially Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) cells. Here we propose a novel protein contact map prediction method by stacking residual convolutional networks with two-dimensional residual bidirectional recurrent LSTM networks, and using both one-dimensional sequence-based and two-dimensional evolutionary coupling-based information. We show that the proposed method achieves a robust performance over validation and independent test sets with the Area Under the receiver operating characteristic Curve (AUC)>0.95 in all tests. When compared to several state-of-the-art methods for independent testing of 228 proteins, the method yields an AUC value of 0.958, whereas the next-best method obtains an AUC of 0.909. More importantly, the improvement is over contacts at all sequence-position separations. Specifically, a 8.95%, 5.65% and 2.84% increase in precision were observed for the top L∕10 predictions over the next best for short, medium and long-range contacts, respectively. This confirms the usefulness of ResNets to congregate the short-range relations and 2D-BRLSTM to propagate the long-range dependencies throughout the entire protein contact map 'image'. SPOT-Contact server url: http://sparks-lab.org/jack/server/SPOT-Contact/. Supplementary data is available at Bioinformatics online.

Mapping of the Rsd Contact Site on the Sigma 70 Subunit of Escherichia coli RNA Polymerase

PubMed Central

Jishage, Miki; Dasgupta, Dipak; Ishihama, Akira

2001-01-01

Rsd (regulator of sigma D) is an anti-sigma factor for the Escherichia coli RNA polymerase ς70 subunit. The contact site of Rsd on ς70 was analyzed after mapping of the contact-dependent cleavage sites by Rsd-tethered iron-p-bromoacetamidobenzyl EDTA and by analysis of the complex formation between Ala-substituted ς70 and Rsd. Results indicate that the Rsd contact site is located downstream of the promoter −35 recognition helix-turn-helix motif within region 4, overlapping with the regions involved in interaction with both core enzyme and ς70 contact transcription factors. PMID:11292818

Mapping of the Rsd contact site on the sigma 70 subunit of Escherichia coli RNA polymerase.

PubMed

Jishage, M; Dasgupta, D; Ishihama, A

2001-05-01

Rsd (regulator of sigma D) is an anti-sigma factor for the Escherichia coli RNA polymerase sigma(70) subunit. The contact site of Rsd on sigma(70) was analyzed after mapping of the contact-dependent cleavage sites by Rsd-tethered iron-p-bromoacetamidobenzyl EDTA and by analysis of the complex formation between Ala-substituted sigma(70) and Rsd. Results indicate that the Rsd contact site is located downstream of the promoter -35 recognition helix-turn-helix motif within region 4, overlapping with the regions involved in interaction with both core enzyme and sigma(70) contact transcription factors.

Automatic Classification of Protein Structure Using the Maximum Contact Map Overlap Metric

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

Andonov, Rumen; Djidjev, Hristo Nikolov; Klau, Gunnar W.

In this paper, we propose a new distance measure for comparing two protein structures based on their contact map representations. We show that our novel measure, which we refer to as the maximum contact map overlap (max-CMO) metric, satisfies all properties of a metric on the space of protein representations. Having a metric in that space allows one to avoid pairwise comparisons on the entire database and, thus, to significantly accelerate exploring the protein space compared to no-metric spaces. We show on a gold standard superfamily classification benchmark set of 6759 proteins that our exact k-nearest neighbor (k-NN) scheme classifiesmore » up to 224 out of 236 queries correctly and on a larger, extended version of the benchmark with 60; 850 additional structures, up to 1361 out of 1369 queries. Finally, our k-NN classification thus provides a promising approach for the automatic classification of protein structures based on flexible contact map overlap alignments.« less

Automatic Classification of Protein Structure Using the Maximum Contact Map Overlap Metric

DOE PAGES

Andonov, Rumen; Djidjev, Hristo Nikolov; Klau, Gunnar W.; ...

2015-10-09

In this paper, we propose a new distance measure for comparing two protein structures based on their contact map representations. We show that our novel measure, which we refer to as the maximum contact map overlap (max-CMO) metric, satisfies all properties of a metric on the space of protein representations. Having a metric in that space allows one to avoid pairwise comparisons on the entire database and, thus, to significantly accelerate exploring the protein space compared to no-metric spaces. We show on a gold standard superfamily classification benchmark set of 6759 proteins that our exact k-nearest neighbor (k-NN) scheme classifiesmore » up to 224 out of 236 queries correctly and on a larger, extended version of the benchmark with 60; 850 additional structures, up to 1361 out of 1369 queries. Finally, our k-NN classification thus provides a promising approach for the automatic classification of protein structures based on flexible contact map overlap alignments.« less

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Mapping protein-RNA interactions by RCAP, RNA-cross-linking and peptide fingerprinting.

PubMed

Vaughan, Robert C; Kao, C Cheng

2015-01-01

RNA nanotechnology often feature protein RNA complexes. The interaction between proteins and large RNAs are difficult to study using traditional structure-based methods like NMR or X-ray crystallography. RCAP, an approach that uses reversible-cross-linking affinity purification method coupled with mass spectrometry, has been developed to map regions within proteins that contact RNA. This chapter details how RCAP is applied to map protein-RNA contacts within virions.

76 FR 21325 - Notice of Funds Availability: Inviting Applications for the Market Access Program

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-04-15

... for the 2012 Market Access Program (MAP). The intended effect of this notice is to solicit... INFORMATION CONTACT: Entities wishing to apply for funding assistance should contact the Program Operations....gov/mos/programs/map.asp . SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: I. Funding Opportunity Description Authority...

Skin Problems: How to Protect Yourself from Job-Related Skin Problems

MedlinePlus

... You can get it from contact or allergies. Contact dermatitis occurs from frequent contact with substances, such as: ... Health: Haz-Map, Chemicals that Cause Occupational Allergic Contact Dermatitis Last Updated: June 2, 2017 This article was ...

Early-life exposures and Johne's disease risk in zoo ruminants.

PubMed

Burgess, Tristan L; Witte, Carmel L; Rideout, Bruce A

2018-01-01

Johne's disease, caused by Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP), is a chronic, progressive bacterial enteritis of ruminants that can cause serious losses in both livestock and exotic species. Infection risk in exotic ruminants is associated with maternal infection status, but the effect of other herdmates on risk of infection has not been reported, to our knowledge. We conducted a retrospective cohort study to evaluate the association between MAP infection status and early-life contact with infected herdmates. The study population included 3,234 individuals representing 128 species at San Diego Zoo Global facilities between 1991 and 2010. Animal movement, health, and pathology records were used to trace enclosure-sharing contacts between members of the study population and any MAP-infected animal. Contact-days were counted by age of the reference animal and the number of unique infected individuals contacted. Herdmate infection status was stratified by stage of infection (180 d prior to diagnosis), age, and whether relevant lesions were found at autopsy. Having an infected herdmate was a strong risk factor for infection (OR = 4.4; 95% CI: 1.9-10.3), and each method of defining herdmate infection status showed significant differences in infection risk. The best predictor was number of contact-days within the first week of life, with a 2-fold increase in risk associated with each doubling in the number of contact-days (OR = 2.1; 95% CI: 1.1-4.0). We conclude that early contact with infected animals is an important predictor of MAP infection risk, although the effect size is smaller than that previously described for maternal infection status.

Effect of left atrial volume and pulmonary vein anatomy on outcome of nMARQ™ catheter ablation of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation.

PubMed

Stabile, Giuseppe; Anselmino, Matteo; Soldati, Ezio; De Ruvo, Ermengildo; Solimene, Francesco; Iuliano, Assunta; Sciarra, Luigi; Bongiorni, Maria Grazia; Calò, Leonardo; Gaita, Fiorenzo

2017-03-01

Left atrial volume (LA) and pulmonary vein (PV) anatomy may potentially relate to technical challenges in achieving stable and effective catheter position in case of atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation by means of "one-shot" catheters. The aim of this study was to investigate whether LA volume and PV anatomy, evaluated by computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance (MR) prior to ablation, predict acute and midterm outcome of AF ablation by nMARQ™. We included 75 patients (mean age 58 ± 11 years, 67 % male) with symptomatic paroxysmal AF. All patients underwent CT/MR scanning prior to catheter ablation to evaluate LA volume and PV anatomy. All the patients underwent PV isolation by nMARQ™, an open-irrigated mapping and radiofrequency (RF) decapolar ablation catheter. Ablation was guided by electroanatomic mapping allowing RF energy delivery in the antral region of PVs from ten irrigated electrodes simultaneously. Mean LA volume was 75 ± 40 ml. A normal anatomy (4 PVs) was documented in 40 (53 %) patients and abnormal anatomy (common truncus or accessory PVs) in 35 patients. Mean procedural and fluoroscopy times were 94 ± 55 and 8 ± 5 min, respectively, without significant differences among patients with normal or abnormal anatomy (92 ± 45 vs 95 ± 64 min, p = 0.85 and 6 ± 3 vs 8 ± 4 min, p = 0.65, respectively). Mean ablation time was 14 ± 3 min, and 99 % of the targeted veins were isolated with a mean of 23 ± 5 RF pulses per patient. After a mean follow-up of 17 ± 8 months, 23 (31 %) patients had an atrial arrhythmia recurrence. Neither LA volume nor PV anatomy was a predictor of outcome. LA volume and PV anatomy did not affect procedural data and outcome in patients who underwent PV isolation by an open-irrigated mapping and RF decapolar ablation catheter.

Prevalence and predictors of low voltage zones in the left atrium in patients with atrial fibrillation.

PubMed

Huo, Yan; Gaspar, Thomas; Pohl, Matthias; Sitzy, Judith; Richter, Utz; Neudeck, Sebastian; Mayer, Julia; Kronborg, Mads Brix; Piorkowski, Christopher

2017-06-10

To describe the extent and distribution of low voltage zones (LVZ) in a large cohort of patients undergoing ablation for paroxysmal and persistent atrial fibrillation (AF), and to explore baseline predictors of LVZ in these patients. Consecutive patients who underwent a bipolar voltage map guided AF ablation, were enrolled. Voltage maps were conducted for each patient using 3-dimensional electroanatomical mapping system and LVZ were defined as areas of bipolar voltage < 0.5 mV. A total of 539 patients (309 male, age 65 ± 10 years) were included. Low voltage zones was present in 58 out of 292 patients with paroxysmal and 134 out of 247 persistent AF (P < 0.001). The area of LVZ was larger in patients with persistent as compare to paroxysmal AF, 5 cm2 (IQR 3-18.6) vs. 12.1 cm2 (IQR 3.6-28.5), P = 0.026, respectively. In the multivariate analysis age (OR 1.07, 95%CI 1.05-1.10, P < 0.001), female gender (OR 2.18, 95%CI 1.38-3.43, P = 0.001), sinoatrial node dysfunction (OR 3.90, 95%CI 1.24-12.21, P = 0.020), larger surface area of left atrium pr. cm2 (OR 1.01, 95%CI 1.00-1.02, P = 0.016), and persistent AF (OR 5.03, 95%CI 3.20-7.90, P<0.001) were associated with presence of LVZ. In a large cohort of patients undergoing ablation for AF, the prevalence of LVZ was higher and LVZ areas larger in patients with persistent as compared with paroxysmal AF. The most frequent localization of LVZ was anterior wall, septum and posterior wall. Presence of LVZ was associated with higher age, female gender, larger LA surface area, and sinoatrial node dysfunction. Published on behalf of the European Society of Cardiology. All rights reserved. © The Author 2017. For permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Association of left ventricular late gadolinium enhancement with left atrial low voltage areas in patients with atrial fibrillation.

PubMed

Stegmann, Clara; Jahnke, Cosima; Paetsch, Ingo; Hilbert, Sebastian; Arya, Arash; Bollmann, Andreas; Hindricks, Gerhard; Sommer, Philipp

2018-02-06

Presence of late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) is related to adverse cardiovascular outcome. Many patients suffering from atrial fibrillation (AF) undergo cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging prior to ablation. Since quantification of atrial fibrosis still lacks reproducibility, we sought to investigate risk factors for the presence of left ventricular (LV)-LGE and a possible correlation between ventricular fibrosis as defined by positive LGE and pathological atrial voltage maps evaluated by 3D mapping systems. Between May 2015 and January 2017, 241 patients with AF (73% persistent AF, 71% male, mean age 62.8 ± 10.1 years, Redo procedure in 24%, AF history 4.5 ± 5.2 years) underwent CMR including LV LGE prior to pulmonary vein (PV) isolation at Heart Center Leipzig. Depending on CMR results, two groups were separated: 'LV-LGE negative' (Group A, n = 197, 82%) and 'LV-LGE positive' (Group B, n = 44, 18%). To identify low voltage areas (LVA), a 3D electro-anatomic map was created during PV isolation. Multivariate analysis revealed male gender [odds ratio (OR) 7.6, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 2.4-23.9, P = 0.001] and an increased CHA2DS2VASc Score (OR 1.6, 95% CI 1.2-2.2, P = 0.004) as significantly associated with LV-LGE. Impaired left ventricular ejection fraction, LV dilatation, larger LA size and, enlarged septum diameter occurred significantly more often in the 'LGE positive' group. Low voltage areas were detected in 83 patients overall (34%): Group A: n = 64/197 (33%), Group B: n = 19/44 (43%) (P = 0.177). Male gender and high CHA2DS2VASc Score are significantly associated with presence of LV-LGE, but LV-LGE is not associated with left atrial LVA. Published on behalf of the European Society of Cardiology. All rights reserved. © The Author(s) 2018. For permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Photocurrent microscopy of contact resistance and charge carrier traps in organic field-effect transistors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liewald, C.; Reiser, D.; Westermeier, C.; Nickel, B.

2016-08-01

We use a pentacene transistor with asymmetric source drain contacts to test the sensitivity of scanning photocurrent microscopy (SPCM) for contact resistance and charge traps. The drain current of the device strongly depends on the choice of the drain electrode. In one case, more than 94% of the source drain voltage is lost due to contact resistance. Here, SPCM maps show an enhanced photocurrent signal at the hole-injecting contact. For the other bias condition, i.e., for ohmic contacts, the SPCM signal peaks heterogeneously along the channel. We argue from basic transport models that bright areas in SPCM maps indicate areas of large voltage gradients or high electric field strength caused by injection barriers or traps. Thus, SPCM allows us to identify and image the dominant voltage loss mechanism in organic field-effect transistors.

Geologic map of the Cochiti Dam quadrangle, Sandoval County, New Mexico

USGS Publications Warehouse

Dethier, David P.; Thompson, Ren A.; Hudson, Mark R.; Minor, Scott A.; Sawyer, David A.

2011-01-01

The mapped distribution of units is based primarily on interpretation of 1:16,000-scale, color aerial photographs taken in 1992, and 1:40,000-scale, black-and-white, aerial photographs taken in 1996. Most of the contacts on the map were transferred from the aerial photographs using a photogrammetric stereo-plotter and subsequently field checked for accuracy and revised based on field determination of allostratigraphic and lithostratigraphic units. Determination of lithostratigraphic units in volcanic deposits was aided by geochemical data, 40Ar/39Ar geochronology, aeromagnetic and paleomagnetic data. Supplemental revision of mapped contacts was based on interpretation of USGS 1-meter orthoimagery.

Database for the geologic map of Upper Geyser Basin, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

USGS Publications Warehouse

Abendini, Atosa A.; Robinson, Joel E.; Muffler, L. J. Patrick; White, D. E.; Beeson, Melvin H.; Truesdell, A. H.

2015-01-01

This dataset contains contacts, geologic units, and map boundaries from Miscellaneous Investigations Series Map I-1371, "The Geologic map of upper Geyser Basin, Yellowstone, National Park, Wyoming". This dataset was constructed to produce a digital geologic map as a basis for ongoing studies of hydrothermal processes.

Application of CPL with Interference Mapping Lithography to generate random contact reticle designs for the 65-nm node

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Van Den Broeke, Douglas J.; Laidig, Thomas L.; Chen, J. Fung; Wampler, Kurt E.; Hsu, Stephen D.; Shi, Xuelong; Socha, Robert J.; Dusa, Mircea V.; Corcoran, Noel P.

2004-08-01

Imaging contact and via layers continues to be one of the major challenges to be overcome for 65nm node lithography. Initial results of using ASML MaskTools' CPL Technology to print contact arrays through pitch have demonstrated the potential to further extend contact imaging to a k1 near 0.30. While there are advantages and disadvantages for any potential RET, the benefits of not having to solve the phase assignment problem (which can lead to unresolvable phase conflicts), of it being a single reticle - single exposure technique, and its application to multiple layers within a device (clear field and dark field) make CPL an attractive, cost effective solution to low k1 imaging. However, real semiconductor circuit designs consist of much more than regular arrays of contact holes and a method to define the CPL reticle design for a full chip circuit pattern is required in order for this technique to be feasible in volume manufacturing. Interference Mapping Lithography (IML) is a novel approach for defining optimum reticle patterns based on the imaging conditions that will be used when the wafer is exposed. Figure 1 shows an interference map for an isolated contact simulated using ASML /1150 settings of 0.75NA and 0.92/0.72/30deg Quasar illumination. This technique provides a model-based approach for placing all types features (scattering bars, anti-scattering bars, non-printing assist features, phase shifted and non-phase shifted) for the purpose of enhancing the resolution of the target pattern and it can be applied to any reticle type including binary (COG), attenuated phase shifting mask (attPSM), alternating aperture phase shifting mask (altPSM), and CPL. In this work, we investigate the application of IML to generate CPL reticle designs for random contact patterns that are typical for 65nm node logic devices. We examine the critical issues related to using CPL with Interference Mapping Lithography including controlling side lobe printing, contact patterns with odd symmetry, forbidden pitch regions, and reticle manufacturing constraints. Multiple methods for deriving the interference map used to define reticle patterns for various RET's will be discussed. CPL reticle designs that were created from implementing automated algorithms for contact pattern decomposition using MaskWeaver will also be presented.

A maximum entropy model for chromatin structure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Farre, Pau; Emberly, Eldon; Emberly Group Team

The DNA inside the nucleus of eukaryotic cells shows a variety of conserved structures at different length scales These structures are formed by interactions between protein complexes that bind to the DNA and regulate gene activity. Recent high throughput sequencing techniques allow for the measurement both of the genome wide contact map of the folded DNA within a cell (HiC) and where various proteins are bound to the DNA (ChIP-seq). In this talk I will present a maximum-entropy method capable of both predicting HiC contact maps from binding data, and binding data from HiC contact maps. This method results in an intuitive Ising-type model that is able to predict how altering the presence of binding factors can modify chromosome conformation, without the need of polymer simulations.

Large area optical mapping of surface contact angle.

PubMed

Dutra, Guilherme; Canning, John; Padden, Whayne; Martelli, Cicero; Dligatch, Svetlana

2017-09-04

Top-down contact angle measurements have been validated and confirmed to be as good if not more reliable than side-based measurements. A range of samples, including industrially relevant materials for roofing and printing, has been compared. Using the top-down approach, mapping in both 1-D and 2-D has been demonstrated. The method was applied to study the change in contact angle as a function of change in silver (Ag) nanoparticle size controlled by thermal evaporation. Large area mapping reveals good uniformity for commercial Aspen paper coated with black laser printer ink. A demonstration of the forensic and chemical analysis potential in 2-D is shown by uncovering the hidden CsF initials made with mineral oil on the coated Aspen paper. The method promises to revolutionize nanoscale characterization and industrial monitoring as well as chemical analyses by allowing rapid contact angle measurements over large areas or large numbers of samples in ways and times that have not been possible before.

Differentiation of pre-ablation and post-ablation late gadolinium-enhanced cardiac MRI scans of longstanding persistent atrial fibrillation patients

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Guang; Zhuang, Xiahai; Khan, Habib; Haldar, Shouvik; Nyktari, Eva; Li, Lei; Ye, Xujiong; Slabaugh, Greg; Wong, Tom; Mohiaddin, Raad; Keegan, Jennifer; Firmin, David

2017-03-01

Late Gadolinium-Enhanced Cardiac MRI (LGE CMRI) is an emerging non-invasive technique to image and quantify preablation native and post-ablation atrial scarring. Previous studies have reported that enhanced image intensities of the atrial scarring in the LGE CMRI inversely correlate with the left atrial endocardial voltage invasively obtained by electro-anatomical mapping. However, the reported reproducibility of using LGE CMRI to identify and quantify atrial scarring is variable. This may be due to two reasons: first, delineation of the left atrium (LA) and pulmonary veins (PVs) anatomy generally relies on manual operation that is highly subjective, and this could substantially affect the subsequent atrial scarring segmentation; second, simple intensity based image features may not be good enough to detect subtle changes in atrial scarring. In this study, we hypothesized that texture analysis can provide reliable image features for the LGE CMRI images subject to accurate and objective delineation of the heart anatomy based on a fully-automated whole heart segmentation (WHS) method. We tested the extracted texture features to differentiate between pre-ablation and post-ablation LGE CMRI studies in longstanding persistent atrial fibrillation patients. These patients often have extensive native scarring and differentiation from post-ablation scarring can be difficult. Quantification results showed that our method is capable of solving this classification task, and we can envisage further deployment of this texture analysis based method for other clinical problems using LGE CMRI.

R2C: improving ab initio residue contact map prediction using dynamic fusion strategy and Gaussian noise filter.

PubMed

Yang, Jing; Jin, Qi-Yu; Zhang, Biao; Shen, Hong-Bin

2016-08-15

Inter-residue contacts in proteins dictate the topology of protein structures. They are crucial for protein folding and structural stability. Accurate prediction of residue contacts especially for long-range contacts is important to the quality of ab inito structure modeling since they can enforce strong restraints to structure assembly. In this paper, we present a new Residue-Residue Contact predictor called R2C that combines machine learning-based and correlated mutation analysis-based methods, together with a two-dimensional Gaussian noise filter to enhance the long-range residue contact prediction. Our results show that the outputs from the machine learning-based method are concentrated with better performance on short-range contacts; while for correlated mutation analysis-based approach, the predictions are widespread with higher accuracy on long-range contacts. An effective query-driven dynamic fusion strategy proposed here takes full advantages of the two different methods, resulting in an impressive overall accuracy improvement. We also show that the contact map directly from the prediction model contains the interesting Gaussian noise, which has not been discovered before. Different from recent studies that tried to further enhance the quality of contact map by removing its transitive noise, we designed a new two-dimensional Gaussian noise filter, which was especially helpful for reinforcing the long-range residue contact prediction. Tested on recent CASP10/11 datasets, the overall top L/5 accuracy of our final R2C predictor is 17.6%/15.5% higher than the pure machine learning-based method and 7.8%/8.3% higher than the correlated mutation analysis-based approach for the long-range residue contact prediction. http://www.csbio.sjtu.edu.cn/bioinf/R2C/Contact:hbshen@sjtu.edu.cn Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Impact of earliest activation site location in the septal right ventricular outflow tract for identification of left vs right outflow tract origin of idiopathic ventricular arrhythmias.

PubMed

Acosta, Juan; Penela, Diego; Herczku, Csaba; Macías, Yolanda; Andreu, David; Fernández-Armenta, Juan; Cipolletta, Laura; Díaz, Andrés; Korshunov, Viatcheslav; Brugada, Josep; Mont, Lluis; Cabrera, Jose A; Sánchez-Quintana, Damián; Berruezo, Antonio

2015-04-01

The earliest activation site (EAS) location in the septal right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) could be an additional mapping data predictor of left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) vs RVOT origin of idiopathic ventricular arrhythmias (VAs). The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of EAS location in predicting LVOT vs RVOT origin. Macroscopic and histologic study was performed in 12 postmortem hearts. Electroanatomic maps (EAMs) from 37 patients with outflow tract (OT) VA with the EAS in the septal RVOT were analyzed. Pulmonary valve (PV) was defined by voltage scanning after validation of voltage thresholds by image integration. EAM measurements were correlated with those of macroscopic/histologic study. A cutoff value of 1.9 mV discriminated between subvalvular and supravalvular positions (90% sensitivity, 96% specificity). EAS ≥1 cm below PV excluded RVOT site of origin (SOO). According to anatomic findings (distance PV-left coronary cusp = 5 ± 3 vs PV-right coronary cusp = 11 ± 5 mm), EAS-PV distance was significantly shorter in VAs arising from left coronary cusp than from the other LVOT locations (4.2 ± 5.4 mm vs 9.2 ± 7 mm; P = .034). The 10-ms isochronal longitudinal/perpendicular diameter ratio was higher in the RVOT vs the LVOT SOO group (1.97 ± 1.2 vs 0.79 ± 0.49; P = .001). An algorithm based on EAS-PV distance and the 10-ms isochronal longitudinal/perpendicular diameter ratio predicted LVOT SOO with 91% sensitivity and 100% specificity. An algorithm based on the EAS-PV distance and the 10-ms isochronal longitudinal/perpendicular diameter ratio accurately predicts LVOT vs RVOT SOO in outflow tract VAs with EAS in the septal RVOT. Copyright © 2015 Heart Rhythm Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Comparison of resource utilization of pulmonary vein isolation: cryoablation versus RF ablation with three-dimensional mapping in the Value PVI Study.

PubMed

DeVille, J Brian; Svinarich, J Thomas; Dan, Dan; Wickliffe, Andrew; Kantipudi, Charan; Lim, Hae W; Plummer, Lisa; Baker, James; Kowalski, Marcin; Baydoun, Hassan; Jenkins, Mark; Chang-Sing, Peter

2014-06-01

Point-to-point focal radiofrequency (RF) catheter ablation for aberrant pulmonary vein triggers that manifest into atrial fibrillation (AF) is the traditional method for treating symptomatic drug-resistant paroxysmal AF (PAF) when an ablation procedure is warranted. More recently, pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) using the cryoballoon has been demonstrated to be safe and effective (STOP AF clinical trial). Currently, two small studies have reviewed the procedural efficiency when comparing cryoballoon to focal RF catheter ablation procedures; however, no multicenter study has yet reported on this comparison of the two types of ablation catheters. A multicenter retrospective chart extraction and evaluation was conducted at seven geographically mixed cardiac care centers. The study examined procedural variables during ablation for PVI in PAF patients. In several procedural measurements, the two modalities were comparable in efficiencies, including: acute PVI >96%; length of hospital stay at approximately 27 hours; and about 30% usage of adenosine after procedural testing. However, when compared to RF catheters, the cryoballoon procedure demonstrated a 13% reduction in laboratory occupancy time (247 min vs 283 min), a 13% reduction in procedure time (174 min vs 200 min), and a 21% reduction in fluoroscopy time (33 min vs 42 min). Additionally, when comparing the material usage of both cryoballoon and RF catheters, the cryoballoon used more radiopaque contrast agent (78 cc vs 29 cc) while using less intraprocedural saline (1234 cc vs 2386 cc), intracardiac echocardiography (88% vs 99%), three-dimensional electroanatomic mapping (30% vs 87%), and fewer transseptal punctures (1.5 vs 1.9). This study is the first United States multicenter examination to report the procedural comparisons between the cryoballoon and focal RF catheters when used for the treatment of PAF patients. In this hospital chart review study, potential advantages were found when operating the cryoballoon with regard to hospital resource allocation. There was no statistical difference between cryoballoon and RF catheters for acute PVI success during the ablation procedure.

Mapping the droplet transfer modes for an ER100S-1 GMAW electrode

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

Heald, P.R.; Madigan, R.B.; Siewert, T.A.

1994-02-01

Welds were made with a 1.2-mm-diameter AWS ER100S-1 electrode using Ar-2% O[sub 2] shielding gas to map the effects of contact-tube-to-work distance (13, 19 and 25 mm), current, voltage, and wire feed rate on metal transfer. The droplet transfer modes were identified for each map by both the sound of the arc and images from a laser back-lit high-speed video system. The modes were correlated to digital records of the voltage and current fluctuations. The maps contain detailed information on the spray transfer mode, including the boundaries of drop spray, streaming spray and rotating spray modes. The metal transfer modemore » boundaries shifted with an increase in contact-tube-to-work distance. Increasing the contact-tube-to-work distance from 13 to 19 mm resulted in a 15 mm/s increase in the wire feet rate for the globular-to-drop-spray transition.« less

Application of geologic map information to water quality issues in the southern part of the Chesapeake Bay watershed, Maryland and Virginia, eastern United States

USGS Publications Warehouse

McCartan, L.; Peper, J.D.; Bachman, L.J.; Horton, J. Wright

1999-01-01

Geologic map units contain much information about the mineralogy, chemistry, and physical attributes of the rocks mapped. This paper presents information from regional-scale geologic maps in Maryland and Virginia, which are in the southern part of the Chesapeake Bay watershed in the eastern United States. The geologic map information is discussed and analyzed in relation to water chemistry data from shallow wells and stream reaches in the area. Two environmental problems in the Chesapeake Bay watershed are used as test examples. The problems, high acidity and high nitrate concentrations in streams and rivers, tend to be mitigated by some rock and sediment types and not by others. Carbonate rocks (limestone, dolomite, and carbonate-cemented rocks) have the greatest capacity to neutralize acidic ground water and surface water in contact with them. Rocks and sediments having high carbon or sulfur contents (such as peat and black shale) potentially contribute the most toward denitrification of ground water and surface water in contact with them. Rocks and sediments that are composed mostly of quartz, feldspar, and light-colored clay (rocks such as granite and sandstone, sediments such as sand and gravel) tend not to alter the chemistry of waters that are in contact with them. The testing of relationships between regionally mapped geologic units and water chemistry is in a preliminary stage, and initial results are encouraging.Geologic map units contain much information about the mineralogy, chemistry, and physical attributes of the rocks mapped. This paper presents information from regional-scale geologic maps in Maryland and Virginia, which are in the southern part of the Chesapeake Bay watershed in the eastern United States. The geologic map information is discussed and analyzed in relation to water chemistry data from shallow wells and stream reaches in the area. Two environmental problems in the Chesapeake Bay watershed are used as test examples. The problems, high acidity and high nitrate concentrations in streams and rivers, tend to be mitigated by some rock and sediment types and not by others. Carbonate rocks (limestone, dolomite, and carbonate-cemented rocks) have the greatest capacity to neutralize acidic ground water and surface water in contact with them. Rocks and sediments having high carbon or sulfur contents (such as peat and black shale) potentially contribute the most toward denitrification of ground water and surface water in contact with them. Rocks and sediments that are composed mostly of quartz, feldspar, and light-colored clay (rocks such as granite and sandstone, sediments such as sand and gravel) tend not to alter the chemistry of waters that are in contact with them. The testing of relationships between regionally mapped geologic units and water chemistry is in a preliminary stage, and initial results are encouraging.

Geologic map of the Jasper Quadrangle, Newton and Boone counties, Arkansas

USGS Publications Warehouse

Hudson, M.R.; Murray, K.E.; Pezzutti, Deborah

2001-01-01

This digital geologic map compilation presents new polygon (i.e., geologic map unit contacts), line (i.e., fault, fold axis, and structure contour), and point (i.e., structural attitude, contact elevations) vector data for the Jasper 7 1/2' quadrangle in northern Arkansas. The map database, which is at 1:24,000-scale resolution, provides geologic coverage of an area of current hydrogeologic, tectonic, and stratigraphic interest. The Jasper quadrangle is located in northern Newton and southern Boone Counties about 20 km south of the town of Harrison. The map area is underlain by sedimentary rocks of Ordovician, Mississippian, and Pennsylvanian age that were mildly deformed by a series of normal and strike-slip faults and folds. The area is representative of the stratigraphic and structural setting of the southern Ozark Dome. The Jasper quadrangle map provides new geologic information for better understanding groundwater flow paths in and adjacent to the Buffalo River watershed.

Geologic map of the Hasty Quadrangle, Boone and Newton Counties, Arkansas

USGS Publications Warehouse

Hudson, Mark R.; Murray, Kyle E.

2004-01-01

This digital geologic map compilation presents new polygon (for example, geologic map unit contacts), line (for example, fault, fold axis, and structure contour), and point (for example, structural attitude, contact elevations) vector data for the Hasty 7.5-minute quadrangle in northern Arkansas. The map database, which is at 1:24,000-scale resolution, provides geologic coverage of an area of current hydrogeologic, tectonic, and stratigraphic interest. The Hasty quadrangle is located in northern Newton and southern Boone Counties about 20 km south of the town of Harrison. The map area is underlain by sedimentary rocks of Ordovician, Mississippian, and Pennsylvanian age that were mildly deformed by a series of normal and strike-slip faults and folds. The area is representative of the stratigraphic and structural setting of the southern Ozark Dome. The Hasty quadrangle map provides new geologic information for better understanding groundwater flow paths in and adjacent to the Buffalo River watershed.

DNR Recorder's Office

Science.gov Websites

Preparing Documents Recorder Terms District Info District Contact Info Find Your District RO District Map FAQs Closures/Notices Contact Us State of Alaska / Natural Resources / Recorder's Office Recording imply an endorsement of that organization, site, product, or service. Simplifile contact information

Blueschist preservation in a retrograded, high-pressure, low-temperature metamorphic terrane, Tinos, Greece: Implications for fluid flow paths in subduction zones

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Breeding, Christopher M.; Ague, Jay J.; BröCker, Michael; Bolton, Edward W.

2003-01-01

The preservation of high-pressure, low-temperature (HP-LT) mineral assemblages adjacent to marble unit contacts on the Cycladic island of Tinos in Greece was investigated using a new type of digital outcrop mapping and numerical modeling of metamorphic fluid infiltration. Mineral assemblage distributions in a large blueschist outcrop, adjacent to the basal contact of a 150-meter thick marble horizon, were mapped at centimeter-scale resolution onto digital photographs using a belt-worn computer and graphics editing software. Digital mapping reveals that while most HP-LT rocks in the outcrop were pervasively retrograded to greenschist facies, the marble-blueschist contact zone underwent an even more intense retrogression. Preservation of HP-LT mineral assemblages was mainly restricted to a 10-15 meter zone (or enclave) adjacent to the intensely retrograded lithologic contact. The degree and distribution of the retrograde overprint suggests that pervasively infiltrating fluids were channelized into the marble-blueschist contact and associated veins and flowed around the preserved HP-LT enclave. Numerical modeling of Darcian flow, based on the field observations, suggests that near the marble horizon, deflections in fluid flow paths caused by flow channelization along the high-permeability marble-blueschist contact zone likely resulted in very large fluid fluxes along the lithologic contact and significantly smaller fluxes (as much as 8 times smaller than the input flux) within the narrow, low-flux regions where HP-LT minerals were preserved adjacent to the contact. Our results indicate that lithologic contacts are important conduits for metamorphic fluid flow in subduction zones. Channelization of retrograde fluids into these discrete flow conduits played a critical role in the preservation of HP-LT assemblages.

Mapping Time-to-Contact and Time-to-Peak Effector Velocity in Interceptive Striking Tasks

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rothenberg-Cunningham, Alek; Newell, Karl M.

2015-01-01

Purpose: This study investigated perception and action coupling as reflected in a mapping between time-to-contact (TTC) and time-to-peak-velocity (TPV) for children and youths aged 7 to 8, 11 to 12, and 15 to 16 years old and adults aged 19 to 20 years old performing a task that allowed the participants to self-select the interception position in…

Two-dimensional strain-mapping by electron backscatter diffraction and confocal Raman spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gayle, Andrew J.; Friedman, Lawrence H.; Beams, Ryan; Bush, Brian G.; Gerbig, Yvonne B.; Michaels, Chris A.; Vaudin, Mark D.; Cook, Robert F.

2017-11-01

The strain field surrounding a spherical indentation in silicon is mapped in two dimensions (2-D) using electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) cross-correlation and confocal Raman spectroscopy techniques. The 200 mN indentation created a 4 μm diameter residual contact impression in the silicon (001) surface. Maps about 50 μm × 50 μm area with 128 pixels × 128 pixels were generated in several hours, extending, by comparison, assessment of the accuracy of both techniques to mapping multiaxial strain states in 2-D. EBSD measurements showed a residual strain field dominated by in-surface normal and shear strains, with alternating tensile and compressive lobes extending about three to four indentation diameters from the contact and exhibiting two-fold symmetry. Raman measurements showed a residual Raman shift field, dominated by positive shifts, also extending about three to four indentation diameters from the contact but exhibiting four-fold symmetry. The 2-D EBSD results, in combination with a mechanical-spectroscopic analysis, were used to successfully predict the 2-D Raman shift map in scale, symmetry, and shift magnitude. Both techniques should be useful in enhancing the reliability of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) through identification of the 2-D strain fields in MEMS devices.

Map showing outcrop of the coal-bearing units and land use in the Gulf Coast region

USGS Publications Warehouse

Warwick, Peter D.; SanFilipo, John R.; Crowley, Sharon S.; Thomas, Roger E.; Freid, John; Tully, John K.

1997-01-01

This map is a preliminary compilation of the outcrop geology of the known coal-bearing units in the Gulf Coast Coal region. The map has been compiled for use in the National Coal Resource Assessment Project currently being conducted by the U.S. Geological Survey, and will be updated as the assessment progresses. The purpose of the map is to show the distribution of coal-bearing rocks in the Gulf Coastal Plain Region and to show stratigraphic correlations, transportation network, fossil-fuel burning power plants, and federally managed lands in the region. It is hoped that this map may aid coal exploration and development in the region. Geologic contacts were digitized from paper copies of the maps listed in the reference section below. The primary source of information was the 1:500,000-scale state geology map series, but larger scale maps were use to better define certain areas, notably the Jackson-Claiborne contact in western Kentucky and Tennessee for example (Olive, 1980). Contacts along state boundaries were modified to best-fit information available from the border areas. Note that coal distribution in the mapped units is not uniform. For example, the Jackson Group contains coal in Texas, but in Mississippi is not presently known to contain significant coal deposits. The unit is widespread and in part non-marine and thus of potential future interest. In contrast, the Jackson Group is not shown in Georgia where it is mostly marine and residuum (weathered material) at the surface. Tertiary age coal has also been noted in the Vicksburg Group (Oligocene) of Louisiana and Mississippi, but is not shown on this map. Contacts with mapped surficial units are not always shown. The locations of coal mine permit boundaries are based on information available at the time of publication and were obtained from the Division of Surface Mining and Reclamation, Railroad Commission of Texas, Austin, and the Injection and Mining Division, Department of Natural Resources, Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The correlation of map units and formation names generally follow Galloway and others (1991). We have placed the Paleocene-Eocene boundary in the middle of the Calvert Bluff Formation in Texas based on unpublished pollen biostratigraphy reports (N.O. Fredericksen, unpublished data, 1993; D.J. Nichols, unpublished data, 1996).

Tactile Robotic Topographical Mapping Without Force or Contact Sensors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Burke, Kevin; Melko, Joseph; Krajewski, Joel; Cady, Ian

2008-01-01

A method of topographical mapping of a local solid surface within the range of motion of a robot arm is based on detection of contact between the surface and the end effector (the fixture or tool at the tip of the robot arm). The method was conceived to enable mapping of local terrain by an exploratory robot on a remote planet, without need to incorporate delicate contact switches, force sensors, a vision system, or other additional, costly hardware. The method could also be used on Earth for determining the size and shape of an unknown surface in the vicinity of a robot, perhaps in an unanticipated situation in which other means of mapping (e.g., stereoscopic imaging or laser scanning with triangulation) are not available. The method uses control software modified to utilize the inherent capability of the robotic control system to measure the joint positions, the rates of change of the joint positions, and the electrical current demanded by the robotic arm joint actuators. The system utilizes these coordinate data and the known robot-arm kinematics to compute the position and velocity of the end effector, move the end effector along a specified trajectory, place the end effector at a specified location, and measure the electrical currents in the joint actuators. Since the joint actuator current is approximately proportional to the actuator forces and torques, a sudden rise in joint current, combined with a slowing of the joint, is a possible indication of actuator stall and surface contact. Hence, even though the robotic arm is not equipped with contact sensors, it is possible to sense contact (albeit with reduced sensitivity) as the end effector becomes stalled against a surface that one seeks to measure.

An aeromagnetic interpretation of eleven map sheets, scale 1:250,000, in the southern Najd and part of the southern Tuwayq quadrangles, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

USGS Publications Warehouse

Griscom, Andrew

1983-01-01

Eleven magnetic interpretation maps (scale 1:250,000) have been prepared for the area .of. exposed crystalline rocks in the Southern Najd and part of the Southern Tuwayq quadrangles (scale 1:500,000) from available published data. Boundaries of a variety of rock units that produce distinctive magnetic anomalies .or anomaly patterns are delineated. In some cases these magnetic boundaries correspond with previously mapped geologic contacts, and in other cases they indicate the possibility of additional, as yet unmapped, geologic contacts. The magnetic boundaries also allow the extrapolation of geologic contacts across areas covered by Quaternary deposits. Many boundaries are identified as part of the Najd fault system, and offset magnetic anomalies may be correlated across certain fault zones. Approximate dips were calculated for a few boundaries that represent igneous contacts, faults, or unconformities. Some characteristic anomalies appear to be associated in a general way with areas of gold mineralization and thus provide a guide for further prospecting.

24 CFR 200.1535 - MAP Lender Review Board.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... or for good cause at the written request of a MAP lender, any time limit otherwise applicable under... issue written notice of violation to the MAP lender's contact person as listed on the Multifamily MAP... opportunity to request in writing, within 15 business days after the date of the issuance of the notice, to...

The digital geologic map of Colorado in ARC/INFO format, Part A. Documentation

USGS Publications Warehouse

Green, Gregory N.

1992-01-01

This geologic map was prepared as a part of a study of digital methods and techniques as applied to complex geologic maps. The geologic map was digitized from the original scribe sheets used to prepare the published Geologic Map of Colorado (Tweto 1979). Consequently the digital version is at 1:500,000 scale using the Lambert Conformal Conic map projection parameters of the state base map. Stable base contact prints of the scribe sheets were scanned on a Tektronix 4991 digital scanner. The scanner automatically converts the scanned image to an ASCII vector format. These vectors were transferred to a VAX minicomputer, where they were then loaded into ARC/INFO. Each vector and polygon was given attributes derived from the original 1979 geologic map. This database was developed on a MicroVAX computer system using VAX V 5.4 nd ARC/INFO 5.0 software. UPDATE: April 1995, The update was done solely for the purpose of adding the abilitly to plot to an HP650c plotter. Two new ARC/INFO plot AMLs along with a lineset and shadeset for the HP650C design jet printer have been included. These new files are COLORADO.650, INDEX.650, TWETOLIN.E00 and TWETOSHD.E00. These files were created on a UNIX platform with ARC/INFO 6.1.2. Updated versions of INDEX.E00, CONTACT.E00, LINE.E00, DECO.E00 and BORDER.E00 files that included the newly defined HP650c items are also included. * Any use of trade, product, or firm names is for descriptive purposes only and does not imply endorsement by the U.S. Government. Descriptors: The Digital Geologic Map of Colorado in ARC/INFO Format Open-File Report 92-050

The digital geologic map of Colorado in ARC/INFO format, Part B. Common files

USGS Publications Warehouse

Green, Gregory N.

1992-01-01

This geologic map was prepared as a part of a study of digital methods and techniques as applied to complex geologic maps. The geologic map was digitized from the original scribe sheets used to prepare the published Geologic Map of Colorado (Tweto 1979). Consequently the digital version is at 1:500,000 scale using the Lambert Conformal Conic map projection parameters of the state base map. Stable base contact prints of the scribe sheets were scanned on a Tektronix 4991 digital scanner. The scanner automatically converts the scanned image to an ASCII vector format. These vectors were transferred to a VAX minicomputer, where they were then loaded into ARC/INFO. Each vector and polygon was given attributes derived from the original 1979 geologic map. This database was developed on a MicroVAX computer system using VAX V 5.4 nd ARC/INFO 5.0 software. UPDATE: April 1995, The update was done solely for the purpose of adding the abilitly to plot to an HP650c plotter. Two new ARC/INFO plot AMLs along with a lineset and shadeset for the HP650C design jet printer have been included. These new files are COLORADO.650, INDEX.650, TWETOLIN.E00 and TWETOSHD.E00. These files were created on a UNIX platform with ARC/INFO 6.1.2. Updated versions of INDEX.E00, CONTACT.E00, LINE.E00, DECO.E00 and BORDER.E00 files that included the newly defined HP650c items are also included. * Any use of trade, product, or firm names is for descriptive purposes only and does not imply endorsement by the U.S. Government. Descriptors: The Digital Geologic Map of Colorado in ARC/INFO Format Open-File Report 92-050

Mapping contact metamorphic aureoles in Extremadura, Spain, using Landsat thematic mapper images

USGS Publications Warehouse

Rowan, L.C.; Anton-Pacheco, C.; Brickey, D.W.; Kingston, M.J.; Payas, A.

1987-01-01

In the Extremadura region of western Spain, Ag, Pb, Zn, and Sn deposits occur in the pieces of late Hercynian granitic plutons and near the pluton contacts in late Proterozoic slate and metagraywacke that have been regionally metamorphosed to the green schist facies. The plutons generally are well exposed and have distinctive geomorphological expression and vegetation; poor exposures of the metasedimentary host rocks and extensive cultivation, however, make delineation of the contact aureoles difficult. Landsat Thematic Mapper (TM) images have been used to distinguish soil developed on the contact metamorphic rocks from soil formed on the stratigraphically equivalent slate-metagraywacke sequence. The mineral constituents of these soils are similar, except that muscovite is more common in the contact metamorphic soil; carbonaceous material is common in both soils. Contact metamorphic soil have lower reflectance, especially in the 1.6-micrometers wavelength region (TM 5), and weaker Al-OH, Mg-OH, and Fe3+ absorption features than do spectra of the slate-metagraywacke soil. The low-reflectance and subdued absorption features exhibited by the contact metamorphic soil spectra are attributed to the high absorption coefficient f the carbonaceous material caused by heating during emplacement of the granitic plutons. These spectral differences are evident in a TM 4/3, 4/5, 3/1 color-composite image. Initially, this image was used to outline the contact aureoles, but digital classification of the TM data was necessary for generating internally consistent maps of the distribution of the exposed contact metamorphic soil. In an August 1984, TM scene of the Caceras area, the plowed, vegetation-free fields were identified by their low TM 4/3 values. Then, ranges of TM 4/5 and 3/1 values were determine for selected plower fields within and outside the contact aureoles; TM 5 produced results similar to TM 4/5. Field evaluation, supported by X-ray diffraction and petrographic studies, confirmed the presence of more extensive aureoles than shown in published geologic maps; few misclassified areas were noted. Additional plowed fields consisting of exposed contact metamorphic soil were mapped digitally in an August 1985 TM scene. Subsequently, this approach was used to map two 1-km-wide linear zones of contact metamorphosed rock and oil in the San Nicolas-Sn-W Mine area, which is located approximated 125 km southeast of the Caceras study area. Exposures of granite in the San Nicolas area are limited to a few unaltered granitic dikes in the mine and a small exposure of unaltered pegmatite-bearing granite in a quarry about 1.5 km west of the mine. The present of coarsely crystalline biotite and beryl in the granite in the quarry and of contact metamorphosed slate up to 2.5 km from the nearest granite exposure suggest that only the apical part of a pluton is exposed in the quarry and that a larger, shallowly buried body is probably present. These results indicate that potential application of TM image analysis to mineral exploration in lithologically similar areas that are cultivated in spite of poor rock exposures.

Statistical radii associated with amino acids to determine the contact map: fixing the structure of a type I cohesin domain in the Clostridium thermocellum cellulosome

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chwastyk, Mateusz; Poma Bernaola, Adolfo; Cieplak, Marek

2015-07-01

We propose to improve and simplify protein refinement procedures through consideration of which pairs of amino acid residues should form native contacts. We first consider 11 330 proteins from the CATH database to determine statistical distributions of contacts associated with a given type of amino acid. The distributions are set across the distances between the α-C atoms that are in contact. Based on this data, we determine typical radii of effective spheres that can be placed on the α-C atoms in order to reconstruct the distribution of the contact lengths. This is done by checking for overlaps with enlarged van der Waals spheres associated with heavy atoms on other amino acids. The resulting contacts can be used to identify non-native contacts that may arise during the time evolution of structure-based models. Here, the radii are used to guide reconstruction of nine missing side chains in a type I cohesin domain with the Protein Data Bank code 1AOH. We first identify the likely missing contacts and then sculpt the corresponding side chains by standard refinement tools to achieve consistency with the expected contact map. One ambiguity in refinement is resolved by determining all-atom conformational energies.

Biomechanics and strain mapping in bone as related to immediately-loaded dental implants

PubMed Central

Du, Jing; Lee, Jihyun; Jang, Andrew; Gu, Allen; Hossaini-Zadeh, Mehran; Prevost, Richard; Curtis, Don; Ho, Sunita

2015-01-01

The effects of alveolar bone socket geometry and bone-implant contact on implant biomechanics, and resulting strain distributions in bone were investigated. Following extraction of lateral incisors on a cadaver mandible, immediate implants were placed and bone-implant contact area, stability and bone strain were measured. In situ biomechanical testing coupled with micro X-ray microscope (μ-XRM) illustrated less stiff bone-implant complexes (701-822 N/mm) compared with bone-periodontal ligament (PDL)-tooth complexes (791-913 N/mm). X-ray tomograms illustrated that the cause of reduced stiffness was due to reduced and limited bone-implant contact. Heterogeneous elemental composition of bone was identified by using energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). The novel aspect of this study was the application of a new experimental mechanics method, that is, digital volume correlation, which allowed mapping of strains in volumes of alveolar bone in contact with a loaded implant. The identified surface and subsurface strain concentrations were a manifestation of load transferred to bone through bone-implant contact based on bone-implant geometry, quality of bone, implant placement, and implant design. 3D strain mapping indicated that strain concentrations are not exclusive to the bone-implant contact regions, but also extend into bone not directly in contact with the implant. The implications of the observed strain concentrations are discussed in the context of mechanobiology. Although a plausible explanation of surgical complications for immediate implant treatment is provided, extrapolation of results is only warranted by future systematic studies on more cadaver specimens and/or in vivo small scale animal models. PMID:26162549

Geological map and digital database of the San Rafael Mtn. 7.5-minute quadrangle, Santa Barbara County, California

USGS Publications Warehouse

Vedder, John G.; Stanley, Richard G.; Graham, S.E.; Valin, Z.C.

2001-01-01

Geologic mapping of the San Rafael Primitive Area (now the San Rafael Wilderness) by Gower and others (1966) and Vedder and others (1967) did not include all of the San Rafael Mtn. quadrangle, and the part that was mapped was done in reconnaissance fashion. To help resolve some of the structural and stratigraphic ambiguities of the earlier mapping and to complete the mapping of the quadrangle, additional field work was done during short intervals in 1980 and 1981 and from 1996 to 1998. Contacts within the belt of Franciscan rocks at the southwestern corner of the quadrangle were generalized from the detailed map by Wahl (1998). Because extensive areas were inaccessible owing to impenetrable chaparral, observations from several helicopter overflights (1965, 1980, 1981) and interpretations from aerial photographs were used as compilation aids. Consequently, some of the depicted contacts and faults are highly inferential, particularly within the Upper Cretaceous rocks throughout the middle part of the quadrangle.

Geologic map of the Ponca quadrangle, Newton, Boone, and Carroll Counties, Arkansas

USGS Publications Warehouse

Hudson, Mark R.; Murray, Kyle E.

2003-01-01

This digital geologic map compilation presents new polygon (i.e., geologic map unit contacts), line (i.e., fault, fold axis, and structure contour), and point (i.e., structural attitude, contact elevations) vector data for the Ponca 7 1/2' quadrangle in northern Arkansas. The map database, which is at 1:24,000-scale resolution, provides geologic coverage of an area of current hydrogeologic, tectonic, and stratigraphic interest. The Ponca quadrangle is located in Newton, Boone, and Carroll Counties about 20 km southwest of the town of Harrison. The map area is underlain by sedimentary rocks of Ordovician, Mississippian, and Pennsylvanian age that were mildly deformed by a series of normal and strike-slip faults and folds. The area is representative of the stratigraphic and structural setting of the southern Ozark Dome. The Ponca quadrangle map provides new geologic information for better understanding groundwater flow paths and development of karst features in and adjacent to the Buffalo River watershed.

Geologic map of Chickasaw National Recreation Area, Murray County, Oklahoma

USGS Publications Warehouse

Blome, Charles D.; Lidke, David J.; Wahl, Ronald R.; Golab, James A.

2013-01-01

This 1:24,000-scale geologic map is a compilation of previous geologic maps and new geologic mapping of areas in and around Chickasaw National Recreation Area. The geologic map includes revisions of numerous unit contacts and faults and a number of previously “undifferentiated” rock units were subdivided in some areas. Numerous circular-shaped hills in and around Chickasaw National Recreation Area are probably the result of karst-related collapse and may represent the erosional remnants of large, exhumed sinkholes. Geospatial registration of existing, smaller scale (1:72,000- and 1:100,000-scale) geologic maps of the area and construction of an accurate Geographic Information System (GIS) database preceded 2 years of fieldwork wherein previously mapped geology (unit contacts and faults) was verified and new geologic mapping was carried out. The geologic map of Chickasaw National Recreation Area and this pamphlet include information pertaining to how the geologic units and structural features in the map area relate to the formation of the northern Arbuckle Mountains and its Arbuckle-Simpson aquifer. The development of an accurate geospatial GIS database and the use of a handheld computer in the field greatly increased both the accuracy and efficiency in producing the 1:24,000-scale geologic map.

Updated tops file for Cretaceous and lower Tertiary units, Piceance Basin, northwest Colorado

USGS Publications Warehouse

Johnson, Ronald C.; Dietrich, John D.; Mercier, Tracey J.

2015-08-04

Each entry for the base of the Long Point Bed was obtained at a location where the mapped Long Point Bed intersects a contour line on the published maps. Precision of each elevation is therefore dependent on the precision of the maps and the placement of the mapped contact by the authors.

Preliminary Bedrock Geologic Map of the Old Lyme Quadrangle, New London and Middlesex Counties, Connecticut

USGS Publications Warehouse

Walsh, Gregory J.; Scott, Robert B.; Aleinikoff, John N.; Armstrong, Thomas R.

2006-01-01

This report presents a preliminary map of the bedrock geology of the Old Lyme quadrangle, New London and Middlesex Counties, Connecticut. The map depicts contacts of bedrock geologic units, faults, outcrops, and structural geologic information. The map was published as part of a study of fractured bedrock aquifers and regional tectonics.

Influence of Intramyocardial Adipose Tissue on the Accuracy of Endocardial Contact Mapping of the Chronic Myocardial Infarction Substrate.

PubMed

Samanta, Rahul; Kumar, Saurabh; Chik, William; Qian, Pierre; Barry, Michael A; Al Raisi, Sara; Bhaskaran, Abhishek; Farraha, Melad; Nadri, Fazlur; Kizana, Eddy; Thiagalingam, Aravinda; Kovoor, Pramesh; Pouliopoulos, Jim

2017-10-01

Recent studies have demonstrated that intramyocardial adipose tissue (IMAT) may contribute to ventricular electrophysiological remodeling in patients with chronic myocardial infarction. Using an ovine model of myocardial infarction, we aimed to determine the influence of IMAT on scar tissue identification during endocardial contact mapping and optimal voltage-based mapping criteria for defining IMAT dense regions. In 7 sheep, left ventricular endocardial and transmural mapping was performed 84 weeks (15-111 weeks) post-myocardial infarction. Spearman rank correlation coefficient was used to assess the relationship between endocardial contact electrogram amplitude and histological composition of myocardium. Receiver operator characteristic curves were used to derive optimal electrogram thresholds for IMAT delineation during endocardial mapping and to describe the use of endocardial mapping for delineation of IMAT dense regions within scar. Endocardial electrogram amplitude correlated significantly with IMAT (unipolar r =-0.48±0.12, P <0.001; bipolar r =-0.45±0.22, P =0.04) but not collagen (unipolar r =-0.36±0.24, P =0.13; bipolar r =-0.43±0.31, P =0.16). IMAT dense regions of myocardium reliably identified using endocardial mapping with thresholds of <3.7 and <0.6 mV, respectively, for unipolar, bipolar, and combined modalities (single modality area under the curve=0.80, P <0.001; combined modality area under the curve=0.84, P <0.001). Unipolar mapping using optimal thresholding remained significantly reliable (area under the curve=0.76, P <0.001) during mapping of IMAT, confined to putative scar border zones (bipolar amplitude, 0.5-1.5 mV). These novel findings enhance our understanding of the confounding influence of IMAT on endocardial scar mapping. Combined bipolar and unipolar voltage mapping using optimal thresholds may be useful for delineating IMAT dense regions of myocardium, in postinfarct cardiomyopathy. © 2017 American Heart Association, Inc.

Waste To Biogas Mapping Tool | Pacific Southwest, Region 9 ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

2018-04-10

Interactive map (California, Arizona, Hawaii, Nevada) showing the location and contact information to connect organic waste producers and potential users. Add your business, ensure your information is correct.

Planning Robotic Manipulation Strategies for Sliding Objects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peshkin, Michael A.

Automated planning of grasping or manipulation requires an understanding of both the physics and the geometry of manipulation, and a representation of that knowledge which facilitates the search for successful strategies. We consider manipulation on a level conveyor belt or tabletop, on which a part may slide when touched by a robot. Manipulation plans for a given part must succeed in the face of two types of uncertainty: that of the details of surfaces in contact, and that of the initial configuration of the part. In general the points of contact between the part and the surface it slides on will be unknown, so the motion of the part in response to a push cannot be predicted exactly. Using a simple variational principle (which is derived), we find the set of possible motions of a part for a given push, for all collections of points of contact. The answer emerges as a locus of centers of rotation (CORs). Manipulation plans made using this locus will succeed despite unknown details of contact. Results of experimental tests of the COR loci are presented. Uncertainty in the initial configuration of a part is usually also present. To plan in the presence of uncertainty, configuration maps are defined, which map all configurations of a part before an elementary operation to all possible outcomes, thus encapsulating the physics and geometry of the operation. The configuration map for an operation sequence is a product of configuration maps of elementary operations. Using COR loci we compute configuration maps for elementary sliding operations. Appropriate search techniques are applied to find operation sequences which succeed in the presence of uncertainty in the initial configuration and unknown details of contact. Such operation sequences may be used as parts feeder designs or as manipulation or grasping strategies for robots. As an example we demonstrate the automated design of a class of passive parts feeders consisting of multiple sequential fences across a conveyor belt.

Integration of mechanical, structural and electrical imaging to understand response to cardiac resynchronization therapy.

PubMed

Silva, Etelvino; Bijnens, Bart; Berruezo, Antonio; Mont, Lluis; Doltra, Adelina; Andreu, David; Brugada, Josep; Sitges, Marta

2014-10-01

There is extensive controversy exists on whether cardiac resynchronization therapy corrects electrical or mechanical asynchrony. The aim of this study was to determine if there is a correlation between electrical and mechanical sequences and if myocardial scar has any relevant impact. Six patients with normal left ventricular function and 12 patients with left ventricular dysfunction and left bundle branch block, treated with cardiac resynchronization therapy, were studied. Real-time three-dimensional echocardiography and electroanatomical mapping were performed in all patients and, where applicable, before and after therapy. Magnetic resonance was performed for evaluation of myocardial scar. Images were postprocessed and mechanical and electrical activation sequences were defined and time differences between the first and last ventricular segment to be activated were determined. Response to therapy was defined as a reduction in left ventricular end-systolic volume ≥ 15% after 12 months of follow-up. Good correlation between electrical and mechanical timings was found in patients with normal left ventricular function (r(2) = 0.88; P = .005) but not in those with left ventricular dysfunction (r(2) = 0.02; P = not significant). After therapy, both timings and sequences were modified and improved, except in those with myocardial scar. Despite a close electromechanical relationship in normal left ventricular function, there is no significant correlation in patients with dysfunction. Although resynchronization therapy improves this correlation, the changes in electrical activation may not yield similar changes in left ventricular mechanics particularly depending on the underlying myocardial substrate. Copyright © 2013 Sociedad Española de Cardiología. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

INCIDENCE OF ABNORMAL POSITRON EMISSION TOMOGRAPHY IN PATIENTS WITH UNEXPLAINED CARDIOMYOPATHY AND VENTRICULAR ARRHYTHMIAS

PubMed Central

Tung, Roderick; Bauer, Brenton; Schelbert, Heinrich; Lynch, Joseph; Auerbach, Martin; Gupta, Pawan; Schiepers, Christiaan; Chan, Samantha; Ferris, Julie; Barrio, Martin; Ajijola, Olujimi; Bradfield, Jason; Shivkumar, Kalyanam

2015-01-01

Background The incidence of myocardial inflammation in patients with unexplained cardiomyopathy referred for ventricular arrhythmias (VA) is unknown. Objective To report fasting PET scan findings in consecutive patients referred with unexplained cardiomyopathy and VA. Methods 18-FDG PET/CT scans with a >16 hour fasting protocol were prospectively ordered for patients referred for VA and unexplained cardiomyopathy (EF<55%). Patients with focal myocardial FDG uptake were labeled as arrhythmogenic inflammatory cardiomyopathy (AIC) and classified into four groups based on the presence of lymph node uptake (AIC+) and perfusion abnormalities (early vs late stage). Results Over a 3-year period, 103 PET scan were performed with 49% (AIC+=17, AIC=33) exhibiting focal FDG uptake. The mean age was 52±12 years with an EF of 36±16%. Patients with AIC were more likely to have a history of pacemaker (32% vs 6%, p=0.002) compared to those with normal PET. When biopsy was performed, histologic diagnosis revealed non-granulomatous inflammation in 6 patients and sarcoidosis in 18 patients. 90% of patients with AIC/AIC+ were prescribed immunosuppressive therapy and 58% underwent ablation. Correlation between areas of perfusion abnormalities and FDG uptake with electro-anatomic mapping was observed in 79% patients and MRI findings matched in only 33%. Conclusions Nearly 50% of patients referred with unexplained cardiomyopathy and VA demonstrate ongoing focal myocardial inflammation on FDG PET. These data suggests that a significant proportion of patients labeled “idiopathic” may have occult arrhythmogenic inflammatory cardiomyopathy, which may benefit from early detection and immunosuppressive medical therapy. PMID:26272522

Electrical remodelling of the left and right atria due to rheumatic mitral stenosis.

PubMed

John, Bobby; Stiles, Martin K; Kuklik, Pawel; Chandy, Sunil T; Young, Glenn D; Mackenzie, Lorraine; Szumowski, Lukasz; Joseph, George; Jose, Jacob; Worthley, Stephen G; Kalman, Jonathan M; Sanders, Prashanthan

2008-09-01

To characterize the atrial remodelling in mitral stenosis (MS). Twenty-four patients with severe MS undergoing commissurotomy and 24 controls were studied. Electrophysiological evaluation was performed in 12 patients in each group by positioning multi-electrode catheters in both atria to determine the following: effective refractory period (ERP) at 10 sites at 600 and 450 ms; conduction time; conduction delay at the crista terminalis (CT); and vulnerability for atrial fibrillation (AF). P-wave duration (PWD) was determined on the surface ECG. In the remaining 12 patients in each group, electroanatomic maps of both atria were created to determine conduction velocity and identify regions of low voltage and electrical silence. Patients with MS had larger left atria (LA) (P < 0.0001); prolonged PWD (P = 0.0007); prolonged ERP in both LA (P < 0.0001) and right atria (RA) (P < 0.0001); reduced conduction velocity in the LA (P = 0.009) and RA (P < 0.0001); greater number (P < 0.0001) and duration (P< 0.0001) of bipoles along the CT with delayed conduction; lower atrial voltage in the LA (P < 0.0001) and RA (P < 0.0001); and more frequent electrical scar (P = 0.001) compared with controls. Five of twelve with MS and none of the controls developed AF with extra-stimulus (P = 0.02). Atrial remodelling in MS is characterized by LA enlargement, loss of myocardium, and scarring associated with widespread and site-specific conduction abnormalities and no change or an increase in ERP. These abnormalities were associated with a heightened inducibility of AF.

Region 9 Tribal Grant Program - Project Officer and Tribal Contact Information Map Service

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

This compilation of geospatial data is for the purpose of managing and communicating information about current EPA project officers, tribal contacts, and tribal grants, both internally and with external stakeholders.

Mapping atomic contact between pentacene and a Au surface using scanning tunneling spectroscopy.

PubMed

Song, Young Jae; Lee, Kyuho; Kim, Seong Heon; Choi, Byoung-Young; Yu, Jaejun; Kuk, Young

2010-03-10

We mapped spatially varying intramolecular electronic structures on a pentacene-gold interface using scanning tunneling spectroscopy. Along with ab initio calculations based on density functional theory, we found that the directional nature of the d orbitals of Au atoms plays an important role in the interaction at the pentacene-gold contact. The gold-induced interface states are broadened and shifted by various pentacene-gold distances determined by the various registries of a pentacene molecule on a gold substrate.

DNCON2: improved protein contact prediction using two-level deep convolutional neural networks.

PubMed

Adhikari, Badri; Hou, Jie; Cheng, Jianlin

2018-05-01

Significant improvements in the prediction of protein residue-residue contacts are observed in the recent years. These contacts, predicted using a variety of coevolution-based and machine learning methods, are the key contributors to the recent progress in ab initio protein structure prediction, as demonstrated in the recent CASP experiments. Continuing the development of new methods to reliably predict contact maps is essential to further improve ab initio structure prediction. In this paper we discuss DNCON2, an improved protein contact map predictor based on two-level deep convolutional neural networks. It consists of six convolutional neural networks-the first five predict contacts at 6, 7.5, 8, 8.5 and 10 Å distance thresholds, and the last one uses these five predictions as additional features to predict final contact maps. On the free-modeling datasets in CASP10, 11 and 12 experiments, DNCON2 achieves mean precisions of 35, 50 and 53.4%, respectively, higher than 30.6% by MetaPSICOV on CASP10 dataset, 34% by MetaPSICOV on CASP11 dataset and 46.3% by Raptor-X on CASP12 dataset, when top L/5 long-range contacts are evaluated. We attribute the improved performance of DNCON2 to the inclusion of short- and medium-range contacts into training, two-level approach to prediction, use of the state-of-the-art optimization and activation functions, and a novel deep learning architecture that allows each filter in a convolutional layer to access all the input features of a protein of arbitrary length. The web server of DNCON2 is at http://sysbio.rnet.missouri.edu/dncon2/ where training and testing datasets as well as the predictions for CASP10, 11 and 12 free-modeling datasets can also be downloaded. Its source code is available at https://github.com/multicom-toolbox/DNCON2/. chengji@missouri.edu. Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.

Medicines access programs to cancer medicines in Australia and New Zealand: An exploratory study.

PubMed

Grover, Piyush; Babar, Zaheer-Ud-Din; Oehmen, Raoul; Vitry, Agnes

2018-03-01

Medicines Access Programs (MAP) offer access to publicly unfunded medicines at the discretion of pharmaceutical companies. Limited literature is available on their extent and scope in Australia and New Zealand. This study aims to identify MAPs for cancer medicines that were operational in 2014-15 in Australia and New Zealand and describe their characteristics. A preliminary list of MAPs was sent to hospital pharmacists in Australia and New Zealand to validate and collect further information. Pharmaceutical companies were contacted directly to provide information regarding MAPs offered. Key stakeholders were interviewed to identify issues with MAPs. Fifty-one MAPs were identified covering a range of indications. The majority of MAPs were provided free of charge to the patient for medicines that were registered or in the process of being registered but were not funded. Variability in the number of MAPs across institutions and characteristics was observed. Australia offered more MAPs than New Zealand. Only two of 17 pharmaceutical companies contacted agreed to provide information on their MAPs. Eight stakeholder interviews were conducted. This identified that while MAPs are widely operational there is lack of clinical monitoring, inequity to access, operational issues and lack of transparency. Our results suggest a need for a standardised and mandated policy to mitigate issues with MAPs. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

PDB to AMPL Conversion

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

Anna Johnston, SNL 9215

2002-09-01

PDB to AMPL Conversion was written to convert protein data base files to AMPL files. The protein data bases on the internet contain a wealth of information about the structue and makeup of proteins. Each file contains information derived by one or more experiments and contains information on how the experiment waw performed, the amino acid building blocks of each chain, and often the three-dimensional structure of the protein extracted from the experiments. The way a protein folds determines much about its function. Thus, studying the three-dimensional structure of the protein is of great interest. Analysing the contact maps ismore » one way to examine the structure. A contact map is a graph which has a linear back bone of amino acids for nodes (i.e., adjacent amino acids are always connected) and vertices between non-adjacent nodes if they are close enough to be considered in contact. If the graphs are similar then the folds of the protein and their function should also be similar. This software extracts the contact maps from a protein data base file and puts in into AMPL data format. This format is designed for use in AMPL, a programming language for simplifying linear programming formulations.« less

How pinning and contact angle hysteresis govern quasi-static liquid drop transfer.

PubMed

Chen, H; Tang, T; Zhao, H; Law, K-Y; Amirfazli, A

2016-02-21

This paper presents both experimental and numerical simulations of liquid transfer between two solid surfaces with contact angle hysteresis (CAH). Systematic studies on the role of the advancing contact angle (θa), receding contact angle (θr) and CAH in determining the transfer ratio (volume of the liquid transferred onto the acceptor surface over the total liquid volume) and the maximum adhesion force (Fmax) were performed. The transfer ratio was found to be governed by contact line pinning at the end of the transfer process caused by CAH of surfaces. A map based on θr of the two surfaces was generated to identify the three regimes for liquid transfer: (I) contact line pinning occurs only on the donor surface, (II) contact line pinning occurs on both surfaces, and (III) contact line pinning occurs only on the acceptor surface. With this map, an empirical equation is provided which is able to estimate the transfer ratio by only knowing θr of the two surfaces. The value of Fmax is found to be strongly influenced by the contact line pinning in the early stretching stage. For symmetric liquid bridges between two identical surfaces, Fmax may be determined only by θa, only by θr, or by both θa and θr, depending on the magnitude of the contact angles. For asymmetric bridges, Fmax is found to be affected by the period when contact lines are pinned on both surfaces.

Evaluation of carrier collection probability in bifacial interdigitated-back-contact crystalline silicon solar cells by the internal quantum efficiency mapping method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tachibana, Tomihisa; Tanahashi, Katsuto; Mochizuki, Toshimitsu; Shirasawa, Katsuhiko; Takato, Hidetaka

2018-04-01

Bifacial interdigitated-back-contact (IBC) silicon solar cells with a high bifaciality of 0.91 were fabricated. Screen printing and firing technology were used to reduce the production cost. For the first time, the relationship between the rear side structure and carrier collection probability was evaluated using internal quantum efficiency (IQE) mapping. The measurement results showed that the screen-printed electrode and back surface field (BSF) area led to low IQE. The low carrier collection probability by BSF area can be explained by electrical shading effects. Thus, it is clear that the IQE mapping system is useful to evaluate the IBC cell.

Complex multi-enhancer contacts captured by Genome Architecture Mapping (GAM)

PubMed Central

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

2017-01-01

Summary The organization of the genome in the nucleus and the interactions of genes with their regulatory elements are key features of transcriptional control and their disruption can cause disease. We developed a novel genome-wide method, Genome Architecture Mapping (GAM), for measuring chromatin contacts, and other features of three-dimensional chromatin topology, based on sequencing DNA from a large collection of thin nuclear sections. We apply GAM to mouse embryonic stem cells and identify an enrichment for specific interactions between active genes and enhancers across very large genomic distances, using a mathematical model ‘SLICE’ (Statistical Inference of Co-segregation). GAM also reveals an abundance of three-way contacts genome-wide, especially between regions that are highly transcribed or contain super-enhancers, highlighting a previously inaccessible complexity in genome architecture and a major role for gene-expression specific contacts in organizing the genome in mammalian nuclei. PMID:28273065

Tactile Sensing with Whiskers of Various Shapes: Determining the Three-Dimensional Location of Object Contact Based on Mechanical Signals at the Whisker Base.

PubMed

Huet, Lucie A; Rudnicki, John W; Hartmann, Mitra J Z

2017-06-01

Almost all mammals use their mystacial vibrissae (whiskers) as important tactile sensors. There are no sensors along the length of a whisker: all sensing is performed by mechanoreceptors at the whisker base. To use artificial whiskers as a sensing tool in robotics, it is essential to be able to determine the three-dimensional (3D) location at which a whisker has made contact with an object. With the assumption of quasistatic, frictionless, single-point contact, previous work demonstrated that the 3D contact point can be uniquely determined if all six components of force and moment are measured at the whisker base, but these measurements require a six-axis load cell. Here, we perform simulations to investigate the extent to which each of the 20 possible "triplet" combinations of the six mechanical signals at the whisker base uniquely determine 3D contact point location. We perform this analysis for four different whisker profiles (shapes): tapered with and without intrinsic curvature, and cylindrical with and without intrinsic curvature. We show that whisker profile has a strong influence on the particular triplet(s) of signals that uniquely map to the 3D contact point. The triplet of bending moment, bending moment direction, and axial force produces unique mappings for tapered whiskers. Four different mappings are unique for a cylindrical whisker without intrinsic curvature, but only when large deflections are excluded. These results inform the neuroscience of vibrissotactile sensing and represent an important step toward the development of artificial whiskers for robotic applications.

Evaluation for Loss of Lubrication Performance of Black Oxide, Superfinished, and As-Ground Surfaces for Use in Rotorcraft Transmissions

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-09-01

2.3.2 Loss -of-Lubrication Protocol 5 2.3.3 Friction Mapping Protocol 7 2.4 Test Matrices 9 3. Results and Discussion 10 3.1 Load Capacity 10...protocols used to simulate relevant contact conditions are the load capacity (LC), loss -of-lubrication (LoL), and mapping protocols. 2.3.1 Load ...Entrainment velocity (m/s) Slip (%) Skew (°) Load (N) Contact stress (GPa) LoL 16 –100 0 100 1.29 2.3.2.2 Low-Speed Loss -of-Lubrication

Geologic map of the Chewelah 30' x 60' Quadrangle, Washington and Idaho

USGS Publications Warehouse

Miller, F.K.

2001-01-01

This data set maps and describes the geology of the Chewelah 30' X 60' quadrangle, Washington and Idaho. Created using Environmental Systems Research Institute's ARC/INFO software, the data base consists of the following items: (1) a map coverage containing geologic contacts and units, (2) a point coverage containing site-specific geologic structural data, (3) two coverages derived from 1:100,000 Digital Line Graphs (DLG); one of which represents topographic data, and the other, cultural data, (4) two line coverages that contain cross-section lines and unit-label leaders, respectively, and (5) attribute tables for geologic units (polygons), contacts (arcs), and site-specific data (points). In addition, the data set includes the following graphic and text products: (1) A PostScript graphic plot-file containing the geologic map, topography, cultural data, and two cross sections, and on a separate sheet, a Correlation of Map Units (CMU) diagram, an abbreviated Description of Map Units (DMU), modal diagrams for granitic rocks, an index map, a regional geologic and structure map, and a key for point and line symbols; (2) PDF files of the Readme text-file and expanded Description of Map Units (DMU), and (3) this metadata file. The geologic map database contains original U.S. Geological Survey data generated by detailed field observation and by interpretation of aerial photographs. The map was compiled from geologic maps of eight 1:48,000 15' quadrangle blocks, each of which was made by mosaicing and reducing the four constituent 7.5' quadrangles. These 15' quadrangle blocks were mapped chiefly at 1:24,000 scale, but the detail of the mapping was governed by the intention that it was to be compiled at 1:48,000 scale. The compilation at 1:100,000 scale entailed necessary simplification in some areas and combining of some geologic units. Overall, however, despite a greater than two times reduction in scale, most geologic detail found on the 1:48,000 maps is retained on the 1:100,000 map. Geologic contacts across boundaries of the eight constituent quadrangles required minor adjustments, but none significant at the final 1:100,000 scale. The geologic map was compiled on a base-stable cronoflex copy of the Chewelah 30' X 60' topographic base and then scribed. The scribe guide was used to make a 0.007 mil-thick blackline clear-film, which was scanned at 1200 DPI by Optronics Specialty Company, Northridge, California. This image was converted to vector and polygon GIS layers and minimally attributed by Optronics Specialty Company. Minor hand-digitized additions were made at the USGS. Lines, points, and polygons were subsequently edited at the USGS by using standard ARC/INFO commands. Digitizing and editing artifacts significant enough to display at a scale of 1:100,000 were corrected. Within the database, geologic contacts are represented as lines (arcs), geologic units as polygons, and site-specific data as points. Polygon, arc, and point attribute tables (.pat, .aat, and .pat, respectively) uniquely identify each geologic datum.

Assessment of planetary geologic mapping techniques for Mars using terrestrial analogs: The SP Mountain area of the San Francisco Volcanic Field, Arizona

USGS Publications Warehouse

Tanaka, K.L.; Skinner, J.A.; Crumpler, L.S.; Dohm, J.M.

2009-01-01

We photogeologically mapped the SP Mountain region of the San Francisco Volcanic Field in northern Arizona, USA to evaluate and improve the fidelity of approaches used in geologic mapping of Mars. This test site, which was previously mapped in the field, is chiefly composed of Late Cenozoic cinder cones, lava flows, and alluvium perched on Permian limestone of the Kaibab Formation. Faulting and folding has deformed the older rocks and some of the volcanic materials, and fluvial erosion has carved drainage systems and deposited alluvium. These geologic materials and their formational and modificational histories are similar to those for regions of the Martian surface. We independently prepared four geologic maps using topographic and image data at resolutions that mimic those that are commonly used to map the geology of Mars (where consideration was included for the fact that Martian features such as lava flows are commonly much larger than their terrestrial counterparts). We primarily based our map units and stratigraphic relations on geomorphology, color contrasts, and cross-cutting relationships. Afterward, we compared our results with previously published field-based mapping results, including detailed analyses of the stratigraphy and of the spatial overlap and proximity of the field-based vs. remote-based (photogeologic) map units, contacts, and structures. Results of these analyses provide insights into how to optimize the photogeologic mapping of Mars (and, by extension, other remotely observed planetary surfaces). We recommend the following: (1) photogeologic mapping as an excellent approach to recovering the general geology of a region, along with examination of local, high-resolution datasets to gain insights into the complexity of the geology at outcrop scales; (2) delineating volcanic vents and lava-flow sequences conservatively and understanding that flow abutment and flow overlap are difficult to distinguish in remote data sets; (3) taking care to understand that surficial materials (such as alluvium and volcanic ash deposits) are likely to be under-mapped yet are important because they obscure underlying units and contacts; (4) where possible, mapping multiple contact and structure types based on their varying certainty and exposure that reflect the perceived accuracy of the linework; (5) reviewing the regional context and searching for evidence of geologic activity that may have affected the map area yet for which evidence within the map area may be absent; and (6) for multi-authored maps, collectively analyzing the mapping relations, approaches, and methods throughout the duration of the mapping project with the objective of achieving a solid, harmonious product.

Using Digital Computer Field Mapping of Outcrops to Examine the Preservation of High-P Rocks During Pervasive, Retrograde Greenschist Fluid Infiltration, Tinos, Cyclades Archipelago, Greece

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Breeding, C. M.; Ague, J. J.; Broecker, M.

2001-12-01

Digital field mapping of outcrops on the island of Tinos, Greece, was undertaken to investigate the nature of retrograde fluid infiltration during exhumation of high-P metamorphic rocks of the Attic-Cycladic blueschist belt. High-resolution digital photographs of outcrops were taken and loaded into graphics editing software on a portable, belt-mounted computer in the field. Geologic features from outcrops were drawn and labeled on the digital images using the software in real-time. The ability to simultaneously identify geologic features in outcrops and digitize those features onto digital photographs in the field allows the creation of detailed, field-verified, outcrop-scale maps that aid in geologic interpretation. During Cretaceous-Eocene subduction in the Cyclades, downgoing crustal material was metamorphosed to eclogite and blueschist facies. Subsequent Oligocene-Miocene exhumation of the high-P rocks was accompanied by pervasive, retrograde fluid infiltration resulting in nearly complete greenschist facies overprinting. On Tinos, most high-P rocks have undergone intense retrogression; however, adjacent to thick marble horizons with completely retrograded contact zones, small (sub km-scale) enclaves of high-P rocks (blueschist and minor eclogite facies) were preserved. Field observations suggest that the remnant high-P zones consist mostly of massive metabasic rocks and minor adjacent metasediments. Within the enclaves, detailed digital outcrop maps reveal that greenschist retrogression increases in intensity outward from the center, implying interaction with a fluid flowing along enclave perimeters. Permeability contrasts could not have been solely responsible for preservation of the high-P rocks, as similar rock suites distal to marble contacts were completely overprinted. We conclude that the retrograded contacts of the marble units served as high-permeability conduits for regional retrograde fluid flow. Pervasive, layer-parallel flow through metasediments would have been drawn into these more permeable flow channels. Deflections in fluid flow paths toward the high flux contacts likely caused retrograde fluids to flow around the enclaves, preserving the zones of "dry," unretrograded high-P rocks near marble horizons. Digital mapping of outcrops is a unique method for direct examination of the relationships between geologic structure, lithology, and mineral assemblage variation in the field. Outcrop mapping in the Attic-Cycladic blueschist belt has revealed that regional fluid flow along contacts can have important implications for the large-scale distribution of mineral assemblages in metamorphic terranes.

Geologic Map and GIS Data for the Wabuska Geothermal Area

DOE Data Explorer

Hinz, Nick

2013-09-30

Wabuska—ESRI geodatabase (ArcGeology v1.3): - Contains all the geologic map data, including faults, contacts, folds, veins, dikes, unit polygons, and attitudes of strata. - List of stratigraphic units and stratigraphic correlation diagram. - One cross‐section.

Improved multimodality data fusion of late gadolinium enhancement MRI to left ventricular voltage maps in ventricular tachycardia ablation.

PubMed

Roujol, Sebastien; Basha, Tamer A; Tan, Alex; Khanna, Varun; Chan, Raymond H; Moghari, Mehdi H; Rayatzadeh, Hussein; Shaw, Jaime L; Josephson, Mark E; Nezafat, Reza

2013-05-01

Electroanatomical voltage mapping (EAVM) is commonly performed prior to catheter ablation of scar-related ventricular tachycardia (VT) to locate the arrhythmic substrate and to guide the ablation procedure. EAVM is used to locate the position of the ablation catheter and to provide a 3-D reconstruction of left-ventricular anatomy and scar. However, EAVM measurements only represent the endocardial scar with no transmural or epicardial information. Furthermore, EAVM is a time-consuming procedure, with a high operator dependence and has low sampling density, i.e., spatial resolution. Late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) allows noninvasive assessment of scar morphology that can depict 3-D scar architecture. Despite the potential use of LGE as a roadmap for VT ablation for identification of arrhythmogenic substrate, its utility has been very limited. To allow for identification of VT substrate, a correlation is needed between the substrates identified by EAVM as the gold standard and LGE-MRI scar characteristics. To do so, a system must be developed to fuse the datasets from these modalities. In this study, a registration pipeline for the fusion of LGE-MRI and EAVM data is presented. A novel surface registration algorithm is proposed, integrating the matching of global scar areas as an additional constraint in the registration process. A preparatory landmark registration is initially performed to expedite the convergence of the algorithm. Numerical simulations were performed to evaluate the accuracy of the registration in the presence of errors in identifying landmarks in EAVM or LGE-MRI datasets as well as additional errors due to respiratory or cardiac motion. Subsequently, the accuracy of the proposed fusion system was evaluated in a cohort of ten patients undergoing VT ablation where both EAVM and LGE-MRI data were available. Compared to landmark registration and surface registration, the presented method achieved significant improvement in registration error. The proposed data fusion system allows the fusion of EAVM and LGE-MRI data in VT ablation with registration errors less than 3.5  mm.

Preliminary geologic map of the eastern Willapa Hills, Cowlitz, Lewis, and Wahkiakum Counties, Washington

USGS Publications Warehouse

Wells, Ray E.; Sawlan, Michael G.

2014-01-01

This digital map database and the PDF derived from the database were created from the analog geologic map: Wells, R.E. (1981), “Geologic map of the eastern Willapa Hills, Cowlitz, Lewis, and Wahkiakum Counties, Washington.” The geodatabase replicates the geologic mapping of the 1981 report with minor exceptions along water boundaries and also along the north and south map boundaries. Slight adjustments to contacts along water boundaries were made to correct differences between the topographic base map used in the 1981 compilation (analog USGS 15-minute series quadrangle maps at 1:62,500 scale) and the base map used for this digital compilation (scanned USGS 7.5-minute series quadrangle maps at 1:24,000 scale). These minor adjustments, however, did not materially alter the geologic map. No new field mapping was performed to create this digital map database, and no attempt was made to fit geologic contacts to the new 1:24,000 topographic base, except as noted above. We corrected typographical errors, formatting errors, and attribution errors (for example, the name change of Goble Volcanics to Grays River Volcanics following current State of Washington usage; Walsh and others, 1987). We also updated selected references, substituted published papers for abstracts, and cited published radiometric ages for the volcanic and plutonic rocks. The reader is referred to Magill and others (1982), Wells and Coe (1985), Walsh and others (1987), Moothart (1993), Payne (1998), Kleibacker (2001), McCutcheon (2003), Wells and others (2009), Chan and others (2012), and Wells and others (in press) for subsequent interpretations of the Willapa Hills geology.

3D mapping of breast surface using digital fringe projection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vairavan, Rajendaran; Retnasamy, Vithyacharan; Mohamad Shahimin, Mukhzeer; Sauli, Zaliman; Leng, Lai Siang; Wan Norhaimi, Wan Mokhzani; Marimuthu, Rajeswaran; Abdullah, Othman; Kirtsaeng, Supap

2017-02-01

Optical sensing technique has inherited non-contact nature for generating 3D surface mapping where its application ranges from MEMS component characterization, corrosion analysis, and vibration analysis. In particular, the digital fringe projection is utilized for 3D mapping of objects through the illumination of structured light for medical application extending from oral dental measurements, lower back deformation analysis, monitoring of scoliosis and 3D face reconstruction for biometric identification. However, the usage of digital fringe projection for 3D mapping of human breast is very minimal. Thus, this paper addresses the application of digital fringe projection for 3D mapping of breast surface based on total non-contact nature. In this work, phase shift method is utilized to perform the 3D mapping. The phase shifted fringe pattern are displayed through a digital projector onto the breast surface, and the distorted fringe patterns are captured by a CCD camera. A phase map is produced, and phase unwrapping was executed to obtain the 3D surface mapping of the breast. The surface height profile from 3D fringe projection was compared with the surface height measured by a direct method using electronic digital vernier caliper. Preliminary results showed the feasibility of digital fringe projection in providing a 3D mapping of breast and its application could be further extended for breast carcinoma detection.

Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory |

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Complex multi-enhancer contacts captured by genome architecture mapping.

PubMed

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

2017-03-23

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

Rapid quantitative chemical mapping of surfaces with sub-2 nm resolution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lai, Chia-Yun; Perri, Saverio; Santos, Sergio; Garcia, Ricardo; Chiesa, Matteo

2016-05-01

We present a theory that exploits four observables in bimodal atomic force microscopy to produce maps of the Hamaker constant H. The quantitative H maps may be employed by the broader community to directly interpret the high resolution of standard bimodal AFM images as chemical maps while simultaneously quantifying chemistry in the non-contact regime. We further provide a simple methodology to optimize a range of operational parameters for which H is in the closest agreement with the Lifshitz theory in order to (1) simplify data acquisition and (2) generalize the methodology to any set of cantilever-sample systems.We present a theory that exploits four observables in bimodal atomic force microscopy to produce maps of the Hamaker constant H. The quantitative H maps may be employed by the broader community to directly interpret the high resolution of standard bimodal AFM images as chemical maps while simultaneously quantifying chemistry in the non-contact regime. We further provide a simple methodology to optimize a range of operational parameters for which H is in the closest agreement with the Lifshitz theory in order to (1) simplify data acquisition and (2) generalize the methodology to any set of cantilever-sample systems. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c6nr00496b

The Critical Role of Self-Contact for Embodiment in Virtual Reality.

PubMed

Bovet, Sidney; Debarba, Henrique Galvan; Herbelin, Bruno; Molla, Eray; Boulic, Ronan

2018-04-01

With the broad range of motion capture devices available on the market, it is now commonplace to directly control the limb movement of an avatar during immersion in a virtual environment. Here, we study how the subjective experience of embodying a full-body controlled avatar is influenced by motor alteration and self-contact mismatches. Self-contact is in particular a strong source of passive haptic feedback and we assume it to bring a clear benefit in terms of embodiment. For evaluating this hypothesis, we experimentally manipulate self-contacts and the virtual hand displacement relatively to the body. We introduce these body posture transformations to experimentally reproduce the imperfect or incorrect mapping between real and virtual bodies, with the goal of quantifying the limits of acceptance for distorted mapping on the reported body ownership and agency. We first describe how we exploit egocentric coordinate representations to perform a motion capture ensuring that real and virtual hands coincide whenever the real hand is in contact with the body. Then, we present a pilot study that focuses on quantifying our sensitivity to visuo-tactile mismatches. The results are then used to design our main study with two factors, offset (for self-contact) and amplitude (for movement amplification). Our main result shows that subjects' embodiment remains important, even when an artificially amplified movement of the hand was performed, but provided that correct self-contacts are ensured.

Minimally invasive surgery for atrial fibrillation

PubMed Central

Suwalski, Piotr

2013-01-01

Atrial fibrillation (AF) remains the most common cardiac arrhythmia, affecting nearly 2% of the general population worldwide. Minimally invasive surgical ablation remains one of the most dynamically evolving fields of modern cardiac surgery. While there are more than a dozen issues driving this development, two seem to play the most important role: first, there is lack of evidence supporting percutaneous catheter based approach to treat patients with persistent and long-standing persistent AF. Paucity of this data offers surgical community unparalleled opportunity to challenge guidelines and change indications for surgical intervention. Large, multicenter prospective clinical studies are therefore of utmost importance, as well as honest, clear data reporting. Second, a collaborative methodology started a long-awaited debate on a Heart Team approach to AF, similar to the debate on coronary artery disease and transcatheter valves. Appropriate patient selection and tailored treatment options will most certainly result in better outcomes and patient satisfaction, coupled with appropriate use of always-limited institutional resources. The aim of this review, unlike other reviews of minimally invasive surgical ablation, is to present medical professionals with two distinctly different, approaches. The first one is purely surgical, Standalone surgical isolation of the pulmonary veins using bipolar energy source with concomitant amputation of the left atrial appendage—a method of choice in one of the most important clinical trials on AF—The Atrial Fibrillation Catheter Ablation Versus Surgical Ablation Treatment (FAST) Trial. The second one represents the most complex approach to this problem: a multidisciplinary, combined effort of a cardiac surgeon and electrophysiologist. The Convergent Procedure, which includes both endocardial and epicardial unipolar ablation bonds together minimally invasive endoscopic surgery with electroanatomical mapping, to deliver best of the two worlds. One goal remains: to help those in urgent need for everlasting relief. PMID:24251031

Multiple focal and macroreentrant left atrial tachycardias originating from a spontaneous scar at the contiguous aorta-left atrium area in a patient with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: a case report.

PubMed

Yazaki, Kyoichiro; Ajiro, Yoichi; Mori, Fumiaki; Watanabe, Masahiro; Tsukamoto, Kei; Saito, Takashi; Mizobuchi, Keiko; Iwade, Kazunori

2017-01-17

Spontaneous scar-related left atrial tachycardia (AT) is a rare arrhythmia. We describe a patient with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) who developed multiple, both focal and macroreentrant left ATs associated with a spontaneous scar located at the aorta-left atrium (LA) contiguous area. A 65-year-old man with HCM complained of palpitations. Twelve-lead electrocardiogram showed narrow QRS tachycardia with 2:1 atrioventricular conduction. Two sessions of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) were required to eliminate all left ATs. In the first session, 3-dimensional electroanatomical mapping fused with the image constructed by multi-detector computed tomography showed a clockwise macroreentrant AT (AT1) associated with a low-voltage or dense scar area located along the aorta-LA contiguous area. AT1 was eliminated by RFA to the narrow isthmus with slow conduction velocity within the scar. Additional ATs (AT2-AT4) occurred 1 month after the first ablation. In the second session, AT2 and AT3 were identified as focal ATs with centrifugal propagation and few accompanying fragmentations, and AT4 as a macroreentrant AT with features similar to AT1. AT2 and AT3 were successfully eliminated by performing RFA to the earliest activation site, and AT4 was terminated by performing RFA to the narrow isthmus with slow conduction velocity. No ATs have recurred for 11 months after these RFAs. Interestingly, the substrate for all left ATs was associated with the aorta-LA contiguous area. To our knowledge, this is the first case of multiple, both focal and macroreentrant left ATs associated with a contiguous aorta-LA spontaneous scar area in a patient with HCM.

Feasibility of implementation of a "simplified, No-X-Ray, no-lead apron, two-catheter approach" for ablation of supraventricular arrhythmias in children and adults.

PubMed

Stec, Sebastian; Śledź, Janusz; Mazij, Mariusz; Raś, Małgorzata; Ludwik, Bartosz; Chrabąszcz, Michał; Śledź, Arkadiusz; Banasik, Małgorzata; Bzymek, Magdalena; Młynarczyk, Krzysztof; Deutsch, Karol; Labus, Michał; Śpikowski, Jerzy; Szydłowski, Lesław

2014-08-01

Although the "near-zero-X-Ray" or "No-X-Ray" catheter ablation (CA) approach has been reported for treatment of various arrhythmias, few prospective studies have strictly used "No-X-Ray," simplified 2-catheter approaches for CA in patients with supraventricular tachycardia (SVT). We assessed the feasibility of a minimally invasive, nonfluoroscopic (MINI) CA approach in such patients. Data were obtained from a prospective multicenter CA registry of patients with regular SVTs. After femoral access, 2 catheters were used to create simple, 3D electroanatomic maps and to perform electrophysiologic studies. Medical staff did not use lead aprons after the first 10 MINI CA cases. A total of 188 patients (age, 45 ± 21 years; 17% <19 years; 55% women) referred for the No-X-Ray approach were included. They were compared to 714 consecutive patients referred for a simplified approach using X-rays (age, 52 ± 18 years; 7% <19 years; 55% women). There were 9 protocol exceptions that necessitated the use of X-rays. Ultimately, 179/188 patients underwent the procedure without fluoroscopy, with an acute success rate of 98%. The procedure times (63 ± 26 vs. 63 ± 29 minutes, P > 0.05), major complications (0% vs. 0%, P > 0.05) and acute (98% vs. 98%, P > 0.05) and long-term (93% vs. 94%, P > 0.05) success rates were similar in the "No-X-Ray" and control groups. Implementation of a strict "No-X-Ray, simplified 2-catheter" CA approach is safe and effective in majority of the patients with SVT. This modified approach for SVTs should be prospectively validated in a multicenter study. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

First In Vivo Use of a Capacitive Micromachined Ultrasound Transducer Array–Based Imaging and Ablation Catheter

PubMed Central

Stephens, Douglas N.; Truong, Uyen T.; Nikoozadeh, Amin; Oralkan, Ömer; Seo, Chi Hyung; Cannata, Jonathan; Dentinger, Aaron; Thomenius, Kai; de la Rama, Alan; Nguyen, Tho; Lin, Feng; Khuri-Yakub, Pierre; Mahajan, Aman; Shivkumar, Kalyanam; O’Donnell, Matt; Sahn, David J.

2012-01-01

Objectives The primary objective was to test in vivo for the first time the general operation of a new multifunctional intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) catheter constructed with a microlinear capacitive micromachined ultrasound transducer (ML-CMUT) imaging array. Secondarily, we examined the compatibility of this catheter with electroanatomic mapping (EAM) guidance and also as a radiofrequency ablation (RFA) catheter. Preliminary thermal strain imaging (TSI)-derived temperature data were obtained from within the endocardium simultaneously during RFA to show the feasibility of direct ablation guidance procedures. Methods The new 9F forward-looking ICE catheter was constructed with 3 complementary technologies: a CMUT imaging array with a custom electronic array buffer, catheter surface electrodes for EAM guidance, and a special ablation tip, that permits simultaneous TSI and RFA. In vivo imaging studies of 5 anesthetized porcine models with 5 CMUT catheters were performed. Results The ML-CMUT ICE catheter provided high-resolution real-time wideband 2-dimensional (2D) images at greater than 8 MHz and is capable of both RFA and EAM guidance. Although the 24-element array aperture dimension is only 1.5 mm, the imaging depth of penetration is greater than 30 mm. The specially designed ultrasound-compatible metalized plastic tip allowed simultaneous imaging during ablation and direct acquisition of TSI data for tissue ablation temperatures. Postprocessing analysis showed a first-order correlation between TSI and temperature, permitting early development temperature-time relationships at specific myocardial ablation sites. Conclusions Multifunctional forward-looking ML-CMUT ICE catheters, with simultaneous intracardiac guidance, ultrasound imaging, and RFA, may offer a new means to improve interventional ablation procedures. PMID:22298868

Validation of a novel CARTOSEG™ segmentation module software for contrast-enhanced computed tomography-guided radiofrequency ablation in patients with atrial fibrillation.

PubMed

Imanli, Hasan; Bhatty, Shaun; Jeudy, Jean; Ghzally, Yousra; Ume, Kiddy; Vunnam, Rama; Itah, Refael; Amit, Mati; Duell, John; See, Vincent; Shorofsky, Stephen; Dickfeld, Timm M

2017-11-01

Visualization of left atrial (LA) anatomy using image integration modules has been associated with decreased radiation exposure and improved procedural outcome when used for guidance of pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) in atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation. We evaluated the CARTOSEG™ CT Segmentation Module (Biosense Webster, Inc.) that offers a new CT-specific semiautomatic reconstruction of the atrial endocardium. The CARTOSEG™ CT Segmentation Module software was assessed prospectively in 80 patients undergoing AF ablation. Using preprocedural contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CE-CT), cardiac chambers, coronary sinus (CS), and esophagus were semiautomatically segmented. Segmentation quality was assessed from 1 (poor) to 4 (excellent). The reconstructed structures were registered with the electroanatomic map (EAM). PVI was performed using the registered 3D images. Semiautomatic reconstruction of the heart chambers was successfully performed in all 80 patients with AF. CE-CT DICOM file import, semiautomatic segmentation of cardiac chambers, esophagus, and CS was performed in 185 ± 105, 18 ± 5, 119 ± 47, and 69 ± 19 seconds, respectively. Average segmentation quality was 3.9 ± 0.2, 3.8 ± 0.3, and 3.8 ± 0.2 for LA, esophagus, and CS, respectively. Registration accuracy between the EAM and CE-CT-derived segmentation was 4.2 ± 0.9 mm. Complications consisted of one perforation (1%) which required pericardiocentesis, one increased pericardial effusion treated conservatively (1%), and one early termination of ablation due to thrombus formation on the ablation sheath without TIA/stroke (1%). All targeted PVs (n  =  309) were successfully isolated. The novel CT- CARTOSEG™ CT Segmentation Module enables a rapid and reliable semiautomatic 3D reconstruction of cardiac chambers and adjacent anatomy, which facilitates successful and safe PVI. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Box Isolation of Fibrotic Areas (BIFA): A Patient-Tailored Substrate Modification Approach for Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation.

PubMed

Kottkamp, Hans; Berg, Jan; Bender, Roderich; Rieger, Andreas; Schreiber, Doreen

2016-01-01

Catheter ablation strategies beyond pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) for treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF) are less well defined. Increasing clinical data indicate that atrial fibrosis is a critical common left atrial (LA) substrate in AF patients (pts). We applied a new substrate modification concept according to the individual fibrotic substrate as estimated from electroanatomic voltage mapping (EAVM) in 41 pts undergoing catheter ablation of AF. First, EAVM during sinus rhythm was done in redo cases of 10 pts with paroxysmal AF despite durable PVI. Confluent low-voltage areas (LVA) were found in all pts and were targeted with circumferential isolation, so-called box isolation of fibrotic areas (BIFA). This strategy led to stable sinus rhythm in 9/10 pts and was transferred prospectively to first procedures of 31 pts with nonparoxysmal AF. In 13 pts (42%), no LVA (<0.5 mV) were identified, and only PVI was performed. In 18 pts (58%), additional BIFA strategies were applied (posterior box in 5, anterior box in 7, posterior plus anterior box in 5, no box in 1 due to diffuse fibrosis). Mean follow-up was 12.5 ± 2.4 months. Single-procedure freedom from AF/atrial tachycardia was achieved in 72.2% of pts and in 83.3% of pts with 1.17 procedures/patient. In approximately 40% of pts with nonparoxysmal AF, no substantial LVA were identified, and PVI alone showed high success rate. In pts with paroxysmal AF despite durable PVI and in approximately 60% of pts with nonparoxysmal AF, individually localized LVA were identified and could be targeted successfully with the BIFA strategy. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Cardiac memory in patients with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome: noninvasive imaging of activation and repolarization before and after catheter ablation.

PubMed

Ghosh, Subham; Rhee, Edward K; Avari, Jennifer N; Woodard, Pamela K; Rudy, Yoram

2008-08-26

Cardiac memory refers to a change in ventricular repolarization induced by and persisting for minutes to months after cessation of a period of altered ventricular activation (eg, resulting from pacing or preexcitation in patients with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome). ECG imaging (ECGI) is a novel imaging modality for noninvasive electroanatomic mapping of epicardial activation and repolarization. Fourteen pediatric patients with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome and no other congenital disease, were imaged with ECGI a day before and 45 minutes, 1 week, and 1 month after successful catheter ablation. ECGI determined that preexcitation sites were consistent with sites of successful ablation in all cases to within a 1-hour arc of each atrioventricular annulus. In the preexcited rhythm, activation-recovery interval (ARI) was the longest (349+/-6 ms) in the area of preexcitation leading to high average base-to-apex ARI dispersion of 95+/-9 ms (normal is approximately 40 ms). The ARI dispersion remained the same 45 minutes after ablation, although the activation sequence was restored to normal. ARI dispersion was still high (79+/-9 ms) 1 week later and returned to normal (45+/-6 ms) 1 month after ablation. The study demonstrates that ECGI can noninvasively localize ventricular insertion sites of accessory pathways to guide ablation and evaluate its outcome in pediatric patients with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome. Wolff-Parkinson-White is associated with high ARI dispersion in the preexcited rhythm that persists after ablation and gradually returns to normal over a period of 1 month, demonstrating the presence of cardiac memory. The 1-month time course is consistent with transcriptional reprogramming and remodeling of ion channels.

Contact lens-related dry eye and ocular surface changes with mapping technique in long-term soft silicone hydrogel contact lens wearers.

PubMed

Sengor, Tomris; Aydin Kurna, Sevda; Ozbay, Nurver; Ertek, Semahat; Aki, Suat; Altun, Ahmet

2012-01-01

To evaluate ocular surface changes in long-term silicone hydrogel contact lens wearers. Thirty patients were included in this study. Twenty patients (40 eyes) using contact lenses constituted group 1 and 10 (20 eyes) volunteers constituted group 2. The duration of average contact lens usage was 7.74 ± 3.3 years. Ocular surface was evaluated by surface staining, tear film break-up time (TBUT), Schirmer I test, and conjunctival impression cytology with color-coded mapping technique and by the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI). The mean break-up time was lower and staining scores were higher in group 1 (p<0.001) but Schirmer values were not significantly different from group 2 (p>0.05). The mean OSDI score was 34.59 ± 11.93 to 19.28 ± 6.7 in group 1 and 2. Increased metaplastic predominant changes of grade II and III were observed in the interpalpebral and perilimbal areas in group 1. Significant correlations were observed in TBUT, cornea staining, and grade II to grade III metaplasia ratios between duration of the lens usage and contact lens wear time in a day. Silicone hydrogel lenses produce significant changes on tear film and impression cytology of the ocular surface in long-term use.

77 FR 21991 - Federal Housing Administration (FHA): Multifamily Accelerated Processing (MAP)-Lender and...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-04-12

... Administration (FHA): Multifamily Accelerated Processing (MAP)--Lender and Underwriter Eligibility Criteria and....gov . FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Terry W. Clark, Office of Multifamily Development, Office of... qualifications could underwrite loans involving more complex multifamily housing programs and transactions. II...

GLCF: Services

Science.gov Websites

Services Contact Site Map Go Services GLCF General Services Contact us with the online form. Answer classification Special Group Services Special workspaces for groups accessing datasets Data Ordering Services Click here to proceed to Data Ordering Service Hard Media Orders Metrics Services ESDS Metrics

Geologic map of the Montoso Peak quadrangle, Santa Fe and Sandoval Counties, New Mexico

USGS Publications Warehouse

Thompson, Ren A.; Hudson, Mark R.; Shroba, Ralph R.; Minor, Scott A.; Sawyer, David A.

2011-01-01

The Montoso Peak quadrangle is underlain by volcanic rocks and associated sediments of the Cerros del Rio volcanic field in the southern part of the Española Basin that record volcanic, faulting, alluvial, colluvial, and eolian processes over the past three million years. The geology was mapped from 1997 to 1999 and modified in 2004 to 2008. The geologic mapping was carried out in support of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Rio Grande Basin Project, funded by the USGS National Cooperative Geologic mapping Program. The mapped distribution of units is based primarily on interpretation of 1:16,000-scale, color aerial photographs taken in 1992, and 1:40,000-scale, black-and-white, aerial photographs taken in 1996. Most of the contacts on the map were transferred from the aerial photographs using a photogrammetric stereoplotter and subsequently field checked for accuracy and revised based on field determination of allostratigraphic and lithostratigraphic units. Determination of lithostratigraphic units in volcanic deposits was aided by geochemical data, 40Ar/39Ar geochronology, aeromagnetic and paleomagnetic data. Supplemental revision of mapped contacts was based on interpretation of USGS 1-meter orthoimagery. This version of the Montoso Peak quadrangle geologic map uses a traditional USGS topographic base overlain on a shaded relief base generated from 10-m digital elevation model (DEM) data from the USGS National Elevation Dataset (NED). Faults are identified with varying confidence levels in the map area. Recognizing and mapping faults developed near the surface in young, brittle volcanic rocks is difficult because (1) they tend to form fractured zones tens of meters wide rather than discrete fault planes, (2) the youth of the deposits has allowed only modest displacements to accumulate for most faults, and (3) many may have significant strike-slip components that do not result in large vertical offsets that are readily apparent in offset of sub-horizontal contacts. Those faults characterized as "certain" either have distinct offset of map units or had slip planes that were directly observed in the field. Faults classed as "inferred" were traced based on linear alignments of geologic, topographic and aerial photo features such as vents, lava flow edges, and drainages inferred to preferentially develop on fractured rock. Lineaments defined from magnetic anomalies form an additional constraint on potential fault locations.

Bedrock geologic map of the Worcester South quadrangle, Worcester County, Massachusetts

USGS Publications Warehouse

Walsh, Gregory J.; Merschat, Arthur J.

2015-09-29

The bedrock geology was mapped to study the tectonic history of the area and to provide a framework for ongoing hydrogeologic characterization of the fractured bedrock of Massachusetts. This report presents mapping by Gregory J. Walsh and Arthur J. Merschat from 2008 to 2010. The report consists of a map and GIS database, both of which are available for download at http://dx.doi.org/ 10.3133/sim3345. The database includes contacts of bedrock geologic units, faults, outcrop locations, structural information, and photographs.

Geologic Map and GIS Data for the Patua Geothermal Area

DOE Data Explorer

Faulds, James E.

2011-10-31

Patua—ESRI Geodatabase (ArcGeology v1.3): - Contains all the geologic map data, including faults, contacts, folds, veins, dikes, unit polygons, and attitudes of strata and faults. - List of stratigraphic units. - Locations of geothermal wells. - Locations of 40Ar/39Ar and tephra samples.

Geologic Map and GID Data for the Salt Wells Geothermal Area

DOE Data Explorer

Hinz, Nick

2011-10-31

Salt Wells—ESRI Geodatabase (ArcGeology v1.3): - Contains all the geologic map data, including faults, contacts, folds, dikes, unit polygons, and attitudes of strata and faults. - List of stratigraphic units and stratigraphic correlation diagram. - Locations of 40Ar/39Ar samples.

A 3D contact analysis approach for the visualization of the electrical contact asperities

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

Roussos, Constantinos C.; Swingler, Jonathan

The electrical contact is an important phenomenon that should be given into consideration to achieve better performance and long term reliability for the design of devices. Based upon this importance, the electrical contact interface has been visualized as a “3D Contact Map” and used in order to investigate the contact asperities. The contact asperities describe the structures above and below the contact spots (the contact spots define the 3D contact map) to the two conductors which make the contact system. The contact asperities require the discretization of the 3D microstructures of the contact system into voxels. A contact analysis approachmore » has been developed and introduced in this paper which shows the way to the 3D visualization of the contact asperities of a given contact system. For the discretization of 3D microstructure of contact system into voxels, X-ray Computed Tomography (CT) method is used in order to collect the data of a 250 V, 16 A rated AC single pole rocker switch which is used as a contact system for investigation.« less

A 3D contact analysis approach for the visualization of the electrical contact asperities

PubMed Central

Swingler, Jonathan

2017-01-01

The electrical contact is an important phenomenon that should be given into consideration to achieve better performance and long term reliability for the design of devices. Based upon this importance, the electrical contact interface has been visualized as a ‘‘3D Contact Map’’ and used in order to investigate the contact asperities. The contact asperities describe the structures above and below the contact spots (the contact spots define the 3D contact map) to the two conductors which make the contact system. The contact asperities require the discretization of the 3D microstructures of the contact system into voxels. A contact analysis approach has been developed and introduced in this paper which shows the way to the 3D visualization of the contact asperities of a given contact system. For the discretization of 3D microstructure of contact system into voxels, X-ray Computed Tomography (CT) method is used in order to collect the data of a 250 V, 16 A rated AC single pole rocker switch which is used as a contact system for investigation. PMID:28105383

A 3D contact analysis approach for the visualization of the electrical contact asperities

DOE PAGES

Roussos, Constantinos C.; Swingler, Jonathan

2017-01-11

The electrical contact is an important phenomenon that should be given into consideration to achieve better performance and long term reliability for the design of devices. Based upon this importance, the electrical contact interface has been visualized as a “3D Contact Map” and used in order to investigate the contact asperities. The contact asperities describe the structures above and below the contact spots (the contact spots define the 3D contact map) to the two conductors which make the contact system. The contact asperities require the discretization of the 3D microstructures of the contact system into voxels. A contact analysis approachmore » has been developed and introduced in this paper which shows the way to the 3D visualization of the contact asperities of a given contact system. For the discretization of 3D microstructure of contact system into voxels, X-ray Computed Tomography (CT) method is used in order to collect the data of a 250 V, 16 A rated AC single pole rocker switch which is used as a contact system for investigation.« less

Chromatin-associated RNA sequencing (ChAR-seq) maps genome-wide RNA-to-DNA contacts

PubMed Central

Jukam, David; Teran, Nicole A; Risca, Viviana I; Smith, Owen K; Johnson, Whitney L; Skotheim, Jan M; Greenleaf, William James

2018-01-01

RNA is a critical component of chromatin in eukaryotes, both as a product of transcription, and as an essential constituent of ribonucleoprotein complexes that regulate both local and global chromatin states. Here, we present a proximity ligation and sequencing method called Chromatin-Associated RNA sequencing (ChAR-seq) that maps all RNA-to-DNA contacts across the genome. Using Drosophila cells, we show that ChAR-seq provides unbiased, de novo identification of targets of chromatin-bound RNAs including nascent transcripts, chromosome-specific dosage compensation ncRNAs, and genome-wide trans-associated RNAs involved in co-transcriptional RNA processing. PMID:29648534

AtomicJ: An open source software for analysis of force curves

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hermanowicz, Paweł; Sarna, Michał; Burda, Kvetoslava; Gabryś, Halina

2014-06-01

We present an open source Java application for analysis of force curves and images recorded with the Atomic Force Microscope. AtomicJ supports a wide range of contact mechanics models and implements procedures that reduce the influence of deviations from the contact model. It generates maps of mechanical properties, including maps of Young's modulus, adhesion force, and sample height. It can also calculate stacks, which reveal how sample's response to deformation changes with indentation depth. AtomicJ analyzes force curves concurrently on multiple threads, which allows for high speed of analysis. It runs on all popular operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and Macintosh.

Analysis of hand contact areas and interaction capabilities during manipulation and exploration.

PubMed

Gonzalez, Franck; Gosselin, Florian; Bachta, Wael

2014-01-01

Manual human-computer interfaces for virtual reality are designed to allow an operator interacting with a computer simulation as naturally as possible. Dexterous haptic interfaces are the best suited for this goal. They give intuitive and efficient control on the environment with haptic and tactile feedback. This paper is aimed at helping in the choice of the interaction areas to be taken into account in the design of such interfaces. The literature dealing with hand interactions is first reviewed in order to point out the contact areas involved in exploration and manipulation tasks. Their frequencies of use are then extracted from existing recordings. The results are gathered in an original graphical interaction map allowing for a simple visualization of the way the hand is used, and compared with a map of mechanoreceptors densities. Then an interaction tree, mapping the relative amount of actions made available through the use of a given contact area, is built and correlated with the losses of hand function induced by amputations. A rating of some existing haptic interfaces and guidelines for their design are finally achieved to illustrate a possible use of the developed graphical tools.

Egocentric Mapping of Body Surface Constraints.

PubMed

Molla, Eray; Debarba, Henrique Galvan; Boulic, Ronan

2018-07-01

The relative location of human body parts often materializes the semantics of on-going actions, intentions and even emotions expressed, or performed, by a human being. However, traditional methods of performance animation fail to correctly and automatically map the semantics of performer postures involving self-body contacts onto characters with different sizes and proportions. Our method proposes an egocentric normalization of the body-part relative distances to preserve the consistency of self contacts for a large variety of human-like target characters. Egocentric coordinates are character independent and encode the whole posture space, i.e., it ensures the continuity of the motion with and without self-contacts. We can transfer classes of complex postures involving multiple interacting limb segments by preserving their spatial order without depending on temporal coherence. The mapping process exploits a low-cost constraint relaxation technique relying on analytic inverse kinematics; thus, we can achieve online performance animation. We demonstrate our approach on a variety of characters and compare it with the state of the art in online retargeting with a user study. Overall, our method performs better than the state of the art, especially when the proportions of the animated character deviate from those of the performer.

NCEP SST Analysis

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Branches Global Climate & Weather Modeling Mesoscale Modeling Marine Modeling and Analysis Contact EMC , state and local government Web resources and services. Real-time, global, sea surface temperature (RTG_SST_HR) analysis For a regional map, click the desired area in the global SST analysis and anomaly maps

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Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-04-23

... for the 2013 Market Access Program (MAP). The intended effect of this notice is to solicit... not be considered. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Entities wishing to apply for funding assistance... at http://www.fas.usda.gov/mos/programs/map.asp . SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: I. Funding Opportunity...

NOAA Office of Exploration and Research > Education > NOAA Initiatives

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Science.gov Websites

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Mechanical properties of cellulose nanomaterials studied by contact resonance atomic force microscopy

Treesearch

Ryan Wagner; Robert J. Moon; Arvind Raman

2016-01-01

Quantification of the mechanical properties of cellulose nanomaterials is key to the development of new cellulose nanomaterial based products. Using contact resonance atomic force microscopy we measured and mapped the transverse elastic modulus of three types of cellulosic nanoparticles: tunicate cellulose nanocrystals, wood cellulose nanocrystals, and wood cellulose...

75 FR 59327 - Seventh Meeting-RTCA Special Committee 217: Joint With EUROCAE WG-44 Terrain and Airport Mapping...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-09-27

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Systematic mapping of contact sites reveals tethers and a function for the peroxisome-mitochondria contact.

PubMed

Shai, Nadav; Yifrach, Eden; van Roermund, Carlo W T; Cohen, Nir; Bibi, Chen; IJlst, Lodewijk; Cavellini, Laetitia; Meurisse, Julie; Schuster, Ramona; Zada, Lior; Mari, Muriel C; Reggiori, Fulvio M; Hughes, Adam L; Escobar-Henriques, Mafalda; Cohen, Mickael M; Waterham, Hans R; Wanders, Ronald J A; Schuldiner, Maya; Zalckvar, Einat

2018-05-02

The understanding that organelles are not floating in the cytosol, but rather held in an organized yet dynamic interplay through membrane contact sites, is altering the way we grasp cell biological phenomena. However, we still have not identified the entire repertoire of contact sites, their tethering molecules and functions. To systematically characterize contact sites and their tethering molecules here we employ a proximity detection method based on split fluorophores and discover four potential new yeast contact sites. We then focus on a little-studied yet highly disease-relevant contact, the Peroxisome-Mitochondria (PerMit) proximity, and uncover and characterize two tether proteins: Fzo1 and Pex34. We genetically expand the PerMit contact site and demonstrate a physiological function in β-oxidation of fatty acids. Our work showcases how systematic analysis of contact site machinery and functions can deepen our understanding of these structures in health and disease.

Generative Topographic Mapping of Conformational Space.

PubMed

Horvath, Dragos; Baskin, Igor; Marcou, Gilles; Varnek, Alexandre

2017-10-01

Herein, Generative Topographic Mapping (GTM) was challenged to produce planar projections of the high-dimensional conformational space of complex molecules (the 1LE1 peptide). GTM is a probability-based mapping strategy, and its capacity to support property prediction models serves to objectively assess map quality (in terms of regression statistics). The properties to predict were total, non-bonded and contact energies, surface area and fingerprint darkness. Map building and selection was controlled by a previously introduced evolutionary strategy allowed to choose the best-suited conformational descriptors, options including classical terms and novel atom-centric autocorrellograms. The latter condensate interatomic distance patterns into descriptors of rather low dimensionality, yet precise enough to differentiate between close favorable contacts and atom clashes. A subset of 20 K conformers of the 1LE1 peptide, randomly selected from a pool of 2 M geometries (generated by the S4MPLE tool) was employed for map building and cross-validation of property regression models. The GTM build-up challenge reached robust three-fold cross-validated determination coefficients of Q 2 =0.7…0.8, for all modeled properties. Mapping of the full 2 M conformer set produced intuitive and information-rich property landscapes. Functional and folding subspaces appear as well-separated zones, even though RMSD with respect to the PDB structure was never used as a selection criterion of the maps. © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Geological mapping of the Schuppen belt of north-east India using geospatial technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ghosh, Tanaya; Basu, Surajit; Hazra, Sugata

2014-01-01

A revised geologic map of the Schuppen belt of northeast India has been prepared based on interpretation of digitally enhanced satellite images. The satellite image interpretation is supported by limited field work and existing geologic maps. Available geological maps of this fold thrust belt are discontinuous and multi-scaled. The authors are of multiple opinions regarding the trajectory of formation boundaries and fault contacts. Digital image processing of satellite images and limited field surveys have been used to reinterpret and modify the existing geological maps of this fold thrust belt. Optical data of Landsat Thematic Mapper, Enhanced Thematic Mapper and elevation data of ASTER have been used to prepare this revised geological map. The study area extends from Hajadisa in south to Digboi oilfield in north, bounded by Naga thrust in the west and Disang thrust in the east. PCA, Image fusion, Linear Contrast stretch, Histogram Equalization and Painted relief algorithms have been used for the delineation of major geological lineaments like lithological boundary, thrust and strike slip faults. Digital elevation maps have enabled in the discrimination between thrust contacts and lithological boundaries, with the former being located mostly in the valleys. Textural enhancements of PCA, colour composites and Painted relief algorithm have been used to discriminate between different rock types. Few geological concepts about the terrain have been revisited and modified. It is assumed that this revised map should be of practical use as this terrain promises unexploited hydrocarbon reserves.

Hydrology of the Helena area bedrock, west-central Montana, 1993-98; with a section on geologic setting and a generalized bedrock geologic map

USGS Publications Warehouse

Thamke, Joanna N.; Reynolds, Mitchell W.

2000-01-01

The Generalized Bedrock Geologic Map of the Helena Area, West-Central Montana (plate 1 in the report) provides an intermediate-scale overview of bedrock in the Helena area. The geologic map has been compiled at a scale of 1:100,000 from the most widely available sources of geologic map information (see index to geologic mapping on pl. 1). That information has been updated by M.W. Reynolds for this report with more recent geologic mapping and field revision of published maps. All well locations and all bedrock units penetrated during drilling have been confirmed on geologic maps at the largest scale available. Source geologic maps are all at scales larger than 1:100,000 scale. Care has been taken to ensure accurate representation of the original geology at the compilation scale. However, positional accuracy of some features might be somewhat diminished at the smaller scale of the base map when compared with the original data source. Also, line thicknesses for contacts and faults necessarily assume a greater width, relative to the real geologic feature, at the scale of the generalized map than on any original map. The map is not intended for large-scale, site-specific detailed planning. Bedrock units throughout the Helena area are generally covered by young surficial deposits such as alluvium, colluvium, glacial debris, or windblown sediment. Thickness of such deposits varies from veneers through which the underlying bedrock is clearly discernible to major thicknesses that conceal all underlying bedrock and structure. Boundaries of major accumulations of surficial deposits are attributed separately from bedrock contacts. These boundaries should not be considered precise at the map scale or at larger scales. Boundaries shown may be less accurate positionally than bedrock contacts and faults because (1) surficial deposits commonly thin to a knife edge; (2) different mappers will interpret the edge differently when drawing a boundary; or (3) the original geologic map maker was concerned principally with bedrock units and structure and thus overlooked, or did not originally map as consistently, some surficial deposits. Veneers of surficial sediment, when saturated, can be local sources of recharge to underlying bedrock. Use of the generalized map to define their distribution does not substitute for site specific mapping of such deposits. Specific knowledge is needed to determine the water-bearing properties of the geologic units at and surrounding a site because the units, including the igneous and metamorphic rocks, have internal differences in stratigraphy, composition, mineralogy and grain size or crystallinity. These differences, together with structural imprints such as faults, folds, and the spacing, orientation, degree of openness of fractures, and extent and type of mineral filling in fractures and faults, all affect the ability of rocks to store and transmit water.

The Application of an Emerging Technique for Protein–Protein Interaction Interface Mapping: The Combination of Photo-Initiated Cross-Linking Protein Nanoprobes with Mass Spectrometry

PubMed Central

Ptáčková, Renata; Ječmen, Tomáš; Novák, Petr; Hudeček, Jiří; Stiborová, Marie; Šulc, Miroslav

2014-01-01

Protein–protein interaction was investigated using a protein nanoprobe capable of photo-initiated cross-linking in combination with high-resolution and tandem mass spectrometry. This emerging experimental approach introduces photo-analogs of amino acids within a protein sequence during its recombinant expression, preserves native protein structure and is suitable for mapping the contact between two proteins. The contact surface regions involved in the well-characterized interaction between two molecules of human 14-3-3ζ regulatory protein were used as a model. The employed photo-initiated cross-linking techniques extend the number of residues shown to be within interaction distance in the contact surface of the 14-3-3ζ dimer (Gln8–Met78). The results of this study are in agreement with our previously published data from molecular dynamic calculations based on high-resolution chemical cross-linking data and Hydrogen/Deuterium exchange mass spectrometry. The observed contact is also in accord with the 14-3-3ζ X-ray crystal structure (PDB 3dhr). The results of the present work are relevant to the structural biology of transient interaction in the 14-3-3ζ protein, and demonstrate the ability of the chosen methodology (the combination of photo-initiated cross-linking protein nanoprobes and mass spectrometry analysis) to map the protein-protein interface or regions with a flexible structure. PMID:24865487

Bedrock geologic map of the Hartland and North Hartland quadrangles, Windsor County, Vermont, and Sullivan and Grafton Counties, New Hampshire

USGS Publications Warehouse

Walsh, Gregory J.

2016-08-16

This report consists of sheets 1 and 2 as well as an online geographic information systems database that includes contacts of bedrock geologic units, faults, outcrops, structural geologic information, and photographs. Sheet 2 of this report shows three cross sections, a tectonic map, and two brittle features maps that show measured outcrop-scale strike and dip results with summary stereonets and rose diagrams.

Implementation of random contact hole design with CPL mask by using IML technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hsu, Michael; Van Den Broeke, Doug; Hsu, Stephen; Chen, J. Fung; Shi, Xuelong; Corcoran, Noel; Yu, Linda

2005-11-01

The contact hole imaging is a very challenge task for the optical lithography process during IC manufacturing. Lots of RETs were proposed to improve the contrast of small opening hole. Scattering Bar (SB) OPC, together with optimized illumination, is no doubt one of the critical enablers for low k1 contact imaging. In this study, an effective model-based SB OPC based on IML technology is implemented for contact layer at 90nm, 65nm, and 45nm nodes. For our full-chip implementation flow, the first step is to determine the critical design area and then to proceed with NA and illumination optimization. Then, we selected the best NA in combination with optimum illumination via a Diffraction Optical Element (DOE). With optimized illumination, it is now possible to construct an interference map for the full-chip mask pattern. Utilizing the interference map, the model-based SB OPC is performed. Next, model OPC can be applied with the presence of SB for the entire chip. It is important to note that, for patterning at k1 near 0.35 or below, it may be necessary to include 3D mask effects with a high NA OPC model. With enhanced DOF by IML and immersion process, the low k1 production worthy contact process is feasible.

Differential Epitope Mapping by STD NMR Spectroscopy To Reveal the Nature of Protein-Ligand Contacts.

PubMed

Monaco, Serena; Tailford, Louise E; Juge, Nathalie; Angulo, Jesus

2017-11-27

Saturation transfer difference (STD) NMR spectroscopy is extensively used to obtain epitope maps of ligands binding to protein receptors, thereby revealing structural details of the interaction, which is key to direct lead optimization efforts in drug discovery. However, it does not give information about the nature of the amino acids surrounding the ligand in the binding pocket. Herein, we report the development of the novel method differential epitope mapping by STD NMR (DEEP-STD NMR) for identifying the type of protein residues contacting the ligand. The method produces differential epitope maps through 1) differential frequency STD NMR and/or 2) differential solvent (D 2 O/H 2 O) STD NMR experiments. The two approaches provide different complementary information on the binding pocket. We demonstrate that DEEP-STD NMR can be used to readily obtain pharmacophore information on the protein. Furthermore, if the 3D structure of the protein is known, this information also helps in orienting the ligand in the binding pocket. © 2017 The Authors. Published by Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA.

Normalization of a chromosomal contact map.

PubMed

Cournac, Axel; Marie-Nelly, Hervé; Marbouty, Martial; Koszul, Romain; Mozziconacci, Julien

2012-08-30

Chromatin organization has been increasingly studied in relation with its important influence on DNA-related metabolic processes such as replication or regulation of gene expression. Since its original design ten years ago, capture of chromosome conformation (3C) has become an essential tool to investigate the overall conformation of chromosomes. It relies on the capture of long-range trans and cis interactions of chromosomal segments whose relative proportions in the final bank reflect their frequencies of interactions, hence their spatial proximity in a population of cells. The recent coupling of 3C with deep sequencing approaches now allows the generation of high resolution genome-wide chromosomal contact maps. Different protocols have been used to generate such maps in various organisms. This includes mammals, drosophila and yeast. The massive amount of raw data generated by the genomic 3C has to be carefully processed to alleviate the various biases and byproducts generated by the experiments. Our study aims at proposing a simple normalization procedure to minimize the influence of these unwanted but inevitable events on the final results. Careful analysis of the raw data generated previously for budding yeast S. cerevisiae led to the identification of three main biases affecting the final datasets, including a previously unknown bias resulting from the circularization of DNA molecules. We then developed a simple normalization procedure to process the data and allow the generation of a normalized, highly contrasted, chromosomal contact map for S. cerevisiae. The same method was then extended to the first human genome contact map. Using the normalized data, we revisited the preferential interactions originally described between subsets of discrete chromosomal features. Notably, the detection of preferential interactions between tRNA in yeast and CTCF, PolII binding sites in human can vary with the normalization procedure used. We quantitatively reanalyzed the genomic 3C data obtained for S. cerevisiae, identified some of the biases inherent to the technique and proposed a simple normalization procedure to analyse them. Such an approach can be easily generalized for genomic 3C experiments in other organisms. More experiments and analysis will be necessary to reach optimal resolution and accuracies of the maps generated through these approaches. Working with cell population presenting highest levels of homogeneity will prove useful in this regards.

Analyse multi-échelle par ondelettes des contacts géologiques : application à la carte gravimétrique du Maroc nord-oriental

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khattach, Driss; Mraoui, Hamid; Sbibih, Driss; Chennouf, Touria

2006-06-01

The multiscale wavelet analysis has been applied to the gravity data from northeastern Morocco to map the major geological contacts, such us faults. Hence, the faults affecting the survey area were outlined with their importance level and dip direction. Seismic data confirm these results and testify the efficiency of this method, particularly in studying structure of plains. The structural map established is a very useful document in the planning of natural resources investigations (i.e. water, mines) to be undertaken in the area of study. To cite this article: D. Khattach et al., C. R. Geoscience 338 (2006).

Lithology and aggregate quality attributes for the digital geologic map of Colorado

USGS Publications Warehouse

Knepper, Daniel H.; Green, Gregory N.; Langer, William H.

1999-01-01

This geologic map was prepared as a part of a study of digital methods and techniques as applied to complex geologic maps. The geologic map was digitized from the original scribe sheets used to prepare the published Geologic Map of Colorado (Tweto 1979). Consequently the digital version is at 1:500,000 scale using the Lambert Conformal Conic map projection parameters of the state base map. Stable base contact prints of the scribe sheets were scanned on a Tektronix 4991 digital scanner. The scanner automatically converts the scanned image to an ASCII vector format. These vectors were transferred to a VAX minicomputer, where they were then loaded into ARC/INFO. Each vector and polygon was given attributes derived from the original 1979 geologic map.

Geologic Map and GIS Data for the Tuscarora Geothermal Area

DOE Data Explorer

Faulds, James E.

2013-12-31

Tuscarora—ESRI Geodatabase (ArcGeology v1.3): - Contains all the geologic map data, including faults, contacts, folds, unit polygons, and attitudes of strata and faults. - List of stratigraphic units and stratigraphic correlation diagram. - Detailed unit descriptions of stratigraphic units. - Five cross‐sections. - Locations of production, injection, and monitor wells. - 3D model constructed with EarthVision using geologic map data, cross‐sections, drill‐hole data, and geophysics (model not in the ESRI geodatabase).

AWPA biodeterioration hazard map revisited

Treesearch

Grant T. Kirker; Amy B. Bishell; William J. Hickey

2017-01-01

The fungal decay hazard map used by the American Wood Protection Association (AWPA) currently describes regional decay hazards in ground contact for North America and is based on condition assessments of utility poles from the 1970’s. Current work at the USDA Forest Service, Forest Products Laboratory is underway to analyze soil and wood samples from several National...

Observational Word Learning in Two Bonobos ("Pan Panicus"): Ostensive and Non-Ostensive Contexts.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lyn, Heidi; Savage-Rumbaugh, E. Sue

2000-01-01

Using a modified human paradigm, this article explores two language-competent bonobos' abilities to map new words to objects in realistic surroundings with few exposures to the referents. Also investigates the necessity of the apes maintaining visual contact with the item to map the novel name onto the novel object. (Author/VWL)

About | DOE Data Explorer

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skip to main content DDE Toggle Navigation Home About DDE FAQs DOE Data ID Service Data ID Service Data ID Service Workshops Contact Us dataexplorer Search For Terms: + Advanced Search × Advanced /Simulations Figures/Plots Genome/Genetics Data Interactive Data Map(s) Multimedia Numeric Data Specialized Mix

Automated method to differentiate between native and mirror protein models obtained from contact maps.

PubMed

Kurczynska, Monika; Kotulska, Malgorzata

2018-01-01

Mirror protein structures are often considered as artifacts in modeling protein structures. However, they may soon become a new branch of biochemistry. Moreover, methods of protein structure reconstruction, based on their residue-residue contact maps, need methodology to differentiate between models of native and mirror orientation, especially regarding the reconstructed backbones. We analyzed 130 500 structural protein models obtained from contact maps of 1 305 SCOP domains belonging to all 7 structural classes. On average, the same numbers of native and mirror models were obtained among 100 models generated for each domain. Since their structural features are often not sufficient for differentiating between the two types of model orientations, we proposed to apply various energy terms (ETs) from PyRosetta to separate native and mirror models. To automate the procedure for differentiating these models, the k-means clustering algorithm was applied. Using total energy did not allow to obtain appropriate clusters-the accuracy of the clustering for class A (all helices) was no more than 0.52. Therefore, we tested a series of different k-means clusterings based on various combinations of ETs. Finally, applying two most differentiating ETs for each class allowed to obtain satisfying results. To unify the method for differentiating between native and mirror models, independent of their structural class, the two best ETs for each class were considered. Finally, the k-means clustering algorithm used three common ETs: probability of amino acid assuming certain values of dihedral angles Φ and Ψ, Ramachandran preferences and Coulomb interactions. The accuracies of clustering with these ETs were in the range between 0.68 and 0.76, with sensitivity and selectivity in the range between 0.68 and 0.87, depending on the structural class. The method can be applied to all fully-automated tools for protein structure reconstruction based on contact maps, especially those analyzing big sets of models.

Mapping the fine structure of cortical activity with different micro-ECoG electrode array geometries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Xi; Gkogkidis, C. Alexis; Iljina, Olga; Fiederer, Lukas D. J.; Henle, Christian; Mader, Irina; Kaminsky, Jan; Stieglitz, Thomas; Gierthmuehlen, Mortimer; Ball, Tonio

2017-10-01

Objective. Innovations in micro-electrocorticography (µECoG) electrode array manufacturing now allow for intricate designs with smaller contact diameters and/or pitch (i.e. inter-contact distance) down to the sub-mm range. The aims of the present study were: (i) to investigate whether frequency ranges up to 400 Hz can be reproducibly observed in µECoG recordings and (ii) to examine how differences in topographical substructure between these frequency bands and electrode array geometries can be quantified. We also investigated, for the first time, the influence of blood vessels on signal properties and assessed the influence of cortical vasculature on topographic mapping. Approach. The present study employed two µECoG electrode arrays with different contact diameters and inter-contact distances, which were used to characterize neural activity from the somatosensory cortex of minipigs in a broad frequency range up to 400 Hz. The analysed neural data were recorded in acute experiments under anaesthesia during peripheral electrical stimulation. Main results. We observed that µECoG recordings reliably revealed multi-focal cortical somatosensory response patterns, in which response peaks were often less than 1 cm apart and would thus not have been resolvable with conventional ECoG. The response patterns differed by stimulation site and intensity, they were distinct for different frequency bands, and the results of functional mapping proved independent of cortical vascular. Our analysis of different frequency bands exhibited differences in the number of activation peaks in topographical substructures. Notably, signal strength and signal-to-noise ratios differed between the two electrode arrays, possibly due to their different sensitivity for variations in spatial patterns and signal strengths. Significance. Our findings that the geometry of µECoG electrode arrays can strongly influence their recording performance can help to make informed decisions that maybe important in number of clinical contexts, including high-resolution brain mapping, advanced epilepsy diagnostics or brain-machine interfacing.

Automated method to differentiate between native and mirror protein models obtained from contact maps

PubMed Central

Kurczynska, Monika

2018-01-01

Mirror protein structures are often considered as artifacts in modeling protein structures. However, they may soon become a new branch of biochemistry. Moreover, methods of protein structure reconstruction, based on their residue-residue contact maps, need methodology to differentiate between models of native and mirror orientation, especially regarding the reconstructed backbones. We analyzed 130 500 structural protein models obtained from contact maps of 1 305 SCOP domains belonging to all 7 structural classes. On average, the same numbers of native and mirror models were obtained among 100 models generated for each domain. Since their structural features are often not sufficient for differentiating between the two types of model orientations, we proposed to apply various energy terms (ETs) from PyRosetta to separate native and mirror models. To automate the procedure for differentiating these models, the k-means clustering algorithm was applied. Using total energy did not allow to obtain appropriate clusters–the accuracy of the clustering for class A (all helices) was no more than 0.52. Therefore, we tested a series of different k-means clusterings based on various combinations of ETs. Finally, applying two most differentiating ETs for each class allowed to obtain satisfying results. To unify the method for differentiating between native and mirror models, independent of their structural class, the two best ETs for each class were considered. Finally, the k-means clustering algorithm used three common ETs: probability of amino acid assuming certain values of dihedral angles Φ and Ψ, Ramachandran preferences and Coulomb interactions. The accuracies of clustering with these ETs were in the range between 0.68 and 0.76, with sensitivity and selectivity in the range between 0.68 and 0.87, depending on the structural class. The method can be applied to all fully-automated tools for protein structure reconstruction based on contact maps, especially those analyzing big sets of models. PMID:29787567

Left Atrial Anatomy Relevant to Catheter Ablation

PubMed Central

Sánchez-Quintana, Damián; Cabrera, José Angel; Saremi, Farhood

2014-01-01

The rapid development of interventional procedures for the treatment of arrhythmias in humans, especially the use of catheter ablation techniques, has renewed interest in cardiac anatomy. Although the substrates of atrial fibrillation (AF), its initiation and maintenance, remain to be fully elucidated, catheter ablation in the left atrium (LA) has become a common therapeutic option for patients with this arrhythmia. Using ablation catheters, various isolation lines and focal targets are created, the majority of which are based on gross anatomical, electroanatomical, and myoarchitectual patterns of the left atrial wall. Our aim was therefore to review the gross morphological and architectural features of the LA and their relations to extracardiac structures. The latter have also become relevant because extracardiac complications of AF ablation can occur, due to injuries to the phrenic and vagal plexus nerves, adjacent coronary arteries, or the esophageal wall causing devastating consequences. PMID:25057427

Obesity and Atrial Fibrillation Prevalence, Pathogenesis, and Prognosis: Effects of Weight Loss and Exercise.

PubMed

Lavie, Carl J; Pandey, Ambarish; Lau, Dennis H; Alpert, Martin A; Sanders, Prashanthan

2017-10-17

Both obesity and atrial fibrillation (AF) are increasing in epidemic proportions, and both increase the prevalence of cardiovascular disease events. Obesity has adverse effects on cardiovascular hemodynamics and cardiac structure and function, and increases the prevalence of AF, partly related to electroanatomic remodeling in obese patients. However, numerous studies, including in AF, have demonstrated an obesity paradox, where overweight and obese patients with these disorders have a better prognosis than do leaner patients with the same degree of severity of cardiovascular disease/AF. In this paper, the authors discuss special issues regarding AF in obesity, as well as the evidence that despite the presence of an obesity paradox, there are benefits of weight loss, physical activity/exercise training, and increases in cardiorespiratory fitness on the prognosis of obese patients with AF. Copyright © 2017 American College of Cardiology Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Large-scale, high-density (up to 512 channels) recording of local circuits in behaving animals

PubMed Central

Berényi, Antal; Somogyvári, Zoltán; Nagy, Anett J.; Roux, Lisa; Long, John D.; Fujisawa, Shigeyoshi; Stark, Eran; Leonardo, Anthony; Harris, Timothy D.

2013-01-01

Monitoring representative fractions of neurons from multiple brain circuits in behaving animals is necessary for understanding neuronal computation. Here, we describe a system that allows high-channel-count recordings from a small volume of neuronal tissue using a lightweight signal multiplexing headstage that permits free behavior of small rodents. The system integrates multishank, high-density recording silicon probes, ultraflexible interconnects, and a miniaturized microdrive. These improvements allowed for simultaneous recordings of local field potentials and unit activity from hundreds of sites without confining free movements of the animal. The advantages of large-scale recordings are illustrated by determining the electroanatomic boundaries of layers and regions in the hippocampus and neocortex and constructing a circuit diagram of functional connections among neurons in real anatomic space. These methods will allow the investigation of circuit operations and behavior-dependent interregional interactions for testing hypotheses of neural networks and brain function. PMID:24353300

Geologic Map of the Neal Hot Springs Geothermal Area - GIS Data

DOE Data Explorer

Faulds, James E.

2013-03-31

Neal Hot Springs—ESRI Geodatabase (ArcGeology v1.3): - Contains all the geologic map data, including faults, contacts, folds, unit polygons, and attitudes of strata and faults. - List of stratigraphic units and stratigraphic correlation diagram. - Three cross‐sections. - Locations of production, injection, and exploration wells. - Locations of 40Ar/39Ar samples. - Location of XRF geochemical samples. - 3D model constructed with EarthVision using geologic map data, cross‐sections, drill‐hole data, and geophysics (model not in the ESRI geodatabase).

Rapid heat-flowing surveying of geothermal areas, utilizing individual snowfalls as calorimeters

USGS Publications Warehouse

White, Donald E.

1969-01-01

Local differences in rate of heat transfer in vapor and by conduction through the ground in hot spring areas are difficult and time-consuming to measure quantitatively. Individual heavy snowfalls provide a rapid low-cost means of measuring total heat flow from such ground. After a favorable snowfall (heavy, brief duration, little wind, air temperature near 0°C), contacts between snow-covered and snow-free ground are mapped on a suitable base. Each mapped contact, as time elapses after a specific snowfall, is a heat-flow contour representing a decreasing rate of flow. Calibration of each mapped contact or snow line is made possible by the fact that snow remains on insulated surfaces (such as the boardwalks of Yellowstone's thermal areas) long after it has melted on adjacent warm ground. Heat-flow contours mapped to date range from 450 to 5500 μcal/cm2 sec, or 300 to 3700 times the world average of conductive heat flow. The very high rates of heat flow (2000 to > 10,000 μcal/cm2 sec) are probably too high, and the lower heat flows determinable by the method (2 sec) may be too low. Values indicated by the method are, however, probably within a factor of 2 of the total conductive and convective heat flow. Thermal anomalies from infrared imagery are similar in shape to heat-flow contours of a test area near Old Faithful geyser. Snowfall calorimetry provides a rapid means for evaluating the imagery and computer-derived products of the infrared data in terms of heat flow.

EFM data mapped into 2D images of tip-sample contact potential difference and capacitance second derivative.

PubMed

Lilliu, S; Maragliano, C; Hampton, M; Elliott, M; Stefancich, M; Chiesa, M; Dahlem, M S; Macdonald, J E

2013-11-27

We report a simple technique for mapping Electrostatic Force Microscopy (EFM) bias sweep data into 2D images. The method allows simultaneous probing, in the same scanning area, of the contact potential difference and the second derivative of the capacitance between tip and sample, along with the height information. The only required equipment consists of a microscope with lift-mode EFM capable of phase shift detection. We designate this approach as Scanning Probe Potential Electrostatic Force Microscopy (SPP-EFM). An open-source MATLAB Graphical User Interface (GUI) for images acquisition, processing and analysis has been developed. The technique is tested with Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) and with poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT) nanowires for organic transistor applications.

Geologic map of Detrital, Hualapai, and Sacramento Valleys and surrounding areas, northwest Arizona

USGS Publications Warehouse

Beard, L. Sue; Kennedy, Jeffrey; Truini, Margot; Felger, Tracey

2011-01-01

A 1:250,000-scale geologic map and report covering the Detrital, Hualapai, and Sacramento valleys in northwest Arizona is presented for the purpose of improving understanding of the geology and geohydrology of the basins beneath those valleys. The map was compiled from existing geologic mapping, augmented by digital photogeologic reconnaissance mapping. The most recent geologic map for the area, and the only digital one, is the 1:1,000,000-scale Geologic Map of Arizona. The larger scale map presented here includes significantly more detailed geology than the Geologic Map of Arizona in terms of accuracy of geologic unit contacts, number of faults, fault type, fault location, and details of Neogene and Quaternary deposits. Many sources were used to compile the geology; the accompanying geodatabase includes a source field in the polygon feature class that lists source references for polygon features. The citations for the source field are included in the reference section.

A reflectance model for non-contact mapping of venous oxygen saturation using a CCD camera

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Jun; Dunmire, Barbrina; Beach, Kirk W.; Leotta, Daniel F.

2013-11-01

A method of non-contact mapping of venous oxygen saturation (SvO2) is presented. A CCD camera is used to image skin tissue illuminated alternately by a red (660 nm) and an infrared (800 nm) LED light source. Low cuff pressures of 30-40 mmHg are applied to induce a venous blood volume change with negligible change in the arterial blood volume. A hybrid model combining the Beer-Lambert law and the light diffusion model is developed and used to convert the change in the light intensity to the change in skin tissue absorption coefficient. A simulation study incorporating the full light diffusion model is used to verify the hybrid model and to correct a calculation bias. SvO2 in the fingers, palm, and forearm for five volunteers are presented and compared with results in the published literature. Two-dimensional maps of venous oxygen saturation are given for the three anatomical regions.

Evaluation of the extent and distribution of diffuse axonal injury from real world motor vehicle crashes - biomed 2013.

PubMed

Lillie, Elizabeth M; Urban, Jillian E; Lynch, Sarah K; Whitlow, Christopher T; Stitzel, Joel D

2013-01-01

Diffuse axonal injury (DAI) is a common traumatic brain injury (TBI) often seen as a result of motor vehicle crashes (MVC). Twelve (12) cases of DAI were selected from the Crash Injury Research and Engineering Network (CIREN) to determine the extent and distribution of injury with respect to the head contact location. Head computed tomography (CT) scans were collected for each subject and segmented using semi-automated methods to establish the volumes of DAI. The impacted area on the subject's head was approximated from evidence of a soft tissue scalp contusion on the CT scan. This was used in conjunction with subject images and identified internal vehicle contact locations to ascertain a label map of the contact location. A point cloud was developed from the contact location label map and the centroid of the point cloud was calculated as the subject's head impact location. The injury and contact location were evaluated in spherical coordinates and grouped into 0.2 by 0.2 radial increments of azimuth and elevation. The radial increments containing DAI were projected onto a meshed sphere to evaluate the radial distance from the impact location to primary location of DAI and approximate anatomical location. Of the 170 injuries observed, 123 were identified in the frontal lobe and 36 in the parietal lobe. The distribution of the DAI in relation to the change in azimuth from the contact loca y correlated with contact to the head superficial to this lobe. Results from this study provide further insight into the biomechanics of traumatic brain injury and can be used in future work as an aid to validate finite element models of the head.

Preliminary bedrock geologic map of part of the northern disturbed belt, Lewis and Clark, Teton, Pondera, Glacier, Flathead, and Powell Counties, Montana

USGS Publications Warehouse

Mudge, Melville R.; Earhart, Robert L.; Rice, Dudley D.; Heisey, E.L.

1977-01-01

The geologic map covers the Sawtooth and Lewis and Clark Ranges and part of the Flathead Range. It includes most of the disturbed belt in northwestern Moutana except the area east of the northern Rocky Mountains and the norhtern and southern parts of the belt. Most data are from an unpublished map of the Bob Marshall Wilderness and of the many proposed additions to the Wilderness. Strike and dip symbols are omitted from the map, and all contacts are shown in solid lines, alhough locally they are inferred beneath a Quaternary cover. Future studies will complete mapping of the northern disturbed belt in Montana.

County Maps of the English Learner (EL) Population. Fast Facts

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Office of English Language Acquisition, US Department of Education, 2015

2015-01-01

The Office of English Language Acquisition (OELA) has synthesized key data on English learners (ELs) into two-page PDF sheets, by topic, with graphics, plus key contacts. The maps presented depict the EL population by county--changes in their numbers from SY 2000-01 to SY 2011-12, and the total number and percentage of all students identified as…

Geohydrology of the valley-fill aquifer in the Bath area, Lower Cohocton River, Steuben County, New York

USGS Publications Warehouse

Pagano, Timothy S.; Terry, D.B.; Shaw, M.L.; Ingram, A.W.

1984-01-01

The Bath valley-fill aquifer, southern New York, composed of outwash, ice-contact, and ice-disintegration sand and gravel, is highly productive and is in many areas in hydraulic contact with the Cohocton River. Potential well yields range 50 to more than 1,000 gallons per minute. Most of the aquifer is under shallow water-table conditions and vulnerable to surface contamination. Thickness ranges from 20 to 40 feet. Buried aquifers are present locally. The aquifer system underlies an area containing only a few small communities and therefore is not heavily pumped. Geohydrologic data are compiled on six maps at 1:24,000 scale and on a sheet of geologic sections. The maps depict surficial geology, soil-infiltration capacity, potentiometric surface, aquifer thickness, well yields, and land use. This map report set is one in a series of four that depict selected aquifers in Wester New York. It supplements a series that is being done by the U.S. Geological Survey in cooperation with State agencies. The maps are based largely on published reports, data filled in several State agencies, and some additional field data collection. (USGS)

The historical development of the magnetic method in exploration

USGS Publications Warehouse

Nabighian, M.N.; Grauch, V.J.S.; Hansen, R.O.; LaFehr, T.R.; Li, Y.; Peirce, J.W.; Phillips, J.D.; Ruder, M.E.

2005-01-01

The magnetic method, perhaps the oldest of geophysical exploration techniques, blossomed after the advent of airborne surveys in World War II. With improvements in instrumentation, navigation, and platform compensation, it is now possible to map the entire crustal section at a variety of scales, from strongly magnetic basement at regional scale to weakly magnetic sedimentary contacts at local scale. Methods of data filtering, display, and interpretation have also advanced, especially with the availability of low-cost, high-performance personal computers and color raster graphics. The magnetic method is the primary exploration tool in the search for minerals. In other arenas, the magnetic method has evolved from its sole use for mapping basement structure to include a wide range of new applications, such as locating intrasedimentary faults, defining subtle lithologic contacts, mapping salt domes in weakly magnetic sediments, and better defining targets through 3D inversion. These new applications have increased the method's utility in all realms of exploration - in the search for minerals, oil and gas, geothermal resources, and groundwater, and for a variety of other purposes such as natural hazards assessment, mapping impact structures, and engineering and environmental studies. ?? 2005 Society of Exploration Geophysicists. All rights reserved.

Electrical property heterogeneity at transparent conductive oxide/organic semiconductor interfaces: mapping contact ohmicity using conducting-tip atomic force microscopy.

PubMed

MacDonald, Gordon A; Veneman, P Alexander; Placencia, Diogenes; Armstrong, Neal R

2012-11-27

We demonstrate mapping of electrical properties of heterojunctions of a molecular semiconductor (copper phthalocyanine, CuPc) and a transparent conducting oxide (indium-tin oxide, ITO), on 20-500 nm length scales, using a conductive-probe atomic force microscopy technique, scanning current spectroscopy (SCS). SCS maps are generated for CuPc/ITO heterojunctions as a function of ITO activation procedures and modification with variable chain length alkyl-phosphonic acids (PAs). We correlate differences in small length scale electrical properties with the performance of organic photovoltaic cells (OPVs) based on CuPc/C(60) heterojunctions, built on these same ITO substrates. SCS maps the "ohmicity" of ITO/CuPc heterojunctions, creating arrays of spatially resolved current-voltage (J-V) curves. Each J-V curve is fit with modified Mott-Gurney expressions, mapping a fitted exponent (γ), where deviations from γ = 2.0 suggest nonohmic behavior. ITO/CuPc/C(60)/BCP/Al OPVs built on nonactivated ITO show mainly nonohmic SCS maps and dark J-V curves with increased series resistance (R(S)), lowered fill-factors (FF), and diminished device performance, especially near the open-circuit voltage. Nearly optimal behavior is seen for OPVs built on oxygen-plasma-treated ITO contacts, which showed SCS maps comparable to heterojunctions of CuPc on clean Au. For ITO electrodes modified with PAs there is a strong correlation between PA chain length and the degree of ohmicity and uniformity of electrical response in ITO/CuPc heterojunctions. ITO electrodes modified with 6-8 carbon alkyl-PAs show uniform and nearly ohmic SCS maps, coupled with acceptable CuPc/C(60)OPV performance. ITO modified with C14 and C18 alkyl-PAs shows dramatic decreases in FF, increases in R(S), and greatly enhanced recombination losses.

Panoramic Electrophysiological Mapping but not Electrogram Morphology Identifies Stable Sources for Human Atrial Fibrillation

PubMed Central

Narayan, Sanjiv M.; Shivkumar, Kalyanam; Krummen, David E.; Miller, John M.; Rappel, Wouter-Jan

2013-01-01

Background The foundation for successful arrhythmia ablation is the mapping of electric propagation to identify underlying mechanisms. In atrial fibrillation (AF), however, mapping is difficult so that ablation has often targeted electrogram features, with mixed results. We hypothesized that wide field-of-view (panoramic) mapping of both atria would identify causal mechanisms for AF and allow interpretation of local electrogram features, including complex fractionated atrial electrograms (CFAE). Methods and Results Contact mapping was performed using biatrial multipolar catheters in 36 AF subjects (29 persistent). Stable AF rotors (spiral waves) or focal sources were seen in 35 of 36 cases and targeted for ablation (focal impulse and rotor modulation) before pulmonary vein isolation. In 31 of 36 subjects (86.1%), AF acutely terminated (n=20; 16 to sinus rhythm) or organized (n=11; 19±8% slowing) with 2.5 minutes focal impulse and rotor modulation (interquartile range, 1.0–3.1) at one source, defined as the primary source. Subjects exhibited 2.1±1.0 concurrent AF sources of which the primary, by phase mapping, precessed in limited areas (persistent 2.5±1.7 versus paroxysmal 1.7±0.5 cm2; P=0.30). Notably, source regions showed mixed electrogram amplitudes and CFAE grades that did not differ from surrounding atrium (P=NS). AF sources were not consistently surrounded by CFAE (P=0.67). Conclusions Stable rotors and focal sources for human AF were revealed by contact panoramic mapping (focal impulse and rotor modulation mapping), but not by electrogram footprints. AF sources precessed within areas of ≈2 cm2, with diverse voltage characteristics poorly correlated with CFAE. Most CFAE sites lie remote from AF sources and are not suitable targets for catheter ablation of AF. PMID:23392583

Equilibrium contact angle or the most-stable contact angle?

PubMed

Montes Ruiz-Cabello, F J; Rodríguez-Valverde, M A; Cabrerizo-Vílchez, M A

2014-04-01

It is well-established that the equilibrium contact angle in a thermodynamic framework is an "unattainable" contact angle. Instead, the most-stable contact angle obtained from mechanical stimuli of the system is indeed experimentally accessible. Monitoring the susceptibility of a sessile drop to a mechanical stimulus enables to identify the most stable drop configuration within the practical range of contact angle hysteresis. Two different stimuli may be used with sessile drops: mechanical vibration and tilting. The most stable drop against vibration should reveal the changeless contact angle but against the gravity force, it should reveal the highest resistance to slide down. After the corresponding mechanical stimulus, once the excited drop configuration is examined, the focus will be on the contact angle of the initial drop configuration. This methodology needs to map significantly the static drop configurations with different stable contact angles. The most-stable contact angle, together with the advancing and receding contact angles, completes the description of physically realizable configurations of a solid-liquid system. Since the most-stable contact angle is energetically significant, it may be used in the Wenzel, Cassie or Cassie-Baxter equations accordingly or for the surface energy evaluation. © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

American Contact Dermatitis Society Contact Allergy Management Program: An Epidemiologic Tool to Determine Relative Prevalence of Contact Allergens.

PubMed

Scheman, Andrew; Severson, David

2016-01-01

Data on the prevalence of contact allergy in North America are currently reported by groups of academic contact allergy specialists at select academic centers. Sampling of data from numerous centers across North America, including practices performing more limited patch testing, would provide a broader perspective of contact allergen prevalence in North America. The American Contact Dermatitis Society Contact Allergy Management Program is an ideal tool for collection of epidemiologic data regarding contact allergy prevalence in North America. The aim of the study was to identify the relative prevalence of contact allergy to common contact allergens in North America. Mapping of Contact Allergy Management Program (CAMP) data was performed to allow analysis of how frequently searches were performed for various contact allergens. The number of searches performed for specific allergens provides a measure of the relative prevalence of contact allergy to these allergens. The top 35 allergens for the period from November 18, 2012 to November 18, 2013 are reported. Although these data are useful, specific recommendations for minor alterations to CAMP are discussed, which will allow future CAMP data to be stratified and more powerful. With minor modifications, CAMP can provide a quantum leap in the reporting of contact allergy epidemiologic data in North America.

ASTER spectral analysis and lithologic mapping of the Khanneshin carbonatite volcano, Afghanistan

USGS Publications Warehouse

Mars, John C.; Rowan, Lawrence C.

2011-01-01

Advanced Spaceborne Thermal and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER) data of the early Quaternary Khanneshin carbonatite volcano located in southern Afghanistan were used to identify carbonate rocks within the volcano and to distinguish them from Neogene ferruginous polymict sandstone and argillite. The carbonatitic rocks are characterized by diagnostic CO3 absorption near 11.2 μm and 2.31–2.33 μm, whereas the sandstone, argillite, and adjacent alluvial deposits exhibit intense Si-O absorption near 8.7 μm caused mainly by quartz and Al-OH absorption near 2.20 μm due to muscovite and illite.Calcitic carbonatite was distinguished from ankeritic carbonatite in the short wave infrared (SWIR) region of the ASTER data due to a slight shift of the CO3 absorption feature toward 2.26 μm (ASTER band 7) in the ankeritic carbonatite spectra. Spectral assessment using ASTER SWIR data suggests that the area is covered by extensive carbonatite flows that contain calcite, ankerite, and muscovite, though some areas mapped as ankeritic carbonatite on a preexisting geologic map were not identified in the ASTER data. A contact aureole shown on the geologic map was defined using an ASTER false color composite image (R = 6, G = 3, B = 1) and a logical operator byte image. The contact aureole rocks exhibit Fe2+, Al-OH, and Fe, Mg-OH spectral absorption features at 1.65, 2.2, and 2.33 μm, respectively, which suggest that the contact aureole rocks contain muscovite, epidote, and chlorite. The contact aureole rocks were mapped using an Interactive Data Language (IDL) logical operator.A visible through short wave infrared (VNIR-SWIR) mineral and rock-type map based on matched filter, band ratio, and logical operator analysis illustrates: (1) laterally extensive calcitic carbonatite that covers most of the crater and areas northeast of the crater; (2) ankeritic carbonatite located southeast and north of the crater and some small deposits located within the crater; (3) agglomerate that primarily covers the inside rim of the crater and a small area west of the crater; (4) a crater rim that consists mostly of epidote-chlorite-muscovite–rich metamorphosed argillite and sandstone; and (5) iron (Fe3+) and muscovite-illite–rich rocks and iron-rich eolian sands surrounding the western part of the volcano. The thermal infrared (TIR) rock-type map illustrates laterally extensive carbonatitic and mafic rocks surrounded by quartz-rich eolian and fluvial reworked sediments. In addition, the combination of VNIR, SWIR, and TIR data complement one another in that the TIR data illustrate more laterally extensive rock types and the VNIR-SWIR data distinguish more specific varieties of rocks and mineral mixtures.

Reconnaissance geologic mapping in the Dry Valleys of Antarctica using the Earth Resources Technology Satellite

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Houston, R. S. (Principal Investigator); Zochol, F. W.; Smithson, S. B.

1973-01-01

The author has identified the following significant results. Reconnaissance geologic mapping can be done with 60-70% accuracy in the Dry Valleys of Antarctica using ERTS-1 imagery. Bedrock geology can be mapped much better than unconsolidated deposits of Quaternary age. Mapping of bedrock geology is facilitated by lack of vegetation, whereas mapping of Quaternary deposits is hindered by lack of vegetation. Antarctic images show remarkable clarity and under certain conditions (moderate relief, selection of the optimum band for specific rock types, stereo-viewing) irregular contacts can be mapped in local areas that are amazing like those mapped at a scale of 1:25,000, but, of course, lack details due to resolution limitations. ERTS-1 images should be a valuable aid to Antarctic geologists who have some limited ground truth and wish to extend boundaries of geologic mapping from known areas.

GLCF: Site Map

Science.gov Websites

Global Land Cover Facility About GLCF Research Publications Data & Products Gallery Library Research Collaborations Land Cover Indicators DISCO ACCESS GFCC Services Contact Us Data Ordering Land

CIDR

Science.gov Websites

Genotyping General Information Genome Wide Association Custom FFPE Sample Options Methylation Linkage Association page. Contact Us | Privacy Policy | Site Map | Get Adobe Reader Subscribe to CIDR News photo of a

Combining Physicochemical and Evolutionary Information for Protein Contact Prediction

PubMed Central

Schneider, Michael; Brock, Oliver

2014-01-01

We introduce a novel contact prediction method that achieves high prediction accuracy by combining evolutionary and physicochemical information about native contacts. We obtain evolutionary information from multiple-sequence alignments and physicochemical information from predicted ab initio protein structures. These structures represent low-energy states in an energy landscape and thus capture the physicochemical information encoded in the energy function. Such low-energy structures are likely to contain native contacts, even if their overall fold is not native. To differentiate native from non-native contacts in those structures, we develop a graph-based representation of the structural context of contacts. We then use this representation to train an support vector machine classifier to identify most likely native contacts in otherwise non-native structures. The resulting contact predictions are highly accurate. As a result of combining two sources of information—evolutionary and physicochemical—we maintain prediction accuracy even when only few sequence homologs are present. We show that the predicted contacts help to improve ab initio structure prediction. A web service is available at http://compbio.robotics.tu-berlin.de/epc-map/. PMID:25338092

Climate Prediction Center - Monitoring & Data: La Niña Seasonal Maps and

Science.gov Websites

Statistics Skip Navigation Links www.nws.noaa.gov NOAA logo - Click to go to the NOAA home page National Weather Service NWS logo - Click to go to the NWS home page Climate Prediction Center Home Site Map News Organization Search Go Search the CPC Go About Us Our Mission Who We Are Contact Us

Geologic map of metallic and nonmetallic mineral deposits, Badakhshan Province, Afghanistan, modified from the 1967 original map compilation of G.G. Semenov and others

USGS Publications Warehouse

Peters, Stephen G.; Stettner, Will R.; Mathieux, Donald P.; Masonic, Linda M.; Moran, Thomas W.

2014-01-01

Badakhshan Province consists of volcanic, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks of various ages from late Proterozoic to Cenozoic. The rocks are intensively dislocated and cut by intrusions of magmatic rocks. Primary gold occurrences are distinguished in shear zones with hydrothermal alterations or in contact-metasomatic rocks near magmatic intrusions.

Absence of Rapid Propagation through the Purkinje Network as a Potential Cause of Line Block in the Human Heart with Left Bundle Branch Block.

PubMed

Okada, Jun-Ichi; Washio, Takumi; Nakagawa, Machiko; Watanabe, Masahiro; Kadooka, Yoshimasa; Kariya, Taro; Yamashita, Hiroshi; Yamada, Yoko; Momomura, Shin-Ichi; Nagai, Ryozo; Hisada, Toshiaki; Sugiura, Seiryo

2018-01-01

Background: Cardiac resynchronization therapy is an effective device therapy for heart failure patients with conduction block. However, a problem with this invasive technique is the nearly 30% of non-responders. A number of studies have reported a functional line of block of cardiac excitation propagation in responders. However, this can only be detected using non-contact endocardial mapping. Further, although the line of block is considered a sign of responders to therapy, the mechanism remains unclear. Methods: Herein, we created two patient-specific heart models with conduction block and simulated the propagation of excitation based on a cellmodel of electrophysiology. In one model with a relatively narrow QRS width (176 ms), we modeled the Purkinje network using a thin endocardial layer with rapid conduction. To reproduce a wider QRS complex (200 ms) in the second model, we eliminated the Purkinje network, and we simulated the endocardial mapping by solving the inverse problem according to the actual mapping system. Results: We successfully observed the line of block using non-contact mapping in the model without the rapid propagation of excitation through the Purkinje network, although the excitation in the wall propagated smoothly. This model of slow conduction also reproduced the characteristic properties of the line of block, including dense isochronal lines and fractionated local electrocardiograms. Further, simulation of ventricular pacing from the lateral wall shifted the location of the line of block. By contrast, in the model with the Purkinje network, propagation of excitation in the endocardial map faithfully followed the actual propagation in the wall, without showing the line of block. Finally, switching the mode of propagation between the two models completely reversed these findings. Conclusions: Our simulation data suggest that the absence of rapid propagation of excitation through the Purkinje network is the major cause of the functional line of block recorded by non-contact endocardial mapping. The line of block can be used to identify responders as these patients loose rapid propagation through the Purkinje network.

Geologic Map and Cross Sections of the McGinness Hills Geothermal Area - GIS Data

DOE Data Explorer

Faulds, James E.

2013-12-31

Geologic map data in shapefile format that includes faults, unit contacts, unit polygons, attitudes of strata and faults, and surficial geothermal features. 5 cross‐sections in Adobe Illustrator format. Comprehensive catalogue of drill‐hole data in spreadsheet, shapefile, and Geosoft database formats. Includes XYZ locations of well heads, year drilled, type of well, operator, total depths, well path data (deviations), lithology logs, and temperature data. 3D model constructed with EarthVision using geologic map data, cross‐sections, drill‐hole data, and geophysics.

Chromatic Image Analysis For Quantitative Thermal Mapping

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Buck, Gregory M.

1995-01-01

Chromatic image analysis system (CIAS) developed for use in noncontact measurements of temperatures on aerothermodynamic models in hypersonic wind tunnels. Based on concept of temperature coupled to shift in color spectrum for optical measurement. Video camera images fluorescence emitted by phosphor-coated model at two wavelengths. Temperature map of model then computed from relative brightnesses in video images of model at those wavelengths. Eliminates need for intrusive, time-consuming, contact temperature measurements by gauges, making it possible to map temperatures on complex surfaces in timely manner and at reduced cost.

Specialty Board on Fluency Disorders

MedlinePlus

... 54136 Site Map About Us Find a Specialist Consumers CE Home Contact © 2016 American Board of Fluency and Fluency Disorders. All rights reserved. Membership Software Powered by YourMembership :: Legal

Electro-thermal analysis of contact resistance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pandey, Nitin; Jain, Ishant; Reddy, Sudhakar; Gulhane, Nitin P.

2018-05-01

Electro-Mechanical characterization over copper samples are performed at the macroscopic level to understand the dependence of electrical contact resistance and temperature on surface roughness and contact pressure. For two different surface roughness levels of samples, six levels of load are selected and varied to capture the bulk temperature rise and electrical contact resistance. Accordingly, the copper samples are modelled and analysed using COMSOLTM as a simulation package and the results are validated by the experiments. The interface temperature during simulation is obtained using Mikic-Elastic correlation and by directly entering experimental contact resistance value. The load values are varied and then reversed in a similar fashion to capture the hysteresis losses. The governing equations & assumptions underlying these models and their significance are examined & possible justification for the observed variations are discussed. Equivalent Greenwood model is also predicted by mapping the results of the experiment.

Point contact tunneling spectroscopy apparatus for large scale mapping of surface superconducting properties

DOE PAGES

Groll, Nickolas; Pellin, Michael J.; Zasadzinksi, John F.; ...

2015-09-18

In this paper, we describe the design and testing of a point contact tunneling spectroscopy device that can measure material surface superconducting properties (i.e., the superconducting gap Δ and the critical temperature T C) and density of states over large surface areas with size up to mm 2. The tip lateral (X,Y) motion, mounted on a (X,Y,Z) piezo-stage, was calibrated on a patterned substrate consisting of Nb lines sputtered on a gold film using both normal (Al) and superconducting (PbSn) tips at 1.5 K. The tip vertical (Z) motion control enables some adjustment of the tip-sample junction resistance that canmore » be measured over 7 orders of magnitudes from a quasi-ohmic regime (few hundred Ω) to the tunnel regime (from tens of kΩ up to few GΩ). The low noise electronic and LabVIEW program interface are also presented. Finally, the point contact regime and the large-scale motion capabilities are of particular interest for mapping and testing the superconducting properties of macroscopic scale superconductor-based devices.« less

Cardiac Cycle Dependent Left Atrial Dynamics: Implications for Catheter Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation

PubMed Central

Patel, Amit R.; Fatemi, Omid; Norton, Patrick T.; West, J. Jason; Helms, Adam S.; Kramer, Christopher M.; Ferguson, John D.

2008-01-01

Background Left atrial volume (LAV) determines prognosis and response to therapy in atrial fibrillation. Integration of electro-anatomical maps with 3D-images rendered from CT and MRI is used to facilitate atrial fibrillation ablation. Objectives We measured LAV changes and regional motion during the cardiac cycle that might affect the accuracy of image integration and determined their relationship to standard LAV measurements. Methods MRI was performed in thirty patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. Left atrial time-volume curves were generated and used to divide the left atrial function (LAEF) into pumping (PEF) and conduit (CEF) fractions and to determine the maximum LAV (LAMAX) and the pre-atrial contraction volume (PACV). LAV was measured using an MRI angiogram and traditional geometric models from echocardiography (area-length and ellipsoid). The in-plane displacement of the pulmonary veins, anterior left atrium, mitral annulus, and left atrial appendage was measured. Results LAMAX was 107±36ml and occurred at 42±5% of the RR interval. PACV was 86 ±34ml and occurred at 81±4% of the RR interval. LAEF was 45±10% and PEF was 31±10%. LAV measurements made from the MRI angiogram, area-length and ellipsoid models underestimated LAMAX by 21±25ml, 16±26ml, and 35±22ml, respectively. The anterior LA, mitral annulus, and left atrial appendage were significantly displaced during the cardiac cycle (8.8±2.0mm, 13.2±3.8mm, and 10.2±3.4mm, respectively); the pulmonary veins were not. Conclusions LAV changes significantly during the cardiac cycle and substantial regional variation in left atrial motion exists. Standard measurements of left atrial volume significantly underestimate LAMAX when compared to the gold standard measure of 3D-volumetrics. PMID:18486563

Cardiac cycle-dependent left atrial dynamics: implications for catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation.

PubMed

Patel, Amit R; Fatemi, Omid; Norton, Patrick T; West, J Jason; Helms, Adam S; Kramer, Christopher M; Ferguson, John D

2008-06-01

Left atrial (LA) volume determines prognosis and response to therapy for atrial fibrillation. Integration of electroanatomic maps with three-dimensional images rendered from computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is used to facilitate atrial fibrillation ablation. The purpose of this study was to measure LA volume changes and regional motion during the cardiac cycle that might affect the accuracy of image integration and to determine their relationship to standard LA volume measurements. MRI was performed in 30 patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. LA time-volume curves were generated and used to divide LA ejection fraction into pumping ejection fraction and conduit ejection fraction and to determine maximum LA volume (LA(max)) and preatrial contraction volume. LA volume was measured using an MRI angiogram and traditional geometric models from echocardiography (area-length model and ellipsoid model). In-plane displacement of the pulmonary veins, anterior left atrium, mitral annulus, and LA appendage was measured. LA(max) was 107 +/- 36 mL and occurred at 42% +/- 5% of the R-R interval. Preatrial contraction volume was 86 +/- 34 mL and occurred at 81% +/- 4% of the R-R interval. LA ejection fraction was 45% +/- 10%, and pumping ejection fraction was 31% +/- 10%. LA volume measurements made from MRI angiogram, area-length model, and ellipsoid model underestimated LA(max) by 21 +/- 25 mL, 16 +/- 26 mL, and 35 +/- 22 mL, respectively. Anterior LA, mitral annulus, and LA appendage were significantly displaced during the cardiac cycle (8.8 +/- 2.0 mm, 13.2 +/- 3.8 mm, and 10.2 +/- 3.4 mm, respectively); the pulmonary veins were not displaced. LA volume changes significantly during the cardiac cycle, and substantial regional variation in LA motion exists. Standard measurements of LA volume significantly underestimate LA(max) compared to the gold standard measure of three-dimensional volumetrics.

Feasibility of zero or near zero fluoroscopy during catheter ablation procedures.

PubMed

Haegeli, Laurent M; Stutz, Linda; Mohsen, Mohammed; Wolber, Thomas; Brunckhorst, Corinna; On, Chol-Jun; Duru, Firat

2018-04-03

Awareness of risks associated with radiation exposure to patients and medical staff has significantly increased. It has been reported before that the use of advanced three-dimensional electro-anatomical mapping (EAM) system significantly reduces fluoroscopy time, however this study aimed for zero or near zero fluoroscopy ablation to assess its feasibility and safety in ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF) and other tachyarrhythmias in a "real world" experience of a single tertiary care center. This was a single-center study where ablation procedures were attempted without fluoroscopy in 34 consecutive patients with different tachyarrhythmias under the support of EAM system. When transseptal puncture (TSP) was needed, it was attempted under the guidance of intracardiac echocardiography (ICE). Among 34 patients consecutively enrolled in this study, 28 (82.4%) patients were referred for radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of AF, 3 (8.8%) patients for ablation of right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) ventricular extrasystole (VES), 1 (2.9%) patient for ablation of atrioventricular nodal reentry tachycardia (AVNRT), 2 (5.9%) patients for typical atrial flutter ablation. In 21 (62%) patients the entire procedure was carried out without the use of fluoroscopy. Among 28 AF patients, 15 (54%) patients underwent ablation without the use of fluoroscopy and among these 15 patients, 10 (67%) patients required TSP under ICE guidance while 5 (33%) patients the catheters were introduced to left atrium through a patent foramen ovale. In 13 AF patients, fluoroscopy was only required for double TSP. The total procedure time of AF ablation was 130 ± 50 min. All patients referred for atrial flutter, AVNRT, and VES of the RVOT ablation did not require any fluoroscopy. This study demonstrates the feasibility of zero or near zero fluoroscopy procedure including TSP with the support of EAM and ICE guidance in a "real world" experience of a single tertiary care center. When fluoroscopy was required, it was limited to TSP hence keeping the radiation dose very low. .

Robotic assistance and general anaesthesia improve catheter stability and increase signal attenuation during atrial fibrillation ablation.

PubMed

Malcolme-Lawes, Louisa C; Lim, Phang Boon; Koa-Wing, Michael; Whinnett, Zachary I; Jamil-Copley, Shahnaz; Hayat, Sajad; Francis, Darrel P; Kojodjojo, Pipin; Davies, D Wyn; Peters, Nicholas S; Kanagaratnam, Prapa

2013-01-01

Recurrent arrhythmias after ablation procedures are often caused by recovery of ablated tissue. Robotic catheter manipulation systems increase catheter tip stability which improves energy delivery and could produce more transmural lesions. We tested this assertion using bipolar voltage attenuation as a marker of lesion quality comparing robotic and manual circumferential pulmonary vein ablation for atrial fibrillation (AF). Twenty patients were randomly assigned to robotic or manual AF ablation at standard radiofrequency (RF) settings for our institution (30 W 60 s manual, 25 W 30 s robotic, R30). A separate group of 10 consecutive patients underwent robotic ablation at increased RF duration, 25 W for 60 s (R60). Lesions were marked on an electroanatomic map before and after ablation to measure distance moved and change in bipolar electrogram amplitude during RF. A total of 1108 lesions were studied (761 robotic, 347 manual). A correlation was identified between voltage attenuation and catheter movement during RF (Spearman's rho -0.929, P < 0.001). The ablation catheter was more stable during robotic RF; 2.9 ± 2.3 mm (R30) and 2.6 ± 2.2 mm (R60), both significantly less than the manual group (4.3 ± 3.0 mm, P < 0.001). Despite improved stability, there was no difference in signal attenuation between the manual and R30 group. However, there was increased signal attenuation in the R60 group (52.4 ± 19.4%) compared with manual (47.7 ± 25.4%, P = 0.01). When procedures under general anaesthesia (GA) and conscious sedation were analysed separately, the improvement in signal attenuation in the R60 group was only significant in the procedures under GA. Robotically assisted ablation has the capability to deliver greater bipolar voltage attenuation compared with manual ablation with appropriate selection of RF parameters. General anaesthesia confers additional benefits of catheter stability and greater signal attenuation. These findings may have a significant impact on outcomes from AF ablation procedures.

Angiotensin converting enzyme 2 activity and human atrial fibrillation: increased plasma angiotensin converting enzyme 2 activity is associated with atrial fibrillation and more advanced left atrial structural remodelling.

PubMed

Walters, Tomos E; Kalman, Jonathan M; Patel, Sheila K; Mearns, Megan; Velkoska, Elena; Burrell, Louise M

2017-08-01

Angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is an integral membrane protein whose main action is to degrade angiotensin II. Plasma ACE2 activity is increased in various cardiovascular diseases. We aimed to determine the relationship between plasma ACE2 activity and human atrial fibrillation (AF), and in particular its relationship to left atrial (LA) structural remodelling. One hundred and three participants from a tertiary arrhythmia centre, including 58 with paroxysmal AF (PAF), 20 with persistent AF (PersAF), and 25 controls, underwent clinical evaluation, echocardiographic analysis, and measurement of plasma ACE2 activity. A subgroup of 20 participants underwent invasive LA electroanatomic mapping. Plasma ACE2 activity levels were increased in AF [control 13.3 (9.5-22.3) pmol/min/mL; PAF 16.9 (9.7-27.3) pmol/min/mL; PersAF 22.8 (13.7-33.4) pmol/min/mL, P = 0.006]. Elevated plasma ACE2 was associated with older age, male gender, hypertension and vascular disease, elevated left ventricular (LV) mass, impaired LV diastolic function and advanced atrial disease (P < 0.05 for all). Independent predictors of elevated plasma ACE2 activity were AF (P = 0.04) and vascular disease (P < 0.01). There was a significant relationship between elevated ACE2 activity and low mean LA bipolar voltage (adjusted R2 = 0.22, P = 0.03), a high proportion of complex fractionated electrograms (R2 = 0.32, P = 0.009) and a long LA activation time (R2 = 0.20, P = 0.04). Plasma ACE2 activity is elevated in human AF. Both AF and vascular disease predict elevated plasma ACE2 activity, and elevated plasma ACE2 is significantly associated with more advanced LA structural remodelling. Published on behalf of the European Society of Cardiology. All rights reserved. © The Author 2016. For permissions please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Disparities -- Healthy People 2020

MedlinePlus

... health based on their racial or ethnic group; religion; socioeconomic status; gender; age; mental health; cognitive, sensory, ... Contact Us Site Map Accessibility Privacy Policy Disclaimers Freedom of Information Act Healthy People 2010 Archive Nondiscrimination ...

X-MATE: a flexible system for mapping short read data

PubMed Central

Pearson, John V.; Cloonan, Nicole; Grimmond, Sean M.

2011-01-01

Summary: Accurate and complete mapping of short-read sequencing to a reference genome greatly enhances the discovery of biological results and improves statistical predictions. We recently presented RNA-MATE, a pipeline for the recursive mapping of RNA-Seq datasets. With the rapid increase in genome re-sequencing projects, progression of available mapping software and the evolution of file formats, we now present X-MATE, an updated version of RNA-MATE, capable of mapping both RNA-Seq and DNA datasets and with improved performance, output file formats, configuration files, and flexibility in core mapping software. Availability: Executables, source code, junction libraries, test data and results and the user manual are available from http://grimmond.imb.uq.edu.au/X-MATE/. Contact: n.cloonan@uq.edu.au; s.grimmond@uq.edu.au Supplementary information: Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics Online. PMID:21216778

Scoping of flood hazard mapping needs for Kennebec County, Maine

USGS Publications Warehouse

Dudley, Robert W.; Schalk, Charles W.

2006-01-01

This report was prepared by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Maine Water Science Center as the deliverable for scoping of flood hazard mapping needs for Kennebec County, Maine, under Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Inter-Agency Agreement Number HSFE01-05-X-0018. This section of the report explains the objective of the task and the purpose of the report. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) developed a plan in 1997 to modernize the FEMA flood mapping program. FEMA flood maps delineate flood hazard areas in support of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). FEMA's plan outlined the steps necessary to update FEMA's flood maps for the nation to a seamless digital format and streamline FEMA's operations in raising public awareness of the importance of the maps and responding to requests to revise them. The modernization of flood maps involves conversion of existing information to digital format and integration of improved flood hazard data as needed. To determine flood mapping modernization needs, FEMA has established specific scoping activities to be done on a county-by-county basis for identifying and prioritizing requisite flood-mapping activities for map modernization. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), in cooperation with FEMA and the Maine State Planning Office Floodplain Management Program, began scoping work in 2005 for Kennebec County. Scoping activities included assembling existing data and map needs information for communities in Kennebec County (efforts were made to not duplicate those of pre-scoping completed in March 2005), documentation of data, contacts, community meetings, and prioritized mapping needs in a final scoping report (this document), and updating the Mapping Needs Update Support System (MNUSS) Database or its successor with information gathered during the scoping process. The average age of the FEMA floodplain maps in Kennebec County, Maine is 16 years. Most of these studies were in the late 1970's to the mid 1980s. However, in the ensuing 20-30 years, development has occurred in many of the watersheds, and the characteristics of the watersheds have changed with time. Therefore, many of the older studies may not depict current conditions nor accurately estimate risk in terms of flood heights. The following is the scope of work as defined in the FEMA/USGS Statement of Work: Task 1: Collect data from a variety of sources including community surveys, other Federal and State Agencies, National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) State Coordinators, Community Assistance Visits (CAVs) and FEMA archives. Lists of mapping needs will be obtained from the MNUSS database, community surveys, and CAVs, if available. FEMA archives will be inventoried for effective FIRM panels, FIS reports, and other flood-hazard data or existing study data. Best available base map information, topographic data, flood-hazard data, and hydrologic and hydraulic data will be identified. Data from the Maine Floodplain Management Program database also will be utilized. Task 2: Contact communities in Kennebec County to notify them that FEMA and the State have selected them for a map update, and that a project scope will be developed with their input. Topics to be reviewed with the communities include (1) Purpose of the Flood Map Project (for example, the update needs that have prompted the map update); (2) The community's mapping needs; (3) The community's available mapping, hydrologic, hydraulic, and flooding information; (4) target schedule for completing the project; and (5) The community's engineering, planning, and geographic information system (GIS) capabilities. On the basis of the collected information from Task 1 and community contacts/meetings in Task 2, the USGS will develop a Draft Project Scope for the identified mapping needs of the communities in Kennebec County. The following items will be addressed in the Draft Project Scope: review of available information, determine if and how e

Scoping of flood hazard mapping needs for Somerset County, Maine

USGS Publications Warehouse

Dudley, Robert W.; Schalk, Charles W.

2006-01-01

This report was prepared by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Maine Water Science Center as the deliverable for scoping of flood hazard mapping needs for Somerset County, Maine, under Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Inter-Agency Agreement Number HSFE01-05-X-0018. This section of the report explains the objective of the task and the purpose of the report. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) developed a plan in 1997 to modernize the FEMA flood mapping program. FEMA flood maps delineate flood hazard areas in support of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). FEMA's plan outlined the steps necessary to update FEMA's flood maps for the nation to a seamless digital format and streamline FEMA's operations in raising public awareness of the importance of the maps and responding to requests to revise them. The modernization of flood maps involves conversion of existing information to digital format and integration of improved flood hazard data as needed. To determine flood mapping modernization needs, FEMA has established specific scoping activities to be done on a county-by-county basis for identifying and prioritizing requisite flood-mapping activities for map modernization. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), in cooperation with FEMA and the Maine State Planning Office Floodplain Management Program, began scoping work in 2005 for Somerset County. Scoping activities included assembling existing data and map needs information for communities in Somerset County (efforts were made to not duplicate those of pre-scoping completed in March 2005), documentation of data, contacts, community meetings, and prioritized mapping needs in a final scoping report (this document), and updating the Mapping Needs Update Support System (MNUSS) Database or its successor with information gathered during the scoping process. The average age of the FEMA floodplain maps in Somerset County, Maine is 18.1 years. Most of these studies were in the late 1970's to the mid 1980s. However, in the ensuing 20-30 years, development has occurred in many of the watersheds, and the characteristics of the watersheds have changed with time. Therefore, many of the older studies may not depict current conditions nor accurately estimate risk in terms of flood heights. The following is the scope of work as defined in the FEMA/USGS Statement of Work: Task 1: Collect data from a variety of sources including community surveys, other Federal and State Agencies, National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) State Coordinators, Community Assistance Visits (CAVs) and FEMA archives. Lists of mapping needs will be obtained from the MNUSS database, community surveys, and CAVs, if available. FEMA archives will be inventoried for effective FIRM panels, FIS reports, and other flood-hazard data or existing study data. Best available base map information, topographic data, flood-hazard data, and hydrologic and hydraulic data will be identified. Data from the Maine Floodplain Management Program database also will be utilized. Task 2: Contact communities in Somerset County to notify them that FEMA and the State have selected them for a map update, and that a project scope will be developed with their input. Topics to be reviewed with the communities include (1) Purpose of the Flood Map Project (for example, the update needs that have prompted the map update); (2) The community's mapping needs; (3) The community's available mapping, hydrologic, hydraulic, and flooding information; (4) target schedule for completing the project; and (5) The community's engineering, planning, and geographic information system (GIS) capabilities. On the basis of the collected information from Task 1 and community contacts/meetings in Task 2, the USGS will develop a Draft Project Scope for the identified mapping needs of the communities in Somerset County. The following items will be addressed in the Draft Project Scope: review of available information, determine if and ho

Scoping of flood hazard mapping needs for Cumberland County, Maine

USGS Publications Warehouse

Dudley, Robert W.; Schalk, Charles W.

2006-01-01

This report was prepared by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Maine Water Science Center as the deliverable for scoping of flood hazard mapping needs for Cumberland County, Maine, under Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Inter-Agency Agreement Number HSFE01-05-X-0018. This section of the report explains the objective of the task and the purpose of the report. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) developed a plan in 1997 to modernize the FEMA flood mapping program. FEMA flood maps delineate flood hazard areas in support of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). FEMA's plan outlined the steps necessary to update FEMA's flood maps for the nation to a seamless digital format and streamline FEMA's operations in raising public awareness of the importance of the maps and responding to requests to revise them. The modernization of flood maps involves conversion of existing information to digital format and integration of improved flood hazard data as needed. To determine flood mapping modernization needs, FEMA has established specific scoping activities to be done on a county-by-county basis for identifying and prioritizing requisite flood-mapping activities for map modernization. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), in cooperation with FEMA and the Maine State Planning Office Floodplain Management Program, began scoping work in 2005 for Cumberland County. Scoping activities included assembling existing data and map needs information for communities in Cumberland County, documentation of data, contacts, community meetings, and prioritized mapping needs in a final scoping report (this document), and updating the Mapping Needs Update Support System (MNUSS) Database or its successor with information gathered during the scoping process. The average age of the FEMA floodplain maps in Cumberland County, Maine is 21 years. Most of these studies were in the early to mid 1980s. However, in the ensuing 20-25 years, development has occurred in many of the watersheds, and the characteristics of the watersheds have changed with time. Therefore, many of the older studies may not depict current conditions nor accurately estimate risk in terms of flood heights. The following is the scope of work as defined in the FEMA/USGS Statement of Work: Task 1: Collect data from a variety of sources including community surveys, other Federal and State Agencies, National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) State Coordinators, Community Assistance Visits (CAVs) and FEMA archives. Lists of mapping needs will be obtained from the MNUSS database, community surveys, and CAVs, if available. FEMA archives will be inventoried for effective FIRM panels, FIS reports, and other flood-hazard data or existing study data. Best available base map information, topographic data, flood-hazard data, and hydrologic and hydraulic data will be identified. Data from the Maine Floodplain Management Program database also will be utilized. Task 2: Contact communities in Cumberland County to notify them that FEMA and the State have selected them for a map update, and that a project scope will be developed with their input. Topics to be reviewed with the communities include (1) Purpose of the Flood Map Project (for example, the update needs that have prompted the map update); (2) The community's mapping needs; (3) The community's available mapping, hydrologic, hydraulic, and flooding information; (4) target schedule for completing the project; and (5) The community's engineering, planning, and geographic information system (GIS) capabilities. On the basis of the collected information from Task 1 and community contacts/meetings in Task 2, the USGS will develop a Draft Project Scope for the identified mapping needs of the communities in Cumberland County. The following items will be addressed in the Draft Project Scope: review of available information, determine if and how effective FIS data can be used in new project, and identify other data needed to

CIDR

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CIDR Program Contacts NIH CIDR Program Application Information Barbara Thomas, Ph.D. Scientific Review | Site Map | Get Adobe Reader Subscribe to CIDR News photo of lab tech A Research Technologist examines a

Ciguatera Fish Poisoning

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... be adversely affected by toxic or harmful marine algae. + Causative algae implicated, not confirmed. Medical Community Ciguatera Fish Poisoning ... Contact Us | Related Links | Site Map The Harmful Algae Page is supported by a National Oceanic and ...

How Loud Is Too Loud?

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GEONETCast Americas - Architecture

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site map | contact us USGEO logo HOME ABOUT US Who We Are Coverage Architecture About GEOSS and GEONETCast Americas, the coverage from the satellite network, the architecture of the system, and some

Treatment for Myasthenia Gravis (MG)

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... years. In some people the weakness may completely disappear. This is called a remission. The degree to ... Boards Site Map Privacy Policy Community Leaders Press/Media Contact Us Site Created by Kellen Interactive Web ...

La Leche League International

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Preliminary geologic map of the Big Bear City 7.5' Quadrangle, San Bernardino County, California

USGS Publications Warehouse

Miller, Fred K.; Cossette, Digital preparation by Pamela M.

2004-01-01

This data set maps and describes the geology of the Big Bear City 7.5' quadrangle, San Bernardino County, California. Created using Environmental Systems Research Institute's ARC/INFO software, the data base consists of the following items: (1) a rock-unit coverage and attribute tables (polygon and arc) containing geologic contacts, units and rock-unit labels as annotation which are also included in a separate annotation coverage, bbc_anno (2) a point coverage containing structural point data and (3) a coverage containing fold axes. In addition, the data set includes the following graphic and text products: (1) A PostScript graphic plot-file containing the geologic map, topography, cultural data, a Correlation of Map Units (CMU) diagram, a Description of Map Units (DMU), an index map, a regional geologic and structure map, and an explanation for point and line symbols; (2) PDF files of the Readme (including the metadata file as an appendix), and a screen graphic of the plot produced by the PostScript plot file. The geologic map describes a geologically complex area on the north side of the San Bernardino Mountains. Bedrock units in the Big Bear City quadrangle are dominated by (1) large Cretaceous granitic bodies ranging in composition from monzogranite to gabbro, (2) metamorphosed sedimentary rocks ranging in age from late Paleozoic to late Proterozoic, and (3) Middle Proterozoic gneiss. These rocks are complexly deformed by normal, reverse, and thrust faults, and in places are tightly folded. The geologic map database contains original U.S. Geological Survey data generated by detailed field observation and by interpretation of aerial photographs. The map data was compiled on base-stable cronoflex copies of the Big Bear City 7.5' topographic map, transferred to a scribe-guide and subsequently digitized. Lines, points, and polygons were edited at the USGS using standard ARC/INFO commands. Digitizing and editing artifacts significant enough to display at a scale of 1:24,000 were corrected. Within the database, geologic contacts are represented as lines (arcs), geologic units as polygons, and site-specific data as points. Polygon, arc, and point attribute tables (.pat, .aat, and .pat, respectively) uniquely identify each geologic datum.

Web-based network analysis and visualization using CellMaps

PubMed Central

Salavert, Francisco; García-Alonso, Luz; Sánchez, Rubén; Alonso, Roberto; Bleda, Marta; Medina, Ignacio; Dopazo, Joaquín

2016-01-01

Summary: CellMaps is an HTML5 open-source web tool that allows displaying, editing, exploring and analyzing biological networks as well as integrating metadata into them. Computations and analyses are remotely executed in high-end servers, and all the functionalities are available through RESTful web services. CellMaps can easily be integrated in any web page by using an available JavaScript API. Availability and Implementation: The application is available at: http://cellmaps.babelomics.org/ and the code can be found in: https://github.com/opencb/cell-maps. The client is implemented in JavaScript and the server in C and Java. Contact: jdopazo@cipf.es Supplementary information: Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online. PMID:27296979

The Relationship between Self-Assembly and Conformal Mappings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Duque, Carlos; Santangelo, Christian

The isotropic growth of a thin sheet has been used as a way to generate programmed shapes through controlled buckling. We discuss how conformal mappings, which are transformations that locally preserve angles, provide a way to quantify the area growth needed to produce a particular shape. A discrete version of the conformal map can be constructed from circle packings, which are maps between packings of circles whose contact network is preserved. This provides a link to the self-assembly of particles on curved surfaces. We performed simulations of attractive particles on a curved surface using molecular dynamics. The resulting particle configurations were used to generate the corresponding discrete conformal map, allowing us to quantify the degree of area distortion required to produce a particular shape by finding particle configurations that minimize the area distortion.

Influenza Photos

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... Forces Institute of Pathology, Washington, D.C., Image Smith 18 "Convalescing, 1918 influenza epidemic" www.vaccineinformation.org/ ... Forces Institute of Pathology, Washington, D.C., Image Smith 3 About • Contact • A-Z Index • Site Map • ...

Photo-Detection on Narrow-Bandgap High-Mobility 2D Semiconductors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Charnas, Adam; Qiu, Gang; Deng, Yexin; Wang, Yixiu; Du, Yuchen; Yang, Lingming; Wu, Wenzhuo; Ye, Peide

Photo-detection and energy harvesting device concepts have been demonstrated widely in 2D materials such as graphene, TMDs, and black phosphorus. In this work, we demonstrate anisotropic photo-detection achieved using devices fabricated from hydrothermally grown narrow-bandgap high-mobility 2D semiconductor. Back-gated FETs were fabricated by transferring the 2D flakes onto a Si/SiO2 substrate and depositing various metal contacts across the flakes to optimize the access resistance for optoelectronic devices. Photo-responsivity was measured and mapped by slightly biasing the devices and shining a laser spot at different locations of the device to observe and map the resulting photo-generated current. Optimization of the Schottky barrier height for both n and p at the metal-2D interfaces using asymmetric contact engineering was performed to improve device performance.

Map showing structure of the Mississippi Valley Graben in the vicinity of New Madrid, Missouri

USGS Publications Warehouse

Wheeler, Russell L.; Rhea, Susan; Dart, Richard L.

1994-01-01

This is one of a series of five seismotectonic maps of the seismically active New Madrid area in southeast Missouri and adjacent parts of Arkansas, Kentucky, and Tennessee (table 1). We cannot legibly show all the seismotectonic data on a single map, therefore each of the five maps in this series groups a different type of related information. Rhea and others (1994) summarized the background and purpose of the seismotectonic map folio. The different types of data shown on this map are described in table 2. Except for a few exposed faults, all structures shown on the map are in Paleozoic sedimentary rocks of the midcontinent or underlying metamorphic and igneous basement rocks of presumed Precambrian age (Dart, 1992; Muehlberger, 1992). Edge of Mississippi Embayment, as shown on the map, marks the contact between gently dipping, exposed Paleozoic rocks to the northwest (Anderson and others, 1979) and unconformably overlying, flat or gently dipping Mesozoic and Cenozoic strata of the embayment to the southeast.

Investigation of contact pressure and influence function model for soft wheel polishing.

PubMed

Rao, Zhimin; Guo, Bing; Zhao, Qingliang

2015-09-20

The tool influence function (TIF) is critical for calculating the dwell-time map to improve form accuracy. We present the TIF for the process of computer-controlled polishing with a soft polishing wheel. In this paper, the static TIF was developed based on the Preston equation. The pressure distribution was verified by the real removal spot section profiles. According to the experiment measurements, the pressure distribution simulated by Hertz contact theory was much larger than the real contact pressure. The simulated pressure distribution, which was modeled by the Winkler elastic foundation for a soft polishing wheel, matched the real contact pressure. A series of experiments was conducted to obtain the removal spot statistical properties for validating the relationship between material removal and processing time and contact pressure and relative velocity, along with calculating the fitted parameters to establish the TIF. The developed TIF predicted the removal character for the studied soft wheel polishing.

Spatially resolved quantitative mapping of thermomechanical properties and phase transition temperatures using scanning probe microscopy

DOEpatents

Jesse, Stephen; Kalinin, Sergei V; Nikiforov, Maxim P

2013-07-09

An approach for the thermomechanical characterization of phase transitions in polymeric materials (polyethyleneterephthalate) by band excitation acoustic force microscopy is developed. This methodology allows the independent measurement of resonance frequency, Q factor, and oscillation amplitude of a tip-surface contact area as a function of tip temperature, from which the thermal evolution of tip-surface spring constant and mechanical dissipation can be extracted. A heating protocol maintained a constant tip-surface contact area and constant contact force, thereby allowing for reproducible measurements and quantitative extraction of material properties including temperature dependence of indentation-based elastic and loss moduli.

BOREAS Hardcopy Maps

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hall, Forrest G. (Editor); Nelson, Elizabeth; Newcomer, Jeffrey A.

2000-01-01

Boreal Ecosystem-Atmospheric Study (BOREAS) hardcopy maps are a collection of approximately 1,000 hardcopy maps representing the physical, climatological, and historical attributes of areas covering primarily the Manitoba and Saskatchewan provinces of Canada. These maps were collected by BOREAS Information System (BORIS) and Canada for Remote Sensing (CCRS) staff to provide basic information about site positions, manmade features, topography, geology, hydrology, land cover types, fire history, climate, and soils of the BOREAS study region. These maps are not available for distribution through the BOREAS project but may be used as an on-site resource. Information is provided within this document for individuals who want to order copies of these maps from the original map source. Note that the maps are not contained on the BOREAS CD-ROM set. An inventory listing file is supplied on the CD-ROM to inform users of the maps that are available. This inventory listing is available from the Earth Observing System Data and Information System (EOSDIS) Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) Distributed Active Archive Center (DAAC). For hardcopies of the individual maps, contact the sources provided.

Stochastic thermodynamics for Ising chain and symmetric exclusion process.

PubMed

Toral, R; Van den Broeck, C; Escaff, D; Lindenberg, Katja

2017-03-01

We verify the finite-time fluctuation theorem for a linear Ising chain in contact with heat reservoirs at its ends. Analytic results are derived for a chain consisting of two spins. The system can be mapped onto a model for particle transport, namely, the symmetric exclusion process in contact with thermal and particle reservoirs. We modify the symmetric exclusion process to represent a thermal engine and reproduce universal features of the efficiency at maximum power.

Social integration, social contacts, and blood pressure dipping in African-Americans and whites.

PubMed

Troxel, Wendy M; Buysse, Daniel J; Hall, Martica; Kamarck, Thomas W; Strollo, Patrick J; Owens, Jane F; Reis, Steven E; Matthews, Karen A

2010-02-01

Both the size and diversity of an individual's social network are strongly and prospectively linked with cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Social relationships may influence cardiovascular outcomes, at least in part, via their impact on physiologic pathways influenced by stress, such as daytime blood pressure (BP) levels. However, scant research has examined whether social relationships influence key nocturnal pathways, such as nocturnal BP dipping. The current study examined the degree to which social integration, as measured by participants' reported engagement in a range of different types of social relationships, and the frequency of daily social contacts influence the ratio of night/day mean arterial pressure (MAP) in a community sample of African-American and white men and women (N = 224). In addition, we examined the degree to which observed associations persisted after statistical adjustment for factors known to covary with nocturnal BP, including objective measures of sleep, catecholamines, health behaviors, and comorbidities. In fully adjusted models, there was a significant association between both social integration and frequency of social contacts and the ratio of night/day MAP, indicating that socially isolated individuals were more likely to have blunted nocturnal BP-dipping profiles. There was also a significant interaction between social contact frequency and ethnicity, suggesting that the benefits of social relationships were particularly evident in African-Americans. These findings contribute to our understanding of how social integration or conversely, social isolation, influences cardiovascular risk.

Quaternary geologic map of the Shelby 1° x 2° quadrangle, Montana

USGS Publications Warehouse

Fullerton, David S.; Colton, Roger B.; Bush, Charles A.

2013-01-01

The Shelby quadrangle encompasses approximately 16,084 km2 (6,210 mi2). The northern boundary is the Montana/Saskatchewan (U.S./Canada) boundary. The quadrangle is in the Northern Plains physiographic province and it includes the Sweet Grass Hills. The primary river is the Marias River. The ancestral Missouri River was diverted south of the Bearpaw Mountains by a Laurentide ice sheet. The fill in the buried ancestral valleys of the Missouri River and Marias River in the southeast quarter of the quadrangle contains a complex stratigraphy of fluvial, glaciofluvial, ice-contact, glacial, lacustrine, and eolian deposits. The map units are surficial deposits and materials, not landforms. Deposits that comprise some constructional landforms (for example, ground-moraine deposits, end-moraine deposits, stagnation-moraine deposits, all composed of till) are distinguished for purposes of reconstruction of glacial history. Surficial deposits and materials are assigned to 21 map units on the basis of genesis, age, lithology or composition, texture or particle size, and other physical, chemical, and engineering characteristics. It is not a map of soils that are recognized in pedology or agronomy. Rather, it is a generalized map of soils recognized in engineering geology, or of substrata or parent materials in which pedologic or agronomic soils are formed. Glaciotectonic (ice-thrust) structures and deposits are mapped separately, represented by a symbol. On the glaciated plains, the surficial deposits are glacial, ice-contact, glaciofluvial, alluvial, lacustrine, eolian, colluvial, and mass-movement deposits. In the Sweet Grass Hills, beyond the limit of Quaternary glaciation they are fluvial, colluvial, and mass-movement deposits. Till of late Wisconsin age is represented by three map units. Tills of Illinoian and pre-Illinoian glaciations are not mapped, but are widespread in the subsurface. Linear ice-molded landforms (primarily drumlins) indicate directions of ice flow during late Wisconsin glaciation.

Evolution via recombination: Cell-to-cell contact facilitates larger recombination events in Streptococcus pneumoniae.

PubMed

Cowley, Lauren A; Petersen, Fernanda C; Junges, Roger; Jimson D Jimenez, Med; Morrison, Donald A; Hanage, William P

2018-06-01

Homologous recombination in the genetic transformation model organism Streptococcus pneumoniae is thought to be important in the adaptation and evolution of this pathogen. While competent pneumococci are able to scavenge DNA added to laboratory cultures, large-scale transfers of multiple kb are rare under these conditions. We used whole genome sequencing (WGS) to map transfers in recombinants arising from contact of competent cells with non-competent 'target' cells, using strains with known genomes, distinguished by a total of ~16,000 SNPs. Experiments designed to explore the effect of environment on large scale recombination events used saturating purified donor DNA, short-term cell assemblages on Millipore filters, and mature biofilm mixed cultures. WGS of 22 recombinants for each environment mapped all SNPs that were identical between the recombinant and the donor but not the recipient. The mean recombination event size was found to be significantly larger in cell-to-cell contact cultures (4051 bp in filter assemblage and 3938 bp in biofilm co-culture versus 1815 bp with saturating DNA). Up to 5.8% of the genome was transferred, through 20 recombination events, to a single recipient, with the largest single event incorporating 29,971 bp. We also found that some recombination events are clustered, that these clusters are more likely to occur in cell-to-cell contact environments, and that they cause significantly increased linkage of genes as far apart as 60,000 bp. We conclude that pneumococcal evolution through homologous recombination is more likely to occur on a larger scale in environments that permit cell-to-cell contact.

Where You Live

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Click on your state or EPA Region on the map or from the list below to find information (e.g., EPA and Pediatric Environmental Health Specialty Unit regional contacts) about children's health protection in that area. Includes U.S. territories.

Transducer with a sense of touch

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bejczy, A. K.; Paine, G.

1979-01-01

Matrix of pressure sensors determines shape and pressure distribution of object in contact with its surface. Output can be used to develop pressure map of objects' surface and displayed as array of alphanumeric symbols on video monitor.

Life of a Tooth: A Visual Timeline

MedlinePlus Videos and Cool Tools

... InfoBites Quick Reference Learn more Sports and Oral Health What is Dental Amalgam (Silver Filling)? Pacifiers Have ... Home | InfoBites | Find a Dentist | Your Family's Oral Health | RSS About AGD | Contact AGD | Site Map | Reprints ...

Mechanical characterization of soft materials using transparent indenter testing system and finite element simulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xuan, Yue

Background. Soft materials such as polymers and soft tissues have diverse applications in bioengineering, medical care, and industry. Quantitative mechanical characterization of soft materials at multiscales is required to assure that appropriate mechanical properties are presented to support the normal material function. Indentation test has been widely used to characterize soft material. However, the measurement of in situ contact area is always difficult. Method of Approach. A transparent indenter method was introduced to characterize the nonlinear behaviors of soft materials under large deformation. This approach made the direct measurement of contact area and local deformation possible. A microscope was used to capture the contact area evolution as well as the surface deformation. Based on this transparent indenter method, a novel transparent indentation measurement systems has been built and multiple soft materials including polymers and pericardial tissue have been characterized. Seven different indenters have been used to study the strain distribution on the contact surface, inner layer and vertical layer. Finite element models have been built to simulate the hyperelastic and anisotropic material behaviors. Proper material constants were obtained by fitting the experimental results. Results.Homogeneous and anisotropic silicone rubber and porcine pericardial tissue have been examined. Contact area and local deformation were measured by real time imaging the contact interface. The experimental results were compared with the predictions from the Hertzian equations. The accurate measurement of contact area results in more reliable Young's modulus, which is critical for soft materials. For the fiber reinforced anisotropic silicone rubber, the projected contact area under a hemispherical indenter exhibited elliptical shape. The local surface deformation under indenter was mapped using digital image correlation program. Punch test has been applied to thin films of silicone rubber and porcine pericardial tissue and results were analyzed using the same method. Conclusions. The transparent indenter testing system can effectively reduce the material properties measurement error by directly measuring the contact radii. The contact shape can provide valuable information for the anisotropic property of the material. Local surface deformation including contact surface, inner layer and vertical plane can be accurately tracked and mapped to study the strain distribution. The potential usage of the transparent indenter measurement system to investigate biological and biomaterials was verified. The experimental data including the real-time contact area combined with the finite element simulation would be powerful tool to study mechanical properties of soft materials and their relation to microstructure, which has potential in pathologies study such as tissue repair and surgery plan. Key words: transparent indenter, large deformation, soft material, anisotropic.

Scale Matters: A Cost-Outcome Analysis of an m-Health Intervention in Malawi.

PubMed

Larsen-Cooper, Erin; Bancroft, Emily; Rajagopal, Sharanya; O'Toole, Maggie; Levin, Ann

2016-04-01

The primary objectives of this study are to determine cost per user and cost per contact with users of a mobile health (m-health) intervention. The secondary objectives are to map costs to changes in maternal, newborn, and child health (MNCH) and to estimate costs of alternate implementation and usage scenarios. A base cost model, constructed from recurrent costs and selected capital costs, was used to estimate average cost per user and per contact of an m-health intervention. This model was mapped to statistically significant changes in MNCH intermediate outcomes to determine the cost of improvements in MNCH indicators. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to estimate costs in alternate scenarios. The m-health intervention cost $29.33 per user and $4.33 per successful contact. The average cost for each user experiencing a change in an MNCH indicator ranged from $67 to $355. The sensitivity analyses showed that cost per user could be reduced by 48% if the service were to operate at full capacity. We believe that the intervention, operating at scale, has potential to be a cost-effective method for improving maternal and child health indicators.

Scale Matters: A Cost-Outcome Analysis of an m-Health Intervention in Malawi

PubMed Central

Bancroft, Emily; Rajagopal, Sharanya; O'Toole, Maggie; Levin, Ann

2016-01-01

Abstract Background: The primary objectives of this study are to determine cost per user and cost per contact with users of a mobile health (m-health) intervention. The secondary objectives are to map costs to changes in maternal, newborn, and child health (MNCH) and to estimate costs of alternate implementation and usage scenarios. Materials and Methods: A base cost model, constructed from recurrent costs and selected capital costs, was used to estimate average cost per user and per contact of an m-health intervention. This model was mapped to statistically significant changes in MNCH intermediate outcomes to determine the cost of improvements in MNCH indicators. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to estimate costs in alternate scenarios. Results: The m-health intervention cost $29.33 per user and $4.33 per successful contact. The average cost for each user experiencing a change in an MNCH indicator ranged from $67 to $355. The sensitivity analyses showed that cost per user could be reduced by 48% if the service were to operate at full capacity. Conclusions: We believe that the intervention, operating at scale, has potential to be a cost-effective method for improving maternal and child health indicators. PMID:26348994

Vertical Soil Profiling Using a Galvanic Contact Resistivity Scanning Approach

PubMed Central

Pan, Luan; Adamchuk, Viacheslav I.; Prasher, Shiv; Gebbers, Robin; Taylor, Richard S.; Dabas, Michel

2014-01-01

Proximal sensing of soil electromagnetic properties is widely used to map spatial land heterogeneity. The mapping instruments use galvanic contact, capacitive coupling or electromagnetic induction. Regardless of the type of instrument, the geometrical configuration between signal transmitting and receiving elements typically defines the shape of the depth response function. To assess vertical soil profiles, many modern instruments use multiple transmitter-receiver pairs. Alternatively, vertical electrical sounding can be used to measure changes in apparent soil electrical conductivity with depth at a specific location. This paper examines the possibility for the assessment of soil profiles using a dynamic surface galvanic contact resistivity scanning approach, with transmitting and receiving electrodes configured in an equatorial dipole-dipole array. An automated scanner system was developed and tested in agricultural fields with different soil profiles. While operating in the field, the distance between current injecting and measuring pairs of rolling electrodes was varied continuously from 40 to 190 cm. The preliminary evaluation included a comparison of scan results from 20 locations to shallow (less than 1.2 m deep) soil profiles and to a two-layer soil profile model defined using an electromagnetic induction instrument. PMID:25057135

High-resolution physical and functional mapping of the template adjacent DNA binding site in catalytically active telomerase.

PubMed

Romi, Erez; Baran, Nava; Gantman, Marina; Shmoish, Michael; Min, Bosun; Collins, Kathleen; Manor, Haim

2007-05-22

Telomerase is a cellular reverse transcriptase, which utilizes an integral RNA template to extend single-stranded telomeric DNA. We used site-specific photocrosslinking to map interactions between DNA primers and the catalytic protein subunit (tTERT) of Tetrahymena thermophila telomerase in functional enzyme complexes. Our assays reveal contact of the single-stranded DNA adjacent to the primer-template hybrid and tTERT residue W187 at the periphery of the N-terminal domain. This contact was detected in complexes with three different registers of template in the active site, suggesting that it is maintained throughout synthesis of a complete telomeric repeat. Substitution of nearby residue Q168, but not W187, alters the K(m) for primer elongation, implying that it plays a role in the DNA recognition. These findings are the first to directly demonstrate the physical location of TERT-DNA contacts in catalytically active telomerase and to identify amino acid determinants of DNA binding affinity. Our data also suggest a movement of the TERT active site relative to the template-adjacent single-stranded DNA binding site within a cycle of repeat synthesis.

Nanoscale elasticity mappings of micro-constituents of abalone shell by band excitation-contact resonance force microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Tao; Zeng, Kaiyang

2014-01-01

The macroscopic mechanical properties of the abalone shell have been studied extensively in the literature, but the in situ nanoscale elasticity of various micro-constituents in the shell have not been characterized and reported yet. In this study, the nanoscale elasticity mappings including different micro-constituents in abalone shell were observed by using the Contact Resonance Force Microscopy (CR-FM) technique. CR-FM is one of the advanced scanning probe microscopy techniques that is able to quantify the local elastic moduli of various materials in a non-destructive manner. Instead of an average value, an elasticity mapping that reveals the nanoscale variations of elastic moduli with location can be extracted and correlated with the topography of the structure. Therefore in this study, by adopting the CR-FM technique that is incorporated with the band excitation technique, the elasticity variations of the abalone shell caused by different micro-constituents and crystal orientations are reported, and the elasticity values of the aragonite and calcite nanograins are quantified.The macroscopic mechanical properties of the abalone shell have been studied extensively in the literature, but the in situ nanoscale elasticity of various micro-constituents in the shell have not been characterized and reported yet. In this study, the nanoscale elasticity mappings including different micro-constituents in abalone shell were observed by using the Contact Resonance Force Microscopy (CR-FM) technique. CR-FM is one of the advanced scanning probe microscopy techniques that is able to quantify the local elastic moduli of various materials in a non-destructive manner. Instead of an average value, an elasticity mapping that reveals the nanoscale variations of elastic moduli with location can be extracted and correlated with the topography of the structure. Therefore in this study, by adopting the CR-FM technique that is incorporated with the band excitation technique, the elasticity variations of the abalone shell caused by different micro-constituents and crystal orientations are reported, and the elasticity values of the aragonite and calcite nanograins are quantified. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c3nr05292c

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Retinal Detachment

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Diabetic Retinopathy

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78 FR 57455 - Pipeline Safety: Information Collection Activities

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-09-18

... ``. . . system-specific information, including pipe diameter, operating pressure, product transported, and...) must provide contact information and geospatial data on their pipeline system. This information should... Mapping System (NPMS) to support various regulatory programs, pipeline inspections, and authorized...

Macular Hole

MedlinePlus

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Histoplasmosis

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Body Mole Map

MedlinePlus

... for. 2. Examine your skin. 3. Record your spots. If you notice any new or changing spots, contact your dermatologist to make an appointment. If ... Skin Cancer Self-Examination How to Check Your Spots: Checking your skin means taking note of all ...

Simulated binding of transcription factors to active and inactive regions folds human chromosomes into loops, rosettes and topological domains

PubMed Central

Brackley, Chris A.; Johnson, James; Kelly, Steven; Cook, Peter R.; Marenduzzo, Davide

2016-01-01

Biophysicists are modeling conformations of interphase chromosomes, often basing the strengths of interactions between segments distant on the genetic map on contact frequencies determined experimentally. Here, instead, we develop a fitting-free, minimal model: bivalent or multivalent red and green ‘transcription factors’ bind to cognate sites in strings of beads (‘chromatin’) to form molecular bridges stabilizing loops. In the absence of additional explicit forces, molecular dynamic simulations reveal that bound factors spontaneously cluster—red with red, green with green, but rarely red with green—to give structures reminiscent of transcription factories. Binding of just two transcription factors (or proteins) to active and inactive regions of human chromosomes yields rosettes, topological domains and contact maps much like those seen experimentally. This emergent ‘bridging-induced attraction’ proves to be a robust, simple and generic force able to organize interphase chromosomes at all scales. PMID:27060145

Electronic sensor and actuator webs for large-area complex geometry cardiac mapping and therapy

PubMed Central

Kim, Dae-Hyeong; Ghaffari, Roozbeh; Lu, Nanshu; Wang, Shuodao; Lee, Stephen P.; Keum, Hohyun; D’Angelo, Robert; Klinker, Lauren; Su, Yewang; Lu, Chaofeng; Kim, Yun-Soung; Ameen, Abid; Li, Yuhang; Zhang, Yihui; de Graff, Bassel; Hsu, Yung-Yu; Liu, ZhuangJian; Ruskin, Jeremy; Xu, Lizhi; Lu, Chi; Omenetto, Fiorenzo G.; Huang, Yonggang; Mansour, Moussa; Slepian, Marvin J.; Rogers, John A.

2012-01-01

Curved surfaces, complex geometries, and time-dynamic deformations of the heart create challenges in establishing intimate, nonconstraining interfaces between cardiac structures and medical devices or surgical tools, particularly over large areas. We constructed large area designs for diagnostic and therapeutic stretchable sensor and actuator webs that conformally wrap the epicardium, establishing robust contact without sutures, mechanical fixtures, tapes, or surgical adhesives. These multifunctional web devices exploit open, mesh layouts and mount on thin, bio-resorbable sheets of silk to facilitate handling in a way that yields, after dissolution, exceptionally low mechanical moduli and thicknesses. In vivo studies in rabbit and pig animal models demonstrate the effectiveness of these device webs for measuring and spatially mapping temperature, electrophysiological signals, strain, and physical contact in sheet and balloon-based systems that also have the potential to deliver energy to perform localized tissue ablation. PMID:23150574

Preduction of Vehicle Mobility on Large-Scale Soft-Soil Terrain Maps Using Physics-Based Simulation

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-08-02

PREDICTION OF VEHICLE MOBILITY ON LARGE-SCALE SOFT- SOIL TERRAIN MAPS USING PHYSICS-BASED SIMULATION Tamer M. Wasfy, Paramsothy Jayakumar, Dave...NRMM • Objectives • Soft Soils • Review of Physics-Based Soil Models • MBD/DEM Modeling Formulation – Joint & Contact Constraints – DEM Cohesive... Soil Model • Cone Penetrometer Experiment • Vehicle- Soil Model • Vehicle Mobility DOE Procedure • Simulation Results • Concluding Remarks 2UNCLASSIFIED

Proceedings of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Surveying Conference Held at Jacksonville, Florida on 4-8 February 1985,

DTIC Science & Technology

1985-02-01

Institute of Technology. He spent many years at Woods Hole, and his primary interests are in the application of signal processing to the problems of...steel caisson island to perform conventional bathymetry surveys, a special system was required. This system which was contructed and used during the...National Ecological Research Areas. o USGS anticipates contacting COE for assistance in updating energy transportation maps, and maps showing port

Stress Response of Granular Systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ramola, Kabir; Chakraborty, Bulbul

2017-10-01

We develop a framework for stress response in two dimensional granular media, with and without friction, that respects vector force balance at the microscopic level. We introduce local gauge degrees of freedom that determine the response of contact forces between constituent grains on a given, disordered, contact network, to external perturbations. By mapping this response to the spectral properties of the graph Laplacian corresponding to the underlying contact network, we show that this naturally leads to spatial localization of forces. We present numerical evidence for localization using exact diagonalization studies of network Laplacians of soft disk packings. Finally, we discuss the role of other constraints, such as torque balance, in determining the stability of a granular packing to external perturbations.

WE-EF-BRA-03: Catheter- Free Ablation with External Photon Radiation: Treatment Planning, Delivery Considerations, and Correlation of Effects with Delivered Dose

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

Deisher, A; Anderson, S; Cusma, J

Purpose: To plan, target, and calculate delivered dose in atrioventricular node (AVN) ablation with volume-modulated arc therapy (VMAT) in an intact porcine model. Methods: Seven pigs underwent AVN irradiation, with prescription doses ranging between 25 and 55Gy in a single fraction. Cardiac CT scans were acquired at expiration. Two physicians contoured AVN targets on 10 phases, providing estimates of target motion and inter-physician variability. Treatment planning was conducted on a static phase-averaged CT. The volume designated to receive prescription dose covered the full extent of AVN cardiac motion, expanded by 4mm for setup uncertainty. Optimization limited doses to risk structuresmore » according to single-fraction tumor treatment protocols. Orthogonal kV images were used to align bony anatomy at time of treatment. Localization was further refined with respiratory-gated cone-beam CT, and range of cardiac motion was verified under fluoroscopy. Beam delivery was respiratory-gated for expiration with a mean efficiency of 60%. Deformable registration of the 10 cardiac CT phases was used to calculate actual delivered dose for comparison to electro-anatomical and visually evident lesions. Results: The mean [minimum,maximum] amplitude of AVN cardiac motion was LR 2.9 [1.7,3.9]mm, AP 6.6 [4.4,10.4]mm, and SI 5.6 [2.0,9.9]mm. Incorporating cardiac motion into the dose calculation showed the volume receiving full dose was 40–80% of the volume indicated on the static planning image, although the contoured AVN target received full dose in all animals. Initial results suggest the dimensions of the electro-anatomical lesion are correlated with the 40Gy isodose volume. Conclusion: Image-guidance techniques allow for accurate and precise delivery of VMAT for catheter-free arrhythmia ablation. An arsenal of advanced radiation planning, dose optimization, and image-guided delivery techniques was employed to assess and mitigate effects of cardiac and respiratory motion. Feasibility of delivery to the pulmonary veins and left ventricular myocardium will be investigated in future studies. D. Packer Disclosures: Abiomed, Biosense Webster, Inc., Boston Scientific Corp., CardioFocus, Inc., Johnson and Johnson, Excerpta Medica, Ortho-McNeil-Jannsen, Sanofi Aventis, CardioInsight Technologies, InfoBionic, SIEMENS, Medtronic, Inc., CardioDx, Inc., CardioInsight Technologies, FoxP2 Medica, Mediasphere Medical, Wiley-Blackwell, St. Jude Medical, Endosense, Thermedical, EP Advocate LLC, Hansen Medical, American Heart Association, EpiEP, NIH.« less

Quantitative analysis of terrain units mapped in the northern quarter of Venus from Venera 15/16 data

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schaber, G. G.

1991-01-01

The contacts between 34 geological/geomorphic terrain units in the northern quarter of Venus mapped from Venera 15/16 data were digitized and converted to a Sinusoidal Equal-Area projection. The result was then registered with a merged Pioneer Venus/Venera 15/16 altimetric database, root mean square (rms) slope values, and radar reflectivity values derived from Pioneer Venus. The resulting information includes comparisons among individual terrain units and terrain groups to which they are assigned in regard to percentage of map area covered, elevation, rms slopes, distribution of suspected craters greater than 10 km in diameter.

Geologic map and digital database of the Porcupine Wash 7.5 minute Quadrangle, Riverside County, southern California

USGS Publications Warehouse

Powell, Robert E.

2001-01-01

This data set maps and describes the geology of the Porcupine Wash 7.5 minute quadrangle, Riverside County, southern California. The quadrangle, situated in Joshua Tree National Park in the eastern Transverse Ranges physiographic and structural province, encompasses parts of the Hexie Mountains, Cottonwood Mountains, northern Eagle Mountains, and south flank of Pinto Basin. It is underlain by a basement terrane comprising Proterozoic metamorphic rocks, Mesozoic plutonic rocks, and Mesozoic and Mesozoic or Cenozoic hypabyssal dikes. The basement terrane is capped by a widespread Tertiary erosion surface preserved in remnants in the Eagle and Cottonwood Mountains and buried beneath Cenozoic deposits in Pinto Basin. Locally, Miocene basalt overlies the erosion surface. A sequence of at least three Quaternary pediments is planed into the north piedmont of the Eagle and Hexie Mountains, each in turn overlain by successively younger residual and alluvial deposits. The Tertiary erosion surface is deformed and broken by north-northwest-trending, high-angle, dip-slip faults and an east-west trending system of high-angle dip- and left-slip faults. East-west trending faults are younger than and perhaps in part coeval with faults of the northwest-trending set. The Porcupine Wash database was created using ARCVIEW and ARC/INFO, which are geographical information system (GIS) software products of Envronmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI). The database consists of the following items: (1) a map coverage showing faults and geologic contacts and units, (2) a separate coverage showing dikes, (3) a coverage showing structural data, (4) a scanned topographic base at a scale of 1:24,000, and (5) attribute tables for geologic units (polygons and regions), contacts (arcs), and site-specific data (points). The database, accompanied by a pamphlet file and this metadata file, also includes the following graphic and text products: (1) A portable document file (.pdf) containing a navigable graphic of the geologic map on a 1:24,000 topographic base. The map is accompanied by a marginal explanation consisting of a Description of Map and Database Units (DMU), a Correlation of Map and Database Units (CMU), and a key to point-and line-symbols. (2) Separate .pdf files of the DMU and CMU, individually. (3) A PostScript graphic-file containing the geologic map on a 1:24,000 topographic base accompanied by the marginal explanation. (4) A pamphlet that describes the database and how to access it. Within the database, geologic contacts , faults, and dikes are represented as lines (arcs), geologic units as polygons and regions, and site-specific data as points. Polygon, arc, and point attribute tables (.pat, .aat, and .pat, respectively) uniquely identify each geologic datum and link it to other tables (.rel) that provide more detailed geologic information.

Integrating GIS-based geologic mapping, LiDAR-based lineament analysis and site specific rock slope data to delineate a zone of existing and potential rock slope instability located along the grandfather mountain window-Linville Falls shear zone contact, Southern Appalachian Mountains, Watauga County, North Carolina

USGS Publications Warehouse

Gillon, K.A.; Wooten, R.M.; Latham, R.L.; Witt, A.W.; Douglas, T.J.; Bauer, J.B.; Fuemmeler, S.J.

2009-01-01

Landslide hazard maps of Watauga County identify >2200 landslides, model debris flow susceptibility, and evaluate a 14km x 0.5km zone of existing and potential rock slope instability (ZEPRSI) near the Town of Boone. The ZEPRSI encompasses west-northwest trending (WNWT) topographic ridges where 14 active/past-active rock/weathered rock slides occur mainly in rocks of the Grandfather Mountain Window (GMW). The north side of this ridgeline is the GMW / Linville Falls Fault (LFF) contact. Sheared rocks of the Linville Falls Shear Zone (LFSZ) occur along the ridge and locally in the valley north of the contact. The valley is underlain principally by layered granitic gneiss comprising the Linville Falls/Beech Mountain/Stone Mountain Thrust Sheet. The integration of ArcGIS??? - format digital geologic and lineament mapping on a 6m LiDAR (Light Detecting and Ranging) digital elevation model (DEM) base, and kinematic analyses of site specific rock slope data (e.g., presence and degree of ductile and brittle deformation fabrics, rock type, rock weathering state) indicate: WNWT lineaments are expressions of a regionally extensive zone of fractures and faults; and ZEPRSI rock slope failures concentrate along excavated, north-facing LFF/LFSZ slopes where brittle fabrics overprint older metamorphic foliations, and other fractures create side and back release surfaces. Copyright 2009 ARMA, American Rock Mechanics Association.

Geology of the Huntsville quadrangle, Alabama

USGS Publications Warehouse

Sanford, T.H.; Malmberg, G.T.; West, L.R.

1961-01-01

The 7 1/2-minute Huntsville quadrangle is in south-central Madison County, Ala., and includes part of the city of Hunstville. The south, north, east, and west boundaries of the quadrangle are about 3 miles north of the Tennessee River, 15 1/2 miles south of the Tennessee line, 8 miles west of the Jackson County line, and 9 miles east of the Limestone County line. The bedrock geology of the Huntsville quadrangle was mapped by the U.S. Geological Survey in cooperation with the city of Hunstville and the Geological Survey of Alabama as part of a detailed study of the geology and ground-water resources of Madison County, with special reference to the Huntsville area. G. T. Malmberg began the geologic mapping of the county in July 1953, and completed it in April 1954. T. H. Sanford, Jr., assisted Malmberg in the final phases of the county mapping, which included measuring geologic sections with hand level and steel tape. In November 1958 Sanford, assisted by L. R. West, checked contacts and elevations in the Hunstville quadrangle; made revisions in the contact lines; and wrote the text for this report. The fieldwork for this report was completed in April 1959.

Bietti's Crystalline Dystrophy

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Cryo-EM Data Are Superior to Contact and Interface Information in Integrative Modeling.

PubMed

de Vries, Sjoerd J; Chauvot de Beauchêne, Isaure; Schindler, Christina E M; Zacharias, Martin

2016-02-23

Protein-protein interactions carry out a large variety of essential cellular processes. Cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) is a powerful technique for the modeling of protein-protein interactions at a wide range of resolutions, and recent developments have caused a revolution in the field. At low resolution, cryo-EM maps can drive integrative modeling of the interaction, assembling existing structures into the map. Other experimental techniques can provide information on the interface or on the contacts between the monomers in the complex. This inevitably raises the question regarding which type of data is best suited to drive integrative modeling approaches. Systematic comparison of the prediction accuracy and specificity of the different integrative modeling paradigms is unavailable to date. Here, we compare EM-driven, interface-driven, and contact-driven integrative modeling paradigms. Models were generated for the protein docking benchmark using the ATTRACT docking engine and evaluated using the CAPRI two-star criterion. At 20 Å resolution, EM-driven modeling achieved a success rate of 100%, outperforming the other paradigms even with perfect interface and contact information. Therefore, even very low resolution cryo-EM data is superior in predicting heterodimeric and heterotrimeric protein assemblies. Our study demonstrates that a force field is not necessary, cryo-EM data alone is sufficient to accurately guide the monomers into place. The resulting rigid models successfully identify regions of conformational change, opening up perspectives for targeted flexible remodeling. Copyright © 2016 Biophysical Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Cryo-EM Data Are Superior to Contact and Interface Information in Integrative Modeling

PubMed Central

de Vries, Sjoerd J.; Chauvot de Beauchêne, Isaure; Schindler, Christina E.M.; Zacharias, Martin

2016-01-01

Protein-protein interactions carry out a large variety of essential cellular processes. Cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) is a powerful technique for the modeling of protein-protein interactions at a wide range of resolutions, and recent developments have caused a revolution in the field. At low resolution, cryo-EM maps can drive integrative modeling of the interaction, assembling existing structures into the map. Other experimental techniques can provide information on the interface or on the contacts between the monomers in the complex. This inevitably raises the question regarding which type of data is best suited to drive integrative modeling approaches. Systematic comparison of the prediction accuracy and specificity of the different integrative modeling paradigms is unavailable to date. Here, we compare EM-driven, interface-driven, and contact-driven integrative modeling paradigms. Models were generated for the protein docking benchmark using the ATTRACT docking engine and evaluated using the CAPRI two-star criterion. At 20 Å resolution, EM-driven modeling achieved a success rate of 100%, outperforming the other paradigms even with perfect interface and contact information. Therefore, even very low resolution cryo-EM data is superior in predicting heterodimeric and heterotrimeric protein assemblies. Our study demonstrates that a force field is not necessary, cryo-EM data alone is sufficient to accurately guide the monomers into place. The resulting rigid models successfully identify regions of conformational change, opening up perspectives for targeted flexible remodeling. PMID:26846888

Effectiveness of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in Helping Secure a Border Characterized by Rough Terrain and Active Terrorists

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-06-01

background map is used on top of the battlefield for 26 cosmetic purposes to improve visualization of the scenario. The background map has no effect on...personalities. We assumed that terrorists have a perfect stealth value in enemy contact state and their propensity towards the destination degrades with...Available: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-19615995. [11] “Powerful blast rocks eastern Turkish city, seven reportedly killed ( PHOTOS )” [Online

Affective Interface Adaptations in the Musickiosk Interactive Entertainment Application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Malatesta, L.; Raouzaiou, A.; Pearce, L.; Karpouzis, K.

The current work presents the affective interface adaptations in the Musickiosk application. Adaptive interaction poses several open questions since there is no unique way of mapping affective factors of user behaviour to the output of the system. Musickiosk uses a non-contact interface and implicit interaction through emotional affect rather than explicit interaction where a gesture, sound or other input directly maps to an output behaviour - as in traditional entertainment applications. PAD model is used for characterizing the different affective states and emotions.

Geologic and Fossil Locality Maps of the West-Central Part of the Howard Pass Quadrangle and Part of the Adjacent Misheguk Mountain Quadrangle, Western Brooks Range, Alaska

USGS Publications Warehouse

Dover, James H.; Tailleur, Irvin L.; Dumoulin, Julie A.

2004-01-01

The map depicts the field distribution and contact relations between stratigraphic units, the tectonic relations between major stratigraphic sequences, and the detailed internal structure of these sequences. The stratigraphic sequences formed in a variety of continental margin depositional environments, and subsequently underwent a complexde formational history of imbricate thrust faulting and folding. A compilation of micro and macro fossil identifications is included in this data set.

Visualizing human communication in business process simulations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Groehn, Matti; Jalkanen, Janne; Haho, Paeivi; Nieminen, Marko; Smeds, Riitta

1999-03-01

In this paper a description of business process simulation is given. Crucial part in the simulation of business processes is the analysis of social contacts between the participants. We will introduce a tool to collect log data and how this log data can be effectively analyzed using two different kind of methods: discussion flow charts and self-organizing maps. Discussion flow charts revealed the communication patterns and self-organizing maps are a very effective way of clustering the participants into development groups.

General soil map Lower Pantano wash area, Pima County, Arizona

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Richardson, M. L.

1972-01-01

High altitude color photography was used to determine soil type variation over large areas at a contact print scale of 1:125,000. It was found that color variation and land form could be used as a basis for assigning seven soil mapping units to the area as depicted on stereoscopic pairs of the color photography. A unit is assigned by soil scientists on the basis of similarity of soil features in the area to predetermined physical and chemical characteristics of the same soil type.

3D silicon breast surface mapping via structured light profilometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vairavan, R.; Ong, N. R.; Sauli, Z.; Kirtsaeng, S.; Sakuntasathien, S.; Shahimin, M. M.; Alcain, J. B.; Lai, S. L.; Paitong, P.; Retnasamy, V.

2017-09-01

Digital fringe projection technique is one of the promising optical methods for 3D surface imaging as it demonstrates non contact and non invasive characteristics. The potential of this technique matches the requirement for human body evaluation, as it is vital for disease diagnosis and for treatment option selection. Thus, the digital fringe projection has addressed this requirement with its wide clinical related application and studies. However, the application of this technique for 3D surface mapping of the breast is very minimal. Hence, in this work, the application of digital fringe projection for 3D breast surface mapping is reported. Phase shift fringe projection technique was utilized to perform the 3D breast surface mapping. Maiden results have confirmed the feasibility of using the digital fringe projection method for 3D surface mapping of the breast and it can be extended for breast cancer detection.

Map showing contours on top of the upper Cretaceous Mowry Shale, Powder River basin, Wyoming and Montana

USGS Publications Warehouse

Crysdale, B.L.

1991-01-01

This map is one in a series of U.S. Geological Survey Miscellaneous Field Studies (MF) maps showing computer-generated structure contours, isopachs, and cross sections of selected formations in the Powder River basin, Wyoming and Montana. The map and cross sections were constructed from information stored in a U.S. Geological Survey Evolution of Sedimentary Basins data base. This data base contains picks of geologic formation and (or) unit tops and bases determined from electric resistivity and gamma-ray logs of 8,592 wells penetrating Tertiary and older rocks in the Powder River basin. Well completion cards (scout tickets) were reviewed and compared with copies of all logs, and formation or unit contacts determined by N. M. Denson, D.L. Macke, R. R. Schumann and others. This isopach map is based on information from 4,926 of these wells that penetrate the Minnelusa Formation and equivalents.

Map showing structure contours on the top of the upper Jurassic Morrison Formation, Powder River basin, Wyoming and Montana

USGS Publications Warehouse

Crysdale, B.L.

1991-01-01

This map is one in a series of U.S. Geological Survey Miscellaneous Field Studies (MF) maps showing computer-generated structure contours, isopachs, and cross sections of selected formations in the Powder River basin, Wyoming and Montana. The map and cross sections were constructed from information stored in a U.S. Geological Survey Evolution of Sedimentary Basins data base. This data base contains picks of geologic formation and (or) unit tops and bases determined from electric resistivity and gamma-ray logs of 8,592 wells penetrating Tertiary and older rocks in the Powder River basin. Well completion cards (scout tickets) were reviewed and compared with copies of all logs, and formation or unit contacts determined by N. M. Denson, D.L. Macke, R. R. Schumann and others. This isopach map is based on information from 2,429 of these wells that penetrate the Minnelusa Formation and equivalents.

Development of a seroprevalence map for avian influenza in broiler chickens from Comunidad Valenciana, Spain.

PubMed

2014-12-01

The aim of this study was to design and implement a seroprevalence map based on business intelligence for low pathogenicity notifiable avian influenza (LPNAI) in broilerchickens in Comunidad Valenciana (Spain). The software mapping tool developed for this study consisted of three main phases: data collection, data analysis and data representation. To obtain the serological data, the authors analysed 8,520 serum samples from broiler farms over three years. The data were represented on a map of Comunidad Valenciana, including geographical information of flock locations to facilitate disease monitoring. No clinical signs of LPNAI were reported in the studied flocks. The data from this study showed no evidence of contact with LPNAI in broiler flocks and the novel software mapping tool proved a valuable method for easily monitoring on the serological response to avian influenza information, including geographical information.

Basin boundaries and focal points in a map coming from Bairstow's method.

PubMed

Gardini, Laura; Bischi, Gian-Italo; Fournier-Prunaret, Daniele

1999-06-01

This paper is devoted to the study of the global dynamical properties of a two-dimensional noninvertible map, with a denominator which can vanish, obtained by applying Bairstow's method to a cubic polynomial. It is shown that the complicated structure of the basins of attraction of the fixed points is due to the existence of singularities such as sets of nondefinition, focal points, and prefocal curves, which are specific to maps with a vanishing denominator, and have been recently introduced in the literature. Some global bifurcations that change the qualitative structure of the basin boundaries, are explained in terms of contacts among these singularities. The techniques used in this paper put in evidence some new dynamic behaviors and bifurcations, which are peculiar of maps with denominator; hence they can be applied to the analysis of other classes of maps coming from iterative algorithms (based on Newton's method, or others). (c) 1999 American Institute of Physics.

Photoresponse properties of large area MoS2 metal–semiconductor–metal photodetectors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ko, Tsung-Shine; Huang, Yu-Jen; Lin, Der-Yuh; Lin, Chia-Feng; Hong, Bo-Syun; Chen, Hone-Zern

2018-04-01

In this study, a large-area molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) thin film was obtained by low pressure thermal sulfurization. Raman scattering spectrum shows that the peaks at 374 and 403 cm‑1 are from the MoS2 thin film. XRD result reveals peaks at 33 and 58.5° indicating MoS2(100) and (110) crystal planes. By using gold (Au), silver (Ag), and aluminum (Al) as contact materials on the MoS2 thin film, photoresponsivity results indicate that Ag is a suitable material for obtaining a high responsivity for a high-performance photodetector (PD). Photocurrent mapping measurements also reveal that Ag contacts have the best carrier transport characteristic with carrier diffusion length of 101 µm among these contacts. Furthermore, we investigated metal–semiconductor–metal MoS2 thin film PDs with interdigitated fingers of 300, 400, 500, and 600 µm contact widths, which showed that the large contact widths could produce a high photoresponse for PD application owing to low resistance.

Mapping the articular contact area of the long head of the biceps tendon on the humeral head.

PubMed

Morris, Brent J; Byram, Ian R; Lathrop, Ray A; Dunn, Warren R; Kuhn, John E

2014-01-01

The purpose of this investigation was to calculate the contact surface area of the long head of the biceps (LHB) in neutral position and abduction. We sought to determine whether the LHB articulates with the humeral head in a consistent pattern comparing articular contact area in neutral position and abduction. Eleven fresh frozen matched cadaveric shoulders were analyzed. The path of the biceps tendon on the articular surface of the humeral head and the total articular surface were digitized using a MicronTracker 2 H3-60 three-dimensional optical tracker. Contact surface area was significantly less in abduction than in neutral position (P = 0.002) with a median ratio of 41% (36%, 47.5%). Ratios of contact area in neutral position to full articular surface area were consistent between left and right shoulders (rho = 1, P = 0.017) as were ratios of abduction area to full articular surface area (rho = 0.97, P = 0.005). The articular contact surface area is significantly greater in neutral position than abduction. The ratios of articular contact surface areas to total humeral articular surface areas have a narrow range and are consistent between left and right shoulders of the same cadaver.

Food Labels for Infants under Two

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Visualizing the movement of the contact between vocal folds during vibration by using array-based transmission ultrasonic glottography

PubMed Central

Jing, Bowen; Chigan, Pengju; Ge, Zhengtong; Wu, Liang; Wang, Supin; Wan, Mingxi

2017-01-01

For the purpose of noninvasively visualizing the dynamics of the contact between vibrating vocal fold medial surfaces, an ultrasonic imaging method which is referred to as array-based transmission ultrasonic glottography is proposed. An array of ultrasound transducers is used to detect the ultrasound wave transmitted from one side of the vocal folds to the other side through the small-sized contact between the vocal folds. A passive acoustic mapping method is employed to visualize and locate the contact. The results of the investigation using tissue-mimicking phantoms indicate that it is feasible to use the proposed method to visualize and locate the contact between soft tissues. Furthermore, the proposed method was used for investigating the movement of the contact between the vibrating vocal folds of excised canine larynges. The results indicate that the vertical movement of the contact can be visualized as a vertical movement of a high-intensity stripe in a series of images obtained by using the proposed method. Moreover, a visualization and analysis method, which is referred to as array-based ultrasonic kymography, is presented. The velocity of the vertical movement of the contact, which is estimated from the array-based ultrasonic kymogram, could reach 0.8 m/s during the vocal fold vibration. PMID:28599522

Aeromagnetic Map with Geology of the Los Angeles 30 x 60 Minute Quadrangle, Southern California

USGS Publications Warehouse

Langenheim, V.E.; Hildenbrand, T.G.; Jachens, R.C.; Campbell, R.H.; Yerkes, R.F.

2006-01-01

Introduction: An important objective of geologic mapping is to project surficial structures and stratigraphy into the subsurface. Geophysical data and analysis are useful tools for achieving this objective. This aeromagnetic anomaly map provides a three-dimensional perspective to the geologic mapping of the Los Angeles 30 by 60 minute quadrangle. Aeromagnetic maps show the distribution of magnetic rocks, primarily those containing magnetite (Blakely, 1995). In the Los Angeles quadrangle, the magnetic sources are Tertiary and Mesozoic igneous rocks and Precambrian crystalline rocks. Aeromagnetic anomalies mark abrupt spatial contrasts in magnetization that can be attributed to lithologic boundaries, perhaps caused by faulting of these rocks or by intrusive contacts. This aeromagnetic map overlain on geology, with information from wells and other geophysical data, provides constraints on the subsurface geology by allowing us to trace faults beneath surficial cover and estimate fault dip and offset. This map supersedes Langenheim and Jachens (1997) because of its digital form and the added value of overlaying the magnetic data on a geologic base. The geologic base for this map is from Yerkes and Campbell (2005); some of their subunits have been merged into one on this map.

Characterization of structural and electrostatic complexity in pentacene thin films by scanning probe microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Puntambekar, Kanan Prakash

The advancement of organic electronics for applications in solar energy conversion, printed circuitry, displays, and solid-state lighting depends upon optimization of structure and properties for a variety of organic semiconductor interfaces. Organic semiconductor/insulator (O/I) and organic-metal (O/M) interfaces, in particular, are critical to the operation of organic thin film transistors (OTFTs) currently being developed for printed flexible electronics. Scanning probe microscopy (SPM) is a powerful tool to isolate and characterize the bottlenecks to charge transport at these interfaces. This thesis establishes a direct correlation between the structural disorder and electrical complexity at these interfaces, using various SPM based methods and discusses the implications of such complexity on device performance. To examine the O/M interfaces, surface potentials of operating pentacene TFTs with two different contact geometries (bottom or top) were mapped by Kelvin probe force microscopy (KFM). The surface potential distribution was used to isolate the potential drops at the source and drain contacts. Simultaneously obtained topography and surface potential maps elucidated the correlation between the morphology and contact resistance at the O/M interface; the bottom contact TFTs were observed to be contact limited at large gate voltages, while the top contact TFTs were not contact limited. A direct correlation between structural defects and electric potential variations at the pentacene and silicon dioxide, a common insulator, is demonstrated. Lateral force microscopy (LFM) generates striking images of the polycrystalline microstructure of a monolayer thick pentacene film, allowing clear visualization of the grain boundary network. Further more, surface potential wells localized at the grain boundaries were observed by KFM, suggesting that the grain boundaries may serve as charge carrier (hole) traps. Line dislocations were also revealed in the second monolayer by chemical etching and SPM and produce strong variations in the surface potential that must affect the interfacial charge conductance. Structural disorder at the O/I and O/M interfaces degrades both injection and transport of charge, and therefore needs to be minimized. Thus both visualization and correlation of structural and electrical complexity at these interfaces have important implications for understanding electrical transport in OTFTs and for defining strategies to improve device performance.

The fundamental ribosomal RNA transcription initiation factor-IB (TIF-IB, SL1, factor D) binds to the rRNA core promoter primarily by minor groove contacts.

PubMed

Geiss, G K; Radebaugh, C A; Paule, M R

1997-11-14

Acanthamoeba castellanii transcription initiation factor-IB (TIF-IB) is the TATA-binding protein-containing transcription factor that binds the rRNA promoter to form the committed complex. Minor groove-specific drugs inhibit TIF-IB binding, with higher concentrations needed to disrupt preformed complexes because of drug exclusion by bound TIF-IB. TIF-IB/DNA interactions were mapped by hydroxyl radical and uranyl nitrate footprinting. TIF-IB contacts four minor grooves in its binding site. TIF-IB and DNA wrap around each other in a right-handed superhelix of high pitch, so the upstream and downstream contacts are on opposite faces of the helix. Dimethyl sulfate protection assays revealed limited contact with a few guanines in the major groove. This detailed analysis suggests significant DNA conformation dependence of the interaction.

Processing and interpretation of aeromagnetic data for the Santa Cruz Basin - Patagonia Mountains area, south-central Arizona

USGS Publications Warehouse

Phillips, Jeffrey D.

2002-01-01

In 1997, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) contracted with Sial Geosciences Inc. for a detailed aeromagnetic survey of the Santa Cruz basin and Patagonia Mountains area of south-central Arizona. The contractor's Operational Report is included as an Appendix in this report. This section describes the data processing performed by the USGS on the digital aeromagnetic data received from the contractor. This processing was required in order to remove flight line noise, estimate the depths to the magnetic sources, and estimate the locations of the magnetic contacts. Three methods were used for estimating source depths and contact locations: the horizontal gradient method, the analytic signal method, and the local wavenumber method. The depth estimates resulting from each method are compared, and the contact locations are combined into an interpretative map showing the dip direction for some contacts.

Label free imaging of cell-substrate contacts by holographic total internal reflection microscopy.

PubMed

Mandracchia, Biagio; Gennari, Oriella; Marchesano, Valentina; Paturzo, Melania; Ferraro, Pietro

2017-09-01

The study of cell adhesion contacts is pivotal to understand cell mechanics and interaction at substrates or chemical and physical stimuli. We designed and built a HoloTIR microscope for label-free quantitative phase imaging of total internal reflection. Here we show for the first time that HoloTIR is a good choice for label-free study of focal contacts and of cell/substrate interaction as its sensitivity is enhanced in comparison with standard TIR microscopy. Finally, the simplicity of implementation and relative low cost, due to the requirement of less optical components, make HoloTIR a reasonable alternative, or even an addition, to TIRF microscopy for mapping cell/substratum topography. As a proof of concept, we studied the formation of focal contacts of fibroblasts on three substrates with different levels of affinity for cell adhesion. © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Digital Geologic Map of the Nevada Test Site and Vicinity, Nye, Lincoln, and Clark Counties, Nevada, and Inyo County, California

USGS Publications Warehouse

Slate, Janet L.; Berry, Margaret E.; Rowley, Peter D.; Fridrich, Christopher J.; Morgan, Karen S.; Workman, Jeremiah B.; Young, Owen D.; Dixon, Gary L.; Williams, Van S.; McKee, Edwin H.; Ponce, David A.; Hildenbrand, Thomas G.; Swadley, W.C.; Lundstrom, Scott C.; Ekren, E. Bartlett; Warren, Richard G.; Cole, James C.; Fleck, Robert J.; Lanphere, Marvin A.; Sawyer, David A.; Minor, Scott A.; Grunwald, Daniel J.; Laczniak, Randell J.; Menges, Christopher M.; Yount, James C.; Jayko, Angela S.

1999-01-01

This digital geologic map of the Nevada Test Site (NTS) and vicinity, as well as its accompanying digital geophysical maps, are compiled at 1:100,000 scale. The map compilation presents new polygon (geologic map unit contacts), line (fault, fold axis, metamorphic isograd, dike, and caldera wall) and point (structural attitude) vector data for the NTS and vicinity, Nye, Lincoln, and Clark Counties, Nevada, and Inyo County, California. The map area covers two 30 x 60-minute quadrangles-the Pahute Mesa quadrangle to the north and the Beatty quadrangle to the south-plus a strip of 7.5-minute quadrangles on the east side-72 quadrangles in all. In addition to the NTS, the map area includes the rest of the southwest Nevada volcanic field, part of the Walker Lane, most of the Amargosa Desert, part of the Funeral and Grapevine Mountains, some of Death Valley, and the northern Spring Mountains. This geologic map improves on previous geologic mapping of the same area (Wahl and others, 1997) by providing new and updated Quaternary and bedrock geology, new geophysical interpretations of faults beneath the basins, and improved GIS coverages. Concurrent publications to this one include a new isostatic gravity map (Ponce and others, 1999) and a new aeromagnetic map (Ponce, 1999).

Geologic Map of the Carlton Quadrangle, Yamhill County, Oregon

USGS Publications Warehouse

Wheeler, Karen L.; Wells, Ray E.; Minervini, Joseph M.; Block, Jessica L.

2009-01-01

The Carlton, Oregon, 7.5-minute quadrangle is located in northwestern Oregon, about 35 miles (57 km) southwest of Portland. It encompasses the towns of Yamhill and Carlton in the northwestern Willamette Valley and extends into the eastern flank of the Oregon Coast Range. The Carlton quadrangle is one of several dozen quadrangles being mapped by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) to provide a framework for earthquake- hazard assessments in the greater Portland, Oregon, metropolitan area. The focus of USGS mapping is on the structural setting of the northern Willamette Valley and its relation to the Coast Range uplift. Mapping was done in collaboration with soil scientists from the National Resource Conservation Service, and the distribution of geologic units is refined over earlier regional mapping (Schlicker and Deacon, 1967). Geologic mapping was done on 7.5-minute topographic base maps and digitized in ArcGIS to produce ArcGIS geodatabases and PDFs of the map and text. The geologic contacts are based on numerous observations and samples collected in 2002 and 2003, National Resource Conservation Service soils maps, and interpretations of 7.5-minute topography. The map was completed before new, high-resolution laser terrain mapping was flown for parts of the northern Willamette Valley in 2008.

Droplets act as compass needles for the tension in a membrane

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schulman, Rafael; Ledesma-Alonso, Rene; Salez, Thomas; Raphael, Elie; Dalnoki-Veress, Kari

We present experiments which study droplets atop thin elastomeric films with anisotropic tension. Surprisingly, we find that the droplets are not spherical caps and become elongated along the axis of highest tension. As such, liquid droplets create a map for the principal stress directions in a film. In our experiments, we completely determine the contact line geometry using a combination of contact angle measurements and optical profilometry. In addition, we measure an out-of-plane deformation of the film surrounding the droplet. Simple theoretical arguments successfully capture the experimental findings.

Airborne gamma-ray spectrometer and magnetometer survey, Seattle quadrangle (Washington). Final report

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

Not Available

1981-01-01

One uranium anomaly meets the minimum statistical requirements as defined. This anomaly is over the potassium (%K) contact area between undifferentiated Tertiary rocks and Pleistocene glacial deposits. Equivalent uranium (ppM eU), equivalent thorium (ppM eT), eU/eT, eU/eK, eT,K, and magnetic pseudo-contour maps are presented in Appendix E. Stacked profiles showing geologic strip maps along each flight-line, together with sensor data, and ancillary data are presented in Appendix F. All maps and profiles were prepared on a scale of 1:250,000, but have been reduced to 1:500,000 for presentation in this report.

Geologic map of the Seldovia quadrangle, south-central Alaska

USGS Publications Warehouse

Bradley, Dwight C.; Kusky, Timothy M.; Haeussler, Peter J.; Karl, Susan M.; Donley, D. Thomas

1999-01-01

This is a 1:250,000-scale map of the bedrock geology of the Seldovia quadrangle, south-central Alaska. The map area covers the southwestern end of the Kenai Peninsula, including the Kenai Lowlands and Kenai Mountains, on either side of Kachemak Bay. The waters of Cook Inlet cover roughly half of the map area, and a part of the Alaska Peninsula near Iliamna Volcano lies in the extreme northwest corner of the map. The bedrock geology is based on new reconnaissance field work by the U.S. Geological Survey during parts of the 1988-1993 field seasons, and on previous mapping from a number of sources. The new mapping focused on the previously little-known Chugach accretionary complex in the Kenai Mountains. Important new findings include the recognition of mappable subdivisions of the McHugh Complex (a subduction melange of mostly Mesozoic protoliths), more accurate placement of the thrust contact between the McHugh Complex and Valdez Group (Upper Cretaceous trench turbidites), and the recognition of several new near-trench plutons of early Tertiary age.

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Nonsmooth modal analysis of a N-degree-of-freedom system undergoing a purely elastic impact law

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Legrand, Mathias; Junca, Stéphane; Heng, Sokly

2017-04-01

The dynamics of a N-degree-of-freedom autonomous oscillator undergoing an energy-preserving impact law on one of its masses is investigated in the light of nonlinear modal analysis. The impacted rigid foundation provides a natural Poincaré section of the investigated system from which is formulated a smooth First Return Map well-defined away from the grazing trajectory. In order to focus on the impact-induced nonlinearity, the oscillator is assumed linear. Continuous one-parameter families of T-periodic orbits featuring one impact per period and lying on two-dimensional invariant manifolds in the state-space are shown to exist. The geometry of these piecewise-smooth manifolds is such that a linear "flat" portion (on which contact is not activated) is continuously attached to a purely nonlinear portion (on which contact is activated once per period) exhibiting a velocity discontinuity through a grazing orbit. These features explain the newly introduced terminology "Nonsmooth modal analysis". The stability of the periodic orbits lying on the invariant manifolds is also explored by calculating the eigenvalues of the linearized First Return Map. Internal resonances and multiple impacts per period are not addressed in this work. However, the pre-stressed case is succinctly described and extensions to multiple oscillators as well as self-contact are discussed.

Enumeration of Extended m-Regular Linear Stacks.

PubMed

Guo, Qiang-Hui; Sun, Lisa H; Wang, Jian

2016-12-01

The contact map of a protein fold in the two-dimensional (2D) square lattice has arc length at least 3, and each internal vertex has degree at most 2, whereas the two terminal vertices have degree at most 3. Recently, Chen, Guo, Sun, and Wang studied the enumeration of [Formula: see text]-regular linear stacks, where each arc has length at least [Formula: see text] and the degree of each vertex is bounded by 2. Since the two terminal points in a protein fold in the 2D square lattice may form contacts with at most three adjacent lattice points, we are led to the study of extended [Formula: see text]-regular linear stacks, in which the degree of each terminal point is bounded by 3. This model is closed to real protein contact maps. Denote the generating functions of the [Formula: see text]-regular linear stacks and the extended [Formula: see text]-regular linear stacks by [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], respectively. We show that [Formula: see text] can be written as a rational function of [Formula: see text]. For a certain [Formula: see text], by eliminating [Formula: see text], we obtain an equation satisfied by [Formula: see text] and derive the asymptotic formula of the numbers of [Formula: see text]-regular linear stacks of length [Formula: see text].

Examinations of tRNA Range of Motion Using Simulations of Cryo-EM Microscopy and X-Ray Data.

PubMed

Caulfield, Thomas R; Devkota, Batsal; Rollins, Geoffrey C

2011-01-01

We examined tRNA flexibility using a combination of steered and unbiased molecular dynamics simulations. Using Maxwell's demon algorithm, molecular dynamics was used to steer X-ray structure data toward that from an alternative state obtained from cryogenic-electron microscopy density maps. Thus, we were able to fit X-ray structures of tRNA onto cryogenic-electron microscopy density maps for hybrid states of tRNA. Additionally, we employed both Maxwell's demon molecular dynamics simulations and unbiased simulation methods to identify possible ribosome-tRNA contact areas where the ribosome may discriminate tRNAs during translation. Herein, we collected >500 ns of simulation data to assess the global range of motion for tRNAs. Biased simulations can be used to steer between known conformational stop points, while unbiased simulations allow for a general testing of conformational space previously unexplored. The unbiased molecular dynamics data describes the global conformational changes of tRNA on a sub-microsecond time scale for comparison with steered data. Additionally, the unbiased molecular dynamics data was used to identify putative contacts between tRNA and the ribosome during the accommodation step of translation. We found that the primary contact regions were H71 and H92 of the 50S subunit and ribosomal proteins L14 and L16.

Chemical analyses (raw laboratory data) and locality index maps of the Confederate Gulch area, Broadwater and Meagher Counties, Montana

USGS Publications Warehouse

,

1975-01-01

Analysis of the side looking airborn radar imagery of Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island indicates that radar shows the topography in great detail. Since bedrock geologic features are frequently expressed in the topography the radar lends itself to geologic interpretation. The radar was studied by comparisons with field mapped geologic data first at a scale of approximately 1:125,000 and then at a scale of 1:500,000. The larger scale comparison revealed that faults, minor faults, joint sets, bedding and foliation attitudes, lithology and lithologic contacts all have a topographic expression interpretable on the imagery. Surficial geologic features were far less visible on the imagery over most of the area studied. The smaller scale comparisons revealed a pervasive, near orthogonal fracture set cutting all types and ages of rock and trending roughly N40?E and N30?W. In certain places the strike of bedding and foliation attitudes and some lithologic Contacts were visible in addition to the fractures. Fracturing in southern New England is apparently far more important than has been previously recognized. This new information, together with the visibility of many bedding and foliation attitudes and lithologic contacts, indicates the importance of radar imagery in improving the geologic interpretation of an area.

Doping profile measurements in silicon using terahertz time domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS) via electrochemical anodic oxidation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tulsyan, Gaurav

Doping profiles are engineered to manipulate device properties and to determine electrical performances of microelectronic devices frequently. To support engineering studies afterward, essential information is usually required from physically characterized doping profiles. Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (SIMS), Spreading Resistance Profiling (SRP) and Electrochemical Capacitance Voltage (ECV) profiling are standard techniques for now to map profile. SIMS yields a chemical doping profile via ion sputtering process and owns a better resolution, whereas ECV and SRP produce an electrical doping profile detecting free carriers in microelectronic devices. The major difference between electrical and chemical doping profiles is at heavily doped regions greater than 1020 atoms/cm3. At the profile region over the solubility limit, inactive dopants induce a flat plateau and detected by electrical measurements only. Destructive techniques are usually designed as stand-alone systems to study impurities. For an in-situ process control purpose, non-contact methods, such as ellipsometry and non-contact capacitance voltage (CV) techniques are current under development. In this theses work, terahertz time domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS) is utilized to achieve electrical doping profile in both destructive and non-contact manners. In recent years the Terahertz group at Rochester Institute Technology developed several techniques that use terahertz pulses to non-destructively map doping profiles. In this thesis, we study a destructive but potentially higher resolution version of the terahertz based approach to map the profile of activated dopants and augment the non-destructive approaches already developed. The basic idea of the profile mapping approach developed in this MS thesis is to anodize, and thus oxidize to silicon dioxide, thin layers (down to below 10 nm) of the wafer with the doping profile to be mapped. Since the dopants atoms and any free carriers in the silicon oxide thin film are invisible to the terahertz probe this anodization step very effectively removes a 'thin slice' from the doping profile to be mapped. By iterating between anodization and terahertz measurements that detect only the 'remaining' non-oxidized portion of the doping profile one can re-construct the doping profile with significantly higher precision compared to what is possible by only a single non-destructive measurement of the un-anodized profile as used in the non-destructive version of our technique. In this MS thesis we explore all aspects of this anodization based variation of doping profile mapping using free space terahertz pulses. This includes a study of silicon dioxide thin film growth using a room temperature electrochemical oxidation process. Etching procedures providing the option to remove between successive anodization and terahertz measurement steps. THz-TDS measurements of successively anodized profiles will be compared with sheet resistance and SIMS measurements to benchmark and improve the new technique.

Genome-wide mapping in a house mouse hybrid zone reveals hybrid sterility loci and Dobzhansky-Muller interactions.

PubMed

Turner, Leslie M; Harr, Bettina

2014-12-09

Mapping hybrid defects in contact zones between incipient species can identify genomic regions contributing to reproductive isolation and reveal genetic mechanisms of speciation. The house mouse features a rare combination of sophisticated genetic tools and natural hybrid zones between subspecies. Male hybrids often show reduced fertility, a common reproductive barrier between incipient species. Laboratory crosses have identified sterility loci, but each encompasses hundreds of genes. We map genetic determinants of testis weight and testis gene expression using offspring of mice captured in a hybrid zone between M. musculus musculus and M. m. domesticus. Many generations of admixture enables high-resolution mapping of loci contributing to these sterility-related phenotypes. We identify complex interactions among sterility loci, suggesting multiple, non-independent genetic incompatibilities contribute to barriers to gene flow in the hybrid zone.

Interdigitated back contact solar cells with polycrystalline silicon on oxide passivating contacts for both polarities

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Haase, Felix; Kiefer, Fabian; Schäfer, Sören; Kruse, Christian; Krügener, Jan; Brendel, Rolf; Peibst, Robby

2017-08-01

We demonstrate an independently confirmed 25.0%-efficient interdigitated back contact silicon solar cell with passivating polycrystalline silicon (poly-Si) on oxide (POLO) contacts that enable a high open circuit voltage of 723 mV. We use n-type POLO contacts with a measured saturation current density of J 0n = 4 fA cm-2 and p-type POLO contacts with J 0p = 10 fA cm-2. The textured front side and the gaps between the POLO contacts on the rear are passivated by aluminum oxide (AlO x ) with J 0AlO x = 6 fA cm-2 as measured after deposition. We analyze the recombination characteristics of our solar cells at different process steps using spatially resolved injection-dependent carrier lifetimes measured by infrared lifetime mapping. The implied pseudo-efficiency of the unmasked cell, i.e., cell and perimeter region are illuminated during measurement, is 26.2% before contact opening, 26.0% after contact opening and 25.7% for the finished cell. This reduction is due to an increase in the saturation current density of the AlO x passivation during chemical etching of the contact openings and of the rear side metallization. The difference between the implied pseudo-efficiency and the actual efficiency of 25.0% as determined by designated-area light current-voltage (I-V) measurements is due to series resistance and diffusion of excess carriers into the non-illuminated perimeter region.

Geologic map of the Zarkashan-Anguri copper and gold deposits, Ghazni Province, Afghanistan, modified from the 1968 original map compilation of E.P. Meshcheryakov and V.P. Sayapin

USGS Publications Warehouse

Peters, Stephen G.; Stettner, Will R.; Masonic, Linda M.; Moran, Thomas W.

2011-01-01

This map is a modified version of Geological map of the area of Zarkashan-Anguri gold deposits, scale 1:50,000, which was compiled by E.P. Meshcheryakov and V.P. Sayapin in 1968. Scientists from the U.S. Geological Survey, in cooperation with the Afghan Geological Survey and the Task Force for Business and Stability Operations of the U.S. Department of Defense, studied the original document and related reports and also visited the field area in April 2010. This modified map, which includes a cross section, illustrates the geologic setting of the Zarkashan-Anguri copper and gold deposits. The map reproduces the topology (contacts, faults, and so forth) of the original Soviet map and cross section and includes modifications based on our examination of that and other documents, and based on observations made and sampling undertaken during our field visit. (Refer to the Introduction and the References in the Map PDF for an explanation of our methodology and for complete citations of the original map and related reports.) Elevations on the cross section are derived from the original Soviet topography and may not match the newer topography used on the current map.

Accurate De Novo Prediction of Protein Contact Map by Ultra-Deep Learning Model.

PubMed

Wang, Sheng; Sun, Siqi; Li, Zhen; Zhang, Renyu; Xu, Jinbo

2017-01-01

Protein contacts contain key information for the understanding of protein structure and function and thus, contact prediction from sequence is an important problem. Recently exciting progress has been made on this problem, but the predicted contacts for proteins without many sequence homologs is still of low quality and not very useful for de novo structure prediction. This paper presents a new deep learning method that predicts contacts by integrating both evolutionary coupling (EC) and sequence conservation information through an ultra-deep neural network formed by two deep residual neural networks. The first residual network conducts a series of 1-dimensional convolutional transformation of sequential features; the second residual network conducts a series of 2-dimensional convolutional transformation of pairwise information including output of the first residual network, EC information and pairwise potential. By using very deep residual networks, we can accurately model contact occurrence patterns and complex sequence-structure relationship and thus, obtain higher-quality contact prediction regardless of how many sequence homologs are available for proteins in question. Our method greatly outperforms existing methods and leads to much more accurate contact-assisted folding. Tested on 105 CASP11 targets, 76 past CAMEO hard targets, and 398 membrane proteins, the average top L long-range prediction accuracy obtained by our method, one representative EC method CCMpred and the CASP11 winner MetaPSICOV is 0.47, 0.21 and 0.30, respectively; the average top L/10 long-range accuracy of our method, CCMpred and MetaPSICOV is 0.77, 0.47 and 0.59, respectively. Ab initio folding using our predicted contacts as restraints but without any force fields can yield correct folds (i.e., TMscore>0.6) for 203 of the 579 test proteins, while that using MetaPSICOV- and CCMpred-predicted contacts can do so for only 79 and 62 of them, respectively. Our contact-assisted models also have much better quality than template-based models especially for membrane proteins. The 3D models built from our contact prediction have TMscore>0.5 for 208 of the 398 membrane proteins, while those from homology modeling have TMscore>0.5 for only 10 of them. Further, even if trained mostly by soluble proteins, our deep learning method works very well on membrane proteins. In the recent blind CAMEO benchmark, our fully-automated web server implementing this method successfully folded 6 targets with a new fold and only 0.3L-2.3L effective sequence homologs, including one β protein of 182 residues, one α+β protein of 125 residues, one α protein of 140 residues, one α protein of 217 residues, one α/β of 260 residues and one α protein of 462 residues. Our method also achieved the highest F1 score on free-modeling targets in the latest CASP (Critical Assessment of Structure Prediction), although it was not fully implemented back then. http://raptorx.uchicago.edu/ContactMap/.

Accurate De Novo Prediction of Protein Contact Map by Ultra-Deep Learning Model

PubMed Central

Li, Zhen; Zhang, Renyu

2017-01-01

Motivation Protein contacts contain key information for the understanding of protein structure and function and thus, contact prediction from sequence is an important problem. Recently exciting progress has been made on this problem, but the predicted contacts for proteins without many sequence homologs is still of low quality and not very useful for de novo structure prediction. Method This paper presents a new deep learning method that predicts contacts by integrating both evolutionary coupling (EC) and sequence conservation information through an ultra-deep neural network formed by two deep residual neural networks. The first residual network conducts a series of 1-dimensional convolutional transformation of sequential features; the second residual network conducts a series of 2-dimensional convolutional transformation of pairwise information including output of the first residual network, EC information and pairwise potential. By using very deep residual networks, we can accurately model contact occurrence patterns and complex sequence-structure relationship and thus, obtain higher-quality contact prediction regardless of how many sequence homologs are available for proteins in question. Results Our method greatly outperforms existing methods and leads to much more accurate contact-assisted folding. Tested on 105 CASP11 targets, 76 past CAMEO hard targets, and 398 membrane proteins, the average top L long-range prediction accuracy obtained by our method, one representative EC method CCMpred and the CASP11 winner MetaPSICOV is 0.47, 0.21 and 0.30, respectively; the average top L/10 long-range accuracy of our method, CCMpred and MetaPSICOV is 0.77, 0.47 and 0.59, respectively. Ab initio folding using our predicted contacts as restraints but without any force fields can yield correct folds (i.e., TMscore>0.6) for 203 of the 579 test proteins, while that using MetaPSICOV- and CCMpred-predicted contacts can do so for only 79 and 62 of them, respectively. Our contact-assisted models also have much better quality than template-based models especially for membrane proteins. The 3D models built from our contact prediction have TMscore>0.5 for 208 of the 398 membrane proteins, while those from homology modeling have TMscore>0.5 for only 10 of them. Further, even if trained mostly by soluble proteins, our deep learning method works very well on membrane proteins. In the recent blind CAMEO benchmark, our fully-automated web server implementing this method successfully folded 6 targets with a new fold and only 0.3L-2.3L effective sequence homologs, including one β protein of 182 residues, one α+β protein of 125 residues, one α protein of 140 residues, one α protein of 217 residues, one α/β of 260 residues and one α protein of 462 residues. Our method also achieved the highest F1 score on free-modeling targets in the latest CASP (Critical Assessment of Structure Prediction), although it was not fully implemented back then. Availability http://raptorx.uchicago.edu/ContactMap/ PMID:28056090

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Evaluation of Lunar Dark Mantle Deposits as Key to Future Human Missions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Coombs, Cassandra

1997-01-01

I proposed to continue detailed mapping, analysis and assessment of the lunar pyroclastic dark mantle deposits in support of the Human Exploration and Development of Space (HEDS) initiative. Specifically: (1) I continued gathering data via the Internet and mailable media, and a variety of other digital lunar images including; high resolution digital images of the new Apollo masters from JSC, images from Clementine and Galileo, and recent telescopic images from Hawaii; (2) continued analyses on these images using sophisticated hardware and software at JSC and the College of Charleston to determine and map composition using returned sample data for calibration; (3) worked closely with Dr. David McKay and others at JSC to relate sample data to image data using laboratory spectra from JSC and Brown University; (4) mapped the extent, thickness, and composition of important dark mantle deposits in selected study areas; and (5) began composing a geographically referenced database of lunar pyroclastic materials in the Apollo 17 area. The results have been used to identify and evaluate several candidate landing sites in dark mantle terrains. Additional work spawned from this effort includes the development of an educational CD-Rom on exploring the Moon: Contact Light. Throughout the whole process I have been in contact with the JSC HEDS personnel.

Quantitative Mapping of Pore Fraction Variations in Silicon Nitride Using an Ultrasonic Contact Scan Technique

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Roth, Don J.; Kiser, James D.; Swickard, Suzanne M.; Szatmary, Steven A.; Kerwin, David P.

1993-01-01

An ultrasonic scan procedure using the pulse-echo contact configuration was employed to obtain maps of pore fraction variations in sintered silicon nitride samples in terms of ultrasonic material properties. Ultrasonic velocity, attenuation coefficient, and reflection coefficient images were obtained simultaneously over a broad band of frequencies (e.g., 30 to 110 MHz) by using spectroscopic analysis. Liquid and membrane (dry) coupling techniques and longitudinal and shear-wave energies were used. The major results include the following: Ultrasonic velocity (longitudinal and shear wave) images revealed and correlated with the extent of average through-thickness pore fraction variations in the silicon nitride disks. Attenuation coefficient images revealed pore fraction nonuniformity due to the scattering that occurred at boundaries between regions of high and low pore fraction. Velocity and attenuation coefficient images were each nearly identical for machined and polished disks, making the method readily applicable to machined materials. Velocity images were similar for wet and membrane coupling. Maps of apparent Poisson's ratio constructed from longitudinal and shear-wave velocities quantified Poisson's ratio variations across a silicon nitride disk. Thermal wave images of a disk indicated transient thermal behavior variations that correlated with observed variations in pore fraction and velocity and attenuation coefficients.

Quaternary Geologic Map of the Regina 4 Degrees x 6 Degrees Quadrangle, United States and Canada

USGS Publications Warehouse

Fullerton, David S.; Christiansen, Earl A.; Schreiner, Bryan T.; Colton, Roger B.; Clayton, Lee; Bush, Charles A.; Fullerton, David S.

2007-01-01

For scientific purposes, the map differentiates Quaternary surficial deposits and materials on the basis of clast lithology or composition, matrix texture or particle size, structure, genesis, stratigraphic relations, engineering geologic properties, and relative age, as shown on the correlation diagram and indicated in the 'Description of Map Units'. Deposits of some constructional landforms, such as end moraines, are distinguished as map units. Deposits of erosional landforms, such as outwash terraces, are not distinguished, although glaciofluvial, ice-contact, fluvial, and lacustrine deposits that are mapped may be terraced. Differentiation of sequences of fluvial and glaciofluvial deposits at this scale is not possible. For practical purposes, the map is a surficial materials map. Materials are distinguished on the basis of lithology or composition, texture or particle size, and other physical, chemical, and engineering characteristics. It is not a map of soils that are recognized and classified in pedology or agronomy. Rather, it is a generalized map of soils as recognized in engineering geology, or of substrata or parent materials in which pedologic or agronomic soils are formed. As a materials map, it serves as a base from which a variety of maps for use in planning engineering, land-use planning, or land-management projects can be derived and from which a variety of maps relating to earth surface processes and Quaternary geologic history can be derived.

Non-contact assessment of melanin distribution via multispectral temporal illumination coding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Amelard, Robert; Scharfenberger, Christian; Wong, Alexander; Clausi, David A.

2015-03-01

Melanin is a pigment that is highly absorptive in the UV and visible electromagnetic spectra. It is responsible for perceived skin tone, and protects against harmful UV effects. Abnormal melanin distribution is often an indicator for melanoma. We propose a novel approach for non-contact melanin distribution via multispectral temporal illumination coding to estimate the two-dimensional melanin distribution based on its absorptive characteristics. In the proposed system, a novel multispectral, cross-polarized, temporally-coded illumination sequence is synchronized with a camera to measure reflectance under both multispectral and ambient illumination. This allows us to eliminate the ambient illumination contribution from the acquired reflectance measurements, and also to determine the melanin distribution in an observed region based on the spectral properties of melanin using the Beer-Lambert law. Using this information, melanin distribution maps can be generated for objective, quantitative assessment of skin type of individuals. We show that the melanin distribution map correctly identifies areas with high melanin densities (e.g., nevi).

MDcons: Intermolecular contact maps as a tool to analyze the interface of protein complexes from molecular dynamics trajectories

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations of protein complexes suffer from the lack of specific tools in the analysis step. Analyses of MD trajectories of protein complexes indeed generally rely on classical measures, such as the RMSD, RMSF and gyration radius, conceived and developed for single macromolecules. As a matter of fact, instead, researchers engaged in simulating the dynamics of a protein complex are mainly interested in characterizing the conservation/variation of its biological interface. Results On these bases, herein we propose a novel approach to the analysis of MD trajectories or other conformational ensembles of protein complexes, MDcons, which uses the conservation of inter-residue contacts at the interface as a measure of the similarity between different snapshots. A "consensus contact map" is also provided, where the conservation of the different contacts is drawn in a grey scale. Finally, the interface area of the complex is monitored during the simulations. To show its utility, we used this novel approach to study two protein-protein complexes with interfaces of comparable size and both dominated by hydrophilic interactions, but having binding affinities at the extremes of the experimental range. MDcons is demonstrated to be extremely useful to analyse the MD trajectories of the investigated complexes, adding important insight into the dynamic behavior of their biological interface. Conclusions MDcons specifically allows the user to highlight and characterize the dynamics of the interface in protein complexes and can thus be used as a complementary tool for the analysis of MD simulations of both experimental and predicted structures of protein complexes. PMID:25077693

MDcons: Intermolecular contact maps as a tool to analyze the interface of protein complexes from molecular dynamics trajectories.

PubMed

Abdel-Azeim, Safwat; Chermak, Edrisse; Vangone, Anna; Oliva, Romina; Cavallo, Luigi

2014-01-01

Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations of protein complexes suffer from the lack of specific tools in the analysis step. Analyses of MD trajectories of protein complexes indeed generally rely on classical measures, such as the RMSD, RMSF and gyration radius, conceived and developed for single macromolecules. As a matter of fact, instead, researchers engaged in simulating the dynamics of a protein complex are mainly interested in characterizing the conservation/variation of its biological interface. On these bases, herein we propose a novel approach to the analysis of MD trajectories or other conformational ensembles of protein complexes, MDcons, which uses the conservation of inter-residue contacts at the interface as a measure of the similarity between different snapshots. A "consensus contact map" is also provided, where the conservation of the different contacts is drawn in a grey scale. Finally, the interface area of the complex is monitored during the simulations. To show its utility, we used this novel approach to study two protein-protein complexes with interfaces of comparable size and both dominated by hydrophilic interactions, but having binding affinities at the extremes of the experimental range. MDcons is demonstrated to be extremely useful to analyse the MD trajectories of the investigated complexes, adding important insight into the dynamic behavior of their biological interface. MDcons specifically allows the user to highlight and characterize the dynamics of the interface in protein complexes and can thus be used as a complementary tool for the analysis of MD simulations of both experimental and predicted structures of protein complexes.

EpiContactTrace: an R-package for contact tracing during livestock disease outbreaks and for risk-based surveillance.

PubMed

Nöremark, Maria; Widgren, Stefan

2014-03-17

During outbreak of livestock diseases, contact tracing can be an important part of disease control. Animal movements can also be of relevance for risk-based surveillance and sampling, i.e. both when assessing consequences of introduction or likelihood of introduction. In many countries, animal movement data are collected with one of the major objectives to enable contact tracing. However, often an analytical step is needed to retrieve appropriate information for contact tracing or surveillance. In this study, an open source tool was developed to structure livestock movement data to facilitate contact-tracing in real time during disease outbreaks and for input in risk-based surveillance and sampling. The tool, EpiContactTrace, was written in the R-language and uses the network parameters in-degree, out-degree, ingoing contact chain and outgoing contact chain (also called infection chain), which are relevant for forward and backward tracing respectively. The time-frames for backward and forward tracing can be specified independently and search can be done on one farm at a time or for all farms within the dataset. Different outputs are available; datasets with network measures, contacts visualised in a map and automatically generated reports for each farm either in HTML or PDF-format intended for the end-users, i.e. the veterinary authorities, regional disease control officers and field-veterinarians. EpiContactTrace is available as an R-package at the R-project website (http://cran.r-project.org/web/packages/EpiContactTrace/). We believe this tool can help in disease control since it rapidly can structure essential contact information from large datasets. The reproducible reports make this tool robust and independent of manual compilation of data. The open source makes it accessible and easily adaptable for different needs.

Analysis of Eocene depositional environments - Preliminary TM and TIMS results, Wind River Basin, Wyoming

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stucky, Richard K.; Krishtalka, Leonard; Redline, Andrew D.; Lang, Harold R.

1987-01-01

Both Landsat TM and aircraft Thermal IR Multispectral Scanner (TIMS) data have been used to map the lithofacies of the Wind River Basin's Eocene physical and biological environments. Preliminary analyses of these data have furnished maps of a fault contact boundary and a complex network of fluvial ribbon channel sandstones. The synoptic view thereby emerging for Eocene fluvial facies clarifies the relationships of ribbon channel sandstones to fossil-bearing overbank/floodplain facies and certain peleosols. The utility of TM and TIMS data is thereby demonstrated.

Comparative visualization of genetic and physical maps with Strudel

PubMed Central

Bayer, Micha; Milne, Iain; Stephen, Gordon; Shaw, Paul; Cardle, Linda; Wright, Frank; Marshall, David

2011-01-01

Summary: Data visualization can play a key role in comparative genomics, for example, underpinning the investigation of conserved synteny patterns. Strudel is a desktop application that allows users to easily compare both genetic and physical maps interactively and efficiently. It can handle large datasets from several genomes simultaneously, and allows all-by-all comparisons between these. Availability and implementation: Installers for Strudel are available for Windows, Linux, Solaris and Mac OS X at http://bioinf.scri.ac.uk/strudel/. Contact: strudel@scri.ac.uk; micha.bayer@scri.ac.uk PMID:21372085

Hamdah ancient gold mines, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

USGS Publications Warehouse

Bosch, Paul S.; Jannadi, Eyad; Helaby, A.M.; Johnson, P.R.; Bookstrom, A.A.; Bazzari, M.A.

1990-01-01

It is recommended that the thickness of the dumps be more accurately determined, and that the gold leachability of bulk dump material be tested. Shallow reverse-circulation drilling is recommended on 25-m centers in the northeast quadrant, and diamond drilling is recommended elsewhere at the prospect. Geophysical surveys are required to help establish depths to the serpentinite/schist contact on the northeastern, southern, and western margins of the prospect. Detailed mapping should be undertaken at the prospect, and a mineral-belt type of mapping program should be completed over the larger Hamdah region.

Structure and kinematics of a major tectonic contact, Michipicoten greenstone belt, Ontario

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mcgill, George E.

1992-01-01

The Michipicoten greenstone belt, Ontario, experienced a complex history of folding, faulting, and fabric development. Near Wawa, a major east-west contact, here named the Steep Hill Falls (SHF) contact, extends entirely across the belt. The SHF contact is both an angular unconformity and a fault and is interpreted to be a regionally significant tectonic contact separating distinct northern and southern terranes, both of which include volcanic rocks of probable island-arc origin. The amount of horizontal transport involved in bringing the two terranes together along the SHF contact is not known. Mapping and structural analysis suggest that regionally significant horizontal displacements took place, with movement vectors that changed with time. Early faults, folds, and fabrics imply north-south to northeast-southwest (with respect to present directions) convergence, with a vergence reversal occurring during this complex event. The most likely models infer early south vergence and later north vergence. Transecting the earliest structures are younger (but still Archean) northeast-striking steep cleavages with associated upright folds that may relate to northwest-southeast assembly of the Superior Province craton. The craton assembly event thus involved a transport direction at a high angle to that inferred for the earlier assembly of the Michipicoten greenstone belt.

Subthalamus stimulation in Parkinson disease: Accounting for the bilaterality of contacts.

PubMed

Lemaire, Jean-Jacques; Pereira, Bruno; Derost, Philippe; Vassal, François; Ulla, Miguel; Morand, Dominique; Coll, Guillaume; Gabrillargues, Jean; Marques, Ana; Debilly, Bérangère; Coste, Jérôme; Durif, Franck

2016-01-01

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) in Parkinson's disease uses bi-hemispheric high-frequency stimulation within the subthalamus, however, the specific impacts of bilaterality of DBS are still not clear. Thus, we aimed to study the individual-level clinical impact of locations of right-left contact pair-up accounting for each subthalamic nucleus (STN) anatomy. Contact locations and effects at 1 year were studied retrospectively in an unselected series of 53 patients operated between 2004 and 2010. Location of contacts was defined relatively to the main axis of STN used to map longitudinal and transversal positions, and STN membership (out meaning out-of-STN). Contact pairings were described via three methods: (i) Unified contact location (UCL) collapsing DBS into an all-in-one contact; (ii) balance of contact pair-up (BCPU), defined as symmetric or asymmetric regardless of laterality; (iii) hemisphere-wise most frequent contact pair-up (MFCP) regardless of BCPU. Clinical data were: mean levodopa equivalent dose, Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) motor score III without medication, UPDRS II and III speech sub-scores, UPDRS II freezing sub-score, 1 year versus preoperative values, with and without levodopa. Ad-hoc two-sided tests were used for statistical analysis. Worsening speech, was more frequent for UCL_out patients and when the left MFCP contact was rear and/or superolateral, however, it less frequent for BCPU-asymmetric patients. Worsening freezing was more frequent when the right MFCP contact was rear and superolateral. These results point to strategies for minimizing dysarthria and freezing as adverse effects of DBS.

Subthalamus stimulation in Parkinson disease: Accounting for the bilaterality of contacts

PubMed Central

Lemaire, Jean-Jacques; Pereira, Bruno; Derost, Philippe; Vassal, François; Ulla, Miguel; Morand, Dominique; Coll, Guillaume; Gabrillargues, Jean; Marques, Ana; Debilly, Bérangère; Coste, Jérôme; Durif, Franck

2016-01-01

Background: Deep brain stimulation (DBS) in Parkinson's disease uses bi-hemispheric high-frequency stimulation within the subthalamus, however, the specific impacts of bilaterality of DBS are still not clear. Thus, we aimed to study the individual-level clinical impact of locations of right-left contact pair-up accounting for each subthalamic nucleus (STN) anatomy. Methods: Contact locations and effects at 1 year were studied retrospectively in an unselected series of 53 patients operated between 2004 and 2010. Location of contacts was defined relatively to the main axis of STN used to map longitudinal and transversal positions, and STN membership (out meaning out-of-STN). Contact pairings were described via three methods: (i) Unified contact location (UCL) collapsing DBS into an all-in-one contact; (ii) balance of contact pair-up (BCPU), defined as symmetric or asymmetric regardless of laterality; (iii) hemisphere-wise most frequent contact pair-up (MFCP) regardless of BCPU. Clinical data were: mean levodopa equivalent dose, Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) motor score III without medication, UPDRS II and III speech sub-scores, UPDRS II freezing sub-score, 1 year versus preoperative values, with and without levodopa. Ad-hoc two-sided tests were used for statistical analysis. Results: Worsening speech, was more frequent for UCL_out patients and when the left MFCP contact was rear and/or superolateral, however, it less frequent for BCPU-asymmetric patients. Worsening freezing was more frequent when the right MFCP contact was rear and superolateral. Conclusions: These results point to strategies for minimizing dysarthria and freezing as adverse effects of DBS. PMID:27990316

Development of HEATHER for cochlear implant stimulation using a new modeling workflow.

PubMed

Tran, Phillip; Sue, Andrian; Wong, Paul; Li, Qing; Carter, Paul

2015-02-01

The current conduction pathways resulting from monopolar stimulation of the cochlear implant were studied by developing a human electroanatomical total head reconstruction (namely, HEATHER). HEATHER was created from serially sectioned images of the female Visible Human Project dataset to encompass a total of 12 different tissues, and included computer-aided design geometries of the cochlear implant. Since existing methods were unable to generate the required complexity for HEATHER, a new modeling workflow was proposed. The results of the finite-element analysis agree with the literature, showing that the injected current exits the cochlea via the modiolus (14%), the basal end of the cochlea (22%), and through the cochlear walls (64%). It was also found that, once leaving the cochlea, the current travels to the implant body via the cranial cavity or scalp. The modeling workflow proved to be robust and flexible, allowing for meshes to be generated with substantial user control. Furthermore, the workflow could easily be employed to create realistic anatomical models of the human head for different bioelectric applications, such as deep brain stimulation, electroencephalography, and other biophysical phenomena.

Incidence of fecal excretion of Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis in dairy cows before and after the enrolment in the Québec voluntary program.

PubMed

Arango-Sabogal, J C; Paré, J; Labrecque, O; Côté, G; Roy, J P; Buczinski, S; Wellemans, V; Fecteau, G

2017-12-01

Paratuberculosis is a chronic and contagious enteric disease of ruminants caused by Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP). This disease of worldwide distribution is responsible for significant economic losses and the bacteria itself has been linked to human Crohn's disease. Paratuberculosis control programs focus on reducing MAP transmission by implementing better management practices that target infection routes. In Québec, a Voluntary Paratuberculosis Prevention and Control Program (QVPPCP) was launched in 2007. The objectives of this prospective cohort study were threefold. The first was to describe the changes in the incidence of fecal excretion of MAP in cows born before and after farm enrolment in the QVPPCP. The second was to estimate the impact of the risk of within-herd transmission of MAP (measured by the risk assessment score (RAS)) on the incidence of fecal excretion of MAP. And the third was to evaluate the impact of calf rearing practices on the incidence of fecal excretion of MAP. Eighteen MAP-positive herds were visited annually from 2011 to 2015. At each visit, individual fecal samples from all adult cows were collected. MAP was cultured using liquid media and an automated system. A risk assessment questionnaire was completed upon enrolment in the QVPPCP and at each visit. The RAS of the farm was attributed to each cow according to its birthdate. Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate the hazard ratios (HR) for the exposure variables. Herd clustering was taken into account using robust standard errors. A total of 2158 cows were included (cohort born before n=919; cohort born after n=1239). The incidence and hazard of fecal excretion were significantly lower for the cohort-after than the cohort-before (incidence rate ratio=0.38; 95% CI: 0.18-0.78 and HR=0.48; 95% CI: 0.23-0.98). The HR of fecal excretion for cows exposed to a high RAS was 2.20 times (95% CI: 1.21-3.99) that of cows exposed to a low RAS. Poor calving cow hygiene (HR=3.41; 95% CI: 1.40-8.31) and contact between pre-weaned heifers and adult cows or their feces were significantly associated with an increased hazard of fecal excretion of MAP (HR=2.66; 95% CI: 1.08-6.56). Our results suggest that enrolment in the QVPPCP reduces the risk of MAP fecal excretion. They support the hypothesis that contact between calves and adult cows or their feces increases MAP transmission. The incidence results also suggest that MAP prevalence could be reduced to low levels regardless of initial MAP prevalence. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Airborne ultrasonic inspection in carbon/carbon composite materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, In-Young; Kim, Young-Hun; Park, Je-Woong; Hsu, David K.; Song, Song-Jin; Cho, Hyun-Jun; Kim, Sun-Kyu; Im, Kwang-Hee

2007-07-01

In this work, a carbon/carbon (C/C) composite material was nondestructively characterized with non-contact ultrasonic methods using automated acquisition scanner as well as contact ultrasonic measurement because (C/C) composite materials have obvious high price over conventional materials. Because of permeation of coupling medium such as water, it is desirable to perform contact-less nondestructive evaluation to assess material properties and part homogeneity. Also through transmission mode was performed because of the main limitation for air-coupled transducers, which is the acoustic impedance mismatch between most materials and air. Especially ultrasonic images and velocities for C/C composite disk brake was measured and found to be consistent to some degree with the non-contact and contact ultrasonic measurement methods. Low frequency through-transmission scans based on both amplitude and time-of-flight of the ultrasonic pulse were used for mapping out the material property inhomogeneity. Measured results were compared with those obtained by the motorized system with using dry-coupling ultrasonics and through transmission method in immersion. Finally, results using a proposed peak-delay measurement method well corresponded to ultrasonic velocities of the pulse overlap method.

Non-Markovian electron dynamics in nanostructures coupled to dissipative contacts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Novakovic, B.; Knezevic, I.

2013-02-01

In quasiballistic semiconductor nanostructures, carrier exchange between the active region and dissipative contacts is the mechanism that governs relaxation. In this paper, we present a theoretical treatment of transient quantum transport in quasiballistic semiconductor nanostructures, which is based on the open system theory and valid on timescales much longer than the characteristic relaxation time in the contacts. The approach relies on a model interaction between the current-limiting active region and the contacts, given in the scattering-state basis. We derive a non-Markovian master equation for the irreversible evolution of the active region's many-body statistical operator by coarse-graining the exact dynamical map over the contact relaxation time. In order to obtain the response quantities of a nanostructure under bias, such as the potential and the charge and current densities, the non-Markovian master equation must be solved numerically together with the Schr\\"{o}dinger, Poisson, and continuity equations. We discuss how to numerically solve this coupled system of equations and illustrate the approach on the example of a silicon nin diode.

Three Studies Point to Same Risk Gene for Age-Related Macular Degeneration

MedlinePlus

... Search Search the NEI Website search NEI on Social Media | Search A-Z | en español | Text size S M ... Contact Us A-Z Site Map NEI on Social Media Information in Spanish (Información en español) Website, Social ...

GLCF: Research

Science.gov Websites

Global Land Cover Facility About GLCF Research Publications Data & Products Gallery Library Services Contact Site Map Go Research The Global Land Cover Facility is a research center focusing on the GLCF in developing forest change products. Past research efforts were directed at boreal forests in

What the Age-Related Eye Disease Studies Mean for You (AREDS2)

MedlinePlus

... Search Search the NEI Website search NEI on Social Media | Search A-Z | en español | Text size S M ... Contact Us A-Z Site Map NEI on Social Media Information in Spanish (Información en español) Website, Social ...

For Parents, Teachers and Coaches: About Sports Eye Injury and Protective Eyewear

MedlinePlus

... Search Search the NEI Website search NEI on Social Media | Search A-Z | en español | Text size S M ... Contact Us A-Z Site Map NEI on Social Media Information in Spanish (Información en español) Website, Social ...

Extended Daily Eye Patching Effective at Treating Stubborn Amblyopia in Children

MedlinePlus

... Search Search the NEI Website search NEI on Social Media | Search A-Z | en español | Text size S M ... Contact Us A-Z Site Map NEI on Social Media Information in Spanish (Información en español) Website, Social ...

Comparing orbiter and rover image-based mapping of an ancient sedimentary environment, Aeolis Palus, Gale crater, Mars

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stack, K. M.; Edwards, C. S.; Grotzinger, J. P.; Gupta, S.; Sumner, D. Y.; Calef, F. J.; Edgar, L. A.; Edgett, K. S.; Fraeman, A. A.; Jacob, S. R.; Le Deit, L.; Lewis, K. W.; Rice, M. S.; Rubin, D.; Williams, R. M. E.; Williford, K. H.

2016-12-01

This study provides the first systematic comparison of orbital facies maps with detailed ground-based geology observations from the Mars Science Laboratory (MSL) Curiosity rover to examine the validity of geologic interpretations derived from orbital image data. Orbital facies maps were constructed for the Darwin, Cooperstown, and Kimberley waypoints visited by the Curiosity rover using High Resolution Imaging Science Experiment (HiRISE) images. These maps, which represent the most detailed orbital analysis of these areas to date, were compared with rover image-based geologic maps and stratigraphic columns derived from Curiosity's Mast Camera (Mastcam) and Mars Hand Lens Imager (MAHLI). Results show that bedrock outcrops can generally be distinguished from unconsolidated surficial deposits in high-resolution orbital images and that orbital facies mapping can be used to recognize geologic contacts between well-exposed bedrock units. However, process-based interpretations derived from orbital image mapping are difficult to infer without known regional context or observable paleogeomorphic indicators, and layer-cake models of stratigraphy derived from orbital maps oversimplify depositional relationships as revealed from a rover perspective. This study also shows that fine-scale orbital image-based mapping of current and future Mars landing sites is essential for optimizing the efficiency and science return of rover surface operations.

Comparing orbiter and rover image-based mapping of an ancient sedimentary environment, Aeolis Palus, Gale crater, Mars

USGS Publications Warehouse

Stack, Kathryn M.; Edwards, Christopher; Grotzinger, J. P.; Gupta, S.; Sumner, D.; Edgar, Lauren; Fraeman, A.; Jacob, S.; LeDeit, L.; Lewis, K.W.; Rice, M.S.; Rubin, D.; Calef, F.; Edgett, K.; Williams, R.M.E.; Williford, K.H.

2016-01-01

This study provides the first systematic comparison of orbital facies maps with detailed ground-based geology observations from the Mars Science Laboratory (MSL) Curiosity rover to examine the validity of geologic interpretations derived from orbital image data. Orbital facies maps were constructed for the Darwin, Cooperstown, and Kimberley waypoints visited by the Curiosity rover using High Resolution Imaging Science Experiment (HiRISE) images. These maps, which represent the most detailed orbital analysis of these areas to date, were compared with rover image-based geologic maps and stratigraphic columns derived from Curiosity’s Mast Camera (Mastcam) and Mars Hand Lens Imager (MAHLI). Results show that bedrock outcrops can generally be distinguished from unconsolidated surficial deposits in high-resolution orbital images and that orbital facies mapping can be used to recognize geologic contacts between well-exposed bedrock units. However, process-based interpretations derived from orbital image mapping are difficult to infer without known regional context or observable paleogeomorphic indicators, and layer-cake models of stratigraphy derived from orbital maps oversimplify depositional relationships as revealed from a rover perspective. This study also shows that fine-scale orbital image-based mapping of current and future Mars landing sites is essential for optimizing the efficiency and science return of rover surface operations.

Isopach map of the interval from surface elevation to the top of the Pennsylvanian and Permian Minnelusa Formation and equivalents, Powder River basin, Wyoming and Montana

USGS Publications Warehouse

Crysdale, B.L.

1990-01-01

This map is one in a series of U.S. Geological Survey Miscellaneous Field Studies (MF) maps showing computer-generated structure contours, isopachs, and cross sections of selected formations in the Powder River basin, Wyoming and Montana. The map and cross sections were constructed from information stored in a U.S. Geological Survey Evolution of Sedimentary Basins data base. This data base contains picks of geologic formation and (or) unit tops and bases determined from electric resistivity and gamma-ray logs of 8,592 wells penetrating Tertiary and older rocks in the Powder River basin. Well completion cards (scout tickets) were reviewed and compared with copies of all logs, and formation or unit contacts determined by N. M. Denson, D.L. Macke, R. R. Schumann and others. This isopach map is based on information from 1,480 of these wells that penetrate the Minnelusa Formation and equivalents.

Map showing contours on the top of the Pennsylvanian and Permian Minnelusa Formation and equivalents, Powder River basin, Wyoming and Montana

USGS Publications Warehouse

Crysdale, B.L.

1990-01-01

This map is one in a series of U.S. Geological Survey Miscellaneous Field Studies (MF) maps showing computer-generated structure contours, isopachs, and cross sections of selected formations in the Powder River basin, Wyoming and Montana. The map and cross sections were constructed from information stored in a U.S. Geological Survey Evolution of Sedimentary Basins data base. This data base contains picks of geologic formation and (or) unit tops and bases determined from electric resistivity and gamma-ray logs of 8,592 wells penetrating Tertiary and older rocks in the Powder River basin. Well completion cards (scout tickets) were reviewed and compared with copies of all logs, and formation or unit contacts determined by N. M. Denson, D.L. Macke, R. R. Schumann and others. This isopach map is based on information from 1,480 of these wells that penetrate the Minnelusa Formation and equivalents.

Bedrock geologic map of the Grafton quadrangle, Worcester County, Massachusetts

USGS Publications Warehouse

Walsh, Gregory J.; Aleinikoff, John N.; Dorais, Michael J.

2011-01-01

The bedrock geology of the 7.5-minute Grafton, Massachusetts, quadrangle consists of deformed Neoproterozoic to early Paleozoic crystalline metamorphic and intrusive igneous rocks. Neoproterozoic intrusive, metasedimentary, and metavolcanic rocks crop out in the Avalon zone, and Cambrian to Silurian intrusive, metasedimentary, and metavolcanic rocks crop out in the Nashoba zone. Rocks of the Avalon and Nashoba zones, or terranes, are separated by the Bloody Bluff fault. The bedrock geology was mapped to study the tectonic history of the area and to provide a framework for ongoing hydrogeologic characterization of the fractured bedrock of Massachusetts. This report presents mapping by G.J. Walsh, geochronology by J.N. Aleinikoff, geochemistry by M.J. Dorais, and consists of a map, text pamphlet, and GIS database. The map and text pamphlet are available in paper format or as downloadable files (see frame at right). The GIS database is available for download. The database includes contacts of bedrock geologic units, faults, outcrops, structural geologic information, and photographs.

A design of strategic alliance based on value chain of surveying and mapping enterprises in China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Duan, Hong; Huang, Xianfeng

2007-06-01

In this paper, we use value chain and strategic alliance theories to analyzing the surveying and mapping Industry and enterprises. The value chain of surveying and mapping enterprises is highly-contacted but split by administrative interference, the enterprises are common small scale. According to the above things, we consider that establishing a nonequity- Holding strategic alliance based on value chain is an available way, it can not only let the enterprises share the superior resources in different sectors of the whole value chain each other but avoid offending the interests of related administrative departments, by this way, the surveying and mapping enterprises gain development respectively and totally. Then, we give the method to building up the strategic alliance model through parting the value chain and the using advantage of companies in different value chain sectors. Finally, we analyze the internal rule of strategic alliance and prove it is a suitable way to realize the development of surveying and mapping enterprises through game theory.

Detection of free liquid in drums of radioactive waste. [Patent application

DOEpatents

Not Available

1979-10-16

A nondestructive thermal imaging method for detecting the presence of a liquid such as water within a sealed container is described. The process includes application of a low amplitude heat pulse to an exterior surface area of the container, terminating the heat input and quickly mapping the resulting surface temperatures. The various mapped temperature values can be compared with those known to be normal for the container material and substances in contact. The mapped temperature values show up in different shades of light or darkness that denote different physical substances. The different substances can be determined by direct observation or by comparison with known standards. The method is particularly applicable to the detection of liquids above solidified radioactive wastes stored in sealed containers.

Contact Trees: Network Visualization beyond Nodes and Edges

PubMed Central

Sallaberry, Arnaud; Fu, Yang-chih; Ho, Hwai-Chung; Ma, Kwan-Liu

2016-01-01

Node-Link diagrams make it possible to take a quick glance at how nodes (or actors) in a network are connected by edges (or ties). A conventional network diagram of a “contact tree” maps out a root and branches that represent the structure of nodes and edges, often without further specifying leaves or fruits that would have grown from small branches. By furnishing such a network structure with leaves and fruits, we reveal details about “contacts” in our ContactTrees upon which ties and relationships are constructed. Our elegant design employs a bottom-up approach that resembles a recent attempt to understand subjective well-being by means of a series of emotions. Such a bottom-up approach to social-network studies decomposes each tie into a series of interactions or contacts, which can help deepen our understanding of the complexity embedded in a network structure. Unlike previous network visualizations, ContactTrees highlight how relationships form and change based upon interactions among actors, as well as how relationships and networks vary by contact attributes. Based on a botanical tree metaphor, the design is easy to construct and the resulting tree-like visualization can display many properties at both tie and contact levels, thus recapturing a key ingredient missing from conventional techniques of network visualization. We demonstrate ContactTrees using data sets consisting of up to three waves of 3-month contact diaries over the 2004-2012 period, and discuss how this design can be applied to other types of datasets. PMID:26784350

Wave-function description of conductance mapping for a quantum Hall electron interferometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kolasiński, K.; Szafran, B.

2014-04-01

Scanning gate microscopy of quantum point contacts (QPC) in the integer quantum Hall regime is considered in terms of the scattering wave functions with a finite-difference implementation of the quantum transmitting boundary approach. Conductance (G) maps for a clean QPC as well as for a system including an antidot within the QPC constriction are evaluated. The steplike locally flat G maps for clean QPCs turn into circular resonances that are reentrant in an external magnetic field when the antidot is introduced to the constriction. The current circulation around the antidot and the spacing of the resonances at the magnetic field scale react to the probe approaching the QPC. The calculated G maps with a rigid but soft antidot potential reproduce the features detected recently in the electron interferometer [F. Martins et al., Sci. Rep. 3, 1416 (2013), 10.1038/srep01416].

Genome-wide mapping in a house mouse hybrid zone reveals hybrid sterility loci and Dobzhansky-Muller interactions

PubMed Central

Turner, Leslie M; Harr, Bettina

2014-01-01

Mapping hybrid defects in contact zones between incipient species can identify genomic regions contributing to reproductive isolation and reveal genetic mechanisms of speciation. The house mouse features a rare combination of sophisticated genetic tools and natural hybrid zones between subspecies. Male hybrids often show reduced fertility, a common reproductive barrier between incipient species. Laboratory crosses have identified sterility loci, but each encompasses hundreds of genes. We map genetic determinants of testis weight and testis gene expression using offspring of mice captured in a hybrid zone between M. musculus musculus and M. m. domesticus. Many generations of admixture enables high-resolution mapping of loci contributing to these sterility-related phenotypes. We identify complex interactions among sterility loci, suggesting multiple, non-independent genetic incompatibilities contribute to barriers to gene flow in the hybrid zone. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.02504.001 PMID:25487987

Database of the Geology and Thermal Activity of Norris Geyser Basin, Yellowstone National Park

USGS Publications Warehouse

Flynn, Kathryn; Graham Wall, Brita; White, Donald E.; Hutchinson, Roderick A.; Keith, Terry E.C.; Clor, Laura; Robinson, Joel E.

2008-01-01

This dataset contains contacts, geologic units and map boundaries from Plate 1 of USGS Professional Paper 1456, 'The Geology and Remarkable Thermal Activity of Norris Geyser Basin, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming.' The features are contained in the Annotation, basins_poly, contours, geology_arc, geology_poly, point_features, and stream_arc feature classes as well as a table of geologic units and their descriptions. This dataset was constructed to produce a digital geologic map as a basis for studying hydrothermal processes in Norris Geyser Basin. The original map does not contain registration tic marks. To create the geodatabase, the original scanned map was georegistered to USGS aerial photographs of the Norris Junction quadrangle collected in 1994. Manmade objects, i.e. roads, parking lots, and the visitor center, along with stream junctions and other hydrographic features, were used for registration.

Unraveling the Underlying Arrhythmia Mechanism in Persistent Atrial Fibrillation: Results From the STARLIGHT Study.

PubMed

Child, Nicholas; Clayton, Richard H; Roney, Caroline R; Laughner, Jacob I; Shuros, Allan; Neuzil, Petr; Petru, Jan; Jackson, Tom; Porter, Bradley; Bostock, Julian; Niederer, Steven A; Razavi, Reza S; Rinaldi, Christopher A; Taggart, Peter; Wright, Matthew J; Gill, Jaswinder

2018-06-01

The mechanisms that initiate and sustain persistent atrial fibrillation are not well characterized. Ablation results remain significantly worse than in paroxysmal atrial fibrillation in which the mechanism is better understood and subsequent targeted therapy has been developed. The aim of this study was to characterize and quantify patterns of activation during atrial fibrillation using contact mapping. Patients with persistent atrial fibrillation (n=14; mean age, 61±8 years; ejection fraction, 59±10%) underwent simultaneous biatrial contact mapping with 64 electrode catheters. The atrial electrograms were transformed into phase, and subsequent spatiotemporal mapping was performed to identify phase singularities (PSs). PSs were located in both atria, but we observed more PSs in the left atrium compared with the right atrium (779±302, 552±235; P =0.015). Although some PSs of duration sufficient to complete >1 rotation were detected, the maximum PS duration was only 1150 ms, and the vast majority (97%) of PSs persisted for too short a period to complete a full rotation. Although in selected patients there was evidence of PS local clustering, overall, PSs were distributed globally throughout both chambers with no clear anatomic predisposition. In a subset of patients (n=7), analysis was repeated using an alternative established atrial PS mapping technique, which confirmed our initial findings. No sustained rotors or localized drivers were detected, and instead, the mechanism of arrhythmia maintenance was consistent with the multiple wavelet hypothesis, with passive activation of short-lived rotational activity. URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov. Unique identifier: NCT01765075. © 2018 American Heart Association, Inc.

Geologic map of Harrat Hutaymah, with petrologic classification and distribution of ultramafic inclusions, Saudi Arabia

USGS Publications Warehouse

Thornber, Carl R.

1990-01-01

This map shows detailed geology of the Quaternary and Tertiary volcanic deposits that comprise Harrat Hutaymah and an updated and generalized compilation of the underlying Proterozoic and Paleozoic basement rocks. Quaternary alluvial cover and details of basement geology (that is, faults, dikes, and other features) are not shown. Volcanic unit descriptions and contact relations are based upon field investigation by the author and on compilation and revision of mapping Kellogg (1984; northern half of area) and Pallister (1984; southern half of area). A single K-Ar date of 1.80 ± 0.05 Ma for an alkali olivine basalt flow transected by the Al Hutaymah tuff ring (Pallister, 1984) provides the basis for an estimated late Tertiary to Quaternary age range for all harrat volcanic units other than unit Qtr (tuff reworked during Quaternary age time). Contact relations and unit descriptions for the basement rocks were compiled from Pallister (1984), Kellogg (1984 and 1985), DuBray (1984), Johnson and Williams (1984), Vaslet and others (1987), Cole and Hedge (1986), and Richter and others (1984). All rock unit names in this report are informal and capitalization follows Saudi Arabian stratigraphic nomenclature (Fitch, 1980). Geographic information was compiled from Pallister (1984), Kellogg (1984), and Fuller (in Johnson and Williams, 1984) and from field investigation by the author in 1986. The pie diagrams on the map show the distribution and petrology of ultramafic xenoliths of Harrat Hutaymah. The pie diagrams are explained by a detailed classification of ultramafic xenoliths that is introduced in this report.

78 FR 76241 - Rescission of Quarterly Financial Reporting Requirements

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-12-17

... for Progress in the 21st Century Act, Public Law 112-141 (MAP-21). FMCSA, however, has lessened the... reporting requirements remain. DATES: Effective Date: January 16, 2014. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: If... other things, to prepare plans for reviewing existing rules. On February 16, 2011, DOT published a...

World Basic Place Vocabulary Test.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Saveland, Robert N.

1979-01-01

Teachers of 13-year-old students are invited to participate in a place-vocabulary project conducted by the International Geographical Union. Students associate names of oceans, countries, and cities with their correct location on a world outline map. Although the test is included, teachers must contact the coordinator to participate. (KC)

GLCF: Publications

Science.gov Websites

Services Contact Site Map Go Publications 2017 Che, X., Feng, M., Sexton, J. O., Channan, S., Yang, Y ., Choate, D., Stoner, D., Arundel, T., Hansen, J., Theimer, T., Holton, B., Jansen, B., Sexton, J.O. and successful acquisitions. Wildlife Society Bulletin. Brinck, K., Fischer, R., Groeneveld, J., Lehmann, S., De

76 FR 35111 - Final Flood Elevation Determinations

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-06-16

... final for the communities listed below. The BFEs and modified BFEs are the basis for the floodplain management measures that each community is required either to adopt or to show evidence of being already in... BFEs for each community. This date may be obtained by contacting the office where the maps are...

Transport Statistics - Transport - UNECE

Science.gov Websites

Statistics and Data Online Infocards Database SDG Papers E-Road Census Traffic Census Map Traffic Census 2015 available. Two new datasets have been added to the transport statistics database: bus and coach statistics Database Evaluations Follow UNECE Facebook Rss Twitter You tube Contact us Instagram Flickr Google+ Â

From First Contact to Close Encounters: A Developmentally Deep Perceptual System for a Humanoid Robot

DTIC Science & Technology

2003-06-01

pages 961-968. Brooks, R. A., Breazeal, C., Marjanovic , M., and Scassellati, B. (1999). The Cog project: Building a humanoid robot. Lecture Notes in...investment in knowledge infrastructure. Communications of the ACM, 38(11):33-38. Marjanovic , M. (1995). Learning functional maps between sensorimotor

50 CFR 32.37 - Louisiana.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... normal voice contact with) only one youth for all youth hunts except migratory birds. One adult may... the refuge at one of the self-clearing check stations indicated on the map in the refuge Hunting and...-Impaired” classification apply. 15. You may only possess approved nontoxic shot while hunting on the refuge...

77 FR 51557 - Agency Information Collection Activity; National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program (EDMAP and...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-08-24

... line. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Douglas A. Howard, Associate Program Coordinator NCGMP (STATEMAP... welfare of individual States. The NCGMP EDMAP program allocates funds to colleges and universities in the... dollar that is awarded is matched with university funds. Geology professors who are skilled in geologic...

Influence of lateral and in-depth metal segregation on the patterning of ohmic contacts for GaN-based devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Redondo-Cubero, A.; Vázquez, L.; Alves, L. C.; Corregidor, V.; Romero, M. F.; Pantellini, A.; Lanzieri, C.; Muñoz, E.

2014-05-01

The lateral and in-depth metal segregation of Au/Ni/Al/Ti ohmic contacts for GaN-based high electron mobility transistors were analysed as a function of the Al barrier's thickness (d). The surface of the contacts, characterized by atomic force and scanning electron microscopy, shows a transition from a fractal network of rough and complex island-like structures towards smoother and cauliflower-like fronts with increasing d. Rutherford backscattering spectrometry and energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDXS) at different energies were used to confirm the in-depth intermixing of the metals relevant for the final contact resistance. EDXS mapping reveals a significant lateral segregation too, where the resulting patterns depend on two competing NiAlx and AuAlx phases, the intermixing being controlled by the available amount of Al. The optimum ohmic resistance is not affected by the patterning process, but is mainly dependent on the partial interdiffusion of the metals.

American Contact Dermatitis Society Contact Allergy Management Program: An Epidemiologic Tool to Quantify Ingredient Usage.

PubMed

Scheman, Andrew; Severson, David

2016-01-01

The usage prevalence of ingredients in topical products is important to dermatologists and industry. To determine the prevalence of methylisothiazolinone (MI) in various types of consumer products The Contact Allergy Management Program (CAMP) database was mapped and sorted in spreadsheet format to determine the prevalence of MI in various types of consumer products. Methylisothiazolinone was found in 13.2% of 4660 total products in CAMP. High usage of MI was seen in dishwashing products (64%), shampoos (53%), bathroom/kitchen/all-purpose cleaners (47%), hair conditioners (45%), hair dyes (43%), laundry additives/fresheners/softeners (30%), soaps/cleansers (29%), and surface cleaners/disinfectants (27%). Of the products containing MI, MI alone (without methylchloroisothiazolinone) was most common in makeup products (100%), cleaning/dish/laundry products (>99%), moisturizers (82%), shaving products (78%), sunscreens (71%), and antiaging products (67%). The American Contact Dermatitis Society's CAMP is a valuable tool to collect epidemiologic data on the incidence of specific ingredient usage in various types of topical products.

Detecting the magnetic response of iron oxide capped organosilane nanostructures using magnetic sample modulation and atomic force microscopy.

PubMed

Li, Jie-Ren; Lewandowski, Brian R; Xu, Song; Garno, Jayne C

2009-06-15

A new imaging strategy using atomic force microscopy (AFM) is demonstrated for mapping magnetic domains at size regimes below 100 nm. The AFM-based imaging mode is referred to as magnetic sample modulation (MSM), since the flux of an AC-generated electromagnetic field is used to induce physical movement of magnetic nanomaterials on surfaces during imaging. The AFM is operated in contact mode using a soft, nonmagnetic tip to detect the physical motion of the sample. By slowly scanning an AFM probe across a vibrating area of the sample, the frequency and amplitude of vibration induced by the magnetic field is tracked by changes in tip deflection. Thus, the AFM tip serves as a force and motion sensor for mapping the vibrational response of magnetic nanomaterials. Essentially, MSM is a hybrid of contact mode AFM combined with selective modulation of magnetic domains. The positional feedback loop for MSM imaging is the same as that used for force modulation and contact mode AFM; however, the vibration of the sample is analyzed using channels of a lock-in amplifier. The investigations are facilitated by nanofabrication methods combining particle lithography with organic vapor deposition and electroless deposition of iron oxide, to prepare designed test platforms of magnetic materials at nanometer length scales. Custom test platforms furnished suitable surfaces for MSM characterizations at the level of individual metal nanostructures.

Automated segmentation and characterization of esophageal wall in vivo by tethered capsule optical coherence tomography endomicroscopy

PubMed Central

Ughi, Giovanni J.; Gora, Michalina J.; Swager, Anne-Fré; Soomro, Amna; Grant, Catriona; Tiernan, Aubrey; Rosenberg, Mireille; Sauk, Jenny S.; Nishioka, Norman S.; Tearney, Guillermo J.

2016-01-01

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is an optical diagnostic modality that can acquire cross-sectional images of the microscopic structure of the esophagus, including Barrett’s esophagus (BE) and associated dysplasia. We developed a swallowable tethered capsule OCT endomicroscopy (TCE) device that acquires high-resolution images of entire gastrointestinal (GI) tract luminal organs. This device has a potential to become a screening method that identifies patients with an abnormal esophagus that should be further referred for upper endoscopy. Currently, the characterization of the OCT-TCE esophageal wall data set is performed manually, which is time-consuming and inefficient. Additionally, since the capsule optics optimally focus light approximately 500 µm outside the capsule wall and the best quality images are obtained when the tissue is in full contact with the capsule, it is crucial to provide feedback for the operator about tissue contact during the imaging procedure. In this study, we developed a fully automated algorithm for the segmentation of in vivo OCT-TCE data sets and characterization of the esophageal wall. The algorithm provides a two-dimensional representation of both the contact map from the data collected in human clinical studies as well as a tissue map depicting areas of BE with or without dysplasia. Results suggest that these techniques can potentially improve the current TCE data acquisition procedure and provide an efficient characterization of the diseased esophageal wall. PMID:26977350

Dynamical network of residue–residue contacts reveals coupled allosteric effects in recognition, catalysis, and mutation

PubMed Central

Doshi, Urmi; Holliday, Michael J.; Eisenmesser, Elan Z.; Hamelberg, Donald

2016-01-01

Detailed understanding of how conformational dynamics orchestrates function in allosteric regulation of recognition and catalysis remains ambiguous. Here, we simulate CypA using multiple-microsecond-long atomistic molecular dynamics in explicit solvent and carry out NMR experiments. We analyze a large amount of time-dependent multidimensional data with a coarse-grained approach and map key dynamical features within individual macrostates by defining dynamics in terms of residue–residue contacts. The effects of substrate binding are observed to be largely sensed at a location over 15 Å from the active site, implying its importance in allostery. Using NMR experiments, we confirm that a dynamic cluster of residues in this distal region is directly coupled to the active site. Furthermore, the dynamical network of interresidue contacts is found to be coupled and temporally dispersed, ranging over 4 to 5 orders of magnitude. Finally, using network centrality measures we demonstrate the changes in the communication network, connectivity, and influence of CypA residues upon substrate binding, mutation, and during catalysis. We identify key residues that potentially act as a bottleneck in the communication flow through the distinct regions in CypA and, therefore, as targets for future mutational studies. Mapping these dynamical features and the coupling of dynamics to function has crucial ramifications in understanding allosteric regulation in enzymes and proteins, in general. PMID:27071107

Examinations of tRNA Range of Motion Using Simulations of Cryo-EM Microscopy and X-Ray Data

PubMed Central

Caulfield, Thomas R.; Devkota, Batsal; Rollins, Geoffrey C.

2011-01-01

We examined tRNA flexibility using a combination of steered and unbiased molecular dynamics simulations. Using Maxwell's demon algorithm, molecular dynamics was used to steer X-ray structure data toward that from an alternative state obtained from cryogenic-electron microscopy density maps. Thus, we were able to fit X-ray structures of tRNA onto cryogenic-electron microscopy density maps for hybrid states of tRNA. Additionally, we employed both Maxwell's demon molecular dynamics simulations and unbiased simulation methods to identify possible ribosome-tRNA contact areas where the ribosome may discriminate tRNAs during translation. Herein, we collected >500 ns of simulation data to assess the global range of motion for tRNAs. Biased simulations can be used to steer between known conformational stop points, while unbiased simulations allow for a general testing of conformational space previously unexplored. The unbiased molecular dynamics data describes the global conformational changes of tRNA on a sub-microsecond time scale for comparison with steered data. Additionally, the unbiased molecular dynamics data was used to identify putative contacts between tRNA and the ribosome during the accommodation step of translation. We found that the primary contact regions were H71 and H92 of the 50S subunit and ribosomal proteins L14 and L16. PMID:21716650

Contact network and satisfaction with contacts in children whose parents have post traumatic stress disorder.

PubMed

Selimbasic, Zihnet; Sinanovic, Osman; Avdibegovic, Esmina; Kravic, Nemina

2009-01-01

The aim was to analyse contacts network and satisfaction with contacts among children of parents with post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The sample consisted of 100 pupils (age 10 to 15) from two randomly chosen schools. Children were selected from general population, lived with both parents who have had war traumatic experiences. They agreed to participate in psychometric research. We divided them in two groups: observed (0) group of children (N=50) whose parents were showing symptoms of post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and control (C) group of children (N=50) whose parents did not show symptoms of PTSD (evaluated by Harvard trauma questionnaire-BiH version). Contact network was examined by a Map of Contact Network which includes contact and satisfaction with persons in close environment. In relation to gender representatives of fathers and mothers, sample was homogenous. The most important persons in children whose parents are showing symptoms of PTSD were schoolmates (88.0%), home mate (86.0%), mother (72.0%), and father (2.0%). At children whose parents did not show symptoms of PTSD, most important persons were schoolmate (94.0%), mother (80.0%), brother (6.0%), grandfather (8.0%), and father (14.0%). The most distinct disappointment in contacts in children with parents with PTSD symptoms were family, relatives and friends, in school and formal contacts (p < 0.001). Children of parents who have had symptoms of post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), the most important persons that they communicate were schoolmates and they had problem in communicating with fathers and males. According to satisfaction children whose parents suffered from PTSD were showing distinction in contacts with their families, relatives, schoolmates and formal contacts.

Galaxy HiCExplorer: a web server for reproducible Hi-C data analysis, quality control and visualization.

PubMed

Wolff, Joachim; Bhardwaj, Vivek; Nothjunge, Stephan; Richard, Gautier; Renschler, Gina; Gilsbach, Ralf; Manke, Thomas; Backofen, Rolf; Ramírez, Fidel; Grüning, Björn A

2018-06-13

Galaxy HiCExplorer is a web server that facilitates the study of the 3D conformation of chromatin by allowing Hi-C data processing, analysis and visualization. With the Galaxy HiCExplorer web server, users with little bioinformatic background can perform every step of the analysis in one workflow: mapping of the raw sequence data, creation of Hi-C contact matrices, quality assessment, correction of contact matrices and identification of topological associated domains (TADs) and A/B compartments. Users can create publication ready plots of the contact matrix, A/B compartments, and TADs on a selected genomic locus, along with additional information like gene tracks or ChIP-seq signals. Galaxy HiCExplorer is freely usable at: https://hicexplorer.usegalaxy.eu and is available as a Docker container: https://github.com/deeptools/docker-galaxy-hicexplorer.

Minimum film thickness in elliptical contacts for different regimes of fluid-film lubrication

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hamrock, B. J.; Dowson, D.

1978-01-01

The film-parameter equations are provided for four fluid-film lubrication regimes found in elliptical contacts. These regimes are isoviscous-rigid; viscous-rigid; elastohydrodynamic of low-elastic-modulus materials, or isoviscous-elastic; and elastohydrodynamic, or viscous-elastic. The influence or lack of influence of elastic and viscous effects is the factor that distinguishes these regimes. The film-parameter equations for the respective regimes come from earlier theoretical studies by the authors on elastohydrodynamic and hydrodynamic lubrication of elliptical conjunctions. These equations are restated and the results are presented as a map of the lubrication regimes, with film-thickness contours on a log-log grid of the viscosity and elasticity parameters for five values of the ellipticity parameter. The results present a complete theoretical film-parameter solution for elliptical contacts in the four lubrication regimes.

Using linear algebra for protein structural comparison and classification

PubMed Central

2009-01-01

In this article, we describe a novel methodology to extract semantic characteristics from protein structures using linear algebra in order to compose structural signature vectors which may be used efficiently to compare and classify protein structures into fold families. These signatures are built from the pattern of hydrophobic intrachain interactions using Singular Value Decomposition (SVD) and Latent Semantic Indexing (LSI) techniques. Considering proteins as documents and contacts as terms, we have built a retrieval system which is able to find conserved contacts in samples of myoglobin fold family and to retrieve these proteins among proteins of varied folds with precision of up to 80%. The classifier is a web tool available at our laboratory website. Users can search for similar chains from a specific PDB, view and compare their contact maps and browse their structures using a JMol plug-in. PMID:21637532

Using linear algebra for protein structural comparison and classification.

PubMed

Gomide, Janaína; Melo-Minardi, Raquel; Dos Santos, Marcos Augusto; Neshich, Goran; Meira, Wagner; Lopes, Júlio César; Santoro, Marcelo

2009-07-01

In this article, we describe a novel methodology to extract semantic characteristics from protein structures using linear algebra in order to compose structural signature vectors which may be used efficiently to compare and classify protein structures into fold families. These signatures are built from the pattern of hydrophobic intrachain interactions using Singular Value Decomposition (SVD) and Latent Semantic Indexing (LSI) techniques. Considering proteins as documents and contacts as terms, we have built a retrieval system which is able to find conserved contacts in samples of myoglobin fold family and to retrieve these proteins among proteins of varied folds with precision of up to 80%. The classifier is a web tool available at our laboratory website. Users can search for similar chains from a specific PDB, view and compare their contact maps and browse their structures using a JMol plug-in.

Geologic map and digital database of the Conejo Well 7.5 minute quadrangle, Riverside County, Southern California

USGS Publications Warehouse

Powell, Robert E.

2001-01-01

This data set maps and describes the geology of the Conejo Well 7.5 minute quadrangle, Riverside County, southern California. The quadrangle, situated in Joshua Tree National Park in the eastern Transverse Ranges physiographic and structural province, encompasses part of the northern Eagle Mountains and part of the south flank of Pinto Basin. It is underlain by a basement terrane comprising Proterozoic metamorphic rocks, Mesozoic plutonic rocks, and Mesozoic and Mesozoic or Cenozoic hypabyssal dikes. The basement terrane is capped by a widespread Tertiary erosion surface preserved in remnants in the Eagle Mountains and buried beneath Cenozoic deposits in Pinto Basin. Locally, Miocene basalt overlies the erosion surface. A sequence of at least three Quaternary pediments is planed into the north piedmont of the Eagle Mountains, each in turn overlain by successively younger residual and alluvial deposits. The Tertiary erosion surface is deformed and broken by north-northwest-trending, high-angle, dip-slip faults in the Eagle Mountains and an east-west trending system of high-angle dip- and left-slip faults. In and adjacent to the Conejo Well quadrangle, faults of the northwest-trending set displace Miocene sedimentary rocks and basalt deposited on the Tertiary erosion surface and Pliocene and (or) Pleistocene deposits that accumulated on the oldest pediment. Faults of this system appear to be overlain by Pleistocene deposits that accumulated on younger pediments. East-west trending faults are younger than and perhaps in part coeval with faults of the northwest-trending set. The Conejo Well database was created using ARCVIEW and ARC/INFO, which are geographical information system (GIS) software products of Envronmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI). The database consists of the following items: (1) a map coverage showing faults and geologic contacts and units, (2) a separate coverage showing dikes, (3) a coverage showing structural data, (4) a point coverage containing line ornamentation, and (5) a scanned topographic base at a scale of 1:24,000. The coverages include attribute tables for geologic units (polygons and regions), contacts (arcs), and site-specific data (points). The database, accompanied by a pamphlet file and this metadata file, also includes the following graphic and text products: (1) A portable document file (.pdf) containing a navigable graphic of the geologic map on a 1:24,000 topographic base. The map is accompanied by a marginal explanation consisting of a Description of Map and Database Units (DMU), a Correlation of Map and Database Units (CMU), and a key to point-and line-symbols. (2) Separate .pdf files of the DMU and CMU, individually. (3) A PostScript graphic-file containing the geologic map on a 1:24,000 topographic base accompanied by the marginal explanation. (4) A pamphlet that describes the database and how to access it. Within the database, geologic contacts , faults, and dikes are represented as lines (arcs), geologic units as polygons and regions, and site-specific data as points. Polygon, arc, and point attribute tables (.pat, .aat, and .pat, respectively) uniquely identify each geologic datum and link it to other tables (.rel) that provide more detailed geologic information.

Head impact contact points for restrained child occupants.

PubMed

Arbogast, Kristy B; Wozniak, Samantha; Locey, Caitlin M; Maltese, Matthew R; Zonfrillo, Mark R

2012-01-01

Head injuries are the most common injuries sustained by children in motor vehicle crashes regardless of age, restraint, and crash direction. For rear seat occupants, the interaction of the subject with the seat back and the vehicle side interior structures has been previously highlighted. In order to advance this knowledge to the development of countermeasures, a summary of vehicle components that contributed to these injuries is needed. Therefore, the objective of this study was to create a contact map of the vehicle interior for head and face injuries to rear-seated restrained children in front crashes. The Crash Injury Research and Engineering Network (CIREN) was queried for rear-seated, restrained child occupants (age 0-15 years) in forward-facing child restraints, booster seats, or lap and shoulder belts who sustained an AIS2+ head and/or face injury in a frontal motor vehicle crash. Cases were analyzed to describe injury patterns and injury causation scenarios. A contact point map was developed to summarize the vehicle components related to injury causation of the head/face injury. Twenty-one cases met the combined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Seven of the child occupants were restrained in forward-facing child restraints, 2 in belt-positioning booster seats, and 12 in lap and shoulder belts. There were 28 head and 17 facial injuries. For left rear occupants, the most common contact point was the pillar in front of the occupant's seat row; that is, B-pillar for second-row occupants, indicating a leftward kinematics. For right rear occupants, due to differences in crash dynamics, the most common contact point location was the passenger's seat back, suggesting that these occupants moved predominantly forward. Contact points associated with head/face injury for restrained children 0 to 15 years in frontal crashes have been delineated. In a majority of the cases, the head/face injury was the most severe injury and severe injuries to other body regions were uncommon, suggesting that efforts to mitigate head injuries for these occupants would greatly improve their overall safety. The majority of the head/face contact points were to the first row seat back and B-pillar. In these frontal crashes, the importance of head/face contact with the vehicle side structure suggests that deploying a curtain air bag in frontal impacts may help manage the energy of impact. These data advance the current understanding of injury patterns and causation in frontal crashes involving restrained rear-row occupants and can be used to develop solutions to mitigate the injuries sustained. Copyright © 2012 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC

Can a pairwise contact potential stabilize native protein folds against decoys obtained by threading?

PubMed

Vendruscolo, M; Najmanovich, R; Domany, E

2000-02-01

We present a method to derive contact energy parameters from large sets of proteins. The basic requirement on which our method is based is that for each protein in the database the native contact map has lower energy than all its decoy conformations that are obtained by threading. Only when this condition is satisfied one can use the proposed energy function for fold identification. Such a set of parameters can be found (by perceptron learning) if Mp, the number of proteins in the database, is not too large. Other aspects that influence the existence of such a solution are the exact definition of contact and the value of the critical distance Rc, below which two residues are considered to be in contact. Another important novel feature of our approach is its ability to determine whether an energy function of some suitable proposed form can or cannot be parameterized in a way that satisfies our basic requirement. As a demonstration of this, we determine the region in the (Rc, Mp) plane in which the problem is solvable, i.e., we can find a set of contact parameters that stabilize simultaneously all the native conformations. We show that for large enough databases the contact approximation to the energy cannot stabilize all the native folds even against the decoys obtained by gapless threading.

[Application Progress of Three-dimensional Laser Scanning Technology in Medical Surface Mapping].

PubMed

Zhang, Yonghong; Hou, He; Han, Yuchuan; Wang, Ning; Zhang, Ying; Zhu, Xianfeng; Wang, Mingshi

2016-04-01

The booming three-dimensional laser scanning technology can efficiently and effectively get spatial three-dimensional coordinates of the detected object surface and reconstruct the image at high speed,high precision and large capacity of information.Non-radiation,non-contact and the ability of visualization make it increasingly popular in three-dimensional surface medical mapping.This paper reviews the applications and developments of three-dimensional laser scanning technology in medical field,especially in stomatology,plastic surgery and orthopedics.Furthermore,the paper also discusses the application prospects in the future as well as the biomedical engineering problems it would encounter with.

PhyloDet: a scalable visualization tool for mapping multiple traits to large evolutionary trees

PubMed Central

Lee, Bongshin; Nachmanson, Lev; Robertson, George; Carlson, Jonathan M.; Heckerman, David

2009-01-01

Summary: Evolutionary biologists are often interested in finding correlations among biological traits across a number of species, as such correlations may lead to testable hypotheses about the underlying function. Because some species are more closely related than others, computing and visualizing these correlations must be done in the context of the evolutionary tree that relates species. In this note, we introduce PhyloDet (short for PhyloDetective), an evolutionary tree visualization tool that enables biologists to visualize multiple traits mapped to the tree. Availability: http://research.microsoft.com/cue/phylodet/ Contact: bongshin@microsoft.com. PMID:19633096

Mapping rock forming minerals at Boundary Canyon, Death Valey National Park, California, using aerial SEBASS thermal infrared hyperspectral image data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aslett, Zan; Taranik, James V.; Riley, Dean N.

2018-02-01

Aerial spatially enhanced broadband array spectrograph system (SEBASS) long-wave infrared (LWIR) hyperspectral image data were used to map the distribution of rock-forming minerals indicative of sedimentary and meta-sedimentary lithologies around Boundary Canyon, Death Valley, California, USA. Collection of data over the Boundary Canyon detachment fault (BCDF) facilitated measurement of numerous lithologies representing a contact between the relatively unmetamorphosed Grapevine Mountains allochthon and the metamorphosed core complex of the Funeral Mountains autochthon. These included quartz-rich sandstone, quartzite, conglomerate, and alluvium; muscovite-rich schist, siltstone, and slate; and carbonate-rich dolomite, limestone, and marble, ranging in age from late Precambrian to Quaternary. Hyperspectral data were reduced in dimensionality and processed to statistically identify and map unique emissivity spectra endmembers. Some minerals (e.g., quartz and muscovite) dominate multiple lithologies, resulting in a limited ability to differentiate them. Abrupt variations in image data emissivity amongst pelitic schists corresponded to amphibolite; these rocks represent gradation from greenschist- to amphibolite-metamorphic facies lithologies. Although the full potential of LWIR hyperspectral image data may not be fully utilized within this study area due to lack of measurable spectral distinction between rocks of similar bulk mineralogy, the high spectral resolution of the image data was useful in characterizing silicate- and carbonate-based sedimentary and meta-sedimentary rocks in proximity to fault contacts, as well as for interpreting some mineral mixtures.

Feasibility on Ultrasonic Velocity using Contact and Non-Contact Nondestructive Techniques for Carbon/Carbon Composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Im, K. H.; Chang, M.; Hsu, D. K.; Song, S. J.; Cho, H.; Park, J. W.; Kweon, Y. S.; Sim, J. K.; Yang, I. Y.

2007-03-01

Advanced materials are to be required to have specific functions associated with extremely environments. One of them is carbon/carbon(C/C) composite material, which has obvious advantages over conventional materials. The C/Cs have become to be utilized as parts of aerospace applications and its low density, high thermal conductivity and excellent mechanical properties at elevated temperatures make it an ideal material for aircraft brake disks. Because of permeation of coupling medium such as water, it is desirable to perform contact-less nondestructive evaluation to assess material properties and part homogeneity. In this work, a C/C composite material was characterized with non-contact and contact ultrasonic methods using a scanner with automatic-data acquisition function. Also through transmission mode was performed because of the main limitation for air-coupled transducers, which is the acoustic impedance mismatch between most materials and air. Especially ultrasonic images and velocities for C/C composite disk brake were compared and found to be consistent to some degree with the non-contact and contact ultrasonic measurement methods. Low frequency through-transmission scans based on both amplitude of the ultrasonic pulse was used for mapping out the material property inhomogeneity. Measured results were compared with those obtained by the dry-coupling ultrasonic UT system and through transmission method in immersion. Finally, feasibility has been found to measure and compare ultrasonic velocities of C/C composites with using the contact/noncontact peak-delay measurement method based on the pulse overlap method.

Accurate Prediction of Contact Numbers for Multi-Spanning Helical Membrane Proteins

PubMed Central

Li, Bian; Mendenhall, Jeffrey; Nguyen, Elizabeth Dong; Weiner, Brian E.; Fischer, Axel W.; Meiler, Jens

2017-01-01

Prediction of the three-dimensional (3D) structures of proteins by computational methods is acknowledged as an unsolved problem. Accurate prediction of important structural characteristics such as contact number is expected to accelerate the otherwise slow progress being made in the prediction of 3D structure of proteins. Here, we present a dropout neural network-based method, TMH-Expo, for predicting the contact number of transmembrane helix (TMH) residues from sequence. Neuronal dropout is a strategy where certain neurons of the network are excluded from back-propagation to prevent co-adaptation of hidden-layer neurons. By using neuronal dropout, overfitting was significantly reduced and performance was noticeably improved. For multi-spanning helical membrane proteins, TMH-Expo achieved a remarkable Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.69 between predicted and experimental values and a mean absolute error of only 1.68. In addition, among those membrane protein–membrane protein interface residues, 76.8% were correctly predicted. Mapping of predicted contact numbers onto structures indicates that contact numbers predicted by TMH-Expo reflect the exposure patterns of TMHs and reveal membrane protein–membrane protein interfaces, reinforcing the potential of predicted contact numbers to be used as restraints for 3D structure prediction and protein–protein docking. TMH-Expo can be accessed via a Web server at www.meilerlab.org. PMID:26804342

Advancements in non-contact metrology of asphere and diffractive optics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

DeFisher, Scott

2017-11-01

Advancements in optical manufacturing technology allow optical designers to implement steep aspheric or high departure surfaces into their systems. Measuring these surfaces with profilometers or CMMs can be difficult due to large surface slopes or sharp steps in the surface. OptiPro has developed UltraSurf to qualify the form and figure of steep aspheric and diffractive optics. UltraSurf is a computer controlled, non-contact coordinate measuring machine. It incorporates five air-bearing axes, linear motors, high-resolution feedback, and a non-contact probe. The measuring probe is scanned over the optical surface while maintaining perpendicularity and a constant focal offset. Multiple probe technologies are available on UltraSurf. Each probe has strengths and weaknesses relative to the material properties, surface finish, and figure error of an optical component. The measuring probes utilize absolute distance to resolve step heights and diffractive surface patterns. The non-contact scanning method avoids common pitfalls with stylus contact instruments. Advancements in measuring speed and precision has enabled fast and accurate non-contact metrology of diffractive and steep aspheric surfaces. The benefits of data sampling with twodimensional profiles and three-dimensional topography maps will be presented. In addition, accuracy, repeatability, and machine qualification will be discussed with regards to aspheres and diffractive surfaces.

The 1:3M geologic map of Mercury: progress and updates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Galluzzi, Valentina; Guzzetta, Laura; Mancinelli, Paolo; Giacomini, Lorenza; Malliband, Christopher C.; Mosca, Alessandro; Wright, Jack; Ferranti, Luigi; Massironi, Matteo; Pauselli, Cristina; Rothery, David A.; Palumbo, Pasquale

2017-04-01

After the end of Mariner 10 mission a 1:5M geologic map of seven of the fifteen quadrangles of Mercury [Spudis and Guest, 1988] was produced. The NASA MESSENGER mission filled the gap by imaging 100% of the planet with a global average resolution of 200 m/pixel and this led to the production of a global 1:15M geologic map of the planet [Prockter et al., 2016]. Despite the quality gap between Mariner 10 and MESSENGER images, no global geological mapping project with a scale larger than 1:5M has been proposed so far. Here we present the status of an ongoing project for the geologic mapping of Mercury at an average output scale of 1:3M based on the available MESSENGER data. This project will lead to a fuller grasp of the planet's stratigraphy and surface history. Completing such a product for Mercury is an important goal in preparation for the forthcoming ESA/JAXA BepiColombo mission to aid selection of scientific targets and to provide context for interpretation of new data. At the time of this writing, H02 Victoria [Galluzzi et al., 2016], H03 Shakespeare [Guzzetta et al., 2016] and H04 Raditladi [Mancinelli et al., 2016] have been completed and H05 Hokusai [Rothery et al., 2017], H06 Kuiper [Giacomini et al., 2017], H07 Beethoven and H10 Derain [Malliband et al., 2017] are being mapped. The produced geologic maps were merged using the ESRI ArcGIS software adjusting discontinuous contacts along the quadrangle boundaries. Contact discrepancies were reviewed and discussed among the mappers of adjoining quadrangles in order to match the geological interpretation and provide a unique consistent stratigraphy. At the current stage, more than 20% of Mercury has now a complete 1:3M map and more than 40% of the planet will be covered soon by the maps that are being prepared. This research was supported by the Italian Space Agency (ASI) within the SIMBIOSYS project (ASI-INAF agreement no. I/022/10/0). References Galluzzi V. et al. (2016). Geology of the Victoria Quadrangle (H02), Mercury. J. Maps, 12, 226-238. Giacomini L. et al. (2017). Geological mapping of the Kuiper quadrangle (H06) of Mercury. EGU General Assembly 2017, Abs. #14574. Guzzetta L. et al. (2016). Geologic map of the Shakespeare Quadrangle (H03) of Mercury. 88th Congress of the Italian Geological Society, 7-9 Sep 2016, Naples. Malliband C.C. et al. (2017). Preliminary results of 1:3million geological mapping of the Mercury quadrangle H-10 (Derain). XLVIII LPSC Abs., #1476. Mancinelli P. et al. (2016). Geology of the Raditladi Quadrangle, Mercury (H04). J. Maps, 12, 190-202. Prockter L. M. et al. (2016). The First Global Geological Map of Mercury. XLVII LPSC., Abs. #1245. Rothery D. A. et al. (2017). Geological mapping of the Hokusai (H05) quadrangle of Mercury. XLVIII LPSC, Abs. #1406. Spudis P. D. and Guest J. E. (1988). Stratigraphy and geologic history of Mercury. In: Vilas F., Chapman, C. R. and Matthews M. S. Eds., Mercury, 118-164. The University of Arizona Press, Tucson.

Geologic map of the Haji-Gak iron deposit, Bamyan Province, Afghanistan, modified from the 1965 original map compilation of M.S. Smirnov and I.K. Kusov

USGS Publications Warehouse

Renaud, Karine M.; Tucker, Robert D.; Peters, Stephen G.; Stettner, Will R.; Masonic, Linda M.; Moran, Thomas W.

2011-01-01

This map is a modified version of Geological-structural map of Hajigak iron-ore deposit, scale 1:10,000, which was compiled by M.S. Smirnov and I.K. Kusov in 1965. (Refer to the References Cited section in the Map PDF for complete citations of the original map and a related report.) USGS scientists, in cooperation with the Afghan Geological Survey and the Task Force for Business and Stability Operations of the U.S. Department of Defense, studied the original documents and also visited the field area in November 2009. This modified map illustrates the geological structure of the Haji-Gak iron deposit and includes cross sections of the same area. The map reproduces the topology (contacts, faults, and so forth) of the original Soviet map and cross sections and includes modifications based on our examination of these documents. Elevations on the cross sections are derived from the original Soviet topography and may not match the newer topography used on the current map. We have attempted to translate the original Russian terminology and rock classification into modern English geologic usage as literally as possible without changing any genetic or process-oriented implications in the original descriptions. We also use the age designations from the original map. The unit colors on the map and cross sections differ from the colors shown on the original version. The units are colored according to the color and pattern scheme of the Commission for the Geological Map of the World (CGMW) (http://www.ccgm.org).

Reaching out to Multiple Risk Adolescents.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Porter, Laura; Lindberg, Laura Duberstein

This brief describes multiple risk students and maps their links to settings such as the workplace, church, or the health care system. A secondary goal of the brief is to show that although high-risk students have contact with many social institutions, opportunities for interventions are being missed. Data from the 1995 National Longitudinal…

43 CFR 404.16 - What information must I include in my statement of interest?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... preliminary scope of work that must include sufficient information to address all of the eligibility criteria..., organization, and contact information, including the identification of any partners that may be involved in the appraisal investigation; (b) Location map and description of the areas to be served by the proposed rural...

Mapping Language Ideologies in Multi-Ethnic Urban Europe: The Case of Parisian French

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stewart, Christopher Michael

2012-01-01

Although the modern multicultural European metropolis has brought previously disparate groups into close contact, little research has focused on the effect of these shifting demographic patterns on language attitudes and ideologies. This is probably due to the sensitive nature of issues relating to immigration which may evoke contexts of…

Genetic Variation in the MAPK/ERK Pathway Affects Contact Hypersensitivity Responses.

PubMed

Legrand, Julien M D; Roy, Edwige; Baz, Batoul; Mukhopadhyay, Pamela; Wong, Ho Yi; Ram, Ramesh; Morahan, Grant; Walker, Graeme; Khosrotehrani, Kiarash

2018-05-10

Using a genetic resource that enables rapid mapping of genes for complex traits, we demonstrate dramatic diversity between murine strains in response to immune challenge. We identified several candidate genes that point to the MAPK/ERK pathway as a key modulator of this process. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Chemical Sciences and Engineering - US China Electric Vehicle and Battery

Science.gov Websites

Technology Workshop Argonne National Laboratory Chemical Sciences & Engineering DOE Logo Photo Gallery Hotels Maps Bus Schedule Contact Us TCS Building and Conference Center, Argonne National Lab TCS Building and Conference Center United States Flag China flag 2011 U.S.-China Electric Vehicle

Imaging subtle microstructural variations in ceramics with precision ultrasonic velocity and attenuation measurements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Generazio, Edward R.; Roth, Don J.; Baaklini, George Y.

1987-01-01

Acoustic images of a silicon carbide ceramic disk were obtained using a precision scanning contact pulse echo technique. Phase and cross-correlation velocity, and attenuation maps were used to form color images of microstructural variations. These acoustic images reveal microstructural variations not observable with X-ray radiography.

77 FR 27671 - State of Hawaii; Regional Haze Federal Implementation Plan

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-05-11

... material, large maps), and some may not be publicly available in either location (e.g., CBI). To inspect the hard copy materials, please schedule an appointment during normal business hours with the contact... questions and discussion, EPA will hold open houses prior to the public hearings. During these open houses...

Geologic map of the Khanneshin carbonatite complex, Helmand Province, Afghanistan, modified from the 1976 original map compilation of V.G. Cheremytsin

USGS Publications Warehouse

Tucker, Robert D.; Peters, Stephen G.; Schulz, Klaus J.; Renaud, Karine M.; Stettner, Will R.; Masonic, Linda M.; Packard, Patricia H.

2011-01-01

This map is a modified version of the Geological map of the Khanneshin carbonatite complex, scale 1:10,000, which was compiled by V.G. Cheremytsin in 1976. Scientists from the U.S. Geological Survey, in cooperation with the Afghan Geological Survey and the Task Force for Business and Stability Operations of the U.S. Department of Defense, studied the original map and also visited the field area in September 2009, August 2010, and February 2011. This modified map, which includes cross sections, illustrates the geologic structure of the Khanneshin carbonatite complex. The map reproduces the topology (contacts, faults, and so forth) of the original Soviet map and cross sections and includes modifications based on our examination of that map and a related report, and based on observations made during our field visits. (Refer to the References section in the Map PDF for complete citations of the original map and related report.) Elevations on the cross section are derived from the original Soviet topography and may not match the newer topography used on the current map. We have attempted to translate the original Russian terminology and rock classification into modern English geologic usage as literally as possible without changing any genetic or process-oriented implications in the original descriptions. We also use the age designations from the original map. The unit colors on the map and cross sections differ from the colors shown on the original version. The units are colored according to the color and pattern scheme of the Commission for the Geological Map of the World (CGMW) (http://www.ccgm.org).

Scoping of Flood Hazard Mapping Needs for Androscoggin County, Maine

USGS Publications Warehouse

Schalk, Charles W.; Dudley, Robert W.

2007-01-01

Background The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) developed a plan in 1997 to modernize the FEMA flood mapping program. FEMA flood maps delineate flood hazard areas in support of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). FEMA's plan outlined the steps necessary to update FEMA's flood maps for the nation to a seamless digital format and streamline FEMA's operations in raising public awareness of the importance of the maps and responding to requests to revise them. The modernization of flood maps involves conversion of existing information to digital format and integration of improved flood hazard data as needed and as funds allow. To determine flood mapping modernization needs, FEMA has established specific scoping activities to be done on a county-by-county basis for identifying and prioritizing requisite flood-mapping activities for map modernization. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), in cooperation with FEMA and the Maine Floodplain Management Program (MFMP) State Planning Office, began scoping work in 2006 for Androscoggin County. Scoping activities included assembling existing data and map needs information for communities in Androscoggin County, documentation of data, contacts, community meetings, and prioritized mapping needs in a final scoping report (this document), and updating the Mapping Needs Update Support System (MNUSS) Database with information gathered during the scoping process. The average age of the FEMA floodplain maps in Androscoggin County, Maine, is at least 17 years. Most studies were published in the early 1990s, and some towns have partial maps that are more recent than their study date. Since the studies were done, development has occurred in many of the watersheds and the characteristics of the watersheds have changed with time. Therefore, many of the older studies may not depict current conditions nor accurately estimate risk in terms of flood heights or flood mapping.

Scoping of Flood Hazard Mapping Needs for Lincoln County, Maine

USGS Publications Warehouse

Schalk, Charles W.; Dudley, Robert W.

2007-01-01

Background The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) developed a plan in 1997 to modernize the FEMA flood mapping program. FEMA flood maps delineate flood hazard areas in support of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). FEMA's plan outlined the steps necessary to update FEMA's flood maps for the nation to a seamless digital format and streamline FEMA's operations in raising public awareness of the importance of the maps and responding to requests to revise them. The modernization of flood maps involves conversion of existing information to digital format and integration of improved flood hazard data as needed. To determine flood mapping modernization needs, FEMA has established specific scoping activities to be done on a county-by-county basis for identifying and prioritizing requisite flood-mapping activities for map modernization. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), in cooperation with FEMA and the Maine Floodplain Management Program (MFMP) State Planning Office, began scoping work in 2006 for Lincoln County. Scoping activities included assembling existing data and map needs information for communities in Lincoln County, documentation of data, contacts, community meetings, and prioritized mapping needs in a final scoping report (this document), and updating the Mapping Needs Update Support System (MNUSS) database with information gathered during the scoping process. The average age of the FEMA floodplain maps in Lincoln County, Maine is at least 17 years. Many of these studies were published in the mid- to late-1980s, and some towns have partial maps that are more recent than their study. However, in the ensuing 15-20 years, development has occurred in many of the watersheds, and the characteristics of the watersheds have changed with time. Therefore, many of the older studies may not depict current conditions nor accurately estimate risk in terms of flood heights or flood mapping.

Accurate estimation of short read mapping quality for next-generation genome sequencing

PubMed Central

Ruffalo, Matthew; Koyutürk, Mehmet; Ray, Soumya; LaFramboise, Thomas

2012-01-01

Motivation: Several software tools specialize in the alignment of short next-generation sequencing reads to a reference sequence. Some of these tools report a mapping quality score for each alignment—in principle, this quality score tells researchers the likelihood that the alignment is correct. However, the reported mapping quality often correlates weakly with actual accuracy and the qualities of many mappings are underestimated, encouraging the researchers to discard correct mappings. Further, these low-quality mappings tend to correlate with variations in the genome (both single nucleotide and structural), and such mappings are important in accurately identifying genomic variants. Approach: We develop a machine learning tool, LoQuM (LOgistic regression tool for calibrating the Quality of short read mappings, to assign reliable mapping quality scores to mappings of Illumina reads returned by any alignment tool. LoQuM uses statistics on the read (base quality scores reported by the sequencer) and the alignment (number of matches, mismatches and deletions, mapping quality score returned by the alignment tool, if available, and number of mappings) as features for classification and uses simulated reads to learn a logistic regression model that relates these features to actual mapping quality. Results: We test the predictions of LoQuM on an independent dataset generated by the ART short read simulation software and observe that LoQuM can ‘resurrect’ many mappings that are assigned zero quality scores by the alignment tools and are therefore likely to be discarded by researchers. We also observe that the recalibration of mapping quality scores greatly enhances the precision of called single nucleotide polymorphisms. Availability: LoQuM is available as open source at http://compbio.case.edu/loqum/. Contact: matthew.ruffalo@case.edu. PMID:22962451

Periocular dermatitis: a report of 401 patients.

PubMed

Temesvári, E; Pónyai, G; Németh, I; Hidvégi, B; Sas, A; Kárpáti, S

2009-02-01

Periocular contact dermatitis may appear as contact conjunctivitis, contact allergic and/or irritative eyelid and periorbital dermatitis, or a combination of these symptoms. The clinical symptoms may be induced by several environmental and therapeutic contact allergens. The aim of the present study was to map the eliciting contact allergens in 401 patients with periocular dermatitis (PD) by patch testing with environmental and ophthalmic contact allergens. Following the methodics of international requirements, 401 patients were tested with contact allergens of the standard environmental series, 133 of 401 patients with the Brial ophthalmic basic and supplementary series as well. Contact hypersensitivity was detected in 34.4% of the patients. Highest prevalence was seen in cases of PD without other symptoms (51.18%), in patients of PD associated with ophthalmic complaints (OC; 30.4%), and PD associated with atopic dermatitis (AD; 27.9%). In the subgroup of PD associated with seborrhoea (S) and rosacea (R), contact hypersensitivity was confirmed in 17.6%. Most frequent sensitisers were nickel sulphate (in 8.9% of the tested 401 patients), fragrance mix I (4.5%), balsam of Peru (4.0%), paraphenylendiamine (PPD) (3.7%), and thiomersal (3.5%). By testing ophthalmic allergens, contact hypersensitivity was observed in nine patients (6.7% of the tested 133 patients). The most common confirmed ophthalmic allergens were cocamidopropyl betaine, idoxuridine, phenylephrine hydrochloride, Na chromoglycinate, and papaine. Patients with symptoms of PD were tested from 1996 to 2006. The occurence of contact hypersensitivity in PD patients was in present study 34.4%. A relatively high occurrence was seen in cases of PD without other symptoms, in PD + OC and in PD + AD patients. The predominance of environmental contact allergens was remarkable: most frequent sensitizers were nickel sulphate, fragrance mix I, balsam of Peru, thiomersal, and PPD. The prevalence of contact hypersensitivity to ophthalmic allergens did not exceed l.5%.

EpiContactTrace: an R-package for contact tracing during livestock disease outbreaks and for risk-based surveillance

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background During outbreak of livestock diseases, contact tracing can be an important part of disease control. Animal movements can also be of relevance for risk-based surveillance and sampling, i.e. both when assessing consequences of introduction or likelihood of introduction. In many countries, animal movement data are collected with one of the major objectives to enable contact tracing. However, often an analytical step is needed to retrieve appropriate information for contact tracing or surveillance. Results In this study, an open source tool was developed to structure livestock movement data to facilitate contact-tracing in real time during disease outbreaks and for input in risk-based surveillance and sampling. The tool, EpiContactTrace, was written in the R-language and uses the network parameters in-degree, out-degree, ingoing contact chain and outgoing contact chain (also called infection chain), which are relevant for forward and backward tracing respectively. The time-frames for backward and forward tracing can be specified independently and search can be done on one farm at a time or for all farms within the dataset. Different outputs are available; datasets with network measures, contacts visualised in a map and automatically generated reports for each farm either in HTML or PDF-format intended for the end-users, i.e. the veterinary authorities, regional disease control officers and field-veterinarians. EpiContactTrace is available as an R-package at the R-project website (http://cran.r-project.org/web/packages/EpiContactTrace/). Conclusions We believe this tool can help in disease control since it rapidly can structure essential contact information from large datasets. The reproducible reports make this tool robust and independent of manual compilation of data. The open source makes it accessible and easily adaptable for different needs. PMID:24636731

The integrated analyses of digital field mapping techniques and traditional field methods: implications from the Burdur-Fethiye Shear Zone, SW Turkey as a case-study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Elitez, İrem; Yaltırak, Cenk; Zabcı, Cengiz; Şahin, Murat

2015-04-01

The precise geological mapping is one of the most important issues in geological studies. Documenting the spatial distribution of geological bodies and their contacts play a crucial role on interpreting the tectonic evolution of any region. Although the traditional field techniques are still accepted to be the most fundamental tools in construction of geological maps, we suggest that the integration of digital technologies to the classical methods significantly increases the resolution and the quality of such products. We simply follow the following steps in integration of the digital data with the traditional field observations. First, we create the digital elevation model (DEM) of the region of interest by interpolating the digital contours of 1:25000 scale topographic maps to 10 m of ground pixel resolution. The non-commercial Google Earth satellite imagery and geological maps of previous studies are draped over the interpolated DEMs in the second stage. The integration of all spatial data is done by using the market leading GIS software, ESRI ArcGIS. We make the preliminary interpretation of major structures as tectonic lineaments and stratigraphic contacts. These preliminary maps are controlled and precisely coordinated during the field studies by using mobile tablets and/or phablets with GPS receivers. The same devices are also used in measuring and recording the geologic structures of the study region. Finally, all digitally collected measurements and observations are added to the GIS database and we finalise our geological map with all available information. We applied this integrated method to map the Burdur-Fethiye Shear Zone (BFSZ) in the southwest Turkey. The BFSZ is an active sinistral 60-to-90 km-wide shear zone, which prolongs about 300 km-long between Suhut-Cay in the northeast and Köyceğiz Lake-Kalkan in the southwest on land. The numerous studies suggest contradictory models not only about the evolution but also about the fault geometry of this wide deformation zone. In our study, we have mapped this complicated region since 2008 by using the data and the steps, which are described briefly above. After our joint-analyses, we show that there is no continuous single and narrow fault, the Burdur-Fethiye Fault, as it was previously suggested by many researches. Instead, the whole region is deformed under the oblique-sinistral shearing with considerable amount of extension, which causes a counterclockwise rotation within the zone.

Contact resonances of U-shaped atomic force microscope probes

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

Rezaei, E.; Turner, J. A., E-mail: jaturner@unl.edu

Recent approaches used to characterize the elastic or viscoelastic properties of materials with nanoscale resolution have focused on the contact resonances of atomic force microscope (CR-AFM) probes. The experiments for these CR-AFM methods involve measurement of several contact resonances from which the resonant frequency and peak width are found. The contact resonance values are then compared with the noncontact values in order for the sample properties to be evaluated. The data analysis requires vibration models associated with the probe during contact in order for the beam response to be deconvolved from the measured spectra. To date, the majority of CR-AFMmore » research has used rectangular probes that have a relatively simple vibration response. Recently, U-shaped AFM probes have created much interest because they allow local sample heating. However, the vibration response of these probes is much more complex such that CR-AFM is still in its infancy. In this article, a simplified analytical model of U-shaped probes is evaluated for contact resonance applications relative to a more complex finite element (FE) computational model. The tip-sample contact is modeled using three orthogonal Kelvin-Voigt elements such that the resonant frequency and peak width of each mode are functions of the contact conditions. For the purely elastic case, the frequency results of the simple model are within 8% of the FE model for the lowest six modes over a wide range of contact stiffness values. Results for the viscoelastic contact problem for which the quality factor of the lowest six modes is compared show agreement to within 13%. These results suggest that this simple model can be used effectively to evaluate CR-AFM experimental results during AFM scanning such that quantitative mapping of viscoelastic properties may be possible using U-shaped probes.« less

Virtual view image synthesis for eye-contact in TV conversation system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Murayama, Daisuke; Kimura, Keiichi; Hosaka, Tadaaki; Hamamoto, Takayuki; Shibuhisa, Nao; Tanaka, Seiichi; Sato, Shunichi; Saito, Sakae

2010-02-01

Eye-contact plays an important role for human communications in the sense that it can convey unspoken information. However, it is highly difficult to realize eye-contact in teleconferencing systems because of camera configurations. Conventional methods to overcome this difficulty mainly resorted to space-consuming optical devices such as half mirrors. In this paper, we propose an alternative approach to achieve eye-contact by techniques of arbitrary view image synthesis. In our method, multiple images captured by real cameras are converted to the virtual viewpoint (the center of the display) by homography, and evaluation of matching errors among these projected images provides the depth map and the virtual image. Furthermore, we also propose a simpler version of this method by using a single camera to save the computational costs, in which the only one real image is transformed to the virtual viewpoint based on the hypothesis that the subject is located at a predetermined distance. In this simple implementation, eye regions are separately generated by comparison with pre-captured frontal face images. Experimental results of both the methods show that the synthesized virtual images enable the eye-contact favorably.

The writers guide to NASA. [NASA Centers and public affairs contacts

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1978-01-01

NASA services of interest to writers and to the news media include personal interviews, daily audio reports of major missions, and projects via automated telephone, research assistance from historians or history monitors at technical libraries, the use of a collection of historical photographs, and the free loan of sound films of NASA research and development activities. The names and phones numbers are listed for public affairs contacts at Headquarters and at each of the major centers and their component installations. An overview of the six NASA program offices is included along with a vicinity map of each center and a description of their facilities and management responsibilities.

One-Dimensional Contact Mode Interdigitated Center of Pressure Sensor (CMIPS)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Xu, Tian-Bing; Kang, Jinho; Park, Cheol; Harrison, Joycelyn S.; Guerreiro, Nelson M.; Hubbard, James E.

2009-01-01

A one dimensional contact mode interdigitated center of pressure sensor (CMIPS) has been developed. The experimental study demonstrated that the CMIPS has the capability to measure the overall pressure as well as the center of pressure in one dimension, simultaneously. A theoretical model for the CMIPS is established here based on the equivalent circuit of the configuration of the CMIPS as well as the material properties of the sensor. The experimental results match well with theoretical modeling predictions. A system mapped with two or more pieces of the CMIPS can be used to obtain information from the pressure distribution in multi-dimensions.

Northward extension of Carolina slate belt stratigraphy and structure, South-Central Virginia: Results from geologic mapping

USGS Publications Warehouse

Hackley, P.C.; Peper, J.D.; Burton, W.C.; Horton, J. Wright

2007-01-01

Geologic mapping in south-central Virginia demonstrates that the stratigraphy and structure of the Carolina slate belt extend northward across a steep thermal gradient into upper amphibolite-facies correlative gneiss and schist. The Neoproterozoic greenschist-facies Hyco, Aaron, and Virgilina Formations were traced northward from their type localities near Virgilina, Virginia, along a simple, upright, northeast-trending isoclinal syncline. This syncline is called the Dryburg syncline and is a northern extension of the more complex Virgilina synclinorium. Progressively higher-grade equivalents of the Hyco and Aaron Formations were mapped northward along the axial trace of the refolded and westwardly-overturned Dryburg syncline through the Keysville and Green Bay 7.5-minute quadrangles, and across the northern end of the Carolina slate belt as interpreted on previous geologic maps. Hyco rocks, including felsic metatuff, metawacke, and amphibolite, become gneisses upgrade with areas of local anatexis and the segregation of granitic melt into leucosomes with biotite selvages. Phyllite of the Aaron Formation becomes garnet-bearing mica schist. Aaron Formation rocks disconformably overlie the primarily felsic volcanic and volcaniclastic rocks of the Hyco Formation as evidenced by repeated truncation of internal contacts within the Hyco on both limbs of the Dryburg syncline at the Aaron-Hyco contact. East-northeast-trending isograds, defined successively by the first appearance of garnet, then kyanite ?? staurolite in sufficiently aluminous rocks, are superposed on the stratigraphic units and synclinal structure at moderate to high angles to strike. The textural distinction between gneisses and identifiable sedimentary structures occurs near the kyanite ?? staurolite-in isograd. Development of the steep thermal gradient and regional penetrative fabric is interpreted to result from emplacement of the Goochland terrane adjacent to the northern end of the slate belt during Alleghanian orogenesis. This mapping study indicates that the Carolina slate belt does not terminate on the north against through-going faults or rest on higher-grade basement as previously suggested.

Database for the geologic map of the Mount Baker 30- by 60-minute quadrangle, Washington (I-2660)

USGS Publications Warehouse

Tabor, R.W.; Haugerud, R.A.; Hildreth, Wes; Brown, E.H.

2006-01-01

This digital map database has been prepared by R.W. Tabor from the published Geologic map of the Mount Baker 30- by 60-Minute Quadrangle, Washington. Together with the accompanying text files as PDF, it provides information on the geologic structure and stratigraphy of the area covered. The database delineates map units that are identified by general age and lithology following the stratigraphic nomenclature of the U.S. Geological Survey. The authors mapped most of the geology at 1:100,000. The Quaternary contacts and structural data have been much simplified for the 1:100,000-scale map and database. The spatial resolution (scale) of the database is 1:100,000 or smaller. This database depicts the distribution of geologic materials and structures at a regional (1:100,000) scale. The report is intended to provide geologic information for the regional study of materials properties, earthquake shaking, landslide potential, mineral hazards, seismic velocity, and earthquake faults. In addition, the report contains information and interpretations about the regional geologic history and framework. However, the regional scale of this report does not provide sufficient detail for site development purposes.

Database for the geologic map of the Chelan 30-minute by 60-minute quadrangle, Washington (I-1661)

USGS Publications Warehouse

Tabor, R.W.; Frizzell, V.A.; Whetten, J.T.; Waitt, R.B.; Swanson, D.A.; Byerly, G.R.; Booth, D.B.; Hetherington, M.J.; Zartman, R.E.

2006-01-01

This digital map database has been prepared by R. W. Tabor from the published Geologic map of the Chelan 30-Minute Quadrangle, Washington. Together with the accompanying text files as PDF, it provides information on the geologic structure and stratigraphy of the area covered. The database delineates map units that are identified by general age and lithology following the stratigraphic nomenclature of the U.S. Geological Survey. The authors mapped most of the bedrock geology at 1:100,000 scale, but compiled Quaternary units at 1:24,000 scale. The Quaternary contacts and structural data have been much simplified for the 1:100,000-scale map and database. The spatial resolution (scale) of the database is 1:100,000 or smaller. This database depicts the distribution of geologic materials and structures at a regional (1:100,000) scale. The report is intended to provide geologic information for the regional study of materials properties, earthquake shaking, landslide potential, mineral hazards, seismic velocity, and earthquake faults. In addition, the report contains information and interpretations about the regional geologic history and framework. However, the regional scale of this report does not provide sufficient detail for site development purposes.

Database for the geologic map of the Snoqualmie Pass 30-minute by 60-minute quadrangle, Washington (I-2538)

USGS Publications Warehouse

Tabor, R.W.; Frizzell, V.A.; Booth, D.B.; Waitt, R.B.

2006-01-01

This digital map database has been prepared by R.W. Tabor from the published Geologic map of the Snoqualmie Pass 30' X 60' Quadrangle, Washington. Together with the accompanying text files as PDF, it provides information on the geologic structure and stratigraphy of the area covered. The database delineates map units that are identified by general age and lithology following the stratigraphic nomenclature of the U.S. Geological Survey. The authors mapped most of the bedrock geology at 1:100,000 scale, but compiled Quaternary units at 1:24,000 scale. The Quaternary contacts and structural data have been much simplified for the 1:100,000-scale map and database. The spatial resolution (scale) of the database is 1:100,000 or smaller. This database depicts the distribution of geologic materials and structures at a regional (1:100,000) scale. The report is intended to provide geologic information for the regional study of materials properties, earthquake shaking, landslide potential, mineral hazards, seismic velocity, and earthquake faults. In addition, the report contains information and interpretations about the regional geologic history and framework. However, the regional scale of this report does not provide sufficient detail for site development purposes.

Geologic Map of the Wenatchee 1:100,000 Quadrangle, Central Washington: A Digital Database

USGS Publications Warehouse

Tabor, R.W.; Waitt, R.B.; Frizzell, V.A.; Swanson, D.A.; Byerly, G.R.; Bentley, R.D.

2005-01-01

This digital map database has been prepared by R.W. Tabor from the published Geologic map of the Wenatchee 1:100,000 Quadrangle, Central Washington. Together with the accompanying text files as PDF, it provides information on the geologic structure and stratigraphy of the area covered. The database delineates map units that are identified by general age and lithology following the stratigraphic nomenclature of the U.S. Geological Survey. The authors mapped most of the bedrock geology at 1:100,000 scale, but compiled Quaternary units at 1:24,000 scale. The Quaternary contacts and structural data have been much simplified for the 1:100,000-scale map and database. The spatial resolution (scale) of the database is 1:100,000 or smaller. This database depicts the distribution of geologic materials and structures at a regional (1:100,000) scale. The report is intended to provide geologic information for the regional study of materials properties, earthquake shaking, landslide potential, mineral hazards, seismic velocity, and earthquake faults. In addition, the report contains information and interpretations about the regional geologic history and framework. However, the regional scale of this report does not provide sufficient detail for site development purposes.

Reconstructing Magmatic-Hydrothermal Systems via Geologic Mapping of the Tilted, Cross-sectional Exposures of the Yerington District, Nevada

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dilles, J. H.; Proffett, J. M.

2011-12-01

The Jurassic Yerington batholith was cut by Miocene to recent normal faults and tilted ~90° west (Proffett, 1977). Exposures range from the volcanic environment to ~6 km depth in the batholith. Magmatic-hydrothermal fluids derived from the Luhr Hill granite and associated porphyry dikes produced characteristic porphyry copper mineralization and rock alteration (K-silicate, sericitic, and advanced argillic) in near-vertical columnar zones above cupolas on the deep granite. In addition, saline brines derived from the early Mesozoic volcanic and sedimentary section intruded by the batholith were heated and circulated through the batholith producing voluminous sodic-calcic and propylitic alteration. The magnetite-copper ore body at Pumpkin Hollow is hosted in early Mesozoic sedimentary rocks in the contact aureole of the batholith, and appears to be an IOCG type deposit produced where the sedimentary brines exited the batholith. Although many advances in understanding of Yerington have been made by lab-based geochronology and geochemistry studies, the first order igneous and hydrothermal features were recognized first in the 1960s and 1970s and are best documented by geological mapping at a variety of scales ranging from 1:500 to 1:24,000. The Anaconda technique of mapping mine benches, trenches, and drill cores was perfected here (Einaudi, 1997), and other techniques were used for surface exposures. The geologic and hydrothermal alteration maps establish that hydrothermal alteration accompanied each of several porphyry dike intrusions, and affected more than 100 km3 of rock. Both zonation in alteration mineralogy and vein orientations allow reconstruction of source areas and >5 km-long flow-paths of hydrothermal fluids through the batholith and contact aureole.

Bedrock geologic map of the Nashua South quadrangle, Hillsborough County, New Hampshire, and Middlesex County, Massachusetts

USGS Publications Warehouse

Walsh, Gregory J.; Jahns, Richard H.; Aleinikoff, John N.

2013-01-01

The bedrock geology of the 7.5-minute Nashua South quadrangle consists primarily of deformed Silurian metasedimentary rocks of the Berwick Formation. The metasedimentary rocks are intruded by a Late Silurian to Early Devonian diorite-gabbro suite, Devonian rocks of the Ayer Granodiorite, Devonian granitic rocks of the New Hampshire Plutonic Suite including pegmatite and the Chelmsford Granite, and Jurassic diabase dikes. The bedrock geology was mapped to study the tectonic history of the area and to provide a framework for ongoing hydrogeologic characterization of the fractured bedrock of Massachusetts and New Hampshire. This report presents mapping by G.J. Walsh and R.H. Jahns and zircon U-Pb geochronology by J.N. Aleinikoff. The complete report consists of a map, text pamphlet, and GIS database. The map and text pamphlet are only available as downloadable files (see frame at right). The GIS database is available for download in ESRITM shapefile and Google EarthTM formats, and includes contacts of bedrock geologic units, faults, outcrops, structural geologic information, photographs, and a three-dimensional model.

Certainty grids for mobile robots

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moravec, H. P.

1987-01-01

A numerical representation of uncertain and incomplete sensor knowledge called Certainty Grids has been used successfully in several mobile robot control programs, and has proven itself to be a powerful and efficient unifying solution for sensor fusion, motion planning, landmark identification, and many other central problems. Researchers propose to build a software framework running on processors onboard the new Uranus mobile robot that will maintain a probabilistic, geometric map of the robot's surroundings as it moves. The certainty grid representation will allow this map to be incrementally updated in a uniform way from various sources including sonar, stereo vision, proximity and contact sensors. The approach can correctly model the fuzziness of each reading, while at the same time combining multiple measurements to produce sharper map features, and it can deal correctly with uncertainties in the robot's motion. The map will be used by planning programs to choose clear paths, identify locations (by correlating maps), identify well-known and insufficiently sensed terrain, and perhaps identify objects by shape. The certainty grid representation can be extended in the same dimension and used to detect and track moving objects.

Lack of association between the occurrence of Crohn's disease and occupational exposure to dairy and beef cattle herds infected with Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis.

PubMed

Qual, D A; Kaneene, J B; Varty, T J; Miller, R; Thoen, C O

2010-06-01

A cross-sectional survey was conducted to identify associations between Crohn's disease (CD) and Mycobacterium avium ssp. paratuberculosis (Map) exposure. A questionnaire was used to collect information on exposure to cattle infected with Map, and personal and family history of CD in dairy and beef cattle producers with and without Map-infected herds, and in veterinarians who did or did not have contact with Map-infected herds. Cases of CD were selected from respondents and matched 1:4 with controls on occupation, age, and sex. Multivariable conditional logistic regression was used to assess associations between Map exposure and CD. There were 3 cases of CD in 702 producers and 4 cases in 774 veterinarians, yielding a prevalence of 0.47%. No association was found between exposure to JD and CD in any phase of the analysis. However, the number of cases of CD is not large and limits the power to detect important differences. 2010 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of satellite remote sensing and automatic data techniques for characterization of wetlands and marshlands

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cartmill, R. H. (Principal Investigator)

1973-01-01

The author has identified the following significant results. Using the 12S Digicol color additive viewer and eight color classification map has been produced of a portion of the study area. Channel 3 of the MSS produced the best map. Enlargements of the MSS data have been accomplished by using the Data Analysis Station. The attached film recorder has three color guns which are capable of placing 2400 square elements across a 9 inch film. It has been found that by repeating ERTS element 9 times and each scan line 13 times that a map of a scale approximately 1:62,000 can be produced as a color negative film strip. This can be contact printed to produce a color map of the scale. As yet this procedure does not correct for image skew caused by rotation which is believed to be the major source of distortion and blockiness in the image. However, the final product which has not undergone any photographic enlargement is superior to photographically enlarged maps of the same scale.

Geologic map of the Sunshine 7.5' quadrangle, Taos County, New Mexico

USGS Publications Warehouse

Thompson, Ren A.; Turner, Kenzie J.; Shroba, Ralph R.; Cosca, Michael A.; Ruleman, Chester A.; Lee, John P.; Brandt, Theodore R.

2014-01-01

Pliocene and younger basin deposition was accommodated along predominantly north-trending fault-bounded grabens and is preserved as poorly exposed fault scarps that cut lava flows of Ute Mountain volcano, north of the map area. The Servilleta Basalt and younger surficial deposits record largely down-to-east basinward displacement. Faults are identified with varying confidence levels in the map area. Recognizing and mapping faults developed near the surface in relatively young, brittle volcanic rocks is difficult because: (1) they tend to form fractured zones tens of meters wide rather than discrete fault planes, (2) the relative youth of the deposits has resulted in only modest displacements on most faults, and (3) some of the faults may have significant strike-slip components that do not result in large vertical offsets that are readily apparent in offset of sub-horizontal contacts. Those faults characterized as “certain” either have distinct offset of map units or had slip planes that were directly observed in the field. Lineaments defined from magnetic anomalies form an additional constraint on potential fault locations.

Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis from free-ranging deer and rabbits surrounding Minnesota dairy herds

PubMed Central

2005-01-01

Abstract The objectives of this study were to estimate the prevalence of Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP) among deer and rabbits surrounding infected and noninfected Minnesota dairy farms using fecal culture, and to describe the frequency that farm management practices were used that could potentially lead to transmission of infection between these species. Fecal samples from cows and the cow environment were collected from 108 Minnesota dairy herds, and fecal pellets from free-ranging white-tailed deer and eastern cottontail rabbits were collected from locations surrounding 114 farms; all samples were tested using bacterial culture. In addition, a questionnaire was administered to 114 herd owners. Sixty-two percent of the dairy herds had at least 1 positive fecal pool or environmental sample. A total of 218 rabbit samples were collected from 90% of the herds, and 309 deer samples were collected from 47% of the herds. On 2 (4%) of the farms sampled, 1 deer fecal sample was MAP positive. Both farms had samples from the cow fecal pool and cow environment that were positive by culture. On 2 (2%) other farms, 1 rabbit fecal sample was positive by culture to MAP, with one of these farms having positive cow fecal pools and cow environmental samples. Pasture was used on 79% of the study farms as a grazing area for cattle, mainly for dry cows (75%) and bred or prebred heifers (87%). Of the 114 farms, 88 (77%) provided access to drylot for their cattle, mainly for milking cows (77/88; 88%) and bred heifers (87%). Of all study farms, 90 (79%) used some solid manure broadcasting on their crop fields. Of all 114 farms, the estimated probability of daily physical contact between cattle manure and deer or rabbits was 20% and 25%, respectively. Possible contact between cattle manure and deer or rabbits was estimated to occur primarily from March through December. The frequency of pasture or drylot use and manure spreading on crop fields may be important risk factors for transmission of MAP among dairy cattle, deer, and rabbits. Although the MAP prevalence among rabbits and deer is low, their role as MAP reservoirs should be considered. PMID:15745220

Quantitative Subsurface Atomic Structure Fingerprint for 2D Materials and Heterostructures by First-Principles-Calibrated Contact-Resonance Atomic Force Microscopy.

PubMed

Tu, Qing; Lange, Björn; Parlak, Zehra; Lopes, Joao Marcelo J; Blum, Volker; Zauscher, Stefan

2016-07-26

Interfaces and subsurface layers are critical for the performance of devices made of 2D materials and heterostructures. Facile, nondestructive, and quantitative ways to characterize the structure of atomically thin, layered materials are thus essential to ensure control of the resultant properties. Here, we show that contact-resonance atomic force microscopy-which is exquisitely sensitive to stiffness changes that arise from even a single atomic layer of a van der Waals-adhered material-is a powerful experimental tool to address this challenge. A combined density functional theory and continuum modeling approach is introduced that yields sub-surface-sensitive, nanomechanical fingerprints associated with specific, well-defined structure models of individual surface domains. Where such models are known, this information can be correlated with experimentally obtained contact-resonance frequency maps to reveal the (sub)surface structure of different domains on the sample.

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

Wołek, Karol; Cieplak, Marek, E-mail: mc@ifpan.edu.pl

In structure-based models of proteins, one often assumes that folding is accomplished when all contacts are established. This assumption may frequently lead to a conceptual problem that folding takes place in a temperature region of very low thermodynamic stability, especially when the contact map used is too sparse. We consider six different structure-based models and show that allowing for a small, but model-dependent, percentage of the native contacts not being established boosts the folding temperature substantially while affecting the time scales of folding only in a minor way. We also compare other properties of the six models. We show thatmore » the choice of the description of the backbone stiffness has a substantial effect on the values of characteristic temperatures that relate both to equilibrium and kinetic properties. Models without any backbone stiffness (like the self-organized polymer) are found to perform similar to those with the stiffness, including in the studies of stretching.« less

A study of inventiveness among Society of Interventional Radiology members and the impact of their social networks.

PubMed

Murphy, Kieran J; Elias, Gavin; Jaffer, Hussein; Mandani, Rashesh

2013-07-01

To investigate the nature of inventiveness among members of the Society of Interventional Radiology (SIR) and learn what influenced the inventors and assisted their creativity. The membership directory of the SIR was cross-referenced with filings at the United States Patent and Trademark Organization (USPTO) and the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT). The inventors were queried with an online survey to illuminate their institutions of training and practice as well as enabling or inhibiting factors to their inventiveness. Responses were analyzed through the construction of social network maps and thematic and graphical analysis. It was found that 457 members of the SIR held 2,492 patents or patent filings. After 1986, there was a marked and sustained increase in patent filings. The online survey was completed by 73 inventors holding 470 patents and patent filings. The social network maps show the key role of large academic interventional radiology departments and individual inventors in the formation of interconnectivity among inventors and the creation of the intellectual property (IP). Key inhibitors of the inventive process include lack of mentorship, of industry contacts, and of legal advice. Key enablers include mentorship, motivation, and industry contacts. Creativity and inventiveness in SIR members stem from institutions that are hubs of innovation and networks of key innovators; inventors are facilitated by personal motivation, mentorship, and strong industry contacts. Copyright © 2013 SIR. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Dental discoloration caused by bismuth oxide in MTA in the presence of sodium hypochlorite.

PubMed

Marciano, Marina Angélica; Duarte, Marco Antonio Hungaro; Camilleri, Josette

2015-12-01

The aim of this research was to analyse the dental discolouration caused by mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) induced by bismuth oxide and also assess the colour stability of other dental cements. Bismuth oxide, calcium tungstate and zirconium oxide were placed in contact with sodium hypochlorite for 24 h after which they were dried and photographed. Phase analyses were performed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) of radiopacifiers before and after immersion in sodium hypochlorite. Furthermore, teeth previously immersed in water or sodium hypochlorite were filled with MTA Angelus, Portland cement (PC), PC with 20 % zirconium oxide, PC with 20 % calcium tungstate and Biodentine. Teeth were immersed for 28 days in Hank's balanced salt solution after which they were sectioned and characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy-dispersive mapping and stereomicroscopy. Bismuth oxide in contact with sodium hypochlorite exhibited a change in colour from light yellow to dark brown. XRD analysis demonstrated peaks for radiopacifier and sodium chloride in samples immersed in sodium hypochlorite. The SEM images of the dentine to material interface showed alteration in material microstructure for MTA Angelus and Biodentine with depletion in calcium content in the material. The energy-dispersive maps showed migration of radiopacifier and silicon in dentine. MTA Angelus in contact with a tooth previously immersed in sodium hypochlorite resulted in colour alteration at the cement/dentine interface. MTA Angelus should not be used after irrigation with sodium hypochlorite as this will result in tooth discoloration.

Quaternary geologic map of the Havre 1° x 2° quadrangle

USGS Publications Warehouse

Compilations by Fullerton, David S.; Colton, Roger B.; Bush, Charles A.

2012-01-01

The Havre quadrangle encompasses approximately 16,084 km2 (6,210 mi2). The northern boundary is the Montana/Saskatchewan (U.S./Canada) boundary. The quadrangle is in the Northern Plains physiographic province and it includes parts of the Bearpaw Mountains, the Little Rocky Mountains, and the Boundary Plateau. The primary river is the Milk River. The ancestral Missouri River was diverted south of the Bearpaw Mountains by a Laurentide ice sheet. The fill in the buried ancestral valley at and southwest of Havre contains a complex stratigraphy of fluvial, glaciofluvial, ice-contact, glacial, lacustrine, and eolian deposits. The old valley east of Havre now is occupied by the Milk River. The map units are surficial deposits and materials, not landforms. Deposits that comprise some constructional landforms (e.g., ground-moraine deposits, end-moraine deposits, stagnation-moraine deposits, all composed of till) are distinguished for purposes of reconstruction of glacial history. Surficial deposits and materials are assigned to 24 map units on the basis of genesis, age, lithology or composition, texture or particle size, and other physical, chemical, and engineering characteristics. It is not a map of soils that are recognized in engineering geology, or of substrata or parent materials in which pedologic or agronomic soils are formed. Glaciotectonic (ice-thrust) structures and deposits are mapped separately, represented by a symbol. On the glaciated plains and on the Boundary Plateau the surficial deposits are glacial, ice-contact, glaciofluvial, catastrophic flood, alluvial, lacustrine, eolian, and colluvial deposits. In the Bearpaw Mountains and Little Rocky Mountains beyond the limit of Quaternary glaciation they are fluvial, colluvial, and mass-wasting deposits and residual materials. Tills of late Wisconsin and Illinoian ages are represented by map units. Tills of two pre-Illinoian glaciations are not mapped but are widespread in the subsurface and are identified in stratigraphic sections. Thirteen stratigraphic sections document a complex glacial and interglacial history in the quadrangle. Pliocene continental glaciation possibly is represented by erratic blocks of garnet gneiss and pegmatite from the Canadian Shield, perched high on drainage divides in the western Bearpaw Mountains. Glacial striations on bedrock, two boulder trains, and linear ice-molded landforms (primarily drumlins) indicate the possible presence of an east-southeast flowing ice stream in the Havre glacial lobe during late Wisconsin glaciation.

Bedrock geologic map of the Uxbridge quadrangle, Worcester County, Massachusetts, and Providence County, Rhode Island

USGS Publications Warehouse

Walsh, Gregory J.

2014-01-01

The bedrock geology of the 7.5-minute Uxbridge quadrangle consists of Neoproterozoic metamorphic and igneous rocks of the Avalon zone. In this area, rocks of the Avalon zone lie within the core of the Milford antiform, south and east of the terrane-bounding Bloody Bluff fault zone. Permian pegmatite dikes and quartz veins occur throughout the quadrangle. The oldest metasedimentary rocks include the Blackstone Group, which represents a Neoproterozoic peri-Gondwanan marginal shelf sequence. The metasedimentary rocks are intruded by Neoproterozoic arc-related plutonic rocks of the Rhode Island batholith. This report presents mapping by G.J. Walsh. The complete report consists of a map, text pamphlet, and GIS database. The map and text pamphlet are available only as downloadable files (see frame at right). The GIS database is available for download in ESRI™ shapefile and Google Earth™ formats, and includes contacts of bedrock geologic units, faults, outcrops, structural geologic information, geochemical data, and photographs.

Role of Rotors in the Ablative Therapy of Persistent Atrial Fibrillation

PubMed Central

Schricker, Amir A; Zaman, Junaid; Narayan, Sanjiv M

2015-01-01

Atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation is increasingly used to maintain sinus rhythm yet its results are sub-optimal, especially in patients with persistent AF or prior unsuccessful procedures. Attempts at improvement have often targeted substrates that sustain AF after it is triggered, yet those mechanisms are debated. Many studies now challenge the concept that AF is driven by self-sustaining disordered wavelets, showing instead that localised drivers (rotors) may drive disorder via a process known as fibrillatory conduction. Novel mapping using wide-area recordings, physiological filtering and phase analysis demonstrates rotors in human AF. Contact mapping with focal impulse and rotor modulation (FIRM) shows that localised ablation at sources can improve procedural success in many populations on long-term follow up and some newer approaches to rotor mapping are qualitatively similar. This review critically evaluates the data on rotor mapping and ablation, which advances our conceptual understanding of AF and holds the promise of substantially improving ablative outcomes in patients with persistent AF. PMID:26835100

Digital outcrop model of stratigraphy and breccias of the southern Franklin Mountains, El Paso, Texas

USGS Publications Warehouse

Bellian, Jerome A.; Kerans, Charles; Repetski, John E.; Derby, James R.; Fritz, R.D.; Longacre, S.A.; Morgan, W.A.; Sternbach, C.A.

2012-01-01

The breccias of the SFM were previously described as the result of collapsed paleocaves that formed during subaerial exposure related to the Sauk-Tippecanoe unconformity. A new approach in this work uses traditional field mapping combined with high-resolution (1-m [3.3-ft] point spacing) airborne light detection and ranging (LIDAR) data over 24 km2 (9 mi2) to map breccia and relevant stratal surfaces. Airborne LIDAR data were used to create a digital outcrop model of the SFM from which a detailed (1:2000 scale) geologic map was created. The geologic map includes formation, fault, and breccia contacts. The digital outcrop model was used to interpret three-dimensional spatial relationships of breccia bodies with respect to the current understanding of the tectonic and stratigraphic evolution of the SFM. The data presented here are used to discuss potential stratigraphic, temporal, and tectonic controls on the formation of caves within the study area that eventually collapsed to form the breccias currently exposed in outcrop.

Geologic map of the western Haji-Gak iron deposit, Bamyan Province, Afghanistan, modified from the 1965 original map compilation of V.V. Reshetniak and I.K. Kusov

USGS Publications Warehouse

Renaud, Karine M.; Tucker, Robert D.; Peters, Stephen G.; Stettner, Will R.; Masonic, Linda M.; Moran, Thomas W.

2011-01-01

This map is a modified version of Geologic-prospecting plan of western area of Hajigak iron-ore deposit, scale 1:2,000, which was compiled by V.V. Reshetniak and I.K. Kusov in 1965. (Refer to the References Cited section in the Map PDF for complete citations of the original map and related reports.) USGS scientists, in cooperation with the Afghan Geological Survey and the Task Force for Business and Stability Operations of the U.S. Department of Defense, studied the original documents and also visited the field area in November 2009. This modified map illustrates the geological structure of the western Haji-Gak iron deposit and includes cross sections of the same area. The map reproduces the topology (contacts, faults, and so forth) of the original Soviet map and includes modifications based on our examination of that document. We constructed the cross sections from data derived from the original map. Elevations on the cross sections are derived from the original Soviet topography and may not match the newer topography used on the current map. We have attempted to translate the original Russian terminology and rock classification into modern English geologic usage as literally as possible without changing any genetic or process-oriented implications in the original descriptions. We also use the age designations from the original map. The unit colors on the map and cross sections differ from the colors shown on the original version. The units are colored according to the color and pattern scheme of the Commission for the Geological Map of the World (CGMW) (http://www.ccgm.org).

Determining and representing width of soil boundaries using electrical conductivity and MultiGrid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Greve, Mogens Humlekrog; Greve, Mette Balslev

2004-07-01

In classical soil mapping, map unit boundaries are considered crisp even though all experienced survey personnel are aware of the fact, that soil boundaries really are transition zones of varying width. However, classification of transition zone width on site is difficult in a practical survey. The objective of this study is to present a method for determining soil boundary width and a way of representing continuous soil boundaries in GIS. A survey was performed using the non-contact conductivity meter EM38 from Geonics Inc., which measures the bulk Soil Electromagnetic Conductivity (SEC). The EM38 provides an opportunity to classify the width of transition zones in an unbiased manner. By calculating the spatial rate of change in the interpolated EM38 map across the crisp map unit delineations from a classical soil mapping, a measure of transition zone width can be extracted. The map unit delineations are represented as transition zones in a GIS through a concept of multiple grid layers, a MultiGrid. Each layer corresponds to a soil type and the values in a layer represent the percentage of that soil type in each cell. As a test, the subsoil texture was mapped at the Vindum field in Denmark using both the classical mapping method with crisp representation of the boundaries and the new map with MultiGrid and continuous boundaries. These maps were then compared to an independent reference map of subsoil texture. The improvement of the prediction of subsoil texture, using continuous boundaries instead of crisp, was in the case of the Vindum field, 15%.

Mapping the spatiotemporal evolution of solute transport in articular cartilage explants reveals how cartilage recovers fluid within the contact area during sliding.

PubMed

Graham, Brian T; Moore, Axel C; Burris, David L; Price, Christopher

2018-04-11

The interstitial fluid within articular cartilage shields the matrix from mechanical stresses, reduces friction and wear, enables biochemical processes, and transports solutes into and out of the avascular extracellular matrix. The balanced competition between fluid exudation and recovery under load is thus critical to the mechanical and biological functions of the tissue. We recently discovered that sliding alone can induce rapid solute transport into buried cartilage contact areas via a phenomenon termed tribological rehydration. In this study, we use in situ confocal microscopy measurements to track the spatiotemporal propagation of a small neutral solute into the buried contact area to clarify the fluid mechanics underlying the tribological rehydration phenomenon. Sliding experiments were interrupted by periodic static loading to enable scanning of the entire contact area. Spatiotemporal patterns of solute transport combined with tribological data suggested pressure driven flow through the extracellular matrix from the contact periphery rather than into the surface via a fluid film. Interestingly, these testing interruptions also revealed dynamic, repeatable and history-independent fluid loss and recovery processes consistent with those observed in vivo. Unlike the migrating contact area, which preserves hydration by moving faster than interstitial fluid can flow, our results demonstrate that the stationary contact area can maintain and actively recover hydration through a dynamic competition between load-induced exudation and sliding-induced recovery. The results demonstrate that sliding contributes to the recovery of fluid and solutes by cartilage within the contact area while clarifying the means by which it occurs. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Schlumberger soundings near Medicine Lake, California

USGS Publications Warehouse

Zohdy, A.A.R.; Bisdorf, R.J.

1990-01-01

The use of direct current resistivity soundings to explore the geothermal potential of the Medicine Lake area in northern California proved to be challenging because of high contact resistances and winding roads. Deep Schlumberger soundings were made by expanding current electrode spacings along the winding roads. Corrected sounding data were interpreted using an automatic interpretation method. Forty-two maps of interpreted resistivity were calculated for depths extending from 20 to 1000 m. Computer animation of these 42 maps revealed that: 1) certain subtle anomalies migrate laterallly with depth and can be traced to their origin, 2) an extensive volume of low-resistivity material underlies the survey area, and 3) the three areas (east of Bullseye Lake, southwest of Glass Mountain, and northwest of Medicine Lake) may be favorable geothermal targets. Six interpreted resistivity maps and three cross-sections illustrate the above findings. -from Authors

Bose-Fermi mapping and a multibranch spin-chain model for strongly interacting quantum gases in one dimension: Dynamics and collective excitations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Li; Pu, Han

2016-09-01

We show that the wave function in one spatial sector x1

Determination of Mechanical Properties of Spatially Heterogeneous Breast Tissue Specimens Using Contact Mode Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM)

PubMed Central

Roy, Rajarshi; Desai, Jaydev P.

2016-01-01

This paper outlines a comprehensive parametric approach for quantifying mechanical properties of spatially heterogeneous thin biological specimens such as human breast tissue using contact-mode Atomic Force Microscopy. Using inverse finite element (FE) analysis of spherical nanoindentation, the force response from hyperelastic material models is compared with the predicted force response from existing analytical contact models, and a sensitivity study is carried out to assess uniqueness of the inverse FE solution. Furthermore, an automation strategy is proposed to analyze AFM force curves with varying levels of material nonlinearity with minimal user intervention. Implementation of our approach on an elastic map acquired from raster AFM indentation of breast tissue specimens indicates that a judicious combination of analytical and numerical techniques allow more accurate interpretation of AFM indentation data compared to relying on purely analytical contact models, while keeping the computational cost associated an inverse FE solution with reasonable limits. The results reported in this study have several implications in performing unsupervised data analysis on AFM indentation measurements on a wide variety of heterogeneous biomaterials. PMID:25015130

GLCF: Global Land Survey(GLS)

Science.gov Websites

Services Contact Site Map Go Global Land Survey(GLS) Data Access ESDI Download via Search and Preview Tool gls The Global Land Survey (GLS) collection of Landsat imagery is designed to meet a need from Availability: GLS 1975, 1990, 2000, and 2005 are available to the public for free at the US Geological Survey

The Cafeteria as Contact Zone: Developing a Multicultural Perspective through Multilingual and Multimodal Literacies

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kelly, Courtney

2013-01-01

This article describes the inaugural year of a cross-cultural after-school program that used a problem-solving, project-based pedagogy to promote meaningful interactions between immigrant middle school students and their urban, low-income peers. The program relied on the students' local knowledge as they worked together to create social maps of…

Private Florida Research University | Nova Southeastern University NSU

Science.gov Websites

Accreditations Visit Campus Virtual Tour Newsroom Board of Trustees Contact Us Apply Now / Request Info Apply beautiful 314-acre main campus, you'll be hooked. Launch Virtual Tour Request a Tour View Interactive Map Education NSU Research Tackling Pediatric CancerFinding New Ways to Target Tumors Launch the NSU Virtual

Teaching Notes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

2001-03-01

If you would like to contribute a teaching note for any of these sections please contact ped@iop.org. Contents: PHYSICS ON A SHOESTRING: Demonstrating resolution Magnetic tea patterns LET'S INVESTIGATE: Conducting foam TECHNICAL TRIMMINGS: Polarimeter Old experiments on air-tracks gain new fans MY WAY: Newton's laws ON THE MAP: The International School of Lusaka CURIOSITY: Inflation theory PHYSICS ON A SHOESTRING

SDSS Masterclass

Science.gov Websites

systems puts your robotics skills to the test. Questions: Contact Carol Angarola, 630-840-3929 or canga the Sloan Digital Sky Survey make a comprehensive map of the Universe. The Galaxy Zoo we created is a measure their properties to help researchers around the world understand what makes galaxies tick. Robots

Assessing information needs and communication behaviors of national forest summer visitors

Treesearch

James D. Absher; Brijesh Thapa; Alan R. Graefe

2002-01-01

Information needs and satisfaction with various media are studied on the San Bernardino National Forest. Personal contact with rangers or staff is preferred, and about one-third to one-half of all visitors reported using various print media (brochures, maps, etc.). Least used were websites or mass media. Second, an adaptation of communication theory, uses and...

Post-procedural evaluation of catheter contact force characteristics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koch, Martin; Brost, Alexander; Kiraly, Atilla; Strobel, Norbert; Hornegger, Joachim

2012-03-01

Minimally invasive catheter ablation of electric foci, performed in electrophysiology labs, is an attractive treatment option for atrial fibrillation (AF) - in particular if drug therapy is no longer effective or tolerated. There are different strategies to eliminate the electric foci inducing the arrhythmia. Independent of the particular strategy, it is essential to place transmural lesions. The impact of catheter contact force on the generated lesion quality has been investigated recently, and first results are promising. There are different approaches to measure catheter-tissue contact. Besides traditional haptic feedback, there are new technologies either relying on catheter tip-to-tissue contact force or on local impedance measurements at the tip of the catheter. In this paper, we present a novel tool for post-procedural ablation point evaluation and visualization of contact force characteristics. Our method is based on localizing ablation points set during AF ablation procedures. The 3-D point positions are stored together with lesion specific catheter contact force (CF) values recorded during the ablation. The force records are mapped to the spatial 3-D positions, where the energy has been applied. The tracked positions of the ablation points can be further used to generate a 3-D mesh model of the left atrium (LA). Since our approach facilitates visualization of different force characteristics for post-procedural evaluation and verification, it has the potential to improve outcome by highlighting areas where lesion quality may be less than desired.

Electron microscope mapping of the pericentric and intercalary heterochromatic regions of the polytene chromosomes of the mutant Suppressor of underreplication in Drosophila melanogaster.

PubMed

Semeshin, F; Belyaeva, S; Zhimulev, F

2001-12-01

Breaks and ectopic contacts in the heterochromatic regions of Drosophila melanogaster polytene chromosomes are the manifestations of the cytological effects of DNA underreplication. Their appearance makes these regions difficult to map. The Su(UR)ES gene, which controls the phenomenon, has been described recently. Mutation of this locus gives rise to new blocks of material in the pericentric heterochromatic regions and causes the disappearance of breaks and ectopic contacts in the intercalary heterochromatic regions, thereby making the banding pattern distinct and providing better opportunities for mapping of the heterochromatic regions in polytene chromosomes. Here, we present the results of an electron microscope study of the heterochromatic regions. In the wild-type salivary glands, the pericentric regions correspond to the beta-heterochromatin and do not show the banding pattern. The most conspicuous cytological effect of the Su(UR)ES mutation is the formation of a large banded chromosome fragment comprising at least 25 bands at the site where the 3L and 3R proximal arms connect. In the other pericentric regions, 20CF, 40BF and 41BC, 15, 12 and 9 new bands were revealed, respectively. A large block of densely packed material appears in the most proximal part of the fourth chromosome. An electron microscope analysis of 26 polytene chromosome regions showing the characteristic features of intercalary heterochromatin was also performed. Suppression of DNA underreplication in the mutant transforms the bands with weak spots into large single bands.

Geologic map of the Shaida deposit and Misgaran prospect, Herat Province, Afghanistan, modified from the 1973 original map compilation of V.I. Tarasenko and others

USGS Publications Warehouse

Tucker, Robert D.; Stettner, Will R.; Masonic, Linda M.; Moran, Thomas W.

2014-01-01

This map is a modified version of Geological map and map of useful minerals, Shaida area, scale 1:50,000, which was compiled by V.I. Tarasenko, N.I. Borozenets, and others in 1973. Scientists from the U.S. Geological Survey, in cooperation with the Afghan Geological Survey and the Task Force for Business and Stability Operations of the U.S. Department of Defense, studied the original document and related reports and also visited the field area in August 2010.This modified map illustrates the geological structure of the Shaida copper-lead-zinc deposit and Misgaran copper-lead-zinc prospect in western Afghanistan and includes cross sections of the same area. The map reproduces the topology (contacts, faults, and so forth) of the original Soviet map and cross sections and includes modifications based on our examination of these documents and on observations made during our field visit. Elevations on the cross sections are derived from the original Soviet topography and might not match the newer topography used on the current map. We have attempted to translate the original Russian terminology and rock classification into modern English geologic usage as literally as possible without changing any genetic or process-oriented implications in the original descriptions. We also use the age designations from the original map.The unit colors on the map and cross sections differ from the colors shown on the original version. The units are colored according to the color and pattern scheme of the Commission for the Geological Map of the World (CGMW) (http://www.ccgm.org).

Quaternary geologic map of the Glasgow 1° x 2° quadrangle, Montana

USGS Publications Warehouse

Fullerton, David S.; Colton, Roger B.; Bush, Charles A.

2012-01-01

The Glasgow quadrangle encompasses approximately 16,084 km2 (6,210 mi2). The northern boundary is the Montana/Saskatchewan (U.S./Canada) boundary. The quadrangle is in the Northern Plains physiographic province and it includes the Boundary Plateau, Peerless Plateau, and Larb Hills. The primary river is the Milk River. The map units are surficial deposits and materials, not landforms. Deposits that comprise some constructional landforms (for example, ground-moraine deposits, end-moraine deposits, and stagnation-moraine deposits, all composed of till) are distinguished for purposes of reconstruction of glacial history. Surficial deposits and materials are assigned to 23 map units on the basis of genesis, age, lithology or composition, texture or particle size, and other physical, chemical, and engineering characteristics. It is not a map of soils that are recognized in pedology or agronomy. Rather, it is a generalized map of soils recognized in engineering geology, or of substrata or parent materials in which pedologic or agronomic soils are formed. Glaciotectonic (ice-thrust) structures and deposits are mapped separately, represented by a symbol. The surficial deposits are glacial, ice-contact, glaciofluvial, alluvial, lacustrine, eolian, colluvial, and mass-movement deposits. Residuum, a surficial material, also is mapped. Till of late Wisconsin age is represented by three map units. Till of Illinoian age is also represented locally but is widespread in the subsurface. This map was prepared to serve as a database for compilation of a Quaternary geologic map of the United States and Canada (scale 1:1,000,000). Letter symbols for the map units are those used for the same units in the Quaternary Geologic Atlas of the United States map series.

Digital geologic map of the Thirsty Canyon NW quadrangle, Nye County, Nevada

USGS Publications Warehouse

Minor, S.A.; Orkild, P.P.; Sargent, K.A.; Warren, R.G.; Sawyer, D.A.; Workman, J.B.

1998-01-01

This digital geologic map compilation presents new polygon (i.e., geologic map unit contacts), line (i.e., fault, fold axis, dike, and caldera wall), and point (i.e., structural attitude) vector data for the Thirsty Canyon NW 7 1/2' quadrangle in southern Nevada. The map database, which is at 1:24,000-scale resolution, provides geologic coverage of an area of current hydrogeologic and tectonic interest. The Thirsty Canyon NW quadrangle is located in southern Nye County about 20 km west of the Nevada Test Site (NTS) and 30 km north of the town of Beatty. The map area is underlain by extensive layers of Neogene (about 14 to 4.5 million years old [Ma]) mafic and silicic volcanic rocks that are temporally and spatially associated with transtensional tectonic deformation. Mapped volcanic features include part of a late Miocene (about 9.2 Ma) collapse caldera, a Pliocene (about 4.5 Ma) shield volcano, and two Pleistocene (about 0.3 Ma) cinder cones. Also documented are numerous normal, oblique-slip, and strike-slip faults that reflect regional transtensional deformation along the southern part of the Walker Lane belt. The Thirsty Canyon NW map provides new geologic information for modeling groundwater flow paths that may enter the map area from underground nuclear testing areas located in the NTS about 25 km to the east. The geologic map database comprises six component ArcINFO map coverages that can be accessed after decompressing and unbundling the data archive file (tcnw.tar.gz). These six coverages (tcnwpoly, tcnwflt, tcnwfold, tcnwdike, tcnwcald, and tcnwatt) are formatted here in ArcINFO EXPORT format. Bundled with this database are two PDF files for readily viewing and printing the map, accessory graphics, and a description of map units and compilation methods.

Scoping of Flood Hazard Mapping Needs for Penobscot County, Maine

USGS Publications Warehouse

Schalk, Charles W.; Dudley, Robert W.

2007-01-01

Background The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) developed a plan in 1997 to modernize the FEMA flood mapping program. FEMA flood maps delineate flood hazard areas in support of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). FEMA's plan outlined the steps necessary to update FEMA's flood maps for the nation to a seamless digital format and streamline FEMA's operations in raising public awareness of the importance of the maps and responding to requests to revise them. The modernization of flood maps involves conversion of existing information to digital format and integration of improved flood hazard data as needed. To determine flood mapping modernization needs, FEMA has established specific scoping activities to be done on a county-by-county basis for identifying and prioritizing requisite flood-mapping activities for map modernization. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), in cooperation with FEMA and the Maine State Planning Office Floodplain Management Program (MFMP), began scoping work in 2006 for Penobscot County. Scoping activities included assembling existing data and map needs information for communities in Penobscot County, documentation of data, contacts, community meetings, and prioritized mapping needs in a final scoping report (this document), and updating the Mapping Needs Update Support System (MNUSS) Database with information gathered during the scoping process. As of 2007, the average age of the FEMA floodplain maps in Penobscot County, Maine, is 22 years, based on the most recent revisions to the maps. Because the revisions did not affect all the map panels in each town, however, the true average date probably is more than 22 years. Many of the studies were published in the mid-1980s. Since the studies were completed, development has occurred in many of the watersheds, and the characteristics of the watersheds have changed with time. Therefore, many of the older studies may not depict current conditions nor accurately estimate risk in terms of flood heights or flood mapping.

Electrical overstress in AlGaN/GaN HEMTs: study of degradation processes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kuzmík, J.; Pogany, D.; Gornik, E.; Javorka, P.; Kordoš, P.

2004-02-01

We study degradation mechanisms in 50 μm gate width/0.45 μm length AlGaN/GaN HEMTs after electrical overstresses. One hundred nanosecond long rectangular current pulses are applied on the drain contact keeping either both of the source and gate grounded or the source grounded and gate floating. Source-drain pulsed I- V characteristics show similar shape for both connections. After the HEMT undergoes the source-drain breakdown, a negative differential resistance region transits into a low voltage/high current region. Changes in the Schottky contact dc I- V characteristics and in the source and drain ohmic contacts are investigated as a function of the current stress level and are related to the HEMT dc performance. Catastrophic HEMT degradation was observed after Istress=1.65 A in case of the 'gate floating' connection due to ohmic contacts burnout. In case of the 'gate grounded' connection, Istress=0.45 A was sufficient for the gate failure showing a high gate susceptibility to overstress. Backside transient interferometric mapping technique experiment reveals a current filament formation under both HEMT stress connections. Infrared camera observations lead to conclusion that the filament formation together with a consequent high-density electron flow is responsible for a dark spot formation and gradual ohmic contact degradation.

Social support exchanges in a social media community for people living with HIV/AIDS in China.

PubMed

Chen, Liang; Shi, Jingyuan

2015-01-01

In recent years, social media has become an important source of social support. People living with HIV/AIDS in China created an online support group (the HIV/AIDS Weibo Group) on Weibo, the Chinese version of Twitter, in January 2011. The current study examined how social support transmitted in this social media community. First, messages over five successive weeks (2 May 2011 to 13 June 2011) were randomly selected from the HIV/AIDS Weibo Group on Weibo. Next, we employed social network analysis to map the HIV/AIDS Weibo Group's structure and to measure the study variables. After that, a multivariate analysis of variance was applied to examine the influence of frequency of contact and reciprocity on informational and emotional social support exchanged in each dyad. The results revealed that pairs with a high level of contact frequency or reciprocity exchanged more informational support than do pairs with a low level of contact frequency or reciprocity. Moreover, dyadic partners with high frequency of contact exchanged a larger amount of emotional support than those with a low level frequency of contact; but strongly reciprocal dyads did not exchange significantly more emotional social support than their counterparts with a low level of reciprocity.

Database for the geologic map of the Sauk River 30-minute by 60-minute quadrangle, Washington (I-2592)

USGS Publications Warehouse

Tabor, R.W.; Booth, D.B.; Vance, J.A.; Ford, A.B.

2006-01-01

This digital map database has been prepared by R.W. Tabor from the published Geologic map of the Sauk River 30- by 60 Minute Quadrangle, Washington. Together with the accompanying text files as PDF, it provides information on the geologic structure and stratigraphy of the area covered. The database delineates map units that are identified by general age and lithology following the stratigraphic nomenclature of the U.S. Geological Survey. The authors mapped most of the bedrock geology at 1:100,000 scale, but compiled most Quaternary units at 1:24,000 scale. The Quaternary contacts and structural data have been much simplified for the 1:100,000-scale map and database. The spatial resolution (scale) of the database is 1:100,000 or smaller. This database depicts the distribution of geologic materials and structures at a regional (1:100,000) scale. The report is intended to provide geologic information for the regional study of materials properties, earthquake shaking, landslide potential, mineral hazards, seismic velocity, and earthquake faults. In addition, the report contains information and interpretations about the regional geologic history and framework. However, the regional scale of this report does not provide sufficient detail for site development purposes.

Computer-assisted photogrammetric mapping systems for geologic studies-A progress report

USGS Publications Warehouse

Pillmore, C.L.; Dueholm, K.S.; Jepsen, H.S.; Schuch, C.H.

1981-01-01

Photogrammetry has played an important role in geologic mapping for many years; however, only recently have attempts been made to automate mapping functions for geology. Computer-assisted photogrammetric mapping systems for geologic studies have been developed and are currently in use in offices of the Geological Survey of Greenland at Copenhagen, Denmark, and the U.S. Geological Survey at Denver, Colorado. Though differing somewhat, the systems are similar in that they integrate Kern PG-2 photogrammetric plotting instruments and small desk-top computers that are programmed to perform special geologic functions and operate flat-bed plotters by means of specially designed hardware and software. A z-drive capability, in which stepping motors control the z-motions of the PG-2 plotters, is an integral part of both systems. This feature enables the computer to automatically position the floating mark on computer-calculated, previously defined geologic planes, such as contacts or the base of coal beds, throughout the stereoscopic model in order to improve the mapping capabilities of the instrument and to aid in correlation and tracing of geologic units. The common goal is to enhance the capabilities of the PG-2 plotter and provide a means by which geologists can make conventional geologic maps more efficiently and explore ways to apply computer technology to geologic studies. ?? 1981.

Geologic Mapping of Athabasca Valles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Keszthelyi, L. P.; Jaeger, W. L.; Tanaka, K.; Hare, T.

2008-01-01

Two factors drive us to map the Athabasca Valles area in unusual detail: (1) the extremely well-preserved and exposed surface morphologies and (2) the extensive high resolution imaging. In particular, the near-complete CTX coverage of Athabasca Valles proper and the extensive coverage of its surroundings have been invaluable. The mapping has been done exclusively in ArcGIS, using individual CTX, THEMIS VIS, and MOC frames overlying the THEMIS IR daytime basemap. MOLA shot points and gridded DTMs are also included. It was found that CTX images processed through ISIS are almost always within 300 m of the MOLA derived locations, and usually within tens of meters, with no adjustments to camera pointing. THEMIS VIS images appear to be systematically shifted to the southwest of their correct positions and MOC images are often kilometers off. The good SNR and minimal artifacts make the CTX images vastly more useful than the THEMIS VIS or MOC images. The bulk of the mapping was done at 1:50,000 scale on CTX images. In more complex areas, mapping at 1:24,000 proved necessary. The CTX images were usually simultaneously viewed on a second monitor using the ISIS3 qview program to display the full dynamic range of the CTX data. Where CTX data was not available, mapping was often done at 1:100,000 and most contacts are mapped as approximate.

Geology of the Prince William Sound and Kenai Peninsula region, Alaska

USGS Publications Warehouse

Wilson, Frederic H.; Hults, Chad P.

2012-01-01

The Prince William Sound and Kenai Peninsula region includes a significant part of one of the world’s largest accretionary complexes and a small part of the classic magmatic arc geology of the Alaska Peninsula. Physiographically, the map area ranges from the high glaciated mountains of the Alaska and Aleutian Ranges and the Chugach Mountains to the coastal lowlands of Cook Inlet and the Copper River delta. Structurally, the map area is cut by a number of major faults and postulated faults, the most important of which are the Border Ranges, Contact, and Bruin Bay Fault systems. The rocks of the map area belong to the Southern Margin composite terrane, a Tertiary and Cretaceous or older subduction-related accretionary complex, and the Alaska Peninsula terrane. Mesozoic rocks between these two terranes have been variously assigned to the Peninsular or the Hidden terranes. The oldest rocks in the map area are blocks of Paleozoic age within the mélange of the McHugh Complex; however, the protolith age of the greenschist and blueschist within the Border Ranges Fault zone is not known. Extensive glacial deposits mantle the Kenai Peninsula and the lowlands on the west side of Cook Inlet and are locally found elsewhere in the map area. This map was compiled from existing mapping, without generalization, and new or revised data was added where available.

Satellite Imagery Products - Office of Satellite and Product Operations

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Filling the gap: Micro-C accesses the nucleosomal fiber at 100-1000 bp resolution.

PubMed

Mozziconacci, Julien; Koszul, Romain

2015-08-21

The fine three-dimensional structure of the nucleosomal fiber has remained elusive to genome-wide chromosome conformation capture (3C) approaches. A new study mapping contacts at the single nucleosome level (Micro-C) reveals topological interacting domains along budding yeast chromosomes. These domains encompass one to five consecutive genes and are delimited by highly active promoters.

Environmental Assessment for Replacement of Taxiway Sierra, Taxiway Whiskey, Pad 12, and Pad 13 at Joint Base Andrews-Naval Air Facility Washington, Prince George’s County, Maryland

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-04-01

Mineral Economics, Pennsylvania State University Years of Experience: 14 Jennifer Jarvis B.S., Environmental Resource Management, Virginia...please contact Ms. Hodges at 301-981 -1426. Attachments: Vicinity Map and Site Plans Distribution List (listed on next page) STEVE RICHARDS Chief

Direct torsional actuation of microcantilevers using magnetic excitation

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

Gosvami, Nitya Nand; Nalam, Prathima C.; Tam, Qizhan

2014-09-01

Torsional mode dynamic force microscopy can be used for a wide range of studies including mapping lateral contact stiffness, torsional frequency or amplitude modulation imaging, and dynamic friction measurements of various materials. Piezo-actuation of the cantilever is commonly used, but it introduces spurious resonances, limiting the frequency range that can be sampled, and rendering the technique particularly difficult to apply in liquid medium where the cantilever oscillations are significantly damped. Here, we demonstrate a method that enables direct torsional actuation of cantilevers with high uniformity over wide frequency ranges by attaching a micrometer-scale magnetic bead on the back side ofmore » the cantilever. We show that when beads are magnetized along the width of the cantilever, efficient torsional actuation of the cantilevers can be achieved using a magnetic field produced from a solenoid placed underneath the sample. We demonstrate the capability of this technique by imaging atomic steps on graphite surfaces in tapping mode near the first torsional resonance of the cantilever in dodecane. The technique is also applied to map the variations in the lateral contact stiffness on the surface of graphite and polydiacetylene monolayers.« less

A neutron diagnostic for high current deuterium beams.

PubMed

Rebai, M; Cavenago, M; Croci, G; Dalla Palma, M; Gervasini, G; Ghezzi, F; Grosso, G; Murtas, F; Pasqualotto, R; Cippo, E Perelli; Tardocchi, M; Tollin, M; Gorini, G

2012-02-01

A neutron diagnostic for high current deuterium beams is proposed for installation on the spectral shear interferometry for direct electric field reconstruction (SPIDER, Source for Production of Ion of Deuterium Extracted from RF plasma) test beam facility. The proposed detection system is called Close-contact Neutron Emission Surface Mapping (CNESM). The diagnostic aims at providing the map of the neutron emission on the beam dump surface by placing a detector in close contact, right behind the dump. CNESM uses gas electron multiplier detectors equipped with a cathode that also serves as neutron-proton converter foil. The cathode is made of a thin polythene film and an aluminium film; it is designed for detection of neutrons of energy >2.2 MeV with an incidence angle < 45°. CNESM was designed on the basis of simulations of the different steps from the deuteron beam interaction with the beam dump to the neutron detection in the nGEM. Neutron scattering was simulated with the MCNPX code. CNESM on SPIDER is a first step towards the application of this diagnostic technique to the MITICA beam test facility, where it will be used to resolve the horizontal profile of the beam intensity.

Dissolution enhancement of tadalafil by liquisolid technique.

PubMed

Lu, Mei; Xing, Haonan; Yang, Tianzhi; Yu, Jiankun; Yang, Zhen; Sun, Yanping; Ding, Pingtian

2017-02-01

This study aimed to enhance the dissolution of tadalafil, a poorly water-soluble drug by applying liquisolid technique. The effects of two critical formulation variables, namely drug concentration (17.5% and 35%, w/w) and excipients ratio (10, 15 and 20) on dissolution rates were investigated. Pre-compression tests, including particle size distribution, flowability determination, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X-ray diffractometry (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), were carried out to investigate the mechanism of dissolution enhancement. Tadalafil liquisolid tablets were prepared and their quality control tests, dissolution study, contact angle measurement, Raman mapping, and storage stability test were performed. The results suggested that all the liquisolid tablets exhibited significantly higher dissolution rates than the conventional tablets and pure tadalafil. FT-IR spectrum reflected no drug-excipient interactions. DSC and XRD studies indicated reduction in crystallinity of tadalafil, which was further confirmed by SEM and Raman mapping outcomes. The contact angle measurement demonstrated obvious increase in wetting property. Taken together, the reduction of particle size and crystallinity, and the improvement of wettability were the main mechanisms for the enhanced dissolution rate. No significant changes were observed in drug crystallinity and dissolution behavior after storage based on XRD, SEM and dissolution results.

Probabilistic assessment of precipitation-triggered landslides using historical records of landslide occurence, Seattle, Washington

USGS Publications Warehouse

Coe, J.A.; Michael, J.A.; Crovelli, R.A.; Savage, W.Z.; Laprade, W.T.; Nashem, W.D.

2004-01-01

Ninety years of historical landslide records were used as input to the Poisson and binomial probability models. Results from these models show that, for precipitation-triggered landslides, approximately 9 percent of the area of Seattle has annual exceedance probabilities of 1 percent or greater. Application of the Poisson model for estimating the future occurrence of individual landslides results in a worst-case scenario map, with a maximum annual exceedance probability of 25 percent on a hillslope near Duwamish Head in West Seattle. Application of the binomial model for estimating the future occurrence of a year with one or more landslides results in a map with a maximum annual exceedance probability of 17 percent (also near Duwamish Head). Slope and geology both play a role in localizing the occurrence of landslides in Seattle. A positive correlation exists between slope and mean exceedance probability, with probability tending to increase as slope increases. Sixty-four percent of all historical landslide locations are within 150 m (500 ft, horizontal distance) of the Esperance Sand/Lawton Clay contact, but within this zone, no positive or negative correlation exists between exceedance probability and distance to the contact.