Expedition Six Flight Engineer Donald R. Pettit is loading software on PC in U.S. Lab

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-12-06

ISS006-E-07133 (9 December 2002) --- Astronaut Donald R. Pettit, Expedition 6 NASA ISS science officer, works to set up Pulmonary Function in Flight (PuFF) hardware in preparation for a Human Research Facility (HRF) experiment in the Destiny laboratory on the International Space Station (ISS). Expedition 6 is the fourth and final expedition crew to perform the HRF/PuFF Experiment on the ISS.

Expedition Six Flight Engineer Donald R. Pettit is loading software on PC in U.S. Lab

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-12-06

ISS006-E-07134 (9 December 2002) --- Astronaut Donald R. Pettit, Expedition Six NASA ISS science officer, works to set up Pulmonary Function in Flight (PuFF) hardware in preparation for a Human Research Facility (HRF) experiment in the Destiny laboratory on the International Space Station (ISS). Expedition Six is the fourth and final expedition crew to perform the HRF/PuFF Experiment on the ISS.

Screening biological methods for laboratory scale stabilization of fine fraction from landfill mining.

PubMed

Mönkäre, Tiina J; Palmroth, Marja R T; Rintala, Jukka A

2017-02-01

Increasing interest for the landfill mining and the amount of fine fraction (FF) in landfills (40-70% (w/w) of landfill content) mean that sustainable treatment and utilization methods for FF are needed. For this study FF (<20mm) was mined from a municipal solid waste (MSW) landfill operated from 1967 to 1989. FF, which resembles soil, was stabilized in laboratory scale reactors in two phases: first, anaerobically for 101days and second, for 72days using four different methods: anaerobic with the addition of moisture (water) or inoculum (sewage sludge) and aerobic with continuous water washing, with, or without, bulking material. The aim was to evaluate the effect on the stability of mined FF, which has been rarely reported, and to study the quality and quantity of gas and leachate produced during the stabilization experiment. The study showed that aerobic treatment reduced respiration activity (final values 0.9-1.1mgO 2 /gTS) and residual methane potential (1.1LCH 4 /kgTS) better than anaerobic methods (1.8-2.3mg O 2 /g TS and 1.3-2.4L CH 4 /kg TS, respectively). Bulking material mixed in FF in one aerobic reactor had no effect on the stability of FF. The benefit of anaerobic treatment was the production of methane, which could be utilized as energy. Even though the inoculum addition increased methane production from FF about 30%, but the methane production was still relatively low (in total 1.5-1.7L CH 4 /kg TS). Continuous water washing was essential to remove leachable organic matter and soluble nutrients from FF, while increasing the volume of leachate collected. In the aerobic treatment, nitrogen was oxidized into nitrite and nitrate and then washed out in the leachate. Both anaerobic and aerobic methods could be used for FF stabilization. The use of FF, in landscaping for example, is possible because its nutrient content (4gN/kg TS and 1g P/kg TS) can increase the nutrient content of soil, but this may have limitations due to the possible presence of heavy metal and other contaminants. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Development of a ReaxFF potential for carbon condensed phases and its application to the thermal fragmentation of a large fullerene

DOE PAGES

Srinivasan, Sriram Goverapet; Adri C. T. van Duin; Ganesh, Panchapakesan

2015-01-06

In this paper, we report the development of a ReaxFF reactive potential that can accurately describe the chemistry and dynamics of carbon condensed phases. Density functional theory (DFT)-based calculations were performed to obtain the equation of state for graphite and diamond and the formation energies of defects in graphene and amorphous phases from fullerenes. The DFT data were used to reparametrize ReaxFF CHO, resulting in a new potential called ReaxFF C-2013. ReaxFF C-2013 accurately predicts the atomization energy of graphite and closely reproduces the DFT-based energy difference between graphite and diamond, and the barrier for transition from graphite to diamond.more » ReaxFF C-2013 also accurately predicts the DFT-based energy barrier for Stone–Wales transformation in a C 60(I h) fullerene through the concerted rotation of a C 2 unit. Later, MD simulations of a C 180 fullerene using ReaxFF C-2013 suggested that the thermal fragmentation of these giant fullerenes is an exponential function of time. An Arrhenius-type equation was fit to the decay rate, giving an activation energy of 7.66 eV for the loss of carbon atoms from the fullerene. Although the decay of the molecule occurs primarily via the loss of C 2 units, we observed that, with an increase in temperature, the probability of loss of larger fragments increases. Finally, the ReaxFF C-2013 potential developed in this work, and the results obtained on fullerene fragmentation, provide an important step toward the full computational chemical modeling of coal pyrolysis, soot incandescence, high temperature erosion of graphitic rocket nozzles, and ablation of carbon-based spacecraft materials during atmospheric reentry.« less

Comparison of Flattening Filter (FF) and Flattening-Filter-Free (FFF) 6 MV photon beam characteristics for small field dosimetry using EGSnrc Monte Carlo code

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sangeetha, S.; Sureka, C. S.

2017-06-01

The present study is focused to compare the characteristics of Varian Clinac 600 C/D flattened and unflattened 6 MV photon beams for small field dosimetry using EGSnrc Monte Carlo Simulation since the small field dosimetry is considered to be the most crucial and provoking task in the field of radiation dosimetry. A 6 MV photon beam of a Varian Clinac 600 C/D medical linear accelerator operates with Flattening Filter (FF) and Flattening-Filter-Free (FFF) mode for small field dosimetry were performed using EGSnrc Monte Carlo user codes (BEAMnrc and DOSXYZnrc) in order to calculate the beam characteristics using Educated-trial and error method. These includes: Percentage depth dose, lateral beam profile, dose rate delivery, photon energy spectra, photon beam uniformity, out-of-field dose, surface dose, penumbral dose and output factor for small field dosimetry (0.5×0.5 cm2 to 4×4 cm2) and are compared with magna-field sizes (5×5 cm2 to 40×40 cm2) at various depths. The results obtained showed that the optimized beam energy and Full-width-half maximum value for small field dosimetry and magna-field dosimetry was found to be 5.7 MeV and 0.13 cm for both FF and FFF beams. The depth of dose maxima for small field size deviates minimally for both FF and FFF beams similar to magna-fields. The depths greater than dmax depicts a steeper dose fall off in the exponential region for FFF beams comparing FF beams where its deviations gets increased with the increase in field size. The shape of the lateral beam profiles of FF and FFF beams varies remains similar for the small field sizes less than 4×4 cm2 whereas it varies in the case of magna-fields. Dose rate delivery for FFF beams shows an eminent increase with a two-fold factor for both small field dosimetry and magna-field sizes. The surface dose measurements of FFF beams for small field size were found to be higher whereas it gets lower for magna-fields than FF beam. The amount of out-of-field dose reduction gets increased with the increase in field size. It is also observed that the photon energy spectrum gets increased with the increase in field size for FFF beam mode. Finally, the output factors for FFF beams were relatively quite low for small field sizes than FF beams whereas it gets higher for magna-field sizes. From this study, it is concluded that the FFF beams depicted minimal deviations in the treatment field region irrespective to the normal tissue region for small field dosimetry compared to FF beams. The more prominent result observed from the study is that the shape of the beam profile remains similar for FF and FFF beams in the case of smaller field size that leads to more accurate treatment planning in the case of IMRT (Image-Guided Radiation Therapy), IGAT (Image-Guided Adaptive Radiation Therapy), SBRT (Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy), SRS (Stereotactic Radio Surgery), and Tomotherapy techniques where homogeneous dose is not necessary. On the whole, the determination of dosimetric beam characteristics of Varian linac machine using Monte Carlo simulation provides accurate dose calculation as the clinical golden data.

Cortico-Cortical interactions between and within three cortical auditory areas specialized for time-domain signal processing

PubMed Central

Tang, Jie; Suga, Nobuo

2009-01-01

In auditory cortex of the mustached bat, the FF (F means frequency modulation), dorsal fringe (DF) and ventral fringe (VF) areas consist of “combination-sensitive” neurons tuned to the pair of an emitted biosonar pulse and its echo with a specific delay (best delay: BD). The DF and VF areas are hierarchically at a higher level than the FF area. Focal electric stimulation of the FF area evokes “centrifugal” BD shifts of DF neurons, i.e., shifts away from the BD of the stimulated FF neurons, whereas stimulation of the DF neurons evokes “centripetal” BD shifts of FF neurons, i.e., shifts toward the BD of the stimulated DF neurons. In our current studies, we found that the feed forward projection from FF neurons evokes centrifugal BD shifts of VF neurons, that the feedback projection from VF neurons evokes centripetal BD shifts of FF neurons, that the contralateral projection from DF neurons evokes centripetal BD shifts of DF neurons, and that the centripetal BD shifts evoked by the DF and VF neurons are 2.5 times larger than the centrifugal BD shifts evoked by the FF neurons. The centrifugal BD shifts shape the selective neural representation of a specific target-distance, whereas the centripetal BD shifts expand the representation of the selected specific target-distance to focus on the processing of the target information at a specific distance. The centrifugal and centripetal BD shifts evoked by the feed forward and feedback projections promote finer analysis of a target at shorter distances. PMID:19494145

Firefly Algorithm for Structural Search.

PubMed

Avendaño-Franco, Guillermo; Romero, Aldo H

2016-07-12

The problem of computational structure prediction of materials is approached using the firefly (FF) algorithm. Starting from the chemical composition and optionally using prior knowledge of similar structures, the FF method is able to predict not only known stable structures but also a variety of novel competitive metastable structures. This article focuses on the strengths and limitations of the algorithm as a multimodal global searcher. The algorithm has been implemented in software package PyChemia ( https://github.com/MaterialsDiscovery/PyChemia ), an open source python library for materials analysis. We present applications of the method to van der Waals clusters and crystal structures. The FF method is shown to be competitive when compared to other population-based global searchers.

FLO/FLO Sea Basing Concept Ship Model Testing

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-08-01

ππ rollf ff rollsys syssysT T ZW T ZWI (4) 7 Naval Surface Warfare Center Carderock...ff pitchsys syssysL T ZW T ZWI (5) The final moments were calculated by shifting the above results to the model...Test 8-water up 28" 5-side,5-back 0 seakeeping 280 2 off 4 2.61 Test 9-water up 30" 5-side,5-back 0 seakeeping 281 2 off 4 2.61 Test 10-same 5-side

Finishing performance and diet digestibility for feedlot steers fed corn distillers grains plus solubles and distillers solubles with and without oil extraction.

PubMed

Jolly-Breithaupt, M L; Nuttelman, B L; Schneider, C J; Burken, D B; Gramkow, J L; Shreck, A L; MacDonald, J C; Klopfenstein, T J; Erickson, G E

2018-05-04

Three experiments evaluated the effects of corn oil removal using centrifugation in ethanol plants, on animal performance and digestion characteristics by finishing cattle fed by-products. In Exp. 1, 225 crossbred steers (300 ± 9.1 kg) were utilized in a randomized block design with a 2 × 2 + 1 factorial arrangement of treatments. Factors consisted of oil concentration [de-oiled (DO) or full fat (FF)] and by-product type [condensed distillers solubles (CDS) or modified distillers grains plus solubles (MDGS)] compared to a corn-based control. Fat concentration was 6.0% for DO CDS, 21.1% for FF CDS, 9.2% for DO MDGS, and 11.8% for FF MDGS. No oil concentration by by-product type interactions (P ≥ 0.17) were observed. There were no differences in DMI, ADG, or G:F between DO and FF CDS (P ≥ 0.29) or DO and FF MDGS (P ≥ 0.58). No differences (P ≥ 0.25) due to oil concentration were observed for carcass characteristics. Experiment 2 was a 5 × 5 Latin Square digestion trial with treatments similar to Exp. 1. Fat concentration was 8.7% or 15.4% for DO or FF CDS and 9.2% or 12.3% for DO or FF MDGS. Intake and total tract digestibility of fat were greater (P ≤ 0.02) for FF CDS compared with DO CDS. Digestible energy (megacalorie per kilogram), adjusted for intake, was greater (P = 0.02) for steers fed FF CDS compared to DO CDS. Average ruminal pH for cattle fed FF MDGS was greater than DO MDGS (P = 0.06). In Exp. 3, 336 yearling, crossbred steers (352 ± 19 kg) were utilized in a randomized block design with a 2 × 3 + 1 factorial arrangement of treatments. Factors included oil concentration (DO or FF) and inclusion [35%, 50%, and 65% wet distillers grains plus solubles (WDGS)] along with a corn-based control. The fat concentrations of DO and FF WDGS were 7.9% and 12.4%, respectively. A linear interaction (P < 0.01) was observed for DMI, which produced different slopes for DO and FF WDGS. No linear or quadratic interactions were observed for BW, ADG, or G:F (P ≥ 0.31). For the main effect of oil concentration, there were no statistical differences (P > 0.19) for final BW, ADG, or G:F. No statistical differences were observed for all carcass traits (P ≥ 0.34). Corn oil removal via centrifugation had minimal impact on finishing performance suggesting that cattle fed DO by-products will have similar performance to cattle fed FF by-products in dry-rolled and high-moisture corn diets.

Evaluation of a Machine-Learning Classifier for Keratoconus Detection Based on Scheimpflug Tomography.

PubMed

Ruiz Hidalgo, Irene; Rodriguez, Pablo; Rozema, Jos J; Ní Dhubhghaill, Sorcha; Zakaria, Nadia; Tassignon, Marie-José; Koppen, Carina

2016-06-01

To evaluate the performance of a support vector machine algorithm that automatically and objectively identifies corneal patterns based on a combination of 22 parameters obtained from Pentacam measurements and to compare this method with other known keratoconus (KC) classification methods. Pentacam data from 860 eyes were included in the study and divided into 5 groups: 454 KC, 67 forme fruste (FF), 28 astigmatic, 117 after refractive surgery (PR), and 194 normal eyes (N). Twenty-two parameters were used for classification using a support vector machine algorithm developed in Weka, a machine-learning computer software. The cross-validation accuracy for 3 different classification tasks (KC vs. N, FF vs. N and all 5 groups) was calculated and compared with other known classification methods. The accuracy achieved in the KC versus N discrimination task was 98.9%, with 99.1% sensitivity and 98.5% specificity for KC detection. The accuracy in the FF versus N task was 93.1%, with 79.1% sensitivity and 97.9% specificity for the FF discrimination. Finally, for the 5-groups classification, the accuracy was 88.8%, with a weighted average sensitivity of 89.0% and specificity of 95.2%. Despite using the strictest definition for FF KC, the present study obtained comparable or better results than the single-parameter methods and indices reported in the literature. In some cases, direct comparisons with the literature were not possible because of differences in the compositions and definitions of the study groups, especially the FF KC.

Unveiling the Role of Galactic Rotation on Star Formation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Utreras, José; Becerra, Fernando; Escala, Andrés

2016-12-01

We study the star formation process at galactic scales and the role of rotation through numerical simulations of spiral and starburst galaxies using the adaptive mesh refinement code Enzo. We focus on the study of three integrated star formation laws found in the literature: the Kennicutt-Schmidt (KS) and Silk-Elmegreen (SE) laws, and the dimensionally homogeneous equation proposed by Escala {{{Σ }}}{SFR}\\propto \\sqrt{G/L}{{{Σ }}}{gas}1.5. We show that using the last we take into account the effects of the integration along the line of sight and find a unique regime of star formation for both types of galaxies, suppressing the observed bi-modality of the KS law. We find that the efficiencies displayed by our simulations are anti-correlated with the angular velocity of the disk Ω for the three laws studied in this work. Finally, we show that the dimensionless efficiency of star formation is well represented by an exponentially decreasing function of -1.9{{Ω }}{t}{ff}{ini}, where {t}{ff}{ini} is the initial free-fall time. This leads to a unique galactic star formation relation which reduces the scatter of the bi-modal KS, SE, and Escala relations by 43%, 43%, and 35%, respectively.

Organization of work in the agricultural, forestry, and fishing sector in the US southeast: implications for immigrant workers' occupational safety and health.

PubMed

Grzywacz, Joseph G; Lipscomb, Hester J; Casanova, Vanessa; Neis, Barbara; Fraser, Clermont; Monaghan, Paul; Vallejos, Quirina M

2013-08-01

There is widespread agreement that work organization is an important element of occupational safety and health, but the health effects of many aspects of work organization are likely to vary considerably across different sectors of work and geographies. We examined existing employment policies and work organization-related research relevant specifically to immigrant workers in the Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing (AgFF) Sector of the US workforce focusing, when possible, on the southeastern US. A number of specific aspects of work organization within AgFF subsectors have been described, but most of this literature exists outside the purview of occupational health. There are few studies that directly examine how attributes of work organization relevant to the AgFF Sector affect workers', much less immigrant workers', occupational health exposures and outcomes. In contrast to the broader literature, research linking occupational health outcomes to work organization in the AgFF Sector is limited and weak. A systematic program of research and intervention is needed to develop strategies that eliminate or substantially mitigate the deleterious health effects of occupational exposures whose origins likely lie in the organization of AgFF work. Copyright © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Vulnerability Situations associated with Flash Flood Casualties in the United States

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Terti, G.; Ruin, I.; Anquetin, S.; Gourley, J. J.

2015-12-01

In the United States (U.S.) flash flooding (FF hereafter) is one of the leading cause of weather-related deaths. Because FF events can be distinguished from riverine floods by their fast response to rainfall and resulting impacts signature, analyzing FF-specific impact datasets seems a good way to identify the juxtaposition of social and physical circumstances leading to those impacts. This communication focuses on conceptual and methodological developments allowing testing hypotheses on FF-specific vulnerability factors through the analysis of human impact datasets. We hypothesize that the intersection of the spatio-temporal context of the FF phenomena with the distribution of people and their characteristics across space and time reveals various paths of vulnerability through the expression of different accidents' circumstances (i.e., vehicle-related, inside buildings, open-air, campsites). We argue that vulnerability and the resulting impacts vary dynamically throughout the day according to the location/situation under concern. In order to test FF-specific contextual vulnerability factors at the scale of the continental US, 1075 fatalities reported between 1996 and 2014 in the Storm Data publication of the U.S. National Climatic Data Center (NCDC) are analyzed to statistically explore the timing, the duration and the location of the FF event, and the age and gender of the victims and the circumstance (i.e. location/activity) of their death. In this objective, a re-classification of the individual fatality circumstances and a discretization of the time in qualitative time-steps are performed to obtain possible trends and patterns in the occurrence of fatalities in certain circumstances and time (e.g., day vs night). The findings highlight the importance of situation-specific assessment of FF fatalities to guide the development of FF-specific vulnerability and impacts prediction modeling. Such analysis can provide valuable knowledge when the National Weather Service issues FF warning and emergencies. This is because targeted warnings can be communicated when we can relate the location of risky incidents in space (e.g., roads, campsites, mobile homes) with specific vulnerable groups (e.g., certain age groups, gender).

A probabilistic approach of the Flash Flood Early Warning System (FF-EWS) in Catalonia based on radar ensemble generation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Velasco, David; Sempere-Torres, Daniel; Corral, Carles; Llort, Xavier; Velasco, Enrique

2010-05-01

Early Warning Systems (EWS) are commonly identified as the most efficient tools in order to improve the preparedness and risk management against heavy rains and Flash Floods (FF) with the objective of reducing economical losses and human casualties. In particular, flash floods affecting torrential Mediterranean catchments are a key element to be incorporated within operational EWSs. The characteristic high spatial and temporal variability of the storms requires high-resolution data and methods to monitor/forecast the evolution of rainfall and its hydrological impact in small and medium torrential basins. A first version of an operational FF-EWS has been implemented in Catalonia (NE Spain) under the name of EHIMI system (Integrated Tool for Hydrometeorological Forecasting) with the support of the Catalan Water Agency (ACA) and the Meteorological Service of Catalonia (SMC). Flash flood warnings are issued based on radar-rainfall estimates. Rainfall estimation is performed on radar observations with high spatial and temporal resolution (1km2 and 10 minutes) in order to adapt the warning scale to the 1-km grid of the EWS. The method is based on comparing observed accumulated rainfall against rainfall thresholds provided by the regional Intensity-Duration-Frequency (IDF) curves. The so-called "aggregated rainfall warning" at every river cell is obtained as the spatially averaged rainfall over its associated upstream draining area. Regarding the time aggregation of rainfall, the critical duration is thought to be an accumulation period similar to the concentration time of each cachtment. The warning is issued once the forecasted rainfall accumulation exceeds the rainfall thresholds mentioned above, which are associated to certain probability of occurrence. Finally, the hazard warning is provided and shown to the decision-maker in terms of exceeded return periods at every river cell covering the whole area of Catalonia. The objective of the present work includes the probabilistic component to the FF-EWS. As a first step, we have incorporated the uncertainty in rainfall estimates and forecasts based on an ensemble of equiprobable rainfall scenarios. The presented study has focused on a number of rainfall events and the performance of the FF-EWS evaluated in terms of its ability to produce probabilistic hazard warnings for decision-making support.

Control of Fossil-Fuel Particulate Black Carbon and Organic Matter, the Most Effective Method of Slowing Global Warming

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jacobson, M. Z.

2001-12-01

Under the 1997 Kyoto Protocol, no control of black carbon (BC) was considered. Here, it is found, through simulations in which seven new particles feedbacks to climate are identified, that any emission reduction of fossil-fuel (f.f.) particulate BC plus associated organic matter (OM) will slow global warming more than will any emission reduction of CO2 or CH4 for a definite time period. When all f.f. BC+OM and anthropogenic CO2 and CH4 emissions are eliminated together, that period is 20-90 years. It is also found that historical net global warming can be attributed roughly to greenhouse-gas plus f.f. BC+OM warming minus anthropogenic sulfate cooling. Eliminating all f.f. BC+OM could eliminate more than 40 percent of such net warming within three years if no other changes occurred. Reducing CO2 emissions by a third would have the same effect, but after 50-200 years. Finally, diesel cars warm climate more than do equivalent gasoline cars; thus, fuel- and carbon-tax laws that favor diesel promote global warming.

Preventive Effects on Birth Outcomes: Buffering Impact of Maternal Stress, Depression, and Anxiety.

PubMed

Feinberg, Mark E; Jones, Damon E; Roettger, Michael E; Hostetler, Michelle L; Sakuma, Kari-Lyn; Paul, Ian M; Ehrenthal, Deborah B

2016-01-01

Although maternal stress, anxiety, and depression have been linked to negative birth outcomes, few studies have investigated preventive interventions targeting maternal mental health as a means of reducing such problems. This randomized controlled study examines whether Family Foundations (FF)-a transition to parenthood program for couples focused on promoting coparenting quality, with previously documented impact on maternal stress, depression, and anxiety-can buffer the negative effects of maternal mental health problems. To assess the effects of FF, we used a randomized block design with a sample of 259 expectant mothers assigned to FF or a control condition and analyzed using propensity score models. We examine two-way interactions of condition (intervention vs. control) with maternal mental health problems (financial stress, depression, and anxiety) on birth outcomes (birth weight, days in hospital for mothers and infants). For birth weight, we assess whether intervention effects depend on length of gestation by including a third interaction term. FF buffered (p < 0.05) the negative impact of maternal mental health problems on birth weight and both mother and infant length of post-partum hospital stay. For birth weight, assignment to FF was associated with higher birth weight for infants born before term. These results demonstrate that a psycho-educational program for couples focused on enhancing mutual coparental support, with preventive effects on maternal mental health, can reduce incidence of birth problems among women at elevated risk. Such improvements in birth outcomes could translate into substantial reductions in public and personal healthcare costs. Future work should assess mediating mechanisms of intervention impact and cost-benefit ratio of the intervention. The Family Foundations follow-up intervention study is currently registered with www.clinicaltrials.gov . The study identifier is NCT01907412.

Fludrocortisone: Role in Central Regulation of Fluid Balance

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dallman, M. F.

1996-01-01

We have performed 7 experiments in rats on the effects of systemic treatment with fludrocortisone (9a-FF) given in a variety of doses over a variety of times, in the AM and in the PM. These experiments were designed to determine the best treatment protocol to use in the head-down rat model studies which were performed at NASA-Ames Research Center during the final year. The results of the experiments in non-stressed rats have been, on the whole, disappointing in that we have so far been unable to obtain direct evidence that the 9a-FF acts as a mineralocorticoid. In the ultimate experiments using control and suspended rats, we showed mineralocorticoid and glucocorticoid effects of 9aFF. However, suspension served in our rats as a chronic stressor when they were examined 5 d after the onset of treatment.

77 FR 37432 - Final Springfield Plateau Regional Restoration Plan and Environmental Assessment and Finding of...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-06-21

...-FF03E00000] Final Springfield Plateau Regional Restoration Plan and Environmental Assessment and Finding of... Springfield Plateau Regional Restoration Plan (Plan) and Environmental Assessment and Finding of No... Springfield Plateau Regional Restoration Plan and Environmental Assessment (77 FR 1717). The public comment...

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

Kuess, Peter, E-mail: Peter.kuess@meduniwien.ac.at

Purpose: For commercially available linear accelerators (Linacs), the electron energies of flattening filter free (FFF) and flattened (FF) beams are either identical or the electron energy of the FFF beam is increased to match the percentage depth dose curve (PDD) of the FF beam (in reference geometry). This study focuses on the primary dose components of FFF beams for both kinds of settings, studied on the same Linac. Methods: The measurements were conducted on a VersaHD Linac (Elekta, Crawley, UK) for both FF and FFF beams with nominal energies of 6 and 10 MV. In the clinical setting of themore » VersaHD, the energy of FFF{sub M} (Matched) beams is set to match the PDDs of the FF beams. In contrast the incident electron beam of the FFF{sub U} beam was set to the same energy as for the FF beam. Half value layers (HVLs) and a dual parameter beam quality specifier (DPBQS) were determined. Results: For the 6 MV FFF{sub M} beam, HVL and DPBQS values were very similar compared to those of the 6 MV FF beam, while for the 10 MV FFF{sub M} and FF beams, only %dd(10){sub x} and HVL values were comparable (differences below 1.5%). This shows that matching the PDD at one depth does not guarantee other beam quality dependent parameters to be matched. For FFF{sub U} beams, all investigated beam quality specifiers were significantly different compared to those for FF beams of the same nominal accelerator potential. The DPBQS of the 6 MV FF and FFF{sub M} beams was equal within the measurement uncertainty and was comparable to published data of a machine with similar TPR{sub 20,10} and %dd(10){sub x}. In contrast to that, the DPBQS’s two parameters of the 10 MV FFF{sub M} beam were substantially higher compared to those for the 10 MV FF beam. Conclusions: PDD-matched FF and FFF beams of both nominal accelerator potentials were observed to have similar HVL values, indicating similarity of their primary dose components. Using the DPBQS revealed that the mean attenuation coefficient was found to be the same within the uncertainty of 0.8% for 6 MV FF and 6 MV FFF{sub M} beams, while for 10 MV beams, they differed by 6.4%. This shows that the DPBQS can provide a differentiation of photon beam characteristics that would remain hidden by the use of a single beam quality specifier, such as %dd(10){sub x} or HVL.« less

Order-disorder transition of intrinsically disordered kinase inducible transactivation domain of CREB

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Hao; Guo, Xiang; Han, Jingcheng; Luo, Ray; Chen, Hai-Feng

2018-06-01

Transcription factor cyclic Adenosine monophosphate response-element binding protein plays a critical role in the cyclic AMP response pathway via its intrinsically disordered kinase inducible transactivation domain (KID). KID is one of the most studied intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs), although most previous studies focus on characterizing its disordered state structures. An interesting question that remains to be answered is how the order-disorder transition occurs at experimental conditions. Thanks to the newly developed IDP-specific force field ff14IDPSFF, the quality of conformer sampling for IDPs has been dramatically improved. In this study, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were used to study the order-to-disorder transition kinetics of KID based on the good agreement with the experiment on its disordered-state properties. Specifically, we tested four force fields, ff99SBildn, ff99IDPs, ff14IDPSFF, and ff14IDPs in the simulations of KID and found that ff14IDPSFF can generate more diversified disordered conformers and also reproduce more accurate experimental secondary chemical shifts. Kinetics analysis of MD simulations demonstrates that the order-disorder transition of KID obeys the first-order kinetics, and the transition nucleus is I127/L128/L141. The possible transition pathways from the nucleus to the last folded residues were identified as I127-R125-L138-L141-S143-A145 and L128-R125-L138-L141-S143-A145 based on a residue-level dynamical network analysis. These computational studies not only provide testable prediction/hypothesis on the order-disorder transition of KID but also confirm that the ff14IDPSFF force field can be used to explore the correlation between the structure and function of IDPs.

The effects of simultaneous dual focus lenses on refractive development in infant monkeys.

PubMed

Arumugam, Baskar; Hung, Li-Fang; To, Chi-Ho; Holden, Brien; Smith, Earl L

2014-10-16

We investigated the effects of two simultaneously imposed, competing focal planes on refractive development in monkeys. Starting at 3 weeks of age and continuing until 150 ± 4 days of age, rhesus monkeys were reared with binocular dual-focus spectacle lenses. The treatment lenses had central 2-mm zones of zero power and concentric annular zones with alternating powers of +3.0 diopter [D] and plano (pL or 0 D) (n = 7; +3D/pL) or -3.0 D and plano (n = 7; -3D/pL). Retinoscopy, keratometry, and A-scan ultrasonography were performed every 2 weeks throughout the treatment period. For comparison purposes data were obtained from monkeys reared with full field (FF) +3.0 (n = 4) or -3.0 D (n = 5) lenses over both eyes and 33 control animals reared with unrestricted vision. The +3 D/pL lenses slowed eye growth resulting in hyperopic refractive errors that were similar to those produced by FF+3 D lenses (+3 D/pL = +5.25 D, FF +3 D = +4.63 D; P = 0.32), but significantly more hyperopic than those observed in control monkeys (+2.50 D, P = 0.0001). One -3 D/pL monkey developed compensating axial myopia; however, in the other -3 D/pL monkeys refractive development was dominated by the zero-powered portions of the treatment lenses. The refractive errors for the -3 D/pL monkeys were more hyperopic than those in the FF -3 D monkeys (-3 D/pL = +3.13 D, FF -3D = -1.69 D; P = 0.01), but similar to those in control animals (P = 0.15). In the monkeys treated with dual-focus lenses, refractive development was dominated by the more anterior (i.e., relatively myopic) image plane. The results indicate that imposing relative myopic defocus over a large proportion of the retina is an effective means for slowing ocular growth. Copyright 2014 The Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc.

The Effects of Simultaneous Dual Focus Lenses on Refractive Development in Infant Monkeys

PubMed Central

Arumugam, Baskar; Hung, Li-Fang; To, Chi-ho; Holden, Brien; Smith, Earl L.

2014-01-01

Purpose. We investigated the effects of two simultaneously imposed, competing focal planes on refractive development in monkeys. Methods. Starting at 3 weeks of age and continuing until 150 ± 4 days of age, rhesus monkeys were reared with binocular dual-focus spectacle lenses. The treatment lenses had central 2-mm zones of zero power and concentric annular zones with alternating powers of +3.0 diopter [D] and plano (pL or 0 D) (n = 7; +3D/pL) or −3.0 D and plano (n = 7; −3D/pL). Retinoscopy, keratometry, and A-scan ultrasonography were performed every 2 weeks throughout the treatment period. For comparison purposes data were obtained from monkeys reared with full field (FF) +3.0 (n = 4) or −3.0 D (n = 5) lenses over both eyes and 33 control animals reared with unrestricted vision. Results. The +3 D/pL lenses slowed eye growth resulting in hyperopic refractive errors that were similar to those produced by FF+3 D lenses (+3 D/pL = +5.25 D, FF +3 D = +4.63 D; P = 0.32), but significantly more hyperopic than those observed in control monkeys (+2.50 D, P = 0.0001). One −3 D/pL monkey developed compensating axial myopia; however, in the other −3 D/pL monkeys refractive development was dominated by the zero-powered portions of the treatment lenses. The refractive errors for the −3 D/pL monkeys were more hyperopic than those in the FF −3 D monkeys (−3 D/pL = +3.13 D, FF −3D = −1.69 D; P = 0.01), but similar to those in control animals (P = 0.15). Conclusions. In the monkeys treated with dual-focus lenses, refractive development was dominated by the more anterior (i.e., relatively myopic) image plane. The results indicate that imposing relative myopic defocus over a large proportion of the retina is an effective means for slowing ocular growth. PMID:25324283

78 FR 34402 - Final Environmental Impact Statement, Habitat Conservation Plan, and Implementing Agreement...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-06-07

...-FF03E15000] Final Environmental Impact Statement, Habitat Conservation Plan, and Implementing Agreement, Ni... Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) associated with an application received from NiSource Inc. (hereafter ``Ni... Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (ESA). If issued, the ITP would authorize NiSource to take 10...

78 FR 44588 - Experimental Removal of Barred Owls To Benefit Threatened Northern Spotted Owls; Final...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-07-24

... experimental design, duration of the study, and the method of barred owl removal. Background The Service listed... and nonlethal), and the type of experimental design (demography vs. occupancy). All action...-FF01E00000] Experimental Removal of Barred Owls To Benefit Threatened Northern Spotted Owls; Final...

Investigation of the High-Energy Oxidation of FiberForm from DSMC Analysis of Molecular Beam Experiments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Borner, A.; Swaminathan-Gopalan, K.; Stephani, Kelly; Poovathingal, S.; Murray, V. J.; Minton, T. K.; Panerai, F.; Mansour, N. N.

2017-01-01

A collaborative effort between the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC), NASA Ames Research Center (ARC) and Montana State University (MSU) succeeded at developing a new finite-rate carbon oxidation model from molecular beam scattering experiments on vitreous carbon (VC). We now aim to use the direct simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC) code SPARTA to apply the model to each fiber of the porous fibrous Thermal Protection Systems (TPS) material FiberForm (FF). The detailed micro-structure of FF was obtained from X-ray micro-tomography and then used in DSMC. Both experiments and simulations show that the CO/O products ratio increased at all temperatures from VC to FF. We postulate this is due to the larger number of collisions an O atom encounters inside the porous FF material compared to the flat surface of VC. For the simulations, we particularly focused on the lowest and highest temperatures studied experimentally, 1023 K and 1823 K, and found good agreement between the finite-rate DSMC simulations and experiments.

Factors that contribute to the botulinal safety of reduced-fat and fat-free process chesse products.

PubMed

Glass, Kathleen A; Johnson, Eric A

2004-08-01

The effects of fat, type of natural cheese, and adjunct process cheese ingredients were evaluated to determine factors that contribute to the botulinal safety of reduced-fat (RF) process cheese products stored at 30 degrees C. In the first set of experiments, pasteurized process cheese products (PPCPs) were formulated using full-fat (FF) Cheddar, 30% RF Cheddar, or skim milk (SM) cheese as cheese-base types and were standardized to 59% moisture, pH 5.75, 2.8 or 3.2% total salts, and 15 to 19% fat. Subsequent trials evaluated the effect of fat levels and adjunct ingredients in PPCPs made with SM, RF, and FF cheese (final fat levels, less than 1, 13, and 24%, respectively). When fat levels of PPCPs were comparable (15.1, 19.1, and 16.2 for product manufactured with SC, RE and FF cheese, respectively), botulinal toxin production was delayed for up to 2 days in PPCPs formulated with SM compared with RF or FF cheese; however, the effect was not statistically significant. When fat levels were reduced to less than 1% in SM PPCPs, toxin production was delayed 2 weeks in products made with SM compared with RF or FF cheese manufactured with 13 or 24% fat, respectively. The antibotulinal effect of adjunct ingredients varied among the products manufactured with different fat levels. Sodium lactate significantly delayed toxin production (P < 0.05) for all fat levels tested, whereas beta-glucan fat replacer did not delay toxin production. An enzyme-modified cheese used as a flavor enhancer significantly delayed toxin production (P < 0.05) in SM (less than 1% fat) products but had little to no inhibitory effect in RF (13% fat) and FF (24% fat) cheese products. Similarly, monolaurin increased the time to detectable toxin in SM products but was ineffective in RF or FF cheese products. These results verify that RF PPCPs exhibit greater safety than FF products and that safety may be enhanced by using certain adjunct ingredients as antimicrobials.

Targeted or whole genome sequencing of formalin fixed tissue samples: potential applications in cancer genomics.

PubMed

Munchel, Sarah; Hoang, Yen; Zhao, Yue; Cottrell, Joseph; Klotzle, Brandy; Godwin, Andrew K; Koestler, Devin; Beyerlein, Peter; Fan, Jian-Bing; Bibikova, Marina; Chien, Jeremy

2015-09-22

Current genomic studies are limited by the poor availability of fresh-frozen tissue samples. Although formalin-fixed diagnostic samples are in abundance, they are seldom used in current genomic studies because of the concern of formalin-fixation artifacts. Better characterization of these artifacts will allow the use of archived clinical specimens in translational and clinical research studies. To provide a systematic analysis of formalin-fixation artifacts on Illumina sequencing, we generated 26 DNA sequencing data sets from 13 pairs of matched formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) and fresh-frozen (FF) tissue samples. The results indicate high rate of concordant calls between matched FF/FFPE pairs at reference and variant positions in three commonly used sequencing approaches (whole genome, whole exome, and targeted exon sequencing). Global mismatch rates and C · G > T · A substitutions were comparable between matched FF/FFPE samples, and discordant rates were low (<0.26%) in all samples. Finally, low-pass whole genome sequencing produces similar pattern of copy number alterations between FF/FFPE pairs. The results from our studies suggest the potential use of diagnostic FFPE samples for cancer genomic studies to characterize and catalog variations in cancer genomes.

Brownian dynamics simulations with stiff finitely extensible nonlinear elastic-Fraenkel springs as approximations to rods in bead-rod models.

PubMed

Hsieh, Chih-Chen; Jain, Semant; Larson, Ronald G

2006-01-28

A very stiff finitely extensible nonlinear elastic (FENE)-Fraenkel spring is proposed to replace the rigid rod in the bead-rod model. This allows the adoption of a fast predictor-corrector method so that large time steps can be taken in Brownian dynamics (BD) simulations without over- or understretching the stiff springs. In contrast to the simple bead-rod model, BD simulations with beads and FENE-Fraenkel (FF) springs yield a random-walk configuration at equilibrium. We compare the simulation results of the free-draining bead-FF-spring model with those for the bead-rod model in relaxation, start-up of uniaxial extensional, and simple shear flows, and find that both methods generate nearly identical results. The computational cost per time step for a free-draining BD simulation with the proposed bead-FF-spring model is about twice as high as the traditional bead-rod model with the midpoint algorithm of Liu [J. Chem. Phys. 90, 5826 (1989)]. Nevertheless, computations with the bead-FF-spring model are as efficient as those with the bead-rod model in extensional flow because the former allows larger time steps. Moreover, the Brownian contribution to the stress for the bead-FF-spring model is isotropic and therefore simplifies the calculation of the polymer stresses. In addition, hydrodynamic interaction can more easily be incorporated into the bead-FF-spring model than into the bead-rod model since the metric force arising from the non-Cartesian coordinates used in bead-rod simulations is absent from bead-spring simulations. Finally, with our newly developed bead-FF-spring model, existing computer codes for the bead-spring models can trivially be converted to ones for effective bead-rod simulations merely by replacing the usual FENE or Cohen spring law with a FENE-Fraenkel law, and this convertibility provides a very convenient way to perform multiscale BD simulations.

Brownian dynamics simulations with stiff finitely extensible nonlinear elastic-Fraenkel springs as approximations to rods in bead-rod models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hsieh, Chih-Chen; Jain, Semant; Larson, Ronald G.

2006-01-01

A very stiff finitely extensible nonlinear elastic (FENE)-Fraenkel spring is proposed to replace the rigid rod in the bead-rod model. This allows the adoption of a fast predictor-corrector method so that large time steps can be taken in Brownian dynamics (BD) simulations without over- or understretching the stiff springs. In contrast to the simple bead-rod model, BD simulations with beads and FENE-Fraenkel (FF) springs yield a random-walk configuration at equilibrium. We compare the simulation results of the free-draining bead-FF-spring model with those for the bead-rod model in relaxation, start-up of uniaxial extensional, and simple shear flows, and find that both methods generate nearly identical results. The computational cost per time step for a free-draining BD simulation with the proposed bead-FF-spring model is about twice as high as the traditional bead-rod model with the midpoint algorithm of Liu [J. Chem. Phys. 90, 5826 (1989)]. Nevertheless, computations with the bead-FF-spring model are as efficient as those with the bead-rod model in extensional flow because the former allows larger time steps. Moreover, the Brownian contribution to the stress for the bead-FF-spring model is isotropic and therefore simplifies the calculation of the polymer stresses. In addition, hydrodynamic interaction can more easily be incorporated into the bead-FF-spring model than into the bead-rod model since the metric force arising from the non-Cartesian coordinates used in bead-rod simulations is absent from bead-spring simulations. Finally, with our newly developed bead-FF-spring model, existing computer codes for the bead-spring models can trivially be converted to ones for effective bead-rod simulations merely by replacing the usual FENE or Cohen spring law with a FENE-Fraenkel law, and this convertibility provides a very convenient way to perform multiscale BD simulations.

Validation of the Compassion Fatigue Short Scale among Chinese medical workers and firefighters: a cross-sectional study

PubMed Central

Sun, Binghai; Hu, Mengna; Yu, Shitian; Jiang, Yiru; Lou, Baona

2016-01-01

Objectives To examine the psychometric properties of the Chinese version of the C-Compassion Fatigue (CF)-Short Scale among 4 independent samples of Chinese emergency workers (medical workers and firefighters). Design Cross-sectional. Setting 6 hospitals in Zhejiang Province and 12 fire stations in Shanghai. Participants Emergency workers (medical and firefighters) were consecutively recruited and divided into 4 groups: the MW1 group (medical workers, n=167), the FF1 group (firefighters, n=157), the MW2 group (medical workers, n=265) and the FF2 group (firefighters, n=231). Interventions All patients completed the C-CF-Short Scale to identify factors associated with compassion fatigue. The MW1 and FF1 groups were used for the exploratory analyses. The MW2 and FF2 groups were used for the confirmatory factor analyses. Primary and secondary outcome measures Factor loading, correlations with previously validated questionnaires (the Ego-Resiliency Scale, the Social Support Questionnaire and the Job Pressure Scale) and Cronbach's α coefficient were tested for each factor. Results The C-CF-Short Scale demonstrated excellent construct validity and good internal consistency. Specifically, the results of exploratory factor analyses in the MW1 and FF1 groups showed that secondary trauma and job burnout were associated with compassion fatigue in these emergency workers. The confirmatory factor analyses in the MW2 and FF2 groups indicated that all the fit indices of the 2-factor model were satisfactory. Finally, the Cronbach's α coefficient of each factor was excellent. Conclusions The findings suggest that the C-CF-Short Scale has good psychometric properties and can be applied to study Chinese emergency workers. PMID:27363817

Confined ion energy >200 keV and increased fusion yield in a DPF with monolithic tungsten electrodes and pre-ionization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lerner, Eric J.; Hassan, Syed M.; Karamitsos, Ivana; Von Roessel, Fred

2017-10-01

To reduce impurities in the dense plasma focus FF-1 device, we used monolithic tungsten electrodes with pre-ionization. With this new set-up, we demonstrated a three-fold reduction of impurities by mass and a ten-fold reduction by ion number. FF-1 produced a 50% increase in fusion yield over our previous copper electrodes, both for a single shot and for a mean of ten consecutive shots with the same conditions. These results represent a doubling of fusion yield as compared with any other plasma focus device with the same 60 kJ energy input. In addition, FF-1 produced a new single-shot record of 240 ± 20 keV for mean ion energy, a record for any confined fusion plasma, using any device, and a 50% improvement in ten-shot mean ion energy. With a deuterium-nitrogen mix and corona-discharge pre-ionization, we were also able to reduce the standard deviation in the fusion yield to about 15%, a four-fold reduction over the copper-electrode results. We intend to further reduce impurities with new experiments using microwave treatment of tungsten electrodes, followed by the use of beryllium electrodes.

The combination of electrospray and flow focusing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gañán-Calvo, Alfonso M.; López-Herrera, José M.; Riesco-Chueca, Pascual

2006-11-01

An ultra-fine liquid atomization procedure combining the advantages of electrospray and flow focusing is presented. Both techniques are known to produce strikingly small and steady liquid micro-jets issuing from menisci held by capillary forces. Such menisci take the form of a cusp-like drop attached to the feeding tube (flow focusing: FF) or a Taylor cone (electrospray: ES). The issuing micro-jets are forced or ‘sucked’ from the parent meniscus either by pressure or electrohydrodynamic forces. Subsequent capillary breakup of the jet leads to fine sprays of remarkable quality. Here we describe the joint effect of pressurization and electrification in a flow focusing device, and the subsequent coupling of both ES and FF phenomena. For any given liquid and flow rate, the combined procedure gives rise to significantly smaller droplet sizes than observed in any of the source techniques. The co-flowing gas stream removes space charges; in addition, the perforated plate facing the feed tube provides an electric barrier, shielding the jet-meniscus or ‘production’ area from the spray or ‘product’ area. As a result, space charges and electrified droplets are removed from the production area, thus avoiding the ambient electric saturation which becomes a limiting factor in ES-spraying: a significantly enhanced spraying stability ensues, with a much wider operation range than FF or ES. Other unexpected outcomes from the combination are also shown. A theoretical model is developed to predict the emitted droplet size: a first integral of the momentum equation yielding a generalized Bernoulli equation, and an explicit approximation for the jet diameter and droplet size, accurate within a broad parametrical band.

78 FR 3911 - Big Stone National Wildlife Refuge, Big Stone and Lac Qui Parle Counties, MN; Final Comprehensive...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-01-17

... DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR Fish and Wildlife Service [FWS-R3-R-2012-N259; FXRS1265030000-134-FF03R06000] Big Stone National Wildlife Refuge, Big Stone and Lac Qui Parle Counties, MN; Final Comprehensive... significant impact (FONSI) for the environmental assessment (EA) for Big Stone National Wildlife Refuge...

Optimizing Protein-Protein van der Waals Interactions for the AMBER ff9x/ff12 Force Field.

PubMed

Chapman, Dail E; Steck, Jonathan K; Nerenberg, Paul S

2014-01-14

The quality of molecular dynamics (MD) simulations relies heavily on the accuracy of the underlying force field. In recent years, considerable effort has been put into developing more accurate dihedral angle potentials for MD force fields, but relatively little work has focused on the nonbonded parameters, many of which are two decades old. In this work, we assess the accuracy of protein-protein van der Waals interactions in the AMBER ff9x/ff12 force field. Across a test set of 44 neat organic liquids containing the moieties present in proteins, we find root-mean-square (RMS) errors of 1.26 kcal/mol in enthalpy of vaporization and 0.36 g/cm(3) in liquid densities. We then optimize the van der Waals radii and well depths for all of the relevant atom types using these observables, which lowers the RMS errors in enthalpy of vaporization and liquid density of our validation set to 0.59 kcal/mol (53% reduction) and 0.019 g/cm(3) (46% reduction), respectively. Limitations in our parameter optimization were evident for certain atom types, however, and we discuss the implications of these observations for future force field development.

Cyber Friendly Fire

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

Greitzer, Frank L.; Carroll, Thomas E.; Roberts, Adam D.

Cyber friendly fire (FF) is a new concept that has been brought to the attention of Department of Defense (DoD) stakeholders through two workshops that were planned and conducted by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) and research conducted for AFRL by the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. With this previous work in mind, we offer a definition of cyber FF as intentional offensive or defensive cyber/electronic actions intended to protect cyber systems against enemy forces or to attack enemy cyber systems, which unintentionally harms the mission effectiveness of friendly or neutral forces. Just as with combat friendly fire, a fundamentalmore » need in avoiding cyber FF is to maintain situation awareness (SA). We suggest that cyber SA concerns knowledge of a system's topology (connectedness and relationships of the nodes in a system), and critical knowledge elements such as the characteristics and vulnerabilities of the components that comprise the system (and that populate the nodes), the nature of the activities or work performed, and the available defensive (and offensive) countermeasures that may be applied to thwart network attacks. A training implication is to raise awareness and understanding of these critical knowledge units; an approach to decision aids and/or visualizations is to focus on supporting these critical knowledge units. To study cyber FF, we developed an unclassified security test range comprising a combination of virtual and physical devices that present a closed network for testing, simulation, and evaluation. This network offers services found on a production network without the associated costs of a real production network. Containing enough detail to appear realistic, this virtual and physical environment can be customized to represent different configurations. For our purposes, the test range was configured to appear as an Internet-connected Managed Service Provider (MSP) offering specialized web applications to the general public. The network is essentially divided into a production component that hosts the web and network services, and a user component that hosts thirty employee workstations and other end devices. The organization's network is separated from the Internet by a Cisco ASA network security device that both firewalls and detects intrusions. Business sensitive information is stored in various servers. This includes data comprising thousands of internal documents, such as finance and technical designs, email messages for the organization's employees including the CEO, CFO, and CIO, the organization's source code, and Personally Identifiable client data. Release of any of this information to unauthorized parties would have a significant, detrimental impact on the organization's reputation, which would harm earnings. The valuable information stored in these servers pose obvious points of interest for an adversary. We constructed several scenarios around this environment to support studies in cyber SA and cyber FF that may be run in the test range. We describe mitigation strategies to combat cyber FF including both training concepts and suggestions for decision aids and visualization approaches. Finally, we discuss possible future research directions.« less

Investigations on the Use of Multi-Species Flask Measurements for Sector-Specific Fossil Fuel CO2 Attribution to Aid Policymakers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nathan, B.; Lauvaux, T.; Turnbull, J. C.; Sweeney, C.; Karion, A.; Richardson, S.; Miles, N.; Gurney, K. R.; Patarasuk, R.

2016-12-01

Part of the Indianapolis Flux (INFLUX) Experiment has, since 2010, involved recording atmospheric trace gas measurements using NOAA flask packages. The goal of these measurements is to better inform policymakers about the behaviors of greenhouse gas emissions in the Indianapolis urban environment. Radiocarbon dioxide (14CO2) measurements recorded from the flasks allow for delineation of the fossil-fuel carbon dioxide (CO2ff) signal from the total carbon dioxide (CO2) measurement. To give policymakers even more detailed information, we investigate whether the co-measured trace gases could be used as tracers for economic source sectors of CO2ff as predefined by the bottom-up data product Hestia. This is extensively tested using an Observation System Simulation Experiment (OSSE) combining both a top-down approach for all species—influence functions from the tower flask measurements—, and attempting to assign sources via spatial overlaps with the available bottom-up inventory CO2ff source sector definitions. A self-organizing map is implemented for the mathematical attribution of signals to sources, because it can compensate for nonlinear signals (i.e. tracer emissions that do not scale linearly with CO2ff emissions). It is determined that proper attribution is at least not feasible with such a complete lack of bottom-up spatial information about all non-CO2ff potential tracers. This unfeasibility is shown not to be resolved by a test of expanding the dataset with many more theoretical measurements than are realistically available. Here we alter the approach to include the missing prior information: bottom-up estimates of the emission fluxes for a suite of species. We develop these bottom-up emission fluxes from existing whole-city emission fluxes, species-specific source sector partitioning, and the spatial patterns from Hestia CO2ff source sectors. We validate the general approach using the whole-city species: CO2ff ratios derived from all tower flask measurements. Finally, using these tools, multi-species, sector-specific inversions are investigated in the Bayesian framework.

Validation of full-field optical coherence tomography in distinguishing malignant and benign tissue in resected pancreatic cancer specimens

PubMed Central

Fariña-Sarasqueta, Arantza; de Haan, Lorraine M.; Eggermont, Jeroen; Bonsing, Bert A.; Morreau, Hans; Lelieveldt, Boudewijn P. F.; van de Velde, Cornelis J. H.; Vahrmeijer, Alexander L.; Dijkstra, Jouke

2017-01-01

Background Pancreatic cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related mortality in the United States. The minority of patients can undergo curative-intended surgical therapy due to progressive disease stage at time of diagnosis. Nonetheless, tumor involvement of surgical margins is seen in up to 70% of resections, being a strong negative prognostic factor. Real-time intraoperative imaging modalities may aid surgeons to obtain tumor-free resection margins. Full-field optical coherence tomography (FF-OCT) is a promising diagnostic tool using high-resolution white-light interference microscopy without tissue processing. Therefore, we composed an atlas of FF-OCT images of malignant and benign pancreatic tissue, and investigated the accuracy with which the pathologists could distinguish these. Materials and methods One hundred FF-OCT images were collected from specimens of 29 patients who underwent pancreatic resection for various indications between 2014 and 2016. One experienced gastrointestinal pathologist and one pathologist in training scored independently the FF-OCT images as malignant or benign blinded to the final pathology conclusion. Results were compared to those obtained with standard hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) slides. Results Overall, combined test characteristics of both pathologists showed a sensitivity of 72%, specificity of 74%, positive predictive value of 69%, negative predictive value of 79% and an overall accuracy of 73%. In the subset of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma patients, 97% of the FF-OCT images (n = 35) were interpreted as tumor by at least one pathologist. Moreover, normal pancreatic tissue was recognised in all cases by at least one pathologist. However, atrophy and fibrosis, serous cystadenoma and neuroendocrine tumors were more often wrongly scored, in 63%, 100% and 25% respectively. Conclusion FF-OCT could distinguish normal pancreatic tissue from pathologic pancreatic tissue in both processed as non-processed specimens using architectural features. The accuracy in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma is promising and warrants further evaluation using improved assessment criteria. PMID:28414765

Validation and Application of a PCR Primer Set to Quantify Fungal Communities in the Soil Environment by Real-Time Quantitative PCR

PubMed Central

Chemidlin Prévost-Bouré, Nicolas; Christen, Richard; Dequiedt, Samuel; Mougel, Christophe; Lelièvre, Mélanie; Jolivet, Claudy; Shahbazkia, Hamid Reza; Guillou, Laure; Arrouays, Dominique; Ranjard, Lionel

2011-01-01

Fungi constitute an important group in soil biological diversity and functioning. However, characterization and knowledge of fungal communities is hampered because few primer sets are available to quantify fungal abundance by real-time quantitative PCR (real-time Q-PCR). The aim in this study was to quantify fungal abundance in soils by incorporating, into a real-time Q-PCR using the SYBRGreen® method, a primer set already used to study the genetic structure of soil fungal communities. To satisfy the real-time Q-PCR requirements to enhance the accuracy and reproducibility of the detection technique, this study focused on the 18S rRNA gene conserved regions. These regions are little affected by length polymorphism and may provide sufficiently small targets, a crucial criterion for enhancing accuracy and reproducibility of the detection technique. An in silico analysis of 33 primer sets targeting the 18S rRNA gene was performed to select the primer set with the best potential for real-time Q-PCR: short amplicon length; good fungal specificity and coverage. The best consensus between specificity, coverage and amplicon length among the 33 sets tested was the primer set FR1 / FF390. This in silico analysis of the specificity of FR1 / FF390 also provided additional information to the previously published analysis on this primer set. The specificity of the primer set FR1 / FF390 for Fungi was validated in vitro by cloning - sequencing the amplicons obtained from a real time Q-PCR assay performed on five independent soil samples. This assay was also used to evaluate the sensitivity and reproducibility of the method. Finally, fungal abundance in samples from 24 soils with contrasting physico-chemical and environmental characteristics was examined and ranked to determine the importance of soil texture, organic carbon content, C∶N ratio and land use in determining fungal abundance in soils. PMID:21931659

Kalman-filtered compressive sensing for high resolution estimation of anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions from sparse measurements.

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

Ray, Jaideep; Lee, Jina; Lefantzi, Sophia

2013-09-01

The estimation of fossil-fuel CO2 emissions (ffCO2) from limited ground-based and satellite measurements of CO2 concentrations will form a key component of the monitoring of treaties aimed at the abatement of greenhouse gas emissions. The limited nature of the measured data leads to a severely-underdetermined estimation problem. If the estimation is performed at fine spatial resolutions, it can also be computationally expensive. In order to enable such estimations, advances are needed in the spatial representation of ffCO2 emissions, scalable inversion algorithms and the identification of observables to measure. To that end, we investigate parsimonious spatial parameterizations of ffCO2 emissions whichmore » can be used in atmospheric inversions. We devise and test three random field models, based on wavelets, Gaussian kernels and covariance structures derived from easily-observed proxies of human activity. In doing so, we constructed a novel inversion algorithm, based on compressive sensing and sparse reconstruction, to perform the estimation. We also address scalable ensemble Kalman filters as an inversion mechanism and quantify the impact of Gaussian assumptions inherent in them. We find that the assumption does not impact the estimates of mean ffCO2 source strengths appreciably, but a comparison with Markov chain Monte Carlo estimates show significant differences in the variance of the source strengths. Finally, we study if the very different spatial natures of biogenic and ffCO2 emissions can be used to estimate them, in a disaggregated fashion, solely from CO2 concentration measurements, without extra information from products of incomplete combustion e.g., CO. We find that this is possible during the winter months, though the errors can be as large as 50%.« less

The Effect of C-Terminal Helix on the Stability of FF Domain Studied by Molecular Dynamics Simulation

PubMed Central

Zhao, Liling; Cao, Zanxia; Wang, Jihua

2012-01-01

To investigate the effect of C-terminal helix on the stability of the FF domain, we studied the native domain FF3-71 from human HYPA/FBP11 and the truncated version FF3-60 with C-terminal helix being deleted by molecular dynamics simulations with GROMACS package and GROMOS 43A1 force field. The results indicated that the structures of truncated version FF3-60 were evident different from those of native partner FF3-71. Compared with FF3-71, the FF3-60 lost some native contacts and exhibited some similar structural characters to those of intermediate state. The C-terminal helix played a major role in stabilizing the FF3-71 domain. To a certain degree, the FF domain had a tendency to form an intermediate state without the C-terminal helix. In our knowledge, this was the first study to examine the role of C-terminal helix of FF domain in detail by molecular dynamics simulations, which was useful to understand the three-state folding mechanism of the small FF domain. PMID:22408419

The social cost of alcohol, tobacco and illicit drugs in France, 1997.

PubMed

Fenoglio, Philippe; Parel, Véronique; Kopp, Pierre

2003-01-01

AIM, DESIGN AND SETTING: The economic costs of alcohol, tobacco and illicit drugs to French society are estimated using a cost of illness framework. For the cause of disease or death (using ICD-9 categories), pooled relative risk estimates from meta-analyses were combined with prevalence data by age and gender to derive the proportion attributable to alcohol, tobacco and/or illicit drugs. The resulting estimates of attributable deaths and hospitalizations were used to calculate the associated health care, law enforcement, productivity and other costs. The results were compared with those of other studies, and sensitivity analyses were conducted by alternative ways of measuring risk attribution and costs. The use of alcohol, tobacco and illicit drugs cost more than 200 billion francs (FF) in France in 1997, representing 3714 FF per capita or 2.7% of the gross domestic product (GDP). Alcohol is the drug that gives rise to the greatest cost in France, i.e. 115420.91 million FF (1.42% of GDP) or an expenditure per capita of 1966 FF in 1997. Alcohol takes more than half of the social cost of drugs to society. The greatest share of the social cost of alcohol comes from the loss of productivity (57555.66 million FF), due to premature death (53168.60 million FF), morbidity (3884.0 million FF) and imprisonment (503.06 million FF). Tobacco leads to a social cost of 89256.90 million FF, that is an expenditure per capita of 1520.56 FF or 1.1% of GDP. Productivity losses amount to 50446.70 million FF, with losses of 42765.80 million FF as a result of premature death and 7680.90 million FF linked to morbidity. Health care costs for tobacco occupy second place at 26973.70 million FF. Illicit drugs generate a social cost of 13350.28 million FF, that is an expenditure per capita of 227.43 FF or 0.16% of GDP. Productivity losses reach 6099.19 million FF, with 5246.92 million FF linked to imprisonment and 852.27 million FF to premature death. The cost of enforcing the law for illicit drugs occupies second place at 3911.46 million FF, followed by health care costs of 1524.51 million FF. Substance abuse exact a considerable toll from French society in terms of illness, injury, death and economic costs. Copyright 2003 S. Karger AG, Basel

Environmental Assessment of the Final Effluent Limitations ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

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Quantification of fossil fuel CO2 emissions at the urban scale: Results from the Indianapolis Flux Project (INFLUX)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Turnbull, J. C.; Cambaliza, M. L.; Sweeney, C.; Karion, A.; Newberger, T.; Tans, P. P.; Lehman, S.; Davis, K. J.; Miles, N. L.; Richardson, S.; Lauvaux, T.; Shepson, P.; Gurney, K. R.; Song, Y.; Razlivanov, I. N.

2012-12-01

Emissions of fossil fuel CO2 (CO2ff) from anthropogenic sources are the primary driver of observed increases in the atmospheric CO2 burden, and hence global warming. Quantification of the magnitude of fossil fuel CO2 emissions is vital to improving our understanding of the global and regional carbon cycle, and independent evaluation of reported emissions is essential to the success of any emission reduction efforts. The urban scale is of particular interest, because ~75% CO2ff is emitted from urban regions, and cities are leading the way in attempts to reduce emissions. Measurements of 14CO2 can be used to determine CO2ff, yet existing 14C measurement techniques require laborious laboratory analysis and measurements are often insufficient for inferring an urban emission flux. This presentation will focus on how 14CO2 measurements can be combined with those of more easily measured ancillary tracers to obtain high resolution CO2ff mixing ratio estimates and then infer the emission flux. A pilot study over Sacramento, California showed strong correlations between CO2ff and carbon monoxide (CO) and demonstrated an ability to quantify the urban flux, albeit with large uncertainties. The Indianapolis Flux Project (INFLUX) aims to develop and assess methods to quantify urban greenhouse gas emissions. Indianapolis was chosen as an ideal test case because it has relatively straightforward meteorology; a contained, isolated, urban region; and substantial and well-known fossil fuel CO2 emissions. INFLUX incorporates atmospheric measurements of a suite of gases and isotopes including 14C from light aircraft and from a network of existing tall towers surrounding the Indianapolis urban area. The recently added CO2ff content is calculated from measurements of 14C in CO2, and then convolved with atmospheric transport models and ancillary data to estimate the urban CO2ff emission flux. Significant innovations in sample collection include: collection of hourly averaged samples to remove short term atmospheric variability; and direct measurement of the background signal from towers immediately upwind of the urban area and from the boundary layer. We find that CO2ff and other anthropogenic trace gases are consistently enhanced at a tower site downwind of the city. Measurements made directly over or very close to the urban area show only weak correlations between CO2ff and trace gases associated with combustion, likely because the urban plume is not yet well mixed. Total CO2 is also consistently enhanced in the downwind samples, even in summer. In winter, total CO2 enhancement is slightly higher than the fossil fuel CO2 enhancement, in agreement with Indiana's requirement for 10% bioethanol use in gasoline. This result implies that the enhancement in total CO2 can be used to infer CO2ff emissions for Indianapolis during winter. We therefore use the high resolution in situ total CO2 measurements in a simple mass balance model to estimate the urban CO2ff emissions. An initial comparison shows a ~20% difference between the top-down and bottom-up methods.

Superconductive ADC Project Fabrication Package. Final Design Review Package (Briefing Charts)

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-09-07

Simulation Results Iin 1.45mV 2.5Ω 1pH 4pH 100fF 310uA 1fΩ Ic = 300uA Rn = 0.8Ω Cs = 0.32pF Ic = 300uA Rn = 0.8Ω Cs = 0.32pF Iin Vout Vout Ic = 500uA Rn...0.55Ω Cs = 0.32pF ONR Superconductive ADC CLIN/SLIN 0001AD September 2010, Brad Perranoski Pg. 17 Modulator Design Documentation Comparator Design...Comparator Design - Cadence Schematic & Simulation Comparator Testbench Simulation Results 1.45mV 2.5Ω 1pH 4pH 100fF 310uA 1fΩSine wave 100uApk Iin Ic

Study on emission of hazardous trace elements in a 350 MW coal-fired power plant. Part 2. arsenic, chromium, barium, manganese, lead.

PubMed

Zhao, Shilin; Duan, Yufeng; Chen, Lei; Li, Yaning; Yao, Ting; Liu, Shuai; Liu, Meng; Lu, Jianhong

2017-07-01

Hazardous Trace elements (HTEs) emitted from coal combustion has raised widespread concern. Studies on the emission characteristics of five HTEs, namely arsenic (As), chromium (Cr), barium (Ba), manganese (Mn), lead (Pb) at three different loads (100%, 83%, 71% output) and different coal types were performed on a 350 MW coal-fired power plant equipped with SCR, ESP + FF, and WFGD. HTEs in the flue gas at the inlet/outlet of each air pollution control device (APCD) were sampled simultaneously based on US EPA Method 29. During flue gas HTEs sampling, coal, bottom ash, fly ash captured by ESP + FF, fresh desulfurization slurry, desulfurization wastewater were also collected. Results show that mass balance rate for the system and each APCD is in an acceptable range. The five studied HTEs mainly distribute in bottom and ESP + FF ash. ESP + FF have high removal efficiency of 99.75-99.95%. WFGD can remove part of HTEs further. Total removal rate across the APCDs ranges from 99.84 to 99.99%. Concentration of HTEs emitted to atmosphere is within the extremely low scope of 0.11-4.93 μg/m 3 . Emission factor of the five studied HTEs is 0.04-1.54 g/10 12 J. Content of As, Pb, Ba, Cr in solid samples follows the order of ESP + FF ash > bottom ash > gypsum. More focus should be placed on Mn in desulfuration wastewater, content of which is more than the standard value. This work is meaningful for the prediction and removal of HTEs emitted from coal-fired power plants. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Exploratory study of the association of steroid profiles in stimulated ovarian follicular fluid with outcomes of IVF treatment.

PubMed

Kushnir, Mark M; Naessén, Tord; Wanggren, Kjell; Hreinsson, Julius; Rockwood, Alan L; Meikle, A Wayne; Bergquist, Jonas

2016-09-01

Steroid concentrations in stimulated follicular fluid (sFF) samples have been linked to the quality of oocytes used in IVF treatments. Most of the published studies focused on evaluating the association of the IVF outcomes with only a few of the steroids, measured by immunoassays (IA). We performed a treatment outcome, prospective cohort study using stimulated FF sampled from 14 infertile women undergoing IVF treatment; single oocyte was used per IVF cycle. Fourteen endogenous steroids were analyzed in 22 ovarian follicle aspirations, which corresponded to the embryos used in the IVF. Ten oocytes were associated with live birth (LB) and 12 with no pregnancy (NP). Steroids were analyzed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) methods. Differences in distribution of concentrations in association with the pregnancy outcome (LB or NP), and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves analysis were performed for the entire cohort and for within-women data. The predominant androgen and estrogen in stimulated sFF were androstenedione (A4) and estradiol (E2), respectively. Lower concentrations of pregnenolone (Pr), lower ratios of A4/ dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), testosterone (Te)/DHEA, and greater ratios of E2/Te, and estrone/A4 were observed in sFF samples associated with LB. Among the oocytes associated with NP, in four out of 12 samples total concentration of androgens was above the distribution of the concentrations in the oocytes corresponding to the LB group. Observations of the study indicated increased consumption of precursors and increased biosynthesis of estrogens in the follicles associated with LB. Our data suggest that potentially steroid profiles in sFF obtained during oocyte retrieval may serve as biomarkers for selection of the best embryo to transfer after IVF. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Ensemble-based flash-flood modelling: Taking into account hydrodynamic parameters and initial soil moisture uncertainties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Edouard, Simon; Vincendon, Béatrice; Ducrocq, Véronique

2018-05-01

Intense precipitation events in the Mediterranean often lead to devastating flash floods (FF). FF modelling is affected by several kinds of uncertainties and Hydrological Ensemble Prediction Systems (HEPS) are designed to take those uncertainties into account. The major source of uncertainty comes from rainfall forcing and convective-scale meteorological ensemble prediction systems can manage it for forecasting purpose. But other sources are related to the hydrological modelling part of the HEPS. This study focuses on the uncertainties arising from the hydrological model parameters and initial soil moisture with aim to design an ensemble-based version of an hydrological model dedicated to Mediterranean fast responding rivers simulations, the ISBA-TOP coupled system. The first step consists in identifying the parameters that have the strongest influence on FF simulations by assuming perfect precipitation. A sensitivity study is carried out first using a synthetic framework and then for several real events and several catchments. Perturbation methods varying the most sensitive parameters as well as initial soil moisture allow designing an ensemble-based version of ISBA-TOP. The first results of this system on some real events are presented. The direct perspective of this work will be to drive this ensemble-based version with the members of a convective-scale meteorological ensemble prediction system to design a complete HEPS for FF forecasting.

Clinical whole-genome sequencing from routine formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded specimens: pilot study for the 100,000 Genomes Project.

PubMed

Robbe, Pauline; Popitsch, Niko; Knight, Samantha J L; Antoniou, Pavlos; Becq, Jennifer; He, Miao; Kanapin, Alexander; Samsonova, Anastasia; Vavoulis, Dimitrios V; Ross, Mark T; Kingsbury, Zoya; Cabes, Maite; Ramos, Sara D C; Page, Suzanne; Dreau, Helene; Ridout, Kate; Jones, Louise J; Tuff-Lacey, Alice; Henderson, Shirley; Mason, Joanne; Buffa, Francesca M; Verrill, Clare; Maldonado-Perez, David; Roxanis, Ioannis; Collantes, Elena; Browning, Lisa; Dhar, Sunanda; Damato, Stephen; Davies, Susan; Caulfield, Mark; Bentley, David R; Taylor, Jenny C; Turnbull, Clare; Schuh, Anna

2018-02-01

PurposeFresh-frozen (FF) tissue is the optimal source of DNA for whole-genome sequencing (WGS) of cancer patients. However, it is not always available, limiting the widespread application of WGS in clinical practice. We explored the viability of using formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues, available routinely for cancer patients, as a source of DNA for clinical WGS.MethodsWe conducted a prospective study using DNAs from matched FF, FFPE, and peripheral blood germ-line specimens collected from 52 cancer patients (156 samples) following routine diagnostic protocols. We compared somatic variants detected in FFPE and matching FF samples.ResultsWe found the single-nucleotide variant agreement reached 71% across the genome and somatic copy-number alterations (CNAs) detection from FFPE samples was suboptimal (0.44 median correlation with FF) due to nonuniform coverage. CNA detection was improved significantly with lower reverse crosslinking temperature in FFPE DNA extraction (80 °C or 65 °C depending on the methods). Our final data showed somatic variant detection from FFPE for clinical decision making is possible. We detected 98% of clinically actionable variants (including 30/31 CNAs).ConclusionWe present the first prospective WGS study of cancer patients using FFPE specimens collected in a routine clinical environment proving WGS can be applied in the clinic.GENETICS in MEDICINE advance online publication, 1 February 2018; doi:10.1038/gim.2017.241.

Role of Intramolecular Aromatic π-π Interactions in the Self-Assembly of Di-l-Phenylalanine Dipeptide Driven by Intermolecular Interactions: Effect of Alanine Substitution.

PubMed

Reddy, Samala Murali Mohan; Shanmugam, Ganesh

2016-09-19

Although the role of intermolecular aromatic π-π interactions in the self-assembly of di-l-phenylalanine (l-Phe-l-Phe, FF), a peptide that is known for hierarchical structure, is well established, the influence of intramolecular π-π interactions on the morphology of the self-assembled structure of FF has not been studied. Herein, the role of intramolecular aromatic π-π interactions is investigated for FF and analogous alanine (Ala)-containing dipeptides, namely, l-Phe-l-Ala (FA) and l-Ala-l-Phe (AF). The results reveal that these dipeptides not only form self-assemblies, but also exhibit remarkable differences in structural morphology. The morphological differences between FF and the analogues indicate the importance of intramolecular π-π interactions, and the structural difference between FA and AF demonstrates the crucial role of the nature of intramolecular side-chain interactions (aromatic-aliphatic or aliphatic-aromatic), in addition to intermolecular interactions, in deciding the final morphology of the self-assembled structure. The current results emphasise that intramolecular aromatic π-π interaction may not be essential to induce self-assembly in smaller peptides, and π (aromatic)-alkyl or alkyl-π (aromatic) interactions may be sufficient. This work also illustrates the versatility of aromatic and a combination of aromatic and aliphatic residues in dipeptides in the formation of structurally diverse self-assembled structures. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Future Precipitation Extremes in China Under Climate Change and Their Possible Mechanisms by Regional Climate Model and Earth System Model Simulations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qin, P.; Xie, Z.

2017-12-01

Future precipitation extremes in China for the mid and end of 21st century were detected with six simulations using the regional climate model RegCM4 (RCM) and 17 global climate models (GCM) participated in the coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5 (CMIP5). Prior to understanding the future changes in precipitation extremes, we overviewed the performance of precipitation extremes simulated by the CMIP5s and RCMs, and found both CMIP5s and RCMs could capture the temporal and spatial pattern of the historical precipitation extremes in China. In the mid-future period 2039-2058 (MF) and far-future 2079-2098 (FF), more wet precipitation extremes will occur in most area of China relative to the present period 1982-2001 (RF). We quantified the rates of the changes in precipitation extremes in China with the changes in air surface temperature (T2M) for the MF and FF period. Changes in precipitation extremes R95p were found around 5% K-1 for the MF period and 10% K-1 for the FF period, and changes in maximum 5 day precipitation (Rx5day) were detected around 4% K-1 for the MF period and 7% K-1 for the FF period, respectively. Finally, the possible physical mechanisms behind the changes in precipitation extremes in China were also discussed through the changes in specific humidity and vertical wind.

Trade-offs of the opto-electrical properties of a-Si:H solar cells based on MOCVD BZO films.

PubMed

Chen, Ze; Zhang, Xiao-dan; Liang, Jun-hui; Fang, Jia; Liang, Xue-jiao; Sun, Jian; Zhang, De-kun; Chen, Xin-liang; Huang, Qian; Zhao, Ying

2015-01-07

Boron-doped zinc oxide (BZO) films, deposited by metal-organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD), have been widely used as front electrodes in thin-film solar cells due to their native pyramidal surface structure, which results in efficient light trapping. This light trapping effect can enhance the short-circuit current density (Jsc) of solar cells. However, nanocracks or voids in the silicon active layer may form when the surface morphology of the BZO is too sharp; this usually leads to degraded electrical properties of the cells, such as open-circuit voltage (Voc) and the fill factor (FF), which in turn decreases efficiency (Eff) [Bailat et al., Photovoltaic Energy Conversion, Conference Record of the 2006 IEEE 4th World Conference on. IEEE, 2006, vol. 2, pp. 1533-1536]. In this paper, an etching and coating method was proposed to modify the sharp "pyramids" on the surface of the BZO films. As a result, an evident enhancement was achieved for these modified, BZO-based cells' Voc, FF, and Eff, although the Jsc exhibited a small decrease. In order to increase the Jsc and maintain the improved electrical properties (Voc, FF) of the cell, a thin BZO coating, deposited by MOCVD, was introduced to coat the sputtering-treated BZO film. Finally, we optimized the trade-off among the Voc, FF, and Jsc, that is, we identified a regime with an increase of the Jsc as well as a further improvement of the other electrical properties.

Cost-effectiveness analysis of three different combinations of inhalers for severe and very severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients at a tertiary care teaching hospital of South India.

PubMed

Altaf, Mohammed; Zubedi, Ayesha Mubeen; Nazneen, Fareesa; Kareemulla, Shaik; Ali, Syed Amir; Aleemuddin, N M; Hannan Hazari, Md Abdul

2015-01-01

This study aims at simplifying the practical patient management and offers some general indications for pharmacotherapeutic choice by the implementation of (Global Initiative for Chronic Lung Disease) guidelines. This study was designed to evaluate the clinical and economic consequences of salmeterol/fluticasone (SF), formoterol/budesonide (FB), and formoterol/fluticasone (FF) in severe and very severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients. The aim was to find out the most cost-effective drug combination between the three combinations (SF/FB/FF) in COPD patients. A prospective observational comparative study (cost-effectiveness analysis), in which 90 severe (30 ≤ forced expiratory volume in 1 s [FEV1] <50% predicted) and very severe (FEV1 < 30% predicted) COPD patients (outpatients/inpatients) who are prescribed with any one of the following combinations (SF/FB/FF) were selected. In our study, we have divided 90 COPD patients into three groups (Group I, Group II, and Group III) each group consisting of 30 patients. Group I was prescribed with medication SF, Group II with medication FB, and Group III with medication FF. We used five different parameters such as spirometry test (mean FEV1 initial and final visit), number of symptom-free days (SFDs), number of moderate and severe exacerbations, Number of days of hospitalization and direct, indirect, and total cost to assess the cost-effectiveness of SF/FB/FF. Comparison of cost and effects was done during the period of 6 months of using SF/FB/FF. The average FEV1 for Group I, Group II, and Group III subjects at initial visit was 33.47%, 33.73%, and 33.20% and was increased to 36.60%, 35.8%, and 33.4%, respectively. A 3% increment in FEV1 was reported for Group I subjects (SF) and was highly significant statistically (t = -8.833, P = 0.000) at 95% CI. For Group II subjects (FB), a 2% increment in FEV1 was reported and was highly significant statistically (t = -9.001, P = 0.000) at 95% CI. For Group III (FF) subjects 0.2% increment in FEV1. The overall mean total cost for Group I, Group II, and Group III subjects during the 6 months period was found to be Rs. 29,725/-, Rs. 32,602/- and Rs. 37,155/-. Incremental cost-effectiveness of FB versus SF was Rs. 37,781/- per avoided exacerbation and Rs. 661/-per SFD. This study highlights the favorable therapeutic performance of combined inhaled bronchodilators and corticosteroids (SF/FB/FF), thus suggesting that healthcare costs would be also affected positively. Results from our study showed that SF and FB were the most effective strategies in the treatment of COPD, with a slight clinical superiority of SF. The FF strategy was not much effective (i.e. associated with fewer outcomes and higher costs).

Preliminary Airworthiness Evaluation of the AH-1S (Modernized Cobra) with the HELLFIRE, TOW, and Stinger Missiles Installed

DTIC Science & Technology

1984-10-01

is ready for engagement. The SCAS pitch, roll, and yaw engage switches energize the appropriate channels of the SCAS and the electrical solenoid valves ...I 4i TFF FF iff iT1Ii F1T ’I" 114~~~~7. FF+4441UF - - 4-� 1;4 444 1~ FF1 111410 4 IB1: TIF FF 1F V4j UVFFtli T FF’HI F F FF F F tF1 F ’’ ’-FF11 1

Ff-nano, short functionalized nanorods derived from Ff (f1, fd, or M13) filamentous bacteriophage

PubMed Central

Sattar, Sadia; Bennett, Nicholas J.; Wen, Wesley X.; Guthrie, Jenness M.; Blackwell, Len F.; Conway, James F.; Rakonjac, Jasna

2015-01-01

F-specific filamentous phage of Escherichia coli (Ff: f1, M13, or fd) are long thin filaments (860 nm × 6 nm). They have been a major workhorse in display technologies and bionanotechnology; however, some applications are limited by the high length-to-diameter ratio of Ff. Furthermore, use of functionalized Ff outside of laboratory containment is in part hampered by the fact that they are genetically modified viruses. We have now developed a system for production and purification of very short functionalized Ff-phage-derived nanorods, named Ff-nano, that are only 50 nm in length. In contrast to standard Ff-derived vectors that replicate in E. coli and contain antibiotic-resistance genes, Ff-nano are protein-DNA complexes that cannot replicate on their own and do not contain any coding sequences. These nanorods show an increased resistance to heating at 70∘C in 1% SDS in comparison to the full-length Ff phage of the same coat composition. We demonstrate that functionalized Ff-nano particles are suitable for application as detection particles in sensitive and quantitative “dipstick” lateral flow diagnostic assay for human plasma fibronectin. PMID:25941520

Ff-nano, short functionalized nanorods derived from Ff (f1, fd, or M13) filamentous bacteriophage.

PubMed

Sattar, Sadia; Bennett, Nicholas J; Wen, Wesley X; Guthrie, Jenness M; Blackwell, Len F; Conway, James F; Rakonjac, Jasna

2015-01-01

F-specific filamentous phage of Escherichia coli (Ff: f1, M13, or fd) are long thin filaments (860 nm × 6 nm). They have been a major workhorse in display technologies and bionanotechnology; however, some applications are limited by the high length-to-diameter ratio of Ff. Furthermore, use of functionalized Ff outside of laboratory containment is in part hampered by the fact that they are genetically modified viruses. We have now developed a system for production and purification of very short functionalized Ff-phage-derived nanorods, named Ff-nano, that are only 50 nm in length. In contrast to standard Ff-derived vectors that replicate in E. coli and contain antibiotic-resistance genes, Ff-nano are protein-DNA complexes that cannot replicate on their own and do not contain any coding sequences. These nanorods show an increased resistance to heating at 70(∘)C in 1% SDS in comparison to the full-length Ff phage of the same coat composition. We demonstrate that functionalized Ff-nano particles are suitable for application as detection particles in sensitive and quantitative "dipstick" lateral flow diagnostic assay for human plasma fibronectin.

A Review of the Growth of the Fast Food Industry in China and Its Potential Impact on Obesity.

PubMed

Wang, Youfa; Wang, Liang; Xue, Hong; Qu, Weidong

2016-11-09

The fast-food (FF) industry and obesity rates have rapidly increased in China. This study examined the FF industry growth in China, key factors contributing to the growth, and the association between FF consumption (FFC) and obesity. We collected related data from multiple sources and conducted analysis including linear regression analysis on the increase in FF revenue. It was found that FF industry in China is large, with over two million FF facilities. Its total revenue (in million US$) increased from 10,464 in 1999 to 94,218 in 2013, and by 13% annually since 2008. Increased income, urbanization, busier lifestyle, speedy FF service, assurance of food safety, new brands and foods have stimulated demand for FF. Studies have linked FFC with obesity risk, including a few reporting a positive association between FFC and obesity in China. Rapid expansion of Western-style FF restaurants has also stimulated local FF industry growth. Government regulation and public health education need to address the health consequences of rapidly increasing FFC. Lessons learned in China will help other countries.

A Review of the Growth of the Fast Food Industry in China and Its Potential Impact on Obesity

PubMed Central

Wang, Youfa; Wang, Liang; Xue, Hong; Qu, Weidong

2016-01-01

The fast-food (FF) industry and obesity rates have rapidly increased in China. This study examined the FF industry growth in China, key factors contributing to the growth, and the association between FF consumption (FFC) and obesity. We collected related data from multiple sources and conducted analysis including linear regression analysis on the increase in FF revenue. It was found that FF industry in China is large, with over two million FF facilities. Its total revenue (in million US$) increased from 10,464 in 1999 to 94,218 in 2013, and by 13% annually since 2008. Increased income, urbanization, busier lifestyle, speedy FF service, assurance of food safety, new brands and foods have stimulated demand for FF. Studies have linked FFC with obesity risk, including a few reporting a positive association between FFC and obesity in China. Rapid expansion of Western-style FF restaurants has also stimulated local FF industry growth. Government regulation and public health education need to address the health consequences of rapidly increasing FFC. Lessons learned in China will help other countries. PMID:27834887

A NASTRAN Vibration Model of the AH-1G Helicopter Airframe. Volume 2

DTIC Science & Technology

1974-06-01

8217 ; - 5 .- .- .- a "i ^ r. i A. f\\ n i, ft. . - •• H-16.1 i n.iMim—ta^nmniMiir HlPPmf^f^^"^^—^PPPPP^ BPP ^WPPilWPiJPiP l"IMWI I^P^I...ff-*«’M-o<r’«ffNO*ffff^ff^-a>-*ff nM^j + ^^^o-öin — -»ff^»*»rMOx|M^.o-»Off-aff’* ffa ".«ri’ftjir’ff- — ^^-ff-» ■»■♦ **’Mtvj’"«r*0 Off^f^^iM^n^^—O

Overcoming barriers to ITS : lessons from other technologies : final task C report : models ff public and private participation in ATMS/ATIS

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1997-09-01

This report documents the results of a Federal Highway ADministration (FHWA) study of the agency's Highqay Performance Monitoring System (HPMS). The purpose of this study was to assist FHWA in conducting a comprehensive review of the HPMS, designed t...

78 FR 33233 - Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act; Establishment of Exchanges and Qualified Health Plans...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-06-04

... would affect the ability of employers to offer stand-alone pediatric dental coverage in the FF- SHOP... Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act; Establishment of Exchanges and Qualified Health Plans; Small... rule. SUMMARY: This final rule implements provisions of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act...

Avoiding Defect Nucleation during Equilibration in Molecular Dynamics Simulations with ReaxFF

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-04-01

respectively. All simulations are performed using the LAMMPS computer code.12 2 Fig. 1 a) Initial and b) final configurations of the molecular centers...Plimpton S. Fast parallel algorithms for short-range molecular dynamics. Comput J Phys. 1995;117:1–19. (Software available at http:// lammps .sandia.gov

Improved side-chain torsion potentials for the Amber ff99SB protein force field

PubMed Central

Lindorff-Larsen, Kresten; Piana, Stefano; Palmo, Kim; Maragakis, Paul; Klepeis, John L; Dror, Ron O; Shaw, David E

2010-01-01

Recent advances in hardware and software have enabled increasingly long molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of biomolecules, exposing certain limitations in the accuracy of the force fields used for such simulations and spurring efforts to refine these force fields. Recent modifications to the Amber and CHARMM protein force fields, for example, have improved the backbone torsion potentials, remedying deficiencies in earlier versions. Here, we further advance simulation accuracy by improving the amino acid side-chain torsion potentials of the Amber ff99SB force field. First, we used simulations of model alpha-helical systems to identify the four residue types whose rotamer distribution differed the most from expectations based on Protein Data Bank statistics. Second, we optimized the side-chain torsion potentials of these residues to match new, high-level quantum-mechanical calculations. Finally, we used microsecond-timescale MD simulations in explicit solvent to validate the resulting force field against a large set of experimental NMR measurements that directly probe side-chain conformations. The new force field, which we have termed Amber ff99SB-ILDN, exhibits considerably better agreement with the NMR data. Proteins 2010. © 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc. PMID:20408171

Sex and cultural differences in the acceptance of functional foods: a comparison of American, Canadian, and French college students.

PubMed

Kolodinsky, Jane; Labrecque, JoAnne; Doyon, Maurice; Reynolds, Travis; Oble, Frédéric; Bellavance, François; Marquis, Marie

2008-01-01

Functional foods (FF)--foods containing nutritional supplements in addition to natural nutrients--have an increasing presence in the marketplace. Expanding on previous research, the authors investigated college students' acceptance of FF. In September--March 2004, 811 undergraduates in Canada, the United States, and France participated in the study. A self-administered questionnaire measured students' general food attitudes and beliefs as well as FF-related knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and purchase intention. Overall, participants slightly favored FF over traditional foods. However, although most respondents associated FF with positive health benefits, many remained dubious of currently available FF information. In terms of culture and sex, the authors found small but significant divergences in FF knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors. Stronger labeling and education efforts may increase cross-cultural acceptance of FF by college students.

A canonical correlation analysis on the relationship between functional fitness and health-related quality of life in older adults.

PubMed

Chung, Pak-Kwong; Zhao, Yanan; Liu, Jing-Dong; Quach, Binh

This study aimed to explore the relationship between the functional fitness (FF) and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in older adults, and to identify the key subdimensions of FF and HRQoL influencing their overall relationship. This cross-sectional study was performed among 851 independent community members (65-84 years; men=402). The Senior Fitness Test and the Short Form 36 Health Survey were used to measure FF and HRQoL, respectively. A canonical correlation analysis was conducted using seven fitness variables as predictors of eight HRQoL variables to examine the relationship between FF and HRQoL. The overall FF was positively correlated with the overall HRQoL in both men (canonical correlation=0.350) and women (canonical correlation=0.456). The up-and-go and 2-min step contributed the most to FF, and physical functioning contributed the most to HRQOL among men. Conversely, the up-and-go and 30-s chair stand contributed the most to FF, and physical functioning contributed the most to HRQoL in women. There were positive and moderate relationships between overall FF and overall HRQOL in older adults. The FF has a significant influence on HRQoL, particularly physical functioning. The main FF components influencing the relationship between FF and HRQoL in men are balance and agility and aerobic endurance, whereas in women they are balance and agility and lower extremity muscle strength. Results from this study facilitate comprehensively understanding the relationship between FF and HRQoL, and generating critical insight into HRQoL improvement from the perspective of FF enhancement. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Far-field detection of sub-wavelength Tetris without extra near-field metal parts based on phase prints of time-reversed fields with intensive background interference.

PubMed

Chen, Yingming; Wang, Bing-Zhong

2014-07-14

Time-reversal (TR) phase prints are first used in far-field (FF) detection of sub-wavelength (SW) deformable scatterers without any extra metal structure positioned in the vicinity of the target. The 2D prints derive from discrete short-time Fourier transform of 1D TR electromagnetic (EM) signals. Because the time-invariant intensive background interference is effectively centralized by TR technique, the time-variant weak indication from FF SW scatterers can be highlighted. This method shows a different use of TR technique in which the focus peak of TR EM waves is unusually removed and the most useful information is conveyed by the other part.

Decreasing food fussiness in children with obesity leads to greater weight loss in family-based treatment.

PubMed

Hayes, Jacqueline F; Altman, Myra; Kolko, Rachel P; Balantekin, Katherine N; Holland, Jodi Cahill; Stein, Richard I; Saelens, Brian E; Welch, R Robinson; Perri, Michael G; Schechtman, Kenneth B; Epstein, Leonard H; Wilfley, Denise E

2016-10-01

Food fussiness (FF), or the frequent rejection of both familiar and unfamiliar foods, is common among children and, given its link to poor diet quality, may contribute to the onset and/or maintenance of childhood obesity. This study examined child FF in association with anthropometric variables and diet in children with overweight/obesity participating in family-based behavioral weight loss treatment (FBT). Change in FF was assessed in relation to FBT outcome, including whether change in diet quality mediated the relation between change in FF and change in child weight. Child (N = 170; age = 9.41 ± 1.23) height and weight were measured, and parents completed FF questionnaires and three 24-h recalls of child diet at baseline and post-treatment. Healthy Eating Index-2005 scores were calculated. At baseline, child FF was related to lower vegetable intake. Average child FF decreased from start to end of FBT. Greater decreases in FF were associated with greater reductions in child body mass index and improved overall diet quality. Overall, diet quality change through FBT mediated the relation between child FF change and child body mass index change. Children with high FF can benefit from FBT, and addressing FF may be important in childhood obesity treatment to maximize weight outcomes. © 2016 The Obesity Society.

Chemical shift-based MRI to measure fat fractions in dystrophic skeletal muscle

PubMed Central

Triplett, William T.; Baligand, Celine; Forbes, Sean C.; Willcocks, Rebecca J.; Lott, Donovan J.; DeVos, Soren; Pollaro, Jim; Rooney, William D.; Sweeney, H. Lee; Bönnemann, Carsten; Wang, Dah-Jyuu; Vandenborne, Krista; Walter, Glenn A.

2014-01-01

Purpose The relationship between FF determined based on multiple TE, unipolar GE images and 1H-MRS was evaluated using different models for fat-water decomposition, signal-to-noise ratios (SNR), and excitation flip angles. Methods A combination of single voxel proton spectroscopy (1H-MRS) and gradient echo (GE) imaging was used to determine muscle fat fractions (FF) in both normal and dystrophic muscles. In order to cover a large range of FF, the soleus and vastus lateralis muscles of 22 unaffected control (CON), 16 subjects with Collagen VI (COL6), and 71 subjects with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) were studied. 1H-MRS based FF were corrected for the increased muscle 1H2O T1 and T2 values observed in dystrophic muscles. Results Excellent agreement was found between co-registered FF derived from GE images fit to a multipeak model with noise bias correction and the relaxation corrected 1H-MRS FF (y= 0.93×+0.003; R2=0.96) across the full range of FF. Relaxation corrected 1H-MRS FF and imaging based FF were significantly elevated (p<0.01) in both COL6 and DMD muscles. Conclusion FF, T2, and T1 were all sensitive to muscle involvement in dystrophic muscle. MRI offered an additional advantage over single voxel spectroscopy in that the tissue heterogeneity in FF could be readily determined. PMID:24006208

Nucleon form factors in dispersively improved chiral effective field theory. II. Electromagnetic form factors

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

Alarcon, J. M.; Weiss, C.

We study the nucleon electromagnetic form factors (EM FFs) using a recently developed method combining Chiral Effective Field Theory (more » $$\\chi$$EFT) and dispersion analysis. The spectral functions on the two-pion cut at $$t > 4 M_\\pi^2$$ are constructed using the elastic unitarity relation and an $N/D$ representation. $$\\chi$$EFT is used to calculate the real unctions $$J_\\pm^1 (t) = f_\\pm^1(t)/F_\\pi(t)$$ (ratios of the complex $$\\pi\\pi \\rightarrow N \\bar N$$ partial-wave amplitudes and the timelike pion FF), which are free of $$\\pi\\pi$$ rescattering. Rescattering effects are included through the empirical timelike pion FF $$|F_\\pi(t)|^2$$. The method allows us to compute the isovector EM spectral functions up to $$t \\sim 1$$ GeV$^2$ with controlled accuracy (LO, NLO, and partial N2LO). With the spectral functions we calculate the isovector nucleon EM FFs and their derivatives at $t = 0$ (EM radii, moments) using subtracted dispersion relations. We predict the values of higher FF derivatives with minimal uncertainties and explain their collective behavior. Finally, we estimate the individual proton and neutron FFs by adding an empirical parametrization of the isoscalar sector. Excellent agreement with the present low-$Q^2$ FF data is achieved up to $$\\sim$$0.5 GeV$^2$ for $$G_E$$, and up to $$\\sim$$0.2 GeV$^2$ for $$G_M$$. Our results can be used to guide the analysis of low-$Q^2$ elastic scattering data and the extraction of the proton charge radius.« less

Nucleon form factors in dispersively improved chiral effective field theory. II. Electromagnetic form factors

DOE PAGES

Alarcon, J. M.; Weiss, C.

2018-05-08

We study the nucleon electromagnetic form factors (EM FFs) using a recently developed method combining Chiral Effective Field Theory (more » $$\\chi$$EFT) and dispersion analysis. The spectral functions on the two-pion cut at $$t > 4 M_\\pi^2$$ are constructed using the elastic unitarity relation and an $N/D$ representation. $$\\chi$$EFT is used to calculate the real unctions $$J_\\pm^1 (t) = f_\\pm^1(t)/F_\\pi(t)$$ (ratios of the complex $$\\pi\\pi \\rightarrow N \\bar N$$ partial-wave amplitudes and the timelike pion FF), which are free of $$\\pi\\pi$$ rescattering. Rescattering effects are included through the empirical timelike pion FF $$|F_\\pi(t)|^2$$. The method allows us to compute the isovector EM spectral functions up to $$t \\sim 1$$ GeV$^2$ with controlled accuracy (LO, NLO, and partial N2LO). With the spectral functions we calculate the isovector nucleon EM FFs and their derivatives at $t = 0$ (EM radii, moments) using subtracted dispersion relations. We predict the values of higher FF derivatives with minimal uncertainties and explain their collective behavior. Finally, we estimate the individual proton and neutron FFs by adding an empirical parametrization of the isoscalar sector. Excellent agreement with the present low-$Q^2$ FF data is achieved up to $$\\sim$$0.5 GeV$^2$ for $$G_E$$, and up to $$\\sim$$0.2 GeV$^2$ for $$G_M$$. Our results can be used to guide the analysis of low-$Q^2$ elastic scattering data and the extraction of the proton charge radius.« less

High-resolution imaging of biological tissue with full-field optical coherence tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Yue; Gao, Wanrong

2015-03-01

A new full-field optical coherence tomography system with high-resolution has been developed for imaging of cells and tissues. Compared with other FF-OCT (Full-field optical coherence tomography, FF-OCT) systems illuminated with optical fiber bundle, the improved Köhler illumination arrangement with a halogen lamp was used in the proposed FF-OCT system. High numerical aperture microscopic objectives were used for imaging and a piezoelectric ceramic transducer (PZT) was used for phase-shifting. En-face tomographic images can be obtained by applying the five-step phase-shifting algorithm to a series of interferometric images which are recorded by a smart camera. Three-dimensional images can be generated from these tomographic images. Imaging of the chip of Intel Pentium 4 processor demonstrated the ultrahigh resolution of the system (lateral resolution is 0.8μm ), which approaches the theoretical resolution 0.7 μm× 0.5 μm (lateral × axial). En-face images of cells of onion show an excellent performance of the system in generating en-face images of biological tissues. Then, unstained pig stomach was imaged as a tissue and gastric pits could be easily recognized using FF-OCT system. Our study provides evidence for the potential ability of FFOCT in identifying gastric pits from pig stomach tissue. Finally, label-free and unstained ex vivo human liver tissues from both normal and tumor were imaged with this FFOCT system. The results show that the setup has the potential for medical diagnosis applications such liver cancer diagnosis.

78 FR 65578 - Migratory Bird Permits; Depredation Order for Migratory Birds in California

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-11-01

...-0037; FF09M21200-134-FXMB1231099BPP0] RIN 1018-AY65 Migratory Bird Permits; Depredation Order for Migratory Birds in California AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior. ACTION: Final rule. SUMMARY: We revise the regulations that allow control of depredating birds in California. We specify the counties in...

Hepatic fat quantification using the two-point Dixon method and fat color maps based on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease activity score.

PubMed

Hayashi, Tatsuya; Saitoh, Satoshi; Takahashi, Junji; Tsuji, Yoshinori; Ikeda, Kenji; Kobayashi, Masahiro; Kawamura, Yusuke; Fujii, Takeshi; Inoue, Masafumi; Miyati, Tosiaki; Kumada, Hiromitsu

2017-04-01

The two-point Dixon method for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is commonly used to non-invasively measure fat deposition in the liver. The aim of the present study was to assess the usefulness of MRI-fat fraction (MRI-FF) using the two-point Dixon method based on the non-alcoholic fatty liver disease activity score. This retrospective study included 106 patients who underwent liver MRI and MR spectroscopy, and 201 patients who underwent liver MRI and histological assessment. The relationship between MRI-FF and MR spectroscopy-fat fraction was used to estimate the corrected MRI-FF for hepatic multi-peaks of fat. Then, a color FF map was generated with the corrected MRI-FF based on the non-alcoholic fatty liver disease activity score. We defined FF variability as the standard deviation of FF in regions of interest. Uniformity of hepatic fat was visually graded on a three-point scale using both gray-scale and color FF maps. Confounding effects of histology (iron, inflammation and fibrosis) on corrected MRI-FF were assessed by multiple linear regression. The linear correlations between MRI-FF and MR spectroscopy-fat fraction, and between corrected MRI-FF and histological steatosis were strong (R 2  = 0.90 and R 2  = 0.88, respectively). Liver fat variability significantly increased with visual fat uniformity grade using both of the maps (ρ = 0.67-0.69, both P < 0.001). Hepatic iron, inflammation and fibrosis had no significant confounding effects on the corrected MRI-FF (all P > 0.05). The two-point Dixon method and the gray-scale or color FF maps based on the non-alcoholic fatty liver disease activity score were useful for fat quantification in the liver of patients without severe iron deposition. © 2016 The Japan Society of Hepatology.

Failure kinetics in borosilicate glass during rod impact

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

Orphal, Dennis L.; Anderson, Charles E. Jr.; Behner, Thilo

2007-12-12

Failure front (FF) and penetration velocity have been measured for long gold rods impacting and penetrating borosilicate (BS) glass. Data are obtained by visualizing simultaneously FF propagation with a high speed camera and rod penetration with flash X-rays. Results for BS glass are qualitatively similar to those of DEDF (PbO) glass. FF velocity rapidly decreases from an initial value to a lower, approximately constant value. FF velocity increases with impact velocity, v{sub p}. The FF velocity remains significantly lower than the shear velocity, even at the highest impact velocity tested, about 2.5 km/s. The ratio of the FF velocity tomore » the rod penetration velocity, v{sub F}/u, decreases with increasing v{sub p} and appears to be approaching v{sub F}/u = 1 asymptotically, as observed previously for DEDF glass. The separation of the FF and the tip of the rod decreases with increasing impact velocity. Importantly, since v{sub F}/u{>=}1, the gold rod is always penetrating glass behind the FF.« less

Thermal and aqueous stability improvement of graphene oxide enhanced diphenylalanine nanocomposites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ryan, Kate; Neumayer, Sabine M.; Maraka, Harsha Vardhan R.; Buchete, Nicolae-Viorel; Kholkin, Andrei L.; Rice, James H.; Rodriguez, Brian J.

2017-12-01

Nanocomposites of diphenylalanine (FF) and carbon based materials provide an opportunity to overcome drawbacks associated with using FF micro- and nanostructures in nanobiotechnology applications, in particular their poor structural stability in liquid solutions. In this study, FF/graphene oxide (GO) composites were found to self-assemble into layered micro- and nanostructures, which exhibited improved thermal and aqueous stability. Dependent on the FF/GO ratio, the solubility of these structures was reduced to 35.65% after 30 min as compared to 92.4% for pure FF samples. Such functional nanocomposites may extend the use of FF structures to e.g. biosensing, electrochemical, electromechanical or electronic applications.

The influence of particle size on the first flush strength of urban stormwater runoff.

PubMed

Morgan, D; Johnston, P; Osei, K; Gill, L

2017-10-01

The presence of a first flush (FF) of suspended solids (SS) in stormwater runoff has important implications for the design of treatment facilities, as does the particle size of solids. Whilst numerous studies have examined the FF behaviour of SS, few have disaggregated FF trends by particle size. In this study, the FF behaviour of SS was investigated in five size ranges, sampled from an urban stormwater drainage system located in Dublin, Ireland. A weak FF was exhibited in the gross fraction of SS, with just two events from 14 transporting more than 50% of the SS mass in the first 25% of runoff, implying that treatment structures should be capable of removing SS throughout the storm event. In the majority of rain events, the FF strength increased with decreasing particle size, probably related to the lower intensities required to dislodge solids at the onset of rainfall. Although FF strength was correlated with rain event characteristics, prediction intervals were too broad to confirm FF presence based on rainfall data alone. Therefore, the design of smaller treatment volumes based on an assumption of FF must be justified by local monitoring data.

Stellar age spreads in clusters as imprints of cluster-parent clump densities

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

Parmentier, G.; Grebel, E. K.; Pfalzner, S.

2014-08-20

It has recently been suggested that high-density star clusters have stellar age distributions much narrower than that of the Orion Nebula Cluster, indicating a possible trend of narrower age distributions for denser clusters. We show this effect to likely arise from star formation being faster in gas with a higher density. We model the star formation history of molecular clumps in equilibrium by associating a star formation efficiency per free-fall time, ε{sub ff}, to their volume density profile. We focus on the case of isothermal spheres and we obtain the evolution with time of their star formation rate. Our modelmore » predicts a steady decline of the star formation rate, which we quantify with its half-life time, namely, the time needed for the star formation rate to drop to half its initial value. Given the uncertainties affecting the star formation efficiency per free-fall time, we consider two distinct values: ε{sub ff} = 0.1 and ε{sub ff} = 0.01. When ε{sub ff} = 0.1, the half-life time is of the order of the clump free-fall time, τ{sub ff}. As a result, the age distributions of stars formed in high-density clumps have smaller full-widths at half-maximum than those of stars formed in low-density clumps. When the star formation efficiency per free-fall time is 0.01, the half-life time is 10 times longer, i.e., 10 clump free-fall times. We explore what happens if the duration of star formation is shorter than 10τ{sub ff}, that is, if the half-life time of the star formation rate cannot be defined. There, we build on the invariance of the shape of the young cluster mass function to show that an anti-correlation between the clump density and the duration of star formation is expected. We therefore conclude that, regardless of whether the duration of star formation is longer than the star formation rate half-life time, denser molecular clumps yield narrower star age distributions in clusters. Published densities and stellar age spreads of young clusters and star-forming regions actually suggest that the timescale for star formation is of order 1-4τ{sub ff}. We also discuss how the age bin size and uncertainties in stellar ages affect our results. We conclude that there is no need to invoke the existence of multiple cluster formation mechanisms to explain the observed range of stellar age spreads in clusters.« less

The efficacy of extrafine beclomethasone dipropionate–formoterol fumarate in COPD patients who are not “frequent exacerbators”: a post hoc analysis of the FORWARD study

PubMed Central

Singh, Dave; Vezzoli, Stefano; Petruzzelli, Stefano; Papi, Alberto

2017-01-01

The GOLD 2017 strategy document recommends that the pharmacological management of COPD patients be based on the risk of future exacerbations and the severity of symptoms. A threshold of two moderate exacerbations or one hospitalization is used to define high-risk patients. The FORWARD study was a randomized, double-blind, parallel-group trial that compared 48 weeks’ treatment with extrafine beclomethasone dipropionate plus formoterol fumarate (BDP-FF) versus FF in severe COPD patients with a history of one or more exacerbations in the previous year. The new GOLD 2017 recommendations mean that many patients in the FORWARD study are now reclassified as GOLD B. We conducted a post hoc analysis of the FORWARD study, in order to investigate the effects of extrafine BDP/FF in patients with one exacerbation in the previous year, focusing on those categorized as group B using the GOLD 2017 definition. The analysis showed a 35% reduction in exacerbation rate with an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) + long-acting β-agonist (LABA) versus LABA. We propose that ICS-LABA treatment is a therapeutic option for COPD patients with one exacerbation in the previous year. PMID:29138555

The Effect of Moisture on the Properties of an Aramid/Epoxy Composite

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-05-01

COMPOSITES DEVELOP~ENT DIVISiON...TYPE OF REPORT II PERIOD COV ERED THE EFFECT OF MOISTURE ON THE PROPERTIES OF AN Final Report ARAMID/EPOXY COMPOSITE ’· PERFORMING ORG. REPORT...ConrJnue on reror•ralt •rde ff n~(•.’lsar:,.- .,d ldenrl(y b~ L/odc numbe-r) Composite Materials Fatigue (mechanic s ) Aramid/epoxy composites

78 FR 76212 - Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act; Maximizing January 1, 2014 Coverage Opportunities

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-12-17

... referring to State Partnership Exchanges, which are a form of FFE. We use the term ``State-based SHOPs'' to refer to Small Business Health Options Programs (SHOPs) operated by a state and ``FF-SHOPs'' to refer to a SHOP operated by CMS. On March 27, 2012, we published a final rule entitled Patient Protection and...

CCM.FF-K3.2011: Final report for the CIPM key comparison of air speed, 0.5 m/s to 40 m/s

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Müller, Harald; Caré, Isabelle; Lucas, Peter; Pachinger, Dietmar; Kurihara, Noboru; Lishui, Cui; Su, Chun-Min; Shinder, Iosif; Spazzini, Pier Giorgio

2017-01-01

The CCM.FF-K3.2011 comparison was organized for the purpose of determination of the degree of equivalence of the national standards for air speed over the range 0.5 m/s to 40 m/s. An ultrasonic anemometer and a Laser Doppler anemometer were used as transfer standards. Nine laboratories from three RMOs participated between July 2013 and July 2015—EURAMET: PTB, Germany; LNE-CETIAT, France; INRIM, Italy; VSL, The Netherlands; E+E, Austria; SIM: NIST, USA; APMP: NMIJ/AIST, Japan; NIM, China; CMS/ITRI, Chinese Taipei. The measurements were provided at ambient conditions. All results of independent participants were used in the determination of the key comparison reference value (KCRV) and the uncertainty of the KCRV. The reference value was determined at each air speed separately following `procedure A' presented by M G Cox. The degree of equivalence with the KCRV was calculated for each air speed and laboratory. Almost all reported results were consistent with the KCRV. Main text To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database kcdb.bipm.org/. The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCM, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).

Effect of florfenicol on performance and microbial community of a sequencing batch biofilm reactor treating mariculture wastewater.

PubMed

Gao, Feng; Li, Zhiwei; Chang, Qingbo; Gao, Mengchun; She, Zonglian; Wu, Juan; Jin, Chunji; Zheng, Dong; Guo, Liang; Zhao, Yangguo; Wang, Sen

2018-02-01

The effects of florfenicol (FF) on the performance, microbial activity and microbial community of a sequencing batch biofilm reactor (SBBR) were evaluated in treating mariculture wastewater. The chemical oxygen demand (COD) and nitrogen removal were inhibited at high FF concentrations. The specific oxygen utilization rate (SOUR), specific ammonium oxidation rate (SAOR), specific nitrite oxidation rate (SNOR) and specific nitrate reduction rate (SNRR) were decreased with an increase in the FF concentration from 0 to 35 mg/L. The chemical compositions of loosely bound extracellular polymeric substances (LB-EPS) and tightly bound EPS (TB-EPS) could be affected with an increase in the FF concentration. The high-throughput sequencing indicated some obvious variations in the microbial community at different FF concentrations. The relative abundance of Nitrosomonas and Nitrospira showed a decreasing tendency with an increase in the FF concentration, suggesting that FF could affect the nitrification process of SBBR. Some genera capable of reducing nitrate to nitrogen gas could be inhibited by the addition of FF in the influent, such as Azospirillum and Hyphomicrobium.

Quantitation of fetal DNA fraction in maternal plasma using circulating single molecule amplification and re-sequencing technology (cSMART).

PubMed

Song, Yijun; Zhou, Xiya; Huang, Saiqiong; Li, Xiaohong; Qi, Qingwei; Jiang, Yulin; Liu, Yiqian; Ma, Chengcheng; Li, Zhifeng; Xu, Mengnan; Cram, David S; Liu, Juntao

2016-05-01

Calculation of the fetal DNA fraction (FF) is important for reliable and accurate noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT) for fetal genetic abnormalities. The aim of the study was to develop and validate a novel method for FF determination. FF was calculated using the chromosome Y (ChrY) sequence read assay and by circulating single molecule amplification and re-sequencing technology of 76 autosomal SNPs. By Pearson correlation for FF (4.73-22.11%) in 33 male pregnancy samples, the R(2) co-efficient for the 76-SNP versus the ChrY assay was 0.9572 (p<0.001). In addition, the co-efficient of variation (CV) of FF measurement by the 76-SNP assay was low (0.15-0.35). As a control, the FF measurement for four non-pregnant plasma samples was virtually zero. In prospective longitudinal studies of 14 women with normal pregnancies, FF generally increased with gestational age. However, in eight women (71%) there was a significant decrease in FF between the first trimester (11-13 weeks) and the second trimester (15-19 weeks), and this was attributable to significant maternal weight gain. The novel 76-SNP cSMART assay has the precision to accurately measure FF in all pregnancies at a detection threshold of 5%. Based on FF trends in individual pregnancies, our results suggest that the end of the first trimester may be a more optimal window for performing NIPT. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Modulation of fatty acid metabolism is involved in the alleviation of isoproterenol-induced rat heart failure by fenofibrate

PubMed Central

LI, PING; LUO, SHIKE; PAN, CHUNJI; CHENG, XIAOSHU

2015-01-01

Heart failure is a disease predominantly caused by an energy metabolic disorder in cardiomyocytes. The present study investigated the inhibitory effects of fenofibrate (FF) on isoproterenol (ISO)-induced hear failure in rats, and examined the underlying mechanisms. The rats were divided into CON, ISO (HF model), FF and FF+ISO (HF animals pretreated with FF) groups. The cardiac structure and function of the rats were assessed, and contents of free fatty acids and glucose metabolic products were determined. In addition, myocardial cells were isolated from neonatal rats and used in vitro to investigate the mechanisms by which FF relieves heart failure. Western blot analysis was performed to quantify the expression levels of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)α and uncoupling protein 2 (UCP2). FF effectively alleviated the ISO-induced cardiac structural damage, functional decline, and fatty acid and carbohydrate metabolic abnormalities. Compared with the ISO group, the serum levels of brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), free fatty acids, lactic acid and pyruvic acid were decreased in the FF animals. In the cultured myocardial cells, lactic acid and pyruvic acid contents were lower in the supernatants obtained from the FF animals, with lower levels of mitochondrial ROS production and cell necrosis, compared with the ISO group, whereas PPARα upregulation and UCP2 downregulation occurred in the FF+ISO group. The results demonstrated that FF efficiently alleviated heart failure in the ISO-induced rat model, possibly via promoting fatty acid oxidation. PMID:26497978

Surface structure and stability of partially hydroxylated silica surfaces

DOE PAGES

Rimsza, J. M.; Jones, R. E.; Criscenti, L. J.

2017-04-04

Surface energies of silicates influence crack propagation during brittle fracture and decrease with surface relaxation caused by annealing and hydroxylation. Molecular-level simulations are particularly suited for the investigation of surface processes. In this work, classical MD simulations of silica surfaces are performed with two force fields (ClayFF and ReaxFF) to investigate the effect of force field reactivity on surface structure and energy as a function of surface hydroxylation. An unhydroxylated fracture surface energy of 5.1 J/m 2 is calculated with the ClayFF force field, and 2.0 J/m 2 is calculated for the ReaxFF force field. The ClayFF surface energies aremore » consistent with the experimental results from double cantilever beam fracture tests (4.5 J/m 2), whereas ReaxFF underestimated these surface energies. Surface relaxation via annealing and hydroxylation was performed by creating a low-energy equilibrium surface. Annealing condensed neighboring siloxane bonds increased the surface connectivity, and decreased the surface energies by 0.2 J/m 2 for ClayFF and 0.8 J/m 2 for ReaxFF. Posthydroxylation surface energies decreased further to 4.6 J/m 2 with the ClayFF force field and to 0.2 J/m 2 with the ReaxFF force field. Experimental equilibrium surface energies are ~0.35 J/m 2, consistent with the ReaxFF force field. Although neither force field was capable of replicating both the fracture and equilibrium surface energies reported from experiment, each was consistent with one of these conditions. Furthermore, future computational investigations that rely on accurate surface energy values should consider the surface state of the system and select the appropriate force field.« less

The Influence of Herbs, Spices, and Regular Sausage and Chicken Consumption on Liking of Reduced Fat Breakfast and Lunch Items

PubMed Central

Polsky, Sarit; Beck, Jimikaye; Stark, Rebecca A.; Pan, Zhaoxing; Hill, James O.; Peters, John C.

2014-01-01

Adults often consume more fat than is recommended. We examined factors that may improve liking of reduced fat and reduced saturated fat foods, including the addition of herbs and spices and habitual consumption of different high-fat and low-fat food items. We randomized adults to taste three different conditions: full fat (FF), reduced fat with no added spice (RF), and reduced fat plus spice (RFS). Subjects rated their liking of French toast, sausage and the overall meal, or chicken, vegetables, pasta and the overall meal on a nine-point hedonic Likert scale. Overall liking of the RF breakfast and lunch meals were lower than the FF and RFS versions (Breakfast: 6.50 RF vs. 6.84 FF, p=0.0061; 6.50 RF vs. 6.82 RFS, p=0.0030; Lunch: 6.35 RF vs. 6.94 FF, p<0.0001; 6.35 RF vs. 6.71 RFS, p=0.0061). RFS and FF breakfast and lunch meals, French toast, chicken and vegetable likings were similar. FF and RFS conditions were liked more than RF for the breakfast and lunch meals, French toast, chicken entrée and vegetables. Liking of all three sausage conditions were similar. FF Pasta was liked more than RFS and RF (7.47 FF vs. 6.42 RFS, p<0.0001; 7.47 FF vs. 6.47 RF, p<0.0001). Habitual consumption of roasted chicken was associated with reduced liking of FF chicken (r = −0.23, p=0.004) and FF pasta (r = −0.23, p=0.005). Herbs and spices may be useful for improving the liking of lower-fat foods and helping Americans maintain a diet consistent with the US Dietary Guidelines. PMID:25219391

Common genetic architecture underlying young children's food fussiness and liking for vegetables and fruit.

PubMed

Fildes, Alison; van Jaarsveld, Cornelia H M; Cooke, Lucy; Wardle, Jane; Llewellyn, Clare H

2016-04-01

Food fussiness (FF) is common in early childhood and is often associated with the rejection of nutrient-dense foods such as vegetables and fruit. FF and liking for vegetables and fruit are likely all heritable phenotypes; the genetic influence underlying FF may explain the observed genetic influence on liking for vegetables and fruit. Twin analyses make it possible to get a broad-based estimate of the extent of the shared genetic influence that underlies these traits. We quantified the extent of the shared genetic influence that underlies FF and liking for vegetables and fruit in early childhood with the use of a twin design. Data were from the Gemini cohort, which is a population-based sample of twins born in England and Wales in 2007. Parents of 3-y-old twins (n= 1330 pairs) completed questionnaire measures of their children's food preferences (liking for vegetables and fruit) and the FF scale from the Children's Eating Behavior Questionnaire. Multivariate quantitative genetic modeling was used to estimate common genetic influences that underlie FF and liking for vegetables and fruit. Genetic correlations were significant and moderate to large in size between FF and liking for both vegetables (-0.65) and fruit (-0.43), which indicated that a substantial proportion of the genes that influence FF also influence liking. Common genes that underlie FF and liking for vegetables and fruit largely explained the observed phenotypic correlations between them (68-70%). FF and liking for fruit and vegetables in young children share a large proportion of common genetic factors. The genetic influence on FF may determine why fussy children typically reject fruit and vegetables.

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

Rimsza, J. M.; Jones, R. E.; Criscenti, L. J.

Surface energies of silicates influence crack propagation during brittle fracture and decrease with surface relaxation caused by annealing and hydroxylation. Molecular-level simulations are particularly suited for the investigation of surface processes. In this work, classical MD simulations of silica surfaces are performed with two force fields (ClayFF and ReaxFF) to investigate the effect of force field reactivity on surface structure and energy as a function of surface hydroxylation. An unhydroxylated fracture surface energy of 5.1 J/m 2 is calculated with the ClayFF force field, and 2.0 J/m 2 is calculated for the ReaxFF force field. The ClayFF surface energies aremore » consistent with the experimental results from double cantilever beam fracture tests (4.5 J/m 2), whereas ReaxFF underestimated these surface energies. Surface relaxation via annealing and hydroxylation was performed by creating a low-energy equilibrium surface. Annealing condensed neighboring siloxane bonds increased the surface connectivity, and decreased the surface energies by 0.2 J/m 2 for ClayFF and 0.8 J/m 2 for ReaxFF. Posthydroxylation surface energies decreased further to 4.6 J/m 2 with the ClayFF force field and to 0.2 J/m 2 with the ReaxFF force field. Experimental equilibrium surface energies are ~0.35 J/m 2, consistent with the ReaxFF force field. Although neither force field was capable of replicating both the fracture and equilibrium surface energies reported from experiment, each was consistent with one of these conditions. Furthermore, future computational investigations that rely on accurate surface energy values should consider the surface state of the system and select the appropriate force field.« less

Ovarian adipocytokines are associated with early in vitro human embryo development independent of the action of ovarian insulin.

PubMed

Li, Liyun; Ferin, Michel; Sauer, Mark V; Lobo, Roger A

2012-12-01

We aimed to characterize the association between levels of serum and follicular fluid (FF) adipocytokines, reflected by the leptin to adiponectin ratio (L:A ratio), and oocyte quality and in vitro embryo development in women undergoing assisted reproduction. We also aimed to assess whether follicular hormonal pathways mediate this interaction. We prospectively collected FF from up to four individual preovulatory follicles (n = 76) and fasting sera from women (n = 31) without endocrinopathies undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) at a university-based center for assisted reproduction. Leptin, total adiponectin, insulin, insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), and ovarian steriods were measured using enzyme immunoassay. Oocyte maturity, fertilization, and embryo development were assessed. FF leptin was similar to serum levels while FF adiponectin was lower. FF leptin (27.10 ± 4.05 ng/mL) and the L:A ratio (11.48E-3 ± 2.57E-3) were related to FF insulin (R (2) = 0.370 and 0.419, p < 0.001) but not to ovarian steroids or IGF-1, whereas FF adiponectin ( 4.22 ± 0.52 ug/mL) correlated only with leptin (R (2) = -0.138, p = 0.001). Oocytes from a high FF L:A ratio environment were 81 % (RR 1.81 [95%CI 0.97-3.37]) more likely to undergo successful cleavage and 117 % (RR 2.17 [95 % CI 1.06-4.44]) more likely to obtain viable cleavage morphology compared to a low FF L:A ratio environment, even when adjusted for FF insulin, an independent predictor of cleavage. Certain adipocytokines, particularly the L:A ratio in the FF of the preovulatory follicle, are related to successful in vitro embryo development. This action may be independent of FF insulin.

Clinical usefulness of the mDIXON Quant the method for estimation of the salivary gland fat fraction: comparison with MR spectroscopy.

PubMed

Kise, Yoshitaka; Chikui, Toru; Yamashita, Yasuo; Kobayashi, Koji; Yoshiura, Kazunori

2017-08-01

To estimate the fat fraction (FF) in the salivary glands (SGs) by the mDIXON method and the 1 H-MR spectroscopy (MRS) method, and to compare the results. 16 healthy volunteers were enrolled. mDIXON Quant and MRS (point-resolved spectroscopy: PRESS) with a single TE were employed to measure the FF in the parotid gland (PG) and submandibular gland (SMG). Multiple TEs were applied in 10 volunteers to correct for T 2 decay. In addition, we assumed that the 1.3 ppm peak accounted for 60% of the total fat peak and estimated the FF (MRS all) as a gold standard. On mDIXON Quant images, volumes of interest were set on the bilateral SGs and we obtained the FF (mDIXON) of each volume of interest. There was a strong correlation between the results of the mDIXON Quant method and the MRS (single TE) method (R 2 = 0.960, slope = 0.900). Using PRESS with multiple TEs, there was also a strong correlation between FF (mDIXON) and FF (MRS all) (R 2 = 0.963, slope = 1.18). FF (MRS all) was 24.9±12.7% in the PG and 4.5±3.0% in the SMG, while FF (mDIXON) was 29.4±16.2% in the PG and 6.4±4.7% in the SMG. There were no significant differences between the two methods, but the Bland-Altman plot showed that FF (mDIXON) was slightly larger than FF (MRS all) for small FF areas. The mDIXON Quant method could be clinically useful for evaluating the FF of SGs, but the absolute values need careful interpretation. Advance in knowledge: This study suggested the potential clinical usefulness of the mDIXON Quant method for the SGs.

Interactions of pharmacokinetic profile of different parts from Ginkgo biloba extract in rats.

PubMed

Guan, HanLiang; Qian, Dawei; Ren, Hao; Zhang, Wei; Nie, Hui; Shang, Erxing; Duan, Jinao

2014-08-08

Extracts from Ginkgo biloba L. leaves confer their therapeutic effects through the synergistic actions of flavonoid and terpenoid components, but some non-flavonoid and non-terpenoid components also exist in this extract. In the study of this paper, an investigation was carried out to compare the pharmacokinetic parameters of fourteen compounds to clarify the influences of non-flavonoid and non-terpenoid fraction (WEF) on the pharmacokinetics profile of the flavonoid fraction (FF) and the terpene lactone fraction (TLF) from Ginkgo biloba extracts. A selective and sensitive UPLC-MS/MS method was established to determine the plasma concentrations of the fourteen compounds to compare the pharmacokinetic parameters after orally administration of FF, TLF, FF-WEF, FF-TLF, TLF-WEF and FF-TLF-WEF with approximately the same dose. At different time points, the concentration of rutin (1), isoquercitrin (2), quercetin 3-O-[4-O-(-β-D-glucosyl)-α-L-rhamnoside] (3), ginkgolide C (4), bilobalide (5), quercitrin (6), ginkgolide B (7), ginkgolide A (8), luteolin (9), quercetin (10), apigenin (11), kaempferol (12), isorhamnetin (13), genkwanin (14) in rat plasma were determined and main pharmacokinetic parameters including T1/2, Tmax, Cmax and AUC were calculated using the DAS 3.2 software package. The statistical analysis was performed using the Student׳s t-test with P<0.05 as the level of significance. FF and WEF had no effect on the pharmacokinetic behaviors and parameters of the four terpene lactones, but the pharmacokinetic profiles and parameters of flavonoids changed while co-administered with non-flavonoid components. It was found that Cmax and AUC of six flavonoid aglycones in group FF-WEF, FF-TLF and FF-TLF-WEF had varying degrees of reduction in comparison with group FF, especially in group FF-TLF-WEF. On the contrary, the values of Cmax, Tmax and AUC of four flavonoid glycosides in group FF-TLF-WEF were significantly increased compared with those in group FF. These results indicate that non-flavonoid components in Ginkgo biloba extracts could increase the absorption and improve the bioavailability of flavonoid glycosides but decrease the absorption and reduce the bioavailability of flavonoid aglycones. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Complex CatSper-dependent and independent [Ca2+]i signalling in human spermatozoa induced by follicular fluid

PubMed Central

Brown, Sean G.; Costello, Sarah; Kelly, Mark C.; Ramalingam, Mythili; Drew, Ellen; Publicover, Stephen J.; Barratt, Christopher L.R.; Da Silva, Sarah Martins

2017-01-01

Abstract STUDY QUESTION Does progesterone in human follicular fluid (hFF) activate CatSper and do other components of hFF modulate this effect and/or contribute separately to hFF-induced Ca2+ signaling? SUMMARY ANSWER hFF potently stimulates CatSper and increases [Ca2+]i, primarily due to high concentrations of progesterone, however, other components of hFF also contribute to [Ca2+]i signaling, including modulation of CatSper channel activity and inhibition of [Ca2+]i oscillations. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY CatSper, the principal Ca2+ channel in spermatozoa, is progesterone-sensitive and essential for fertility. Both hFF and progesterone, which is present in hFF, influence sperm function and increase their [Ca2+]i. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This basic medical research study used semen samples from >40 donors and hFF from >50 patients who were undergoing surgical oocyte retrieval for IVF/ICSI. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Semen donors and patients were recruited in accordance with local ethics approval (13/ES/0091) from the East of Scotland Research Ethics Service REC1. Activities of CatSper and KSper were assessed by patch clamp electrophysiology. Sperm [Ca2+]i responses were examined in sperm populations and single cells. Computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA) parameters and penetration into viscous media were used to assess functional effects. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE hFF and progesterone significantly potentiated CatSper currents. Under quasi-physiological conditions, hFF (up to 50%) failed to alter membrane K+ conductance or current reversal potential. hFF and progesterone (at an equivalent concentration) stimulated similar biphasic [Ca2+]i signals both in sperm populations and single cells. At a high hFF concentration (10%), the sustained (plateau) component of the [Ca2+]i signal was consistently greater than that induced by progesterone alone. In single cell recordings, 1% hFF-induced [Ca2+]i oscillations similarly to progesterone but with 10% hFF generation of [Ca2+]i oscillations was suppressed. After treatment to ‘strip’ lipid-derived mediators, hFF failed to significantly stimulate CatSper currents but induced small [Ca2+]i responses that were greater than those induced by the equivalent concentration of progesterone after stripping. Similar [Ca2+]i responses were observed when sperm pretreated with 3 μM progesterone (to desensitize progesterone responses) were stimulated with hFF or stripped hFF. hFF stimulated viscous media penetration and was more effective than the equivalent does of progesterone. LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This was an in vitro study. Caution must be taken when extrapolating these results in vivo. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This study directly demonstrates that hFF activates CatSper and establishes that the biologically important effects of hFF reflect, at least in part, action on this channel, primarily via progesterone. However, these experiments also demonstrate that other components of hFF both contribute to the [Ca2+]i signal and modulate the activation of CatSper. Simple in vitro experiments performed out of the context of the complex in vivo environment need to be interpreted with caution. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) Funding was provided by MRC (MR/K013343/1, MR/012492/1) (S.G.B., S.J.P., C.L.R.B.) and University of Abertay (sabbatical for S.G.B.). Additional funding was provided by TENOVUS SCOTLAND (S.M.D.S.), Chief Scientist Office/NHS Research Scotland (S.M.D.S). C.L.R.B. is EIC of MHR and Chair of the WHO ESG on Diagnosis of Male infertility. The remaining authors have no conlicts of interest. PMID:28938737

Postexercise Glycogen Recovery and Exercise Performance is Not Significantly Different Between Fast Food and Sport Supplements.

PubMed

Cramer, Michael J; Dumke, Charles L; Hailes, Walter S; Cuddy, John S; Ruby, Brent C

2015-10-01

A variety of dietary choices are marketed to enhance glycogen recovery after physical activity. Past research informs recommendations regarding the timing, dose, and nutrient compositions to facilitate glycogen recovery. This study examined the effects of isoenergetic sport supplements (SS) vs. fast food (FF) on glycogen recovery and exercise performance. Eleven males completed two experimental trials in a randomized, counterbalanced order. Each trial included a 90-min glycogen depletion ride followed by a 4-hr recovery period. Absolute amounts of macronutrients (1.54 ± 0.27 g·kg-1 carbohydrate, 0.24 ± 0.04 g·kg fat-1, and 0.18 ±0.03g·kg protein-1) as either SS or FF were provided at 0 and 2 hr. Muscle biopsies were collected from the vastus lateralis at 0 and 4 hr post exercise. Blood samples were analyzed at 0, 30, 60, 120, 150, 180, and 240 min post exercise for insulin and glucose, with blood lipids analyzed at 0 and 240 min. A 20k time-trial (TT) was completed following the final muscle biopsy. There were no differences in the blood glucose and insulin responses. Similarly, rates of glycogen recovery were not different across the diets (6.9 ± 1.7 and 7.9 ± 2.4 mmol·kg wet weight- 1·hr-1 for SS and FF, respectively). There was also no difference across the diets for TT performance (34.1 ± 1.8 and 34.3 ± 1.7 min for SS and FF, respectively. These data indicate that short-term food options to initiate glycogen resynthesis can include dietary options not typically marketed as sports nutrition products such as fast food menu items.

The Pulsed Fission-Fusion (PUFF) Concept for Deep Space Exploration and Terrestrial Power Generation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Adams, Robert; Cassibry, Jason; Schillo, Kevin

2017-01-01

This team is exploring a modified Z-pinch geometry as a propulsion system, imploding a liner of liquid lithium onto a pellet containing both fission and fusion fuel. The plasma resulting from the fission and fusion burn expands against a magnetic nozzle, for propulsion, or a magnetic confinement system, for terrestrial power generation. There is considerable synergy in the concept; the lithium acts as a temporary virtual cathode, and adds reaction mass for propulsion. Further, the lithium acts as a radiation shield against generated neutrons and gamma rays. Finally, the density profile of the column can be tailored using the lithium sheath. Recent theoretical and experimental developments (e.g. tailored density profile in the fuel injection, shear stabilization, and magnetic shear stabilization) have had great success in mitigating instabilities that have plagued previous fusion efforts. This paper will review the work in evaluating the pellet sizes and z-pinch conditions for optimal PuFF propulsion. Trades of pellet size and composition with z-pinch power levels and conditions for the tamper and lithium implosion are evaluated. Current models, both theoretical and computational, show that a z-pinch can ignite a small (1 cm radius) fission-fusion target with significant yield. Comparison is made between pure fission and boosted fission targets. Performance is shown for crewed spacecraft for high speed Mars round trip missions and near interstellar robotic missions. The PuFF concept also offers a solution for terrestrial power production. PuFF can, with recycling of the effluent, achieve near 100% burnup of fission fuel, providing a very attractive power source with minimal waste. The small size of PuFF relative to today's plants enables a more distributed power network and less exposure to natural or man-made disruptions.

Control of fossil-fuel particulate black carbon and organic matter, possibly the most effective method of slowing global warming

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jacobson, Mark Z.

2002-10-01

Under the 1997 Kyoto Protocol, no control of black carbon (BC) was considered. Here, it is found, through simulations in which 12 identifiable effects of aerosol particles on climate are treated, that any emission reduction of fossil-fuel (f.f.) particulate BC plus associated organic matter (OM) may slow global warming more than may any emission reduction of CO2 or CH4 for a specific period. When all f.f. BC + OM and anthropogenic CO2 and CH4 emissions are eliminated together, the period is 25-100 years. It is also estimated that historical net global warming can be attributed roughly to greenhouse gas plus f.f. BC + OM warming minus substantial cooling by other particles. Eliminating all f.f. BC + OM could eliminate 20-45% of net warming (8-18% of total warming before cooling is subtracted out) within 3-5 years if no other change occurred. Reducing CO2 emissions by a third would have the same effect, but after 50-200 years. Finally, diesel cars emitting continuously under the most recent U.S. and E.U. particulate standards (0.08 g/mi; 0.05 g/km) may warm climate per distance driven over the next 100+ years more than equivalent gasoline cars. Thus, fuel and carbon tax laws that favor diesel appear to promote global warming. Toughening vehicle particulate emission standards by a factor of 8 (0.01 g/mi; 0.006 g/km) does not change this conclusion, although it shortens the period over which diesel cars warm to 13-54 years. Although control of BC + OM can slow warming, control of greenhouse gases is necessary to stop warming. Reducing BC + OM will not only slow global warming but also improve human health.

Targeted metabolomics reveals reduced levels of polyunsaturated choline plasmalogens and a smaller dimethylarginine/arginine ratio in the follicular fluid of patients with a diminished ovarian reserve.

PubMed

de la Barca, J M Chao; Boueilh, T; Simard, G; Boucret, L; Ferré-L'Hotellier, V; Tessier, L; Gadras, C; Bouet, P E; Descamps, P; Procaccio, V; Reynier, P; May-Panloup, P

2017-11-01

Does the metabolomic profile of the follicular fluid (FF) of patients with a diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) differ from that of patients with a normal ovarian reserve (NOR)? The metabolomic signature of the FF reveals a significant decrease in polyunsaturated choline plasmalogens and methyl arginine transferase activity in DOR patients compared to NOR patients. The composition of the FF reflects the exchanges between the oocyte and its microenvironment during its acquisition of gametic competence. Studies of the FF have allowed identification of biomarkers and metabolic pathways involved in various pathologies affecting oocyte quality, but no large metabolomic analysis in the context of ovarian ageing and DOR has been undertaken so far. This was an observational study of the FF retrieved from 57 women undergoing in vitro fertilization at the University Hospital of Angers, France, from November 2015 to September 2016. The women were classified in two groups: one including 28 DOR patients, and the other including 29 NOR patients, serving as controls. Patients were enrolled in the morning of oocyte retrieval after ovarian stimulation. Once the oocytes were isolated for fertilization and culture, the FF was pooled and centrifuged for analysis. A targeted quantitative metabolomic analysis was performed using high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry, and the Biocrates Absolute IDQ p180 kit. The FF levels of 188 metabolites and several sums and ratios of metabolic significance were assessed by multivariate and univariate analyses. A total of 136 metabolites were accurately quantified and used for calculating 23 sums and ratios. Samples were randomly divided into training and validation sets. The training set, allowed the construction of multivariate statistical models with a projection-supervised method, i.e. orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA), applied to the full set of metabolites, or the penalized least absolute shrinkage and selection operator with logistic regression (LASSO-LR), applied to the ratios and sums of the metabolites. Both multivariate models showed good predictive performances when applied to the validation set. The final penalized model retained the three most significant variables, i.e. the total dimethylarginine-to-arginine ratio (Total DMA/Arginine), the sum of the polyunsaturated choline plasmalogens (PUFA ae), and the patient's age. The negative coefficients of Total DMA/Arginine and PUFA ae indicated that these FF variables had lower values in DOR patients than in NOR patients. N/A. This study presents two limitations. First, with this targeted metabolomics analysis, we have explored only a limited portion of the FF metabolome. Second, although the signature found was highly significant, the mechanism underlying the dysfunction remains undetermined. The understanding of the mechanisms implied in ovarian ageing is essential for providing an adequate response to affected women desiring pregnancy. Our study proposes an incoming signature that may open new paths towards this goal. This study was supported by the University Hospital of Angers, the University of Angers, and the French national research centers, INSERM and the CNRS. There were no competing interests. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com

Optimized interface and recrystallized grains by CsBr treatment for enhanced photovoltaic performance of perovskite solar cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Li; Su, Pengyu; Yao, Huizhen; Wang, Jun; Fu, Wuyou; Liu, Xizhe; Yang, Haibin

2018-06-01

Doping, interface optimization and recrystallization are effective approaches for fabricating high performance perovskite solar cells (PSCs). In our work, simple CsBr treatment is introduced to improve the performance of TiO2 nanorods-based PSCs. Both Cs+ and Br- are doped into CH3NH3PbI3 simultaneously, as well as optimizes the interface between perovskite and hole-transporting material (HTM). In addition, the perovskite grains are recrystallized through this method. Finally, a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 16.02% with 0.72 in fill factor (FF) and 1.08 in open circuit voltage (VOC) is obtained through CsBr treatment, which is 19.91% higher than that of untreated devices (13.36% with 0.65 in FF and 1.02 in VOC). Furthermore, the power output maintains ∼14% after 3500 h under the humidity within 15% at room temperature.

The evaluation of 3 diets for rearing Hyalella azteca and the influence of diet on acute ammonia toxicity.

PubMed

Kennedy, Lisa M; Watson-Leung, Trudy L; Poirier, David G

2016-10-01

Three Hyalella azteca cultures were reared on different diets since birth, reflecting the recommended diets of various investigators. The 3 diets consisted of fish flakes (FF), a mixture of fish flakes supplemented with the diatom Thalassiosira weissflogii (FF-D), and a mixture of fish flakes supplemented with yeast, cereal grass media, and trout chow (FF-YCT). The 3 diets were evaluated by comparing 20 wk of culturing data, along with the organism's response to standard 96-h toxicity testing with ammonium chloride over a range of pH and temperature. Hyalella azteca fed the FF-D diet had the highest overall survival rate (96.6%, standard deviation [SD] 4.3%) compared to those fed the FF diet (92.0%, SD 12.7%), or the FF-YCT diet (91.1%, SD 14.8%), although difference in survival was not statistically significant. Organisms fed the FF-D diet produced a higher number of young per week per adult (6.1, SD 2.8) than the FF diet (5.1, SD 2.2), or the FF-YCT diet (4.0, SD 1.2), although differences were not statistically significant. Of the diets evaluated, H. azteca reared on the FF-D diet were often significantly more resistant to total and un-ionized ammonia toxicity in acute 96-h testing than those reared on the other 2 diets across the 2 temperatures and 5 pHs tested, suggesting this may be the most optimal diet for this species. Environ Toxicol Chem 2016;35:2416-2424. © 2016 SETAC. © 2016 SETAC.

A methodological study of genome-wide DNA methylation analyses using matched archival formalin-fixed paraffin embedded and fresh frozen breast tumors.

PubMed

Espinal, Allyson C; Wang, Dan; Yan, Li; Liu, Song; Tang, Li; Hu, Qiang; Morrison, Carl D; Ambrosone, Christine B; Higgins, Michael J; Sucheston-Campbell, Lara E

2017-02-28

DNA from archival formalin-fixed and paraffin embedded (FFPE) tissue is an invaluable resource for genome-wide methylation studies although concerns about poor quality may limit its use. In this study, we compared DNA methylation profiles of breast tumors using DNA from fresh-frozen (FF) tissues and three types of matched FFPE samples. For 9/10 patients, correlation and unsupervised clustering analysis revealed that the FF and FFPE samples were consistently correlated with each other and clustered into distinct subgroups. Greater than 84% of the top 100 loci previously shown to differentiate ER+ and ER- tumors in FF tissues were also FFPE DML. Weighted Correlation Gene Network Analyses (WCGNA) grouped the DML loci into 16 modules in FF tissue, with ~85% of the module membership preserved across tissue types. Restored FFPE and matched FF samples were profiled using the Illumina Infinium HumanMethylation450K platform. Methylation levels (β-values) across all loci and the top 100 loci previously shown to differentiate tumors by estrogen receptor status (ER+ or ER-) in a larger FF study, were compared between matched FF and FFPE samples using Pearson's correlation, hierarchical clustering and WCGNA. Positive predictive values and sensitivity levels for detecting differentially methylated loci (DML) in FF samples were calculated in an independent FFPE cohort. FFPE breast tumors samples show lower overall detection of DMLs versus FF, however FFPE and FF DMLs compare favorably. These results support the emerging consensus that the 450K platform can be employed to investigate epigenetics in large sets of archival FFPE tissues.

Fluticasone furoate and vilanterol inhalation powder for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

PubMed

Matera, Maria Gabriella; Capuano, Annalisa; Cazzola, Mario

2015-02-01

Fluticasone furoate/vilanterol (FF/VI) is a novel inhaled corticosteroid/long-acting β₂-agonist (ICS/LABA) fixed dose combination that, by simplifying the dosing schedule, allows, for the first time in a member of the ICS/LABA class, a shift from twice-daily to once-daily treatment. FF/VI is delivered via a novel, single-step activation, multi-dose dry powder inhaler for oral inhalation, Ellipta. Regrettably, there are no head-to-head trials that have shown superiority in the safety or efficacy of FF versus other ICSs, but evidence shows that VI has a quicker onset of effect versus salmeterol. However, the clinical utility of this effect in a maintenance medication is still questionable. Furthermore, benefits of FF/VI over twice-daily ICS/LABA comparator have not been shown yet and, in addition, its adverse event profile is generally consistent with the known class effects of an ICS/LABA fixed dose combination. In particular, there is an increase in the risk of pneumonia among patients treated with FF/VI relative to VI, mainly among those who benefit most from FF/VI. Nevertheless, the interesting pharmacological profiles of both FF and VI, the possibility that FF/VI can be administered once-daily, and the attractive characteristics of Ellipta are important features that could help FF/VI to be a successful combination in the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Final report on the EURAMET.M.FF-K4.2.2014 volume comparison at 100 μL—calibration of micropipettes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Batista, Elsa; Matus, Michael; Metaxiotou, Zoe; Tudor, Maria; Lenard, Elzbieta; Buker, Oliver; Wennergren, Per; Piluri, Erinda; Miteva, Mariana; Vicarova, Martina; Vospĕlová, Alena; Turnsek, Urska; Micic, Ljiljana; Grue, Lise-Lote; Mihailovic, Mirjana; Sarevska, Anastazija

2017-01-01

During the EURAMET TC-F meeting of 2014 and following the finalization of CCM.FF-K4.2.2011 comparison, it was agreed to start a Regional Key Comparison (KC) on volume measurements using two 100 μL micropipettes (piston pipettes) allowing the participating laboratories to assess the agreement of their results and uncertainties. Two 100 μL micropipettes were tested by 15 participants. One participant was not a member or associate member of the BIPM and was be removed from this report. The comparison started in July 2015 and ended in March 2016. The Volume and Flow Laboratory of the Portuguese Institute for Quality (IPQ) was the pilot laboratory and performed the initial and final measurements of the micropipettes. The micropipettes showed a stable volume during the whole comparison, which was confirmed by the results from the pilot laboratory. The original results of all participant NMIs were corrected to the standard atmospheric pressure in order to compare results under the same calibration conditions, and the contribution of the 'process-related handling contribution' was added to the uncertainty budget of each participant. In general the declared CMCs are in accordance with the KCDB. For the micropipette 354828Z, two laboratories had inconsistent results. For micropipette 354853Z, three laboratories had inconsistent results. Main text To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database kcdb.bipm.org/. The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCM, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).

Selecting optimal feast-to-famine ratio for a new polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) production system fed by valerate-dominant sludge hydrolysate.

PubMed

Hao, Jiuxiao; Wang, Hui; Wang, Xiujin

2018-04-01

The feast-to-famine ratio (F/F) represents the extent of selective pressure during polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) culture selection. This study evaluated the effects of F/F on a new PHA production system by an enriched culture with valerate-dominant sludge hydrolysate and selected the optimal F/F. After the original F/F 1/3 was modified to 1/1, 1/2, 1/4, and 1/5, F/F did not affect their lengths of feast phase, but affected their biomass growth behaviors during the famine phase and PHA-producing abilities. The optimal F/F was 1/2, and compared with 1/3, it increased the maximal PHA content and the fraction of 3-hydroxyvalerate (3HV) and 3-hydroxy-2-methylvalerate (3H2MV) monomers, with higher productivity and better polymer properties. Although F/F 1/2 impaired the advantage of the dominant genus Delftia, it improved the PHA production rate while decreased biomass growth rate, meanwhile enhancing the utilization and conversion of valerate. These findings indicate that in contrast to previous studies using acetate-dominant substrate for PHA production, the new system fed by valerate-dominant substrate can adopt a higher F/F.

ReaxFF Grand Canonical Monte Carlo simulation of adsorption and dissociation of oxygen on platinum (111)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Valentini, Paolo; Schwartzentruber, Thomas E.; Cozmuta, Ioana

2011-12-01

Atomic-level Grand Canonical Monte Carlo (GCMC) simulations equipped with a reactive force field (ReaxFF) are used to study atomic oxygen adsorption on a Pt(111) surface. The off-lattice GCMC calculations presented here rely solely on the interatomic potential and do not necessitate the pre-computation of surface adlayer structures and their interpolation. As such, they provide a predictive description of adsorbate phases. In this study, validation is obtained with experimental evidence (steric heats of adsorption and isotherms) as well as DFT-based state diagrams available in the literature. The ReaxFF computed steric heats of adsorption agree well with experimental data, and this study clearly shows that indirect dissociative adsorption of O2 on Pt(111) is an activated process at non-zero coverages, with an activation energy that monotonically increases with coverage. At a coverage of 0.25 ML, a highly ordered p(2 × 2) adlayer is found, in agreement with several low-energy electron diffraction observations. Isotherms obtained from the GCMC simulations compare qualitatively and quantitatively well with previous DFT-based state diagrams, but are in disagreement with the experimental data sets available. ReaxFF GCMC simulations at very high coverages show that O atoms prefer to bind in fcc hollow sites, at least up to 0.8 ML considered in the present work. At moderate coverages, little to no disorder appears in the Pt lattice. At high coverages, some Pt atoms markedly protrude out of the surface plane. This observation is in qualitative agreement with recent STM images of an oxygen covered Pt surface. The use of the GCMC technique based on a transferable potential is particularly valuable to produce more realistic systems (adsorbent and adsorbate) to be used in subsequent dynamical simulations (Molecular Dynamics) to address recombination reactions (via either Eley-Rideal or Langmuir-Hinshelwood mechanisms) on variously covered surfaces. By using GCMC and Molecular Dynamics simulations, the ReaxFF force field can be a valuable tool for understanding heterogeneous catalysis on a solid surface. Finally, the use of a reactive potential is a necessary requirement to investigate problems where dissociative adsorption occurs, as typical of many important catalytic processes.

Structure of hydrated gibbsite and brucite edge surfaces: DFT results and further development of the ClayFF classical force field with metal–O–H angle bending terms

DOE PAGES

Pouvreau, Maxime; Greathouse, Jeffery A.; Cygan, Randall T.; ...

2017-06-28

Molecular scale understanding of the structure and properties of aqueous interfaces with clays, metal (oxy-) hydroxides, layered double hydroxides, and other inorganic phases is strongly affected by significant degrees of structural and compositional disorder of the interfaces. ClayFF was originally developed as a robust and flexible force field for classical molecular simulations of such systems. However, despite its success, multiple limitations have also become evident with its use. One of the most important limitations is the difficulty to accurately model the edges of finite size nanoparticles or pores rather than infinitely layered periodic structures. Here we propose a systematic approachmore » to solve this problem by developing specific metal–O–H (M–O–H) bending terms for ClayFF, E bend = k (θ – θ 0) 2 to better describe the structure and dynamics of singly protonated hydroxyl groups at mineral surfaces, particularly edge surfaces. On the basis of a series of DFT calculations, the optimal values of the Al–O–H and Mg–O–H parameters for Al and Mg in octahedral coordination are determined to be θ 0,AlOH = θ 0,MgOH = 110°, k AlOH = 15 kcal mol –1 rad –2 and k MgOH = 6 kcal mol –1 rad –2. Molecular dynamics simulations were performed for fully hydrated models of the basal and edge surfaces of gibbsite, Al(OH) 3, and brucite, Mg(OH) 2, at the DFT level of theory and at the classical level, using ClayFF with and without the M–O–H term. The addition of the new bending term leads to a much more accurate representation of the orientation of O–H groups at the basal and edge surfaces. Finally, the previously observed unrealistic desorption of OH 2 groups from the particle edges within the original ClayFF model is also strongly constrained by the new modification.« less

HCN1 Channels Contribute to the Effects of Amnesia and Hypnosis But Not Immobility of Volatile Anesthetics

PubMed Central

Liu, Jin; Ke, Bowen; Wang, Xiaojia; Li, Fengshan; Li, Tao; Bayliss, Douglas A.; Chen, Xiangdong

2015-01-01

Background HCN1 channels have been identified as targets of ketamine to produce hypnosis. Volatile anesthetics also inhibit HCN1 channels. However, the effects of HCN1 channels on volatile anesthetics in vivo is still elusive. This study uses global and conditional HCN1 knockout mice to evaluate how HCN1 channels affect the actions of volatile anesthetics. Methods Minimum alveolar concentrations (MAC) of isoflurane and sevoflurane that induced immobility (MAC of immobility) and/or hypnosis (MAC of hypnosis) were determined in wild-type (WT) mice, global HCN1 channel knockout mice (HCN1−/−), floxed HCN1 channel gene (HCN1f/f) mice and forebrain-selective HCN1 channel knockout (HCN1f/f: cre) mice. Immobility of mice was defined as no purposeful reactions to tail-clamping stimulus and hypnosis was defined as loss of righting reflex (LORR). The amnestic effects of isoflurane and sevoflurane were evaluated by fear-potentiated startle in these four strains of mice. Results All MAC values were expressed as mean ± SEM. For MAC of immobility of isoflurane, no significant difference was found among wild-type, HCN1−/−, HCN1f/f and HCN1f/f: cre mice (all ~1.24-1.29% isoflurane). For both HCN1−/− and HCN1f/f: cre mice, the MAC of hypnosis for isoflurane (each ~1.05% isoflurane) were significantly increased over their nonknockout controls: HCN1−/− vs. wild-type (0.86±0.03%, P<0.001) and HCN1f/f: cre vs. HCN1f/f mice (0.84±0.03%, P<0.001); no significant difference was found between HCN1−/− and HCN1f/f: cre mice. For MAC of immobility of sevoflurane, no significant difference was found among wild-type, HCN1−/−, HCN1f/f and HCN1f/f: cre mice (all ~2.6-2.7% sevoflurane). For both HCN1−/− and HCN1f/f: cre mice, the MAC of hypnosis for sevoflurane (each ~1.90% sevoflurane) was significantly increased over their nonknockout controls: HCN1−/− vs. wild-type (1.58±0.05%, P<0.001) and HCN1f/f: cre vs. HCN1f/f mice (1.56±0.05%, P<0.001). No significant difference was found between HCN1−/− and HCN1f/f: cre mice. By fear-potentiated startle experiments, amnestic effects of isoflurane and sevoflurane were significantly attenuated in HCN1−/− and HCN1f/f: cre mice (both P<0.002 vs. wild-type or HCN1f/f mice). No significant difference was found between HCN1−/− and HCN1f/f: cre mice. Conclusions Forebrain HCN1 channels contribute to hypnotic and amnestic effects of volatile anesthetics, but HCN1 channels are not involved in the immobilizing actions of volatile anesthetics. PMID:26287296

Characterization of new polymer-grafted protein cation exchangers developed by partial neutralization of carboxyl groups derivatized by modification of poly(ethylenimine)-Sepharose with succinic anhydride.

PubMed

Zhao, Yangyang; Dong, Xiaoyan; Yu, Linling; Liu, Yang; Sun, Yan

2018-05-18

Previously, we have studied protein adsorption and chromatographic behaviors on poly(ethylenimine) (PEI)-grafted Sepharose FF anion-exchange resins, and found that protein uptake rates increased greatly when PEI grafting density reached over a critical ionic capacity (cIC) due to the occurrence of the "chain delivery" effect. Moreover, by partial charge neutralization of starting resin FF-PEI-L740 (IC = 740 mmol/L, larger than the cIC) with sodium acetate to FF-PEI-R440, it exhibited a three-fold increase in uptake rate over FF-PEI-L740. In this work, to take the advantages of PEI and extend the applications of the PEI-grafted resins in cation-exchange chromatography, a series of cation exchangers of five different ICs were developed. First, the charged of FF-PEI-L740 was reversed from positive to negative by reaction with excess succinic anhydride, which created a cation-exchanger with an IC of 970 mmol/L (FF-FEI-C970). FF-PEI-C970 was further modified with ethanolamine for partial charge neutralizations, leading to the preparation of four charge-reduced cation exchangers with IC values (in mmol/L) of 780, 630, 560 and 430, which were denoted as FF-PEI-CR780, -CR630 -CR560 and -CR430, respectively. Protein adsorption and chromatographic behaviors were investigated using lysozyme (Lys) as the model protein. It was found that, the resins of high and moderate IC values (IC ≥ 560 mmol/L) afforded adsorption capacities up to over 230 mg/mL. Besides, the uptake rate, represented by the effective pore diffusivity (D e/ D 0 ), exhibited significant increase from 0.067 (FF-PEI-C970 and FF-PEI-CR780) to 0.343 (FF-PEI-CR630 and FF-PEI-CR560) and then to 1.035 (FF-PEI-CR430) with decreasing IC. It was considered that decreasing IC led to the decreased protein binding sites (binding strength), which encouraged the occurrence of the "chain delivery" effect. Moreover, the resins of high and moderate IC values, particularly, the resins of moderate IC values (FF-PEI-CR630 and FF-PEI-CR560), presented both high adsorption capacities and uptake kinetics at 0-100 mmol/L NaCl. Besides, dynamic binding capacity achieved 150 mg/mL for the resins of moderate IC values at 0 mmol/L NaCl concentration, and afforded >110 mg/mL for the resin of high IC values at 0-100 mmol/L NaCl concentration. The results proved the excellent IEC performance of the PEI-derived cation exchangers. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

On the role of budgetary policy during demographic changes.

PubMed

Sartor, N

1993-01-01

"The paper investigates the relationship between old age income maintenance and budgetary policy when a growing proportion of the population is retired. Special attention is paid to the different kinds of adjustment required under pay-as-you-go (PAYG) and fully-funded (FF) pension schemes. The paper shows that FF schemes reach spontaneously a new equilibrium while PAYG systems need policy action. With reference to PAYG systems, the paper shows that the tax increase called for by most governments is appropriate in the short-run, when the dependency ratio plays a dominant role. In the long-run, however, the increase in the tax rate is smaller, as the effects of the changes in the dependency ratio is offset by the lower need of public savings required for financing capital accumulation." The geographical focus is on developed countries. excerpt

Understanding Soldier Robot Teams in Virtual Environments

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-06-01

often with Verbal only communication than the Verbal plus Visual communication . This was mainly attributed to the fact that the transmitted images...performance. Participants ranked every Verbal plus Visual communication conditions higher than any Verbal only communication condition. Finally, there were...UV and RM locations. Communication was either verbal only (either FF or via radio, depending on the location) or verbal plus visual. When visual

The burden and undertreatment of fragility fractures among senior women.

PubMed

Rodrigues, Ana M; Eusébio, Mónica; Santos, Maria José; Gouveia, Nélia; Tavares, Viviana; Coelho, Pedro S; Mendes, Jorge M; Branco, Jaime C; Canhão, Helena

2018-03-07

Using a large population database, we showed that fragility fractures were highly prevalent in senior women and were associated with significant physical disability. However, treatment rates were low because osteoporosis treatment was not prescribed or not agreed to by the majority of women with prevalent fragility fractures. The purpose of the study is to estimate prevalence of fragility fractures (FF), risk factors, and treatment rates in senior women and to assess impact of FF on physical function and quality of life. Women aged 65 years and older from the EpiReumaPt study (2011-2013) were evaluated. Rheumatologists collected data regarding FF, clinical risk factors for fractures, and osteoporosis (OP) treatment. Health-related quality of life (EQ5D) and physical function (HAQ) were analyzed. Peripheral dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry was performed. FF was defined as any self-reported low-impact fracture that occurred after 40 years of age. Prevalence estimates of FF were calculated. Among 3877 subjects evaluated in EpiReumaPt, 884 were senior women. The estimated prevalence of FF was 20.7%. Lower leg was the most frequent fracture site reported (37.8%) followed by wrist (18.6%). Only 7.1% of the senior women reporting a prevalent FF were under treatment for OP, and 13.9% never had treatment. OP treatment was not prescribed in 47.7% of FF women, and 23.4% refused treatment. Age (OR = 2.46, 95% CI 1.11-5.47), obesity (OR = 2.05, 95% CI 1.14-3.70), and low wrist BMD (OR = 2.29; 95% CI 1.20, 4.35; p = 0.012) were positively associated with prevalent FF. A significantly higher proportion of women in the lowest quintile of wrist bone mineral density reported FF (OR = 2.29, 95% CI 1.20-4.35). FF were associated with greater physical disability (β = 0.33, 95% CI 0.13-0.51) independent of other comorbidities. FF was frequently reported among senior women as an important cause of physical disability. However, the prevalence of OP treatment was low, which constitutes a public health problem in this vulnerable group.

A methodological study of genome-wide DNA methylation analyses using matched archival formalin-fixed paraffin embedded and fresh frozen breast tumors

PubMed Central

Yan, Li; Liu, Song; Tang, Li; Hu, Qiang; Morrison, Carl D.; Ambrosone, Christine B.; Higgins, Michael J.; Sucheston-Campbell, Lara E.

2017-01-01

Background DNA from archival formalin-fixed and paraffin embedded (FFPE) tissue is an invaluable resource for genome-wide methylation studies although concerns about poor quality may limit its use. In this study, we compared DNA methylation profiles of breast tumors using DNA from fresh-frozen (FF) tissues and three types of matched FFPE samples. Results For 9/10 patients, correlation and unsupervised clustering analysis revealed that the FF and FFPE samples were consistently correlated with each other and clustered into distinct subgroups. Greater than 84% of the top 100 loci previously shown to differentiate ER+ and ER– tumors in FF tissues were also FFPE DML. Weighted Correlation Gene Network Analyses (WCGNA) grouped the DML loci into 16 modules in FF tissue, with ~85% of the module membership preserved across tissue types. Materials and Methods Restored FFPE and matched FF samples were profiled using the Illumina Infinium HumanMethylation450K platform. Methylation levels (β-values) across all loci and the top 100 loci previously shown to differentiate tumors by estrogen receptor status (ER+ or ER−) in a larger FF study, were compared between matched FF and FFPE samples using Pearson's correlation, hierarchical clustering and WCGNA. Positive predictive values and sensitivity levels for detecting differentially methylated loci (DML) in FF samples were calculated in an independent FFPE cohort. Conclusions FFPE breast tumors samples show lower overall detection of DMLs versus FF, however FFPE and FF DMLs compare favorably. These results support the emerging consensus that the 450K platform can be employed to investigate epigenetics in large sets of archival FFPE tissues. PMID:28118602

Endothelial fibroblast growth factor receptor signaling is required for vascular remodeling following cardiac ischemia-reperfusion injury

PubMed Central

Castro, Angela M.; Lupu, Traian S.; Weinheimer, Carla; Smith, Craig; Kovacs, Attila

2016-01-01

Fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signaling is cardioprotective in various models of myocardial infarction. FGF receptors (FGFRs) are expressed in multiple cell types in the adult heart, but the cell type-specific FGFR signaling that mediates different cardioprotective endpoints is not known. To determine the requirement for FGFR signaling in endothelium in cardiac ischemia-reperfusion injury, we conditionally inactivated the Fgfr1 and Fgfr2 genes in endothelial cells with Tie2-Cre (Tie2-Cre, Fgfr1f/f, Fgfr2f/f DCKO mice). Tie2-Cre, Fgfr1f/f, Fgfr2f/f DCKO mice had normal baseline cardiac morphometry, function, and vessel density. When subjected to closed-chest, regional cardiac ischemia-reperfusion injury, Tie2-Cre, Fgfr1f/f, Fgfr2f/f DCKO mice showed a significantly increased hypokinetic area at 7 days, but not 1 day, after reperfusion. Tie2-Cre, Fgfr1f/f, Fgfr2f/f DCKO mice also showed significantly worsened cardiac function compared with controls at 7 days but not 1 day after reperfusion. Pathophysiological analysis showed significantly decreased vessel density, increased endothelial cell apoptosis, and worsened tissue hypoxia in the peri-infarct area at 7 days following reperfusion. Notably, Tie2-Cre, Fgfr1f/f, Fgfr2f/f DCKO mice showed no impairment in the cardiac hypertrophic response. These data demonstrate an essential role for FGFR1 and FGFR2 in endothelial cells for cardiac functional recovery and vascular remodeling following in vivo cardiac ischemia-reperfusion injury, without affecting the cardiac hypertrophic response. This study suggests the potential for therapeutic benefit from activation of endothelial FGFR pathways following ischemic injury to the heart. PMID:26747503

Circulating fetal cell-free DNA fractions differ in autosomal aneuploidies and monosomy X.

PubMed

Rava, Richard P; Srinivasan, Anupama; Sehnert, Amy J; Bianchi, Diana W

2014-01-01

Noninvasive prenatal testing based on massively parallel sequencing (MPS) of cell-free DNA in maternal plasma has become rapidly integrated into clinical practice for detecting fetal chromosomal aneuploidy. We directly determined the fetal fraction (FF) from results obtained with MPS tag counting and examined the relationships of FF to such biological parameters as fetal karyotype and maternal demographics. FF was determined from samples previously collected for the MELISSA (Maternal Blood Is Source to Accurately Diagnose Fetal Aneuploidy) study. Samples were resequenced, analyzed blindly, and aligned to the human genome (assembly hg19). FF was calculated in pregnancies with male or aneuploid fetuses by means of an equation that incorporated the ratio of the tags in these samples to those of a euploid training set. The mean (SD) FF from euploid male pregnancies was 0.126 (0.052) (n = 160). Weak but statistically significant correlations were found between FF and the maternal body mass index (r(2) = 0.18; P = 2.3 × 10(-8)) and between FF and gestational age (r(2) = 0.02; P = 0.047). No relationship with maternal ethnicity or age was observed. Mean FF values for trisomies 21 (n = 90), 18 (n = 38), and 13 (n = 16) and for monosomy X (n = 20) were 0.135 (0.051), 0.089 (0.039), 0.090 (0.062), and 0.106 (0.045), respectively. MPS tag-count data can be used to determine FF directly and accurately. Compared with male euploid fetuses, the FF is higher in maternal plasma when the fetus has trisomy 21 and is lower when the fetus has trisomy 18, 13, or monosomy X. The different biologies of these aneuploidies have practical implications for the determination of cutoff values, which in turn will affect the diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of the test.

Endothelial fibroblast growth factor receptor signaling is required for vascular remodeling following cardiac ischemia-reperfusion injury.

PubMed

House, Stacey L; Castro, Angela M; Lupu, Traian S; Weinheimer, Carla; Smith, Craig; Kovacs, Attila; Ornitz, David M

2016-03-01

Fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signaling is cardioprotective in various models of myocardial infarction. FGF receptors (FGFRs) are expressed in multiple cell types in the adult heart, but the cell type-specific FGFR signaling that mediates different cardioprotective endpoints is not known. To determine the requirement for FGFR signaling in endothelium in cardiac ischemia-reperfusion injury, we conditionally inactivated the Fgfr1 and Fgfr2 genes in endothelial cells with Tie2-Cre (Tie2-Cre, Fgfr1(f/f), Fgfr2(f/f) DCKO mice). Tie2-Cre, Fgfr1(f/f), Fgfr2(f/f) DCKO mice had normal baseline cardiac morphometry, function, and vessel density. When subjected to closed-chest, regional cardiac ischemia-reperfusion injury, Tie2-Cre, Fgfr1(f/f), Fgfr2(f/f) DCKO mice showed a significantly increased hypokinetic area at 7 days, but not 1 day, after reperfusion. Tie2-Cre, Fgfr1(f/f), Fgfr2(f/f) DCKO mice also showed significantly worsened cardiac function compared with controls at 7 days but not 1 day after reperfusion. Pathophysiological analysis showed significantly decreased vessel density, increased endothelial cell apoptosis, and worsened tissue hypoxia in the peri-infarct area at 7 days following reperfusion. Notably, Tie2-Cre, Fgfr1(f/f), Fgfr2(f/f) DCKO mice showed no impairment in the cardiac hypertrophic response. These data demonstrate an essential role for FGFR1 and FGFR2 in endothelial cells for cardiac functional recovery and vascular remodeling following in vivo cardiac ischemia-reperfusion injury, without affecting the cardiac hypertrophic response. This study suggests the potential for therapeutic benefit from activation of endothelial FGFR pathways following ischemic injury to the heart. Copyright © 2016 the American Physiological Society.

The Geography of Fast Food Outlets: A Review

PubMed Central

Fraser, Lorna K.; Edwards, Kimberly L.; Cade, Janet; Clarke, Graham P.

2010-01-01

The availability of food high in fat, salt and sugar through Fast Food (FF) or takeaway outlets, is implicated in the causal pathway for the obesity epidemic. This review aims to summarise this body of research and highlight areas for future work. Thirty three studies were found that had assessed the geography of these outlets. Fourteen studies showed a positive association between availability of FF outlets and increasing deprivation. Another 13 studies also included overweight or obesity data and showed conflicting results between obesity/overweight and FF outlet availability. There is some evidence that FF availability is associated with lower fruit and vegetable intake. There is potential for land use policies to have an influence on the location of new FF outlets. Further research should incorporate good quality data on FF consumption, weight and physical activity. PMID:20623025

The geography of Fast Food outlets: a review.

PubMed

Fraser, Lorna K; Edwards, Kimberly L; Cade, Janet; Clarke, Graham P

2010-05-01

The availability of food high in fat, salt and sugar through Fast Food (FF) or takeaway outlets, is implicated in the causal pathway for the obesity epidemic. This review aims to summarise this body of research and highlight areas for future work. Thirty three studies were found that had assessed the geography of these outlets. Fourteen studies showed a positive association between availability of FF outlets and increasing deprivation. Another 13 studies also included overweight or obesity data and showed conflicting results between obesity/overweight and FF outlet availability. There is some evidence that FF availability is associated with lower fruit and vegetable intake. There is potential for land use policies to have an influence on the location of new FF outlets. Further research should incorporate good quality data on FF consumption, weight and physical activity.

Superfluid density and Berezinskii-Kosterlitz-Thouless transition of a spin-orbit-coupled Fulde-Ferrell superfluid

DOE PAGES

Cao, Ye; Liu, Xia -Ji; He, Lianyi; ...

2015-02-09

We theoretically investigate the superfluid density and Berezinskii-Kosterlitz-Thouless (BKT) transition of a two-dimensional Rashba spin-orbit-coupled atomic Fermi gas with both in-plane and out-of-plane Zeeman fields. It was recently predicted that, by tuning the two Zeeman fields, the system may exhibit different exotic Fulde-Ferrell (FF) superfluid phases, including the gapped FF, gapless FF, gapless topological FF, and gapped topological FF states. Due to the FF paring, we show that the superfluid density (tensor) of the system becomes anisotropic. When an in-plane Zeeman field is applied along the x direction, the tensor component along the y direction n s,yy is generally largermore » than n s,xx in most parameter space. At zero temperature, there is always a discontinuity jump in n s,xx as the system evolves from a gapped FF into a gapless FF state. With increasing temperature, such a jump is gradually washed out. The critical BKT temperature has been calculated as functions of the spin-orbit-coupling strength, interatomic interaction strength, and in-plane and out-of-plane Zeeman fields. We predict that the novel FF superfluid phases have a significant critical BKT temperature, typically at the order of 0.1T F, where T F is the Fermi degenerate temperature. Furthermore, their observation is within the reach of current experimental techniques in cold-atom laboratories.« less

Associations between sugar-sweetened beverage consumption and fast-food restaurant frequency among adolescents and their friends.

PubMed

Bruening, Meg; MacLehose, Richard; Eisenberg, Marla E; Nanney, Marilyn S; Story, Mary; Neumark-Sztainer, Dianne

2014-01-01

To assess associations between adolescents and their friends with regard to sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB)/diet soda intake and fast-food (FF) restaurant visits. Population-based, cross-sectional survey study with direct measures from friends. Twenty Minneapolis/St Paul schools during 2009-2010. Adolescents (n = 2,043; mean age, 14.2 ± 1.9 years; 46.2% female; 80% non-white). Adolescent SSB/diet soda intake and FF visits. Generalized estimating equation logistic models were used to examine associations between adolescents' SSB/diet soda intake and FF visits and similar behaviors in nominated friends (friend groups and best friends). School-level (middle vs high school) interactions were assessed. Significant associations were found between adolescents and friends behaviors for each of the beverages assessed (P < .05), but they varied by friendship type and school level. Five of 6 models of FF visits (including all FF visits) were significantly associated (P < .05) among adolescents and their friends. Significant interactions by school level were present among adolescents' and friends' FF visits, with associations generally for high school participants compared with middle school participants (P < .05). Findings suggest that for many beverages and FF restaurant types, friends' behaviors are associated, especially FF visits for older adolescents. Nutrition education efforts may benefit by integrating knowledge of the impact of adolescents' friends on FF visits. Copyright © 2014 Society for Nutrition Education and Behavior. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Associations between sugar-sweetened beverage consumption and fast food restaurant frequency among adolescents and their friends

PubMed Central

Bruening, Meg; MacLehose, Richard; Eisenberg, Marla E; Nanney, Marilyn S.; Story, Mary; Neumark-Sztainer, Dianne

2016-01-01

Objective To assess associations between adolescents and their friends with regard to sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB)/diet soda intake, and fast food (FF) restaurant visits. Design Population-based, cross-sectional survey study with direct measures from friends. Setting Twenty Minneapolis/St. Paul schools during 2009–2010. Participants Adolescents (n=2,043; mean age=14.2±1.9; 46.2% female; 80% non-white). Main outcome measures Adolescent SSB/diet soda intake and FF visits. Analysis Generalized estimating equation logistic models were used to examine associations between adolescents’ SSB/diet soda intake and FF visits and similar behaviors in nominated friends (friend groups, best friends). School-level (middle vs. high school) interactions were assessed. Results Significant associations were found between adolescents and friends behaviors for each of the beverages assessed (P<0.05), but varied by friendship type and school level. Five of six models of FF visits (including all FF visits) were significantly associated (P <0.05) among adolescents and their friends. Significant interactions by school level were present among adolescents’ and friends’ FF visits, with associations generally for high school participants compared to middle school participants (P <0.05). Conclusions and implications Findings suggest for many beverages and FF restaurant types, friends’ behaviors are associated, especially FF visits for older adolescents. Nutrition education efforts may benefit by integrating the knowledge of the impact of adolescents’ friends on FF visits. PMID:24735768

[Evaluation of left ventricular diastolic function using gated SPECT with 99mTc-MIBI].

PubMed

Toba, M; Kumita, S I; Mizumura, S; Cho, K; Kijima, T; Takahama, K; Kumazaki, T

1996-04-01

Development of 3 head SPECT system and 99mTc-labeled radiopharmaceuticals enable us to evaluate left ventricular systolic function on the basis of once gated SPECT routine. This study was focused on assessment of left ventricular diastolic function using 99mTc-MIBI gated SPECT data. Twenty nine patients with ischemic heart diseases underwent 99mTc-MIBI gated SPECT and 99mTc-HSAD ventriculographic assessment of left ventricular diastolic function within 1 month. Region of interests (ROI), simultaneously calculating counts per pixel within ROI, were placed over whole myocardium of 16 serial phasic images reconstructed from gated SPECT data, following selection of the central slice within short axial images. Then, 29 patients were classified into 3 patterns of phase count curve (normal, mixed, and delayed relaxation = diastolic dysfunction). Moreover, 1/3 Count Decreasing Fraction (1/3 CDF) was calculated on the same concept as 1/3 FF. The curve pattern showed significant differences between normal and abnormal group divided on the basis of established indices such as 1/3 FF and PFR, and 1/3 CDF has correlations with 1/3 FF (r = 0.61) and PFR (r = 0.58). We concluded that the new parameters drawn from 99mTc-MIBI gated SPECT data might be feasible for evaluation of diastolic function.

Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis of Proteome and Peptidome of Human Follicular Fluid Using Multiple Samples from Single Donor with LC-MS and SWATH Methodology.

PubMed

Lewandowska, Aleksandra E; Macur, Katarzyna; Czaplewska, Paulina; Liss, Joanna; Łukaszuk, Krzysztof; Ołdziej, Stanisław

2017-08-04

Human follicular fluid (hFF) is a natural environment of oocyte maturation, and some components of hFF could be used to judge oocyte capability for fertilization and further development. In our pilot small-scale study three samples from four donors (12 samples in total) were analyzed to determine which hFF proteins/peptides could be used to differentiate individual oocytes and which are patient-specific. Ultrafiltration was used to fractionate hFF to high-molecular-weight (HMW) proteome (>10 kDa) and low-molecular-weight (LMW) peptidome (<10 kDa) fractions. HMW and LMW compositions were analyzed using LC-MS in SWATH data acquisition and processing methodology. In total we were able to identify 158 proteins, from which 59 were never reported before as hFF components. 55 (45 not reported before) proteins were found by analyzing LMW fraction, 67 (14 not reported before) were found by analyzing HMW fraction, and 36 were identified in both fractions of hFF. We were able to perform quantitative analysis for 72 proteins from HMW fraction of hFF. We found that concentrations of 11 proteins varied substantially among hFF samples from single donors, and those proteins are promising targets to identify biomarkers useful in oocyte quality assessment.

ff14IDPs Force Field Improving the Conformation Sampling of Intrinsically Disordered Proteins

PubMed Central

Song, Dong; Wang, Wei; Ye, Wei; Ji, Dingjue; Luo, Ray; Chen, Hai-Feng

2017-01-01

Intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) are proteins which lack of specific tertiary structure and unable to fold spontaneously without the partner binding. These IDPs are found to associate with various diseases, such as diabetes, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases. However, current widely used force fields, such as ff99SB, ff14SB, OPLS/AA, and Charmm27 are insufficient in sampling the conformational characters of IDPs. In this study, the CMAP method was used to correct the φ/ψ distributions of disorder-promoting amino acids. The simulation results show that the force filed parameters (ff14IDPs) can improve the φ/ψ distributions of the disorder-promoting amino acids, with RMSD less than 0.10% relative to the benchmark data of IDPs. Further test suggests that the calculated secondary chemical shifts under ff14IDPs force field are in quantitative agreement with the data of NMR experiment for five tested systems. In addition, the simulation results show that ff14IDPs can still be used to model structural proteins, such as tested lysozyme and ubiquitin, with better performance in coil regions than the original general Amber force field ff14SB. These findings confirm that the newly developed Amber ff14IDPs force field is a robust model for improving the conformation sampling of IDPs. PMID:27484738

Assessing fossil fuel CO2 emissions in California using atmospheric observations and models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Graven, H.; Fischer, M. L.; Lueker, T.; Jeong, S.; Guilderson, T. P.; Keeling, R. F.; Bambha, R.; Brophy, K.; Callahan, W.; Cui, X.; Frankenberg, C.; Gurney, K. R.; LaFranchi, B. W.; Lehman, S. J.; Michelsen, H.; Miller, J. B.; Newman, S.; Paplawsky, W.; Parazoo, N. C.; Sloop, C.; Walker, S. J.

2018-06-01

Analysis systems incorporating atmospheric observations could provide a powerful tool for validating fossil fuel CO2 (ffCO2) emissions reported for individual regions, provided that fossil fuel sources can be separated from other CO2 sources or sinks and atmospheric transport can be accurately accounted for. We quantified ffCO2 by measuring radiocarbon (14C) in CO2, an accurate fossil-carbon tracer, at nine observation sites in California for three months in 2014–15. There is strong agreement between the measurements and ffCO2 simulated using a high-resolution atmospheric model and a spatiotemporally-resolved fossil fuel flux estimate. Inverse estimates of total in-state ffCO2 emissions are consistent with the California Air Resources Board’s reported ffCO2 emissions, providing tentative validation of California’s reported ffCO2 emissions in 2014–15. Continuing this prototype analysis system could provide critical independent evaluation of reported ffCO2 emissions and emissions reductions in California, and the system could be expanded to other, more data-poor regions.

[Probiotics as functional food products: manufacture and approaches to evaluating of the effectiveness].

PubMed

Markova, Iu M; Sheveleva, S A

2014-01-01

This review concerns the issues of foodfortifications and the creation of functional foods (FF) and food supplements based on probiotics and covers an issue of approaches to the regulation of probiotic food products in various countries. The status of functional foods, optimizing GIT functions, as a separate category of FF is emphasized. Considering the strain-specificity effect of probiotics, the minimum criteria used for probiotics in food products are: 1) the need to identify a probiotics at genus, species, and strain levels, using the high-resolution techniques, 2) the viability and the presence of a sufficient amount of the probiotic in product at the end of shelf life, 3) the proof of functional characteristics inherent to probiotic strains, in the controlled experiments. The recommended by FA O/WHO three-stage evaluation procedure offunctional efficiency of FF includes: Phase I--safety assessment in in vitro and in vivo experiments, Phase II--Evaluation in the Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled trial (DBRPC) and Phase III--Post-approval monitoring. It is noted that along with the ability to obtain statistically significant results of the evaluation, there are practical difficulties of conducting DBRPC (duration, costs, difficulties in selection of target biomarkers and populations). The promising approach for assessing the functional efficacy of FF is the concept of nutrigenomics. It examines the link between the human diet and the characteristics of his genome to determine the influence of food on the expression of genes and, ultimately, to human health. Nutrigenomic approaches are promising to assess the impact of probiotics in healthy people. The focusing on the nutrigenomic response of intestinal microbial community and its individual populations (in this regard the lactobacilli can be very informative) was proposed.

Feasibility of Colliding-beam fast-fission reactor via 238U80++238 U80+ --> 4 FF + 5n + 430 MeV beam with suppressed plutonium and direct conversion of fission fragment (FF) energy into electricity and/or Rocket propellant with high specific impulse

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maglich, Bogdan; Hester, Tim; Calsec Collaboration

2015-10-01

Uranium-uranium colliding beam experiment1, used fully ionized 238U92+ at energy 100GeV --> <-- 100 GeV, has measured total σ = 487 b. Reaction rate of colliding beams is proportional to neutron flux-squared. First functional Auto-Collider3-6, a compact Migma IV, 1 m in diameter, had self-colliding deuterons, D+, of 725 KeV --> <-- 725 KeV, resulting in copious production of T and 3He. U +U Autocollider``EXYDER'' will use strong-focusing magnet7, which would increase reaction rate by 104. 80 times ionized U ions accelerated through 3 MV accelerator, will collide beam 240 MeV --> <-- 240 MeV. Reaction is: 238U80+ +238 U80+ --> 4 FF + 5n + 430 MeV. Using a simple model1 fission σf ~ 100 b. Suppression of Pu by a factor of 106 will be achieved because NO thermal neutron fission can take place; only fast, 1-3 MeV, where σabs is negligible. Direct conversion of 95% of 430 MeV produced is carried by electrically charged FFs which are magnetically funneled for direct conversion of energy of FFs via electrostatic decelerators4,11. 90% of 930 MeV is electrically recoverable. Depending on the assumptions, we project electric _ power density production of 20 to 200 MWe m-3, equivalent to Thermal 1.3 - 13 GWthm-3. If one-half of unburned U is used for propulsion while rest powers system, heavy FF ion mass provides specific impulse Isp = 106 sec., 103 times higher than current rocket engines.

Semi-inclusive production of two back-to-back hadron pairs in e+e- annihilation revisited

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Matevosyan, Hrayr H.; Bacchetta, Alessandro; Boer, Daniël; Courtoy, Aurore; Kotzinian, Aram; Radici, Marco; Thomas, Anthony W.

2018-04-01

The cross section for back-to-back hadron pair production in e+e- annihilation provides access to the dihadron fragmentation functions (DiFF) needed to extract nucleon parton distribution functions from the semi-inclusive deep inelastic scattering (SIDIS) experiments with two detected final state hadrons. Particular attention is given to the so-called interference DiFF (IFF), which makes it possible to extract the transversity parton distribution of the nucleon in the collinear framework. However, previously unnoticed discrepancies were recently highlighted between the definitions of the IFFs appearing in the collinear kinematics when reconstructed from DiFFs entering the unintegrated fully differential cross sections of SIDIS and e+e- annihilation processes. In this work, to clarify this problem we re-derive the fully differential cross section for e+e- annihilation at the leading-twist approximation. We find a mistake in the definition of the kinematics in the original expression that systematically affects a subset of terms and that leads to two significant consequences. First, the discrepancy between the IFF definitions in the cross sections for SIDIS and e+e- annihilation is resolved. Second, the previously derived azimuthal asymmetry for accessing the helicity dependent DiFF G1⊥ in e+e- annihilation vanishes, which explains the nonobservation of this asymmetry in the recent experimental searches by the BELLE collaboration. We discuss the recently proposed alternative option to extract G1⊥.

Beyond nutrient-based food indices: a data mining approach to search for a quantitative holistic index reflecting the degree of food processing and including physicochemical properties.

PubMed

Fardet, Anthony; Lakhssassi, Sanaé; Briffaz, Aurélien

2018-01-24

Processing has major impacts on both the structure and composition of food and hence on nutritional value. In particular, high consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) is associated with increased risks of obesity and diabetes. Unfortunately, existing food indices only focus on food nutritional content while failing to consider either food structure or the degree of processing. The objectives of this study were thus to link non-nutrient food characteristics (texture, water activity (a w ), glycemic and satiety potentials (FF), and shelf life) to the degree of processing; search for associations between these characteristics with nutritional composition; search for a holistic quantitative technological index; and determine quantitative rules for a food to be defined as UPF using data mining. Among the 280 most widely consumed foods by the elderly in France, 139 solid/semi-solid foods were selected for textural and a w measurements, and classified according to three degrees of processing. Our results showed that minimally-processed foods were less hyperglycemic, more satiating, had better nutrient profile, higher a w , shorter shelf life, lower maximum stress, and higher energy at break than UPFs. Based on 72 food variables, multivariate analyses differentiated foods according to their degree of processing. Then technological indices including food nutritional composition, a w , FF and textural parameters were tested against technological groups. Finally, a LIM score (nutrients to limit) ≥8 per 100 kcal and a number of ingredients/additives >4 are relevant, but not sufficient, rules to define UPFs. We therefore suggest that food health potential should be first defined by its degree of processing.

Final report on CIPM key comparison CCM.FF-K6.2011: Comparison of the primary (national) standards of low-pressure gas flow

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Benková, Miroslava; Makovnik, Stefan; Mickan, Bodo; Arias, Roberto; Chahine, Khaled; Funaki, Tatsuya; Li, Chunhui; Choi, Hae Man; Seredyuk, Denys; Su, Chun-Min; Windenberg, Christophe; Wright, John

2014-01-01

The comparison CCM.FF-K6.2011 was organized for the purpose of determination of the degree of equivalence of the national standards for low-pressure gas flow measurement over the range (2 to 100) m3/h. A rotary gas meter was used as a transfer standard. The measurements were provided at prescribed reference conditions. Eleven laboratories from four RMOs participated in this key comparison—EURAMET: PTB, Germany; SMU, Slovakia; LNE-LADG, France; SIM: NIST, USA; CENAM, Mexico; APMP: NMIJ AIST Japan; KRISS, Korea; NMI, Australia; NIM, China; CMS, Chinese Taipei; COOMET: GP GP Ivano-Frankivs'kstandart-metrologia, Ukraine and all participants reported independent traceability chains to the SI. All results were used in the determination of the key comparison reference value (KCRV) and the uncertainty of the KCRV. The reference value was determined at each flow separately following procedure A presented by M G Cox. The degree of equivalence with the KCRV was also calculated for each flow and laboratory. All reported results were consistent with the KCRV. This KCRV can now be used in the further regional comparisons. Main text. To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database kcdb.bipm.org/. The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCM, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).

Topological superfluids with finite-momentum pairing and Majorana fermions.

PubMed

Qu, Chunlei; Zheng, Zhen; Gong, Ming; Xu, Yong; Mao, Li; Zou, Xubo; Guo, Guangcan; Zhang, Chuanwei

2013-01-01

Majorana fermions (MFs), quantum particles that are their own antiparticles, are not only of fundamental importance in elementary particle physics and dark matter, but also building blocks for fault-tolerant quantum computation. Recently MFs have been intensively studied in solid state and cold atomic systems. These studies are generally based on superconducting pairing with zero total momentum. On the other hand, finite total momentum Cooper pairings, known as Fulde-Ferrell (FF) Larkin-Ovchinnikov (LO) states, were widely studied in many branches of physics. However, whether FF and LO superconductors can support MFs has not been explored. Here we show that MFs can exist in certain types of gapped FF states, yielding a new quantum matter: topological FF superfluids/superconductors. We demonstrate the existence of such topological FF superfluids and the associated MFs using spin-orbit-coupled degenerate Fermi gases and derive their parameter regions. The implementation of topological FF superconductors in semiconductor/superconductor heterostructures is also discussed.

Quantifying fossil fuel CO2 from continuous measurements of APO: a novel approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pickers, Penelope; Manning, Andrew C.; Forster, Grant L.; van der Laan, Sander; Wilson, Phil A.; Wenger, Angelina; Meijer, Harro A. J.; Oram, David E.; Sturges, William T.

2016-04-01

Using atmospheric measurements to accurately quantify CO2 emissions from fossil fuel sources requires the separation of biospheric and anthropogenic CO2 fluxes. The ability to quantify the fossil fuel component of CO2 (ffCO2) from atmospheric measurements enables more accurate 'top-down' verification of CO2 emissions inventories, which frequently have large uncertainty. Typically, ffCO2 is quantified (in ppm units) from discrete atmospheric measurements of Δ14CO2, combined with higher resolution atmospheric CO measurements, and with knowledge of CO:ffCO2 ratios. In the United Kingdom (UK), however, measurements of Δ14CO2 are often significantly biased by nuclear power plant influences, which limit the use of this approach. We present a novel approach for quantifying ffCO2 using measurements of APO (Atmospheric Potential Oxygen; a tracer derived from concurrent measurements of CO2 and O2) from two measurement sites in Norfolk, UK. Our approach is similar to that used for quantifying ffCO2 from CO measurements (ffCO2(CO)), whereby ffCO2(APO) = (APOmeas - APObg)/RAPO, where (APOmeas - APObg) is the APO deviation from the background, and RAPO is the APO:CO2 combustion ratio for fossil fuel. Time varying values of RAPO are calculated from the global gridded COFFEE (CO2 release and Oxygen uptake from Fossil Fuel Emission Estimate) dataset, combined with NAME (Numerical Atmospheric-dispersion Modelling Environment) transport model footprints. We compare our ffCO2(APO) results to results obtained using the ffCO2(CO) method, using CO:CO2 fossil fuel emission ratios (RCO) from the EDGAR (Emission Database for Global Atmospheric Research) database. We find that the APO ffCO2 quantification method is more precise than the CO method, owing primarily to a smaller range of possible APO:CO2 fossil fuel emission ratios, compared to the CO:CO2 emission ratio range. Using a long-term dataset of atmospheric O2, CO2, CO and Δ14CO2 from Lutjewad, The Netherlands, we examine the accuracy of our ffCO2(APO) method, and assess the potential of using APO to quantify ffCO2 independently from Δ14CO2 measurements, which, as well as being unreliable in many UK regions, are very costly. Using APO to quantify ffCO2 has significant policy relevance, with the potential to provide more accurate and more precise top-down verification of fossil fuel emissions.

The Fucosylation Inhibitor, 2-Fluorofucose, Inhibits Vaso-Occlusion, Leukocyte-Endothelium Interactions and NF-ĸB Activation in Transgenic Sickle Mice

PubMed Central

Belcher, John D.; Chen, Chunsheng; Nguyen, Julia; Abdulla, Fuad; Nguyen, Phong; Nguyen, Minh; Okeley, Nicole M.; Benjamin, Dennis R.; Senter, Peter D.; Vercellotti, Gregory M.

2015-01-01

2-Fluorofucose (2FF) blocks the fucosylation and the tethering of sialyl-Lewisx tetrasaccharide and structural variants on leukocytes and red blood cells to P- and E-selectins on activated endothelial cell surfaces. Because P- and E-selectin are required for vaso-occlusion in murine sickle cell disease (SCD), we investigated whether 2FF would inhibit vaso-occlusion in SCD mice. Microvascular stasis was measured in subcutaneous venules in NY1DD and HbSS-Townes SCD mice with dorsal skin-fold chambers after infusion of hemoglobin or exposure to hypoxia/reoxygenation. 2FF in drinking water or administered by gavage inhibited stasis in sickle mice in a dose-responsive manner. Significant inhibitory effects on stasis were seen 1 day post-treatment. 2FF treatment of SCD mice also significantly reduced leukocyte rolling and adhesion along the vessel walls of SCD mice and the static adhesion of neutrophils and sickle red blood cells isolated from 2FF-treated SCD mice to resting and activated endothelial cells. Total white blood cell counts increased in response to 2FF. NF-ĸB activation and VCAM-1 and E-selectin expression were inhibited in the livers of SCD mice consistent with an overall decrease in vascular inflammation and ischemia-reperfusion physiology. Pretreatment with 2FF completely eliminated heme-induced lethality in HbSS-Townes mice, consistent with the observed anti-inflammatory and anti-adhesive properties of 2FF in SCD mice. These data suggest that 2FF may be beneficial for preventing or treating vaso-occlusive crises in SCD patients. PMID:25706118

Associations between IVF outcomes and essential trace elements measured in follicular fluid and urine: a pilot study.

PubMed

Ingle, Mary E; Bloom, Michael S; Parsons, Patrick J; Steuerwald, Amy J; Kruger, Pamela; Fujimoto, Victor Y

2017-02-01

A hypothesis-generating pilot study exploring associations between essential trace elements measured in follicular fluid (FF) and urine and in vitro fertilization (IVF) endpoints. We recruited 58 women undergoing IVF between 2007 and 2008, and measured cobalt, chromium, copper, manganese, molybdenum, and zinc in FF (n = 46) and urine (n = 45) by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). We used multivariable regression models to assess the impact of FF and urine trace elements on IVF outcomes, adjusted for age, body mass index, race, and cigarette smoking. Trace elements were mostly present at lower concentrations in FF than in urine. The average number of oocytes retrieved was positively associated with higher urine cobalt, chromium, copper, and molybdenum concentrations. FF chromium and manganese were negatively associated with the proportion of mature oocytes, yet urine manganese had a positive association. FF zinc was inversely associated with average oocyte fertilization. Urine trace elements were significant positive predictors for the total number of embryos generated. FF copper predicted lower embryo fragmentation while urine copper was associated with higher embryo cell number and urine manganese with higher embryo fragmentation. No associations were detected for implantation, pregnancy, or live birth. Our results suggest the importance of trace elements in both FF and urine for intermediate, although not necessarily clinical, IVF endpoints. The results differed using FF or urine biomarkers of exposure, which may have implications for the design of clinical and epidemiologic investigations. These initial findings will form the basis of a more definitive future study.

Distinct GABAergic targets of feedforward and feedback connections between lower and higher areas of rat visual cortex.

PubMed

Gonchar, Yuri; Burkhalter, Andreas

2003-11-26

Processing of visual information is performed in different cortical areas that are interconnected by feedforward (FF) and feedback (FB) pathways. Although FF and FB inputs are excitatory, their influences on pyramidal neurons also depend on the outputs of GABAergic neurons, which receive FF and FB inputs. Rat visual cortex contains at least three different families of GABAergic neurons that express parvalbumin (PV), calretinin (CR), and somatostatin (SOM) (Gonchar and Burkhalter, 1997). To examine whether pathway-specific inhibition (Shao and Burkhalter, 1996) is attributable to distinct connections with GABAergic neurons, we traced FF and FB inputs to PV, CR, and SOM neurons in layers 1-2/3 of area 17 and the secondary lateromedial area in rat visual cortex. We found that in layer 2/3 maximally 2% of FF and FB inputs go to CR and SOM neurons. This contrasts with 12-13% of FF and FB inputs onto layer 2/3 PV neurons. Unlike inputs to layer 2/3, connections to layer 1, which contains CR but lacks SOM and PV somata, are pathway-specific: 21% of FB inputs go to CR neurons, whereas FF inputs to layer 1 and its CR neurons are absent. These findings suggest that FF and FB influences on layer 2/3 pyramidal neurons mainly involve disynaptic connections via PV neurons that control the spike outputs to axons and proximal dendrites. Unlike FF input, FB input in addition makes a disynaptic link via CR neurons, which may influence the excitability of distal pyramidal cell dendrites in layer 1.

Results of the supplementary comparison SIM.M.FF-S12 for volume of liquids at 20 L

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maldonado, M.; Castillo, E.; Rodríguez, L. D.

2018-01-01

A supplementary comparison was performed in order to compare national measurement systems to determine volume of liquids, particularly at fixed volume of 20 L. The participants were CENAM (Mexico), LACOMET (Costa Rica) and RECOPE (Costa Rica). The measurements were carried out from October 2016 to June 2017. The chosen value of volume (20 L) is representative of the Calibration and Measurement Capabilities (CMCs) declared by the three participants. The transfer standard (TS) was a stainless steel pipette for volume at 20 L. Prior to the beginning of the comparison, the TS was tested by CENAM. The results of the test phase showed excellent values for both repeatability and reproducibility. During the SIM.M.FF-S12, the results of the laboratories showed good agreement with the reference values. The best estimation of the measurands, as reported by the participants, showed a +/- 0.0022 % as the largest difference among the laboratories. Main text To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database kcdb.bipm.org/. The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCM, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).

VizieR Online Data Catalog: Galaxy candidates in the Hubble Frontier Fields (Laporte+, 2016)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Laporte, N.; Infante, L.; Troncoso Iribarren, P.; Zheng, W.; Molino, A.; Bauer, F. E.; Bina, D.; Broadhurst, T.; Chilingarian, I.; Garcia, S.; Kim, S.; Marques-Chaves, R.; Moustakas, J.; Pello, R.; Perez-Fournon, I.; Shu, X.; Streblyanska, A.; Zitrin, A.

2018-02-01

The Frontier Field (FF) project is carried out using HST Director's Discretionary Time and will use 840 orbits during Cycles 21, 22, and 23 with six strong-lensing galaxy clusters as the main targets. For each cluster, the final data set is composed of three images from ACS/HST (F435W, F606W, and F814W) and four images from WFC3/HST (F105W, F125W, F140W, and F160W) reaching depths of ~29 mag at 5σ in a 0.4" diameter aperture. In this study, we used the final data release on MACS J0717.5+3745 (z=0.551, Ebeling et al. 2004ApJ...609L..49E; Medezinski et al. 2013ApJ...777...43M) made public on 2015 April 1. This third cluster in the FF list has been observed by HST through several observing programs, mainly those related to CLASH (ID: 12103, PI: M. Postman) and the FFs (ID: 13498, PI: J. Lotz). We matched the HST data with deep Spitzer/IRAC images obtained from observations (ID: 90259) carried out from 2013 August to 2015 January combined with archival data from 2007 November to 2013 June. (6 data files).

Influence of Molecular Weight of Carriers and Processing Parameters on the Extrudability, Drug Release, and Stability of Fenofibrate Formulations Processed by Hot-Melt Extrusion.

PubMed

Alsulays, Bader B; Park, Jun-Bom; Alshehri, Sultan M; Morott, Joseph T; Alshahrani, Saad M; Tiwari, Roshan V; Alshetaili, Abdullah S; Majumdar, Soumyajit; Langley, Nigel; Kolter, Karl; Gryczke, Andreas; Repka, Michael A

2015-10-01

The objective of this study was to investigate the extrudability, drug release, and stability of fenofibrate (FF) formulations utilizing various hot-melt extrusion processing parameters and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) polymers of various molecular weights. The different PVP grades selected for this study were Kollidon ® 12 PF (K12), Kollidon ® 30 (K30), and Kollidon ® 90 F (K90). FF was extruded with these polymers at three drug loadings (15%, 25%, and 35% w/w). Additionally, for FF combined with each of the successfully extruded PVP grades (K12 and K30), the effects of two levels of processing parameters for screw design, screw speed, and barrel temperature were assessed. It was found that the FF with (K90) was not extrudable up to 35% drug loading. With low drug loading, the polymer viscosity significantly influenced the release of FF. The crystallinity remaining was vital in the highest drug-loaded formulation dissolution profile, and the glass transition temperature of the polymer significantly affected its stability. Modifying the screw configuration resulted in more than 95% post-extrusion drug content of the FF-K30 formulations. In contrast to FF-K30 formulations, FF release and stability with K12 were significantly influenced by the extrusion temperature and screw speed.

Atmospheric Fossil Fuel CO2 Traced by Δ(14)C in Beijing and Xiamen, China: Temporal Variations, Inland/Coastal Differences and Influencing Factors.

PubMed

Niu, Zhenchuan; Zhou, Weijian; Wu, Shugang; Cheng, Peng; Lu, Xuefeng; Xiong, Xiaohu; Du, Hua; Fu, Yunchong; Wang, Gehui

2016-06-07

One year of atmospheric Δ(14)CO2 were observed in 2014 in the inland city of Beijing and coastal city of Xiamen, China, to trace temporal CO2ff variations and to determine the factors influencing them. The average CO2ff concentrations at the sampling sites in Beijing and Xiamen were 39.7 ± 36.1 ppm and 13.6 ± 12.3 ppm, respectively. These contributed 75.2 ± 14.6% and 59.1 ± 26.8% to their respective annual ΔCO2 offsets over background CO2 concentrations. Significantly (p < 0.05) high CO2ff values were observed in winter in Beijing. We did not find any significant differences in CO2ff values between weekdays and weekends. Diurnal CO2ff variations were plainly evident, with high values between midnight and 4:00, and during morning and afternoon rush hours. The sampling site in the inland city of Beijing displayed much higher CO2ff inputs and overall temporal variations than the site in the coastal city of Xiamen. The variations of CO2ff at both sites were controlled by a combination of emission sources, topography, and atmospheric dispersion. In particular, diurnal observations at the urban site in Beijing showed that CO2ff was easily accumulated under the southeast wind conditions.

Interpersonal brain synchronization in the right temporo-parietal junction during face-to-face economic exchange.

PubMed

Tang, Honghong; Mai, Xiaoqin; Wang, Shun; Zhu, Chaozhe; Krueger, Frank; Liu, Chao

2016-01-01

In daily life, interpersonal interactions are influenced by uncertainty about other people's intentions. Face-to-face (FF) interaction reduces such uncertainty by providing external visible cues such as facial expression or body gestures and facilitates shared intentionality to promote belief of cooperative decisions and actual cooperative behaviors in interaction. However, so far little is known about interpersonal brain synchronization between two people engaged in naturally occurring FF interactions. In this study, we combined an adapted ultimatum game with functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) hyperscanning to investigate how FF interaction impacts interpersonal brain synchronization during economic exchange. Pairs of strangers interacted repeatedly either FF or face-blocked (FB), while their activation was simultaneously measured in the right temporo-parietal junction (rTPJ) and the control region, right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (rDLPFC). Behaviorally, FF interactions increased shared intentionality between strangers, leading more positive belief of cooperative decisions and more actual gains in the game. FNIRS results indicated increased interpersonal brain synchronizations during FF interactions in rTPJ (but not in rDLPFC) with greater shared intentionality between partners. These results highlighted the importance of rTPJ in collaborative social interactions during FF economic exchange and warrant future research that combines FF interactions with fNIRS hyperscanning to study social brain disorders such as autism. © The Author (2015). Published by Oxford University Press. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

The General Amino Acid Permease FfGap1 of Fusarium fujikuroi Is Sorted to the Vacuole in a Nitrogen-Dependent, but Npr1 Kinase-Independent Manner

PubMed Central

Pfannmüller, Andreas; Wagner, Dominik; Sieber, Christian; Schönig, Birgit; Boeckstaens, Mélanie; Marini, Anna Maria; Tudzynski, Bettina

2015-01-01

The rice pathogenic fungus Fusarium fujikuroi is well known for the production of a broad spectrum of secondary metabolites (SMs) such as gibberellic acids (GAs), mycotoxins and pigments. The biosynthesis of most of these SMs strictly depends on nitrogen availability and of the activity of permeases of nitrogen sources, e.g. the ammonium and amino acid permeases. One of the three ammonium permeases, MepB, was recently shown to act not only as a transporter but also as a nitrogen sensor affecting the production of nitrogen-repressed SMs. Here we describe the identification of a general amino acid permease, FfGap1, among the 99 putative amino acid permeases (AAPs) in the genome of F. fujikuroi. FfGap1 is able to fully restore growth of the yeast gap1∆ mutant on several amino acids including citrulline and tryptophane. In S. cerevisiae, Gap1 activity is regulated by shuttling between the plasma membrane (nitrogen limiting conditions) and the vacuole (nitrogen sufficiency), which we also show for FfGap1. In yeast, the Npr1 serine/threonine kinase stabilizes the Gap1 position at the plasma membrane. Here, we identified and characterized three NPR1-homologous genes, encoding the putative protein kinases FfNpr1-1, FfNpr1-2 and FfNpr1-3 with significant similarity to yeast Npr1. Complementation of the yeast npr1Δ mutant with each of the three F. fujikuroi NPR1 homologues, resulted in partial restoration of ammonium, arginine and proline uptake by FfNPR1-1 while none of the three kinases affect growth on different nitrogen sources and nitrogen-dependent sorting of FfGap1 in F. fujikuroi. However, exchange of the putative ubiquitin-target lysine 9 (K9A) and 15 (K15A) residues of FfGap1 resulted in extended localization to the plasma membrane and increased protein stability independently of nitrogen availability. These data suggest a similar regulation of FfGap1 by nitrogen-dependent ubiquitination, but differences regarding the role of Fusarium Npr1 homologues compared to yeast. PMID:25909858

Validation of Western North America Models based on finite-frequency and ray theory imaging methods

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

Larmat, Carene; Maceira, Monica; Porritt, Robert W.

2015-02-02

We validate seismic models developed for western North America with a focus on effect of imaging methods on data fit. We use the DNA09 models for which our collaborators provide models built with both the body-­wave FF approach and the RT approach, when the data selection, processing and reference models are the same.

Atmospheric fossil fuel CO2 traced by 14CO2 and air quality index pollutant observations in Beijing and Xiamen, China.

PubMed

Niu, Zhenchuan; Zhou, Weijian; Feng, Xue; Feng, Tian; Wu, Shugang; Cheng, Peng; Lu, Xuefeng; Du, Hua; Xiong, Xiaohu; Fu, Yunchong

2018-06-01

Radiocarbon ( 14 C) is the most accurate tracer available for quantifying atmospheric CO 2 derived from fossil fuel (CO 2ff ), but it is expensive and time-consuming to measure. Here, we used common hourly Air Quality Index (AQI) pollutants (AQI, PM 2.5 , PM 10 , and CO) to indirectly trace diurnal CO 2ff variations during certain days at the urban sites in Beijing and Xiamen, China, based on linear relationships between AQI pollutants and CO 2ff traced by 14 C ([Formula: see text]) for semimonthly samples obtained in 2014. We validated these indirectly traced CO 2ff (CO 2ff-in ) concentrations against [Formula: see text] concentrations traced by simultaneous diurnal 14 CO 2 observations. Significant (p < 0.05) strong correlations were observed between each of the separate AQI pollutants and [Formula: see text] for the semimonthly samples. Diurnal variations in CO 2ff traced by each of the AQI pollutants generally showed similar trends to those of [Formula: see text], with high agreement at the sampling site in Beijing and relatively poor agreement at the sampling site in Xiamen. AQI pollutant tracers showed high normalized root-mean-square (NRMS) errors for the summer diurnal samples due to low [Formula: see text] concentrations. After the removal of these summer samples, the NRMS errors for AQI pollutant tracers were in the range of 31.6-64.2%. CO generally showed a high agreement and low NRMS errors among these indirect tracers. Based on these linear relationships, monthly CO 2ff averages at the sampling sites in Beijing and Xiamen were traced using CO concentration as a tracer. The monthly CO 2ff averages at the Beijing site showed a shallow U-type variation. These results indicate that CO can be used to trace CO 2ff variations in Chinese cities with CO 2ff concentrations above 5 ppm.

Fluticasone furoate/vilanterol once daily improves night-time awakenings in asthma patients with night symptoms; post-hoc analyses of three randomized controlled trials.

PubMed

Kerwin, Edward; Barnes, Neil; Gibbs, Michael; Leather, David; Forth, Richard; Jacques, Loretta; Yates, Louisa J

2017-08-07

Symptoms, including night-time awakenings, affect the quality of life of people with asthma. Fluticasone furoate/vilanterol (FF/VI) reduces exacerbations, improves lung function, and rescue-free and symptom-free 24-hour periods in patients with asthma. These post-hoc analyses compared daytime and night-time symptoms in patients with asthma who received FF/VI, versus FF, fluticasone propionate (FP) or placebo. Daytime and night-time symptoms were collected via electronic daily diary cards in three Phase III randomized studies of once-daily FF/VI in patients with uncontrolled asthma on inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) ±long-acting beta 2 -agonists (LABA) (n = 609/1039/586). Endpoints included: change from baseline in symptom-free days and nights (analyzed by Analysis of Covariance, covariates: baseline, region, sex, age, treatment), time for patients to achieve 7 consecutive symptom-free nights (analyzed by Cox proportional hazards model, covariates as above), and proportion of patients experiencing 100% symptom-free nights per week (analyzed by logistic regression, covariates: percentage of symptom-free nights, sex, age, treatment). Improvements in symptom-free days and nights were generally observed for all treatments. More patients who received FF/VI experienced 100% symptom-free nights in the last week of the treatment period than patients who received ICS alone or placebo. FF/VI also reduced time to 7 consecutive symptom-free nights. Patients with at least one night of symptoms at baseline experienced an additional 2.7 and 2.0 symptom-free nights per week with FF/VI 100/25 µg, versus 1.9 and 1.7 with FF alone; similar findings were seen with FF/VI 200/25 µg. Benefits in terms of symptom-free days and nights were observed for patients receiving FF/VI versus comparators in these post-hoc analyses.

Calibration of the pressure sensitivity of microphones by a free-field method at frequencies up to 80 khz.

PubMed

Zuckerwar, Allan J; Herring, G C; Elbing, Brian R

2006-01-01

A free-field (FF) substitution method for calibrating the pressure sensitivity of microphones at frequencies up to 80 kHz is demonstrated with both grazing and normal-incidence geometries. The substitution-based method, as opposed to a simultaneous method, avoids problems associated with the nonuniformity of the sound field and, as applied here, uses a 1/4-in. air-condenser pressure microphone as a known reference. Best results were obtained with a centrifugal fan, which is used as a random, broadband sound source. A broadband source minimizes reflection-related interferences that can plague FF measurements. Calibrations were performed on 1/4-in. FF air-condenser, electret, and microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) microphones in an anechoic chamber. The uncertainty of this FF method is estimated by comparing the pressure sensitivity of an air-condenser FF microphone, as derived from the FF measurement, with that of an electrostatic actuator calibration. The root-mean-square difference is found to be +/- 0.3 dB over the range 1-80 kHz, and the combined standard uncertainty of the FF method, including other significant contributions, is +/- 0.41 dB.

Structural Shielding Design of a 6 MV Flattening Filter Free Linear Accelerator: Indian Scenario.

PubMed

Mishra, Bibekananda; Selvam, T Palani; Sharma, P K Dash

2017-01-01

Detailed structural shielding of primary and secondary barriers for a 6 MV medical linear accelerator (LINAC) operated with flattening filter (FF) and flattening filter free (FFF) modes are calculated. The calculations have been carried out by two methods, one using the approach given in National Council on Radiation Protection (NCRP) Report No. 151 and the other based on the monitor units (MUs) delivered in clinical practice. Radiation survey of the installations was also carried out. NCRP approach suggests that the primary and secondary barrier thicknesses are higher by 24% and 26%. respectively, for a LINAC operated in FF mode to that of a LINAC operated in both FF and FFF modes with an assumption that only 20% of the workload is shared in FFF mode. Primary and secondary barrier thicknesses calculated from MUs delivered on clinical practice method also show the same trend and are higher by 20% and 19%, respectively, for a LINAC operated in FF mode to that of a LINAC operated in both FF and FFF modes. Overall, the barrier thickness for a LINAC operated in FF mode is higher about 20% to that of a LINAC operated in both FF and FFF modes.

Structural Shielding Design of a 6 MV Flattening Filter Free Linear Accelerator: Indian Scenario

PubMed Central

Mishra, Bibekananda; Selvam, T. Palani; Sharma, P. K. Dash

2017-01-01

Detailed structural shielding of primary and secondary barriers for a 6 MV medical linear accelerator (LINAC) operated with flattening filter (FF) and flattening filter free (FFF) modes are calculated. The calculations have been carried out by two methods, one using the approach given in National Council on Radiation Protection (NCRP) Report No. 151 and the other based on the monitor units (MUs) delivered in clinical practice. Radiation survey of the installations was also carried out. NCRP approach suggests that the primary and secondary barrier thicknesses are higher by 24% and 26%. respectively, for a LINAC operated in FF mode to that of a LINAC operated in both FF and FFF modes with an assumption that only 20% of the workload is shared in FFF mode. Primary and secondary barrier thicknesses calculated from MUs delivered on clinical practice method also show the same trend and are higher by 20% and 19%, respectively, for a LINAC operated in FF mode to that of a LINAC operated in both FF and FFF modes. Overall, the barrier thickness for a LINAC operated in FF mode is higher about 20% to that of a LINAC operated in both FF and FFF modes. PMID:28405104

Information Hiding based Trusted Computing System Design

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-07-18

ABSTRACT 15. SUBJECT TERMS 18. NUMBER OF PAGES 19a. NAME OF RESPONSIBLE PERSON a. REPORT b . ABSTRACT c. THIS PAGE 17. LIMITATION OF...system with two flip flops (FF) and some logic gates (Figure 1 ( b )). First, from Figure 1(a), we see that when the system is at state B and input is 0...FF2 is 1, which reflects the current state B , if input = 0, we can easily verify that FF1 remains unchanged, but FF2 changes to 0. This means that

Validation and Application of the ReaxFF Reactive Force Field to Hydrocarbon Oxidation Kinetics

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-06-23

AFRL-AFOSR-VA-TR-2016-0278 Validation and application of the ReaxFF reactive force field to hydrocarbon oxidation kinetics Adrianus Van Duin...application of the ReaxFF reactive force field to hydrocarbon oxidation kinetics 5a.  CONTRACT NUMBER 5b.  GRANT NUMBER FA9550-14-1-0355 5c.  PROGRAM...Chenoweth Dec14 Validation and application of the ReaxFF reactive force field to hydrocarbon oxidation kinetics DISTRIBUTION A: Distribution approved for

Laser Cooling and Slowing of a Diatomic Molecule

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-12-01

mirror ( Semrock , FF669-Di01) before passing through the interaction region along the 3 mm axis of the slit. Windows are home-made Brewster windows (See... Semrock FF669-Di01 and Semrock FF741-Di01) and a polarizing beam splitter (PBS) to produce a single beam with 1e2 full width intensity waist d = 3.4 mm...pixels as possible, thereby reducing read noise and dark current noise. Behind the camera lens is a single interference filter ( Semrock , FF01-650/60, 24

The effect of adding fish oil to parenteral nutrition on hepatic mononuclear cell function and survival after intraportal bacterial challenge in mice.

PubMed

Moriya, Tomoyuki; Fukatsu, Kazuhiko; Maeshima, Yoshinori; Ikezawa, Fumie; Hashiguchi, Yojiro; Saitoh, Daizoh; Miyazaki, Masaru; Hase, Kazuo; Yamamoto, Junji

2012-05-01

Parenteral nutrition (PN) is indispensable for meeting caloric and substrate needs of patients who cannot receive adequate amounts of enteral nutrition; however, PN impairs hepatic immunity. We examined the effects of ω-3 and -6 polyunsaturated fatty acids, added individually to fat-free PN, on hepatic immunity in a murine model. We focused on serum liver enzymes, cytokine production, histopathology, and the outcomes after intraportal bacterial challenge. Male Institute of Cancer Research mice were randomized into 4 groups; ad libitum chow (CHOW), fat-free PN (FF-PN), PN + fish oil (FO-PN), or PN + safflower oil (SO-PN). After the mice had been fed for 5 days, hepatic mononuclear cells (MNCs) were isolated. The number of MNCs was counted and cytokine production (tumor necrosis factor [TNF]-α and interleukin [IL]-10) by hepatic MNCs in response to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was measured. Blood samples were analyzed for hepatobiliary biochemical parameters. Moreover, 1.0 × 10(7) pseudomonas aeruginosa were delivered by intraportal injection. Survival and histology were examined. Hepatic MNC numbers were significantly less in the FO-PN and FF-PN than in the CHOW group, whereas the SO-PN group showed moderate recovery of hepatic MNC numbers. The CHOW, FO-PN, and SO-PN groups showed LPS dose-dependent increases in TNF-α levels. These increases were blunted in the FF-PN group. IL-10 levels were increased LPS dose-dependently in the CHOW and FO-PN groups, but no marked changes were observed with LPS stimulation in the SO-PN and FF-PN groups. Plasma levels of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase were significantly greater in the FF-PN than in the FO- and SO-PN and CHOW groups. The FO-PN group showed significantly improved survival compared with the SO-PN and FF-PN groups, showing essentially no morphologic hepatic abnormalities. Addition of fish oil to PN was advantageous in terms of reversing PN-induced deterioration of hepatic immunity, as reflected by altered cytokine production. Fish oil administration was also useful for preventing PN-induced hepatobiliary dysfunction. These changes seem to result in better survival and to protect against severe tissue damage after intraportal bacterial challenge. This therapy may have the potential to ameliorate PN-induced impairment of host immunity and thereby decrease morbidity and mortality. Copyright © 2012 Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

The interaction of metergoline, a 5-HT receptor blocker, and dexfenfluramine in human feeding.

PubMed

Goodall, E; Silverstone, T

1988-01-01

Use of the 5-HT antagonist metergoline (MTG) has shown that dexfenfluramine (d-FF) influences food intake in animals via serotoninergic neurones. This study examined the interaction between d-FF and MTG in humans. Healthy male volunteers reported singly at 8:45 A.M. on four weekly occasions following an overnight fast. At 9:00 A.M. they received 30 mg d-FF or matching placebo and at 11:00 A.M. 4 mg MTG or placebo. Hunger and satiety were assessed hourly using visual analog scales (VAS). Subjects had access to a 4-channel automated food dispenser (AFD) from 1:15 to 3:15 P.M. Delivery and recording of each portion of known energy value was contingent on an appropriate button push. Subjects were offered two nonsweet snacks, plus fruit and a chocolate biscuit chosen to each subject's preference. Results for 13 subjects are reported. d-FF reduced hunger VAS, MTG had no effect on hunger and did not attenuate the effect of d-FF. d-FF reduced total food intake by 1306 kJ (312 kcal p less than 0.01) at 120 min. MTG increased food intake and attenuated the effect of d-FF on food intake but not significantly. d-FF markedly reduced the intake of nonsweet food; this was attenuated by MTG which alone had no effect on nonsweet food. d-FF had no effect on the intake of sweet tasting food during the first hour; by 120 min it had reduced energy intake by 342 kJ (82 kcal, t = 1.34, n.s.).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Preparation, characterization, and pharmacokinetics of tilmicosin- and florfenicol-loaded hydrogenated castor oil-solid lipid nanoparticles.

PubMed

Ling, Z; Yonghong, L; Changqing, S; Junfeng, L; Li, Z; Chunyu, J; Xianqiang, L

2017-06-01

To effectively control bovine mastitis, tilmicosin (TIL)- and florfenicol (FF)-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) with hydrogenated castor oil (HCO) were prepared by a hot homogenization and ultrasonication method. In vitro antibacterial activity, properties, and pharmacokinetics of the TIL-FF-SLN were studied. The results demonstrated that TIL and FF had a synergistic or additive antibacterial activity against Streptococcus dysgalactiae, Streptococcus uberis, and Streptococcus agalactiae. The size, polydispersity index, and zeta potential of nanoparticles were 289.1 ± 13.7 nm, 0.31 ± 0.05, and -26.7 ± 1.3 mV, respectively. The encapsulation efficiencies for TIL and FF were 62.3 ± 5.9% and 85.1 ± 5.2%, and the loading capacities for TIL and FF were 8.2 ± 0.6% and 3.3 ± 0.2%, respectively. The TIL-FF-SLN showed no irritation in the injection site and sustained release in vitro. After medication, TIL and FF could maintain about 0.1 μg/mL for 122 and 6 h. Compared to the control solution, the SLN increased the area under the concentration-time curve (AUC 0-t ), elimination half-life (T ½ke ), and mean residence time (MRT) of TIL by 33.09-, 23.29-, and 37.53-fold, and 1.69-, 5.00-, and 3.83-fold for FF, respectively. These results of this exploratory study suggest that the HCO-SLN could be a useful system for the delivery of TIL and FF for bovine mastitis therapy. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Child-targeted fast-food television advertising exposure is linked with fast-food intake among pre-school children.

PubMed

Dalton, Madeline A; Longacre, Meghan R; Drake, Keith M; Cleveland, Lauren P; Harris, Jennifer L; Hendricks, Kristy; Titus, Linda J

2017-06-01

To determine whether exposure to child-targeted fast-food (FF) television (TV) advertising is associated with children's FF intake in a non-experimental setting. Cross-sectional survey conducted April-December 2013. Parents reported their pre-school child's TV viewing time, channels watched and past-week FF consumption. Responses were combined with a list of FF commercials (ads) aired on children's TV channels during the same period to calculate children's exposure to child-targeted TV ads for the following chain FF restaurants: McDonald's, Subway and Wendy's (MSW). Paediatric and Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) clinics in New Hampshire, USA. Parents (n 548) with a child of pre-school age. Children's mean age was 4·4 years; 43·2 % ate MSW in the past week. Among the 40·8 % exposed to MSW ads, 23·3 % had low, 34·2 % moderate and 42·5 % high exposure. McDonald's accounted for over 70 % of children's MSW ad exposure and consumption. Children's MSW consumption was significantly associated with their ad exposure, but not overall TV viewing time. After adjusting for demographics, socio-economic status and other screen time, moderate MSW ad exposure was associated with a 31 % (95 % CI 1·12, 1·53) increase and high MSW ad exposure with a 26 % (95 % CI 1·13, 1·41) increase in the likelihood of consuming MSW in the past week. Further adjustment for parent FF consumption did not change the findings substantially. Exposure to child-targeted FF TV advertising is positively associated with FF consumption among children of pre-school age, highlighting the vulnerability of young children to persuasive advertising and supporting recommendations to limit child-directed FF marketing.

Follicular fluid total antioxidant capacity levels in PCOS.

PubMed

Yilmaz, Nafiye; Inal, Hasan Ali; Gorkem, Umit; Sargin Oruc, Ayla; Yilmaz, Saynur; Turkkani, Ayten

2016-07-01

In this study, our aim was to assess total antioxidant capacity (TAC) levels in follicular fluid (FF) and their relationship to clinical pregnancy rates in PCOS patients undergoing assisted reproduction (ART). Twenty-two women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) (Group 1) and 41 women without PCOS (Group 2) were included in this study. Clinical and laboratory parameters and FF TAC levels were investigated. No statistically significant differences were found between the groups with regard to age and baseline parameters. Although we could not demonstrate a significant difference in FF TAC levels between the two groups (p=0.469), there was a significant positive correlation between FF TAC and clinical pregnancy rates, BMI, and the duration of infertility for the entire group (r=0.254, p=0.048; r=0.312, p=0.013; r=0.259, p=0.040; respectively). Owing to the correlation between FF TAC and the clinical pregnancy rates, further studies evaluating the impact of FF TAC levels on ART outcomes in patients with PCOS and other etiologies of infertility are needed.

Control advances for achieving the ITER baseline scenario on KSTAR

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Eidietis, N. W.; Barr, J.; Hahn, S. H.; Humphreys, D. A.; in, Y. K.; Jeon, Y. M.; Lanctot, M. J.; Mueller, D.; Walker, M. L.

2017-10-01

Control methodologies developed to enable successful production of ITER baseline scenario (IBS) plasmas on the superconducting KSTAR tokamak are presented: decoupled vertical control (DVC), real-time feedforward (rtFF) calculation, and multi-input multi-output (MIMO) X-point control. DVC provides fast vertical control with the in-vessel control coils (IVCC) while sharing slow vertical control with the poloidal field (PF) coils to avoid IVCC saturation. rtFF compensates for inaccuracies in offline PF current feedforward programming, allowing reduction or removal of integral gain (and its detrimental phase lag) from the shape controller. Finally, MIMO X-point control provides accurate positioning of the X-point despite low controllability due to the large distance between coils and plasma. Combined, these techniques enabled achievement of IBS parameters (q95 = 3.2, βN = 2) with a scaled ITER shape on KSTAR. n =2 RMP response displays a strong dependence upon this shaping. Work supported by the US DOE under Award DE-SC0010685 and the KSTAR project.

PCOS women show significantly higher homocysteine level, independent to glucose and E2 level

PubMed Central

Eskandari, Zahra; Sadrkhanlou, Rajab-Ali; Nejati, Vahid; Tizro, Gholamreza

2016-01-01

Background: It is reasonable to think that some biochemical characteristics of follicular fluid (FF) surrounding the oocyte may play a critical role in determining the quality of oocyte and the subsequent potential needed to achieve fertilization and embryo development. Objective: This study was carried out to evaluate the levels of FF homocysteine (Hcy) in IVF candidate polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) women and any relationships with FF glucose and estradiol (E2) levels. Materials and Methods: In this case control study which was performed in Dr. Tizro Day Care and IVF Center 70 infertile patients were enrolled in two groups: comprising 35 PCOS and 35 non PCOS women. Long protocol was performed for all patients. FF Hcy, glucose and E2 levels were analyzed at the time of oocyte retrieval. Results: It was observed that FF Hcy level was significantly higher in PCOS patients compared with non PCOSs (p<0.01). Observations demonstrated that in PCOS group, the Hcy level increased independent to E2, glucose levels, BMI and age, while the PCOS group showed significantly higher BMI compared with non-PCOS group (p=0.03). However, no significant differences were revealed between groups for FF glucose and E2 levels. Conclusion: Present data showed that although FF glucose and E2 levels were constant in PCOS and non PCOS patients, but the FF Hcy levels in PCOS were significantly increased (p=0.01). PMID:27679823

6. FF coal pulverizer (ball mill inside). GG building in ...

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

6. FF coal pulverizer (ball mill inside). GG building in background did preliminary crushing; pulverizer to left, coal conveyor and air cleaning towers to right; conveyor on left brought crushed coal to FF. Looking north/northeast - Rouge Steel Company, 3001 Miller Road, Dearborn, MI

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

Pouvreau, Maxime; Greathouse, Jeffery A.; Cygan, Randall T.

Molecular scale understanding of the structure and properties of aqueous interfaces with clays, metal (oxy-) hydroxides, layered double hydroxides, and other inorganic phases is strongly affected by significant degrees of structural and compositional disorder of the interfaces. ClayFF was originally developed as a robust and flexible force field for classical molecular simulations of such systems. However, despite its success, multiple limitations have also become evident with its use. One of the most important limitations is the difficulty to accurately model the edges of finite size nanoparticles or pores rather than infinitely layered periodic structures. Here we propose a systematic approachmore » to solve this problem by developing specific metal–O–H (M–O–H) bending terms for ClayFF, E bend = k (θ – θ 0) 2 to better describe the structure and dynamics of singly protonated hydroxyl groups at mineral surfaces, particularly edge surfaces. On the basis of a series of DFT calculations, the optimal values of the Al–O–H and Mg–O–H parameters for Al and Mg in octahedral coordination are determined to be θ 0,AlOH = θ 0,MgOH = 110°, k AlOH = 15 kcal mol –1 rad –2 and k MgOH = 6 kcal mol –1 rad –2. Molecular dynamics simulations were performed for fully hydrated models of the basal and edge surfaces of gibbsite, Al(OH) 3, and brucite, Mg(OH) 2, at the DFT level of theory and at the classical level, using ClayFF with and without the M–O–H term. The addition of the new bending term leads to a much more accurate representation of the orientation of O–H groups at the basal and edge surfaces. Finally, the previously observed unrealistic desorption of OH 2 groups from the particle edges within the original ClayFF model is also strongly constrained by the new modification.« less

Nespoli performs periodic maintenance on the PuFF Experiment

NASA Image and Video Library

2011-02-14

ISS026-E-027009 (14 Feb. 2011) --- European Space Agency (ESA) astronaut Paolo Nespoli, Expedition 26 flight engineer, performs periodic maintenance on the Pulmonary Function in Flight (PuFF) experiment by re-greasing the PuFF calibration syringe in the Columbus laboratory of the International Space Station.

Multiscale Architectures and Parallel Algorithms for Video Object Tracking

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-10-01

0 4 : if FIFO1 contains nDt frames then 5: Partition data into blocks. 6: Put SPE control block information...char buf 4 = FF; vec to r unsigned char buf 5 = FF; vec to r unsigned char buf 6 = FF; vec to r unsigned char buf 7 = FF; for ( j = 0 ; j < s i z e ; j...Public Release; Distribution Unlimited 8 7 u 6 ill :J (;) 5 E -;::; c 0 4 ~ u Q) X 3 Q) 8 7 6 u Q) Ul 5 :J (;) E :;::; 4 c 0

"Atypical" chronic wasting disease in PRNP genotype 225FF mule deer.

PubMed

Wolfe, Lisa L; Fox, Karen A; Miller, Michael W

2014-07-01

We compared mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) of two different PRNP genotypes (225SS, 225FF) for susceptibility to chronic wasting disease (CWD) in the face of environmental exposure to infectivity. All three 225SS deer had immunohistochemistry (IHC)-positive tonsil biopsies by 710 days postexposure (dpe), developed classic clinical signs by 723-1,200 dpe, and showed gross and microscopic pathology, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) results, and IHC staining typical of prion disease in mule deer. In contrast, although all three 225FF deer also became infected, the two individuals surviving >720 dpe had consistently negative biopsies, developed more-subtle clinical signs of CWD, and died 924 or 1,783 dpe. The 225FF deer were "suspect" by ELISA postmortem but showed negative or equivocal IHC staining of lymphoid tissues; both clinically affected 225FF deer had spongiform encephalopathy in the absence of IHC staining in the brain tissue. The experimental cases resembled three cases encountered among five additional captive 225FF deer that were not part of our experiment but also died from CWD. Aside from differences in clinical disease presentation and detection, 225FF mule deer also showed other, more-subtle, atypical traits that may help to explain the rarity of this genotype in natural populations, even in the presence of enzootic CWD.

Development of a united-atom force field for 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium tetracyanoborate ionic liquid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koller, Thomas; Ramos, Javier; Garrido, Nuno M.; Fröba, Andreas P.; Economou, Ioannis G.

2012-06-01

Three united-atom (UA) force fields are presented for the ionic liquid 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium tetracyanoborate, abbreviated as [EMIM]+[B(CN)4]-. The atomistic charges were calculated based on the restrained electrostatic potential (RESP) of the isolated ions (abbreviated as force field 1, FF-1) and the ensemble averaged RESP (EA-RESP) method from the most stable ion pair configurations obtained by MP2/6-31G*+ calculations (abbreviated as FF-2 and FF-3). Non-electrostatic parameters for both ions were taken from the literature and Lennard-Jones parameters for the [B(CN)4]- anion were fitted in two different ways to reproduce the experimental liquid density. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were performed over a wide temperature range to identify the effect of the electrostatic and non-electrostatic potential on the liquid density and on transport properties such as self-diffusion coefficient and viscosity. Predicted liquid densities for the three parameter sets deviate less than 0.5% from experimental data. The molecular mobility with FF-2 and FF-3 using reduced charge sets is appreciably faster than that obtained with FF-1. FF-3 presents a refined non-electrostatic potential that leads to a notable improvement in both transport properties when compared to experimental data.

Evaluation of bakanae disease progression caused by Fusarium fujikuroi in Oryza sativa L.

PubMed

Hwang, In Sun; Kang, Woo-Ri; Hwang, Duk-Ju; Bae, Shin-Chul; Yun, Sung-Hwan; Ahn, Il-Pyung

2013-12-01

Bakanae disease caused by Fusarium fujikuroi is an important fungal disease in rice. Among the seven strains isolated from symptomatic rice grains in this study, one strain, FfB14, triggered severe root growth inhibition and decay in the crown and root of rice seedlings. The remaining six strains caused typical Bakanae symptoms such as etiolation and abnormal succulent rice growth. To reveal the relationship between mycelial growth in the infected tissues and Bakanae disease progression, we have established a reliable quantification method using real time PCR that employs a primer pair and dual-labeled probe specific to a unigene encoding F. fujikuroi PNG1 (FfPNG1), which is located upstream of the fumonisin biosynthesis gene cluster. Plotting the crossing point (CP) values from the infected tissue DNAs on a standard curve revealed the active fungal growth of FfB14 in the root and crown of rice seedlings, while the growth rate of FfB20 in rice was more than 4 times lower than FfB14. Massive infective mycelial growth of FfB14 was evident in rice stems and crown; however, FfB20 did not exhibit vigorous growth. Our quantitative evaluation system is applicable for the identification of fungal virulence factors other than gibberellin.

SU-E-T-215: Comparison of VMAT-SABR Treatment Plans with Flattened Filter (FF) Beam and Flattening Filter-Free (FFF) Beam for Localized Prostate Cancer

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

Chung, J; Kim, J; Kang, S

2015-06-15

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to access VMAT-SABR plan using flattening filter (FF) and flattening filter-free (FFF) beam, and compare the verification results for all pretreatment plans. Methods: SABR plans for 20 prostate patients were optimized in the Eclipse treatment planning system. A prescription dose was 42.7 Gy/7 fractions. Four SABR plans for each patient were calculated using Acuros XB algorithm with both FF and FFF beams of 6- and 10-MV. The dose-volume histograms (DVH) and technical parameters were recorded and compared. A pretreatment verification was performed and the gamma analysis was used to quantify the agreement betweenmore » calculations and measurements. Results: For each patient, the DVHs are closely similar for plans of four different beams. There are small differences showed in dose distributions and corresponding DVHs when comparing the each plan related to the same patient. Sparing on bladder and rectum was slightly better on plans with 10-MV FF and FFF than with 6-MV FF and FFF, but this difference was negligible. However, there was no significance in the other OARs. The mean agreement of 3%/3mm criteria was higher than 97% in all plans. The mean MUs and deliver time employed was 1701±101 and 3.02±0.17 min for 6-MV FF, 1870±116 and 1.69±0.08 min for 6-MV FFF, 1471±86 and 2.68±0.14 min for 10-MV FF, and 1619±101 and 0.98±0.04 min for 10-MV FFF, respectively. Conclusion: Dose distributions on prostate SABR plans using FFF beams were similar to those generated by FF beams. However, the use of FFF beam offers a clear benefit in delivery time when compared to FF beam. Verification of pretreatment also represented the acceptable and comparable results in all plans using FF beam as well as FFF beam. Therefore, this study suggests that the use of FFF beam is feasible and efficient technique for prostate SABR.« less

Final report on the key comparison of hydrocarbon liquid flow: CCM.FF-K2.2015

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shimada, T.; Bittner-Rohrhofer, K.; Medina López, V. J.; Arias, R.; Su, C.-M.; Chen, I.-C.; Ribere, F.; Rowan, L.; Dignan, S.

2016-01-01

Seven laboratories: BEV (Austria), CENAM (Mexico), CMS (Chinese-Taipei), LNE-TRAPIL (France), NEL (United Kingdom), NMIA (Australia), and the pilot lab NMIJ (Japan), participated in the key comparison CCM.FF-K2.2015 for hydrocarbon flow measurement. A screw type positive displacement flow meter was selected as a transfer standard. The calibration stability of the transfer standard was evaluated from repeated measurements by NMIJ and showed standard reproducibility of 0.0035 %. The transfer standard was also thoroughly tested for sensitivity to temperature, viscosity, pressure, and other effects. The uncertainty due to the transfer standard of 0.0080 % was less than the quoted uncertainties of the participants. The key comparison reference values (KCRVs) at Reynolds number of 70 000 and 300 000 were obtained as the weighted mean from the calibration results, and the KCRV at Reynolds number of 100 000 was obtained as the median by using the Monte Carlo method according to Cox's procedure B, since the consistency check at Reynolds number of 100 000 failed at the 95 % confidence level. All participant results selected to determine the KCRVs have En values which show consistency with the evaluated KCRVs. Main text To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database kcdb.bipm.org/. The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCM, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).

Bioluminescent system for dynamic imaging of cell and animal behavior

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

Hara-Miyauchi, Chikako; Laboratory for Cell Function Dynamics, Brain Science Institute, RIKEN, Saitama 351-0198; Department of Biophysics and Biochemistry, Graduate School of Health Care Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo 113-8510

2012-03-09

Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer We combined a yellow variant of GFP and firefly luciferase to make ffLuc-cp156. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer ffLuc-cp156 showed improved photon yield in cultured cells and transgenic mice. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer ffLuc-cp156 enabled video-rate bioluminescence imaging of freely-moving animals. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer ffLuc-cp156 mice enabled tracking real-time drug delivery in conscious animals. -- Abstract: The current utility of bioluminescence imaging is constrained by a low photon yield that limits temporal sensitivity. Here, we describe an imaging method that uses a chemiluminescent/fluorescent protein, ffLuc-cp156, which consists of a yellow variant of Aequorea GFP and firefly luciferase. We report an improvement in photon yield by over threemore » orders of magnitude over current bioluminescent systems. We imaged cellular movement at high resolution including neuronal growth cones and microglial cell protrusions. Transgenic ffLuc-cp156 mice enabled video-rate bioluminescence imaging of freely moving animals, which may provide a reliable assay for drug distribution in behaving animals for pre-clinical studies.« less

Filamentous Phage: Structure and Biology.

PubMed

Rakonjac, Jasna; Russel, Marjorie; Khanum, Sofia; Brooke, Sam J; Rajič, Marina

2017-01-01

Ff filamentous phage (fd, M13 and f1) of Escherichia coli have been the workhorse of phage display technology for the past 30 years. Dominance of Ff over other bacteriophage in display technology stems from the titres that are about 100-fold higher than any other known phage, efficacious transformation ensuring large library size and superior stability of the virion at high temperatures, detergents and pH extremes, allowing broad range of biopanning conditions in screening phage display libraries. Due to the excellent understanding of infection and assembly requirements, Ff phage have also been at the core of phage-assisted continual protein evolution strategies (PACE). This chapter will give an overview of the Ff filamentous phage structure and biology, emphasizing those properties of the Ff phage life cycle and virion that are pertinent to phage display applications.

The influence of herbs and spices on overall liking of reduced fat food.

PubMed

Peters, John C; Polsky, Sarit; Stark, Rebecca; Zhaoxing, Pan; Hill, James O

2014-08-01

Most adults consume more fat than is recommended in the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. We examined whether adding herbs and spices to reduced-fat foods would improve their consumer liking. We recruited adults 18-65 years old to taste three lunch conditions: full fat (FF), reduced fat with no added spice (RF), and reduced fat plus spice (RFS). Subjects rated their liking of a meatloaf entrée, vegetable side dish, pasta side dish, and overall meal on a 9-point hedonic Likert scale. Subjects came weekly for 3 weeks to consume meals and were randomized to the condition order. We enrolled 148 subjects who were predominantly female (n = 101, 68%), had a mean age of 35.9 years, and body mass index of 24.4 kg/m2. Subjects reported habitual diets as 36% of total calories from fat (2005 Block Food Frequency Questionnaire). Reducing fat content alone significantly dropped overall liking of the meal compared with FF and RFS conditions (6.29 RF vs. 7.05 FF, P < 0.0001; 6.29 RF vs. 6.98 RFS, P ≤ 0.0001). The RFS overall meal was liked as well as the FF condition. FF and RFS conditions were liked significantly more than RF conditions for each meal item. Liking of FF and RFS meatloaf and vegetables were not significantly different from one another. Pasta FF and RFS conditions were rated significantly differently from each other (7.33 FF vs. 6.61 RFS, P < 0.0001). Adding herbs and spices to reduced fat foods restored liking of the overall meal, meatloaf, and vegetables to that of FF conditions, and significantly improved the liking of RF pasta. Herbs and spices can be a useful tool to improve liking of foods consistent with national guidelines. Copyright © 2014 The Author. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Follicular fluid soluble receptor for advanced glycation end-products (sRAGE): a potential indicator of ovarian reserve.

PubMed

Merhi, Zaher; Irani, Mohamad; Doswell, Angela D; Ambroggio, Jennifer

2014-02-01

The interaction of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) with their cellular receptor (RAGE) is implicated in the pathogenesis of abnormal ovarian follicular growth. RAGE has a circulating secretory receptor form, soluble RAGE (sRAGE), which neutralizes the action of AGEs and might exert a protective role on the follicular environment. The objective of the study was to investigate whether serum or follicular fluid (FF) sRAGE levels are associated with markers of ovarian reserve. Serum anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) and sRAGE protein levels were correlated in 31 reproductive-aged women. An additional 33 women who underwent oocyte retrieval for in vitro fertilization were enrolled. AMH and its receptor (AMHR-II) mRNA levels were quantified in cumulus granulosa cells and FF sRAGE and AMH protein levels were measured. Granulosa cell AMH and AMHR-II gene expression, serum and FF AMH and sRAGE protein concentration, and number of oocytes retrieved were measured. In the serum, sRAGE levels were negatively correlated with body mass index (BMI) (r = -0.5, P < .001) but not with age or serum AMH. The higher the FF sRAGE, the lower the number of international units of gonadotropin needed per cycle independent of age, BMI, or day 3 FSH level (r = -0.4, P = .04). After adjusting for age, BMI, day 3 FSH, and the total dose of gonadotropins, FF sRAGE predicted the number of oocytes retrieved (R(2) = 0.27, P = .045). FF sRAGE positively correlated with FF AMH levels (r = 0.5, P = .0085). RT-PCR results showed no correlation between the FF sRAGE and AMH or AMHR-II mRNA levels. These data support a relationship between FF sRAGE and measures of ovarian reserve. The pathological significance of the harmful inflammatory AGEs in follicular health clearly requires further investigation. Targeting AGEs might offer potential therapeutic options for the treatment of diminished ovarian response.

SU-E-T-311: Dosimetric Comparison of Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy Plans for Preoperative Radiotherapy Rectal Cancer Using Flattening Filter-Free and Flattening Filter Modes

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

Zhang, W; Zhang, J; Lu, J

Purpose: To compare the dosimetric difference of volumetric modulated arc therapy(VMAT) for preoperative radiotherapy rectal cancer using 6MV X-ray flattening filter free(FFF) and flattening filter(FF) modes. Methods: FF-VMAT and FFF-VMAT plans were designed to 15 rectal cancer patients with preoperative radiotherapy by planning treatment system(Eclipse 10.0),respectively. Dose prescription was 50 Gy in 25 fractions. All plans were normalized to 50 Gy to 95% of PTV. The Dose Volume Histogram (DVH), target and risk organ doses, conformity indexes (CI), homogeneity indexes (HI), low dose volume of normal tissue(BP), monitor units(MU) and treatment time (TT) were compared between the two kinds ofmore » plans. Results: FF-VMAT provided the lower Dmean, V105, HI, and higher CI as compared with FFF-VMAT. The small intestine of D5, Bladder of D5, Dmean, V40, V50, L-femoral head of V40, R-femoral head of Dmean were lower in FF-VMAT than in FFF-VMAT. FF-VMAT had higher BP of V5, but no significantly different of V10, V15, V20, V30 as compared with FFF-VMAT. FF-VMAT reduceed the monitor units(MU) by 21%(P<0.05), as well as the treatment time(TT) was no significantly different(P>0.05), as compared with FFF-VMAT. Conclusion: The plan qualities of FF and FFF VMAT plans were comparable and both clinically acceptable. FF-VMAT as compared with FFF-VMAT, showing better target coverage, some of OARs sparing, the MUs of FFF-VMAT were higher than FF-VMAT, yet were delivered within the same time. This work was supported by the Medical Scientific Research Foundation of Guangdong Procvince (A2014455 to Changchun Ma)« less

Child-targeted fast-food television advertising exposure is linked with fast-food intake among pre-school children

PubMed Central

Dalton, Madeline A; Longacre, Meghan R; Drake, Keith M; Cleveland, Lauren P; Harris, Jennifer L; Hendricks, Kristy; Titus, Linda J

2017-01-01

Objective To determine whether exposure to child-targeted fast-food (FF) television (TV) advertising is associated with children’s FF intake in a non-experimental setting. Design Cross-sectional survey conducted April–December 2013. Parents reported their pre-school child’s TV viewing time, channels watched and past-week FF consumption. Responses were combined with a list of FF commercials (ads) aired on children’s TV channels during the same period to calculate children’s exposure to child-targeted TV ads for the following chain FF restaurants: McDonald’s, Subway and Wendy’s (MSW). Setting Paediatric and Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) clinics in New Hampshire, USA. Subjects Parents (n 548) with a child of pre-school age. Results Children’s mean age was 4·4 years; 43·2 % ate MSW in the past week. Among the 40·8 % exposed to MSW ads, 23·3 % had low, 34·2 % moderate and 42·5 % high exposure. McDonald’s accounted for over 70 % of children’s MSW ad exposure and consumption. Children’s MSW consumption was significantly associated with their ad exposure, but not overall TV viewing time. After adjusting for demographics, socio-economic status and other screen time, moderate MSW ad exposure was associated with a 31 % (95 % CI 1·12, 1·53) increase and high MSW ad exposure with a 26 % (95 % CI 1·13, 1·41) increase in the likelihood of consuming MSW in the past week. Further adjustment for parent FF consumption did not change the findings substantially. Conclusions Exposure to child-targeted FF TV advertising is positively associated with FF consumption among children of pre-school age, highlighting the vulnerability of young children to persuasive advertising and supporting recommendations to limit child-directed FF marketing. PMID:28416041

Flood Control, Mississippi River, La Crosse, Wisconsin.

DTIC Science & Technology

1975-10-01

end SuP.,tifle) S TYPE OF REPORT & PERIOD COVEkr FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT FLOOD CONTROL MISSISSIPPI RIVER LA CROSSE, WISCONSIN Pinal FIq 6...PERFORMING ORG. REPORT NUMBER 7. AUTHOR(e) 0 CONTRACT OR GRANT NUMBER( s ) 9 PERFORMING ORGANIZATION NAME AND ADrRESS 10. PROGRAM ELEMENT. PROJECT, T...rev s eflA ff r,,.e.. ind IdeInify by block rnmber) "-The proposed action is a flood control project consisting of levees, road raises, flood wall

Influence of fenofibrate treatment on triacylglycerides, diacylglycerides and fatty acids in fructose fed rats.

PubMed

Kopf, Thomas; Schaefer, Hans-Ludwig; Troetzmueller, Martin; Koefeler, Harald; Broenstrup, Mark; Konovalova, Tatiana; Schmitz, Gerd

2014-01-01

Fenofibrate (FF) lowers plasma triglycerides via PPARα activation. Here, we analyzed lipidomic changes upon FF treatment of fructose fed rats. Three groups with 6 animals each were defined as control, fructose-fed and fructose-fed/FF treated. Male Wistar Unilever Rats were subjected to 10% fructose-feeding for 20 days. On day 14, fenofibrate treatment (100 mg/kg p.o.) was initiated and maintained for 7 days. Lipid species in serum were analyzed using mass spectrometry (ESI-MS/MS; LC-FT-MS, GC-MS) on days 0, 14 and 20 in all three groups. In addition, lipid levels in liver and intestine were determined. Short-chain TAGs increased in serum and liver upon fructose-feeding, while almost all TAG-species decreased under FF treatment. Long-chain unsaturated DAG-levels (36:1, 36:2, 36:4, 38:3, 38:4, 38:5) increased upon FF treatment in rat liver and decreased in rat serum. FAs, especially short-chain FAs (12:0, 14:0, 16:0) increased during fructose-challenge. VLDL secretion increased upon fructose-feeding and together with FA-levels decreased to control levels during FF treatment. Fructose challenge of de novo fatty acid synthesis through fatty acid synthase (FAS) may enhance the release of FAs ≤ 16:0 chain length, a process reversed by FF-mediated PPARα-activation.

40 CFR 63.1092 - What are the major differences between the requirements of 40 CFR part 61, subpart FF, and the...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... the requirements of 40 CFR part 61, subpart FF, and the waste requirements for ethylene production... (CONTINUED) National Emission Standards for Ethylene Manufacturing Process Units: Heat Exchange Systems and... requirements of 40 CFR part 61, subpart FF, and the waste requirements for ethylene production sources? The...

The influence of herbs, spices, and regular sausage and chicken consumption on liking of reduced fat breakfast and lunch items.

PubMed

Polsky, Sarit; Beck, Jimikaye; Stark, Rebecca A; Pan, Zhaoxing; Hill, James O; Peters, John C

2014-10-01

Adults often consume more fat than is recommended. We examined factors that may improve liking of reduced fat and reduced saturated fat foods, including the addition of herbs and spices and habitual consumption of different high-fat and low-fat food items. We randomized adults to taste 3 different conditions: full fat (FF), reduced fat with no added spice (RF), and reduced fat plus spice (RFS). Subjects rated their liking of French toast, sausage and the overall meal, or chicken, vegetables, pasta, and the overall meal on a 9-point hedonic Likert scale. Overall liking of the RF breakfast and lunch meals were lower than the FF and RFS versions (breakfast: 6.50 RF compared with 6.84 FF, P = 0.0061; 6.50 RF compared with 6.82 RFS, P = 0.0030; lunch: 6.35 RF compared with 6.94 FF, P < 0.0001; 6.35 RF compared with 6.71 RFS, P = 0.0061). RFS and FF breakfast and lunch meals, French toast, chicken, and vegetable likings were similar. FF and RFS conditions were liked more than RF for the breakfast and lunch meals, French toast, chicken entrée, and vegetables. Liking of all 3 sausage conditions was similar. FF pasta was liked more than RFS and RF (7.47 FF compared with 6.42 RFS, P < 0.0001; 7.47 FF compared with 6.47 RF, P < 0.0001). Habitual consumption of roasted chicken was associated with reduced liking of FF chicken (r = -0.23, P = 0.004) and FF pasta (r = -0.23, P = 0.005). Herbs and spices may be useful for improving the liking of lower fat foods and helping Americans maintain a diet consistent with the U.S. Dietary Guidelines. Americans consume more fat than is recommended in the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. This study shows that you can take foods like French toast, chicken, or a vegetable side and cut the fat and calories by up to 50% while restoring flavor with herbs and spices. People typically use butter, cheese, or fatty meat to enhance the flavor of their food. We found that even when we reduced the fat in our meals by using lower fat dairy and meat products but then added herbs and spices, we were able to deliver the flavor people desire for a fraction of the calories. © 2014 Institute of Food Technologists®

Links between the charge model and bonded parameter force constants in biomolecular force fields

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cerutti, David S.; Debiec, Karl T.; Case, David A.; Chong, Lillian T.

2017-10-01

The ff15ipq protein force field is a fixed charge model built by automated tools based on the two charge sets of the implicitly polarized charge method: one set (appropriate for vacuum) for deriving bonded parameters and the other (appropriate for aqueous solution) for running simulations. The duality is intended to treat water-induced electronic polarization with an understanding that fitting data for bonded parameters will come from quantum mechanical calculations in the gas phase. In this study, we compare ff15ipq to two alternatives produced with the same fitting software and a further expanded data set but following more conventional methods for tailoring bonded parameters (harmonic angle terms and torsion potentials) to the charge model. First, ff15ipq-Qsolv derives bonded parameters in the context of the ff15ipq solution phase charge set. Second, ff15ipq-Vac takes ff15ipq's bonded parameters and runs simulations with the vacuum phase charge set used to derive those parameters. The IPolQ charge model and associated protocol for deriving bonded parameters are shown to be an incremental improvement over protocols that do not account for the material phases of each source of their fitting data. Both force fields incorporating the polarized charge set depict stable globular proteins and have varying degrees of success modeling the metastability of short (5-19 residues) peptides. In this particular case, ff15ipq-Qsolv increases stability in a number of α -helices, correctly obtaining 70% helical character in the K19 system at 275 K and showing appropriately diminishing content up to 325 K, but overestimating the helical fraction of AAQAA3 by 50% or more, forming long-lived α -helices in simulations of a β -hairpin, and increasing the likelihood that the disordered p53 N-terminal peptide will also form a helix. This may indicate a systematic bias imparted by the ff15ipq-Qsolv parameter development strategy, which has the hallmarks of strategies used to develop other popular force fields, and may explain some of the need for manual corrections in this force fields' evolution. In contrast, ff15ipq-Vac incorrectly depicts globular protein unfolding in numerous systems tested, including Trp cage, villin, lysozyme, and GB3, and does not perform any better than ff15ipq or ff15ipq-Qsolv in tests on short peptides. We analyze the free energy surfaces of individual amino acid dipeptides and the electrostatic potential energy surfaces of each charge model to explain the differences.

Perifollicular blood flow and its relationship with endometrial vascularity, follicular fluid EG-VEGF, IGF-1, and inhibin-a levels and IVF outcomes.

PubMed

Vural, Fisun; Vural, Birol; Doğer, Emek; Çakıroğlu, Yiğit; Çekmen, Mustafa

2016-10-01

The aim of this study is to investigate the association of perifollicular blood flow (PFBF) with follicular fluid EG-VEGF, inhibin-a, and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) concentrations, endometrial vascularity, and IVF outcomes. Forty women with tubal factor infertility were included in a prospective cohort study. Each woman underwent IVF/ICSI procedure. Individual follicles of ≥16 mm (n = 156) were evaluated by power Doppler analysis and categorized as well-vascularized follicles (WVFs) or poorly vascularized follicles (PVFs). WVFs referred to those with perifollicular vascularity of 51-100 %. Each follicular fluid (FF) was individually aspirated and FF/serum EG-VEGF, inhibin-a, and FF IGF-1 levels were evaluated. Zones III-IV endometrial vascularity was classified as a well-vascularized endometrium (WVE). The presence of a WVE and mature oocytes, in addition to the embryo quality and clinical pregnancy rate (CPR), were recorded for each follicle. The main outcome measures were FF serum EG-VEGF, inhibin-a, IGF-1 levels, and WVE and IVF outcome per PFBF. For WVFs, the level of FF EG-VEGF (p = 0.008), oocyte quality (p = 0.001), embryo quality (p = 0.002), a WVE (p = 0.001), and CPR (p = 0.04) increased significantly. The pregnant group was characterized by increased numbers of WVFs (p = 0.044), a WVE (p = 0.022), and increased levels of FF IGF-1 (p = 0.001) and serum EG-VEGF (p = 0.03). FF IGF-1 >50 ng/mL (AUC 0.72) had 75 % sensitivity and 64 % specificity for predicting CPR. WVFs yield high-quality oocytes and embryos, a WVE, increased FF EG-VEGF levels, and increased CPRs.

YKL071W from Saccharomyces cerevisiae encodes a novel aldehyde reductase for detoxification of glycolaldehyde and furfural derived from lignocellulose.

PubMed

Wang, Hanyu; Ouyang, Yidan; Zhou, Chang; Xiao, Difan; Guo, Yaping; Wu, Lan; Li, Xi; Gu, Yunfu; Xiang, Quanju; Zhao, Ke; Yu, Xiumei; Zou, Likou; Ma, Menggen

2017-12-01

Aldehydes generated as by-products during the pretreatment of lignocellulose are the key inhibitors to Saccharomyces cerevisiae, which is considered as the most promising microorganism for industrial production of biofuel, xylitol as well as other special chemicals from lignocellulose. S. cerevisiae has the inherent ability to in situ detoxify aldehydes to corresponding alcohols by multiple aldehyde reductases. Herein, we report that an uncharacterized open reading frame YKL071W from S. cerevisiae encodes a novel "classical" short-chain dehydrogenase/reductase (SDR) protein with NADH-dependent enzymatic activities for reduction of furfural (FF), glycolaldehyde (GA), formaldehyde (FA), and benzaldehyde (BZA). This enzyme showed much better specific activities for reduction of GA and FF than FA and BZA, and displayed much higher Km and Kcat/Km but lower Vmax and Kcat for reduction of GA than FF. For this enzyme, the optimum pH was 5.5 and 6.0 for reduction of GA and FF, and the optimum temperature was 30 °C for reduction of GA and FF. Both pH and temperature affected stability of this enzyme in a similar trend for reduction of GA and FF. Cu 2+ , Zn 2+ , Ni 2+ , and Fe 3+ had severe inhibition effects on enzyme activities of Ykl071wp for reduction of GA and FF. Transcription of YKL071W in S. cerevisiae was significantly upregulated under GA and FF stress conditions, and its transcription is most probably regulated by transcription factor genes of YAP1, CAD1, PDR3, and STB5. This research provides guidelines to identify more uncharacterized genes with reductase activities for detoxification of aldehydes derived from lignocellulose in S. cerevisiae.

Economy and rate of carbohydrate oxidation during running with rearfoot and forefoot strike patterns.

PubMed

Gruber, Allison H; Umberger, Brian R; Braun, Barry; Hamill, Joseph

2013-07-15

It continues to be argued that a forefoot (FF) strike pattern during running is more economical than a rearfoot (RF) pattern; however, previous studies using one habitual footstrike group have found no difference in running economy between footstrike patterns. We aimed to conduct a more extensive study by including both habitual RF and FF runners. The purposes of this study were to determine whether there were differences in running economy between these groups and whether running economy would change when they ran with the alternative footstrike pattern. Nineteen habitual RF and 18 habitual FF runners performed the RF and FF patterns on a treadmill at 3.0, 3.5, and 4.0 m/s. Steady-state rates of oxygen consumption (Vo2, ml·kg(-1)·min(-1)) and carbohydrate contribution to total energy expenditure (%CHO) were determined by indirect calorimetry for each footstrike pattern and speed condition. A mixed-model ANOVA was used to assess the differences in each variable between groups and footstrike patterns (α = 0.05). No differences in Vo2 or %CHO were detected between groups when running with their habitual footstrike pattern. The RF pattern resulted in lower Vo2 and %CHO compared with the FF pattern at the slow and medium speeds in the RF group (P < 0.05) but not in the FF group (P > 0.05). At the fast speed, a significant footstrike pattern main effect indicated that Vo2 was greater with the FF pattern than with the RF pattern (P < 0.05), but %CHO was not different (P > 0.05). The results suggest that the FF pattern is not more economical than the RF pattern.

Neoatherosclerosis development following bioresorbable vascular scaffold implantation in diabetic and non-diabetic swine

PubMed Central

van Ditzhuijzen, Nienke S.; Kurata, Mie; van den Heuvel, Mieke; Sorop, Oana; van Duin, Richard W. B.; Krabbendam-Peters, Ilona; Ligthart, Jurgen; Witberg, Karen; Murawska, Magdalena; Bouma, Brett; Villiger, Martin; Garcia-Garcia, Hector M.; Serruys, Patrick W.; Zijlstra, Felix; van Soest, Gijs; Duncker, Dirk-Jan; Regar, Evelyn; van Beusekom, Heleen M. M.

2017-01-01

Background DM remains a risk factor for poor outcome after stent-implantation, but little is known if and how DM affects the vascular response to BVS. Aim The aim of our study was to examine coronary responses to bioresorbable vascular scaffolds (BVS) in swine with and without diabetes mellitus fed a ‘fast-food’ diet (FF-DM and FF-NDM, respectively) by sequential optical coherence tomography (OCT)-imaging and histology. Methods Fifteen male swine were evaluated. Eight received streptozotocin-injection to induce DM. After 9 months (M), 32 single BVS were implanted in epicardial arteries with a stent to artery (S/A)-ratio of 1.1:1 under quantitative coronary angiography (QCA) and OCT guidance. Lumen, scaffold, neointimal coverage and composition were assessed by QCA, OCT and near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) pre- and/or post-procedure, at 3M and 6M. Additionally, polarization-sensitive (PS)-OCT was performed in 7 swine at 6M. After sacrifice at 3M and 6M, histology and polymer degradation analysis were performed. Results Late lumen loss was high (~60%) within the first 3M after BVS-implantation (P<0.01 FF-DM vs. FF-NDM) and stabilized between 3M and 6M (<5% change in FF-DM, ~10% in FF-NDM; P>0.20). Neointimal coverage was highly heterogeneous in all swine (DM vs. NDM P>0.05), with focal lipid accumulation, irregular collagen distribution and neointimal calcification. Likewise, polymer mass loss was low (~2% at 3M, ~5% at 6M;P>0.20) and not associated with DM or inflammation. Conclusion Scaffold coverage showed signs of neo-atherosclerosis in all FF-DM and FF-NDM swine, scaffold polymer was preserved and the vascular response to BVS was not influenced by diabetes. PMID:28898243

Neoatherosclerosis development following bioresorbable vascular scaffold implantation in diabetic and non-diabetic swine.

PubMed

van Ditzhuijzen, Nienke S; Kurata, Mie; van den Heuvel, Mieke; Sorop, Oana; van Duin, Richard W B; Krabbendam-Peters, Ilona; Ligthart, Jurgen; Witberg, Karen; Murawska, Magdalena; Bouma, Brett; Villiger, Martin; Garcia-Garcia, Hector M; Serruys, Patrick W; Zijlstra, Felix; van Soest, Gijs; Duncker, Dirk-Jan; Regar, Evelyn; van Beusekom, Heleen M M

2017-01-01

DM remains a risk factor for poor outcome after stent-implantation, but little is known if and how DM affects the vascular response to BVS. The aim of our study was to examine coronary responses to bioresorbable vascular scaffolds (BVS) in swine with and without diabetes mellitus fed a 'fast-food' diet (FF-DM and FF-NDM, respectively) by sequential optical coherence tomography (OCT)-imaging and histology. Fifteen male swine were evaluated. Eight received streptozotocin-injection to induce DM. After 9 months (M), 32 single BVS were implanted in epicardial arteries with a stent to artery (S/A)-ratio of 1.1:1 under quantitative coronary angiography (QCA) and OCT guidance. Lumen, scaffold, neointimal coverage and composition were assessed by QCA, OCT and near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) pre- and/or post-procedure, at 3M and 6M. Additionally, polarization-sensitive (PS)-OCT was performed in 7 swine at 6M. After sacrifice at 3M and 6M, histology and polymer degradation analysis were performed. Late lumen loss was high (~60%) within the first 3M after BVS-implantation (P<0.01 FF-DM vs. FF-NDM) and stabilized between 3M and 6M (<5% change in FF-DM, ~10% in FF-NDM; P>0.20). Neointimal coverage was highly heterogeneous in all swine (DM vs. NDM P>0.05), with focal lipid accumulation, irregular collagen distribution and neointimal calcification. Likewise, polymer mass loss was low (~2% at 3M, ~5% at 6M;P>0.20) and not associated with DM or inflammation. Scaffold coverage showed signs of neo-atherosclerosis in all FF-DM and FF-NDM swine, scaffold polymer was preserved and the vascular response to BVS was not influenced by diabetes.

Tilmicosin- and florfenicol-loaded hydrogenated castor oil-solid lipid nanoparticles to pigs: Combined antibacterial activities and pharmacokinetics.

PubMed

Ling, Z; Yonghong, L; Junfeng, L; Li, Z; Xianqiang, L

2018-04-01

The combined antibacterial effects of tilmicosin (TIL) and florfenicol (FF) against Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae (APP) (n = 2), Streptococcus suis (S. suis) (n = 2), and Haemophilus parasuis (HPS) (n = 2) were evaluated by chekerboard test and time-kill assays. The pharmacokinetics (PKs) of TIL- and FF-loaded hydrogenated castor oil (HCO)-solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) were performed in healthy pigs. The results indicated that TIL and FF showed synergistic or additive antibacterial activities against APP, S. suis and HPS with the fractional inhibitory concentration (FIC) ranging from 0.375 to 0.75. The time-kill assays showed that 1/2 minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) TIL combined with 1/2 MIC FF had a stronger ability to inhibit the growth of APP, S. suis, and HPS than 1 MIC TIL or 1 MIC FF, respectively. After oral administration, plasma TIL and FF concentrations could maintain about 0.1 μg/ml for 192 and 176 hr. The SLN prolonged the last time point with detectable concentrations (T last ), area under the concentration-time curve (AUC 0-t ), elimination half-life (T ½ke ), and mean residence time (MRT) by 3.1, 5.6, 12.7, 3.4-fold of the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) of TIL and 11.8, 16.5, 18.1, 12.1-fold of the API of FF, respectively. This study suggests that the TIL-FF-SLN could be a useful oral formulation for the treatment of APP, S. suis, and HPS infection in pigs. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

A statistical approach for isolating fossil fuel emissions in atmospheric inverse problems

DOE PAGES

Yadav, Vineet; Michalak, Anna M.; Ray, Jaideep; ...

2016-10-27

We study independent verification and quantification of fossil fuel (FF) emissions that constitutes a considerable scientific challenge. By coupling atmospheric observations of CO 2 with models of atmospheric transport, inverse models offer the possibility of overcoming this challenge. However, disaggregating the biospheric and FF flux components of terrestrial fluxes from CO 2 concentration measurements has proven to be difficult, due to observational and modeling limitations. In this study, we propose a statistical inverse modeling scheme for disaggregating winter time fluxes on the basis of their unique error covariances and covariates, where these covariances and covariates are representative of the underlyingmore » processes affecting FF and biospheric fluxes. The application of the method is demonstrated with one synthetic and two real data prototypical inversions by using in situ CO 2 measurements over North America. Also, inversions are performed only for the month of January, as predominance of biospheric CO 2 signal relative to FF CO 2 signal and observational limitations preclude disaggregation of the fluxes in other months. The quality of disaggregation is assessed primarily through examination of a posteriori covariance between disaggregated FF and biospheric fluxes at regional scales. Findings indicate that the proposed method is able to robustly disaggregate fluxes regionally at monthly temporal resolution with a posteriori cross covariance lower than 0.15 µmol m -2 s -1 between FF and biospheric fluxes. Error covariance models and covariates based on temporally varying FF inventory data provide a more robust disaggregation over static proxies (e.g., nightlight intensity and population density). However, the synthetic data case study shows that disaggregation is possible even in absence of detailed temporally varying FF inventory data.« less

Quantification of bone marrow fat content using iterative decomposition of water and fat with echo asymmetry and least-squares estimation (IDEAL): reproducibility, site variation and correlation with age and menopause.

PubMed

Aoki, Takatoshi; Yamaguchi, Shinpei; Kinoshita, Shunsuke; Hayashida, Yoshiko; Korogi, Yukunori

2016-09-01

To determine the reproducibility of the quantitative chemical shift-based water-fat separation method with a multiecho gradient echo sequence [iteraterative decomposition of water and fat with echo asymmetry and least-squares estimation quantitation sequence (IDEAL-IQ)] for assessing bone marrow fat fraction (FF); to evaluate variation of FF at different bone sites; and to investigate its association with age and menopause. 31 consecutive females who underwent pelvic iterative decomposition of water and fat with echo asymmetry and least-squares estimation at 3-T MRI were included in this study. Quantitative FF using IDEAL-IQ of four bone sites were analyzed. The coefficients of variance (CV) on each site were evaluated repeatedly 10 times to assess the reproducibility. Correlations between FF and age were evaluated on each site, and the FFs between pre- and post-menopausal groups were compared. The CV in the quantification of marrow FF ranged from 0.69% to 1.70%. A statistically significant correlation was established between the FF and the age in lumbar vertebral body, ilium and intertrochanteric region of the femur (p < 0.001). The average FF of post-menopausal females was significantly higher than that of pre-menopausal females in these sites (p < 0.05). In the greater trochanter of the femur, there was no significant correlation between FF and age. In vivo IDEAL-IQ would provide reliable quantification of bone marrow fat. IDEAL-IQ is simple to perform in a short time and may be practical for providing information on bone quality in clinical settings.

Crystallization and preliminary X-ray crystallographic analysis of an ice-binding protein (FfIBP) from Flavobacterium frigoris PS1.

PubMed

Do, Hackwon; Lee, Jun Hyuck; Lee, Sung Gu; Kim, Hak Jun

2012-07-01

Ice growth in a cold environment is fatal for polar organisms, not only because of the physical destruction of inner cell organelles but also because of the resulting chemical damage owing to processes such as osmotic shock. The properties of ice-binding proteins (IBPs), which include antifreeze proteins (AFPs), have been characterized and IBPs exhibit the ability to inhibit ice growth by binding to specific ice planes and lowering the freezing point. An ice-binding protein (FfIBP) from the Gram-negative bacterium Flavobacterium frigoris PS1, which was isolated from the Antarctic, has recently been overexpressed. Interestingly, the thermal hysteresis activity of FfIBP was approximately 2.5 K at 50 µM, which is ten times higher than that of the moderately active IBP from Arctic yeast (LeIBP). Although FfIBP closely resembles LeIBP in its amino-acid sequence, the antifreeze activity of FfIBP appears to be much greater than that of LeIBP. In an effort to understand the reason for this difference, an attempt was made to solve the crystal structure of FfIBP. Here, the crystallization and X-ray diffraction data of FfIBP are reported. FfIBP was crystallized using the hanging-drop vapour-diffusion method with 0.1 M sodium acetate pH 4.4 and 3 M sodium chloride as precipitant. A complete diffraction data set was collected to a resolution of 2.9 Å. The crystal belonged to space group P4(1)22, with unit-cell parameters a = b = 69.4, c = 178.2 Å. The asymmetric unit contained one monomer.

Dosimetric and efficiency comparison of high-dose radiotherapy for esophageal cancer: volumetric modulated arc therapy versus fixed-field intensity-modulated radiotherapy.

PubMed

Lin, C-Y; Huang, W-Y; Jen, Y-M; Chen, C-M; Su, Y-F; Chao, H-L; Lin, C-S

2014-08-01

The aim of this study was to compare high-dose volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) and fixed-field intensity-modulated radiotherapy (ff-IMRT) plans for the treatment of patients with middle-thoracic esophageal cancer. Eight patients with cT2-3N0M0 middle-thoracic esophageal cancer were enrolled. The treatment planning system was the version 9 of the Pinnacle(3) with SmartArc (Philips Healthcare, Fitchburg, WI, USA). VMAT and ff-IMRT treatment plans were generated for each case, and both techniques were used to deliver 50 Gy to the planning target volume (PTV(50)) and then provided a 16-Gy boost (PTV(66)). The VMAT plans provided superior PTV(66) coverage compared with the ff-IMRT plans (P = 0.034), whereas the ff-IMRT plans provided more appropriate dose homogeneity to the PTV(50) (P = 0.017). In the lung, the V(5) and V(10) were lower for the ff-IMRT plans than for the VMAT plans, whereas the V(20) was lower for the VMAT plans. The delivery time was significantly shorter for the VMAT plans than for the ff-IMRT plans (P = 0.012). In addition, the VMAT plans delivered fewer monitor units. The VMAT technique required a shorter planning time than the ff-IMRT technique (3.8 ± 0.8 hours vs. 5.4 ± 0.6 hours, P = 0.011). The major advantages of VMAT plans are higher efficiency and an approximately 50% reduction in delivery time compared with the ff-IMRT plans, with comparable plan quality. Further clinical investigations to evaluate the use of high-dose VMAT for the treatment of esophageal cancer are warranted. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. and the International Society for Diseases of the Esophagus.

Self-assembly of diphenylalanine with preclick components as capping groups.

PubMed

Gemma, Andrea; Mayans, Enric; Ballano, Gema; Torras, Juan; Díaz, Angélica; Jiménez, Ana I; Puiggalí, Jordi; Cativiela, Carlos; Alemán, Carlos

2017-10-11

Alkyne and azide, which are commonly used in the cycloaddition reaction recognized as "click chemistry", have been used as capping groups of two engineered diphenylalanine (FF) derivatives due to their ability to form weak intermolecular interactions (i.e. dipole-π and π-π stacking). In Poc-FF-N 3 , alkyne and azide act as N- and C-terminal capping groups, respectively, while such positions are exchanged in N 3 -FF-OPrp. The self-assembly of such two synthesized peptides has been extensively studied in their "pre-click" state, considering the influence of three different factors: the peptide concentration, the polarity of the medium, and the nature of the substrate. Poc-FF-N 3 assembles into microfibers that, depending on the medium and the substrate, can aggregate hierarchically in supramolecular structures with different morphologies. The most distinctive one corresponds to very stable birefringent dendritic-like microstructures, which are derived from the ordered agglomeration of microfibers. These branched supramolecular structures, which are observed under a variety of conditions, are relatively uncommon in short FF sequences. At the molecular level, Poc-FF-N 3 organizes in antiparallel β-sheets stabilized by N-HO intermolecular hydrogen bonds and re-enforced by weak interactions between the azide and alkyne groups of neighbouring molecules. In contrast, N 3 -FF-OPrp exhibits a very poor tendency to organize into structures with a well-defined morphology. Theoretical calculations on model complexes indicate that the tendency of the latter peptide to organize into small amorphous agglomerates is due to its poor ability to form specific intermolecular interactions in comparison with Poc-FF-N 3 . The implications of the weak interactions induced by the alkyne and azide groups, which strengthen peptidepeptide hydrogen bonds and π-ladders due to the stacked aromatic phenyl side groups, are discussed.

FF12MC: A revised AMBER forcefield and new protein simulation protocol

PubMed Central

2016-01-01

ABSTRACT Specialized to simulate proteins in molecular dynamics (MD) simulations with explicit solvation, FF12MC is a combination of a new protein simulation protocol employing uniformly reduced atomic masses by tenfold and a revised AMBER forcefield FF99 with (i) shortened C—H bonds, (ii) removal of torsions involving a nonperipheral sp3 atom, and (iii) reduced 1–4 interaction scaling factors of torsions ϕ and ψ. This article reports that in multiple, distinct, independent, unrestricted, unbiased, isobaric–isothermal, and classical MD simulations FF12MC can (i) simulate the experimentally observed flipping between left‐ and right‐handed configurations for C14–C38 of BPTI in solution, (ii) autonomously fold chignolin, CLN025, and Trp‐cage with folding times that agree with the experimental values, (iii) simulate subsequent unfolding and refolding of these miniproteins, and (iv) achieve a robust Z score of 1.33 for refining protein models TMR01, TMR04, and TMR07. By comparison, the latest general‐purpose AMBER forcefield FF14SB locks the C14–C38 bond to the right‐handed configuration in solution under the same protein simulation conditions. Statistical survival analysis shows that FF12MC folds chignolin and CLN025 in isobaric–isothermal MD simulations 2–4 times faster than FF14SB under the same protein simulation conditions. These results suggest that FF12MC may be used for protein simulations to study kinetics and thermodynamics of miniprotein folding as well as protein structure and dynamics. Proteins 2016; 84:1490–1516. © 2016 The Authors Proteins: Structure, Function, and Bioinformatics Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. PMID:27348292

Preparation of Monodisperse Biodegradable Polymer Microparticles Using a Microfluidic Flow-focusing Device for Controlled Drug Delivery

PubMed Central

Xu, Qiaobing; Hashimoto, Michinao; Dang, Tram T.; Hoare, Todd; Kohane, Daniel S.; Whitesides, George M.; Langer, Robert; Anderson, Daniel G.

2009-01-01

Degradable microparticles have broad utility as vehicles for drug delivery and form the basis of several FDA-approved therapies. Conventional emulsion-based methods of manufacturing produce particles with a wide range of diameters (and thus kinetics of release) in each batch. This paper describes the fabrication of monodisperse, drug-loaded microparticles from biodegradable polymers using the microfluidic flow-focusing (FF) devices and the drug delivery properties of those particles. Particles were engineered with defined sizes, ranging from 10 μm to 50 μm. These particles were nearly monodisperse (polydispersity index = 3.9 %). We incorporated a model amphiphilic drug (bupivacaine) within the biodegradable matrix of the particles. Kinetic analysis showed that the release of drug from these monodisperse particles was slower than that from conventional methods of the same average size but a broader distribution of sizes and, most importantly, exhibited a significantly lower initial burst than that observed with conventional particles. The difference in the initial kinetics of drug release was attributed to the uniform distribution of drug inside the particles generated using the microfluidic methods. These results demonstrated the utility of microfluidic FF for the generation of homogenous systems of particles for the delivery of drugs. PMID:19296563

Morphology and Pattern Control of Diphenylalanine Self-Assembly via Evaporative Dewetting.

PubMed

Chen, Jiarui; Qin, Shuyu; Wu, Xinglong; Chu, And Paul K

2016-01-26

Self-assembled peptide nanostructures have unique physical and biological properties and promising applications in electrical devices and functional molecular recognition. Although solution-based peptide molecules can self-assemble into different morphologies, it is challenging to control the self-assembly process. Herein, controllable self-assembly of diphenylalanine (FF) in an evaporative dewetting solution is reported. The fluid mechanical dimensionless numbers, namely Rayleigh, Marangoni, and capillary numbers, are introduced to control the interaction between the solution and FF molecules in the self-assembly process. The difference in the film thickness reflects the effects of Rayleigh and Marangoni convection, and the water vapor flow rate reveals the role of viscous fingering in the emergence of aligned FF flakes. By employing dewetting, various FF self-assembled patterns, like concentric and spokelike, and morphologies, like strips and hexagonal tubes/rods, can be produced, and there are no significant lattice structural changes in the FF nanostructures.

Pretreatment of Eucalyptus in biphasic system for furfural production and accelerated enzymatic hydrolysis.

PubMed

Zhang, Xiudong; Bai, Yuanyuan; Cao, Xuefei; Sun, Runcang

2017-08-01

Herein, an efficient biphasic pretreatment process was developed to improve the production of furfural (FF) and glucose from Eucalyptus. The influence of formic acid and NaCl on FF production from xylose in water and various biphasic systems was investigated. Results showed that the addition of formic acid and NaCl significantly promoted the FF yield, and the biphasic system of MIBK (methyl isobutyl ketone)/water exhibited the best performance for FF production. Then the Eucalyptus was pretreated in the MIBK/water system, and a maximum FF yield of 82.0% was achieved at 180°C for 60min. Surface of the pretreated Eucalyptus became relatively rough and loose, and its crystallinity index increased obviously due to the removal of hemicelluloses and lignin. The pretreated Eucalyptus samples showed much higher enzymatic hydrolysis rates (26.2-70.7%) than the raw Eucalyptus (14.5%). Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Thermoluminescence response of flat optical fiber subjected to 9 MeV electron irradiations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hashim, S.; Omar, S. S. Che; Ibrahim, S. A.; Hassan, W. M. S. Wan; Ung, N. M.; Mahdiraji, G. A.; Bradley, D. A.; Alzimami, K.

2015-01-01

We describe the efforts of finding a new thermoluminescent (TL) media using pure silica flat optical fiber (FF). The present study investigates the dose response, sensitivity, minimum detectable dose and glow curve of FF subjected to 9 MeV electron irradiations with various dose ranges from 0 Gy to 2.5 Gy. The above-mentioned TL properties of the FF are compared with commercially available TLD-100 rods. The TL measurements of the TL media exhibit a linear dose response over the delivered dose using a linear accelerator. We found that the sensitivity of TLD-100 is markedly 6 times greater than that of FF optical fiber. The minimum detectable dose was found to be 0.09 mGy for TLD-100 and 8.22 mGy for FF. Our work may contribute towards the development of a new dosimeter for personal monitoring purposes.

Transferable Reactive Force Fields: Extensions of ReaxFF-lg to Nitromethane.

PubMed

Larentzos, James P; Rice, Betsy M

2017-03-09

Transferable ReaxFF-lg models of nitromethane that predict a variety of material properties over a wide range of thermodynamic states are obtained by screening a library of ∼6600 potentials that were previously optimized through the Multiple Objective Evolutionary Strategies (MOES) approach using a training set that included information for other energetic materials composed of carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, and oxygen. Models that best match experimental nitromethane lattice constants at 4.2 K and 1 atm are evaluated for transferability to high-pressure states at room temperature and are shown to better predict various liquid- and solid-phase structural, thermodynamic, and transport properties as compared to the existing ReaxFF and ReaxFF-lg parametrizations. Although demonstrated for an energetic material, the library of ReaxFF-lg models is supplied to the scientific community to enable new research explorations of complex reactive phenomena in a variety of materials research applications.

Strong Lensing Mass Reconstruction: from Frontier Fields to the Typical Lensing Clusters of Future Surveys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sharon, Keren; Gladders, Michael D.; Rigby, Jane R.; Bayliss, Matthew B.; Wuyts, Eva; Dahle, Håkon; Johnson, Traci L.; Florian, Michael K.; Dunham, Samuel; Murray, Katherine; Whitaker, Kate; Li, Nan

Driven by the unprecedented wealth of high quality data that is accumulating for the Frontier Fields, they are becoming some of the best-studied strong lensing clusters to date, and probably the next few years. As will be discussed intensively in this focus meeting, the FF prove transformative for many fields: from studies of the high redshift Universe, to the assembly and structure of the clusters themselves. The FF data and the extensive collaborative effort around this program will also allow us to examine and improve upon current lens modeling techniques. Strong lensing is a powerful tool for mass reconstruction of the cores of galaxy clusters of all scales, providing an estimate of the total (dark and seen) projected mass density distribution out to 0.5 Mpc. Though SL mass may be biased by contribution from structures along the line of sight, its strength is that it is relatively insensitive to assumptions on cluster baryon astrophysics and dynamical state. Like the Frontier Fields clusters, the most ``famous'' strong lensing clusters are at the high mass end; they lens dozens of background sources into multiple images, providing ample lensing constraints. In this talk, I will focus on how we can leverage what we learn from modeling the FF clusters in strong lensing studies of the hundreds of clusters that will be discovered in upcoming surveys. In typical clusters, unlike the Frontier Fields, the Bullet Cluster and A1689, we observe only one to a handful of background sources, and have limited lensing constraints. I will describe the limitations that such a configuration imposes on strong lens modeling, highlight measurements that are robust to the richness of lensing evidence, and address the sources of uncertainty and what sort of information can help reduce those uncertainties. This category of lensing clusters is most relevant to the wide cluster surveys of the future.

Strong Lensing Mass Reconstruction: from Frontier Fields to the Typical Lensing Clusters of Future Surveys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sharon, Keren

2015-08-01

Driven by the unprecedented wealth of high quality data that is accumulating for the Frontier Fields, they are becoming some of the best-studied strong lensing clusters to date, and probably the next few years. As will be discussed intensively in this focus meeting, the FF prove transformative for many fields: from studies of the high redshift Universe, to the assembly and structure of the clusters themselves. The FF data and the extensive collaborative effort around this program will also allow us to examine and improve upon current lens modeling techniques. Strong lensing is a powerful tool for mass reconstruction of the cores of galaxy clusters of all scales, providing an estimate of the total (dark and seen) projected mass density distribution out to ~0.5 Mpc. Though SL mass may be biased by contribution from structures along the line of sight, its strength is that it is relatively insensitive to assumptions on cluster baryon astrophysics and dynamical state. Like the Frontier Fields clusters, the most "famous" strong lensing clusters are at the high mass end; they lens dozens of background sources into multiple images, providing ample lensing constraints. In this talk, I will focus on how we can leverage what we learn from modeling the FF clusters in strong lensing studies of the hundreds of clusters that will be discovered in upcoming surveys. In typical clusters, unlike the Frontier Fields, the Bullet Cluster and A1689, we observe only one to a handful of background sources, and have limited lensing constraints. I will describe the limitations that such a configuration imposes on strong lens modeling, highlight measurements that are robust to the richness of lensing evidence, and address the sources of uncertainty and what sort of information can help reduce those uncertainties. This category of lensing clusters is most relevant to the wide cluster surveys of the future.

Comparing three different modes of electroretinography in experimental glaucoma: diagnostic performance and correlation to structure.

PubMed

Wilsey, Laura; Gowrisankaran, Sowjanya; Cull, Grant; Hardin, Christy; Burgoyne, Claude F; Fortune, Brad

2017-04-01

To compare diagnostic performance and structure-function correlations of multifocal electroretinogram (mfERG), full-field flash ERG (ff-ERG) photopic negative response (PhNR) and transient pattern-reversal ERG (PERG) in a non-human primate (NHP) model of experimental glaucoma (EG). At baseline and after induction of chronic unilateral IOP elevation, 43 NHP had alternating weekly recordings of retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (RNFLT) by spectral domain OCT (Spectralis) and retinal function by mfERG (7F slow-sequence stimulus, VERIS), ff-ERG (red 0.42 log cd-s/m 2 flashes on blue 30 scotopic cd/m 2 background, LKC UTAS-E3000), and PERG (0.8° checks, 99% contrast, 100 cd/m 2 mean, 5 reversals/s, VERIS). All NHP were followed at least until HRT-confirmed optic nerve head posterior deformation, most to later stages. mfERG responses were filtered into low- and high-frequency components (LFC, HFC, >75 Hz). Peak-to-trough amplitudes of LFC features (N1, P1, N2) and HFC RMS amplitudes were measured and ratios calculated for HFC:P1 and N2:P1. ff-ERG parameters included A-wave (at 10 ms), B-wave (trough-to-peak) and PhNR (baseline-to-trough) amplitudes as well as PhNR:B-wave ratio. PERG parameters included P50 and N95 amplitudes as well as N95:P50 ratio and N95 slope. Diagnostic performance of retinal function parameters was compared using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (A-ROC) to discriminate between EG and control eyes. Correlations to RNFLT were compared using Steiger's test. Study duration was 15 ± 8 months. At final follow-up, structural damage in EG eyes measured by RNFLT ranged from 9% above baseline (BL) to 58% below BL; 29/43 EG eyes (67%) and 0/43 of the fellow control eyes exhibited significant (>7%) loss of RNFLT from BL. Using raw parameter values, the largest A-ROC findings for mfERG were: HFC (0.82) and HFC:P1 (0.90); for ff-ERG: PhNR (0.90) and PhNR:B-wave (0.88) and for PERG: P50 (0.64) and N95 (0.61). A-ROC increased when data were expressed as % change from BL, but the pattern of results persisted. At 95% specificity, the diagnostic sensitivity of mfERG HFC:P1 ratio was best, followed by PhNR and PERG. The correlation to RNFLT was stronger for mfERG HFC (R = 0.65) than for PhNR (R = 0.59) or PERG N95 (R = 0.36), (p = 0.20, p = 0.0006, respectively). The PhNR flagged a few EG eyes at the final time point that had not been flagged by mfERG HFC or PERG. Diagnostic performance and structure-function correlation were strongest for mfERG HFC as compared with ff-ERG PhNR or PERG in NHP EG.

Consistency of Fear of Failure Score Meanings among 8- to 18-Year-Old Female Athletes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Conroy, David E.; Coatsworth, J. Douglas; Kaye, Miranda P.

2007-01-01

Fear of failure (FF) energizes individuals to avoid failure because of the learned aversive consequences of failing (e.g., shame). Although FF is socialized in childhood, little is known about the meaning of scores from FF measures used with children and adolescents. This study addresses that void by establishing a preliminary nomological network…

40 CFR 63.1092 - What are the major differences between the requirements of 40 CFR part 61, subpart FF, and the...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... the requirements of 40 CFR part 61, subpart FF, and the waste requirements for ethylene production... Waste Operations Background for Waste Requirements § 63.1092 What are the major differences between the requirements of 40 CFR part 61, subpart FF, and the waste requirements for ethylene production sources? The...

Positional effects of monofluorinated phenylalanines on histone acetyltransferase stability and activity.

PubMed

Voloshchuk, Natalya; Zhu, Anita Y; Snydacker, David; Montclare, Jin Kim

2009-09-15

To explore the impact of global incorporation of fluorinated aromatic amino acids on protein function, we investigated the effects of three monofluorinated phenylalanine analogs para-fluorophenylalanine (pFF), meta-fluorophenylalanine (mFF), and ortho-fluorophenylalanine (oFF) on the stability and enzymatic activity of the histone acetyltransferase (HAT), tGCN5. We selected this set of fluorinated amino acids because they bear the same size and overall polarity but alter in side chain shape and dipole direction. Our experiments showed that among three fluorinated amino acids, the global incorporation of pFF affords the smallest perturbation to the structure and function of tGCN5.

"We like Fried Things": Negotiating Health and Taste among Hispanic Caribbean Communities in New York City.

PubMed

Fuster, Melissa

2017-01-01

The study was conducted to understand fried-food (FF) consumption among Hispanic Caribbean (HC) communities in New York City. Data were collected through qualitative interviews with 23 adults self-identified as Cuban, Dominican, or Puerto Rican. Most informants considered FFs an important part of their traditional diet. Potential explanations included taste, cost, convenience, and the emotive values attached to FF. FF consumption was contextualized in local foodscapes. Results include strategies to diminish FF consumption and differences across HC groups and migratory generations. The relevance for future nutrition interventions addressing health disparities in this community is discussed.

ACCRETION OF SUPERSONIC WINDS ONTO BLACK HOLES IN 3D: STABILITY OF THE SHOCK CONE

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

Gracia-Linares, M.; Guzmán, F. S.

Using numerical simulations we present the accretion of supersonic winds onto a rotating black hole in three dimensions. We study five representative directions of the wind with respect to the axis of rotation of the black hole and focus on the evolution and stability of the high-density shock cone that is formed during the process. We explore both the regime in which the shock cone is expected to be stable in order to confirm previous results obtained with two-dimensional simulations, and the regime in which the shock cone is expected to show a flip–flop (FF) type of instability. The methodsmore » used to attempt a triggering of the instability were (i) the accumulation of numerical errors and (ii) the explicit application of a perturbation on the velocity field after the shock cone was formed. The result is negative, that is, we did not find the FF instability within the parameter space we explored, including cases that are expected to be unstable.« less

Spatial variability of greenhouse gases emissions (CO2, CH4, N2O) in a tropical hydroelectric reservoir flooding primary forest (Petit Saut Reservoir, French Guiana)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cailleaud, Emilie; Guérin, Frédéric; Bouillon, Steven; Sarrazin, Max; Serça, Dominique

2014-05-01

At the Petit Saut Reservoir (PSR, French Guiana, South America), vertical profiles were performed at 5 stations in the open waters (OW) and 6 stations in two shallow flooded forest (FF) areas between April 2012 and September 2013. Measurements included physico-chemical parameters, ammonium, nitrate and dissolved greenhouse gas (CO2, CH4, N2O) concentrations, dissolved and particulate organic carbon (DOC, POC) and nitrogen (PN), δ13C-POC and δ15N-PN . The diffusive fluxes were calculated from surface concentrations. The aim of this study was to estimate the spatial variations of greenhouse gas emissions at a dentrical hydroelectric reservoir located in the tropics and flooding primary forest. Twenty years after impoundment, the water column of the PSR is permanently and tightly stratified thermally in the FF whereas in the OW, the thermal gradients are not as stable. The different hydrodynamical behaviours between the two different zones have significant consequences on the biogeochemistry: oxygen barely diffuses down to the hypolimnion in the FF whereas destratification occurs sporadically during the rainy season in the OW. Although we found the same range of POC in the FF and the OW (2.5-29 μmol L-1) and 20% more DOC at the bottom of OW than in the FF (229-878 μmol L-1), CO2 and CH4 concentrations were always significantly higher in the FF (CO2: 11-1412 μmol L-1, CH4: 0.001-1015 μmol L-1) than in the OW. On average, the CO2 concentrations were 30-40% higher in the FF than in the OW and the CH4 concentrations were three times higher in the FF than in the OW. The δ13C-POC and C:N values did not suggest substantial differences in the sources of OM between the FF and OW. At all stations, POC at the bottom has an isotopic signature slightly lighter than the terrestrial OM in the surrounding forest whereas the isotopic signature of surface POM would result from phytoplankton and methanotrophs. The vertical profiles of nitrogen compounds reveal that the main source of nitrogen in the water column of the PSR is the NH4+ produced during the mineralisation of the OM at the bottom of the reservoir. In OW, the production of NO3- and N2O is enhanced compared to the FF. As a result, N2O concentrations are three times higher at the bottom of OW but surface concentrations are similar in the FF and OW. CO2 diffusive fluxes are 40% higher and CH4 diffusive fluxes are three times higher in FF (CO2: 42±20 mmol m-2 d-1 ; CH4: 0.7±1.4 mmol m-2 d-1) than in OW (CO2: 27±17 mmol m-2 d-1 ; CH4: 0.2±0.3 mmol m-2 d-1). In shallow FF, average CH4 ebullition is 3±10 mmol m-2 d-1 whereas ebullition was never observed in OW. N2O emissions did not exhibit any spatial variability (9±4 μmol m-2 d-1). At the PSR, FF which represents one third of the surface area, is responsible of half of the GHG emissions from the reservoir. This implies that the emissions from most of the tropical reservoirs flooding primary forest need to be reassessed since FF environments are usually overlooked.

The spatial distribution of fossil fuel CO2 traced by Δ(14)C in the leaves of gingko (Ginkgo biloba L.) in Beijing City, China.

PubMed

Niu, Zhenchuan; Zhou, Weijian; Zhang, Xiaoshan; Wang, Sen; Zhang, Dongxia; Lu, Xuefeng; Cheng, Peng; Wu, Shugang; Xiong, Xiaohu; Du, Hua; Fu, Yunchong

2016-01-01

Atmospheric fossil fuel CO2 (CO2ff ) information is an important reference for local government to formulate energy-saving and emission reduction in China. The CO2ff spatial distribution in Beijing City was traced by Δ(14)C in the leaves of gingko (Ginkgo biloba L.) from late March to September in 2009. The Δ(14)C values were in the range of -35.2 ± 2.8∼15.5 ± 3.2 ‰ (average 3.4 ± 11.8 ‰), with high values found at suburban sites (average 12.8 ± 3.1 ‰) and low values at road sites (average -8.4 ± 18.1 ‰). The CO2ff concentrations varied from 11.6 ± 3.7 to 32.5 ± 9.0 ppm, with an average of 16.4 ± 4.9 ppm. The CO2ff distribution in Beijing City showed spatial heterogeneity. CO2ff hotspots were found at road sites resulted from the emission from vehicles, while low CO2ff concentrations were found at suburban sites because of the less usage of fossil fuels. Additionally, CO2ff concentrations in the northwest area were generally higher than those in the southeast area due to the disadvantageous topography.

[Correlation between vertebral bone marrow fat and abdomen fat: a prospective study].

PubMed

Zhang, Xiao-Dong; Zhao, Yin-Xia; Zhao, Wen-Ji; Zhang, Ling-Yan; Yan, Jie-Wen; Hao, Shuai; Lu, Xiong-Guang; Zhao, Jing; Li, Shao-Lin

2016-02-01

To investigate the correlation between the lumbar bone marrow fat and abdominal fat. A total of 68 individuals (32 men and 36 women, aged 21-74 years with a median of 49.5 years) were included in this study. All the subjects underwent spectroscopic examination of the third lumber vertebra with the single voxel method on a 1.5T MR scanner to measure the fat fraction (FF%). Quantitative CT was also performed for measurement of the abdomen subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) and visceral adipose tissue (VAT). The measurements were compared between subjects aged ≥50 years and those below 50 years, respectively,in male or female subjects. In male subjects, BMI, FF%, VAT or SAT showed no significant differences between the two age groups (P>0.05), and FF% was not correlated with BMI, VAT or SAT (r=0.109, 0.034, 0.066, respectively; P>0.05). In the female subjects, BMI, FF%, VAT and SAT differed significantly between the two age groups (P<0.05), and in ≥50 years group, FF% showed a positive correlation with VAT (r=0.499, P<0.05) but was not correlated with SAT (r=0.221, P>0.05); in<50 years group, FF% was not correlated with VAT or SAT (r=0.076, -0.067, respectively; P>0.05). FF% is positively correlated with VAT in female subjects aged beyond 50 years, but is not correlated with VAT or SAT in male subjects or in younger female subjects.

Fecal microbiota transplant

MedlinePlus

... difficile - fecal transplant; Pseudomembranous colitis - fecal transplant References Ferri FF. Clostridium difficile infection. In: Ferri FF, ed. Ferri's Clinical Advisor 2017. Philadelphia, PA: ...

Realizing Efficient Energy Harvesting from Organic Photovoltaic Cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zou, Yunlong

Organic photovoltaic cells (OPVs) are emerging field of research in renewable energy. The development of OPVs in recent years has made this technology viable for many niche applications. In order to realize widespread application however, the power conversion efficiency requires further improvement. The efficiency of an OPV depends on the short-circuit current density (JSC), open-circuit voltage (VOC) and fill factor (FF). For state-of-the-art devices, JSC is mostly optimized with the application of novel low-bandgap materials and a bulk heterojunction device architecture (internal quantum efficiency approaching 100%). The remaining limiting factors are the low VOC and FF. This work focuses on overcoming these bottlenecks for improved efficiency. Temperature dependent measurements of device performance are used to examine both charge transfer and exciton ionization process in OPVs. The results permit an improved understanding of the intrinsic limit for VOC in various device architectures and provide insight on device operation. Efforts have also been directed at engineering device architecture for optimized FF, realizing a very high efficiency of 8% for vapor deposited small molecule OPVs. With collaborators, new molecules with tailored desired energy levels are being designed for further improvements in efficiency. A new type of hybrid organic-inorganic perovskite material is also included in this study. By addressing processing issues and anomalous hysteresis effects, a very high efficiency of 19.1% is achieved. Moving forward, topics including engineering film crystallinity, exploring tandem architectures and understanding degradation mechanisms will further push OPVs toward broad commercialization.

Final Report on Oxygen Plant Development (Employing Regenerative Chemicals)

DTIC Science & Technology

1945-05-31

Furn:t3 at NDRC Washington Office, May 25, 1942. Air Transported or^t (P- S ) JJ. W. Kellogg Company letter from Walter E. Lobo to C. C. Furnas at...Chemjcalfl) la National Defense Reaearcft fonmimfe.e, Ely. The M. ff. Kellogg Company Contract t’lo. OEM-sr-565 And American Machine Defense...Corporation Contract No. OEM-sr-499 Submitted by» Walter G. Lot for The M. 1». Kellogg Company March 16, 1945 ß;&*e&’ OCCM3, C. Bockius for

SU-F-T-630: Energy Spectral Study On Lipiodol After Trans-Arterial Chemoembolization Using the Flattened and Unflattened Photon Beams

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

Kawahara, D; Medical and Dental Sciences Course, Graduate School of Biomedical & Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima; Ozawa, S

Purpose: SBRT combining transarterial chemoembolization with Lipiodol is expected to improve local control. Our showed that the dose enhancement effect in the Lipiodol with 10X flattening filter free (FFF) was inserted. This study was to investigate the energy fluence variations of electron in the Lipiodol using flattened (FF) and FFF beams. Methods: FF and FFF for 6X and 10X beams by TrueBeam were used in this study. The Lipiodol (3 X 3 X 3 cm{sup 3}) was located at the depth of 5 cm in water, the dose enhancement factor (DEF) and energy fluence were calculated by Monte Carlo (MC)more » calculations (PHITS). Results: DEFs with FF and FFF of 6X were 17.1% and 24.3% at rebuild-up region in the Lipiodol (5.3cm depth), 7.0% and 17.0% at the center of Lipiodol (6.5cm depth), and −13.2% and −8.2% at behind Lipiodol (8.3cm depth). DEFs with FF and FFF of 10X were 21.7% and 15.3% at rebuild-up region, 8.2% and 10.5% at the center of Lipiodol, and −14.0% and −8.6% at behind Lipiodol. Spectral results showed that the FFF beam contained more low-energy (0–0.3MeV) component of electrons than FF beam, and FF beam contained more high-energy (over 0.3MeV) electrons than FFF beam in Lipiodol. Behind the Lipiodol, build-down effect with FF beam was larger than FFF beam because FF beam contained more high energy electrons. The difference of DEFs between FFF and FF beams for 6X were larger than for 10X. This is because 10X beam contained more high-energy electrons. Conclusion: It was found that the 6XFFF beam gives the largest change of energy fluence and the largest DEF in this study. These phenomena are mainly caused by component of low-energy electrons, and this energy is almost correspond to the boundary of photo electronic dominant and Compton scattering dominant region for photon beams.« less

Dorsal and ventral stream contributions to form-from-motion perception in a patient with form-from motion deficit: a case report.

PubMed

Mercier, Manuel R; Schwartz, Sophie; Spinelli, Laurent; Michel, Christoph M; Blanke, Olaf

2017-03-01

The main model of visual processing in primates proposes an anatomo-functional distinction between the dorsal stream, specialized in spatio-temporal information, and the ventral stream, processing essentially form information. However, these two pathways also communicate to share much visual information. These dorso-ventral interactions have been studied using form-from-motion (FfM) stimuli, revealing that FfM perception first activates dorsal regions (e.g., MT+/V5), followed by successive activations of ventral regions (e.g., LOC). However, relatively little is known about the implications of focal brain damage of visual areas on these dorso-ventral interactions. In the present case report, we investigated the dynamics of dorsal and ventral activations related to FfM perception (using topographical ERP analysis and electrical source imaging) in a patient suffering from a deficit in FfM perception due to right extrastriate brain damage in the ventral stream. Despite the patient's FfM impairment, both successful (observed for the highest level of FfM signal) and absent/failed FfM perception evoked the same temporal sequence of three processing states observed previously in healthy subjects. During the first period, brain source localization revealed cortical activations along the dorsal stream, currently associated with preserved elementary motion processing. During the latter two periods, the patterns of activity differed from normal subjects: activations were observed in the ventral stream (as reported for normal subjects), but also in the dorsal pathway, with the strongest and most sustained activity localized in the parieto-occipital regions. On the other hand, absent/failed FfM perception was characterized by weaker brain activity, restricted to the more lateral regions. This study shows that in the present case report, successful FfM perception, while following the same temporal sequence of processing steps as in normal subjects, evoked different patterns of brain activity. By revealing a brain circuit involving the most rostral part of the dorsal pathway, this study provides further support for neuro-imaging studies and brain lesion investigations that have suggested the existence of different brain circuits associated with different profiles of interaction between the dorsal and the ventral streams.

SU-E-T-216: Comparison of Volumetrically Modulated Arc Therapy Treatment Using Flattening Filter Free Beams Vs. Flattened Beams for Partial Brain Irradiation

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

Yu, S; Roa, D; Hanna, N

2015-06-15

Purpose: Flattening Filter Free (FFF) beams offer the potential for higher dose rates, short treatment time, and lower out of field dose. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the dosimetric effects and out of field dose of Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy (VMAT) plans using FFF vs Flattening Filtering (FF) beams for partial brain irradiation. Methods: Ten brain patients treated with a 6FF beam from a Truebeam STX were analyzed retrospectively for this study. These plans (46Gy at 2 Gy per fraction) were re-optimized for 6FFF beams using the same dose constraints as the original plans. PTV coverage,more » PTV Dmax, total MUs, and mean dose to organs-at-risk (OAR) were evaluated. In addition, the out-of-field dose for 6FF and 6FFF plans for one patient was measured on an anthropomorphic phantom. TLDs were placed inside (central axis) and outside (surface) the phantom at distances ranging from 0.5 cm to 17 cm from the field edge. Paired T-test was used for statistical analysis. Results: PTV coverage and PTV Dmax were comparable for the FF and FFF plans with 95.9% versus 95.6% and 111.2% versus 111.9%, respectively. Mean dose to the OARs were 3.7% less for FFF than FF plans (p<0.0001). Total MUs were, on average, 12.5% greater for FFF than FF plans with 481±55 MU (FFF) versus 429±50 MU (FF), p=0.0003. On average, the measured out of field dose was 24% less for FFF compared to FF, p<0.0001. A similar beam-on time was observed for the FFF and FF treatment. Conclusion: It is beneficial to use 6FFF beams for regular fractionated brain VMAT treatments. VMAT treatment plans using FFF beams can achieve comparable PTV coverage but with more OAR sparing. The out of field dose is significant less with mean reduction of 24%.« less

Comparison of simulation and experimental results for a model aqueous tert-butanol solution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Overduin, S. D.; Patey, G. N.

2017-07-01

Molecular dynamics simulations are used to investigate the behavior of aqueous tert-butanol (TBA) solutions for a range of temperatures, using the CHARMM generalized force field (CGenFF) to model TBA and the TIP4P/2005 or TIP4P-Ew water model. Simulation results for the density, isothermal compressibility, constant pressure heat capacity, and self-diffusion coefficients are in good accord with experimental measurements. Agreement with the experiment is particularly good at low TBA concentration, where experiments have revealed anomalies in a number of thermodynamic properties. Importantly, the CGenFF model does not exhibit liquid-liquid demixing at temperatures between 290 and 320 K (for systems of 32 000 molecules), in contrast with the situation for several other common TBA models [R. Gupta and G. N. Patey, J. Chem. Phys. 137, 034509 (2012)]. However, whereas real water and TBA are miscible at all temperatures where the liquid is stable, we observe some evidence of demixing at 340 K and above. To evaluate the structural properties at low concentrations, we compare with both neutron scattering and recent spectroscopic measurements. This reveals that while the CGenFF model is a definite improvement over other models that have been considered, the TBA molecules still exhibit a tendency to associate at low concentrations that is somewhat stronger than that indicated by experiments. Finally, we discuss the range and decay times of the long-range correlations, providing an indication of the system size and simulation times that are necessary in order to obtain reliable results for certain properties.

Composite Structural Analysis of Flat-Back Shaped Blade for Multi-MW Class Wind Turbine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Soo-Hyun; Bang, Hyung-Joon; Shin, Hyung-Ki; Jang, Moon-Seok

2014-06-01

This paper provides an overview of failure mode estimation based on 3D structural finite element (FE) analysis of the flat-back shaped wind turbine blade. Buckling stability, fiber failure (FF), and inter-fiber failure (IFF) analyses were performed to account for delamination or matrix failure of composite materials and to predict the realistic behavior of the entire blade region. Puck's fracture criteria were used for IFF evaluation. Blade design loads applicable to multi-megawatt (MW) wind turbine systems were calculated according to the Germanischer Lloyd (GL) guideline and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) 61400-1 standard, under Class IIA wind conditions. After the post-processing of final load results, a number of principal load cases were selected and converted into applied forces at the each section along the blade's radius of the FE model. Nonlinear static analyses were performed for laminate failure, FF, and IFF check. For buckling stability, linear eigenvalue analysis was performed. As a result, we were able to estimate the failure mode and locate the major weak point.

Coronary versus carotid blood flow and coronary perfusion pressure in a pig model of prolonged cardiac arrest treated by different modes of venoarterial ECMO and intraaortic balloon counterpulsation.

PubMed

Bělohlávek, Jan; Mlček, Mikuláš; Huptych, Michal; Svoboda, Tomáš; Havránek, Stěpán; Ošt'ádal, Petr; Bouček, Tomáš; Kovárník, Tomáš; Mlejnský, František; Mrázek, Vratislav; Bělohlávek, Marek; Aschermann, Michael; Linhart, Aleš; Kittnar, Otomar

2012-12-12

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is increasingly used in cardiac arrest (CA). Adequacy of carotid and coronary blood flows (CaBF, CoBF) and coronary perfusion pressure (CoPP) in ECMO treated CA is not well established. This study compares femoro-femoral (FF) to femoro-subclavian (FS) ECMO and intraaortic balloon counterpulsation (IABP) contribution based on CaBF, CoBF, CoPP, myocardial and brain oxygenation in experimental CA managed by ECMO. In 11 female pigs (50.3 ± 3.4 kg), CA was randomly treated by FF versus FS ECMO ± IABP. Animals under general anesthesia had undergone 15 minutes of ventricular fibrillation (VF) with ECMO flow of 5 to 10 mL/kg/min simulating low-flow CA followed by continued VF with ECMO flow of 100 mL/kg/min. CaBF and CoBF were measured by a Doppler flow wire, cerebral and peripheral oxygenation by near infrared spectroscopy. CoPP, myocardial oxygen metabolism and resuscitability were determined. CaBF reached values > 80% of baseline in all regimens. CoBF > 80% was reached only by the FF ECMO, 90.0% (66.1, 98.6). Addition of IABP to FF ECMO decreased CoBF to 60.7% (55.1, 86.2) of baseline, P = 0.004. FS ECMO produced 70.0% (49.1, 113.2) of baseline CoBF, significantly lower than FF, P = 0.039. Addition of IABP to FS did not change the CoBF; however, it provided significantly higher flow, 76.7% (71.9, 111.2) of baseline, compared to FF + IABP, P = 0.026. Both brain and peripheral regional oxygen saturations decreased after induction of CA to 23% (15.0, 32.3) and 34% (23.5, 34.0), respectively, and normalized after ECMO institution. For brain saturations, all regimens reached values exceeding 80% of baseline, none of the comparisons between respective treatment approaches differed significantly. After a decline to 15 mmHg (9.5, 20.8) during CA, CoPP gradually rose with time to 68 mmHg (43.3, 84.0), P = 0 .003, with best recovery on FF ECMO. Resuscitability of the animals was high, both 5 and 60 minutes return of spontaneous circulation occured in eight animals (73%). In a pig model of CA, both FF and FS ECMO assure adequate brain perfusion and oxygenation. FF ECMO offers better CoBF than FS ECMO. Addition of IABP to FF ECMO worsens CoBF. FF ECMO, more than FS ECMO, increases CoPP over time.

Coronary versus carotid blood flow and coronary perfusion pressure in a pig model of prolonged cardiac arrest treated by different modes of venoarterial ECMO and intraaortic balloon counterpulsation

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Introduction Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is increasingly used in cardiac arrest (CA). Adequacy of carotid and coronary blood flows (CaBF, CoBF) and coronary perfusion pressure (CoPP) in ECMO treated CA is not well established. This study compares femoro-femoral (FF) to femoro-subclavian (FS) ECMO and intraaortic balloon counterpulsation (IABP) contribution based on CaBF, CoBF, CoPP, myocardial and brain oxygenation in experimental CA managed by ECMO. Methods In 11 female pigs (50.3 ± 3.4 kg), CA was randomly treated by FF versus FS ECMO ± IABP. Animals under general anesthesia had undergone 15 minutes of ventricular fibrillation (VF) with ECMO flow of 5 to 10 mL/kg/min simulating low-flow CA followed by continued VF with ECMO flow of 100 mL/kg/min. CaBF and CoBF were measured by a Doppler flow wire, cerebral and peripheral oxygenation by near infrared spectroscopy. CoPP, myocardial oxygen metabolism and resuscitability were determined. Results CaBF reached values > 80% of baseline in all regimens. CoBF > 80% was reached only by the FF ECMO, 90.0% (66.1, 98.6). Addition of IABP to FF ECMO decreased CoBF to 60.7% (55.1, 86.2) of baseline, P = 0.004. FS ECMO produced 70.0% (49.1, 113.2) of baseline CoBF, significantly lower than FF, P = 0.039. Addition of IABP to FS did not change the CoBF; however, it provided significantly higher flow, 76.7% (71.9, 111.2) of baseline, compared to FF + IABP, P = 0.026. Both brain and peripheral regional oxygen saturations decreased after induction of CA to 23% (15.0, 32.3) and 34% (23.5, 34.0), respectively, and normalized after ECMO institution. For brain saturations, all regimens reached values exceeding 80% of baseline, none of the comparisons between respective treatment approaches differed significantly. After a decline to 15 mmHg (9.5, 20.8) during CA, CoPP gradually rose with time to 68 mmHg (43.3, 84.0), P = 0 .003, with best recovery on FF ECMO. Resuscitability of the animals was high, both 5 and 60 minutes return of spontaneous circulation occured in eight animals (73%). Conclusions In a pig model of CA, both FF and FS ECMO assure adequate brain perfusion and oxygenation. FF ECMO offers better CoBF than FS ECMO. Addition of IABP to FF ECMO worsens CoBF. FF ECMO, more than FS ECMO, increases CoPP over time. PMID:22424292

Membrane triangles with corner drilling freedoms. III - Implementation and performance evaluation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Felippa, Carlos A.; Alexander, Scott

1992-01-01

This paper completes a three-part series on the formulation of 3-node, 9-dof membrane triangles with corner drilling freedoms based on parametrized variational principles. The first four sections cover element implementation details including determination of optimal parameters and treatment of distributed loads. Then three elements of this type, labeled ALL, FF and EFF-ANDES, are tested on standard plane stress problems. ALL represents numerically integrated versions of Allman's 1988 triangle; FF is based on the free formulation triangle presented by Bergan and Felippa in 1985; and EFF-ANDES represent two different formulations of the optimal triangle derived in Parts I and II. The numerical studies indicate that the ALL, FF and EFF-ANDES elements are comparable in accuracy for elements of unitary aspect ratios. The ALL elements are found to stiffen rapidly in inplane bending for high aspect ratios, whereas the FF and EFF elements maintain accuracy. The EFF and ANDES implementations have a moderate edge in formation speed over the FF.

Free-field Calibration of the Pressure Sensitivity of Microphones at Frequencies up to 80 kHz

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Herring, G. C.; Zuckerwar, Allan J.; Elbing, Brian R.

2006-01-01

A free-field (FF) substitution method for calibrating the pressure sensitivity of microphones at frequencies up to 80 kHz is demonstrated with both grazing and normal incidence geometries. The substitution-based method, as opposed to a simultaneous method, avoids problems associated with the non-uniformity of the sound field and, as applied here, uses a 1/2 -inch air-condenser pressure microphone as a known reference. Best results were obtained with a centrifugal fan, which is used as a random, broadband sound source. A broadband source minimizes reflection-related interferences that often plague FF measurements. Calibrations were performed on 1/4-inch FF air-condenser, electret, and micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) microphones in an anechoic chamber. The accuracy of this FF method is estimated by comparing the pressure sensitivity of an air-condenser microphone, as derived from the FF measurement, with that of an electrostatic actuator calibration and is typically 0.3 dB (95% confidence), over the range 2-80 kHz.

Fill factor in organic solar cells can exceed the Shockley-Queisser limit

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Trukhanov, Vasily A.; Bruevich, Vladimir V.; Paraschuk, Dmitry Yu.

2015-06-01

The ultimate efficiency of organic solar cells (OSC) is under active debate. The solar cell efficiency is calculated from the current-voltage characteristic as a product of the open-circuit voltage (VOC), short-circuit current (JSC), and the fill factor (FF). While the factors limiting VOC and JSC for OSC were extensively studied, the ultimate FF for OSC is scarcely explored. Using numerical drift-diffusion modeling, we have found that the FF in OSC can exceed the Shockley-Queisser limit (SQL) established for inorganic p-n junction solar cells. Comparing charge generation and recombination in organic donor-acceptor bilayer heterojunction and inorganic p-n junction, we show that such distinctive properties of OSC as interface charge generation and heterojunction facilitate high FF, but the necessary condition for FF exceeding the SQL in OSC is field-dependence of charge recombination at the donor-acceptor interface. These findings can serve as a guideline for further improvement of OSC.

Metabolomic profiling of human follicular fluid from patients with repeated failure of in vitro fertilization using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry

PubMed Central

Xia, Lan; Zhao, Xiaoming; Sun, Yun; Hong, Yan; Gao, Yuping; Hu, Shuanggang

2014-01-01

Objective: To establish a gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS)-based metabolomics method to compare the metabolites in the follicular fluid (FF) from patients with in vitro fertilization (IVF) and repeated IVF failure (RIF). Methods: A prospective study was employed in Center for Reprodutive Medcine, Renji Hospital, Shanghai, China, between January and October 2010. FF samples were collected from 13 patients with RIF and 15 patients who achieved pregnancy after the first IVF cycle. Results: Partial least squares (PLS) discriminant analysis of the PCA data revealed that the samples were scattered into two different regions. FF from the two groups differed with respect to 20 metabolites. FF from RIF group showed elevated levels of several amino acids (valine, threonine, isoleucine, cysteine, serine, proline, alanine, phenylalanine, lysine, methionine and ornithine), and reduced levels of dicarboxylic acids, cholesterol and some organic acids. Conclusions: The studies corroborated successful determination of the levels of metabolite in the FF. PMID:25400819

Beta endorphin in serum and follicular fluid of PCOS- and non-PCOS women.

PubMed

Jaschke, Nikolai; Lunger, Fabian; Wildt, Ludwig; Seeber, Beata

2018-07-01

To compare the concentrations of beta endorphin in serum and follicular fluid (FF) of PCOS- and non-PCOS women. Secondarily, to investigate associations between beta endorphin and other parameters. Fifty-nine women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) were included in the study. Sixteen were stratified to the PCOS group using the Rotterdam criteria. The remaining 43 women served as controls. Follicular fluid was collected during oocyte retrieval and peripheral blood sampling was performed on the same day. Beta endorphin concentrations in serum and follicular fluid, serum levels of insulin, glucose, LH, estradiol and progesterone were measured. Additionally, testosterone was measured before starting the stimulation protocol. There was no difference in beta endorphin levels between PCOS- and non-PCOS women. The concentration of the peptide was higher in serum than in FF, likely due to collection of FF after ovulation induction and corresponding to the early luteal phase. We found a significant correlation between the number of mature Metaphase II (MII) oocytes retrieved and beta endorphin concentration in FF. In women with biochemical hyperandrogenemia, beta endorphin levels in FF correlated with testosterone levels. Beta Endorphin concentrations in serum and FF do not differ between PCOS- and non PCOS-women undergoing IVF. However, together with sex hormones, beta endorphin might play a key role in oocyte maturation.

Puerto Rico Strong Motion Seismic Network

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huerta-Lopez, C. I.; Martínez-Cruzado, J. A.; Martínez-Pagan, J.; Santana-Torres, E. X.; Torres-O, D. M.

2014-12-01

The Puerto Rico Strong Motion Seismic Network is currently in charge of the operation of: (i) free-field (ff) strong motion stations, (ii) instrumented structures (STR) (Dams, Bridges, Buildings), and (iii) the data acquisition/monitoring and analysis of earthquakes considered strong from the point of view of their intensity and magnitude. All these instruments are deployed in the Puerto Rico Island (PRI), US-, and British-Virgin Islands (BVI), and Dominican Republic (DR). The Puerto Rico Island and the Caribbean region have high potential to be affected by earthquakes that could be catastrophic for the area. The Puerto Rico Strong Motion Seismic Network (actually Puerto Rico Strong Motion Program, PRSMP) has grown since 1970's from 7 ff strong motion stations and one instrumented building with analog accelerographs to 111 ff strong motion stations and 16 instrumented buildings with digital accelerographs: PRI: 88 ff, 16 STR., DR: 13 ff, BVI: 5 ff, 2 STR collecting data via IP (internet), DU (telephone), and stand alone stations The current stage of the PRSMP seismic network, the analysis of moderate earthquakes that were recorded and/or occurred on the island, results of the intensity distribution of selected earthquakes, as well as results of dynamic parameter identification of some of the instrumented structures are here presented.

Sex differences in the fetal heart rate variability indices of twins.

PubMed

Tendais, Iva; Figueiredo, Bárbara; Gonçalves, Hernâni; Bernardes, João; Ayres-de-Campos, Diogo; Montenegro, Nuno

2015-03-01

To evaluate the differences in linear and complex heart rate dynamics in twin pairs according to fetal sex combination [male-female (MF), male-male (MM), and female-female (FF)]. Fourteen twin pairs (6 MF, 3 MM, and 5 FF) were monitored between 31 and 36.4 weeks of gestation. Twenty-six fetal heart rate (FHR) recordings of both twins were simultaneously acquired and analyzed with a system for computerized analysis of cardiotocograms. Linear and nonlinear FHR indices were calculated. Overall, MM twins presented higher intrapair average in linear indices than the other pairs, whereas FF twins showed higher sympathetic-vagal balance. MF twins exhibited higher intrapair average in entropy indices and MM twins presented lower entropy values than FF twins considering the (automatically selected) threshold rLu. MM twin pairs showed higher intrapair differences in linear heart rate indices than MF and FF twins, whereas FF twins exhibited lower intrapair differences in entropy indices. The results of this exploratory study suggest that twins have sex-specific differences in linear and nonlinear indices of FHR. MM twins expressed signs of a more active autonomic nervous system and MF twins showed the most active complexity control system. These results suggest that fetal sex combination should be taken into consideration when performing detailed evaluation of the FHR in twins.

Analysis of the FF Aqr spectra

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shimanskaya, N. N.; Bikmaev, I. F.; Shimansky, V. V.

2011-07-01

We determine the atmospheric parameters of the secondary in the close binary system FF Aqr and analyze its chemical composition. A series of high-resolution spectra are taken at different orbital phases using the coude echelle spectrometer of the 1.5-m Russian-Turkish Telescope (RTT150). We show that the absorption line intensity of heavy elements varies with phase due to the spotty nature of the cool component. We determine the abundances of heavy elements in the star's atmosphere by modelling the synthetic spectra and performing a differential analysis of the chemical composition of FF Aqr relative to the solar composition. Our analysis of the averaged spectrum of FF Aqr yielded 539 abundance estimates for 21 chemical elements. We found the metallicity of the star ([ Fe/H] = -0.11 ± 0.08) to be close solar, in agreement with the hypothesis that FF Aqr should belong to the Galactic disk. The inferred chemical composition of the objects exhibits no anomalous abundances of the α-, r-, and s-process elements like those earlier found in other systems (IN Com, LW Hya, V471 Tau). The lack of such anomalies in FF Aqr must be due to the fact that the elements heavier than 16 O cannot be synthesized in the core of the primary during the last stages of its evolution.

Therapeutic angiogenesis in ischemic muscles after local injection of fragmented fibers with loaded traditional Chinese medicine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Huiyan; Wan, Huiying; Xia, Tian; Chen, Maohua; Zhang, Yun; Luo, Xiaoming; Li, Xiaohong

2015-07-01

Therapeutic angiogenesis remains the most effective method to re-establish a proper blood flow in ischemic tissues. There is a great clinical need to identify an injectable format to achieve a well accumulation following local administration and a sustained delivery of biological factors at the ischemic sites. In the current study, fragmented nanofibers with loaded traditional Chinese medicines, astragaloside IV (AT), the main active ingredient of astragalus, and ferulic acid (FA), the main ingredient of angelica, were proposed to promote the microvessel formation after intramuscular injection into ischemic hindlimbs. Fragmented fibers with average lengths of 5 (FF-5), 20 (FF-20) and 80 μm (FF-80) were constructed by the cryocutting of aligned electrospun fibers. Their dispersion in sodium alginate solution (0.2%) indicated good injectability. After injection into the quadriceps muscles of the hindlimbs, FF-20 and FF-80 fiber fragments showed higher tissue retentions than FF-5, and around 90% of the injected doses were determined after 7 days. On a hindlimb ischemia model established by ligating the femoral arteries, intramuscular injection of the mixtures of FA-loaded and AT-loaded FF-20 fiber fragments substantially reduced the muscle degeneration with minimal fibrosis formation, significantly enhanced the neovessel formation and hindlimb perfusion in the ischemic tissues, and efficiently promoted the limb salvage with few limb losses. Along with the easy manipulation and lower invasiveness for in vivo administration, fragmented fibers should become potential drug carriers for disease treatment, wound recovery and tissue repair after local injection.

Expression of miR-15a, miR-145, and miR-182 in granulosa-lutein cells, follicular fluid, and serum of women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

PubMed

Naji, Mohammad; Nekoonam, Saeid; Aleyasin, Ashraf; Arefian, Ehsan; Mahdian, Reza; Azizi, Elham; Shabani Nashtaei, Maryam; Amidi, Fardin

2018-01-01

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrinopathies that affects women in reproductive age. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play crucial roles in normal function of female reproductive system and folliculogenesis. Deregulated expression of miRNAs in PCOS condition may be significantly implicated in the pathogenesis of PCOS. We determined relative expression of miR-15a, miR-145, and miR-182 in granulosa-lutein cells (GLCs), follicular fluid (FF), and serum of PCOS patients. Human subjects were divided into PCOS (n = 20) and control (n = 21) groups. GLCs, FF, and serum were isolated and stored. RNA isolation was performed and cDNA was reversely transcribed using specific stem-loop RT primers. Relative expression of miRNAs was calculated after normalization against U6 expression. Correlation of miRNAs' expression level with basic clinical features and predictive value of miRNAs in FF and serum were appraised. Relative expression of miR-145 and miR-182 in GLCs was significantly decreased in PCOS, but miR-182 in FF of PCOS patients revealed up-regulated levels. Significant correlations between level of miRNAs in FF and serum and hormonal profile of subjects were observed. MiR-182 in FF showed a significant predictive value with AUC of 0.73, 76.4% sensitivity, and 70.5% specificity which was improved after combination of miR-182 and miR-145. A significant dysregulation of miR-145 and miR-182 in GLCs of PCOS may indicate their involvement in pathogenesis of PCOS. Differential up-regulation of miR-182 in FF of PCOS patients with its promising predictive values for discrimination of PCOS reinforced the importance of studying miRNAs' profile in FF.

Effect of secondary electron generation on dose enhancement in Lipiodol with and without a flattening filter.

PubMed

Kawahara, Daisuke; Ozawa, Shuichi; Saito, Akito; Kimura, Tomoki; Suzuki, Tatsuhiko; Tsuneda, Masato; Tanaka, Sodai; Nakashima, Takeo; Ohno, Yoshimi; Murakami, Yuji; Nagata, Yasushi

2018-03-01

Lipiodol, which was used in transcatheter arterial chemoembolization before liver stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), remains in SBRT. Previous we reported the dose enhancement in Lipiodol using 10 MV (10×) FFF beam. In this study, we compared the dose enhancement in Lipiodol and evaluated the probability of electron generation (PEG) for the dose enhancement using flattening filter (FF) and flattening filter free (FFF) beams. FF and FFF for 6 MV (6×) and 10× beams were delivered by TrueBeam. The dose enhancement factor (DEF), energy spectrum, and PEG was calculated using Monte Carlo (MC) code BEAMnrc and heavy ion transport code system (PHITS). DEFs for FF and FFF 6× beams were 7.0% and 17.0% at the center of Lipiodol (depth, 6.5 cm). DEFs for FF and FFF 10× beams were 8.2% and 10.5% at the center of Lipiodol. Spectral analysis revealed that the FFF beams contained more low-energy (0-0.3 MeV) electrons than the FF beams, and the FF beams contained more high-energy (>0.3 MeV) electrons than the FFF beams in Lipiodol. The difference between FFF and FF beam DEFs was larger for 6× than for 10×. This occurred because the 10× beams contained more high-energy electrons. The PEGs for photoelectric absorption and Compton scattering for the FFF beams were higher than those for the FF beams. The PEG for the photoelectric absorption was higher than that for Compton scattering. FFF beam contained more low-energy photons and it contributed to the dose enhancement. Energy spectra and PEGs are useful for analyzing the mechanisms of dose enhancement. © 2018 The Authors. Journal of Applied Clinical Medical Physics published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Association of Physicists in Medicine.

Breastfeeding, mixed or formula feeding at 9 months and the prevalence of iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia in two cohorts of infants in China

PubMed Central

Clark, Katy M.; Li, Ming; Zhu, Bingquan; Liang, Furong; Shao, Jie; Zhang, Yueyang; Ji, Chai; Zhao, Zhengyan; Kaciroti, Niko; Lozoff, Betsy

2016-01-01

Objective To assess associations between breastfeeding and iron status at 9 months in two samples of Chinese infants. Study design Associations between feeding at 9 months (breastfed [BF] as sole milk source, mixed-fed [MF], or formula-fed [FF]) and iron deficiency anemia (IDA), iron deficiency (ID), and iron sufficiency were determined in infants from Zhejiang and Hebei provinces (ns = 142 and 813). ID was defined as body iron < 0 mg/kg, IDA as ID + hemoglobin < 110 g/L. Multiple logistic regression assessed associations between feeding pattern and iron status. Results Breastfeeding was associated with iron status (P-values < .001). In Zhejiang, 27.5% of BF infants had IDA compared with 0% of FF infants. The odds of ID/IDA were increased in BF and MF infants compared with FF: BF vs. FF odds ratio (OR): 28.8, 95% CI: 3.7–226.4; MF vs. FF OR: 11.0, 95% CI: 1.2–103.2. In Hebei, 44.0% of BF infants had IDA compared with 2.8% of FF infants. With covariable adjustment, odds of IDA were increased in BF and MF groups: BF vs. FF OR: 78.8, 95% CI: 27.2–228.1; MF vs. FF OR: 21.0, 95% CI: 7.3–60.9. Conclusions In both cohorts, the odds of ID/IDA at 9 months were increased in BF and MF infants, and ID/IDA was common. Although the benefits of breastfeeding are indisputable, these findings add to the evidence that breastfeeding in later infancy identifies infants at risk for ID/IDA in many settings. Protocols for detecting and preventing ID/IDA in BF infants are needed. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT00642863 and NCT00613717 PMID:27836288

Differential heat stability of amphenicols characterized by structural degradation, mass spectrometry and antimicrobial activity.

PubMed

Franje, Catherine A; Chang, Shao-Kuang; Shyu, Ching-Lin; Davis, Jennifer L; Lee, Yan-Wen; Lee, Ren-Jye; Chang, Chao-Chin; Chou, Chi-Chung

2010-12-01

Heat stability of amphenicols and the relationship between structural degradation and antimicrobial activity after heating has not been well investigated. Florfenicol (FF), thiamphenicol (TAP), and chloramphenicol (CAP) were heated at 100 degrees C in water, salt water, soybean sauce and chicken meat for up to 2h. Degradation and antimicrobial activity of the compounds was evaluated using capillary electrophoresis (CE) with UV-DAD spectrometry, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) assay, and gas chromatography with electron impact ionization mass spectrometry (GC-EI-MS). Heat stability of amphenicols in matrices was ranked as water> or =salt water>soybean sauce>meat, suggesting that heat degradation of amphenicols was accelerated in soybean sauce and was not protected in meat. Heat stability by drug and matrices was ranked as FF>TAP=CAP in water, FF=TAP>CAP in salt water, TAP> or =FF=CAP in soybean sauce, and TAP> or =FF=CAP in meat, indicating differential heat stability of amphenicols among the 3 drugs and in different matrices. In accordance with the less than 20% degradation, the MIC against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus did not change after 2h heating in water. A 5-min heating of amphenicols in water by microwave oven generated comparable percentage degradation to boiling in water bath for 30 min to 1h. Both CE and GC-MS analysis showed that heating of FF produced TAP but not FF amine as one of its breakdown products. In conclusion, despite close similarity in structure; amphenicols exhibited differential behavior toward heating degradation in solutions and protein matrices. Although higher degradations of amphenicols were observed in soybean sauce and meat, heating treatment may generate product with antimicrobial activity (FF to TAP), therefore, heating of amphenicol residues in food cannot always be assumed safe. Copyright (c) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Follicular fluid dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate is a credible marker of oocyte maturity and pregnancy outcome in conventional in vitro fertilization cycles.

PubMed

Chimote, Natachandra M; Nath, Nirmalendu M; Chimote, Nishad N; Chimote, Bindu N

2015-01-01

To investigate if the level of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-s) in follicular fluid (FF) influences the competence of oocytes to fertilize, develop to the blastocyst stage, and produce a viable pregnancy in conventional in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles. Prospective study of age-matched, nonpolycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) women undergoing antagonist stimulation protocol involving conventional insemination and day 5 blastocyst transfer. FF levels of DHEA-s and E2 were measured by a radio-immuno-assay method using diagnostic kits. Fertilization rate, embryo development to the blastocyst stage and live birth rate were main outcome measures. Cycles were divided into pregnant/nonpregnant groups and also into low/medium/high FF DHEA-s groups. Statistical analysis was done by GraphPad Prism V software. FF DHEA-s levels were significantly higher in pregnant (n = 111) compared to nonpregnant (n = 381) group (1599 ± 77.45 vs. 1372 ± 40.47 ng/ml; P = 0.01). High (n = 134) FF DHEA-s group had significantly higher percentage of metaphase II (MII) oocytes (91.5 vs. 85.54 vs. 79.44%, P < 0.0001), fertilization rate (78.86 vs. 74.16 vs. 71.26%, P < 0.0001), cleavage rate (83.67 vs. 69.1 vs. 66.17%, P = 0.0002), blastocyst formation rate (37.15 vs. 33.01 vs. 26.95%, P < 0.0001), and live birth rate (29.85 vs. 22.22 vs. 14.78%, P = 0.017) compared to medium (n = 243) and low (n = 115) FF DHEA-s groups, respectively despite comparable number of oocytes retrieved and number of blastocysts transferred. FF DHEA-s levels correlated significantly with the attainment of MII oocytes (Pearson r = 0.41) and fertilization rates (Pearson r = 0.35). FF DHEA-s level influences the oocyte maturation process and is predictive of fertilization, embryo development to the blastocyst stage and live birth rates in non-PCOS women undergoing conventional IVF cycles.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging Cooling-Reheating Protocol Indicates Decreased Fat Fraction via Lipid Consumption in Suspected Brown Adipose Tissue

PubMed Central

Lundström, Elin; Strand, Robin; Johansson, Lars; Bergsten, Peter; Ahlström, Håkan; Kullberg, Joel

2015-01-01

Objectives To evaluate whether a water-fat magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) cooling-reheating protocol could be used to detect changes in lipid content and perfusion in the main human brown adipose tissue (BAT) depot after a three-hour long mild cold exposure. Materials and Methods Nine volunteers were investigated with chemical-shift-encoded water-fat MRI at baseline, after a three-hour long cold exposure and after subsequent short reheating. Changes in fat fraction (FF) and R2*, related to ambient temperature, were quantified within cervical-supraclavicular adipose tissue (considered as suspected BAT, denoted sBAT) after semi-automatic segmentation. In addition, FF and R2* were quantified fully automatically in subcutaneous adipose tissue (not considered as suspected BAT, denoted SAT) for comparison. By assuming different time scales for the regulation of lipid turnover and perfusion in BAT, the changes were determined as resulting from either altered absolute fat content (lipid-related) or altered absolute water content (perfusion-related). Results sBAT-FF decreased after cold exposure (mean change in percentage points = -1.94 pp, P = 0.021) whereas no change was observed in SAT-FF (mean = 0.23 pp, P = 0.314). sBAT-R2* tended to increase (mean = 0.65 s-1, P = 0.051) and SAT-R2* increased (mean = 0.40 s-1, P = 0.038) after cold exposure. sBAT-FF remained decreased after reheating (mean = -1.92 pp, P = 0.008, compared to baseline) whereas SAT-FF decreased (mean = -0.79 pp, P = 0.008, compared to after cold exposure). Conclusions The sustained low sBAT-FF after reheating suggests lipid consumption, rather than altered perfusion, as the main cause to the decreased sBAT-FF. The results obtained demonstrate the use of the cooling-reheating protocol for detecting changes in the cervical-supraclavicular fat depot, being the main human brown adipose tissue depot, in terms of lipid content and perfusion. PMID:25928226

Impacts on the seagrass, Zostera nigricaulis, from the herbicide Fusilade Forte® used in the management of Spartina anglica infestations.

PubMed

Carve, Megan; Coggan, Timothy L; Myers, Jackie H; Clarke, Bradley; Nugegoda, Dayanthi; Shimeta, Jeff

2018-02-01

The herbicide Fusilade Forte ® (FF) is widely applied in agricultural weed management and in the management of the invasive saltmarsh grass, Spartina anglica (ricegrass or cordgrass). FF (active ingredient fluazifop-P acid, FPA) is selective for poaceous grasses. Its primary mode of action is inhibition of the acetyl coenzyme-A carboxylase (ACCase) specific to this taxonomic group, and its secondary mode is by promotion of oxidative stress. FF is applied to S. anglica infestations in the intertidal zone, in proximity to seagrass meadows. Despite the potential for vital seagrass ecosystems to be exposed to FF, there is limited knowledge of any potential impacts. We investigated impacts of FPA on the endemic Australian seagrass, Zostera nigricaulis, measuring ACCase activity and parameters that reflect oxidative stress: photosynthetic performance, lipid peroxidation and photosynthetic pigment content. Seagrass was exposed to FF (0.01-10mgL -1 FPA and a control) for 7d, followed by a 7-d recovery in uncontaminated seawater. An enzyme assay demonstrated that FPA ≤10mgL -1 did not inhibit the activity of ACCase isolated from Z. nigricaulis, demonstrating that this seagrass is resistant to FF's primary mode of action. However, physiological impacts occurred following 7 days exposure to ≥0.1mgL -1 FPA, including up to a 72% reduction in photosynthetic pigment concentration. After 7-d recovery, photosynthetic pigment content improved in treatment plants; however, treated plants exhibited higher levels of lipid peroxidation. This study demonstrates that while Z. nigricaulis is resistant to FF's primary mode of action, significant physiological impacts occur following 7 days exposure to ≥0.1mgL -1 FPA. This study provides valuable information on the effects of FF on a non-target species that can better inform approaches to Spartina management in coastal seagrass ecosystems. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Magnetic resonance imaging cooling-reheating protocol indicates decreased fat fraction via lipid consumption in suspected brown adipose tissue.

PubMed

Lundström, Elin; Strand, Robin; Johansson, Lars; Bergsten, Peter; Ahlström, Håkan; Kullberg, Joel

2015-01-01

To evaluate whether a water-fat magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) cooling-reheating protocol could be used to detect changes in lipid content and perfusion in the main human brown adipose tissue (BAT) depot after a three-hour long mild cold exposure. Nine volunteers were investigated with chemical-shift-encoded water-fat MRI at baseline, after a three-hour long cold exposure and after subsequent short reheating. Changes in fat fraction (FF) and R2*, related to ambient temperature, were quantified within cervical-supraclavicular adipose tissue (considered as suspected BAT, denoted sBAT) after semi-automatic segmentation. In addition, FF and R2* were quantified fully automatically in subcutaneous adipose tissue (not considered as suspected BAT, denoted SAT) for comparison. By assuming different time scales for the regulation of lipid turnover and perfusion in BAT, the changes were determined as resulting from either altered absolute fat content (lipid-related) or altered absolute water content (perfusion-related). sBAT-FF decreased after cold exposure (mean change in percentage points = -1.94 pp, P = 0.021) whereas no change was observed in SAT-FF (mean = 0.23 pp, P = 0.314). sBAT-R2* tended to increase (mean = 0.65 s-1, P = 0.051) and SAT-R2* increased (mean = 0.40 s-1, P = 0.038) after cold exposure. sBAT-FF remained decreased after reheating (mean = -1.92 pp, P = 0.008, compared to baseline) whereas SAT-FF decreased (mean = -0.79 pp, P = 0.008, compared to after cold exposure). The sustained low sBAT-FF after reheating suggests lipid consumption, rather than altered perfusion, as the main cause to the decreased sBAT-FF. The results obtained demonstrate the use of the cooling-reheating protocol for detecting changes in the cervical-supraclavicular fat depot, being the main human brown adipose tissue depot, in terms of lipid content and perfusion.

Single-fraction flattening filter–free volumetric modulated arc therapy for lung cancer: Dosimetric results and comparison with flattened beams technique

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

Barbiero, Sara; Specialty School in Medical Physics, University of Pisa, Pisa; Rink, Alexandra

2016-01-01

Purpose: To report on single-fraction stereotactic body radiotherapy (RT) (SBRT) with flattening filter (FF)–free (FFF) volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) for lung cancer and to compare dosimetric results with VMAT with FF. Methods and materials: Overall, 25 patients were treated with 6-MV FFF VMAT (Varian TrueBeam STx LINAC) to a prescribed dose of 24 Gy in a single fraction. Treatment plans were recreated using FF VMAT. Dose-volume indices, monitor units (MU), and treatment times were compared between FFF and FF VMAT techniques. Results: Dose constraints to PTV, spinal cord, and lungs were reached in FFF and FF plans. In FFFmore » plans, average conformity index was 1.13 (95% CI: 1.07 to1.38). Maximum doses to spinal cord, heart, esophagus, and trachea were 2.9 Gy (95% CI: 0.4 to 6.7 Gy), 0.8 Gy (95% CI: 0 to 3.6 Gy), 3.3 Gy (95% CI: 0.02 to 13.9 Gy), and 1.5 Gy (95% CI: 0 to 4.9 Gy), respectively. Average V7 Gy, V7.4 Gy, and mean dose to the healthy lung were 126.5 cc (95% CI: 41.3 to 248.9 cc), 107.3 cc (95% CI: 18.7 to 232.8 cc), and 1.1 Gy (95% CI: 0.3 to 2.2 Gy), respectively. No statistically significant differences were found in dosimetric results and MU between FF and FFF treatments. Treatment time was reduced by an average factor of 2.31 (95% CI: 2.15 to 2.43) from FF treatments to FFF, and the difference was statistically significant. Conclusions: FFF VMAT for lung SBRT provides equivalent dosimetric results to the target and organs at risk as FF VMAT while significantly reducing treatment time.« less

In Vitro and In Vivo Development of Horse Cloned Embryos Generated with iPSCs, Mesenchymal Stromal Cells and Fetal or Adult Fibroblasts as Nuclear Donors.

PubMed

Olivera, Ramiro; Moro, Lucia Natalia; Jordan, Roberto; Luzzani, Carlos; Miriuka, Santiago; Radrizzani, Martin; Donadeu, F Xavier; Vichera, Gabriel

2016-01-01

The demand for equine cloning as a tool to preserve high genetic value is growing worldwide; however, nuclear transfer efficiency is still very low. To address this issue, we first evaluated the effects of time from cell fusion to activation (<1h, n = 1261; 1-2h, n = 1773; 2-3h, n = 1647) on in vitro and in vivo development of equine embryos generated by cloning. Then, we evaluated the effects of using different nuclear donor cell types in two successive experiments: I) induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) vs. adult fibroblasts (AF) fused to ooplasts injected with the pluripotency-inducing genes OCT4, SOX2, MYC and KLF4, vs. AF alone as controls; II) umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (UC-MSCs) vs. fetal fibroblasts derived from an unborn cloned foetus (FF) vs. AF from the original individual. In the first experiment, both blastocyst production and pregnancy rates were higher in the 2-3h group (11.5% and 9.5%, respectively), respect to <1h (5.2% and 2%, respectively) and 1-2h (5.6% and 4.7%, respectively) groups (P<0.05). However, percentages of born foals/pregnancies were similar when intervals of 2-3h (35.2%) or 1-2h (35.7%) were used. In contrast to AF, the iPSCs did not generate any blastocyst-stage embryos. Moreover, injection of oocytes with the pluripotency-inducing genes did not improve blastocyst production nor pregnancy rates respect to AF controls. Finally, higher blastocyst production was obtained using UC-MSC (15.6%) than using FF (8.9%) or AF (9.3%), (P<0.05). Despite pregnancy rates were similar for these 3 groups (17.6%, 18.2% and 22%, respectively), viable foals (two) were obtained only by using FF. In summary, optimum blastocyst production rates can be obtained using a 2-3h interval between cell fusion and activation as well as using UC-MSCs as nuclear donors. Moreover, FF line can improve the efficiency of an inefficient AF line. Overall, 24 healthy foals were obtained from a total of 29 born foals.

Normal pressure hydrocephalus

MedlinePlus

Ferri FF. Normal pressure hydrocephalus. In: Ferri FF, ed. Ferri's Clinical Advisor 2016 . Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2016:chap 648. Rosenberg GA. Brain edema and disorders of cerebrospinal fluid circulation. ...

Guilt by Association-Based Discovery of Botnet Footprints

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-11-01

our fast flux database using our Fast Flux Monitor ( FFM ); a Web service application designed to detect whether a domain exhibits fast flux (FF) or...double flux (DF) behaviour. The primary technical components of FFM include: (1) sensors which perform real-time detection of FF service networks...sensors for our FFM active sensors: (1) FF Activity Index, (2) Footprint Index, and (3) Time To Live (TTL), and (4) Guilt by Association Score. In

Protein adsorption to poly(ethylenimine)-modified Sepharose FF: V. Complicated effects of counterions.

PubMed

Liu, Na; Yu, Linling; Sun, Yan

2015-07-24

In the previous studies on protein adsorption to poly(ethylenimine) (PEI)-grafted Sepharose FF resins, a critical ionic capacity (600mmol/L) of PEI-Sepharose resins was found for the adsorption of bovine serum albumin (BSA), above which both protein capacity and uptake rate increased drastically. In this work, the influence of counterions on the PEI-Sepharose resin with an ionic capacity of 683mmol/L (FF-PEI-L680) was investigated with sodium salts of SCN(-), Cl(-), HPO4(2-) and SO4(2-). Linear gradient elution, batch adsorption and breakthrough experiments showed that counterion preference, effective pore diffusion coefficient (De) and dynamic binding capacity (DBC) values increased in the order of SCN(-), Cl(-), HPO4(2-) and SO4(2-), while static adsorption capacity decreased in this order. It is considered that higher counterion preference of the ion exchange groups resulted in lower protein binding strength and adsorption capacity, while the De value increased due to the enhanced "chain delivery" effect (a kind of surface diffusion). Besides, the DBC value was mainly dependent on De value. In particular, SO4(2-) was the most favorable counterion for the PEI-Sepharose resin, which gave rise to the highest De value (De/D0=1.17, D0 is protein diffusivity in free solution) and DBC value (118mg/mL at a residence time of 2min). Moreover, the effects of counterions on BSA adsorption to DEAE Sepharose FF and Q Sepharose FF, which were non-grafted resins, were also studied for comparisons. It was found that the counterion preferences of the two non-grafted resins were different from each other and also different from that of FF-PEI-L680. The different counterion preferences were attributed to the differences in the ion-exchange ligand chemistries. In addition, the De values for DEAE Sepharose FF and Q Sepharose FF kept unchanged. The low counterion sensitivity of De values could be interpreted as the lack of "chain delivery" effect for the non-grafted resins. The results indicate that protein adsorption and chromatographic performance with PEI-Sepharose can be improved by proper counterions. For the four counterions tested, SO4(2-) was the most favorable for providing the best adsorption and elution outcomes with FF-PEI-L680. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Impact of acute metabolic acidosis on the acid-base balance in follicular fluid and blood in dairy cattle.

PubMed

Indrova, E; Dolezel, R; Novakova-Mala, J; Pechova, A; Zavadilova, M; Cech, S

2017-02-01

Acid-base balance is one of the most vigorously regulated variables of the body, including genital organs. Subacute ruminal acidosis is a common disturbance in dairy cows that disturbs several biochemical indices in the blood, cerebrospinal fluid, and urine. The possible negative effects of metabolic acidosis on the follicular fluid (FF) composition and, subsequently, on oocyte quality, are not fully elucidated. This study aimed to evaluate the changes in acid-base balance (ABB) in FF and blood during acute metabolic acidosis in dairy heifers. Ten Holstein heifers were stimulated with FSH in eight decreasing doses at 12-hour intervals (D0-D3). Acidosis was induced by oral administration of sucrose at 9 g/kg of body weight, dissolved in 10 L of warm tap water, at D3. Samples were collected from each cow at 0, 8, 12, 16, 24, 32, 40, and 48 hours after treatment. Samples of FF, obtained by transvaginal follicular aspiration, and peripheral blood were examined for ABB parameters: pH, pCO 2 , pO 2 , HCO 3 - , and base excess (BE). A significant decrease in pH, HCO 3 - , and BE values in the blood, as well as FF, occurred after sucrose treatment. The lowest pH values occurred in blood at 16 hours, and in FF at 24 hours, after treatment (7.30 ± 0.05 and 7.33 ± 0.05, respectively). The lowest HCO 3 - values in blood (18.75 ± 3.2 mmol/L) and FF (18.07 ± 2.84 mmol/L) occurred 24 hours after treatment, as did the lowest BE values (-6.61 ± 3.7 mmol/L and -7.53 ± 3.89 mmol/L, in blood and FF, respectively). Significant correlations for HCO 3 - (r = 0.928), BE (r = 0.946), pH (r = 0.889), and pCO 2 (r = 0.522) existed between blood and FF samples. The results demonstrated that metabolic acute acidosis substantially influences the characteristics of both serum and FF. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Atmospheric measurement of point source fossil fuel CO2 emissions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Turnbull, J. C.; Keller, E. D.; Baisden, W. T.; Brailsford, G.; Bromley, T.; Norris, M.; Zondervan, A.

2013-11-01

We use the Kapuni Gas Treatment Plant to examine methodologies for atmospheric monitoring of point source fossil fuel CO2 (CO2ff) emissions. The Kapuni plant, located in rural New Zealand, removes CO2 from locally extracted natural gas and vents that CO2 to the atmosphere, at a rate of ~0.1 Tg carbon per year. The plant is located in a rural dairy farming area, with no other significant CO2ff sources nearby, but large, diurnally varying, biospheric CO2 fluxes from the surrounding highly productive agricultural grassland. We made flask measurements of CO2 and 14CO2 (from which we derive the CO2ff component) and in situ measurements of CO2 downwind of the Kapuni plant, using a Helikite to sample transects across the emission plume from the surface up to 100 m a.g.l. We also determined the surface CO2ff content averaged over several weeks from the 14CO2 content of grass samples collected from the surrounding area. We use the WindTrax plume dispersion model to compare the atmospheric observations with the emissions reported by the Kapuni plant, and to determine how well atmospheric measurements can constrain the emissions. The model has difficulty accurately capturing the fluctuations and short-term variability in the Helikite samples, but does quite well in representing the observed CO2ff in 15 min averaged surface flask samples and in ~1 week integrated CO2ff averages from grass samples. In this pilot study, we found that using grass samples, the modeled and observed CO2ff emissions averaged over one week agreed to within 30%. The results imply that greater verification accuracy may be achieved by including more detailed meteorological observations and refining 14CO2 sampling strategies.

Atmospheric measurement of point source fossil CO2 emissions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Turnbull, J. C.; Keller, E. D.; Baisden, T.; Brailsford, G.; Bromley, T.; Norris, M.; Zondervan, A.

2014-05-01

We use the Kapuni Gas Treatment Plant to examine methodologies for atmospheric monitoring of point source fossil fuel CO2 (CO2ff) emissions. The Kapuni plant, located in rural New Zealand, removes CO2 from locally extracted natural gas and vents that CO2 to the atmosphere, at a rate of ~0.1 Tg carbon per year. The plant is located in a rural dairy farming area, with no other significant CO2ff sources nearby, but large, diurnally varying, biospheric CO2 fluxes from the surrounding highly productive agricultural grassland. We made flask measurements of CO2 and 14CO2 (from which we derive the CO2ff component) and in situ measurements of CO2 downwind of the Kapuni plant, using a Helikite to sample transects across the emission plume from the surface up to 100 m above ground level. We also determined the surface CO2ff content averaged over several weeks from the 14C content of grass samples collected from the surrounding area. We use the WindTrax plume dispersion model to compare the atmospheric observations with the emissions reported by the Kapuni plant, and to determine how well atmospheric measurements can constrain the emissions. The model has difficulty accurately capturing the fluctuations and short-term variability in the Helikite samples, but does quite well in representing the observed CO2ff in 15 min averaged surface flask samples and in ~ one week integrated CO2ff averages from grass samples. In this pilot study, we found that using grass samples, the modeled and observed CO2ff emissions averaged over one week agreed to within 30%. The results imply that greater verification accuracy may be achieved by including more detailed meteorological observations and refining 14C sampling strategies.

Human Brown Adipose Tissue Temperature and Fat Fraction Are Related to Its Metabolic Activity.

PubMed

Koskensalo, Kalle; Raiko, Juho; Saari, Teemu; Saunavaara, Virva; Eskola, Olli; Nuutila, Pirjo; Saunavaara, Jani; Parkkola, Riitta; Virtanen, Kirsi A

2017-04-01

The metabolic activity of human brown adipose tissue (BAT) has been previously examined using positron emission tomography (PET). The aim of this study was to use proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H MRS) to investigate whether the temperature and the fat fraction (FF) of BAT and white adipose tissue (WAT) are associated with BAT metabolic activity determined by deoxy-2-18F-fluoro-d-glucose (18F-FDG)-PET. Ten healthy subjects (four women, six men; 25 to 45 years of age) were studied using PET-magnetic resonance imaging during acute cold exposure and at ambient room temperature. BAT and subcutaneous WAT 1H MRS were measured. The tissue temperature and the FF were derived from the spectra. Tissue metabolic activity was studied through glucose uptake using dynamic FDG PET scanning during cold exposure. A 2-hour hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamp was performed on eight subjects. The metabolic activity of BAT associated directly with the heat production capacity and inversely with the FF of the tissue. In addition, the lipid-burning capacity of BAT associated with whole-body insulin sensitivity. During cold exposure, the FF of BAT was lower than at room temperature, and cold-induced FF of BAT associated inversely with high-density lipoprotein and directly with low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Both 1H MRS-derived temperature and FF are promising methods to study BAT activity noninvasively. The association between the lipid-burning capacity of BAT and whole-body insulin sensitivity emphasizes the role of BAT in glucose handling. Furthermore, the relation of FF to high-density lipoprotein and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol suggests that BAT has a role in lipid clearance, thus protecting tissues from excess lipid load. Copyright © 2017 Endocrine Society

Emissions of Black Carbon Particles in Anthropogenic and Biomass Plumes over California during CARB 2008

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sahu, L. K.; Kondo, Y.; Moteki, N.; Takegawa, N.; Zhao, Y.; Vay, S. A.; Diskin, G. S.; Wisthaler, A.; Huey, L. G.

2009-12-01

Measurements of black carbon (BC) and other chemical species were made from the NASA DC-8 aircraft during the CARB campaign conducted over California in June 2008. We operated an SP2 system that measured BC and scattering particles. The vertical profiles of BC and scattering particles show enhancements in the lower troposphere. We have used relations of CO-CH3CN-SO2 to identify the sources of major plumes. The plumes originating from anthropogenic activities, mainly due to the use of fossil fuels (FF), were observed near the surface. However, the influence of smoke plumes from wild fire or biomass-burning (BB) sources was observed up to 3 km. Overall, the 1-minute average BC mass concentrations were in the ranges of about 90-500 ng/m3 and 300-700 ng/m3 in FF and BB plumes, respectively. The shell/core diameter ratios were much lagerer in BB plumes than those in FF plumes. Namely, the median shell/core ratios were 1.2-1.4 for FF plumes, while they were 1.4-1.7 for BB plumes. In both FF and BB plumes, the mass-size distributions of BC were single mode lognormal. However, the mass median diameters FF plumes were considerably smaller. The BC-CO2 regression slopes were 19±9 ng m-3/ppmv and 270±90 ng m-3/ppmv for FF and BB plumes, respectively. On the other hand the regression slopes of BC-CO were about 3.3 ng m-3/ppbv in both the plumes. Conversely, the regression slopes of BC with other co-emitted combustions products can be used to estimate the contributions of emissions from different sources.

Study of lipid metabolism by estimating the fat fraction in different breast tissues and in various breast tumor sub-types by in vivo 1H MR spectroscopy.

PubMed

Agarwal, Khushbu; Sharma, Uma; Mathur, Sandeep; Seenu, Vurthaluru; Parshad, Rajinder; Jagannathan, Naranamangalam R

2018-06-01

To evaluate the utility of fat fraction (FF) for the differentiation of different breast tissues and in various breast tumor subtypes using in vivo proton ( 1 H) magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS). 1 H MRS was performed on 68 malignant, 35 benign, and 30 healthy volunteers at 1.5 T. Malignant breast tissues of patients were characterized into different subtypes based on the differences in the expression of hormone receptors and the FF was calculated. Further, the sensitivity and specificity of FF to differentiate malignant from benign and from normal breast tissues of healthy volunteers was determined using receiver operator curve (ROC) analysis. A significantly lower FF of malignant (median 0.12; range 0.01-0.70) compared to benign lesions (median 0.28; range 0.02-0.71) and normal breast tissue of healthy volunteers (median 0.39; range 0.06-0.76) was observed. No significant difference in FF was seen between benign lesions and normal breast tissues of healthy volunteers. Sensitivity and specificity of 75% and 68.6%, respectively was obtained to differentiate malignant from benign lesions. For the differentiation of malignant from healthy breast tissues, 76% sensitivity and 74.5% specificity was achieved. Higher FF was seen in patients with ER-/PR- status as compared to ER+/PR+ patients. Similarly, FF of HER2neu+ tumors were significantly higher than in HER2neu- breast tumors. The results showed the potential of in vivo 1 H MRS in providing insight into the changes in the fat content of different types of breast tissues and in various breast tumor subtypes. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

An alkaline follicular fluid fraction induces capacitation and limited release of oviduct epithelium-bound stallion sperm.

PubMed

Leemans, Bart; Gadella, Bart M; Stout, Tom A E; Nelis, Hilde; Hoogewijs, Maarten; Van Soom, Ann

2015-09-01

Induction of hyperactivated motility is considered essential for triggering the release of oviduct-bound mammalian spermatozoa in preparation for fertilization. In this study, oviduct-bound stallion spermatozoa were exposed for 2 h to: i) pre-ovulatory and ii) post-ovulatory oviductal fluid; iii) 100% and iv) 10% follicular fluid (FF); v) cumulus cells, vi) mature equine oocytes, vii) capacitating and viii) non-capacitating medium. None of these triggered sperm release or hyperactivated motility. Interestingly, native FF was detrimental to sperm viability, an effect that was negated by heat inactivation, charcoal treatment and 30 kDa filtration alone or in combination. Moreover, sperm suspensions exposed to treated FF at pH 7.9 but not pH 7.4 showed Ca(2+)-dependent hypermotility. Fluo-4 AM staining of sperm showed elevated cytoplasmic Ca(2+) in hyperactivated stallion spermatozoa exposed to treated FF at pH 7.9 compared to a modest response in defined capacitating conditions at pH 7.9 and no response in treated FF at pH 7.4. Moreover, 1 h incubation in alkaline, treated FF induced protein tyrosine phosphorylation in 20% of spermatozoa. None of the conditions tested induced widespread release of sperm pre-bound to oviduct epithelium. However, the hyperactivating conditions did induce release of 70-120 spermatozoa per oviduct explant, of which 48% showed protein tyrosine phosphorylation and all were acrosome-intact, but capable of acrosomal exocytosis in response to calcium ionophore. We conclude that, in the presence of elevated pH and extracellular Ca(2+), a heat-resistant, hydrophilic, <30 kDa component of FF can trigger protein tyrosine phosphorylation, elevated cytoplasmic Ca(2+) and hyperactivated motility in stallion sperm, but infrequent release of sperm pre-bound to oviduct epithelium. © 2015 Society for Reproduction and Fertility.

Solid-state fermentation of industrial solid wastes from the fruits of milk thistle Silybum marianum for feed quality improvement.

PubMed

Li, Fang; Li, Feng; Zhao, Ting; Mao, Guanghua; Zou, Ye; Zheng, Daheng; Takase, Mohammed; Feng, Weiwei; Wu, Xiangyang; Yang, Liuqing

2013-08-01

The industrial solid wastes generated during the production of silymarin from the fruits of milk thistle Silybum marianum was used as the substrate. Preparation and evaluation of the feeds produced by solid-state fermentation (SSF) of the industrial solid wastes was carried out. The protein content of the fermented feed (FF) from a combination of Aspergillus niger and Candida tropicalis was the highest among the examined strains. The optimal process parameters for protein enrichment with SSF using A. niger and C. tropicalis included incubation temperature of 30.8 °C, fermentation time of 87.0 h, and initial moisture content of 59.7 %. Under these conditions, the value additions of FF occurred. The fiber of FF was decreased by 25.07 %, while the digestibility of protein, protein content, and the ratio of total essential amino acids to total amino acids were increased by 79.85, 16.22, and 8.21 %, respectively. The analysis indicated that FF contained 1.44 mg/kg flavonoids and 0.5 mg/kg silybin, which significantly increased by 2.42 and 1.63 times, respectively than those in unfermented substrates. FF recorded reduced molecular weight of proteins from 20.1 to 44.3 kDa to below 14.3 kDa. The results of feeding trial of FF replacement with soybean meal in broilers diets for 8 weeks showed that FF significantly improved carcass characteristics including abdominal fat rate, serum biochemical parameters including aspartate transaminase, blood urea nitrogen and high density lipoprotein cholesterol, and immune responses of broilers. A potential feed quality improvement was achieved through mixed strains SSF of industrial solid wastes of S. marianum fruits.

Algorithms of GPU-enabled reactive force field (ReaxFF) molecular dynamics.

PubMed

Zheng, Mo; Li, Xiaoxia; Guo, Li

2013-04-01

Reactive force field (ReaxFF), a recent and novel bond order potential, allows for reactive molecular dynamics (ReaxFF MD) simulations for modeling larger and more complex molecular systems involving chemical reactions when compared with computation intensive quantum mechanical methods. However, ReaxFF MD can be approximately 10-50 times slower than classical MD due to its explicit modeling of bond forming and breaking, the dynamic charge equilibration at each time-step, and its one order smaller time-step than the classical MD, all of which pose significant computational challenges in simulation capability to reach spatio-temporal scales of nanometers and nanoseconds. The very recent advances of graphics processing unit (GPU) provide not only highly favorable performance for GPU enabled MD programs compared with CPU implementations but also an opportunity to manage with the computing power and memory demanding nature imposed on computer hardware by ReaxFF MD. In this paper, we present the algorithms of GMD-Reax, the first GPU enabled ReaxFF MD program with significantly improved performance surpassing CPU implementations on desktop workstations. The performance of GMD-Reax has been benchmarked on a PC equipped with a NVIDIA C2050 GPU for coal pyrolysis simulation systems with atoms ranging from 1378 to 27,283. GMD-Reax achieved speedups as high as 12 times faster than Duin et al.'s FORTRAN codes in Lammps on 8 CPU cores and 6 times faster than the Lammps' C codes based on PuReMD in terms of the simulation time per time-step averaged over 100 steps. GMD-Reax could be used as a new and efficient computational tool for exploiting very complex molecular reactions via ReaxFF MD simulation on desktop workstations. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Differences in Postprandial Lipid Response to Breast- or Formula-feeding in 8-Week-Old Infants.

PubMed

Teller, Inga C; Schoen, Stefanie; van de Heijning, Bert; van der Beek, Eline M; Sauer, Pieter J J

2017-04-01

Lipids play important roles in infant growth and development. In this exploratory observational single-center study, we investigated postmeal responses of infants to dietary lipids and differences between breast-feeding (BF) and formula-feeding (FF). Two capillary blood samples were collected from each subject, before and randomly assigned at either 30, 60, 90, 120, 180, or 240 minutes after their respective feeding, followed by measurement of lipid-related plasma parameter concentrations using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay-based or combined enzymatic and colorimetric methods. The intermeal interval before testing was shorter in the BF (182.91 ± 22.85 minutes, n = 33) versus FF group (214.1 ± 30.76 minutes, n = 34); BF subjects fed 5 minutes longer (BF 20.27 ± 7.7 minutes; FF 14.82 ± 3.57 minutes). Composite postmeal concentration profiles were generated from 59 plasma sample pairs with sufficient volume (BF = 30): triglyceride (TG) baselines were not different. A TG difference was indicated for BF over FF subjects at 30 minutes, for FF over BF subjects at 60 minutes when corrected for baseline. TG responses in both groups appeared and seemed to clear much faster than those reported for adults. The TG:apolipoprotein B48 (ApoB48) ratio suggests that chylomicrons in BF subjects may carry a higher fat load (P < 0.05), compensated by a higher chylomicron number in FF subjects (P < 0.05). Cholesterol in BF subjects was higher and showed an increase after feeding when corrected for baseline. Our results indicate that lipids from either BF or FF may be handled differently in young healthy infants.

Isolated free intra-abdominal fluid on CT in blunt trauma: The continued diagnostic dilemma.

PubMed

Kong, Victor Y; Jeetoo, Damon; Naidoo, Leah C; Oosthuizen, George V; Clarke, Damian L

2015-01-01

The clinical significance of isolated free fluid (FF) without solid organ injury on computed to- mography (CT) continues to pose significant dilemma in the management of patients with blunt abdominal trauma (BAT). We reviewed the incidence of FF and the clinical outcome amongst patients with blunt abdominal trauma in a metropolitan trauma service in South Africa. We performed a retrospective study of 121 consecutive CT scans over a period of 12 months to determine the incidence of isolated FF and the clinical outcome of patients managed in a large metropolitan trauma service. Of the 121 CTs, FF was identified in 36 patients (30%). Seven patients (6%) had isolated FF. Of the 29 patients who had free fluid and associated organ injuries, 33 organ injuries were identified. 86% (25/ 29) of all 29 patients had a single organ injury and 14% had multiple organ injuries. There were 26 solid organ injuries and 7 hollow organ injuries. The 33 organs injured were: spleen, 12; liver, 8; kidney, 5; pancreas, 2; small bowel, 4; duodenum, 1. Six (21%) patients required operative management for small bowel perforations in 4 cases and pancreatic tail injury in 2 cases. All 7 patients with isolated FF were initially observed, and 3 (43%) were eventually subjected to operative intervention. They were found to have an intra-peritoneal bladder rupture in 1 case, a non-expanding zone 3 haematoma in 1 case, and a negative laparotomy in 1 case. Four (57%) patients were successfully managed without surgical interventions. Isolated FF is uncommon and the clinical significance remains unclear. Provided that reli- able serial physical examination can be performed by experienced surgeons, an initial non-operative approach should be considered.

Interchain hydrophobic clustering promotes rigidity in HIV-1 protease flap dynamics: new insights from molecular dynamics.

PubMed

Meher, Biswa Ranjan; Kumar, Mattaparthi Venkata Satish; Bandyopadhyay, Pradipta

2014-01-01

The dynamics of HIV-1 protease (HIV-pr), a drug target for HIV infection, has been studied extensively by both computational and experimental methods. The flap dynamics of HIV-pr is considered to be more important for better ligand binding and enzymatic actions. Moreover, it has been demonstrated that the drug-induced mutations can change the flap dynamics of HIV-pr affecting the binding affinity of the ligands. Therefore, detailed understanding of flap dynamics is essential for designing better inhibitors. Previous computational investigations observed significant variation in the flap opening in nanosecond time scale indicating that the dynamics is highly sensitive to the simulation protocols. To understand the sensitivity of the flap dynamics on the force field and simulation protocol, molecular dynamics simulations of HIV-pr have been performed with two different AMBER force fields, ff99 and ff02. Two different trajectories (20 ns each) were obtained using the ff99 and ff02 force field. The results showed polarizable force field (ff02) make the flap tighter than the nonpolarizable force field (ff99). Some polar interactions and hydrogen bonds involving flap residues were found to be stronger with ff02 force field. The formation of interchain hydrophobic cluster (between flap tip of one chain and active site wall of another chain) was found to be dominant in the semi-open structures obtained from the simulations irrespective of the force field. It is proposed that an inhibitor, which will promote this interchain hydrophobic clustering, may make the flaps more rigid, and presumably the effect of mutation would be small on ligand binding.

Elemental and carbon isotope composition of total particulate matter in the urban atmosphere of Krakow, southern Poland: summer-winter contrast

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zimnoch, Miroslaw; Samek, Lucyna; Morawski, Filip; Rozanski, Kazimierz; Bartyzel, Jakub

2017-04-01

Deterioration of air quality in urban agglomerations is a growing problem of global significance [1]. This spurs research towards better understanding of parameters controlling air quality in urban environment (sources of particulate matter and gaseous contaminants, spatial and temporal variability of air quality, impact of atmospheric dynamics on the air quality, and several others). Krakow belongs to four largest cities in Poland. With nearly one million inhabitants, rapidly growing car traffic and significant industrial activities, Krakow agglomeration represents a typical urban environment in the eastern Europe. Characteristic features of the local climate are generally weak winds (annual average around 2.7 m s-1) and frequent inversions, extending sometimes over several days, particularly during winter seasons, favor accumulation of pollutants originating from surface emissions in the atmosphere over the city. Krakow ranks among the most polluted cities in Europe. There is an ongoing discussion on the role of different sources of total suspended particulate matter (TSPM) in the city's atmosphere, such as traffic, low- and high-level emissions related to burning of coal for heating purposes, resuspension of street dust, and some others. The presented work was aimed at exploring possibilities of using carbon isotope composition of total particulate matter collected in Krakow atmosphere, for better characterization of TSPM sources in the city, with the focus on seasonal changes of the character and intensity of those sources. Archived samples of TSPM deposited on filters (sampling interval between 5 and 20 days) and spanning the period 2005 - 2010 [3] were used for this purpose. For each year one pair of filters representing summer and winter conditions was selected. The work comprised also multi-elemental analysis of available TSPM samples using EDXRF technique. The measurements of 13C and 14C content in the total elemental carbon collected on filters revealed large seasonal variability of these two parameters. The mean fossil-fuel carbon fraction (pFF) derived from AMS radiocarbon analyses was 66.2 and 38.1%, for winter and summer samples, respectively. There was a strong positive correlation of pFF with δ13C, suggesting intensified burning of coal as the main source of fossil fuel derived carbon during winter in the city. Intensified burning of fossil fuels during winter was also reflected in larger percentage of fossil carbon in gaseous CO2 present in the city atmosphere (ffCO2) during winter. The linear relationship observed between pFF and ffCO2, when extrapolated to ffCO2 = 0 suggest that the main source of fossil carbon in TSPM during summer (extrapolated pFF value of ca. 30%) is related to transport (wearing of car tires and asphalt). The elemental composition of the analysed TSPM samples also showed distinct seasonal variability. This concerns mostly Cl, K, Zn, As, Br and Pb. References: [1] WHO's Urban Ambient Air Pollution database - Update 2016 (www.who.int/phe). [2] M. Zimnoch, P. Wach, L. Chmura, Z. Gorczyca, K. Rozanski, J. Godlowska, J. Mazur, K. Kozak, A. Jeričević. Factors controlling temporal variability of near-ground atmospheric 222Rn concentration over central Europe.Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics, 14 (2014) 9567-9581.

Thermal Decomposition of Condensed-Phase Nitromethane from Molecular Dynamics from ReaxFF Reactive Dynamics

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-05-04

pubs.acs.org/JPCB Thermal Decomposition of Condensed-Phase Nitromethane from Molecular Dynamics from ReaxFF Reactive Dynamics Si-ping Han,†,‡ Adri C. T. van...ABSTRACT: We studied the thermal decomposition and subsequent reaction of the energetic material nitromethane (CH3NO2) using molec- ular dynamics...with ReaxFF, a first principles-based reactive force field. We characterize the chemistry of liquid and solid nitromethane at high temperatures (2000

All-optical clocked delay flip-flop using a single terahertz optical asymmetric demultiplexer-based switch: a theoretical study.

PubMed

Chattopadhyay, Tanay

2010-10-01

A flip-flop (FF) is a kind of latch and the simplest form of memory device, which stores various values either temporarily or permanently. Optical FF memories form a fundamental building block for all-optical packet switches in next-generation communication networks. An all-optical clocked delay FF using a single terahertz optical asymmetric demultiplexer-based interferometric switch is proposed and described. Numerical simulation results are also reported.

Self-Assembly of Phenylalanine Oligopeptides: Insights from Experiments and Simulations

PubMed Central

Tamamis, Phanourios; Adler-Abramovich, Lihi; Reches, Meital; Marshall, Karen; Sikorski, Pawel; Serpell, Louise; Gazit, Ehud; Archontis, Georgios

2009-01-01

Abstract Studies of peptide-based nanostructures provide general insights into biomolecular self-assembly and can lead material engineering toward technological applications. The diphenylalanine peptide (FF) self-assembles into discrete, hollow, well ordered nanotubes, and its derivatives form nanoassemblies of various morphologies. Here we demonstrate for the first time, to our knowledge, the formation of planar nanostructures with β-sheet content by the triphenylalanine peptide (FFF). We characterize these structures using various microscopy and spectroscopy techniques. We also obtain insights into the interactions and structural properties of the FF and FFF nanostructures by 0.4-μs, implicit-solvent, replica-exchange, molecular-dynamics simulations of aqueous FF and FFF solutions. In the simulations the peptides form aggregates, which often contain open or ring-like peptide networks, as well as elementary and network-containing structures with β-sheet characteristics. The networks are stabilized by polar and nonpolar interactions, and by the surrounding aggregate. In particular, the charged termini of neighbor peptides are involved in hydrogen-bonding interactions and their aromatic side chains form “T-shaped” contacts, as in three-dimensional FF crystals. These interactions may assist the FF and FFF self-assembly at the early stage, and may also stabilize the mature nanostructures. The FFF peptides have higher network propensities and increased aggregate stabilities with respect to FF, which can be interpreted energetically. PMID:19527662

Vegetation limits the impact of a warm climate on boreal wildfires.

PubMed

Girardin, Martin P; Ali, Adam A; Carcaillet, Christopher; Blarquez, Olivier; Hély, Christelle; Terrier, Aurélie; Genries, Aurélie; Bergeron, Yves

2013-09-01

Strategic introduction of less flammable broadleaf vegetation into landscapes was suggested as a management strategy for decreasing the risk of boreal wildfires projected under climatic change. However, the realization and strength of this offsetting effect in an actual environment remain to be demonstrated. Here we combined paleoecological data, global climate models and wildfire modelling to assess regional fire frequency (RegFF, i.e. the number of fires through time) in boreal forests as it relates to tree species composition and climate over millennial time-scales. Lacustrine charcoals from northern landscapes of eastern boreal Canada indicate that RegFF during the mid-Holocene (6000-3000 yr ago) was significantly higher than pre-industrial RegFF (AD c. 1750). In southern landscapes, RegFF was not significantly higher than the pre-industrial RegFF in spite of the declining drought severity. The modelling experiment indicates that the high fire risk brought about by a warmer and drier climate in the south during the mid-Holocene was offset by a higher broadleaf component. Our data highlight an important function for broadleaf vegetation in determining boreal RegFF in a warmer climate. We estimate that its feedback may be large enough to offset the projected climate change impacts on drought conditions. © 2013 Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada New Phytologist © 2013 New Phytologist Trust.

Determination of fetal DNA fraction from the plasma of pregnant women using sequence read counts.

PubMed

Kim, Sung K; Hannum, Gregory; Geis, Jennifer; Tynan, John; Hogg, Grant; Zhao, Chen; Jensen, Taylor J; Mazloom, Amin R; Oeth, Paul; Ehrich, Mathias; van den Boom, Dirk; Deciu, Cosmin

2015-08-01

This study introduces a novel method, referred to as SeqFF, for estimating the fetal DNA fraction in the plasma of pregnant women and to infer the underlying mechanism that allows for such statistical modeling. Autosomal regional read counts from whole-genome massively parallel single-end sequencing of circulating cell-free DNA (ccfDNA) from the plasma of 25 312 pregnant women were used to train a multivariate model. The pretrained model was then applied to 505 pregnant samples to assess the performance of SeqFF against known methodologies for fetal DNA fraction calculations. Pearson's correlation between chromosome Y and SeqFF for pregnancies with male fetuses from two independent cohorts ranged from 0.932 to 0.938. Comparison between a single-nucleotide polymorphism-based approach and SeqFF yielded a Pearson's correlation of 0.921. Paired-end sequencing suggests that shorter ccfDNA, that is, less than 150 bp in length, is nonuniformly distributed across the genome. Regions exhibiting an increased proportion of short ccfDNA, which are more likely of fetal origin, tend to provide more information in the SeqFF calculations. SeqFF is a robust and direct method to determine fetal DNA fraction. Furthermore, the method is applicable to both male and female pregnancies and can greatly improve the accuracy of noninvasive prenatal testing for fetal copy number variation. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Predicting intentions to consume functional foods and supplements to offset memory loss using an adaptation of protection motivation theory.

PubMed

Cox, D N; Koster, A; Russell, C G

2004-08-01

The widespread use of dietary supplements and so-called 'functional foods' is thought to be partially motivated by self-control of health. However, whilst consumers want foods associated with well-being or disease prevention, they are unlikely to be willing to compromise on taste or technology. This presents a dilemma for promoters of functional foods. Middle-aged consumers' intentions to consume functional foods or supplements that may improve memory were tested within an adaptation of Protection Motivation theory (PMT). Participants evaluated text descriptions of four products described as: having an unpleasant bitter taste (Natural-FF); having 'additives' to reduce bitterness (Sweetened-FF); being genetically modified to enhance function (GM-FF) and Supplements. Participants were recruited as being of high and low perceived vulnerability to memory failure. In total, 290 middle-aged consumers (aged 40-60 years) participated in the study. Motivations to consume the GM-FF were the lowest. There were gender differences between intention to consume the supplements, Natural-FF and Sweetened-FF and product differences within genders. Women were less favourable than men in their attitudes towards genetic modification in general. Regression analyses indicated that PM predictors of intention to consume functional foods or supplements explained 59-63% of the variance (R2). Overall, perceived 'efficacy' (of the behaviour) and self-efficacy were the most important predictors of intentions to consume.

Classification Accuracy of a Wearable Activity Tracker for Assessing Sedentary Behavior and Physical Activity in 3-5-Year-Old Children.

PubMed

Byun, Wonwoo; Lee, Jung-Min; Kim, Youngwon; Brusseau, Timothy A

2018-03-26

This study examined the accuracy of the Fitbit activity tracker (FF) for quantifying sedentary behavior (SB) and varying intensities of physical activity (PA) in 3-5-year-old children. Twenty-eight healthy preschool-aged children (Girls: 46%, Mean age: 4.8 ± 1.0 years) wore the FF and were directly observed while performing a set of various unstructured and structured free-living activities from sedentary to vigorous intensity. The classification accuracy of the FF for measuring SB, light PA (LPA), moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA), and total PA (TPA) was examined calculating Pearson correlation coefficients (r), mean absolute percent error (MAPE), Cohen's kappa ( k ), sensitivity (Se), specificity (Sp), and area under the receiver operating curve (ROC-AUC). The classification accuracies of the FF (ROC-AUC) were 0.92, 0.63, 0.77 and 0.92 for SB, LPA, MVPA and TPA, respectively. Similarly, values of kappa, Se, Sp and percentage of correct classification were consistently high for SB and TPA, but low for LPA and MVPA. The FF demonstrated excellent classification accuracy for assessing SB and TPA, but lower accuracy for classifying LPA and MVPA. Our findings suggest that the FF should be considered as a valid instrument for assessing time spent sedentary and overall physical activity in preschool-aged children.

Role of vascular endothelial cell growth factor in Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome.

PubMed Central

Levin, E R; Rosen, G F; Cassidenti, D L; Yee, B; Meldrum, D; Wisot, A; Pedram, A

1998-01-01

Controlled ovarian hyperstimulation with gonadotropins is followed by Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) in some women. An unidentified capillary permeability factor from the ovary has been implicated, and vascular endothelial cell growth/permeability factor (VEGF) is a candidate protein. Follicular fluids (FF) from 80 women who received hormonal induction for infertility were studied. FFs were grouped according to oocyte production, from group I (0-7 oocytes) through group IV (23-31 oocytes). Group IV was comprised of four women with the most severe symptoms of OHSS. Endothelial cell (EC) permeability induced by the individual FF was highly correlated to oocytes produced (r2 = 0.73, P < 0.001). Group IV FF stimulated a 63+/-4% greater permeability than FF from group I patients (P < 0. 01), reversed 98% by anti-VEGF antibody. Group IV fluids contained the VEGF165 isoform and significantly greater concentrations of VEGF as compared with group I (1,105+/-87 pg/ml vs. 353+/-28 pg/ml, P < 0. 05). Significant cytoskeletal rearrangement of F-actin into stress fibers and a destruction of ZO-1 tight junction protein alignment was caused by group IV FF, mediated in part by nitric oxide. These mechanisms, which lead to increased EC permeability, were reversed by the VEGF antibody. Our results indicate that VEGF is the FF factor responsible for increased vascular permeability, thereby contributing to the pathogenesis of OHSS. PMID:9835623

Selective separation of furfural and hydroxymethylfurfural from an aqueous solution using a supported hydrophobic deep eutectic solvent liquid membrane.

PubMed

Dietz, Carin H J T; Kroon, Maaike C; Di Stefano, Michela; van Sint Annaland, Martin; Gallucci, Fausto

2017-12-14

For the first time, 12 different supported deep eutectic solvent (DES) liquid membranes were prepared and characterized. These membranes consist of a polymeric support impregnated with a hydrophobic DES. First, the different membranes were characterized and their stability in water and air was determined. Subsequently, the supported DES liquid membranes were applied for the recovery of furfural (FF) and hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) from aqueous solutions. The effects of substrate properties (e.g. pore size), DES properties (e.g. viscosity) and concentrations of FF and HMF in the feed phase on the observed diffusivities and permeabilities were assessed. It was found that the addition of DES enhances the transport of FF and HMF through the polymeric membrane support. In particular, the use of the DES consisting of thymol + lidocaine (in the molar ratio 2 : 1) impregnated in a polyethylene support resulted in enhanced transport for both FF and HMF, and is most interesting for (in situ) isolation of FF and HMF from aqueous solutions, e.g. in biorefinery processes.

Simulation Protocol for Prediction of a Solid-Electrolyte Interphase on the Silicon-based Anodes of a Lithium-Ion Battery: ReaxFF Reactive Force Field.

PubMed

Yun, Kang-Seop; Pai, Sung Jin; Yeo, Byung Chul; Lee, Kwang-Ryeol; Kim, Sun-Jae; Han, Sang Soo

2017-07-06

We propose the ReaxFF reactive force field as a simulation protocol for predicting the evolution of solid-electrolyte interphase (SEI) components such as gases (C 2 H 4 , CO, CO 2 , CH 4 , and C 2 H 6 ), and inorganic (Li 2 CO 3 , Li 2 O, and LiF) and organic (ROLi and ROCO 2 Li: R = -CH 3 or -C 2 H 5 ) products that are generated by the chemical reactions between the anodes and liquid electrolytes. ReaxFF was developed from ab initio results, and a molecular dynamics simulation with ReaxFF realized the prediction of SEI formation under real experimental conditions and with a reasonable computational cost. We report the effects on SEI formation of different kinds of Si anodes (pristine Si and SiO x ), of the different types and compositions of various carbonate electrolytes, and of the additives. From the results, we expect that ReaxFF will be very useful for the development of novel electrolytes or additives and for further advances in Li-ion battery technology.

The impact of follicular fluid adiponectin and ghrelin levels based on BMI on IVF outcomes in PCOS.

PubMed

Inal, H A; Yilmaz, N; Gorkem, U; Oruc, A S; Timur, H

2016-04-01

This study aimed at evaluating the effects of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and body mass index (BMI) on follicular fluid (FF) adiponectin and ghrelin levels, and on in vitro fertilization outcomes in patients who underwent controlled ovarian hyperstimulation. This prospective cross-sectional study was performed with a total of 120 primary infertile women [group 1; non-PCOS = 60 (BMI <25 = 30, BMI ≥25 = 30) and group 2; PCOS = 60 (BMI <25 = 30, BMI ≥25 = 30)]. On the day of oocyte pickup, FF samples were collected. The FF adiponectin levels were lower in the lean PCOS group than the lean non-PCOS group (p = 0.001), and these levels were lower in the overweight non-PCOS group compared to lean non-PCOS group (0.001). However, there was no difference in the FF ghrelin levels between the groups. Additionally, we could not find a relationship between clinical pregnancy and adiponectin and ghrelin levels. The FF adiponectin and ghrelin levels have no effects on clinical pregnancy in PCOS. Therefore, further studies are needed to elucidate this issue.

Cinnamic acid and fish flour affect wheat phenolic acids and flavonoid compounds, lipid peroxidation, proline levels under salt stress.

PubMed

Karadağ, Bergüzar; Yücel, Nilgün Candan

2017-12-01

To elucidate the physiological mechanism of salt stress mitigated by cinnamic acid (CA) and fish flour (FF) pretreatment, wheat was pretreated with 20, 50 and 100 ppm CA and 1 g/10 mL FF for 2 d and was then cultivated. We investigated whether exogenous CA + FF could protect wheat from salt stress and examined whether the protective effect was associated with the regulation of seed vigor, antioxidant defense systems, phenolic biosynthesis and lipid peroxidation. At 2 days exogenous CA did not influence seed vigor. Salt stress increased the phenolic biosynthesis, but the CA + FF-combined pretreatment enhanced the phenolic biosynthesis even more under salt stress and decreased lipid peroxidation to some extent, enhancing the tolerance of wheat to salt stress.

Development of a Charge-Implicit ReaxFF Potential for Hydrocarbon Systems.

PubMed

Kański, Michał; Maciążek, Dawid; Postawa, Zbigniew; Ashraf, Chowdhury M; van Duin, Adri C T; Garrison, Barbara J

2018-01-18

Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations continue to make important contributions to understanding chemical and physical processes. Concomitant with the growth of MD simulations is the need to have interaction potentials that both represent the chemistry of the system and are computationally efficient. We propose a modification to the ReaxFF potential for carbon and hydrogen that eliminates the time-consuming charge equilibration, eliminates the acknowledged flaws of the electronegativity equalization method, includes an expanded training set for condensed phases, has a repulsive wall for simulations of energetic particle bombardment, and is compatible with the LAMMPS code. This charge-implicit ReaxFF potential is five times faster than the conventional ReaxFF potential for a simulation of keV particle bombardment with a sample size of over 800 000 atoms.

Neural Mechanisms of Context Effects on Face Recognition: Automatic Binding and Context Shift Decrements

PubMed Central

Hayes, Scott M.; Baena, Elsa; Truong, Trong-Kha; Cabeza, Roberto

2011-01-01

Although people do not normally try to remember associations between faces and physical contexts, these associations are established automatically, as indicated by the difficulty of recognizing familiar faces in different contexts (“butcher-on-the-bus” phenomenon). The present functional MRI (fMRI) study investigated the automatic binding of faces and scenes. In the Face-Face (F-F) condition, faces were presented alone during both encoding and retrieval, whereas in the Face/Scene-Face (FS-F) condition, they were presented overlaid on scenes during encoding but alone during retrieval (context change). Although participants were instructed to focus only on the faces during both encoding and retrieval, recognition performance was worse in the FS-F than the F-F condition (“context shift decrement”—CSD), confirming automatic face-scene binding during encoding. This binding was mediated by the hippocampus as indicated by greater subsequent memory effects (remembered > forgotten) in this region for the FS-F than the F-F condition. Scene memory was mediated by the right parahippocampal cortex, which was reactivated during successful retrieval when the faces were associated with a scene during encoding (FS-F condition). Analyses using the CSD as a regressor yielded a clear hemispheric asymmetry in medial temporal lobe activity during encoding: left hippocampal and parahippocampal activity was associated with a smaller CSD, indicating more flexible memory representations immune to context changes, whereas right hippocampal/rhinal activity was associated with a larger CSD, indicating less flexible representations sensitive to context change. Taken together, the results clarify the neural mechanisms of context effects on face recognition. PMID:19925208

Spacecraft formation control using analytical finite-duration approaches

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ben Larbi, Mohamed Khalil; Stoll, Enrico

2018-03-01

This paper derives a control concept for formation flight (FF) applications assuming circular reference orbits. The paper focuses on a general impulsive control concept for FF which is then extended to the more realistic case of non-impulsive thrust maneuvers. The control concept uses a description of the FF in relative orbital elements (ROE) instead of the classical Cartesian description since the ROE provide a direct insight into key aspects of the relative motion and are particularly suitable for relative orbit control purposes and collision avoidance analysis. Although Gauss' variational equations have been first derived to offer a mathematical tool for processing orbit perturbations, they are suitable for several different applications. If the perturbation acceleration is due to a control thrust, Gauss' variational equations show the effect of such a control thrust on the Keplerian orbital elements. Integrating the Gauss' variational equations offers a direct relation between velocity increments in the local vertical local horizontal frame and the subsequent change of Keplerian orbital elements. For proximity operations, these equations can be generalized from describing the motion of single spacecraft to the description of the relative motion of two spacecraft. This will be shown for impulsive and finite-duration maneuvers. Based on that, an analytical tool to estimate the error induced through impulsive maneuver planning is presented. The resulting control schemes are simple and effective and thus also suitable for on-board implementation. Simulations show that the proposed concept improves the timing of the thrust maneuver executions and thus reduces the residual error of the formation control.

Plantar fasciitis

MedlinePlus

... Concepts and Clinical Practice . 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2014:chap 58. Ferri FF. Plantar fasciitis. ... FF ed. Ferri's Clinical Advisor 2016 . Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2016:970. Kadakia AR. Heel pain and plantar ...

Testicular torsion

MedlinePlus

... Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics . 20th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2016:chap 545. Ferri FF. Testicular torsion. In: ... FF, ed. Ferri's Clinical Advisor 2018 . Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2017:1255-1255. Kryger JV. Acute and chronic ...

Influence of dietary nutrient density, feed form, and lighting on growth and meat yield of broiler chickens.

PubMed

Brickett, K E; Dahiya, J P; Classen, H L; Gomis, S

2007-10-01

The objective of this study was to examine main and interactive effects of nutrient density (ND), feed form (FF; mash, pellet), and lighting program (12L:12D, 20L:4D) on production characteristics and meat yield of broilers raised to 35 d of age. Diets (starter, grower, and finisher) were formulated so that amino acid levels were in proportion to the dietary energy level. Lighting programs were initiated at 4 d of age. Body weight was not affected by ND when diets were fed in a pellet form but decreased in a linear manner with lower ND when fed as a mash. Final BW of birds fed mash were less than those of birds fed pellet diets. Feed to gain ratio decreased with increasing ND but was not affected by FF. Feed intake decreased with increasing ND and was lower for birds fed mash. The effect of ND on feed intake was less when birds were fed mash in contrast to pellet diets (P(ND x F) < 0.0001). Dietary ND had no effect on mortality, but feeding mash decreased mortality (3.8%) compared with feeding pelleted feed (5.6%). Lighting programs affected production characteristics independently of ND and FF. Use of 12L:12D reduced BW, feed to gain ratio, feed intake, and mortality compared with 20L:4D. Similarly, carcass components were not affected by ND when fed in pellet form but decreased with lower ND when fed as a mash. Overall, carcass yields were reduced when broilers were fed mash or provided with 12L:12D. Female birds had higher carcass yields and increased proportional breast meat deposition compared with males.

Charge Gain, Voltage Gain, and Node Capacitance of the SAPHIRA Detector Pixel by Pixel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pastrana, Izabella M.; Hall, Donald N. B.; Baker, Ian M.; Jacobson, Shane M.; Goebel, Sean B.

2018-01-01

The University of Hawai`i Institute for Astronomy has partnered with Leonardo (formerly Selex) in the development of HgCdTe linear mode avalanche photodiode (L-APD) SAPHIRA detectors. The SAPHIRA (Selex Avalanche Photodiode High-speed Infra-Red Array) is ideally suited for photon-starved astronomical observations, particularly near infrared (NIR) adaptive optics (AO) wave-front sensing. I have measured the stability, and linearity with current, of a 1.7-um (10% spectral bandpass) infrared light emitting diode (IR LED) used to illuminate the SAPHIRA and have then utilized this source to determine the charge gain (in e-/ADU), voltage gain (in uV/ADU), and node capacitance (in fF) for each pixel of the 320x256@24um SAPHIRA. These have previously only been averages over some sub-array. Determined from the ratio of the temporal averaged signal level to variance under constant 1.7-um LED illumination, I present the charge gain pixel-by-pixel in a 64x64 sub-array at the center of the active area of the SAPHIRA (analyzed separately as four 32x32 sub-arrays) to be about 1.6 e-/ADU (σ=0.5 e-/ADU). Additionally, the standard technique of varying the pixel reset voltage (PRV) in 10 mV increments and recording output frames for the same 64x64 subarray found the voltage gain per pixel to be about 11.7 uV/ADU (σ=0.2 uV/ADU). Finally, node capacitance was found to be approximately 23 fF (σ=6 fF) utilizing the aforementioned charge and voltage gain measurements. I further discuss the linearity measurements of the 1.7-um LED used in the charge gain characterization procedure.

Performance comparisons between PCA-EA-LBG and PCA-LBG-EA approaches in VQ codebook generation for image compression

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tsai, Jinn-Tsong; Chou, Ping-Yi; Chou, Jyh-Horng

2015-11-01

The aim of this study is to generate vector quantisation (VQ) codebooks by integrating principle component analysis (PCA) algorithm, Linde-Buzo-Gray (LBG) algorithm, and evolutionary algorithms (EAs). The EAs include genetic algorithm (GA), particle swarm optimisation (PSO), honey bee mating optimisation (HBMO), and firefly algorithm (FF). The study is to provide performance comparisons between PCA-EA-LBG and PCA-LBG-EA approaches. The PCA-EA-LBG approaches contain PCA-GA-LBG, PCA-PSO-LBG, PCA-HBMO-LBG, and PCA-FF-LBG, while the PCA-LBG-EA approaches contain PCA-LBG, PCA-LBG-GA, PCA-LBG-PSO, PCA-LBG-HBMO, and PCA-LBG-FF. All training vectors of test images are grouped according to PCA. The PCA-EA-LBG used the vectors grouped by PCA as initial individuals, and the best solution gained by the EAs was given for LBG to discover a codebook. The PCA-LBG approach is to use the PCA to select vectors as initial individuals for LBG to find a codebook. The PCA-LBG-EA used the final result of PCA-LBG as an initial individual for EAs to find a codebook. The search schemes in PCA-EA-LBG first used global search and then applied local search skill, while in PCA-LBG-EA first used local search and then employed global search skill. The results verify that the PCA-EA-LBG indeed gain superior results compared to the PCA-LBG-EA, because the PCA-EA-LBG explores a global area to find a solution, and then exploits a better one from the local area of the solution. Furthermore the proposed PCA-EA-LBG approaches in designing VQ codebooks outperform existing approaches shown in the literature.

Rapid and high-resolution imaging of human liver specimens by full-field optical coherence tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Yue; Gao, Wanrong; Zhou, Yuan; Guo, Yingcheng; Guo, Feng; He, Yong

2015-11-01

We report rapid and high-resolution tomographic en face imaging of human liver specimens by full-field optical coherence tomography (FF-OCT). First, the arrangement of the FF-OCT system was described and the performance of the system was measured. The measured axial and lateral resolutions of the system are 0.8 and 0.9 μm, respectively. The system has a sensitivity of ˜60 dB and can achieve an imaging rate of 7 fps and a penetration depth of ˜80 μm. The histological structures of normal liver can be seen clearly in the en face tomographic images, including central veins, cords of hepatocytes separated by sinusoidal spaces, and portal area (portal vein, the hepatic arteriole, and the bile duct). A wide variety of histological subtypes of hepatocellular carcinoma was observed in en face tomographic images, revealing notable cancerous features, including the nuclear atypia (enlarged convoluted nuclei), the polygonal tumor cells with obvious resemblance to hepatocytes with enlarged nuclei. In addition, thicker fibrous bands, which make the cytoplasmic plump vesicular nuclei indistinct, were also seen in the images. Finally, comparison between the portal vein in a normal specimen versus that seen in the rare type of cholangiocarcinoma was made. The results show that the cholangiocarcinoma presents with a blurred pattern of portal vein in the lateral direction and an aggregated distribution in the axial direction; the surrounding sinusoidal spaces and nuclei of cholangiocarcinoma are absent. The findings in this work may be used as additional signs of liver cancer or cholangiocarcinoma, demonstrating capacity of FF-OCT device for early cancer diagnosis and many other tumor-related studies in biopsy.

The Impact of Acceptor-Acceptor Homocoupling on the Optoelectronic Properties and Photovoltaic Performance of PDTSQxff Low Bandgap Polymers.

PubMed

Pirotte, Geert; Kesters, Jurgen; Cardeynaels, Tom; Verstappen, Pieter; D'Haen, Jan; Lutsen, Laurence; Champagne, Benoît; Vanderzande, Dirk; Maes, Wouter

2018-04-22

Push-pull-type conjugated polymers applied in organic electronics do not always contain a perfect alternation of donor and acceptor building blocks. Misscouplings can occur, which have a noticeable effect on the device performance. In this work, the influence of homocoupling on the optoelectronic properties and photovoltaic performance of PDTSQx ff polymers is investigated, with a specific focus on the quinoxaline acceptor moieties. A homocoupled biquinoxaline segment is intentionally inserted in specific ratios during the polymerization. These homocoupled units cause a gradually blue-shifted absorption, while the highest occupied molecular orbital energy levels decrease only significantly upon the presence of 75-100% of homocouplings. Density functional theory calculations show that the homocoupled acceptor unit generates a twist in the polymer backbone, which leads to a decreased conjugation length and a reduced aggregation tendency. The virtually defect-free PDTSQx ff affords a solar cell efficiency of 5.4%, which only decreases substantially upon incorporating a homocoupling degree over 50%. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Skin turgor

MedlinePlus

... eds. Seidel's Guide to Physical Examination . 8th ed. Elsevier Mosby; 2015:chap 8. Ferri FF. Ehlers-Danlos ... FF, ed. Ferri's Clinical Advisor 2016 . Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2016:451-451. Gorgas DL, McGrath JL. Vital ...

Endoplasmic reticulum stress involved in high-fat diet and palmitic acid-induced vascular damages and fenofibrate intervention

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

Lu, Yunxia, E-mail: wwwdluyx@sina.com; The Comprehensive Laboratory, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230032; Cheng, Jingjing

Fenofibrate (FF) is widely used to lower blood lipids in clinical practice, but whether its protective effect on endothelium-dependent vasodilatation (EDV) in thoracic aorta is related with endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress remains unknown. In this study, female Sprauge Dawley rats were divided into standard chow diets (SCD), high-fat diets (HFD) and HFD plus FF treatment group (HFD + FF) randomly. The rats of latter two groups were given HFD feeding for 5 months, then HFD + FF rats were treated with FF (30 mg/kg, once daily) via gavage for another 2 months. The pathological and tensional changes, protein expression of eNOS, and ER stress relatedmore » genes in thoracic aorta were measured. Then impacts of palmitic acid (PA) and FF on EDV of thoracic aorta from normal female SD rats were observed. Ultimately the expression of ER stress related genes were assessed in primary mouse aortic endothelial cells (MAEC) treated by fenofibric acid (FA) and PA. We found that FF treatment improved serum lipid levels and pathological changes in thoracic aorta, accompanied with decreased ER stress and increased phosphorylation of eNOS. FF pretreatment also improved EDV impaired by different concentrations of PA treatment. The dose- and time-dependent inhibition of cell proliferation by PA were inverted by FA pretreatment. Phosphorylation of eNOS and expression of ER stress related genes were all inverted by FA pretreatment in PA-treated MAEC. Our findings show that fenofibrate recovers damaged EDV by chronic HFD feeding and acute stimulation of PA, this effect is related with decreased ER stress and increased phosphorylation of eNOS. - Highlights: • Fenofibrate treatment improved pathological changes in thoracic aorta by chronic high-fat-diet feeding. • Fenofibrate pretreatment improved endothelium-dependent vasodilation impaired by different concentrations of palmitic acid. • The inhibition of proliferation in endothelial cells by palmitic acid were inverted by fenofibric acid. • Phosphorylation of eNOS and expression of ER stress related genes were inverted by fenofibrate or fenofibric acid.« less

Blockade of the IL-6 trans-signalling/STAT3 axis suppresses cachexia in Kras-induced lung adenocarcinoma.

PubMed

Miller, A; McLeod, L; Alhayyani, S; Szczepny, A; Watkins, D N; Chen, W; Enriori, P; Ferlin, W; Ruwanpura, S; Jenkins, B J

2017-05-25

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death worldwide, and is frequently associated with the devastating paraneoplastic syndrome of cachexia. The potent immunomodulatory cytokine interleukin (IL)-6 has been linked with the development of lung cancer as well as cachexia; however, the mechanisms by which IL-6 promotes muscle wasting in lung cancer cachexia are ill-defined. In this study, we report that the gp130 F/F knock-in mouse model displaying hyperactivation of the latent transcription factor STAT3 via the common IL-6 cytokine family signalling receptor, gp130, develops cachexia during Kras-driven lung carcinogenesis. Specifically, exacerbated weight loss, early mortality and reduced muscle and adipose tissue mass were features of the gp130 F/F :Kras G12D model, but not parental Kras G12D mice in which STAT3 was not hyperactivated. Gene expression profiling of muscle tissue in cachectic gp130 F/F :Kras G12D mice revealed the upregulation of IL-6 and STAT3-target genes compared with Kras G12D muscle tissue. These cachectic features of gp130 F/F :Kras G12D mice were abrogated upon the genetic normalization of STAT3 activation or ablation of IL-6 in gp130 F/F :Kras G12D :Stat3 -/+ or gp130 F/F :Kras G12D :Il6 -/- mice, respectively. Furthermore, protein levels of the soluble IL-6 receptor (sIL-6R), which is the central facilitator of IL-6 trans-signalling, were elevated in cachectic muscle from gp130 F/F :Kras G12D mice, and the specific blockade of IL-6 trans-signalling, but not classical signalling, with an anti-IL-6R antibody ameliorated cachexia-related characteristics in gp130 F/F :Kras G12D mice. Collectively, these preclinical findings identify trans-signalling via STAT3 as the signalling modality by which IL-6 promotes muscle wasting in lung cancer cachexia, and therefore support the clinical evaluation of the IL-6 trans-signalling/STAT3 axis as a therapeutic target in advanced lung cancer patients presenting with cachexia.

Knemometry Assessment of Short-term Growth in Children With Asthma Receiving Fluticasone Furoate for 2 Weeks: A Randomized, Placebo-controlled, Crossover Trial.

PubMed

Wolthers, Ole D; Stone, Sally; Bareille, Philippe; Tomkins, Susan; Khindri, Sanjeev

2017-06-01

A dry powder inhaler formulation of the inhaled corticosteroid fluticasone furoate (FF) is being evaluated for use in children. An important potential risk associated with the use of inhaled corticosteroids in children is growth suppression. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the short-term lower leg growth in children with asthma treated for 2 weeks with inhaled FF versus placebo from the ELLIPTA inhaler. Prepubertal children with persistent asthma (n = 60; aged 5 to <12 years) were recruited into a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, 2-way crossover, noninferiority study. The study consisted of four 2-week periods: run-in, 2 treatment periods, 1 washout period, and a 1-week follow-up period. Interventions were FF 50 µg and placebo once daily in the evening. Lower leg length was measured by using knemometry. The randomized ITT population comprised 36 boys and 24 girls with a mean age of 8.7 (standard deviation, 1.5; range, 5-11) years; 58% had a duration of asthma ≥5 years. Fifty-eight subjects completed both treatment periods. The least squares mean growth rate was 0.31 mm/week during treatment with FF and 0.36 mm/week during the placebo period. The difference in adjusted least squares mean growth rates between FF and placebo was -0.052 mm/week with a 95% CI of -0.122 to 0.018. This finding was greater than the prespecified noninferiority margin of -0.20 mm/week. The overall incidence of adverse events was 35% with placebo and 22% with FF. Inhaled FF 50 µg provided once daily for 2 weeks was noninferior to placebo in terms of effects on short-term lower leg growth in children with asthma. To further quantify the risk of growth suppression in children, intermediate-term growth studies should be conducted. Inhaled FF 50 µg was well tolerated in this study population. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02502734. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Quantification of Bone Marrow Involvement in Treated Gaucher Disease With Proton MR Spectroscopy: Correlation With Bone Marrow MRI Scores and Clinical Status.

PubMed

Jaramillo, Diego; Bedoya, Maria A; Wang, Dah-Jyuu; Pena, Andres H; Delgado, Jorge; Jaimes, Camilo; Ho-Fung, Victor; Kaplan, Paige

2015-06-01

The objective of our study was to use proton MR spectroscopy (MRS) to quantitatively evaluate bone marrow infiltration by measuring the fat fraction (FF) and to compare the FF with semiquantitative bone marrow MRI scores and clinical status in children treated for type 1 Gaucher disease (GD). Over a 2-year period, we prospectively evaluated 10 treated GD patients (six males, four females; median age, 15.1 years) and 10 healthy age-matched control subjects (five males, five females; median age, 15.3 years) using 3-T proton MRS of L5 and the femoral neck. Water and lipid AUCs were measured to calculate the FF. Two blinded pediatric musculoskeletal radiologists performed a semiquantitative analysis of the conventional MR images using the bone marrow burden score and modified Spanish MRI score. We evaluated symptoms, spleen and liver volumes, platelet levels, hemoglobin levels, and bone complications. In the femur, the FF was higher in the control subjects (median, 0.71) than the GD patients (0.54) (p = 0.02). In L5, the difference in FF--higher FF in control subjects (0.37) than in GD patients (0.26)--was not significant (p = 0.16). In both groups and both regions, the FF increased with patient age (p < 0.02). Semiquantitative scores showed no differences between control subjects and treated GD patients (p > 0.11). Eight of 10 GD patients were asymptomatic and two had chronic bone pain. The median age of patients at symptom onset was 4.0 years, the median age of patients at the initiation of enzyme replacement therapy was 4.3 years, and the median treatment duration was 10.2 years. Hemoglobin level, platelet count, and liver volume at MRI were normal. Mean pretreatment spleen volume (15.4-fold above normal) decreased to 2.8-fold above normal at the time of MRI (p = 0.01). Proton MRS detected FF differences that were undetectable using conventional MRI; for that reason, proton MRS can be used to optimize treatment of GD patients.

Promoting functional foods as acceptable alternatives to doping: potential for information-based social marketing approach.

PubMed

James, Ricky; Naughton, Declan P; Petróczi, Andrea

2010-11-10

Substances with performance enhancing properties appear on a continuum, ranging from prohibited performance enhancing drugs (PED) through dietary supplements to functional foods (FF). Anti-doping messages designed to dissuade athletes from using PEDs have been typically based on moralising sport competition and/or employing scare campaigns with focus on the negative consequences. Campaigns offering comparable and acceptable alternatives are nonexistent, nor are athletes helped in finding these for themselves. It is timely that social marketing strategies for anti-doping prevention and intervention incorporate media messages that complement the existing approaches by promoting comparable and acceptable alternatives to doping. To facilitate this process, the aim of this study was to ascertain whether a single exposure knowledge-based information intervention led to increased knowledge and subsequently result in changes in beliefs and automatic associations regarding performance enhancements. In a repeated measure design, 115 male recreational gym users were recruited and provided with a brief information pamphlet on nitrite/nitrate and erythropoietin as a comparison. Measures of knowledge, beliefs and automatic associations were taken before and after the intervention with at least 24 hours between the two assessments. The psychological tests included explicit measures of beliefs and cognitive attitudes toward FF and PED using a self-reported questionnaire and computerised assessments of automatic associations using the modified and shortened version of the Implicit Association Test. The information based intervention significantly increased knowledge (p < 0.001), changed explicit beliefs in specific FF (p < 0.001) and shifted the automatic association of FF with health to performance (p < 0.001). Explicitly expressed beliefs and automatic associations appear to be independent. Evidence was found that even a single exposure to a persuasive positive message can lead to belief change and can create new or alter existing associations - but only in the specific domain. Interventions to change outcome expectations in a positive way could be a rewarding avenue for anti-doping. Effective social marketing campaigns for drug free sport should follow appropriate market segmentation and use targeted messages via promoting the natural form as opposed to the purified form of the main active ingredient.

Promoting functional foods as acceptable alternatives to doping: potential for information-based social marketing approach

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

Background Substances with performance enhancing properties appear on a continuum, ranging from prohibited performance enhancing drugs (PED) through dietary supplements to functional foods (FF). Anti-doping messages designed to dissuade athletes from using PEDs have been typically based on moralising sport competition and/or employing scare campaigns with focus on the negative consequences. Campaigns offering comparable and acceptable alternatives are nonexistent, nor are athletes helped in finding these for themselves. It is timely that social marketing strategies for anti-doping prevention and intervention incorporate media messages that complement the existing approaches by promoting comparable and acceptable alternatives to doping. To facilitate this process, the aim of this study was to ascertain whether a single exposure knowledge-based information intervention led to increased knowledge and subsequently result in changes in beliefs and automatic associations regarding performance enhancements. Methods In a repeated measure design, 115 male recreational gym users were recruited and provided with a brief information pamphlet on nitrite/nitrate and erythropoietin as a comparison. Measures of knowledge, beliefs and automatic associations were taken before and after the intervention with at least 24 hours between the two assessments. The psychological tests included explicit measures of beliefs and cognitive attitudes toward FF and PED using a self-reported questionnaire and computerised assessments of automatic associations using the modified and shortened version of the Implicit Association Test. Results The information based intervention significantly increased knowledge (p < 0.001), changed explicit beliefs in specific FF (p < 0.001) and shifted the automatic association of FF with health to performance (p < 0.001). Explicitly expressed beliefs and automatic associations appear to be independent. Conclusion Evidence was found that even a single exposure to a persuasive positive message can lead to belief change and can create new or alter existing associations - but only in the specific domain. Interventions to change outcome expectations in a positive way could be a rewarding avenue for anti-doping. Effective social marketing campaigns for drug free sport should follow appropriate market segmentation and use targeted messages via promoting the natural form as opposed to the purified form of the main active ingredient. PMID:21067611

Body Composition is Strongly Associated With Cardiorespiratory Fitness in a Large Brazilian Military Firefighter Cohort: The Brazilian Firefighters Study.

PubMed

Nogueira, Eugênio C; Porto, Luiz Guilherme G; Nogueira, Rozenkranz M; Martins, Wagner R; Fonseca, Romulo M C; Lunardi, Claudia C; de Oliveira, Ricardo J

2016-01-01

Firefighting is associated with high-level physical demands and requires appropriate physical fitness. Considering that obesity has been correlated with decreased cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and that the prevalence of obesity may also be elevated within firefighters (FF), we analyzed the association between CRF and body composition (BC) in Brazilian military FF. We assessed 4,237 male FF (18-49 years) who performed a physical fitness test that included BC and CRF. Body composition was assessed by body mass index (BMI), body adiposity index (BAI), body fat percentage (BF%), and waist circumference (WC). CRF was assessed by the 12-minute Cooper test. Comparisons of VO2max between the BC categories were analyzed using the Mann-Whitney test, and the analysis was adjusted for age using the General Linear Model. The Spearman test was used for correlation analysis and the odds ratio (OR) was calculated to assess the odds of the unfit group (≤ 12 metabolic equivalents [METs]) for poor BC. Statistically significant differences were considered when p ≤ 0.05. Considering the BMI categories, 8 volunteers (0.2%) were underweight, 1,306 (30.8%) were normal weight, 2,301 (54.3%) were overweight, and 622 (14.7%) were obese. The VO2max was negatively correlated with age (rs = -0.21), BMI (rs = -0.45), WC (rs = -0.50), and BAI (rs = -0.35) (p < 0.001). Cardiorespiratory fitness was lower in the obese compared with the nonobese for all age categories (-3.8 ml · kg(-1) · min(-1); p < 0.001) and for all BC indices (-4.5 ml · kg(-1) · min(-1); p < 0.001). The OR of the unfit group having poor BC in all indices varied from 2.9 to 8.1 (p < 0.001). Despite the metabolically healthy obesity phenomenon, we found a strong association between CRF and BC irrespective of age and the BC method (BMI, BAI, WC, or BF%). These findings may aid in improving FF training programs with a focus on health and performance.

Molecular dynamics simulation of sodium aluminosilicate glass structures and glass surface-water reactions using the reactive force field (ReaxFF)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dongol, R.; Wang, L.; Cormack, A. N.; Sundaram, S. K.

2018-05-01

Reactive potentials are increasingly used to study the properties of glasses and glass water reactions in a reactive molecular dynamics (MD) framework. In this study, we have simulated a ternary sodium aluminosilicate glass and investigated the initial stages of the glass surface-water reactions at 300 K using reactive force field (ReaxFF). On comparison of the simulated glass structures generated using ReaxFF and classical Buckingham potentials, our results show that the atomic density profiles calculated for the surface glass structures indicate a bond-angle distribution dependency. The atomic density profiles also show higher concentrations of non-bridging oxygens (NBOs) and sodium ions at the glass surface. Additionally, we present our results of formation of silanol species and the diffusion of water molecules at the glass surface using ReaxFF.

Microbiota in fermented feed and swine gut.

PubMed

Wang, Cheng; Shi, Changyou; Zhang, Yu; Song, Deguang; Lu, Zeqing; Wang, Yizhen

2018-04-01

Development of alternatives to antibiotic growth promoters (AGP) used in swine production requires a better understanding of their impacts on the gut microbiota. Supplementing fermented feed (FF) in swine diets as a novel nutritional strategy to reduce the use of AGP and feed price, can positively affect the porcine gut microbiota, thereby improving pig productivities. Previous studies have noted the potential effects of FF on the shift in benefit of the swine microbiota in different regions of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). The positive influences of FF on swine gut microbiota may be due to the beneficial effects of both pre- and probiotics. Necessarily, some methods should be adopted to properly ferment and evaluate the feed and avoid undesired problems. In this mini-review, we mainly discuss the microbiota in both fermented feed and swine gut and how FF influences swine gut microbiota.

Influence of follicular fluid and cumulus cells on oocyte quality: clinical implications.

PubMed

Da Broi, M G; Giorgi, V S I; Wang, F; Keefe, D L; Albertini, D; Navarro, P A

2018-03-02

An equilibrium needs to be established by the cellular and acellular components of the ovarian follicle if developmental competence is to be acquired by the oocyte. Both cumulus cells (CCs) and follicular fluid (FF) are critical determinants for oocyte quality. Understanding how CCs and FF influence oocyte quality in the presence of deleterious systemic or pelvic conditions may impact clinical decisions in the course of managing infertility. Given that the functional integrities of FF and CCs are susceptible to concurrent pathological conditions, it is important to understand how pathophysiological factors influence natural fertility and the outcomes of pregnancy arising from the use of assisted reproduction technologies (ARTs). Accordingly, this review discusses the roles of CCs and FF in ensuring oocyte competence and present new insights on pathological conditions that may interfere with oocyte quality by altering the intrafollicular environment.

JC2Sat-FF : An International Collaboration Nano-Sat Project Overview of the System Analyses and Design

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yoshihara, K.; van Mierlo, M.; Ng, A.; Shankar Kumar, B.; De Ruiter, A.; Komatsu, Y.; Horiguchi, H.; Hashimoto, H.

2008-08-01

This paper introduces the Japan Canada Joint Collaboration Satellites - Formation Flying (JC2Sat-FF) project. JC2Sat-FF is a joint project between the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) with the end goal of building, launching and operating two 20kg- class nanosatellites for technical demonstration of formation flight (FF) using differential drag technique, relative navigation using commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) dual band GPS receivers and far infra-red radiance measurement. A unique aspect of this project is that the two JC2Sats are developed by a united small team consisting of engineers and researchers from both agencies. Technical exchange in this international team gives stimulation to the members and generates a synergistic effect for the project.

First High Resolution IR Spectra of 2,2-D_{2}-PROPANE. the νb{15} (B_{1}) A-Type Band Near 954.709 \\wn. Determination of Ground and Upper State Constants.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gjuraj, Daniel; Daunt, S. J.; Grzywacz, Robert; Lafferty, Walter; Flaud, Jean-Marie; Billinghurst, Brant E.

2017-06-01

As part of our project on the study of isotopologues of propane we have taken the spectra of the 2-D and 2,2-D_2 substituted species. There have been no studies of these species since the early IR studies. We recorded high resolution (Δν = 0.0009 \\wn) FTS data on the Canadian Light Source Far-IR beamline. The spectra of all bands of both species in the region examined (500 - 1250 \\wn) show torsionally perturbed lines, all but one band appearing globally perturbed. Virtually all bands were not amenable to analysis at present except for the νb{15} (B_{1}) A-type band centered at 954.709 \\wn. One can still see a few perturbed lines with torsional components but overall most lines were single and could be readily assigned using traditional methods. The spectrum is modelled well using PGOPHER. No MW determined GS constants were available so we have analyzed about 3500 levels to determine both ground state and upper state rotational constants. Friedman & Turkevich, J. Chem. Phys. 17, 1012 ff. (1949) McMurry, Thornton & Condon, J. Chem. Phys. 17, 918 ff. (1949) McMurry & Thornton, J. Chem. Phys. 19, 1014 ff.(1951) Gayles & King, Spectrochim. Acta 21, 543 ff.(1965) Kondo & Saeki, Spectrochim. Acta 29A, 735 ff. (1973) Western, J. Quant. Spectrosc. Rad. Transf. 186, 221 ff. (2017).

Segregation of feedforward and feedback projections in mouse visual cortex

PubMed Central

Berezovskii, Vladimir K.; Nassi, Jonathan J.; Born, Richard T.

2011-01-01

Hierarchical organization is a common feature of mammalian neocortex. Neurons that send their axons from lower to higher areas of the hierarchy are referred to as “feedforward” (FF) neurons, whereas those projecting in the opposite direction are called “feedback” (FB) neurons. Anatomical, functional and theoretical studies suggest that these different classes of projections play fundamentally different roles in perception. In primates, laminar differences in projection patterns often distinguish the two projection streams. In rodents, however, these differences are less clear, despite an established hierarchy of visual areas. Thus the rodent provides a strong test of the hypothesis that FF and FB neurons form distinct populations. We tested this hypothesis by injecting retrograde tracers into two different hierarchical levels of mouse visual cortex (areas 17 and AL) and then determining the relative proportions of double-labeled FB and FF neurons in an area intermediate to them (LM). Despite finding singly labeled neurons densely intermingled with no laminar segregation, we found few double-labeled neurons (~5% of each singly labeled population). We also examined the development of FF and FB connections. FF connections were present at the earliest time-point we examined (postnatal day two, P2), while FB connections were not detectable until P11. Our findings indicate that, even in cortices without laminar segregation of FF and FB neurons, the two projection systems are largely distinct at the neuronal level and also differ with respect to the timing of their outgrowth. PMID:21618232

Comparsion of an immunochromatographic strip with ELISA for simultaneous detection of thiamphenicol, florfenicol and chloramphenicol in food samples.

PubMed

Guo, Lingling; Song, Shanshan; Liu, Liqiang; Peng, Juan; Kuang, Hua; Xu, Chuanlai

2015-09-01

Rapid and sensitive indirect competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ic-ELISA) and gold nanoparticle immunochromatographic strip tests were developed to detect thiamphenicol (TAP), florfenicol (FF) and chloramphenicol (CAP) in milk and honey samples. The generic monoclonal antibody for TAP, FF and CAP was prepared based on a hapten [D-threo-1-(4-aminophenyl)-2- dichloroacetylamino-1,3-propanediol], and the haptenwas linked to a carrier protein using the diazotization method. After the optimization of several parameters (coating, pH, sodium chloride content and methanol content), the ic-ELISA was established. The quantitative working range for TAP was 0.11-1.36 ng/mL, with an IC50 of 0.39 ng/mL. The optimized ELISA showed cross-reactivity to CAP (300%) and FF (15.6%), with IC50 values of 0.13 and 2.5 ng/mL, respectively. The analytical recovery of TAP, FF and CAP in milk and honey samples in the ic-ELISA ranged from 81.2 to 112.9%. Based on this monoclonal antibody, a rapid and sensitive immunochromatographic test strip was also developed. This strip had a detection limit of 1 ng/mL for TAP, FF and CAP in milk and honey samples. Moreover, the test was completed within 10 min. Our results showed that the proposed ic-ELISA and immunochromatographic test strip method are highly useful screening tools for TAP, FF and CAP detection in milk and honey samples. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Pioglitazone Induces a Proadipogenic Antitumor Response in Mice with PAX8-PPARγ Fusion Protein Thyroid Carcinoma

PubMed Central

Dobson, Melissa E.; Diallo-Krou, Ericka; Grachtchouk, Vladimir; Yu, Jingcheng; Colby, Lesley A.; Wilkinson, John E.; Giordano, Thomas J.

2011-01-01

Approximately 35% of follicular thyroid carcinomas harbor a chromosomal translocation that results in expression of a paired box gene 8-peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ gene (PPARγ) fusion protein (PPFP). To better understand the oncogenic role of PPFP and its relationship to endogenous PPARγ, we generated a transgenic mouse model that combines Cre-dependent PPFP expression (PPFP;Cre) with homozygous deletion of floxed Pten (PtenFF;Cre), both thyroid specific. Although neither PPFP;Cre nor PtenFF;Cre mice develop thyroid tumors, the combined PPFP;PtenFF;Cre mice develop metastatic thyroid cancer, consistent with patient data that PPFP is occasionally found in benign thyroid adenomas and that PPFP carcinomas have increased phosphorylated AKT/protein kinase B. We then tested the effects of the PPARγ agonist pioglitazone in our mouse model. Pioglitazone had no effect on PtenFF;Cre mouse thyroids. However, the thyroids in pioglitazone-fed PPFP;PtenFF;Cre mice decreased 7-fold in size, and metastatic disease was prevented. Remarkably, pioglitazone caused an adipogenic response in the PPFP;PtenFF;Cre thyroids characterized by lipid accumulation and the induction of a broad array of adipocyte PPARγ target genes. These data indicate that, in the presence of pioglitazone, PPFP has PPARγ-like activity that results in trans-differentiation of thyroid carcinoma cells into adipocyte-like cells. Furthermore, the data predict that pioglitazone will be therapeutic in patients with PPFP-positive carcinomas. PMID:21952241

Comparison of Octopus Semi-Automated Kinetic Perimetry and Humphrey Peripheral Static Perimetry in Neuro-Ophthalmic Cases

PubMed Central

Rowe, Fiona J.; Noonan, Carmel; Manuel, Melanie

2013-01-01

Aim. To compare semikinetic perimetry (SKP) on Octopus 900 perimetry to a peripheral static programme with Humphrey automated perimetry. Methods. Prospective cross-section study comparing Humphrey full field (FF) 120 two zone programme to a screening protocol for SKP on Octopus perimetry. Results were independently graded for presence/absence of field defect plus type and location of defect. Results. 64 patients (113 eyes) underwent dual perimetry assessment. Mean duration of assessment for SKP was 4.54 minutes ±0.18 and 6.17 ± 0.12 for FF120 (P = 0.0001). 80% of results were correctly matched for normal or abnormal visual fields using the I4e target versus FF120, and 73.5% were correctly matched using the I2e target versus FF120. When comparing Octopus results with combined I4e and I2e isopters to the FF120 result, a match for normal or abnormal fields was recorded in 87%. Conclusions. Humphrey perimetry test duration was generally longer than Octopus SKP. In the absence of kinetic perimetry, peripheral static suprathreshold programme options such as FF120 may be useful for detection of visual field defects. However, statokinetic dissociation may occur. Octopus SKP utilising both I4e and I2e targets provides detailed information of both the defect depth and size and may provide a more representative view of the actual visual field defect. PMID:24558605

[On the founders of the Institute of Mathematics and Physics, University of Bahia].

PubMed

Dias, A L

The reduced number of female students of mathematics at the University of Bahia School of Philosophy (Faculdade de Filosofia, Universidade da Bahia - FF/UBa) is quite surprising. To date, they are concentrated in areas traditionally viewed as feminine whereas men predominate in the mathematical fields. I have examined interview data from a few women who graduated in mathematics and went on to teach at the University of Bahia School of Mathematics (Faculdade de Filosofia - FF) and at the Institute of Mathematics and Physics (Instituto de Matemática e Física - IMF), where they were soon to outnumber men and constitute the majority of the mathematics teaching staff. In this study, I have investigated the course of their careers over time: from their early student days, through their time as teaching assistants and professors, and finally as founders of the Institute of Mathematics and Physics, in 1960. Special reference is made to Martha Maria de Souza Dantas, organizer of the I Brazilian Conference on Mathematics Teaching, an event which has provided the groundwork for what was to become the Institute (IMF); and to Arlete Cerqueira Lima, the mastermind behind its creation.

Sol-Gel Deposited Double Layer TiO₂ and Al₂O₃ Anti-Reflection Coating for Silicon Solar Cell.

PubMed

Jung, Jinsu; Jannat, Azmira; Akhtar, M Shaheer; Yang, O-Bong

2018-02-01

In this work, the deposition of double layer ARC on p-type Si solar cells was carried out by simple spin coating using sol-gel derived Al2O3 and TiO2 precursors for the fabrication of crystalline Si solar cells. The first ARC layer was created by freshly prepared sol-gel derived Al2O3 precursor using spin coating technique and then second ARC layer of TiO2 was deposited with sol-gel derived TiO2 precursor, which was finally annealed at 400 °C. The double layer Al2O3/TiO2 ARC on Si wafer exhibited the low average reflectance of 4.74% in the wavelength range of 400 and 1000 nm. The fabricated solar cells based on double TiO2/Al2O3 ARC attained the conversion efficiency of ~13.95% with short circuit current (JSC) of 35.27 mA/cm2, open circuit voltage (VOC) of 593.35 mV and fill factor (FF) of 66.67%. Moreover, the fabricated solar cells presented relatively low series resistance (Rs) as compared to single layer ARCs, resulting in the high VOC and FF.

A facile and low-cost micro fabrication material: flash foam.

PubMed

He, Yong; Xiao, Xiao; Wu, Yan; Fu, Jian-zhong

2015-08-28

Although many microfabrication methods have been reported, the preliminary replication templates used in most microfabrication still depend on the expensive and long-period photolithography. This paper explores an alternative replication templates based on a daily used material, flash foam (FF), and proposes a facile microfabrication method, flash foam stamp lithography (FFSL). When FF is exposed with a desired pattern mask, the negative of the pattern is transferred to its surface and micro structures are formed due to the shrinkage of the exposed area. As FF is commonly used in personal stamps, FFSL is very simple and cost-effective. In this paper, we demonstrated that FF is a good and low-cost template for many micro fabrication methods, such as micro casting and soft lithography. Thus, designing and fabricating micro structures at personal office immediately become possible with FFSL. Furthermore, we demonstrated that multi-scale micro structures can be easily fabricated by double exposure with FFSL. Skin textures is used as another case to demonstrate that FFSL can fabricate structures with different depth in a single exposure. As a result, FF shows a promising future in biology, and analytical chemistry, such as rapid fabrication of point of care diagnostics and microfluidic analytical devices with low cost.

The combination of fluticasone furoate and vilanterol trifenatate in the management of asthma: clinical trial evidence and experience

PubMed Central

Albertson, Timothy E.; Richards, John R.; Zeki, Amir A.

2015-01-01

The treatment of persistent asthma has been aided by the recent approval of new medications. The combined inhaled corticosteroid (ICS)/long-acting β2 agonist (LABA) powder inhaler fluticasone furoate (FF)/vilanterol trifenatate (VI) is one of these new agents, which was recently approved as a maintenance therapy for persistent asthma. This once-daily ICS/LABA inhaler has previously been approved and used in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease as a maintenance therapy. Both FF and VI individually have been shown to have efficacy in the treatment of persistent asthma; the combination of FF/VI at the dose of 100/25 μg daily improves trough peak expiratory flows and forced expiratory volume in 1 s. It also reduces the frequency of asthma exacerbations in patients with persistent asthma. The once-daily dosing is well tolerated, with limited clinically significant adverse events; the once-daily inhaled dosing regimen should also improve medication adherence. The data supporting the use of the FF/VI inhaler in persistent asthma are reviewed. The dry powder inhaler of FF/VI (100/25 μg) is an effective and well tolerated once-daily maintenance treatment for patients with persistent asthma. PMID:26668137

Descriptions and Implementations of DL_F Notation: A Natural Chemical Expression System of Atom Types for Molecular Simulations.

PubMed

Yong, Chin W

2016-08-22

DL_F Notation is an easy-to-understand, standardized atom typesetting expression for molecular simulations for a range of organic force field (FF) schemes such as OPLSAA, PCFF, and CVFF. It is implemented within DL_FIELD, a software program that facilitates the setting up of molecular FF models for DL_POLY molecular dynamics simulation software. By making use of the Notation, a single core conversion module (the DL_F conversion Engine) implemented within DL_FIELD can be used to analyze a molecular structure and determine the types of atoms for a given FF scheme. Users only need to provide the molecular input structure in a simple xyz format and DL_FIELD can produce the necessary force field file for DL_POLY automatically. In commensurate with the development concept of DL_FIELD, which placed emphasis on robustness and user friendliness, the Engine provides a single-step solution to setup complex FF models. This allows users to switch from one of the above-mentioned FF seamlessly to another while at the same time provides a consistent atom typing that is expressed in a natural chemical sense.

Emissions of Water and Carbon Dioxide from Fossil-Fuel Combustion Contribute Directly to Ocean Mass and Volume Increases

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Skuce, A. G.

2014-12-01

The direct, non-climate, contribution of carbon dioxide and water emissions from fossil-fuel (FF) combustion to the volume and mass of the oceans has been omitted from estimates of sea-level rise (SLR) in IPCC reports. Following the method of Gornitz et al. (1997), H2O emissions are estimated using carbon emissions from the Carbon Dioxide Information Analysis Center, along with typical carbon and hydrogen contents of FF. Historic H2O emissions from 1750 to 2010 amount to 430 ±50 PgH2O, equivalent to 1.2 ±0.2 mmSLR. Sometime in this decade the volume of H2O from historic FF combustion will exceed the volume of Lake Erie (480 km3). CO2 dissolved in the ocean increases the seawater volume by 31-33 mL mol-1 CO2. From 1750 to 2010, 370 ±70 PgCO2 from FF combustion has dissolved in the oceans, causing 0.7 ±0.2 mmSLR. Combined H2O+CO2emissions from FF have therefore added 1.9 ±0.4 mm to sea levels in the Industrial Era. Combustion of FF in 2010 resulted in emissions of 32 PgCO2 and 12 ±1 PgH2O. SLR contributions for that year from FF emissions were 0.033 ±0.005 mm from H2O and 0.011±0.003 mm from dissolved CO2, a total rate of 0.044 ±0.008 mm yr-1. Emissions incorporated in socio-economic models underlying the RCP 8.5 and 2.6 scenarios are used along with concentration-driven CMIP5 Earth System Models results to estimate future sea-level rise from FF combustion. From 2010 to 2100, RCP8.5 and 2.6 models respectively produce 9 ±2 mmSLR and 5 ±1 mmSLR from FF H2O+CO2. For perspective, these amounts are larger than the modelled contributions from loss of glaciers in the Andes. The direct contribution of FF emissions to SLR is small (1-2%) relative to current rates and projected estimates under RCP scenarios up to 2100. The magnitude is similar to SLR estimates from other minor sources such as the melting of floating ice, land-use emissions and produced water from oil operations, none of which are currently included in SLR assessments. As uncertainties in observations and contributions are reduced, small contribution factors, hitherto neglected, will become relatively more important in balancing the books. ReferenceGornitz, V., C. Rosenzweig, and D. Hillel, 1997: Effects of anthropogenic intervention in the land hydrological cycle on global sea level rise. Global and Planetary Change, 14, 147-161. DOI: 10.1016/S0921-8181(96)00008-2

Effects of force fields on the conformational and dynamic properties of amyloid β(1-40) dimer explored by replica exchange molecular dynamics simulations.

PubMed

Watts, Charles R; Gregory, Andrew; Frisbie, Cole; Lovas, Sándor

2018-03-01

The conformational space and structural ensembles of amyloid beta (Aβ) peptides and their oligomers in solution are inherently disordered and proven to be challenging to study. Optimum force field selection for molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and the biophysical relevance of results are still unknown. We compared the conformational space of the Aβ(1-40) dimers by 300 ns replica exchange MD simulations at physiological temperature (310 K) using: the AMBER-ff99sb-ILDN, AMBER-ff99sb*-ILDN, AMBER-ff99sb-NMR, and CHARMM22* force fields. Statistical comparisons of simulation results to experimental data and previously published simulations utilizing the CHARMM22* and CHARMM36 force fields were performed. All force fields yield sampled ensembles of conformations with collision cross sectional areas for the dimer that are statistically significantly larger than experimental results. All force fields, with the exception of AMBER-ff99sb-ILDN (8.8 ± 6.4%) and CHARMM36 (2.7 ± 4.2%), tend to overestimate the α-helical content compared to experimental CD (5.3 ± 5.2%). Using the AMBER-ff99sb-NMR force field resulted in the greatest degree of variance (41.3 ± 12.9%). Except for the AMBER-ff99sb-NMR force field, the others tended to under estimate the expected amount of β-sheet and over estimate the amount of turn/bend/random coil conformations. All force fields, with the exception AMBER-ff99sb-NMR, reproduce a theoretically expected β-sheet-turn-β-sheet conformational motif, however, only the CHARMM22* and CHARMM36 force fields yield results compatible with collapse of the central and C-terminal hydrophobic cores from residues 17-21 and 30-36. Although analyses of essential subspace sampling showed only minor variations between force fields, secondary structures of lowest energy conformers are different. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Adaptive accelerated ReaxFF reactive dynamics with validation from simulating hydrogen combustion.

PubMed

Cheng, Tao; Jaramillo-Botero, Andrés; Goddard, William A; Sun, Huai

2014-07-02

We develop here the methodology for dramatically accelerating the ReaxFF reactive force field based reactive molecular dynamics (RMD) simulations through use of the bond boost concept (BB), which we validate here for describing hydrogen combustion. The bond order, undercoordination, and overcoordination concepts of ReaxFF ensure that the BB correctly adapts to the instantaneous configurations in the reactive system to automatically identify the reactions appropriate to receive the bond boost. We refer to this as adaptive Accelerated ReaxFF Reactive Dynamics or aARRDyn. To validate the aARRDyn methodology, we determined the detailed sequence of reactions for hydrogen combustion with and without the BB. We validate that the kinetics and reaction mechanisms (that is the detailed sequences of reactive intermediates and their subsequent transformation to others) for H2 oxidation obtained from aARRDyn agrees well with the brute force reactive molecular dynamics (BF-RMD) at 2498 K. Using aARRDyn, we then extend our simulations to the whole range of combustion temperatures from ignition (798 K) to flame temperature (2998K), and demonstrate that, over this full temperature range, the reaction rates predicted by aARRDyn agree well with the BF-RMD values, extrapolated to lower temperatures. For the aARRDyn simulation at 798 K we find that the time period for half the H2 to form H2O product is ∼538 s, whereas the computational cost was just 1289 ps, a speed increase of ∼0.42 trillion (10(12)) over BF-RMD. In carrying out these RMD simulations we found that the ReaxFF-COH2008 version of the ReaxFF force field was not accurate for such intermediates as H3O. Consequently we reoptimized the fit to a quantum mechanics (QM) level, leading to the ReaxFF-OH2014 force field that was used in the simulations.

Total renin after gonadotropin stimulation in polycystic ovarian disease.

PubMed

Matinlauri, I; Anttila, L; Jaatinen, T A; Koskinen, P; Aalto, M; Irjala, K; Nikkanen, V

1995-02-01

To examine the influence of polycystic ovarian disease (PCOD) on the levels of total renin in plasma and follicular fluid (FF) after stimulation with hMG. Comparative study of the plasma and FF concentrations of total renin in women with and without PCOD after stimulation with hMG. In vitro fertilization-embryo transfer program at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the University Central Hospital of Turku, Finland. Thirty-six women undergoing IVF-ET for infertility with (n = 10) or without (n = 26) ultrasonographically diagnosed PCOD. Of the latter group, 15 women had tubal infertility, and the rest suffered from an anovulatory infertility and reacted with PCO-like ovarian response to stimulation. The concentrations of total renin in plasma and FF, serum E2, and protein in FF. The concentrations of plasma total renin after the gonadotropin stimulation were significantly higher in the PCOD and PCO-like groups when compared with the tubal group. The concentration of total renin in FF and the ratio of total renin per protein in FF were higher in the PCOD and PCO-like groups than in the tubal group, but the differences did not reach statistical significance. Positive correlations were found between the plasma total renin and serum E2 concentrations in the PCO-like and in the tubal group and between plasma total renin concentrations and the number of mature follicles in all groups. Follicular fluid total renin did not correlate with FF protein in any group. All findings were independent of the total hMG dosage used and the body mass index of the patients. In the present study the concentrations of total renin in plasma were enhanced markedly after gonadotropin stimulation in women with PCOD compared with women having tubal infertility. The pattern of the hormonal secretions revealed a group of infertile patients reacting biochemically like women with PCOD.

SU-E-T-153: Burst-Mode Modulated Arc Therapy with Flattening-Filter-Free Beams Versus Flattening-Filtered Beams

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

Kainz, K; Lawton, C; Li, X

2015-06-15

Purpose: To compare the dosimetry and delivery of burst-mode modulated arc radiotherapy using flattening-filter-free (FFF) and flattening-filtered (FF) beams. Methods: Burst-mode modulated arc therapy (mARC, Siemens) plans were generated for six prostate cases with FFF and FF beam models, using the Elekta Monaco v. 5.00 planning system. One 360-degree arc was used for five cases, and for one case two 360-degree coplanar arcs were used. The maximum number of optimization points (OPs) per arc was set to 91, and OPs with less than 4 MU were disregarded. All plans were delivered on the Siemens Artiste linear accelerator with 6MV FFmore » (300 MU/min) and comparable-energy FFF (2000 MU/min, labeled as 7UF) beams. Results: For all cases studied, the plans with FFF beams exhibited DVHs for the PTV, rectum, and bladder that were nearly identical to those for the plans with FF beams. The FFF plan yielded reduced dose to the right femoral head for 5 cases, and lower mean dose to the left femoral head for 4 cases. For all but the two-arc case, the FFF and FF plans resulted in an identical number of segments. The total number of MUs was slightly lower for the FF plans for five cases. The total delivery time per fraction was substantially lower for the FFF plans, ranging from 25 to 50 percent among all cases, as compared to the FF plans. Conclusion: For mARC plans, FFF and FF beams provided comparable PTV coverage and rectum and bladder sparing. For the femoral heads, the mean dose was slightly lower in most cases when using the FFF beam. Although the flat beam plans typically required slightly fewer MUs, FFF beams required substantially less time to deliver a plan of similar quality. This work was supported by Siemens Medical Solutions and the MCW Cancer Center Fotsch Foundation.« less

Effect of fenofibrate on oxidative DNA damage and on gene expression related to cell proliferation and apoptosis in rats.

PubMed

Nishimura, Jihei; Dewa, Yasuaki; Muguruma, Masako; Kuroiwa, Yuichi; Yasuno, Hiroaki; Shima, Tomomi; Jin, Mailan; Takahashi, Miwa; Umemura, Takashi; Mitsumori, Kunitoshi

2007-05-01

To investigate the relationship between fenofibrate (FF) and oxidative stress, enzymatic, histopathological, and molecular biological analyses were performed in the liver of male F344 rats fed 2 doses of FF (Experiment 1; 0 and 6000 ppm) for 3 weeks and 3 doses (Experiment 2; 0, 3000, and 6000 ppm) for 9 weeks. FF treatment increased the activity of enzymes such as carnitine acetyltransferase, carnitine palmitoyltransferase, fatty acyl-CoA oxidizing system, and catalase in the liver. However, it decreased those of superoxide dismutase in the liver in both experiments. Increased 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine levels in liver DNA and lipofuscin accumulation were observed in the treated rats of Experiment 2. In vitro measurement of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in rat liver microsomes revealed a dose-dependent increase due to FF treatment. Microarray (only Experiment 1) or real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction analyses revealed that the expression levels of metabolism and DNA repair-related genes such as Aco, Cyp4a1, Cat, Yc2, Gpx2, Apex1, Xrcc5, Mgmt, Mlh1, Gadd45a, and Nbn were increased in FF-treated rats. These results provide evidence of a direct or indirect relationship between oxidative stress and FF treatment. In addition, increases in the expression levels of cell cycle-related genes such as Chek1, Cdc25a, and Ccdn1; increases in the expression levels of cell proliferation-related genes such as Hdgfrp3 and Vegfb; and fluctuations in the expression levels of apoptosis-related genes such as Casp11 and Trp53inp1 were observed in these rats. This suggests that cell proliferation induction, apoptosis suppression, and DNA damage due to oxidative stresses are probably involved in the mechanism of hepatocarcinogenesis due to FF in rats.

Down-regulation of hypothalamic pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) expression after weaning is associated with hyperphagia-induced obesity in JCR rats overexpressing neuropeptide Y.

PubMed

Diané, Abdoulaye; Pierce, W David; Russell, James C; Heth, C Donald; Vine, Donna F; Richard, Denis; Proctor, Spencer D

2014-03-14

We hypothesised that hypothalamic feeding-related neuropeptides are differentially expressed in obese-prone and lean-prone rats and trigger overeating-induced obesity. To test this hypothesis, in the present study, we measured energy balance and hypothalamic neuropeptide Y (NPY) and pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) mRNA expressions in male JCR:LA-cp rats. We compared, in independent cohorts, free-feeding obese-prone (Obese-FF) and lean-prone (Lean-FF) rats at pre-weaning (10 d old), weaning (21-25 d old) and early adulthood (8-12 weeks). A group of Obese-pair-feeding (PF) rats pair-fed to the Lean-FF rats was included in the adult cohort. The body weights of 10-d-old Obese-FF and Lean-FF pups were not significantly different. However, when the pups were shifted from dams' milk to solid food (weaning), the obese-prone rats exhibited more energy intake over the days than the lean-prone rats and higher body and fat pad weights and fasting plasma glucose, leptin, insulin and lipid levels. These differences were consistent with higher energy consumption and lower energy expenditure. In the young adult cohort, the differences between the Obese-FF and Lean-FF rats became more pronounced, yielding significant age effects on most of the parameters of the metabolic syndrome, which were reduced in the Obese-PF rats. The obese-prone rats displayed higher NPY expression than the lean-prone rats at pre-weaning and weaning, and the expression levels did not differ by age. In contrast, POMC expression exhibited significant age-by-genotype differences. At pre-weaning, there was no genotype difference in POMC expression, but in the weanling cohort, obese-prone pups exhibited lower POMC expression than the lean-prone rats. This genotype difference became more pronounced at adulthood. Overall, the development of hyperphagia-induced obesity in obese-prone JCR rats is related to POMC expression down-regulation in the presence of established NPY overexpression.

BRCA1 Mutation Status and Follicular Fluid Exposure Alters NFκB Signaling and ISGylation in Human Fallopian Tube Epithelial Cells.

PubMed

Hollingsworth, Julia; Lau, Angela; Tone, Alicia; Kollara, Alexandra; Allen, Lisa; Colgan, Terence J; Dube, Valerie; Rosen, Barry; Murphy, K Joan; Greenblatt, Ellen M; Feigenberg, Tomer; Virtanen, Carl; Brown, Theodore J

2018-05-28

Germline BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations (mtBRCA1 and mtBRCA2) increase risk for high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC), the most commonly diagnosed epithelial ovarian cancer histotype. Other identified risk factors for this cancer, which originates primarily in the distal fallopian tube epithelium (FTE), implicate ovulation, during which the FTE cells become transiently exposed to follicular fluid (FF). To test whether mtBRCA1 or mtBRCA2 nonmalignant FTE cells respond differently to periovulatory FF exposure than control patient FTE cells, gene expression profiles from primary FTE cultures derived from BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation carriers or control patients were compared at baseline, 24 hours after FF exposure, and 24 hours after FF replacement with culture medium. Hierarchical clustering revealed both FF exposure and BRCA mutation status affect gene expression, with BRCA1 mutation having the greatest impact. Gene set enrichment analysis revealed increased NFκB and EGFR signaling at baseline in mtBRCA1 samples, with increased interferon target gene expression, including members of the ISGylation pathway, observed after recovery from FF exposure. Gene set enrichment analysis did not identify altered pathway signaling in mtBRCA2 samples. An inverse relationship between EGFR signaling and ISGylation with BRCA1 protein levels was verified in an immortalized FTE cell line, OE-E6/E7, stably transfected with BRCA1 cDNA. Suppression of ISG15 and ISGylated protein levels by increased BRCA1 expression was found to be mediated by decreased NFκB signaling. These studies indicate that increased NFκB signaling associated with decreased BRCA1 expression results in increased ISG15 and protein ISGylation following FF exposure, which may be involved in predisposition to HGSOC. Copyright © 2018 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Respiratory protection from isocyanate exposure in the autobody repair and refinishing industry.

PubMed

Liu, Youcheng; Stowe, Meredith H; Bello, Dhimiter; Woskie, Susan R; Sparer, Judy; Gore, Rebecca; Youngs, Fred; Cullen, Mark R; Redlich, Carrie A

2006-05-01

This study, part of the Survey of Painters and Repairers of Auto bodies by Yale (SPRAY), evaluated the effectiveness of respiratory protection against exposure to aliphatic polyisocyanates. A total of 36 shops were assessed for respiratory protection program completeness; 142 workers were measured for respirator fit factor (FF) using PortaCount Plus respirator fit tester. Twenty-two painters from 21 shops were sampled using NIOSH method 5525 to determine the workplace protection factor (WPF) of negative pressure, air-purifying half-facepiece respirators equipped with organic vapor cartridges and paint prefilters during spray-painting and priming activities. Only 11 shops (30%) had written respiratory protection programs. Eighty percent of all fit tested workers passed the test on the first try with FF >or= 100, and 92% passed the second test after respirator use training. Overall geometric mean (GM) FF was 1012 for all fit tested workers. Significant differences on pass rate (92% vs. 72%) and on FF (1990 vs. 736) were found between previously fit tested workers vs. nontested workers. Twenty-nine WPF samples were collected. The outside facepiece GM concentration of total isocyanate group (NCO) was 378.4 micro g NCO/m(3) with 96% concentrations exceeding the U.K. short-term exposure limit, 70 micro g NCO/m(3), but no in-facepiece concentrations exceeded the limit. The GM WPF of total NCO was 319 (GSD 4) and the 5th percentile was 54. WPF of total NCO was positively correlated with the duration of painting task. FF positively correlated with WPF when FF was 450. We conclude that negative pressure, air-purifying half-facepiece respirators equipped with organic vapor cartridges and paint prefilters provide effective protection against isocyanate exposure in spray and priming operations if workers are properly trained and fitted.

FAST TRACK COMMUNICATION Temperature-driven phase transformation in self-assembled diphenylalanine peptide nanotubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Heredia, A.; Bdikin, I.; Kopyl, S.; Mishina, E.; Semin, S.; Sigov, A.; German, K.; Bystrov, V.; Gracio, J.; Kholkin, A. L.

2010-11-01

Diphenylalanine (FF) peptide nanotubes (PNTs) represent a unique class of self-assembled functional biomaterials owing to a wide range of useful properties including nanostructural variability, mechanical rigidity and chemical stability. In addition, strong piezoelectric activity has recently been observed paving the way to their use as nanoscale sensors and actuators. In this work, we fabricated both horizontal and vertical FF PNTs and examined their optical second harmonic generation and local piezoresponse as a function of temperature. The measurements show a gradual decrease in polarization with increasing temperature accompanied by an irreversible phase transition into another crystalline phase at about 140-150 °C. The results are corroborated by the molecular dynamic simulations predicting an order-disorder phase transition into a centrosymmetric (possibly, orthorhombic) phase with antiparallel polarization orientation in neighbouring FF rings. Partial piezoresponse hysteresis indicates incomplete polarization switching due to the high coercive field in FF PNTs.

Cross-sectional investigation of correlation between hepatic steatosis and IVIM perfusion on MR imaging.

PubMed

Lee, James T; Liau, Joy; Murphy, Paul; Schroeder, Michael E; Sirlin, Claude B; Bydder, Mark

2012-05-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between liver fat fraction (FF) and diffusion parameters derived from the intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) model. Thirty-six subjects with suspected nonalcoholic fatty liver disease underwent diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging with 10 b-values and spoiled gradient recalled echo imaging with six echoes for fat quantification. Correlations were measured between FF, transverse relaxivity (R2), diffusivity (D) and perfusion fraction (f). The primary finding was that no significant correlation was obtained for D vs. FF or f vs. FF. Significant correlations were obtained for D vs. R2 (r=-0.490, P=.002) and f vs. D (r=-0.458, P=.005). The conclusion is that hepatic steatosis does not affect measurement of perfusion or diffusion and therefore is unlikely to confound the use of apparent diffusivity to evaluate hepatic fibrosis. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Universal dimer–dimer scattering in lattice effective field theory

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

Elhatisari, Serdar; Katterjohn, Kris; Lee, Dean

We consider two-component fermions with short-range interactions and large scattering length. This system has universal properties that are realized in several different fields of physics. In the limit of large fermion–fermion scattering length a ff and zero-range interaction, all properties of the system scale proportionally with a ff. For the case with shallow bound dimers, we calculate the dimer–dimer scattering phase shifts using lattice effective field theory. We extract the universal dimer–dimer scattering length a dd/a ff=0.618(30) and effective range r dd/a ff=-0.431(48). This result for the effective range is the first calculation with quantified and controlled systematic errors. Wemore » also benchmark our methods by computing the fermion–dimer scattering parameters and testing some predictions of conformal scaling of irrelevant operators near the unitarity limit.« less

Wettability and friction coefficient of micro-magnet arrayed surface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Wei; Liao, Sijie; Wang, Xiaolei

2012-01-01

Surface coating is an important part of surface engineering and it has been successfully used in many applications to improve the performance of surfaces. In this paper, magnetic arrayed films with different thicknesses were fabricated on the surface of 316 stainless steel disks. Controllable colloid - ferrofluids (FF) was chosen as lubricant, which can be adsorbed on the magnetic surface. The wettability of the micro-magnet arrayed surface was evaluated by measuring the contract angle of FF drops on surface. Tribological experiments were carried out to investigate the effects of magnetic film thickness on frictional properties when lubricated by FF under plane contact condition. It was found that the magnetic arrayed surface with thicker magnetic films presented larger contract angle. The frictional test results showed that samples with thicker magnetic films could reduce friction and wear more efficiently at higher sliding velocity under the lubrication of FF.

Universal dimer–dimer scattering in lattice effective field theory

DOE PAGES

Elhatisari, Serdar; Katterjohn, Kris; Lee, Dean; ...

2017-03-14

We consider two-component fermions with short-range interactions and large scattering length. This system has universal properties that are realized in several different fields of physics. In the limit of large fermion–fermion scattering length a ff and zero-range interaction, all properties of the system scale proportionally with a ff. For the case with shallow bound dimers, we calculate the dimer–dimer scattering phase shifts using lattice effective field theory. We extract the universal dimer–dimer scattering length a dd/a ff=0.618(30) and effective range r dd/a ff=-0.431(48). This result for the effective range is the first calculation with quantified and controlled systematic errors. Wemore » also benchmark our methods by computing the fermion–dimer scattering parameters and testing some predictions of conformal scaling of irrelevant operators near the unitarity limit.« less

An automated analysis workflow for optimization of force-field parameters using neutron scattering data

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

Lynch, Vickie E.; Borreguero, Jose M.; Bhowmik, Debsindhu

Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • An automated workflow to optimize force-field parameters. • Used the workflow to optimize force-field parameter for a system containing nanodiamond and tRNA. • The mechanism relies on molecular dynamics simulation and neutron scattering experimental data. • The workflow can be generalized to any other experimental and simulation techniques. - Abstract: Large-scale simulations and data analysis are often required to explain neutron scattering experiments to establish a connection between the fundamental physics at the nanoscale and data probed by neutrons. However, to perform simulations at experimental conditions it is critical to use correct force-field (FF) parametersmore » which are unfortunately not available for most complex experimental systems. In this work, we have developed a workflow optimization technique to provide optimized FF parameters by comparing molecular dynamics (MD) to neutron scattering data. We describe the workflow in detail by using an example system consisting of tRNA and hydrophilic nanodiamonds in a deuterated water (D{sub 2}O) environment. Quasi-elastic neutron scattering (QENS) data show a faster motion of the tRNA in the presence of nanodiamond than without the ND. To compare the QENS and MD results quantitatively, a proper choice of FF parameters is necessary. We use an efficient workflow to optimize the FF parameters between the hydrophilic nanodiamond and water by comparing to the QENS data. Our results show that we can obtain accurate FF parameters by using this technique. The workflow can be generalized to other types of neutron data for FF optimization, such as vibrational spectroscopy and spin echo.« less

Characterization and mechanical properties investigation of TiN-Ag films onto Ti-6Al-4V

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Du, Dongxing; Liu, Daoxin; Zhang, Xiaohua; Tang, Jingang; Xiang, Dinggen

2016-03-01

To investigate their effect on fretting fatigue (FF) resistance of a Ti-6Al-4V alloy, hard solid lubricating composite films of TiN with varying silver contents (TiN-Ag) were deposited on a Ti-6Al-4V alloy using ion-assisted magnetron sputtering. The surface morphology and structure were analyzed by atomic force microscopy, X-ray diffractometry, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. The hardness, bonding strength, and toughness of films were tested using a micro-hardness tester, scratch tester, and a repeated press-press test system that was manufactured in-house, respectively. The FF resistance of TiN-Ag composite films was studied using self-developed devices. The results show that the FF resistance of a titanium alloy can be improved by TiN-Ag composite films, which were fabricated using hard TiN coating doped with soft Ag. The FF life of Ag0.5, Ag2, Ag5, Ag10 and Ag20 composite films is 2.41, 3.18, 3.20, 2.94 and 2.87 times as great as that of the titanium alloy, respectively. This is because the composite films have the better toughness, friction lubrication, and high bonding strength. When the atomic fraction of Ag changes from 2% to 5%, the FF resistance of the composite films shows the best performance. This is attributed to the surface integrity of the composite film is sufficiently fine to prevent the initiation and early propagation of FF cracks.

Analysis of follicular fluid retinoids in women undergoing in vitro fertilization: retinoic acid influences embryo quality and is reduced in women with endometriosis.

PubMed

Pauli, Samuel A; Session, Donna R; Shang, Weirong; Easley, Kirk; Wieser, Friedrich; Taylor, Robert N; Pierzchalski, Keely; Napoli, Joseph L; Kane, Maureen A; Sidell, Neil

2013-09-01

Retinol (ROL) and its biologically active metabolite, all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA), are essential for a number of reproductive processes. However, there is a paucity of information regarding their roles in ovarian folliculogenesis, oocyte maturation, and early embryogenesis. The objectives of this study were to quantify and compare peripheral plasma (PP) and follicular fluid (FF) retinoid levels, including ATRA in women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) and to investigate the relationship between retinoid levels and embryo quality. Retinoid levels were evaluated in PP and FF from 79 women undergoing IVF at the time of oocyte retrieval and corresponding embryo quality assessed on a daily basis after retrieval for 3 days until uterine transfer. Analysis compared the retinoid levels with day 3 embryo grades and between endometriosis versus control patients. Results demonstrated distinctive levels of retinoid metabolites and isomers in FF versus PP. There was a significantly larger percentage of high-quality grade I embryos derived from the largest versus smallest follicles. An increase in follicle size also correlated with a >50% increase in FF ROL and ATRA concentrations. Independent of follicle size, FF yielding grade I versus nongrade I embryos showed higher mean levels of ATRA but not ROL. In a nested case-control analysis, control participants had 50% higher mean levels of ATRA in their FF and PP than women with endometriosis. These findings strongly support the proposition that ATRA plays a fundamental role in oocyte development and quality, and that reduced ATRA synthesis may contribute to decreased fecundity of participants with endometriosis.

Automation of the CHARMM General Force Field (CGenFF) I: bond perception and atom typing.

PubMed

Vanommeslaeghe, K; MacKerell, A D

2012-12-21

Molecular mechanics force fields are widely used in computer-aided drug design for the study of drug-like molecules alone or interacting with biological systems. In simulations involving biological macromolecules, the biological part is typically represented by a specialized biomolecular force field, while the drug is represented by a matching general (organic) force field. In order to apply these general force fields to an arbitrary drug-like molecule, functionality for assignment of atom types, parameters, and charges is required. In the present article, which is part I of a series of two, we present the algorithms for bond perception and atom typing for the CHARMM General Force Field (CGenFF). The CGenFF atom typer first associates attributes to the atoms and bonds in a molecule, such as valence, bond order, and ring membership among others. Of note are a number of features that are specifically required for CGenFF. This information is then used by the atom typing routine to assign CGenFF atom types based on a programmable decision tree. This allows for straightforward implementation of CGenFF's complicated atom typing rules and for equally straightforward updating of the atom typing scheme as the force field grows. The presented atom typer was validated by assigning correct atom types on 477 model compounds including in the training set as well as 126 test-set molecules that were constructed to specifically verify its different components. The program may be utilized via an online implementation at https://www.paramchem.org/ .

Neutron production from flattening filter free high energy medical linac: A Monte Carlo study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Najem, M. A.; Abolaban, F. A.; Podolyák, Z.; Spyrou, N. M.

2015-11-01

One of the problems arising from using a conventional linac at high energy (>8 MV) is the production of neutrons. One way to reduce neutron production is to remove the flattening filter (FF). The main purpose of this work was to study the effect of FF removal on neutron fluence and neutron dose equivalent inside the treatment room at different photon beam energies. Several simulations based on Monte Carlo techniques were carried out in order to calculate the neutron fluence at different locations in the treatment room from different linac energies with and without a FF. In addition, a step-and-shoot intensity modulated radiotherapy (SnS IMRT) for prostate cancer was modelled using the 15 MV photon beam with and without a FF on a water phantom to calculate the neutron dose received in a full treatment. The results obtained show a significant drop-off in neutrons fluence and dose equivalent when the FF was removed. For example, the neutron fluence was decreased by 54%, 76% and 75% for 10, 15 and 18 MV, respectively. This can decrease the neutron dose to the patient as well as reduce the shielding cost of the treatment room. The neutron dose equivalent of the SnS IMRT for prostate cancer was reduced significantly by 71.3% when the FF was removed. It can be concluded that the flattening filter removal from the head of the linac could reduce the risk of causing secondary cancers and the shielding cost of radiotherapy treatment rooms.

Structural Polymorphism in a Self-Assembled Tri-Aromatic Peptide System.

PubMed

Brown, Noam; Lei, Jiangtao; Zhan, Chendi; Shimon, Linda J W; Adler-Abramovich, Lihi; Wei, Guanghong; Gazit, Ehud

2018-04-24

Self-assembly is a process of key importance in natural systems and in nanotechnology. Peptides are attractive building blocks due to their relative facile synthesis, biocompatibility, and other unique properties. Diphenylalanine (FF) and its derivatives are known to form nanostructures of various architectures and interesting and varied characteristics. The larger triphenylalanine peptide (FFF) was found to self-assemble as efficiently as FF, forming related but distinct architectures of plate-like and spherical nanostructures. Here, to understand the effect of triaromatic systems on the self-assembly process, we examined carboxybenzyl-protected diphenylalanine (z-FF) as a minimal model for such an arrangement. We explored different self-assembly conditions by changing solvent compositions and peptide concentrations, generating a phase diagram for the assemblies. We discovered that z-FF can form a variety of structures, including nanowires, fibers, nanospheres, and nanotoroids, the latter were previously observed only in considerably larger or co-assembly systems. Secondary structure analysis revealed that all assemblies possessed a β-sheet conformation. Additionally, in solvent combinations with high water ratios, z-FF formed rigid and self-healing hydrogels. X-ray crystallography revealed a "wishbone" structure, in which z-FF dimers are linked by hydrogen bonds mediated by methanol molecules, with a 2-fold screw symmetry along the c-axis. All-atom molecular dynamics (MD) simulations revealed conformations similar to the crystal structure. Coarse-grained MD simulated the assembly of the peptide into either fibers or spheres in different solvent systems, consistent with the experimental results. This work thus expands the building block library for the fabrication of nanostructures by peptide self-assembly.

Analysis of Follicular Fluid Retinoids in Women Undergoing In Vitro Fertilization

PubMed Central

Pauli, Samuel A.; Session, Donna R.; Shang, Weirong; Easley, Kirk; Wieser, Friedrich; Taylor, Robert N.; Pierzchalski, Keely; Napoli, Joseph L.; Kane, Maureen A.

2013-01-01

Retinol (ROL) and its biologically active metabolite, all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA), are essential for a number of reproductive processes. However, there is a paucity of information regarding their roles in ovarian folliculogenesis, oocyte maturation, and early embryogenesis. The objectives of this study were to quantify and compare peripheral plasma (PP) and follicular fluid (FF) retinoid levels, including ATRA in women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) and to investigate the relationship between retinoid levels and embryo quality. Retinoid levels were evaluated in PP and FF from 79 women undergoing IVF at the time of oocyte retrieval and corresponding embryo quality assessed on a daily basis after retrieval for 3 days until uterine transfer. Analysis compared the retinoid levels with day 3 embryo grades and between endometriosis versus control patients. Results demonstrated distinctive levels of retinoid metabolites and isomers in FF versus PP. There was a significantly larger percentage of high-quality grade I embryos derived from the largest versus smallest follicles. An increase in follicle size also correlated with a >50% increase in FF ROL and ATRA concentrations. Independent of follicle size, FF yielding grade I versus nongrade I embryos showed higher mean levels of ATRA but not ROL. In a nested case–control analysis, control participants had 50% higher mean levels of ATRA in their FF and PP than women with endometriosis. These findings strongly support the proposition that ATRA plays a fundamental role in oocyte development and quality, and that reduced ATRA synthesis may contribute to decreased fecundity of participants with endometriosis. PMID:23427183

A pilot study on the correlation between fat fraction values and glucose uptake values in supraclavicular fat by simultaneous PET/MRI.

PubMed

McCallister, Andrew; Zhang, Le; Burant, Alex; Katz, Laurence; Branca, Rosa Tamara

2017-11-01

To assess the spatial correlation between MRI and 18F-fludeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) maps of human brown adipose tissue (BAT) and to measure differences in fat fraction (FF) between glucose avid and non-avid regions of the supraclavicular fat depot using a hybrid FDG-PET/MR scanner. In 16 healthy volunteers, mean age of 30 and body mass index of 26, FF, R2*, and FDG uptake maps were acquired simultaneously using a hybrid PET/MR system while employing an individualized cooling protocol to maximally stimulate BAT. Fourteen of the 16 volunteers reported BAT-positive FDG-PET scans. MR FF maps of BAT correlate well with combined FDG-PET/MR maps of BAT only in subjects with intense glucose uptake. The results indicate that the extent of the spatial correlation positively correlates with maximum FDG uptake in the supraclavicular fat depot. No consistent, significant differences were found in FF or R2* between FDG avid and non-avid supraclavicular fat regions. In a few FDG-positive subjects, a small but significant linear decrease in BAT FF was observed during BAT stimulation. MR FF, when used in conjunction with FDG uptake maps, can be seen as a valuable, radiation-free alternative to CT and can be used to measure tissue hydration and lipid consumption in some subjects. Magn Reson Med 78:1922-1932, 2017. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

303-K Storage Facility closure plan. Revision 2

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

Not Available

1993-12-15

Recyclable scrap uranium with zircaloy-2 and copper silicon alloy, uranium-titanium alloy, beryllium/zircaloy-2 alloy, and zircaloy-2 chips and fines were secured in concrete billets (7.5-gallon containers) in the 303-K Storage Facility, located in the 300 Area. The beryllium/zircaloy-2 alloy and zircaloy-2 chips and fines are designated as mixed waste with the characteristic of ignitability. The concretion process reduced the ignitability of the fines and chips for safe storage and shipment. This process has been discontinued and the 303-K Storage Facility is now undergoing closure as defined in the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) of 1976 and the Washington Administrative Codemore » (WAC) Dangerous Waste Regulations, WAC 173-303-040. This closure plan presents a description of the 303-K Storage Facility, the history of materials and waste managed, and the procedures that will be followed to close the 303-K Storage Facility. The 303-K Storage Facility is located within the 300-FF-3 (source) and 300-FF-5 (groundwater) operable units, as designated in the Hanford Federal Facility Agreement and Consent Order (Tri-Party Agreement) (Ecology et al. 1992). Contamination in the operable units 300-FF-3 and 300-FF-5 is scheduled to be addressed through the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) of 1980 remedial action process. Therefore, all soil remedial action at the 304 Facility will be conducted as part of the CERCLA remedial action of operable units 300-FF-3 and 300-FF-5.« less

X-38 Vehicle 131R Free Flights 1 and 2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Munday, Steve

2000-01-01

The X-38 program is using a modern flight control system (FCS) architecture originally developed by Honeywell called MACH. During last year's SAE G&C subcommittee meeting, we outlined the design, implementation and testing of MACH in X-38 Vehicles 132, 131R & 201. During this year's SAE meeting, I'll focus upon the first two free flights of V131R, describing what caused the roll-over in FF1 and how we fixed it for FF2. I only have 30 minutes, so it will be a quick summary including VHS video. X-38 is a NASA JSC/DFRC experimental flight test program developing a series of prototypes for an International Space Station (ISS) Crew Return Vehicle (CRV), often described as an ISS "lifeboat." X-38 Vehicle 132 Free Flight 3 was the first flight test of a modern FCS architecture called Multi-Application ControlH (MACH), developed by the Honeywell Technology Center in Minneapolis and Honeywell's Houston Engineering Center. MACH wraps classical Proportional+integral (P+I) outer attitude loops around modern dynamic inversion attitude rate loops. The presentation at last year's SAE Aerospace Meeting No. 85 focused upon the design and testing of the FCS algorithm and Vehicle 132 Free Flight 3. This presentation will summarize flight control and aerodynamics lessons learned during Free Flights 1 and 2 of Vehicle 131R, a subsonic test vehicle laying the groundwork for the orbital/entry test of Vehicle 201 in 2003.

5. Historic American Buildings Survey Frank O. Branzetti, Photographer July ...

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

5. Historic American Buildings Survey Frank O. Branzetti, Photographer July 8, 1940 (ff) 4- MILE STONE, opp. 862 HUNTINGTON AVE., ROXBURY - Milestones D, Y, Z, AA, BB, FF & NN, Various Roxbury locations, Roxbury, Suffolk County, MA

Early mitochondrial dysfunction in glycolytic muscle, but not oxidative muscle, of the fructose-fed insulin-resistant rat

PubMed Central

Warren, Blair E.; Lou, Phing-How; Lucchinetti, Eliana; Zhang, Liyan; Clanachan, Alexander S.; Affolter, Andreas; Hersberger, Martin; Zaugg, Michael

2014-01-01

Although evidence that type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is accompanied by mitochondrial dysfunction in skeletal muscle has been accumulating, a causal link between mitochondrial dysfunction and the pathogenesis of the disease remains unclear. Our study focuses on an early stage of the disease to determine whether mitochondrial dysfunction contributes to the development of T2DM. The fructose-fed (FF) rat was used as an animal model of early T2DM. Mitochondrial respiration and acylcarnitine species were measured in oxidative (soleus) and glycolytic [extensor digitorum longus (EDL)] muscle. Although FF rats displayed characteristic signs of T2DM, including hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, and hypertriglyceridemia, mitochondrial content was preserved in both muscles from FF rats. The EDL muscle had reduced complex I and complex I and II respiration in the presence of pyruvate but not glutamate. The decrease in pyruvate-supported respiration was due to a decrease in pyruvate dehydrogenase activity. Accumulation of C14:1 and C14:2 acylcarnitine species and a decrease in respiration supported by long-chain acylcarnitines but not acetylcarnitine indicated dysfunctional β-oxidation in the EDL muscle. In contrast, the soleus muscle showed preserved mitochondrial respiration, pyruvate dehydrogenase activity, and increased fatty acid oxidation, as evidenced by overall reduced acylcarnitine levels. Aconitase activity, a sensitive index of reactive oxygen species production in mitochondria, was reduced exclusively in EDL muscle, which showed lower levels of the antioxidant enzymes thioredoxin reductase and glutathione peroxidase. Here, we show that the glycolytic EDL muscle is more prone to an imbalance between energy supply and oxidation caused by insulin resistance than the oxidative soleus muscle. PMID:24425766

CO2 Emissions from the Los Angeles Basin During Spring of 2010 - Measurements vs. Model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Newman, S.; Jeong, S.; Fischer, M. L.; Xu, X.; Gurney, K. R.; Alvarez, S. L.; Rappenglueck, B.; Haman, C. L.; Lefer, B. L.; Miller, C. E.; Yung, Y. L.

2011-12-01

More than half of the world's population now lives in urban areas, contributing large fluxes of greenhouse gas to the atmosphere. Quantifying the spatiotemporal distribution of these emissions is critical for providing independent verification of future mitigation activities. We have used high precision measurements of CO2 and CO to determine the contribution of fossil fuel combustion (ffCO2 mixing ratio) to the total CO2 emissions in the Los Angeles basin during the CalNex-LA ground campaign of May-June 2010 in Pasadena. The ratio of COxs/CO2xs (the excess of each species above free tropospheric levels) varies significantly by time of day, giving a proxy for the fraction of ffCO2/CO2xs. Using an emission ratio for CO/CO2 for fossil fuel combustion of 0.011±0.002 (Wunch et al., 2009, Geophys Res Lett 36, L15810), we determined that burning of fossil fuels contributed ~50% overnight - 100% during midday of the total local contribution, resulting in ffCO2 of 13 - 23 ppm, respectively. These values compare very well with those calculated from Δ14C for measurements of two samples aggregated from 7-8 flask samples collected at 14:00 PST on alternate days during the first and second half of the CalNex-LA campaign: 17 and 24 ppm ffCO2, respectively. We then compared the measured values of ffCO2 with predictions combining a diurnally averaged version of the Vulcan 2.0 ffCO2 emission inventory (http://www.purdue.edu/eas/carbon/vulcan/index.php) and mesoscale transport computed with the Weather Research and Forecast (WRF) and Stochastic Time-Inverted Lagrangian Transport (STILT) models. To evaluate transport model uncertainty, we compared predicted and measured planetary boundary layer height (PBLH) and found WRF predictions compared favorably with ceilometer measurements made during the day at the Pasadena site. Initial comparison of the diurnal cycle of ffCO2 determined by the CO/CO2 ratios to that predicted with a temporally constant map of diurnal mean emissions shows the prediction to have a larger diurnal amplitude than the measurements, suggesting that the diurnal cycle of emitted ffCO2 compensates for daytime dilution in the PBL.

Efficacy and safety of fluticasone furoate 100 μg once-daily in patients with persistent asthma: a 24-week placebo and active-controlled randomised trial.

PubMed

Lötvall, Jan; Bleecker, Eugene R; Busse, William W; O'Byrne, Paul M; Woodcock, Ashley; Kerwin, Edward M; Stone, Sally; Forth, Richard; Jacques, Loretta; Bateman, Eric D

2014-01-01

Inhaled corticosteroids (ICSs) improve asthma disease control; once-daily ICS administration may have advantages for patients. Our objective was to assess the efficacy and safety of the novel ICS fluticasone furoate (FF) over 24 weeks versus placebo. This was a 24-week double-blind, double-dummy, placebo- and active-controlled study (NCT01159912) of 343 asthma patients (≥12 years) not controlled by their current ICS. Patients were randomised (1:1:1) to FF100 μg, placebo (both administered once-daily [OD] via ELLIPTA™ dry powder inhaler in the evening) or fluticasone propionate (FP) 250 μg (administered twice-daily (BD) via DISKUS™/ACCUHALER™). Primary endpoint was change from baseline in pre-dose evening forced expiratory volume in 1s (FEV1) at Week 24; change from baseline in % rescue-free 24-h periods was a powered secondary endpoint. Adverse events (AEs) were assessed. FF100 μg OD and FP250 μg BD significantly improved pre-dose evening FEV1 compared with placebo at Week 24 (+146 ml [p = 0.009] and +145 ml [p = 0.011], respectively). Percentage of rescue-free 24-h periods was increased with FF100 μg OD (+14.8%) and FP250 μg BD (+17.9%) compared to placebo (both p < 0.001). On-treatment AEs were reported by 53% (FF100 μg OD), 42% (FP250 μg BD) and 40% (placebo) of patients. On-treatment severe asthma exacerbations were lower with FF100 μg OD (3%) and FP250 μg BD (2%) than placebo (7%). There was significant suppression of urinary cortisol at week 24 with FF100 μg OD (p = 0.030) and FP250 μg BD (p = 0.036) relative to placebo. FF100 μg OD, administered in the evening, achieves significant improvements in lung function and rescue inhaler use over 24 weeks, comparable to FP250 μg BD with similar safety profile. Copyright © 2013 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Fluticasone furoate/Vilanterol 92/22 μg once-a-day vs Beclomethasone dipropionate/Formoterol 100/6 μg b.I.D.: a 12-month comparison of outcomes in mild-to-moderate asthma.

PubMed

Dal Negro, Roberto W; Bonadiman, Luca; Turco, Paola

2018-01-01

Bronchial asthma is an inflammatory disease of the airways. Beclomethasone dipropionate/Formoterol (BDP/F) and Fluticasone furoate/Vilanterol (FF/V) are two of the most effective LABA/ICS combinations for managing persistent bronchial asthma. Aim of the study was to compare the outcomes achieved in mild-to-moderate asthma patients assuming BDP/F 100/6 μg b.i.d. (Group A) or FF/V 92/22 μg once-daily (Group B) for 12-months. No head-to-head long-term comparison is available at present. Data were automatically and anonymously obtained from the institutional database: FEV 1 % predicted values; the exacerbation and hospitalization rates; days of hospitalization; GP and/or specialist visits; days of inactivity; courses of systemic steroids and/or antibiotics were recorded at baseline and after 3, 6 and 12 months of both treatments. The overall adherence to treatments was also calculated. The propensity score method was used for matching and comparing the two cohorts of patients; Anova and Wilcoxon tests were used for checking the trends and time-to-time comparisons over the period; statistical significance was accepted for p  < 0.05. The PS-matching process returned a cohort of 40 group A patients matched with 40 patients of group B, fully comparable for demographics, clinical characteristics, and comorbidities. The improvement in lung function was significant in both groups ( p  < 0.001), even if it was significantly higher and time-dependent in group B. The mean (±SE) exacerbation rate/patient changed from 0.63 (±0.13) at baseline to 0.53 (±0.12) after three; to 0.58 (±0.13) after six, and to 0.60 (±0.18) after twelve months in group A (p = ns), while from of 1.05 (±0.16) at baseline, to 0.28 (±0.07) after three; to 0.33 (±0.08) after six, and to 0.18 (±0.08) after twelve months in group B ( p  < 0.001), respectively. The mean hospitalization rate/patient changed from 0.25 ± 0.07 at baseline to 0.15 (±0.06) after three; to 0.08 (±0.04) after six, and to 0.13 (±0.05) after twelve months in group A (p = ns), while from 0.30 (±0.07) at baseline to 0.08 (±0.04) after three; to 0.10 (±0.05) after six, and to 0.03 (±0.03) after twelve months in group B ( p  < 0.001), respectively. Also mean duration of hospitalization and days of inactivity were in favour of FF/V treatment over time (in both cases p  < 0.001). GP's visits were reduced by both treatments ( p  < 0.007 in group A and p < 0.001 in group B, respectively, while Specialist's visits only dropped during FF/V ( p  < 0.001). Steroid and antibiotic courses were significantly reduced by both treatments, even if more systematically in group B (p < 0.001 vs p  < 0.007, and p < 0.001 vs p  < 0.044, respectively). Moreover, changes in all outcomes considered proved time-dependent during the FF/V treatment only, particularly over the second semester. Finally, the overtime adherence to treatment was higher by 22 days during FF/V . Both the ICS/LABA combinations proved effective, even if characterized by different patterns of effectiveness either in terms of lung function and of long-term clinical outcomes. Only the once-daily inhalation of combined FF/V 92/22 μg once-daily optimized systematically the exacerbation and hospitalization rates in mild-to-moderate asthma, together with all other outcomes over time. The effectiveness of FF/V 92/22 once-daily μg proved progressive and time-dependent over the twelve-month period of the study, and associated to a higher adherence to treatment.

Diffusion tensor imaging and magnetic resonance spectroscopy assessment of cancellous bone quality in femoral neck of healthy, osteopenic and osteoporotic subjects at 3T: Preliminary experience.

PubMed

Manenti, Guglielmo; Capuani, Silvia; Fanucci, Ezio; Assako, Elie Parfait; Masala, Salvatore; Sorge, Roberto; Iundusi, Riccardo; Tarantino, Umberto; Simonetti, Giovanni

2013-07-01

We assessed the potential of diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) in combination with proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS), in cancellous bone quality evaluation of the femoral neck in postmenopausal women. DTI allows for non-invasive microarchitectural characterization of heterogeneous tissue. In this work we hypothesized that DTI parameters mean diffusivity (MD) and fractional anisotropy (FA) of bone marrow water, can provide information about microstructural changes that occur with the development of osteoporosis disease. Because osteoporosis is associated with increased bone marrow fat content, which in principal can alter DTI parameters, the goal of this study was to examine the potential of MD and FA, in combination with bone marrow fat fraction (FF), to discriminate between healthy, osteopenic and osteoporotic subjects, classified according to DXA criteria. Forty postmenopausal women (mean age, 68.7 years; range 52-81 years), underwent a Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) examination in femoral neck, to be classified as healthy (n=12), osteopenic (n=14) and osteoporotic (n=14) subjects. 1H-MRS and DTI (with b value=2500 s/mm2) of femoral neck were obtained in each subject at 3T. The study protocol was approved by local Ethics Committee. MD, FA, FF and MD/FF, FA/FF were obtained and compared among the three bone-density groups. One-way ANOVA with multiple comparisons Bonferroni test and Pearson correlation analysis were applied. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was also performed. Reproducibility of DTI measures was satisfactory. CV was approximately 2%-3% for MD and 4%-5% for FA measurements. Moreover, no significant difference was found in both MD and FA measurements between two separate sessions (median 34 days apart) comprised of six healthy volunteers. FF was able to discriminate between healthy and osteoporotic subjects only. Conversely MD and FA were able to discriminate healthy from osteopenic and healthy from osteoporotic subjects, but they were not able to discriminate between osteopenic and osteoporotic patients. A significant correlation between MD and FF was observed in healthy group only. A moderate correlation was found between MD and T-score when all groups together are considered. No significant correlation was found between MD and T-score within groups. A significant positive correlation between FA and FF was found in both osteopenic and osteoporotic groups. Vice-versa no correlation between FA and FF was observed in healthy group. A high significant positive correlation was found between FA and T-score in all groups together, in healthy and in osteoporotic groups. MD/FF and FA/FF are characterized by a higher sensitivity and specificity compared to MD and FA in the discrimination between healthy, and osteoporotic subjects. MD/FF vs. FA/FF graph extracted from femoral neck, identify all healthy individuals according to DXA results. DTI-(1)H-MRS protocol performed in femoral neck seems to be highly sensitive and specific in identifying healthy subjects. A MR exam is more expensive when compared to a DXA investigation. However, even though DXA BMD evaluation has been the accepted standard for osteoporosis diagnosis, DXA result has a low predictive value on patients' risk for future fractures. Thus, new approaches for examining patients at risk for developing osteoporosis would be desirable. Preliminary results showed here suggest that future studies on a larger population based on DTI assessment in the femoral neck, in combination with 1H-MRS investigations, might allow screening of high-risk populations and the establishment of cut-off values of normality, with potential application of the method to single subjects. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Unorthodox theoretical methods

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

Nedd, Sean

2012-01-01

The use of the ReaxFF force field to correlate with NMR mobilities of amine catalytic substituents on a mesoporous silica nanosphere surface is considered. The interfacing of the ReaxFF force field within the Surface Integrated Molecular Orbital/Molecular Mechanics (SIMOMM) method, in order to replicate earlier SIMOMM published data and to compare with the ReaxFF data, is discussed. The development of a new correlation consistent Composite Approach (ccCA) is presented, which incorporates the completely renormalized coupled cluster method with singles, doubles and non-iterative triples corrections towards the determination of heats of formations and reaction pathways which contain biradical species.

Free-Standing and Transparent Graphene Membrane of Polyhedron Box-Shaped Basic Building Units Directly Grown Using a NaCl Template for Flexible Transparent and Stretchable Solid-State Supercapacitors.

PubMed

Li, Na; Yang, Gongzheng; Sun, Yong; Song, Huawei; Cui, Hao; Yang, Guowei; Wang, Chengxin

2015-05-13

Transparency has never been integrated into freestanding flexible graphene paper (FF-GP), although FF-GP has been discussed extensively, because a thin transparent graphene sheet will fracture easily when the template or substrate is removed using traditional methods. Here, transparent FF-GP (FFT-GP) was developed using NaCl as the template and was applied in transparent and stretchable supercapacitors. The capacitance was improved by nearly 1000-fold compared with that of the laminated or wrinkled chemical vapor deposition graphene-film-based supercapacitors.

Metabolic Effects of FecB Gene on Follicular Fluid and Ovarian Vein Serum in Sheep (Ovis aries)

PubMed Central

Guo, Xiaofei; Wang, Xiangyu; Di, Ran; Liu, Qiuyue; Hu, Wenping; He, Xiaoyun; Yu, Jiarui; Zhang, Xiaosheng; Zhang, Jinlong; Broniowska, Katarzyna; Chen, Wei; Wu, Changxin; Chu, Mingxing

2018-01-01

The FecB gene has been discovered as an important gene in sheep for its high relationship with the ovulation rate, but its regulatory mechanism remains unknown. In the present study, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) techniques were adopted to detect the metabolic effects of FecB gene in follicular fluid (FF) and ovarian vein serum (OVS) in Small Tail Han (STH) sheep. ANOVA and random forest statistical methods were employed for the identification of important metabolic pathways and biomarkers. Changes in amino acid metabolism, redox environment, and energy metabolism were observed in FF from the three FecB genotype STH ewes. Principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical clustering analysis (HCA) showed that metabolic effects of FecB gene are more pronounced in FF than in OVS. Therefore, the difference of the metabolic profile in FF is also affected by the FecB genotypes. In Spearman correlation analysis, key metabolites (e.g., glucose 6-phosphate, glucose 1-phosphate, aspartate, asparagine, glutathione oxidized (GSSG), cysteine-glutathione disulfide, γ-glutamylglutamine, and 2-hydrosybutyrate) in ovine FF samples showed a significant correlation with the ovulation rate. Our findings will help to explain the metabolic mechanism of high prolificacy ewes and benefit fertility identification. PMID:29439449

Predicting apricot phenology using meteorological data.

PubMed

Ruml, Mirjana; Milatović, Dragan; Vulić, Todor; Vuković, Ana

2011-09-01

The main objective of this study was to develop feasible, easy to apply models for early prediction of full flowering (FF) and maturing (MA) in apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.). Phenological data for 20 apricot cultivars grown in the Belgrade region were modeled against averages of daily temperature records over ten seasons for FF and eight seasons for MA. A much stronger correlation was found between the phenological timing and temperature at the very beginning than at the end of phenophases. Also, the length of developmental periods were better correlated to daily maximum than to daily minimum and mean air temperatures. Using prediction models based on daily maximum temperatures averaged over 30-, 45- and 60-day periods, starting from 1 January for FF prediction and from the date of FF for MA prediction, the onset of examined phenophases in apricot cultivars could be predicted from a few weeks to up to 2 months ahead with acceptable accuracy. The mean absolute differences between the observations and cross-validated predictions obtained by 30-, 45- and 60-day models were 8.6, 6.9 and 5.7 days for FF and 6.1, 3.6 and 2.8 days for MA, respectively. The validity of the results was confirmed using an independent data set for the year 2009.

Predicting apricot phenology using meteorological data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ruml, Mirjana; Milatović, Dragan; Vulić, Todor; Vuković, Ana

2011-09-01

The main objective of this study was to develop feasible, easy to apply models for early prediction of full flowering (FF) and maturing (MA) in apricot ( Prunus armeniaca L.). Phenological data for 20 apricot cultivars grown in the Belgrade region were modeled against averages of daily temperature records over ten seasons for FF and eight seasons for MA. A much stronger correlation was found between the phenological timing and temperature at the very beginning than at the end of phenophases. Also, the length of developmental periods were better correlated to daily maximum than to daily minimum and mean air temperatures. Using prediction models based on daily maximum temperatures averaged over 30-, 45- and 60-day periods, starting from 1 January for FF prediction and from the date of FF for MA prediction, the onset of examined phenophases in apricot cultivars could be predicted from a few weeks to up to 2 months ahead with acceptable accuracy. The mean absolute differences between the observations and cross-validated predictions obtained by 30-, 45- and 60-day models were 8.6, 6.9 and 5.7 days for FF and 6.1, 3.6 and 2.8 days for MA, respectively. The validity of the results was confirmed using an independent data set for the year 2009.

Thermoluminescence characteristics of flat optical fiber in radiation dosimetry under different electron irradiation conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alawiah, A.; Intan, A. M.; Bauk, S.; Abdul-Rashid, H. A.; Yusoff, Z.; Mokhtar, M. R.; Wan Abdullah, W. S.; Mat Sharif, K. A.; Mahdiraji, G. A.; Mahamd Adikan, F. R.; Tamchek, N.; Noor, N. M.; Bradley, D. A.

2013-05-01

Thermoluminescence (TL) flat optical fibers (FF) have been proposed as radiation sensor in medical dosimetry for both diagnostic and radiotherapy applications. A flat optical fiber with nominal dimensions of (3.226 × 3.417 × 0.980) mm3 contains pure silica SiO2 was selected for this research. The FF was annealed at 400°C for 1 h before irradiated. Kinetic parameters and dosimetric glow curve of TL response were studied in FF with respect to electron irradiation of 6 MeV, 15 MeV and 21 MeV using linear accelerator (LINAC) in the dose range of 2.0-10.0 Gy. The TL response was read using a TLD reader Harshaw Model 3500. The Time-Temperature-Profile (TTP) of the reader used includes; initial preheat temperature of 80°C, maximum readout temperature is 400°C and the heating rate of 30°Cs-1. The proposed FF shows excellent linear radiation response behavior within the clinical relevant dose range for all of these energies, good reproducibility, independence of radiation energy, independence of dose rate and exhibits a very low thermal fading. From these results, the proposed FF can be used as radiation dosimeter and favorably compares with the widely used of LiF:MgTi dosimeter in medical radiotherapy application.

Detection of dendritic cells and related cytokines in follicular fluid of patients with polycystic ovary syndrome.

PubMed

Zhang, Tao; Tian, Fuying; Huo, Ran; Tang, Aifa; Zeng, Yong; Duan, Yong-Gang

2017-09-01

The presence of dendritic cells (DCs) and associated cytokines in follicular fluid (FF) from patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) remains unknown. FF was collected from PCOS patients and patients with severe male factor infertility (control) at the day of transvaginal oocyte retrieval. Phenotypes of DC were detected by flow cytometry, and TNF-α, IL-6, IL-10, and IL-23 were assessed by ELISA. A significant decrease in the percentage of DC was found in patients with PCOS (16.22±5.5%) compared with control (21.27±5.5%, P<.01). E 2 on the day of hCG administration was correlated positively with the mean fluorescence intensity of HLA-DR (r=.75, P<.01) and reversely correlated with the concentration of TNF-α in FF (r=-.69, P<.01). The level of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-10 increased significantly but IL-23 decreased in FF from patients with PCOS. The decrease of DC and disturbance of associated cytokines in FF from PCOS patients indicates a disorder of immunological microenvironment of the ovarian follicle, which might be involved in the dysfunction of folliculogenesis. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Antioedematous and Analgesic Properties of Fertile Fronds of Drynaria quercifolia

PubMed Central

Anuja, G. I.; Latha, P. G.; Shine, V. J.; Suja, S. R.; Shikha, P.; Satheesh Kumar, K.; Rajasekharan, S.

2014-01-01

Inflammation is a complex biological response of tissue cells to harmful stimuli including trauma, tissue necrosis, and infections which plays a key role in the pathophysiology of many deadly diseases. In ethnomedicine Drynaria quercifolia fronds are used to treat inflammation as poultice on swellings and as antibacterial, hepatoprotective, and antipyretic agent. Herein, we have evaluated the antioedematous, antiproliferative, and analgesic properties of the ethanolic extract of fertile fronds of D. quercifolia (FF) by standard procedures. Oral administration of FF produced significant inhibition of carrageenan and histamine induced paw oedema in Wistar rats. FF significantly reduced both wet weight and dry weight of granuloma tissue which shows the inhibitory effect on exudative and proliferative phases of inflammation. FF significantly attenuated acute and delayed phases of formalin induced pain, acetic acid-induced writhing, capsaicin-induced nociception, and hot plate test in mice. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of coumarins, flavonoids, glycosides, phenolics, saponins, steroids, tannins, and terpenoids. Total phenolic content was 186 mg/g equivalent of gallic acid. The HPLC estimation showed flavanone glycoside naringin (1.2%) and its aglycone naringenin (0.02%). The presence of potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic principles in FF and their synergistic action may be the reason for the proposed therapeutic effects. PMID:24575313

Improved purification of immunoglobulin G from plasma by mixed-mode chromatography.

PubMed

Chai, Dong-Sheng; Sun, Yan; Wang, Xiao-Ning; Shi, Qing-Hong

2014-12-01

Efficient loading of immunoglobulin G in mixed-mode chromatography is often a serious bottleneck in the chromatographic purification of immunoglobulin G. In this work, a mixed-mode ligand, 4-(1H-imidazol-1-yl) aniline, was coupled to Sepharose Fast Flow to fabricate AN SepFF adsorbents with ligand densities of 15-64 mmol/L, and the chromatographic performances of these adsorbents were thoroughly investigated to identify a feasible approach to improve immunoglobulin G purification. The results indicate that a critical ligand density exists for immunoglobulin G on the AN SepFF adsorbents. Above the critical ligand density, the adsorbents showed superior selectivity to immunoglobulin G at high salt concentrations, and also exhibited much higher dynamic binding capacities. For immunoglobulin G purification, both the yield and binding capacity increased with adsorbent ligand density along with a decrease in purity. It is difficult to improve the binding capacity, purity, and yield of immunoglobulin G simultaneously in AN SepFF chromatography. By using tandem AN SepFF chromatography, a threefold increase in binding capacity as well as high purity and yield of immunoglobulin G were achieved. Therefore, the tandem chromatography demonstrates that AN SepFF adsorbent is a practical and feasible alternative to MEP HyperCel adsorbents for immunoglobulin G purification. © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Effect of single alien chromosome from shallot (Allium cepa L. Aggregatum group) on carbohydrate production in leaf blade of bunching onion (A. fistulosum L.).

PubMed

Hang, Tran Thi Minh; Shigyo, Masayoshi; Yaguchi, Shigenori; Yamauchi, Naoki; Tashiro, Yosuke

2004-12-01

We used a complete set of Allium fistulosum - shallot (A. cepa Aggregatum group) monosomic addition lines (FF+1A - FF+8A) to identify shallot chromosomes affecting the production of sugars. In the alien addition lines grown over two years in an experimental field at Yamaguchi University (34 degrees N, 131 degrees E), shallot chromosomes 2A and 8A altered sugar contents in leaf-bunching onion (A. fistulosum). Except for FF+2A, every monosomic addition accumulated non-reducing sugars in winter leaf blades. FF+8A caused an increase in the amounts of non-reducing sugars in the winter. FF+2A hardly produced non-reducing sugar throughout the two-year study. These results indicated that genes related to non-reducing sugar metabolism are located on the 2A and 8A chromosomes. The results of regression analyses using 2002 data on A. fistulosum and the monosomic addition set revealed a correlation (r = 0.63 +/- 0.07; mean +/- SE., n = 9) between reducing sugar and monosaccharide (Glc+Fru) contents but no correlation between non-reducing sugar and sucrose contents. This result indicates the existence of other polysaccharides (e.g., scorodose) as non-reducing sugars in the leaf blade.

Renal Failure in Mice with Gsα Deletion in Juxtaglomerular Cells

PubMed Central

Chen, Limeng; Faulhaber-Walter, Robert; Wen, Yubing; Huang, Yuning; Mizel, Diane; Chen, Min; Sequeira Lopez, Maria Luisa; Weinstein, Lee S.; Gomez, R. Ariel; Briggs, Josephine P.; Schnermann, Jurgen

2010-01-01

Background Mice with deletion of Gsα in renin-producing cells (RC/FF mice) have been shown to have greatly reduced renin production and lack of responsiveness of renin secretion to acute stimuli. In addition, young RC/FF mice are hypotensive and have a vasopressin-resistant concentrating defect. In the present study we have determined the long-term effect on renal function, blood pressure, and renal pathology in this low renin and diuretic mouse model. Methods and Results Urine osmolarity of RC/FF mice was decreased in all age groups. GFR measured at 7, 14 and 20 weeks of age declined progressively. Single nephron GFR similarly declined while fractional proximal fluid absorption was maintained. Expression levels of extracellular matrix proteins (collagen I, IV and fibronectin) and α-smooth muscle actin were increased in kidneys of RC/FF mice at 20 weeks, and this was accompanied by focal segmental glomerulosclerosis and periglomerular interstitial fibrosis. RC/FF mice showed a progressive reduction of body weight, an increase in urine albumin excretion, and an increase of blood pressure with aging. Conclusion A chronic reduction of renin production in mice may be a risk factor in its own right, and does not protect renal function against the profibrotic influence of a chronically elevated urine flow. PMID:20551626

Immunomagnetic cell separation, imaging, and analysis using Captivate ferrofluids

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jones, Laurie; Beechem, Joseph M.

2002-05-01

We have developed applications of CaptivateTM ferrofluids, paramagnetic particles (approximately 200 nm diameter), for isolating and analyzing cell populations in combination with fluorescence-based techniques. Using a microscope-mounted magnetic yoke and sample insertion chamber, fluorescent images of magnetically captured cells were obtained in culture media, buffer, or whole blood, while non-magnetically labeled cells sedimented to the bottom of the chamber. We combined this immunomagnetic cell separation and imaging technique with fluorescent staining, spectroscopy, and analysis to evaluate cell surface receptor-containing subpopulations, live/dead cell ratios, apoptotic/dead cell ratios, etc. The acquired images were analyzed using multi-color parameters, as produced by nucleic acid staining, esterase activity, or antibody labeling. In addition, the immunomagnetically separated cell fractions were assessed through microplate analysis using the CyQUANT Cell Proliferation Assay. These methods should provide an inexpensive alternative to some flow cytometric measurements. The binding capacities of the streptavidin- labled Captivate ferrofluid (SA-FF) particles were determined to be 8.8 nmol biotin/mg SA-FF, using biotin-4- fluorescein, and > 106 cells/mg SA-FF, using several cell types labeled with biotinylated probes. For goat anti- mouse IgG-labeled ferrofluids (GAM-FF), binding capacities were established to be approximately 0.2 - 7.5 nmol protein/mg GAM-FF using fluorescent conjugates of antibodies, protein G, and protein A.

A facile and low-cost micro fabrication material: flash foam

PubMed Central

He, Yong; Xiao, Xiao; Wu, Yan; Fu, Jian-zhong

2015-01-01

Although many microfabrication methods have been reported, the preliminary replication templates used in most microfabrication still depend on the expensive and long-period photolithography. This paper explores an alternative replication templates based on a daily used material, flash foam (FF), and proposes a facile microfabrication method, flash foam stamp lithography (FFSL). When FF is exposed with a desired pattern mask, the negative of the pattern is transferred to its surface and micro structures are formed due to the shrinkage of the exposed area. As FF is commonly used in personal stamps, FFSL is very simple and cost-effective. In this paper, we demonstrated that FF is a good and low-cost template for many micro fabrication methods, such as micro casting and soft lithography. Thus, designing and fabricating micro structures at personal office immediately become possible with FFSL. Furthermore, we demonstrated that multi-scale micro structures can be easily fabricated by double exposure with FFSL. Skin textures is used as another case to demonstrate that FFSL can fabricate structures with different depth in a single exposure. As a result, FF shows a promising future in biology, and analytical chemistry, such as rapid fabrication of point of care diagnostics and microfluidic analytical devices with low cost. PMID:26314247

Intake, digestion, and digestive characteristics of Neotyphodium coenophialum-infected and uninfected fescue by heifers offered hay diets supplemented with Aspergillus oryzae fermentation extract or laidlomycin propionate.

PubMed

Humphry, J B; Coffey, K P; Moyert, J L; Brazle, F K; Lomas, L W

2002-01-01

Tarentaise heifers fitted with a rumen cannula (539 +/- 7.5 and 487 +/- 15.7 kg avg initial BW in Exp. 1 and 2, respectively) were used in two Latin square metabolism experiments having 2 x 2 factorial treatment arrangements to determine the effects of supplementation with Aspergillus oryzae fermentation extract (AO) or laidlomycin propionate (LP) on intake, digestion, and digestive characteristics of Neotyphodium coenophialum-infected (IF) or uninfected (FF) tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea) hay diets consumed ad libitum. Heifers were housed in individual stanchions in a metabolism facility with ambient temperatures controlled to range between 26.7 and 32.2 degrees C daily. Total feces and urine were collected for 5 d following a 21-d dietary adaptation period. In situ DM and NDF disappearance and ruminal fermentation characteristics were also determined. In Exp. 1, DMI was 24% greater (P < 0.01) by heifers offered FF than by those offered IF (6.7 vs 5.4 kg/d). Heifers fed 2 g/d AO tended (P = 0.09) to consume 4% more DM than those fed a diet without AO. Degradable DM and NDF fractions of IF were greater (P < 0.01) than those of FF, but AO supplementation did not affect situ disappearance (P > or = 0.42). In Exp. 2, DMI was 18.9% greater (P < 0.01) by heifers offered FF than by those offered IF (6.6 vs 5.5 kg/d). Heifers fed LP (50 mg/d) consumed 10.6% less (P < 0.05) DM than those not fed LP (5.7 vs 6/5 kg/d). Digestibility of NDF tended to be greater (P = 0.08) and digestibility of ADF was greater (P < 0.05) from FF than from IF. Conversely, apparent N absorption (%) was greater (P < 0.05) from IF than from FF. Heifers fed LP had lower (P < 0.05) ADF digestibility than those not fed LP. In situ degradable DM and NDF fractions were greater (P < 0.01) from IF than from FF. Diets supplemented with LP had higher (P < 0.01) indigestible DM and NDF fractions than those without LP. Propionic acid and total VFA concentrations were greater (P < 0.05) from heifers offered FF than from those offered IF and from heifers fed LP than from those not fed LP. Therefore, it appears the major effect of N. coenophialum was a reduction in forage intake and total-tract fiber digestibility in certain situations. Response to the feed additives was similar whether heifers were offered IF or FF and no evidence was apparent that either additive would improve performance substantially by animals consuming low-quality fescue hay diets.

40 CFR 63.8540 - What parts of my plant does this subpart cover?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... retrofitting with a dry lime injection fabric filter (DIFF), dry lime scrubber/fabric filter (DLS/FF), or wet... fired product to meet the relevant standards by retrofitting with a DIFF, DLS/FF, or WS. (g) An affected...

Evaluation of liver fat in the presence of iron with MRI using T2* correction: a clinical approach.

PubMed

Henninger, Benjamin; Benjamin, Henninger; Kremser, Christian; Christian, Kremser; Rauch, Stefan; Stefan, Rauch; Eder, Robert; Robert, Eder; Judmaier, Werner; Werner, Judmaier; Zoller, Heinz; Heinz, Zoller; Michaely, Henrik; Henrik, Michaely; Schocke, Michael; Michael, Schocke

2013-06-01

To assess magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with conventional chemical shift-based sequences with and without T2* correction for the evaluation of steatosis hepatitis (SH) in the presence of iron. Thirty-one patients who underwent MRI and liver biopsy because of clinically suspected diffuse liver disease were retrospectively analysed. The signal intensity (SI) was calculated in co-localised regions of interest (ROIs) using conventional spoiled gradient-echo T1 FLASH in-phase and opposed-phase (IP/OP). T2* relaxation time was recorded in a fat-saturated multi-echo-gradient-echo sequence. The fat fraction (FF) was calculated with non-corrected and T2*-corrected SIs. Results were correlated with liver biopsy. There was significant difference (P < 0.001) between uncorrected and T2* corrected FF in patients with SH and concomitant hepatic iron overload (HIO). Using 5 % as a threshold resulted in eight false negative results with uncorrected FF whereas T2* corrected FF lead to true positive results in 5/8 patients. ROC analysis calculated three threshold values (8.97 %, 5.3 % and 3.92 %) for T2* corrected FF with accuracy 84 %, sensitivity 83-91 % and specificity 63-88 %. FF with T2* correction is accurate for the diagnosis of hepatic fat in the presence of HIO. Findings of our study suggest the use of IP/OP imaging in combination with T2* correction. • Magnetic resonance helps quantify both iron and fat content within the liver • T2* correction helps to predict the correct diagnosis of steatosis hepatitis • "Fat fraction" from T2*-corrected chemical shift-based sequences accurately quantifies hepatic fat • "Fat fraction" without T2* correction underestimates hepatic fat with iron overload.

State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) environmental checklist forms for 304 Concretion Facility Closure Plan. Revision 2

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

Not Available

The 300 Area of the Hanford Site contains reactor fuel manufacturing facilities and several research and development laboratories. Recyclable scrap uranium with zircaloy-2 and copper silicon alloy, uranium-titanium alloy, beryllium/zircaloy-2 alloy, and zircaloy-2 chips and fines were secured in concrete billets (7.5-gallon containers) in the 304 Facility, located in the 300 Area. The beryllium/zircaloy-2 alloy and zircaloy-2 chips and fines are designated as mixed waste with the characteristic of ignitability. The concretion process reduced the ignitability of the fines and chips for safe storage and shipment. This process has been discontinued and the 304 Facility is now undergoing closure asmore » defined in the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) of 1976 and the Washington Administrative Code (WAC) Dangerous Waste Regulations, WAC 173-303-040. This closure plan presents a description of the 304 Facility, the history of materials and waste managed, and the procedures that will be followed to close the 304 Facility. The 304 Facility is located within the 300-FF-3 (source) and 300-FF-5 (groundwater) operable units, as designated in the Hanford Federal Facility Agreement and Consent Order (Tri-Party Agreement) (Ecology et al. 1992). Contamination in the operable units 300-FF-3 and 300-FF-5 is scheduled to be addressed through the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) of 1980 remedial action process. Therefore, all soil remedial action at the 304 Facility will be conducted as part of the CERCLA remedial action of operable units 300-FF-3 and 300-FF-5.« less

Pneumonia risk with inhaled fluticasone furoate and vilanterol in COPD patients with moderate airflow limitation: The SUMMIT trial.

PubMed

Crim, Courtney; Calverley, Peter M A; Anderson, Julie A; Holmes, Andrew P; Kilbride, Sally; Martinez, Fernando J; Brook, Robert D; Newby, David E; Yates, Julie C; Celli, Bartolomé R; Vestbo, Jørgen

2017-10-01

Pneumonia risk with inhaled corticosteroid use in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has not been thoroughly assessed in patients with moderate airflow limitation. To determine the incidence of pneumonia and risk factors in COPD patients with moderate airflow limitation who had, or were at high risk for cardiovascular disease. In the Study to Understand Mortality and MorbidITy in COPD (SUMMIT), 16,590 subjects with moderate airflow limitation (50% ≤ FEV 1  ≤ 70% predicted) and heightened cardiovascular risk were randomized double-blind 1:1:1:1 to inhaled once-daily vilanterol 25 μg (VI), fluticasone furoate 100 μg (FF), vilanterol 25 μg combined with 100 μg fluticasone furoate (FF/VI), or matched placebo. In a pre-specified analysis, we assessed investigator-reported adverse pneumonia events, and independently-adjudicated fatal events. The safety population comprised 16,568 subjects who actually received study medication. There were 1017 pneumonia events reported from 842 subjects. For placebo, FF, VI and FF/VI, reported pneumonia incidence was 5%, 5%, 4% and 6%, respectively. When adjusted for time on treatment, event rates were similar in the placebo, FF and FF/VI containing arms (3.84, 4.24 and 3.95/100 treatment years, respectively) but lower in the VI group (2.77/100 treatment years). Risk factors for pneumonia risk included: greater degree of airflow limitation (i.e. FEV 1 <60% predicted), prior exacerbation history, and BMI <25 kg/m 2 . In contrast to previous studies in patients with severe disease, increased pneumonia risk with inhaled corticosteroid use was not evident in COPD subjects with moderate airflow limitation and heightened cardiovascular risk. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The Onset of Thermally Unstable Cooling from the Hot Atmospheres of Giant Galaxies in Clusters: Constraints on Feedback Models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hogan, M. T.; McNamara, B. R.; Pulido, F. A.; Nulsen, P. E. J.; Vantyghem, A. N.; Russell, H. R.; Edge, A. C.; Babyk, Iu.; Main, R. A.; McDonald, M.

2017-12-01

We present accurate mass and thermodynamic profiles for 57 galaxy clusters observed with the Chandra X-ray Observatory. We investigate the effects of local gravitational acceleration in central cluster galaxies, and explore the role of the local free-fall time ({t}{ff}) in thermally unstable cooling. We find that the radially averaged cooling time ({t}{cool}) is as effective an indicator of cold gas, traced through its nebular emission, as the ratio {t}{cool}/{t}{ff}. Therefore, {t}{cool} primarily governs the onset of thermally unstable cooling in hot atmospheres. The location of the minimum {t}{cool}/{t}{ff}, a thermodynamic parameter that many simulations suggest is key in driving thermal instability, is unresolved in most systems. Consequently, selection effects bias the value and reduce the observed range in measured {t}{cool}/{t}{ff} minima. The entropy profiles of cool-core clusters are characterized by broken power laws down to our resolution limit, with no indication of isentropic cores. We show, for the first time, that mass isothermality and the K\\propto {r}2/3 entropy profile slope imply a floor in {t}{cool}/{t}{ff} profiles within central galaxies. No significant departures of {t}{cool}/{t}{ff} below 10 are found. This is inconsistent with models that assume thermally unstable cooling ensues from linear perturbations at or near this threshold. We find that the inner cooling times of cluster atmospheres are resilient to active galactic nucleus (AGN)-driven change, suggesting gentle coupling between radio jets and atmospheric gas. Our analysis is consistent with models in which nonlinear perturbations, perhaps seeded by AGN-driven uplift of partially cooled material, lead to cold gas condensation.

Observations of Atmospheric Δ14CO2 at the Global and Regional Background Sites in China: Implication for Fossil Fuel CO2 Inputs.

PubMed

Niu, Zhenchuan; Zhou, Weijian; Cheng, Peng; Wu, Shugang; Lu, Xuefeng; Xiong, Xiaohu; Du, Hua; Fu, Yunchong

2016-11-15

Six months to more than one year of atmospheric Δ 14 CO 2 were measured in 2014-2015 at one global background site in Waliguan (WLG) and four regional background sites at Shangdianzi (SDZ), Lin'an (LAN), Longfengshan (LFS) and Luhuitou (LHT), China. The objectives of the study are to document the Δ 14 CO 2 levels at each site and to trace the variations in fossil fuel CO 2 (CO 2ff ) inputs at regional background sites. Δ 14 CO 2 at WLG varied from 7.1 ± 2.9‰ to 32.0 ± 3.2‰ (average 17.1 ± 6.8‰) in 2015, with high values generally in autumn/summer and low values in winter/spring. During the same period, Δ 14 CO 2 values at the regional background sites were found to be significantly (p < 0.05) lower than those at WLG, indicating different levels of CO 2ff inputs at those sites. CO 2ff concentrations at LAN (12.7 ± 9.6 ppm) and SDZ (11.5 ± 8.2 ppm) were significantly (p < 0.05) higher than those at LHT (4.6 ± 4.3 ppm) in 2015. There were no significant (p > 0.05) seasonal differences in CO 2ff concentrations for the regional sites. Regional sources contributed in part to the CO 2ff inputs at LAN and SDZ, while local sources dominated the trend observed at LHT. These data provide a preliminary understanding of atmospheric Δ 14 CO 2 and CO 2ff inputs for a range of Chinese background sites.

The Origin of Molecular Clouds in Central Galaxies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pulido, F. A.; McNamara, B. R.; Edge, A. C.; Hogan, M. T.; Vantyghem, A. N.; Russell, H. R.; Nulsen, P. E. J.; Babyk, I.; Salomé, P.

2018-02-01

We present an analysis of 55 central galaxies in clusters and groups with molecular gas masses and star formation rates lying between {10}8 {and} {10}11 {M}ȯ and 0.5 and 270 {M}ȯ {{yr}}-1, respectively. Molecular gas mass is correlated with star formation rate, Hα line luminosity, and central atmospheric gas density. Molecular gas is detected only when the central cooling time or entropy index of the hot atmosphere falls below ∼1 Gyr or ∼35 keV cm2, respectively, at a (resolved) radius of 10 kpc. These correlations indicate that the molecular gas condensed from hot atmospheres surrounding the central galaxies. We explore the origins of thermally unstable cooling by evaluating whether molecular gas becomes prevalent when the minimum of the cooling to free-fall time ratio ({t}{cool}/{t}{ff}) falls below ∼10. We find that (1) molecular gas-rich systems instead lie between 10< \\min ({t}{cool}/{t}{ff})< 25, where {t}{cool}/{t}{ff}=25 corresponds approximately to cooling time and entropy thresholds of 1 Gyr and 35 {keV} {{cm}}2, respectively; (2) \\min ({t}{cool}/{t}{ff}) is uncorrelated with molecular gas mass and jet power; and (3) the narrow range 10< \\min ({t}{cool}/{t}{ff})< 25 can be explained by an observational selection effect, although a real physical effect cannot be excluded. These results and the absence of isentropic cores in cluster atmospheres are in tension with models that assume thermal instability ensues from linear density perturbations in hot atmospheres when {t}{cool}/{t}{ff}≲ 10. Some of the molecular gas may instead have condensed from atmospheric gas lifted outward by buoyantly rising X-ray bubbles or by dynamically induced uplift (e.g., mergers, sloshing).

The existence of fertile hybrids of closely related model earthworm species, Eisenia andrei and E. fetida.

PubMed

Plytycz, Barbara; Bigaj, Janusz; Osikowski, Artur; Hofman, Sebastian; Falniowski, Andrzej; Panz, Tomasz; Grzmil, Pawel; Vandenbulcke, Franck

2018-01-01

Lumbricid earthworms Eisenia andrei (Ea) and E. fetida (Ef) are simultaneous hermaphrodites with reciprocal insemination capable of self-fertilization while the existence of hybridization of these two species was still debatable. During the present investigation fertile hybrids of Ea and Ef were detected. Virgin specimens of Ea and Ef were laboratory crossed (Ea+Ef) and their progeny was doubly identified. 1 -identified by species-specific maternally derived haploid mitochondrial DNA sequences of the COI gene being either 'a' for worms hatched from Ea ova or 'f' for worms hatched from Ef ova. 2 -identified by the diploid maternal/paternal nuclear DNA sequences of 28s rRNA gene being either 'AA' for Ea, 'FF' for Ef, or AF/FA for their hybrids derived either from the 'aA' or 'fF' ova, respectively. Among offspring of Ea+Ef pairs in F1 generation there were mainly aAA and fFF earthworms resulted from the facilitated self-fertilization and some aAF hybrids from aA ova but none fFA hybrids from fF ova. In F2 generation resulting from aAF hybrids mated with aAA a new generations of aAA and aAF hybrids were noticed, while aAF hybrids mated with fFF gave fFF and both aAF and fFA hybrids. Hybrids intercrossed together produced plenty of cocoons but no hatchlings independently whether aAF+aAF or aAF+fFA were mated. These results indicated that Ea and Ef species, easy to maintain in laboratory and commonly used as convenient models in biomedicine and ecotoxicology, may also serve in studies on molecular basis of interspecific barriers and mechanisms of introgression and speciation. Hypothetically, their asymmetrical hybridization can be modified by some external factors.

Nucleon form factors in dispersively improved chiral effective field theory: Scalar form factor

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

Alarcon Soriano, Jose Manuel; Weiss, Christian

We propose a method for calculating the nucleon form factors (FFs) ofmore » $G$-parity-even operators by combining Chiral Effective Field Theory ($$\\chi$$EFT) and dispersion analysis. The FFs are expressed as dispersive integrals over the two-pion cut at $$t > 4 M_\\pi^2$$. The spectral functions are obtained from the elastic unitarity condition and expressed as products of the complex $$\\pi\\pi \\rightarrow N\\bar N$$ partial-wave amplitudes and the timelike pion FF. $$\\chi$$EFT is used to calculate the ratio of the partial-wave amplitudes and the pion FF, which is real and free of $$\\pi\\pi$$ rescattering in the $t$-channel ($N/D$ method). The rescattering effects are then incorporated by multiplying with the squared modulus of the empirical pion FF. The procedure results in a marked improvement compared to conventional $$\\chi$$EFT calculations of the spectral functions. We apply the method to the nucleon scalar FF and compute the scalar spectral function, the scalar radius, the $t$-dependent FF, and the Cheng-Dashen discrepancy. Higher-order chiral corrections are estimated through the $$\\pi N$$ low-energy constants. Results are in excellent agreement with dispersion-theoretical calculations. We elaborate several other interesting aspects of our method. The results show proper scaling behavior in the large-$$N_c$$ limit of QCD because the $$\\chi$$EFT includes $N$ and $$\\Delta$$ intermediate states. The squared modulus of the timelike pion FF required by our method can be extracted from Lattice QCD calculations of vacuum correlation functions of the operator at large Euclidean distances. Our method can be applied to the nucleon FFs of other operators of interest, such as the isovector-vector current, the energy-momentum tensor, and twist-2 QCD operators (moments of generalized parton distributions).« less

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

Ray, Jaideep; Lee, Jina; Lefantzi, Sophia

The estimation of fossil-fuel CO2 emissions (ffCO2) from limited ground-based and satellite measurements of CO2 concentrations will form a key component of the monitoring of treaties aimed at the abatement of greenhouse gas emissions. To that end, we construct a multiresolution spatial parametrization for fossil-fuel CO2 emissions (ffCO2), to be used in atmospheric inversions. Such a parametrization does not currently exist. The parametrization uses wavelets to accurately capture the multiscale, nonstationary nature of ffCO2 emissions and employs proxies of human habitation, e.g., images of lights at night and maps of built-up areas to reduce the dimensionality of the multiresolution parametrization.more » The parametrization is used in a synthetic data inversion to test its suitability for use in atmospheric inverse problem. This linear inverse problem is predicated on observations of ffCO2 concentrations collected at measurement towers. We adapt a convex optimization technique, commonly used in the reconstruction of compressively sensed images, to perform sparse reconstruction of the time-variant ffCO2 emission field. We also borrow concepts from compressive sensing to impose boundary conditions i.e., to limit ffCO2 emissions within an irregularly shaped region (the United States, in our case). We find that the optimization algorithm performs a data-driven sparsification of the spatial parametrization and retains only of those wavelets whose weights could be estimated from the observations. Further, our method for the imposition of boundary conditions leads to a 10computational saving over conventional means of doing so. We conclude with a discussion of the accuracy of the estimated emissions and the suitability of the spatial parametrization for use in inverse problems with a significant degree of regularization.« less

Little Blue Dots in the Hubble Space Telescope Frontier Fields: Precursors to Globular Clusters?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Elmegreen, Debra Meloy; Elmegreen, Bruce G.

2017-12-01

Galaxies with stellar masses < {10}7.4 {M}ȯ and specific star formation rates {sSFR}> {10}-7.4 yr‑1 were examined on images of the Hubble Space Telescope Frontier Field Parallels for Abell 2744 and MACS J0416.1-02403. They appear as unresolved “Little Blue Dots” (LBDs). They are less massive and have higher specific star formation rates (sSFRs) than “blueberries” studied by Yang et al. and higher sSFRs than “Blue Nuggets” studied by Tacchella et al. We divided the LBDs into three redshift bins and, for each, stacked the B435, V606, and I814 images convolved to the same stellar point-spread function (PSF). Their radii were determined from PSF deconvolution to be ∼80 to ∼180 pc. The high sSFRs suggest that their entire stellar mass has formed in only 1% of the local age of the universe. The sSFRs at similar epochs in local dwarf galaxies are lower by a factor of ∼100. Assuming that the star formation rate is {ε }{ff}{M}{gas}/{t}{ff} for efficiency {ε }{ff}, gas mass M gas, and free-fall time, t ff, the gas mass and gas-to-star mass ratio are determined. This ratio exceeds 1 for reasonable efficiencies, and is likely to be ∼5 even with a high {ε }{ff} of 0.1. We consider whether these regions are forming today’s globular clusters. With their observed stellar masses, the maximum likely cluster mass is ∼ {10}5 {M}ȯ , but if star formation continues at the current rate for ∼ 10{t}{ff}∼ 50 {Myr} before feedback and gas exhaustion stop it, then the maximum cluster mass could become ∼ {10}6 {M}ȯ .

Suppression of cytokine release by fluticasone furoate vs. mometasone furoate in human nasal tissue ex-vivo.

PubMed

Zhang, Nan; Van Crombruggen, Koen; Holtappels, Gabriele; Lan, Feng; Katotomichelakis, Michail; Zhang, Luo; Högger, Petra; Bachert, Claus

2014-01-01

Topical glucocorticosteroids are the first line therapy for airway inflammation. Modern compounds with higher efficacy have been developed, but head-to-head comparison studies are sparse. To compare the activity of two intranasal glucocorticoids, fluticasone furoate (FF) and mometasone furoate (MF) with respect to the inhibition of T helper (Th)1, Th2 and Th17 cytokine release in airway mucosa. We used an ex-vivo human nasal mucosal tissue model and employed pre- and post- Staphylococcus aureus enterotoxin B (SEB)-challenge incubations with various time intervals and drug concentrations to mimic typical clinical situations of preventive or therapeutic use. At a fixed concentration of 10-10 M, FF had significantly higher suppressive effects on interferon (IFN)-γ, interleukin (IL)-2 and IL-17 release, but not IL-5 or tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, vs. MF. While the maximal suppressive activity was maintained when FF was added before or after tissue stimulation, the cytokine suppression capacity of MF appeared to be compromised when SEB-induced cell activation preceded the addition of the drug. In a pre-challenge incubation setting with removal of excess drug concentrations, MF approached inhibition of IL-5 and TNF-α after 6 and 24 hours while FF maximally blocked the release of these cytokines right after pre-incubation. Furthermore, FF suppressed a wider range of T helper cytokines compared to MF. The study demonstrates the potential of our human mucosal model and shows marked differences in the ability to suppress the release of various cytokines in pre- and post-challenge settings between FF and MF mimicking typical clinical situations of preventive or therapeutic use.

Nucleon form factors in dispersively improved chiral effective field theory: Scalar form factor

DOE PAGES

Alarcon Soriano, Jose Manuel; Weiss, Christian

2017-11-20

We propose a method for calculating the nucleon form factors (FFs) ofmore » $G$-parity-even operators by combining Chiral Effective Field Theory ($$\\chi$$EFT) and dispersion analysis. The FFs are expressed as dispersive integrals over the two-pion cut at $$t > 4 M_\\pi^2$$. The spectral functions are obtained from the elastic unitarity condition and expressed as products of the complex $$\\pi\\pi \\rightarrow N\\bar N$$ partial-wave amplitudes and the timelike pion FF. $$\\chi$$EFT is used to calculate the ratio of the partial-wave amplitudes and the pion FF, which is real and free of $$\\pi\\pi$$ rescattering in the $t$-channel ($N/D$ method). The rescattering effects are then incorporated by multiplying with the squared modulus of the empirical pion FF. The procedure results in a marked improvement compared to conventional $$\\chi$$EFT calculations of the spectral functions. We apply the method to the nucleon scalar FF and compute the scalar spectral function, the scalar radius, the $t$-dependent FF, and the Cheng-Dashen discrepancy. Higher-order chiral corrections are estimated through the $$\\pi N$$ low-energy constants. Results are in excellent agreement with dispersion-theoretical calculations. We elaborate several other interesting aspects of our method. The results show proper scaling behavior in the large-$$N_c$$ limit of QCD because the $$\\chi$$EFT includes $N$ and $$\\Delta$$ intermediate states. The squared modulus of the timelike pion FF required by our method can be extracted from Lattice QCD calculations of vacuum correlation functions of the operator at large Euclidean distances. Our method can be applied to the nucleon FFs of other operators of interest, such as the isovector-vector current, the energy-momentum tensor, and twist-2 QCD operators (moments of generalized parton distributions).« less

A Dedicated Microprocessor Controller for a Bound Document Scanner.

DTIC Science & Technology

1984-06-01

focused onto the CCD which converts the image into 2048 pixels. After the pixel data are processed by the scanner hardware, they are sent to the display...data in real time after the data on each of the 2048 pixel elements .-.- .---.; . has been transferred out of the device. Display-control commands and...05 06 07 Fig. 4.9 2716 EPROM Block D~iagram and Pin Assignment HE-E 64 BYTES RA ’ FFF 4095 INTERNAL I FCO 4032 EXECUTABLE FBP 4031 RA Soo0 2048 _ _7FF

CLASSIFICATION, PROTECTION, AND MONITORING OF NONTIDAL FLOODPLAIN FOREST COMMUNITIES

EPA Science Inventory

New Jersey,s floodplain forests (FFs) contain 57 rare plant species, 25 of which are State Endangered. The acreage of FF has been substantially reduced over the past 200 years, and upland buffers have also been diminished. Threats to FF communities include stream degradation, ...

Full-field optical coherence tomography image restoration based on Hilbert transformation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Na, Jihoon; Choi, Woo June; Choi, Eun Seo; Ryu, Seon Young; Lee, Byeong Ha

2007-02-01

We propose the envelope detection method that is based on Hilbert transform for image restoration in full-filed optical coherence tomography (FF-OCT). The FF-OCT system presenting a high-axial resolution of 0.9 μm was implemented with a Kohler illuminator based on Linnik interferometer configuration. A 250 W customized quartz tungsten halogen lamp was used as a broadband light source and a CCD camera was used as a 2-dimentional detector array. The proposed image restoration method for FF-OCT requires only single phase-shifting. By using both the original and the phase-shifted images, we could remove the offset and the background signals from the interference fringe images. The desired coherent envelope image was obtained by applying Hilbert transform. With the proposed image restoration method, we demonstrate en-face imaging performance of the implemented FF-OCT system by presenting a tilted mirror surface, an integrated circuit chip, and a piece of onion epithelium.

Impact of micronized starfruit (Averrhoa carambola L.) fiber concentrate on lipid metabolism in mice.

PubMed

Herman-Lara, Erasmo; Elvira-Torales, Laura I; Rodriguez-Miranda, Jesús; Torruco-Uco, Juan G; Carmona-García, Roselis; Mendoza-García, Patricia G; García, Hugo S; Soto-Rodríguez, Ida; Sánchez-Valdivieso, Enrique; Martínez-Sánchez, Cecilia E

2014-11-01

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of micronized insoluble fiber from starfruit bagasse as an ingredient of a functional food (FF) or as micronized insoluble fiber-rich fraction (IFRF) and its effects in vivo on lipids metabolism in a murine model. Experimental animals were divided in four isoproteic (15.8%) treatments differing on the fiber and cholesterol level used. The micronized IFRF particle size ranged from 37.5 to 149 μm. Treatments with added IFRF and those including the FF lowered serum triacylglycerols, total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoproteins (HDL), and low-density lipoproteins (LDL) concentrations (IFRF: 14.2, 25.4, 55.06, and 12.18%, respectively; FF: 30.18, 39.47, 35.11, and 43.18%, respectively). IFRF produced the overall highest serum hypolipidemic effect and prevented the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver. Both the IFRF and the FF exhibited hypolipidemic effects that suggest a potential role of starfruit insoluble fiber as a component of FFs aimed against cardiovascular diseases.

AdaFF: Adaptive Failure-Handling Framework for Composite Web Services

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Yuna; Lee, Wan Yeon; Kim, Kyong Hoon; Kim, Jong

In this paper, we propose a novel Web service composition framework which dynamically accommodates various failure recovery requirements. In the proposed framework called Adaptive Failure-handling Framework (AdaFF), failure-handling submodules are prepared during the design of a composite service, and some of them are systematically selected and automatically combined with the composite Web service at service instantiation in accordance with the requirement of individual users. In contrast, existing frameworks cannot adapt the failure-handling behaviors to user's requirements. AdaFF rapidly delivers a composite service supporting the requirement-matched failure handling without manual development, and contributes to a flexible composite Web service design in that service architects never care about failure handling or variable requirements of users. For proof of concept, we implement a prototype system of the AdaFF, which automatically generates a composite service instance with Web Services Business Process Execution Language (WS-BPEL) according to the users' requirement specified in XML format and executes the generated instance on the ActiveBPEL engine.

The ReaxFF reactive force-field: Development, applications, and future directions

DOE PAGES

Senftle, Thomas; Hong, Sungwook; Islam, Md Mahbubul; ...

2016-03-04

The reactive force-field (ReaxFF) interatomic potential is a powerful computational tool for exploring, developing and optimizing material properties. Methods based on the principles of quantum mechanics (QM), while offering valuable theoretical guidance at the electronic level, are often too computationally intense for simulations that consider the full dynamic evolution of a system. Alternatively, empirical interatomic potentials that are based on classical principles require significantly fewer computational resources, which enables simulations to better describe dynamic processes over longer timeframes and on larger scales. Such methods, however, typically require a predefined connectivity between atoms, precluding simulations that involve reactive events. The ReaxFFmore » method was developed to help bridge this gap. Approaching the gap from the classical side, ReaxFF casts the empirical interatomic potential within a bond-order formalism, thus implicitly describing chemical bonding without expensive QM calculations. As a result, this article provides an overview of the development, application, and future directions of the ReaxFF method.« less

Free-form surface design method for a collimator TIR lens.

PubMed

Tsai, Chung-Yu

2016-04-01

A free-form (FF) surface design method is proposed for a general axial-symmetrical collimator system consisting of a light source and a total internal reflection lens with two coupled FF boundary surfaces. The profiles of the boundary surfaces are designed using a FF surface construction method such that each incident ray is directed (refracted and reflected) in such a way as to form a specified image pattern on the target plane. The light ray paths within the system are analyzed using an exact analytical model and a skew-ray tracing approach. In addition, the validity of the proposed FF design method is demonstrated by means of ZEMAX simulations. It is shown that the illumination distribution formed on the target plane is in good agreement with that specified by the user. The proposed surface construction method is mathematically straightforward and easily implemented in computer code. As such, it provides a useful tool for the design and analysis of general axial-symmetrical optical systems.

Selective production of chemicals from biomass pyrolysis over metal chlorides supported on zeolite.

PubMed

Leng, Shuai; Wang, Xinde; Cai, Qiuxia; Ma, Fengyun; Liu, Yue'e; Wang, Jianguo

2013-12-01

Direct biomass conversion into chemicals remains a great challenge because of the complexity of the compounds; hence, this process has attracted less attention than conversion into fuel. In this study, we propose a simple one-step method for converting bagasse into furfural (FF) and acetic acid (AC). In this method, bagasse pyrolysis over ZnCl2/HZSM-5 achieved a high FF and AC yield (58.10%) and a 1.01 FF/AC ratio, but a very low yield of medium-boiling point components. However, bagasse pyrolysis using HZSM-5 alone or ZnCl2 alone still remained large amounts of medium-boiling point components or high-boiling point components. The synergistic effect of HZSM-5 and ZnCl2, which combines pyrolysis, zeolite cracking, and Lewis acid-selective catalysis results in highly efficient bagasse conversion into FF and AC. Therefore, our study provides a novel, simple method for directly converting biomass into high-yield useful chemical. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Vitamin D receptor Fok1 polymorphism and blood lead concentration in children.

PubMed Central

Haynes, Erin N; Kalkwarf, Heidi J; Hornung, Richard; Wenstrup, Richard; Dietrich, Kim; Lanphear, Bruce P

2003-01-01

Variation in blood lead concentration is caused by a complex interaction of environmental, social, nutritional, and genetic factors. We evaluated the association between blood lead concentration and a vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene polymorphism. Environmental samples and blood were analyzed for lead, nutritional and behavioral factors were assessed, and VDR -Fok1 genotype was determined in 245 children. We found a significant interaction between floor dust lead and genotype on blood lead concentration. For every 1 microg/ft(2) increase in floor dust, children with VDR -FF genotype had a 1.1% increase in blood lead [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.69-1.5], VDR -Ff, 0.53% increase (95% CI, 0.1-0.92), and VDR -ff, 3.8% increase (95% CI, 1.2-6.3); however, at floor dust levels < 10 microg/ft(2), children with VDR -ff had the lowest blood lead concentrations. These data suggest that VDR -Fok1 is an effect modifier of the relationship of floor dust lead exposure and blood lead concentration. PMID:14527848

Cost-effectiveness evaluation of vaccination against Haemophilus influenzae invasive diseases in France.

PubMed

Livartowski, A; Boucher, J; Detournay, B; Reinert, P

1996-04-01

A cost-effectiveness analysis of a vaccination program against Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) was conducted using French epidemiological data. The vaccine would be added as a fifth valence to the tetravalent vaccines (DTCP) widely used in France. The permanent sequelae of the Hib invasive diseases which might be avoided by vaccination were weighted to determine Quality Adjusted Life Years gained. In a stable French population of 3,746,000 children aged < 5 years old (1990), and for a followup period of ten years, the cost-effectiveness ratio of such a program for the French national health insurance system would equal 54,084 FF per year of life added or 34,050 FF per QALY. The net cost of the program during that period would be 1.02 billion FF for the French national health insurance system and 920 million FF for patients' families. Comparison of these projections with available information supports, a posteriori, the decision of the French government to authorize the licensing of the pentavalent vaccine.

Physical activity and functional fitness in institutionalized vs. independently living elderly: a comparison of 70-80-year-old city-dwellers.

PubMed

Król-Zielińska, Magdalena; Kusy, Krzysztof; Zieliński, Jacek; Osiński, Wiesław

2011-01-01

The purpose of the study was to compare the level of energy expenditure due to physical activity (EEPA) and functional fitness (FF) in 59 women and 82 men aged 70-80 years, divided into three groups: permanent residents in assisted-living facilities (ALFs), participants in adult day care centers (DCCs) and older people living independently, members in community senior centers (CSCs). EEPA and FF were analyzed taking into consideration sex differences. The energy expenditure tended to be lower in DCCs and ALFs subjects than in CSCs members, but significant differences were obtained only in women. Women in different living settings differed only in endurance. In men, the differences were clear in most tests (endurance, strength, agility/dynamic balance) except for flexibility. Institutionalization was connected with a significantly lower level of FF and equalization of sex differences. Education seemed to be an important factor influencing the level of FF in men. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Thermally activated flux flow in FeSe0.5Te0.5 superconducting single crystal

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hamad, R. M.; Kayed, T. S.; Kunwar, S.; Ziq, Kh A.

2017-07-01

The current-voltage (J-E) isotherms of single crystal FeSe0.5Te0.5 sample have been measured at several temperatures near the transition temperature (Tc) and under applied magnetic fields (H). A power law (E ˜ Jβ ) has been used to fit the data and evaluate the activation energy Uo (T) using β = Uo/kBT. At low current density (J << Jc), the initial behaviour is associated with thermally activated flux Flow (TAFF) while at J >> Jc vortex flux flow (FF) behavior is expected. The effects of applied magnetic field on FF and TAFF also been investigated. We found that Uo(FF) was reduced with by about an order of magnitude in magnetic fields as low as ˜1.5 Tesla-the reduction in Uo(TAFF) is even faster than in Uo(FF)-hence reflecting the low pinning nature (defects, vacancies etc.) of FeSe0.5Te0.5 superconductor.

Follicular fluid placental growth factor is increased in polycystic ovarian syndrome: correlation with ovarian stimulation.

PubMed

Tal, Reshef; Seifer, David B; Grazi, Richard V; Malter, Henry E

2014-08-20

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is characterized by increased ovarian angiogenesis and vascularity. Accumulating evidence indicates that vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is increased in PCOS and may play an important role in these vascular changes and the pathogenesis of this disease. Placental growth factor (PlGF), a VEGF family member, has not been previously characterized in PCOS women. We investigated levels and temporal expression patterns of PlGF and its soluble receptor sFlt-1 (soluble Fms-like tyrosine kinase) in serum and follicular fluid (FF) of women with PCOS during controlled ovarian stimulation. This was a prospective cohort study of 14 PCOS women (Rotterdam criteria) and 14 matched controls undergoing controlled ovarian stimulation. Serum was collected on day 3, day of hCG and day of oocyte retrieval. FF was collected on retrieval day. PlGF, sFlt-1 and anti-mullerian hormone (AMH) protein concentrations were measured using ELISA. Since sFlt-1 binds free PlGF, preventing its signal transduction, we calculated PlGF bioavailability as PlGF/sFlt-1 ratio. Serum PlGF and sFlt-1 levels were constant throughout controlled ovarian stimulation, and no significant differences were observed in either factor in PCOS women compared with non-PCOS controls at all three measured time points. However, FF PlGF levels were increased 1.5-fold in PCOS women compared with controls (p < 0.01). Moreover, FF PlGF correlated positively with number of oocytes retrieved and the ovarian reserve marker anti-mullerian hormone (AMH) and negatively with age. In addition, FF sFlt-1 levels were decreased 1.4-fold in PCOS women compared to controls (p = 0.04). PlGF bioavailability in FF was significantly greater (2-fold) in PCOS women compared with non-PCOS controls (p < 0.01). These data provide evidence that FF PlGF correlates with ovarian stimulation and that its bioavailability is increased in women with PCOS undergoing controlled ovarian stimulation. This suggests that PlGF may play a role in PCOS pathogenesis and its angiogenic dysregulation.

TRANSMISSION OF COMPOSITE POLYMERIZATION CONTRACTION FORCE THROUGH A FLOWABLE COMPOSITE AND A RESIN-MODIFIED GLASS IONOMER CEMENT

PubMed Central

Castañeda-Espinosa, Juan Carlos; Pereira, Rosana Aparecida; Cavalcanti, Ana Paula; Mondelli, Rafael Francisco Lia

2007-01-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the individual contraction force during polymerization of a composite resin (Z-250), a flowable composite (Filtek Flow, FF) and a resin-modified glass ionomer cement (Vitrebond, VB), and the transmission of Z-250 composite resin polymerization contraction force through different thicknesses of FF and VB. The experiment setup consisted of two identical parallel steel plates connected to a universal testing machine. One was fixed to a transversal base and the other to the equipment's cross head. The evaluated materials were inserted into a 1-mm space between the steel plates or between the inferior steel plate and a previously polymerized layer of an intermediate material (either FF or VB) adhered to the upper steel plate. The composite resin was light-cured with a halogen lamp with light intensity of 500 mW/cm2 for 60 s. A force/time graph was obtained for each sample for up to 120 s. Seven groups of 10 specimens each were evaluated: G1: Z-250; G2: FF; G3: VB; G4: Z-250 through a 0.5-mm layer of FF; G5: Z-250 through a 1-mm layer of FF; G6: Z-250 through a 0.5-mm of VB; G7: Z-250 through a 1-mm layer of VB. They were averaged and compared using one-way ANOVA and Tukey test at a = 0.05. The obtained contraction forces were: G1: 6.3N ± 0.2N; G2: 9.8 ± 0.2N; G3: 1.8 ± 0.2N; G4: 6.8N ± 0.2N; G5: 6.9N ± 0.3N; G6: 4.0N ± 0.4N and G7: 2.8N ± 0.4N. The use of VB as an intermediate layer promoted a significant decrease in polymerization contraction force values of the restorative system, regardless of material thickness. The use of FF as an intermediate layer promoted an increase in polymerization contraction force values with both material thicknesses. PMID:19089187

A Synoptic Climatology of Combined Severe/Weather/Flash Flood Events

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pallozzi, Kyle J.

Classical forms of severe weather such as tornadoes, damaging convective wind gusts, and large hail, as well as flash flooding events, all have potentially large societal impacts. This impact is further magnified when these hazards occur simultaneously in time and space. A major challenge for operational forecasters is how to accurately predict the occurrence of combined storm hazards, and how to communicate the associated multiple threat hazards to the public. A seven-year climatology (2009-2015) of combined severe weather/flash flooding (SVR/FF) events across the contiguous United States was developed in attempt to study the combined SVR/FF event hazards further. A total of 211 total cases were identified and sub-divided into seven subcategories based on their convective morphology and meteorological characteristics. Heatmaps of event report frequency were created to extract spatial, seasonal and interannual patterns in SVR/FF event activity. Diurnal trends were examined from time series plots of tornado, hail, wind and flash flood/flood reports. Event-centered composites of environmental variables were created for each subcategory from 13 km RUC/RAP analyses. Representative cases studies were conducted for each subcategory. A "ring of fire" with the highest levels of SVR/FF event activity was noted across the central United States. SVR/FF events were least common in the Southeast, High Plains, and Northern Plains. Enhanced SVR/FF activity reflected contributions from synoptic events during the cool and shoulder seasons over the Lower Mississippi, Arkansas and Tennessee Valleys, and MCS activity during the warm season over the lower Great Plains, and the Upper Mississippi, Missouri and Ohio River Valleys. Results from the composite analyses indicated that relatively high values of CAPE, surface-500 hPa shear and precipitable water were observed for all subcategories. Case studies show that many high-end SVR/FF events featured slow-moving, or quasi-stationary fronts/outflow boundaries, a moist troposphere and front-paralleling 850-300 hPa mean winds. In this environment, individual convective cells can be advected downstream along the initiating boundary, resulting in flood-producing training echoes. A relatively moist troposphere leads to efficient precipitation production, limits cold-pool formation/off-boundary propagation, and further increases the likelihood of flash flooding.

A Short Guide to Experimental Design and Analysis for Engineers

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-04-01

ee ee r FF F atmentswithin tre 2 2 2 1 21 21 (40) and ( ) ( ) ( ) ( )∑∑∑∑ ∑∑ = j ij i j i YY ee ... ee r RR R sample total 2 2 2 1 21 21 . (41) The inclusion of cross product terms for MANOVA results in the following error matrix for the full model...UNCLASSIFIED DSTO-TN-1291 UNCLASSIFIED 30 ( ) ( ) ( ) ( )           = ∑∑∑∑ ∑∑∑∑ j ij i j ij i eee eee FF FF 2 221 21 2 1 E

[Airborne asbestos fibers: law references, TLV, considerations].

PubMed

Massola, A

2003-01-01

The ACGIH proposal of 0.1 fibers/liter as TLV for airborne asbestos fibers isn't a properly parameter, because it is applicable in work environments and the Italian legislation has forbidden every work which employs asbestos from 1993 [Law 257/92 and Min.Dec. 6/9/94]. Actually in Italy the application of a TLV is only referred to two analytical results: A) 20 ff/liter by CPOM analysis, B) 2 ff/liter by SEM analysis. We think that a CPOM 4-5 ff/liter is a no trespassing limit and over this concentration alarm may be notified. Waste disposal of asbestos materials must be properly disposed in a restricted area.

Identifying Runoff Generation Mechanisms and Its Controlling Parameters in the Lesser Himalayan Hillslopes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nanda, A.; Sen, S.

2017-12-01

The Himalayas, being one of the youngest and tectonically active mountains, are highly unstable and prone to natural disaster. Thus, a typical grassland (GS) of 14.42 % gradient and a mixture of fallow and forested (FF) hillslope of 23.73 % gradient are selected in an experimental watershed of the Lesser Himalayas to understand the hillslope hydrology. This work mainly focuses on analysing the influence of spatial and temporal dynamics of soil moisture on hillslope response and on identifying the dominant runoff generation mechanisms in different landuse conditions. Further, we characterize the different hydrologic conditions under which either the rainfall rate, antecedent moisture condition (AMC), or both have a significant impact on hillslope runoff. The rainfall, runoff and soil moisture data are being collected since monsoon June 2017 and five significant rainfall event results have been presented here. However, the paper will be presented with complete 2017 monsoon rainfall-runoff analyses. At FF hillslope, the rainfall of 18.47 mm and 133.14 mm occurred in 1 hr 9 min and 6 hr 24 min durations which resulted in runoff coefficient of 0.39 % and 6 %, respectively for an approximately AMC of 160 mm. Similarly, for GA hillslope, the observed runoff coefficients were 0.094 % and 1.2 % for 31.68 mm and 123.77 mm rainfall occurred in 1 hr and 6 hr 24 min duration, respectively with an AMC value of 230 mm. In an another event, the low AMC (182 mm) of GA hillslope resulted in runoff coefficient of 0.602 % for 64.68 mm rainfall occurred in 6 hr. For same AMC, the rainfall characteristics played a critical role to govern the hillslope runoff. Besides that, it was observed that the less surface resistance and higher gradient of FF hillslope generated more runoff than GA hillslope which indicates the role of topography and vegetation on hillslope runoff. During high and low rainfall magnitude, the soil moisture sensors located at lower parts of FF hillslope showed quick (3-5 min) and delayed (20-26 min) peak than the runoff hydrograph peak. Similarly, for GA hillslope the quick and delayed response were increased up to 43 min and 23 hr, respectively. It was concluded that the subsurface response of hillslope was governed by soil characteristics, topography and gradient of the hillslope.

Assessment of asbestos exposure during a simulated agricultural activity in the proximity of the former asbestos mine of Balangero, Italy.

PubMed

Turci, Francesco; Favero-Longo, Sergio Enrico; Gazzano, Claudia; Tomatis, Maura; Gentile-Garofalo, Laura; Bergamini, Massimo

2016-05-05

The natural occurrence of asbestos (NOA) in rural areas is a serious concern for human health and the dispersion route of asbestos in the proximity of natural asbestos-rich settings has been marginally evaluated so far. NOA may affect air, but also water and soil quality. In rural areas population may be exposed to asbestos with a largely unknown impact on human health. This work investigates the potential exposure of a farmer cultivating a field nearby the largest former asbestos mine of Western Europe (Balangero, Italy). The concentration of waterborne asbestos in the stream used to water the field was measured (ca. 2×10(5) fibers per liter, ff/L) and the cultivated ultramafic topsoil characterized, evidencing a remarkable occurrence of chrysotile. The worker's personal exposure and the environmental fiber dispersion during a simulated agricultural activity (tillage) were quantified in two independent trials. During the trials, the worker was exposed to average concentrations of 16 and 26 ff/L, with a peak of 40 ff/L. These data inform about the possible exposure of an agricultural worker to asbestos concentration higher than the accepted threshold of 2 ff/L. The release of asbestos fibers into the environment was negligible (0-2 ff/L). Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Fungistatic activity of heat-treated flaxseed determined by response surface methodology.

PubMed

Xu, Y; Hall, C; Wolf-Hall, C

2008-08-01

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of heat treatment on the fungistatic activity of flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum) in potato dextrose agar (PDA) medium and a fresh noodle system. The radial growth of Penicilliumn chrysogenum, Aspergillus flavus, and a Penicillium sp. isolated from moldy noodles, as well as the mold count of fresh noodle enriched with heat treated flaxseed, were used to assess antifungal activity. A central composite design in the response surface methodology was used to predict the effect of heating temperature and time on antifungal activity of flaxseed flour (FF). Statistical analysis determined that the linear terms of both variables (that is, heating temperature and time) and the quadratic terms of the heating temperature had significant (P<0.05) effects on the radial growth of all 3 test fungi and the mold count log-cycle reduction of fresh noodle. The interactions between the temperature and time were significant for all dependent variables (P<0.05). Significant reductions in antifungal activities were found when FF was subjected to high temperatures, regardless of heating time. In contrast, prolonging the heating time did not substantially affect the antifungal activities of FF at low temperature. However, 60% of the antifungal activity was retained after FF was heated at 100 degrees C for 15 min, which suggests a potential use of FF as an antifungal additive in food products subjected to low to mild heat treatments.

Reconstruction of living bilayer human skin equivalent utilizing human fibrin as a scaffold.

PubMed

Mazlyzam, A L; Aminuddin, B S; Fuzina, N H; Norhayati, M M; Fauziah, O; Isa, M R; Saim, L; Ruszymah, B H I

2007-05-01

Our aim of this study was to develop a new methodology for constructing a bilayer human skin equivalent to create a more clinical compliance skin graft composite for the treatment of various skin defects. We utilized human plasma derived fibrin as the scaffold for the development of a living bilayer human skin equivalent: fibrin-fibroblast and fibrin-keratinocyte (B-FF/FK SE). Skin cells from six consented patients were culture-expanded to passage 1. For B-FF/FK SE formation, human fibroblasts were embedded in human fibrin matrix and subsequently another layer of human keratinocytes in human fibrin matrix was stacked on top. The B-FF/FK SE was then transplanted to athymic mice model for 4 weeks to evaluate its regeneration and clinical performance. The in vivo B-FF/FK SE has similar properties as native human skin by histological analysis and expression of basal Keratin 14 gene in the epidermal layer and Collagen type I gene in the dermal layer. Electron microscopy analysis of in vivo B-FF/FK SE showed well-formed and continuous epidermal-dermal junction. We have successfully developed a technique to engineer living bilayer human skin equivalent using human fibrin matrix. The utilization of culture-expanded human skin cells and fibrin matrix from human blood will allow a fully autologous human skin equivalent construction.

Temporal growth and spatial distribution of the fast food industry and its relationship with economic development in China - 2005-2012.

PubMed

Xue, Hong; Cheng, Xi; Zhang, Qi; Wang, Huijun; Zhang, Bing; Qu, Weidong; Wang, Youfa

2017-09-01

The fast food (FF) industry has expanded rapidly in China during the past two decades, in parallel with an increase in the prevalence of obesity. Using government-reported longitudinal data from 21 provinces and cities in China, this study examined the growth over time and the spatial distribution patterns of the FF industry as well as the key social economic factors involved. We visualized the temporal and geographic distributions of FF industry development and conducted cross-sectional and longitudinal spatial analysis to assess associations between macroeconomic conditions, population dynamics, and the growth and distributional changes of the industry. It grew faster in the southeast coastal (more economically developed) areas since 2005 than in other regions. The industry was: 1) highly correlated with Gross Domestic Product; 2) highly correlated with per capita disposable income for urban residents; 3) moderately correlated with urban population; and 4) not correlated with an increase of population size. The mean center of the FF industry shifted westward as the mean center of the GDP moved in the same direction, while the mean center of the population shifted eastward. The results suggest that the rapid FF industry expansion in China was closely associated with economic growth and that improving the food environment should be a major component in local economic development planning. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

NPYFa, A Chimeric Peptide of Met-Enkephalin, and NPFF Induces Tolerance-Free Analgesia.

PubMed

Mudgal, Annu; Kumar, Krishan; Mollereau, Catherine; Pasha, Santosh

2016-06-01

Methionine-enkephalin-Arg-Phe is an endogenous amphiactive analgesic peptide. Neuropeptide FF, on the other hand, is reported for its role in opioid modulation and tolerance development. Based on these reports, in the present study we designed a chimeric peptide NPYFa (YGGFMKKKPQRFamide), having the Met-enkephalin (opioid) and PQRFamide sequence of neuropeptide FF, which can then target both the opioid and neuropeptide FF receptors. We hypothesized that the chimeric peptide so designed would have both analgesic properties and further aid in understanding of the role of neuropeptide FF in the development of opiate tolerance. Our studies indicated that NPYFa induced an early onset, potent, dose-dependent and prolonged antinociception. Additionally, antagonists (MOR, KOR, and DOR) pretreatment studies determined a KOR-mediated antinociception activity of the ligand. Further, in vitro binding studies using the Eu-GTP-γS binding assay on cell lines expressing opioid and NPFF receptors showed binding to both the opioid and neuropeptide FF receptors suggesting a multiple receptor binding character of NPYFa. Moreover, chronic (6 days) treatment with NPYFa exhibited an absence of tolerance development subsequent to its analgesia. The current study proposes NPYFa as a potent, long-acting antinociceptor lacking tolerance development as well as a probe to study opioid analgesia and the associated complex mechanisms of tolerance development. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Inverse opal carbons for counter electrode of dye-sensitized solar cells.

PubMed

Kang, Da-Young; Lee, Youngshin; Cho, Chang-Yeol; Moon, Jun Hyuk

2012-05-01

We investigated the fabrication of inverse opal carbon counter electrodes using a colloidal templating method for DSSCs. Specifically, bare inverse opal carbon, mesopore-incoporated inverse opal carbon, and graphitized inverse opal carbon were synthesized and stably dispersed in ethanol solution for spray coating on a FTO substrate. The thickness of the electrode was controlled by the number of coatings, and the average relative thickness was evaluated by measuring the transmittance spectrum. The effect of the counter electrode thickness on the photovoltaic performance of the DSSCs was investigated and analyzed by interfacial charge transfer resistance (R(CT)) under EIS measurement. The effect of the surface area and conductivity of the inverse opal was also investigated by considering the increase in surface area due to the mesopore in the inverse opal carbon and conductivity by graphitization of the carbon matrix. The results showed that the FF and thereby the efficiency of DSSCs were increased as the electrode thickness increased. Consequently, the larger FF and thereby the greater efficiency of the DSSCs were achieved for mIOC and gIOC compared to IOC, which was attributed to the lower R(CT). Finally, compared to a conventional Pt counter electrode, the inverse opal-based carbon showed a comparable efficiency upon application to DSSCs.

The development of a new optical sensor based on the Mn doped ZnS quantum dots modified with the molecularly imprinted polymers for sensitive recognition of florfenicol

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sadeghi, Susan; Jahani, Moslem; Belador, Foroogh

2016-04-01

The Mn doped ZnS quantum dots (Mn:ZnS QDs) capped with the florfenicol molecularly imprinted polymer (Mn:ZnS QDs@MIP) were prepared via the sol-gel surface imprinting approach using 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) as the functional monomer and tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) as the cross-linker for the optosensing of the florfenicol. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffractometer, IR spectroscopy, UV-Vis absorption spectrophotometry, and spectrofluorometry were used to elucidate the formation, morphology, and identification of the products. To illustrate the usefulness of the new imprinted material, the non-imprinted coated Mn:ZnS QDs (Mn:ZnS QDs@NIP) were synthesized without the presence of the florfenicol. It was revealed that the fluorescence (FL) intensity of the Mn:ZnS QDs@MIP increased with increasing the FF concentration. Under the optimal conditions, changes in the FL intensity in the presence of the target molecule showed a linear response in the concentration range of 30-700 μmol L- 1 with a detection limit of 24 μmol L- 1. The developed method was finally applied successfully to the determination of FF in different meat samples with satisfactory recoveries.

The development of a new optical sensor based on the Mn doped ZnS quantum dots modified with the molecularly imprinted polymers for sensitive recognition of florfenicol.

PubMed

Sadeghi, Susan; Jahani, Moslem; Belador, Foroogh

2016-04-15

The Mn doped ZnS quantum dots (Mn:ZnS QDs) capped with the florfenicol molecularly imprinted polymer (Mn:ZnS QDs@MIP) were prepared via the sol-gel surface imprinting approach using 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) as the functional monomer and tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) as the cross-linker for the optosensing of the florfenicol. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffractometer, IR spectroscopy, UV-Vis absorption spectrophotometry, and spectrofluorometry were used to elucidate the formation, morphology, and identification of the products. To illustrate the usefulness of the new imprinted material, the non-imprinted coated Mn:ZnS QDs (Mn:ZnS QDs@NIP) were synthesized without the presence of the florfenicol. It was revealed that the fluorescence (FL) intensity of the Mn:ZnS QDs@MIP increased with increasing the FF concentration. Under the optimal conditions, changes in the FL intensity in the presence of the target molecule showed a linear response in the concentration range of 30-700 μmol L(-1) with a detection limit of 24 μmol L(-1). The developed method was finally applied successfully to the determination of FF in different meat samples with satisfactory recoveries. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Small molecule inhibitors of Ca 2+-S100B reveal two protein conformations

DOE PAGES

Cavalier, Michael C.; Ansari, Mohd. Imran; Pierce, Adam D.; ...

2016-01-04

The drug pentamidine inhibits calcium-dependent complex formation with p53 ( CaS100B·p53) in malignant melanoma (MM) and restores p53 tumor suppressor activity in vivo. However, off-target effects associated with this drug were problematic in MM patients. Structure–activity relationship (SAR) studies were therefore completed in this study with 23 pentamidine analogues, and X-ray structures of CaS100B·inhibitor complexes revealed that the C-terminus of S100B adopts two different conformations, with location of Phe87 and Phe88 being the distinguishing feature and termed the “FF-gate”. For symmetric pentamidine analogues ( CaS100B· 5a, CaS100B· 6b) a channel between sites 1 and 2 on S100B was occluded bymore » residue Phe88, but for an asymmetric pentamidine analogue ( CaS100B· 17), this same channel was open. Finally, the CaS100B· 17 structure illustrates, for the first time, a pentamidine analog capable of binding the “open” form of the “FF-gate” and provides a means to block all three “hot spots” on CaS100B, which will impact next generation CaS100B·p53 inhibitor design.« less

Small molecule inhibitors of Ca 2+-S100B reveal two protein conformations

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

Cavalier, Michael C.; Ansari, Mohd. Imran; Pierce, Adam D.

The drug pentamidine inhibits calcium-dependent complex formation with p53 ( CaS100B·p53) in malignant melanoma (MM) and restores p53 tumor suppressor activity in vivo. However, off-target effects associated with this drug were problematic in MM patients. Structure–activity relationship (SAR) studies were therefore completed in this study with 23 pentamidine analogues, and X-ray structures of CaS100B·inhibitor complexes revealed that the C-terminus of S100B adopts two different conformations, with location of Phe87 and Phe88 being the distinguishing feature and termed the “FF-gate”. For symmetric pentamidine analogues ( CaS100B· 5a, CaS100B· 6b) a channel between sites 1 and 2 on S100B was occluded bymore » residue Phe88, but for an asymmetric pentamidine analogue ( CaS100B· 17), this same channel was open. Finally, the CaS100B· 17 structure illustrates, for the first time, a pentamidine analog capable of binding the “open” form of the “FF-gate” and provides a means to block all three “hot spots” on CaS100B, which will impact next generation CaS100B·p53 inhibitor design.« less

Influence of sticking vs non-sticking limits of moment of inertia and higher order deformations in the decay of 214,216Rn* compound systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mittal, Rajni; Jain, Deepika; Sharma, Manoj K.

2017-12-01

The dynamical cluster decay model (DCM) is employed to explore the relative effect of sticking (IS) and non-sticking (INS) limits of moment of inertia (MOI) in the decay of hot and rotating 214,216Rn* compound nuclei, formed in 16,18O + 198Pt reactions. Beside this, the nuclear deformation effects i.e. quadrupole β2 (static and dynamic) and higher order static deformations up to hexadecapole (β4) are duly incorporated and studied within DCM. The influence of both 'INS/IS' addressing rotational energy component and 'deformations' is gauged through the barrier characteristics, preformation factor and barrier lowering effects. The experimentally given ER and ff data is addressed by optimizing the neck-length ΔR, that strongly depends on the limiting angular momentum, which in turn depends on the sticking or non-sticking limits of interaction. In addition to this, the influence of increase in energy and neutron number is probed in reference to ER survival probability of Rn compound nucleus. Finally, the ff cross-sections of 214,216Rn* nuclei are predicted within sticking limit of moment of inertia as the same seems to be more suitable for such decay paths.

46 CFR 164.023-5 - Performance; standard thread.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... specification Material Type Class Ticket No. or size range V-T-285E Polyester I or II 1 E, F, FF. V-T-295E Nylon I or II A E, F, FF. MIL-T-43624A Polyester 24 through 12. MIL-T-43548C Polyester covered only 24...

46 CFR 164.023-5 - Performance; standard thread.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... specification Material Type Class Ticket No. or size range V-T-285E Polyester I or II 1 E, F, FF. V-T-295E Nylon I or II A E, F, FF. MIL-T-43624A Polyester 24 through 12. MIL-T-43548C Polyester covered only 24...

Fast food perceptions, intake and association with obesity in the United States: a systematic review

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Objective: To examine Americans’ perception of fast food (FF), their consumption, and its association with obesity risk. Design: We searched PubMed for studies published in English until February 2017 that reported on Americans’ FF intake, perceptions, beliefs, attitudes, and knowledge. Eleven artic...

77 FR 57486 - Federal Voting Assistance Program

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-09-18

... covered by the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act (UOCAVA) as modified by the Military... among the various levels of Government. List of Subjects in 32 CFR Part 233 Voting rights, civil rights... Absentee Voting Act (UOCAVA), 42 U.S.C. 1973ff-1973ff-6. (b) Establishes policy and assigns...

U.S. EPA, Pesticide Product Label, , 06/22/1999

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

2011-04-21

... West Langhorne, PA 19047-3023 ... C])~n'geg" -i- ~ l~be;Ltng di ff ~~J.'rig :,:J; rr:; :~JF~l;:~~~f:f~~::X~~~:(F%~~t~4' ).,ri' :~~~r~ct~~p>,~~,_~:~:: ihf~ : f ...

40 CFR 62.14454 - How must I monitor the required parameters?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... installed in each baghouse compartment or cell. (7) For negative pressure or induced air FF, the bag leak...) AIR PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) APPROVAL AND PROMULGATION OF STATE PLANS FOR DESIGNATED FACILITIES AND... use an air pollution control device that includes a FF and are not demonstrating compliance using PM...

40 CFR 62.14454 - How must I monitor the required parameters?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... installed in each baghouse compartment or cell. (7) For negative pressure or induced air FF, the bag leak...) AIR PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) APPROVAL AND PROMULGATION OF STATE PLANS FOR DESIGNATED FACILITIES AND... use an air pollution control device that includes a FF and are not demonstrating compliance using PM...

Optimization of leaf margins for lung stereotactic body radiotherapy using a flattening filter-free beam

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

Wakai, Nobuhide, E-mail: wakai@naramed-u.ac.jp; Sumida, Iori; Otani, Yuki

Purpose: The authors sought to determine the optimal collimator leaf margins which minimize normal tissue dose while achieving high conformity and to evaluate differences between the use of a flattening filter-free (FFF) beam and a flattening-filtered (FF) beam. Methods: Sixteen lung cancer patients scheduled for stereotactic body radiotherapy underwent treatment planning for a 7 MV FFF and a 6 MV FF beams to the planning target volume (PTV) with a range of leaf margins (−3 to 3 mm). Forty grays per four fractions were prescribed as a PTV D95. For PTV, the heterogeneity index (HI), conformity index, modified gradient indexmore » (GI), defined as the 50% isodose volume divided by target volume, maximum dose (Dmax), and mean dose (Dmean) were calculated. Mean lung dose (MLD), V20 Gy, and V5 Gy for the lung (defined as the volumes of lung receiving at least 20 and 5 Gy), mean heart dose, and Dmax to the spinal cord were measured as doses to organs at risk (OARs). Paired t-tests were used for statistical analysis. Results: HI was inversely related to changes in leaf margin. Conformity index and modified GI initially decreased as leaf margin width increased. After reaching a minimum, the two values then increased as leaf margin increased (“V” shape). The optimal leaf margins for conformity index and modified GI were −1.1 ± 0.3 mm (mean ± 1 SD) and −0.2 ± 0.9 mm, respectively, for 7 MV FFF compared to −1.0 ± 0.4 and −0.3 ± 0.9 mm, respectively, for 6 MV FF. Dmax and Dmean for 7 MV FFF were higher than those for 6 MV FF by 3.6% and 1.7%, respectively. There was a positive correlation between the ratios of HI, Dmax, and Dmean for 7 MV FFF to those for 6 MV FF and PTV size (R = 0.767, 0.809, and 0.643, respectively). The differences in MLD, V20 Gy, and V5 Gy for lung between FFF and FF beams were negligible. The optimal leaf margins for MLD, V20 Gy, and V5 Gy for lung were −0.9 ± 0.6, −1.1 ± 0.8, and −2.1 ± 1.2 mm, respectively, for 7 MV FFF compared to −0.9 ± 0.6, −1.1 ± 0.8, and −2.2 ± 1.3 mm, respectively, for 6 MV FF. With the heart inside the radiation field, the mean heart dose showed a V-shaped relationship with leaf margins. The optimal leaf margins were −1.0 ± 0.6 mm for both beams. Dmax to the spinal cord showed no clear trend for changes in leaf margin. Conclusions: The differences in doses to OARs between FFF and FF beams were negligible. Conformity index, modified GI, MLD, lung V20 Gy, lung V5 Gy, and mean heart dose showed a V-shaped relationship with leaf margins. There were no significant differences in optimal leaf margins to minimize these parameters between both FFF and FF beams. The authors’ results suggest that a leaf margin of −1 mm achieves high conformity and minimizes doses to OARs for both FFF and FF beams.« less

SU-G-BRB-05: Automation of the Photon Dosimetric Quality Assurance Program of a Linear Accelerator

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

Lebron, S; Lu, B; Yan, G

Purpose: To develop an automated method to calculate a linear accelerator (LINAC) photon radiation field size, flatness, symmetry, output and beam quality in a single delivery for flattened (FF) and flattening-filter-free (FFF) beams using an ionization chamber array. Methods: The proposed method consists of three control points that deliver 30×30, 10×10 and 5×5cm{sup 2} fields (FF or FFF) in a step-and-shoot sequence where the number of monitor units is weighted for each field size. The IC Profiler (Sun Nuclear Inc.) with 5mm detector spacing was used for this study. The corrected counts (CCs) were calculated and the locations of themore » maxima and minima values of the first-order gradient determined data of each sub field. Then, all CCs for each field size are summed in order to obtain the final profiles. For each profile, the radiation field size, symmetry, flatness, output factor and beam quality were calculated. For field size calculation, a parameterized gradient method was used. For method validation, profiles were collected in the detector array both, individually and as part of the step-and-shoot plan, with 9.9cm buildup for FF and FFF beams at 90cm source-to-surface distance. The same data were collected with the device (plus buildup) placed on a movable platform to achieve a 1mm resolution. Results: The differences between the dosimetric quantities calculated from both deliveries, individually and step-and-shoot, were within 0.31±0.20% and 0.04±0.02mm. The differences between the calculated field sizes with 5mm and 1mm resolution were ±0.1mm. Conclusion: The proposed single delivery method proved to be simple and efficient in automating the photon dosimetric monthly and annual quality assurance.« less

Sex education in schools in Denmark. Does Foreningen for Familieplanlaegning (the Danish PPA) have a role to play?

PubMed

Risor, H

1991-05-01

The Danish Foreningen for Familieplanlaegning (FF), planned parenthood, has a role to play as a watchdog for human sexuality education in schools and teacher training and development of educational material. Sex education has been in the school system since the 1900's, but in 1970 it was made compulsory. Sex education must be integrated in all subjects, and teacher or student may introduce a sex topic/question at any time. Minimum requirements are information on contraceptives and STD's. In 1970, the Curriculum Committee provided Guidelines for Sex Education in Public Schools which stated the following limitations for teachers: no vulgar terminology, no pupil counseling, no information on sexual intercourse techniques, and no erotic photographic material. In 1986, the Committee on Health and Sex Education was formed to work out subject and guide materials; these curriculum guidelines will be available in August 1991. FF was invited only to address the committee, at which time it was advised that teachers not lump health and sex together, and that specific issues such as sex anatomy, contraception, STD's, AIDs, and abortion be addressed as well as the rights of saying no, first sexual experiences, emotions and feelings, and being in love. After some insistence and negotiation, the final draft included more on sex education. The FF Education Committee plans to hold a 3-day training course for teachers at teacher training colleges in the Fall, 1991. One of the first tasks of the Sex Education Committee was to form a workshop with representatives from 10 schools. Their conclusions were that 1) the class teacher be responsible for sex education, 2) cross professional collaboration needs to be implemented with, for example, guest speakers who are homosexuals, prostitutes, AID's related persons. 3) Parents must be given information and sought out for advice. 4) The limitations in the 1970 Guidelines need to be cancelled. 5) Teacher training must be expanded and improved.

Influence des melanges complexes organiques sur le sort des dioxines et furanes: Implications dans le developpement de facteurs de caracterisation en analyse du cycle de vie

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Taing, Eric

The environmental fate of dioxins and furans, or polychlorodibenzo-p-dioxins and -furans (PCDD/Fs), leaching from wood poles treated with pentachlorophenol (PCP) oil is modified by the presence of oil. Interactions between co-contaminants, which also exist for other pollutants within the mixtures, were shown in the specific context of risk analysis, but have never been taken into account for the generic context of life cycle assessment (LCA). This decision-making tool relies on characterization factors (CF) to estimate the potential impacts of an emitted amount of a pollutant in different impact categories such as aquatic ecotoxicity and human toxicity. For these two impact categories, CFs are calculated from a cause-effect chain that models the environmental fate, exposure and effects of the pollutant (represented by a matrix of fate FF, exposure XF and effect EF, respectively), meaning that a modification of PCDD/Fs fate induces a change in PCDD/Fs CFs. The research question is therefore as follows: In life cycle impact assessment (LCIA), to what extent would the potential impacts of PCDD/Fs on aquatic ecotoxicity and human toxicity change when taking into account the influence of a complex organic mixture on PCDD/Fs fate?. Thus, the main objective is to develop CFs of PCDD/Fs when their fate is influenced by PCP oil and compare them with the CFs of PCDD/Fs without oil for the aquatic ecotoxicity and human toxicity impact categories. A mathematic approach is established to determine the new environmental distribution of PCDD/Fs in the presence of oil and a new FF' matrix is calculated from this new distribution to obtain new CFs' integrating oil influence. FF' and CF' are then compared to FF and CF of PCDD/Fs without the oil. Finally, potential (eco)toxic impacts of the PCDD/F Canadian emissions are calculated with the new CFs' of PCDD/Fs in presence of oil. By only focusing on the results for an emission into air, freshwater and natural soil on a continental scale, the overall elimination fractions of 2,3,7,8-TCDD changed significantly. For the three emissions, organic fractions increased the overall elimination fraction of 2,3,7,8-TCDD into the continental air compartment, induced by a higher volatility of organic fractions than 2,3,7,8-TCDD: for an emission into continental air, organic fractions increased the overall elimination fraction of 2,3,7,8-TCDD in the continental air from 29% to 49% at most. For an emission into continental freshwater, 2,3,7,8-TCDD fate was mainly influenced by two groups of organic fractions: the lightest ones that volatilize into continental air (overall elimination fraction of 2,3,7,8-TCDD increasing from 2% to 35%) and the heaviest ones that are removed by sedimentation (DTCDD,fwC,fwC from 87% up to 96%). Therefore, an approach has been proposed to represent the carrier behaviour of the oil for PCDD/Fs. PCDD/F potential impacts in aquatic ecotoxicity and human toxicity change in a range up to two orders of magnitude depending on the emitting compartment (except for the seawater and ocean compartments). As 2,3,7,8-TCDD is one of the most toxic pollutant, this changing is significant in LCA. To assess the validity of the model's result, it is recommended to carry out laboratory experiments on the PCDD/F volatilization with oil. In addition, it could be interesting to integrate the influence of PCP on PCDD/Fs fate and, more broadly, the influence of all cocontaminants on PCDD/Fs exposure and effects. Moreover having a unique CFeco and CF tox via a weighting of the 17 CF'eco and the 17 CF' tox, respectively, is necessary for a use in LCA. Unfortunately the variability of the composition makes the weighting difficult, so it is suggested to calculate the mean CF'eco and CF'tox. Finally this research could be carried out on other pollutants whose fate is known to be modified by a complex organic mixture in an effort to ensure that impact characterization better reflects reality. (Abstract shortened by UMI.).

Understanding metaphors and idioms: a single-case neuropsychological study in a person with Down syndrome.

PubMed

Papagno, C; Vallar, G

2001-05-01

The ability of subject F.F., diagnosed with Down syndrome, to appreciate nonliteral (interpreting metaphors and idioms) and literal (vocabulary knowledge, including highly specific and unusual items) aspects of language was investigated. F.F. was impaired in understanding both metaphors and idioms, while her phonological, syntactic and lexical-semantic skills were largely preserved. By contrast, some aspects of F.F.'s executive functions and many visuospatial abilities were defective. The suggestion is made that the interpretation of metaphors and idioms is largely independent of that of literal language, preserved in F.F., and that some executive aspects of working memory and visuospatial and imagery processes may play a role.

16 CFR 1616.62 - Policy regarding retail display requirements for items.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... FABRICS ACT REGULATIONS STANDARD FOR THE FLAMMABILITY OF CHILDREN'S SLEEPWEAR: SIZES 7 THROUGH 14 (FF 5-74... which was manufactured before May 1, 1975, and for which a retailer has documentary evidence of compliance with all sampling and testing requirements of the Standard (FF 5-74) (subpart A of this part...

ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGY VERIFICATION REPORT: DEVILBISS JGHV-531-46FF HVLP SPRAY GUN

EPA Science Inventory

This report presents the results of the verification test of the DeVilbiss JGHV-531-46FF high-volume, low-pressure pressure-feed spray gun, hereafter referred to as the DeVilbiss JGHV, which is designed for use in industrial finishing. The test coating chosen by ITW Industrial Fi...

Evaluating the Performance of the ff99SB Force Field Based on NMR Scalar Coupling Data

PubMed Central

Wickstrom, Lauren; Okur, Asim; Simmerling, Carlos

2009-01-01

Abstract Force-field validation is essential for the identification of weaknesses in current models and the development of more accurate models of biomolecules. NMR coupling and relaxation methods have been used to effectively diagnose the strengths and weaknesses of many existing force fields. Studies using the ff99SB force field have shown excellent agreement between experimental and calculated order parameters and residual dipolar calculations. However, recent studies have suggested that ff99SB demonstrates poor agreement with J-coupling constants for short polyalanines. We performed extensive replica-exchange molecular-dynamics simulations on Ala3 and Ala5 in TIP3P and TIP4P-Ew solvent models. Our results suggest that the performance of ff99SB is among the best of currently available models. In addition, scalar coupling constants derived from simulations in the TIP4P-Ew model show a slight improvement over those obtained using the TIP3P model. Despite the overall excellent agreement, the data suggest areas for possible improvement. PMID:19651043

Follicular fluid and urinary concentrations of phthalate metabolites among infertile women and associations with in vitro fertilization parameters.

PubMed

Du, Yao-Yao; Fang, Yue-Li; Wang, Yi-Xin; Zeng, Qiang; Guo, Na; Zhao, Hua; Li, Yu-Feng

2016-06-01

Evidence from toxicological studies has demonstrated that phthalates can lead to reduced fertility through effects on folliculogenesis, oocyte maturation and embryonic development, but human data are limited. Concentrations of eight phthalate metabolites in 110 follicular fluid (FF) and urine samples collected from 112 women attending an infertility clinic in Wuhan, China were quantified, and correlations between paired matrices were explored. Associations between metabolite concentrations and in vitro fertilization (IVF) parameters were evaluated with multivariable models. Six metabolites were detected in >72.73% of the FF samples. MEHP and MBP were the dominant metabolites with a median level of 2.80 and 2.05ng/mL, respectively. Significant correlations between the two matrices, urine and FF, were found for MEP (rs=0.44), and MBP (rs=0.22). FF and urinary metabolite concentrations were not associated with any IVF parameters. However, given the prevalence of phthalates exposure, further work is needed to elucidate the potential hazard on female reproduction. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The Effect of Reactive Oxygen Species on Embryo Quality in IVF.

PubMed

Siristatidis, Charalampos; Vogiatzi, Paraskevi; Varounis, Christos; Askoxylaki, Marily; Chrelias, Charalampos; Papantoniou, Nikolaos

2016-01-01

BACKROUND/AIM: Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are involved in critical biological processes in human reproduction. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association of embryo quality following in vitro fertilization (IVF), with ROS levels in the serum and follicular fluid (FF). Eighty-five participants underwent ovarian stimulation and IVF; ROS levels were measured in blood samples on the day of oocyte retrieval and in the FF from follicular aspirates using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. These values were associated with the quality of embryos generated. Univariable zero-inflated Poisson model revealed that ROS levels at both oocyte retrieval and in FF were not associated with the number of grade I, II, III and IV embryos (p>0.05). Age, body mass index, stimulation protocol and smoking status were not associated with the number of embryos of any grade (p>0.05). Neither ROS levels in serum nor in FF are associated with the quality of embryos produced following IVF. Copyright © 2016 International Institute of Anticancer Research (Dr. John G. Delinassios), All rights reserved.

Ab Initio Molecular Dynamics and Lattice Dynamics-Based Force Field for Modeling Hexagonal Boron Nitride in Mechanical and Interfacial Applications.

PubMed

Govind Rajan, Ananth; Strano, Michael S; Blankschtein, Daniel

2018-04-05

Hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) is an up-and-coming two-dimensional material, with applications in electronic devices, tribology, and separation membranes. Herein, we utilize density-functional-theory-based ab initio molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and lattice dynamics calculations to develop a classical force field (FF) for modeling hBN. The FF predicts the crystal structure, elastic constants, and phonon dispersion relation of hBN with good accuracy and exhibits remarkable agreement with the interlayer binding energy predicted by random phase approximation calculations. We demonstrate the importance of including Coulombic interactions but excluding 1-4 intrasheet interactions to obtain the correct phonon dispersion relation. We find that improper dihedrals do not modify the bulk mechanical properties and the extent of thermal vibrations in hBN, although they impact its flexural rigidity. Combining the FF with the accurate TIP4P/Ice water model yields excellent agreement with interaction energies predicted by quantum Monte Carlo calculations. Our FF should enable an accurate description of hBN interfaces in classical MD simulations.

Spotlight on fluticasone furoate/vilanterol trifenatate for the once-daily treatment of asthma: design, development and place in therapy

PubMed Central

Albertson, Timothy E; Bullick, Samuel W; Schivo, Michael; Sutter, Mark E

2016-01-01

The use of inhaled corticosteroids (ICSs) plays a key role in the treatment of asthmatic patients, and international guidelines have designated ICSs as an early maintenance therapy in controlling asthma symptoms. When asthmatic patients remain symptomatic on ICSs, one common option is to add a long-acting beta2 agonist (LABA) to the maintenance treatment. Fixed combination inhalers that contain both an ICS and a LABA have been popular for both chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma. Historically, these inhalers have been dosed twice daily. However, currently, there is a once-daily combination therapy with the ICS fluticasone furoate (FF) and the LABA vilanterol trifenatate (VI) with indications for use in both COPD and asthma. This dry powder inhaler (DPI) comes in two doses of FF (100 or 200 μg) both combined with VI (25 μg). This article reviews the clinical trial data for FF, VI and FF/VI combination inhalers and documents the efficacy and safety of once-daily inhaled maintenance therapy by DPI in asthmatic patients. PMID:28008228

[Clinical usefulness of the combined empirical therapy with flomoxef and fosfomycin for intractable respiratory tract infections. With a background of increasing MRSA incidence].

PubMed

Shimada, K; Kudoh, S; Hayashi, I; Shishido, H; Fukuchi, Y; Suzuki, H; Oritsu, M; Nakada, K; Sano, Y; Goto, H

1994-10-01

We conducted a multicenter trial to determine the clinical usefulness of the combined therapy with flomoxef (FMOX) and fosfomycin (FOM) (FF therapy) as an empirical therapy in the treatment of intractable respiratory tract infections, because FF therapy has clinically been proved to be very useful for the treatment of severe infections including MRSA infections. The overall efficacy rate of FF therapy was 69.2%. The efficacy rate for "pneumonia/lung abscess," which occupy the largest portions of respiratory tract infections, was 70.0%, showing a statistically significant difference from the efficacy rate for FMOX alone (56.7%) found in a previous study (P = 0.09 by chi-squared test). Although MRSA was eradicated in only 3 cases (37.5%) including superinfection cases, of 8 patients, from whom MRSA had been isolated as causative organisms, none of our patients were superinfected with MRSA. Thus it has been concluded that FF therapy is clinically very useful when used as an empirical therapy in the treatment of respiratory tract infections.

USHPRR FUEL FABRICATION PILLAR: FABRICATION STATUS, PROCESS OPTIMIZATIONS, AND FUTURE PLANS

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

Wight, Jared M.; Joshi, Vineet V.; Lavender, Curt A.

The Fuel Fabrication (FF) Pillar, a project within the U.S. High Performance Research Reactor Conversion program of the National Nuclear Security Administration’s Office of Material Management and Minimization, is tasked with the scale-up and commercialization of high-density monolithic U-Mo fuel for the conversion of appropriate research reactors to use of low-enriched fuel. The FF Pillar has made significant steps to demonstrate and optimize the baseline co-rolling process using commercial-scale equipment at both the Y-12 National Security Complex (Y-12) and BWX Technologies (BWXT). These demonstrations include the fabrication of the next irradiation experiment, Mini-Plate 1 (MP-1), and casting optimizations at Y-12.more » The FF Pillar uses a detailed process flow diagram to identify potential gaps in processing knowledge or demonstration, which helps direct the strategic research agenda of the FF Pillar. This paper describes the significant progress made toward understanding the fuel characteristics, and models developed to make informed decisions, increase process yield, and decrease lifecycle waste and costs.« less

Polarization Processing Techniques Study

DTIC Science & Technology

1979-11-01

Scattere,’" IEEE Trans on AES, Vol 3, pp 171-178, 1967. - m ---: - .Jmm5 a mi •i• . Q AMODEL FOR THE SLVVLA TION OF THE SPECTRA L AND GEORGE A...Mr. Masaaki (Tom) Fujita FEB it so Dr. George Ioannidis Dr. i’han Levan Dr. Jeffery Bell Mr. Charles Lucas AMOED M PBM EAS. ISTRIUTKJN INUMIMiD I c.L...FinalUF STtY’ n " -- - p~ar 7S8 Var 79.L, Mr. t lber ~.i 4MJI George /7fioannz~ff1,;- WS"’’ wx.~~ ~ ~ ~ I.ler ~er30602-7F-C-01.39IF Dr. J~ni Ha-ezE Dr. Jeff

Lower extremity joint loads in habitual rearfoot and mid/forefoot strike runners with normal and shortened stride lengths.

PubMed

Boyer, Elizabeth R; Derrick, Timothy R

2018-03-01

Our purpose was to compare joint loads between habitual rearfoot (hRF) and habitual mid/forefoot strikers (hFF), rearfoot (RFS) and mid/forefoot strike (FFS) patterns, and shorter stride lengths (SLs). Thirty-eight hRF and hFF ran at their normal SL, 5% and 10% shorter, as well as with the opposite foot strike. Three-dimensional ankle, knee, patellofemoral (PF) and hip contact forces were calculated. Nearly all contact forces decreased with a shorter SL (1.2-14.9% relative to preferred SL). In general, hRF had higher PF (hRF-RFS: 10.8 ± 1.4, hFF-FFS: 9.9 ± 2.0 BWs) and hip loads (axial hRF-RFS: -9.9 ± 0.9, hFF-FFS: -9.6 ± 1.0 BWs) than hFF. Many loads were similar between foot strike styles for the two groups, including axial and lateral hip, PF, posterior knee and shear ankle contact forces. Lateral knee and posterior hip contact forces were greater for RFS, and axial ankle and knee contact forces were greater for FFS. The tibia may be under greater loading with a FFS because of these greater axial forces. Summarising, a particular foot strike style does not universally decrease joint contact forces. However, shortening one's SL 10% decreased nearly all lower extremity contact forces, so it may hold potential to decrease overuse injuries associated with excessive joint loads.

Attachment and spreadout study of 3T3 cells onto PP track etched films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smolko, Eduardo; Mazzei, Ruben; Tadey, Daniel; Lombardo, Daniel

2001-12-01

Polymer surface modifications are obtained by the application of radiation treatments and other physico-chemical methods: fission fragment (ff) irradiation and etching. The biocompatibility of the surface is then observed by cell seeding and cell adhesion experiments. Approaches to improvement of the cell adhesion are obtained by different methods: for example, in PS, cell adhesion is improved after ion implantation; in PMMA, after bombarding the polymer, the surface is reconditioned with surfactants and proteins and in PVDF, cell adhesion is assayed on nuclear tracks membranes. In this work, we obtained important cell adhesion improvements in PP films by irradiation with swift heavy ions and subsequent etching of the nuclear tracks. We use BOPP (isotactic -25 μm thickness). Irrradiations were performed with a Cf-252 californium ff source. The source has a heavy ff and a light one, with 160-200 MeV energy divided among them corresponding to ff energies between 1 and 2 MeV/amu. A chemical etching procedure consisting of a solution of sulphuric acid and chromium three oxide at 85 °C was used. The 3T3 NIH fibroblast cell line was used for the cell adhesion experiment. Here we report for the first time, the results of a series of experiments by varying the ff fluence and the etching time showing that attachment and spreadout of cells are very much improved in this cell line according to the number of pores and the pore size.

Topological Fulde-Ferrell and Larkin-Ovchinnikov states in spin-orbit-coupled lattice system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, Yao-Wu; Chen, Yan

2018-04-01

The spin-orbit coupled lattice system under Zeeman fields provides an ideal platform to realize exotic pairing states. Notable examples range from the topological superfluid/superconducting (tSC) state, which is gapped in the bulk but metallic at the edge, to the Fulde-Ferrell (FF) state (having a phase-modulated order parameter with a uniform amplitude) and the Larkin-Ovchinnikov (LO) state (having a spatially varying order parameter amplitude). Here, we show that the topological FF state with Chern number ( C = -1) (tFF1) and topological LO state with C= 2 (tLO2) can be stabilized in Rashba spin-orbit coupled lattice systems in the presence of both in-plane and out-of-plane Zeeman fields. Besides the inhomogeneous tSC states, in the presence of a weak in-plane Zeeman field, two topological BCS phases may emerge with C = -1 (tBCS1) far from half filling and C = 2 (tBCS2) near half filling. We show intriguing effects such as different spatial profiles of order parameters for FF and LO states, the topological evolution among inhomogeneous tSC states, and different non-trivial Chern numbers for the tFF1 and tLO1,2 states, which are peculiar to the lattice system. Global phase diagrams for various topological phases are presented for both half-filling and doped cases. The edge states as well as local density of states spectra are calculated for tSC states in a 2D strip.

Leptin and leptin receptor are detectable in equine spermatozoa but are not involved in in vitro fertilisation.

PubMed

Lange-Consiglio, Anna; Corradetti, Bruna; Perrini, Claudia; Bizzaro, Davide; Cremonesi, Fausto

2016-04-01

In human and swine, leptin (OB) has been identified in seminal plasma and leptin receptors (OB-R) on the cell surface of spermatozoa, indicating that spermatozoa are a target for OB. This hormone has also been detected in follicular fluid (FF) in women and mares, although its role requires further study. The aims of this study were to investigate the immunolocalisation and the expression of OB and OB-R in equine spermatozoa and to evaluate the involvement of OB in equine in vitro fertilisation (IVF). Since progesterone (P) and OB are both found in FF, the individual and combined effects of these two hormones were studied in equine IVF and compared with the results obtained from the use of FF for in vitro sperm preparation. For the first time, we were able to identify OB and OB-R mRNA and their corresponding proteins in equine spermatozoa. When spermatozoa were treated with OB, there was a decrease in the three motility parameters VSL, STR and LIN, commonly associated with hyperactivation, whilst the acrosome reaction rate increased (P<0.05). The fertilisation rate was 51% with FF, 46.15% with P, 43.64% with P+OB and 0% with OB alone. The percentage of eight-cell stage embryos was 18.7% with FF, 17.1% with P and 16.7% with OB+P. OB alone did not permit oocyte fertilisation, indicating that, in the horse, OB is involved in capacitation and hyperactivation but not in sperm penetration.

Chronic Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis With a Usual Interstitial Pneumonia-Like Pattern: Correlation Between Histopathologic and Clinical Findings.

PubMed

Chiba, Sahoko; Tsuchiya, Kimitake; Akashi, Takumi; Ishizuka, Masahiro; Okamoto, Tsukasa; Furusawa, Haruhiko; Tateishi, Tomoya; Kishino, Mitsuhiro; Miyazaki, Yasunari; Tateishi, Ukihide; Takemura, Tamiko; Inase, Naohiko

2016-06-01

Hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) is an interstitial lung disease caused by the inhalation of environmental antigens. The relationship between clinical, radiologic, and histopathologic findings of chronic HP remains unclear. Sixteen patients with proven chronic bird-related HP with a usual interstitial pneumonia-like pattern were analyzed retrospectively. Histopathologic findings were semiquantitatively assessed and compared with clinical and radiologic findings. We also evaluated the histopathologic findings affecting prognosis. The extent of centrilobular fibrosis was negatively correlated with Pao2 (r = -0.55, P = .03). The extent of bridging fibrosis was positively correlated with the ratio of maximal expiratory flow at 50% of forced vital capacity to that at 25% (r = 0.60, P = .02). Patients with a greater extent of fibroblastic foci (FF) had more radiologic reticulation (P = .01), honeycombing (P = .01), and traction bronchiectasis (P = .02), and had significantly shorter survival time (P = .01) than patients with a lesser extent of FF. Multivariate analysis showed that the extent of FF was a significant prognostic factor (hazard ratio, 2.36; 95% confidence interval, 1.02-5.48; P = .04). Our findings demonstrated that the extent of FF was significantly associated with reticulation, honeycombing, and traction bronchiectasis on high-resolution CT scanning. Moreover, the extent of FF could be a useful predictor of mortality in chronic HP with a usual interstitial pneumonia-like pattern. Copyright © 2016 American College of Chest Physicians. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Further along the Road Less Traveled: AMBER ff15ipq, an Original Protein Force Field Built on a Self-Consistent Physical Model

PubMed Central

2016-01-01

We present the AMBER ff15ipq force field for proteins, the second-generation force field developed using the Implicitly Polarized Q (IPolQ) scheme for deriving implicitly polarized atomic charges in the presence of explicit solvent. The ff15ipq force field is a complete rederivation including more than 300 unique atomic charges, 900 unique torsion terms, 60 new angle parameters, and new atomic radii for polar hydrogens. The atomic charges were derived in the context of the SPC/Eb water model, which yields more-accurate rotational diffusion of proteins and enables direct calculation of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) relaxation parameters from molecular dynamics simulations. The atomic radii improve the accuracy of modeling salt bridge interactions relative to contemporary fixed-charge force fields, rectifying a limitation of ff14ipq that resulted from its use of pair-specific Lennard-Jones radii. In addition, ff15ipq reproduces penta-alanine J-coupling constants exceptionally well, gives reasonable agreement with NMR relaxation rates, and maintains the expected conformational propensities of structured proteins/peptides, as well as disordered peptides—all on the microsecond (μs) time scale, which is a critical regime for drug design applications. These encouraging results demonstrate the power and robustness of our automated methods for deriving new force fields. All parameters described here and the mdgx program used to fit them are included in the AmberTools16 distribution. PMID:27399642

Usefulness of a Short Dietary Propensity Questionnaire in Japan.

PubMed

Okuda, Nagako; Itai, Kazuyoshi; Okayama, Akira

2018-05-01

There is a growing need for nutritional education for prevention and non-pharmacological treatment of risk factors for cardiovascular diseases (CVD). We compared the results of a short dietary propensity questionnaire (SDPQ) with those from the food frequency and quantity survey (FF Quantity), which had been previously quantitatively assessed by comparison with the 24-hr dietary recall (24hr-DR), to examine the usefulness of the SDPQ. The SDPQ was designed to assess dietary propensities of 12 food/nutrients relevant to CVD risk factors. We conducted a dietary survey using the SDPQ on Japanese men and women. After 2-3 weeks, we conducted the FF Quantity survey with the same participants. For each of the 12 food/nutrient categories, the relationships between quintiles of results from the SDPQ and FF Quantity were examined. Results from 79 participants who completed both surveys were used. Spearman's correlation coefficients (r) were significant for all food/nutrient categories. Good correlations were found with alcohol (r=0.792), starchy foods (r=0.566), and milk and dairy products (r=0.687), for which good correlations between the FF Quantity and 24hr-DR had been observed previously. Moderate correlations were found for vegetables (r=0.386) and high-salt foods (r=0.505), although the FF Quantity survey poorly correlated with the 24hr-DR. The SDPQ may be useful for assessment of dietary propensities for alcohol, starchy foods, and milk and dairy products in Japan.

Remote sensing information for fire management and fire effects assessment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chuvieco, Emilio; Kasischke, Eric S.

2007-03-01

Over the past decade, much research has been carried out on the utilization of advanced geospatial technologies (remote sensing and geographic information systems) in the fire science and fire management disciplines. Recent advances in these technologies were the focus of a workshop sponsored by the EARSEL special interest group (SIG) on forest fires (FF-SIG) and the Global Observation of Forest and Land Cover Dynamics (GOFC-GOLD) fire implementation team. Here we summarize the framework and the key findings of papers submitted from this meeting and presented in this special section. These papers focus on the latest advances for near real-time monitoring of active fires, prediction of fire hazards and danger, monitoring of fuel moisture, mapping of fuel types, and postfire assessment of the impacts from fires.

Contagious Deposition of Seeds in Spider Monkeys' Sleeping Trees Limits Effective Seed Dispersal in Fragmented Landscapes

PubMed Central

González-Zamora, Arturo; Arroyo-Rodríguez, Víctor; Escobar, Federico; Rös, Matthias; Oyama, Ken; Ibarra-Manríquez, Guillermo; Stoner, Kathryn E.; Chapman, Colin A.

2014-01-01

The repeated use of sleeping sites by frugivorous vertebrates promotes the deposition and aggregation of copious amounts of seeds in these sites. This spatially contagious pattern of seed deposition has key implications for seed dispersal, particularly because such patterns can persist through recruitment. Assessing the seed rain patterns in sleeping sites thus represents a fundamental step in understanding the spatial structure and regeneration of plant assemblages. We evaluated the seed rain produced by spider monkeys (Ateles geoffroyi) in latrines located beneath 60 sleeping trees in two continuous forest sites (CFS) and three forest fragments (FF) in the Lacandona rainforest, Mexico. We tested for differences among latrines, among sites, and between forest conditions in the abundance, diversity (α-, β- and, γ-components) and evenness of seed assemblages. We recorded 45,919 seeds ≥5 mm (in length) from 68 species. The abundance of seeds was 1.7 times higher in FF than in CFS, particularly because of the dominance of a few plant species. As a consequence, community evenness tended to be lower within FF. β-diversity of common and dominant species was two times greater among FF than between CFS. Although mean α-diversity per latrine did not differ among sites, the greater β-diversity among latrines in CFS increased γ-diversity in these sites, particularly when considering common and dominant species. Our results support the hypothesis that fruit scarcity in FF can ‘force’ spider monkeys to deplete the available fruit patches more intensively than in CFS. This feeding strategy can limit the effectiveness of spider monkeys as seed dispersers in FF, because (i) it can limit the number of seed dispersers visiting such fruit patches; (ii) it increases seed dispersal limitation; and (iii) it can contribute to the floristic homogenization (i.e., reduced β-diversity among latrines) in fragmented landscapes. PMID:24586705

Continuity of the West Napa–Franklin fault zone inferred from guided waves generated by earthquakes following the 24 August 2014 Mw 6.0 South Napa earthquake

USGS Publications Warehouse

Catchings, Rufus D.; Goldman, Mark R.; Li, Yong-Gang; Chan, Joanne

2016-01-01

We measure peak ground velocities from fault‐zone guided waves (FZGWs), generated by on‐fault earthquakes associated with the 24 August 2014 Mw 6.0 South Napa earthquake. The data were recorded on three arrays deployed across north and south of the 2014 surface rupture. The observed FZGWs indicate that the West Napa fault zone (WNFZ) and the Franklin fault (FF) are continuous in the subsurface for at least 75 km. Previously published potential‐field data indicate that the WNFZ extends northward to the Maacama fault (MF), and previous geologic mapping indicates that the FF extends southward to the Calaveras fault (CF); this suggests a total length of at least 110 km for the WNFZ–FF. Because the WNFZ–FF appears contiguous with the MF and CF, these faults apparently form a continuous Calaveras–Franklin–WNFZ–Maacama (CFWM) fault that is second only in length (∼300  km) to the San Andreas fault in the San Francisco Bay area. The long distances over which we observe FZGWs, coupled with their high amplitudes (2–10 times the S waves) suggest that strong shaking from large earthquakes on any part of the CFWM fault may cause far‐field amplified fault‐zone shaking. We interpret guided waves and seismicity cross sections to indicate multiple upper crustal splays of the WNFZ–FF, including a northward extension of the Southhampton fault, which may cause strong shaking in the Napa Valley and the Vallejo area. Based on travel times from each earthquake to each recording array, we estimate average P‐, S‐, and guided‐wave velocities within the WNFZ–FF (4.8–5.7, 2.2–3.2, and 1.1–2.8  km/s, respectively), with FZGW velocities ranging from 58% to 93% of the average S‐wave velocities.

Gene regulation associated with sexual development and female fertility in different isolates of Trichoderma reesei.

PubMed

Dattenböck, Christoph; Tisch, Doris; Schuster, Andre; Monroy, Alberto Alonso; Hinterdobler, Wolfgang; Schmoll, Monika

2018-01-01

Trichoderma reesei is one of the most frequently used filamentous fungi in industry for production of homologous and heterologous proteins. The ability to use sexual crossing in this fungus was discovered several years ago and opens up new perspectives for industrial strain improvement and investigation of gene regulation. Here we investigated the female sterile strain QM6a in comparison to the fertile isolate CBS999.97 and backcrossed derivatives of QM6a, which have regained fertility (FF1 and FF2 strains) in both mating types under conditions of sexual development. We found considerable differences in gene regulation between strains with the CBS999.97 genetic background and the QM6a background. Regulation patterns of QM6a largely clustered with the backcrossed FF1 and FF2 strains. Differential regulation between QM6a and FF1/FF2 as well as clustering of QM6a patterns with those of CBS999.97 strains was also observed. Consistent mating type dependent regulation was limited to mating type genes and those involved in pheromone response, but included also nta1 encoding a putative N-terminal amidase previously not associated with development. Comparison of female sterile QM6a with female fertile strains showed differential expression in genes encoding several transcription factors, metabolic genes and genes involved in secondary metabolism. Evaluation of the functions of genes specifically regulated under conditions of sexual development and of genes with highest levels of transcripts under these conditions indicated a relevance of secondary metabolism for sexual development in T. reesei . Among others, the biosynthetic genes of the recently characterized SOR cluster are in this gene group. However, these genes are not essential for sexual development, but rather have a function in protection and defence against competitors during reproduction.

Spatial and temporal variability of carbonaceous aerosols: Assessing the impact of biomass burning in the urban environment.

PubMed

Titos, G; Del Águila, A; Cazorla, A; Lyamani, H; Casquero-Vera, J A; Colombi, C; Cuccia, E; Gianelle, V; Močnik, G; Alastuey, A; Olmo, F J; Alados-Arboledas, L

2017-02-01

Biomass burning (BB) is a significant source of atmospheric particles in many parts of the world. Whereas many studies have demonstrated the importance of BB emissions in central and northern Europe, especially in rural areas, its impact in urban air quality of southern European countries has been sparsely investigated. In this study, highly time resolved multi-wavelength absorption coefficients together with levoglucosan (BB tracer) mass concentrations were combined to apportion carbonaceous aerosol sources. The Aethalometer model takes advantage of the different spectral behavior of BB and fossil fuel (FF) combustion aerosols. The model was found to be more sensitive to the assumed value of the aerosol Ångström exponent (AAE) for FF (AAE ff ) than to the AAE for BB (AAE bb ). As result of various sensitivity tests the model was optimized with AAE ff =1.1 and AAE bb =2. The Aethalometer model and levoglucosan tracer estimates were in good agreement. The Aethalometer model was further applied to data from three sites in Granada urban area to evaluate the spatial variation of CM ff and CM bb (carbonaceous matter from FF or BB origin, respectively) concentrations within the city. The results showed that CM bb was lower in the city centre while it has an unexpected profound impact on the CM levels measured in the suburbs (about 40%). Analysis of BB tracers with respect to wind speed suggested that BB was dominated by sources outside the city, to the west in a rural area. Distinguishing whether it corresponds to agricultural waste burning or with biomass burning for domestic heating was not possible. This study also shows that although traffic restrictions measures contribute to reduce carbonaceous concentrations, the extent of the reduction is very local. Other sources such as BB, which can contribute to CM as much as traffic emissions, should be targeted to reduce air pollution. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

SU-E-T-670: Radiotherapy Vault Shielding Evaluation Method for a Flattening Filter-Free (FFF) Linac-Practical Considerations and Recommendations

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

Mihailidis, D

2015-06-15

Purpose: To date, there isn’t formal approach for flattening filter-free (FFF) linac vault shielding evaluation, thus, we propose an extension to NCRP#151 to accommodate the recent large number of FFF linac installations.Methods and Materials: We extended the approach in NCRP#151 to design two Truebeam vaults in our new cancer center for hypofractionated treatments. Monte Carlo calculations have characterized primary, scattered, leakage and neutron radiations from FFF-modes. These calculations have shown that: a) FFF primary beam is softer on the central-axis compared to flattening filtered (FF), b) the lateral dose profile is peaked on the central axis and less integral targetmore » current is required to generate the same tumor dose with the FF beam. Thus, the TVLs for FFF mode are smaller than those of the FF mode and the scatter functions of the FF mode (NCRP#151) may not be appropriate for FFF-mode, c) the neutron source strength and fluence for 18X-FFF is smaller than 18X-FF, but it is not of a concern here, no 18X-FFF-mode is available on the linac under investigation. Results: These barrier thickness are smaller (12% reduction on the average) than those computed for conventional FF mode with same realistic primary workload since, the primary TVLs used here are smaller and the WL is smaller than the conventional (almost half reduced), keeping the TADR in tolerance. Conclusions: A comprehensive method for shielding barrier calculations based on dedicated data for FFF-mode linacs is highly desired. Meanwhile, we provide an extension to NCRP#151 to accommodate the shielding design of such installations. It is also shown that if a vault is already designed for IMRT/VMAT and SABR hypofractionated treatments with FFF-mode linac, the vault can also be used for a FFF mode linac replacement, leaving some leeway for slightly higher workload on the FFF linac.« less

Supplementation with Japanese bunching onion (Allium fistulosum L.) expressing a single alien chromosome from shallot increases the antioxidant activity of Kamaboko fish jelly paste in vitro

PubMed Central

HARADA, KAZUKI; WADA, RITSUKO; YAGUCHI, SHIGENORI; MAEDA, TOSHIMICHI; DATE, RIE; TOKUNAGA, TAKUSHI; KAZUMURA, KIMIKO; SHIMADA, KAZUKO; MATSUMOTO, MISATO; WAKO, TADAYUKI; YAMAUCHI, NAOKI; SHIGYO, MASAYOSHI

2013-01-01

Kamaboko is a traditional type of processed seafood made from fish jelly paste that is unique to Japan. We supplemented Kamaboko with Japanese bunching onion (Allium fistulosum L.) with an alien monosome from shallot (Allium cepa L. Aggregatum group) and we measured in vitro the oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) value, an index of antioxidant activity. We also evaluated the results of sensory testing. The ORAC value of plain Kamaboko was 166±14 μmol trolox equivalent (TE)/100 g fresh weight (FW). The values of the edible Alliaceae powder, i.e., Japanese bunching onion (JBO, genome FF, 2n=2x=16) and the alien addition line of JBO carrying the 6A chromosome from shallot (FF+6A, 2n=2x+1=17), were 6,659±238 and 14,096±635 μmol TE/100 g dry weight (DW). We hypothesized that the 6A chromosome encoded the enhancement of polyphenol production. Subsequently, we created Kamaboko containing 4.8% JBO powder or 4.8% FF+6A powder. The ORAC value of each modified Kamaboko product was increased to 376±24 μmol TE/100 g FW for the JBO powder and to 460±16 μmol TE/100 g FW for the FF+6A powder, respectively. We next created Kamaboko containing 9.0% JBO powder or 9.0% FF+6A powder and the ORAC values of the respective modified Kamaboko products was increased to 671±16 and 740±21 μmol TE/100 g FW, i.e., 4.1- and 4.5-times the value of plain Kamaboko. Consequently, taking into consideration the sensory evaluation regarding taste and appearance as well, the use of Kamaboko supplemented with 4.8% FF+6A powder is recommended. PMID:24648948

Carbon cluster formation during thermal decomposition of octahydro-1,3,5,7-tetranitro-1,3,5,7-tetrazocine and 1,3,5-triamino-2,4,6-trinitrobenzene high explosives from ReaxFF reactive molecular dynamics simulations.

PubMed

Zhang, Luzheng; Zybin, Sergey V; van Duin, Adri C T; Dasgupta, Siddharth; Goddard, William A; Kober, Edward M

2009-10-08

We report molecular dynamics (MD) simulations using the first-principles-based ReaxFF reactive force field to study the thermal decomposition of 1,3,5-triamino-2,4,6-trinitrobenzene (TATB) and octahydro-1,3,5,7-tetranitro-1,3,5,7-tetrazocine (HMX) at various densities and temperatures. TATB is known to produce a large amount (15-30%) of high-molecular-weight carbon clusters, whereas detonation of nitramines such as HMX and RDX (1,3,5-trinitroperhydro-1,3,5-triazine) generate predominantly low-molecular-weight products. In agreement with experimental observation, these simulations predict that TATB decomposition quickly (by 30 ps) initiates the formation of large carbonaceous clusters (more than 4000 amu, or approximately 15-30% of the total system mass), and HMX decomposition leads almost exclusively to small-molecule products. We find that HMX decomposes readily on this time scale at lower temperatures, for which the decomposition rate of TATB is about an order of magnitude slower. Analyzing the ReaxFF MD results leads to the detailed atomistic structure of this carbon-rich phase of TATB and allows characterization of the kinetics and chemistry related to this phase and their dependence on system density and temperature. The carbon-rich phase formed from TATB contains mainly polyaromatic rings with large oxygen content, leading to graphitic regions. We use these results to describe the initial reaction steps of thermal decomposition of HMX and TATB in terms of the rates for forming primary and secondary products, allowing comparison to experimentally derived models. These studies show that MD using the ReaxFF reactive force field provides detailed atomistic information that explains such macroscopic observations as the dramatic difference in carbon cluster formation between TATB and HMX. This shows that ReaxFF MD captures the fundamental differences in the mechanisms of such systems and illustrates how the ReaxFF may be applied to model complex chemical phenomena in energetic materials. The studies here illustrate this for modestly sized systems and modest periods; however, ReaxFF calculations of reactive processes have already been reported on systems with approximately 10(6) atoms. Thus, with suitable computational facilities, one can study the atomistic level chemical processes in complex systems under extreme conditions.

Characterisation of flattening filter free (FFF) beam properties for initial beam set-up and routine QA, independent of flattened beams

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Paynter, D.; Weston, S. J.; Cosgrove, V. P.; Thwaites, D. I.

2018-01-01

Flattening filter free (FFF) beams have reached widespread use for clinical treatment deliveries. The usual methods for FFF beam characterisation for their quality assurance (QA) require the use of associated conventional flattened beams (cFF). Methods for QA of FFF without the need to use associated cFF beams are presented and evaluated against current methods for both FFF and cFF beams. Inflection point normalisation is evaluated against conventional methods for the determination of field size and penumbra for field sizes from 3 cm  ×  3 cm to 40 cm  ×  40cm at depths from dmax to 20 cm in water for matched and unmatched FFF beams and for cFF beams. A method for measuring symmetry in the cross plane direction is suggested and evaluated as FFF beams are insensitive to symmetry changes in this direction. Methods for characterising beam energy are evaluated and the impact of beam energy on profile shape compared to that of cFF beams. In-plane symmetry can be measured, as can cFF beams, using observed changes in profile, whereas cross-plane symmetry can be measured by acquiring profiles at collimator angles 0 and 180. Beam energy and ‘unflatness’ can be measured as with cFF beams from observed shifts in profile with changing beam energy. Normalising the inflection points of FFF beams to 55% results in an equivalent penumbra and field size measurement within 0.5 mm of conventional methods with the exception of 40 cm  ×  40 cm fields at a depth of 20 cm. New proposed methods are presented that make it possible to independently carry out set up and QA measurements on beam energy, flatness, symmetry and field size of an FFF beam without the need to reference to an equivalent flattened beam of the same energy. The methods proposed can also be used to carry out this QA for flattened beams, resulting in universal definitions and methods for MV beams. This is presented for beams produced by an Elekta linear accelerator, but is anticipated to also apply to other manufacturers’ beams.

The influence of nutrition on the insulin-like growth factor system and the concentrations of growth hormone, glucose, insulin, gonadotropins and progesterone in ovarian follicular fluid and plasma from adult female horses (Equus caballus)

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background Feed intake affects the GH-IGF system and may be a key factor in determining the ovarian follicular growth rate. In fat mares, the plasma IGF-1 concentration is high with low GH and a quick follicular growth rate, in contrast to values observed in thin mares. Nothing is known regarding the long-term effects of differential feed intake on the IGF system. The objective of this experiment was to quantify IGFs, IGFBPs, GH, glucose, insulin, gonadotropin and progesterone (P4) in blood and in preovulatory follicular fluid (FF) in relation to feeding levels in mares. Methods Three years prior to the experiment, Welsh Pony mares were assigned to a restricted diet group (R, n = 10) or a well-fed group (WF, n = 9). All mares were in good health and exhibited differences in body weight and subcutaneous fat thickness. Follicular development was scanned daily and plasma was also collected daily. Preovulatory FF was collected by ultrasound-guided follicular aspiration. Hormone levels were assayed in FF and plasma with a validated RIA. Results According to scans, the total number of follicles in group R was 53% lower than group WF. Insulin and IGF-1 concentrations were higher in WF than in R mares. GH and IGF-2 concentrations were lower in plasma from WF mares than from R mares, but the difference was not significant in FF. The IGFBP-2/IGFBP-3 ratio in FF was not affected by feeding but was dramatically increased in R mare plasma. No difference in gonadotropin concentration was found with the exception of FSH, which was higher in the plasma of R mares. On the day of puncture, P4 concentrations were not affected by feeding but were higher in preovulatory FF than in plasma. Conclusions The bioavailability of IGF-1 or IGF-2, represented by the IGFBP2/IGFBP3 ratio, is modified by feed intake in plasma but not in FF. These differences partially explain the variability in follicular growth observed between well-fed mares and mares on restricted diets. PMID:25078409

Impact of follicular G-CSF quantification on subsequent embryo transfer decisions: a proof of concept study.

PubMed

Lédée, N; Gridelet, V; Ravet, S; Jouan, C; Gaspard, O; Wenders, F; Thonon, F; Hincourt, N; Dubois, M; Foidart, J M; Munaut, C; Perrier d'Hauterive, S

2013-02-01

Previous experiments have shown that granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), quantified in the follicular fluid (FF) of individual oocytes, correlates with the potential for an ongoing pregnancy of the corresponding fertilized oocytes among selected transferred embryos. Here we present a proof of concept study aimed at evaluating the impact of including FF G-CSF quantification in the embryo transfer decisions. FF G-CSF was quantified with the Luminex XMap technology in 523 individual FF samples corresponding to 116 fresh transferred embryos, 275 frozen embryos and 131 destroyed embryos from 78 patients undergoing ICSI. Follicular G-CSF was highly predictive of subsequent implantation. The receiving operator characteristics curve methodology showed its higher discriminatory power to predict ongoing pregnancy in multivariate logistic regression analysis for FF G-CSF compared with embryo morphology [0.77 (0.69-0.83), P < 0.001 versus 0.66 (0.58-0.73), P = 0.01)]. Embryos were classified by their FF G-CSF concentration: Class I over 30 pg/ml (a highest positive predictive value for implantation), Class II from 30 to 18.4 pg/ml and Class III <18.4 pg/ml (a highest negative predictive value). Embryos derived from Class I follicles had a significantly higher implantation rate (IR) than those from Class II and III follicles (36 versus 16.6 and 6%, P < 0.001). Embryos derived from Class I follicles with an optimal morphology reached an IR of 54%. Frozen-thawed embryos transfer derived from Class I follicles had an IR of 37% significantly higher than those from Class II and III follicles, respectively, of 8 and 5% (P < 0.001). Thirty-five per cent of the frozen embryos but also 10% of the destroyed embryos were derived from G-CSF Class I follicles. Non-optimal embryos appear to have been transferred in 28% (22/78) of the women, and their pregnancy rate was significantly lower than that of women who received at least one optimal embryo (18 versus 36%, P = 0.04). Monitoring FF G-CSF for the selection of embryos with a better potential for pregnancy might improve the effectiveness of IVF by reducing the time and cost required for obtaining a pregnancy.

Recovery of Muscle Strength After Intact Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair According to Preoperative Rotator Cuff Tear Size.

PubMed

Shin, Sang-Jin; Chung, Jaeyoon; Lee, Juyeob; Ko, Young-Won

2016-04-01

The recovery of muscle strength after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair based on the preoperative tear size has not yet been well described. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the recovery period of muscle strength by a serial assessment of isometric strength after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair based on the preoperative tear size. The hypothesis was that muscle strength in patients with small and medium tears would recover faster than that in those with large-to-massive tears. Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. A total of 164 patients who underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair were included. Isometric strength in forward flexion (FF), internal rotation (IR), and external rotation (ER) was evaluated preoperatively and at 6, 12, 18, and 24 months after surgery. Preoperative magnetic resonance imaging scans were assessed to evaluate the quality of the rotator cuff muscle, including fatty infiltration, occupation ratio, and tangent sign. Patient satisfaction as well as visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES), and Constant scores were assessed at every follow-up. Muscle strength demonstrated the slowest recovery in pain relief and the restoration of shoulder function. To reach the strength of the uninjured contralateral shoulder in all 3 planes of motion, recovery took 6 months in patients with small tears and 18 months in patients with medium tears. Patients with large-to-massive tears showed continuous improvement in strength up to 18 months; however, they did not reach the strength of the contralateral shoulder at final follow-up. At final follow-up, mean strength in FF, IR, and ER was 113.0%, 118.0%, and 112.6% of the contralateral shoulder in patients with small tears, respectively; 105.0%, 112.1%, and 102.6% in patients with medium tears, respectively; and 87.6%, 89.5%, and 85.2% in patients with large-to-massive tears, respectively. Muscle strength in any direction did not significantly correlate with postoperative patient satisfaction (P = .374, .515, and .692 for FF, IR, and ER, respectively), whereas it highly correlated with preoperative quality of the muscle. The recovery of muscle strength after arthroscopic repair was poorly correlated with patient satisfaction. This study recommends that regardless of pain relief and improved shoulder function, patients with larger than medium tears should be encouraged to continue with rehabilitation for the maximal restoration of muscle strength beyond 1 year postoperatively. © 2016 The Author(s).

Comparison of a 50 mL pycnometer and a 500 mL flask, EURAMET.M.FF.S8 (EURAMET 1297)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mićić, Ljiljana; Batista, Elsa

2018-01-01

The purpose of this comparison was to compare the results of the participating laboratories in the calibration of 50 mL pycnometer and 500 mL volumetric flask using the gravimetric method. Laboratories were asked to determined the 'contained' volume of the 50 mL pycnometer and of the 500 mL flask at a reference temperature of 20 °C. The gravimetric method was used for both instruments by all laboratories. Main text To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database kcdb.bipm.org/. The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCM, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).

Sex and Cultural Differences in the Acceptance of Functional Foods: A Comparison of American, Canadian, and French College Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kolodinsky, Jane; Labrecque, JoAnne; Doyon, Maurice; Reynolds, Travis; Oble, Frederic; Bellavance, Francois; Marquis, Marie

2008-01-01

Objective: "Functional foods" (FF)--foods containing nutritional supplements in addition to natural nutrients--have an increasing presence in the marketplace. Expanding on previous research, the authors investigated college students' acceptance of FF. Participants: In September-March 2004, 811 undergraduates in Canada, the United States,…

Parallel evolution of early and late feathering in turkey and chicken, same gene, different mutation

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The sex-linked slow (SF) and fast (FF) feathering rate at hatch has been widely used in poultry breeding for autosexing at hatching. In chicken, the sex-linked K (SF), and k+ (FF) alleles are responsible for the feathering rate phenotype in chicken. The K allele is dominant and a partial duplication...

Nano-Optoelectronic Integration on Silicon

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-12-14

hole recombination, a material gain spectrum can be derived as dE EE ffM mcn e g ing in vcr r 22 0 2 2 00 2... ffM mhc en r ing in vcr r sp          (4.3) 48 Figure 4.12 Fitting spontaneous emission spectrum. The experimental

Development and Validation of the Family Feedback on Child Welfare Services (FF-CWS)

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ayala-Nunes, Lara; Jiménez, Lucía; Hidalgo, Victoria; Dekovic, Maja; Jesus, Saul

2018-01-01

Objective: The measurement of Family Feedback on Child Welfare Services (FF-CWS) is gaining prominence as an efficacy indicator and is coherent with concerns about family-centered practice and empowerment. The aim of this study was to develop and validate an instrument that would overcome the scarcity of psychometrically sound measures in this…

Thermodynamic properties of hydrogen dissociation reaction from the small system method and reactive force field ReaxFF

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Trinh, Thuat T.; Meling, Nora; Bedeaux, Dick; Kjelstrup, Signe

2017-03-01

We present thermodynamic properties of the H2 dissociation reaction by means of the Small System Method (SSM) using Reactive Force Field (ReaxFF) simulations. Thermodynamic correction factors, partial molar enthalpies and heat capacities of the reactant and product were obtained in the high temperature range; up to 30,000 K. The results obtained from the ReaxFF potential agree well with previous results obtained with a three body potential (TBP). This indicates that the popular reactive force field method can be combined well with the newly developed SSM in realistic simulations of chemical reactions. The approach may be useful in the study of heat and mass transport in combination with chemical reactions.

Quasi-phase-matching of the dual-band nonlinear left-handed metamaterial

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

Liu, Yahong, E-mail: yhliu@nwpu.edu.cn; Song, Kun; Gu, Shuai

2014-11-17

We demonstrate a type of nonlinear meta-atom creating a dual-band nonlinear left-handed metamaterial (DNLHM). The DNLHM operates at two distinct left-handed frequency bands where there is an interval of one octave between the two center frequencies. Under the illumination of a high-power signal at the first left-handed frequency band corresponding to fundamental frequency (FF), second-harmonic generation (SHG) is observed at the second left-handed band. This means that our DNLHM supports backward-propagating waves both at FF and second-harmonic (SH) frequency. We also experimentally demonstrate quasi-phase-matching configurations for the backward SHG. This fancy parametric process can significantly transmits the SH generated bymore » an incident FF wave.« less

Relating engagement to outcomes in prevention: the case of a parenting program for couples.

PubMed

Brown, Louis D; Goslin, Megan C; Feinberg, Mark E

2012-09-01

Analyses of program engagement can provide critical insight into how program involvement leads to outcomes. This study examines the relation between participant engagement and program outcomes in Family Foundations (FF), a universal preventive intervention designed to help couples manage the transition to parenthood by improving coparenting relationship quality. Previous intent-to-treat outcome analyses from a randomized trial indicate FF improves parental adjustment, interparental relationships, and parenting. Analyses for the current study use the same sample, and yield statistically reliable relations between participant engagement and interparental relationships but not parental adjustment or parenting. Discussion considers implications for FF and the difficulties researchers face when examining the relation between engagement and outcomes in preventive interventions.

On the dynamics of composition of entire functions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Singh, Anand Prakash

2003-01-01

Let f be an entire function. For n in {bb N}, let f(n) denote the nth iterate of f. The set [ F(f)=\\{z:(f^n) is normal in some neighbourhood of z\\} ] is the Fatou set or the set of normality and its complement J(f) is the Julia set. If U is a component of F(f), then f(U) lies in some component V of F(f). If U_ncap U_m=phi for n ≠ m where U_n denotes the component of F(f) which contains f(n(U)) , then U is called a wandering domain, else U is called a pre-periodic domain, and if U_n = U for some n in {bb N} then U is called periodic domain.

Relating Engagement to Outcomes in Prevention: The Case of a Parenting Program for Couples

PubMed Central

Brown, Louis D.; Goslin, Megan C.; Feinberg, Mark E.

2011-01-01

Analyses of program engagement can provide critical insight into how program involvement leads to outcomes. This study examines the relation between participant engagement and program outcomes in Family Foundations (FF), a universal preventive intervention designed to help couples manage the transition to parenthood by improving coparenting relationship quality. Previous intent-to-treat outcome analyses from a randomized trial indicate FF improves parental adjustment, interparental relationships, and parenting. Analyses for the current study use the same sample, and yield statistically reliable relations between participant engagement and interparental relationships but not parental adjustment or parenting. Discussion considers implications for FF and the difficulities researchers face when examining the relation between engagement and outcomes in preventive interventions. PMID:21826536

NMSSM interpretation of the Galactic Center excess

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cheung, Clifford; Papucci, Michele; Sanford, David; Shah, Nausheen R.; Zurek, Kathryn M.

2014-10-01

We explore models for the GeV Galactic Center excess (GCE) observed by the Fermi Telescope, focusing on χχ→ff ¯ annihilation processes in the Z3 next-to-minimal supersymmetric standard model (NMSSM). We begin by examining the requirements for a simplified model [parametrized by the couplings and masses of dark matter (DM) and mediator particles] to reproduce the GCE via χχ→ff ¯, while simultaneously thermally producing the observed relic abundance. We apply the results of our simplified model to the Z3 NMSSM for singlino/Higgsino (S/H) or bino/Higgsino (B/H) DM. In the case of S/H DM, we find that the DM must be very close to a pseudoscalar resonance to be viable, and large tanβ and positive values of μ are preferred for evading direct detection constraints while simultaneously obtaining the observed Higgs mass. In the case of B/H DM, by contrast, the situation is much less tuned: annihilation generally occurs off resonance, and for large tanβ, direct detection constraints are easily satisfied by choosing μ sufficiently large and negative. The B/H model generally has a light, largely MSSM-like pseudoscalar with no accompanying charged Higgs, which could be searched for at the LHC.

"Functional foods compensate for an unhealthy lifestyle". Some Swedish consumers' impressions and perceived need of functional foods.

PubMed

Landström, Eva; Hursti, Ulla-Kaisa Koivisto; Magnusson, Maria

2009-08-01

The aim of the present study was to explore some Swedish consumers' impressions of and perceived need of functional foods. Data were collected through 10 focus groups. A total of 46 individuals participated (31 females, 18-75 years, and 16 males, 18-78 years). The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed by the use of content analysis. Uncertainties--e.g., if functional foods are normal foods or medicines, if the foods would give additional physiological effects and/or if the ingredients and substances could cause harm--caused questions among the interviewees of trustworthiness and a feeling of losing control. The interviewees debated on the necessity of functional foods. Apart from perceiving functional foods as unnatural, the interviewees thought that functional foods would falsely compensate for an unhealthy lifestyle. The use of functional foods was considered to be justified when a healthy lifestyle is incapable of improving people's health. The interviewees perceived themselves to be in no need of functional foods. They thought that the foods were meant for others, for those in unquestionable need. We conclude that the impressions of FF among Swedish consumers are complex and versatile. The necessity of FF was justified unless no other lifestyle changes were able to improve a person's state of health.

Study on emission of hazardous trace elements in a 350 MW coal-fired power plant. Part 1. Mercury.

PubMed

Zhao, Shilin; Duan, Yufeng; Chen, Lei; Li, Yaning; Yao, Ting; Liu, Shuai; Liu, Meng; Lu, Jianhong

2017-10-01

Hazardous trace elements (HTEs), especially mercury, emitted from coal-fired power plants had caused widespread concern worldwide. Field test on mercury emissions at three different loads (100%, 85%, 68% output) using different types of coal was conducted in a 350 MW pulverized coal combustion power plant equipped with selective catalytic reduction (SCR), electrostatic precipitator and fabric filter (ESP + FF), and wet flue gas desulfurization (WFGD). The Ontario Hydro Method was used for simultaneous flue gas mercury sampling for mercury at the inlet and outlet of each of the air pollutant control device (APCD). Results showed that mercury mass balance rates of the system or each APCD were in the range of 70%-130%. Mercury was mainly distributed in the flue gas, followed by ESP + FF ash, WFGD wastewater, and slag. Oxidized mercury (Hg 2+ ) was the main form of mercury form in the flue gas emitted to the atmosphere, which accounted for 57.64%-61.87% of total mercury. SCR was favorable for elemental mercury (Hg 0 ) removal, with oxidation efficiency of 50.13%-67.68%. ESP + FF had high particle-bound mercury (Hg p ) capture efficiency, at 99.95%-99.97%. Overall removal efficiency of mercury by the existing APCDs was 58.78%-73.32%. Addition of halogens or oxidants for Hg 0 conversion, and inhibitors for Hg 0 re-emission, plus the installation of a wet electrostatic precipitator (WESP) was a good way to improve the overall removal efficiency of mercury in the power plants. Mercury emission factor determined in this study was from 0.92 to 1.17 g/10 12 J. Mercury concentration in the emitted flue gas was much less than the regulatory limit of 30 μg/m 3 . Contamination of mercury in desulfurization wastewater should be given enough focus. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

An analysis of early oncologic head and neck free flap reoperations from the 2005-2012 ACS-NSQIP dataset.

PubMed

Ligh, Cassandra A; Nelson, Jonas A; Wink, Jason D; Gerety, Patrick A; Fischer, John P; Wu, Liza C; Kanchwala, Suhail K

2016-01-01

There are limited population-based studies that examine perioperative factors that influence postoperative surgical take-backs to the OR following free flap (FF) reconstruction for head/neck cancer extirpation. The purpose of this study was to critically analyse head/neck free flaps (HNFF) captured in the ACS-NSQIP dataset with a specific focus on postoperative complications and the incidence of factors associated with re-operation. The 2005-2012 ACS-NSQIP datasets were accessed to identify patients undergoing FF reconstruction after a diagnosis of head/neck cancer. Patient demographics, comorbidities, and perioperative risk factors were examined as covariates, and the primary outcome was return to OR within 30 days of surgery. A multivariate regression was performed to determine independent preoperative factors associated with this complication. In total, 855 patients underwent FF for head/neck reconstruction most commonly for the Tongue (24.7%) and Mouth/Floor/cavity (25.0%). Of these, 153 patients (17.9%) returned to the OR within 30 days of surgery. Patients in this cohort had higher rates of wound infections and dehiscence (p < 0.01). Medical complications were significantly higher and included pneumonia (12.4% vs 5.0%, p < 0.01), prolonged ventilation (16.3% vs 4.8%, p < 0.01), myocardial infarction (2.6% vs 0.6%, p = 0.017), and sepsis (7.2% vs 3.4%, p = 0.033). Regression analysis demonstrated that visceral flaps (OR = 9.7, p = 0.012) and hypoalbuminemia (OR = 2.4, p = 0.009) were significant predictors of a return to the OR. Based on data from the nationwide NSQIP dataset, up to 17% of HNFF return to the OR within 30 days. Although this data-set has some significant limitations, these results can cautiously help to improve preoperative patient optimisation and surgical decision-making.

Health care access and health care workforce for immigrant workers in the agriculture, forestry, and fisheries sector in the southeastern US.

PubMed

Frank, Arthur L; Liebman, Amy K; Ryder, Bobbi; Weir, Maria; Arcury, Thomas A

2013-08-01

The Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishery (AgFF) Sector workforce in the US is comprised primarily of Latino immigrants. Health care access for these workers is limited and increases health disparities. This article addresses health care access for immigrant workers in the AgFF Sector, and the workforce providing care to these workers. Immigrant workers bear a disproportionate burden of poverty and ill health and additionally face significant occupational hazards. AgFF laborers largely are uninsured, ineligible for benefits, and unable to afford health services. The new Affordable Care Act will likely not benefit such individuals. Community and Migrant Health Centers (C/MHCs) are the frontline of health care access for immigrant AgFF workers. C/MHCs offer discounted health services that are tailored to meet the special needs of their underserved clientele. C/MHCs struggle, however, with a shortage of primary care providers and staff prepared to treat occupational illness and injury among AgFF workers. A number of programs across the US aim to increase the number of primary care physicians and care givers trained in occupational health at C/MHCs. While such programs are beneficial, substantial action is needed at the national level to strengthen and expand the C/MHC system and to establish widely Medical Home models and Accountable Care Organizations. System-wide policy changes alone have the potential to reduce and eliminate the rampant health disparities experienced by the immigrant workers who sustain the vital Agricultural, Forestry, and Fishery sector in the US. Copyright © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Acanthocephalan parasites of slimy sculpin, Cottus cognatus, and Ninespine Stickleback, Pungitius pungitius, from Lake Michigan, U.S.A.

USGS Publications Warehouse

Muzzall, Patrick M.; Lima, Michael; Gentile, Alex; Gunn, Jacob; Jones, Amanda; Morrison, Jamie; French, John R. P.

2012-01-01

In total, 288 slimy sculpins, Cottus cognatus, were collected in September 2003 from 6 Lake Michigan, U.S.A., ports, along with 220 ninespine sticklebacks, Pungitius pungitius, from 3 ports. The ports included Waukegan, Illinois; Port Washington (PW) and Sturgeon Bay (SB), Wisconsin; and Manistique (MS), Frankfort (FF), Ludington (LD), and Saugatuck, Michigan. Echinorhynchus salmonis infected sculpins from 6 ports, Acanthocephalus dirus infected sculpins from 4 ports, and Neoechinorhynchus pungitius infected sculpins from 3 ports. Echinorhynchus salmonis infected significantly more sculpins at PW and at FF than at MS and LD. There were several significant differences in the intensities and abundances of E. salmonis among ports. Acanthocephalus dirus significantly infected more sculpins and had significantly higher abundances at FF than at PW, MS, and LD. Echinorhynchus salmonis, A. dirus, and N. pungitius infected sticklebacks from SB, MS, and FF. Neoechinorhynchus pungitius significantly infected more sculpins and more sticklebacks, and it had significantly higher abundances at MS than at FF. Neoechinorhynchus pungitius was the most common acanthocephalan in C. cognatus and P. pungitius at MS. These acanthocephalan species infecting C. cognatus and P. pungitius corresponded in their occurrence to those organisms that serve as their intermediate hosts found in the stomachs of both fish species. Potential changes in the diet of C. cognatus played a role in significant differences found for E. salmonis and N. pungitius at MS. One of these acanthocephalan species was always the most numerous helminth species found in the digestive tracts of P. pungitius and C. cognatus from these Lake Michigan ports.

Influence of finishing/polishing on color stability and surface roughness of composites submitted to accelerated artificial aging.

PubMed

Pinto, Gustavo Da Col dos Santos; Dias, Kleber Campioni; Cruvinel, Diogo Rodrigues; Garcia, Lucas da Fonseca Roberti; Consani, Simonides; Pires-De-Souza, Fernanda de Carvalho Panzeri

2013-01-01

To assess the influence of finishing/polishing procedure on color stability (ΔE ) and surface roughness (R(a)) of composites (Heliomolar and Tetric - color A2) submitted to accelerated artificial aging (AAA). Sixty test specimens were made of each composite (12 mm × 2 mm) and separated into six groups (n = 10), according to the type of finishing/polishing to which they were submitted: C, control; F, tip 3195 F; FF, tip 3195 FF; FP, tip 3195 F + diamond paste; FFP, tip 3195 FF + diamond paste; SF, Sof-Lex discs. After polishing, controlled by an electromechanical system, initial color (spectrophotometer PCB 6807 BYK GARDNER) and R(a) (roughness meter Surfcorder SE 1700, cut-off 0.25 mm) readings were taken. Next, the test specimens were submitted to the AAA procedure (C-UV Comexim) for 384 hours, and at the end of this period, new color readings and R(a) were taken. Statistical analysis [2-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), Bonferroni, P < 0.05] showed that all composites demonstrated ΔE alteration above the clinically acceptable limits, with the exception of Heliomolar composite in FP. The greatest ΔE alteration occurred for Tetric composite in SF (13.38 ± 2.10) statistically different from F and FF (P < 0.05). For R(a), Group F showed rougher samples than FF with statistically significant difference (P < 0.05). In spite of the surface differences, the different finishing/polishing procedures were not capable of providing color stability within the clinically acceptable limits.

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

Ghosh Deb, S.; Sinha, C.; Chattopadhyay, A.

The modification in the dynamics of the electron-impact ionization process of a Li{sup +} ion due to an intense linearly polarized monochromatic laser field (n{gamma}e,2e) is studied theoretically using coplanar geometry. Significant laser modifications are noted due to multiphoton effects both in the shape and magnitude of the triple-differential cross sections (TDCSs) with respect to the field-free (FF) situation. The net effect of the laser field is to suppress the FF cross sections in the zeroth-order approximation [Coulomb-Volkov (CV)] of the ejected electron wave function, while in the first order [modified Coulomb-Volkov (MCV)], the TDCSs are found to be enhancedmore » or suppressed depending on the kinematics of the process. The strong FF recoil dominance for the (e,2e) process of an ionic target at low incident energy is destroyed in the presence of the laser field. The FF binary-to-recoil ratio changes remarkably in the presence of the laser field, particularly at low incident energies. The difference between the multiphoton CV and the FF results indicates that for the ionic target, the Kroll-Watson sum rule does not hold well at the present energy range in contrast to the neutral atom (He) case. The TDCSs are found to be quite sensitive with respect to the initial phase of the laser field, particularly at higher incident energies. A significant qualitative difference is noted in the multiphoton ejected energy distribution (double-differential cross sections) between the CV and the MCV models. Variation of the TDCSs with respect to the laser phase is also studied.« less

Activity restriction induced by fear of falling and objective and subjective measures of physical function: a prospective cohort study.

PubMed

Deshpande, Nandini; Metter, E Jeffrey; Lauretani, Fulvio; Bandinelli, Stefania; Guralnik, Jack; Ferrucci, Luigi

2008-04-01

To examine whether activity restriction specifically induced by fear of falling (FF) contributes to greater risk of disability and decline in physical function. Prospective cohort study. Population-based older cohort. Six hundred seventy-three community-living elderly (> or = 65) participants in the Invecchiare in Chianti Study who reported FF. FF, fear-induced activity restriction, cognition, depressive symptoms, comorbidities, smoking history, and demographic factors were assessed at baseline. Disability in activities of daily living (ADLs) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) and performance on the Short Performance Physical Battery (SPPB) were evaluated at baseline and at the 3-year follow-up. One-quarter (25.5%) of participants did not report any activity restriction, 59.6% reported moderate activity restriction (restriction or avoidance of < 3 activities), and 14.9% reported severe activity restriction (restriction or avoidance of > or = 3 activities). The severe restriction group reported significantly higher IADL disability and worse SPPB scores than the no restriction and moderate restriction groups. Severe activity restriction was a significant independent predictor of worsening ADL disability and accelerated decline in lower extremity performance on SPPB over the 3-year follow-up. Severe and moderate activity restriction were independent predictors of worsening IADL disability. Results were consistent even after adjusting for multiple potential confounders. In an elderly population, activity restriction associated with FF is an independent predictor of decline in physical function. Future intervention studies in geriatric preventive care should directly address risk factors associated with FF and activity restriction to substantiate long-term effects on physical abilities and autonomy of older persons.

Design and conduct of an internet-based preconception cohort study in North America: Pregnancy Study Online (PRESTO)

PubMed Central

Wise, Lauren A; Rothman, Kenneth J.; Mikkelsen, Ellen M.; Stanford, Joseph B.; Wesselink, Amelia K.; McKinnon, Craig; Gruschow, Siobhan M.; Horgan, Casie E.; Wiley, Aleta S.; Hahn, Kristen A.; Sørensen, Henrik Toft; Hatch, Elizabeth E.

2015-01-01

Background We launched the Boston University Pregnancy Study Online (PRESTO) to assess the feasibility of carrying out an internet-based preconception cohort study in the U.S. and Canada. Methods We recruited female participants age 21–45 and their male partners through internet advertisements, word of mouth, and flyers. Female participants were randomized with 50% probability to receive a subscription to FertilityFriend.com (FF), a web-based program that collects real-time data on menstrual characteristics. We compared recruitment methods within PRESTO, assessed the cost-efficiency of PRESTO relative to its Danish counterpart (Snart-Gravid), and validated retrospectively-reported date of last menstrual period (LMP) against FF data. Results After 99 weeks of recruitment (2013–2015), 2,421 women enrolled; 1,384 (57%) invited their male partners to participate, of whom 693 (50%) enrolled. Baseline characteristics were balanced across randomization groups. Cohort retention was similar among those randomized vs. not randomized to FF (84% vs. 81%). At study enrollment, 56%, 22%, and 22% couples had been trying to conceive for <3, 3–5, and ≥6 months, respectively. The cost per subject enrolled was $146 (2013 $US), which was similar to our companion Danish study and half that of a traditional cohort study. Among FF users who conceived, >97% reported their LMP on the PRESTO questionnaire within 1 day of the LMP recorded via FF. Conclusions Use of the internet as a method of recruitment and follow-up in a North American preconception cohort study was feasible and cost-effective. PMID:26111445

Mesoscale eddies: hotspots of prokaryotic activity and differential community structure in the ocean.

PubMed

Baltar, Federico; Arístegui, Javier; Gasol, Josep M; Lekunberri, Itziar; Herndl, Gerhard J

2010-08-01

To investigate the effects of mesoscale eddies on prokaryotic assemblage structure and activity, we sampled two cyclonic eddies (CEs) and two anticyclonic eddies (AEs) in the permanent eddy-field downstream the Canary Islands. The eddy stations were compared with two far-field (FF) stations located also in the Canary Current, but outside the influence of the eddy field. The distribution of prokaryotic abundance (PA), bulk prokaryotic heterotrophic activity (PHA), various indicators of single-cell activity (such as nucleic acid content, proportion of live cells, and fraction of cells actively incorporating leucine), as well as bacterial and archaeal community structure were determined from the surface to 2000 m depth. In the upper epipelagic layer (0-200 m), the effect of eddies on the prokaryotic community was more apparent, as indicated by the higher PA, PHA, fraction of living cells, and percentage of active cells incorporating leucine within eddies than at FF stations. Prokaryotic community composition differed also between eddy and FF stations in the epipelagic layer. In the mesopelagic layer (200-1000 m), there were also significant differences in PA and PHA between eddy and FF stations, although in general, there were no clear differences in community composition or single-cell activity. The effects on prokaryotic activity and community structure were stronger in AE than CE, decreasing with depth in both types of eddies. Overall, both types of eddies show distinct community compositions (as compared with FF in the epipelagic), and represent oceanic 'hotspots' of prokaryotic activity (in the epi- and mesopelagic realms).

Automation of the CHARMM General Force Field (CGenFF) I: bond perception and atom typing

PubMed Central

Vanommeslaeghe, K.; MacKerell, A. D.

2012-01-01

Molecular mechanics force fields are widely used in computer-aided drug design for the study of drug-like molecules alone or interacting with biological systems. In simulations involving biological macromolecules, the biological part is typically represented by a specialized biomolecular force field, while the drug is represented by a matching general (organic) force field. In order to apply these general force fields to an arbitrary drug-like molecule, functionality for assignment of atom types, parameters and charges is required. In the present article, which is part I of a series of two, we present the algorithms for bond perception and atom typing for the CHARMM General Force Field (CGenFF). The CGenFF atom typer first associates attributes to the atoms and bonds in a molecule, such as valence, bond order, and ring membership among others. Of note are a number of features that are specifically required for CGenFF. This information is then used by the atom typing routine to assign CGenFF atom types based on a programmable decision tree. This allows for straightforward implementation of CGenFF’s complicated atom typing rules and for equally straightforward updating of the atom typing scheme as the force field grows. The presented atom typer was validated by assigning correct atom types on 477 model compounds including in the training set as well as 126 test-set molecules that were constructed to specifically verify its different components. The program may be utilized via an online implementation at https://www.paramchem.org/. PMID:23146088

Effects of the dimeric PSD-95 inhibitor UCCB01-144 on functional recovery after fimbria-fornix transection in rats.

PubMed

Sommer, Jens Bak; Bach, Anders; Malá, Hana; Strømgaard, Kristian; Mogensen, Jesper; Pickering, Darryl S

2017-10-01

Pharmacological inhibition of PSD-95 is a promising therapeutic strategy in the treatment of stroke, and positive effects of monomeric and dimeric PSD-95 inhibitors have been reported in numerous studies. However, whether therapeutic effects will generalize to other types of acute brain injury such as traumatic brain injury (TBI), which has pathophysiological mechanisms in common with stroke, is currently uncertain. We have previously found a lack of neuroprotective effects of dimeric PSD-95 inhibitors in the controlled cortical impact model of TBI in rats. However, as no single animal model is currently able to mimic the complex and heterogeneous pathophysiology of TBI, it is necessary to assess treatment effects across a range of models. In this preliminary study we investigated the neuroprotective abilities of the dimeric PSD-95 inhibitor UCCB01-144 after fimbria-fornix (FF) transection in rats. UCCB01-144 or saline was injected into the lateral tail vein of rats immediately after sham surgery or FF-transection, and effects on spatial delayed alternation in a T-maze were assessed over a 28-day period. Task acquisition was significantly impaired in FF-transected animals, but there were no significant effects of UCCB01-144 on spatial delayed alternation after FF-transection or sham surgery, although decelerated learning curves were seen after treatment with UCCB01-144 in FF-transected animals. The results of the present study are consistent with previous research showing a lack of neuroprotective effects of PSD-95 inhibition in experimental models of TBI. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Performance of electrodialysis reversal and reverse osmosis for reclaiming wastewater from high-tech industrial parks in Taiwan: A pilot-scale study.

PubMed

Yen, Feng-Chi; You, Sheng-Jie; Chang, Tien-Chin

2017-02-01

Wastewater reclamation is considered an absolute necessity in Taiwan, as numerous industrial parks experience water shortage. However, the water quality of secondary treated effluents from sewage treatment plants generally does not meet the requirements of industrial water use because of the high inorganic constituents. This paper reports experimental data from a pilot-plant study of two treatment processes-(i) fiber filtration (FF)-ultrafiltration (UF)-reverse osmosis (RO) and (ii) sand filtration (SF)-electrodialysis reversal (EDR)-for treating industrial high conductivity effluents from the Xianxi wastewater treatment plant in Taiwan. The results demonstrated that FF-UF was excellent for turbidity removal and it was a suitable pretreatment process for RO. The influence of two membrane materials on the operating characteristics and process stability of the UF process was determined. The treatment performance of FF-UF-RO was higher than that of SF-EDR with an average desalination rate of 97%, a permeate conductivity of 272.7 ± 32.0, turbidity of 0.183 ± 0.02 NTU and a chemical oxigen demand of <4.5 mg/L. The cost analysis for both processes in a water reclamation plant of 4000 m 3 /d capacity revealed that using FF-UF-RO had a lower treatment cost than using SF-EDR, which required activated carbon filtration as a post treatment process. On the basis of the results in this study, the FF-UF-RO system is recommended as a potential process for additional applications. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Continued importance of family factors in youth smoking behavior.

PubMed

Mahabee-Gittens, E Melinda; Xiao, Yang; Gordon, Judith S; Khoury, Jane C

2012-12-01

Although it is known that levels of family factors (FF) such as parental monitoring and parent-adolescent connectedness vary during adolescence, it is unknown which factors remain protective, preventing smoking initiation, in youth of differing racial/ethnic groups. Using a longitudinal, nationally representative sample, we examined which FF protect against smoking initiation in White, Black, and Hispanic youth. A total of 3,473 parent-nonsmoking youth dyads from Round 1 (T1) of the National Survey of Parents and Youth were followed to Round 3 (T2). Youth smoking status at T2 was assessed as the primary outcome. We examined changes in FF (T2 - T1) and the protection afforded by these factors at T1 and T2 for smoking initiation, both by race/ethnicity and overall. There were statistically significant decreases in levels of protective FF from T1 to T2 across all racial/ethnic groups; however, FF levels were higher in never-smokers compared with smoking initiators at both T1 and T2 (p < .05). Separate models by race/ethnicity showed the protective effect of increased perceived punishment in all racial/ethnic groups and protection against initiation by increased parental monitoring in Black and Hispanic youth. Overall, higher parental monitoring at T1 was associated with decreased odds of smoking initiation (33%); decreased parental monitoring and perceived punishment from T1 to T2 were associated with increased odds of smoking initiation (55% and 17%, respectively). Smoking prevention interventions should encourage parents to both enforce consistent consequences of smoking behavior, and continue monitoring, especially in minority groups.

Alpha-fetoprotein is present in the fetal fluids and is increased in plasma of mares with experimentally induced ascending placentitis.

PubMed

Canisso, Igor F; Ball, Barry A; Scoggin, Kirsten E; Squires, Edward L; Williams, Neil M; Troedsson, Mats H

2015-03-01

The objectives of this study were to: (i) determine alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) concentrations in fetal fluids (FF), and (ii) compare plasma concentrations of AFP in mares with placentitis (n=17) and gestationally age-matched control mares (n=17). Fetal fluid sampling (FFS, n=7/group) was performed at 0, 5 and 12 days post inoculation (DPI) or until abortion. Plasma was harvested daily for 12 days or until abortion. Placentitis was induced via intracervical inoculation of Streptococcus equi ssp. zooepidemicus. Proteins present in the FF were resolved by 1D-SDS-PAGE, and immunoblotting was used to detect the presence of AFP in fetal fluids. Concentrations of AFP in FF and plasma were determined with a chemiluminescence immunoassay. Mixed models for DPI, and for days from abortion (DFA) were used to analyze plasma concentrations of AFP. A protein band ∼68kDa consistent with the AFP size was present in all samples of fetal fluids examined. Immunoblotting for AFP revealed a single protein band (∼68kDa) in all samples. Concentrations of AFP in FF appeared higher than those in maternal plasma. There were effects of time (DPI p<0.0001; DFA p=0.0002) and time-by-group interactions (DPI*Group p<0.06; Group*DFA p<0.001). This study confirmed that AFP is present in the FF of mares during the third trimester of pregnancy. Experimentally induced placentitis was associated with an elevation in maternal plasma concentrations of AFP. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Platelet-derived growth factor BB and DD and angiopoietin1 are altered in follicular fluid from polycystic ovary syndrome patients.

PubMed

Scotti, Leopoldina; Parborell, Fernanda; Irusta, Griselda; De Zuñiga, Ignacio; Bisioli, Claudio; Pettorossi, Hernan; Tesone, Marta; Abramovich, Dalhia

2014-08-01

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrinological pathology among women of reproductive age, and is characterized by abnormalities in ovarian angiogenesis, among other features. Consistent with this association, follicular fluid (FF) concentration and ovarian expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) are increased in PCOS patients. In this study, we examined the protein levels of platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) BB and DD (PDGFBB and PDGFDD), angiopoietin 1 and 2 (ANGPT1 and ANGPT2), and their soluble receptor sTIE2 in FF from PCOS and control patients undergoing assisted reproductive techniques. We also analyzed the effect of FF from PCOS and control patients on tight and adherens junction protein expression in an endothelial cell line. PDGFBB and PDGFDD were significantly lower whereas ANGPT1 concentration was significantly higher in FF from PCOS patients than from control patients. No changes were found in the concentration of ANGPT2 or sTIE2. Expression of claudin-5 was significantly increased in endothelial cells incubated for 24 hr in the presence of FF from PCOS versus from control patients, while vascular-endothelial cadherin, β-catenin, and zonula occludens 1 expression were unchanged. The changes observed in the levels of PDGF isoforms and ANGPT1 may prevent VEGF-induced vascular permeability in the PCOS ovary by regulating endothelial-cell-junction protein levels. Restoring the levels of angiogenic factors may provide new insights into PCOS treatment and the prevention of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome in affected women. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

[Association between VDR gene polymorphisms and HOMA index for prediabetes in Ningxia].

PubMed

Liao, Sha; He, Jun; Li, Xiaoxia; Xu, Honexia; Liu, Xiuying; Zhao, Yi; Zhang, Yuhong

2016-03-01

To explore the association between the vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene polymorphisms and HOMA index in prediabetes. On the basis of a cross-sectional study which was conducted in Ningxia during 2008-2012, 339 controls and 468 subjects with prediabetes were selected according to ADA diabetes diagnosis standards. Anthropometric data and blood samples were collected in the field investigation. Blood biochemistry analyses and insulin determination were carried out in the laboratory. The whole blood DNA was extracted for genotyping. The BMI, WC, FPG and HOMA-IR of individuals with prediabetes were higher than those of the controls, while the HOMA-B and HOMA-S in cases were lower than those of the controls (P < 0.05). In BsmI, individuals with prediabetes carrying genotype BB/Bb showed lower HOMA-B than bb carrier, and they showed significantly higher HOMA-S than bb carriers (P < 0.05). After adjusting age, sex, BMI, TC, TG and SBP, low level HOMA-B index was the risk factor of prediabetes in individuals who carried genotype BB/Bb for BsmI and genotype FF/Ff/ff for FokI (OR > 1 , P < 0.05 ), and the genotype ff got the highest risk level (OR = 10.59). In FokI, the Ff carriers with low level HOMA-S and HOM-IR were also the risk factors of prediabetes (OR > 1, P < 0.05). The VDR gene polymorphisms appeared to be associated with HOMA index in prediabetes. The BsmI polymorphism seemed to influence HOMA-B, while the FokI polymorphism influence HOMA-B and HOMA-IR at different levels.

Design and Conduct of an Internet-Based Preconception Cohort Study in North America: Pregnancy Study Online.

PubMed

Wise, Lauren A; Rothman, Kenneth J; Mikkelsen, Ellen M; Stanford, Joseph B; Wesselink, Amelia K; McKinnon, Craig; Gruschow, Siobhan M; Horgan, Casie E; Wiley, Aleta S; Hahn, Kristen A; Sørensen, Henrik Toft; Hatch, Elizabeth E

2015-07-01

We launched the Boston University Pregnancy Study Online (PRESTO) to assess the feasibility of carrying out an Internet-based preconception cohort study in the US and Canada. We recruited female participants age 21-45 and their male partners through Internet advertisements, word of mouth, and flyers. Female participants were randomised with 50% probability to receive a subscription to FertilityFriend.com (FF), a web-based programme that collects real-time data on menstrual characteristics. We compared recruitment methods within PRESTO, assessed the cost-efficiency of PRESTO relative to its Danish counterpart (Snart-Gravid), and validated retrospectively reported date of last menstrual period (LMP) against the FF data. After 99 weeks of recruitment (2013-15), 2421 women enrolled; 1384 (57%) invited their male partners to participate, of whom 693 (50%) enrolled. Baseline characteristics were balanced across randomisation groups. Cohort retention was similar among those randomised vs. not randomised to FF (84% vs. 81%). At study enrollment, 56%, 22%, and 22% couples had been trying to conceive for < 3, 3-5, and ≥ 6 months, respectively. The cost per subject enrolled was $146 (2013 US$), which was similar to our companion Danish study and half that of a traditional cohort study. Among FF users who conceived, > 97% reported their LMP on the PRESTO questionnaire within 1 day of the LMP recorded via FF. Use of the Internet as a method of recruitment and follow-up in a North American preconception cohort study was feasible and cost-effective. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Virtual Reality Exposure and Imaginal Exposure in the Treatment of Fear of Flying: A Pilot Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rus-Calafell, Mar; Gutierrez-Maldonado, Jose; Botella, Cristina; Banos, Rosa M.

2013-01-01

Fear of flying (FF) is an impairing psychological disorder that is extremely common in developed countries. The most effective treatment for this particular type of phobia is exposure therapy. However, there are few studies comparing imaginal exposure (IE) and virtual reality (VR) exposure for the treatment of FF. The present study compared the…

East Europe Report, Political, Sociological and Military Affairs, No. 2174.

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-08-02

MIEDZYNARODOWE, 1976, No 12, p 7 ff.; J. Symonides: "The Fifth Session of the 3rd Conference on the Law of the Sea," TRANSPORT I GOSPODARKA MORSKA ...GOSPODARKA MORSKA , 1977, No 11, p 663 ff. 4 > u> 9. The convention permits the use of straight lines only in the case of an island state which, in

78 FR 77699 - Information Collection Request Sent to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for Approval...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-12-24

... DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR Fish and Wildlife Service [FWS-HQ-WSR-2013-N292]; [FVWF941009000007B-XXX-FF09W10000; FVWF51100900000-XXX-FF09W10000] Information Collection Request Sent to the Office of... technology constraints. We expanded to a cloud-computing environment in October 2012, and, effective January...

Aircraft accident report : runway departure during attempted takeoff Tower Air Flight 41 Boeing 747-136, N605FF JFK International Airport, New York December 20, 1995

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1996-12-01

This report explains the runway departure during attempted takeoff of Tower Air flight 41, N605FF, a Boeing 747-136 at John F. Kennedy International Airport, New York, on December 20, 1995. The safety issues discussed in this report include the adequ...

A Study of Acoustic Forcing on Gas Centered Swirl Coaxial Reacting Flows (Conference Paper with Briefing Charts)

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-01-09

intensifier with a Semrock filter (FF01-425/26). The reflective surface of this dichroic mirror rejected the blue light portion from the broadband...chemiluminescence was also imaged using a HiCATT intensifier with a Semrock filter (FF01-320/40). The shadowgraph camera was set to a gate of 7 µs

MUNICIPAL WASTE COMBUSTION MULTIPOLLUTANT STUDY EMISSION TEST REPORT, MAINE ENERGY RECOVERY COMPANY, REFUSE DERIVED FUEL FACILITY, BIDDEFORD, MAINE - VOLUME III: APPENDICES G-N

EPA Science Inventory

The report gives results of an emission test of a new municipal solid waste combustor, in Biddeford, ME, that burns refuse-derived fuel and is equipped with a lime spray dryer fabric filter (SD/FF) emission control system. Control efficiency of the SD/FF emission control system ...

MUNICIPAL WASTE COMBUSTION MULTIPOLLUTANT STUDY EMISSION TEST REPORT, MAINE ENERGY RECOVERY COMPANY, REFUSE DERIVED FUEL FACILITY, BIDDEFORD, MAINE - VOLUME II: APPENDICES A-F

EPA Science Inventory

The report gives results of an emission test of a new municipal solid waste combustor, in Biddeford, ME, that burns refuse-derived fuel and is equipped with a lime spray dryer fabric filter (SD/FF) emission control system. Control efficiency of the SD/FF emission control system ...

77 FR 3489 - Proposed Information Collection; Wildlife and Sport Fish Grants and Cooperative Agreements

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-01-24

...-FF09W11000/ FVWF51100900000-XXX-FF09W11000] Proposed Information Collection; Wildlife and Sport Fish Grants... (email) or (703) 358-2482 (telephone). SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: I. Abstract. The Wildlife and Sport... Training). 15.605 Sport Fish Restoration. 16 U.S.C. 777 et seq. 50 CFR 80. except 777e-1 and g-1. [[Page...

76 FR 67736 - Implementation of Section 2695 (42 U.S.C. 300ff-131) of Public Law 111-87: Infectious Diseases...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-11-02

... Treatment Extension Act of 2009 (Pub. L. 111-87) addresses notification procedures for medical facilities... describing the manner in which medical facilities should make determinations about exposures. On December 13... Which Medical Facilities Should Make Determinations for Purposes of Section 2695B(d) [42 U.S.C. 300ff...

--No Title--

Science.gov Websites

Calendar * @subpackage Default Theme */ a:hover {text-decoration:none;color:#FF6600;} a:active {text -decoration:underline;color:#FF6600;} a.series {float:right;} a.output {display:block;width:80%;} p{margin:0 0 10px 0 header {display:block;font-size:13px;font-weight:bold;border-bottom:1px solid #3D3F3E;color:#000000

Isoflurane Impairs Low-Frequency Feedback but Leaves High-Frequency Feedforward Connectivity Intact in the Fly Brain.

PubMed

Cohen, Dror; van Swinderen, Bruno; Tsuchiya, Naotsugu

2018-01-01

Hierarchically organized brains communicate through feedforward (FF) and feedback (FB) pathways. In mammals, FF and FB are mediated by higher and lower frequencies during wakefulness. FB is preferentially impaired by general anesthetics in multiple mammalian species. This suggests FB serves critical functions in waking brains. The brain of Drosophila melanogaster (fruit fly) is also hierarchically organized, but the presence of FB in these brains is not established. Here, we studied FB in the fly brain, by simultaneously recording local field potentials (LFPs) from low-order peripheral structures and higher-order central structures. We analyzed the data using Granger causality (GC), the first application of this analysis technique to recordings from the insect brain. Our analysis revealed that low frequencies (0.1-5 Hz) mediated FB from the center to the periphery, while higher frequencies (10-45 Hz) mediated FF in the opposite direction. Further, isoflurane anesthesia preferentially reduced FB. Our results imply that the spectral characteristics of FF and FB may be a signature of hierarchically organized brains that is conserved from insects to mammals. We speculate that general anesthetics may induce unresponsiveness across species by targeting the mechanisms that support FB.

Isoflurane Impairs Low-Frequency Feedback but Leaves High-Frequency Feedforward Connectivity Intact in the Fly Brain

PubMed Central

2018-01-01

Abstract Hierarchically organized brains communicate through feedforward (FF) and feedback (FB) pathways. In mammals, FF and FB are mediated by higher and lower frequencies during wakefulness. FB is preferentially impaired by general anesthetics in multiple mammalian species. This suggests FB serves critical functions in waking brains. The brain of Drosophila melanogaster (fruit fly) is also hierarchically organized, but the presence of FB in these brains is not established. Here, we studied FB in the fly brain, by simultaneously recording local field potentials (LFPs) from low-order peripheral structures and higher-order central structures. We analyzed the data using Granger causality (GC), the first application of this analysis technique to recordings from the insect brain. Our analysis revealed that low frequencies (0.1–5 Hz) mediated FB from the center to the periphery, while higher frequencies (10–45 Hz) mediated FF in the opposite direction. Further, isoflurane anesthesia preferentially reduced FB. Our results imply that the spectral characteristics of FF and FB may be a signature of hierarchically organized brains that is conserved from insects to mammals. We speculate that general anesthetics may induce unresponsiveness across species by targeting the mechanisms that support FB. PMID:29541686

Coaching behaviors associated with changes in fear of failure: changes in self-talk and need satisfaction as potential mechanisms.

PubMed

Conroy, David E; Coatsworth, J Douglas

2007-04-01

Cognitive-interpersonal and motivational mechanisms may regulate relations between youth perceptions of interpersonal aspects of the social ecology and their fear-of-failure (FF) levels. Youth (N=165) registered for a summer swim league rated their fear of failure at the beginning, middle, and end of the season. Extensive model comparisons indicated that youths' end-of-season ratings of coach behaviors could be reduced to three factors (affiliation, control, blame). Perceived control and blame from coaches predicted residualized change in corresponding aspects of youths' self-talk, but only changes in self-blame positively predicted changes in FF levels during the season. Perceived affiliation from coaches predicted autonomy need satisfaction which, in turn, negatively predicted the rate of change in FF levels during the season. These findings indicate that (a) youth perceptions of coaches were directly and indirectly related to acute socialization of FF and (b) both cognitive-interpersonal and motivational mechanisms contributed to this socialization process. Further research is needed to test for developmental differences in these mechanisms to determine whether findings generalize to more heterogeneous and at-risk populations and to investigate other potential social-ecological influences on socialization.

Enhanced Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm: Efficient Training of ReaxFF Reactive Force Fields.

PubMed

Furman, David; Carmeli, Benny; Zeiri, Yehuda; Kosloff, Ronnie

2018-06-12

Particle swarm optimization (PSO) is a powerful metaheuristic population-based global optimization algorithm. However, when it is applied to nonseparable objective functions, its performance on multimodal landscapes is significantly degraded. Here we show that a significant improvement in the search quality and efficiency on multimodal functions can be achieved by enhancing the basic rotation-invariant PSO algorithm with isotropic Gaussian mutation operators. The new algorithm demonstrates superior performance across several nonlinear, multimodal benchmark functions compared with the rotation-invariant PSO algorithm and the well-established simulated annealing and sequential one-parameter parabolic interpolation methods. A search for the optimal set of parameters for the dispersion interaction model in the ReaxFF- lg reactive force field was carried out with respect to accurate DFT-TS calculations. The resulting optimized force field accurately describes the equations of state of several high-energy molecular crystals where such interactions are of crucial importance. The improved algorithm also presents better performance compared to a genetic algorithm optimization method in the optimization of the parameters of a ReaxFF- lg correction model. The computational framework is implemented in a stand-alone C++ code that allows the straightforward development of ReaxFF reactive force fields.

Fast Flux Watch: A mechanism for online detection of fast flux networks.

PubMed

Al-Duwairi, Basheer N; Al-Hammouri, Ahmad T

2014-07-01

Fast flux networks represent a special type of botnets that are used to provide highly available web services to a backend server, which usually hosts malicious content. Detection of fast flux networks continues to be a challenging issue because of the similar behavior between these networks and other legitimate infrastructures, such as CDNs and server farms. This paper proposes Fast Flux Watch (FF-Watch), a mechanism for online detection of fast flux agents. FF-Watch is envisioned to exist as a software agent at leaf routers that connect stub networks to the Internet. The core mechanism of FF-Watch is based on the inherent feature of fast flux networks: flux agents within stub networks take the role of relaying client requests to point-of-sale websites of spam campaigns. The main idea of FF-Watch is to correlate incoming TCP connection requests to flux agents within a stub network with outgoing TCP connection requests from the same agents to the point-of-sale website. Theoretical and traffic trace driven analysis shows that the proposed mechanism can be utilized to efficiently detect fast flux agents within a stub network.

Label-free characterization of vitrification-induced morphology changes in single-cell embryos with full-field optical coherence tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zarnescu, Livia; Leung, Michael C.; Abeyta, Michael; Sudkamp, Helge; Baer, Thomas; Behr, Barry; Ellerbee, Audrey K.

2015-09-01

Vitrification is an increasingly popular method of embryo cryopreservation that is used in assisted reproductive technology. Although vitrification has high post-thaw survival rates compared to other freezing techniques, its long-term effects on embryo development are still poorly understood. We demonstrate an application of full-field optical coherence tomography (FF-OCT) to visualize the effects of vitrification on live single-cell (2 pronuclear) mouse embryos without harmful labels. Using FF-OCT, we observed that vitrification causes a significant increase in the aggregation of structures within the embryo cytoplasm, consistent with reports in literature based on fluorescence techniques. We quantify the degree of aggregation with an objective metric, the cytoplasmic aggregation (CA) score, and observe a high degree of correlation between the CA scores of FF-OCT images of embryos and of fluorescence images of their mitochondria. Our results indicate that FF-OCT shows promise as a label-free assessment of the effects of vitrification on embryo mitochondria distribution. The CA score provides a quantitative metric to describe the degree to which embryos have been affected by vitrification and could aid clinicians in selecting embryos for transfer.

Determinants of children's use of and time spent in fast-food and full-service restaurants.

PubMed

McIntosh, Alex; Kubena, Karen S; Tolle, Glen; Dean, Wesley; Kim, Mi-Jeong; Jan, Jie-Sheng; Anding, Jenna

2011-01-01

Identify parental and children's determinants of children's use of and time spent in fast-food (FF) and full-service (FS) restaurants. Analysis of cross-sectional data. Parents were interviewed by phone; children were interviewed in their homes. Parents and children ages 9-11 or 13-15 from 312 families were obtained via random-digit dialing. Dependent variables were the use of and the time spent in FF and FS restaurants by children. Determinants included parental work schedules, parenting style, and family meal ritual perceptions. Logistic regression was used for multivariate analysis of use of restaurants. Least squares regression was used for multivariate analysis of time spent in restaurants. Significance set at P < .05. Factors related to use of and time spent in FF and FS restaurants included parental work schedules, fathers' use of such restaurants, and children's time spent in the family automobile. Parenting style, parental work, parental eating habits and perceptions of family meals, and children's other uses of their time influence children's use of and time spent in FF and FS restaurants. Copyright © 2011 Society for Nutrition Education. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Metabolic profile of serum and follicular fluid from postpartum dairy cows during summer and winter.

PubMed

Alves, Benner G; Alves, Kele A; Martins, Muller C; Braga, Lucas S; Silva, Thiago H; Alves, Bruna G; Santos, Ricarda M; Silva, Thiago V; Viu, Marco A O; Beletti, Marcello E; Jacomini, José O; Gambarini, Maria L

2014-01-01

This study was designed to monitor the biochemical profiles of serum and follicular fluid (FF) of postpartum dairy cows during the summer (n=30) and winter (n=30). Blood and FF (follicles ≥ 9 mm) were obtained from Girolando cows at 30, 45, 60, 75 and 90 days postpartum. The samples were collected and analysed to determine glucose, total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), urea, sodium (Na), potassium (K) and calcium (Ca) levels. Throughout the study, the following clinical variables were measured: rectal temperature (RT), respiratory rate (RR) and body condition score (BCS). In addition, the temperature humidity index (THI) was calculated for each season. During the summer season, THI was higher, BCS decreased, there was an increase in RT, and glucose, urea, Na and K serum levels were decreased (P<0.05). The levels of TC, TG, urea, K and Ca in follicular fluid increased (P<0.05). Positive correlations (P<0.05) were observed between the serum and FF levels for glucose (r=0.29), TC (r=0.24) and Ca (r=0.30). Therefore, the biochemical profile of serum and FF of dairy cows under summer heat-stress conditions demonstrates marked changes that may impair fertility during lactation.

The Frasnian-Famennian mass killing event(s), methods of identification and evaluation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Geldsetzer, H. H. J.

1988-01-01

The absence of an abnormally high number of earlier Devonian taxa from Famennian sediments was repeatedly documented and can hardly be questioned. Primary recognition of the event(s) was based on paleontological data, especially common macrofossils. Most paleontologists place the disappearance of these common forms at the gigas/triangularis contact and this boundary was recently proposed as the Frasnian-Famennian (F-F) boundary. Not unexpectedly, alternate F-F positions were suggested caused by temporary Frasnian survivors or sudden post-event radiations of new forms. Secondary supporting evidence for mass killing event(s) is supplied by trace element and stable isotope geochemistry but not with the same success as for the K/T boundary, probably due to additional 300 ma of tectonic and diagenetic overprinting. Another tool is microfacies analysis which is surprisingly rarely used even though it can explain geochemical anomalies or paleontological overlap not detectable by conventional macrofacies analysis. The combination of microfacies analysis and geochemistry was applied at two F-F sections in western Canada and showed how interdependent the two methods are. Additional F-F sections from western Canada, western United States, France, Germany and Australia were sampled or re-sampled and await geochemical/microfacies evaluation.

A Comparison of RNA-Seq Results from Paired Formalin-Fixed Paraffin-Embedded and Fresh-Frozen Glioblastoma Tissue Samples

PubMed Central

Esteve-Codina, Anna; Arpi, Oriol; Martinez-García, Maria; Pineda, Estela; Mallo, Mar; Gut, Marta; Carrato, Cristina; Rovira, Anna; Lopez, Raquel; Tortosa, Avelina; Dabad, Marc; Del Barco, Sonia; Heath, Simon; Bagué, Silvia; Ribalta, Teresa; Alameda, Francesc; de la Iglesia, Nuria

2017-01-01

The molecular classification of glioblastoma (GBM) based on gene expression might better explain outcome and response to treatment than clinical factors. Whole transcriptome sequencing using next-generation sequencing platforms is rapidly becoming accepted as a tool for measuring gene expression for both research and clinical use. Fresh frozen (FF) tissue specimens of GBM are difficult to obtain since tumor tissue obtained at surgery is often scarce and necrotic and diagnosis is prioritized over freezing. After diagnosis, leftover tissue is usually stored as formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue. However, RNA from FFPE tissues is usually degraded, which could hamper gene expression analysis. We compared RNA-Seq data obtained from matched pairs of FF and FFPE GBM specimens. Only three FFPE out of eleven FFPE-FF matched samples yielded informative results. Several quality-control measurements showed that RNA from FFPE samples was highly degraded but maintained transcriptomic similarities to RNA from FF samples. Certain issues regarding mutation analysis and subtype prediction were detected. Nevertheless, our results suggest that RNA-Seq of FFPE GBM specimens provides reliable gene expression data that can be used in molecular studies of GBM if the RNA is sufficiently preserved. PMID:28122052

Noninvasive three-dimensional live imaging methodology for the spindles at meiosis and mitosis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zheng, Jing-gao; Huo, Tiancheng; Tian, Ning; Chen, Tianyuan; Wang, Chengming; Zhang, Ning; Zhao, Fengying; Lu, Danyu; Chen, Dieyan; Ma, Wanyun; Sun, Jia-lin; Xue, Ping

2013-05-01

The spindle plays a crucial role in normal chromosome alignment and segregation during meiosis and mitosis. Studying spindles in living cells noninvasively is of great value in assisted reproduction technology (ART). Here, we present a novel spindle imaging methodology, full-field optical coherence tomography (FF-OCT). Without any dye labeling and fixation, we demonstrate the first successful application of FF-OCT to noninvasive three-dimensional (3-D) live imaging of the meiotic spindles within the mouse living oocytes at metaphase II as well as the mitotic spindles in the living zygotes at metaphase and telophase. By post-processing of the 3-D dataset obtained with FF-OCT, the important morphological and spatial parameters of the spindles, such as short and long axes, spatial localization, and the angle of meiotic spindle deviation from the first polar body in the oocyte were precisely measured with the spatial resolution of 0.7 μm. Our results reveal the potential of FF-OCT as an imaging tool capable of noninvasive 3-D live morphological analysis for spindles, which might be useful to ART related procedures and many other spindle related studies.

PuReMD-GPU: A reactive molecular dynamics simulation package for GPUs

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

Kylasa, S.B., E-mail: skylasa@purdue.edu; Aktulga, H.M., E-mail: hmaktulga@lbl.gov; Grama, A.Y., E-mail: ayg@cs.purdue.edu

2014-09-01

We present an efficient and highly accurate GP-GPU implementation of our community code, PuReMD, for reactive molecular dynamics simulations using the ReaxFF force field. PuReMD and its incorporation into LAMMPS (Reax/C) is used by a large number of research groups worldwide for simulating diverse systems ranging from biomembranes to explosives (RDX) at atomistic level of detail. The sub-femtosecond time-steps associated with ReaxFF strongly motivate significant improvements to per-timestep simulation time through effective use of GPUs. This paper presents, in detail, the design and implementation of PuReMD-GPU, which enables ReaxFF simulations on GPUs, as well as various performance optimization techniques wemore » developed to obtain high performance on state-of-the-art hardware. Comprehensive experiments on model systems (bulk water and amorphous silica) are presented to quantify the performance improvements achieved by PuReMD-GPU and to verify its accuracy. In particular, our experiments show up to 16× improvement in runtime compared to our highly optimized CPU-only single-core ReaxFF implementation. PuReMD-GPU is a unique production code, and is currently available on request from the authors.« less

Gas adsorption in Mg-porphyrin-based porous organic frameworks: A computational simulation by first-principles derived force field.

PubMed

Pang, Yujia; Li, Wenliang; Zhang, Jingping

2017-09-15

A novel type of porous organic frameworks, based on Mg-porphyrin, with diamond-like topology, named POF-Mgs is computationally designed, and the gas uptakes of CO 2 , H 2 , N 2 , and H 2 O in POF-Mgs are investigated by Grand canonical Monte Carlo simulations based on first-principles derived force fields (FF). The FF, which describes the interactions between POF-Mgs and gases, are fitted by dispersion corrected double-hybrid density functional theory, B2PLYP-D3. The good agreement between the obtained FF and the first-principle energies data confirms the reliability of the FF. Furthermore our simulation shows the presence of a small amount of H 2 O (≤ 0.01 kPa) does not much affect the adsorption quantity of CO 2 , but the presence of higher partial pressure of H 2 O (≥ 0.1 kPa) results in the CO 2 adsorption decrease significantly. The good performance of POF-Mgs in the simulation inspires us to design novel porous materials experimentally for gas adsorption and purification. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Evaluation of the microscopic distribution of florfenicol in feed pellets for salmon by Fourier Transform infrared imaging and multivariate analysis.

PubMed

Bastidas, Camila Y; von Plessing, Carlos; Troncoso, José; Del P Castillo, Rosario

2018-04-15

Fourier Transform infrared imaging and multivariate analysis were used to identify, at the microscopic level, the presence of florfenicol (FF), a heavily-used antibiotic in the salmon industry, supplied to fishes in feed pellets for the treatment of salmonid rickettsial septicemia (SRS). The FF distribution was evaluated using Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Augmented Multivariate Curve Resolution with Alternating Least Squares (augmented MCR-ALS) on the spectra obtained from images with pixel sizes of 6.25 μm × 6.25 μm and 1.56 μm × 1.56 μm, in different zones of feed pellets. Since the concentration of the drug was 3.44 mg FF/g pellet, this is the first report showing the powerful ability of the used of spectroscopic techniques and multivariate analysis, especially the augmented MCR-ALS, to describe the FF distribution in both the surface and inner parts of feed pellets at low concentration, in a complex matrix and at the microscopic level. The results allow monitoring the incorporation of the drug into the feed pellets. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Strike a Balance: Optimization of Backbone Torsion Parameters of AMBER Polarizable Force Field for Simulations of Proteins and Peptides

PubMed Central

WANG, ZHI-XIANG; ZHANG, WEI; WU, CHUN; LEI, HONGXING; CIEPLAK, PIOTR; DUAN, YONG

2014-01-01

Based on the AMBER polarizable model (ff02), we have reoptimized the parameters related to the main-chain (Φ, Ψ) torsion angles by fitting to the Boltzmann-weighted average quantum mechanical (QM) energies of the important regions (i.e., β, PII, αR, and αL regions). Following the naming convention of the AMBER force field series, this release will be called ff02pol.rl The force field has been assessed both by energetic comparison against the QM data and by the replica exchange molecular dynamics simulations of short alanine peptides in water. For Ace-Ala-Nme, the simulated populations in the β, PII and αR regions were approximately 30, 43, and 26%, respectively. For Ace-(Ala)7-Nme, the populations in these three regions were approximately 24, 49, and 26%. Both were in qualitative agreement with the NMR and CD experimental conclusions. In comparison with the previous force field, ff02pol.rl demonstrated good balance among these three important regions. The optimized torsion parameters, together with those in ff02, allow us to carry out simulations on proteins and peptides with the consideration of polarization. PMID:16526038

Residue-Specific α-Helix Propensities from Molecular Simulation

PubMed Central

Best, Robert B.; de Sancho, David; Mittal, Jeetain

2012-01-01

Formation of α-helices is a fundamental process in protein folding and assembly. By studying helix formation in molecular simulations of a series of alanine-based peptides, we obtain the temperature-dependent α-helix propensities of all 20 naturally occurring residues with two recent additive force fields, Amber ff03w and Amber ff99SB∗. Encouragingly, we find that the overall helix propensity of many residues is captured well by both energy functions, with Amber ff99SB∗ being more accurate. Nonetheless, there are some residues that deviate considerably from experiment, which can be attributed to two aspects of the energy function: i), variations of the charge model used to determine the atomic partial charges, with residues whose backbone charges differ most from alanine tending to have the largest error; ii), side-chain torsion potentials, as illustrated by the effect of modifications to the torsion angles of I, L, D, N. We find that constrained refitting of residue charges for charged residues in Amber ff99SB∗ significantly improves their helix propensity. The resulting parameters should more faithfully reproduce helix propensities in simulations of protein folding and disordered proteins. PMID:22455930

Refinement of the Cornell et al. Nucleic Acids Force Field Based on Reference Quantum Chemical Calculations of Glycosidic Torsion Profiles

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

We report a reparameterization of the glycosidic torsion χ of the Cornell et al. AMBER force field for RNA, χOL. The parameters remove destabilization of the anti region found in the ff99 force field and thus prevent formation of spurious ladder-like structural distortions in RNA simulations. They also improve the description of the syn region and the syn–anti balance as well as enhance MD simulations of various RNA structures. Although χOL can be combined with both ff99 and ff99bsc0, we recommend the latter. We do not recommend using χOL for B-DNA because it does not improve upon ff99bsc0 for canonical structures. However, it might be useful in simulations of DNA molecules containing syn nucleotides. Our parametrization is based on high-level QM calculations and differs from conventional parametrization approaches in that it incorporates some previously neglected solvation-related effects (which appear to be essential for obtaining correct anti/high-anti balance). Our χOL force field is compared with several previous glycosidic torsion parametrizations. PMID:21921995

Thermal Decomposition Mechanism of CL-20 at Different Temperatures by ReaxFF Reactive Molecular Dynamics Simulations.

PubMed

Wang, Fuping; Chen, Lang; Geng, Deshen; Wu, Junying; Lu, Jianying; Wang, Chen

2018-04-26

Hexanitrohexaazaisowurtzitane (CL-20) has a high detonation velocity and pressure, but its sensitivity is also high, which somewhat limits its applications. Therefore, it is important to understand the mechanism and characteristics of thermal decomposition of CL-20. In this study, a ε-CL-20 supercell was constructed and ReaxFF-lg reactive molecular dynamics simulations were performed to investigate thermal decomposition of ε-CL-20 at various temperatures (2000, 2500, 2750, 3000, 3250, and 3500 K). The mechanism of thermal decomposition of CL-20 was analyzed from the aspects of potential energy evolution, the primary reactions, and the intermediate and final product species. The effect of temperature on thermal decomposition of CL-20 is also discussed. The initial reaction path of thermal decomposition of CL-20 is N-NO 2 cleavage to form NO 2 , followed by C-N cleavage, leading to the destruction of the cage structure. A small number of clusters appear in the early reactions and disappear at the end of the reactions. The initial reaction path of CL-20 decomposition is the same at different temperatures. However, as the temperature increases, the decomposition rate of CL-20 increases and the cage structure is destroyed earlier. The temperature greatly affects the rate constants of H 2 O and N 2 , but it has little effect on the rate constants of CO 2 and H 2 .

NANOGOLD decorated by pHLIP peptide: comparative force field study.

PubMed

Kyrychenko, A

2015-05-21

The potential of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) in therapeutic and diagnostic cancer applications is becoming increasingly recognized, which focuses on their efficient and specific delivery from passive accumulation in tumour tissue to directly targeting tumor-specific biomarkers. AuNPs functionalized by pH low insertion peptide (pHLIP) have recently revealed the capability of targeting acidic tissues and inserting into cell membranes. However, the structure of AuNP-pHLIP conjugates and fundamental gold-peptide interactions still remain unknown. In this study, we have developed a series of molecular dynamics (MD) models reproducing a small gold nanoparticle coupled to pHLIP. We focus on Au135 nanoparticles that comprise a nearly spherical Au core (diameter ∼ 1.4 nm) functionalized with a monomaleimide moiety, mimicking a commercially available monomaleimido NANOGOLD® labelling agent. To probe the structure and folding of pHLIP, which is attached covalently to the maleimide NANOGOLD particle, we have benchmarked the performances of a series of popular, all-atom force fields (FF), including those of OPLS-AA, AMBER03, three variations of CHARMM FFs, as well as united-atom GROMOS G53A6 FF. We found that CHARMMs and OPLSAA FFs predict that in an aqueous salt solution at a neutral pH, pHLIP is partially bound onto the gold surface through some short hydrophobic peptide stretches, while at the same time, a large portion of peptide remains in solution. In contrast, AMBER03 and G53A6 FFs revealed the formation of compact, tightly bound peptide configurations adsorbed onto the nanoparticle core. To reproduce the experimental physical picture of the peptide adsorption onto gold in unfolded and unstructured conformations, our study suggests CHARMM36 and OPLS-AA FFs as a tool of choice for the computational studies of NANOGOLD decorated by pHLIP.

Development Test 1 Advanced Attack Helicopter Competitive Evaluation Bell YAH-63 Helicopter

DTIC Science & Technology

1976-12-01

ff. The poor design of the rotor speed gauge (para 110). gg. The increased level of vibration at an aft eg (para 115). hh . The...4 r j- lR fl ; fl i |n t! jn \\ ift inn ■’ T1’ ! i r h- ’ ... r" ..M if_ B P i: 13 L. KNDl S) n ID 0 TI Rl k f k ff ^ 1 II JB Cli...jje^^g-^ iäSfci^W, " ~—’-’’— -■~*v*’yr*pnsm*v*fr. wnvuf^ u«^ff4rflWW!IJJfJWJIMUI!V.WI’!’ ’ jB ^g^lSWP r?-*«?^WV«r.i?.M»,lB;i»«TOi-<’r™ 7 (X

Development of a ReaxFF reactive force field for ammonium nitrate and application to shock compression and thermal decomposition.

PubMed

Shan, Tzu-Ray; van Duin, Adri C T; Thompson, Aidan P

2014-02-27

We have developed a new ReaxFF reactive force field parametrization for ammonium nitrate. Starting with an existing nitramine/TATB ReaxFF parametrization, we optimized it to reproduce electronic structure calculations for dissociation barriers, heats of formation, and crystal structure properties of ammonium nitrate phases. We have used it to predict the isothermal pressure-volume curve and the unreacted principal Hugoniot states. The predicted isothermal pressure-volume curve for phase IV solid ammonium nitrate agreed with electronic structure calculations and experimental data within 10% error for the considered range of compression. The predicted unreacted principal Hugoniot states were approximately 17% stiffer than experimental measurements. We then simulated thermal decomposition during heating to 2500 K. Thermal decomposition pathways agreed with experimental findings.

Far-Field High-Energy Diffraction Microscopy: A Non-Destructive Tool for Characterizing the Microstructure and Micromechanical State of Polycrystalline Materials

DOE PAGES

Park, Jun-Sang; Zhang, Xuan; Kenesei, Peter; ...

2017-08-31

A suite of non-destructive, three-dimensional X-ray microscopy techniques have recently been developed and used to characterize the microstructures of polycrystalline materials. These techniques utilize high-energy synchrotron radiation and include near-field and far-field diffraction microscopy (NF- and FF-HEDM, respectively) and absorption tomography. Several compatible sample environments have also been developed, enabling a wide range of 3D studies of material evolution. In this article, the FF-HEDM technique is described in detail, including its implementation at the 1-ID beamline of the Advanced Photon Source. Examples of how the information obtained from FF-HEDM can be used to deepen our understanding of structure-property-processing relationships inmore » selected materials are presented.« less

High Fill Factors of Si Solar Cells Achieved by Using an Inverse Connection Between MOS and PN Junctions.

PubMed

Wang, Liang-Xing; Zhou, Zhi-Quan; Zhang, Tian-Ning; Chen, Xin; Lu, Ming

2016-12-01

Fill factors (FFs) of ~0.87 have been obtained for crystalline Si (c-Si) solar cells based on Ag front contacts after rapid thermal annealing. The usual single PN junction model fails to explain the high FF result. A metal/oxide/semiconductor (MOS) junction at the emitter is found to be inversely connected to the PN one, and when its barrier height/e is close to the open-circuit voltage of the solar cell, very high FF is obtainable. In this work, although the open-circuit voltage (<580 mV) is not high here, the efficiency of c-Si solar cell still reaches the state-of-the-art value (>20 %) due to the high FF achieved.

Adaptation of a RAS pathway activation signature from FF to FFPE tissues in colorectal cancer.

PubMed

Omolo, Bernard; Yang, Mingli; Lo, Fang Yin; Schell, Michael J; Austin, Sharon; Howard, Kellie; Madan, Anup; Yeatman, Timothy J

2016-10-19

The KRAS gene is mutated in about 40 % of colorectal cancer (CRC) cases, which has been clinically validated as a predictive mutational marker of intrinsic resistance to anti-EGFR inhibitor (EGFRi) therapy. Since nearly 60 % of patients with a wild type KRAS fail to respond to EGFRi combination therapies, there is a need to develop more reliable molecular signatures to better predict response. Here we address the challenge of adapting a gene expression signature predictive of RAS pathway activation, created using fresh frozen (FF) tissues, for use with more widely available formalin fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues. In this study, we evaluated the translation of an 18-gene RAS pathway signature score from FF to FFPE in 54 CRC cases, using a head-to-head comparison of five technology platforms. FFPE-based technologies included the Affymetrix GeneChip (Affy), NanoString nCounter™ (NanoS), Illumina whole genome RNASeq (RNA-Acc), Illumina targeted RNASeq (t-RNA), and Illumina stranded Total RNA-rRNA-depletion (rRNA). Using Affy_FF as the "gold" standard, initial analysis of the 18-gene RAS scores on all 54 samples shows varying pairwise Spearman correlations, with (1) Affy_FFPE (r = 0.233, p = 0.090); (2) NanoS_FFPE (r = 0.608, p < 0.0001); (3) RNA-Acc_FFPE (r = 0.175, p = 0.21); (4) t-RNA_FFPE (r = -0.237, p = 0.085); (5) and t-RNA (r = -0.012, p = 0.93). These results suggest that only NanoString has successful FF to FFPE translation. The subsequent removal of identified "problematic" samples (n = 15) and genes (n = 2) further improves the correlations of Affy_FF with three of the five technologies: Affy_FFPE (r = 0.672, p < 0.0001); NanoS_FFPE (r = 0.738, p < 0.0001); and RNA-Acc_FFPE (r = 0.483, p = 0.002). Of the five technology platforms tested, NanoString technology provides a more faithful translation of the RAS pathway gene expression signature from FF to FFPE than the Affymetrix GeneChip and multiple RNASeq technologies. Moreover, NanoString was the most forgiving technology in the analysis of samples with presumably poor RNA quality. Using this approach, the RAS signature score may now be reasonably applied to FFPE clinical samples.