New stimulation pattern design to improve P300-based matrix speller performance at high flash rate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Polprasert, Chantri; Kukieattikool, Pratana; Demeechai, Tanee; Ritcey, James A.; Siwamogsatham, Siwaruk

2013-06-01

Objective. We propose a new stimulation pattern design for the P300-based matrix speller aimed at increasing the minimum target-to-target interval (TTI). Approach. Inspired by the simplicity and strong performance of the conventional row-column (RC) stimulation, the proposed stimulation is obtained by modifying the RC stimulation through alternating row and column flashes which are selected based on the proposed design rules. The second flash of the double-flash components is then delayed for a number of flashing instants to increase the minimum TTI. The trade-off inherited in this approach is the reduced randomness within the stimulation pattern. Main results. We test the proposed stimulation pattern and compare its performance in terms of selection accuracy, raw and practical bit rates with the conventional RC flashing paradigm over several flash rates. By increasing the minimum TTI within the stimulation sequence, the proposed stimulation has more event-related potentials that can be identified compared to that of the conventional RC stimulations, as the flash rate increases. This leads to significant performance improvement in terms of the letter selection accuracy, the raw and practical bit rates over the conventional RC stimulation. Significance. These studies demonstrate that significant performance improvement over the RC stimulation is obtained without additional testing or training samples to compensate for low P300 amplitude at high flash rate. We show that our proposed stimulation is more robust to reduced signal strength due to the increased flash rate than the RC stimulation.

A New Formation Mechanism for the Hottest Horizontal-Branch Stars

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sweigart, Allen V.; Oegerle, William R. (Technical Monitor)

2002-01-01

Hot subluminous stars lying up to 0.7 mag below the extreme horizontal branch (EHB) are found in the ultraviolet color-magnitude diagrams (CMDs) of both omega Cen and NGC 2808. In order to investigate the origin of these subluminous stars, we have constructed a detailed set of evolutionary sequences that follow the evolution of low-mass stars continuously from the zero-age main sequence through the helium-core flash to the HB for a wide range in the mass loss along the red-giant branch (RGB). Stars with the largest mass loss evolve off the RGB to high effective temperatures before igniting helium in their cores. Our results indicate that the subluminous EHB stars, as well as the high temperature gap along the EHB of NGC 2808, can be explained if these stars undergo a late helium-core flash while descending the white-dwarf cooling curve. Under these conditions the convection zone produced by the main helium flash will penetrate into the stellar envelope, thereby mixing most, if not all, of the envelope hydrogen into the hot helium-burning interior, where it is rapidly consumed. This phenomenon is analogous to the 'born-again' scenario for producing hydrogen-deficient stars following a very late helium-shell flash. This 'flash mixing' of the envelope during a late helium-core flash greatly enhances the envelope helium and carbon abundances and, as a result, leads to a discontinuous increase in the HB effective temperature. We argue that the hot HB gap observed in NGC 2808 is associated with this theoretically predicted dichotomy in the RB properties. Using new helium- and carbon-rich stellar atmospheres, we show that the changes in the envelope abundances due to flash mixing will suppress the ultraviolet flux in the spectra of hot EHB stars. We suggest that such changes in the emergent spectral energy distribution are primarily responsible for explaining the hot subluminous EHB stars in omega Cen and NGC 2808. Moreover, we demonstrate that models without flash mixing lie, at most, only approximately 0.1 mag below the EHB, and hence fail to explain the observations.

Evaluation of takayasu arteritis with delayed contrast-enhanced MR imaging by a free-breathing 3D IR turbo FLASH.

PubMed

Liu, Min; Liu, Weifang; Li, Haoyuan; Shu, Xiaoming; Tao, Xincao; Zhai, Zhenguo

2017-12-01

The primary aim of our case-control study was to observe delayed contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI) in patients with Takayasu arteritis (TA) in comparison with magnetic resonance angiography (MRA). Twenty-seven patients including 15 with active TA and 12 with stable TA who underwent both aortic MRA and DCE-MRI were included. A total of 27 sex- and age-matched healthy volunteers were enrolled as the control group. MRA were obtained with T1WI-volume-interpolated breath-hold examination sequence or fast low-angle shot (FLASH) sequence. DCE-MRI was acquired with a free-breathing three-dimensional inversion recovery Turbo fast low-angle shot (3D IR Turbo FLASH). Neither stenosis nor delayed enhancement of arterial wall was shown in the control group. In patients with stable TA, arterial stenosis was observed on MRA. On DCE-MR, delayed enhancement of arterial walls could be observed in the active TA group but not in the stable TA group or the control group. Stenotic arteries on MRA were comparable in the active TA and stable TA (χ = 2.70, P = .259); however, delayed enhancement of arterial walls in the active-TA group were more than those in the stable group (χ = 27.00, P < .001). Our results suggest that DCE-MRI with the free-breathing 3D IR Turbo FLASH sequence could assess TA and delayed enhancement on DCE-MRI is one characteristics of the active TA. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

In vitro comparison of water displacement method and 3 Tesla MRI for MR-volumetry of the olfactory bulb: which sequence is appropriate?

PubMed

Burmeister, Hartmut Peter; Möslein, Constanze; Bitter, Thomas; Fröber, Rosemarie; Herrmann, Karl-Heinz; Baltzer, Pascal Andreas Thomas; Gudziol, Hilmar; Dietzel, Matthias; Guntinas-Lichius, Orlando; Kaiser, Werner Alois

2011-10-01

Magnetic resonance imaging olfactory bulb (OB) volumetry (OBV) is already used as a complementary prognostic tool to assess olfactory disorders. However, a reference standard in imaging for OBV has not been established. The aim of this in vitro study was to compare volumetric results of different magnetic resonance sequences for OBV at 3 T to genuine OB volumes measured by water displacement. The volumes of 15 human cadaveric OBs were measured using the water displacement method in this institutional review board-approved prospective study. The magnetic resonance imaging protocol at 3 T included constructive interference in steady state (CISS), T2-weighted (T2w) three-dimensional (3D) sampling perfection with application-optimized contrasts using different flip-angle evolutions (SPACE), T2w two-dimensional (2D) turbo spin-echo (TSE), and T1-weighted (T1w) 3D fast low-angle shot (FLASH) sequences. Two blinded observers independently performed two OB volumetric assessments per bulbus and sequence. Intraobserver and interobserver reliabilities were assessed by intraclass correlation coefficients. Bland-Altman plots were analyzed to evaluate systematic biases and concordance correlation coefficients to assess reproducibility. For both observers, intraclass correlation coefficient analysis yielded almost perfect results for intraobserver reliability (CISS, 0.94-0.98; T2w 3D SPACE, 0.93-0.98; T2w 2D TSE, 0.98-0.98; T1w 3D FLASH, 0.95-0.99). Interobserver reliability showed almost perfect agreement for all sequences (CISS, 0.98; T2w 3D SPACE, 0.89; T2w 2D TSE, 0.93; T1w 3D FLASH, 0.97). The CISS sequence yielded the highest mean concordance correlation coefficient (0.95) and the highest combination of precision (0.97) and accuracy (0.98) values. In comparison with the water displacement method, Bland-Altman analyses revealed the lowest systematic bias (-0.5%) for the CISS sequence, followed by T1w 3D FLASH (-1.3%), T2w 3D SPACE (-7.5%), and T2w 2D TSE (-10.9%) sequences. Compared to the water displacement method, the CISS sequence is suited best to validly and reliably measure OB volumes because of its highest values for accuracy and precision and lowest systematic bias. Copyright © 2011 AUR. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Evolutionary sequences of very hot, low-mass, accreting white dwarfs with application to symbiotic variables and ultrasoft/supersoft low-luminosity x-ray sources

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sion, Edward M.; Starrfield, Sumner G.

1994-01-01

We present the first detailed model results of quasi-static evolutionary sequences of very hot low-mass white dwarfs accreting hydrogen-rich material at rates between 1 x 10(exp -7) and 1 x 10(exp -9) solar mass/yr. Most of the sequences were generated from starting models whose core thermal structures were not thermally relaxed in the thermal pulse cycle-averaged sense of an asymptotic giant branch stellar core. Hence, the evolution at constant accretion rate was not invariably characterized by series of identical shell flashes. Sequences exhibiting stable steady state nuclear burning at the accretion supply rate as well as sequences exhibiting recurrent thermonuclear shell flashes are presented and discussed. In some cases, the white dwarf accretors remain small (less than 10(exp 11) cm) and very hot even during the shell flash episode. They then experience continued but reduced hydrogen shell burning during the longer quiescent intervals while their surface temperatures increase both because of compressional heating and envelope structure readjustment in response to accretion over thousands of years. Both accretion and continued hydrogen burning power these models with luminosities of a few times 10(exp 37) ergs/s. We suggest that the physical properties of these model sequences are of considerable relevance to the observed outburst and quiescent behavior of those symbiotic variables and symbiotic novae containing low-mass white dwarfs. We also suggest that our models are relevant to the observational characteristics of the growing class of low-luminosity, supersoft/ultrasoft X-ray sources in globular clusters, and the Magellanic Clouds.

Lightning channel current persists between strokes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wendel, JoAnna

2014-09-01

The usual cloud-to-ground lightning occurs when a large negative charge contained in a "stepped leader" travels down toward the Earth's surface. It then meets a positive charge that comes up tens of meters from the ground, resulting in a powerful neutralizing explosion that begins the first return stroke of the lightning flash. The entire flash lasts only a few hundred milliseconds, but during that time, multiple subsequent stroke-return stroke sequences usually occur.

Using palynology to re-assess the Dead Sea laminated sediments - Indeed varves?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bookman, Revital; Lopez-Merino, Lourdes; Belmaker, Reuven; Eshel, Amram; Epshtein Epshtein, Valentina; Leroy, Suzanne

2017-04-01

Lacustrine laminated sediments are often varves representing annual rhythmic deposition. The Dead Sea high-stand laminated sections consist of mm-scale alternating detrital and authigenic aragonite laminae. Previous studies assumed these laminae were varves; detritus deposition during the winter and aragonite in the summer. These sequences were used for varve counting and chronology, however this assumption has never been robustly validated. Here, we report an examination of the seasonal deposition of detrital and aragonite couplets from two well-known Late Holocene laminated sections at the Ze'elim fan-delta using palynology and grain-size distribution analyses. These analyses are complemented by the study of contemporary flash-flood samples and multivariate statistical analysis. Because transport affects the pollen preservation state, well-preserved (mostly) air-borne transported pollen was analysed separately from badly-preserved pollen and fungal spores, which are more indicative of water transport and reworking from soils. Our results indicate that (i) both detrital and aragonite laminae were deposited during the rainy season; (ii) aragonite laminae have significantly lower reworked pollen and fungal spore concentrations than detrital and flash-flood samples; and (iii) detrital laminae are composed of recycling of local and distal sources, with coarser particles that were initially deposited in the Dead Sea watershed and later transported via run-off to the lake. The conclusions suggest that detrital and aragonite couplets in the Dead Sea laminated sediments are most likely not varves and that the laminae deposition is related to the occurrence of flash-flood events. Consequently, at least for the Holocene sequences, laminated sediments cannot be considered as varves and Quaternary laminated sequences should be re-evaluated. The Dead Sea Basin laminated sequences (as the ICDP Dead Sea Deep Drilling Project record) should be used for the reconstruction of palaeo-flash flood records that will have a significant impact on understanding the palaeo-hydrology of the DSB and its implication to high-resolution climatic interpretation.

An analysis of soil moisture and vegetation conditions during a period of rapid subseasonal oscillations between drought and pluvials over Texas during 2015

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hunt, E. D.; Otkin, J.; Zhong, Y.

2017-12-01

Flash drought, characterized by the rapid onset of abnormally warm and dry weather conditions that leads to the rapid depletion of soil moisture and rapid deteriorations in vegetation health. Flash recovery, on the other hand, is characterized by a period(s) of intense precipitation where drought conditions are quickly eradicated and may be replaced by saturated soils and flooding. Both flash drought and flash recovery are closely tied to the rapid depletion or recharge of root zone soil moisture; therefore, soil moisture observations are very useful for monitoring their evolution. However, in-situ soil moisture observations tend to be concentrated over small regions and thus other methods are needed to provide a spatially continuous depiction of soil moisture conditions. One option is to use top soil moisture retrievals from the Soil Moisture Active Passive (SMAP) sensor. SMAP provides routine coverage of surface soil moisture (0-5 cm) over most of the globe, including the timespan (2015) and region of interest (Texas) that are the focus of our study. This region had an unusual sequence of flash recovery-flash drought-flash recovery during an six-month period during 2015 that provides a valuable case study of rapid transitions between extreme soil moisture conditions. During this project, SMAP soil moisture retrievals are being used in combination with in-situ soil moisture observations and assimilated into the Land Information System (LIS) to provide information about soil moisture content. LIS also provides greenness vegetation fraction data over large regions. The relationship between soil moisture and vegetation conditions and the response of the vegetation to the rapidly changing conditions are also assessed using the satellite thermal infrared based Evaporative Stress Index (ESI) that depicts anomalies in evapotranspiration, along with other vegetation datasets (leaf area index, greenness fraction) derived using MODIS observations. Preliminary results with the Noah land surface model (inside of LIS) shows that it broadly captured the soil moisture evolution during the 2015 sequence but tended to underestimate the magnitude of soil moisture anomalies. The ESI also showed negative anomalies during the drought. These and other results will be presented at the annual meeting.

Longitudinal stability of MRI for mapping brain change using tensor-based morphometry.

PubMed

Leow, Alex D; Klunder, Andrea D; Jack, Clifford R; Toga, Arthur W; Dale, Anders M; Bernstein, Matt A; Britson, Paula J; Gunter, Jeffrey L; Ward, Chadwick P; Whitwell, Jennifer L; Borowski, Bret J; Fleisher, Adam S; Fox, Nick C; Harvey, Danielle; Kornak, John; Schuff, Norbert; Studholme, Colin; Alexander, Gene E; Weiner, Michael W; Thompson, Paul M

2006-06-01

Measures of brain change can be computed from sequential MRI scans, providing valuable information on disease progression, e.g., for patient monitoring and drug trials. Tensor-based morphometry (TBM) creates maps of these brain changes, visualizing the 3D profile and rates of tissue growth or atrophy, but its sensitivity depends on the contrast and geometric stability of the images. As part of the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI), 17 normal elderly subjects were scanned twice (at a 2-week interval) with several 3D 1.5 T MRI pulse sequences: high and low flip angle SPGR/FLASH (from which Synthetic T1 images were generated), MP-RAGE, IR-SPGR (N = 10) and MEDIC (N = 7) scans. For each subject and scan type, a 3D deformation map aligned baseline and follow-up scans, computed with a nonlinear, inverse-consistent elastic registration algorithm. Voxelwise statistics, in ICBM stereotaxic space, visualized the profile of mean absolute change and its cross-subject variance; these maps were then compared using permutation testing. Image stability depended on: (1) the pulse sequence; (2) the transmit/receive coil type (birdcage versus phased array); (3) spatial distortion corrections (using MEDIC sequence information); (4) B1-field intensity inhomogeneity correction (using N3). SPGR/FLASH images acquired using a birdcage coil had least overall deviation. N3 correction reduced coil type and pulse sequence differences and improved scan reproducibility, except for Synthetic T1 images (which were intrinsically corrected for B1-inhomogeneity). No strong evidence favored B0 correction. Although SPGR/FLASH images showed least deviation here, pulse sequence selection for the ADNI project was based on multiple additional image analyses, to be reported elsewhere.

Longitudinal stability of MRI for mapping brain change using tensor-based morphometry

PubMed Central

Leow, Alex D.; Klunder, Andrea D.; Jack, Clifford R.; Toga, Arthur W.; Dale, Anders M.; Bernstein, Matt A.; Britson, Paula J.; Gunter, Jeffrey L.; Ward, Chadwick P.; Whitwell, Jennifer L.; Borowski, Bret J.; Fleisher, Adam S.; Fox, Nick C.; Harvey, Danielle; Kornak, John; Schuff, Norbert; Studholme, Colin; Alexander, Gene E.; Weiner, Michael W.; Thompson, Paul M.

2007-01-01

Measures of brain change can be computed from sequential MRI scans, providing valuable information on disease progression, e.g., for patient monitoring and drug trials. Tensor-based morphometry (TBM) creates maps of these brain changes, visualizing the 3D profile and rates of tissue growth or atrophy, but its sensitivity depends on the contrast and geometric stability of the images. A s part of the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI), 17 normal elderly subjects were scanned twice (at a 2-week interval) with several 3D 1.5 T MRI pulse sequences: high and low flip angle SPGR/FLASH (from which Synthetic T1 images were generated), MP-RAGE, IR-SPGR (N = 10) and MEDIC (N = 7) scans. For each subject and scan type, a 3D deformation map aligned baseline and follow-up scans, computed with a nonlinear, inverse-consistent elastic registration algorithm. Voxelwise statistics, in ICBM stereotaxic space, visualized the profile of mean absolute change and its cross-subject variance; these maps were then compared using permutation testing. Image stability depended on: (1) the pulse sequence; (2) the transmit/receive coil type (birdcage versus phased array); (3) spatial distortion corrections (using MEDIC sequence information); (4) B1-field intensity inhomogeneity correction (using N3). SPGR/FLASH images acquired using a birdcage coil had least overall deviation. N3 correction reduced coil type and pulse sequence differences and improved scan reproducibility, except for Synthetic T1 images (which were intrinsically corrected for B1-inhomogeneity). No strong evidence favored B0 correction. Although SPGR/FLASH images showed least deviation here, pulse sequence selection for the ADNI project was based on multiple additional image analyses, to be reported elsewhere. PMID:16480900

A conserved interaction that is essential for the biogenesis of histone locus bodies.

PubMed

Yang, Xiao-cui; Sabath, Ivan; Kunduru, Lalitha; van Wijnen, Andre J; Marzluff, William F; Dominski, Zbigniew

2014-12-05

Nuclear protein, ataxia-telangiectasia locus (NPAT) and FLICE-associated huge protein (FLASH) are two major components of discrete nuclear structures called histone locus bodies (HLBs). NPAT is a key co-activator of histone gene transcription, whereas FLASH through its N-terminal region functions in 3' end processing of histone primary transcripts. The C-terminal region of FLASH contains a highly conserved domain that is also present at the end of Yin Yang 1-associated protein-related protein (YARP) and its Drosophila homologue, Mute, previously shown to localize to HLBs in Drosophila cells. Here, we show that the C-terminal domain of human FLASH and YARP interacts with the C-terminal region of NPAT and that this interaction is essential and sufficient to drive FLASH and YARP to HLBs in HeLa cells. Strikingly, only the last 16 amino acids of NPAT are sufficient for the interaction. We also show that the C-terminal domain of Mute interacts with a short region at the end of the Drosophila NPAT orthologue, multi sex combs (Mxc). Altogether, our data indicate that the conserved C-terminal domain shared by FLASH, YARP, and Mute recognizes the C-terminal sequence of NPAT orthologues, thus acting as a signal targeting proteins to HLBs. Finally, we demonstrate that the C-terminal domain of human FLASH can be directly joined with its N-terminal region through alternative splicing. The resulting 190-amino acid MiniFLASH, despite lacking 90% of full-length FLASH, contains all regions necessary for 3' end processing of histone pre-mRNA in vitro and accumulates in HLBs. © 2014 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

Optical observations of electrical activity in cloud discharges

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vayanganie, S. P. A.; Fernando, M.; Sonnadara, U.; Cooray, V.; Perera, C.

2018-07-01

Temporal variation of the luminosity of seven natural cloud-to-cloud lightning channels were studied, and results were presented. They were recorded by using a high-speed video camera with the speed of 5000 fps (frames per second) and the pixel resolution of 512 × 512 in three locations in Sri Lanka in the tropics. Luminosity variation of the channel with time was obtained by analyzing the image sequences. Recorded video frames together with the luminosity variation were studied to understand the cloud discharge process. Image analysis techniques also used to understand the characteristics of channels. Cloud flashes show more luminosity variability than ground flashes. Most of the time it starts with a leader which do not have stepping process. Channel width and standard deviation of intensity variation across the channel for each cloud flashes was obtained. Brightness variation across the channel shows a Gaussian distribution. The average time duration of the cloud flashes which start with non stepped leader was 180.83 ms. Identified characteristics are matched with the existing models to understand the process of cloud flashes. The fact that cloud discharges are not confined to a single process have been further confirmed from this study. The observations show that cloud flash is a basic lightning discharge which transfers charge between two charge centers without using one specific mechanism.

MR CAT scan: a modular approach for hybrid imaging.

PubMed

Hillenbrand, C; Hahn, D; Haase, A; Jakob, P M

2000-07-01

In this study, a modular concept for NMR hybrid imaging is presented. This concept essentially integrates different imaging modules in a sequential fashion and is therefore called CAT (combined acquisition technique). CAT is not a single specific measurement sequence, but rather a sequence design concept whereby distinct acquisition techniques with varying imaging parameters are employed in rapid succession in order to cover k-space. The power of the CAT approach is that it provides a high flexibility toward the acquisition optimization with respect to the available imaging time and the desired image quality. Important CAT sequence optimization steps include the appropriate choice of the k-space coverage ratio and the application of mixed bandwidth technology. Details of both the CAT methodology and possible CAT acquisition strategies, such as FLASH/EPI-, RARE/EPI- and FLASH/BURST-CAT are provided. Examples from imaging experiments in phantoms and healthy volunteers including mixed bandwidth acquisitions are provided to demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed CAT concept.

Pulsed arterial spin labeling using TurboFLASH with suppression of intravascular signal.

PubMed

Pell, Gaby S; Lewis, David P; Branch, Craig A

2003-02-01

Accurate quantification of perfusion with the ADC techniques requires the suppression of the majority of the intravascular signal. This is normally achieved with the use of diffusion gradients. The TurboFLASH sequence with its ultrashort repetition times is not readily amenable to this scheme. This report demonstrates the implementation of a modified TurboFLASH sequence for FAIR imaging. Intravascular suppression is achieved with a modified preparation period that includes a driven equilibrium Fourier transform (DEFT) combination of 90 degrees-180 degrees-90 degrees hard RF pulses subsequent to the inversion delay. These pulses rotate the perfusion-prepared magnetization into the transverse plane where it can experience the suitably placed diffusion gradients before being returned to the longitudinal direction by the second 90 degrees pulse. A value of b = 20-30 s/mm(2) was thereby found to suppress the majority of the intravascular signal. For single-slice perfusion imaging, quantification is only slightly modified. The technique can be readily extended to multislice acquisition if the evolving flow signal after the DEFT preparation is considered. An advantage of the modified preparation scheme is evident in the multislice FAIR images by the preservation of the sign of the magnetization difference. Copyright 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Optimization of preservation and storage time of sponge tissues to obtain quality mRNA for next-generation sequencing.

PubMed

Riesgo, Ana; Pérez-Porro, Alicia R; Carmona, Susana; Leys, Sally P; Giribet, Gonzalo

2012-03-01

Transcriptome sequencing with next-generation sequencing technologies has the potential for addressing many long-standing questions about the biology of sponges. Transcriptome sequence quality depends on good cDNA libraries, which requires high-quality mRNA. Standard protocols for preserving and isolating mRNA often require optimization for unusual tissue types. Our aim was assessing the efficiency of two preservation modes, (i) flash freezing with liquid nitrogen (LN₂) and (ii) immersion in RNAlater, for the recovery of high-quality mRNA from sponge tissues. We also tested whether the long-term storage of samples at -80 °C affects the quantity and quality of mRNA. We extracted mRNA from nine sponge species and analysed the quantity and quality (A260/230 and A260/280 ratios) of mRNA according to preservation method, storage time, and taxonomy. The quantity and quality of mRNA depended significantly on the preservation method used (LN₂) outperforming RNAlater), the sponge species, and the interaction between them. When the preservation was analysed in combination with either storage time or species, the quantity and A260/230 ratio were both significantly higher for LN₂-preserved samples. Interestingly, individual comparisons for each preservation method over time indicated that both methods performed equally efficiently during the first month, but RNAlater lost efficiency in storage times longer than 2 months compared with flash-frozen samples. In summary, we find that for long-term preservation of samples, flash freezing is the preferred method. If LN₂ is not available, RNAlater can be used, but mRNA extraction during the first month of storage is advised. © 2011 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Congenital heart disease in adults: Quantitative and qualitative evaluation of IR FLASH and IR SSFP MRA techniques using a blood pool contrast agent in the steady state and comparison to first pass MRA.

PubMed

Febbo, Jennifer A; Galizia, Mauricio S; Murphy, Ian G; Popescu, Andrada; Bi, Xiaoming; Turin, Alexander; Collins, Jeremy; Markl, Michael; Edelman, Robert R; Carr, James C

2015-10-01

To evaluate magnetic resonance angiography sequences during the contrast steady-state (SS-MRA) using inversion recovery (IR) with fast low-angle shot (IR-FLASH) or steady-state free precession (IR-SSFP) read-outs, following the injection of a blood-pool contrast agent, and compare them to first-pass MR angiography (FP-MRA) in adults with congenital heart disease (CHD). Twenty-three adult patients with CHD who underwent both SS-MRA and FP-MRA using a 1.5-T scanner were retrospectively identified. Signal-to-noise and contrast-to-noise ratios were obtained at eight locations within the aorta and pulmonary vessels.. Image quality and the presence of artifacts were subjectively assessed by two radiologists. The presence of pathology was noted and given a confidence score. There was no difference in vessel dimensions among the sequences. IR-SSFP showed better image quality and fewer artifacts than IR-FLASH and FP-MRA. Confidence scores were significantly higher for SS-MRA compared to FP-MRA. Seven cases (30.4%) had findings detected at SS-MRA that were not detected at FP-MRA, and 2 cases (8.7%) had findings detected by IR-SSFP only. SS-MRA of the thoracic vasculature using a blood pool contrast agent offers superior image quality and reveals more abnormalities compared to standard FP-MRA in adults with CHD, and it is best achieved with an IR-SSFP sequence. These sequences could lead to increased detection rates of abnormalities and provide a simpler protocol image acquisition. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of intervertebral disc cartilaginous endplate structure using magnetic resonance imaging.

PubMed

Moon, Sung M; Yoder, Jonathon H; Wright, Alexander C; Smith, Lachlan J; Vresilovic, Edward J; Elliott, Dawn M

2013-08-01

The cartilaginous endplate (CEP) is a thin layer of hyaline cartilage positioned between the vertebral endplate and nucleus pulposus (NP) that functions both as a mechanical barrier and as a gateway for nutrient transport into the disc. Despite its critical role in disc nutrition and degeneration, the morphology of the CEP has not been well characterized. The objective of this study was to visualize and report observations of the CEP three-dimensional morphology, and quantify CEP thickness using an MRI FLASH (fast low-angle shot) pulse sequence. MR imaging of ex vivo human cadaveric lumbar spine segments (N = 17) was performed in a 7T MRI scanner with sequence parameters that were selected by utilizing high-resolution T1 mapping, and an analytical MRI signal model to optimize image contrast between CEP and NP. The CEP thickness at five locations along the mid-sagittal AP direction (center, 5 mm, 10 mm off-center towards anterior and posterior) was measured, and analyzed using two-way ANOVA and a post hoc Bonferonni test. For further investigation, six in vivo volunteers were imaged with a similar sequence in a 3T MRI scanner. In addition, decalcified and undecalcified histology was performed, which confirmed that the FLASH sequence successfully detected the CEP. CEP thickness determined by MRI in the mid-sagittal plane across all lumbar disc levels and locations was 0.77 ± 0.24 mm ex vivo. The CEP thickness was not different across disc levels, but was thinner toward the center of the disc. This study demonstrates the potential of MRI FLASH imaging for structural quantification of the CEP geometry, which may be developed as a technique to evaluate changes in the CEP with disc degeneration in future applications.

[The initial (I and II) and advanced (III and IV) stages of juvenile patellar chondromalacia. Its diagnosis by magnetic resonance using a 1.5-T magnet with FLASH sequences].

PubMed

Macarini, L; Rizzo, A; Martino, F; Zaccheo, N; Angelelli, G; Rotondo, A

1998-06-01

Juvenile patellar chondromalacia is a common orthopedic disorder which can mimic other conditions; early diagnosis is mandatory to prevent its evolution into osteoarthrosis. In the early stages of patellar chondromalacia (I and II), the lesions originate in the deep cartilage layer and the joint surface is not affected. Arthroscopy can demonstrate joint surface changes only and give indirect information about deeper lesions. We investigated the yield of 2D FLASH MRI with 30 degrees flip angle and a dedicated coil in the diagnosis of patellar chondromalacia, especially in its early stages. Eighteen patients (mean age: 21 years) with clinically suspected patellar chondromalacia were examined with MRI; 13 of them were also submitted to arthroscopy. A 1.5 T unit with a transmit-and-receive extremity coil was used. We acquired T1 SE sequences (TR/TE: 500-700/15/20) and 2D T2* FLASH sequence (TR/TE/FA: 500-800/18/30 degrees). The field of view was 160-180 mm and the matrix 192 x 256, with 2-3 NEX. The images were obtained on the axial plane. The lesions were classified in 4 stages according to Shahriaree classification. Agreement between MR and arthroscopic findings was good in both early and advanced lesions in 12/13 cases. Early lesions appeared as hyperintense focal thickening of the hyaline cartilage (stage I) or as small cystic lesions within the cartilage and no articular surface involvement (stage II). The medial patellar facet was the most frequent site. Advanced lesions appeared as articular surface ulcerations, thinning and cartilage hypointensity (stage III); stage IV lesions presented as complete erosions of the hyaline cartilage and hypointense underlying bone. 2D FLASH MRI with 30 degrees flip angle can show the differences in water content in the cartilage and thus permit to detect early chondromalacia lesions in the deep cartilage.

Neural basis of superior performance of action videogame players in an attention-demanding task.

PubMed

Mishra, Jyoti; Zinni, Marla; Bavelier, Daphne; Hillyard, Steven A

2011-01-19

Steady-state visual evoked potentials (SSVEPs) were recorded from action videogame players (VGPs) and from non-videogame players (NVGPs) during an attention-demanding task. Participants were presented with a multi-stimulus display consisting of rapid sequences of alphanumeric stimuli presented at rates of 8.6/12 Hz in the left/right peripheral visual fields, along with a central square at fixation flashing at 5.5 Hz and a letter sequence flashing at 15 Hz at an upper central location. Subjects were cued to attend to one of the peripheral or central stimulus sequences and detect occasional targets. Consistent with previous behavioral studies, VGPs detected targets with greater speed and accuracy than NVGPs. This behavioral advantage was associated with an increased suppression of SSVEP amplitudes to unattended peripheral sequences in VGPs relative to NVGPs, whereas the magnitude of the attended SSVEPs was equivalent in the two groups. Group differences were also observed in the event-related potentials to targets in the alphanumeric sequences, with the target-elicited P300 component being of larger amplitude in VGPS than NVGPs. These electrophysiological findings suggest that the superior target detection capabilities of the VGPs are attributable, at least in part, to enhanced suppression of distracting irrelevant information and more effective perceptual decision processes.

Properties of the unusually short pulse sequences occurring prior to the first strokes of negative cloud-to-ground lightning flashes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kolmasova, Ivana; Santolik, Ondrej; Farges, Thomas; Rison, William; Lan, Radek; Uhlir, Ludek

2014-05-01

We analyze pulse sequences occurring prior to first return strokes of negative cloud-to-ground lightning flashes. The magnetic-field waveforms are measured close to the thunderstorm using a broad-band analyzer with a sampling interval of 12.5 ns. The electric-field waveforms are measured at the distance of ~ 400 km using an analyzer with a sampling interval of 80 ns. The sequence is usually composed of three parts. It begins with a larger pulse train which is believed to be connected with initial breakdown processes. The train of preliminary breakdown pulses ("B" part) is followed by a relatively low and irregular pulse activity ("I" part), which is sometimes missing. The sequence ends with a pulse train attributed to the stepped leader ("L" part). We recognize two different patterns ("B-I-L" and "B-L" types) in recorded waveforms. For the first time, we analyze the time evolution of the pulse amplitudes in the "B" part of "B-I-L" type sequences. The pulse amplitude is decreasing on average by 34% of the maximum value within a given train. We observe an unusually short duration of sequences. This is probably linked to a low height of the thundercloud. Another possible explanation may be based on an untypical precipitation mix resulting in faster steeped leaders.

Evaluation of alternative pedestrian control devices.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2012-03-01

A literature review, field study of Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon (RRFB) installations in Oregon, and a static survey : on the sequencing of the Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (PHB) were completed. : The field study conducted in this project was design...

Engineering Customized TALE Nucleases (TALENs) and TALE Transcription Factors by Fast Ligation-based Automatable Solid-phase High-throughput (FLASH) Assembly

PubMed Central

Reyon, Deepak; Maeder, Morgan L.; Khayter, Cyd; Tsai, Shengdar Q.; Foley, Jonathan E.; Sander, Jeffry D.; Joung, J. Keith

2013-01-01

Customized DNA-binding domains made using Transcription Activator-Like Effector (TALE) repeats are rapidly growing in importance as widely applicable research tools. TALE nucleases (TALENs), composed of an engineered array of TALE repeats fused to the FokI nuclease domain, have been used successfully for directed genome editing in multiple different organisms and cell types. TALE transcription factors (TALE-TFs), consisting of engineered TALE repeat arrays linked to a transcriptional regulatory domain, have been used to up- or down-regulate expression of endogenous genes in human cells and plants. Here we describe a detailed protocol for practicing the recently described Fast Ligation-based Automatable Solid-phase High-throughput (FLASH) assembly method. FLASH enables automated high-throughput construction of engineered TALE repeats using an automated liquid handling robot or manually using a multi-channel pipet. With the automated version of FLASH, a single researcher can construct up to 96 DNA fragments encoding various length TALE repeat arrays in one day and then clone these to construct sequence-verified TALEN or TALE-TF expression plasmids in one week or less. Plas-mids required to practice FLASH are available by request from the Joung Lab (http://www.jounglab.org/). We also describe here improvements to the Zinc Finger and TALE Targeter (ZiFiT Targeter) webserver (http://ZiFiTBeta.partners.org) that facilitate the design and construction of FLASH TALE repeat arrays in high-throughput. PMID:23821439

Flashing characters with famous faces improves ERP-based brain-computer interface performance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kaufmann, T.; Schulz, S. M.; Grünzinger, C.; Kübler, A.

2011-10-01

Currently, the event-related potential (ERP)-based spelling device, often referred to as P300-Speller, is the most commonly used brain-computer interface (BCI) for enhancing communication of patients with impaired speech or motor function. Among numerous improvements, a most central feature has received little attention, namely optimizing the stimulus used for eliciting ERPs. Therefore we compared P300-Speller performance with the standard stimulus (flashing characters) against performance with stimuli known for eliciting particularly strong ERPs due to their psychological salience, i.e. flashing familiar faces transparently superimposed on characters. Our results not only indicate remarkably increased ERPs in response to familiar faces but also improved P300-Speller performance due to a significant reduction of stimulus sequences needed for correct character classification. These findings demonstrate a promising new approach for improving the speed and thus fluency of BCI-enhanced communication with the widely used P300-Speller.

Nuclear fusion and carbon flashes on neutron stars

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Taam, R. E.; Picklum, R. E.

1978-01-01

This paper reports on detailed calculations of the thermal evolution of the carbon-burning shells in the envelopes of accreting neutron stars for mass-accretion rates of 1 hundred-billionth to 2 billionths of a solar mass per yr and neutron-star masses of 0.56 and 1.41 solar masses. The work of Hansen and Van Horn (1975) is extended to higher densities, and a more detailed treatment of nuclear processing in the hydrogen- and helium-burning regions is included. Results of steady-state calculations are presented, and results of time-dependent computations are examined for accretion rates of 3 ten-billionths and 1 billionth of solar mass per yr. It is found that two evolutionary sequences lead to carbon flashes and that the carbon abundance at the base of the helium shell is a strong function of accretion rate. Upper limits are placed on the accretion rates at which carbon flashes will be important.

New Observational Evidence of Flash Mixing on the White Dwarf Cooling Curve

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brown, T. M.; Lanz, T.; Sweigart, A. V.; Cracraft, Misty; Hubeny, Ivan; Landsman, W. B.

2011-01-01

Blue hook stars are a class of subluminous extreme horizontal branch stars that were discovered in UV images of the massive globular clusters w Cen and NGC 2808. These stars occupy a region of the HR diagram that is unexplained by canonical stellar evolution theory. Using new theoretical evolutionary and atmospheric models, we have shown that the blue hook stars are very likely the progeny of stars that undergo extensive internal mixing during a late helium-core flash on the white dwarf cooling curve. This "flash mixing" produces hotter-than-normal EHB stars with atmospheres significantly enhanced in helium and carbon. The larger bolometric correction, combined with the decrease in hydrogen opacity, makes these stars appear sub luminous in the optical and UV. Flash mixing is more likely to occur in stars born with a high helium abundance, due to their lower mass at the main sequence turnoff. For this reason, the phenomenon is more common in those massive globular clusters that show evidence for secondary populations enhanced in helium. However, a high helium abundance does not, by itself, explain the presence of blue hook stars in massive globular clusters. Here, we present new observational evidence for flash mixing, using recent HST observations. These include UV color-magnitude diagrams of six massive globular clusters and far-UV spectroscopy of hot subdwarfs in one of these clusters (NGC 2808).

Experimental constraints on phreatic eruption processes at Whakaari (White Island volcano)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mayer, Klaus; Scheu, Bettina; Gilg, H. Albert; Heap, Michael J.; Kennedy, Ben M.; Lavallée, Yan; Letham-Brake, Mark; Dingwell, Donald B.

2015-09-01

Vigorous hydrothermal activity interspersed by sequences of phreatic and phreatomagmatic eruptions occur at Whakaari (White Island volcano), New Zealand. Here, we investigate the influence of sample type (hydrothermally altered cemented ash tuffs and unconsolidated ash/lapilli) and fragmentation mechanism (steam flashing versus gas expansion) on fragmentation and ejection velocities as well as on particle-size and shape. Our rapid decompression experiments show that fragmentation and ejection speeds of two ash tuffs, cemented by alunite and amorphous opal, increase with increasing porosity and that both are significantly enhanced in the presence of steam flashing. Ejection speeds of unconsolidated samples are higher than ejection speeds of cemented tuffs, as less energy is consumed by fragmentation. Fragmentation dominated by steam flashing results in increased fragmentation energy and a higher proportion of fine particles. Particle shape analyses before and after fragmentation reveal that both steam flashing and pure gas expansion produce platy or bladed particles from fracturing parallel to the decompression front. Neither fragmentation mechanisms nor sample type show a significant influence on the shape. Our results emphasize that, under identical pressure and temperature conditions, eruptions accompanied by the process of liquid water flashing to steam are significantly more violent than those driven simply by gas expansion. Therefore, phase changes during decompression and cementation are both important considerations for hazard assessment and modeling of eruptions in hydrothermally active environments.

Flash Thermography to Evaluate Porosity in Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRPs)

PubMed Central

Meola, Carosena; Toscano, Cinzia

2014-01-01

It is a fact that the presence of porosity in composites has detrimental effects on their mechanical properties. Then, due to the high probability of void formation during manufacturing processes, it is necessary to have the availability of non-destructive evaluation techniques, which may be able to discover the presence and the distribution of porosity in the final parts. In recent years, flash thermography has emerged as the most valuable method, but it is still not adequately enclosed in the industrial enterprise. The main reason of this is the lack of sufficient quantitative data for a full validation of such a technique. The intention of the present work is to supply an overview on the current state-of-the-art regarding the use of flash thermography to evaluate the porosity percentage in fiber reinforced composite materials and to present the latest results, which are gathered by the authors, on porous carbon fiber reinforced polymer laminates. To this end, several coupons of two different stacking sequences and including a different amount of porosity are fabricated and inspected with both non-destructive and destructive testing techniques. Data coming from non-destructive testing with either flash thermography or ultrasonics are plotted against the porosity percentage, which was previously estimated with the volumetric method. The new obtained results are a witness to the efficacy of flash thermography. Some key points that need further consideration are also highlighted. PMID:28788527

MobRISK: a model for assessing the exposure of road users to flash flood events

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shabou, Saif; Ruin, Isabelle; Lutoff, Céline; Debionne, Samuel; Anquetin, Sandrine; Creutin, Jean-Dominique; Beaufils, Xavier

2017-09-01

Recent flash flood impact studies highlight that road networks are often disrupted due to adverse weather and flash flood events. Road users are thus particularly exposed to road flooding during their daily mobility. Previous exposure studies, however, do not take into consideration population mobility. Recent advances in transportation research provide an appropriate framework for simulating individual travel-activity patterns using an activity-based approach. These activity-based mobility models enable the prediction of the sequence of activities performed by individuals and locating them with a high spatial-temporal resolution. This paper describes the development of the MobRISK microsimulation system: a model for assessing the exposure of road users to extreme hydrometeorological events. MobRISK aims at providing an accurate spatiotemporal exposure assessment by integrating travel-activity behaviors and mobility adaptation with respect to weather disruptions. The model is applied in a flash-flood-prone area in southern France to assess motorists' exposure to the September 2002 flash flood event. The results show that risk of flooding mainly occurs in principal road links with considerable traffic load. However, a lag time between the timing of the road submersion and persons crossing these roads contributes to reducing the potential vehicle-related fatal accidents. It is also found that sociodemographic variables have a significant effect on individual exposure. Thus, the proposed model demonstrates the benefits of considering spatiotemporal dynamics of population exposure to flash floods and presents an important improvement in exposure assessment methods. Such improved characterization of road user exposures can present valuable information for flood risk management services.

[Comparison of Quantification of Myocardial Infarct Size by One Breath Hold Single Shot PSIR Sequence and Segmented FLASH-PSIR Sequence at 3. 0 Tesla MR].

PubMed

Cheng, Wei; Cai, Shu; Sun, Jia-yu; Xia, Chun-chao; Li, Zhen-lin; Chen, Yu-cheng; Zhong, Yao-zu

2015-05-01

To compare the two sequences [single shot true-FISP-PSIR (single shot-PSIR) and segmented-turbo-FLASH-PSIR (segmented-PSIR)] in the value of quantification for myocardial infarct size at 3. 0 tesla MRI. 38 patients with clinical confirmed myocardial infarction were served a comprehensive gadonilium cardiac MRI at 3. 0 tesla MRI system (Trio, Siemens). Myocardial delayed enhancement (MDE) were performed by single shot-PSIR and segmented-PSIR sequences separatedly in 12-20 min followed gadopentetate dimeglumine injection (0. 15 mmol/kg). The quality of MDE images were analysed by experienced physicians. Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) between the two techniques were compared. Myocardial infarct size was quantified by a dedicated software automatically (Q-mass, Medis). All objectives were scanned on the 3. 0T MR successfully. No significant difference was found in SNR and CNR of the image quality between the two sequences (P>0. 05), as well as the total myocardial volume, between two sequences (P>0. 05). Furthermore, there were still no difference in the infarct size [single shot-PSIR (30. 87 ± 15. 72) mL, segmented-PSIR (29. 26±14. 07) ml], ratio [single shot-PSIR (22. 94%±10. 94%), segmented-PSIR (20. 75% ± 8. 78%)] between the two sequences (P>0. 05). However, the average aquisition time of single shot-PSIR (21. 4 s) was less than that of the latter (380 s). Single shot-PSIR is equal to segmented-PSIR in detecting the myocardial infarct size with less acquisition time, which is valuable in the clinic application and further research.

Ultrahigh-field imaging of the biliary tract at 7 T: initial results of gadoxetic acid-enhanced magnetic resonance cholangiography.

PubMed

Fischer, Anja; Kraff, Oliver; Orzada, Stephan; Nensa, Felix; Schäfer, Lena C; Ladd, Mark E; Umutlu, Lale; Lauenstein, Thomas C

2014-05-01

The objectives of this study were to assess the feasibility of magnetic resonance cholangiography (MRC) using biliary-secreted gadoxetic acid at 7 T and to compare it with T2-weighted (w) MRC at 3 T. Ten healthy volunteers were examined on a 7-T whole-body magnetic resonance system. T2-weighted turbo-spin-echo sequence, T1-w volume-interpolated breath-hold examination (VIBE), and fast low-angle shot (FLASH) with inversion recovery (IR) were acquired in coronal orientation. For dynamic imaging, gadoxetic acid was administrated and data were collected for a period of 5 to 40 minutes after injection. The volunteers underwent subsequent T2-w respiratory-gated MRC at 3 T. For qualitative analysis, a 5-point scale was used. Contrast ratios (CRs) were calculated for quantitative assessment. Contrast-enhanced T1-w MRC at 7 T showed a homogeneous depiction of the intrahepatic and extrahepatic biliary tract with a maximum enhancement of 20 minutes after contrast. Volume-interpolated breath-hold examination and FLASH IR provided a good image quality for the intrahepatic (VIBE, 3.60; FLASH IR, 3.67) and extrahepatic bile ducts (VIBE, 3.50; FLASH IR, 3.72). The quantitative analysis revealed high CR values for FLASH IR (intrahepatic CR, 0.41; extrahepatic CR, 0.45) because of an effective suppression of hepatic tissue and vessels. The T2-w TSE at 7 T showed only a poor image quality without diagnostic potential (intrahepatic, 2.22; extrahepatic, 1.93). Seven-tesla VIBE and FLASH revealed superiority in the depiction of the intrahepatic bile ducts, whereas 3-T MRC was superior in the delineation of the extrahepatic biliary tract. Our results demonstrate the feasibility of contrast-enhanced imaging of the biliary ducts at 7 T.

Engineering customized TALE nucleases (TALENs) and TALE transcription factors by fast ligation-based automatable solid-phase high-throughput (FLASH) assembly.

PubMed

Reyon, Deepak; Maeder, Morgan L; Khayter, Cyd; Tsai, Shengdar Q; Foley, Jonathan E; Sander, Jeffry D; Joung, J Keith

2013-07-01

Customized DNA-binding domains made using transcription activator-like effector (TALE) repeats are rapidly growing in importance as widely applicable research tools. TALE nucleases (TALENs), composed of an engineered array of TALE repeats fused to the FokI nuclease domain, have been used successfully for directed genome editing in various organisms and cell types. TALE transcription factors (TALE-TFs), consisting of engineered TALE repeat arrays linked to a transcriptional regulatory domain, have been used to up- or downregulate expression of endogenous genes in human cells and plants. This unit describes a detailed protocol for the recently described fast ligation-based automatable solid-phase high-throughput (FLASH) assembly method. FLASH enables automated high-throughput construction of engineered TALE repeats using an automated liquid handling robot or manually using a multichannel pipet. Using the automated approach, a single researcher can construct up to 96 DNA fragments encoding TALE repeat arrays of various lengths in a single day, and then clone these to construct sequence-verified TALEN or TALE-TF expression plasmids in a week or less. Plasmids required for FLASH are available by request from the Joung lab (http://eGenome.org). This unit also describes improvements to the Zinc Finger and TALE Targeter (ZiFiT Targeter) web server (http://ZiFiT.partners.org) that facilitate the design and construction of FLASH TALE repeat arrays in high throughput. © 2013 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

The Origin of Hot Subluminous Horizontal-Branch Stars in (omega) Centauri and NGC 2808

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sweigart, Allen V.; Brown, Thomas M.; Lanz, Thierry; Landsman, Wayne B.; Hubeny, Ivan

2001-01-01

Hot subluminous stars lying up to 0.7 mag below the extreme horizontal branch (EHB) are found in the ultraviolet (UV) color magnitude diagrams of both (omega) Cen and NGC 2808. In order to explore the evolutionary status of these subluminous stars, we have evolved a set of low-mass stars continuously from the main sequence through the helium-core flash to the HB (horizontal branch) for a wide range in the mass loss along the red-giant branch (RGB). Stars with the largest mass loss evolve off the RGB to high effective temperatures before igniting helium in their cores. Our results indicate that the subluminous EHB stars, as well as the gap within the EHB of NGC 2808, can be explained if these stars undergo a late helium-core flash while descending the white-dwarf cooling curve. Under these conditions the convection zone produced by the helium flash will penetrate into the stellar envelope, thereby mixing most, if not all, of the envelope hydrogen into the hot helium-burning interior, where it is rapidly consumed. This phenomenon is analogous to the 'born-again' scenario for producing hydrogen-deficient stars following a very late helium-shell flash. This 'flash mixing' of the stellar envelope greatly enhances the envelope helium and carbon abundances and, as a result, leads to a discontinuous jump in the HB effective temperature. We argue that the EHB gap in NGC 2808 is associated with this theoretically predicted dichotomy in the HB morphology. Using new helium- and carbon-rich stellar atmospheres, we show that these changes in the envelope abundances of the flash-mixed stars will suppress the UV flux by the amount needed to explain the hot subluminous EHB stars in (omega) Cen and NGC 2808. Moreover, we demonstrate that models without flash mixing lie, at most, only approximately 0.1 mag below the EHB, and hence fail to explain the observations. Flash mixing may also provide a new evolutionary channel for producing the high gravity, helium-rich sdO and sdB stars.

Optical bullet-tracking algorithms for weapon localization in urban environments

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

Roberts, R S; Breitfeller, E F

2006-03-31

Localization of the sources of small-arms fire, mortars, and rocket propelled grenades is an important problem in urban combat. Weapons of this type produce characteristic signatures, such as muzzle flashes, that are visible in the infrared. Indeed, several systems have been developed that exploit the infrared signature of muzzle flash to locate the positions of shooters. However, systems based on muzzle flash alone can have difficulty localizing weapons if the muzzle flash is obscured or suppressed. Moreover, optical clutter can be problematic to systems that rely on muzzle flash alone. Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) has developed a projectile trackingmore » system that detects and localizes sources of small-arms fire, mortars and similar weapons using the thermal signature of the projectile rather than a muzzle flash. The thermal signature of a projectile, caused by friction as the projectile travels along its trajectory, cannot be concealed and is easily discriminated from optical clutter. The LLNL system was recently demonstrated at the MOUT facility of the Aberdeen Test Center [1]. In the live-fire demonstration, shooters armed with a variety of small-arms, including M-16s, AK-47s, handguns, mortars and rockets, were arranged at several positions in around the facility. Experiments ranged from a single-weapon firing a single-shot to simultaneous fire of all weapons on full automatic. The LLNL projectile tracking system was demonstrated to localize multiple shooters at ranges up to 400m, far greater than previous demonstrations. Furthermore, the system was shown to be immune to optical clutter that is typical in urban combat. This paper describes the image processing and localization algorithms designed to exploit the thermal signature of projectiles for shooter localization. The paper begins with a description of the image processing that extracts projectile information from a sequence of infrared images. Key to the processing is an adaptive spatio-temporal filter developed to suppress scene clutter. The filtered image sequence is further processed to produce a set of parameterized regions, which are classified using several discriminate functions. Regions that are classified as projectiles are passed to a data association algorithm that matches features from these regions with existing tracks, or initializes new tracks as needed. A Kalman filter is used to smooth and extrapolate existing tracks. Shooter locations are determined by solving a combinatorial least-squares solution for all bullet tracks. It also provides an error ellipse for each shooter, quantifying the uncertainty of shooter location. The paper concludes with examples from the live-fire exercise at the Aberdeen Test Center.« less

Qualitative assessment of contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance angiography using breath-hold and non-breath-hold techniques in the portal venous system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Goo, Eun-Hoe; Kim, Sun-Ju; Dong, Kyung-Rae; Kim, Kwang-Choul; Chung, Woon-Kwan

2016-09-01

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the image quality in delineation of the portal venous systems with two different methods, breath-hold and non-breath-hold by using the 3D FLASH sequence. We used a 1.5 T system to obtain magnetic resonance(MR)images. Arterial and portal phase 3D FLASH images were obtained with breath-hold after a bolus injection of GD-DOTA. The detection of PVS on the MR angiograms was classified into three grades. First, the angiograms of the breath-hold method showed well the portal vein, the splenic vein and the superior mesenteric vein systems in 13 of 15 patients (86%) and the inferior mesenteric vein system in 6 of 15 patients (40%), Second, MR angiograms of the non-breath-hold method demonstrated the PVS and the SMV in 12 of 15 patients (80%) and the IMV in 5 of 15 patients (33%). Our study showed contrast-enhanced 3D FLASH MR angiography, together with the breath-hold technique, may provide reliable and accurate information on the portal venous system.

Application of lightning data to satellite-based rainfall estimation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Martin, David W.; Hinton, Barry B.; Auvine, Brian A.

1991-01-01

Information on lightning may improve rain estimates made from infrared images of a geostationary satellite. We address this proposition through a case from the Cooperative Huntsville Meteorological Experiment (COHMEX). During the afternoon and evening of 13 July 1986 waves of showers and thunderstorms developed over and near the lower Tennessee River Valley. For the shower and thunderstorm region within 200 km of the National Weather Service radar at Nashville, Tennessee, we measure cold-cloud area in a sequence of GOES infrared images covering all but the end of the shower and thunderstorm period. From observations of the NASA/Marshall direction-finding network in this small domain, we also count cloud-to-ground lightning flashes and, from scans of the Nashville radar, we calculate volume rain flux. Using a modified version of the Williams and Houze scheme, over an area within roughly 240 km of the radar (the large domain), we identify and track cold cloud systems. For these systems, over the large domain, we measure area and count flashes; over the small domain, we calculate volume rain flux. For a temperature threshold of 235K, peak cloud area over the small domain lags both peak rain flux and peak flash count by about four hours. At a threshold of 226K, the lag is about two hours. Flashes and flux are matched in phase. Over the large domain, nine storm systems occur. These range in size from 300 to 60,000 km(exp 2); in lifetime, from about 2 1/2 h to 6 h or more. Storm system area lags volume rain flux and flash count; nevertheless, it is linked with these variables. In essential respects the associations were the same when clouds were defined by a threshold of 226K. Tentatively, we conclude that flash counts complement infrared images in providing significant additional information on rain flux.

Phonological and Sensory Short-Term Memory Are Correlates and Both Affected in Developmental Dyslexia

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Laasonen, Marja; Virsu, Veijo; Oinonen, Suvi; Sandbacka, Mirja; Salakari, Anita; Service, Elisabet

2012-01-01

We investigated whether poor short-term memory (STM) in developmental dyslexia affects the processing of sensory stimulus sequences in addition to phonological material. STM for brief binary non-verbal stimuli (light flashes, tone bursts, finger touches, and their crossmodal combinations) was studied in 20 Finnish adults with dyslexia and 24…

A FIB/TEM Study of a Complex Wark-Lovering Rim on a Vigarano CAI

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Keller, L. P.; Needham, A. W.; Messenger, S.

2013-01-01

Wark-Lovering (WL) rims are thin multilayered mineral sequences that surround most Ca, Al-rich inclusions (CAIs). Several processes have been proposed for WL rim formation, including condensation, flash-heating or reaction with a nebular reservoir, or combinations of these [e.g. 1-7], but no consensus exists. Our previous coordinated transmission electron microscope (TEM) and NanoSIMS O isotopic measurements showed that a WL rim experienced flash heating events in a nebular environment with planetary O isotopic composition, distinct from the (16)O-rich formation environment [6]. Our efforts have focused on CAIs from the CV(sub red) chondrites, especially Vigarano, because these have escaped much of the parent body alteration effects that are common in CAIs from CV(sub ox) group.

High-resolution maps of magnetization transfer with inherent correction for RF inhomogeneity and T1 relaxation obtained from 3D FLASH MRI.

PubMed

Helms, Gunther; Dathe, Henning; Kallenberg, Kai; Dechent, Peter

2008-12-01

An empirical equation for the magnetization transfer (MT) FLASH signal is derived by analogy to dual-excitation FLASH, introducing a novel semiquantitative parameter for MT, the percentage saturation imposed by one MT pulse during TR. This parameter is obtained by a linear transformation of the inverse signal, using two reference experiments of proton density and T(1) weighting. The influence of sequence parameters on the MT saturation was studied. An 8.5-min protocol for brain imaging at 3 T was based on nonselective sagittal 3D-FLASH at 1.25 mm isotropic resolution using partial acquisition techniques (TR/TE/alpha = 25ms/4.9ms/5 degrees or 11ms/4.9ms/15 degrees for the T(1) reference). A 12.8 ms Gaussian MT pulse was applied 2.2 kHz off-resonance with 540 degrees flip angle. The MT saturation maps showed an excellent contrast in the brain due to clearly separated distributions for white and gray matter and cerebrospinal fluid. Within the limits of the approximation (excitation <15 degrees , TR/T(1) less sign 1) the MT term depends mainly on TR, the energy and offset of the MT pulse, but hardly on excitation and T(1) relaxation. It is inherently compensated for inhomogeneities of receive and transmit RF fields. The MT saturation appeared to be a sensitive parameter to depict MS lesions and alterations of normal-appearing white matter. (c) 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

An EOG-Based Human-Machine Interface for Wheelchair Control.

PubMed

Huang, Qiyun; He, Shenghong; Wang, Qihong; Gu, Zhenghui; Peng, Nengneng; Li, Kai; Zhang, Yuandong; Shao, Ming; Li, Yuanqing

2017-07-27

Non-manual human-machine interfaces (HMIs) have been studied for wheelchair control with the aim of helping severely paralyzed individuals regain some mobility. The challenge is to rapidly, accurately and sufficiently produce control commands, such as left and right turns, forward and backward motions, acceleration, deceleration, and stopping. In this paper, a novel electrooculogram (EOG)-based HMI is proposed for wheelchair control. Thirteen flashing buttons are presented in the graphical user interface (GUI), and each of the buttons corresponds to a command. These buttons flash on a one-by-one manner in a pre-defined sequence. The user can select a button by blinking in sync with its flashes. The algorithm detects the eye blinks from a channel of vertical EOG data and determines the user's target button based on the synchronization between the detected blinks and the button's flashes. For healthy subjects/patients with spinal cord injuries (SCIs), the proposed HMI achieved an average accuracy of 96.7%/91.7% and a response time of 3.53 s/3.67 s with 0 false positive rates (FPRs). Using only one channel of vertical EOG signals associated with eye blinks, the proposed HMI can accurately provide sufficient commands with a satisfactory response time. The proposed HMI provides a novel non-manual approach for severely paralyzed individuals to control a wheelchair. Compared with a newly established EOG-based HMI, the proposed HMI can generate more commands with higher accuracy, lower FPR and fewer electrodes.

Multifocal electroretinograms.

PubMed

Creel, Donnell J

2011-12-04

A limitation of traditional full-field electroretinograms (ERG) for the diagnosis of retinopathy is lack of sensitivity. Generally, ERG results are normal unless more than approximately 20% of the retina is affected. In practical terms, a patient might be legally blind as a result of macular degeneration or other scotomas and still appear normal, according to traditional full field ERG. An important development in ERGs is the multifocal ERG (mfERG). Erich Sutter adapted the mathematical sequences called binary m-sequences enabling the isolation from a single electrical signal an electroretinogram representing less than each square millimeter of retina in response to a visual stimulus. Results that are generated by mfERG appear similar to those generated by flash ERG. In contrast to flash ERG, which best generates data appropriate for whole-eye disorders. The basic mfERG result is based on the calculated mathematical average of an approximation of the positive deflection component of traditional ERG response, known as the b-wave. Multifocal ERG programs measure electrical activity from more than a hundred retinal areas per eye, in a few minutes. The enhanced spatial resolution enables scotomas and retinal dysfunction to be mapped and quantified. In the protocol below, we describe the recording of mfERGs using a bipolar speculum contact lens. Components of mfERG systems vary between manufacturers. For the presentation of visible stimulus, some suitable CRT monitors are available but most systems have adopted the use of flat-panel liquid crystal displays (LCD). The visual stimuli depicted here, were produced by a LCD microdisplay subtending 35-40 degrees horizontally and 30-35 degrees vertically of visual field, and calibrated to produce multifocal flash intensities of 2.7 cd s m(-2). Amplification was 50K. Lower and upper bandpass limits were 10 and 300 Hz. The software packages used were VERIS versions 5 and 6.

Improved identification of the palmar fibrocartilage of the navicular bone with saline magnetic resonance bursography.

PubMed

Schramme, Michael; Kerekes, Zoltan; Hunter, Stuart; Nagy, Krisztina; Pease, Anthony

2009-01-01

Fibrocartilage degeneration is the earliest pathologic finding in navicular disease but remains difficult to detect, even with magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. We hypothesized that injection of the navicular bursa with saline would improve accuracy of MR imaging evaluation of palmar fibrocartilage. Thoracic limbs were collected from 11 horses within 6 h of death. Imaging was performed with a 1.5 T magnet using sagittal 2D proton density and transverse 3D FLASH sequences with fat saturation. For the purpose of determining sensitivity and specificity of the MR images, fibrocartilage was classified as normal or abnormal, based on combination of the findings of gross and microscopic pathology. Thickness of fibrocartilage was measured on histologic sections and corresponding transverse FLASH MR images before and after injection of saline. A paired Student's t-test was used for comparison of measurements. Partial thickness fibrocartilage loss was present in 6 of 22 limbs. Sensitivity of precontrast MR images for detection of lesions was 100% while specificity was 6%. Saline MR arthrography resulted in both sensitivity and specificity of 100% based on consensus review. Mean histologic fibrocartilage thickness was 0.75 +/- 0.12 mm. Mean fibrocartilage thickness on precontrast transverse FLASH images was 0.93 +/- 0.065 and 0.73 +/- 0.09 mm on postsaline images. The histologic cartilage thickness was signficantly different from that in precontrast images (P<0.001) but not in images acquired after saline injection (P = 0.716). Based on our results, and using pulse sequences as described herein, navicular fibrocartilage can only be evaluated reliably for the presence of partial thickness lesions after intrabursal injection of saline.

Designing the optimal shutter sequences for the flutter shutter imaging method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jelinek, Jan

2010-04-01

Acquiring iris or face images of moving subjects at larger distances using a flash to prevent the motion blur quickly runs into eye safety concerns as the acquisition distance is increased. For that reason the flutter shutter method recently proposed by Raskar et al.has generated considerable interest in the biometrics community. The paper concerns the design of shutter sequences that produce the best images. The number of possible sequences grows exponentially in both the subject' s motion velocity and desired exposure value, with their majority being useless. Because the exact solution leads to an intractable mixed integer programming problem, we propose an approximate solution based on pre - screening the sequences according to the distribution of roots in their Fourier transform. A very fast algorithm utilizing the Jury' s criterion allows the testing to be done without explicitly computing the roots, making the approach practical for moderately long sequences.

Why Flash Type Matters: A Statistical Analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mecikalski, Retha M.; Bitzer, Phillip M.; Carey, Lawrence D.

2017-09-01

While the majority of research only differentiates between intracloud (IC) and cloud-to-ground (CG) flashes, there exists a third flash type, known as hybrid flashes. These flashes have extensive IC components as well as return strokes to ground but are misclassified as CG flashes in current flash type analyses due to the presence of a return stroke. In an effort to show that IC, CG, and hybrid flashes should be separately classified, the two-sample Kolmogorov-Smirnov (KS) test was applied to the flash sizes, flash initiation, and flash propagation altitudes for each of the three flash types. The KS test statistically showed that IC, CG, and hybrid flashes do not have the same parent distributions and thus should be separately classified. Separate classification of hybrid flashes will lead to improved lightning-related research, because unambiguously classified hybrid flashes occur on the same order of magnitude as CG flashes for multicellular storms.

Magnifying lens for 800 MeV proton radiography.

PubMed

Merrill, F E; Campos, E; Espinoza, C; Hogan, G; Hollander, B; Lopez, J; Mariam, F G; Morley, D; Morris, C L; Murray, M; Saunders, A; Schwartz, C; Thompson, T N

2011-10-01

This article describes the design and performance of a magnifying magnetic-lens system designed, built, and commissioned at the Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) for 800 MeV flash proton radiography. The technique of flash proton radiography has been developed at LANL to study material properties under dynamic loading conditions through the analysis of time sequences of proton radiographs. The requirements of this growing experimental program have resulted in the need for improvements in spatial radiographic resolution. To meet these needs, a new magnetic lens system, consisting of four permanent magnet quadrupoles, has been developed. This new lens system was designed to reduce the second order chromatic aberrations, the dominant source of image blur in 800 MeV proton radiography, as well as magnifying the image to reduce the blur contribution from the detector and camera systems. The recently commissioned lens system performed as designed, providing nearly a factor of three improvement in radiographic resolution.

Magnifying lens for 800 MeV proton radiography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Merrill, F. E.; Campos, E.; Espinoza, C.; Hogan, G.; Hollander, B.; Lopez, J.; Mariam, F. G.; Morley, D.; Morris, C. L.; Murray, M.; Saunders, A.; Schwartz, C.; Thompson, T. N.

2011-10-01

This article describes the design and performance of a magnifying magnetic-lens system designed, built, and commissioned at the Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) for 800 MeV flash proton radiography. The technique of flash proton radiography has been developed at LANL to study material properties under dynamic loading conditions through the analysis of time sequences of proton radiographs. The requirements of this growing experimental program have resulted in the need for improvements in spatial radiographic resolution. To meet these needs, a new magnetic lens system, consisting of four permanent magnet quadrupoles, has been developed. This new lens system was designed to reduce the second order chromatic aberrations, the dominant source of image blur in 800 MeV proton radiography, as well as magnifying the image to reduce the blur contribution from the detector and camera systems. The recently commissioned lens system performed as designed, providing nearly a factor of three improvement in radiographic resolution.

Pigeons' Memory for Number of Events: Effects of Intertrial Interval and Delay Interval Illumination

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hope, Chris; Santi, Angelo

2004-01-01

In Experiment 1, pigeons were trained at a 0-s baseline delay to discriminate sequences of light flashes (illumination of the feeder) that varied in number but not time (2f/4s and 8f/4s). During training, the intertrial interval was illuminated by the houselight for Group Light, but it was dark for Group Dark. Testing conducted with dark delay…

Plastoquinol diffusion in linear photosynthetic electron transport

PubMed Central

Mitchell, Rowan; Spillmann, Andreas; Haehnel, Wolfgang

1990-01-01

The diffusion of plastoquinol and its binding to the cytochrome bf complex, which occurs during linear photosynthetic electron transport and is analogous to reaction sequences found in most energy-converting membranes, has been studied in intact thylakoid membranes. The flash-induced electron transfer between the laterally separated photosystems II and photosystems I was measured by following the sigmoidal reduction kinetics of P-700+ after previous oxidation of the intersystem electron carriers. The amount of flash-induced plastoquinol produced at photosystem II was (a) reduced by inhibition with dichlorophenyl-dimethylurea and (b) increased by giving a second saturating flash. These signals were simulated by a new model which combines a deterministic simulation of reaction kinetics with a Monte Carlo approach to the diffusion of plastoquinol, taking into account the known structural features of the thylakoid membrane. The plastoquinol molecules were assumed to be oxidized by either a diffusion-limited or a nondiffusion-limited step in a collisional mechanism or after binding to the cytochrome bf complex. The model was able to account for the experimental observations with a nondiffusion-limited collisional mechanism or with a binding mechanism, giving minimum values for the diffusion coefficient of plastoquinol of 2 × 10-8 cm2s-1 and 3 × 10-7 cm2s-1, respectively. PMID:19431770

Effects of some cryopreservation procedures on recalcitrant zygotic embryos of Ammocharis coranica.

PubMed

Nomali, Z; Ngobese; Sershen; Berjak, P; Pammenter, N W

2014-01-01

Cryopreservation, the most promising method for the long-term conservation of recalcitrant (desiccation-sensitive) seed germplasm, is often associated with high viability losses. Cryo-procedures involve a sequence of steps which must be optimised to reduce the impact of the stresses. This study reports on the effects of some of the steps of cryopreservation on the recalcitrant zygotic embryos of the amaryllid, Ammocharis coranica. Embryos were subjected to cryoprotection with glycerol and/or DMSO, rapid (flash) drying, and rapid (>100 degree C s(-1)) or slow (1 degree C s(-1)) cooling. Rapid dehydration (from c. 2.7 to 0.9 g g(-1) over 60 min) and cooling had a detrimental effect on the viability of the embryos, which was exacerbated when these steps were applied sequentially. After cooling, seedling production (30%) was obtained only from embryos that had been cryoprotected with glycerol prior to drying and rapid cooling, while 30% of non-treated embryos and 70% of those that had undergone cathodic protection during flash drying produced callus. Noting that no post-cryo survival of A. coranica embryos had previously been obtained, this study identified cryoprotection with glycerol and the incorporation of cathodic protection during flash drying as promising intervention points for future studies.

Craniota, Wirbel- oder Schädeltiere

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schultze, Hans-Peter

Zu den Craniota zählen alle Chordatiere, die eine dreiteilige Regionalisierung des Körpers in Kopf, Rumpf und Schwanz aufweisen. Der Kopf umfasst (1) das Neurocranium mit Gehirn und komplexen Sinnesorganen zur Wahrnehmung der Umgebung, (2) das Viscerocranium zur Nahrungsaufnahme und zur Ventilation der Kiemen bei den primär wasserlebenden Craniota und (3) das Dermatocranium (S. 38). Letzteres entsteht durch Verknöcherungen im Bindegewebe des Integuments, es dient dem Schutz des Kopfes und trägt im Mundbreich die Zähne. Zusammen bilden die drei Skelettstrukturen die funktionelle Einheit Schädel (Cranium). Außer der (somatischen) Rumpfmuskulatur und dem Axialskelett liegen im Rumpf Kreislauf-, Atmungs-, Verdauungs-, Exkretions- und Fortpflanzungsorgane. Der Schwanz, der Abschnitt hinter der Afteröffnung, die das Ende der Leibeshöhle markiert, dient mit Muskeln und Schwanzflosse der Fortbewegung.

Measuring hot flash phenomenonology using ambulatory prospective digital diaries

PubMed Central

Fisher, William I.; Thurston, Rebecca C.

2016-01-01

Objective This study provides the description, protocol, and results from a novel prospective ambulatory digital hot flash phenomenon diary. Methods This study included 152 midlife women with daily hot flashes who completed an ambulatory electronic hot flash diary continuously for the waking hours of 3 consecutive days. In this diary, women recorded their hot flashes and accompanying characteristics and associations as the hot flashes occurred. Results Self-reported hot flash severity on the digital diaries indicated that the majority of hot flashes were rated as mild (41.3%) or moderate (43.7%). Severe (13.1%) and very severe (1.8%) hot flashes were less common. Hot flash bother ratings were rated as mild (43%), or moderate (33.5%), with fewer hot flashes reported bothersome (17.5%) or very bothersome (6%). The majority of hot flashes were reported as occurring on the on the face (78.9%), neck (74.7%), and chest (61.3%). Prickly skin was reported concurrently with 32% of hot flashes, 7% with anxiety and 5% with nausea. A novel finding, 38% of hot flashes were accompanied by a premonitory aura. Conclusion A prospective electronic digital hot flash diary allows for a more precise quantitation of hot flashes while overcoming many of the limitations of commonly employed retrospective questionnaires and paper diaries. Unique insights into the phenomenology, loci and associated characteristics of hot flashes were obtained using this device. The digital hot flash phenomenology diary is recommended for future ambulatory studies of hot flashes as a prospective measure of the hot flash experience. PMID:27404030

Measuring hot flash phenomenonology using ambulatory prospective digital diaries.

PubMed

Fisher, William I; Thurston, Rebecca C

2016-11-01

This study provides the description, protocol, and results from a novel prospective ambulatory digital hot flash phenomenon diary. This study included 152 midlife women with daily hot flashes who completed an ambulatory electronic hot flash diary continuously for the waking hours of three consecutive days. In this diary, women recorded their hot flashes and accompanying characteristics and associations as the hot flashes occurred. Self-reported hot flash severity on the digital diaries indicated that the majority of hot flashes were rated as mild (41.3%) or moderate (43.7%). Severe (13.1%) and very severe (1.8%) hot flashes were less common. Hot flash bother ratings were rated as mild (43%), or moderate (33.5%), with fewer hot flashes reported bothersome (17.5%) or very bothersome (6%). The majority of hot flashes were reported as occurring on the face (78.9%), neck (74.7%), and chest (61.3%). Of all reported hot flashes, 32% occurred concurrently with prickly skin, 7% with anxiety, and 5% with nausea. A novel finding from the study was that 38% of hot flashes were accompanied by a premonitory aura. A prospective electronic digital hot flash diary allows for a more precise quantitation of hot flashes while overcoming many of the limitations of commonly used retrospective questionnaires and paper diaries. Unique insights into the phenomenology, loci, and associated characteristics of hot flashes were obtained using this device. The digital hot flash phenomenology diary is recommended for future ambulatory studies of hot flashes as a prospective measure of the hot flash experience.

Suitability of miniature inductively coupled RF coils as MR-visible markers for clinical purposes.

PubMed

Garnov, Nikita; Thormer, Gregor; Trampel, Robert; Grunder, Wilfried; Kahn, Thomas; Moche, Michael; Busse, Harald

2011-11-01

MR-visible markers have already been used for various purposes such as image registration, motion detection, and device tracking. Inductively coupled RF (ICRF) coils, in particular, provide a high contrast and do not require connecting wires to the scanner, which makes their application highly flexible and safe. This work aims to thoroughly characterize the MR signals of such ICRF markers under various conditions with a special emphasis on fully automatic detection. The small markers consisted of a solenoid coil that was wound around a glass tube containing the MR signal source and tuned to the resonance frequency of a 1.5 T MRI. Marker imaging was performed with a spoiled gradient echo sequence (FLASH) and a balanced steady-state free precession (SSFP) sequence (TrueFISP) in three standard projections. The signal intensities of the markers were recorded for both pulse sequences, three source materials (tap water, distilled water, and contrast agent solution), different flip angles and coil alignments with respect to the B(0) direction as well as for different marker positions in the entire imaging volume (field of view, FOV). Heating of the ICRF coils was measured during 10-min RF expositions to three conventional pulse sequences. Clinical utility of the markers was assessed from their performance in computer-aided detection and in defining double oblique scan planes. For almost the entire FOV (±215 mm) and an estimated 82% of all possible RF coil alignments with respect to B(0), the ICRF markers generated clearly visible MR signals and could be reliably localized over a large range of flip angles, in particular with the TrueFISP sequence (0.3°-4.0°). Generally, TrueFISP provided a higher marker contrast than FLASH. RF exposition caused a moderate heating (≤5 °C) of the ICRF coils only. Small ICRF coils, imaged at low flip angles with a balanced SSFP sequence showed an excellent performance under a variety of experimental conditions and therefore make for a reliable, compact, flexible, and relatively safe marker for clinical use.

Daily Physical Activity and Hot Flashes in the Study of Women's Health Across the Nation FLASHES Study

PubMed Central

Gibson, Carolyn; Matthews, Karen; Thurston, Rebecca

2014-01-01

Objective To examine the role of physical activity in menopausal hot flashes. Competing models conceptualize physical activity as a risk or protective factor for hot flashes. Few studies have examined this relationship prospectively using physiologic measures of hot flashes and physical activity. Design Over two 48 hour-periods, 51 participants wore a physiologic hot flash monitor and activity monitor, and reported their hot flashes in an electronic diary. Physiologic hot flashes, reported hot flashes and reported hot flashes without physiological corroboration were related to activity changes using hierarchical generalized linear modeling, adjusting for potential confounders. Setting Community. Patients Midlife women. Interventions None. Main Outcome Measures Physiologically-detected hot flashes and reported hot flashes with and without physiologic corroboration. Results Hot flash reports without physiologic corroboration were more likely after activity increases (OR 1.04, 95% CI: 1.00-1.10, p=.01), particularly among women with higher levels of depressive symptoms (interaction p=.02). No other types of hot flashes were related to physical activity. Conclusion Acute increases in physical activity were associated with increased reporting of hot flashes lacking physiologic corroboration, particularly among women with depressive symptoms. Clinicians should consider the role of symptom perception and reporting in relations between physical activity and hot flashes. PMID:24491454

Preprocessing of PHERMEX flash radiographic images with Haar and adaptive filtering

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

Brolley, J.E.

1978-11-01

Work on image preparation has continued with the application of high-sequency boosting via Haar filtering. This is useful in developing line or edge structures. Widrow LMS adaptive filtering has also been shown to be useful in developing edge structure in special problems. Shadow effects can be obtained with the latter which may be useful for some problems. Combined Haar and adaptive filtering is illustrated for a PHERMEX image.

Data processing system for the Sneg-2MP experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gavrilova, Y. A.

1980-01-01

The data processing system for scientific experiments on stations of the "Prognoz" type provides for the processing sequence to be broken down into a number of consecutive stages: preliminary processing, primary processing, secondary processing. The tasks of each data processing stage are examined for an experiment designed to study gamma flashes of galactic origin and solar flares lasting from several minutes to seconds in the 20 kev to 1000 kev energy range.

Adaptive P300 based control system

PubMed Central

Jin, Jing; Allison, Brendan Z.; Sellers, Eric W.; Brunner, Clemens; Horki, Petar; Wang, Xingyu; Neuper, Christa

2015-01-01

An adaptive P300 brain-computer interface (BCI) using a 12 × 7 matrix explored new paradigms to improve bit rate and accuracy. During online use, the system adaptively selects the number of flashes to average. Five different flash patterns were tested. The 19-flash paradigm represents the typical row/column presentation (i.e., 12 columns and 7 rows). The 9- and 14-flash A & B paradigms present all items of the 12 × 7 matrix three times using either nine or 14 flashes (instead of 19), decreasing the amount of time to present stimuli. Compared to 9-flash A, 9-flash B decreased the likelihood that neighboring items would flash when the target was not flashing, thereby reducing interference from items adjacent to targets. 14-flash A also reduced adjacent item interference and 14-flash B additionally eliminated successive (double) flashes of the same item. Results showed that accuracy and bit rate of the adaptive system were higher than the non-adaptive system. In addition, 9- and 14-flash B produced significantly higher performance than their respective A conditions. The results also show the trend that the 14-flash B paradigm was better than the 19-flash pattern for naïve users. PMID:21474877

Adverse Effects of Induced Hot Flashes on Objectively Recorded and Subjectively Reported Sleep: Results of a Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Agonist Experimental Protocol

PubMed Central

Joffe, Hadine; White, David P.; Crawford, Sybil L.; McCurnin, Kristin E.; Economou, Nicole; Connors, Stephanie; Hall, Janet E.

2013-01-01

Objectives The impact of hot flashes on sleep is of great clinical interest, but results are inconsistent, especially when both hot flashes and sleep are measured objectively. Using objective and subjective measurements, we examined the impact of hot flashes on sleep by inducing hot flashes with a gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa). Methods The GnRHa leuprolide was administered to 20 healthy premenopausal volunteers without hot flashes or sleep disturbances. Induced hot flashes were assessed objectively (skin-conductance monitor) and subjectively (daily diary) during one-month follow-up. Changes from baseline in objective (actigraphy) and subjective sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index [PSQI]) were compared between women who did and did not develop objective hot flashes, and, in parallel analyses, subjective hot flashes. Results New-onset hot flashes were recorded in 14 (70%) and reported by 14 (70%) women (80% concordance). Estradiol was universally suppressed. Objective sleep efficiency worsened in women with objective hot flashes and improved in women without objective hot flashes (median decrease 2.6%, increase 4.2%, p=0.005). Subjective sleep quality worsened more in those with than without subjective hot flashes (median increase PSQI 2.5 vs. 1.0, p=0.03). Objective hot flashes were not associated with subjective sleep quality, nor were subjective symptoms linked to objective sleep measures. Conclusions This experimental model of induced hot flashes demonstrates a causal relationship between hot flashes and poor sleep quality. Objective hot flashes result in worse objective sleep efficiency, while subjective hot flashes worsen perceived sleep quality. PMID:23481119

Thermal buckling optimisation of composite plates using firefly algorithm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kamarian, S.; Shakeri, M.; Yas, M. H.

2017-07-01

Composite plates play a very important role in engineering applications, especially in aerospace industry. Thermal buckling of such components is of great importance and must be known to achieve an appropriate design. This paper deals with stacking sequence optimisation of laminated composite plates for maximising the critical buckling temperature using a powerful meta-heuristic algorithm called firefly algorithm (FA) which is based on the flashing behaviour of fireflies. The main objective of present work was to show the ability of FA in optimisation of composite structures. The performance of FA is compared with the results reported in the previous published works using other algorithms which shows the efficiency of FA in stacking sequence optimisation of laminated composite structures.

Menopausal hot flashes: Randomness or rhythmicity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kronenberg, Fredi

1991-10-01

Menopausal hot flashes are episodes of flushing, increased heart rate, skin blood flow and skin temperature, and a sensation of heat. The thermoregulatory and cardiovascular concomitants of hot flashes are associated with peaks in the levels of various hormones and neurotransmitters in the peripheral circulation. Although hot flashes affect about 75% of women, and are the primary reason that women at menopause seek medical attention, the mechanism of hot flashes is still not understood. Hot flashes vary in frequency and intensity both within and between individuals, and have been thought of as occurring randomly. Yet, some women report that their hot flashes are worse at a particular time of day or year. Initial examination of subjects' recordings of their hot flashes showed diurnal patterns of hot flash occurrence. There also seems to be a diurnal rhythm of hot flash intensity. Continuous physiological monitoring of hot flashes is facilitating the analysis of these patterns, which is revealing circadian and ultradian periodicities. The occurrence of hot flashes can be modulated by external and internal factors, including ambient temperature and fever. Rhythms of thermoregulatory and endocrine functions also may influence hot flash patterns. Examination of the interrelationships between the various systems of the body involved in hot flashes, and a multidisciplinary approach to the analysis of hot flash patterns, will aid our understanding of this complex phenomenon.

An Analysis of Total Lightning Flash Rates Over Florida

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mazzetti, Thomas O.; Fuelberg, Henry E.

2017-12-01

Although Florida is known as the "Sunshine State", it also contains the greatest lightning flash densities in the United States. Flash density has received considerable attention in the literature, but lightning flash rate has received much less attention. We use data from the Earth Networks Total Lightning Network (ENTLN) to produce a 5 year (2010-2014) set of statistics regarding total flash rates over Florida and adjacent regions. Instead of tracking individual storms, we superimpose a 0.2° × 0.2° grid over the study region and count both cloud-to-ground (CG) and in-cloud (IC) flashes over 5 min intervals. Results show that the distribution of total flash rates is highly skewed toward small values, whereas the greatest rate is 185 flashes min-1. Greatest average annual flash rates ( 3 flashes min-1) are located near Orlando. The southernmost peninsula, North Florida, and the Florida Panhandle exhibit smaller average annual flash rates ( 1.5 flashes min-1). Large flash rates > 100 flashes min-1 can occur during any season, at any time during the 24 h period, and at any location within the domain. However, they are most likely during the afternoon and early evening in East Central Florida during the spring and summer months.

Cascaded chirped photon acceleration for efficient frequency conversion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Edwards, Matthew R.; Qu, Kenan; Jia, Qing; Mikhailova, Julia M.; Fisch, Nathaniel J.

2018-05-01

A cascaded sequence of photon acceleration stages using the instantaneous creation of a plasma density gradient by flash ionization allows the generation of coherent and chirped ultraviolet and x-ray pulses with independently tunable frequency and bandwidth. The efficiency of the cascaded process scales with 1/ω in energy, and multiple stages produce significant frequency up-conversion with gas-density plasmas. Chirping permits subsequent pulse compression to few-cycle durations, and output frequencies are not limited to integer harmonics.

Metal-poor stars. IV - The evolution of red giants.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rood, R. T.

1972-01-01

Detailed evolutionary calculations for six Population-II red giants are presented. The first five of these models are followed from the zero age main sequence to the onset of the helium flash. The sixth model allows the effect of direct electron-neutrino interactions to be estimated. The updated input physics and evolutionary code are described briefly. The results of the calculations are presented in a manner pertinent to later stages of evolutions and suitable for comparison with observations.

Research, Development and Testing of a Fault-Tolerant FPGA-Based Sequencer for CubeSat Launching Applications

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-03-01

amounts of time and effort to implement. Future testing with commercial, fault-tolerant synthesis software, under a radiation environment, will yield ...initial viewpoint of the author is to take the flash-based FPGA route. This will yield a simple, reconfigurable circuit while providing the added...structure seen in Figure 30. Each of these full adder blocks were replaced in subsequent iterations to yield proper comparison with this baseline

Sequence and batch language programs and alarm-related ``C`` programs for the 242-A MCS. Revision 2

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

Berger, J.F.

1995-03-01

A Distributive Process Control system was purchased by Project B-534, ``242-A Evaporator/Crystallizer Upgrades``. This control system, called the Monitor and Control System (MCS), was installed in the 242-A Evaporator located in the 200 East Area. The purpose of the MCS is to monitor and control the Evaporator and monitor a number of alarms and other signals from various Tank Farm facilities. Applications software for the MCS was developed by the Waste Treatment Systems Engineering (WTSE) group of Westinghouse. The standard displays and alarm scheme provide for control and monitoring, but do not directly indicate the signal location or depict themore » overall process. To do this, WTSE developed a second alarm scheme which uses special programs, annunciator keys, and process graphics. The special programs are written in two languages; Sequence and Batch Language (SABL), and ``C`` language. The WTSE-developed alarm scheme works as described below: SABL relates signals and alarms to the annunciator keys, called SKID keys. When an alarm occurs, a SABL program causes a SKID key to flash, and if the alarm is of yellow or white priority then a ``C`` program turns on an audible horn (the D/3 system uses a different audible horn for the red priority alarms). The horn and flashing key draws the attention of the operator.« less

Accelerated self-gated UTE MRI of the murine heart

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Motaal, Abdallah G.; Noorman, Nils; De Graaf, Wolter L.; Florack, Luc J.; Nicolay, Klaas; Strijkers, Gustav J.

2014-03-01

We introduce a new protocol to obtain radial Ultra-Short TE (UTE) MRI Cine of the beating mouse heart within reasonable measurement time. The method is based on a self-gated UTE with golden angle radial acquisition and compressed sensing reconstruction. The stochastic nature of the retrospective triggering acquisition scheme produces an under-sampled and random kt-space filling that allows for compressed sensing reconstruction, hence reducing scan time. As a standard, an intragate multislice FLASH sequence with an acquisition time of 4.5 min per slice was used to produce standard Cine movies of 4 mice hearts with 15 frames per cardiac cycle. The proposed self-gated sequence is used to produce Cine movies with short echo time. The total scan time was 11 min per slice. 6 slices were planned to cover the heart from the base to the apex. 2X, 4X and 6X under-sampled k-spaces cine movies were produced from 2, 1 and 0.7 min data acquisitions for each slice. The accelerated cine movies of the mouse hearts were successfully reconstructed with a compressed sensing algorithm. Compared to the FLASH cine images, the UTE images showed much less flow artifacts due to the short echo time. Besides, the accelerated movies had high image quality and the undersampling artifacts were effectively removed. Left ventricular functional parameters derived from the standard and the accelerated cine movies were nearly identical.

Use of an advanced 3-T MRI movie to investigate articulation.

PubMed

Nunthayanon, Kulthida; Honda, Ei-ichi; Shimazaki, Kazuo; Ohmori, Hiroko; Inoue-Arai, Maristela Sayuri; Kurabayashi, Tohru; Ono, Takashi

2015-06-01

To develop a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) movie to reveal the dynamic movement of articulators and teeth. Five healthy females with normal occlusion participated in this study. Various concentrations of MRI contrast media (ferric ammonium citrate [FAC]) were tested for visualization of teeth, according to facial markers and with the use of a gel. Custom-made circuitry was connected to synchronize pronunciation of fricative sounds (/asa/) with scans. Three gradient echo sequences (True fast imaging with steady state precession [true FISP], FISP, and fast low angle shot [FLASH]) with a segmented cine were tested with the use of repetition times (TRs) of 9 ms and 31.5 ms. The MRI movie images were superimposed over the boundaries of teeth. The images produced during pronunciation, using the two different TRs (9 ms and 31 ms), were compared to assess the position of the lips and the tongue. Images obtained using the FLASH sequence, with a TR of 9 ms or 31.5 ms, can be used for diagnostic purposes. A TR of 9 ms, with 161 continuous images acquired, produced the highest-quality images of teeth, with few artifacts present. Pronunciation of the consonant "s" was clearly discernable. Our 3-T MRI movie system, with a temporal resolution less than 9 ms, can provide detailed information pertaining to variations in speech or oropharyngeal function. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Behavioral weight loss for the management of menopausal hot flashes: a pilot study.

PubMed

Thurston, Rebecca C; Ewing, Linda J; Low, Carissa A; Christie, Aimee J; Levine, Michele D

2015-01-01

Although adiposity has been considered to be protective against hot flashes, newer data suggest positive relationships between hot flashes and adiposity. No studies have been specifically designed to test whether weight loss reduces hot flashes. This pilot study aimed to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and initial efficacy of behavioral weight loss in reducing hot flashes. Forty overweight or obese women with hot flashes (≥ 4 hot flashes/d) were randomized to either behavioral weight loss intervention or wait-list control. Hot flashes were assessed before and after intervention via physiologic monitoring, diary, and questionnaire. Comparisons of changes in hot flashes and anthropometrics between conditions were performed via Wilcoxon tests. Study retention (83%) and intervention satisfaction (93.8%) were high. Most women (74.1%) reported that hot flash reduction was a major motivator for losing weight. Women randomized to the weight loss intervention lost more weight (-8.86 kg) than did women randomized to control (+0.23 kg; P < 0.0001). Women randomized to weight loss also showed greater reductions in questionnaire-reported hot flashes (2-wk hot flashes, -63.0) than did women in the control group (-28.0; P = 0.03)-a difference not demonstrated in other hot flash measures. Reductions in weight and hot flashes were significantly correlated (eg, r = 0.47, P = 0.006). This pilot study shows a behavioral weight loss program that is feasible, acceptable, and effective in producing weight loss among overweight or obese women with hot flashes. Findings indicate the importance of a larger study designed to test behavioral weight loss for hot flash reduction. Hot flash management could motivate women to engage in this health-promoting behavior.

Targeting an efficient target-to-target interval for P300 speller brain–computer interfaces

PubMed Central

Sellers, Eric W.; Wang, Xingyu

2013-01-01

Longer target-to-target intervals (TTI) produce greater P300 event-related potential amplitude, which can increase brain–computer interface (BCI) classification accuracy and decrease the number of flashes needed for accurate character classification. However, longer TTIs requires more time for each trial, which will decrease the information transfer rate of BCI. In this paper, a P300 BCI using a 7 × 12 matrix explored new flash patterns (16-, 18- and 21-flash pattern) with different TTIs to assess the effects of TTI on P300 BCI performance. The new flash patterns were designed to minimize TTI, decrease repetition blindness, and examine the temporal relationship between each flash of a given stimulus by placing a minimum of one (16-flash pattern), two (18-flash pattern), or three (21-flash pattern) non-target flashes between each target flashes. Online results showed that the 16-flash pattern yielded the lowest classification accuracy among the three patterns. The results also showed that the 18-flash pattern provides a significantly higher information transfer rate (ITR) than the 21-flash pattern; both patterns provide high ITR and high accuracy for all subjects. PMID:22350331

A design of camera simulator for photoelectric image acquisition system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cai, Guanghui; Liu, Wen; Zhang, Xin

2015-02-01

In the process of developing the photoelectric image acquisition equipment, it needs to verify the function and performance. In order to make the photoelectric device recall the image data formerly in the process of debugging and testing, a design scheme of the camera simulator is presented. In this system, with FPGA as the control core, the image data is saved in NAND flash trough USB2.0 bus. Due to the access rate of the NAND, flash is too slow to meet the requirement of the sytsem, to fix the problem, the pipeline technique and the High-Band-Buses technique are applied in the design to improve the storage rate. It reads image data out from flash in the control logic of FPGA and output separately from three different interface of Camera Link, LVDS and PAL, which can provide image data for photoelectric image acquisition equipment's debugging and algorithm validation. However, because the standard of PAL image resolution is 720*576, the resolution is different between PAL image and input image, so the image can be output after the resolution conversion. The experimental results demonstrate that the camera simulator outputs three format image sequence correctly, which can be captured and displayed by frame gather. And the three-format image data can meet test requirements of the most equipment, shorten debugging time and improve the test efficiency.

Rapidly rotating second-generation progenitors for the 'blue hook' stars of ω Centauri.

PubMed

Tailo, Marco; D'Antona, Francesca; Vesperini, Enrico; Di Criscienzo, Marcella; Ventura, Paolo; Milone, Antonino P; Bellini, Andrea; Dotter, Aaron; Decressin, Thibaut; D'Ercole, Annibale; Caloi, Vittoria; Capuzzo-Dolcetta, Roberto

2015-07-16

Horizontal branch stars belong to an advanced stage in the evolution of the oldest stellar galactic population, occurring either as field halo stars or grouped in globular clusters. The discovery of multiple populations in clusters that were previously believed to have single populations gave rise to the currently accepted theory that the hottest horizontal branch members (the 'blue hook' stars, which had late helium-core flash ignition, followed by deep mixing) are the progeny of a helium-rich 'second generation' of stars. It is not known why such a supposedly rare event (a late flash followed by mixing) is so common that the blue hook of ω Centauri contains approximately 30 per cent of the horizontal branch stars in the cluster, or why the blue hook luminosity range in this massive cluster cannot be reproduced by models. Here we report that the presence of helium core masses up to about 0.04 solar masses larger than the core mass resulting from evolution is required to solve the luminosity range problem. We model this by taking into account the dispersion in rotation rates achieved by the progenitors, whose pre-main-sequence accretion disk suffered an early disruption in the dense environment of the cluster's central regions, where second-generation stars form. Rotation may also account for frequent late-flash-mixing events in massive globular clusters.

Spatial-temporal characteristics of lightning flash size in a supercell storm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Zhixiao; Zheng, Dong; Zhang, Yijun; Lu, Gaopeng

2017-11-01

The flash sizes of a supercell storm, in New Mexico on October 5, 2004, are studied using the observations from the New Mexico Lightning Mapping Array and the Albuquerque, New Mexico, Doppler radar (KABX). First, during the temporal evolution of the supercell, the mean flash size is anti-correlated with the flash rate, following a unary power function, with a correlation coefficient of - 0.87. In addition, the mean flash size is linearly correlated with the area of reflectivity > 30 dBZ at 5 km normalized by the flash rate, with a correlation coefficient of 0.88. Second, in the horizontal, flash size increases along the direction from the region near the convection zone to the adjacent forward anvil. The region of minimum flash size usually corresponds to the region of maximum flash initiation and extent density. The horizontal correspondence between the mean flash size and the flash extent density can also be fitted by a unary power function, and the correlation coefficient is > 0.5 in 50% of the radar volume scans. Furthermore, the quality of fit is positively correlated to the convective intensity. Third, in the vertical direction, the height of the maximum flash initiation density is close to the height of maximum flash extent density, but corresponds to the height where the mean flash size is relatively small. In the discussion, the distribution of the small and dense charge regions when and where convection is vigorous in the storm, is deduced to be responsible for the relationship that flash size is temporally and spatially anti-correlated with flash rate and density, and the convective intensity.

Flash memory management system and method utilizing multiple block list windows

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chow, James (Inventor); Gender, Thomas K. (Inventor)

2005-01-01

The present invention provides a flash memory management system and method with increased performance. The flash memory management system provides the ability to efficiently manage and allocate flash memory use in a way that improves reliability and longevity, while maintaining good performance levels. The flash memory management system includes a free block mechanism, a disk maintenance mechanism, and a bad block detection mechanism. The free block mechanism provides efficient sorting of free blocks to facilitate selecting low use blocks for writing. The disk maintenance mechanism provides for the ability to efficiently clean flash memory blocks during processor idle times. The bad block detection mechanism provides the ability to better detect when a block of flash memory is likely to go bad. The flash status mechanism stores information in fast access memory that describes the content and status of the data in the flash disk. The new bank detection mechanism provides the ability to automatically detect when new banks of flash memory are added to the system. Together, these mechanisms provide a flash memory management system that can improve the operational efficiency of systems that utilize flash memory.

Perceived control and hot flashes in treatment-seeking breast cancer survivors and menopausal women.

PubMed

Carpenter, Janet S; Wu, Jingwei; Burns, Debra S; Yu, Menggang

2012-01-01

Lower perceived control over hot flashes has been linked to fewer coping strategies, more catastrophizing, and greater hot flash severity and distress in midlife women, yet this important concept has not yet been studied in breast cancer survivors. The aim of this study was to explore perceived control over hot flashes and hot flashes in breast cancer survivors compared with midlife women without cancer. Ninety-nine survivors and 138 midlife women completed questionnaires and a prospective, electronic hot flash diary. All data were collected at a baseline assessment before randomization in a behavioral intervention study. Both groups had moderate perceived control over hot flashes. Control was not significantly related to hot flash frequency but was significantly related to hot flash severity, bother, and interference in both groups. A significantly stronger association between control and hot flash interference was found for survivors than for midlife women. Survivors using hot flash treatments perceived less control than did survivors not using hot flash treatments, whereas the opposite was true in midlife women. Findings extend our knowledge of perceived control over hot flashes in both survivors and midlife women. Findings emphasize the importance of continued menopausal symptom assessment and management, support the importance of continuing nursing care even for survivors who are already using hot flash treatment, and suggest that nursing interventions aimed at improving perceived control over hot flashes may be more helpful for survivors than for midlife women.

Synoptic-scale atmospheric conditions associated with flash flooding in watersheds of the Catskill Mountains, New York, USA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Teale, N. G.; Quiring, S. M.

2015-12-01

Understanding flash flooding is important in unfiltered watersheds, such as portions of the New York City water supply system (NYCWSS), as water quality is degraded by turbidity associated with flooding. To further understand flash flooding in watersheds of the NYCWSS, synoptic-scale atmospheric conditions most frequently associated with flash flooding between 1987 and 2013 were examined. Flash floods were identified during this time period using USGS 15-minute discharge data at the Esopus Creek near Allaben, NY and Neversink River at Claryville, NY gauges. Overall, 25 flash floods were detected, occurring over 17 separate flash flood days. These flash flood days were compared to the days on which flash flood warnings encompassing the study area was issued by the National Weather Service. The success rate for which the flash flood warnings for Ulster County coincided with flash flood in the study watershed was 0.09, demonstrating the highly localized nature of flash flooding in the Catskill Mountain region. The synoptic-scale atmospheric patterns influencing the study area were characterized by a principal component analysis and k-means clustering of NCEP/NCAR 500 mb geopotential height reanalysis data. This procedure was executed in Spatial Synoptic Typer Tools 4.0. While 17 unique synoptic patterns were identified, only 3 types were strongly associated with flash flooding events. A strong southwesterly flow suggesting advection of moisture from the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico is shown in composites of these 3 types. This multiscalar study thereby links flash flooding in the NYCWSS with synoptic-scale atmospheric circulation.Understanding flash flooding is important in unfiltered watersheds, such as portions of the New York City water supply system (NYCWSS), as water quality is degraded by turbidity associated with flooding. To further understand flash flooding in watersheds of the NYCWSS, synoptic-scale atmospheric conditions most frequently associated with flash flooding between 1987 and 2013 were examined. Flash floods were identified during this time period using USGS 15-minute discharge data at the Esopus Creek near Allaben, NY and Neversink River at Claryville, NY gauges. Overall, 25 flash floods were detected, occurring over 17 separate flash flood days. These flash flood days were compared to the days on which flash flood warnings encompassing the study area was issued by the National Weather Service. The success rate for which the flash flood warnings for Ulster County coincided with flash flood in the study watershed was 0.09, demonstrating the highly localized nature of flash flooding in the Catskill Mountain region. The synoptic-scale atmospheric patterns influencing the study area were characterized by a principal component analysis and k-means clustering of NCEP/NCAR 500 mb geopotential height reanalysis data. This procedure was executed in Spatial Synoptic Typer Tools 4.0. While 17 unique synoptic patterns were identified, only 3 types were strongly associated with flash flooding events. A strong southwesterly flow suggesting advection of moisture from the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico is shown in composites of these 3 types. This multiscalar study thereby links flash flooding in the NYCWSS with synoptic-scale atmospheric circulation.

EEG character identification using stimulus sequences designed to maximize mimimal hamming distance.

PubMed

Fukami, Tadanori; Shimada, Takamasa; Forney, Elliott; Anderson, Charles W

2012-01-01

In this study, we have improved upon the P300 speller Brain-Computer Interface paradigm by introducing a new character encoding method. Our concept in detection of the intended character is not based on a classification of target and nontarget responses, but based on an identifaction of the character which maximize the difference between P300 amplitudes in target and nontarget stimuli. Each bit included in the code corresponds to flashing character, '1', and non-flashing, '0'. Here, the codes were constructed in order to maximize the minimum hamming distance between the characters. Electroencephalography was used to identify the characters using a waveform calculated by adding and subtracting the response of the target and non-target stimulus according the codes respectively. This stimulus presentation method was applied to a 3×3 character matrix, and the results were compared with that of a conventional P300 speller of the same size. Our method reduced the time until the correct character was obtained by 24%.

Action starring narratives and events: Structure and inference in visual narrative comprehension.

PubMed

Cohn, Neil; Wittenberg, Eva

Studies of discourse have long placed focus on the inference generated by information that is not overtly expressed, and theories of visual narrative comprehension similarly focused on the inference generated between juxtaposed panels. Within the visual language of comics, star-shaped "flashes" commonly signify impacts, but can be enlarged to the size of a whole panel that can omit all other representational information. These "action star" panels depict a narrative culmination (a "Peak"), but have content which readers must infer, thereby posing a challenge to theories of inference generation in visual narratives that focus only on the semantic changes between juxtaposed images. This paper shows that action stars demand more inference than depicted events, and that they are more coherent in narrative sequences than scrambled sequences (Experiment 1). In addition, action stars play a felicitous narrative role in the sequence (Experiment 2). Together, these results suggest that visual narratives use conventionalized depictions that demand the generation of inferences while retaining narrative coherence of a visual sequence.

An SSVEP-actuated brain computer interface using phase-tagged flickering sequences: a cursor system.

PubMed

Lee, Po-Lei; Sie, Jyun-Jie; Liu, Yu-Ju; Wu, Chi-Hsun; Lee, Ming-Huan; Shu, Chih-Hung; Li, Po-Hung; Sun, Chia-Wei; Shyu, Kuo-Kai

2010-07-01

This study presents a new steady-state visual evoked potential (SSVEP)-based brain computer interface (BCI). SSVEPs, induced by phase-tagged flashes in eight light emitting diodes (LEDs), were used to control four cursor movements (up, right, down, and left) and four button functions (on, off, right-, and left-clicks) on a screen menu. EEG signals were measured by one EEG electrode placed at Oz position, referring to the international EEG 10-20 system. Since SSVEPs are time-locked and phase-locked to the onsets of SSVEP flashes, EEG signals were bandpass-filtered and segmented into epochs, and then averaged across a number of epochs to sharpen the recorded SSVEPs. Phase lags between the measured SSVEPs and a reference SSVEP were measured, and targets were recognized based on these phase lags. The current design used eight LEDs to flicker at 31.25 Hz with 45 degrees phase margin between any two adjacent SSVEP flickers. The SSVEP responses were filtered within 29.25-33.25 Hz and then averaged over 60 epochs. Owing to the utilization of high-frequency flickers, the induced SSVEPs were away from low-frequency noises, 60 Hz electricity noise, and eye movement artifacts. As a consequence, we achieved a simple architecture that did not require eye movement monitoring or other artifact detection and removal. The high-frequency design also achieved a flicker fusion effect for better visualization. Seven subjects were recruited in this study to sequentially input a command sequence, consisting of a sequence of eight cursor functions, repeated three times. The accuracy and information transfer rate (mean +/- SD) over the seven subjects were 93.14 +/- 5.73% and 28.29 +/- 12.19 bits/min, respectively. The proposed system can provide a reliable channel for severely disabled patients to communicate with external environments.

Hot Flashes and Quality of Life Among Breast Cancer Patients

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-08-01

hot flashes, 40.7% report at baseline, having used HRT and 26.8% used exercise to control hot flashes. The 12-month data indicates that 26.5% of the...entire sample who are experiencing hot flashes, tried or are using some form of HRT to control hot flashes with exercise still the most frequently...used approach to manage hot flashes with 44.2% of sample currently exercising . 15. SUBJECT TERMS Breast Cancer, Hot Flashes, Quality of Life

Physiologically assessed hot flashes and endothelial function among midlife women.

PubMed

Thurston, Rebecca C; Chang, Yuefang; Barinas-Mitchell, Emma; Jennings, J Richard; von Känel, Roland; Landsittel, Doug P; Matthews, Karen A

2017-08-01

Hot flashes are experienced by most midlife women. Emerging data indicate that they may be associated with endothelial dysfunction. No studies have tested whether hot flashes are associated with endothelial function using physiologic measures of hot flashes. We tested whether physiologically assessed hot flashes were associated with poorer endothelial function. We also considered whether age modified associations. Two hundred seventy-two nonsmoking women reporting either daily hot flashes or no hot flashes, aged 40 to 60 years, and free of clinical cardiovascular disease, underwent ambulatory physiologic hot flash and diary hot flash monitoring; a blood draw; and ultrasound measurement of brachial artery flow-mediated dilation to assess endothelial function. Associations between hot flashes and flow-mediated dilation were tested in linear regression models controlling for lumen diameter, demographics, cardiovascular disease risk factors, and estradiol. In multivariable models incorporating cardiovascular disease risk factors, significant interactions by age (P < 0.05) indicated that among the younger tertile of women in the sample (age 40-53 years), the presence of hot flashes (beta [standard error] = -2.07 [0.79], P = 0.01), and more frequent physiologic hot flashes (for each hot flash: beta [standard error] = -0.10 [0.05], P = 0.03, multivariable) were associated with lower flow-mediated dilation. Associations were not accounted for by estradiol. Associations were not observed among the older women (age 54-60 years) or for self-reported hot flash frequency, severity, or bother. Among the younger women, hot flashes explained more variance in flow-mediated dilation than standard cardiovascular disease risk factors or estradiol. Among younger midlife women, frequent hot flashes were associated with poorer endothelial function and may provide information about women's vascular status beyond cardiovascular disease risk factors and estradiol.

Menopausal Hot Flashes and Carotid Intima Media Thickness Among Midlife Women.

PubMed

Thurston, Rebecca C; Chang, Yuefang; Barinas-Mitchell, Emma; Jennings, J Richard; Landsittel, Doug P; Santoro, Nanette; von Känel, Roland; Matthews, Karen A

2016-12-01

There has been a longstanding interest in the role of menopause and its correlates in the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in women. Menopausal hot flashes are experienced by most midlife women; emerging data link hot flashes to CVD risk indicators. We tested whether hot flashes, measured via state-of-the-art physiologic methods, were associated with greater subclinical atherosclerosis as assessed by carotid ultrasound. We considered the role of CVD risk factors and estradiol concentrations in these associations. A total of 295 nonsmoking women free of clinical CVD underwent ambulatory physiologic hot flash assessments; a blood draw; and carotid ultrasound measurement of intima media thickness and plaque. Associations between hot flashes and subclinical atherosclerosis were tested in regression models controlling for CVD risk factors and estradiol. More frequent physiologic hot flashes were associated with higher carotid intima media thickness (for each additional hot flash: β [SE]=0.004 [0.001]; P=0.0001; reported hot flash: β [SE]=0.008 [0.002]; P=0.002, multivariable) and plaque (eg, for each additional hot flash, odds ratio [95% confidence interval] plaque index ≥2=1.07 [1.003-1.14]; P=0.04, relative to no plaque, multivariable] among women reporting daily hot flashes; associations were not accounted for by CVD risk factors or by estradiol. Among women reporting hot flashes, hot flashes accounted for more variance in intima media thickness than most CVD risk factors. Among women reporting daily hot flashes, frequent hot flashes may provide information about a woman's vascular status beyond standard CVD risk factors and estradiol. Frequent hot flashes may mark a vulnerable vascular phenotype among midlife women. © 2016 American Heart Association, Inc.

Menopausal Hot Flashes and Carotid Intima Media Thickness among Midlife Women

PubMed Central

Thurston, Rebecca C.; Chang, Yuefang; Barinas-Mitchell, Emma; Jennings, J. Richard; Landsittel, Doug P.; Santoro, Nanette; von Känel, Roland; Matthews, Karen A.

2016-01-01

Background and Purpose There has been a longstanding interest in the role of menopause and its correlates in the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in women. Menopausal hot flashes are experienced by most midlife women; emerging data link hot flashes to CVD risk indicators. We tested whether hot flashes, measured via state-of-the-art physiologic methods, were associated with greater subclinical atherosclerosis as assessed by carotid ultrasound. We considered the role of CVD risk factors and estradiol concentrations in these associations. Methods 295 nonsmoking women free of clinical CVD underwent ambulatory physiologic hot flash assessments; a blood draw; and carotid ultrasound measurement of IMT and plaque. Associations between hot flashes and subclinical atherosclerosis were tested in regression models controlling for CVD risk factors and estradiol. Results More frequent physiologic hot flashes were associated with higher carotid intima media thickness [IMT; for each additional hot flash: beta (standard error)=.004(.001), p=.0001; reported hot flash: beta (standard error)=.008(.002), p=.002, multivariable] and plaque [e.g., for each additional hot flash, odds ratio (95% confidence interval) plaque index ≥2=1.07(1.003–1.14, p=.04), relative to no plaque, multivariable] among women reporting daily hot flashes; associations were not accounted for by CVD risk factors or by estradiol. Among women reporting hot flashes, hot flashes accounted for more variance in IMT than most CVD risk factors. Conclusions Among women reporting daily hot flashes, frequent hot flashes may provide information about a woman’s vascular status beyond standard CVD risk factors and estradiol. Frequent hot flashes may mark a vulnerable vascular phenotype among midlife women. PMID:27834746

Behavioral Weight Loss for the Management of Menopausal Hot Flashes: A Pilot Study

PubMed Central

Thurston, Rebecca C.; Ewing, Linda J.; Low, Carissa A.; Christie, Aimee J.; Levine, Michele D.

2014-01-01

Objective Although adiposity has been considered protective against hot flashes, newer data suggest positive relations between flashes and adiposity. No studies have been specifically designed to test whether weight loss reduces hot flashes. This pilot study aimed to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and initial efficacy of behavioral weight loss to reduce hot flashes. Methods Forty overweight/obese women with hot flashes (≥4/day) were randomized to a behavioral weight loss intervention or to wait list control. Hot flashes were assessed pre- and post-intervention via physiologic monitor, diary, and questionnaire. Comparisons of changes in hot flashes and anthropometrics between conditions were tested via Wilcoxon tests. Results Study retention (83%) and intervention satisfaction (93.8%) were high. Most women (74.1%) reported that hot flash reduction was a main motivator to lose weight. Women randomized to the weight loss intervention lost more weight (-8.86 kg) than did women randomized to control (+0.23 kg, p<.0001). Women randomized to weight loss also showed greater reductions in questionnaire-reported hot flashes (2-week hot flashes: −63.0) than did women in the control (−28.0, p=.03), a difference not demonstrated in other hot flash measures. Reductions in weight and hot flashes were significantly correlated (e.g., r=.47, p=.006). Conclusions This pilot study showed a behavioral weight loss program to be feasible, acceptable, and effective in producing weight loss among overweight/obese women with hot flashes. Findings indicate the importance of a larger study designed to test behavioral weight loss for hot flash reduction. Hot flash management could motivate women to engage in this health-promoting behavior. PMID:24977456

Karst flash floods: an example from the Dinaric karst (Croatia)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bonacci, O.; Ljubenkov, I.; Roje-Bonacci, T.

2006-03-01

Flash floods constitute one of the deadliest and costliest natural disasters worldwide. This paper explains the karst flash flood phenomenon, which represents a special kind of flash flood. As the majority of flash floods karst flash floods are caused by intensive short-term precipitation in an area whose surface rarely exceeds a few square kilometres. The characteristics of all flash floods are their short duration, small areal extent, high flood peaks and rapid flows, and heavy loss of life and property. Karst flash floods have specific characteristics due to special conditions for water circulation, which exist in karst terrains. During karst flash floods a sudden rise of groundwater levels occurs, which causes the appearance of numerous, unexpected, abundant and temporary karst springs. This paper presents in detail an example of a karst flash flood in the Marina bay (Dinaric karst region of Croatia), which occurred in December 2004.

A Comprehensive Study on Energy Efficiency and Performance of Flash-based SSD

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

Park, Seon-Yeon; Kim, Youngjae; Urgaonkar, Bhuvan

2011-01-01

Use of flash memory as a storage medium is becoming popular in diverse computing environments. However, because of differences in interface, flash memory requires a hard-disk-emulation layer, called FTL (flash translation layer). Although the FTL enables flash memory storages to replace conventional hard disks, it induces significant computational and space overhead. Despite the low power consumption of flash memory, this overhead leads to significant power consumption in an overall storage system. In this paper, we analyze the characteristics of flash-based storage devices from the viewpoint of power consumption and energy efficiency by using various methodologies. First, we utilize simulation tomore » investigate the interior operation of flash-based storage of flash-based storages. Subsequently, we measure the performance and energy efficiency of commodity flash-based SSDs by using microbenchmarks to identify the block-device level characteristics and macrobenchmarks to reveal their filesystem level characteristics.« less

Multi- and unisensory visual flash illusions.

PubMed

Courtney, Jon R; Motes, Michael A; Hubbard, Timothy L

2007-01-01

The role of stimulus structure in multisensory and unisensory interactions was examined. When a flash (17 ms) was accompanied by multiple tones (each 7 ms, SOA < or =100 ms) multiple flashes were reported, and this effect has been suggested to reflect the role of stimulus continuity in multisensory interactions. In experiments 1 and 2 we examined if stimulus continuity would affect concurrently presented stimuli. When a relatively longer flash (317 ms) was accompanied by multiple tones (each 7 ms), observers reported perceiving multiple flashes. In experiment 3 we tested whether a flash presented near fixation would induce an illusory flash further in the periphery. One flash (17 ms) presented 5 degrees below fixation was reported as multiple flashes if presented with two flashes (each 17 ms, SOA =100 ms) 2 degrees above fixation. The extent to which these data support a phenomenological continuity principle and whether this principle applies to unisensory perception is discussed.

Interactions of numerical and temporal stimulus characteristics on the control of response location by brief flashes of light.

PubMed

Fetterman, J Gregor; Killeen, P Richard

2011-09-01

Pigeons pecked on three keys, responses to one of which could be reinforced after 3 flashes of the houselight, to a second key after 6, and to a third key after 12. The flashes were arranged according to variable-interval schedules. Response allocation among the keys was a function of the number of flashes. When flashes were omitted, transitions occurred very late. Increasing flash duration produced a leftward shift in the transitions along a number axis. Increasing reinforcement probability produced a leftward shift, and decreasing reinforcement probability produced a rightward shift. Intermixing different flash rates within sessions separated allocations: Faster flash rates shifted the functions sooner in real time, but later in terms of flash count, and conversely for slower flash rates. A model of control by fading memories of number and time was proposed.

Flash fire propensity of materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hilado, C. J.; Cumming, H. J.

1977-01-01

Flash fire test results on 86 materials, evaluated using the USF flash fire screening test, are presented. The materials which appear least prone to flash fires are PVC, polyphenylene oxide and sulfide, and polyether and polyaryl sulfone; these did not produce flash fires under these particular test conditions. The principal value of these screening tests at the present time is in identifying materials which appear prone to flash fires, and in identifying which formulations of a generic material are more or less prone to flash fires.

Hot flash report and measurement among Bangladeshi migrants, their London neighbors, and their community of origin.

PubMed

Sievert, L L; Begum, K; Sharmeen, T; Murphy, L; Whitcomb, B W; Chowdhury, O; Muttukrishna, S; Bentley, G R

2016-12-01

To examine hot flashes in relation to climate and activity patterns, and to compare subjective and objective hot flashes among Bangladeshi immigrants to London, their white London neighbors, and women still living in their community of origin, Sylhet, Bangladesh ("sedentees"). Ninety-five women, aged 40-55, wore the Biolog ambulatory hot flash monitor. Objective measurements and subjective hot flash reports were examined in relation to demographic, reproductive, anthropometric, and lifestyle variables; temperature and humidity at 12:00 and 18:00; and time spent on housework and cooking. Concordance of objective and subjective hot flashes was assessed by Kappa statistics and by sensitivity of hot flash classification. During the study period, Bangladeshi sedentees reported more subjective hot flashes (p < .05), but there was no difference in number of objective hot flashes. White Londoners were more likely to describe hot flashes on their face and neck compared to Bangladeshis (p < .05). Sedentees were more likely to describe hot flashes on their feet (p < .05). Postmenopausal status, increasing parity, and high levels of housework were significant determinants of subjective hot flashes, while ambient temperature and humidity were not. Measures of subjective/objective concordance were low but similar across groups (10-20%). The proportion of objective hot flashes that were also self-reported was lowest among immigrants. Hot flashes were not associated with warmer temperatures, but were associated with housework and with site-specific patterns of cooking. The number of objective hot flash measures did not differ, but differences in subjective experience suggest the influence of culture. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Phenomenology of the sound-induced flash illusion.

PubMed

Abadi, Richard V; Murphy, Jonathan S

2014-07-01

Past studies, using pairings of auditory tones and visual flashes, which were static and coincident in space but variable in time, demonstrated errors in judging the temporal patterning of the visual flashes-the sound-induced flash illusion. These errors took one of the two forms: under-reporting (sound-induced fusion) or over-reporting (sound-induced fission) of the flash numbers. Our study had three objectives: to examine the robustness of both illusions and to consider the effects of stimulus set and response bias. To this end, we used an extended range of fixed spatial location flash-tone pairings, examined stimuli that were variable in space and time and measured confidence in judging flash numbers. Our results indicated that the sound-induced flash illusion is a robust percept, a finding underpinned by the confidence measures. Sound-induced fusion was found to be more robust than sound-induced fission and a most likely outcome when high numbers of flashes were incorporated within an incongruent flash-tone pairing. Conversely, sound-induced fission was the most likely outcome for the flash-tone pairing which contained two flashes. Fission was also shown to be strongly driven by stimuli confounds such as categorical boundary conditions (e.g. flash-tone pairings with ≤2 flashes) and compressed response options. These findings suggest whilst both fission and fusion are associated with 'auditory driving', the differences in the occurrence and strength of the two illusions not only reflect the separate neuronal mechanisms underlying audio and visual signal processing, but also the test conditions that have been used to investigate the sound-induced flash illusion.

How self-reported hot flashes may relate to affect, cognitive performance and sleep.

PubMed

Regestein, Quentin; Friebely, Joan; Schiff, Isaac

2015-08-01

To explain the controversy about whether midlife women who self-report hot flashes have relatively increased affective symptoms, poor cognitive performance or worse sleep. Retrospective data from 88 women seeking relief from bothersome day and night hot flashes were submitted to mixed linear regression modeling to find if estimated hot flashes, as measured by Women's Health Questionnaire (WHQ) items, or diary-documented hot flashes recorded daily, were associated with each other, or with affective, cognitive or sleep measures. Subjects averaged 6.3 daytime diary-documented hot flashes and 2.4 nighttime diary-documented hot flashes per 24h. Confounder-controlled diary-documented hot flashes but not estimated hot flashes were associated with increased Leeds anxiety scores (F=4.9; t=2.8; p=0.01) and Leeds depression scores (3.4; 2.5; 0.02), decreased Stroop Color-Word test performance (9.4; 3.5; 0.001), increased subjective sleep disturbance (effect size=0.83) and increased objective sleep disturbance (effect size=0.35). Hot flash effects were small to moderate in size. Univariate but not multivariate analyses revealed that all hot flash measures were associated with all affect measures. Different measures of hot flashes associated differently with affect, cognition and sleep. Only nighttime diary-document hot flash consistently correlated with any affect measures in multivariate analyses. The use of differing measures for hot flashes, affect, cognition and sleep may account for the continually reported inconsistencies in menopause study outcomes. This problem impedes forging a consensus on whether hot flashes correlate with neuropsychological symptoms. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

phiGENOME: an integrative navigation throughout bacteriophage genomes.

PubMed

Stano, Matej; Klucar, Lubos

2011-11-01

phiGENOME is a web-based genome browser generating dynamic and interactive graphical representation of phage genomes stored in the phiSITE, database of gene regulation in bacteriophages. phiGENOME is an integral part of the phiSITE web portal (http://www.phisite.org/phigenome) and it was optimised for visualisation of phage genomes with the emphasis on the gene regulatory elements. phiGENOME consists of three components: (i) genome map viewer built using Adobe Flash technology, providing dynamic and interactive graphical display of phage genomes; (ii) sequence browser based on precisely formatted HTML tags, providing detailed exploration of genome features on the sequence level and (iii) regulation illustrator, based on Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG) and designed for graphical representation of gene regulations. Bringing 542 complete genome sequences accompanied with their rich annotations and references, makes phiGENOME a unique information resource in the field of phage genomics. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Susceptibility to the Flash-Beep Illusion Is Increased in Children Compared to Adults

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Innes-Brown, Hamish; Barutchu, Ayla; Shivdasani, Mohit N.; Crewther, David P.; Grayden, David B.; Paolini, Antonio

2011-01-01

Audio-visual integration was studied in children aged 8-17 (N = 30) and adults (N = 22) using the "flash-beep illusion" paradigm, where the presentation of two beeps causes a single flash to be perceived as two flashes ("fission" illusion), and a single beep causes two flashes to be perceived as one flash ("fusion" illusion). Children reported…

Global Patterns of Lightning Properties Derived by OTD and LIS

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Beirle, Steffen; Koshak, W.; Blakeslee, R.; Wagner, T.

2014-01-01

The satellite instruments Optical Transient Detector (OTD) and Lightning Imaging Sensor (LIS) provide unique empirical data about the frequency of lightning flashes around the globe (OTD), and the tropics (LIS), which 5 has been used before to compile a well received global climatology of flash rate densities. Here we present a statistical analysis of various additional lightning properties derived from OTD/LIS, i.e. the number of so-called "events" and "groups" per flash, as well as 10 the mean flash duration, footprint and radiance. These normalized quantities, which can be associated with the flash "strength", show consistent spatial patterns; most strikingly, oceanic flashes show higher values than continental flashes for all properties. Over land, regions with high (Eastern US) 15 and low (India) flash strength can be clearly identified. We discuss possible causes and implications of the observed regional differences. Although a direct quantitative interpretation of the investigated flash properties is difficult, the observed spatial patterns provide valuable information for the 20 interpretation and application of climatological flash rates. Due to the systematic regional variations of physical flash characteristics, viewing conditions, and/or measurement sensitivities, parametrisations of lightning NOx based on total flash rate densities alone are probably affected by regional biases.

Characteristics of Lightning Within Electrified Snowfall Events Using Lightning Mapping Arrays

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schultz, Christopher J.; Lang, Timothy J.; Bruning, Eric C.; Calhoun, Kristin M.; Harkema, Sebastian; Curtis, Nathan

2018-02-01

This study examined 34 lightning flashes within four separate thundersnow events derived from lightning mapping arrays (LMAs) in northern Alabama, central Oklahoma, and Washington DC. The goals were to characterize the in-cloud component of each lightning flash, as well as the correspondence between the LMA observations and lightning data taken from national lightning networks like the National Lightning Detection Network (NLDN). Individual flashes were examined in detail to highlight several observations within the data set. The study results demonstrated that the structures of these flashes were primarily normal polarity. The mean area encompassed by this set of flashes is 375 km2, with a maximum flash extent of 2,300 km2, a minimum of 3 km2, and a median of 128 km2. An average of 2.29 NLDN flashes were recorded per LMA-derived lightning flash. A maximum of 11 NLDN flashes were recorded in association with a single LMA-derived flash on 10 January 2011. Additionally, seven of the 34 flashes in the study contain zero NLDN-identified flashes. Eleven of the 34 flashes initiated from tall human-made objects (e.g., communication towers). In at least six lightning flashes, the NLDN detected a return stroke from the cloud back to the tower and not the initial upward leader. This study also discusses lightning's interaction with the human-built environment and provides an example of lightning within heavy snowfall observed by Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite-16's Geostationary Lightning Mapper.

Hot flashes in breast cancer survivors: Frequency, severity and impact.

PubMed

Chang, Hao-Yuan; Jotwani, Aparna C; Lai, Yeur-Hur; Jensen, Mark P; Syrjala, Karen L; Fann, Jesse R; Gralow, Julie

2016-06-01

To (1) determine the frequency and severity of hot flashes, (2) examine the associations between hot flash frequency and severity and quality of life, and (3) identify the predictors of hot flash activity in breast cancer survivors. The study used a cross-sectional design and mailed survey of 253 breast cancer survivors recruited from a cancer wellness clinic. Participants provided information regarding cancer history, hot flashes, pain intensity, sleep problems, physical functioning, and psychological functioning. About half of the survivors reported at least one hot flash in the past 24 h (45%) or past week (52%). The average frequency of hot flashes was 1.9 in the past 24 h and 1.8 in the past week. Hot flash severity was usually mild or asymptomatic. However, participants with hot flashes reported significantly more sleep problems and higher pain severity than those reporting no hot flashes. Moreover, the severity of hot flashes was associated with more sleep problems, higher pain severity, and more psychological dysfunction. History of hormonal suppression therapy and younger age predicted hot flash activity in the study sample. In breast cancer survivors, hot flashes are common and are associated with unpleasant symptoms and poor quality of life. Research is needed to determine if treatments that reduce the frequency and severity of hot flashes in breast cancer survivors also result in improvements in symptoms such as sleep problems, pain, and psychological dysfunction. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Hot flashes in breast cancer survivors: Frequency, severity and impact

PubMed Central

Chang, Hao-Yuan; Jotwani, Aparna C.; Lai, Yeur-Hur; Jensen, Mark P.; Syrjala, Karen L.; Fann, Jesse R.; Gralow, Julie

2018-01-01

Purposes To (1) determine the frequency and severity of hot flashes, (2) examine the associations be- tween hot flash frequency and severity and quality of life, and (3) identify the predictors of hot flash activity in breast cancer survivors. Methods The study used a cross-sectional design and mailed survey of 253 breast cancer survivors recruited from a cancer wellness clinic. Participants provided information regarding cancer history, hot flashes, pain intensity, sleep problems, physical functioning, and psychological functioning. Results About half of the survivors reported at least one hot flash in the past 24 h (45%) or past week (52%). The average frequency of hot flashes was 1.9 in the past 24 h and 1.8 in the past week. Hot flash severity was usually mild or asymptomatic. However, participants with hot flashes reported significantly more sleep problems and higher pain severity than those reporting no hot flashes. Moreover, the severity of hot flashes was associated with more sleep problems, higher pain severity, and more psychological dysfunction. History of hormonal suppression therapy and younger age predicted hot flash activity in the study sample. Conclusions In breast cancer survivors, hot flashes are common and are associated with unpleasant symptoms and poor quality of life. Research is needed to determine if treatments that reduce the frequency and severity of hot flashes in breast cancer survivors also result in improvements in symptoms such as sleep problems, pain, and psychological dysfunction. PMID:27065357

Characteristics of Lightning within Electrified Snowfall Events using Lightning Mapping Arrays.

PubMed

Schultz, Christopher J; Lang, Timothy J; Bruning, Eric C; Calhoun, Kristin M; Harkema, Sebastian; Curtis, Nathan

2018-02-27

This study examined 34 lightning flashes within four separate thundersnow events derived from lightning mapping arrays (LMAs) in northern Alabama, central Oklahoma, and Washington DC. The goals were to characterize the in-cloud component of each lightning flash, as well as the correspondence between the LMA observations and lightning data taken from national lightning networks like the National Lightning Detection Network (NLDN). Individual flashes were examined in detail to highlight several observations within the dataset. The study results demonstrated that the structures of these flashes were primarily normal polarity. The mean area encompassed by this set of flashes is 375 km 2 , with a maximum flash extent of 2300 km 2 , a minimum of 3 km 2 , and a median of 128 km 2 . An average of 2.29 NLDN flashes were recorded per LMA-derived lightning flash. A maximum of 11 NLDN flashes were recorded in association with a single LMA-derived flash on 10 January 2011. Additionally, seven of the 34 flashes in the study contain zero NLDN identified flashes. Eleven of the 34 flashes initiated from tall human-made objects (e.g., communication towers). In at least six lightning flashes, the NLDN detected a return stroke from the cloud back to the tower and not the initial upward leader. This study also discusses lightning's interaction with the human built environment and provides an example of lightning within heavy snowfall observed by GOES-16's Geostationary Lightning Mapper.

FLASH2: Operation, beamlines, and photon diagnostics

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

Plönjes, Elke, E-mail: elke.ploenjes@desy.de; Faatz, Bart; Kuhlmann, Marion

2016-07-27

FLASH2, a major extension of the soft X-ray free-electron laser FLASH at DESY, turns FLASH into a multi-user FEL facility. A new undulator line is located in a separate accelerator tunnel and driven additionally by the FLASH linear accelerator. First lasing of FLASH2 was achieved in August 2014 with simultaneous user operation at FLASH1. The new FLASH2 experimental hall offers space for up to six experimental end stations, some of which will be installed permanently. The wide wavelength range spans from 4-60 nm and 0.8 nm in the 5{sup th} harmonic and in the future deep into the water windowmore » in the fundamental. While this is of high interest to users, it is challenging from the beamline instrumentation point of view. Online diagnostics - which are mostly pulse resolved - for beam intensity, position, wavelength, wave front, and pulse length have been to a large extent developed at FLASH(1) and have now been optimized for FLASH2. Pump-probe facilities for XUV-XUV, XUV optical and XUV-THz experiments will complete the FLASH2 user facility.« less

Magnitude of the impact of hot flashes on sleep in perimenopausal women

PubMed Central

de Zambotti, Massimiliano; Colrain, Ian M.; Javitz, Harold S.; Baker, Fiona C.

2014-01-01

Objective To quantify the impact of objectively-recorded hot flashes on objective sleep in perimenopausal women. Design Cross-sectional study. Participants underwent 1–5 laboratory-based polysomnographic recordings for a total of 63 nights, including sternal skin conductance measures, from which 222 hot flashes were identified according to established criteria. Data were analyzed with hierarchical mixed-effect models and Spearman correlations. Setting Sleep laboratory. Patients 34 perimenopausal women (Age±SD:50.4±2.7y). Intervention None. Main Outcome Measures Perceived and polysomnographic sleep measures (sleep quality, amount of wake after sleep onset and number of awakenings). Subjective (frequency and bother) and objective (frequency and amount of hot flash-associated wake time) hot flash measures. Results Women had an average of 3.5 (95%CI:2.8–4.2, range=1– 9) objective hot flashes per night. 69.4% of hot flashes were associated with an awakening. Hot flash-associated wake time per night was, on average, 16.6 min (95%CI:10.8–22.4), which accounted for 27.2% (SD 27.1) of total wakefulness per night. Hot flash-associated wake, but not frequency, was negatively associated with sleep efficiency and positively associated with wake after sleep onset. Also, self-reported wakefulness correlated with hot flash-associated wake, suggesting that women’s estimates of wakefulness are influenced by the amount of time spent awake in association with hot flashes during the night. More perceived and bothersome hot flashes correlated with more perceived wakefulness and awakenings and more objective hot flash-associated wake time and hot flash frequency. Conclusions The presence of physiological hot flashes accounts for a significant proportion of total objective wakefulness during the night in perimenopausal women. PMID:25256933

Adiposity and Hot Flashes in Midlife Women: A Modifying Role of Age

PubMed Central

Santoro, Nanette; Matthews, Karen A.

2011-01-01

Background: The nature of the relationship between adiposity and hot flashes has been debated, but it has not been examined using physiological measures of hot flashes. We examined associations between body size/composition and physiologically assessed hot flashes among women with hot flashes. Methods: A subcohort of women in the Study of Women's Health Across the Nation (n = 52; 25 African-American and 27 non-Hispanic Caucasian; ages, 54 to 63 yr) who reported hot flashes, had their uterus and ovaries, and were not taking medications impacting hot flashes were recruited in 2008–2009. Women completed anthropometric measures [bioimpedance analysis of total percentage of body fat, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference], a blood draw (estradiol, SHBG, FSH, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate), and 4 d of ambulatory sternal skin conductance monitoring with diary (physiological and reported hot flashes, respectively). Associations between anthropometrics and hot flashes were estimated with generalized estimating equations with covariates age, race, and anxiety. Results: Higher BMI (odds ratio, 0.97; 95% confidence interval, 0.94–0.99; P < 0.05) and waist circumference (odds ratio, 0.98; 95% confidence interval, 0.97–0.99; P < 0.01) were associated with fewer physiological hot flashes. Interactions by age (P < 0.05) indicated that inverse associations of body fat, BMI, and waist circumference with hot flashes were most apparent among the oldest women in the sample. Estradiol and SHBG reduced but did not eliminate age-related variations in relations between body size/composition and hot flashes. Conclusion: Higher adiposity was associated with fewer physiological hot flashes among older women with hot flashes. A modifying role of age must be considered in understanding the role of adiposity in hot flashes. PMID:21778220

Adiposity and hot flashes in midlife women: a modifying role of age.

PubMed

Thurston, Rebecca C; Santoro, Nanette; Matthews, Karen A

2011-10-01

The nature of the relationship between adiposity and hot flashes has been debated, but it has not been examined using physiological measures of hot flashes. We examined associations between body size/composition and physiologically assessed hot flashes among women with hot flashes. A subcohort of women in the Study of Women's Health Across the Nation (n = 52; 25 African-American and 27 non-Hispanic Caucasian; ages, 54 to 63 yr) who reported hot flashes, had their uterus and ovaries, and were not taking medications impacting hot flashes were recruited in 2008-2009. Women completed anthropometric measures [bioimpedance analysis of total percentage of body fat, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference], a blood draw (estradiol, SHBG, FSH, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate), and 4 d of ambulatory sternal skin conductance monitoring with diary (physiological and reported hot flashes, respectively). Associations between anthropometrics and hot flashes were estimated with generalized estimating equations with covariates age, race, and anxiety. Higher BMI (odds ratio, 0.97; 95% confidence interval, 0.94-0.99; P < 0.05) and waist circumference (odds ratio, 0.98; 95% confidence interval, 0.97-0.99; P < 0.01) were associated with fewer physiological hot flashes. Interactions by age (P < 0.05) indicated that inverse associations of body fat, BMI, and waist circumference with hot flashes were most apparent among the oldest women in the sample. Estradiol and SHBG reduced but did not eliminate age-related variations in relations between body size/composition and hot flashes. Higher adiposity was associated with fewer physiological hot flashes among older women with hot flashes. A modifying role of age must be considered in understanding the role of adiposity in hot flashes.

Initial Breakdown Pulse Amplitudes in Intracloud and Cloud-to-Ground Lightning Flashes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Marshall, T. C.; Smith, E. M.; Stolzenburg, M.; Karunarathne, S.; Siedlecki, R. D., II

2017-12-01

This study analyzes the largest initial breakdown (IB) pulse in flashes from three storms in Florida. The study was motivated in part by the possibility that IB pulses of IC flashes may cause of terrestrial gamma-ray flashes (TGFs). The range-normalized, zero-to-peak amplitude of the largest IB pulse within each flash was determined along with its altitude, duration, and occurrence time in the flash. Appropriate data were available for 40 intracloud (IC) and 32 cloud-to-ground (CG) flashes. Histograms of the magnitude of the largest IB pulse amplitude by flash type were similar, with mean (median) values of 1.49 (1.05) V/m for IC flashes and -1.35 (-0.87) V/m for CG flashes. The mean amplitude of the largest IC IB pulses are substantially smaller (roughly an order of magnitude smaller) than the few known pulse amplitudes of TGF events and TGF candidate events. The largest IB pulse in 30 IC flashes showed a weak inverse relation between pulse amplitude and altitude. Amplitude of the largest IB pulse for 25 CG flashes showed no altitude correlation. Duration of the largest IB pulse in ICs averaged twice as long as in CGs (96 μs versus 46 μs); all of the CG durations were <100 μs. Among the ICs, there is a positive relation between largest IB pulse duration and amplitude; the linear correlation coefficient is 0.385 with outliers excluded. The largest IB pulse in IC flashes typically occurred at a longer time after the first IB pulse (average 4.1 ms) than was the case in CG flashes (average 0.6 ms). In both flash types, the largest IB pulse was the first IB pulse in about 30% of the cases.

SUMO regulates proteasome-dependent degradation of FLASH/Casp8AP2

PubMed Central

Vennemann, Astrid; Hofmann, Thomas G.

2013-01-01

FLASH/Casp8AP2 is a huge multifunctional protein involved in multiple cellular processes, reaching from death receptor signaling to regulation of histone gene transcription and histone mRNA processing. Previous work has shown that FLASH localizes to Cajal bodies and promyelocytic leukemia (PML) bodies. However, the function of its nuclear body association remains unclear. Here we demonstrate that murine FLASH is covalently modified by SUMO at Lys residue 1792. Interestingly, ectopic expression of SUMO results in proteasome-dependent degradation of FLASH. A point mutant of FLASH with a mutated SUMO acceptor lysine residue, FLASHK1792R, is resistant to SUMO-induced degradation. Finally, we show that arsenic trioxide, a drug known to potentiate SUMO modification and degradation of PML, triggers recruitment of FLASH to PML bodies and concomitant loss of FLASH protein. Our data suggest that SUMO targets FLASH for proteasome-dependent degradation, which is associated with recruitment of FLASH to PML bodies. PMID:23673342

The October 2014 United States Treasury bond flash crash and the contributory effect of mini flash crashes

PubMed Central

Levine, Zachary S.; Floridi, Luciano

2017-01-01

We investigate the causal uncertainty surrounding the flash crash in the U.S. Treasury bond market on October 15, 2014, and the unresolved concern that no clear link has been identified between the start of the flash crash at 9:33 and the opening of the U.S. equity market at 9:30. We consider the contributory effect of mini flash crashes in equity markets, and find that the number of equity mini flash crashes in the three-minute window between market open and the Treasury Flash Crash was 2.6 times larger than the number experienced in any other three-minute window in the prior ten weekdays. We argue that (a) this statistically significant finding suggests that mini flash crashes in equity markets both predicted and contributed to the October 2014 U.S. Treasury Bond Flash Crash, and (b) mini-flash crashes are important phenomena with negative externalities that deserve much greater scholarly attention. PMID:29091931

PIAS1 interacts with FLASH and enhances its co-activation of c-Myb

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background FLASH is a huge nuclear protein involved in various cellular functions such as apoptosis signalling, NF-κB activation, S-phase regulation, processing of histone pre-mRNAs, and co-regulation of transcription. Recently, we identified FLASH as a co-activator of the transcription factor c-Myb and found FLASH to be tightly associated with active transcription foci. As a huge multifunctional protein, FLASH is expected to have many interaction partners, some which may shed light on its function as a transcriptional regulator. Results To find additional FLASH-associated proteins, we performed a yeast two-hybrid (Y2H) screening with FLASH as bait and identified the SUMO E3 ligase PIAS1 as an interaction partner. The association appears to involve two distinct interaction surfaces in FLASH. We verified the interaction by Y2H-mating, GST pulldowns, co-IP and ChIP. FLASH and PIAS1 were found to co-localize in nuclear speckles. Functional assays revealed that PIAS1 enhances the intrinsic transcriptional activity of FLASH in a RING finger-dependent manner. Furthermore, PIAS1 also augments the specific activity of c-Myb, and cooperates with FLASH to further co-activate c-Myb. The three proteins, FLASH, PIAS1, and c-Myb, are all co-localized with active RNA polymerase II foci, resembling transcription factories. Conclusions We conclude that PIAS1 is a common partner for two cancer-related nuclear factors, c-Myb and FLASH. Our results point to a functional cooperation between FLASH and PIAS1 in the enhancement of c-Myb activity in active nuclear foci. PMID:21338522

"Know What to Do If You Encounter a Flash Flood": Mental Models Analysis for Improving Flash Flood Risk Communication and Public Decision Making.

PubMed

Lazrus, Heather; Morss, Rebecca E; Demuth, Julie L; Lazo, Jeffrey K; Bostrom, Ann

2016-02-01

Understanding how people view flash flood risks can help improve risk communication, ultimately improving outcomes. This article analyzes data from 26 mental models interviews about flash floods with members of the public in Boulder, Colorado, to understand their perspectives on flash flood risks and mitigation. The analysis includes a comparison between public and professional perspectives by referencing a companion mental models study of Boulder-area professionals. A mental models approach can help to diagnose what people already know about flash flood risks and responses, as well as any critical gaps in their knowledge that might be addressed through improved risk communication. A few public interviewees mentioned most of the key concepts discussed by professionals as important for flash flood warning decision making. However, most interviewees exhibited some incomplete understandings and misconceptions about aspects of flash flood development and exposure, effects, or mitigation that may lead to ineffective warning decisions when a flash flood threatens. These include important misunderstandings about the rapid evolution of flash floods, the speed of water in flash floods, the locations and times that pose the greatest flash flood risk in Boulder, the value of situational awareness and environmental cues, and the most appropriate responses when a flash flood threatens. The findings point to recommendations for ways to improve risk communication, over the long term and when an event threatens, to help people quickly recognize and understand threats, obtain needed information, and make informed decisions in complex, rapidly evolving extreme weather events such as flash floods. © 2015 Society for Risk Analysis.

Lightning Attachment to Wind Turbines in Central Kansas: Video Observations, Correlation with the NLDN and in-situ Peak Current Measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Myers, J.; Cummins, K. L.; Hutchinson, M.; Nag, A.

2012-12-01

Lightning attachment to tall objects has been studied for decades. The attachment of lightning to electric power transmission towers in elevated terrain has driven much of the quantitative assessment of lightning characteristics in the 1970's and 80's. This has led to the understanding that in flat terrain, the probability of upward-initiated lightning is negligible for tower heights less than 100 m. For tower heights greater than 100, the probability increases roughly linearly with the log of height, reaching 100% at a height of 400 m. Additionally, the probability of upward initiation increases when the object resides on locally-elevated terrain. Over the last decade, there has been renewed interest in the study of lightning attachment to tall objects in general, and wind turbines in particular, following the establishment of large "wind farms" in lightning-prone regions. In this study, we present video observations, radiation magnetic field, and in-situ peak current measurements of lightning from an ongoing field program in a large wind farm in north-central Kansas, located in the U.S. Central Great Plains. The terrain variations within the wind farm are small rolling hills with peak variations on the order of 25 m. All turbines had a turbine hub height of 80 m, and a blade tip maximum height of 125 m. Two digital video camera systems (60 fields-per-second) were configured to self-trigger 2-second video sequences using a sequential-field-subtraction scene analysis (ufo-Capture). The two cameras had a common field of view that included 8 of the wind turbines. Nearby NLDN sensors were configured to record information that allows reconstruction of magnetic field waveforms within the bandwidth of the NLDN sensors. Some of the turbines were equipped with semi-quantitative in-situ peak current measuring devices. To date, more than 100 cloud-to-ground (CG) flashes have terminated within the perimeter of the wind farm. Video observations of flashes that attached to turbines (all to turbine blades) include five natural (downward leader) flashes and two "upward flashes" (fully developed upward leaders lasting 10's of milliseconds). Both upward flashes appear to have been triggered by nearby positive CG flashes, resulting in upward (presumably positive) leaders. Selected video observations in conjunction with NLDN data and waveform measurements, and in situ current measurements obtained during this campaign, will be presented and discussed in the context of storm characteristics. Differences with previous findings for fixed towers (no rotating blades) will also be discussed.

Hot Flashes and Carotid Intima Media Thickness among Midlife Women

PubMed Central

Thurston, Rebecca C.; Sutton-Tyrrell, Kim; Everson-Rose, Susan A.; Hess, Rachel; Powell, Lynda H.; Matthews, Karen A.

2010-01-01

Objective Emerging evidence suggests associations between menopausal hot flashes and cardiovascular risk. Whether hot flashes are associated with intima media thickness (IMT) or IMT changes over time is unknown. We hypothesized that reported hot flashes would be associated with greater IMT cross-sectionally and with greater IMT progression over two years. Methods Participants were 432 women ages 45-58 at baseline participating in SWAN Heart, an ancillary study to the Study of Women's Health Across the Nation. Measures at the SWAN Heart baseline and follow-up visit two years later included a carotid artery ultrasound, reported hot flashes (past two weeks: none, 1-5, ≥6 days), and a blood sample for measurement of estradiol. Results Women reporting hot flashes ≥6 days in the prior two weeks had significantly higher IMT than women without hot flashes at baseline (mean difference(SE), mm =0.02(0.01), p=0.03) and follow-up (mean difference(SE), mm =0.02(0.01), p=0.04) visits, controlling for demographic factors and cardiovascular risk factors. Reporting hot flashes at both study visits was associated with higher follow-up IMT relative to reporting hot flashes at neither visit (mean difference(SE), mm=0.03(0.01), p=0.03). Associations between hot flashes and IMT largely remained after adjusting for estradiol. An interaction between hot flashes and obesity status was observed (p=0.05) such that relations between hot flashes and IMT were observed principally among overweight/obese women. Hot flashes were not associated with IMT progression. Conclusions These findings provided some indication that women reporting hot flashes ≥6 days in the prior two weeks may have higher IMT than women without hot flashes, particularly for women who are overweight or obese. Further work should determine whether hot flashes mark adverse underlying vascular changes. PMID:21242820

50 CFR 600.730 - Facilitation of enforcement.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... transmitted by flashing light directed at the vessel signaled. USCG units will normally use the flashing light... your vessel instantly.” (Period (.) means a short flash of light; dash (-) means a long flash of light... authorized officer using loudhailer, radiotelephone, flashing light signal, or other means constitutes prima...

50 CFR 600.730 - Facilitation of enforcement.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... transmitted by flashing light directed at the vessel signaled. USCG units will normally use the flashing light... your vessel instantly.” (Period (.) means a short flash of light; dash (-) means a long flash of light... authorized officer using loudhailer, radiotelephone, flashing light signal, or other means constitutes prima...

49 CFR 234.217 - Flashing light units.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Flashing light units. 234.217 Section 234.217..., Inspection, and Testing Maintenance Standards § 234.217 Flashing light units. (a) Each flashing light unit.... (b) Each flashing light unit shall be maintained to prevent dust and moisture from entering the...

49 CFR 234.217 - Flashing light units.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Flashing light units. 234.217 Section 234.217..., Inspection, and Testing Maintenance Standards § 234.217 Flashing light units. (a) Each flashing light unit.... (b) Each flashing light unit shall be maintained to prevent dust and moisture from entering the...

Lunar Impact Flash Locations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moser, D. E.; Suggs, R. M.; Kupferschmidt, L.; Feldman, J.

2015-01-01

A bright impact flash detected by the NASA Lunar Impact Monitoring Program in March 2013 brought into focus the importance of determining the impact flash location. A process for locating the impact flash, and presumably its associated crater, was developed using commercially available software tools. The process was successfully applied to the March 2013 impact flash and put into production on an additional 300 impact flashes. The goal today: provide a description of the geolocation technique developed.

FLASH Interface; a GUI for managing runtime parameters in FLASH simulations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Walker, Christopher; Tzeferacos, Petros; Weide, Klaus; Lamb, Donald; Flocke, Norbert; Feister, Scott

2017-10-01

We present FLASH Interface, a novel graphical user interface (GUI) for managing runtime parameters in simulations performed with the FLASH code. FLASH Interface supports full text search of available parameters; provides descriptions of each parameter's role and function; allows for the filtering of parameters based on categories; performs input validation; and maintains all comments and non-parameter information already present in existing parameter files. The GUI can be used to edit existing parameter files or generate new ones. FLASH Interface is open source and was implemented with the Electron framework, making it available on Mac OSX, Windows, and Linux operating systems. The new interface lowers the entry barrier for new FLASH users and provides an easy-to-use tool for experienced FLASH simulators. U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), NNSA ASC/Alliances Center for Astrophysical Thermonuclear Flashes, U.S. DOE NNSA ASC through the Argonne Institute for Computing in Science, U.S. National Science Foundation.

OTD Observations of Continental US Ground and Cloud Flashes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Koshak, William

2007-01-01

Lightning optical flash parameters (e.g., radiance, area, duration, number of optical groups, and number of optical events) derived from almost five years of Optical Transient Detector (OTD) data are analyzed. Hundreds of thousands of OTD flashes occurring over the continental US are categorized according to flash type (ground or cloud flash) using US National Lightning Detection Network TM (NLDN) data. The statistics of the optical characteristics of the ground and cloud flashes are inter-compared on an overall basis, and as a function of ground flash polarity. A standard two-distribution hypothesis test is used to inter-compare the population means of a given lightning parameter for the two flash types. Given the differences in the statistics of the optical characteristics, it is suggested that statistical analyses (e.g., Bayesian Inference) of the space-based optical measurements might make it possible to successfully discriminate ground and cloud flashes a reasonable percentage of the time.

Menopausal Hot Flashes and White Matter Hyperintensities

PubMed Central

Thurston, Rebecca C.; Aizenstein, Howard J.; Derby, Carol A.; Sejdić, Ervin; Maki, Pauline M.

2015-01-01

Objective Hot flashes are the classic menopausal symptom. Emerging data links hot flashes to cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk, yet how hot flashes are related to brain health is poorly understood. We examined the relationship between hot flashes - measured via physiologic monitor and self-report - and white matter hyperintensities (WMH) among midlife women. Methods Twenty midlife women ages 40-60 without clinical CVD, with their uterus and both ovaries, and not taking hormone therapy were recruited. Women underwent 24 hours of ambulatory physiologic and diary hot flash monitoring to quantify hot flashes; magnetic resonance imaging to assess WMH burden; 72 hours of actigraphy and questionnaires to quantify sleep; and a blood draw, questionnaires, and physical measures to quantify demographics and CVD risk factors. Test of a priori hypotheses regarding relations between physiologically-monitored and self-reported wake and sleep hot flashes and WMH were conducted in linear regression models. Results More physiologically-monitored hot flashes during sleep were associated with greater WMH, controlling for age, race, and body mass index [beta(standard error)=.0002 (.0001), p=.03]. Findings persisted controlling for sleep characteristics and additional CVD risk factors. No relations were observed for self-reported hot flashes. Conclusions More physiologically-monitored hot flashes during sleep were associated with greater WMH burden among midlife women free of clinical CVD. Results suggest that relations between hot flashes and CVD risk observed in the periphery may extend to the brain. Future work should consider the unique role of sleep hot flashes in brain health. PMID:26057822

Some properties of negative cloud-to-ground flashes from observations of a local thunderstorm based on accurate-stroke-count studies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Baoyou; Ma, Ming; Xu, Weiwei; Ma, Dong

2015-12-01

Properties of negative cloud-to-ground (CG) lightning flashes, in terms of number of strokes per flash, inter-stroke intervals and the relative intensity of subsequent and first strokes, were presented by accurate-stroke-count studies based on all 1085 negative flashes from a local thunderstorm. The percentage of single-stroke flashes and stroke multiplicity evolved significantly during the whole life cycle of the study thunderstorm. The occurrence probability of negative CG flashes decreased exponentially with the increasing number of strokes per flash. About 30.5% of negative CG flashes contained only one stroke and number of strokes per flash averaged 3.3. In a subset of 753 negative multiple-stroke flashes, about 41.4% contained at least one subsequent stroke stronger than the corresponding first stroke. Subsequent strokes tended to decrease in strength with their orders and the ratio of subsequent to first stroke peaks presented a geometric mean value of 0.52. Interestingly, negative CG flashes of higher multiplicity tended to have stronger initial strokes. 2525 inter-stroke intervals showed a more or less log-normal distribution and gave a geometric mean value of 62 ms. For CG flashes of particular multiplicity geometric mean inter-stroke intervals tended to decrease with the increasing number of strokes per flash, while those intervals associated with higher order strokes tended to be larger than those associated with low order strokes.

Effect of Escitalopram on Hot Flash Interference: A Randomized, Controlled Trial

PubMed Central

Carpenter, Janet S.; Guthrie, Katherine A.; Larson, Joseph C.; Freeman, Ellen W.; Joffe, Hadine; Reed, Susan D.; Ensrud, Kristine E.; LaCroix, Andrea Z.

2012-01-01

Objectives To estimate the effect of escitalopram 10–20 mg/day versus placebo for reducing hot flash interference in daily life and understand correlates and predictors of reductions in hot flash interference, a key measure of quality of life. Design Multi-site, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Patients 205 midlife women (46% African-American) who met criteria participated. Setting MsFLASH clinical sites in Boston, Indianapolis, Oakland, and Philadelphia. Intervention After baseline, women were randomized to 1 pill of escitalopram 10 mg/day (n=104) or placebo (n=101) with follow-up at 4- and 8-weeks. At week 4, those not achieving 50% fewer hot flashes were increased to 2 pills daily (20 mg/day or 2 placebo pills). Main outcome measures The Hot Flash Related Daily Interference Scale; Correlates were variables from hot flash diaries; Predictors were baseline demographics, clinical variables, depression, anxiety, sleep quality, and hot flashes. Results Compared to placebo, escitalopram significantly reduced hot flash interference by 6.0 points at week 4 and 3.4 points at week 8 more than placebo (p=0.012). Reductions in hot flash interference correlated with changes in hot flash diary variables. However, baseline variables did not significantly predict reductions in hot flash interference. Conclusions Escitalopram 10–20mg/day for 8 weeks improves women’s quality of life and this benefit did not vary by demographic, clinical, mood, sleep, or hot flash variables. PMID:22480818

Cardiac autonomic function and hot flashes among perimenopausal and postmenopausal women.

PubMed

Gibson, Carolyn J; Mendes, Wendy Berry; Schembri, Michael; Grady, Deborah; Huang, Alison J

2017-07-01

Abnormalities in autonomic function are posited to play a pathophysiologic role in menopausal hot flashes. We examined relationships between resting cardiac autonomic activity and hot flashes in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women. Autonomic function was assessed at baseline and 12 weeks among perimenopausal and postmenopausal women (n = 121, mean age 53 years) in a randomized trial of slow-paced respiration for hot flashes. Pre-ejection period (PEP), a marker of sympathetic activation, was measured with impedance cardiography. Respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA), a marker of parasympathetic activation, was measured with electrocardiography. Participants self-reported hot flash frequency and severity in 7-day symptom diaries. Analysis of covariance models were used to relate autonomic function and hot flash frequency and severity at baseline, and to relate changes in autonomic function to changes in hot flash frequency and severity over 12 weeks, adjusting for age, body mass index, and intervention assignment. PEP was not associated with hot flash frequency or severity at baseline or over 12 weeks (P > 0.05 for all). In contrast, there was a trend toward greater frequency of moderate-to-severe hot flashes with higher RSA at baseline (β = 0.43, P = 0.06), and a positive association between change in RSA and change in frequency of moderate-to-severe hot flashes over 12 weeks (β = 0.63, P = 0.04). Among perimenopausal and postmenopausal women with hot flashes, variations in hot flash frequency and severity were not explained by variations in resting sympathetic activation. Greater parasympathetic activation was associated with more frequent moderate-to-severe hot flashes, which may reflect increased sensitivity to perceiving hot flashes.

Understanding the complex relationships underlying hot flashes: a Bayesian network approach.

PubMed

Smith, Rebecca L; Gallicchio, Lisa M; Flaws, Jodi A

2018-02-01

The mechanism underlying hot flashes is not well-understood, primarily because of complex relationships between and among hot flashes and their risk factors. We explored those relationships using a Bayesian network approach based on a 2006 to 2015 cohort study of hot flashes among 776 female residents, 45 to 54 years old, in the Baltimore area. Bayesian networks were fit for each outcome (current hot flashes, hot flashes before the end of the study, hot flash severity, hot flash frequency, and age at first hot flashes) separately and together with a list of risk factors (estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, body mass index and obesity, race, income level, education level, smoking history, drinking history, and activity level). Each fitting was conducted separately on all women and only perimenopausal women, at enrollment and 4 years after enrollment. Hormone levels, almost always interrelated, were the most common variable linked to hot flashes; hormone levels were sometimes related to body mass index, but were not directly related to any other risk factors. Smoking was also frequently associated with increased likelihood of severe symptoms, but not through an antiestrogenic pathway. The age at first hot flashes was related only to race. All other factors were either not related to outcomes or were mediated entirely by race, hormone levels, or smoking. These models can serve as a guide for design of studies into the causal network underlying hot flashes.

Hot Flashes

MedlinePlus

... report menopausal hot flashes than do women of European descent. Hot flashes are less common in women of Japanese and Chinese descent than in white European women. Complications Nighttime hot flashes (night sweats) can ...

Helium shell flashes and evolution of accreting white dwarfs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fujimoto, M. Y.; Sugimoto, D.

1982-06-01

The evolution of accreting white dwarfs is investigated from the onset of accretion through the helium shell flash. Properties of the helium shell flashes are studied by means of a generalized theory of shell flash and by numerical computations, and it is found that the shell flash grows up to the strength of a supernova explosion when the mass of the helium zone is large enough on a massive white dwarf. Although accretion onto a hot white dwarf causes a weaker shell flash than those onto cool ones, a strong tendency exists for the strength to be determined mainly by the accretion rate. For fast accretion, the shell flashes are weak and triggered recurrently, while for slow accretion the helium shell flash, once triggered, develops into a detonation supernova.

Circulating interleukin-8 and tumor necrosis factor-α are associated with hot flashes in healthy postmenopausal women.

PubMed

Huang, Wan-Yu; Hsin, I-Lun; Chen, Dar-Ren; Chang, Chia-Chu; Kor, Chew-Teng; Chen, Ting-Yu; Wu, Hung-Ming

2017-01-01

Hot flashes have been postulated to be linked to systemic inflammation. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between hot flashes, pro-inflammatory factors, and leukocytes in healthy, non-obese postmenopausal women. In this cross-sectional study, a total of 202 women aged 45-60 years were stratified into one of four groups according to their hot-flash status: never experienced hot flashes (Group N), mild hot flashes (Group m), moderate hot flashes (Group M), and severe hot flashes (Group S). Variables measured in this study included clinical parameters, hot flash experience, leukocytes, and fasting plasma levels of nine circulating cytokines/chemokines measured by using multiplex assays. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to evaluate the associations of hot flashes with these pro-inflammatory factors. The study was performed in a hospital medical center. The mean values of leukocyte number were not different between these four groups. The hot flash status had a positive tendency toward increased levels of circulating IL-6 (P-trend = 0.049), IL-8 (P-trend < 0.001), TNF-α (P-trend = 0.008), and MIP1β (P-trend = 0.04). Multivariate linear regression analysis revealed that hot-flash severity was significantly associated with IL-8 (P-trend < 0.001) and TNFα (P-trend = 0.007) among these nine cytokines/chemokines after adjustment for age, menopausal duration, BMI and FSH. Multivariate analysis further revealed that severe hot flashes were strongly associated with a higher IL-8 (% difference, 37.19%; 95% confidence interval, 14.98,63.69; P < 0.001) and TNFα (51.27%; 6.64,114.57; P < 0.05). The present study provides evidence that hot flashes are associated with circulating IL-8 and TNF-α in healthy postmenopausal women. It suggests that hot flashes might be related to low-grade systemic inflammation.

Expectancy after the first treatment and response to acupuncture for menopausal hot flashes.

PubMed

Ee, Carolyn C; Thuraisingam, Sharmala; Pirotta, Marie V; French, Simon D; Xue, Charlie C; Teede, Helena J

2017-01-01

Evidence on the impact of expectancy on acupuncture treatment response is conflicting. This secondary analysis of a randomized sham-controlled trial on acupuncture for menopausal hot flashes investigated whether treatment expectancy score was associated with hot flash score at end-of-treatment. Secondary analyses investigated whether there were associations between other pre-specified factors and hot flash score. Women experiencing moderately-severe hot flashes were randomized to receive 10 sessions of real or sham acupuncture over eight weeks. Hot flash score was collected using a seven-day hot flash diary, and expectancy using the modified Credibility and Expectancy Questionnaire immediately after the first treatment. Linear mixed-effects models with random intercepts were used to identify associations between expectancy score and hot flash score at end-of-treatment. Regression was also used to identify associations between pre-specified factors of interest and hot flash score. Because there was no difference between real and sham acupuncture for the primary outcome of hot flash score, both arms were combined in the analysis. 285 women returned the Credibility and Expectancy Questionnaire, and 283 women completed both expectancy measures. We found no evidence for an association between expectancy and hot flash score at end-of-treatment for individual cases in either acupuncture or sham group. Hot flash scores at end-of-treatment were 8.1 (95%CI, 3.0 to 13.2; P = 0.002) points lower in regular smokers compared to those who had never smoked, equivalent to four fewer moderate hot flashes a day. In our study of acupuncture for menopausal hot flashes, higher expectancy after the first treatment did not predict better treatment outcomes. Future research may focus on other determinants of outcomes in acupuncture such as therapist attention. The relationship between smoking and hot flashes is poorly understood and needs further exploration.

Circulating interleukin-8 and tumor necrosis factor-α are associated with hot flashes in healthy postmenopausal women

PubMed Central

Huang, Wan-Yu; Hsin, I-Lun; Chen, Dar-Ren; Chang, Chia-Chu; Kor, Chew-Teng; Chen, Ting-Yu

2017-01-01

Introduction Hot flashes have been postulated to be linked to systemic inflammation. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between hot flashes, pro-inflammatory factors, and leukocytes in healthy, non-obese postmenopausal women. Participants and design In this cross-sectional study, a total of 202 women aged 45–60 years were stratified into one of four groups according to their hot-flash status: never experienced hot flashes (Group N), mild hot flashes (Group m), moderate hot flashes (Group M), and severe hot flashes (Group S). Variables measured in this study included clinical parameters, hot flash experience, leukocytes, and fasting plasma levels of nine circulating cytokines/chemokines measured by using multiplex assays. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to evaluate the associations of hot flashes with these pro-inflammatory factors. Settings The study was performed in a hospital medical center. Results The mean values of leukocyte number were not different between these four groups. The hot flash status had a positive tendency toward increased levels of circulating IL-6 (P-trend = 0.049), IL-8 (P-trend < 0.001), TNF-α (P-trend = 0.008), and MIP1β (P-trend = 0.04). Multivariate linear regression analysis revealed that hot-flash severity was significantly associated with IL-8 (P-trend < 0.001) and TNFα (P-trend = 0.007) among these nine cytokines/chemokines after adjustment for age, menopausal duration, BMI and FSH. Multivariate analysis further revealed that severe hot flashes were strongly associated with a higher IL-8 (% difference, 37.19%; 95% confidence interval, 14.98,63.69; P < 0.001) and TNFα (51.27%; 6.64,114.57; P < 0.05). Conclusion The present study provides evidence that hot flashes are associated with circulating IL-8 and TNF-α in healthy postmenopausal women. It suggests that hot flashes might be related to low-grade systemic inflammation. PMID:28846735

A first look at global flash drought: long term change and short term predictability

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yuan, Xing; Wang, Linying; Ji, Peng

2017-04-01

"Flash drought" became popular after the unexpected 2012 central USA drought, mainly due to its rapid development, low predictability and devastating impacts on water resources and crop yields. A pilot study by Mo and Lettenmaier (2015) found that flash drought, based on a definition of concurrent heat extreme, soil moisture deficit and evapotranspiration (ET) enhancement at pentad scale, were in decline over USA during recent 100 years. Meanwhile, a recent work indicated that the occurrence of flash drought in China was doubled during the past 30 years, where a severe flash drought in the summer of 2013 ravaged 13 provinces in southern China. As global warming increases the frequency of heat waves and accelerates the hydrological cycle, the flash drought is expected to increase in general, but its trend might also be affected by interannual to decadal climate oscillations. To consolidate the hotspots of flash drought and the effects of climate change on flash drought, a global inventory is being conducted by using multi-source observations (in-situ, satellite and reanalysis), CMIP5 historical simulations and future projections under different forcing scenarios, as well as global land surface hydrological modeling for key variables including surface air temperature, soil moisture and ET. In particular, a global picture of the flash drought distribution, the contribution of naturalized and anthropogenic forcings to global flash drought change, and the risk of global flash drought in the future, will be presented. Besides investigating the long-term change of flash drought, providing reliable early warning is also essential to developing adaptation strategies. While regional drought early warning systems have been emerging in recent decade, forecasting of flash drought is still at an exploratory stage due to limited understanding of flash drought predictability. Here, a set of sub-seasonal to seasonal (S2S) hindcast datasets are being used to assess the short term predictability of flash drought via a perfect model assumption.

Muzzle flash issues related to the Waco FLIR analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grant, Barbara G.; Hardy, David T.

2001-09-01

The controversy surrounding the origin of flashes on the Mt. Carmel FLIR videotape acquired on April 19, 1993, is introduced. The characteristics of muzzle flash are reviewed. A comparative weapons description is offered. The temporal, spatial, and radiance characteristics of thermal infrared muzzle flash are addressed. Data acquired from a field experiment are presented. The authors conclude that the spatial characteristics of muzzle flash enable its detection by equipment such as the FLIR in use at Mt. Carmel on April 19, 1993; that while flashes obtained in the field appear highly radiant, measurements are necessary to quantify their values; and that the temporal behavior of muzzle flash deserves further study.

Initial Breakdown Pulse Parameters in Intracloud and Cloud-to-Ground Lightning Flashes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smith, E. M.; Marshall, T. C.; Karunarathne, S.; Siedlecki, R.; Stolzenburg, M.

2018-02-01

This study analyzes the largest initial breakdown (IB) pulse in flashes from four storms in Florida; data from three sensor arrays are used. The range-normalized, zero-to-peak amplitude of the largest IB pulse was determined along with its altitude, duration, and timing within each flash. Appropriate data were available for 40 intracloud (IC) and 32 cloud-to-ground (CG) flashes. Histograms of amplitude of the largest IB pulse by flash type were similar, with mean (median) values of 1.49 (1.05) V/m for IC flashes and -1.35 (-0.87) V/m for CG flashes. The largest IB pulse in 30 IC flashes showed a weak inverse relation between pulse amplitude and altitude. Amplitude of the largest IB pulse for 25 CG flashes showed no altitude correlation. Duration of the largest IB pulse in ICs averaged twice as long as in CGs (96 μs versus 46 μs), and all of the CG durations were <100 μs. Among the ICs, there is a positive relation between largest IB pulse duration and amplitude; the linear correlation coefficient is 0.385 with outliers excluded. The largest IB pulse in IC flashes typically occurred at a longer time after the first IB pulse (average 4.1 ms) than was the case in CG flashes (average 0.6 ms). In both flash types, the largest IB pulse was the first IB pulse in about 30% of the cases. In one storm all 42 IC flashes with triggered data had IB pulses.

Spatial but not temporal numerosity thresholds correlate with formal math skills in children.

PubMed

Anobile, Giovanni; Arrighi, Roberto; Castaldi, Elisa; Grassi, Eleonora; Pedonese, Lara; Moscoso, Paula A M; Burr, David C

2018-03-01

Humans and other animals are able to make rough estimations of quantities using what has been termed the approximate number system (ANS). Much evidence suggests that sensitivity to numerosity correlates with symbolic math capacity, leading to the suggestion that the ANS may serve as a start-up tool to develop symbolic math. Many experiments have demonstrated that numerosity perception transcends the sensory modality of stimuli and their presentation format (sequential or simultaneous), but it remains an open question whether the relationship between numerosity and math generalizes over stimulus format and modality. Here we measured precision for estimating the numerosity of clouds of dots and sequences of flashes or clicks, as well as for paired comparisons of the numerosity of clouds of dots. Our results show that in children, formal math abilities correlate positively with sensitivity for estimation and paired-comparisons of the numerosity of visual arrays of dots. However, precision of numerosity estimation for sequences of flashes or sounds did not correlate with math, although sensitivities in all estimations tasks (for sequential or simultaneous stimuli) were strongly correlated with each other. In adults, we found no significant correlations between math scores and sensitivity to any of the psychophysical tasks. Taken together these results support the existence of a generalized number sense, and go on to demonstrate an intrinsic link between mathematics and perception of spatial, but not temporal numerosity. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2018 APA, all rights reserved).

Simultaneous electroencephalography-functional MRI at 3 T: an analysis of safety risks imposed by performing anatomical reference scans with the EEG equipment in place.

PubMed

Nöth, Ulrike; Laufs, Helmut; Stoermer, Robert; Deichmann, Ralf

2012-03-01

To describe heating effects to be expected in simultaneous electroencephalography (EEG) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) when deviating from the EEG manufacturer's instructions; to test which anatomical MRI sequences have a sufficiently low specific absorption rate (SAR) to be performed with the EEG equipment in place; and to suggest precautions to reduce the risk of heating. Heating was determined in vivo below eight EEG electrodes, using both head and body coil transmission and sequences covering the whole range of SAR values. Head transmit coil: temperature increases were below 2.2°C for low SAR sequences, but reached 4.6°C (one subject, clavicle) for high SAR sequences; the equilibrium temperature T(eq) remained below 39°C. Body transmit coil: temperature increases were higher and more frequent over subjects and electrodes, with values below 2.6°C for low SAR sequences, reaching 6.9°C for high SAR sequences (T8 electrode) with T(eq) exceeding a critical level of 40°C. Anatomical imaging should be based on T1-weighted sequences (FLASH, MPRAGE, MDEFT) with an SAR below values for functional MRI sequences based on gradient echo planar imaging. Anatomical sequences with a high SAR can pose a significant risk, which is reduced by using head coil transmission. Copyright © 2011 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Cloud-to-ground lightning and surface rainfall in warm-season Florida thunderstorms

USGS Publications Warehouse

Gungle, B.; Krider, E.P.

2006-01-01

Relationships between cloud-to-ground (CG) lightning and surface rainfall have been examined in nine isolated, warm-season thunderstorms on the east coast of central Florida. CG flashes and the associated rain volumes were measured as a function of time in storm-centered reference frames that followed each storm over a network of rain gauges. Values of the storm-average rain volume per CG flash ranged from 0.70 ?? 104 to 6.4 ?? 104 m3/CG flash, with a mean (and standard deviation) of 2.6 ?? 104 ?? 2.1 ?? 104 m3/CG flash. Values of the rain volume concurrent with CG flashes ranged from 0.11 ?? 104 to 4.9 ?? 104 m3/CG flash with a mean of 2.1 ?? 104 ?? 2.0 ?? 104 m3/CG flash. The lag-time between the peak CG flash rate and the peak rainfall rate (using 5 min bins), and the results of a lag correlation analysis, show that surface rainfall tends to follow the lightning (positive lag) by up to 20 min in six storms. In one storm the rainfall preceded the lightning by 5 min, and two storms had nonsignificant lags. Values of the lagged rain volume concurrent with CG flashes ranged from 0.43 ?? 104 to 4.9 ?? 104 m3/CG flash, and the mean was 1.9 ?? 104 ?? 1.7 ?? 104 m3/CG flash. For the five storms that produced 12 or more flashes and had significant lags, a plot of the optimum lag time versus the total number of CG flashes shows a linear trend (R2 = 0.56). The number of storms is limited, but the lag results do indicate that large storms tend to have longer lags. A linear fit to the lagged rain volume vs. the number of concurrent CG flashes has a slope of 1.9 ?? 104 m3/CG flash (R2 = 0.83). We conclude that warm-season Florida thunderstorms produce a roughly constant rain volume per CG flash and that CG lightning can be used to estimate the location and intensity of convective rainfall in that weather regime. Copyright 2006 by the American Geophysical Union.

Interrupted infusion of echocardiographic contrast as a basis for accurate measurement of myocardial perfusion: ex vivo validation and analysis procedures.

PubMed

Toledo, Eran; Collins, Keith A; Williams, Ursula; Lammertin, Georgeanne; Bolotin, Gil; Raman, Jai; Lang, Roberto M; Mor-Avi, Victor

2005-12-01

Echocardiographic quantification of myocardial perfusion is based on analysis of contrast replenishment after destructive high-energy ultrasound impulses (flash-echo). This technique is limited by nonuniform microbubble destruction and the dependency on exponential fitting of a small number of noisy time points. We hypothesized that brief interruptions of contrast infusion (ICI) would result in uniform contrast clearance followed by slow replenishment and, thus, would allow analysis from multiple data points without exponential fitting. Electrocardiographic-triggered images were acquired in 14 isolated rabbit hearts (Langendorff) at 3 levels of coronary flow (baseline, 50%, and 15%) during contrast infusion (Definity) with flash-echo and with a 20-second infusion interruption. Myocardial videointensity was measured over time from flash-echo sequences, from which characteristic constant beta was calculated using an exponential fit. Peak contrast inflow rate was calculated from ICI data using analysis of local time derivatives. Computer simulations were used to investigate the effects of noise on the accuracy of peak contrast inflow rate and beta calculations. ICI resulted in uniform contrast clearance and baseline replenishment times of 15 to 25 cardiac cycles. Calculated peak contrast inflow rate followed the changes in coronary flow in all hearts at both levels of reduced flow (P < .05) and had a low intermeasurement variability of 7 +/- 6%. With flash-echo, contrast clearance was less uniform and baseline replenishment times were only 4 to 6 cardiac cycles. beta Decreased significantly only at 15% flow, and had intermeasurement variability of 42 +/- 33%. Computer simulations showed that measurement errors in both perfusion indices increased with noise, but beta had larger errors at higher rates of contrast inflow. ICI provides the basis for accurate and reproducible quantification of myocardial perfusion using fast and robust numeric analysis, and may constitute an alternative to the currently used techniques.

Brain blood flow and cardiovascular responses to hot flashes in postmenopausal women

PubMed Central

Lucas, Rebekah A. I.; Ganio, Matthew S.; Pearson, James; Crandall, Craig G.

2012-01-01

Objective This study tested two related hypotheses: 1) that brain blood flow is reduced during the postmenopausal hot flash; and, 2) the magnitude of this reduction in brain blood flow is greater during hot flashes where blood pressure is reduced. Methods Eleven healthy, normotensive, postmenopausal women rested in a temperature-controlled laboratory (~25°C) for approximately 120 minutes while waiting for a hot flash to occur. The onset of a hot flash was objectively identified by an abrupt increase in sternal sweat rate (capacitance hygrometry). Middle cerebral artery blood velocity (MCAv, transcranial Doppler) and mean arterial pressure (Finometer®) were measured continuously. Each hot flash was divided into 8 equal segments and the segment with the largest reduction in MCAv and mean arterial pressure identified for each hot flash. Results Twenty-five hot flashes occurred during the experimental sessions (lasting 6.2 ± 2.8 min, 3 ± 1 hot flashes per participant). Seventy-six percent of hot flashes were accompanied by a clear reduction (greater than 5%) in brain blood flow. For all hot flashes, the average maximum decrease in MCAv was 12 ± 9% (7 ± 6 cm.s−1). This value did not correlate with corresponding changes in mean arterial pressure (R=0.36). Conclusion These findings demonstrate that hot flashes are often accompanied by clear reductions in brain blood flow that do not correspond with acute reductions in mean arterial blood pressure. PMID:23435027

Are menopausal hot flashes an evolutionary byproduct of postpartum warming?

PubMed

Sievert, Lynnette Leidy; Masley, Allison

2015-04-01

Hot flashes are commonly associated with menopause, and some researchers have questioned whether the widespread phenomenon may somehow be adaptive. It has been hypothesized that hot flashes were selected to occur during the hypoestrogenic postpartum period as a mechanism to warm infants. The purpose of this study was to test whether postpartum hot flashes are similar to hot flashes associated with menopause and whether postpartum hot flashes are concordant with breast-feeding episodes. Women who gave birth within the past year (n = 20) and a comparison group of women who had not given birth in the past 2 years (n = 14) participated in interviews and anthropometric measures. All wore ambulatory skin conductance monitors for a mean of 6.5 hours during afternoons and early evenings. New mothers also recorded breast-feeding episodes. Objectively measured and subjectively reported hot flashes were compared between groups and in relation to breast-feeding and other variables. Age of infants ranged from 4 days to 11 months. New mothers were more likely to report feeling warmer than the comparison group (100% vs 7%) but were not significantly more likely to demonstrate hot flashes (35% vs 50%) or to report hot flashes (30% vs 21%) during the study period. Of 75 breast-feeding episodes, only 4% were concurrent with an objective hot flash, and only 9% were concurrent with a subjective hot flash. This study does not support the hypothesis that menopausal-like hot flashes evolved to warm infants during the postpartum period.

Post-Flash Validation of the new ACS/WFC Subarrays

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bellini, A.; Grogin, N. A.; Lim, P. L.; Golimowski, D.

2017-05-01

We made use of the new ACS/WFC subarray images of CAL-14410, taken taken with a large range of flash exposure times (0.1-30 seconds), to probe the temporal stability of the reference flash file and to validate the current post-flash correction pipeline of CALACS and ACS DESTRIPE PLUS on the new subarray modes. No statistically-significant deviations are found between the new post-flashed subarray exposures and the flash reference file, indicating that the LED lamp used to post-flash ACS images has been stable over several years. The current calibration pipelines (both CALACS and ACS DESTRIPE PLUS can be successfully used with the new subarray modes.

Flash Platform Examination

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-03-01

than would be performed in software”[108]. Uro Tinic, one of the Flash player’s engineers, further clarifies exactly what Flash player 10 hardware...www.adobe.com/products/flashplayer/features/ (Access date: 28 Sep 2009). [109] Uro , T. What Does GPU Acceleration Mean? (online), http...133] Shorten, A. (2009), Design to Development: Flash Catalyst to Flash Builder, In Proceedings of Adobe Max 2009, Los Angeles, CA. 142 DRDC

The Evolution and Structure of Extreme Optical Lightning Flashes.

PubMed

Peterson, Michael; Rudlosky, Scott; Deierling, Wiebke

2017-12-27

This study documents the composition, morphology, and motion of extreme optical lightning flashes observed by the Lightning Imaging Sensor (LIS). The furthest separation of LIS events (groups) in any flash is 135 km (89 km), the flash with the largest footprint had an illuminated area of 10,604 km 2 , and the most dendritic flash has 234 visible branches. The longest-duration convective LIS flash lasted 28 s and is overgrouped and not physical. The longest-duration convective-to-stratiform propagating flash lasted 7.4 s, while the longest-duration entirely stratiform flash lasted 4.3 s. The longest series of nearly consecutive groups in time lasted 242 ms. The most radiant recorded LIS group (i.e., "superbolt") is 735 times more radiant than the average group. Factors that impact these optical measures of flash morphology and evolution are discussed. While it is apparent that LIS can record the horizontal development of the lightning channel in some cases, radiative transfer within the cloud limits the flash extent and level of detail measured from orbit. These analyses nonetheless suggest that lightning imagers such as LIS and Geostationary Lightning Mapper can complement ground-based lightning locating systems for studying physical lightning phenomena across large geospatial domains.

Hold-up power supply for flash memory

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ott, William E. (Inventor)

2004-01-01

A hold-up power supply for flash memory systems is provided. The hold-up power supply provides the flash memory with the power needed to temporarily operate when a power loss exists. This allows the flash memory system to complete any erasures and writes, and thus allows it to shut down gracefully. The hold-up power supply detects when a power loss on a power supply bus is occurring and supplies the power needed for the flash memory system to temporally operate. The hold-up power supply stores power in at least one capacitor. During normal operation, power from a high voltage supply bus is used to charge the storage capacitors. When a power supply loss is detected, the power supply bus is disconnected from the flash memory system. A hold-up controller controls the power flow from the storage capacitors to the flash memory system. The hold-up controller uses feedback to assure that the proper voltage is provided from the storage capacitors to the flash memory system. This power supplied by the storage capacitors allows the flash memory system to complete any erasures and writes, and thus allows the flash memory system to shut down gracefully.

Determination of flash point in air and pure oxygen using an equilibrium closed bomb apparatus.

PubMed

Kong, Dehong; am Ende, David J; Brenek, Steven J; Weston, Neil P

2003-08-29

The standard closed testers for flash point measurements may not be feasible for measuring flash point in special atmospheres like oxygen because the test atmosphere cannot be maintained due to leakage and the laboratory safety can be compromised. To address these limitations we developed a new "equilibrium closed bomb" (ECB). The ECB generally gives lower flash point values than standard closed cup testers as shown by the results of six flammable liquids. The present results are generally in good agreement with the values calculated from the reported lower flammability limits and the vapor pressures. Our measurements show that increased oxygen concentration had little effect on the flash points of the tested flammable liquids. While generally regarded as non-flammable because of the lack of observed flash point in standard closed cup flash point testers, dichloromethane is known to form flammable mixtures. The flash point of dichloromethane in oxygen measured in the ECB is -7.1 degrees C. The flash point of dichloromethane in air is dependent on the type and energy of the ignition source. Further research is being carried out to establish the relationship between the flash point of dichloromethane and the energy of the ignition source.

Risk Factors for Extended Duration and Timing of Peak Severity of Hot Flashes

PubMed Central

Gallicchio, Lisa; Miller, Susan R.; Zacur, Howard A.; Flaws, Jodi A.

2016-01-01

Objective To identify risk factors associated with the duration of hot flashes and the time of peak hot flash severity in mid-life women. Methods A cohort of 647 women reporting hot flashes were followed for 1–7 years, with survey data and hormone measurements. Survival analysis determined the association of risk factors with the duration of hot flashes. Linear regression determined the association of risk factors with the time of peak severity. Final models were determined through stepwise model selection. Results Average hot flash duration was 2.5 years (range: 1–33), with peak severity on average at 2.96 years (range: 1–20). Duration of hot flashes was associated with race, education, menopause status, smoking history, BMI, alcohol consumption, leisure activity levels, and levels of estradiol and progesterone. In the final model, only race, alcohol consumption, leisure activity, and menopause were retained. White women had significantly shorter hot flash durations than non-white women. Women consuming at least 12 alcoholic drinks in the previous year had a significantly shorter duration of hot flashes with a smaller effect of hot flash duration on increasing in time to peak severity compared to those who consumed less than 12 alcoholic drinks in that year. Higher serum progesterone levels were associated with later peak severity if the duration of the hot flashes was less than 2 years and an earlier peak severity otherwise. Conclusions These results suggest that some behaviors (such as moderate alcohol consumption) are associated with shorter durations of hot flashes, and that progesterone was associated with the dynamics of hot flash severity. PMID:27149066

Metabolic Activity in the Insular Cortex and Hypothalamus Predicts Hot Flashes: An FDG-PET Study

PubMed Central

Deckersbach, Thilo; Lin, Nancy U.; Makris, Nikos; Skaar, Todd C.; Rauch, Scott L.; Dougherty, Darin D.; Hall, Janet E.

2012-01-01

Context: Hot flashes are a common side effect of adjuvant endocrine therapies (AET; leuprolide, tamoxifen, aromatase inhibitors) that reduce quality of life and treatment adherence in breast cancer patients. Because hot flashes affect only some women, preexisting neurobiological traits might predispose to their development. Previous studies have implicated the insula during the perception of hot flashes and the hypothalamus in thermoregulatory dysfunction. Objective: The aim of the study was to understand whether neurobiological factors predict hot flashes. Design: [18F]-Fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET) brain scans coregistered with structural magnetic resonance imaging were used to determine whether metabolic activity in the insula and hypothalamic thermoregulatory and estrogen-feedback regions measured before and in response to AET predict hot flashes. Findings were correlated with CYP2D6 genotype because of CYP2D6 polymorphism associations with tamoxifen-induced hot flashes. Outcome Measures: We measured regional cerebral metabolic rate of glucose uptake (rCMRglu) in the insula and hypothalamus on FDG-PET. Results: Of 18 women without hot flashes who began AET, new-onset hot flashes were reported by 10 (55.6%) and were detected objectively in nine (50%) participants. Prior to the use of all AET, rCMRglu in the insula (P ≤ 0.01) and hypothalamic thermoregulatory (P = 0.045) and estrogen-feedback (P = 0.007) regions was lower in women who reported developing hot flashes. In response to AET, rCMRglu was further reduced in the insula in women developing hot flashes (P ≤ 0.02). Insular and hypothalamic rCMRglu levels were lower in intermediate than extensive CYP2D6 metabolizers. Conclusions: Trait neurobiological characteristics predict hot flashes. Genetic variability in CYP2D6 may underlie the neurobiological predisposition to hot flashes induced by AET. PMID:22723326

An unusual characteristic “flower-like” pattern: flash suppressor burns

PubMed Central

Gurcan, Altun

2012-01-01

The case on contact shots from firearms with a flash suppressor is rare. When a rifle fitted with a flash suppressor is fired, the emerging soot-laden gas in the barrel escapes from the slits of the flash suppressor. If the shot is contact or near contact, the flash suppressor will produce a characteristic “flower-like” pattern of seared, blackened zones around the entrance. This paper presents the injury pattern of the flash suppressor in a 29-year-old man who committed suicide with a G3 automatic infantry rifle. PMID:23935280

An unusual characteristic "flower-like" pattern: flash suppressor burns.

PubMed

Gurcan, Altun

2012-04-01

The case on contact shots from firearms with a flash suppressor is rare. When a rifle fitted with a flash suppressor is fired, the emerging soot-laden gas in the barrel escapes from the slits of the flash suppressor. If the shot is contact or near contact, the flash suppressor will produce a characteristic "flower-like" pattern of seared, blackened zones around the entrance. This paper presents the injury pattern of the flash suppressor in a 29-year-old man who committed suicide with a G3 automatic infantry rifle.

Circulating leptin and adiponectin are associated with insulin resistance in healthy postmenopausal women with hot flashes.

PubMed

Huang, Wan-Yu; Chang, Chia-Chu; Chen, Dar-Ren; Kor, Chew-Teng; Chen, Ting-Yu; Wu, Hung-Ming

2017-01-01

Hot flashes have been postulated to be linked to the development of metabolic disorders. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between hot flashes, adipocyte-derived hormones, and insulin resistance in healthy, non-obese postmenopausal women. In this cross-sectional study, a total of 151 women aged 45-60 years were stratified into one of three groups according to hot-flash status over the past three months: never experienced hot flashes (Group N), mild-to-moderate hot flashes (Group M), and severe hot flashes (Group S). Variables measured in this study included clinical parameters, hot flash experience, fasting levels of circulating glucose, lipid profiles, plasma insulin, and adipocyte-derived hormones. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to evaluate the associations of hot flashes with adipocyte-derived hormones, and with insulin resistance. The study was performed in a hospital medical center. The mean (standard deviation) of body-mass index was 22.8(2.7) for Group N, 22.6(2.6) for Group M, and 23.5(2.4) for Group S, respectively. Women in Group S displayed statistically significantly higher levels of leptin, fasting glucose, and insulin, and lower levels of adiponectin than those in Groups M and N. Multivariate linear regression analysis revealed that hot-flash severity was significantly associated with higher leptin levels, lower adiponectin levels, and higher leptin-to-adiponectin ratio. Univariate linear regression analysis revealed that hot-flash severity was strongly associated with a higher HOMA-IR index (% difference, 58.03%; 95% confidence interval, 31.00-90.64; p < 0.001). The association between hot flashes and HOMA-IR index was attenuated after adjusting for leptin or adiponectin and was no longer significant after simultaneously adjusting for leptin and adiponectin. The present study provides evidence that hot flashes are associated with insulin resistance in postmenopausal women. It further suggests that hot flash association with insulin resistance is dependent on the combination of leptin and adiponectin variables.

Optimal flash rate and duty cycle for flashing visual indicators.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Markowitz, J.

1971-01-01

This experiment examined the ability of observers to determine, as quickly as possible, whether a visual indicator was steadily on or flashing. Six flash rates (periods) were combined factorially with three duty cycles (on-off ratios) to define 18 ?types' of intermittent signals. Experimental sessions were divided into six runs of 100 trials, each run utilizing one of the six flash rates. On any given trial in a run, the probability of a steady signal occurring was 0.5 and the probability of a flashing signal occurring was 0.5. A different duty cycle was employed daily for each experimental session. In all, 400 trials were devoted to each of the flash rates at each duty cycle. Accuracy and latency of response were the dependent variables of interest. The results show that the observers view the light for an interval of time appropriate to the expected flash rate and duty cycle; whether they judge the light to be steady or intermittent depends upon whether the light is extinguished during the predetermined waiting period. Adoption of this temporal criterion delays responding in comparison to those tasks involving responses to light onset. The decision or response criteria held by the observers are also sensitive to the parameters of the flashing light: observers become increasingly willing to call a flashing light ?steady' as flash duration increases.

Synchronized Electronic Shutter System (SESS) for Thermal Nondestructive Evaluation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zalameda, Joseph N.

2001-01-01

The purpose of this paper is to describe a new method for thermal nondestructive evaluation. This method uses a synchronized electronic shutter system (SESS) to remove the heat lamp's influence on the thermal data during and after flash heating. There are two main concerns when using flash heating. The first concern is during the flash when the photons are reflected back into the camera. This tends to saturate the detectors and potentially introduces unknown and uncorrectable errors when curve fitting the data to a model. To address this, an electronically controlled shutter was placed over the infrared camera lens. Before firing the flash lamps, the shutter is opened to acquire the necessary background data for offset calibration. During flash heating, the shutter is closed to prevent the photons from the high intensity flash from saturating the camera's detectors. The second concern is after the flash heating where the lamps radiate heat after firing. This residual cooling introduces an unwanted transient thermal response into the data. To remove this residual effect, a shutter was placed over the flash lamps to block the infrared heat radiating from the flash head after heating. This helped to remove the transient contribution of the flash. The flash lamp shutters were synchronized electronically with the camera shutter. Results are given comparing the use of the thermal inspection with and without the shutter system.

Acupuncture as treatment of hot flashes and the possible role of calcitonin gene-related Peptide.

PubMed

Spetz Holm, Anna-Clara E; Frisk, Jessica; Hammar, Mats L

2012-01-01

The mechanisms behind hot flashes in menopausal women are not fully understood. The flashes in women are probably preceded by and actually initiated by a sudden downward shift in the set point for the core body temperature in the thermoregulatory center that is affected by sex steroids, β-endorphins, and other central neurotransmitters. Treatments that influence these factors may be expected to reduce hot flashes. Since therapy with sex steroids for hot flashes has appeared to cause a number of side effects and risks and women with hot flashes and breast cancer as well as men with prostate cancer and hot flashes are prevented from sex steroid therapy there is a great need for alternative therapies. Acupuncture affecting the opioid system has been suggested as an alternative treatment option for hot flashes in menopausal women and castrated men. The heat loss during hot flashes may be mediated by the potent vasodilator and sweat gland activator calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) the concentration of which increases in plasma during flashes in menopausal women and, according to one study, in castrated men with flushes. There is also evidence for connections between the opioid system and the release of CGRP. In this paper we discuss acupuncture as a treatment alternative for hot flashes and the role of CGRP in this context.

A spatially collocated sound thrusts a flash into awareness

PubMed Central

Aller, Máté; Giani, Anette; Conrad, Verena; Watanabe, Masataka; Noppeney, Uta

2015-01-01

To interact effectively with the environment the brain integrates signals from multiple senses. It is currently unclear to what extent spatial information can be integrated across different senses in the absence of awareness. Combining dynamic continuous flash suppression (CFS) and spatial audiovisual stimulation, the current study investigated whether a sound facilitates a concurrent visual flash to elude flash suppression and enter perceptual awareness depending on audiovisual spatial congruency. Our results demonstrate that a concurrent sound boosts unaware visual signals into perceptual awareness. Critically, this process depended on the spatial congruency of the auditory and visual signals pointing towards low level mechanisms of audiovisual integration. Moreover, the concurrent sound biased the reported location of the flash as a function of flash visibility. The spatial bias of sounds on reported flash location was strongest for flashes that were judged invisible. Our results suggest that multisensory integration is a critical mechanism that enables signals to enter conscious perception. PMID:25774126

Application of adobe flash media to optimize jigsaw learning model on geometry material

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Imam, P.; Imam, S.; Ikrar, P.

2018-05-01

This study aims to determine and describe the effectiveness of the application of adobe flash media for jigsaw learning model on geometry material. In this study, the modified jigsaw learning with adobe flash media is called jigsaw-flash model. This research was conducted in Surakarta. The research method used is mix method research with exploratory sequential strategy. The results of this study indicate that students feel more comfortable and interested in studying geometry material taught by jigsaw-flash model. In addition, students taught using the jigsaw-flash model are more active and motivated than the students who were taught using ordinary jigsaw models. This shows that the use of the jigsaw-flash model can increase student participation and motivation. It can be concluded that the adobe flash media can be used as a solution to reduce the level of student abstraction in learning mathematics.

46 CFR 35.20-30 - Flashing the rays of a searchlight or other blinding light-T/ALL.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... VESSELS OPERATIONS Navigation § 35.20-30 Flashing the rays of a searchlight or other blinding light—T/ALL. No person shall flash, or cause to be flashed, the rays of a search light or other blinding light... 46 Shipping 1 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Flashing the rays of a searchlight or other blinding...

46 CFR 35.20-30 - Flashing the rays of a searchlight or other blinding light-T/ALL.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... VESSELS OPERATIONS Navigation § 35.20-30 Flashing the rays of a searchlight or other blinding light—T/ALL. No person shall flash, or cause to be flashed, the rays of a search light or other blinding light... 46 Shipping 1 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Flashing the rays of a searchlight or other blinding...

46 CFR 35.20-30 - Flashing the rays of a searchlight or other blinding light-T/ALL.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... VESSELS OPERATIONS Navigation § 35.20-30 Flashing the rays of a searchlight or other blinding light—T/ALL. No person shall flash, or cause to be flashed, the rays of a search light or other blinding light... 46 Shipping 1 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Flashing the rays of a searchlight or other blinding...

46 CFR 35.20-30 - Flashing the rays of a searchlight or other blinding light-T/ALL.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... VESSELS OPERATIONS Navigation § 35.20-30 Flashing the rays of a searchlight or other blinding light—T/ALL. No person shall flash, or cause to be flashed, the rays of a search light or other blinding light... 46 Shipping 1 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Flashing the rays of a searchlight or other blinding...

46 CFR 35.20-30 - Flashing the rays of a searchlight or other blinding light-T/ALL.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... VESSELS OPERATIONS Navigation § 35.20-30 Flashing the rays of a searchlight or other blinding light—T/ALL. No person shall flash, or cause to be flashed, the rays of a search light or other blinding light... 46 Shipping 1 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Flashing the rays of a searchlight or other blinding...

Characteristics of flash initiations in a supercell cluster with tornadoes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zheng, Dong; MacGorman, Donald R.

2016-01-01

Flash initiations within a supercell cluster during 10-11 May 2010 in Oklahoma were investigated based on observations from the Oklahoma Lightning Mapping Array and the Norman, Oklahoma, polarimetric radar (KOUN). The flash initiations at positions dominated by graupel, dry snow, small hail and crystals accounted for 44.3%, 44.1%, 8.0% and 3.0% of the total flashes, respectively. During the tornadic stage of the southern supercell in the cluster, flash initiations associated with graupel occupied the main body, the right flank and the forward flank of the supercell, while those associated with dry snow dominated the outskirts of the adjacent forward anvil, right anvil and rear anvil. The flash initiations associated with small hail were concentrated around the main updraft, particularly toward its front side. Highly dense flash initiations were located in the regions overlying the differential reflectivity (ZDR) arc and right anvil. The average initial height of the flashes decreased gradually from the rear to the front and from the right to the left flanks, while the height range over which initiations occurred reached a maximum at the front of the updraft. The flashes that were initiated in the adjacent forward anvils were largest on average, followed by those in the regions ahead of the updraft and near the ZDR arc. This study supports the concept of charge pockets and further deduces that the pockets in the right anvil are the most abundant and compact due to the frequent flash initiations, small-sized flashes and thin layers including flash initiations.

Phase II evaluation of S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAMe) for the treatment of hot flashes.

PubMed

Kadakia, Kunal C; Loprinzi, Charles L; Atherton, Pamela J; Fee-Schroeder, Kelliann C; Sood, Amit; Barton, Debra L

2016-03-01

Hot flashes are a significant source of symptom burden that negatively impacts quality of life (QOL). For women who have contraindications to, or are unwilling to consider, estrogens or antidepressants for bothersome hot flashes, there are limited effective pharmacologic or complementary and alternative medicines. This single-arm phase II trial studied the efficacy of S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAMe) for the treatment of hot flashes. Eligible women were required to have reported ≥14 hot flashes per week for ≥1 month. The patients were treated with SAMe at a dose of 400 mg twice daily to evaluate whether a reduction in hot flash score appeared to be better than the historical placebo response of approximately 25%. The women kept a daily hot flash diary during a baseline week and then daily during weeks 2-7. The primary endpoint was the change from baseline to week 7 in hot flash score and hot flash frequency. Secondary endpoints included toxicity analyses and the effect of SAMe on QOL. From October 28, 2010 to January 30, 2012, 43 women were treated with SAMe. The decrease in mean percent of baseline hot flash score and frequency was 35.4 and 32.6%, respectively. When compared to the historical placebo response of 25%, the effect of SAMe on hot flash score was not statistically significant (p = 0.09). Treatment was well tolerated with expected grade 1/2 gastrointestinal toxicity and no negative effect on QOL. The use of SAMe does not appear to significantly reduce hot flashes more than would be expected with a placebo.

Two types of flash drought over China and their connections with sub-seasonal to seasonal soil moisture drought

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, L.; Yuan, X.; Xie, Z.

2017-12-01

Flash drought has been receiving attention recently due to its rapid development and vast damage on crops in the growing season. Accompanied with heatwave and rainfall deficit, the soil moisture decreased rapidly in a short time and may lead to the failure of root water uptake and large-scale crops wither. There are two types of flash droughts according to the causes (Mo and Lettenmaier, 2016), i.e., heat wave flash drought and rainfall deficit flash drought. Here, based on pentad-mean surface air temperature and precipitation observations from over two thousand meteorological stations as well as soil moisture and ET estimations from three global reanalysis products, the characteristics and evolution of the two types of flash droughts over China are being explored. Heat wave flash drought is more likely to occur in humid and semi-humid areas, such as southern China, while rainfall deficit flash drought is more likely to occur in northern China. Unlike the traditional drought that persists for a few months to decades, the mean durations of both types of flash droughts are very short. We use monthly mean soil moisture to calculate sub-seasonal to seasonal (S2S) soil moisture drought, and compare its characteristics and preferred conditions such as the large-scale atmospheric circulation and oceanic anomaly for both types of flash droughts. The percentages of flash drought in different periods of S2S drought are also being explored to see the potential relationship between flash drought and S2S drought over different regions.

Temporal Binding Window of the Sound-Induced Flash Illusion in Amblyopia.

PubMed

Narinesingh, Cindy; Goltz, Herbert C; Wong, Agnes M F

2017-03-01

Amblyopia is a neurodevelopmental visual disorder caused by abnormal visual experience in childhood. In addition to known visual deficits, there is evidence for changes in audiovisual integration in amblyopia using explicit tasks. We examined audiovisual integration in amblyopia using an implicit task that is more relevant in a real-world context. A total of 11 participants with amblyopia and 16 controls were tested binocularly and monocularly on the sound-induced flash illusion, in which flashes and beeps are presented concurrently and the perceived number of flashes is influenced by the number of beeps. The task used 1 to 2 rapid peripheral flashes presented with 0 to 2 beeps, at 5 stimulus onset asynchronies, that is, beep (-200 milliseconds, -100 milliseconds) or flash leading (100 milliseconds, 200 milliseconds) or simultaneous (0 milliseconds). Participants reported the number of perceived flashes. Susceptibility was indicated by a "2 flashes" response to "fission" (1 flash, 2 beeps) or "1 flash" to "fusion" (2 flashes, 1 beep). For fission with the beep leading during binocular viewing, controls showed an expected decrease in illusion strength as stimulus onset asynchronies increased, whereas the illusion strength remained constant in participants with amblyopia, indicating a wider temporal binding window in amblyopia (P = 0.007). For fusion, participants with amblyopia showed reduced illusion strength during amblyopic eye viewing (P = 0.044) with the flash leading. Amblyopia is associated with the widening of the temporal binding window, specifically for fission when viewing binocularly with the beep leading. This suggests a developmental adaptation to delayed amblyopic eye visual processing to optimize audiovisual integration.

Onset conditions for flash sintering of UO 2

DOE PAGES

Raftery, Alicia M.; Pereira da Silva, João Gustavo; Byler, Darrin D.; ...

2017-06-22

In this paper, flash sintering was demonstrated on stoichiometric and non-stoichiometric uranium dioxide pellets at temperatures ranging from room temperature (26°C) up to 600°C. The onset conditions for flash sintering were determined for three stoichiometries (UO 2.00, UO 2.08, and UO 2.16) and analyzed against an established thermal runaway model. The presence of excess oxygen was found to enhance the flash sintering onset behavior of uranium dioxide, lowering the field required to flash and shortening the time required for a flash to occur. Finally, the results from this study highlight the effect of stoichiometry on the flash sintering behavior ofmore » uranium dioxide and will serve as the foundation for future studies on this material.« less

Onset conditions for flash sintering of UO2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Raftery, Alicia M.; Pereira da Silva, João Gustavo; Byler, Darrin D.; Andersson, David A.; Uberuaga, Blas P.; Stanek, Christopher R.; McClellan, Kenneth J.

2017-09-01

In this work, flash sintering was demonstrated on stoichiometric and non-stoichiometric uranium dioxide pellets at temperatures ranging from room temperature (26 °C) up to 600 °C . The onset conditions for flash sintering were determined for three stoichiometries (UO2.00, UO2.08, and UO2.16) and analyzed against an established thermal runaway model. The presence of excess oxygen was found to enhance the flash sintering onset behavior of uranium dioxide, lowering the field required to flash and shortening the time required for a flash to occur. The results from this study highlight the effect of stoichiometry on the flash sintering behavior of uranium dioxide and will serve as the foundation for future studies on this material.

Auditory over visual advantage of sensorimotor synchronization in 6- to 7-year-old children but not in 12- to 15-year-old children and adults.

PubMed

Mu, Yan; Huang, Yingyu; Ji, Chao; Gu, Li; Wu, Xiang

2018-05-01

The superiority of the auditory over visual modality in sensorimotor synchronization-a fundamental ability to coordinate movements with external rhythms-has long been established, whereas recent metronome synchronization work showed that synchronization of a visual bouncing ball was not less stable than synchronization of auditory tones in adults. The present study examined synchronization to isochronous sequences composed of auditory tones, visual flashes, or a bouncing ball in 6- to 7-year-old children, 12- to 15-year-old children, and 19- to 29-year-old adults. Consistent with previous reporting, the results showed that synchronization stability increased with age and synchronization was less stable for flashes than for tones and bouncing balls. As for the focus of the present study, the results revealed that synchronization of the bouncing ball was less stable than synchronization of tones for younger children, but not for teenagers and adults. The finding suggests the predisposition of the auditory advantage of sensorimotor synchronization in early childhood. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2018 APA, all rights reserved).

Differences in the Optical Characteristics of Continental US Ground and Cloud Flashes as Observed from Space

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Koshak, William

2007-01-01

Continental US lightning flashes observed by the Optical Transient Detector (OTD) are categorized according to flash type (ground or cloud flash) using US National Lightning Detection Network (TM) (NLDN) data. The statistics of the ground and cloud flash optical parameters (e.g., radiance, area, duration, number of optical groups, and number of optical events) are inter-compared. On average, the ground flash cloud-top emissions are more radiant, illuminate a larger area, are longer lasting, and have more optical groups and optical events than those cloud-top emissions associated with cloud flashes. Given these differences, it is suggested that the methods of Bayesian Inference could be used to help discriminate between ground and cloud flashes. The ability to discriminate flash type on-orbit is highly desired since such information would help researchers and operational decision makers better assess the intensification, evolutionary state, and severe weather potential of thunderstorms. This work supports risk reduction activities presently underway for the future launch of the GOES-R Geostationary Lightning Mapper (GLM).

Algorithms for Lunar Flash Video Search, Measurement, and Archiving

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Swift, Wesley; Suggs, Robert; Cooke, Bill

2007-01-01

Lunar meteoroid impact flashes provide a method to estimate the flux of the large meteoroid flux and thus their hazard to spacecraft. Although meteoroid impacts on the Moon have been detected using video methods for over a decade, the difficulty of manually searching hours of video for the rare, extremely brief impact flashes has discouraged the technique's systematic implementation. A prototype has been developed for the purpose of automatically searching lunar video records for impact flashes, eliminating false detections, editing the returned possible flashes, Z and archiving and documenting the results. The theory and organization of the program is discussed with emphasis on the filtering out of several classes of false detections and retaining the brief portions of the raw video necessary for in depth analysis of the flashes detected. Several utilities for measurement, analysis, and location of the flashes on the moon included in the program are demonstrated. Application of the program to a year's worth of lunar observations is discussed along with examples of impact flashes as well as several classes of false impact flashes.

Algorithms for Lunar Flash Video Search, Measurement, and Archiving

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Swift, Wesley; Suggs, Robert; Cooke, William

2007-01-01

Lunar meteoroid impact flashes provide a method to estimate the flux of the large meteoroid flux and thus their hazard to spacecraft. Although meteoroid impacts on the Moon have been detected using video methods for over a decade, the difficulty of manually searching hours of video for the rare, extremely brief impact flashes has discouraged the technique's systematic implementation. A prototype has been developed for the purpose of automatically searching Lunar video records for impact flashes, eliminating false detections, editing the returned possible flashes, and archiving and documenting the results. The theory and organization of the program is discussed with emphasis on the filtering out of several classes of false detections and retaining the brief portions of the raw video necessary for in depth analysis of the flashes detected. Several utilities for measurement, analysis, and location of the flashes on the moon included in the program are demonstrated. Application of the program to a year's worth of Lunar observations is discussed along with examples of impact flashes as well as several classes of false impact flashes.

Lightning Channels of Cloud-to-Ground Flashes Neutralizing Multiple Charge Regions Inside Winter Thunderclouds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Akita, Manabu; Yoshida, Satoru; Nakamura, Yoshitaka; Morimoto, Takeshi; Ushio, Tomoo; Kawasaki, Zen-Ichiro; Wang, Daohong

Lightning Research Group of Osaka University (LRG-OU) has been developing and improving the VHF broadband digital interferometer (DITF) for thunderstorm observations. It enables us to locate the impulsive VHF radiation sources caused by lightning discharges with extremely high resolutions. As a result of the VHF observations during the 2007-2008 winter season in the Japan Sea coastal area, cloud-to-ground (CG) flashes that neutralize multiple charge regions inside thunderclouds are visualized by the VHF broadband DITF. The first flash is the positive CG flash that neutralizes multiple positive charge regions in a flash. The second flash is the bipolar lightning flash that neutralizes both positive and negative charge inside thunderclouds. In the case of bipolar lightning flashes, some tens millisecond after the return strokes, the subsequent negative breakdowns initiate from the proximities of the initiation points of the preceding negative stepped leaders. It was also found that the altitudes of negative charge regions are lower than 2km. The bipolar lightning flashes observed in this campaign neutralize positive charge after lowering the negative charge to the ground.

Two-flash thresholds as a function of flash luminance and area.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1968-09-01

The recent use of strobe lights in aviation suggests the possibility of using temporal patterns of short duration flashes as information-carrying signals. Under night flight conditions, two-flash thresholds were obtained using a two-interval, tempora...

Floods - Multiple Languages

MedlinePlus

... Arabic (العربية) Expand Section Floods and Flash Flooding - English PDF Floods and Flash Flooding - العربية (Arabic) PDF ... Bosnian (bosanski) Expand Section Floods and Flash Flooding - English PDF Floods and Flash Flooding - bosanski (Bosnian) PDF ...

Flashes and Floaters.

PubMed

Sharma, Priya; Sridhar, Jayanth; Mehta, Sonia

2015-09-01

Flashes and floaters are common ocular complaints. Flashes refer to aberrations of light that are seen in a patient's field of gaze. The flashes can be of varying sizes, colors, frequency, and durations, depending on the cause. Floaters are another common visual phenomenon caused by particles or debris in the vitreous gel of the eye that cause shadows and thus visual changes, especially against bright backgrounds and in brightly lit environments. Flashes and floaters can occur individually or together. This article discusses common causes of flashes and floaters to help with the triaging and management of these patients. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The Evolution and Structure of Extreme Optical Lightning Flashes

PubMed Central

Peterson, Michael; Rudlosky, Scott; Deierling, Wiebke

2018-01-01

This study documents the composition, morphology, and motion of extreme optical lightning flashes observed by the Lightning Imaging Sensor (LIS). The furthest separation of LIS events (groups) in any flash is 135 km (89 km), the flash with the largest footprint had an illuminated area of 10,604 km2, and the most dendritic flash has 234 visible branches. The longest-duration convective LIS flash lasted 28 s and is overgrouped and not physical. The longest-duration convective-to-stratiform propagating flash lasted 7.4 s, while the longest-duration entirely stratiform flash lasted 4.3 s. The longest series of nearly consecutive groups in time lasted 242 ms. The most radiant recorded LIS group (i.e., “superbolt”) is 735 times more radiant than the average group. Factors that impact these optical measures of flash morphology and evolution are discussed. While it is apparent that LIS can record the horizontal development of the lightning channel in some cases, radiative transfer within the cloud limits the flash extent and level of detail measured from orbit. These analyses nonetheless suggest that lightning imagers such as LIS and Geostationary Lightning Mapper can complement ground-based lightning locating systems for studying physical lightning phenomena across large geospatial domains. PMID:29527425

Performance Assessment of the Optical Transient Detector and Lightning Imaging Sensor. Part 2; Clustering Algorithm

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mach, Douglas M.; Christian, Hugh J.; Blakeslee, Richard; Boccippio, Dennis J.; Goodman, Steve J.; Boeck, William

2006-01-01

We describe the clustering algorithm used by the Lightning Imaging Sensor (LIS) and the Optical Transient Detector (OTD) for combining the lightning pulse data into events, groups, flashes, and areas. Events are single pixels that exceed the LIS/OTD background level during a single frame (2 ms). Groups are clusters of events that occur within the same frame and in adjacent pixels. Flashes are clusters of groups that occur within 330 ms and either 5.5 km (for LIS) or 16.5 km (for OTD) of each other. Areas are clusters of flashes that occur within 16.5 km of each other. Many investigators are utilizing the LIS/OTD flash data; therefore, we test how variations in the algorithms for the event group and group-flash clustering affect the flash count for a subset of the LIS data. We divided the subset into areas with low (1-3), medium (4-15), high (16-63), and very high (64+) flashes to see how changes in the clustering parameters affect the flash rates in these different sizes of areas. We found that as long as the cluster parameters are within about a factor of two of the current values, the flash counts do not change by more than about 20%. Therefore, the flash clustering algorithm used by the LIS and OTD sensors create flash rates that are relatively insensitive to reasonable variations in the clustering algorithms.

How do people perceive, understand, and anticipate responding to flash flood risks and warnings? Results from a public survey in Boulder, Colorado, USA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Morss, Rebecca E.; Mulder, Kelsey J.; Lazo, Jeffrey K.; Demuth, Julie L.

2016-10-01

This study investigates flash flood forecast and warning communication, interpretation, and decision making, using data from a survey of 418 members of the public in Boulder, Colorado, USA. Respondents to the public survey varied in their perceptions and understandings of flash flood risks in Boulder, and some had misconceptions about flash flood risks, such as the safety of crossing fast-flowing water. About 6% of respondents indicated consistent reversals of US watch-warning alert terminology. However, more in-depth analysis illustrates the multi-dimensional, situationally dependent meanings of flash flood alerts, as well as the importance of evaluating interpretation and use of warning information along with alert terminology. Some public respondents estimated low likelihoods of flash flooding given a flash flood warning; these were associated with lower anticipated likelihood of taking protective action given a warning. Protective action intentions were also lower among respondents who had less trust in flash flood warnings, those who had not made prior preparations for flash flooding, and those who believed themselves to be safer from flash flooding. Additional analysis, using open-ended survey questions about responses to warnings, elucidates the complex, contextual nature of protective decision making during flash flood threats. These findings suggest that warnings can play an important role not only by notifying people that there is a threat and helping motivate people to take protective action, but also by helping people evaluate what actions to take given their situation.

Using a color-coded ambigraphic nucleic acid notation to visualize conserved palindromic motifs within and across genomes

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background Ambiscript is a graphically-designed nucleic acid notation that uses symbol symmetries to support sequence complementation, highlight biologically-relevant palindromes, and facilitate the analysis of consensus sequences. Although the original Ambiscript notation was designed to easily represent consensus sequences for multiple sequence alignments, the notation’s black-on-white ambiguity characters are unable to reflect the statistical distribution of nucleotides found at each position. We now propose a color-augmented ambigraphic notation to encode the frequency of positional polymorphisms in these consensus sequences. Results We have implemented this color-coding approach by creating an Adobe Flash® application ( http://www.ambiscript.org) that shades and colors modified Ambiscript characters according to the prevalence of the encoded nucleotide at each position in the alignment. The resulting graphic helps viewers perceive biologically-relevant patterns in multiple sequence alignments by uniquely combining color, shading, and character symmetries to highlight palindromes and inverted repeats in conserved DNA motifs. Conclusion Juxtaposing an intuitive color scheme over the deliberate character symmetries of an ambigraphic nucleic acid notation yields a highly-functional nucleic acid notation that maximizes information content and successfully embodies key principles of graphic excellence put forth by the statistician and graphic design theorist, Edward Tufte. PMID:24447494

NAND FLASH Radiation Tolerant Intelligent Memory Stack (RTIMS FLASH)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sellier, Charles; Wang, Pierre

2014-08-01

The NAND Flash Radiation Tolerant and Intelligent Memory Stack (RTIMS FLASH) is a User's Friendly, Plug-and- Play and Radiation Protected high density NAND Flash Memory. It provides a very high density, radiation hardened by design and non-volatile memory module suitable for all space applications such as commercial or scientific geo-stationary missions, earth observation, navigation, manned space vehicles and deep space scientific exploration. The Intelligent Memory Module embeds a very high density of non-volatile NAND Flash memory and one Intelligent Flash Memory Controller (FMC). The FMC provides the module with a full protection against the radiation effects such as SEL, SEFI and SEU. It's also granting the module with bad block immunity as well as high level service functions that will benefit to the user's applications.

Characteristic pulse trains of preliminary breakdown in four isolated small thunderstorms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma, Dong

2017-03-01

Using a low-frequency six-station local network, preliminary breakdown (PB) pulses not followed or followed by negative return stroke (RS), which are defined as PB-type and PB cloud-to-ground (PBCG)-type flashes, are analyzed based on four isolated small thunderstorms for the first time. On the basis of 22 PB-type flashes out of totally 2155 flashes, it indicates that the number of PB-type flashes is very small. At the early stage, PB-type flashes are observed in all four thunderstorms. At the active stage, PB-type flashes still can occur; meanwhile, there are few or no negative cloud-to-ground (CG) flashes. However, at the final stage no PB-type flashes occur. At the stage of distinct cell merging or splitting, PB-type flashes are also observed. Based on the 123 PBCG-type flashes, we discuss the percentage of PBCG-type flashes and also analyze the relationship between the electric field (E-field) amplitude of the largest pulse in the PB pulse train normalized to 100 km (PBA), the E-field amplitude of the first return stroke normalized to 100 km (RSA), the time interval between PBA and RSA (PB-RS interval), and the ratio between PBA and RSA (PB-RS ratio). We find that the percentage of PBCG-type flashes is not always dependent on PBA or PB-RS ratio; the type of thunderstorms may also have an impact on this percentage. None of the PB-RS intervals is less than 20 ms; we speculate that such long PB-RS interval is the feature of isolated small thunderstorms, but more observations are needed to further investigate this question.

Anxiogenic CO2 Stimulus Elicits Exacerbated Hot Flash-like Responses in a Rat Menopause Model and Hot Flashes in Menopausal Women

PubMed Central

Federici, Lauren M.; Roth, Sarah Dorsey; Krier, Connie; Fitz, Stephanie D.; Skaar, Todd; Shekhar, Anantha; Carpenter, Janet S.; Johnson, Philip L.

2016-01-01

Objective Since longitudinal studies determined that anxiety is a strong risk factor for hot flashes, we hypothesized that an anxiogenic stimulus that signals air hunger (hypercapnic, normoxic gas) would trigger an exacerbated hot flash-associated increase in tail skin temperature (TST) in a rat ovariectomy (OVEX) model of surgical menopause and hot flashes in symptomatic menopausal women. We also assessed TST responses in OVEX serotonin transporter (SERT)+/− rats that models a common polymorphism that is associated with increased climacteric symptoms in menopausal women and increases in anxiety traits. Methods OVEX and sham-OVEX rats (initial experiment) and wildtype and SERT+/− OVEX rats (subsequent experiment) were exposed to a 5 min infusion of 20%CO2 normoxic gas while measuring TST. Menopausal women were given brief 20% and 35%CO2 challenges, and hot flashes were self-reported and objectively verified. Results Compared to controls, OVEX rats had exacerbated increases in TST, and SERT+/− OVEX rats had prolonged TST increases following CO2. Most women reported mild/moderate hot flashes after CO2 challenges, and the hot flash severity to CO2 was positively correlated with daily hot flash frequency. Conclusions The studies demonstrate that this anxiogenic stimulus is capable of inducing cutaneous vasomotor responses in OVEX rats, and eliciting hot flashes in menopausal women. In rats, the severity of the response was mediated by loss of ovarian function and increased anxiety traits (SERT+/−), and, in women, by daily hot flash frequency. These findings may provide insights into anxiety related triggers and genetic risk factors for hot flashes in thermoneutral environments. PMID:27465717

Continuous transdermal nitroglycerin therapy for menopausal hot flashes: a single-arm, dose-escalation trial.

PubMed

Huang, Alison J; Cummings, Steven R; Schembri, Michael; Vittinghoff, Eric; Ganz, Peter; Grady, Deborah

2016-03-01

To describe the efficacy and tolerability of continuous nitroglycerin for treatment of hot flashes. Perimenopausal and postmenopausal women reporting at least seven hot flashes per day were recruited into a single-arm, dose-escalation trial of continuous transdermal nitroglycerin. Participants were started on a generic 0.1 mg/hour nitroglycerin patch applied daily without patch-free periods. During 4 weeks, participants escalated dosage weekly to 0.2, 0.4, or 0.6 mg/hour as tolerated, then discontinued nitroglycerin during the final week. Changes in hot flash frequency and severity were assessed using symptom diaries. Paired t tests examined change in outcomes between baseline and maximal-dose therapy and after discontinuation of nitroglycerin. Of the 19 participants, mean age was 51.4 (±4.3) years. Women reported an average 10.6 (±3.0) hot flashes and 7.1 (±3.8) moderate-to-severe hot flashes per day at baseline. Eleven women escalated to 0.6 mg/hour, three to 0.4 mg/hour, two to 0.2 mg/hour, and one remained on 0.1 mg/hour nitroglycerin. Two discontinued nitroglycerin before the first outcomes assessment. Among the remaining 17 women, the average daily frequency of hot flashes decreased by 54% and the average frequency of moderate-to-severe hot flashes decreased by 69% from baseline to maximum-dose therapy (P < 0.001 for both). After discontinuing nitroglycerin, participants reported an average 23% increase in frequency of any hot flashes (P = 0.041) and 96% increase in moderate-to-severe hot flashes (P < 0.001). Continuous nitroglycerin may substantially and reversibly decrease hot flash frequency and severity. If confirmed in a randomized blinded trial, it may offer a novel nonhormonal hot flash treatment.

Continuous Transdermal Nitroglycerin Therapy for Menopausal Hot Flashes: A Single-Arm Dose-Escalation Trial

PubMed Central

Huang, Alison J.; Cummings, Steven R.; Schembri, Michael; Vittinghoff, Eric; Ganz, Peter; Grady, Deborah

2015-01-01

Objective To describe the efficacy and tolerability of continuous nitroglycerin for treatment of hot flashes. Methods Peri- and postmenopausal women reporting at least 7 hot flashes per day were recruited into a single-arm, dose-escalation trial of continuous transdermal nitroglycerin. Participants were started on a generic 0.1 mg/hr nitroglycerin patch applied daily without patch-free periods. Over four weeks, participants escalated dosage weekly to 0.2, 0.4, or 0.6 mg/hr as tolerated, then discontinued nitroglycerin during the final week. Changes in hot flash frequency and severity were assessed using symptom diaries. Paired t-tests examined change in outcomes between baseline and maximal-dose therapy as well as after discontinuation of nitroglycerin. Results Of the 19 participants, mean age was 51.4 (±4.3) years. Women reported an average 10.6 (±3.0) hot flashes and 7.1 (±3.8) moderate-to-severe hot flashes per day at baseline. Eleven women escalated to 0.6 mg/hr, three to 0.4 mg/hr, two to 0.2 mg/hr, and one remained on 0.1 mg/hr nitroglycerin. Two discontinued nitroglycerin before the first outcomes assessment. Among the remaining 17 women, the average daily frequency of hot flashes decreased by 54% and the average frequency of moderate-to-severe hot flashes decreased by 69% from baseline to maximum-dose therapy (P<0.001 for both). After discontinuing nitroglycerin, participants reported an average 23% increase in frequency of any hot flashes (P=0.041) and 96% increase in moderate-to-severe hot flashes (P<0.001). Conclusions Continuous nitroglycerin may substantially and reversibly decrease hot flash frequency and severity. If confirmed in a randomized blinded trial, it may offer a novel non-hormonal hot flash treatment. PMID:26263283

Risk of long-term hot flashes after natural menopause: evidence from the Penn Ovarian Aging Study cohort.

PubMed

Freeman, Ellen W; Sammel, Mary D; Sanders, Richard J

2014-09-01

This study aims to estimate the risk of hot flashes relative to natural menopause and to evaluate the associations of hormone levels, behavioral variables, and demographic variables with the risk of hot flashes after menopause. We performed annual assessment of 255 women who were premenopausal at baseline and reached natural menopause within 16 years of follow-up. The prevalence of moderate/severe hot flashes increased in each premenopausal year, reaching a peak of 46% in the first 2 years after the final menstrual period (FMP). Hot flashes decreased slowly after menopause and did not return to premenopausal levels until 9 years after the FMP. The mean (SD) duration of moderate/severe hot flashes after the FMP was 4.6 (2.9) years (for any hot flashes, 4.9 [3.1] y). One third of women at 10 years or more after menopause continued to experience moderate/severe hot flashes. African-American women (obese and nonobese) and obese white women had significantly greater risks of hot flashes compared with nonobese white women (interaction, P = 0.01). In multivariable analysis, increasing follicle-stimulating hormone levels before the FMP (P < 0.001), decreasing estradiol (odds ratio, 0.87; 95% CI, 0.78-0.96; P = 0.008), and increasing anxiety (odds ratio, 1.05; 95% CI, 1.03-1.06; P < 0.001) were significant risk factors for hot flashes, whereas higher education levels were protective (odds ratio, 0.66; 95% CI, 0.47-0.91; P = 0.011). Moderate/severe hot flashes continue, on average, for nearly 5 years after menopause; more than one third of women observed for 10 years or more after menopause have moderate/severe hot flashes. Continuation of hot flashes for more than 5 years after menopause underscores the importance of determining individual risks/benefits when selecting hormone or nonhormone therapy for menopausal symptoms.

RISK OF LONG TERM HOT FLASHES AFTER NATURAL MENOPAUSE: EVIDENCE FROM THE PENN OVARIAN AGING COHORT

PubMed Central

Freeman, Ellen W.; Sammel, Mary D.; Sanders, Richard J.

2015-01-01

Objectives To estimate the risk of hot flashes relative to natural menopause and evaluate associations of hormone levels, behavioral and demographic variables with the risk of hot flashes following menopause. Methods Annual assessments of 255 women who were premenopausal at baseline and reached natural menopause during 16 years of follow-up. Results The prevalence of moderate/severe hot flashes increased in each premenopausal year, reaching a peak of 46% in the first two years after the final menstrual period (FMP). Hot flashes decreased slowly following menopause and did not return to premenopausal levels until 9 years after FMP. The mean duration of moderate/severe hot flashes after FMP was 4.6 (SD2.9) years (4.9, SD3.1 years for any hot flashes). One-third of women at 10 or more years following menopause continued to experience moderate/severe hot flashes. African American women (obese and non-obese) and obese white women had significantly greater risk of hot flashes compared to non-obese white women (interaction P=0.01). In multivariable analysis, increasing FSH levels before FMP (P<0.001), decreasing estradiol (OR 0.87, 95% CI: 0.78–0.96, P=0.008), and increasing anxiety (OR 1.05, 95% CI: 1.03–1.06, P<0.001) were significant risk factors for hot flashes, while higher education levels were protective (OR 0.66, 95% CI: 0.47–0.91, P=0.011). Conclusions Moderate/severe hot flashes continued on average for nearly 5 years following menopause; more than one- third of women observed for 10 or more years following menopause had moderate/severe hot flashes. Continuation of hot flashes for more than 5 years following menopause underscores the importance of determining individual risk/benefit when selecting hormone or non-hormonal therapy for menopausal symptoms. PMID:24473530

FLASH is essential during early embryogenesis and cooperates with p73 to regulate histone gene transcription.

PubMed

De Cola, A; Bongiorno-Borbone, L; Bianchi, E; Barcaroli, D; Carletti, E; Knight, R A; Di Ilio, C; Melino, G; Sette, C; De Laurenzi, V

2012-02-02

Replication-dependent histone gene expression is a fundamental process occurring in S-phase under the control of the cyclin-E/CDK2 complex. This process is regulated by a number of proteins, including Flice-Associated Huge Protein (FLASH) (CASP8AP2), concentrated in specific nuclear organelles known as HLBs. FLASH regulates both histone gene transcription and mRNA maturation, and its downregulation in vitro results in the depletion of the histone pull and cell-cycle arrest in S-phase. Here we show that the transcription factor p73 binds to FLASH and is part of the complex that regulates histone gene transcription. Moreover, we created a novel gene trap to disrupt FLASH in mice, and we show that homozygous deletion of FLASH results in early embryonic lethality, owing to arrest of FLASH(-/-) embryos at the morula stage. These results indicate that FLASH is an essential, non-redundant regulator of histone transcription and cell cycle during embryogenesis.

A pilot study of magnetic therapy for hot flashes after breast cancer.

PubMed

Carpenter, Janet S; Wells, Nancy; Lambert, Beth; Watson, Peggy; Slayton, Tami; Chak, Bapsi; Hepworth, Joseph T; Worthington, W Bradley

2002-04-01

The purpose of this randomized placebo-controlled crossover pilot study was to evaluate the effectiveness and acceptability of magnetic therapy for hot flashes among breast cancer survivors. Participants completed a 24-hour baseline hot-flash monitoring session, wore the magnetic devices or placebo for 3 days, completed an after-treatment hot-flash monitoring session, experienced a 10-day washout period, and then crossed over to the opposite study arm. Magnetic devices and placebos were placed on 6 acupressure sites corresponding to hot-flash relief. Complete data were available from 11 survivors of breast cancer. Results indicated magnetic therapy was no more effective than placebo in decreasing hot-flash severity, and contrary to expectations, placebo was significantly more effective than magnets in decreasing hot-flash frequency, bother, interference with daily activities, and overall quality of life. Implications for clinical practice and future research include the need to explore alternative interventions aimed at alleviating hot flashes in this population.

Obtaining the Grobner Initialization for the Ground Flash Fraction Retrieval Algorithm

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Solakiewicz, R.; Attele, R.; Koshak, W.

2011-01-01

At optical wavelengths and from the vantage point of space, the multiple scattering cloud medium obscures one's view and prevents one from easily determining what flashes strike the ground. However, recent investigations have made some progress examining the (easier, but still difficult) problem of estimating the ground flash fraction in a set of N flashes observed from space In the study by Koshak, a Bayesian inversion method was introduced for retrieving the fraction of ground flashes in a set of flashes observed from a (low earth orbiting or geostationary) satellite lightning imager. The method employed a constrained mixed exponential distribution model to describe the lightning optical measurements. To obtain the optimum model parameters, a scalar function of three variables (one of which is the ground flash fraction) was minimized by a numerical method. This method has formed the basis of a Ground Flash Fraction Retrieval Algorithm (GoFFRA) that is being tested as part of GOES-R GLM risk reduction.

Fast repetition rate (FRR) flasher

DOEpatents

Kolber, Zbigniew; Falkowski, Paul

1997-02-11

A fast repetition rate (FRR) flasher suitable for high flash photolysis including kinetic chemical and biological analysis. The flasher includes a power supply, a discharge capacitor operably connected to be charged by the power supply, and a flash lamp for producing a series of flashes in response to discharge of the discharge capacitor. A triggering circuit operably connected to the flash lamp initially ionizes the flash lamp. A current switch is operably connected between the flash lamp and the discharge capacitor. The current switch has at least one insulated gate bipolar transistor for switching current that is operable to initiate a controllable discharge of the discharge capacitor through the flash lamp. Control means connected to the current switch for controlling the rate of discharge of the discharge capacitor thereby to effectively keep the flash lamp in an ionized state between Successive discharges of the discharge capacitor. Advantageously, the control means is operable to discharge the discharge capacitor at a rate greater than 10,000 Hz and even up to a rate greater than about 250,000 Hz.

Optimization of parameter values for complex pulse sequences by simulated annealing: application to 3D MP-RAGE imaging of the brain.

PubMed

Epstein, F H; Mugler, J P; Brookeman, J R

1994-02-01

A number of pulse sequence techniques, including magnetization-prepared gradient echo (MP-GRE), segmented GRE, and hybrid RARE, employ a relatively large number of variable pulse sequence parameters and acquire the image data during a transient signal evolution. These sequences have recently been proposed and/or used for clinical applications in the brain, spine, liver, and coronary arteries. Thus, the need for a method of deriving optimal pulse sequence parameter values for this class of sequences now exists. Due to the complexity of these sequences, conventional optimization approaches, such as applying differential calculus to signal difference equations, are inadequate. We have developed a general framework for adapting the simulated annealing algorithm to pulse sequence parameter value optimization, and applied this framework to the specific case of optimizing the white matter-gray matter signal difference for a T1-weighted variable flip angle 3D MP-RAGE sequence. Using our algorithm, the values of 35 sequence parameters, including the magnetization-preparation RF pulse flip angle and delay time, 32 flip angles in the variable flip angle gradient-echo acquisition sequence, and the magnetization recovery time, were derived. Optimized 3D MP-RAGE achieved up to a 130% increase in white matter-gray matter signal difference compared with optimized 3D RF-spoiled FLASH with the same total acquisition time. The simulated annealing approach was effective at deriving optimal parameter values for a specific 3D MP-RAGE imaging objective, and may be useful for other imaging objectives and sequences in this general class.

Statistical Evolution of the Lightning Flash

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zoghzoghy, F. G.; Cohen, M.; Said, R.; Inan, U. S.

2012-12-01

Natural lightning is one of the most fascinating and powerful electrical processes on Earth. To date, the physics behind this natural phenomenon are not fully understood, due primarily to the difficulty of obtaining measurements inside thunderstorms and to the wide range of timescales involved (from nanoseconds to seconds). Our aim is to use accurate lightning geo-location data from the National Lightning Detection Network (NLDN) to study statistical patterns in lightning, taking advantage of the fact that millions of lightning flashes occur around the globe every day. We present two sets of results, one involving the patterns of flashes in a storm, and a second involving the patterns of strokes in a flash. These patterns can provide a surrogate measure of the timescales and the spatial extents of the underlying physical processes. First, we study the timescales of charge buildup inside thunderstorms. We find that, following a lightning flash, the probability of another neighboring flash decreases and takes tens of seconds to recover. We find that this suppression effect is a function of flash type, stroke peak current, cloud-to-ground (CG) stroke multiplicity, and other lightning and geographical parameters. We find that the probabilities of subsequent flashes are more suppressed following oceanic lightning, or following flashes with higher peak currents and/or higher multiplicities (for CG flashes). Second, we use NLDN data to study the evolution of the strokes within a CG flash. A CG flash typically includes multiple return strokes, which can occur in the same channel or in multiple channels within a few kilometers. We cluster NLDN stroke data into flashes and produce the probability density function of subsequent strokes as a function of distance and time-delays relative to the previous stroke. Using this technique, we investigate processes which occur during the CG lightning flash with nanosecond to millisecond timescales. For instance, our results suggest that subsequent strokes that occur in a newly formed channel follow a pattern that propagates at a speed of ~200 km/s. We present our statistical techniques and discuss more thoroughly our work and results.

Circulating leptin and adiponectin are associated with insulin resistance in healthy postmenopausal women with hot flashes

PubMed Central

Huang, Wan-Yu; Chang, Chia-Chu; Chen, Dar-Ren; Kor, Chew-Teng; Chen, Ting-Yu; Wu, Hung-Ming

2017-01-01

Introduction Hot flashes have been postulated to be linked to the development of metabolic disorders. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between hot flashes, adipocyte-derived hormones, and insulin resistance in healthy, non-obese postmenopausal women. Participants and design In this cross-sectional study, a total of 151 women aged 45–60 years were stratified into one of three groups according to hot-flash status over the past three months: never experienced hot flashes (Group N), mild-to-moderate hot flashes (Group M), and severe hot flashes (Group S). Variables measured in this study included clinical parameters, hot flash experience, fasting levels of circulating glucose, lipid profiles, plasma insulin, and adipocyte-derived hormones. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to evaluate the associations of hot flashes with adipocyte-derived hormones, and with insulin resistance. Settings The study was performed in a hospital medical center. Results The mean (standard deviation) of body-mass index was 22.8(2.7) for Group N, 22.6(2.6) for Group M, and 23.5(2.4) for Group S, respectively. Women in Group S displayed statistically significantly higher levels of leptin, fasting glucose, and insulin, and lower levels of adiponectin than those in Groups M and N. Multivariate linear regression analysis revealed that hot-flash severity was significantly associated with higher leptin levels, lower adiponectin levels, and higher leptin-to-adiponectin ratio. Univariate linear regression analysis revealed that hot-flash severity was strongly associated with a higher HOMA-IR index (% difference, 58.03%; 95% confidence interval, 31.00–90.64; p < 0.001). The association between hot flashes and HOMA-IR index was attenuated after adjusting for leptin or adiponectin and was no longer significant after simultaneously adjusting for leptin and adiponectin. Conclusion The present study provides evidence that hot flashes are associated with insulin resistance in postmenopausal women. It further suggests that hot flash association with insulin resistance is dependent on the combination of leptin and adiponectin variables. PMID:28448547

Pilot evaluation of hypnosis for the treatment of hot flashes in breast cancer survivors.

PubMed

Elkins, Gary; Marcus, Joel; Stearns, Vered; Hasan Rajab, M

2007-05-01

This single arm, pilot study investigated the use of hypnosis to reduce hot flashes in 16 breast cancer survivors. Each patient provided baseline data and received 4 weekly sessions of hypnosis that followed a standardized transcript. Patients were also instructed in self-hypnosis. Throughout the clinical care, patients completed daily diaries of the frequency and severity of their hot flashes. Patients also completed baseline and post-treatment ratings of the degree to which hot flashes interfered with daily activities and quality of life. Results indicated a 59% decrease in total daily hot flashes and a 70% decrease in weekly hot flash scores from their baselines. There was also a significant decrease in the degree to which hot flashes interfered with daily activities for all measures including work, social activities, leisure activities, sleep, mood, concentration, relations with others, sexuality, enjoyment of life, and overall quality of life. This pilot study suggests that clinical hypnosis may be an effective non-hormonal and non-pharmacological treatment for hot flashes. A randomized, controlled clinical trial is planned to more definitively elucidate the efficacy and applicability of hypnosis for reducing hot flashes.

Management of menopause-associated vasomotor symptoms: Current treatment options, challenges and future directions

PubMed Central

Pachman, Deirdre R; Jones, Jason M; Loprinzi, Charles L

2010-01-01

Hot flashes are one of the most common and distressing symptoms associated with menopause, occurring in more than 75% of postmenopausal women. They are especially problematic in breast cancer patients since some breast cancer therapies can induce hot flashes. For mild hot flashes, it is proposed that behavioral modifications are the first step in management. Hormonal therapies, including estrogens and progestogens, are the most well known effective agents in relieving hot flashes; however, the safety of these agents is controversial. There is an increasing amount of literature on nonhormonal agents for the treatment of hot flashes. The most promising data regard newer antidepressant agents such as venlafaxine, which reduces hot flashes by about 60%. Gabapentin is another nonhormonal agent that is effective in reducing hot flashes. While many complimentary therapies, including phytoestrogens, black cohosh, and dehydroepiandrosterone, have been explored for the treatment of hot flashes; none can be recommended at this time. Furthermore, there is a lack of strong evidence to support exercise, yoga, or relaxation for the treatment of hot flashes. Paced respirations and hypnosis appear to be promising enough to warrant further investigation. Another promising nonpharmacological therapy, currently under investigation, involves a stellate ganglion block. PMID:21072305

GLM Validation Studies in Colorado

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rutledge, S. A.; Reimel, K.; Fuchs, B.; Xu, W.

2017-12-01

On 8 May 2017 the Geostationary Lightning Mapper (GLM) calibration/validation field campaign completed a mission over the domain of the Colorado Lightning Mapping Array (LMA). This "gold mine day" produced a mixture of normal polarity and anomalous storms of varying intensity. A case study analysis has been completed for a portion of three individual storms from this day. By utilizing a cell tracking algorithm and lightning flash attribution program, individual lightning flashes detected by the GLM, LMA, the National Lightning Detection Network (NLDN), and Earth Networks Total Lightning Network (ENTLN) are attributed to individual storm cells. The focus of this analysis is the detection efficiency of GLM. We will discuss how the GLM detection efficiency changes as a result of storm morphology and lightning flash characteristics. Lightning flash size, flash height, and the amount of ice present between the lightning flash altitude and the top of the cloud all appear to play a role in how well GLM detects lightning flashes. Since GLM shares the same concept as its predecessor TRMM LIS (optically-based lightning detection), the evaluation of TRMM LIS against LMA network-detected lightning provides insights into the GLM detection efficiency. We have collected observations by LIS and LMA coincident in time and space during 2008-2014. The sample includes 400 LIS overpasses with both LIS and LMA detecting flashes within 150 km radius of the center of the LMA array during the 120 second LIS observing time period (analysis presently confined to the Alabama LMA network). The overall LIS detection efficiency (DE, defined as the ratio of flash rates between LIS and LMA) is 0.45, with higher DE for lower flash rate cases. LIS showed a DE of nearly 100% for cases with flash rates < 10 fl/min, but had a DE of only 20-30% for high flash rates within intense storms (> 300 fl/min). We further separated the dataset into day and night, and found that the night-time DE (0.6) increased by 20% compared to day-time DE (0.5). LIS DE also increased as a function of LMA-derived flash size, possibly due to stronger radiance from larger flashes. LIS DE was the lowest ( 40%) for flashes with sizes smaller than a single LIS pixel (< 16 km2). These results may be applicable to GLM as well.

Clinical Hypnosis in the Treatment of Post-Menopausal Hot Flashes: A Randomized Controlled Trial

PubMed Central

Elkins, Gary R.; Fisher, William I.; Johnson, Aimee K.; Carpenter, Janet S.; Keith, Timothy Z.

2012-01-01

Objective The use of estrogen and progesterone to manage vasomotor symptoms (i.e., hot flashes, night sweats) has declined due to concerns over their risks and there is an increased interest in alternate, effective, and low-risk treatments. This study reports the results of a randomized, controlled trial of clinical hypnosis in treating vasomotor symptoms among post-menopausal women. Methods Randomized, single-blind, controlled, clinical trial involving 187 post-menopausal women reporting a minimum of seven hot flashes per day, or at least 50 hot flashes a week at baseline between December 2008 and April 2012. Eligible participants received five weekly sessions of either clinical hypnosis or structured-attention control. Primary outcomes were hot flash frequency (subjectively and physiologically recorded) and hot flash score assessed by daily diaries at weeks 2–6, and 12. Secondary outcomes included measures of hot flash related daily interference, sleep quality and treatment satisfaction. Results In a modified intent-to-treat analysis that included all randomized participants that provided data, reported subjective hot flash frequency from baseline to week 12 showed a mean reduction of 55.82 hot flashes for the clinical hypnosis intervention (74.16%), versus a 12.89 hot flash reduction (17.13%) for the control (p<.001, 95% CI, 36.15–49.67). Mean reduction in hot flash score was 18.83 (80.32%) for the clinical hypnosis intervention as compared to 3.53 (15.38%) for the control (p<.001, 95% CI, 12.60–17.54). At 12 week follow-up, the mean reduction in physiologically monitored hot flashes was 5.92 (56.86%) for clinical hypnosis and .88 (9.94%) for the control (p<.001, 95% CI, 2.00–5.46). Secondary outcomes were significantly improved compared to control at 12 week follow-up in hot flash related interference (p<.001, 95% CI, 2.74–4.02), sleep quality (p<.001, 95% CI, 3.65–5.84), and treatment satisfaction (p<.001, 95% CI, 7.79–8.59). Conclusion Compared to a structured attention control, clinical hypnosis resulted in significant reductions in self-reported and physiologically measured hot flashes as well as hot flash scores in post-menopausal women. PMID:23435026

Safety Evaluation of Discontinuing Late-Night Flash Operations at Signalized Intersections : Summary Report

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-08-01

During late-night flash (LNF) mode (from late night to early morning hours), traffic signals flash yellow for one road (typically, the major road), requiring caution but no stopping, and flash red for the other road (typically, the minor road), requi...

Flash flood disasters analysis and evaluation: a case study of Yiyang County in China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Haichen; Zhang, Xiaolei; Li, Qing; Qin, Tao; Lei, Xiaohui

2018-03-01

Global climate change leads to the more extreme precipitation and more flash flood disasters, which is a serious threat to the mountain inhabitants. To prevent flash flood disasters, China started flash flood disaster control planning and other projects from 2006. Among those measures, non-engineering measures are effective and economical. This paper introduced the framework of flash flood disaster analysis and evaluation in China, followed by a case study of Yiyang County.

'Flash-forwards' and suicidal ideation: A prospective investigation of mental imagery, entrapment and defeat in a cohort from the Hong Kong Mental Morbidity Survey.

PubMed

Ng, Roger M K; Di Simplicio, Martina; McManus, Freda; Kennerley, Helen; Holmes, Emily A

2016-12-30

'Flash-forwards' - mental images of suicide - have been reported in selected Caucasian samples. Perceptions of defeat and entrapment are considered to be associated with suicidal ideation. We aimed to investigate (1) the presence of suicidal flash-forwards in people with recent suicidal ideation versus those without such ideation in an Asian sample, and (2) associations between suicidal flash-forwards, and perceptions of entrapment accounting for suicidal ideation. Eighty two suicidal and 80 non-suicidal participants from the Hong Kong Mental Morbidity Survey completed questionnaires including suicidal ideation, presence of suicidal flash-forward images, defeat and entrapment, at baseline and seven weeks later. Suicidal 'flash-forwards' were present only in suicidal cases. People with recent suicidal ideation and suicidal flash-forwards had more severe suicidal ideation than those without flash-forwards. Compared to those without suicidal ideation, people with recent suicidal ideation reported higher entrapment and defeat levels. Resolution of suicidal ideation over time was associated with fewer suicidal flash-forwards and reduced entrapment perceptions. At baseline and seven weeks, suicidal ideation was predicted by an interaction between suicidal flash-forwards presence and perceptions of entrapment. Mental imagery of suicide appears to be associated with suicidal ideation, and may represent a novel target in suicidal risk assessment and prevention. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Hot flashes and midlife symptoms in relation to levels of salivary cortisol.

PubMed

Gerber, Linda M; Sievert, Lynnette L; Schwartz, Joseph E

2017-02-01

This study examined the relationship between salivary cortisol levels and hot flashes during midlife. Previous studies have shown that cortisol levels increase with hot flashes in the laboratory, and higher cortisol levels have been associated with more severe hot flashes. Salivary cortisol levels were also examined in relation to total number of midlife symptoms. Women aged 40-60 years (n=109) reported the presence or absence of 23 symptoms, including hot flashes, during the previous 2 weeks. Salivary samples were collected at waking, 30min after waking, 1h before bedtime, and at bedtime. The cortisol awakening response (CAR), cortisol daily decline (CDD), log transformed salivary cortisol levels at each time point, and mean cortisol levels were compared by hot flash report using t-tests. Logistic regression analyses were performed to assess the association between each cortisol measure and the presence or absence of hot flashes, after controlling for potential covariates. Salivary cortisol levels were not significantly associated with hot flashes or sum of symptoms. Hot flash report did not differentiate women who had a positive CAR from those who did not, or women who showed strong CDD from those who did not. Symptomatic women - defined by hot flash report or symptom total - were not found to have higher salivary cortisol levels. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

A parametric multivariate drought index and its application in the attribution and projection of flash drought change in China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yuan, X.; Wang, L.; Zhang, M.

2017-12-01

Rainfall deficit in the crop growing seasons is usually accompanied by heat waves. Abnormally high temperature increases evapotranspiration and decreases soil moisture rapidly, and ultimately results in a type of drought with a rapid onset, short duration but devastating impact, which is called "Flash drought". With the increase in global temperature, flash drought is expected to occur more frequently. However, there is no consensus on the definition of flash drought so far. Moreover, large uncertainty exists in the estimation of the flash drought and its trend, and the underlying mechanism for its long-term change is not clear. In this presentation, a parametric multivariate drought index that characterizes the joint probability distribution of key variables of flash drought will be developed, and the historical changes in flash drought over China will be analyzed. In addition, a set of land surface model simulations driven by IPCC CMIP5 models with different forcings and future scenarios, will be used for the detection and attribution of flash drought change. This study is targeted at quantifying the influences of natural and anthropogenic climate change on the flash drought change, projecting its future change as well as the corresponding uncertainty, and improving our understanding of the variation of flash drought and its underlying mechanism in a changing climate.

ANXIETY AS A RISK FACTOR FOR MENOPAUSAL HOT FLASHES: EVIDENCE FROM THE PENN OVARIAN AGING COHORT

PubMed Central

Freeman, Ellen W.; Sammel, Mary D.

2016-01-01

Objective The aim of this study was to identify temporal associations of anxiety dimensions with menopausal hot flashes in women progressing through the menopause transition. We hypothesized that associations of both somatic and affective dimensions of anxiety with hot flashes increased in the menopause transition, and that somatic anxiety was an independent risk factor for menopausal hot flashes. Methods Hot flashes, anxiety symptoms, hormone levels and other psychosocial variables were assessed annually for 14 years of follow-up. The 233 women were premenopausal at baseline and continued through one year or more after the final menstrual period. Anxiety dimensions were assessed with the Zung Anxiety Scale (ZAS), a validated measure of affective anxiety and somatic anxiety. Summed item scores were divided by the number of items rated, so that ranges of the two dimensions were comparable. Results Seventy-two percent of the sample reported moderate/severe hot flashes during the 14-year interval. There was no significant interaction between anxiety dimensions and menopausal stages. However, when adjusted for menopausal stage, the magnitude of association between somatic anxiety and hot flashes dramatically increased (OR 3.03, 95% CI: 2.12, 4.32, P<0.001), while the association between affective anxiety and hot flashes increased to a lesser extent (OR 1.27, 95% CI: 1.03, 1.57, P=0.024). Women with high levels of somatic anxiety (top third of the sample) had the greatest risk of hot flashes (P<0.001). When the anxiety dimensions were considered in combination, the additive effect of high affective anxiety symptoms was minimal, with no significant difference between the group with high affective/low somatic symptoms and the low symptom group in incident hot flashes at each menopausal stage (P=0.54). In multivariable analysis, somatic anxiety increased the risk of hot flashes more than 3 times (OR 3.13, 95% CI: 2.16, 4.53, P<0.001), but affective anxiety was not significantly associated with hot flashes after adjustment for other study variables (OR 1.19, 95% CI: 0.96, 1.48, P=0.117). Time-lagged somatic anxiety scores significantly predicted hot flashes, with a 71% increase in risk (OR 1.71, 95% CI: 1.21, 2.41, P=0.002). Time-lagged affective anxiety scores did not predict hot flashes, (OR 1.06, 95% CI: 0.87, 1.31, P=0.58). Conclusions This study showed a strong predictive association of somatic anxiety with the risk of menopausal hot flashes. The temporal associations suggest that somatic anxiety is not simply a redundant measure of hot flashes but predicts the risk of menopausal hot flashes and may be a potential target in clinical management of perimenopausal women. PMID:27433864

Positive cloud-to-ground lightning flashes in severe storms

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rust, W. D.; Macgorman, D. R.; Arnold, R. T.

1981-01-01

The occurrence of cloud-to-ground flashes that effectively lower positive charge to earth (+CG flash) over flat terrain has been documented in the mature stage of severe thunderstorms. Of the 31 documented +CG flashes, most had only one return stroke. Zero-to-peak rise times for the strokes averaged 7 microsec. The +CG flashes averaged 520 ms in duration, with 25 percent lasting more than 800 ms. Many of these had field changes suggestive of continuing current. Positive flashes have been observed to emanate from several regions of severe storms: high on the back of the main storm tower, through the wall cloud, and from the downshear anvil. Visually most of these positive flashes have emanated from high in the storm, and acoustic mapping of two shows thunder sources to a height of about 15 km.

Gun muzzle flash detection using a CMOS single photon avalanche diode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Merhav, Tomer; Savuskan, Vitali; Nemirovsky, Yael

2013-10-01

Si based sensors, in particular CMOS Image sensors, have revolutionized low cost imaging systems but to date have hardly been considered as possible candidates for gun muzzle flash detection, due to performance limitations, and low SNR in the visible spectrum. In this study, a CMOS Single Photon Avalanche Diode (SPAD) module is used to record and sample muzzle flash events in the visible spectrum, from representative weapons, common on the modern battlefield. SPADs possess two crucial properties for muzzle flash imaging - Namely, very high photon detection sensitivity, coupled with a unique ability to convert the optical signal to a digital signal at the source pixel, thus practically eliminating readout noise. This enables high sampling frequencies in the kilohertz range without SNR degradation, in contrast to regular CMOS image sensors. To date, the SPAD has not been utilized for flash detection in an uncontrolled environment, such as gun muzzle flash detection. Gun propellant manufacturers use alkali salts to suppress secondary flashes ignited during the muzzle flash event. Common alkali salts are compounds based on Potassium or Sodium, with spectral emission lines around 769nm and 589nm, respectively. A narrow band filter around the Potassium emission doublet is used in this study to favor the muzzle flash signal over solar radiation. This research will demonstrate the SPAD's ability to accurately sample and reconstruct the temporal behavior of the muzzle flash in the visible wavelength under the specified imaging conditions. The reconstructed signal is clearly distinguishable from background clutter, through exploitation of flash temporal characteristics.

Informing hot flash treatment decisions for breast cancer survivors: a systematic review of randomized trials comparing active interventions.

PubMed

Johns, Claire; Seav, Susan M; Dominick, Sally A; Gorman, Jessica R; Li, Hongying; Natarajan, Loki; Mao, Jun James; Irene Su, H

2016-04-01

Patient-centered decision making about hot flash treatments often incorporates a balance of efficacy and side effects in addition to patient preference. This systematic review examines randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing at least two non-hormonal hot flash treatments in breast cancer survivors. In July 2015, PubMed, SCOPUS, CINAHL, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases were searched for RCTs comparing active, non-hormonal hot flash treatments in female breast cancer survivors. Thirteen trials were included after identifying 906 potential studies. Four trials were dose comparison studies of pharmacologic treatments citalopram, venlafaxine, gabapentin, and paroxetine. Hot flash reduction did not differ by tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitor use. Citalopram 10, 20, and 30 mg daily had comparable outcomes. Venlafaxine 75 mg daily improved hot flashes without additional side effects from higher dosing. Gabapentin 900 mg daily improved hot flashes more than 300 mg. Paroxetine 10 mg daily had fewer side effects than 20 mg. Among four trials comparing different pharmacologic treatments, venlafaxine alleviated hot flash symptoms faster than clonidine; participants preferred venlafaxine over gabapentin. Five trials compared pharmacologic to non-pharmacologic treatments. Acupuncture had similar efficacy to venlafaxine and gabapentin but may have longer durability after completing treatment and fewer side effects. We could not perform a pooled meta-analysis because outcomes were not reported in comparable formats. Clinical trial data on non-hormonal hot flash treatments provide comparisons of hot flash efficacy and other patient important outcomes to guide clinical management. Clinicians can use the information to help patients select hot flash interventions.

Abdominal adiposity and hot flashes among midlife women.

PubMed

Thurston, Rebecca C; Sowers, MaryFran R; Sutton-Tyrrell, Kim; Everson-Rose, Susan A; Lewis, Tené T; Edmundowicz, Daniel; Matthews, Karen A

2008-01-01

Two competing hypotheses suggest how adiposity may affect menopausal hot flashes. The "thin hypothesis" asserts that aromatization of androgens to estrogens in body fat should be associated with decreased hot flashes. Conversely, thermoregulatory models argue that body fat should be associated with increased hot flashes. The study objective was to examine associations between abdominal adiposity and hot flashes, including the role of reproductive hormones in these associations. The Study of Women's Health Across the Nation Heart Study (2001-2003) is an ancillary study to the Study of Women's Health Across the Nation, a community-based cohort study. Participants were 461 women (35% African American, 65% white) ages 45 to 58 years with an intact uterus and at least one ovary. Measures included a computed tomography scan to assess abdominal adiposity; reported hot flashes over the previous 2 weeks; and a blood sample for measurement of follicle-stimulating hormone, estradiol, and sex hormone-binding globulin-adjusted estradiol (free estradiol index). Associations were evaluated within multivariable logistic and linear regression models. Every 1-SD increase in total (odds ratio [OR]=1.28; 95% CI: 1.06-1.55) and subcutaneous (OR=1.30; 95% CI: 1.07-1.58) abdominal adiposity was associated with increased odds of hot flashes in age- and site-adjusted models. Visceral adiposity was not associated with hot flashes. Associations were not reduced when models included reproductive hormone concentrations. Increased abdominal adiposity, particularly subcutaneous adiposity, is associated with increased odds of hot flashes, favoring thermoregulatory models of hot flashes. Body fat may not protect women from hot flashes as once thought.

A hybrid type Ia supernova with an early flash triggered by helium-shell detonation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jiang, Ji-An; Doi, Mamoru; Maeda, Keiichi; Shigeyama, Toshikazu; Nomoto, Ken'Ichi; Yasuda, Naoki; Jha, Saurabh W.; Tanaka, Masaomi; Morokuma, Tomoki; Tominaga, Nozomu; Ivezić, Željko; Ruiz-Lapuente, Pilar; Stritzinger, Maximilian D.; Mazzali, Paolo A.; Ashall, Christopher; Mould, Jeremy; Baade, Dietrich; Suzuki, Nao; Connolly, Andrew J.; Patat, Ferdinando; Wang, Lifan; Yoachim, Peter; Jones, David; Furusawa, Hisanori; Miyazaki, Satoshi

2017-10-01

Type Ia supernovae arise from the thermonuclear explosion of white-dwarf stars that have cores of carbon and oxygen. The uniformity of their light curves makes these supernovae powerful cosmological distance indicators, but there have long been debates about exactly how their explosion is triggered and what kind of companion stars are involved. For example, the recent detection of the early ultraviolet pulse of a peculiar, subluminous type Ia supernova has been claimed as evidence for an interaction between a red-giant or a main-sequence companion and ejecta from a white-dwarf explosion. Here we report observations of a prominent but red optical flash that appears about half a day after the explosion of a type Ia supernova. This supernova shows hybrid features of different supernova subclasses, namely a light curve that is typical of normal-brightness supernovae, but with strong titanium absorption, which is commonly seen in the spectra of subluminous ones. We argue that this early flash does not occur through previously suggested mechanisms such as the companion-ejecta interaction. Instead, our simulations show that it could occur through detonation of a thin helium shell either on a near-Chandrasekhar-mass white dwarf, or on a sub-Chandrasekhar-mass white dwarf merging with a less-massive white dwarf. Our finding provides evidence that one branch of previously proposed explosion models—the helium-ignition branch—does exist in nature, and that such a model may account for the explosions of white dwarfs in a mass range wider than previously supposed.

A hybrid type Ia supernova with an early flash triggered by helium-shell detonation.

PubMed

Jiang, Ji-An; Doi, Mamoru; Maeda, Keiichi; Shigeyama, Toshikazu; Nomoto, Ken'ichi; Yasuda, Naoki; Jha, Saurabh W; Tanaka, Masaomi; Morokuma, Tomoki; Tominaga, Nozomu; Ivezić, Željko; Ruiz-Lapuente, Pilar; Stritzinger, Maximilian D; Mazzali, Paolo A; Ashall, Christopher; Mould, Jeremy; Baade, Dietrich; Suzuki, Nao; Connolly, Andrew J; Patat, Ferdinando; Wang, Lifan; Yoachim, Peter; Jones, David; Furusawa, Hisanori; Miyazaki, Satoshi

2017-10-04

Type Ia supernovae arise from the thermonuclear explosion of white-dwarf stars that have cores of carbon and oxygen. The uniformity of their light curves makes these supernovae powerful cosmological distance indicators, but there have long been debates about exactly how their explosion is triggered and what kind of companion stars are involved. For example, the recent detection of the early ultraviolet pulse of a peculiar, subluminous type Ia supernova has been claimed as evidence for an interaction between a red-giant or a main-sequence companion and ejecta from a white-dwarf explosion. Here we report observations of a prominent but red optical flash that appears about half a day after the explosion of a type Ia supernova. This supernova shows hybrid features of different supernova subclasses, namely a light curve that is typical of normal-brightness supernovae, but with strong titanium absorption, which is commonly seen in the spectra of subluminous ones. We argue that this early flash does not occur through previously suggested mechanisms such as the companion-ejecta interaction. Instead, our simulations show that it could occur through detonation of a thin helium shell either on a near-Chandrasekhar-mass white dwarf, or on a sub-Chandrasekhar-mass white dwarf merging with a less-massive white dwarf. Our finding provides evidence that one branch of previously proposed explosion models-the helium-ignition branch-does exist in nature, and that such a model may account for the explosions of white dwarfs in a mass range wider than previously supposed.

50 CFR 300.5 - Facilitation of enforcement.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... transmitted by flashing light directed at the vessel signaled. USCG units will normally use the flashing light..., flashing light, flags, whistle, horn or other means constitutes prima facie evidence of the offense of... International Code of Signals, may be sent by flashing light by an enforcement unit when conditions do not allow...

50 CFR 300.5 - Facilitation of enforcement.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... transmitted by flashing light directed at the vessel signaled. USCG units will normally use the flashing light..., flashing light, flags, whistle, horn or other means constitutes prima facie evidence of the offense of... International Code of Signals, may be sent by flashing light by an enforcement unit when conditions do not allow...

33 CFR 117.1007 - Elizabeth River-Eastern Branch.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... closing the draw, the channel traffic lights will change from flashing green to flashing red, the horn... down to vessels, the channel traffic lights will continue to flash red. (6) When the rail traffic has... opening to vessel traffic. During the opening swing movement, the channel traffic lights will flash red...

33 CFR 117.1007 - Elizabeth River-Eastern Branch.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... closing the draw, the channel traffic lights will change from flashing green to flashing red, the horn... down to vessels, the channel traffic lights will continue to flash red. (6) When the rail traffic has... opening to vessel traffic. During the opening swing movement, the channel traffic lights will flash red...

33 CFR 117.1007 - Elizabeth River-Eastern Branch.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... closing the draw, the channel traffic lights will change from flashing green to flashing red, the horn... down to vessels, the channel traffic lights will continue to flash red. (6) When the rail traffic has... opening to vessel traffic. During the opening swing movement, the channel traffic lights will flash red...

33 CFR 117.1007 - Elizabeth River-Eastern Branch.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... closing the draw, the channel traffic lights will change from flashing green to flashing red, the horn... down to vessels, the channel traffic lights will continue to flash red. (6) When the rail traffic has... opening to vessel traffic. During the opening swing movement, the channel traffic lights will flash red...

Decision support system for road closures in flash flood emergencies.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-06-01

Among all the natural hazards, flash flood ranks as the No. 1 weather-related killer in U.S. More : than half of the deaths in flash flood are due to drowning victims in a traffic environment. So road : closure is critical to save lives from flash fl...

49 CFR 234.253 - Flashing light units and lamp voltage.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Flashing light units and lamp voltage. 234.253....253 Flashing light units and lamp voltage. (a) Each flashing light unit shall be inspected when... with installation specifications. (b) Lamp voltage shall be tested when installed and at least once...

49 CFR 234.253 - Flashing light units and lamp voltage.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Flashing light units and lamp voltage. 234.253....253 Flashing light units and lamp voltage. (a) Each flashing light unit shall be inspected when... with installation specifications. (b) Lamp voltage shall be tested when installed and at least once...

49 CFR 234.253 - Flashing light units and lamp voltage.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Flashing light units and lamp voltage. 234.253... Maintenance, Inspection, and Testing Inspections and Tests § 234.253 Flashing light units and lamp voltage. (a... proper alignment and frequency of flashes in accordance with installation specifications. (b) Lamp...

49 CFR 234.253 - Flashing light units and lamp voltage.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Flashing light units and lamp voltage. 234.253... Maintenance, Inspection, and Testing Inspections and Tests § 234.253 Flashing light units and lamp voltage. (a... proper alignment and frequency of flashes in accordance with installation specifications. (b) Lamp...

49 CFR 234.253 - Flashing light units and lamp voltage.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Flashing light units and lamp voltage. 234.253....253 Flashing light units and lamp voltage. (a) Each flashing light unit shall be inspected when... with installation specifications. (b) Lamp voltage shall be tested when installed and at least once...

33 CFR 117.903 - Darby Creek.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

..., nine inches high to indicate the vertical clearance under the closed draw at all stages of the tide... change from flashing green to flashing red anytime the bridge is not in the full open position. (10) During downward span movement, the channel traffic lights will change from flashing green to flashing red...

33 CFR 117.903 - Darby Creek.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

..., nine inches high to indicate the vertical clearance under the closed draw at all stages of the tide... change from flashing green to flashing red anytime the bridge is not in the full open position. (10) During downward span movement, the channel traffic lights will change from flashing green to flashing red...

33 CFR 117.903 - Darby Creek.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

..., nine inches high to indicate the vertical clearance under the closed draw at all stages of the tide... change from flashing green to flashing red anytime the bridge is not in the full open position. (10) During downward span movement, the channel traffic lights will change from flashing green to flashing red...

78 FR 48188 - Certain Flash Memory Chips and Products Containing the Same Notice of Receipt of Complaint...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-08-07

... INTERNATIONAL TRADE COMMISSION [Docket No. 2971] Certain Flash Memory Chips and Products.... International Trade Commission has received a complaint entitled Certain Flash Memory Chips and Products... sale within the United States after importation of certain flash memory chips and products containing...

78 FR 55095 - Certain Flash Memory Chips and Products Containing Same; Institution of Investigation

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-09-09

... INTERNATIONAL TRADE COMMISSION [Investigation No. 337-TA-893] Certain Flash Memory Chips and... States after importation of certain flash memory chips and products containing the same by reason of... sale within the United States after importation of certain flash memory chips and products containing...

49 CFR 234.217 - Flashing light units.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Flashing light units. 234.217 Section 234.217... light units. (a) Each flashing light unit shall be properly positioned and aligned and shall be visible to a highway user approaching the crossing. (b) Each flashing light unit shall be maintained to...

Simultaneous Quantitative MRI Mapping of T1, T2* and Magnetic Susceptibility with Multi-Echo MP2RAGE

PubMed Central

Kober, Tobias; Möller, Harald E.; Schäfer, Andreas

2017-01-01

The knowledge of relaxation times is essential for understanding the biophysical mechanisms underlying contrast in magnetic resonance imaging. Quantitative experiments, while offering major advantages in terms of reproducibility, may benefit from simultaneous acquisitions. In this work, we demonstrate the possibility of simultaneously recording relaxation-time and susceptibility maps with a prototype Multi-Echo (ME) Magnetization-Prepared 2 RApid Gradient Echoes (MP2RAGE) sequence. T1 maps can be obtained using the MP2RAGE sequence, which is relatively insensitive to inhomogeneities of the radio-frequency transmit field, B1+. As an extension, multiple gradient echoes can be acquired in each of the MP2RAGE readout blocks, which permits the calculation of T2* and susceptibility maps. We used computer simulations to explore the effects of the parameters on the precision and accuracy of the mapping. In vivo parameter maps up to 0.6 mm nominal resolution were acquired at 7 T in 19 healthy volunteers. Voxel-by-voxel correlations and the test-retest reproducibility were used to assess the reliability of the results. When using optimized paramenters, T1 maps obtained with ME-MP2RAGE and standard MP2RAGE showed excellent agreement for the whole range of values found in brain tissues. Simultaneously obtained T2* and susceptibility maps were of comparable quality as Fast Low-Angle SHot (FLASH) results. The acquisition times were more favorable for the ME-MP2RAGE (≈ 19 min) sequence as opposed to the sum of MP2RAGE (≈ 12 min) and FLASH (≈ 10 min) acquisitions. Without relevant sacrifice in accuracy, precision or flexibility, the multi-echo version may yield advantages in terms of reduced acquisition time and intrinsic co-registration, provided that an appropriate optimization of the acquisition parameters is performed. PMID:28081157

Flash protection controller

DOEpatents

Galbraith, L.K.

1979-12-07

A controller provides a high voltage to maintain an electro-optic shutter in a transparent condition until a flash of light which would be harmful to personnel is sensed by a phototransistor. The controller then shorts the shutter to ground to minimize light transmission to the user and maintains light transmission at the pre-flash level for a predetermined time to allow the flash to subside. A log converter and differential trigger circuit keep the controller from being triggered by other light flashes which are not dangerous.

Flash protection controller

DOEpatents

Galbraith, Lee K.

1981-01-01

A controller provides a high voltage to maintain an electro-optic shutter in a transparent condition until a flash of light which would be harmful to personnel is sensed by a phototransistor. The controller then shorts the shutter to ground to minimize light transmission to the user and maintains light transmission at the pre-flash level for a predetermined time to allow the flash to subside. A log converter and differential trigger circuit keep the controller from being triggered by other light flashes which are not dangerous.

Global optical lightning flash rates determined with the Forte satellite

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

Light, T.; Davis, S. M.; Boeck, W. L.

2003-01-01

Using FORTE photodiode detector (PDD) observations of lightning, we have determined the geographic distribution of nighttime flash rate density. We estimate the PDD flash detection efficiency to be 62% for total lightning through comparison to lightning observations by the TRMM satellite's Lightning Imaging Sensor (LIS), using cases in which FORTE and TRMM viewed the same storm. We present here both seasonal and l,ot,al flash rate maps. We examine some characteristics of the optical emissions of lightning in both high and low flash rate environments, and find that while lightning occurs less frequently over ocean, oceanic lightning flashes are somewhat moremore » powerful, on average, than those over land.« less

Automated two-point dixon screening for the evaluation of hepatic steatosis and siderosis: comparison with R2-relaxometry and chemical shift-based sequences.

PubMed

Henninger, B; Zoller, H; Rauch, S; Schocke, M; Kannengiesser, S; Zhong, X; Reiter, G; Jaschke, W; Kremser, C

2015-05-01

To evaluate the automated two-point Dixon screening sequence for the detection and estimated quantification of hepatic iron and fat compared with standard sequences as a reference. One hundred and two patients with suspected diffuse liver disease were included in this prospective study. The following MRI protocol was used: 3D-T1-weighted opposed- and in-phase gradient echo with two-point Dixon reconstruction and dual-ratio signal discrimination algorithm ("screening" sequence); fat-saturated, multi-gradient-echo sequence with 12 echoes; gradient-echo T1 FLASH opposed- and in-phase. Bland-Altman plots were generated and correlation coefficients were calculated to compare the sequences. The screening sequence diagnosed fat in 33, iron in 35 and a combination of both in 4 patients. Correlation between R2* values of the screening sequence and the standard relaxometry was excellent (r = 0.988). A slightly lower correlation (r = 0.978) was found between the fat fraction of the screening sequence and the standard sequence. Bland-Altman revealed systematically lower R2* values obtained from the screening sequence and higher fat fraction values obtained with the standard sequence with a rather high variability in agreement. The screening sequence is a promising method with fast diagnosis of the predominant liver disease. It is capable of estimating the amount of hepatic fat and iron comparable to standard methods. • MRI plays a major role in the clarification of diffuse liver disease. • The screening sequence was introduced for the assessment of diffuse liver disease. • It is a fast and automated algorithm for the evaluation of hepatic iron and fat. • It is capable of estimating the amount of hepatic fat and iron.

The prediction of the flash point for binary aqueous-organic solutions.

PubMed

Liaw, Horng-Jang; Chiu, Yi-Yu

2003-07-18

A mathematical model, which may be used for predicting the flash point of aqueous-organic solutions, has been proposed and subsequently verified by experimentally-derived data. The results reveal that this model is able to precisely predict the flash point over the entire composition range of binary aqueous-organic solutions by way of utilizing the flash point data pertaining to the flammable component. The derivative of flash point with respect to composition (solution composition effect upon flash point) can be applied to process safety design/operation in order to identify as to whether the dilution of a flammable liquid solution with water is effective in reducing the fire and explosion hazard of the solution at a specified composition. Such a derivative equation was thus derived based upon the flash point prediction model referred to above and then verified by the application of experimentally-derived data.

Support Vector Machines to improve physiologic hot flash measures: application to the ambulatory setting.

PubMed

Thurston, Rebecca C; Hernandez, Javier; Del Rio, Jose M; De La Torre, Fernando

2011-07-01

Most midlife women have hot flashes. The conventional criterion (≥2 μmho rise/30 s) for classifying hot flashes physiologically has shown poor performance. We improved this performance in the laboratory with Support Vector Machines (SVMs), a pattern classification method. We aimed to compare conventional to SVM methods to classify hot flashes in the ambulatory setting. Thirty-one women with hot flashes underwent 24 h of ambulatory sternal skin conductance monitoring. Hot flashes were quantified with conventional (≥2 μmho/30 s) and SVM methods. Conventional methods had low sensitivity (sensitivity=.57, specificity=.98, positive predictive value (PPV)=.91, negative predictive value (NPV)=.90, F1=.60), with performance lower with higher body mass index (BMI). SVMs improved this performance (sensitivity=.87, specificity=.97, PPV=.90, NPV=.96, F1=.88) and reduced BMI variation. SVMs can improve ambulatory physiologic hot flash measures. Copyright © 2010 Society for Psychophysiological Research.

Hot Flashes and Panic Attacks: A Comparison of Symptomatology, Neurobiology, Treatment, and a Role for Cognition

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hanisch, Laura J.; Hantsoo, Liisa; Freeman, Ellen W.; Sullivan, Gregory M.; Coyne, James C.

2008-01-01

Despite decades of research, the causal mechanisms of hot flashes are not adequately understood, and a biopsychosocial perspective on hot flashes remains underdeveloped. This article explores overlooked parallels between hot flashes and panic attacks within 5 areas: course and symptomatology, physiological indicators, neurocircuitry and…

Phthalate metabolite levels and menopausal hot flashes in midlife women.

PubMed

Ziv-Gal, Ayelet; Gallicchio, Lisa; Chiang, Catheryne; Ther, Sara N; Miller, Susan R; Zacur, Howard A; Dills, Russell L; Flaws, Jodi A

2016-04-01

During the menopausal transition, a woman's reproductive capacity declines, her hormone milieu changes, and her risk of hot flashes increases. Exposure to phthalates, which can be found in personal care products, can also result in altered reproductive function. Here, we investigated the associations between phthalate metabolite levels and midlife hot flashes. Eligible women (45-54 years of age) provided detailed information on hot flashes history and donated urine samples (n=195). Urinary phthalate metabolite levels were measured by HPLC-MS/MS. A higher total sum of phthalate metabolites commonly found in personal care products was associated with an increased risk of ever experiencing hot flashes (odds ratio (OR)=1.45; 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.07-1.96), hot flashes in the past 30days (OR=1.43; 95%CI=1.04-1.96), and more frequent hot flashes (OR=1.47; 95%CI=1.06-2.05). These data suggest that some phthalate exposures from personal care products are associated with menopausal hot flashes in women. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Analytic Perturbation Method for Estimating Ground Flash Fraction from Satellite Lightning Observations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Koshak, William; Solakiewicz, Richard

2013-01-01

An analytic perturbation method is introduced for estimating the lightning ground flash fraction in a set of N lightning flashes observed by a satellite lightning mapper. The value of N is large, typically in the thousands, and the observations consist of the maximum optical group area produced by each flash. The method is tested using simulated observations that are based on Optical Transient Detector (OTD) and Lightning Imaging Sensor (LIS) data. National Lightning Detection NetworkTM (NLDN) data is used to determine the flash-type (ground or cloud) of the satellite-observed flashes, and provides the ground flash fraction truth for the simulation runs. It is found that the mean ground flash fraction retrieval errors are below 0.04 across the full range 0-1 under certain simulation conditions. In general, it is demonstrated that the retrieval errors depend on many factors (i.e., the number, N, of satellite observations, the magnitude of random and systematic measurement errors, and the number of samples used to form certain climate distributions employed in the model).

Phthalate metabolite levels and menopausal hot flashes in midlife women

PubMed Central

Ziv-Gal, Ayelet; Gallicchio, Lisa; Chiang, Catheryne; Ther, Sara N.; Miller, Susan R.; Zacur, Howard A.; Dills, Russell L.; Flaws, Jodi A.

2016-01-01

During the menopausal transition, a woman’s reproductive capacity declines, her hormone milieu changes, and her risk of hot flashes increases. Exposure to phthalates, which can be found in personal-care products, can also result in altered reproductive function. Here, we investigated the associations between phthalate metabolite levels and midlife hot flashes. Eligible women (45–54 years of age) provided detailed information on hot flashes history and donated urine samples (n=195). Urinary phthalate metabolite levels were measured by HPLC-MS/MS. A higher total sum of phthalate metabolites commonly found in personal-care products was associated with an increased risk of ever experiencing hot flashes (odds ratio (OR)=1.45; 95% confidence interval (CI)= 1.07–1.96), hot flashes in the past 30 days (OR=1.43; 95%CI=1.04–1.96), and more frequent hot flashes (OR=1.47; 95%CI=1.06–2.05). These data suggest that some phthalate exposures from personal care products are associated with menopausal hot flashes in women. PMID:26867866

Fast repetition rate (FRR) flasher

DOEpatents

Kolber, Z.; Falkowski, P.

1997-02-11

A fast repetition rate (FRR) flasher is described suitable for high flash photolysis including kinetic chemical and biological analysis. The flasher includes a power supply, a discharge capacitor operably connected to be charged by the power supply, and a flash lamp for producing a series of flashes in response to discharge of the discharge capacitor. A triggering circuit operably connected to the flash lamp initially ionizes the flash lamp. A current switch is operably connected between the flash lamp and the discharge capacitor. The current switch has at least one insulated gate bipolar transistor for switching current that is operable to initiate a controllable discharge of the discharge capacitor through the flash lamp. Control means connected to the current switch for controlling the rate of discharge of the discharge capacitor thereby to effectively keep the flash lamp in an ionized state between successive discharges of the discharge capacitor. Advantageously, the control means is operable to discharge the discharge capacitor at a rate greater than 10,000 Hz and even up to a rate greater than about 250,000 Hz. 14 figs.

Assessment of Vulnerability to Extreme Flash Floods in Design Storms

PubMed Central

Kim, Eung Seok; Choi, Hyun Il

2011-01-01

There has been an increase in the occurrence of sudden local flooding of great volume and short duration caused by heavy or excessive rainfall intensity over a small area, which presents the greatest potential danger threat to the natural environment, human life, public health and property, etc. Such flash floods have rapid runoff and debris flow that rises quickly with little or no advance warning to prevent flood damage. This study develops a flash flood index through the average of the same scale relative severity factors quantifying characteristics of hydrographs generated from a rainfall-runoff model for the long-term observed rainfall data in a small ungauged study basin, and presents regression equations between rainfall characteristics and the flash flood index. The aim of this study is to develop flash flood index-duration-frequency relation curves by combining the rainfall intensity-duration-frequency relation and the flash flood index from probability rainfall data in order to evaluate vulnerability to extreme flash floods in design storms. This study is an initial effort to quantify the flash flood severity of design storms for both existing and planned flood control facilities to cope with residual flood risks due to extreme flash floods that have ocurred frequently in recent years. PMID:21845165

Tests of the Grobner Basis Solution for Lightning Ground Flash Fraction Retrieval

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Koshak, William; Solakiewicz, Richard; Attele, Rohan

2011-01-01

Satellite lightning imagers such as the NASA Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission Lightning Imaging Sensor (TRMM/LIS) and the future GOES-R Geostationary Lightning Mapper (GLM) are designed to detect total lightning (ground flashes + cloud flashes). However, there is a desire to discriminate ground flashes from cloud flashes from the vantage point of space since this would enhance the overall information content of the satellite lightning data and likely improve its operational and scientific applications (e.g., in severe weather warning, lightning nitrogen oxides studies, and global electric circuit analyses). A Bayesian inversion method was previously introduced for retrieving the fraction of ground flashes in a set of flashes observed from a satellite lightning imager. The method employed a constrained mixed exponential distribution model to describe the lightning optical measurements. To obtain the optimum model parameters (one of which is the ground flash fraction), a scalar function was minimized by a numerical method. In order to improve this optimization, a Grobner basis solution was introduced to obtain analytic representations of the model parameters that serve as a refined initialization scheme to the numerical optimization. In this study, we test the efficacy of the Grobner basis initialization using actual lightning imager measurements and ground flash truth derived from the national lightning network.

Assessment of vulnerability to extreme flash floods in design storms.

PubMed

Kim, Eung Seok; Choi, Hyun Il

2011-07-01

There has been an increase in the occurrence of sudden local flooding of great volume and short duration caused by heavy or excessive rainfall intensity over a small area, which presents the greatest potential danger threat to the natural environment, human life, public health and property, etc. Such flash floods have rapid runoff and debris flow that rises quickly with little or no advance warning to prevent flood damage. This study develops a flash flood index through the average of the same scale relative severity factors quantifying characteristics of hydrographs generated from a rainfall-runoff model for the long-term observed rainfall data in a small ungauged study basin, and presents regression equations between rainfall characteristics and the flash flood index. The aim of this study is to develop flash flood index-duration-frequency relation curves by combining the rainfall intensity-duration-frequency relation and the flash flood index from probability rainfall data in order to evaluate vulnerability to extreme flash floods in design storms. This study is an initial effort to quantify the flash flood severity of design storms for both existing and planned flood control facilities to cope with residual flood risks due to extreme flash floods that have ocurred frequently in recent years.

Flash (Ultra-Rapid) Spark-Plasma Sintering of Silicon Carbide

PubMed Central

Olevsky, Eugene A.; Rolfing, Stephen M.; Maximenko, Andrey L.

2016-01-01

A new ultra-rapid process of flash spark plasma sintering is developed. The idea of flash spark plasma sintering (or flash hot pressing - FHP) stems from the conducted theoretical analysis of the role of thermal runaway phenomena for material processing by flash sintering. The major purpose of the present study is to theoretically analyze the thermal runaway nature of flash sintering and to experimentally address the challenge of uncontrollable thermal conditions by the stabilization of the flash sintering process through the application of the external pressure. The effectiveness of the developed FHP technique is demonstrated by the few seconds–long consolidation of SiC powder in an industrial spark plasma sintering device. Specially designed sacrificial dies heat the pre-compacted SiC powder specimens to a critical temperature before applying any voltage to the powder volume and allowing the electrode-punches of the SPS device setup to contact the specimens and pass electric current through them under elevated temperatures. The experimental results demonstrate that flash sintering phenomena can be realized using conventional SPS devices. The usage of hybrid heating SPS devices is pointed out as the mainstream direction for the future studies and utilization of the new flash hot pressing (ultra-rapid spark plasma sintering) technique. PMID:27624641

Flash (Ultra-Rapid) Spark-Plasma Sintering of Silicon Carbide

DOE PAGES

Olevsky, Eugene A.; Rolfing, Stephen M.; Maximenko, Andrey L.

2016-09-14

A new ultra-rapid process of flash spark plasma sintering is developed. The idea of flash spark plasma sintering (or flash hot pressing - FHP) stems from the conducted theoretical analysis of the role of thermal runaway phenomena for material processing by flash sintering. The major purpose of the present study is to theoretically analyze the thermal runaway nature of flash sintering and to experimentally address the challenge of uncontrollable thermal conditions by the stabilization of the flash sintering process through the application of the external pressure. The effectiveness of the developed FHP technique is demonstrated by the few seconds–long consolidationmore » of SiC powder in an industrial spark plasma sintering device. Specially designed sacrificial dies heat the pre-compacted SiC powder specimens to a critical temperature before applying any voltage to the powder volume and allowing the electrode-punches of the SPS device setup to contact the specimens and pass electric current through them under elevated temperatures. The experimental results demonstrate that flash sintering phenomena can be realized using conventional SPS devices. The usage of hybrid heating SPS devices is pointed out as the mainstream direction for the future studies and utilization of the new flash hot pressing (ultra-rapid spark plasma sintering) technique.« less

Flash Floods Simulation using a Physical-Based Hydrological Model at Different Hydroclimatic Regions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saber, Mohamed; Kamil Yilmaz, Koray

2016-04-01

Currently, flash floods are seriously increasing and affecting many regions over the world. Therefore, this study will focus on two case studies; Wadi Abu Subeira, Egypt as arid environment, and Karpuz basin, Turkey as Mediterranean environment. The main objective of this work is to simulate flash floods at both catchments considering the hydrometeorological differences between them which in turn effect their flash flood behaviors. An integrated methodology incorporating Hydrological River Basin Environmental Assessment Model (Hydro-BEAM) and remote sensing observations was devised. Global Satellite Mapping of Precipitation (GSMAP) were compared with the rain gauge network at the target basins to estimate the bias in an effort to further use it effectively in simulation of flash floods. Based on the preliminary results of flash floods simulation on both basins, we found that runoff behaviors of flash floods are different due to the impacts of climatology, hydrological and topographical conditions. Also, the simulated surface runoff hydrographs are reasonably coincide with the simulated ones. Consequently, some mitigation strategies relying on this study could be introduced to help in reducing the flash floods disasters at different climate regions. This comparison of different climatic basins would be a reasonable implication for the potential impact of climate change on the flash floods frequencies and occurrences.

A place-based model for assessing the coherence of the flash floods and socio-economic vulnerability across the Contiguous United States (CONUS)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khajehei, S.; Moradkhani, H.

2017-12-01

Understanding socio-economic characteristics involving natural hazards potential, vulnerability, and resilience is necessary to address the damages to economy and loss of life from extreme natural hazards. The vulnerability to flash floods is dependent on both biophysical and socio-economic factors. Although the biophysical characteristics (e.g. climate, vegetation, and land use) are informative and useful for predicting spatial and temporal extent of flash floods, they have minimal bearing on predicting when and where flash floods are likely to influence people or damage valuable assets and resources. The socio-economic factors determine spatial and temporal scales of the regions affected by flash floods. In this study, we quantify the socio-economic vulnerability to flash floods across the Contiguous United States (CONUS). A socio-economic vulnerability index was developed, employing Bayesian principal components for each state in the CONUS. For this purpose, extensive sets of social and economic variables from US Census and the Bureau of Economic Analysis were used. We developed maps presenting the coincidence of socio-economic vulnerability and the flash floods records. This product can help inform flash flood prevention, mitigation and recovery planning, as well as reducing the flash flood hazards affecting vulnerable places and population.

The properties of optical lightning flashes and the clouds they illuminate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peterson, Michael; Deierling, Wiebke; Liu, Chuntao; Mach, Douglas; Kalb, Christina

2017-01-01

Optical lightning sensors like the Optical Transient Detector and Lightning Imaging Sensor (LIS) measure total lightning across large swaths of the globe with high detection efficiency. With two upcoming missions that employ these sensors - LIS on the International Space Station and the Geostationary Lightning Mapper on the GOES-R satellite - there has been increased interest in what these measurements can reveal about lightning and thunderstorms in addition to total flash activity. Optical lightning imagers are capable of observing the characteristics of individual flashes that include their sizes, durations, and radiative energies. However, it is important to exercise caution when interpreting trends in optical flash measurements because they can be affected by the scene. This study uses coincident measurements from the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) satellite to examine the properties of LIS flashes and the surrounding cloud regions they illuminate. These combined measurements are used to assess to what extent optical flash characteristics can be used to make inferences about flash structure and energetics. Clouds illuminated by lightning over land and ocean regions that are otherwise similar based on TRMM measurements are identified. Even when LIS flashes occur in similar clouds and background radiances, oceanic flashes are still shown to be larger, brighter, longer lasting, more prone to horizontal propagation, and to contain more groups than their land-based counterparts. This suggests that the optical trends noted in literature are not entirely the result of radiative transfer effects but rather stem from physical differences in the flashes.

Risk factors for hot flashes among women undergoing the menopausal transition: baseline results from the Midlife Women's Health Study

PubMed Central

Gallicchio, Lisa; Miller, Susan R.; Kiefer, Judith; Greene, Teresa; Zacur, Howard A.; Flaws, Jodi A.

2015-01-01

Objective The aim of this study was to examine the associations between demographic characteristics, health behaviors, hormone concentrations, and the experiencing of any, current, more severe, and more frequent midlife hot flashes. Methods Baseline data were analyzed from 732 women aged 45 to 54 years enrolled in the Midlife Women's Health Study. A clinic visit was conducted to collect blood samples for hormone assays and to measure ovarian volume using transvaginal ultrasound. A self-administered questionnaire ascertained information on demographic factors, health habits, and hot flashes history. Multivariable logistic regression was conducted to examine the associations between potential risk factors and the hot flashes outcomes. Results Approximately 45% of participants reported experiencing midlife hot flashes. In the covariate-adjusted models, older age, peri-menopausal status, current and former cigarette smoking, and depressive symptoms were significantly associated with increased odds of all of the hot flashes outcomes. In addition, history of oral contraceptive use was associated with increased odds of any hot flashes. In contrast, higher current alcohol intake was significantly associated with decreased odds of any, current, and more severe hot flashes. Higher estradiol and progesterone concentrations were significantly associated with decreased odds of all hot flashes outcomes. Conclusions Although the temporalities of such associations are not known due to the cross-sectional nature of the data, these observed relationships can help to identify women at risk for hot flashes. PMID:25783472

Size, duration, and rate of growth of nocturnal lightning events appearing on space shuttle video tapes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Breslawski, Christine

1990-01-01

An analysis of video tapes of nocturnal lightning events, taken aboard space shuttle flights STS-8, STS-9, STS-41D, and STS-51J, shows flashes with dimensions ranging from approximately 1 km by 1 km to 440 km by 110 km. Of particular interest are the flashes whose dimensions exceeded 100 km, as flashes of this size are seldom reported. In general, larger flashes were found to have longer durations, take longer to reach their maximum extent, and reach their maximum extent at a smaller percent of their total duration than smaller flashes. Sixty four percent of the flashes occurred with one to five other events appearing in the same video frame. These simultaneous events were an average of 60 km apart from each other. If a breakdown process is propagating between the simultaneous flashes, it would be travelling at a rate of 10(exp 5)m/sec. Plots of the area of an event over its duration show peaks in the area curve which may be indicative if lightning strokes. There was an average of 3.6 peaks per flash. In general, the longer the flash duration, the more peaks there were in the area curve. The area curves of the lightning events fall into one of five shape categories. It is suggested that the shape of the area curve may indicate whether an event is an intracloud or cloud to ground lightning flash. Some of the lightning events had a persistent bright spot. These events had an average duration which was greater than that of events without the bright spot. On average, the bright spot events had a maximum area which was larger than that of the flashes without the bright spot.

Kappa Agonists as a Novel Therapy for Menopausal Hot Flashes

PubMed Central

Oakley, Amy E.; Steiner, Robert A.; Chavkin, Charles; Clifton, Donald K.; Ferrara, Laura K.; Reed, Susan D.

2015-01-01

Objective Postmenopausal hot flash etiology is poorly understood, making it difficult to develop and target ideal therapies. A network of hypothalamic estrogen-sensitive neurons producing Kisspeptin, Neurokinin B, and Dynorphin (KNDy neurons), located adjacent to the thermoregulatory center, regulate pulsatile secretion of GnRH and LH. Dynorphin may inhibit this system by binding kappa opioid receptors within the vicinity of KNDy neurons. We hypothesize that hot flashes are reduced by KNDy neuron manipulation. Methods A double-blind, cross-over, placebo-controlled pilot study evaluated the effect of a kappa agonist (KA).Hot flash frequency was the primary outcome. Twelve healthy postmenopausal women with moderate-severe hot flashes, ages 48-60 years, were randomized. Eight women with sufficient baseline hot flashes for statistical analysis completed all 3 interventions: placebo, standard Pentazocine/Naloxone (50/0.5 mg) or low-dose Pentazocine/Naloxone (25/0.25 mg). In an inpatient research setting, each participant received the 3 interventions, in randomized order, on 3 separate days. On each day, an intravenous catheter was inserted for luteinizing hormone (LH) blood sampling, and skin conductance and Holter monitors were placed. Subjective hot flash frequency and severity were recorded. Results Mean hot flash frequency 2-7 hours following therapy initiation was lower than that for placebo (KA standard-dose: 4.75 ± 0.67; KA low-dose: 4.50 ± 0.57; and placebo: 5.94 ± 0.78 hot flashes/5 hours; p =0.025). Hot flash intensity did not vary between interventions. LH pulsatility mirrored objective hot flashes in some, but not all women. Conclusions This pilot suggests that kappa agonists may affect menopausal vasomotor symptoms. PMID:25988798

Acupuncture for the Treatment of Hot Flashes in Patients with Breast Cancer Receiving Antiestrogen Therapy: A Pilot Study in Korean Women

PubMed Central

Jeong, Young Ju; Park, Young Sun; Kwon, Hyo Jung; Shin, Im Hee; Bong, Jin Gu

2013-01-01

Abstract Objectives Antiestrogen therapy can cause vasomotor symptoms similar to those occurring during menopause, including hot flashes. Recent studies suggest that acupuncture is effective in reducing vasomotor symptoms in patients with breast cancer receiving tamoxifen. The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility and safety of acupuncture for treatment of hot flashes in Korean patients with breast cancer receiving antiestrogen therapy. Design This was a prospective single-arm observational study using before and after measurements. Settings/location The study was located at the East–West Medical Center at Daegu Catholic University Medical Center, Daegu, Korea. Subjects The subjects were 10 patients with breast cancer who were undergoing antiestrogen therapy with tamoxifen or anastrozole and who were suffering from hot flashes. Interventions Acupuncture was administered 3 times a week for 4 consecutive weeks, for 20±5 minutes at each session. Outcome measures The outcome measure was severity of hot flashes assessed by visual analogue scale (VAS) and total hot flash score. Results During treatment, severity of hot flashes was reduced by 70%–95% in all patients. Acupuncture significantly alleviated severity of hot flashes assessed by a visual analogue scale (F=30.261; p<0.001) as well as the total hot flash score (F=21.698; p=0.006). Four (4) weeks after the final treatment, symptoms were not aggravated. Conclusions Acupuncture appeared to provide effective relief from hot flashes among Korean women receiving antiestrogen therapy after surgery for breast cancer, and the effects lasted for at least 1 month after termination of treatment. A randomized controlled prospective study with a larger sample size is required to clarify the role of acupuncture in the management of hot flashes in Korean patients with breast cancer. PMID:23383974

Flood hazard assessment in areas prone to flash flooding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kvočka, Davor; Falconer, Roger A.; Bray, Michaela

2016-04-01

Contemporary climate projections suggest that there will be an increase in the occurrence of high-intensity rainfall events in the future. These precipitation extremes are usually the main cause for the emergence of extreme flooding, such as flash flooding. Flash floods are among the most unpredictable, violent and fatal natural hazards in the world. Furthermore, it is expected that flash flooding will occur even more frequently in the future due to more frequent development of extreme weather events, which will greatly increase the danger to people caused by flash flooding. This being the case, there will be a need for high resolution flood hazard maps in areas susceptible to flash flooding. This study investigates what type of flood hazard assessment methods should be used for assessing the flood hazard to people caused by flash flooding. Two different types of flood hazard assessment methods were tested: (i) a widely used method based on an empirical analysis, and (ii) a new, physically based and experimentally calibrated method. Two flash flood events were considered herein, namely: the 2004 Boscastle flash flood and the 2007 Železniki flash flood. The results obtained in this study suggest that in the areas susceptible to extreme flooding, the flood hazard assessment should be conducted using methods based on a mechanics-based analysis. In comparison to standard flood hazard assessment methods, these physically based methods: (i) take into account all of the physical forces, which act on a human body in floodwater, (ii) successfully adapt to abrupt changes in the flow regime, which often occur for flash flood events, and (iii) rapidly assess a flood hazard index in a relatively short period of time.

TRMM-Based Lightning Climatology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cecil, Daniel J.; Buechler, Dennis E.; Blakeslee, Richard J.

2011-01-01

Gridded climatologies of total lightning flash rates seen by the spaceborne Optical Transient Detector (OTD) and Lightning Imaging Sensor (LIS) have been updated. OTD collected data from May 1995 to March 2000. LIS data (equatorward of about 38 deg) has been added for 1998-2010. Flash counts from each instrument are scaled by the best available estimates of detection efficiency. The long LIS record makes the merged climatology most robust in the tropics and subtropics, while the high latitude data is entirely from OTD. The mean global flash rate from the merged climatology is 46 flashes per second. The peak annual flash rate at 0.5 deg scale is 160 fl/square km/yr in eastern Congo. The peak monthly average flash rate at 2.5 scale is 18 fl/square km/mo, from early April to early May in the Brahmaputra Valley of far eastern India. Lightning decreases in this region during the monsoon season, but increases further north and west. A monthly average peak from early August to early September in northern Pakistan also exceeds any monthly averages from Africa, despite central Africa having the greatest yearly average. Most continental regions away from the equator have an annual cycle with lightning flash rates peaking in late spring or summer. The main exceptions are India and southeast Asia, with springtime peaks in April and May. For landmasses near the equator, flash rates peak near the equinoxes. For many oceanic regions, the peak flash rates occur in autumn. This is particularly noticeable for the Mediterranean and North Atlantic. Landmasses have a strong diurnal cycle of lightning, with flash rates generally peaking between 3-5 pm local solar time. The central United States flash rates peak later, in late evening or early night. Flash rates peak after midnight in northern Argentina. These regions are known for large, intense, long-lived mesoscale convective systems.

Establishing a rainfall threshold for flash flood warnings based on the DFFG method in Yunnan province, China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma, M.; Wang, H.; Chen, Y.; Tang, G.; Hong, Z.; Zhang, K.; Hong, Y.

2017-12-01

Flash floods, one of the deadliest natural hazards worldwide due to their multidisciplinary nature, rank highly in terms of heavy damage and casualties. Such as in the United States, flash flood is the No.1 cause of death and the No. 2 most deadly weather-related hazard among all storm-related hazards, with approximately 100 lives lost each year. According to China Floods and Droughts Disasters Bullet in 2015 (http://www.mwr.gov.cn/zwzc/hygb/zgshzhgb), about 935 deaths per year on average were caused by flash floods from 2000 to 2015, accounting for 73 % of the fatalities due to floods. Therefore, significant efforts have been made toward understanding flash flood processes as well as modeling and forecasting them, it still remains challenging because of their short response time and limited monitoring capacity. This study advances the use of high-resolution Global Precipitation Measurement forecasts (GPMs), disaster data obtained from the government officials in 2011 and 2016, and the improved Distributed Flash Flood Guidance (DFFG) method combining the Distributed Hydrologic Model and Soil Conservation Service Curve Numbers. The objectives of this paper are (1) to examines changes in flash flood occurrence, (2) to estimate the effect of the rainfall spatial variability ,(2) to improve the lead time in flash floods warning and get the rainfall threshold, (3) to assess the DFFG method applicability in Dongchuan catchments, and (4) to yield the probabilistic information about the forecast hydrologic response that accounts for the locational uncertainties of the GPMs. Results indicate: (1) flash flood occurrence increased in the study region, (2) the occurrence of predicted flash floods show high sensitivity to total infiltration and soil water content, (3) the DFFG method is generally capable of making accurate predictions of flash flood events in terms of their locations and time of occurrence, and (4) the accumulative rainfall over a certain time span is an appropriate threshold for flash flood warnings. Finally, the article highlights the importance of accurately simulating the hydrological processes and high-resolution satellite rainfall data on the accurate forecasting of rainfall triggered flash flood events.

An Overview of the Lightning - Atmospheric Chemistry Aspects of the Deep Convective Clouds and Chemistry (DC3) Experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pickering, K. E.; Barth, M. C.; Koshak, W.; Bucsela, E. J.; Allen, D. J.; Weinheimer, A.; Ryerson, T.; Huntrieser, H.; Bruning, E.; MacGorman, D.;

A Comparison of Cloud-to-Ground Lightning Characteristics and Observations from Multiple Networks and Videos during the 31 May 2013 El Reno, OK Tornadic Supercell Storm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kuhlman, K. M.; Coy, J.; Seimon, A.

2015-12-01

Cloud-to-ground (CG) lightning flashes recorded by both the National Lightning Detection Network (NLDN) and Earth Networks Total Lightning Network (ENTLN) are compared with three-dimensional lightning mapping observations from the Oklahoma Lightning Mapping Array (OKLMA) and storm chaser video recorded of the 31 May 2013 El Reno tornadic supercell. The El Reno Survey Project (El-Reno-Survey.net) was created to crowd-source the abundance of storm chaser video from this event and provide open-access to the scientific community of the data. An initial comparison of CG lightning flashes captured on these videos with CG data from NLDN revealed a disagreement on the total number of flashes, with NLDN recording many negative CG flashes at lower peak amplitude not apparent in any of the videos. For this study, the area of the comparison was expanded to include the entire storm and data from both the ENTLN and LMA were added to compare the observations from each network in terms of timestamp, location detection, peak current, and polarity of each flash in the period 2230-2330 UTC. An initial comparison of 557 matched NLDN and ENLTN CG flashes, indicated predominately negative polairy CG flashes (58% NLDN/77% ENI) throughout the storm during this period. However, after a 15 kA peak current filter was applied, the NLDN indicated primarily positive polarity (84% +CG) while ENTLN still indicated primarily negative polarity (77% -CG) for the 264 remaining matched flashes. Before the filter was applied, the average distance between the two networks for the same flash was more than 2 km, but improved to approximately 1 km after the 15 kA filter was applied, likely removing some misidentified cloud flashes of uncertain location. This misclassification of IC flashes as CG at low peak current amplitudes for both networks is further evident when compared to video and the OKLMA data. Additionally, the charge analysis of OKLMA flashes revealed the NLDN-determined positive-polarity as correct every time the NLDN and ENTLN disagreed. For the 2013 El Reno supercell storm, there appears to be a major flaw in the ENTLN's ability to determine the polarity of CG flashes despite having roughly similar peak current magnitudes and location for most CG flash occurrences as the NLDN.

Characteristics of the most intense lightning storm ever recorded at the CN Tower

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hussein, A. M.; Kazazi, S.; Anwar, M.; Yusouf, M.; Liatos, P.

2017-02-01

Lightning strikes to the CN Tower have been optically observed since 1978. In 1990, five independent systems started to operate to simultaneously record parameters of lightning strikes to the tower, including the time derivative of the current, the associated electric and magnetic fields, and the channel optical characteristics. On August 24, 2011, during an unusually severe lightning storm, video records showed that the CN Tower was struck with 52 lightning flashes within 84 min and 6.9 s. Thus, this storm produced, on average, a flash to the tower every 99 s. However, the CN Tower lightning current derivative measurement system only recorded 32 flashes, which were perfectly time-matched with 32 of the 52 video-recorded flashes. It is found that the current derivative measurement system recorded every video-recorded flash that contained at least one return stroke. Based on the analysis of video records, it is noted that each of the storm's 52 flashes contains an initial-stage current, proving that all flashes were upward initiated. This unique CN Tower storm - the most intense ever recorded at the tower - is here thoroughly analyzed, based on video and current records. The inter-flash time within the storm is found to vary between 10.6 s and 274 s, with an overall average of 98 s. It is also found that the inter-flash time between successive non-return-stroke flashes is on average 64% longer than that for successive flashes containing return strokes. Statistical analysis of video and current data clearly reveals that the time duration of flashes containing initial-stage currents and return strokes is on average 27% longer than that of flashes that only have initial-stage currents. Furthermore, it is important to note that the time duration of the initial-stage current in flashes containing no return strokes is on average 76% longer than that in flashes containing return strokes. Therefore, it is possible to conclude that if the time duration of the initial-stage current in a flash is long enough, resulting in large charge transfer, then there is less probability of having return strokes following it. The 32 current-recorded flashes contain a total of 156 return strokes, with an average multiplicity of 4.875. It is worth mentioning that during one decade, 1992-2001, the CN Tower current derivative measurement system only recorded 478 return strokes, demonstrating that the number of return strokes recorded at the tower within about 84 min is close to one third of those recorded at the tower during one decade. This finding clearly shows the great value and rarity of the presented extensive lightning current derivative data. Only one of the 32 current-recorded flashes is proved to be positive with a single return stroke. Based on current records, out of a total of 124 inter-stroke time intervals, 94% are found to be within 200 ms, with an overall inter-stroke time average of 68.1 ms. The maximum inter-stroke time recorded during this storm is 726.3 ms, the longest ever recorded at the CN Tower.

Effect of Strontium Nitrate on Extremely Slow Strobe Compositions

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-01-01

SUBJECT TERMS Strobe Hang fire Flash Orion’s Flashing Guns 16. SECURITY CLASSIFICATION OF: 17. LIMITATION OF ABSTRACT 18. NUMBER OF... Guns Formulations .......................................................................2 2. Modifications of Orion’s Flashing Guns , Resulting...Flashing Guns ” (3). These compositions used barium nitrate as the oxidizer and magnalium as the fuel. Both also contained a substantial amount of sulfur

75 FR 55604 - In the Matter of Certain Flash Memory Chips and Products Containing the Same; Notice of...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-09-13

... INTERNATIONAL TRADE COMMISSION [Inv. No. 337-TA-735] In the Matter of Certain Flash Memory Chips... the sale within the United States after importation of certain flash memory chips and products... importation of certain flash memory chips and products containing the same that infringe one or more of claims...

Compact and reliable triggering method for near muzzle flash radiography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Eun S.; Hwang, Eul H.; Yim, Dong W.; Song, So Y.

1993-01-01

Precise timing for x-ray bursts is crucial in acquiring useful information from flash radiographic experiments. Triggering the flash x-ray system near the muzzle is a difficult task because of the intrinsic nature of the muzzle blast. In this work a compact and reliable triggering method for near muzzle flash radiography is introduced; a piezoelectric pin probe attached at the end of the barrel. These types of probes have not been activated by the precursor shock wave, but they have been activated by the main blast wave only. Reliability in triggering the flash x-ray system has been confirmed throughout a series of flash radiographic experiments near the muzzle for gun barrels with calibers up to 105 mm.

Flash ionization signature in coherent cyclotron emission from brown dwarfs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vorgul, I.; Helling, Ch.

2016-05-01

Brown dwarfs (BDs) form mineral clouds in their atmospheres, where charged particles can produce large-scale discharges in the form of lightning resulting in substantial sudden increase of local ionization. BDs are observed to emit cyclotron radio emission. We show that signatures of strong transient atmospheric ionization events (flash ionization) can be imprinted on a pre-existing radiation. Detection of such flash ionization events will open investigations into the ionization state and atmospheric dynamics. Such events can also result from explosion shock waves, material outbursts or (volcanic) eruptions. We present an analytical model that describes the modulation of a pre-existing electromagnetic radiation by a time-dependent (flash) conductivity that is characteristic for flash ionization events like lightning. Our conductivity model reproduces the conductivity function derived from observations of terrestrial gamma-ray flashes, and is applicable to astrophysical objects with strong temporal variations in the local ionization, as in planetary atmospheres and protoplanetary discs. We show that the field responds with a characteristic flash-shaped pulse to a conductivity flash of intermediate intensity. More powerful ionization events result in smaller variations of the initial radiation, or in its damping. We show that the characteristic damping of the response field for high-power initial radiation carries information about the ionization flash magnitude and duration. The duration of the pulse amplification or the damping is consistently shorter for larger conductivity variations and can be used to evaluate the intensity of the flash ionization. Our work suggests that cyclotron emission could be probe signals for electrification processes inside BD atmosphere.

Rabbit electroretinograms evoked by 632.8nm laser flash stimuli

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Zai-Fu; Chen, Hong-Xia; Wang, Jia-Rui; Guan, Bo-Lin; Yu, Guang-Yuan; Zhang, Xiao-Na; Zhang, Wen-Yuan; Yang, Jing-Geng

2012-12-01

The flash electroretinography is a standard electrophysiological method and widely employed in basic research and ophthalmology clinics, of which the stimulus is usually white flash from dome stimulator. However, little is known about the electroretinograms (ERGs) evoked by monochromatic laser flash stimuli. The goal of this research effort is to quantify the ERGs of dark-adapted New Zealand rabbits elicited by He-Ne laser flash with wavelength 632.8 nm. The flash field was a Maxwellian viewing disc with angular subtense of 8.5°, 13.3° or 20.2°. The stimulus duration was 12 ms, 22 ms, 70 ms or 220 ms. The laser flash power incident on the cornea varied from 2.2 nW through 22 mW. Under the condition of 20 ms stimulus duration and 20.2° flash field, the ERG of New Zealand rabbit was compared with that of Chinchilla gray rabbit. Results showed that for the ERG b-wave, with the increase of laser energy, the amplitude first increased, then met a trough and finally increased again, the implicit time decreased first and then met a platform. While for the ERG a-wave, the amplitude increased and the implicit time decreased monotonically. Longer stimulus duration led to lower b-wave amplitude under equal flash power level. The flash field size showed limited effect on the ERG, especially on the low energy end. As compared with the pigmented rabbit, the albino rabbit was more sensitive and the threshold energy for b-wave excitation was about 10 times lower.

Efficacy of a biobehavioral intervention for hot flashes: a randomized controlled pilot study.

PubMed

Barton, Debra L; Schroeder, Kelliann C Fee; Banerjee, Tanima; Wolf, Sherry; Keith, Timothy Z; Elkins, Gary

2017-07-01

The need for effective nonhormonal treatments for hot flash management without unwanted side effects continues. The primary aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the effect of combining a nonhormonal pharmacologic agent with a behavioral treatment for hot flash reduction. Seventy-one postmenopausal women were randomized to one of four groups: venlafaxine 75 mg + hypnosis (VH) versus venlafaxine 75 mg + sham hypnosis (VSH) versus a placebo pill + hypnosis (PH) versus placebo pill + sham hypnosis (PSH). Women recorded hot flash severity and frequency in a daily diary, in real time. The intrapatient difference in hot flash score (frequency × severity) at 8 weeks was analyzed using a General Estimating Equation model, using VSH as the referent arm, controlling for baseline hot flashes. The active arms including PH or VH were not statistically significantly different than VSH (P = 0.34, P = 0.05, respectively). Women in each active arm reported hot flash reductions of about 50%, with the PSH group reporting a 25% reduction. Women receiving the PSH reported statistically significantly smaller reductions in hot flash score than women in the referent VSH arm (P = 0.001). There were no significant negative side effects during the course of the study. Hypnosis alone reduced hot flashes equal to venlafaxine alone, but the combination of hypnosis and venlafaxine did not reduce hot flashes more than either treatment alone. More research is needed to clarify whether combining hypnosis with a different antidepressant would provide synergistic benefits.

Weak positive cloud-to-ground flashes in Northeastern Colorado

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lopez, Raul E.; Maier, Michael W.; Garcia-Miguel, Juan A.; Holle, Ronald L.

1991-01-01

The frequency distributions of the peak magnetic field associated with the first detected return stroke of positive and negative cloud-to-ground (CG) flashes were studied using lightning data from northeastern Colorado. These data were obtained during 1985 with a medium-to-high gain network of three direction finders (DF's). The median signal strength of positive flashes was almost two times that of the negatives for flashes within 300 km of the DF's, which have an inherent detection-threshold bias that tends to discriminate against weak signals. This bias increases with range, and affects the detection of positive and negative flashes in different ways, because of the differing character of their distributions. Positive flashes appear to have a large percentage of signals clustered around very weak values that are lost to the medium-to-high gain Colorado Detection System very quickly with increasing range. The resulting median for positive signals could thus appear to be much larger than the median for negative signals, which are more clustered around intermediate values. When only flashes very close to the DF's are considered, however, the two distributions have almost identical medians. The large percentage of weak positive signals detected close to the DF's has not been explored previously. They have been suggested to come from intracloud discharges and thus are improperly classified as CG flashes. Evidence in hand, points to their being real positive, albeit weak CG flashes. Whether or not they are real positive ground flashes, it is important to be aware of their presence in data from magnetic DF networks.

Mitochondrial Flash: Integrative Reactive Oxygen Species and pH Signals in Cell and Organelle Biology

PubMed Central

Gong, Guohua; Wang, Xianhua; Wei-LaPierre, Lan; Cheng, Heping; Dirksen, Robert

2016-01-01

Abstract Significance: Recent breakthroughs in mitochondrial research have advanced, reshaped, and revolutionized our view of the role of mitochondria in health and disease. These discoveries include the development of novel tools to probe mitochondrial biology, the molecular identification of mitochondrial functional proteins, and the emergence of new concepts and mechanisms in mitochondrial function regulation. The discovery of “mitochondrial flash” activity has provided unique insights not only into real-time visualization of individual mitochondrial redox and pH dynamics in live cells but has also advanced understanding of the excitability, autonomy, and integration of mitochondrial function in vivo. Recent Advances: The mitochondrial flash is a transient and stochastic event confined within an individual mitochondrion and is observed in a wide range of organisms from plants to Caenorhabditis elegans to mammals. As flash events involve multiple transient concurrent changes within the mitochondrion (e.g., superoxide, pH, and membrane potential), a number of different mitochondrial targeted fluorescent indicators can detect flash activity. Accumulating evidence indicates that flash events reflect integrated snapshots of an intermittent mitochondrial process arising from mitochondrial respiration chain activity associated with the transient opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore. Critical Issues: We review the history of flash discovery, summarize current understanding of flash biology, highlight controversies regarding the relative roles of superoxide and pH signals during a flash event, and bring forth the integration of both signals in flash genesis. Future Directions: Investigations using flash as a biomarker and establishing its role in cell signaling pathway will move the field forward. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 25, 534–549. PMID:27245241

History of hot flashes and aortic calcification among postmenopausal women.

PubMed

Thurston, Rebecca C; Kuller, Lewis H; Edmundowicz, Daniel; Matthews, Karen A

2010-03-01

Menopausal hot flashes are considered largely a quality-of-life issue. However, emerging research also links hot flashes to cardiovascular risk. In some investigations, this risk is particularly apparent among women using hormone therapy. The aim of this study was to determine whether a longer history of reported hot flashes over the study period was associated with greater aortic and coronary artery calcification. Interactions with hormone therapy use were examined in an exploratory fashion. Participants included 302 women participating in the Healthy Women Study, a longitudinal study of cardiovascular risk during perimenopause and postmenopause, which was initiated in 1983. Hot flashes (any/none) were assessed when women were 1, 2, 5, and 8 years postmenopausal. Electron beam tomography measures of coronary artery calcification and aortic calcification were completed in 1997-2004. Associations between the number of visits with report of hot flashes, divided by the number of visits attended, and aortic or coronary artery calcification (transformed) were examined in linear regression models. Interactions by hormone therapy use were evaluated. Among women using hormone therapy, a longer history of reported hot flashes was associated with increased aortic calcification, controlling for traditional cardiovascular risk factors (b = 2.87, SE = 1.21, P < 0.05). There were no significant associations between history of hot flashes and coronary artery calcification. Among postmenopausal women using hormone therapy, a longer history of reported hot flashes measured prospectively was associated with increased aortic calcification, controlling for traditional cardiovascular risk factors. Hot flashes may signal adverse cardiovascular changes among certain postmenopausal women.

High-speed imaging using 3CCD camera and multi-color LED flashes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hijazi, Ala; Friedl, Alexander; Cierpka, Christian; Kähler, Christian; Madhavan, Vis

2017-11-01

This paper demonstrates the possibility of capturing full-resolution, high-speed image sequences using a regular 3CCD color camera in conjunction with high-power light emitting diodes of three different colors. This is achieved using a novel approach, referred to as spectral-shuttering, where a high-speed image sequence is captured using short duration light pulses of different colors that are sent consecutively in very close succession. The work presented in this paper demonstrates the feasibility of configuring a high-speed camera system using low cost and readily available off-the-shelf components. This camera can be used for recording six-frame sequences at frame rates up to 20 kHz or three-frame sequences at even higher frame rates. Both color crosstalk and spatial matching between the different channels of the camera are found to be within acceptable limits. A small amount of magnification difference between the different channels is found and a simple calibration procedure for correcting the images is introduced. The images captured using the approach described here are of good quality to be used for obtaining full-field quantitative information using techniques such as digital image correlation and particle image velocimetry. A sequence of six high-speed images of a bubble splash recorded at 400 Hz is presented as a demonstration.

[MRI in chronic epicondylitis humeri radialis using 1.0 T equipment--contrast medium administration necessary?].

PubMed

Herber, S; Kalden, P; Kreitner, K F; Riedel, C; Rompe, J D; Thelen, M

2001-05-01

Evaluation of the diagnostic value and confidence of contrast-enhanced MR imaging in patients with lateral epicondylitis in comparison to clinical diagnosis. 42 consecutive patients with clinically proven chronic lateral epicondylitis and 10 elbow joints of healthy controls have been examined on a 1.0 T MR-unit. Criteria for inclusion in the prospective study were: persistent pain and a failed conservative therapy. The MR protocol included STIR sequence, a native, T2-weighted, fat-suppressed TSE sequence, and a Flash-2-D sequence. Also, fat-suppressed, T1-weighted SE sequences before and after administration of Gd-DTPA contrast media have been recorded. In 39/42 patients the STIR sequence showed an increased SI of the common extensor tendon. Increased MR signal of the lateral collateral ligament combined with a thickening and a partial rupture or a full thickness tear have been observed in 15/42 cases. A bone marrow edema at the lateral epicondilus was noticed in 6 of the studied patients and a joint effusion in 18/42 patients. After administration of contrast media we noticed an average increase of SI by about 150%. However, enhanced MR imaging did not provide additional information. In MR imaging of chronic epicondylitis administration of gadolinium-DTPA does not provide additional information.

Remote collection and analysis of witness reports on flash floods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gourley, Jonathan; Erlingis, Jessica; Smith, Travis; Ortega, Kiel; Hong, Yang

2010-05-01

Typically, flash floods are studied ex post facto in response to a major impact event. A complement to field investigations is developing a detailed database of flash flood events, including minor events and null reports (i.e., where heavy rain occurred but there was no flash flooding), based on public survey questions conducted in near-real time. The Severe Hazards Analysis and Verification Experiment (SHAVE) has been in operation at the National Severe Storms Laboratory (NSSL) in Norman, OK, USA during the summers since 2006. The experiment employs undergraduate students to analyse real-time products from weather radars, target specific regions within the conterminous US, and poll public residences and businesses regarding the occurrence and severity of hail, wind, tornadoes, and now flash floods. In addition to providing a rich learning experience for students, SHAVE has been successful in creating high-resolution datasets of severe hazards used for algorithm and model verification. This talk describes the criteria used to initiate the flash flood survey, the specific questions asked and information entered to the database, and then provides an analysis of results for flash flood data collected during the summer of 2008. It is envisioned that specific details provided by the SHAVE flash flood observation database will complement databases collected by operational agencies and thus lead to better tools to predict the likelihood of flash floods and ultimately reduce their impacts on society.

Phototoxic effects of commercial photographic flash lamp on rat eyes.

PubMed

Inoue, Makoto; Shinoda, Kei; Ohde, Hisao; Tezuka, Keiji; Hida, Tetsuo

2006-11-01

To determine whether exposure of the cornea and retina of rats to flashes from a commercial photographic flash lamp is phototoxic. Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed to 10, 100, or 1,000 flashes of the OPTICAM 16M photographic flash lamp (Fujikoeki, Japan) placed 0.1, 1, or 3 m from the eyes. Corneal damage was assessed by a fluorescein staining score, and the retinal damage by eletroretinography (ERG) and histology before and 24 h after exposure. Exposure of the eyes to 1,000 flashes at 0.1 m increased the fluorescein staining score significantly (P = 0.009, the Mann-Whitney test). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of the cornea showed a detachment of the epithelial cells from the surface after this exposure. The amplitude of the a-wave was decreased significantly by 23.0% (P = 0.026) of the amplitude before the exposure, and the b-wave by 19.7% (P = 0.0478) following 1,000 flashes at 0.1 m but not by the other exposures. TUNEL-positive cells were present in the outer nuclear layer only after the extreme exposure, but no significant decrease in retinal thickness was seen under any condition. The fluorescein staining score and ERGs recovered to control levels within 1 week. Light exposure to a photographic flash lamp does not induce damage to the cornea and retina except when they are exposed to 1,000 flashes at 0.1 m.

Long-term Stability of the Post-Flash LED Lamp

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Martlin, Catherine; Baggett, Sylvia

2017-02-01

We report the results of a study of the long-term stability of the LED lamp used in post-flashing WFC3/UVIS images. We analyze 644 sub-array exposures taken over the course of just over 3 years and find no significant long-term trends in the LED lamp brightness. The average percentage change per year over all FLASH level and shutter combinations is found to be 0.15% per year with an uncertainty of ± 0.24% per year. The maximum measured percentage change per year was 0.39% for the highest FLASH level of 20 e- on shutter A which would indicate a change of less than 1 e-/pixel over the roughly 3 years since post-flashing began. There are, however, occasional short-term deviations in the LED output. The average minimum and maximum outliers over all FLASH level and shutter combination subsets are 4.1% below and 3.5% above, respectively, the mean of that subset. The maximum outlier over all the sets is 5.8% above the normalized mean value, for FLASH level 3/shutter A. The minimum outlier over all sets is also for FLASH level 3/shutter A and is 8.9% below the normalized mean value. Investigation of these outliers has revealed no systematic cause for the excursions and we recommend that users continue using the post-flash as they would have previously.

Evaluation of Flash Bainite in 4130 Steel

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-07-01

Technical Report ARWSB-TR-11011 Evaluation of Flash Bainite in 4130 Steel G. Vigilante M. Hespos S. Bartolucci...4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE Evaluation of Flash Bainite in 4130 Steel 5a. CONTRACT NUMBER 5b. GRANT NUMBER 5c. PROGRAM ELEMENT...need to be addressed, the Flash Bainite processing of 4130 steel demonstrates promise for applications needing a combination of high strength with

FlashPhotol: Using a Flash Photolysis Apparatus Simulator to Introduce Students to the Kinetics of Transient Species and Fast Reactions

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bigger, Stephen W.

2016-01-01

FlashPhotol is an educational software package that introduces students to the kinetics of transient species and fast reactions. This is achieved by means of a computer-simulated flash photolysis apparatus that comprises all major functional elements and that students can use to perform various experiments. The experimental interface presents a…

The Association between Body Mass Index and Hot Flash in Midlife Women: A Meta-analysis.

PubMed

Shobeiri, Fatemeh; Jenabi, Ensiyeh; Poorolajal, Jalal; Hazavehei, Seyyed Mohammad Mahdi

2016-04-01

The association between body mass index (BMI) and hot flash risk has not been specifically clarifies yet. This meta-analysis was, therefore, conducted to estimate the association between overweight and obesity and hot flash risk. We searched PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus for observational studies addressing the association between BMI and hot flash until August 2015. Data were independently extracted and analyzed using 95% odds ratio (OR), and confidence intervals (CI) based on the random-effects models. We identified 2,244 references and conducted seven studies with 4,219 participants. The association between hot flash and overweight was estimated 1.13 (95% CI: 0.97-1.32) and that of obesity was estimated 1.79 (95% CI: 1.52-2.11). No evidence of heterogeneity and publication bias was observed. This meta-analysis demonstrated that, though not to a great extent, obesity does increase the risk of hot flash. The findings from this meta-analysis indicated that obesity is associated with an increased risk of hot flash. Further large prospective cohort studies are required to provide convincing evidence as to whether or not BMI is associated with an increased risk of hot flashes.

Digital Device Architecture and the Safe Use of Flash Devices in Munitions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Katz, Richard B.; Flowers, David; Bergevin, Keith

2017-01-01

Flash technology is being utilized in fuzed munition applications and, based on the development of digital logic devices in the commercial world, usage of flash technology will increase. Digital devices of interest to designers include flash-based microcontrollers and field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs). Almost a decade ago, a study was undertaken to determine if flash-based microcontrollers could be safely used in fuzes and, if so, how should such devices be applied. The results were documented in the Technical Manual for the Use of Logic Devices in Safety Features. This paper will first review the Technical Manual and discuss the rationale behind the suggested architectures for microcontrollers and a brief review of the concern about data retention in flash cells. An architectural feature in the microcontroller under study will be discussed and its use will show how to screen for weak or failed cells during manufacture, storage, or immediately prior to use. As was done for microcontrollers a decade ago, architectures for a flash-based FPGA will be discussed, showing how it can be safely used in fuzes. Additionally, architectures for using non-volatile (including flash-based) storage will be discussed for SRAM-based FPGAs.

Studying the co-evolution of protein families with the Mirrortree web server.

PubMed

Ochoa, David; Pazos, Florencio

2010-05-15

The Mirrortree server allows to graphically and interactively study the co-evolution of two protein families, and investigate their possible interactions and functional relationships in a taxonomic context. The server includes the possibility of starting from single sequences and hence it can be used by non-expert users. The web server is freely available at http://csbg.cnb.csic.es/mtserver. It was tested in the main web browsers. Adobe Flash Player is required at the client side to perform the interactive assessment of co-evolution. pazos@cnb.csic.es Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.

Bipolar cloud-to-ground lightning flash observations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saba, Marcelo M. F.; Schumann, Carina; Warner, Tom A.; Helsdon, John H.; Schulz, Wolfgang; Orville, Richard E.

2013-10-01

lightning is usually defined as a lightning flash where the current waveform exhibits a polarity reversal. There are very few reported cases of cloud-to-ground (CG) bipolar flashes using only one channel in the literature. Reports on this type of bipolar flashes are not common due to the fact that in order to confirm that currents of both polarities follow the same channel to the ground, one necessarily needs video records. This study presents five clear observations of single-channel bipolar CG flashes. High-speed video and electric field measurement observations are used and analyzed. Based on the video images obtained and based on previous observations of positive CG flashes with high-speed cameras, we suggest that positive leader branches which do not participate in the initial return stroke of a positive cloud-to-ground flash later generate recoil leaders whose negative ends, upon reaching the branch point, traverse the return stroke channel path to the ground resulting in a subsequent return stroke of opposite polarity.

Method of producing a diesel fuel blend having a pre-determined flash-point and pre-determined increase in cetane number

DOEpatents

Waller, Francis Joseph; Quinn, Robert

2004-07-06

The present invention relates to a method of producing a diesel fuel blend having a pre-determined flash-point and a pre-determined increase in cetane number over the stock diesel fuel. Upon establishing the desired flash-point and increase in cetane number, an amount of a first oxygenate with a flash-point less than the flash-point of the stock diesel fuel and a cetane number equal to or greater than the cetane number of the stock diesel fuel is added to the stock diesel fuel in an amount sufficient to achieve the pre-determined increase in cetane number. Thereafter, an amount of a second oxygenate with a flash-point equal to or greater than the flash-point of the stock diesel fuel and a cetane number greater than the cetane number of the stock diesel fuel is added to the stock diesel fuel in an amount sufficient to achieve the pre-determined increase in cetane number.

Normalized Temperature Contrast Processing in Infrared Flash Thermography

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Koshti, Ajay M.

2016-01-01

The paper presents further development in normalized contrast processing used in flash infrared thermography method. Method of computing normalized image or pixel intensity contrast, and normalized temperature contrast are provided. Methods of converting image contrast to temperature contrast and vice versa are provided. Normalized contrast processing in flash thermography is useful in quantitative analysis of flash thermography data including flaw characterization and comparison of experimental results with simulation. Computation of normalized temperature contrast involves use of flash thermography data acquisition set-up with high reflectivity foil and high emissivity tape such that the foil, tape and test object are imaged simultaneously. Methods of assessing other quantitative parameters such as emissivity of object, afterglow heat flux, reflection temperature change and surface temperature during flash thermography are also provided. Temperature imaging and normalized temperature contrast processing provide certain advantages over normalized image contrast processing by reducing effect of reflected energy in images and measurements, therefore providing better quantitative data. Examples of incorporating afterglow heat-flux and reflection temperature evolution in flash thermography simulation are also discussed.

Comparison of geothermal power conversion cycles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Elliott, D. G.

1976-01-01

Geothermal power conversion cycles are compared with respect to recovery of the available wellhead power. The cycles compared are flash steam, in which steam turbines are driven by steam separated from one or more flash stages; binary, in which heat is transferred from the brine to an organic turbine cycle; flash binary, in which heat is transferred from flashed steam to an organic turbine cycle; and dual steam, in which two-phase expanders are driven by the flashing steam-brine mixture and steam turbines by the separated steam. Expander efficiencies assumed are 0.7 for steam turbines, 0.8 for organic turbines, and 0.6 for two-phase expanders. The fraction of available wellhead power delivered by each cycle is found to be about the same at all brine temperatures: 0.65 with one stage and 0.7 with four stages for dual stream; 0.4 with one stage and 0.6 with four stages for flash steam; 0.5 for binary; and 0.3 with one stage and 0.5 with four stages for flash binary.

Evaluation of 1.5-T Cell Flash Memory Total Ionizing Dose Response

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Clark, Lawrence T.; Holbert, Keith E.; Adams, James W.; Navale, Harshad; Anderson, Blake C.

2015-12-01

Flash memory is an essential part of systems used in harsh environments, experienced by both terrestrial and aerospace TID applications. This paper presents studies of COTS flash memory TID hardness. While there is substantial literature on flash memory TID response, this work focuses for the first time on 1.5 transistor per cell flash memory. The experimental results show hardness varying from about 100 krad(Si) to over 250 krad(Si) depending on the usage model. We explore the circuit and device aspects of the results, based on the extensive reliability literature for this flash memory type. Failure modes indicate both device damage and circuit marginalities. Sector erase failure limits, but read only operation allows TID exceeding 200 krad(Si). The failures are analyzed by type.

Storm Physics and Lightning Properties over Northern Alabama during DC3

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Matthee, R.; Carey, L. D.; Bain, A. L.

2013-12-01

The Deep Convective Clouds and Chemistry (DC3) experiment seeks to examine the relationship between deep moist convection (DMC) and the production of nitrogen oxides (NOx) via lightning (LNOx). The focus of this study will be to examine integrated storm microphysics and lightning properties of DMC across northern Alabama (NA) during the DC3 campaign through use of polarimetric radar [UAHuntsville's Advanced Radar for Meteorological and Operational Radar (ARMOR)] and lightning mapping [National Aeronautical and Space Administration's (NASA) north Alabama Lightning Mapping Array (NA LMA)] platforms. Specifically, ARMOR and NA LMA are being used to explore the ability of radar inferred microphysical (e.g., ice mass, graupel volume) measurements to parameterize flash rates (F) and flash area for estimation of LNOX production in cloud resolving models. The flash area was calculated by using the 'convex hull' method. This method essentially draws a polygon around all the sources that comprise a flash. From this polygon, the convex hull area that describes the minimum polygon that circumscribes the flash extent is calculated. Two storms have been analyzed so far; one on 21 May 2012 (S1) and another on 11 June 2012 (S2), both of which were aircraft-penetrated during DC3. For S1 and S2, radar reflectivity (Z) estimates of precipitation ice mass (M) within the mixed-phase zone (-10°C to -40°C) were well correlated to the trend of lightning flash rate. However, a useful radar-based F parameterization must provide accurate quantification of rates in addition to proper trends. The difference reflectivity was used to estimate Z associated with ice and then a single Z-M relation was employed to calculate M in the mixed-phase zone. Using this approach it was estimated that S1 produced an order of magnitude greater M, but produced about a third of the total amount of flashes compared to S2. Expectations based on the non-inductive charging (NIC) theory suggest that the M-to-F ratio (M/F) should be stable from storm-to-storm, amongst other factors, all else being equal. Further investigation revealed that the mean mixed-phase Z was 11 dB higher in S1 compared to S2, suggesting larger diameters and lower concentrations of ice particles in S1. Reduction by an order of magnitude of the intercept parameter (N0) of an assumed exponential ice particle size distribution within the Z-M relation for S1 resulted in a proportional reduction in S1's inferred M and therefore a more comparable M/F ratio between the storms. Flash statistics between S1 and S2 revealed the following: S1 produced 1.92 flashes/minute and a total of 102 flashes, while S2 produced 3.45 flashes/minute and a total of 307 flashes. On average, S1 (S2) produced 212 (78) sources per flash and an average flash area of 89.53 km2 (53.85 km2). Thus, S1 produced fewer flashes, a lower F, but more sources per flash and larger flash areas as compared to S2. Ongoing analysis is exploring the tuning of N0 within the Z-M relation by the mean Z in the mixed-phase zone. The suitability of various M estimates and other radar properties (graupel volume, ice fluxes, anvil ice mass) for parameterizing F, flash area and LNOX will be investigated on different storm types across NA.

An Evaluation of Lightning Flash Rate Parameterizations Based on Observations of Colorado Storms during DC3

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Basarab, B.; Fuchs, B.; Rutledge, S. A.

2013-12-01

Predicting lightning activity in thunderstorms is important in order to accurately quantify the production of nitrogen oxides (NOx = NO + NO2) by lightning (LNOx). Lightning is an important global source of NOx, and since NOx is a chemical precursor to ozone, the climatological impacts of LNOx could be significant. Many cloud-resolving models rely on parameterizations to predict lightning and LNOx since the processes leading to charge separation and lightning discharge are not yet fully understood. This study evaluates predicted flash rates based on existing lightning parameterizations against flash rates observed for Colorado storms during the Deep Convective Clouds and Chemistry Experiment (DC3). Evaluating lightning parameterizations against storm observations is a useful way to possibly improve the prediction of flash rates and LNOx in models. Additionally, since convective storms that form in the eastern plains of Colorado can be different thermodynamically and electrically from storms in other regions, it is useful to test existing parameterizations against observations from these storms. We present an analysis of the dynamics, microphysics, and lightning characteristics of two case studies, severe storms that developed on 6 and 7 June 2012. This analysis includes dual-Doppler derived horizontal and vertical velocities, a hydrometeor identification based on polarimetric radar variables using the CSU-CHILL radar, and insight into the charge structure using observations from the northern Colorado Lightning Mapping Array (LMA). Flash rates were inferred from the LMA data using a flash counting algorithm. We have calculated various microphysical and dynamical parameters for these storms that have been used in empirical flash rate parameterizations. In particular, maximum vertical velocity has been used to predict flash rates in some cloud-resolving chemistry simulations. We diagnose flash rates for the 6 and 7 June storms using this parameterization and compare to observed flash rates. For the 6 June storm, a preliminary analysis of aircraft observations of storm inflow and outflow is presented in order to place flash rates (and other lightning statistics) in the context of storm chemistry. An approach to a possibly improved LNOx parameterization scheme using different lightning metrics such as flash area will be discussed.

Flash Location, Size, and Rates Relative to the Evolving Kinematics and Microphysics of the 29 May 2012 DC3 Supercell Storm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

MacGorman, D. R.; DiGangi, E.; Ziegler, C.; Biggerstaff, M. I.; Betten, D.; Bruning, E. C.

2014-12-01

A supercell thunderstorm was observed on 29 May 2012 during the Deep Convective Clouds and Chemistry (DC3) experiment. This storm was part of a cluster of severe storms and produced 5" hail, an EF-1 tornado, and copious lightning over the course of a few hours. During a period in which flash rates were increasing rapidly, observations were obtained from mobile polarimetric radars and a balloon-borne electric field meter (EFM) and particle imager, while aircraft sampled the chemistry of the inflow and anvil. In addition, the storm was within the domain of the 3-dimensional Oklahoma Lightning Mapping Array (LMA) and the S-band KTLX WSR-88D radar. The focus of this paper is the evolution of flash rates, the location of flash initiations, and the distribution of flash size and flash extent density as they relate to the evolving kinematics and microphysics of the storm for the approximately 30-minute period in which triple-Doppler coverage was available. Besides analyzing reflectivity structure and three-dimensional winds for the entire period, we examine mixing ratios of cloud water, cloud ice, rain, and graupel/hail that have been retrieved by a Lagrangian analysis for three select times, one each at the beginning, middle, and end of the period. Flashes in an around the updraft of this storm were typically small. Flash size tended to increase, and flash rates tended to decrease as distance from the updraft increased. Although flash initiations were most frequent near the updraft, some flashes were initiated near the edge of 30 dBZ cores and propagated into the anvil. Later, some flashes were initiated in the anvil itself, in vertical cells that formed and became electrified tens of kilometers downshear of the main body of the storm. Considerable lightning structure was inferred to be in regions dominated by cloud ice in the upper part of the storm. The continual small discharges in the overshooting top of the storm tended to be near or within 15 dBZ contours, although occasional discharges appeared to extend above the storm.

Exceptional sequence of severe thunderstorms and related flash floods in May and June 2016 in Germany - Part 1: Meteorological background

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Piper, David; Kunz, Michael; Ehmele, Florian; Mohr, Susanna; Mühr, Bernhard; Kron, Andreas; Daniell, James

2016-12-01

During a 15-day episode from 26 May to 9 June 2016, Germany was affected by an exceptionally large number of severe thunderstorms. Heavy rainfall, related flash floods and creek flooding, hail, and tornadoes caused substantial losses running into billions of euros (EUR). This paper analyzes the key features of the severe thunderstorm episode using extreme value statistics, an aggregated precipitation severity index, and two different objective weather-type classification schemes. It is shown that the thunderstorm episode was caused by the interaction of high moisture content, low thermal stability, weak wind speed, and large-scale lifting by surface lows, persisting over almost 2 weeks due to atmospheric blocking.For the long-term assessment of the recent thunderstorm episode, we draw comparisons to a 55-year period (1960-2014) regarding clusters of convective days with variable length (2-15 days) based on precipitation severity, convection-favoring weather patterns, and compound events with low stability and weak flow. It is found that clusters with more than 8 consecutive convective days are very rare. For example, a 10-day cluster with convective weather patterns prevailing during the recent thunderstorm episode has a probability of less than 1 %.

Evolutionary Grids of Accreting White Dwarf Companions in Cataclysmic Variables

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Benjamin, J.; Jensen, M.; Nadeau, S.; Nelson, L. A.

2003-12-01

We analyze the evolution of accreting white dwarfs in binary systems for a wide range of initial conditions. Specifically, evolutionary tracks are calculated for CO white dwarfs with masses in the range of 0.6 - 1.3 solar masses and accreting H-rich gas at rates of between 10-6 to 10-10 solar masses per year. Since the white dwarfs in these binaries could be very young or very old at the onset of mass transfer we simulated this possibility by investigating the evolution for a large range of internal temperatures. Thus most of the sequences generated were not thermally relaxed at the onset of mass transfer (and the thermonuclear flashes were not cyclic). We discuss the temporal dependence of the interior properties (envelope readjustment on a thermal timescale and compressional heating) on the initial conditions. Particular attention is paid to the white dwarfs accretors that remained small (relative to the Roche lobe radius) during the shell flash event. Finally, we use the results of these models to comment on the observed properties of Supersoft X-ray sources. This research was supported in part by funds from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (Canada).

A comparative study on the effect of "black cohosh" and "evening primrose oil" on menopausal hot flashes.

PubMed

Mehrpooya, Maryam; Rabiee, Soghra; Larki-Harchegani, Amir; Fallahian, Amir-Mohammad; Moradi, Abbas; Ataei, Sara; Javad, Masoumeh Taravati

2018-01-01

Hot flashes are considered to be a common experience for menopausal women and they can compromise the quality of life. The objective of this study is to assess the efficacy of Cimicifuga racemosa in comparison with evening primrose oil (EPO) in postmenopausal women with menopause-related symptoms. This study was performed on 80 postmenopausal women with hot flashes. The participants were randomly divided into two groups by blocked randomization. The participants of one group received black cohosh and the other group received EPO for 8 weeks. The severity and number of hot flashes and quality of life were measured by four-point scale, and the Menopause-Specific Quality of Life (MENQOL) questionnaire at pre-intervention, 1 st , 4 th , and 8 th weeks after treatment. Data were analyzed in SPSS Version 16 using independent t -test, Chi-square, and Fisher's exact test. Average severity of hot flashes in both groups and number of hot flashes in black cohosh group in 8 th week were significantly lower than 1 st week ( P < 0.001), but number of hot flashes in primrose oil group in 8 th week showed no significant differences ( P = 0.32). The number of hot flashes and quality of life score in black cohosh arm compared to EPO showed a significant decrease in the 8 th week ( P < 0.05). All MENQOL scores were significantly improved in two groups ( P < 0.05), but the percentage of improvement in black cohosh arm was significantly superior to EPO group. Both herbs were effective in reduction of severity of hot flashes and improvement of the quality of life, but it seems that black cohosh is more effective than primrose oil because it was able to reduce the number of hot flashes too.

Mitochondrial flash as a novel biomarker of mitochondrial respiration in the heart.

PubMed

Gong, Guohua; Liu, Xiaoyun; Zhang, Huiliang; Sheu, Shey-Shing; Wang, Wang

2015-10-01

Mitochondrial respiration through electron transport chain (ETC) activity generates ATP and reactive oxygen species in eukaryotic cells. The modulation of mitochondrial respiration in vivo or under physiological conditions remains elusive largely due to the lack of appropriate approach to monitor ETC activity in a real-time manner. Here, we show that ETC-coupled mitochondrial flash is a novel biomarker for monitoring mitochondrial respiration under pathophysiological conditions in cultured adult cardiac myocyte and perfused beating heart. Through real-time confocal imaging, we follow the frequency of a transient bursting fluorescent signal, named mitochondrial flash, from individual mitochondria within intact cells expressing a mitochondrial matrix-targeted probe, mt-cpYFP (mitochondrial-circularly permuted yellow fluorescent protein). This mt-cpYFP recorded mitochondrial flash has been shown to be composed of a major superoxide signal with a minor alkalization signal within the mitochondrial matrix. Through manipulating physiological substrates for mitochondrial respiration, we find a close coupling between flash frequency and the ETC electron flow, as measured by oxygen consumption rate in cardiac myocyte. Stimulating electron flow under physiological conditions increases flash frequency. On the other hand, partially block or slowdown electron flow by inhibiting the F0F1 ATPase, which represents a pathological condition, transiently increases then decreases flash frequency. Limiting electron entrance at complex I by knocking out Ndufs4, an assembling subunit of complex I, suppresses mitochondrial flash activity. These results suggest that mitochondrial electron flow can be monitored by real-time imaging of mitochondrial flash. The mitochondrial flash frequency could be used as a novel biomarker for mitochondrial respiration under physiological and pathological conditions. Copyright © 2015 the American Physiological Society.

Single-nucleus analysis of accessible chromatin in developing mouse forebrain reveals cell-type-specific transcriptional regulation.

PubMed

Preissl, Sebastian; Fang, Rongxin; Huang, Hui; Zhao, Yuan; Raviram, Ramya; Gorkin, David U; Zhang, Yanxiao; Sos, Brandon C; Afzal, Veena; Dickel, Diane E; Kuan, Samantha; Visel, Axel; Pennacchio, Len A; Zhang, Kun; Ren, Bing

2018-03-01

Analysis of chromatin accessibility can reveal transcriptional regulatory sequences, but heterogeneity of primary tissues poses a significant challenge in mapping the precise chromatin landscape in specific cell types. Here we report single-nucleus ATAC-seq, a combinatorial barcoding-assisted single-cell assay for transposase-accessible chromatin that is optimized for use on flash-frozen primary tissue samples. We apply this technique to the mouse forebrain through eight developmental stages. Through analysis of more than 15,000 nuclei, we identify 20 distinct cell populations corresponding to major neuronal and non-neuronal cell types. We further define cell-type-specific transcriptional regulatory sequences, infer potential master transcriptional regulators and delineate developmental changes in forebrain cellular composition. Our results provide insight into the molecular and cellular dynamics that underlie forebrain development in the mouse and establish technical and analytical frameworks that are broadly applicable to other heterogeneous tissues.

Geostationary Lightning Mapper: Lessons Learned from Post Launch Test

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Edgington, S.; Tillier, C. E.; Demroff, H.; VanBezooijen, R.; Christian, H. J., Jr.; Bitzer, P. M.

2017-12-01

Pre-launch calibration and algorithm design for the GOES Geostationary Lightning Mapper resulted in a successful and trouble-free on-orbit activation and post-launch test sequence. Within minutes of opening the GLM aperture door on January 4th, 2017, lightning was detected across the entire field of view. During the six-month post-launch test period, numerous processing parameters on board the instrument and in the ground processing algorithms were fine-tuned. Demonstrated on-orbit performance exceeded pre-launch predictions. We provide an overview of the ground calibration sequence, on-orbit tuning of the instrument, tuning of the ground processing algorithms (event filtering and navigation). We also touch on new insights obtained from analysis of a large and growing archive of raw GLM data, containing 3e8 flash detections derived from over 1e10 full-disk images of the Earth.

The impact of red light running camera flashes on younger and older drivers' attention and oculomotor control.

PubMed

Wright, Timothy J; Vitale, Thomas; Boot, Walter R; Charness, Neil

2015-12-01

Recent empirical evidence has suggested that the flashes associated with red light running cameras (RLRCs) distract younger drivers, pulling attention away from the roadway and delaying processing of safety-relevant events. Considering the perceptual and attentional declines that occur with age, older drivers may be especially susceptible to the distracting effects of RLRC flashes, particularly in situations in which the flash is more salient (a bright flash at night compared with the day). The current study examined how age and situational factors potentially influence attention capture by RLRC flashes using covert (cuing effects) and overt (eye movement) indices of capture. We manipulated the salience of the flash by varying its luminance and contrast with respect to the background of the driving scene (either day or night scenes). Results of 2 experiments suggest that simulated RLRC flashes capture observers' attention, but, surprisingly, no age differences in capture were observed. However, an analysis examining early and late eye movements revealed that older adults may have been strategically delaying their eye movements in order to avoid capture. Additionally, older adults took longer to disengage attention following capture, suggesting at least 1 age-related disadvantage in capture situations. Findings have theoretical implications for understanding age differences in attention capture, especially with respect to capture in real-world scenes, and inform future work that should examine how the distracting effects of RLRC flashes influence driver behavior. (c) 2015 APA, all rights reserved).

Remote collection and analysis of witness reports on flash floods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gourley, J. J.; Erlingis, J. M.; Smith, T. M.; Ortega, K. L.; Hong, Y.

2010-11-01

SummaryTypically, flash floods are studied ex post facto in response to a major impact event. A complement to field investigations is developing a detailed database of flash flood events, including minor events and null reports (i.e., where heavy rain occurred but there was no flash flooding), based on public survey questions conducted in near-real time. The Severe hazards analysis and verification experiment (SHAVE) has been in operation at the National Severe Storms Laboratory (NSSL) in Norman, OK, USA during the summers since 2006. The experiment employs undergraduate students to analyse real-time products from weather radars, target specific regions within the conterminous US, and poll public residences and businesses regarding the occurrence and severity of hail, wind, tornadoes, and now flash floods. In addition to providing a rich learning experience for students, SHAVE has also been successful in creating high-resolution datasets of severe hazards used for algorithm and model verification. This paper describes the criteria used to initiate the flash flood survey, the specific questions asked and information entered to the database, and then provides an analysis of results for flash flood data collected during the summer of 2008. It is envisioned that specific details provided by the SHAVE flash flood observation database will complement databases collected by operational agencies (i.e., US National Weather Service Storm Data reports) and thus lead to better tools to predict the likelihood of flash floods and ultimately reduce their impacts on society.

Mutational analysis of FLASH and PTPN13 genes in colorectal carcinomas.

PubMed

Jeong, Eun Goo; Lee, Sung Hak; Yoo, Nam Jin; Lee, Sug Hyung

2008-01-01

The Fas-Fas ligand system is considered a major pathway for induction of apoptosis in cells and tissues. FLASH was identified as a pro-apoptotic protein that transmits apoptosis signal during Fas-mediated apoptosis. PTPN13 interacts with Fas and functions as both suppressor and inducer of Fas-mediated apoptosis. There are polyadenine tracts in both FLASH (A8 and A9 in exon 8) and PTPN13 (A8 in exon 7) genes that could be frameshift mutation targets in colorectal carcinomas. Because genes encoding proteins in Fas-mediated apoptosis frequently harbor somatic mutations in cancers, we explored the possibility as to whether mutations of FLASH and PTPN13 are a feature of colorectal carcinomas. We analysed human FLASH in exon 8 and PTPN13 in exon 7 for the detection of somatic mutations in 103 colorectal carcinomas by a polymerase chain reaction (PCR)- based single-strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP). We detected two mutations in FLASH gene, but none in PTPN13 gene. However, the two mutations were not frameshift (deletion or insertion) mutations in the polyadenine tracts of FLASH. The two mutations consisted of a deletion mutation (c.3734-3737delAGAA) and a missense mutation (c.3703A>C). These data indicate that frameshift mutation in the polyadenine tracts in both FLASH and PTPN13 genes is rare in colorectal carcinomas. Also, the data suggest that both FLASH and PTPN13 mutations in the polyadenine tracts may not have a crucial role in the pathogenesis of colorectal carcinomas.

Differentiation of debris-flow and flash-flood deposits: implications for paleoflood investigations

USGS Publications Warehouse

Waythomas, Christopher F.; Jarrett, Robert D.; ,

1993-01-01

Debris flows and flash floods are common geomorphic processes in the Colorado Rocky Mountain Front Range and foothills. Usually, debris flows and flash floods are associated with excess summer rainfall or snowmelt, in areas were unconsolidated surficial deposits are relatively thick and slopes are steep. In the Front Range and foothills, flash flooding is limited to areas below about 2300m whereas, debris flow activity is common throughout the foothill and alpine zones and is not necessarily elevation limited. Because flash floods and debris flows transport large quantities of bouldery sediment, the resulting deposits appear somewhat similar even though such deposits were produced by different processes. Discharge estimates based on debris-flow deposits interpreted as flash-flood deposits have large errors because techniques for discharge retrodiction were developed for water floods with negligible sediment concentrations. Criteria for differentiating between debris-flow and flash-flood deposits are most useful for deposits that are fresh and well-exposed. However, with the passage of time, both debris-flow and flash-flood deposits become modified by the combined effects of weathering, colluviation, changes in surface morphology, and in some instances removal of interstitial sediment. As a result, some of the physical characteristics of the deposits become more alike. Criteria especially applicable to older deposits are needed. We differentiate flash-flood from debris-flow and other deposits using clast fabric measurements and other morphologic and sedimentologic techniques (e.g., deposit morphology, clast lithology, particle size and shape, geomorphic setting).

Cloud-to-ground lightning in tropical cyclones: A study of Hurricanes Hugo (1989) and Jerry (1989)

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

Samsury, C.E.; Orville, R.E.

1994-08-01

Cloud-to-ground lightning characteristics of two Atlantic tropical cyclones of 1989, Hurricanes Hugo and Jerry, are presented. Statistics on the number of flashes, location, polarity, peak currents, and multiplicity (number of strokes per flash) are examined in an 18-h period divided into prelandfall and postlandfall categories. Land-based and aircraft lower fuselage radar data are also analyzed to determine the nature of the precipitation in which lightning is detected. Jerry is found to be more electrically active than Hugo, with 691 flashes detected compared with 33 flashes for Hugo. The majority of these flashes, regardless of the polarity, are located in themore » right front and right rear quadrants of the hurricanes, almost exclusively in outer convective rainbands. One reason for the large difference in the number of flashes between the two storms is the presence of many convective rainbands in Jerry, compared to only a few in Hugo. More than 20% of the flashes in each storm have a positive polarity. Median negative peak currents of the first return strokes are 49 kA in Hugo and 40 kA in Jerry. Median positive peak currents are 65 kA in Hugo and 52 kA in Jerry. The mean multiplicity of the negative flashes is 1.7 in Hugo and 2.6 in Jerry. Twenty percent of the negative flashes detected in Jerry have a multiplicity of 4 or higher.« less

The Impact of Red Light Running Camera Flashes on Younger and Older Drivers' Attention and Oculomotor Control

PubMed Central

Wright, Timothy J.; Vitale, Thomas; Boot, Walter R; Charness, Neil

2015-01-01

Recent empirical evidence suggests that the flashes associated with red light running cameras (RLRCs) distract younger drivers, pulling attention away from the roadway and delaying processing of safety-relevant events. Considering the perceptual and attentional declines that occur with age, older drivers may be especially susceptible to the distracting effects of RLRC flashes, particularly in situations in which the flash is more salient (a bright flash at night compared to the day). The current study examined how age and situational factors potentially influence attention capture by RLRC flashes using covert (cuing effects) and overt (eye movement) indices of capture. We manipulated the salience of the flash by varying its luminance and contrast with respect to the background of the driving scene (either day or night scenes). Results of two experiments suggest that simulated RLRC flashes capture observers' attention, but, surprisingly, no age differences in capture were observed. However, an analysis examining early and late eye movements revealed that older adults may have been strategically delaying their eye movements in order to avoid capture. Additionally, older adults took longer to disengage attention following capture, suggesting at least one age-related disadvantage in capture situations. Findings have theoretical implications for understanding age differences in attention capture, especially with respect to capture in real-world scenes, and inform future work that should examine how the distracting effects of RLRC flashes influence driver behavior. PMID:26479014

Genetic polymorphisms, hormone levels, and hot flashes in midlife women.

PubMed

Schilling, Chrissy; Gallicchio, Lisa; Miller, Susan R; Langenberg, Patricia; Zacur, Howard; Flaws, Jodi A

2007-06-20

Hot flashes disrupt the lives of millions of women each year. Although hot flashes are a public health concern, little is known about risk factors that predispose women to hot flashes. Thus, the objective of this study was to examine whether sex steroid hormone levels and genetic polymorphisms in hormone biosynthesis and degradation enzymes are associated with the risk of hot flashes. In a cross-sectional study design, midlife women aged 45-54 years (n=639) were recruited from Baltimore and its surrounding counties. Participants completed a questionnaire and donated a blood sample for steroid hormone analysis and genotyping. The associations between genetic polymorphisms and hormone levels, as well as the associations between genetic polymorphisms, hormone levels, and hot flashes were examined using statistical models. A polymorphism in CYP1B1 was associated with lower dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate (DHEA-S) and progesterone levels, while a polymorphism in CYP19 (aromatase) was associated with higher testosterone and DHEA-S levels. Lower progesterone and sex hormone binding globulin levels, lower free estradiol index, and a higher ratio of total androgens to total estrogens were associated with the experiencing of hot flashes. A polymorphism in CYP1B1 and a polymorphism in 3betaHSD were both associated with hot flashes. Some genetic polymorphisms may be associated with altered levels of hormones in midlife women. Further, selected genetic polymorphisms and altered hormone levels may be associated with the risk of hot flashes in midlife women.

Long-term Stability of the WFC3 Post-Flash LED Lamp

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Martlin, Catherine; Baggett, Sylvia M.

2017-06-01

We report the results of a study of the long-term stability of the LED lamp used in post-flashing WFC3/UVIS images (Martlin, C and Baggett, S., 2017). Having analyzed 644 sub-array exposures taken over the course of just over 3 years we find no significant long-term trends in the LED lamp brightness. The average percentage change per year over all FLASH level and shutter combinations is found to be 0.15% per year with an uncertainty of +/- 0.24% per year. The maximum measured percentage change per year was 0.39% for the highest FLASH level of 20 e- on shutter A which would indicate a change of less than 1 e-/pixel over the roughly 3 years since post-flashing began.There are, however, occasional short-term deviations in the LED output. The average minimum and maximum outliers over all FLASH level and shutter combination subsets are 4.1% below and 3.5% above, respectively, the mean of that subset. The maximum outlier over all the sets is 5.8% above the normalized mean value, for FLASH level 3/shutter A. The minimum outlier over all sets is also for FLASH level 3/shutter A and is 8.9% below the normalized mean value. Investigation of these outliers has revealed no systematic cause for the excursions and we recommend that users continue using the post-flash as they would have previously.

Optimizing preservation protocols to extract high-quality RNA from different tissues of echinoderms for next-generation sequencing.

PubMed

Pérez-Portela, Rocío; Riesgo, Ana

2013-09-01

Transcriptomic information provides fundamental insights into biological processes. Extraction of quality RNA is a challenging step, and preservation and extraction protocols need to be adjusted in many cases. Our objectives were to optimize preservation protocols for isolation of high-quality RNA from diverse echinoderm tissues and to compare the utility of parameters as absorbance ratios and RIN values to assess RNA quality. Three different tissues (gonad, oesophagus and coelomocytes) were selected from the sea urchin Arbacia lixula. Solid tissues were flash-frozen and stored at -80 °C until processed. Four preservation treatments were applied to coelomocytes: flash freezing and storage at -80 °C, RNAlater and storage at -20 °C, preservation in TRIzol reagent and storage at -80 °C and direct extraction with TRIzol from fresh cells. Extractions of total RNA were performed with a modified TRIzol protocol for all tissues. Our results showed high values of RNA quantity and quality for all tissues, showing nonsignificant differences among them. However, while flash freezing was effective for solid tissues, it was inadequate for coelomocytes because of the low quality of the RNA extractions. Coelomocytes preserved in RNAlater displayed large variability in RNA integrity and insufficient RNA amount for further isolation of mRNA. TRIzol was the most efficient system for stabilizing RNA which resulted on high RNA quality and quantity. We did not detect correlation between absorbance ratios and RNA integrity. The best strategies for assessing RNA integrity was the visualization of 18S rRNA and 28S rRNA bands in agarose gels and estimation of RIN values with Agilent Bioanalyzer chips. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Evaluating Non-In-Place Update Techniques for Flash-Based Transaction Processing Systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Yongkun; Goda, Kazuo; Kitsuregawa, Masaru

Recently, flash memory is emerging as the storage device. With price sliding fast, the cost per capacity is approaching to that of SATA disk drives. So far flash memory has been widely deployed in consumer electronics even partly in mobile computing environments. For enterprise systems, the deployment has been studied by many researchers and developers. In terms of the access performance characteristics, flash memory is quite different from disk drives. Without the mechanical components, flash memory has very high random read performance, whereas it has a limited random write performance because of the erase-before-write design. The random write performance of flash memory is comparable with or even worse than that of disk drives. Due to such a performance asymmetry, naive deployment to enterprise systems may not exploit the potential performance of flash memory at full blast. This paper studies the effectiveness of using non-in-place-update (NIPU) techniques through the IO path of flash-based transaction processing systems. Our deliberate experiments using both open-source DBMS and commercial DBMS validated the potential benefits; x3.0 to x6.6 performance improvement was confirmed by incorporating non-in-place-update techniques into file system without any modification of applications or storage devices.

FLASH LIDAR Based Relative Navigation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brazzel, Jack; Clark, Fred; Milenkovic, Zoran

2014-01-01

Relative navigation remains the most challenging part of spacecraft rendezvous and docking. In recent years, flash LIDARs, have been increasingly selected as the go-to sensors for proximity operations and docking. Flash LIDARS are generally lighter and require less power that scanning Lidars. Flash LIDARs do not have moving parts, and they are capable of tracking multiple targets as well as generating a 3D map of a given target. However, there are some significant drawbacks of Flash Lidars that must be resolved if their use is to be of long-term significance. Overcoming the challenges of Flash LIDARs for navigation-namely, low technology readiness level, lack of historical performance data, target identification, existence of false positives, and performance of vision processing algorithms as intermediaries between the raw sensor data and the Kalman filter-requires a world-class testing facility, such as the Lockheed Martin Space Operations Simulation Center (SOSC). Ground-based testing is a critical step for maturing the next-generation flash LIDAR-based spacecraft relative navigation. This paper will focus on the tests of an integrated relative navigation system conducted at the SOSC in January 2014. The intent of the tests was to characterize and then improve the performance of relative navigation, while addressing many of the flash LIDAR challenges mentioned above. A section on navigation performance and future recommendation completes the discussion.

Simulated CONUS Flash Flood Climatologies from Distributed Hydrologic Models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Flamig, Z.; Gourley, J. J.; Vergara, H. J.; Kirstetter, P. E.; Hong, Y.

2016-12-01

This study will describe a CONUS flash flood climatology created over the period from 2002 through 2011. The MRMS reanalysis precipitation dataset was used as forcing into the Ensemble Framework For Flash Flood Forecasting (EF5). This high resolution 1-sq km 5-minute dataset is ideal for simulating flash floods with a distributed hydrologic model. EF5 features multiple water balance components including SAC-SMA, CREST, and a hydrophobic model all coupled with kinematic wave routing. The EF5/SAC-SMA and EF5/CREST water balance schemes were used for the creation of dual flash flood climatologies based on the differing water balance principles. For the period from 2002 through 2011 the daily maximum streamflow, unit streamflow, and time of peak streamflow was stored along with the minimum soil moisture. These variables are used to describe the states of the soils right before a flash flood event and the peak streamflow that was simulated during the flash flood event. The results will be shown, compared and contrasted. The resulting model simulations will be verified on basins less than 1,000-sq km with USGS gauges to ensure the distributed hydrologic models are reliable. The results will also be compared spatially to Storm Data flash flood event observations to judge the degree of agreement between the simulated climatologies and observations.

Perceived shifts of flashed stimuli by visible and invisible object motion.

PubMed

Watanabe, Katsumi; Sato, Takashi R; Shimojo, Shinsuke

2003-01-01

Perceived positions of flashed stimuli can be altered by motion signals in the visual field-position capture (Whitney and Cavanagh, 2000 Nature Neuroscience 3 954-959). We examined whether position capture of flashed stimuli depends on the spatial relationship between moving and flashed stimuli, and whether the phenomenal permanence of a moving object behind an occluding surface (tunnel effect; Michotte 1950 Acta Psychologica 7 293-322) can produce position capture. Observers saw two objects (circles) moving vertically in opposite directions, one in each visual hemifield. Two horizontal bars were simultaneously flashed at horizontally collinear positions with the fixation point at various timings. When the movement of the object was fully visible, the flashed bar appeared shifted in the motion direction of the circle. But this position-capture effect occurred only when the bar was presented ahead of or on the moving circle. Even when the motion trajectory was covered by an opaque surface and the bar was flashed after complete occlusion of the circle, the position-capture effect was still observed, though the positional asymmetry was less clear. These results show that movements of both visible and 'hidden' objects can modulate the perception of positions of flashed stimuli and suggest that a high-level representation of 'objects in motion' plays an important role in the position-capture effect.

Increasing flash droughts over China during the recent global warming hiatus

PubMed Central

Wang, Linying; Yuan, Xing; Xie, Zhenghui; Wu, Peili; Li, Yaohui

2016-01-01

The recent global warming slowdown or hiatus after the big El Niño event in 1997/98 raises the questions of whether terrestrial hydrological cycle is being decelerated and how do the hydrological extremes respond to the hiatus. However, the rapidly developing drought events that are termed as “flash droughts” accompanied by extreme heat, low soil moisture and high evapotranspiration (ET), occurred frequently around the world, and caused devastating impacts on crop yields and water supply. Here, we investigate the long-term trend and variability of flash droughts over China. Flash droughts are most likely to occur over humid and semi-humid regions, such as southern and northeastern China. Flash drought averaged over China increased by 109% from 1979 to 2010, and the increase was mainly due to a long term warming of temperature (50%), followed by the contributions from decreasing soil moisture and increasing ET. There was a slight drop in temperature after 1997, but the increasing trend of flash droughts was tripled. Further results indicate that the decreasing temperature was compensated by the accelerated drying trends of soil moisture and enhanced ET, leading to an acceleration of flash droughts during the warming hiatus. The anthropogenic warming in the next few decades may exacerbate future flash drought conditions in China. PMID:27513724

The buzz-lag effect.

PubMed

Cellini, Cristiano; Scocchia, Lisa; Drewing, Knut

2016-10-01

In the flash-lag illusion, a brief visual flash and a moving object presented at the same location appear to be offset with the flash trailing the moving object. A considerable amount of studies investigated the visual flash-lag effect, and flash-lag-like effects have also been observed in audition, and cross-modally between vision and audition. In the present study, we investigate whether a similar effect can also be observed when using only haptic stimuli. A fast vibration (or buzz, lasting less than 20 ms) was applied to the moving finger of the observers and employed as a "haptic flash." Participants performed a two-alternative forced-choice (2AFC) task where they had to judge whether the moving finger was located to the right or to the left of the stationary finger at the time of the buzz. We used two different movement velocities (Slow and Fast conditions). We found that the moving finger was systematically misperceived to be ahead of the stationary finger when the two were physically aligned. This result can be interpreted as a purely haptic analogue of the flash-lag effect, which we refer to as "buzz-lag effect." The buzz-lag effect can be well accounted for by the temporal-sampling explanation of flash-lag-like effects.

Flashes and floaters - a practical approach to assessment and management.

PubMed

Kahawita, Shyalle; Simon, Sumu; Gilhotra, Jolly

2014-04-01

Flashes and floaters are common ophthalmic issues for which patients may initially present to their general practitioner. It may be a sign of benign, 
age-related changes of the vitreous or more serious retinal detachment. This article provides a guide to the assessment and management of a patient presenting with flashes and floaters. Although most patients presenting with flashes and floaters have benign 
age-related changes, they must be referred to an ophthalmologist to rule out sight-threatening conditions. Key examination features include the nature of the flashes and floaters, whether one or both eyes are affected and changes in visual acuity or visual field.

An Improved B+ Tree for Flash File Systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Havasi, Ferenc

Nowadays mobile devices such as mobile phones, mp3 players and PDAs are becoming evermore common. Most of them use flash chips as storage. To store data efficiently on flash, it is necessary to adapt ordinary file systems because they are designed for use on hard disks. Most of the file systems use some kind of search tree to store index information, which is very important from a performance aspect. Here we improved the B+ search tree algorithm so as to make flash devices more efficient. Our implementation of this solution saves 98%-99% of the flash operations, and is now the part of the Linux kernel.

Gun muzzle blast and flash

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Klingenberg, Guenter; Heimerl, Joseph M.

A repository of fundamental experimental and analytical data concerning the complex phenomena associated with gun-muzzle blast and flash effects is presented, proceeding from gun muzzle signatures to modern gun-propulsion concepts, interior and transitional ballistics, and characterizations of blast-wave research and muzzle flash. Data are presented in support of a novel hypothesis which explains the ignition of secondary flash and elucidates the means for its suppression. Both chemical and mechanical (often competing) methods of flash suppression are treated. The historical work of Kesslau and Ladenburg is noted, together with French, British, Japanese and American research efforts and current techniques of experimental characterization for gun muzzle phenomena.

Lightning rates relative to tornadic storm evolution on 22 May 1981

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Macgorman, Donald R.; Burgess, Donald W.; Mazur, Vladislav; Rust, W. David; Taylor, William L.

1989-01-01

Lightning and Doppler radar data for two tornadic storms in Oklahoma on May 22, 1981 are used to analyze ground flash rates relative to the time of tornadoes. It is found that the ground flash rates had no obvious relationship with the tornado times, although the stroke rate in both storms was greatest after the tornadic stage ended. The variations in the cyclone shear and the intracloud flash rates within 10 km of the mesocyclone region are examined. The results suggest that most tornadic storms have an increase in total flash rates near the time of the tornado and that this increase is often dominated by intracloud flashes.

Simulation of flashing signal operations.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1982-01-01

Various guidelines that have been proposed for the operation of traffic signals in the flashing mode were reviewed. The use of existing traffic simulation procedures to evaluate flashing signals was examined and a study methodology for simulating and...

DefenseLink Special: Doolittle Raid, April 18, 1942

Science.gov Websites

enhanced viewing {Flash 8} Macromedia Flash Player 8 required Download free Macromedia Flash Player Download free Internet Explorer DOOLITTLE RAIDERS – Retired Lt. Col. Chase Nelson, a Doolittle Raider

Hot flashes, core body temperature, and metabolic parameters in breast cancer survivors.

PubMed

Carpenter, Janet S; Gilchrist, Janet M; Chen, Kong; Gautam, Shiva; Freedman, Robert R

2004-01-01

To examine core body temperature, energy expenditure, and respiratory quotient among breast cancer survivors experiencing hot flashes and compare these data to published studies from healthy women. In an observational study, nine breast cancer survivors with daily hot flashes who met specified criteria spent 24 hours in a temperature- and humidity-controlled whole-room indirect calorimeter (ie, metabolic room). Demographic and disease/treatment information were obtained and the following were measured: hot flashes via sternal skin conductance monitoring (sampled every second); core body temperature via an ingested radiotelemetry pill (sampled every 10 seconds); and energy expenditure and respiratory quotient via a whole-room indirect calorimeter (calculated every minute). Circadian analysis of core temperature indicated wide variability with disrupted circadian rhythm noted in all women. Core temperature began to rise 20 minutes pre-flash to 7 minutes pre-flash (0.09 degrees C increase). Increases in energy expenditure and respiratory quotient increased with each hot flash. Findings are comparable to published data from healthy women and warrant replication in larger, more diverse samples of women treated for breast cancer.

A Method to Measure and Estimate Normalized Contrast in Infrared Flash Thermography

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Koshti, Ajay M.

2016-01-01

The paper presents further development in normalized contrast processing used in flash infrared thermography method. Method of computing normalized image or pixel intensity contrast, and normalized temperature contrast are provided. Methods of converting image contrast to temperature contrast and vice versa are provided. Normalized contrast processing in flash thermography is useful in quantitative analysis of flash thermography data including flaw characterization and comparison of experimental results with simulation. Computation of normalized temperature contrast involves use of flash thermography data acquisition set-up with high reflectivity foil and high emissivity tape such that the foil, tape and test object are imaged simultaneously. Methods of assessing other quantitative parameters such as emissivity of object, afterglow heat flux, reflection temperature change and surface temperature during flash thermography are also provided. Temperature imaging and normalized temperature contrast processing provide certain advantages over normalized image contrast processing by reducing effect of reflected energy in images and measurements, therefore providing better quantitative data. Examples of incorporating afterglow heat-flux and reflection temperature evolution in flash thermography simulation are also discussed.

Does underwater flash photography affect the behaviour, movement and site persistence of seahorses?

PubMed

Harasti, D; Gladstone, W

2013-11-01

The effect of flash photography on seahorse species has never been tested. An experiment was established to test the effect of flash photography and the handling of Hippocampus whitei, a medium-sized seahorse species endemic to Australia, on their behavioural responses, movements and site persistence. A total of 24 H. whitei were utilized in the experiment with eight in each of the three treatments (flash photography, handling and control). The effect of underwater flash photography on H. whitei movements was not significant; however, the effect of handling H. whitei to take a photograph had a significant effect on their short-term behavioural responses to the photographer. Kaplan-Meier log-rank test revealed that there was no significant difference in site persistence of H. whitei from each of the three treatments and that flash photography had no long-term effects on their site persistence. It is concluded that the use of flash photography by divers is a safe and viable technique with H. whitei, particularly if photographs can be used for individual identification purposes. © 2013 The Fisheries Society of the British Isles.

CCD high-speed videography system with new concepts and techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zheng, Zengrong; Zhao, Wenyi; Wu, Zhiqiang

1997-05-01

A novel CCD high speed videography system with brand-new concepts and techniques is developed by Zhejiang University recently. The system can send a series of short flash pulses to the moving object. All of the parameters, such as flash numbers, flash durations, flash intervals, flash intensities and flash colors, can be controlled according to needs by the computer. A series of moving object images frozen by flash pulses, carried information of moving object, are recorded by a CCD video camera, and result images are sent to a computer to be frozen, recognized and processed with special hardware and software. Obtained parameters can be displayed, output as remote controlling signals or written into CD. The highest videography frequency is 30,000 images per second. The shortest image freezing time is several microseconds. The system has been applied to wide fields of energy, chemistry, medicine, biological engineering, aero- dynamics, explosion, multi-phase flow, mechanics, vibration, athletic training, weapon development and national defense engineering. It can also be used in production streamline to carry out the online, real-time monitoring and controlling.

Characteristics of lightning flashes generating dancing sprites above thunderstorms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Soula, Serge; Mlynarczyk, Janusz; Füllekrug, Martin; Pineda, Nicolau; Georgis, Jean-François; van der Velde, Oscar; Montanyà, Joan; Fabro, Ferran

2017-04-01

During the night of October 29-30, 2013, a low-light video camera at Pic du Midi (2877 m) in the French Pyrénées, recorded TLEs above a very active storm over the Mediterranean Sea. The minimum cloud top temperature reached -73˚ C at ˜1600 UTC while its cloud to ground (CG) flash rate reached ˜30 fl min-1. Some sprite events with long duration are classified as dancing sprites. We analyze in detail the temporal evolution and estimated location of sprite elements for two cases of these events. They consist in series of sprite sequences with a duration that exceeds 1 second. By associating the cloud structure, the lightning activity, the electric field radiated in a broad range of low frequencies and the current moment waveform of the lightning strokes, some findings are highlighted: (i) In each series, successive sprite sequences reflect the occurrence time and location of individual positive lightning strokes across the stratiform region. (ii) The longer time-delayed (> 20 ms) sprite elements correspond to the lower impulsive charge moment changes (iCMC) of the parent stroke (< 200 C km) and they are shifted few tens of kilometres from their SP+CG stroke. However, both short and long time-delayed sprite elements also occur after strokes that produce a large iCMC and that are followed by a continuing current. (iii) The long time-delayed sprite elements produced during the continuing current correspond to surges in the current moment waveform. They occur sometimes at an altitude apparently lower than the previous short time-delayed sprite elements, possibly because of the lowered altitude of the ionosphere potential. (iv) The largest and brightest sprite elements produce significant current signatures, visible when their delay is not too short (˜3-5 ms).

The Forensic Potential of Flash Memory

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-09-01

limit range of 10 to 100 years before data is lost [12]. 5. Flash Memory Logical Structure The logical structure of flash memory from least to...area is not standardized and is manufacturer specific. This information will be used by the wear leveling algorithms and as such will be proprietary...memory cells, the manufacturers of the flash implement a wear leveling algorithm . In contrast, a magnetic disk in an overwrite operation will reuse the

Continuous background light significantly increases flashing-light enhancement of photosynthesis and growth of microalgae.

PubMed

Abu-Ghosh, Said; Fixler, Dror; Dubinsky, Zvy; Iluz, David

2015-01-01

Under specific conditions, flashing light enhances the photosynthesis rate in comparison to continuous illumination. Here we show that a combination of flashing light and continuous background light with the same integrated photon dose as continuous or flashing light alone can be used to significantly enhance photosynthesis and increase microalgae growth. To test this hypothesis, the green microalga Dunaliella salina was exposed to three different light regimes: continuous light, flashing light, and concomitant application of both. Algal growth was compared under three different integrated light quantities; low, intermediate, and moderately high. Under the combined light regime, there was a substantial increase in all algal growth parameters, with an enhanced photosynthesis rate, within 3days. Our strategy demonstrates a hitherto undescribed significant increase in photosynthesis and algal growth rates, which is beyond the increase by flashing light alone. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Investigation of Homogeneous Relaxation Model Parameters and their Implications for Gasoline Injectors

DOE PAGES

Saha, Kaushik; Som, Sibendu; Battistoni, Michele

2017-01-01

Flash boiling is known to be a common phenomenon for gasoline direct injection (GDI) engine sprays. The Homogeneous Relaxation Model has been adopted in many recent numerical studies for predicting cavitation and flash boiling. The Homogeneous Relaxation Model is assessed in this study. Sensitivity analysis of the model parameters has been documented to infer the driving factors for the flash-boiling predictions. The model parameters have been varied over a range and the differences in predictions of the extent of flashing have been studied. Apart from flashing in the near nozzle regions, mild cavitation is also predicted inside the gasoline injectors.more » The variation in the predicted time scales through the model parameters for predicting these two different thermodynamic phenomena (cavitation, flash) have been elaborated in this study. Turbulence model effects have also been investigated by comparing predictions from the standard and Re-Normalization Group (RNG) k-ε turbulence models.« less

NELIOTA: First temperature measurement of lunar impact flashes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bonanos, A. Z.; Avdellidou, C.; Liakos, A.; Xilouris, E. M.; Dapergolas, A.; Koschny, D.; Bellas-Velidis, I.; Boumis, P.; Charmandaris, V.; Fytsilis, A.; Maroussis, A.

2018-04-01

We report the first scientific results from the NELIOTA (NEO Lunar Impacts and Optical TrAnsients) project, which has recently begun lunar monitoring observations with the 1.2-m Kryoneri telescope. NELIOTA aims to detect faint impact flashes produced by near-Earth meteoroids and asteroids and thereby help constrain the size-frequency distribution of near-Earth objects in the decimeter to meter range. The NELIOTA setup, consisting of two fast-frame cameras observing simultaneously in the R and I bands, enables - for the first time - direct analytical calculation of the flash temperatures. We present the first ten flashes detected, for which we find temperatures in the range 1600 to 3100 K, in agreement with theoretical values. Two of these flashes were detected on multiple frames in both filters and therefore yield the first measurements of the temperature drop for lunar flashes. In addition, we compute the impactor masses, which range between 100 g and 50 kg.

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

Saha, Kaushik; Som, Sibendu; Battistoni, Michele

Flash boiling is known to be a common phenomenon for gasoline direct injection (GDI) engine sprays. The Homogeneous Relaxation Model has been adopted in many recent numerical studies for predicting cavitation and flash boiling. The Homogeneous Relaxation Model is assessed in this study. Sensitivity analysis of the model parameters has been documented to infer the driving factors for the flash-boiling predictions. The model parameters have been varied over a range and the differences in predictions of the extent of flashing have been studied. Apart from flashing in the near nozzle regions, mild cavitation is also predicted inside the gasoline injectors.more » The variation in the predicted time scales through the model parameters for predicting these two different thermodynamic phenomena (cavitation, flash) have been elaborated in this study. Turbulence model effects have also been investigated by comparing predictions from the standard and Re-Normalization Group (RNG) k-ε turbulence models.« less

FLASH free-electron laser single-shot temporal diagnostic: terahertz-field-driven streaking.

PubMed

Ivanov, Rosen; Liu, Jia; Brenner, Günter; Brachmanski, Maciej; Düsterer, Stefan

2018-01-01

The commissioning of a terahertz-field-driven streak camera installed at the free-electron laser (FEL) FLASH at DESY in Hamburg, being able to deliver photon pulse duration as well as arrival time information with ∼10 fs resolution for each single XUV FEL pulse, is reported. Pulse durations between 300 fs and <15 fs have been measured for different FLASH FEL settings. A comparison between the XUV pulse arrival time and the FEL electron bunch arrival time measured at the FLASH linac section exhibits a correlation width of 20 fs r.m.s., thus demonstrating the excellent operation stability of FLASH. In addition, the terahertz-streaking setup was operated simultaneously to an alternative method to determine the FEL pulse duration based on spectral analysis. FLASH pulse duration derived from simple spectral analysis is in good agreement with that from terahertz-streaking measurement.

Organic flash cycles for efficient power production

DOEpatents

Ho, Tony; Mao, Samuel S.; Greif, Ralph

2016-03-15

This disclosure provides systems, methods, and apparatus related to an Organic Flash Cycle (OFC). In one aspect, a modified OFC system includes a pump, a heat exchanger, a flash evaporator, a high pressure turbine, a throttling valve, a mixer, a low pressure turbine, and a condenser. The heat exchanger is coupled to an outlet of the pump. The flash evaporator is coupled to an outlet of the heat exchanger. The high pressure turbine is coupled to a vapor outlet of the flash evaporator. The throttling valve is coupled to a liquid outlet of the flash evaporator. The mixer is coupled to an outlet of the throttling valve and to an outlet of the high pressure turbine. The low pressure turbine is coupled to an outlet of the mixer. The condenser is coupled to an outlet of the low pressure turbine and to an inlet of the pump.

Lunar Impact Flash Locations from NASA's Lunar Impact Monitoring Program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moser, D. E.; Suggs, R. M.; Kupferschmidt, L.; Feldman, J.

2015-01-01

Meteoroids are small, natural bodies traveling through space, fragments from comets, asteroids, and impact debris from planets. Unlike the Earth, which has an atmosphere that slows, ablates, and disintegrates most meteoroids before they reach the ground, the Moon has little-to-no atmosphere to prevent meteoroids from impacting the lunar surface. Upon impact, the meteoroid's kinetic energy is partitioned into crater excavation, seismic wave production, and the generation of a debris plume. A flash of light associated with the plume is detectable by instruments on Earth. Following the initial observation of a probable Taurid impact flash on the Moon in November 2005,1 the NASA Meteoroid Environment Office (MEO) began a routine monitoring program to observe the Moon for meteoroid impact flashes in early 2006, resulting in the observation of over 330 impacts to date. The main objective of the MEO is to characterize the meteoroid environment for application to spacecraft engineering and operations. The Lunar Impact Monitoring Program provides information about the meteoroid flux in near-Earth space in a size range-tens of grams to a few kilograms-difficult to measure with statistical significance by other means. A bright impact flash detected by the program in March 2013 brought into focus the importance of determining the impact flash location. Prior to this time, the location was estimated to the nearest half-degree by visually comparing the impact imagery to maps of the Moon. Better accuracy was not needed because meteoroid flux calculations did not require high-accuracy impact locations. But such a bright event was thought to have produced a fresh crater detectable from lunar orbit by the NASA spacecraft Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO). The idea of linking the observation of an impact flash with its crater was an appealing one, as it would validate NASA photometric calculations and crater scaling laws developed from hypervelocity gun testing. This idea was dependent upon LRO finding a fresh impact crater associated with one of the impact flashes recorded by Earth-based instruments, either the bright event of March 2013 or any other in the database of impact observations. To find the crater, LRO needed an accurate area to search. This Technical Memorandum (TM) describes the geolocation technique developed to accurately determine the impact flash location, and by association, the location of the crater, thought to lie directly beneath the brightest portion of the flash. The workflow and software tools used to geolocate the impact flashes are described in detail, along with sources of error and uncertainty and a case study applying the workflow to the bright impact flash in March 2013. Following the successful geolocation of the March 2013 flash, the technique was applied to all impact flashes detected by the MEO between November 7, 2005, and January 3, 2014.

Report on in-situ studies of flash sintering of uranium dioxide

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

Raftery, Alicia Marie

Flash sintering is a novel type of field assisted sintering that uses an electric field and current to provide densification of materials on very short time scales. The potential for field assisted sintering techniques to be used in producing nuclear fuel is gaining recognition due to the potential economic benefits and improvements in material properties. The flash sintering behavior has so far been linked to applied and material parameters, but the underlying mechanisms active during flash sintering have yet to be identified. This report summarizes the efforts to investigate flash sintering of uranium dioxide using dilatometer studies at Los Alamosmore » National Laboratory and two separate sets of in-situ studies at Brookhaven National Laboratory’s NSLS-II XPD-1 beamline. The purpose of the dilatometer studies was to understand individual parameter (applied and material) effects on the flash behavior and the purpose of the in-situ studies was to better understand the mechanisms active during flash sintering. As far as applied parameters, it was found that stoichiometry, or oxygen-to-metal ratio, has a significant effect on the flash behavior (time to flash and speed of flash). Composite systems were found to have degraded sintering behavior relative to pure UO 2. The critical field studies are complete for UO 2.00 and will be analyzed against an existing model for comparison. The in-situ studies showed that the strength of the field and current are directly related to the sample temperature, with temperature-driven phase changes occurring at high values. The existence of an ‘incubation time’ has been questioned, due to a continuous change in lattice parameter values from the moment that the field is applied. Some results from the in-situ experiments, which should provide evidence regarding ion migration, are still being analyzed. Some preliminary conclusions can be made from these results with regard to using field assisted sintering to fabricate nuclear fuel. First, the pure UO 2-based system shows promising behavior with flash sintering, but composite systems are likely to show better sintering behavior with spark plasma sintering. Efforts to develop these methods should therefore be tailored towards the likelihood of success. Additionally, modeling is a rapidly developing aspect of current flash sintering research and should be used in parallel with experiments. Ultimately, ongoing flash sintering studies on various materials, like those summarized in this report, are rapidly contributing to the feasibility of controlling this method for use in the future.« less

Hypnosis for hot flashes among postmenopausal women study: A study protocol of an ongoing randomized clinical trial

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background Hot flashes are a highly prevalent problem associated with menopause and breast cancer treatments. The recent findings from the Women's Health Initiative have important implications for the significance of a non-hormonal, mind-body intervention for hot flashes in breast cancer survivors. Women who take hormone therapy long-term may have a 1.2 to 2.0 fold increased risk of developing breast cancer. In addition, it is now known that hormone therapy with estrogen and progestin is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke. Currently there are limited options to hormone replacement therapy as non-hormonal pharmacological agents are associated with only modest activity and many adverse side effects. Because of this there is a need for more alternative, non-hormonal therapies. Hypnosis is a mind-body intervention that has been shown to reduce self-reported hot flashes by up to 68% among breast cancer survivors, however, the use of hypnosis for hot flashes among post-menopausal women has not been adequately explored and the efficacy of hypnosis in reducing physiologically measured hot flashes has not yet been determined. Methods/design A sample of 180 post-menopausal women will be randomly assigned to either a 5-session Hypnosis Intervention or 5-session structured-attention control with 12 week follow-up. The present study will compare hypnosis to a structured-attention control in reducing hot flashes (perceived and physiologically monitored) in post-menopausal women in a randomized clinical trial. Outcomes will be hot flashes (self-report daily diaries; physiological monitoring; Hot Flash Related Daily Interference Scale), anxiety (State-Trait Anxiety Inventory; Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS); anxiety visual analog scale (VAS rating); depression (Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale), sexual functioning (Sexual Activity Questionnaire), sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index) and cortisol. Discussion This study will be the first full scale test of hypnosis for hot flashes; one of the first studies to examine both perceived impact and physiologically measured impact of a mind-body intervention for hot flashes using state-of-the-art 24 hour ambulatory physiological monitoring; the first study to examine the effect of hypnosis for hot flashes on cortisol; and the first investigation of the role of cognitive expectancies in treatment of hot flashes in comparison to a Structured-Attention Control. Trial Registration This clinical trial has been registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, a service of the U.S. National Institutes of Health, ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01293695. PMID:21989181

Biochemical markers for cardiovascular disease in recently postmenopausal women with or without hot flashes.

PubMed

Tuomikoski, Pauliina; Mikkola, Tomi S; Hämäläinen, Esa; Tikkanen, Matti J; Turpeinen, Ursula; Ylikorkala, Olavi

2010-01-01

Menopausal hot flashes may affect vascular function and perhaps explain conflicting data on cardiovascular disease (CVD) between observational and randomized hormone therapy (HT) studies. We prospectively assessed hot flash status in recently postmenopausal women and related it to a number of biochemical vascular surrogate markers for CVD. Healthy, nonsmoking women (n = 150) exhibiting a broad range (no, mild, moderate, severe) of hot flashes and an onset of menopause within the previous 0.5 to 3 years were studied with laboratory tests for lipids, lipoproteins, apolipoproteins, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, and sex hormone-binding globulin. Apart from marked differences in hot flashes, the groups showed comparable levels of estrone, estradiol, or free estradiol index. The levels of total cholesterol (3.7-9.1 mmol/L) were similar between the groups (P = 0.744), and hypercholesterolemia (>6.5 mmol/L) was encountered equally often (P = 0.699). No difference was seen in high-, low-, or very low-density lipoproteins, triglycerides, apolipoprotein A-1, apolipoprotein B (or their ratio), or lipoprotein(a) between the groups. The levels of sex hormone-binding globulin and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein correlated negatively with each other (r = -0.204; P = 0.013) but showed no dependence on hot flashes (P = 0.531 and P = 0.215, respectively). No baseline difference in lipid or nonlipid CVD risk factors was observed between women with hot flashes (potential HT users) and women with no or mild hot flashes (potential HT nonusers). This may imply that hot flash status per se cannot explain the difference between observational and randomized trials.

GROWING WHITE DWARFS TO THE CHANDRASEKHAR LIMIT: THE PARAMETER SPACE OF THE SINGLE DEGENERATE SN Ia CHANNEL

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

Hillman, Y.; Prialnik, D.; Kovetz, A.

Can a white dwarf (WD), accreting hydrogen-rich matter from a non-degenerate companion star, ever exceed the Chandrasekhar mass and explode as a SN Ia? We explore the range of accretion rates that allow a WD to secularly grow in mass, and derive limits on the accretion rate and on the initial mass that will allow it to reach 1.4M{sub ⊙}—the Chandrasekhar mass. We follow the evolution through a long series of hydrogen flashes, during which a thick helium shell accumulates. This determines the effective helium mass accretion rate for long-term, self-consistent evolutionary runs with helium flashes. We find that netmore » mass accumulation always occurs despite helium flashes. Although the amount of mass lost during the first few helium shell flashes is a significant fraction of that accumulated prior to the flash, that fraction decreases with repeated helium shell flashes. Eventually no mass is ejected at all during subsequent flashes. This unexpected result occurs because of continual heating of the WD interior by the helium shell flashes near its surface. The effect of heating is to lower the electron degeneracy throughout the WD, especially in the outer layers. This key result yields helium burning that is quasi-steady state, instead of explosive. We thus find a remarkably large parameter space within which long-term, self-consistent simulations show that a WD can grow in mass and reach the Chandrasekhar limit, despite its helium flashes.« less

Flash Floods Simulation Using a Physical based hydrological Model at the Eastern Nile Basin: Case studies; Wadi Assiut, Egypt and Wadi Gumara, Lake Tana, Ethiopia.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saber, M.; Sefelnasr, A.; Yilmaz, K. K.

2015-12-01

Flash flood is a natural hydrological phenomenon which affects many regions of the world. The behavior and effect of this phenomenon is different from one region to the other regions depending on several issues such as climatology and hydrological and topographical conditions at the target regions. Wadi assiut, Egypt as arid environment, and Gumara catchment, Lake Tana, Ethiopia, as humid conditions have been selected for application. The main target of this work is to simulate flash floods at both catchments considering the difference between them on the flash flood behaviors based on the variability of both of them. In order to simulate the flash floods, remote sensing data and a physical-based distributed hydrological model, Hydro-BEAM-WaS (Hydrological River Basin Environmental Assessment Model incorporating Wadi System) have been integrated used in this work. Based on the simulation results of flash floods in these regions, it was found that the time to reach the maximum peak is very short and consequently the warning time is very short as well. It was found that the flash floods starts from zero flow in arid environment, but on the contrary in humid arid, it starts from Base flow which is changeable based on the simulated events. Distribution maps of flash floods showing the vulnerable regions of these selected areas have been developed. Consequently, some mitigation strategies relying on this study have been introduced. The proposed methodology can be applied effectively for flash flood forecasting at different climate regions, however the paucity of observational data.

Lightning Evolution In Two North Central Florida Summer Multicell Storms and Three Winter/Spring Frontal Storms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Caicedo, J. A.; Uman, M. A.; Pilkey, J. T.

2018-01-01

We present the first lightning evolution studies, via the Lightning Mapping Array (LMA) and radar, performed in North Central Florida. Parts of three winter/spring frontal storms (cold season) and two complete summer (warm season) multicell storms are studied. Storm parameters measured are as follows: total number of flashes, flash-type classification, first flashes, flash initiation altitude, flash initiation power, flash rate (flashes per minute), charge structure, altitude and temperature ranges of the inferred charge regions, atmospheric isotherm altitude, radar base reflectivity (dBZ), and radar echo tops (EET). Several differences were found between summer multicell and winter/spring frontal storms in North Central Florida: (1) in winter/spring storms, the range of altitudes that all charge regions occupy is up to 1 km lower in altitude than in summer storms, as are the 0°C, -10°C, and -20°C isotherms; (2) lightning activity in summer storms is highly correlated with changes in radar signatures, in particular, echo tops; and (3) the LMA average initiation power of all flash types in winter/frontal storms is about an order of magnitude larger than that for summer storms. In relation to storms in other geographical locations, North Central Florida seasonal storms were found to have similarities in most parameters studied with a few differences, examples in Florida being (1) colder initiation altitudes for intracloud flashes, (2) charge regions occupying larger ranges of atmospheric temperatures, and (3) winter/spring frontal storms not having much lightning activity in the stratiform region.

ToxMystery

MedlinePlus

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The Relationship between Hot Flashes and Testosterone Recovery after 12 Months of Androgen Suppression for Men with Localised Prostate Cancer in the ASCENDE-RT Trial.

PubMed

Dosani, M; Morris, W J; Tyldesley, S; Pickles, T

2017-10-01

This study describes the proportion of men who experienced hot flashes (flashes), and the testosterone level at onset, peak frequency and cessation of flashes after 12 months of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) in men undergoing curative-intent external beam radiation therapy (± brachytherapy boost). We also aimed to characterise testosterone recovery in this population. This was a pre-specified secondary analysis of the ASCENDE-RT clinical trial. Three hundred and ninety-eight men were randomised. All received 12 months of ADT. The presence and frequency of flashes were patient reported. Cessation of flashes was defined as the first date a patient reported resolution of this symptom. Testosterone recovery was defined as any single serum testosterone above the threshold of 5, 7.5 or 10 nmol/l. The median age and follow-up were 68 years and 6.1 years. Flashes were reported in 93% of men. Flashes began and reached peak frequency at a median time of 4.0 months from the first luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone injection when testosterone levels had fallen to castrate. The median time to cessation of flashes was 7.6 months after the cessation of ADT (last injection + 3 months), when the median testosterone had risen to 5.7 nmol/l. A resolution of flashes was reported in 99% of patients. Baseline testosterone was available in 338 patients (85%). The median baseline testosterone was 13.2 nmol/l. The median (95% confidence interval) time of testosterone recovery to thresholds of 5 nmol/l, 7.5 nmol/l and 10 nmol/l were 9 (9-10) months, 13 (10-15) months and 18 (17-19) months from the cessation of ADT. At the time of censor, 96, 94 and 91% of patients had recovered testosterone to thresholds of 5, 7.5 and 10 nmol/l. Flashes occur at castrate levels of testosterone, with cessation of hot flashes antedating full recovery of testosterone in most patients. Rates of testosterone recovery after 12 months of ADT exceed 90%, although it can be delayed. Copyright © 2017 The Royal College of Radiologists. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

An 11-Year Climatology of Storms in Which Most Cloud-to-Ground Flashes Lower Positive Charge

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

MacGorman, D. R.; Eddy, A.; Williams, E. R.; Calhoun, K. M.

2017-12-01

Previous studies have shown that storms which produce frequent cloud-to-ground (CG) lightning dominated by flashes lowering positive charge to ground (+CG flashes) tend to have a so called "inverted" vertical distribution of charge. Such storms have implications for our understanding of electrification processes. We have analyzed eleven years of National Lightning Detection Network data to count +CG and -CG flashes having peak currents ≥15 kA in grid cells with dimensions of 15 km x 15 km x 15 min, with overlapping grid boxes every 5 km along both x and y over the contiguous United States and grids every 5 min in time. These dimensions were chosen because 15 km corresponds roughly to the horizontal size of typical storm cells and 15 min is roughly half the typical duration of a cell. To focus on storms dominated by +CG flashes, we identified all grid cells satisfying one of four sets of thresholds: cells in which +CG flashes for 15 min constitute ≥80%, 90%, or 100% of ≥10 CG flashes or 100% of ≥20 CG flashes. These percentages are larger than those used in most previous studies of +CG flashes. Our primary goal is to investigate the environmental and storm characteristics conducive to +CG flashes and "inverted-polarity" charge distributions, but here we concentrate on the interannual and seasonal distributions of storms satisfying the above thresholds and examine also their relationship to severe weather. As in previous climatological studies of geographic variations in the +CG fraction of total CG flashes, most storms satisfying our thresholds were in a swath stretching from far eastern Colorado and western Kansas roughly northward through Nebraska, the Dakotas, and Minnesota. This region overlaps much of the region in which radar inferred that hail larger than 2.9 cm in diameter most often occurs, but is shifted westward and northward from maxima of observer reports of large-hail occurrence. Although the relationship with radar-inferred large-hail frequency suggests a common dependence on some storm characteristics, storms satisfying our thresholds for +CG flashes also occurred, although less frequently, in regions in which few storms were inferred to have produced large hail, such as east of mountain ranges in northwestern states, so relationships with severe weather will need to be examined on a storm-by-storm basis.

PS II model based analysis of transient fluorescence yield measured on whole leaves of Arabidopsis thaliana after excitation with light flashes of different energies.

PubMed

Belyaeva, N E; Schmitt, F-J; Paschenko, V Z; Riznichenko, G Yu; Rubin, A B; Renger, G

2011-02-01

Our recently presented PS II model (Belyaeva et al., 2008) was improved in order to permit a consistent simulation of Single Flash Induced Transient Fluorescence Yield (SFITFY) traces that were earlier measured by Steffen et al. (2005) on whole leaves of Arabidopsis (A.) thaliana at four different energies of the actinic flash. As the essential modification, the shape of the actinic flash was explicitly taken into account assuming that an exponentially decaying rate simulates the time dependent excitation of PS II by the 10 ns actinic flash. The maximum amplitude of this excitation exceeds that of the measuring light by 9 orders of magnitude. A very good fit of the SFITFY data was achieved in the time domain from 100 ns to 10s for all actinic flash energies (the maximum energy of 7.5 × 10¹⁶ photons/(cm²flash) is set to 100%, the relative energies of weaker actinic flashes were of ∼8%, 4%, ∼1%). Our model allows the calculation and visualization of the transient PS II redox state populations ranging from the dark adapted state, via excitation energy and electron transfer steps induced by pulse excitation, followed by final relaxation into the stationary state eventually attained under the measuring light. It turned out that the rate constants of electron transfer steps are invariant to intensity of the actinic laser flash. In marked contrast, an increase of the actinic flash energy by more than two orders of magnitude from 5.4×10¹⁴ photons/(cm²flash) to 7.5×10¹⁶ photons/(cm²flash), leads to an increase of the extent of fluorescence quenching due to carotenoid triplet (³Car) formation by a factor of 14 and of the recombination reaction between reduced primary pheophytin (Phe(-)) and P680(+) by a factor of 3 while the heat dissipation in the antenna complex remains virtually constant. The modified PS II model offers new opportunities to compare electron transfer and dissipative parameters for different species (e.g. for the green algae and the higher plant) under varying illumination conditions. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

A global flash flood forecasting system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baugh, Calum; Pappenberger, Florian; Wetterhall, Fredrik; Hewson, Tim; Zsoter, Ervin

2016-04-01

The sudden and devastating nature of flash flood events means it is imperative to provide early warnings such as those derived from Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) forecasts. Currently such systems exist on basin, national and continental scales in Europe, North America and Australia but rely on high resolution NWP forecasts or rainfall-radar nowcasting, neither of which have global coverage. To produce global flash flood forecasts this work investigates the possibility of using forecasts from a global NWP system. In particular we: (i) discuss how global NWP can be used for flash flood forecasting and discuss strengths and weaknesses; (ii) demonstrate how a robust evaluation can be performed given the rarity of the event; (iii) highlight the challenges and opportunities in communicating flash flood uncertainty to decision makers; and (iv) explore future developments which would significantly improve global flash flood forecasting. The proposed forecast system uses ensemble surface runoff forecasts from the ECMWF H-TESSEL land surface scheme. A flash flood index is generated using the ERIC (Enhanced Runoff Index based on Climatology) methodology [Raynaud et al., 2014]. This global methodology is applied to a series of flash floods across southern Europe. Results from the system are compared against warnings produced using the higher resolution COSMO-LEPS limited area model. The global system is evaluated by comparing forecasted warning locations against a flash flood database of media reports created in partnership with floodlist.com. To deal with the lack of objectivity in media reports we carefully assess the suitability of different skill scores and apply spatial uncertainty thresholds to the observations. To communicate the uncertainties of the flash flood system output we experiment with a dynamic region-growing algorithm. This automatically clusters regions of similar return period exceedence probabilities, thus presenting the at-risk areas at a spatial resolution appropriate to the NWP system. We then demonstrate how these warning areas could eventually complement existing global systems such as the Global Flood Awareness System (GloFAS), to give warnings of flash floods. This work demonstrates the possibility of creating a global flash flood forecasting system based on forecasts from existing global NWP systems. Future developments, in post-processing for example, will need to address an under-prediction bias, for extreme point rainfall, that is innate to current-generation global models.

Design and realization of flash translation layer in tiny embedded system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ren, Xiaoping; Sui, Chaoya; Luo, Zhenghua; Cao, Wenji

2018-05-01

We design a solution of tiny embedded device NAND Flash storage system on the basis of deeply studying the characteristics of widely used NAND Flash in the embedded devices in order to adapt to the development of intelligent interconnection trend and solve the storage problem of large data volume in tiny embedded system. The hierarchical structure and function purposes of the system are introduced. The design and realization of address mapping, error correction, bad block management, wear balance, garbage collection and other algorithms in flash memory transformation layer are described in details. NAND Flash drive and management are realized on STM32 micro-controller, thereby verifying design effectiveness and feasibility.

Assessing Semantic Knowledge Using Computer-Based and Paper-Based Media

DTIC Science & Technology

1992-01-01

capitalized upon in this research. Computer-Based Assessment A computer-based game or test, FlashCards (Liggett & Federico, 1986), was adopt- ed and adapted...alterative forms did not have to be specifically or previously programmed as such. FlashCards is analogous to using real flash cards. That is, a...reflects their degree of confidence in their answer. Also, for each answer the student’s response latency is recorded and displayed. FlashCards quizzed

Sternal skin conductance: a reasonable surrogate for hot flash measurement?

PubMed

Pachman, Deirdre R; Loprinzi, Charles L; Novotny, Paul J; Satele, Daniel V; Linquist, Breanna M; Wolf, Sherry; Barton, Debra L

2013-11-01

This study aims to examine the accuracy of a new sternal skin conductance (SSC) device in measuring hot flashes and to assess the acceptability of the device by women. Three small descriptive pilot studies were performed using two sequential prototypes of the SSC device developed by an engineering device company in the Midwest. The devices were worn either in a monitored setting for 24 hours or in an ambulatory setting for 5 weeks. During the study period, women recorded hot flashes in a prospective hot flash diary and answered questions about the acceptability of wearing the SSC device. The first prototype was not able to collect any analyzable skin conductance data owing to various malfunction issues, including poor conductance and battery failure. However, 16 women wore the device for 5 weeks and reported that wearing the device was acceptable, although 31% stated that it interfered with daily activities. Hot flash data from the second prototype revealed a 24% concordance rate between self-reported and device-recorded hot flashes. Findings from these studies support discordance between device-recorded and self-reported hot flashes. In addition, the studies reveal further limitations of SSC monitoring, including difficulties with data collection and lack of consistency in interpretation. Based on these results and other recent trials identifying issues with SSC methodology, it is time to find a better physiologic surrogate measure for hot flashes.

Hot flashes are not predictive for serum concentrations of tamoxifen and its metabolites

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Tamoxifen has dramatically reduced the recurrence and mortality rate of estrogen receptor positive breast cancer. However, the efficacy of tamoxifen varies between individuals and 40% of patients will have a recurrence despite adjuvant tamoxifen treatment. Factors that predict tamoxifen efficacy would be helpful for optimizing treatment. Serum concentrations of the active metabolite, endoxifen, may be positively related to treatment outcome. In addition, hot flashes are suggested to be positively associated with tamoxifen treatment outcome. Methods We investigated in a series of 109 patients whether the frequency and severity of hot flashes were related to concentrations of tamoxifen and its metabolites. A serum sample of all patients was analyzed for the concentration of tamoxifen, N-desmethyltamoxifen, endoxifen and 4-hydroxytamoxifen, as well as for estradiol concentrations and several single nucleotide polymorphisms in CYP2D6. Additionally, these patients completed a questionnaire concerning biometric data and treatment side effects. Results We found no evidence supporting an association between concentrations of tamoxifen or metabolites and either the frequency or severity of hot flashes in the covariate unadjusted analyses. However, including interactions with menopausal status and pre-treatment hot flash (PTHF) history indicated that post-menopausal women with PTHF experienced an increasing frequency of hot flashes with increasing serum concentrations of tamoxifen and its metabolites. This finding was not altered when adjusting for potential confounding factors (duration of tamoxifen treatment, CYP2D6 phenotype, estradiol serum concentration, age and body mass index). In addition we observed a positive association between body mass index and both hot flash frequency (p = 0.04) and severity (p < 0.0001). We also observed that patients with lower estradiol levels reported more severe hot flashes (p = 0.02). Conclusions No univariate associations were observed between concentrations of active tamoxifen metabolites and either the frequency or severity of hot flashes during treatment. However, the frequency of hot flashes may be exacerbated by higher serum concentrations of tamoxifen and its metabolites in post-menopausal women with a history of hot flashes prior to tamoxifen treatment. PMID:24373320

Impact Flash Monitoring Facility on the Deep Space Gateway

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Needham, D. H.; Moser, D. E.; Suggs, R. M.; Cooke, W. J.; Kring, D. A.; Neal, C. R.; Fassett, C. I.

2018-02-01

Cameras mounted to the Deep Space Gateway exterior will detect flashes caused by impacts on the lunar surface. Observed flashes will help constrain the current lunar impact flux and assess hazards faced by crews living and working in cislunar space.

Development of a precipitation-area curve for warning criteria of short-duration flash flood

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bae, Deg-Hyo; Lee, Moon-Hwan; Moon, Sung-Keun

2018-01-01

This paper presents quantitative criteria for flash flood warning that can be used to rapidly assess flash flood occurrence based on only rainfall estimates. This study was conducted for 200 small mountainous sub-catchments of the Han River basin in South Korea because South Korea has recently suffered many flash flood events. The quantitative criteria are calculated based on flash flood guidance (FFG), which is defined as the depth of rainfall of a given duration required to cause frequent flooding (1-2-year return period) at the outlet of a small stream basin and is estimated using threshold runoff (TR) and antecedent soil moisture conditions in all sub-basins. The soil moisture conditions were estimated during the flooding season, i.e., July, August and September, over 7 years (2002-2009) using the Sejong University Rainfall Runoff (SURR) model. A ROC (receiver operating characteristic) analysis was used to obtain optimum rainfall values and a generalized precipitation-area (P-A) curve was developed for flash flood warning thresholds. The threshold function was derived as a P-A curve because the precipitation threshold with a short duration is more closely related to basin area than any other variables. For a brief description of the P-A curve, generalized thresholds for flash flood warnings can be suggested for rainfall rates of 42, 32 and 20 mm h-1 in sub-basins with areas of 22-40, 40-100 and > 100 km2, respectively. The proposed P-A curve was validated based on observed flash flood events in different sub-basins. Flash flood occurrences were captured for 9 out of 12 events. This result can be used instead of FFG to identify brief flash flood (less than 1 h), and it can provide warning information to decision-makers or citizens that is relatively simple, clear and immediate.

Nonlinear dynamic model of a gear-rotor-bearing system considering the flash temperature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gou, Xiangfeng; Zhu, Lingyun; Qi, Changjun

2017-12-01

The instantaneous flash temperature is an important factor for gears in service. To investigate the effect of the flash temperature of a tooth surface on the dynamics of the spur gear system, a modified nonlinear dynamic model of a gear-rotor-bearing system is established. The factors such as the contact temperature of the tooth surface, time-varying stiffness, tooth surface friction, backlash, the comprehensive transmission error and so on are considered. The flash temperature of a tooth surface of pinion and gear is formulated according to Blok's flash temperature theory. The mathematical expression of the contact temperature of the tooth surface varied with time is derived and the tooth profile deformation caused by the change of the flash temperature of the tooth surface is calculated. The expression of the mesh stiffness varied with the flash temperature of the tooth surface is derived based on Hertz contact theory. The temperature stiffness is proposed and added to the nonlinear dynamic model of the system. The influence of load on the flash temperature of the tooth surface is analyzed in the parameters plane. The variation of the flash temperature of the tooth surface is studied. The numerical results indicate that the calculated method of the flash temperature of the gear tooth surface is effective and it can reflect the rules for the change of gear meshing temperature and sliding of the gear tooth surface. The effects of frequency, backlash, bearing clearance, comprehensive transmission error and time-varying stiffness on the nonlinear dynamics of the system are analyzed according to the bifurcation diagrams, Top Lyapunov Exponent (TLE) spectrums, phase portraits and Poincaré maps. Some nonlinear phenomena such as periodic bifurcation, grazing bifurcation, quasi-periodic bifurcation, chaos and its routes to chaos are investigated and the critical parameters are identified. The results provide an understanding of the system and serve as a useful reference in designing such systems.

Levetiracetam for the treatment of hot flashes: a phase II study.

PubMed

Thompson, Susan; Bardia, Aditya; Tan, Angelina; Barton, Debra L; Kottschade, Lisa; Sloan, Jeff A; Christensen, Brad; Smith, DeAnne; Loprinzi, Charles L

2008-01-01

The objectives of this pilot trial were to assess the potential efficacy and safety of levetiracetam for the treatment of hot flashes, a major cause of morbidity among breast cancer survivors. Women, aged 18 years or more, with a history of breast cancer or those who wished to avoid estrogen because of a perceived increased risk of breast cancer, who were experiencing bothersome hot flashes (more than or equal to 14 times per week, for more than or equal to 1 month before study entry), were included. During the baseline week, general demographic characteristics, hot flash information, and quality of life data were obtained. At the beginning of week 2, patients were started on levetiracetam for a total of 4 weeks. Information about hot flashes, quality of life, and toxicity were collected during these 4 weeks and compared with the baseline week. After treatment with levetiracetam for 4 weeks (N = 19), mean hot flash scores (frequency times mean severity) were reduced by 57%, and mean hot flash frequencies were reduced by 53%, compared to the baseline week; both these reductions were greater than what would be expected with a placebo (20-25% reduction). There were significant improvements in abnormal sweating (p = 0.004), hot flash distress (p = 0.0002), and satisfaction of hot flash control (p = 0.0001), when comparing data from the fourth week of treatment to the baseline week. Twenty-nine percent of the subjects did not complete the study because of treatment-related adverse events, with the most frequently reported side effects being somnolence, fatigue, and dizziness, usually with mild to moderate intensity. The results of this pilot trial suggest that levetiracetam might be an effective therapy for the treatment of hot flashes. Further data are needed to test this hypothesis, evaluating the efficacy and toxicity of this agent.

Parietal disruption alters audiovisual binding in the sound-induced flash illusion.

PubMed

Kamke, Marc R; Vieth, Harrison E; Cottrell, David; Mattingley, Jason B

2012-09-01

Selective attention and multisensory integration are fundamental to perception, but little is known about whether, or under what circumstances, these processes interact to shape conscious awareness. Here, we used transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to investigate the causal role of attention-related brain networks in multisensory integration between visual and auditory stimuli in the sound-induced flash illusion. The flash illusion is a widely studied multisensory phenomenon in which a single flash of light is falsely perceived as multiple flashes in the presence of irrelevant sounds. We investigated the hypothesis that extrastriate regions involved in selective attention, specifically within the right parietal cortex, exert an influence on the multisensory integrative processes that cause the flash illusion. We found that disruption of the right angular gyrus, but not of the adjacent supramarginal gyrus or of a sensory control site, enhanced participants' veridical perception of the multisensory events, thereby reducing their susceptibility to the illusion. Our findings suggest that the same parietal networks that normally act to enhance perception of attended events also play a role in the binding of auditory and visual stimuli in the sound-induced flash illusion. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Some Improvements in Utilization of Flash Memory Devices

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gender, Thomas K.; Chow, James; Ott, William E.

2009-01-01

Two developments improve the utilization of flash memory devices in the face of the following limitations: (1) a flash write element (page) differs in size from a flash erase element (block), (2) a block must be erased before its is rewritten, (3) lifetime of a flash memory is typically limited to about 1,000,000 erases, (4) as many as 2 percent of the blocks of a given device may fail before the expected end of its life, and (5) to ensure reliability of reading and writing, power must not be interrupted during minimum specified reading and writing times. The first development comprises interrelated software components that regulate reading, writing, and erasure operations to minimize migration of data and unevenness in wear; perform erasures during idle times; quickly make erased blocks available for writing; detect and report failed blocks; maintain the overall state of a flash memory to satisfy real-time performance requirements; and detect and initialize a new flash memory device. The second development is a combination of hardware and software that senses the failure of a main power supply and draws power from a capacitive storage circuit designed to hold enough energy to sustain operation until reading or writing is completed.

Meteoroids Impact the Moon

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moser, D. E.

2017-01-01

Most meteoroids are broken up by Earth's atmosphere before they reach the ground. The Moon, however, has little-to-no atmosphere to prevent meteoroids from impacting the lunar surface. Upon impact they excavate a crater and generate a plume of debris. A flash of light at the moment of impact can also be seen. Meteoroids striking the Moon create an impact flash observable by telescopes here on Earth. NASA observers use telescopes at the Automated Lunar and Meteor Observatory (ALaMO) to routinely monitor the Moon for impact flashes each month when the lunar phase is right. Flashes recorded by two telescope simultaneously rule out false signals from cosmic rays and satellites. Over 400 impact flashes have been observed by NASA since 2005. This map shows the location of each flash. No observations are made near the poles or center line. On average, one impact is observed every two hours. The brightest and longest-lasting impact flash was observed in Mare Imbrium on March 17, 2013. The imaging satellite Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter, in orbit around the Moon, discovered the fresh crater created by this impact. The crater is 60 across and was caused by a meteoroid 9 inches in diameter likely traveling at a speed of 57,000 mph!

Current alcohol use is associated with a reduced risk of hot flashes in midlife women.

PubMed

Schilling, Chrissy; Gallicchio, Lisa; Miller, Susan R; Babus, Janice K; Lewis, Lynn M; Zacur, Howard; Flaws, Jodi A

2005-01-01

To examine the relation between current alcohol use, estradiol, estrone, and testosterone levels, and hot flashes in midlife women using a case-control study design. Cases were midlife women (45-54 years) who reported ever experiencing hot flashes. Controls were midlife women (45-54 years) who reported never experiencing hot flashes. Each participant completed a questionnaire and provided a blood sample that was used to measure estradiol, estrone, and testosterone levels by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The results indicate that current alcohol use (at least one day per month) was significantly associated with a reduced risk of hot flashes compared to non-use of alcohol, independent of age and smoking habits. The hot flashes experienced by current alcohol users were less severe and less frequent than those experienced by non-users of alcohol. Further, current alcohol users had similar levels of estradiol, estrone, and testosterone compared to non-users of alcohol. These data suggest that current alcohol use is associated with a reduced risk of any, severe, and frequent hot flashes in midlife women by a mechanism that may not include changes in sex steroid hormone levels.

Serum leptin levels, hormone levels, and hot flashes in midlife women.

PubMed

Alexander, Carolyn; Cochran, Chrissy J; Gallicchio, Lisa; Miller, Susan R; Flaws, Jodi A; Zacur, Howard

2010-08-01

To examine the associations between serum leptin levels, sex steroid hormone levels, and hot flashes in normal weight and obese midlife women. Cross-sectional study. University clinic. 201 Caucasian, nonsmoking women aged 45 to 54 years with a body mass index of <25 kg/m2 or >or=30 kg/m2. Questionnaire, fasting blood samples. Serum leptin and sex steroid hormone levels. Correlation and regression models were performed to examine associations between leptin levels, hormone levels, and hot flashes. Leptin levels were associated with BMI, with "ever experiencing hot flashes" (questionnaire), with hot flashes within the last 30 days, and with duration of hot flashes (>1 year, P=.03). Leptin was positively correlated with testosterone, free testosterone index, and free estrogen index and inversely associated with levels of sex hormone-binding globulin. In women with a body mass index>or=30 kg/m2, leptin levels no longer correlated with testosterone levels. Serum leptin levels are associated with the occurrence and duration of hot flashes in midlife women; however, no correlation was found between leptin and serum estradiol. Copyright (c) 2010 American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

NIR small arms muzzle flash

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Montoya, Joseph; Kennerly, Stephen; Rede, Edward

2010-04-01

Utilization of Near-Infrared (NIR) spectral features in a muzzle flash will allow for small arms detection using low cost silicon (Si)-based imagers. Detection of a small arms muzzle flash in a particular wavelength region is dependent on the intensity of that emission, the efficiency of source emission transmission through the atmosphere, and the relative intensity of the background scene. The NIR muzzle flash signature exists in the relatively large Si spectral response wavelength region of 300 nm-1100 nm, which allows for use of commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) Si-based detectors. The alkali metal origin of the NIR spectral features in the 7.62 × 39-mm round muzzle flash is discussed, and the basis for the spectral bandwidth is examined, using a calculated Voigt profile. This report will introduce a model of the 7.62 × 39-mm NIR muzzle flash signature based on predicted source characteristics. Atmospheric limitations based on NIR spectral regions are investigated in relation to the NIR muzzle flash signature. A simple signal-to-clutter ratio (SCR) metric is used to predict sensor performance based on a model of radiance for the source and solar background and pixel registered image subtraction.

Hot Flashes and Night Sweats (PDQ®)—Patient Version

Cancer.gov

Hot flashes and night sweats can be a side effect of cancer or its treatment and can occur in both women and men. Learn more about hot flashes and night sweats and ways to treat them in this expert-reviewed summary.

Flash-Type Discrimination

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Koshak, William J.

2010-01-01

This viewgraph presentation describes the significant progress made in the flash-type discrimination algorithm development. The contents include: 1) Highlights of Progress for GLM-R3 Flash-Type discrimination Algorithm Development; 2) Maximum Group Area (MGA) Data; 3) Retrieval Errors from Simulations; and 4) Preliminary Global-scale Retrieval.

A Bright Lunar Impact Flash Linked to the Virginid Meteor Complex

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moser, D. E.; Suggs, R. M.; Suggs, R. J.

2015-01-01

On 17 March 2013 at 03:50:54 UTC, NASA detected a bright impact flash on the Moon caused by a meteoroid impacting the lunar surface. There was meteor activity in Earth's atmosphere the same night from the Virginid Meteor Complex. The impact crater associated with the impact flash was found and imaged by Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO). Goal: Monitor the Moon for impact flashes produced by meteoroids striking the lunar surface. Determine meteoroid flux in the 10's gram to kilogram size range.

Laser head for simultaneous optical pumping of several dye lasers. [with single flash lamp

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mumola, P. B.; Mcalexander, B. T. (Inventor)

1975-01-01

The invention is a laser head for simultaneous pumping several dye lasers with a single flash lamp. The laser head includes primarily a multi-elliptical cylinder cavity with a single flash lamp placed along the common focal axis of the cavity and with capillary tube dye cells placed along each of the other focal axes of the cavity. The inside surface of the cavity is polished. Hence, the single flash lamp supplies the energy to the several dye cells.

Is Homepathy Effective for Hot Flashes and other Estrogen-Withdrawal Symptoms in Breast Cancer Survivors? A Preliminary Randomized Controlled Trial

DTIC Science & Technology

2000-04-01

AD__________ Award Number: DAMD17-99-1-9438 TITLE: Is Homeopathy Effective for Hot Flashes and Other Estrogen-Withdrawal Symptoms in Breast Cancer...Mar 00) 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE 5. FUNDING NUMBERS Is Homeopathy Effective for Hot Flashes and Other Estrogen- DAMD17-99-1-9438 Withdrawal Symptoms in...there is evidence that homeopathy is an effective treatment to improve the quality of life in breast cancer survivors who are experiencing hot flashes

Automated Studies of Continuing Current in Lightning Flashes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Martinez-Claros, Jose

Continuing current (CC) is a continuous luminosity in the lightning channel that lasts longer than 10 ms following a lightning return stroke to ground. Lightning flashes following CC are associated with direct damage to power lines and are thought to be responsible for causing lightning-induced forest fires. The development of an algorithm that automates continuing current detection by combining NLDN (National Lightning Detection Network) and LEFA (Langmuir Electric Field Array) datasets for CG flashes will be discussed. The algorithm was applied to thousands of cloud-to-ground (CG) flashes within 40 km of Langmuir Lab, New Mexico measured during the 2013 monsoon season. It counts the number of flashes in a single minute of data and the number of return strokes of an individual lightning flash; records the time and location of each return stroke; performs peak analysis on E-field data, and uses the slope of interstroke interval (ISI) E-field data fits to recognize whether continuing current (CC) exists within the interval. Following CC detection, duration and magnitude are measured. The longest observed C in 5588 flashes was 631 ms. The performance of the algorithm (vs. human judgement) was checked on 100 flashes. At best, the reported algorithm is "correct" 80% of the time, where correct means that multiple stations agree with each other and with a human on both the presence and duration of CC. Of the 100 flashes that were validated against human judgement, 62% were hybrid. Automated analysis detects the first but misses the second return stroke in many cases where the second return stroke is followed by long CC. This problem is also present in human interpretation of field change records.

Cloud-to-ground lightning activity in Colombia: A 14-year study using lightning location system data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Herrera, J.; Younes, C.; Porras, L.

2018-05-01

This paper presents the analysis of 14 years of cloud-to-ground lightning activity observation in Colombia using lightning location systems (LLS) data. The first Colombian LLS operated from 1997 to 2001. After a few years, this system was upgraded and a new LLS has been operating since 2007. Data obtained from these two systems was analyzed in order to obtain lightning parameters used in designing lightning protection systems. The flash detection efficiency was estimated using average peak current maps and some theoretical results previously published. Lightning flash multiplicity was evaluated using a stroke grouping algorithm resulting in average values of about 1.0 and 1.6 for positive and negative flashes respectively and for both LLS. The time variation of this parameter changes slightly for the years considered in this study. The first stroke peak current for negative and positive flashes shows median values close to 29 kA and 17 kA respectively for both networks showing a great dependence on the flash detection efficiency. The average percentage of negative and positive flashes shows a 74.04% and 25.95% of occurrence respectively. The daily variation shows a peak between 23 and 02 h. The monthly variation of this parameter exhibits a bimodal behavior typical of the regions located near The Equator. The lightning flash density was obtained dividing the study area in 3 × 3 km cells and resulting in maximum average values of 25 and 35 flashes km- 2 year- 1 for each network respectively. A comparison of these results with global lightning activity hotspots was performed showing good correlation. Besides, the lightning flash density variation with altitude shows an inverse relation between these two variables.

Daidzein-rich isoflavone aglycones are potentially effective in reducing hot flashes in menopausal women.

PubMed

Khaodhiar, Lalita; Ricciotti, Hope A; Li, Linglin; Pan, Weijun; Schickel, Mary; Zhou, Jinrong; Blackburn, George L

2008-01-01

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of DRIs on hot flash symptoms in menopausal women. This was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of menopausal women, aged 38 to 60 years, who experienced 4 to 14 hot flashes per day. After a 1-week run-in period, a total of 190 menopausal women were randomized to receive a placebo or 40 or 60 mg/day of a DRI for 12 weeks. The primary outcome was the mean changes from baseline to week 12 in the frequency of hot flashes recorded in the participant diary. The secondary outcomes included changes in quality of life and hormonal profiles. A total of 147 women (77%) completed the study. It was found that 40 and 60 mg of DRI improved hot flash frequency and severity equally. At 8 weeks hot flash frequency was reduced by 43% in the 40-mg DRI group and by 41% in the 60-mg DRI group, compared with 32% in the placebo group (P = not significant vs placebo). The corresponding numbers for 12 weeks were 52%, 51%, and 39%, respectively (P = 0.07 and 0.09 vs placebo). When comparing the two treatment groups with the placebo group, there were significant reductions in mean daily hot flash frequency. The supplement (either 40 or 60 mg) reduced hot flash frequency by 43% at 8 weeks (P = 0.1) and 52% at 12 weeks (P = 0.048) but did not cause any significant changes in endogenous sex hormones or thyroid hormones. Menopausal quality of life improved in all three groups, although there were no statistically significant differences between groups. DRI supplementation may be an effective and acceptable alternative to hormone treatment for menopausal hot flashes.

Diurnal rhythm and concordance between objective and subjective hot flashes: the Hilo Women's Health Study.

PubMed

Sievert, Lynnette L; Reza, Angela; Mills, Phoebe; Morrison, Lynn; Rahberg, Nichole; Goodloe, Amber; Sutherland, Michael; Brown, Daniel E

2010-01-01

The aims of this study were to test for a diurnal pattern in hot flashes in a multiethnic population living in a hot, humid environment and to examine the rates of concordance between objective and subjective measures of hot flashes using ambulatory and laboratory measures. Study participants aged 45 to 55 years were recruited from the general population of Hilo, HI. Women wore a Biolog hot flash monitor (UFI, Morro Bay, CA), kept a diary for 24 hours, and also participated in 3-hour laboratory measures (n = 199). Diurnal patterns were assessed using polynomial regression. For each woman, objectively recorded hot flashes that matched subjective experience were treated as true-positive readings. Subjective hot flashes were considered the standard for computing false-positive and false-negative readings. True-positive, false-positive, and false-negative readings were compared across ethnic groups by chi analyses. Frequencies of sternal, nuchal, and subjective hot flashes peaked at 1500 +/- 1 hours with no difference by ethnicity. Laboratory results supported the pattern seen in ambulatory monitoring. Sternal and nuchal monitoring showed the same frequency of true-positive measures, but nonsternal electrodes picked up more false-positive readings. Laboratory monitoring showed very low frequencies of false negatives. There were no ethnic differences in the frequency of true-positive or false-positive measures. Women of European descent were more likely to report hot flashes that were not objectively demonstrated (false-negative measures). The diurnal pattern and peak in hot flash occurrence in the hot humid environment of Hilo were similar to results from more temperate environments. Lack of variation in sternal versus nonsternal measures and in true-positive measures across ethnicities suggests no appreciable effect of population variation in sweating patterns.

Diurnal rhythm and concordance between objective and subjective hot flashes: The Hilo Women’s Health Study

PubMed Central

Sievert, Lynnette L.; Reza, Angela; Mills, Phoebe; Morrison, Lynn; Rahberg, Nichole; Goodloe, Amber; Sutherland, Michael; Brown, Daniel E.

2010-01-01

Objective To test for a diurnal pattern in hot flashes in a multi-ethnic population living in a hot, humid environment. To examine rates of concordance between objective and subjective measures of hot flashes using ambulatory and laboratory measures. Methods Study participants aged 45–55 were recruited from the general population of Hilo, Hawaii. Women wore a Biolog hot flash monitor, kept a diary for 24-hours, and also participated in 3-hour laboratory measures (n=199). Diurnal patterns were assessed using polynomial regression. For each woman, objectively recorded hot flashes that matched subjective experience were treated as true positive readings. Subjective hot flashes were considered the standard for computing false positive and false negative readings. True positive, false positive, and false negative readings were compared across ethnic groups by chi-square analyses. Results Frequencies of sternal, nuchal and subjective hot flashes peaked at 15:00 ± 1 hour with no difference by ethnicity. Laboratory results supported the pattern seen in ambulatory monitoring. Sternal and nuchal monitoring showed the same frequency of true positive measures, but non-sternal electrodes picked up more false positive readings. Laboratory monitoring showed very low frequencies of false negatives. There were no ethnic differences in the frequency of true positive or false positive measures. Women of European descent were more likely to report hot flashes that were not objectively demonstrated (false negative measures). Conclusions The diurnal pattern and peak in hot flash occurrence in the hot humid environment of Hilo was similar to results from more temperate environments. Lack of variation in sternal vs. non-sternal measures, and in true positive measures across ethnicities suggests no appreciable effect of population variation in sweating patterns. PMID:20220538

Active Flash: Out-of-core Data Analytics on Flash Storage

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

Boboila, Simona; Kim, Youngjae; Vazhkudai, Sudharshan S

2012-01-01

Next generation science will increasingly come to rely on the ability to perform efficient, on-the-fly analytics of data generated by high-performance computing (HPC) simulations, modeling complex physical phenomena. Scientific computing workflows are stymied by the traditional chaining of simulation and data analysis, creating multiple rounds of redundant reads and writes to the storage system, which grows in cost with the ever-increasing gap between compute and storage speeds in HPC clusters. Recent HPC acquisitions have introduced compute node-local flash storage as a means to alleviate this I/O bottleneck. We propose a novel approach, Active Flash, to expedite data analysis pipelines bymore » migrating to the location of the data, the flash device itself. We argue that Active Flash has the potential to enable true out-of-core data analytics by freeing up both the compute core and the associated main memory. By performing analysis locally, dependence on limited bandwidth to a central storage system is reduced, while allowing this analysis to proceed in parallel with the main application. In addition, offloading work from the host to the more power-efficient controller reduces peak system power usage, which is already in the megawatt range and poses a major barrier to HPC system scalability. We propose an architecture for Active Flash, explore energy and performance trade-offs in moving computation from host to storage, demonstrate the ability of appropriate embedded controllers to perform data analysis and reduction tasks at speeds sufficient for this application, and present a simulation study of Active Flash scheduling policies. These results show the viability of the Active Flash model, and its capability to potentially have a transformative impact on scientific data analysis.« less

CYP2D6 genotype in relation to hot flashes as tamoxifen side effect in a Dutch cohort of the tamoxifen exemestane adjuvant multinational (TEAM) trial.

PubMed

Dezentjé, Vincent O; Gelderblom, Hans; Van Schaik, Ron H N; Vletter-Bogaartz, Judith M; Van der Straaten, Tahar; Wessels, Judith A M; Kranenbarg, Elma Meershoek-Klein; Berns, Els M; Seynaeve, Caroline; Putter, Hein; Van de Velde, Cornelis J H; Nortier, Johan W R; Guchelaar, Henk-Jan

2014-01-01

In tamoxifen-treated breast cancer patients the occurrence of hot flashes may be associated with effective estrogen receptor antagonism dependent on genetic variations of metabolic enzymes and the estrogen receptor. Early breast cancer patients who were randomized to receive tamoxifen, followed by exemestane within the tamoxifen exemestane adjuvant multinational trial were genotyped for five CYP2D6 alleles. CYP2D6 genotypes and phenotypes were related to the occurrence of hot flashes as adverse event during the first year of tamoxifen use (primary aim) and the time to the occurrence of hot flashes as AE during the complete time on tamoxifen (secondary aim). In addition, exploratory analyses on 22 genetic variants of other metabolic enzymes and two common polymorphisms in the estrogen receptor-1 were performed. No association was found between the CYP2D6 genotype/phenotype or any other genetic variant and hot flashes during the first year. Only higher age was related to a lower incidence of hot flashes in the first year (adjusted odds ratio 0.94, 95 % CI 0.92-0.96; p < 0.001). The ESR1 PvuII XbaI CG haplotype was associated with the time to the occurrence of hot flashes during the complete time on tamoxifen (CG/CG vs. CG/other + other/other: adjusted hazard ratio 0.49, 95 % CI 0.25-0.97; p = 0.04). In conclusion, the CYP2D6 genotypes and phenotypes were not associated with the occurrence of hot flashes. Common polymorphisms in the estrogen receptor-1 might predict hot flashes as common tamoxifen side effect, although this finding needs replication.

The Distribution of Lightning Channel Lengths in Northern Alabama Thunderstorms

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Peterson, H. S.; Koshak, W. J.

2010-01-01

Lightning is well known to be a major source of tropospheric NOx, and in most cases is the dominant natural source (Huntreiser et al 1998, Jourdain and Hauglustaine 2001). Production of NOx by a segment of a lightning channel is a function of channel segment energy density and channel segment altitude. A first estimate of NOx production by a lightning flash can be found by multiplying production per segment [typically 104 J/m; Hill (1979)] by the total length of the flash s channel. The purpose of this study is to determine average channel length for lightning flashes near NALMA in 2008, and to compare average channel length of ground flashes to the average channel length of cloud flashes.

All-season flash flood forecasting system for real-time operations

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Flash floods can cause extensive damage to both life and property, especially because they are difficult to predict. Flash flood prediction requires high-resolution meteorologic observations and predictions, as well as calibrated hydrologic models in addition to extensive data handling. We have de...

Impacts of LED Brightness, Flash Pattern, and Location for Illuminated Pedestrian Traffic Control Device

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2015-05-01

Illuminated traffic control devices, such as rectangular rapid-flashing beacons (RRFB), have been shown to increase the number of drivers yielding to crossing pedestrians. There is some concern that the brightness of flashes at or contained within si...

Experimental effective intensity of steady and flashing light emitting diodes for aircraft anti-collision lighting.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-08-01

Research was conducted to determine the effective intensity of flashing lights that incorporate light-emitting diodes (LEDs). LEDs require less power and have the ability to flash without the addition of moving parts. Compared with incandescent bulbs...

Investigation of Flash Fill{reg_sign} as a thermal backfill material

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

Ayers, P.H.; Charlton, C.B.; Frishette, C.W.

1995-09-01

Flash Fill{reg_sign} was created as a fast-setting, flowable backfill material made entirely from coal combustion by-products and water. Its quick-setting, self-leveling, self-compacting characteristics makes trench road repairs faster, easier, and more economical. Other uses include building foundations, fill around pipes, gas lines, and manholes, and replacement of weak subgrade beneath rooters. Flash Fill can be hand-excavated without the use of power assisted tools or machinery. To enhance thermal resistivity, the original Flash Fill mix was modified to include concrete sand. This resulted in a new Flash Fill, designated FSAND, with all of the aforementioned desirable characteristics of Flash Fill andmore » a thermal resistivity of approximately 50{degree} C-cm/watt. Thermal resistivity tests using conventional laboratory thermal probes, high-current thermal tests, and moisture migration tests have been performed to determine the properties of FSAND. As a result of these tests, FSAND has been approved for use as power cable thermal backfill on all AEP System distribution projects.« less

Co-design of application software and NAND flash memory in solid-state drive for relational database storage system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miyaji, Kousuke; Sun, Chao; Soga, Ayumi; Takeuchi, Ken

2014-01-01

A relational database management system (RDBMS) is designed based on NAND flash solid-state drive (SSD) for storage. By vertically integrating the storage engine (SE) and the flash translation layer (FTL), system performance is maximized and the internal SSD overhead is minimized. The proposed RDBMS SE utilizes physical information about the NAND flash memory which is supplied from the FTL. The query operation is also optimized for SSD. By these treatments, page-copy-less garbage collection is achieved and data fragmentation in the NAND flash memory is suppressed. As a result, RDBMS performance increases by 3.8 times, power consumption of SSD decreases by 46% and SSD life time is increased by 61%. The effectiveness of the proposed scheme increases with larger erase block sizes, which matches the future scaling trend of three-dimensional (3D-) NAND flash memories. The preferable row data size of the proposed scheme is below 500 byte for 16 kbyte page size.

Red clover for treatment of hot flashes and menopausal symptoms: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

Ghazanfarpour, M; Sadeghi, R; Roudsari, R Latifnejad; Khorsand, I; Khadivzadeh, T; Muoio, B

2016-01-01

This study evaluated the efficacy of red clover to relieve hot flashes and menopausal symptoms in peri/postmenopausal women. Electronic databases (MEDLINE, Scopus and the Cochrane Library) were searched. The mean frequency of hot flashes in red clover groups was lower compared with that in the control groups (close to statistical significance). Difference in means (MD) of hot flashes frequency was - 1.99 (- 4.12-0.139; p = 0.067; heterogeneity P > 0.01; I(2) = 94.93%; Random effect model). Subjective (vaginal dryness) and objective (maturation value) symptoms of vaginal atrophy showed a significant improvement with 80-mg dose of red clover. Red clover showed less therapeutic effect on psychology status, sexual problems and sleeping disorders. Red clover consumption may decrease frequency of hot flashes, especially in women with severe hot flashes (≥ 5 per day). Red clover may reduce other menopausal symptoms. Further trials are needed to confirm the current systematic review findings.

Safety of externally stimulated intracranial electrodes during functional MRI at 1.5T.

PubMed

Bhattacharyya, Pallab K; Mullin, Jeffery; Lee, Bryan S; Gonzalez-Martinez, Jorge A; Jones, Stephen E

2017-05-01

Surgical resection of the epileptogenic zone (EZ) is a potential cure for medically refractory focal epilepsy. Proper identification of the EZ is essential for such resection. Synergistic application of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) simultaneously with stimulation of a single externalized intracranial stereotactic EEG (SEEG) electrode has the potential to improve identification of the EZ. While most EEG-fMRI studies use the electrodes passively to record electrical activity, it is possible to stimulate the brain using the electrodes by connecting them with conducting cables to the stimulation hardware. In this study, we investigated the effect of MRI-induced heating on a single SEEG electrode and its sensitivity to geometry, configuration, and associated connections required for the stimulation. The temperature increase of a single electrode embedded within a gel phantom and connected to an external stimulation system was measured during 1.5T MRI scans using adjacent fluoroptic temperature sensors. A receive-only split-array head coil and a transmit-receive head coil were used for testing. Sequences included a standard localizer, T1-weighted axial fast low-angle shot (FLASH), gradient echo-planar imaging (GE-EPI) axial fMRI, and a high specific absorption rate T2-weighted turbo spin-echo (TSE) axial scan. Variations of the electrode location and connecting cable configuration were tested. No unacceptable heating was observed with the standard sequences used for evaluation of the EZ. Considerable heating (up to 14°C) was observed with the TSE sequence, which is not used clinically. The temperature increase was insignificant (<0.05°C) for electrode contacts closest to the isocenter and connecting cables lying along the isocenter, and varied with configurations of the connecting cable assembly. Simultaneous intracranial electrode stimulation during fMRI using an externalized stimulation system may be safe with strict adherence to settings tested prior to the fMRI. Localizer, FLASH, and GE-EPI fMRI may be safely performed in patients with a single SEEG electrode following the configurations tested in this study, but high SAR TSE scans should not be performed in these patients. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Mortality from flash floods: a review of national weather service reports, 1969-81.

PubMed Central

French, J; Ing, R; Von Allmen, S; Wood, R

1983-01-01

Of all weather-related disasters that occur in the United States, floods are the main cause of death, and most flood-related deaths are attributed to flash floods. Whenever a weather-related disaster involves 30 or more deaths or more than $100 million in property damage, the National Weather Service (NWS) forms a survey team to investigate the disaster and write a report of findings. All NWS survey reports on flash floods issued during 1969-81 were reviewed to determine the mortality resulting from such floods, the effect of warnings on mortality, and the circumstances contributing to death. A total of 1,185 deaths were associated with 32 flash floods, an average of 37 deaths per flash flood. The highest average number of deaths per event was associated with the four flash floods in which dams broke after heavy rains. Although there were 18 flash floods in 1977-81 and only 14 in 1969-76, the number of deaths was 2 1/2 times greater during the earlier period. More than twice as many deaths were associated with flash floods for which the survey team considered the warnings inadequate than with those with warnings considered adequate. Ninety-three percent of the deaths were due to drowning and 42 percent of these drownings were car related. The other drownings occurred in homes, at campsites, or when persons were crossing bridges and streams. The need for monitoring dams during periods of heavy rainfall is highlighted. PMID:6419273

Sternal Skin Conductance: A reasonable surrogate for Hot Flash Measurement?

PubMed Central

Pachman, Deirdre R.; Loprinzi, Charles L.; Novotny, Paul J; Satele, Daniel V; Linquist, Breanna M.; Wolf, Sherry; Barton, Debra L.

2013-01-01

Objective The aim of this study was to examine the accuracy of a new sternal skin conductance (SSC) device for the measurement of hot flashes, and secondly, to assess the acceptability of the device by women. Methods Three small descriptive pilot studies were performed utilizing two sequential prototypes of the SSC device developed by an engineering device company in the Midwest. The devices were worn either in a monitored setting for 24 hours or in an ambulatory setting for 5 weeks. During the study period, women recorded hot flashes in a prospective hot flash diary and also answered questions about the acceptability of wearing the SSC device. Results The first prototype was not able to collect any analyzable skin conductance data due to various malfunction issues; including poor conductance and battery failure. However, 16 patients did wear the device for 5 weeks and reported that wearing the device was acceptable, although 31% stated that it did interfere with daily activities. Hot flash data from the second prototype revealed a concordance rate between patient reported and device recorded hot flashes of 24%. Conclusions Findings from these studies support the discordance between SSC recorded and patient reported hot flashes. In addition, the studies reveal further limitations of SSC monitoring, including difficulties with data collection and lack of consistency in interpretation. Based on these results and other recent trials identifying issues with SSC methodology, it is time to find a better physiologic surrogate measure for hot flashes. PMID:23571528

Vitamin Content of Breast Milk From HIV-1–Infected Mothers Before and After Flash-Heat Treatment

PubMed Central

Israel-Ballard, Kiersten A.; Abrams, Barbara F.; Coutsoudis, Anna; Sibeko, Lindiwe N.; Cheryk, Lynn A.; Chantry, Caroline J.

2010-01-01

Background World Health Organization advocates heat treatment of expressed breastmilk (EBM) as one method to reduce postnatal transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in developing countries. Flash-heat is a simple heat treatment method shown to inactivate cell-free HIV. Objective To determine the effect of flash-heat on vitamin content of milk. Methods Fresh EBM was collected from 50 HIV+ mothers in Durban, South Africa. Mothers washed their hands and then manually expressed 75–150 mL EBM into sterile jars. Milk was aliquoted to unheated controls or flash-heat (50 mL EBM in a glass jar heated in a 450-mL water jacket in an aluminum pan until water boiled, then EBM removed) simulating field conditions with an open flame. Samples were stored at −70°C and then analyzed for the effect of flash-heat on vitamins [A, ascorbic acid, riboflavin (B2), pyridoxal-5-phosphate (B6), folate, and B12]. Results Vitamin A was not significantly affected by flash-heat and vitamins B12 and C and folate increased significantly. Vitamins B2 and B6 were decreased to 59% (95% confidence interval 44 to 81) and 96% (95% confidence interval 92 to 99), respectively, of that found in unheated milk. Conclusions The percentage remaining after flash-heat suggests that most vitamin concentrations are retained after heating. Flash-heat may be a practical and nutritious infant feeding method for mothers in developing countries. PMID:18614920

CROSS CULTURAL ANALYSIS OF DETERMINANTS OF HOT FLASHES AND NIGHT SWEATS: LATIN-AMERICAN IMMIGRANTS TO MADRID AND THEIR SPANISH NEIGHBORS

PubMed Central

Pérez-Alcalá, Irene; Sievert, Lynnette Leidy; Obermeyer, Carla Makhlouf; Reher, David Sven

2013-01-01

Objective This study applies a biocultural perspective to better understand the determinants of hot flashes and night sweats within immigrant and local populations in Madrid, Spain. Methods A combined sample of 575 women from Madrid, aged 45 to 55, was drawn from two studies. The Spanish sample (n=274) participated in the Decisions at Menopause Study (DAMES) in 2000–2002. The Latin-American sample (n=301) was drawn from immigrants to Madrid in 2010–2011. Chi square analyses and logistic regression models were carried out among the combined controlling by origin of provenance. Results Forty four percent of the women reported hot flashes, 36% reported night sweats and 26% both symptoms. Compared to Spanish women, Latin-American women were less likely to report hot flashes (OR 0.7, 95% CI 0.4–0.9) after controlling for demographic variables and menopausal status. The same was not found for night sweats and for both symptoms combined. Determinants of hot flashes differed from determinants of night sweats. Conclusions Because determinants differed, hot flashes and night sweats should be queried and analyzed separately. Latin-American women were less likely to report hot flashes, but not night sweats or both symptoms combined. More research is needed to clarify the differences in reported hot flashes as the lesser report among immigrants could have been a cultural rather than a biological phenomenon. PMID:23571525

Vitamin content of breast milk from HIV-1-infected mothers before and after flash-heat treatment.

PubMed

Israel-Ballard, Kiersten A; Abrams, Barbara F; Coutsoudis, Anna; Sibeko, Lindiwe N; Cheryk, Lynn A; Chantry, Caroline J

2008-08-01

World Health Organization advocates heat treatment of expressed breastmilk (EBM) as one method to reduce postnatal transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in developing countries. Flash-heat is a simple heat treatment method shown to inactivate cell-free HIV. To determine the effect of flash-heat on vitamin content of milk. Fresh EBM was collected from 50 HIV+ mothers in Durban, South Africa. Mothers washed their hands and then manually expressed 75-150 mL EBM into sterile jars. Milk was aliquoted to unheated controls or flash-heat (50 mL EBM in a glass jar heated in a 450-mL water jacket in an aluminum pan until water boiled, then EBM removed) simulating field conditions with an open flame. Samples were stored at -70 degrees C and then analyzed for the effect of flash-heat on vitamins [A, ascorbic acid, riboflavin (B2), pyridoxal-5-phosphate (B6), folate, and B12]. Vitamin A was not significantly affected by flash-heat and vitamins B12 and C and folate increased significantly. Vitamins B2 and B6 were decreased to 59% (95% confidence interval 44 to 81) and 96% (95% confidence interval 92 to 99), respectively, of that found in unheated milk. The percentage remaining after flash-heat suggests that most vitamin concentrations are retained after heating. Flash-heat may be a practical and nutritious infant feeding method for mothers in developing countries.

Impact of rainfall spatial variability on Flash Flood Forecasting

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Douinot, Audrey; Roux, Hélène; Garambois, Pierre-André; Larnier, Kevin

2014-05-01

According to the United States National Hazard Statistics database, flooding and flash flooding have caused the largest number of deaths of any weather-related phenomenon over the last 30 years (Flash Flood Guidance Improvement Team, 2003). Like the storms that cause them, flash floods are very variable and non-linear phenomena in time and space, with the result that understanding and anticipating flash flood genesis is far from straightforward. In the U.S., the Flash Flood Guidance (FFG) estimates the average number of inches of rainfall for given durations required to produce flash flooding in the indicated county. In Europe, flash flood often occurred on small catchments (approximately 100 km2) and it has been shown that the spatial variability of rainfall has a great impact on the catchment response (Le Lay and Saulnier, 2007). Therefore, in this study, based on the Flash flood Guidance method, rainfall spatial variability information is introduced in the threshold estimation. As for FFG, the threshold is the number of millimeters of rainfall required to produce a discharge higher than the discharge corresponding to the first level (yellow) warning of the French flood warning service (SCHAPI: Service Central d'Hydrométéorologie et d'Appui à la Prévision des Inondations). The indexes δ1 and δ2 of Zoccatelli et al. (2010), based on the spatial moments of catchment rainfall, are used to characterize the rainfall spatial distribution. Rainfall spatial variability impacts on warning threshold and on hydrological processes are then studied. The spatially distributed hydrological model MARINE (Roux et al., 2011), dedicated to flash flood prediction is forced with synthetic rainfall patterns of different spatial distributions. This allows the determination of a warning threshold diagram: knowing the spatial distribution of the rainfall forecast and therefore the 2 indexes δ1 and δ2, the threshold value is read on the diagram. A warning threshold diagram is built for each studied catchment. The proposed methodology is applied on three Mediterranean catchments often submitted to flash floods. The new forecasting method as well as the Flash Flood Guidance method (uniform rainfall threshold) are tested on 25 flash floods events that had occurred on those catchments. Results show a significant impact of rainfall spatial variability. Indeed, it appears that the uniform rainfall threshold (FFG threshold) always overestimates the observed rainfall threshold. The difference between the FFG threshold and the proposed threshold ranges from 8% to 30%. The proposed methodology allows the calculation of a threshold more representative of the observed one. However, results strongly depend on the related event duration and on the catchment properties. For instance, the impact of the rainfall spatial variability seems to be correlated with the catchment size. According to these results, it seems to be interesting to introduce information on the catchment properties in the threshold calculation. Flash Flood Guidance Improvement Team, 2003. River Forecast Center (RFC) Development Management Team. Final Report. Office of Hydrologic Development (OHD), Silver Spring, Mary-land. Le Lay, M. and Saulnier, G.-M., 2007. Exploring the signature of climate and landscape spatial variabilities in flash flood events: Case of the 8-9 September 2002 Cévennes-Vivarais catastrophic event. Geophysical Research Letters, 34(L13401), doi:10.1029/2007GL029746. Roux, H., Labat, D., Garambois, P.-A., Maubourguet, M.-M., Chorda, J. and Dartus, D., 2011. A physically-based parsimonious hydrological model for flash floods in Mediterranean catchments. Nat. Hazards Earth Syst. Sci. J1 - NHESS, 11(9), 2567-2582. Zoccatelli, D., Borga, M., Zanon, F., Antonescu, B. and Stancalie, G., 2010. Which rainfall spatial information for flash flood response modelling? A numerical investigation based on data from the Carpathian range, Romania. Journal of Hydrology, 394(1-2), 148-161.

Radiation Tests of Highly Scaled, High-Density, Commercial, Nonvolatile NAND Flash Memories - Update 2010

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Irom, Farokh; Nguyen, Duc N.

2010-01-01

High-density, commercial, nonvolatile flash memories with NAND architecture are now available from several manufacturers. This report examines SEE effects and TID response in single-level cell (SLC) and multi-level cell (MLC) NAND flash memories manufactured by Micron Technology.

78 FR 38996 - Proposed Collection; 60-Day Comment Request; Family Life, Activity, Sun, Health, and Eating...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-06-28

... Comment Request; Family Life, Activity, Sun, Health, and Eating (FLASHE) Study (NCI) Summary: In.... Proposed Collection: Family Life, Activity, Sun, Health, and Eating (FLASHE) Study 0925--NEW, National... FLASHE study seeks to examine psychosocial, generational (parent-adolescent), and environmental...

A Photogate Flash Trigger and a Demonstration of Inertia.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Winters, Loren

1992-01-01

Describes a photogate electronic flash trigger that synchronizes flash discharge with high-speed events. Presents a photographic study of a high-speed collision demonstrating the passage of a BB through an elastic strip. Provides the schematic of the delay circuit utilized in the trigger. (MDH)

Two-flash thresholds as a function of comparison stimulus duration.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1970-09-01

The proposal that two-flash thresholds may be used as direct measures of the critical duration (tc) of Bloch's law was tested. Two-flash threshold was found to be an increasing function of comparison stimulus duration for durations of 3 to 22 msec. i...

Flash Study Analysis and the Music Learning Pro-Files Project

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cremata, Radio; Pignato, Joseph; Powell, Bryan; Smith, Gareth Dylan

2016-01-01

This paper introduces the Music Learning Profiles Project, and its methodological approach, flash study analysis. Flash study analysis is a method that draws heavily on extant qualitative approaches to education research, to develop broad understandings of music learning in diverse contexts. The Music Learning Profiles Project (MLPP) is an…

Radiation Tests of Highly scaled, High-Density, Commercial, Nonvolatile NAND Flash Memories--Update 2011

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Irom, Farokh; Nguyen, Duc N.

2011-01-01

High-density, commercial, nonvolatile flash memories with NAND architecture are now available from several manufacturers. This report examines SEE effects and TID response in single-level cell (SLC) 32Gb and multi-level cell (MLC) 64Gb NAND flash memories manufactured by Micron Technology.

33 CFR 117.253 - Anacostia River.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... open position for vessel traffic. During open span movement, the channel traffic lights will flash red... traffic lights will flash red, and an audio voice-warning device will announce bridge movement during... will continue to flash red. (6) The owners of the bridge shall provide and keep in good legible...

33 CFR 117.253 - Anacostia River.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... open position for vessel traffic. During open span movement, the channel traffic lights will flash red... traffic lights will flash red, and an audio voice-warning device will announce bridge movement during... will continue to flash red. (6) The owners of the bridge shall provide and keep in good legible...

33 CFR 117.253 - Anacostia River.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... open position for vessel traffic. During open span movement, the channel traffic lights will flash red... traffic lights will flash red, and an audio voice-warning device will announce bridge movement during... will continue to flash red. (6) The owners of the bridge shall provide and keep in good legible...

Assessment of the broca-sulzer phenomenon via inter- and intra-modality matching procedures : studies of signal-light brightness.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1968-10-01

Signal lights are presented to an observer as flashes with finite duration; thus, the effect of flash duration on the apparent brightness of the signal is important. The relation of effective signal brightness to flash duration and luminance finds ex...

Non Volatile Flash Memory Radiation Tests

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Irom, Farokh; Nguyen, Duc N.; Allen, Greg

2012-01-01

Commercial flash memory industry has experienced a fast growth in the recent years, because of their wide spread usage in cell phones, mp3 players and digital cameras. On the other hand, there has been increased interest in the use of high density commercial nonvolatile flash memories in space because of ever increasing data requirements and strict power requirements. Because of flash memories complex structure; they cannot be treated as just simple memories in regards to testing and analysis. It becomes quite challenging to determine how they will respond in radiation environments.

Spectroscopic measurements of muzzle flash plasma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Uglum, J. R.

1986-11-01

The experimental apparatus and sample data for the muzzle flash plasma of a laboratory-scale railgun are described. Theoretical predictions for the railgun system configuration used indicated that 24 kJ of energy would be dissipated by the muzzle flash. Spectral data were recorded with a spectrograph sensing through a slit and a PIN diode, the latter to obtain temporal resolution in the data. The tests featured a plastic projectile with an Al foil armature. The measurements identified Cu as the dominant flash material, ablated from the rails in the barrel.

Remote sensing of rainfall for flash flood prediction in the United States

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gourley, J. J.; Flamig, Z.; Vergara, H. J.; Clark, R. A.; Kirstetter, P.; Terti, G.; Hong, Y.; Howard, K.

2015-12-01

This presentation will briefly describe the Multi-Radar Multi-Sensor (MRMS) system that ingests all NEXRAD and Canadian weather radar data and produces accurate rainfall estimates at 1-km resolution every 2 min. This real-time system, which was recently transitioned for operational use in the National Weather Service, provides forcing to a suite of flash flood prediction tools. The Flooded Locations and Simulated Hydrographs (FLASH) project provides 6-hr forecasts of impending flash flooding across the US at the same 1-km grid cell resolution as the MRMS rainfall forcing. This presentation will describe the ensemble hydrologic modeling framework, provide an evaluation at gauged basins over a 10-year period, and show the FLASH tools' performance during the record-setting floods in Oklahoma and Texas in May and June 2015.

FLASH Technology: Full-Scale Hospital Waste Water Treatments Adopted in Aceh

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rame; Tridecima, Adeodata; Pranoto, Hadi; Moesliem; Miftahuddin

2018-02-01

A Hospital waste water contains a complex mixture of hazardous chemicals and harmful microbes, which can pose a threat to the environment and public health. Some efforts have been carried out in Nangroe Aceh Darussalam (Aceh), Indonesia with the objective of treating hospital waste water effluents on-site before its discharge. Flash technology uses physical and biological pre-treatment, followed by advanced oxidation process based on catalytic ozonation and followed by GAC and PAC filtration. Flash Full-Scale Hospital waste water Treatments in Aceh from different district have been adopted and investigated. Referring to the removal efficiency of macro-pollutants, the collected data demonstrate good removal efficiency of macro-pollutants using Flash technologies. In general, Flash technologies could be considered a solution to the problem of managing hospital waste water.

Modeling experimental plasma diagnostics in the FLASH code: Thomson scattering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Weide, Klaus; Flocke, Norbert; Feister, Scott; Tzeferacos, Petros; Lamb, Donald

2017-10-01

Spectral analysis of the Thomson scattering of laser light sent into a plasma provides an experimental method to quantify plasma properties in laser-driven plasma experiments. We have implemented such a synthetic Thomson scattering diagnostic unit in the FLASH code, to emulate the probe-laser propagation, scattering and spectral detection. User-defined laser rays propagate into the FLASH simulation region and experience scattering (change in direction and frequency) based on plasma parameters. After scattering, the rays propagate out of the interaction region and are spectrally characterized. The diagnostic unit can be used either during a physics simulation or in post-processing of simulation results. FLASH is publicly available at flash.uchicago.edu. U.S. DOE NNSA, U.S. DOE NNSA ASC, U.S. DOE Office of Science and NSF.

The design of the light-flash warning light

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Junli

2018-05-01

In today's society, the warning light has been used widely in people's daily life and various industries and agricultures. It is important to protect people's life and security. Light-flashing warning light is a kind of warning light control equipment which can control warning light automatically open and work in the state of blinking after dark, and it can automatically shut down after the dawn. It can achieve the flashing light automatic control and dual function. At present, light-flashing warning lights are mainly used in the projects of municipal construction. It is helpful to warn people and vehicles that passed in the construction site and ensure personal safety through using light-flashing warning light. Its design is simple, its performance is stable and it is also very convince to use it.

A comparison of colour, shape, and flash induced illusory line motion.

PubMed

Hamm, Jeff P

2017-04-01

When a bar suddenly appears between two boxes, the bar will appear to shoot away from the box that matches it in colour or in shape-a phenomenon referred to as attribute priming of illusory line motion (ILM; colour ILM and shape ILM, respectively). If the two boxes are identical, ILM will still occur away from a box if it changes luminance shortly before the presentation of the bar ( flash ILM). This flash condition has been suggested to produce the illusory motion due to the formation of an attentional gradient surrounding the flashed location. However, colour ILM and shape ILM cannot be explained by an attentional gradient as there is no way for attention to select the matching box prior to the presentation of the bar. These findings challenge the attentional gradient explanation for ILM, but only if it is assumed that ILM arises for the same underlying reason. Two experiments are presented that address the question of whether or not flash ILM is the same as colour ILM or shape ILM. The results suggest that while colour ILM and shape ILM reflect a common illusion, flash ILM arises for a different reason. Therefore, the attentional gradient explanation for flash ILM is not refuted by the occurrence of colour ILM or shape ILM, which may reflect transformational apparent motion (TAM).

Increased Expression of CCN2 in the Red Flashing Light-Induced Myopia in Guinea Pigs

PubMed Central

Wang, Hong; Zhuang, Kang; Gao, Lei; Zhang, Linna; Yang, Hongling

2013-01-01

Visual environment plays an important role in the occurrence of myopia. We previously showed that the different flashing lights could result in distinct effects on the ocular growth and development of myopia. CCN2 has been reported to regulate various cellular functions and biological processes. However, whether CCN2 signaling was involved in the red flashing light-induced myopia still remains unknown. In the present study, we investigated the effects of the red flashing lights exposure on the refraction and axial length of the eyes in vivo and then evaluated their effects on the expression of CCN2 and TGF-β in sclera tissues. Our data showed that the eyes exposed to the red flashing light became more myopic with a significant increase of the axial length and decrease of the refraction. Both CCN2 and TGF-β, as well as p38 MAPK and PI3K, were highly expressed in the sclera tissues exposed to the red flashing light. Both CCN2 and TGF-β were found to have the same gene expression profile in vivo. In conclusion, our findings found that CCN2 signaling pathway plays an important role in the red flashing light-induced myopia in vivo. Moreover, our study establishes a useful animal model for experimental myopia research. PMID:23936844

Estimation of the Relative Severity of Floods in Small Ungauged Catchments for Preliminary Observations on Flash Flood Preparedness: A Case Study in Korea

PubMed Central

Kim, Eung Seok; Choi, Hyun Il

2012-01-01

An increase in the occurrence of sudden local flooding of great volume and short duration has caused significant danger and loss of life and property in Korea as well as many other parts of the World. Since such floods usually accompanied by rapid runoff and debris flow rise quite quickly with little or no advance warning to prevent flood damage, this study presents a new flash flood indexing methodology to promptly provide preliminary observations regarding emergency preparedness and response to flash flood disasters in small ungauged catchments. Flood runoff hydrographs are generated from a rainfall-runoff model for the annual maximum rainfall series of long-term observed data in the two selected small ungauged catchments. The relative flood severity factors quantifying characteristics of flood runoff hydrographs are standardized by the highest recorded maximum value, and then averaged to obtain the flash flood index only for flash flood events in each study catchment. It is expected that the regression equations between the proposed flash flood index and rainfall characteristics can provide the basis database of the preliminary information for forecasting the local flood severity in order to facilitate flash flood preparedness in small ungauged catchments. PMID:22690208

Flash floods in the Tatra Mountain streams: frequency and triggers.

PubMed

Ballesteros-Cánovas, J A; Czajka, B; Janecka, K; Lempa, M; Kaczka, R J; Stoffel, M

2015-04-01

Flash floods represent a frequently recurring natural phenomenon in the Tatra Mountains. On the northern slopes of the mountain chain, located in Poland, ongoing and expected future changes in climate are thought to further increase the adverse impacts of flash floods. Despite the repeat occurrence of major floods in the densely populated foothills of the Polish Tatras, the headwaters have been characterized by a surprising lack of data, such that any analysis of process variability or hydrometeorological triggers has been largely hampered so far. In this study, dendrogeomorphic techniques have been employed in four poorly-gauged torrential streams of the northern slope of the Tatra Mountains to reconstruct temporal and spatial patterns of past events. Using more than 1100 increment cores of trees injured by past flash floods, we reconstruct 47 events covering the last 148 years and discuss synoptic situations leading to the triggering of flash floods with the existing meteorological and flow gauge data. Tree-ring analyses have allowed highlighting the seasonality of events, providing new insights about potential hydrometeorological triggers as well as a differentiating flash flood activity between catchments. Results of this study could be useful to design future strategies to deal with flash flood risks at the foothills of the Polish Tatras and in the Vistula River catchment. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Additions and improvements to the high energy density physics capabilities in the FLASH code

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lamb, D.; Bogale, A.; Feister, S.; Flocke, N.; Graziani, C.; Khiar, B.; Laune, J.; Tzeferacos, P.; Walker, C.; Weide, K.

2017-10-01

FLASH is an open-source, finite-volume Eulerian, spatially-adaptive radiation magnetohydrodynamics code that has the capabilities to treat a broad range of physical processes. FLASH performs well on a wide range of computer architectures, and has a broad user base. Extensive high energy density physics (HEDP) capabilities exist in FLASH, which make it a powerful open toolset for the academic HEDP community. We summarize these capabilities, emphasizing recent additions and improvements. We describe several non-ideal MHD capabilities that are being added to FLASH, including the Hall and Nernst effects, implicit resistivity, and a circuit model, which will allow modeling of Z-pinch experiments. We showcase the ability of FLASH to simulate Thomson scattering polarimetry, which measures Faraday due to the presence of magnetic fields, as well as proton radiography, proton self-emission, and Thomson scattering diagnostics. Finally, we describe several collaborations with the academic HEDP community in which FLASH simulations were used to design and interpret HEDP experiments. This work was supported in part at U. Chicago by DOE NNSA ASC through the Argonne Institute for Computing in Science under FWP 57789; DOE NNSA under NLUF Grant DE-NA0002724; DOE SC OFES Grant DE-SC0016566; and NSF Grant PHY-1619573.

Spectral measurements of muzzle flash with multispectral and hyperspectral sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kastek, M.; Dulski, R.; Trzaskawka, P.; Piątkowski, T.; Polakowski, H.

2011-08-01

The paper presents some practical aspects of the measurements of muzzle flash signatures. Selected signatures of sniper shot in typical scenarios has been presented. Signatures registered during all phases of muzzle flash were analyzed. High precision laboratory measurements were made in a special ballistic laboratory and as a result several flash patterns were registered. The field measurements of a muzzle flash were also performed. During the tests several infrared cameras were used, including the measurement class devices with high accuracy and frame rates. The registrations were made in NWIR, SWIR and LWIR spectral bands simultaneously. An ultra fast visual camera was also used for visible spectra registration. Some typical infrared shot signatures were presented. Beside the cameras, the LWIR imaging spectroradiometer HyperCam was also used during the laboratory experiments and the field tests. The signatures collected by the HyperCam device were useful for the determination of spectral characteristics of the muzzle flash, whereas the analysis of thermal images registered during the tests provided the data on temperature distribution in the flash area. As a result of the measurement session the signatures of several types handguns, machine guns and sniper rifles were obtained which will be used in the development of passive infrared systems for sniper detection.

The Triple-Flash Illusion Reveals a Driving Role of Alpha-Band Reverberations in Visual Perception.

PubMed

Gulbinaite, Rasa; İlhan, Barkın; VanRullen, Rufin

2017-07-26

The modulatory role of spontaneous brain oscillations on perception of threshold-level stimuli is well established. Here, we provide evidence that alpha-band (∼10 Hz) oscillations not only modulate perception of threshold-level sensory inputs but also can drive perception and generate percepts without a physical stimulus being present. We used the "triple-flash" illusion: Occasional perception of three flashes when only two spatially coincident veridical ones, separated by ∼100 ms, are presented. The illusion was proposed to result from superposition of two hypothetical oscillatory impulse response functions generated in response to each flash: When the delay between flashes matches the period of the oscillation, the superposition enhances a later part of the oscillation that is normally damped; when this enhancement crosses perceptual threshold, a third flash is erroneously perceived (Bowen, 1989). In Experiment 1, we varied stimulus onset asynchrony and validated Bowen's theory: The optimal stimulus onset asynchrony for illusion to occur was correlated, across human subjects (both genders), with the subject-specific impulse response function period determined from a separate EEG experiment. Experiment 2 revealed that prestimulus parietal, but no occipital, alpha EEG phase and power, as well as poststimulus alpha phase-locking, together determine the occurrence of the illusion on a trial-by-trial basis. Thus, oscillatory reverberations create something out of nothing: A third flash where there are only two. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT We highlight a novel property of alpha-band (∼10 Hz) oscillations based on three experiments (two EEG and one psychophysics) by demonstrating that alpha-band oscillations do not merely modulate perception, but can also drive perception. We show that human participants report seeing a third flash when only two are presented (the "triple-flash" illusion) most often when the interflash delay matches the period of participant's oscillatory impulse response function reverberating in alpha. Within-subject, the phase and power of ongoing parietal, but not occipital, alpha-band oscillations at the time of the first flash determine illusory percept on a trial-by-trial basis. We revealed a physiologically plausible mechanism that validates and extends the original theoretical account of the triple-flash illusion proposed by Bowen in 1989. Copyright © 2017 the authors 0270-6474/17/377219-12$15.00/0.

Active Flash: Performance-Energy Tradeoffs for Out-of-Core Processing on Non-Volatile Memory Devices

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

Boboila, Simona; Kim, Youngjae; Vazhkudai, Sudharshan S

2012-01-01

In this abstract, we study the performance and energy tradeoffs involved in migrating data analysis into the flash device, a process we refer to as Active Flash. The Active Flash paradigm is similar to 'active disks', which has received considerable attention. Active Flash allows us to move processing closer to data, thereby minimizing data movement costs and reducing power consumption. It enables true out-of-core computation. The conventional definition of out-of-core solvers refers to an approach to process data that is too large to fit in the main memory and, consequently, requires access to disk. However, in Active Flash, processing outsidemore » the host CPU literally frees the core and achieves real 'out-of-core' analysis. Moving analysis to data has long been desirable, not just at this level, but at all levels of the system hierarchy. However, this requires a detailed study on the tradeoffs involved in achieving analysis turnaround under an acceptable energy envelope. To this end, we first need to evaluate if there is enough computing power on the flash device to warrant such an exploration. Flash processors require decent computing power to run the internal logic pertaining to the Flash Translation Layer (FTL), which is responsible for operations such as address translation, garbage collection (GC) and wear-leveling. Modern SSDs are composed of multiple packages and several flash chips within a package. The packages are connected using multiple I/O channels to offer high I/O bandwidth. SSD computing power is also expected to be high enough to exploit such inherent internal parallelism within the drive to increase the bandwidth and to handle fast I/O requests. More recently, SSD devices are being equipped with powerful processing units and are even embedded with multicore CPUs (e.g. ARM Cortex-A9 embedded processor is advertised to reach 2GHz frequency and deliver 5000 DMIPS; OCZ RevoDrive X2 SSD has 4 SandForce controllers, each with 780MHz max frequency Tensilica core). Efforts that take advantage of the available computing cycles on the processors on SSDs to run auxiliary tasks other than actual I/O requests are beginning to emerge. Kim et al. investigate database scan operations in the context of processing on the SSDs, and propose dedicated hardware logic to speed up scans. Also, cluster architectures have been explored, which consist of low-power embedded CPUs coupled with small local flash to achieve fast, parallel access to data. Processor utilization on SSD is highly dependent on workloads and, therefore, they can be idle during periods with no I/O accesses. We propose to use the available processing capability on the SSD to run tasks that can be offloaded from the host. This paper makes the following contributions: (1) We have investigated Active Flash and its potential to optimize the total energy cost, including power consumption on the host and the flash device; (2) We have developed analytical models to analyze the performance-energy tradeoffs for Active Flash, by treating the SSD as a blackbox, this is particularly valuable due to the proprietary nature of the SSD internal hardware; and (3) We have enhanced a well-known SSD simulator (from MSR) to implement 'on-the-fly' data compression using Active Flash. Our results provide a window into striking a balance between energy consumption and application performance.« less

The Research of Variation of the Period and Precession of the Rotation Axis of EGS (AJISAI) Satellite by Using Photometric Measurement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Burlak, N.; Koshkin, N.; Korobeynikova, E.; Melikyants, S.; Shakun, L.; Strakhova, S.

The light curves of EGS Ajisai with temporal resolution of 20 ms referred to the time scale UTC (GPS) with an error of at most 0.1 ms were obtained. The observed flashes are produced when the mirrors which cover the spinning satellite's surface reflect off the sunlight. In previous paper the analysis of sequence of flashes allowed of reconstructing the arrangement and orientation of the mirrors, i.e. developing an optogeometric model of the satellite (Korobeynikova et al., 2012), and to apply that model along with new photometric observations to determine the satellite's sidereal rotational period with an accuracy that was previously unachievable. A new technique for determination of the spin-axis orientation during each passage of the satellite over an observation site was developed. The secular slowdown of the satellite's spin rate (Psid = 1.4858*EXP(0.000041099*T), where T is measured in days counted from the date of the satellite launch) and its variations correlating with the average duration of the satellite orbit out of the Earth's shadow were refined. New parameters of the spin-axis precession were estimated: the period Pprec = 116.44 days, αprec = 18.0h, δprec = 87.66°, the nutation angle θ = 1.78°.

Potential Use of a Bayesian Network for Discriminating Flash Type from Future GOES-R Geostationary Lightning Mapper (GLM) data

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Solakiewiz, Richard; Koshak, William

2008-01-01

Continuous monitoring of the ratio of cloud flashes to ground flashes may provide a better understanding of thunderstorm dynamics, intensification, and evolution, and it may be useful in severe weather warning. The National Lighting Detection Network TM (NLDN) senses ground flashes with exceptional detection efficiency and accuracy over most of the continental United States. A proposed Geostationary Lightning Mapper (GLM) aboard the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite (GOES-R) will look at the western hemisphere, and among the lightning data products to be made available will be the fundamental optical flash parameters for both cloud and ground flashes: radiance, area, duration, number of optical groups, and number of optical events. Previous studies have demonstrated that the optical flash parameter statistics of ground and cloud lightning, which are observable from space, are significantly different. This study investigates a Bayesian network methodology for discriminating lightning flash type (ground or cloud) using the lightning optical data and ancillary GOES-R data. A Directed Acyclic Graph (DAG) is set up with lightning as a "root" and data observed by GLM as the "leaves." This allows for a direct calculation of the joint probability distribution function for the lighting type and radiance, area, etc. Initially, the conditional probabilities that will be required can be estimated from the Lightning Imaging Sensor (LIS) and the Optical Transient Detector (OTD) together with NLDN data. Directly manipulating the joint distribution will yield the conditional probability that a lightning flash is a ground flash given the evidence, which consists of the observed lightning optical data [and possibly cloud data retrieved from the GOES-R Advanced Baseline Imager (ABI) in a more mature Bayesian network configuration]. Later, actual GLM and NLDN data can be used to refine the estimates of the conditional probabilities used in the model; i.e., the Bayesian network is a learning network. Methods for efficient calculation of the conditional probabilities (e.g., an algorithm using junction trees), finding data conflicts, goodness of fit, and dealing with missing data will also be addressed.

Medium range forecasting of Hurricane Harvey flash flooding using ECMWF and social vulnerability data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pillosu, F. M.; Jurlina, T.; Baugh, C.; Tsonevsky, I.; Hewson, T.; Prates, F.; Pappenberger, F.; Prudhomme, C.

2017-12-01

During hurricane Harvey the greater east Texas area was affected by extensive flash flooding. Their localised nature meant they were too small for conventional large scale flood forecasting systems to capture. We are testing the use of two real time forecast products from the European Centre for Medium-range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) in combination with local vulnerability information to provide flash flood forecasting tools at the medium range (up to 7 days ahead). Meteorological forecasts are the total precipitation extreme forecast index (EFI), a measure of how the ensemble forecast probability distribution differs from the model-climate distribution for the chosen location, time of year and forecast lead time; and the shift of tails (SOT) which complements the EFI by quantifying how extreme an event could potentially be. Both products give the likelihood of flash flood generating precipitation. For hurricane Harvey, 3-day EFI and SOT products for the period 26th - 29th August 2017 were used, generated from the twice daily, 18 km, 51 ensemble member ECMWF Integrated Forecast System. After regridding to 1 km resolution the forecasts were combined with vulnerable area data to produce a flash flood hazard risk area. The vulnerability data were floodplains (EU Joint Research Centre), road networks (Texas Department of Transport) and urban areas (Census Bureau geographic database), together reflecting the susceptibility to flash floods from the landscape. The flash flood hazard risk area forecasts were verified using a traditional approach against observed National Weather Service flash flood reports, a total of 153 reported flash floods have been detected in that period. Forecasts performed best for SOT = 5 (hit ratio = 65%, false alarm ratio = 44%) and EFI = 0.7 (hit ratio = 74%, false alarm ratio = 45%) at 72 h lead time. By including the vulnerable areas data, our verification results improved by 5-15%, demonstrating the value of vulnerability information within natural hazard forecasts. This research shows that flash flooding from hurricane Harvey was predictable up to 4 days ahead and that filtering the forecasts to vulnerable areas provides a more focused guidance to civil protection agencies planning their emergency response.

A LIS Validation Study at the KSC-ER using LDAR and Field Mill Data

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Koshak, William J.; Christian, Hugh J.; Krider, E. Philip

1999-01-01

The chance of having the TRMM satellite pass over east central Florida when there is lightning over the NASA Kennedy Space Center (KSC) and USAF Eastern Range (ER) is small; however, such a condition did occur on September 21, 1998 (Day 264). Starting at about 20:40 GMT, the Lightning Imaging Sensor (LIS) reported 5 flashes during a 90 second interval that the KSC-ER was within the sensor field of view. Ground-based instrumentation, the Lightning Detection and Ranging (LDAR) system and a network of electric field mills (FM), detected 6 flashes in the same interval. In this paper, we will compare the times and locations of the optical pulses that were detected by LIS with the times and locations of RF sources (LDAR) and the charges that were deposited by the flash (FM network). We will show that LIS responded to all flashes that the LDAR and FM network detected; however, two discharges that were separated by less than 1 second in time and by about 10 km in space were grouped as one flash by the LIS data processing algorithm. In spite of the fact that all flashes occurred near the edge of the LIS field of view, the locations of the LIS events were consistent with both the LDAR and FM locations (the latter are usually within 1-2 kilometers of each other and often are co-located). Two of the 5 flashes reported by LIS were shifted north by about 8 km from the corresponding LDAR and FM locations. The LIS flash times tended to be after the first LDAR pulse was detected and before the last, and the integrated light signal (per LIS event) was surprisingly constant over the 5 flashes that were detected by LIS. In the future, we plan to study more correlated events and will try to determine whether and how the LIS light signal is related to the charge transfer in the flash and/or the number and spatial extent of RF sources.

Birth of the International Lunar Impact Astronomical Detection (ILIAD) network : first detections in Morocco

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ait Moulay Larbi, E.; Bouley, S.; Dassou, A.; Benkhaldoun, Z.; Baratoux, D.; Lazrek, M.

2013-12-01

We present the research environment of our network. We highlight some results of the analysis of the first Lunar Meteorides impacts detected in Morocco. We present an exemple of ground-based instrumentation to carry out a successful search for lunar flashes phenomena. We also discuss the interest to monotoring these phenomena by focusing on the interest of determining the positions of the craters on the moon. The precise determination of impact flashes is very advantageous, especially in the near future there will be several new craters identified by LROC or other robotic spacecraft cameras. The two flashes reported in this study are optimally situated on central region of the lunar disk, which reduce the mismatch between the barycenter of radiation and the actual position of the impact. Smaller-scale lunar features are easily identified after superposition of a large number of images in order to increase the signal to noise ratio and produce an optimal image of the non-illuminated fraction of the moon. The sub-pixel shift of each image relative to the first frame (base frame) was determined by fitting the correlation peak obtained in the Fourier space to a 2- dimensional gaussian following Schaum and McHugh [1996]; Baratoux et al. [2001]. To increase further the positioning, the signal of the flash is is fitted to a 2-dimensional gaussian for each frame (previously shifted to the base image) where the flash is present. The barycenter of the flash is given as the rounded to the nearest integer of the average centers of the 2-dimensional gaussian functions. Two impact flashes are detected from AGM observatory in Marrakech, respectively on the February 6, 2013, at 06:29:56.7 UT and April 14, 2013, 20:00:45.4 UT. The characteristics of each flash are given in the table below. the diameter of the crater formed on the lunar surface can be estimated using Gault's formula for craters of less than 100 m in diameter, the results show that the meteoroids are likely producing craters of about 2.5 m and 4.4 m in diameter for Flash 1 and 2, respectively.Characteristics of lunar impact flashes

High Risk Flash Flood Rainstorm Mapping Based on Regional L-moments Approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ding, Hui; Liao, Yifan; Lin, Bingzhang

2017-04-01

Difficulties and complexities in elaborating flash flood early-warning and forecasting system prompt hydrologists to develop some techniques to substantially reduce the disastrous outcome of a flash flood in advance. An ideal to specify those areas that are subject at high risk to flash flood in terms of rainfall intensity in a relatively large region is proposed in this paper. It is accomplished through design of the High Risk Flash Flood Rainstorm Area (HRFFRA) based on statistical analysis of historical rainfall data, synoptic analysis of prevailing storm rainfalls as well as the field survey of historical flash flood events in the region. A HRFFRA is defined as the area potentially under hitting by higher intense-precipitation for a given duration with certain return period that may cause a flash flood disaster in the area. This paper has presented in detail the development of the HRFFRA through the application of the end-to-end Regional L-moments Approach (RLMA) to precipitation frequency analysis in combination with the technique of spatial interpolation in Jiangxi Province, South China Mainland. Among others, the concept of hydrometeorologically homogenous region, the precision of frequency analysis in terms of parameter estimation, the accuracy of quantiles in terms of uncertainties and the consistency adjustments of quantiles over durations and space, etc., have been addressed. At the end of this paper, the mapping of the HRFFRA and an internet-based visualized user-friendly data-server of the HRFFRA are also introduced. Key words: HRFFRA; Flash Flood; RLMA; rainfall intensity; Hydrometeorological homogenous region.

Individually tailored light intervention through closed eyelids to promote circadian alignment and sleep health

PubMed Central

Figueiro, Mariana G.

2016-01-01

Background Light is most effective at changing the timing of the circadian clock when applied close to the core body temperature minimum. The present study investigated, in a home setting, if individually tailored light treatment using flashing blue light delivered through closed eyelids during the early part of the sleep period delayed circadian phase and sleep in a population of healthy older adults and in those suffering from early awakening insomnia. Methods Twenty-eight participants (9 early awakening insomniacs) completed an 8-week, within-subjects study. Twice, participants collected data during two baseline weeks and one intervention week. During the intervention week, participants wore a flashing blue (active) or a flashing red (control) light mask during sleep. Light was expected to delay circadian phase. Saliva samples for dim light melatonin onset (DLMO) were collected at the end of each baseline and intervention week. Wrist actigraphy and Daysimeter, a calibrated light and activity meter, data were collected during the entire study. Results Compared to baseline, flashing blue light, but not flashing red light, significantly (p<0.05) delayed DLMO. The mean ± standard deviation phase shift (minutes) was 0:06 ± 0:30 for the flashing red light and 0:34 ± 0:30 for the flashing blue light. Compared to Day 1, sleep start times were significantly delayed (by approximately 46 minutes) at Day 7 after the flashing blue light. The light intervention did not affect sleep efficiency. Conclusions The present study demonstrated the feasibility of using light through closed eyelids during sleep for promoting circadian alignment and sleep health. PMID:26985450

An investigation of life circumstances associated with the experience of hot flashes in Campeche, Mexico.

PubMed

Huicochea-Gómez, Laura; Sievert, Lynnette Leidy; Cahuich-Campos, Diana; Brown, Daniel E

2017-01-01

The purpose of this study was to better understand the experience of calores (hot flashes) in the state of Campeche, Mexico, and characteristics of women's lives. This study was carried out to understand the sociocultural context of women's lives before conducting a larger semistructured survey in the same communities. Eighty-five women from rural and urban settings participated in open-ended interviews about the menopausal transition, with particular attention to hot flashes. Univariate and logistic regression analyses identified potential determinants of hot flashes. Qualitative responses were analyzed for central themes from the 40 women who experienced "calores" associated with menopause at the time of interview. The word "calores" was used to describe a variety of sensations and experiences related to the hot climate, infections, going in and out of air-conditioning, emotional stress, and physical exertion, as well as the symptom associated with menopause. In quantitative analyses, the likelihood of experiencing hot flashes varied by menopause status and rural/urban residence. In qualitative analyses, themes that characterized the lives of women with hot flashes were as follows: the search for, and the availability of, biomedical care; presence or absence of networks of social support; marital status and quality of the relationship; and occupational stress. Hot flash questionnaires can elicit different symptom frequencies depending on the language used and the sociocultural context of women's lives. Qualitative findings suggest that the themes most likely to influence the perception and experience of hot flashes in Campeche are biomedicine, social support, marriage, and stress.

Menopausal hot flashes and insulin resistance.

PubMed

Tuomikoski, Pauliina; Ylikorkala, Olavi; Mikkola, Tomi S

2012-10-01

Recent data have indicated that menopausal hot flashes may be a determinant for cardiovascular health. Therefore, we studied the impact of hot flashes on insulin resistance, one of the most powerful markers of cardiovascular health, in recently postmenopausal women. We studied 143 recently postmenopausal (amenorrhea 6-36 mo) healthy and normal-weight women without previous hormone therapy use. The women prospectively recorded the number and severity of hot flashes for 2 weeks, and a validated total symptom score, the hot flash weekly weighted score, was calculated for each woman. Insulin resistance was assessed from fasting blood levels of glucose and insulin with the homeostasis model assessment. In 12 women, the assessment of insulin (n = 11) or glucose (n = 1) failed, and they were excluded from further analysis. Thus, hot flashes were absent in 19, mild in 32, moderate in 27, and severe in 53 women. The levels of glucose or insulin, or HOMA showed no differences between these groups, nor was insulin resistance related to the number or severity of hot flashes or to the levels of C-reactive protein or sex hormone-binding globulin. Overall, insulin resistance showed a positive association with body mass index (mean difference, 0.058; 95% CI, 0.015-0.102; P = 0.009) and a negative association with level of estradiol (mean difference, -0.002; 95% CI, -0.003 to -0.001; P = 0.009). Insulin resistance may not be involved in hot flash-related changes in cardiovascular health. However, because of the small sample size, these findings need to be interpreted with caution.

Excitation and desensitization of mouse rod photoreceptors in vivo following bright adapting light

PubMed Central

Kang Derwent, Jennifer J; Qtaishat, Nasser M; Pepperberg, David R

2002-01-01

Electroretinographic (ERG) methods were used to determine response properties of mouse rod photoreceptors in vivo following adapting illumination that produced a significant extent of rhodopsin bleaching. Bleaching levels prevailing at ∼10 min and ∼20 min after the adapting exposure were on average 14% and 9%, respectively, based on the analysis of visual cycle retinoids in the eye tissues. Recovery of the rod response to the adapting light was monitored by analysing the ERG a-wave response to a bright probe flash presented at varying times during dark adaptation. A paired-flash procedure, in which the probe flash was presented at defined times after a weak test flash of fixed strength, was used to determine sensitivity of the rod response to the test flash. Recovery of the response to the adapting light was 80% complete at 13.5 ± 3.0 min (mean ± s.d.; n = 7) after adapting light offset. The adapting light caused prolonged desensitization of the weak-flash response derived from paired-flash data. By comparison with results obtained in the absence of the adapting exposure, desensitization determined with a test-probe interval of 80 ms was ∼fourfold after 5 min of dark adaptation and ∼twofold after 20 min. The results indicate, for mouse rods in vivo, that the time scale for recovery of weak-flash sensitivity substantially exceeds that for the recovery of circulating current following significant rhodopsin bleaching. The lingering desensitization may reflect a reduced efficiency of signal transmission in the phototransduction cascade distinct from that due to residual excitation. PMID:12015430

A study on flash sintering and related phenomena in titania and its composite with alumina

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shikhar

In 2010, Cologna et. al. [1] reported that with a help of small electric field 120 Vcm-1, the sintering temperature of 3 mol % yittria stabilized zirconia could be brought down to 850°C from 1450°C. On top of reducing the temperature requirements, the green sample could be sintered from starting density of 50% to near full density in mere 5 seconds, a sintering rate three orders of magnitude higher than conventional methods. This discovery led to the emergence of a new field of enhanced sintering with electric field, named "Flash Sintering". The objective of this thesis is to understand the phenomenological behavior of flash-sintering and related phenomena on titania and its composites with alumina at elevated temperature. The possible mechanisms to explain flash sintering are discussed: Joule heating and the avalanche of defect generation [2], both induced by the rapid rise in conductivity just before the onset of the flash. Apparently, both mechanisms play a role. The thesis covers the response of pure titania and composites of titania-alumina under flash and compared with conventional sintering. We start with the sintering behavior of pure titania and observe lowering of sintering temperature requirements with higher applied electric field. The conductivity of titania during flash is also measured, and compared with the nominal conductivity of titania at equivalent temperatures. The conductivity during flash is determined to be have a different activation energy. For the composites of titania-alumina, effect of flash on the constrained sintering was studied. It is a known fact that sintering of one component of composite slows down when the other component of a different densification rate is added to it, called constrained sintering. In our case, large inclusions of alumina particles were added to nano-grained titania green compact that hindered its densification. Flash sintering was found to be overcoming this problem and near full densification was achieved. In another experiment, effect of high current density and hold time under flash on the chemical reaction (phase transformation) of titania and alumina to form Al2TiO5 is studied. It was found that not only flash enhances the kinetics of reaction when compared with conventional heating at equivalent temperatures, but also brought down the phase transformation temperature for this spinel formation, as reported by the phase diagram. In-situ X-ray diffraction experiments were performed at the synchrotron facility in Argonne National Laboratory. The specimen temperature were measured during the experiment on the basis of peak shift with temperature and were found to be matching with our predicted values by Black-Body-Radiation model. We also observed the instant evolution of texture in grain orientation of pure titania under flash and their disappearance as the fields were switched off. Study on chemical kinetics between titania and alumina were also performed which supported our findings of in-house experiments.

A Modern Apparatus for Performing Flash Chromatography: An Experiment for the Organic Laboratory

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Naumiec, Gregory R.; Del Padre, Angela N.; Hooper, Matthew M.; Germaine, Alison St.; DeBoef, Brenton

2013-01-01

A modern apparatus for performing flash chromatography using commercially available, prepacked silica cartridges has been developed. The key advantage of this system, when compared to traditional flash chromatography, is its use of commercially available silica cartridges, which obviates the need for students to handle silica gel. The apparatus…

Hot Flashes Among Prostate Cancer Patients Undergoing Androgen Deprivation Therapy: Psychosocial and Quality of Life Issues

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-12-01

hot flashes on sleep, fatigue, and quality of life , and compare the accuracy of alternative means of assessing hot flashes. The overarching goal is to...diverse applications. Results will have implications for the education of oncologists with respect to quality of life issues in prostate cancer, set

Hot Flashes Among Prostate Cancer Patients Undergoing Androgen Deprivation Therapy: Psychosocial and Quality of Life Issues

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-01-01

of hot flashes on sleep, fatigue, and quality of life , and compare the accuracy of alternative means of assessing hot flashes. The overarching goal is...diverse applications. Results will have implications for the education of oncologists with respect to quality of life issues in prostate cancer, set

Software Tools for Stochastic Simulations of Turbulence

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-08-28

client interface to FTI. Specefic client programs using this interface include the weather forecasting code WRF ; the high energy physics code, FLASH...client programs using this interface include the weather forecasting code WRF ; the high energy physics code, FLASH; and two locally constructed fluid...45 4.4.2.2 FLASH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 4.4.2.3 WRF

76 FR 4375 - In the Matter of Certain MLC Flash Memory Devices and Products Containing Same; Notice of...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-01-25

... INTERNATIONAL TRADE COMMISSION [Investigation No. 337-TA-683] In the Matter of Certain MLC Flash Memory Devices and Products Containing Same; Notice of Commission Determination Not To Review an Initial... the United States after importation of certain MLC flash memory devices and products containing same...

78 FR 49287 - Certain Flash Memory Chips and Products Containing the Same Correction to Notice of Receipt of...

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2013-08-13

... INTERNATIONAL TRADE COMMISSION [Docket No 2971] Certain Flash Memory Chips and Products Containing the Same Correction to Notice of Receipt of Complaint; Solicitation of Comments Relating to the Public..., Certain Flash Memory Chips and Products Containing the Same, DN 2971; the Commission solicited comments on...

Behavioral Treatment of Menopausal Hot Flashes: Evaluation by Objective Methods.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Germaine, Leonard M.; Freedman, Robert R.

1984-01-01

Used latency to hot flash onset under heat stress to evaluate the effects of relaxation treatment or a control procedure in 14 menopausal women. Following treatment, the latency to hot flash onset during heat stress was increased in relaxation subjects. Reported symptom frequency was significantly reduced in relaxation subjects. (BH)

BRAIN CHOLINESTERASE INHIBITION PRODUCED BY PROPOXUR AND DEPRESSION OF THE PHOTIC AFTER DISCHARGE OF FLASH EVOKED POTENTIALS IN LONG EVANS RATS.

EPA Science Inventory

Propoxur is a widely used N-methyl carbamate pesticide that acts by inhibiting cholinesterases (ChE), which may lead to cholinergic toxicity. Flash evoked potentials (FEPs) are a neurophysiological response following stimulation of the visual system with flashes of light. They ar...

Macromedia Flash as a Tool for Mathematics Teaching and Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Garofalo, Joe; Summers, Tim

2004-01-01

Macromedia Flash is a powerful and robust development tool. Because of its graphical, sound, and animation capabilities (and ubiquitous browser plug-in), major companies employ it in their website development (see www.nike.com or www.espn.com). These same features also make Flash a valuable environment for building multi-representational "movies"…

Conformational detection of p53's oligomeric state by FlAsH Fluorescence.

PubMed

Webber, Tawnya M; Allen, Andrew C; Ma, Wai Kit; Molloy, Rhett G; Kettelkamp, Charisse N; Dow, Caitlin A; Gage, Matthew J

2009-06-19

The p53 tumor suppressor protein is a critical checkpoint in prevention of tumor formation, and the function of p53 is dependent on proper formation of the active tetramer. In vitro studies have shown that p53 binds DNA most efficiently as a tetramer, though inactive p53 is predicted to be monomeric in vivo. We demonstrate that FlAsH binding can be used to distinguish between oligomeric states of p53, providing a potential tool to explore p53 oligomerization in vivo. The FlAsH tetra-cysteine binding motif has been incorporated along the dimer and tetramer interfaces in the p53 tetramerization domain to create reporters for the dimeric and tetrameric states of p53, though the geometry of the four cysteines is critical for efficient FlAsH binding. Furthermore, we demonstrate that FlAsH binding can be used to monitor tetramer formation in real-time. These results demonstrate the potential for using FlAsH fluorescence to monitor protein-protein interactions in vivo.

Conformational detection of p53's oligomeric state by FlAsH Fluorescence

PubMed Central

Webber, Tawnya M.; Allen, Andrew C.; Ma, Wai Kit; Molloy, Rhett G.; Kettelkamp, Charisse N.; Dow, Caitlin A.; Gage, Matthew J.

2009-01-01

The p53 tumor suppressor protein is a critical checkpoint in prevention of tumor formation, and the function of p53 is dependent on proper formation of the active tetramer. In vitro studies have shown that p53 binds DNA most efficiently as a tetramer, though inactive p53 is predicted to be monomeric in vivo. We demonstrate that FlAsH binding can be used to distinguish between oligomeric states of p53, providing a potential tool to explore p53 oligomerization in vivo. The FlAsH tetra-cysteine binding motif has been incorporated along the dimer and tetramer interfaces in the p53 tetramerization domain to create reporters for the dimeric and tetrameric states of p53, though the geometry of the four cysteines is critical for efficient FlAsH binding. Furthermore, we demonstrate that FlAsH binding can be used to monitor tetramer formation in real-time. These results demonstrate the potential for using FlAsH fluorescence to monitor protein-protein interactions in vivo. PMID:19393630

The Origin of the Optical Flashes: The Case Study of GRB 080319B and GRB 130427A

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fraija, N.; Veres, P.

2018-05-01

Correlations between optical flashes and gamma-ray emissions in gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) have been searched in order to clarify the question of whether these emissions occur at internal and/or external shocks. Among the most powerful GRBs ever recorded are GRB 080319B and GRB 130427A, which at early phases presented bright optical flashes possibly correlated with γ-ray components. Additionally, both bursts were fortuitously located within the field of view of the TeV γ-ray Milagro and HAWC observatories, and although no statistically significant excess of counts were collected, upper limits were placed on the GeV–TeV emission. Considering the synchrotron self-Compton emission from internal shocks and requiring the GeV–TeV upper limits, we found that the optical flashes and the γ-ray components are produced by different electron populations. Analyzing the optical flashes together with the multiwavelength afterglow observation, we found that these flashes can be interpreted in the framework of the synchrotron reverse shock model when outflows have arbitrary magnetizations.

Flash Inactivation of Oxygen Evolution

PubMed Central

Frasch, Wayne D.; Cheniae, George M.

1980-01-01

Brief saturating light flashes were used to probe the mechanism of inactivation of O2 evolution by Tris in chloroplasts. Maximum inactivation with a single flash and an oscillation with period of four on subsequent flashes was observed. Analyses of the oscillations suggested that only the charge-collecting O2-evolving catalyst of photosystem II (S2-state) was a target of inactivation by Tris. This conclusion was supported by the following observations: (a) hydroxylamine preequilibration caused a three-flash delay in the inactivation pattern; (b) the lifetimes of the Tris-inactivable and S2-states were similar; and (c) reagents accelerating S2 deactivation decreased the lifetime of the inactivable state. Inactivation proved to be moderated by F, the precursor of Signal IIs, as shown by a one flash delay with chloroplasts having high abundance of F. Evidence was obtained for cooperativity effects in inactivation and NH3 was shown to be a competitive inhibitor of the Tris-induced inactivation. S2-dependent inactivation was inhibited by glutaraldehyde fixation of chloroplasts, possibly suggesting that inactivation proceeds via conformational changes of the S2-state. PMID:16661270

Additions and improvements to the high energy density physics capabilities in the FLASH code

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lamb, D. Q.; Flocke, N.; Graziani, C.; Tzeferacos, P.; Weide, K.

2016-10-01

FLASH is an open source, finite-volume Eulerian, spatially adaptive radiation magnetohydrodynamics code that has the capabilities to treat a broad range of physical processes. FLASH performs well on a wide range of computer architectures, and has a broad user base. Extensive high energy density physics (HEDP) capabilities have been added to FLASH to make it an open toolset for the academic HEDP community. We summarize these capabilities, emphasizing recent additions and improvements. In particular, we showcase the ability of FLASH to simulate the Faraday Rotation Measure produced by the presence of magnetic fields; and proton radiography, proton self-emission, and Thomson scattering diagnostics with and without the presence of magnetic fields. We also describe several collaborations with the academic HEDP community in which FLASH simulations were used to design and interpret HEDP experiments. This work was supported in part at the University of Chicago by the DOE NNSA ASC through the Argonne Institute for Computing in Science under field work proposal 57789; and the NSF under Grant PHY-0903997.

Multi-Level Bitmap Indexes for Flash Memory Storage

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

Wu, Kesheng; Madduri, Kamesh; Canon, Shane

2010-07-23

Due to their low access latency, high read speed, and power-efficient operation, flash memory storage devices are rapidly emerging as an attractive alternative to traditional magnetic storage devices. However, tests show that the most efficient indexing methods are not able to take advantage of the flash memory storage devices. In this paper, we present a set of multi-level bitmap indexes that can effectively take advantage of flash storage devices. These indexing methods use coarsely binned indexes to answer queries approximately, and then use finely binned indexes to refine the answers. Our new methods read significantly lower volumes of data atmore » the expense of an increased disk access count, thus taking full advantage of the improved read speed and low access latency of flash devices. To demonstrate the advantage of these new indexes, we measure their performance on a number of storage systems using a standard data warehousing benchmark called the Set Query Benchmark. We observe that multi-level strategies on flash drives are up to 3 times faster than traditional indexing strategies on magnetic disk drives.« less

Wide Bandgap Semiconductor Detector Optimization for Flash X-Ray Measurements

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

Roecker, Caleb Daniel; Schirato, Richard C.

2017-11-17

Charge trapping, resulting in a decreased and spatially dependent electric field, has long been a concern for wide bandgap semiconductor detectors. While significant work has been performed to characterize this degradation at varying temperatures and radiation environments, this work concentrates upon examining the event-to-event response in a flash X-ray environment. The following work investigates if charge trapping is a problem for CZT detectors, with particular emphasis on flash X-ray radiation fields at cold temperatures. Results are compared to a non-flash radiation field, using an Am-241 alpha source and similar temperature transitions. Our ability to determine if a response change occurredmore » was hampered by the repeatability of our flash X-ray systems; a small response change was observed with the Am-241 source. Due to contrast of these results, we are in the process of revisiting the Am-241 measurements in the presence of a high radiation environment. If the response change is more pronounced in the high radiation environment, a similar test will be performed in the flash X-ray environment.« less

Regional reconstruction of flash flood history in the Guadarrama range (Central System, Spain).

PubMed

Rodriguez-Morata, C; Ballesteros-Cánovas, J A; Trappmann, D; Beniston, M; Stoffel, M

2016-04-15

Flash floods are a common natural hazard in Mediterranean mountain environments and responsible for serious economic and human disasters. The study of flash flood dynamics and their triggers is a key issue; however, the retrieval of historical data is often limited in mountain regions as a result of short time series and the systematic lack of historical data. In this study, we attempt to overcome data deficiency by supplementing existing records with dendrogeomorphic techniques which were employed in seven mountain streams along the northern slopes of the Guadarrama Mountain range. Here we present results derived from the tree-ring analysis of 117 samples from 63 Pinus sylvestris L. trees injured by flash floods, to complement existing flash flood records covering the last ~200years and comment on their hydro-meteorological triggers. To understand the varying number of reconstructed flash flood events in each of the catchments, we also performed a comparative analysis of geomorphic catchment characteristics, land use evolution and forest management. Furthermore, we discuss the limitations of dendrogeomorphic techniques applied in managed forests. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Environmental Effects on Data Retention in Flash Cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Katz, Rich; Flowers, David; Bergevin, Keith

2017-01-01

Flash technology is being utilized in fuzed munition applications and, based on the development of digital logic devices in the commercial world, usage of flash technology will increase. Antifuse technology, prevalent in non-volatile field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), will eventually be phased out as new devices have not been developed for approximately a decade. The reliance on flash technology presents a long-term reliability issue for both DoD and NASA safety- and mission-critical applications. A thorough understanding of the data retention failure modes and statistics associated with Flash data retention is of vital concern to the fuze safety community. A key retention parameter for a flash cell is the threshold voltage (VTH), which is an indirect indicator of the amount of charge stored on the cells floating gate. This paper will present the results of our on-going tests: long-term storage at 150 C for a small population of devices, neutron radiation exposure, electrostatic discharge (ESD) testing, and the trends of large populations (over 300 devices for each condition) exposed to three difference temperatures: 25 C, 125 C, and 150 C.

The efficacy of Iranian herbal medicines in alleviating hot flashes: A systematic review

PubMed Central

Ghazanfarpour, Masumeh; Sadeghi, Ramin; Abdolahian, Somayeh; Latifnejad Roudsari, Robab

2016-01-01

Background: Hot flashes are the most common symptoms experienced by women around the time of menopause. Many women are interested in herbal medicines because of fear of side effects of hormone therapy. Objective: The aim of this systematic review was to assess the effectiveness of Iranian herbal medicines in alleviating hot flashes. Materials and Methods: MEDLINE (1966 to January 2015), Scopus (1996 to January 2015), and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (The Cochrane Library, issue 1, 2015) were searched along with, SID, Iran Medex, Magiran, Medlib and Irandoc. Nineteen randomized controlled trials met the inclusion criteria. Results: Overall, studies showed that Anise (Pimpinella anisum), licorice (Glycyrrhizaglabra), Soy, Black cohosh, Red clover, Evening primrose, Flaxseed, Salvia officinalis, Passiflora، itex Agnus Castus, Piascledine (Avacado plus soybean oil), St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum), and valerian can alleviate the side effects of hot flashes. Conclusion: This research demonstrated the efficacy of herbal medicines in alleviating hot flashes, which are embraced both with people and health providers of Iran Therefore, herbal medicine can be seen as an alternative treatment for women experiencing hot flashes. PMID:27294213

Risk Factors, Pathophysiology, and Treatment of Hot Flashes in Cancer

PubMed Central

Fisher, William I.; Johnson, Aimee K.; Elkins, Gary R.; Otte, Julie L.; Burns, Debra S.; Yu, Menggang; Carpenter, Janet S.

2012-01-01

Hot flashes are prevalent and severe symptoms that can interfere with mood, sleep, and quality of life for women and men with cancer. The purpose of this article is to review existing literature on the risk factors, pathophysiology, and treatment of hot flashes in persons with cancer. Electronic searches were conducted to identify relevant, English-language literature published through June 15, 2012. Results indicated that risk factors for hot flashes in cancer include patient-related factors (eg, age, race/ethnicity, educational level, smoking history, cardiovascular risk including BMI, and genetics) and disease-related factors (eg, cancer diagnosis, and dose/type of treatment). In addition, although the pathophysiology of hot flashes has remained elusive, these symptoms are likely attributable to disruptions in thermoregulation and neurochemicals. Therapies that have been offered or tested fall into 4 broad categories: pharmacological, nutraceutical, surgical, and complementary/behavioral strategies. The evidence base for this broad range of therapies varies, with some treatments not yet having been fully tested or showing equivocal results. The evidence base surrounding all therapies is evaluated to enhance hot flash treatment decision making by clinicians and patients. PMID:23355109

Variation of a Lightning NOx Indicator for National Climate Assessment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Koshak, W. J.; Vant-Hull, B.; McCaul, E. W.; Peterson, H. S.

2014-01-01

In support of the National Climate Assessment (NCA) program, satellite Lightning Imaging Sensor (LIS) data is used to estimate lightning nitrogen oxides (LNOx) production over the southern portion of the conterminous US. The total energy of each flash is estimated by analyzing the LIS optical event data associated with each flash (i.e., event radiance, event footprint area, and derivable event range). The LIS detects an extremely small fraction of the total flash energy; this fraction is assumed to be constant apart from the variability associated with the flash optical energy detected across the narrow (0.909 nm) LIS band. The estimate of total energy from each flash is converted to moles of LNOx production by assuming a chemical yield of 10(17) molecules Joule(-1). The LIS-inferred variable LNOx production from each flash is summed to obtain total LNOx production, and then appropriately enhanced to account for LIS detection efficiency and LIS view time. Annual geographical plots and time series of LNOx production are provided for a 16 year period (1998-2013).

Performance analysis of three-dimensional-triple-level cell and two-dimensional-multi-level cell NAND flash hybrid solid-state drives

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sakaki, Yukiya; Yamada, Tomoaki; Matsui, Chihiro; Yamaga, Yusuke; Takeuchi, Ken

2018-04-01

In order to improve performance of solid-state drives (SSDs), hybrid SSDs have been proposed. Hybrid SSDs consist of more than two types of NAND flash memories or NAND flash memories and storage-class memories (SCMs). However, the cost of hybrid SSDs adopting SCMs is more expensive than that of NAND flash only SSDs because of the high bit cost of SCMs. This paper proposes unique hybrid SSDs with two-dimensional (2D) horizontal multi-level cell (MLC)/three-dimensional (3D) vertical triple-level cell (TLC) NAND flash memories to achieve higher cost-performance. The 2D-MLC/3D-TLC hybrid SSD achieves up to 31% higher performance than the conventional 2D-MLC/2D-TLC hybrid SSD. The factors of different performance between the proposed hybrid SSD and the conventional hybrid SSD are analyzed by changing its block size, read/write/erase latencies, and write unit of 3D-TLC NAND flash memory, by means of a transaction-level modeling simulator.

Flash photolysis of rhodopsin in the cat retina

PubMed Central

1981-01-01

The bleaching of rhodopsin by short-duration flashes of a xenon discharge lamp was studied in vivo in the cat retina with the aid of a rapid, spectral-scan fundus reflectometer. Difference spectra recorded over a broad range of intensities showed that the bleaching efficacy of high-intensity flashes was less than that of longer duration, steady lights delivering the same amount of energy. Both the empirical results and those derived from a theoretical analysis of flash photolysis indicate that, under the conditions of these experiments, the upper limit of the flash bleaching of rhodopsin in cat is approximately 90%. Although the fact that a full bleach could not be attained is attributable to photoreversal, i.e., the photic regeneration of rhodopsin from its light-sensitive intermediates, the 90% limit is considerably higher than the 50% (or lower) value obtained under other experimental circumstances. Thus, it appears that the duration (approximately 1 ms) and spectral composition of the flash, coupled with the kinetic parameters of the thermal and photic reactions in the cat retina, reduce the light-induced regeneration of rhodopsin to approximately 10%. PMID:7252476

Shapes displayed with durations in the microsecond range do not obey Bloch's law of temporal summation

PubMed Central

Greene, Ernest; Ogden, R. Todd

2013-01-01

Shape patterns were displayed with simultaneous brief flashes from a light-emitting diode array. Flash durations in the microsecond range and luminous intensities were adjusted to vary the degree of successful shape recognition. Four experiments were conducted to test whether Bloch's law would apply in this task. Bloch's law holds that for very brief flashes the perceptual threshold is determined by the total number of photons being delivered, i.e., there is reciprocity of intensity and duration. The present results did not find that effectiveness of flashes was based on the total quantity of photons, as predicted by Bloch's law. Additionally, the evidence points to a visual mechanism that has ultra-high temporal precision that either registers the rate of photon flux or the duration of flashes. PMID:24349700

The Behavior of Total Lightning Activity in Severe Florida Thunderstorms

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Williams, Earle; Boldi, Bob; Matlin, Anne; Weber, Mark; Hodanish, Steve; Sharp, Dave; Goodman, Steve; Raghavan, Ravi; Buechler, Dennis

1998-01-01

The development of a new observational system called LISDAD (Lightning Imaging Sensor Demonstration and Display) has enabled a study of severe weather in central Florida. The total flash rates for storms verified to be severe are found to exceed 60 flashes/min, with some values reaching 500 flashes/min. Similar to earlier results for thunderstorm microbursts, the peak flash rate precedes the severe weather at the ground by 5-20 minutes. A distinguishing feature of severe storms is the presence of lightning "jumps"-abrupt increases in flash rate in advance of the maximum rate for the storm. ne systematic total lightning precursor to severe weather of all kinds-wind, hail, tornadoes-is interpreted in terms of the updraft that sows the seeds aloft for severe weather at the surface and simultaneously stimulates the ice microphysics that drives the lightning activity.

Flash Extraction and Physicochemical Characterization of Oil from Elaeagnus mollis Diels Seeds.

PubMed

Kan, Lina; Wang, Lin; Ding, Qingzhen; Wu, Yanwen; Ouyang, Jie

2017-04-03

A flash extraction method was used to isolate Elaeagnus mollis oil (EMO). The optimal extraction parameters, sample/solvent ratio and extraction temperature, were determined to be 1:10 (g/mL) and 40°C, respectively. Especially, the extraction yield reached 49.30% when the extraction time was as short as 2 min. No obvious difference was observed in fatty acid composition, iodine value, saponification number, total phenolic content and tocopherol content between flash-extracted EMO and Soxhlet-extracted EMO, but their physicochemical values were lower than those of cold-pressed EMO. Cold-pressed EMO had higher oxidation stability, DPPH (1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) and hydroxyl radical-scavenging activities than flash-extracted EMO and Soxlet extracted EMO. The flash extraction is demonstrated to be an alternative, efficient method for the vegetable oil production.

Quasi-steady-state analysis of coupled flashing ratchets.

PubMed

Levien, Ethan; Bressloff, Paul C

2015-10-01

We perform a quasi-steady-state (QSS) reduction of a flashing ratchet to obtain a Brownian particle in an effective potential. The resulting system is analytically tractable and yet preserves essential dynamical features of the full model. We first use the QSS reduction to derive an explicit expression for the velocity of a simple two-state flashing ratchet. In particular, we determine the relationship between perturbations from detailed balance, which are encoded in the transitions rates of the flashing ratchet, and a tilted-periodic potential. We then perform a QSS analysis of a pair of elastically coupled flashing ratchets, which reduces to a Brownian particle moving in a two-dimensional vector field. We suggest that the fixed points of this vector field accurately approximate the metastable spatial locations of the coupled ratchets, which are, in general, impossible to identify from the full system.

Variability of lightning activity over India on ENSO time scales

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ahmad, Adnan; Ghosh, Mili

2017-12-01

ENSO, the reliable indicator of inter-annual climate variation of the ocean-atmosphere system in the tropical Pacific region, can affect the overall lightning activity which is another atmospheric phenomenon. In the present study, the impact of the ENSO on the total lightning activity over India has been studied for the period 2004-2014. During the El-Nino period (July 2004-April 2005 and July 2009-April 2010), total number of lightning flashes increased by 10% and 18% respectively and during La-Nina period (July 2010-April 2011 and August 2011 to March 2012), the total number of lightning flashes decreased approximately by 19% and 28% respectively as compared to the mean of corresponding period (2004-14) of the Non-ENSO. Seasonal variation of flash density is also examined for the El-Nino and La-Nina period. The result shows that in the El-Nino period of the pre-monsoon and monsoon seasons, there is an increment in the flash density approximately by 48% and 9% respectively than the Non-ENSO and the spatial variation also having high flash density along the foot of Himalayas region. In the post-monsoon season, there is a marginal change in the flash density between El-Nino and the Non-ENSO. In the winter season, there is an increment in flash density in the El-Nino period approximately by 45% than the Non-ENSO. In the La-Nina period of the pre-monsoon and monsoon seasons, there is the decrement in the flash density approximately by the 44% and 24% respectively than the Non-ENSO. In the Post-monsoon season and winter season of La-Nina, the flash density is increased by about 24% and 33% over India. These findings can be applied to do proper planning of lightning induced hazard mitigation as lightning is of one of the major natural disasters of India.

Randomised controlled trial comparing hypnotherapy versus gabapentin for the treatment of hot flashes in breast cancer survivors: a pilot study

PubMed Central

MacLaughlan David, Shannon; Salzillo, Sandra; Bowe, Patrick; Scuncio, Sandra; Malit, Bridget; Raker, Christina; Gass, Jennifer S; Granai, C O; Dizon, Don S

2013-01-01

Objectives To compare the efficacy of hypnotherapy versus gabapentin for the treatment of hot flashes in breast cancer survivors, and to evaluate the feasibility of conducting a clinical trial comparing a drug with a complementary or alternative method (CAM). Design Prospective randomised trial. Setting Breast health centre of a tertiary care centre. Participants 15 women with a personal history of breast cancer or an increased risk of breast cancer who reported at least one daily hot flash. Interventions Gabapentin 900 mg daily in three divided doses (control) compared with standardised hypnotherapy. Participation lasted 8 weeks. Outcome measures The primary endpoints were the number of daily hot flashes and hot flash severity score (HFSS). The secondary endpoint was the Hot Flash Related Daily Interference Scale (HFRDIS). Results 27 women were randomised and 15 (56%) were considered evaluable for the primary endpoint (n=8 gabapentin, n=7 hypnotherapy). The median number of daily hot flashes at enrolment was 4.5 in the gabapentin arm and 5 in the hypnotherapy arm. HFSS scores were 7.5 in the gabapentin arm and 10 in the hypnotherapy arm. After 8 weeks, the median number of daily hot flashes was reduced by 33.3% in the gabapentin arm and by 80% in the hypnotherapy arm. The median HFSS was reduced by 33.3% in the gabapentin arm and by 85% in the hypnotherapy arm. HFRDIS scores improved by 51.6% in the gabapentin group and by 55.2% in the hypnotherapy group. There were no statistically significant differences between groups. Conclusions Hypnotherapy and gabapentin demonstrate efficacy in improving hot flashes. A definitive trial evaluating traditional interventions against CAM methods is feasible, but not without challenges. Further studies aimed at defining evidence-based recommendations for CAM are necessary. Trial registration clinicaltrials.gov (NCT00711529). PMID:24022390

Inversions of synthetic umbral flashes: Effects of scanning time on the inferred atmospheres

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Felipe, T.; Socas-Navarro, H.; Przybylski, D.

2018-06-01

Context. The use of instruments that record narrowband images at selected wavelengths is a common approach in solar observations. They allow scanning of a spectral line by sampling the Stokes profiles with two-dimensional images at each line position, but require a compromise between spectral resolution and temporal cadence. The interpretation and inversion of spectropolarimetric data generally neglect changes in the solar atmosphere during the scanning of line profiles. Aims: We evaluate the impact of the time-dependent acquisition of various wavelengths on the inversion of spectropolarimetric profiles from chromospheric lines during umbral flashes. Methods: Numerical simulations of nonlinear wave propagation in a sunspot model were performed with the code MANCHA. Synthetic Stokes parameters in the Ca II 8542 Å line in NLTE were computed for an umbral flash event using the code NICOLE. Artificial profiles with the same wavelength coverage and temporal cadence from reported observations were constructed and inverted. The inferred atmospheric stratifications were compared with the original simulated models. Results: The inferred atmospheres provide a reasonable characterization of the thermodynamic properties of the atmosphere during most of the phases of the umbral flash. The Stokes profiles present apparent wavelength shifts and other spurious deformations at the early stages of the flash, when the shock wave reaches the formation height of the Ca II 8542 Å line. These features are misinterpreted by the inversion code, which can return unrealistic atmospheric models from a good fit of the Stokes profiles. The misguided results include flashed atmospheres with strong downflows, even though the simulation exhibits upflows during the umbral flash, and large variations in the magnetic field strength. Conclusions: Our analyses validate the inversion of Stokes profiles acquired by sequentially scanning certain selected wavelengths of a line profile, even in the case of rapidly changing chromospheric events such as umbral flashes. However, the inversion results are unreliable during a short period at the development phase of the flash.

Clinical value of Flash glucose monitoring in patients with type 1 diabetes treated with continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion.

PubMed

Moreno-Fernandez, Jesus; Pazos-Couselo, Marcos; González-Rodriguez, Maria; Rozas, Pedro; Delgado, Manuel; Aguirre, Miguel; Garcia-Lopez, Jose Manuel

2018-06-12

To analyze the clinical impact of the Flash glucose monitoring system in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) treated with continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII). A 24-week retrospective cohort study in CSII-treated T1DM patients exposed (1:1) to the Flash glucose monitoring system vs. self-monitoring of capillary blood glucose (SMBG). The primary outcome was the difference in hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels between both groups at the end of the study. Thirty-six patients with a mean age of 38.2 years (range 22-55) and a mean T1DM duration of 20.9±7.8 years, treated with CSII for 7.1±5.4 years, were enrolled into the study. At the end of the study, mean HbA1c levels improved in patients in the Flash group (7.1±0.7 vs. 7.8±1.0, p=0.04). Only the Flash group showed a significant decrease in HbA1c levels of -0.4% (95% CI, -0.6, -0.2; p=0.004) during follow-up. Flash patients captured 93.9% of data through 17.8±9.9 scans daily. In fact, the Flash cohort showed a three-fold increase in daily self-monitoring of glucose, while daily frequency of SMBG decreased during the study (-1.8 tests/24h (95% CI -3, -0.7; p=0.01). No safety issues related to Flash use were recorded. The Flash glucose monitoring system is a novel approach to improve blood glucose control in CSII-treated T1DM patients. Randomized controlled trials are needed to assess the effectiveness of this system in CSII-treated T1DM patients. Copyright © 2018 SEEN y SED. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Therapeutic options for the management of hot flashes in breast cancer survivors: an evidence-based review.

PubMed

Bordeleau, Louise; Pritchard, Kathleen; Goodwin, Pamela; Loprinzi, Charles

2007-02-01

Women with breast cancer may experience treatment-induced menopausal symptoms or natural menopause. Menopausal symptoms, particularly hot flashes, are reported at a high frequency in this group and tend to be more severe, distressing, and of greater duration than in controls. Because of the contribution of sex hormones to breast cancer, the use of hormonal agents for the control of hot flashes is problematic in these women. Safer nonhormonal alternatives are recommended for this patient group. This was a systematic review of the therapeutic options for the treatment of hot flashes in breast cancer survivors. MEDLINE was searched from 1990 to July 2006 using the disease-specific term breast neoplasms and the subheadings menopause and hot flashes. EMBASE was searched from 1990 to March 2006 using the disease-specific subject headings breast tumor/ breast cancer and menopause and the key word hot flashes. The reference lists of the identified articles and relevant review articles were examined for additional publications. Pertinent articles and abstracts of large randomized controlled trials focusing on the treatment of hot flashes in breast cancer survivors were selected for review. Pilot studies were excluded. A number of nonpharmacologic approaches are available for the treatment of hot flashes in breast cancer survivors, although they appear to be of limited effectiveness. Complementary alternative medicine therapies and vitamin E have been found to have modest effectiveness at best, and data on their long-term safety are not available. Centrally active agents such as the antidepressants venlafaxine and paroxetine and the anti seizure agent gabapentin have shown clinical effectiveness and appear to be reasonably well tolerated in this population. Centrally active agents (eg, venlafaxine, paroxetine, gabapentin) are regarded as the most promising nonhormonal treatments for hot flashes in breast cancer survivors. Nonpharmacologic and complementary alternative medicine therapies have limited effectiveness.

Economic assessment of flash co-pyrolysis of short rotation coppice and biopolymer waste streams.

PubMed

Kuppens, T; Cornelissen, T; Carleer, R; Yperman, J; Schreurs, S; Jans, M; Thewys, T

2010-12-01

The disposal problem associated with phytoextraction of farmland polluted with heavy metals by means of willow requires a biomass conversion technique which meets both ecological and economical needs. Combustion and gasification of willow require special and costly flue gas treatment to avoid re-emission of the metals in the atmosphere, whereas flash pyrolysis mainly results in the production of (almost) metal free bio-oil with a relatively high water content. Flash co-pyrolysis of biomass and waste of biopolymers synergistically improves the characteristics of the pyrolysis process: e.g. reduction of the water content of the bio-oil, more bio-oil and less char production and an increase of the HHV of the oil. This research paper investigates the economic consequences of the synergistic effects of flash co-pyrolysis of 1:1 w/w ratio blends of willow and different biopolymer waste streams via cost-benefit analysis and Monte Carlo simulations taking into account uncertainties. In all cases economic opportunities of flash co-pyrolysis of biomass with biopolymer waste are improved compared to flash pyrolysis of pure willow. Of all the biopolymers under investigation, polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) is the most promising, followed by Eastar, Biopearls, potato starch, polylactic acid (PLA), corn starch and Solanyl in order of decreasing profits. Taking into account uncertainties, flash co-pyrolysis is expected to be cheaper than composting biopolymer waste streams, except for corn starch. If uncertainty increases, composting also becomes more interesting than flash co-pyrolysis for waste of Solanyl. If the investment expenditure is 15% higher in practice than estimated, the preference for flash co-pyrolysis compared to composting biopolymer waste becomes less clear. Only when the system of green current certificates is dismissed, composting clearly is a much cheaper processing technique for disposing of biopolymer waste. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Gabapentin for hot flashes in 420 women with breast cancer: a randomised double-blind placebo-controlled trial

PubMed Central

Pandya, K J; Morrow, G R; Roscoe, J A; Hickok, J T; Zhao, H; Pajon, E; Sweeney, T J; Banerjee, T K; Flynn, P J

2005-01-01

Summary Background Most women receiving systemic therapy for breast cancer experience hot flashes. We undertook a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multi-institutional trial to assess the efficacy of gabapentin in controlling hot flashes in women with breast cancer. Methods 420 women with breast cancer who were having two or more hot flashes per day were randomly assigned placebo, gabapentin 300 mg/day, or gabapentin 900 mg/day by mouth in three divided doses for 8 weeks. Each patient kept a 1-week, self-report diary on the frequency, severity, and duration of hot flashes before the start of the study and during weeks 4 and 8 of treatment. Analyses were by intention to treat. Findings Evaluable data were available on 371 participants at 4 weeks (119 placebo, 123 gabapentin 300 mg, and 129 gabapentin 900 mg) and 347 at 8 weeks (113 placebo, 114 gabapentin 300 mg, and 120 gabapentin 900 mg). The percentage decreases in hot-flash severity score between baseline and weeks 4 and 8, respectively were: 21% (95% CI 12 to 30) and 15% (1 to 29) in the placebo group; 33% (23 to 43) and 31% (16 to 46) in the group assigned gabapentin 300 mg; and 49% (42 to 56) and 46% (34 to 58) in the group assigned gabapentin 900 mg. The differences between the groups were significant (p=0.0001 at 4 weeks and p=0.007 at 8 weeks by ANCOVA for overall treatment effect, adjusted for baseline values); only the higher dose of gabapentin was associated with significant decreases in hot-flash frequency and severity. Interpretation Gabapentin is effective in the control of hot flashes at a dose of 900 mg/day, but not at a dose of 300 mg/day. This drug should be considered for treatment of hot flashes in women with breast cancer. PMID:16139656

Fast repetition rate (FRR) fluorometer and method for measuring fluorescence and photosynthetic parameters

DOEpatents

Kolber, Zbigniew; Falkowski, Paul

1995-06-20

A fast repetition rate fluorometer device and method for measuring in vivo fluorescence of phytoplankton or higher plants chlorophyll and photosynthetic parameters of phytoplankton or higher plants by illuminating the phytoplankton or higher plants with a series of fast repetition rate excitation flashes effective to bring about and measure resultant changes in fluorescence yield of their Photosystem II. The series of fast repetition rate excitation flashes has a predetermined energy per flash and a rate greater than 10,000 Hz. Also, disclosed is a flasher circuit for producing the series of fast repetition rate flashes.

Measurement of O and Ti atom displacements in TiO 2 during flash sintering experiments

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

Yoon, Bola; Yadav, Devinder; Raj, Rishi

In-situ flash experiments on rutile TiO 2 were performed at the synchrotron at the Brookhaven National Laboratory. Pair distribution function analysis of total X-ray scattering measurements yielded mean-square atomic displacements of oxygen and titanium atoms during the progression of the 3 stages of flash. The displacements are measured to be far greater for oxygen atoms than for titanium atoms. Thus, these large displacements may signal an “elastic softening” of the lattice, which, recently, has been predicted as a precursor to the onset of flash.

Freeware eLearning Flash-ECG for learning electrocardiography.

PubMed

Romanov, Kalle; Kuusi, Timo

2009-06-01

Electrocardiographic (ECG) analysis can be taught in eLearning programmes with suitable software that permits the effective use of basic tools such as a ruler and a magnifier, required for measurements. The Flash-ECG (Research & Development Unit for Medical Education, University of Helsinki, Finland) was developed to enable teachers and students to use scanned and archived ECGs on computer screens and classroom projectors. The software requires only a standard web browser with a Flash plug-in and can be integrated with learning environments (Blackboard/WebCT, Moodle). The Flash-ECG is freeware and is available to medical teachers worldwide.

[Laser flash photolysis, EPR and Raman studies of liquids at elevated pressures

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

Eyring, E.M.

1992-01-01

The proposed research will solve a number of analytical chemical problems in solutions with measurement techniques that benefit from the use of elevated hydrostatic pressures: stopped-flow spectrophotometry (Gd[sup 3+] + L(ligand), [RuL[sub 5]H[sub 2]O][sup 2+], laser flash photolysis of Mo(CO)[sub 6] + L, flash photolysis of binuclear metalloproteins), EPR spectroscopy (Gd[sup 3+] ion-exchanged into ETS-10 and ETAS-10 molecular sieves), laser flash photolysis kinetic studies of Mo(CO)[sub 6]-2,2'-bipyridine, and electrochemical studies of metalloporphyrins using resonance Raman spectroscopy.

[Laser flash photolysis, EPR and Raman studies of liquids at elevated pressures

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

Eyring, E.M.

1992-10-01

The proposed research will solve a number of analytical chemical problems in solutions with measurement techniques that benefit from the use of elevated hydrostatic pressures: stopped-flow spectrophotometry (Gd{sup 3+} + L(ligand), [RuL{sub 5}H{sub 2}O]{sup 2+}, laser flash photolysis of Mo(CO){sub 6} + L, flash photolysis of binuclear metalloproteins), EPR spectroscopy (Gd{sup 3+} ion-exchanged into ETS-10 and ETAS-10 molecular sieves), laser flash photolysis kinetic studies of Mo(CO){sub 6}-2,2`-bipyridine, and electrochemical studies of metalloporphyrins using resonance Raman spectroscopy.

Negativly streched premixed flames

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krikunova, A. I.; Saveliev, A. S.; Son, E. E.

2018-01-01

An experimental study of gravity effect on the blow-off and flash-back borders of the conical methane-air flame (normal and ring-stabilized) was performed. The influence of the preferential diffusion on the flame behavior in vicinity of flash-back boundaries was observed. Under conditions at Lewis number Le > 1, the radius of curvature of the flame tip increased gradually approaching flash-back boundaries while for the lean methane-air flames (Le < 1) the radius decreased abruptly. It was shown that the burning velocity for lean flames is less than that for reach ones, so the flash-back occurs at higher strains.

Measurement of O and Ti atom displacements in TiO 2 during flash sintering experiments

DOE PAGES

Yoon, Bola; Yadav, Devinder; Raj, Rishi; ...

2017-12-29

In-situ flash experiments on rutile TiO 2 were performed at the synchrotron at the Brookhaven National Laboratory. Pair distribution function analysis of total X-ray scattering measurements yielded mean-square atomic displacements of oxygen and titanium atoms during the progression of the 3 stages of flash. The displacements are measured to be far greater for oxygen atoms than for titanium atoms. Thus, these large displacements may signal an “elastic softening” of the lattice, which, recently, has been predicted as a precursor to the onset of flash.

An upconverted photonic nonvolatile memory.

PubMed

Zhou, Ye; Han, Su-Ting; Chen, Xian; Wang, Feng; Tang, Yong-Bing; Roy, V A L

2014-08-21

Conventional flash memory devices are voltage driven and found to be unsafe for confidential data storage. To ensure the security of the stored data, there is a strong demand for developing novel nonvolatile memory technology for data encryption. Here we show a photonic flash memory device, based on upconversion nanocrystals, which is light driven with a particular narrow width of wavelength in addition to voltage bias. With the help of near-infrared light, we successfully manipulate the multilevel data storage of the flash memory device. These upconverted photonic flash memory devices exhibit high ON/OFF ratio, long retention time and excellent rewritable characteristics.

Gamma ray flashes add to mystery of upper atmosphere

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Atmospheric electricity research has come a long way since Benjamin Franklin's kite-flying days. But what researchers have been learning lately about above-thunderstorm electricity has wrought a whole new era of mysteries.For a start, last summer a Colorado meteorologist sparked interest in a terrestrial phenomenon that the community first observed more than 100 years ago: optical flashes that occur above thunderstorms—at least 30 km above Earth. Walter Lyons with the Ft. Collins-based Mission Research Corporation, demonstrated that such flashes are not anomalies, as conventional scientific wisdom had held. He filmed hundreds of flashes during a 2-week period.

Statistical Patterns in Natural Lightning

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zoghzoghy, F. G.; Cohen, M.; Said, R.; Inan, U. S.

2011-12-01

Every day millions of lightning flashes occur around the globe but the understanding of this natural phenomenon is still lacking. Fundamentally, lightning is nature's way of destroying charge separation in clouds and restoring electric neutrality. Thus, statistical patterns of lightning activity indicate the scope of these electric discharges and offer a surrogate measure of timescales for charge buildup in thunderclouds. We present a statistical method to investigate spatio-temporal correlations among lightning flashes using National Lightning Detection Network (NLDN) stroke data. By monitoring the distribution of lightning activity, we can observe the charging and discharging processes in a given thunderstorm. In particular, within a given storm, the flashes do not occur as a memoryless random process. We introduce the No Flash Zone (NFZ) which results from the suppressed probability of two consecutive neighboring flashes. This effect lasts for tens of seconds and can extend up to 15 km around the location of the initial flash, decaying with time. This suppression effect may be a function of variables such as storm location, storm phase, and stroke peak current. We develop a clustering algorithm, Storm-Locator, which groups strokes into flashes, storm cells, and thunderstorms, and enables us to study lightning and the NFZ in different geographical regions, and for different storms. The recursive algorithm also helps monitor the interaction among spatially displaced storm cells, and can provide more insight into the spatial and temporal impacts of lightning discharges.

Improving Flash Flood Prediction in Multiple Environments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Broxton, P. D.; Troch, P. A.; Schaffner, M.; Unkrich, C.; Goodrich, D.; Wagener, T.; Yatheendradas, S.

2009-12-01

Flash flooding is a major concern in many fast responding headwater catchments . There are many efforts to model and to predict these flood events, though it is not currently possible to adequately predict the nature of flash flood events with a single model, and furthermore, many of these efforts do not even consider snow, which can, by itself, or in combination with rainfall events, cause destructive floods. The current research is aimed at broadening the applicability of flash flood modeling. Specifically, we will take a state of the art flash flood model that is designed to work with warm season precipitation in arid environments, the KINematic runoff and EROSion model (KINEROS2), and combine it with a continuous subsurface flow model and an energy balance snow model. This should improve its predictive capacity in humid environments where lateral subsurface flow significantly contributes to streamflow, and it will make possible the prediction of flooding events that involve rain-on-snow or rapid snowmelt. By modeling changes in the hydrologic state of a catchment before a flood begins, we can also better understand the factors or combination of factors that are necessary to produce large floods. Broadening the applicability of an already state of the art flash flood model, such as KINEROS2, is logical because flash floods can occur in all types of environments, and it may lead to better predictions, which are necessary to preserve life and property.

FlaME: Flash Molecular Editor - a 2D structure input tool for the web.

PubMed

Dallakian, Pavel; Haider, Norbert

2011-02-01

So far, there have been no Flash-based web tools available for chemical structure input. The authors herein present a feasibility study, aiming at the development of a compact and easy-to-use 2D structure editor, using Adobe's Flash technology and its programming language, ActionScript. As a reference model application from the Java world, we selected the Java Molecular Editor (JME). In this feasibility study, we made an attempt to realize a subset of JME's functionality in the Flash Molecular Editor (FlaME) utility. These basic capabilities are: structure input, editing and depiction of single molecules, data import and export in molfile format. The result of molecular diagram sketching in FlaME is accessible in V2000 molfile format. By integrating the molecular editor into a web page, its communication with the HTML elements on this page is established using the two JavaScript functions, getMol() and setMol(). In addition, structures can be copied to the system clipboard. A first attempt was made to create a compact single-file application for 2D molecular structure input/editing on the web, based on Flash technology. With the application examples presented in this article, it could be demonstrated that the Flash methods are principally well-suited to provide the requisite communication between the Flash object (application) and the HTML elements on a web page, using JavaScript functions.

Theoretical studies of massive stars. I - Evolution of a 15-solar-mass star from the zero-age main sequence to neon ignition

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Endal, A. S.

1975-01-01

The evolution of a star with mass 15 times that of the sun from the zero-age main sequence to neon ignition has been computed by the Henyey method. The hydrogen-rich envelope and all shell sources were explicitly included in the models. An algorithm has been developed for approximating the results of carbon burning, including the branching ratio for the C-12 + C-12 reaction and taking some secondary reactions into account. Penetration of the convective envelope into the core is found to be unimportant during the stages covered by the models. Energy transfer from the carbon-burning shell to the core by degenerate electron conduction becomes important after the core carbon-burning stage. Neon ignition will occur in a semidegenerate core and will lead to a mild 'flash.' Detailed numerical results are given in an appendix. Continuation of the calculations into later stages and variations with the total mass of the star will be discussed in later papers.

The Application of Flash in Web-Based Multimedia Courseware Development

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chen, Jun; Wang, Zu-Yuan; Wu, Yuren

2009-01-01

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to introduce some new functions achieved in a web-based multimedia courseware, which is developed by Flash software and used by part-time graduate students. Design/methodology/approach: The courseware uses Adobe Flash CS3 as its development software, which supports Actionscript language, FMS and FLV technology…

49 CFR 221.14 - Marking devices.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... side of the horizontal center line as defined in terms of the 50 candela intensity points; (3) A color defined by the red-orange-amber color range; and (4) If a flashing light is used, a flash rate of not less... intensity of not less than 100 candela nor more than 1000 candela for flashing lights) as measured at the...

49 CFR 221.14 - Marking devices.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... side of the horizontal center line as defined in terms of the 50 candela intensity points; (3) A color defined by the red-orange-amber color range; and (4) If a flashing light is used, a flash rate of not less... intensity of not less than 100 candela nor more than 1000 candela for flashing lights) as measured at the...

49 CFR 221.14 - Marking devices.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... side of the horizontal center line as defined in terms of the 50 candela intensity points; (3) A color defined by the red-orange-amber color range; and (4) If a flashing light is used, a flash rate of not less... intensity of not less than 100 candela nor more than 1000 candela for flashing lights) as measured at the...

49 CFR 221.14 - Marking devices.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... side of the horizontal center line as defined in terms of the 50 candela intensity points; (3) A color defined by the red-orange-amber color range; and (4) If a flashing light is used, a flash rate of not less... intensity of not less than 100 candela nor more than 1000 candela for flashing lights) as measured at the...

A Comparison of Two Flash-Card Methods for Improving Sight-Word Reading

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kupzyk, Sara; Daly, Edward J., III; Andersen, Melissa N.

2011-01-01

Flash cards have been shown to be useful for teaching sight-word reading. To date, the most effective flash-card instruction method is incremental rehearsal (IR). This method involves the instructor interspersing unknown stimulus items into the presentation of known stimulus items. In this study, we compared IR to a modified IR…

Dynamic Forest: An Efficient Index Structure for NAND Flash Memory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Chul-Woong; Yong Lee, Ki; Ho Kim, Myoung; Lee, Yoon-Joon

In this paper, we present an efficient index structure for NAND flash memory, called the Dynamic Forest (D-Forest). Since write operations incur high overhead on NAND flash memory, D-Forest is designed to minimize write operations for index updates. The experimental results show that D-Forest significantly reduces write operations compared to the conventional B+-tree.

46 CFR 167.65-5 - Flashing the rays of a searchlight or other blinding light.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... of a searchlight or other blinding light. Flashing the rays of a searchlight or other blinding light... 46 Shipping 7 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Flashing the rays of a searchlight or other blinding light. 167.65-5 Section 167.65-5 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED...

46 CFR 167.65-5 - Flashing the rays of a searchlight or other blinding light.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... of a searchlight or other blinding light. Flashing the rays of a searchlight or other blinding light... 46 Shipping 7 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Flashing the rays of a searchlight or other blinding light. 167.65-5 Section 167.65-5 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED...

46 CFR 167.65-5 - Flashing the rays of a searchlight or other blinding light.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... of a searchlight or other blinding light. Flashing the rays of a searchlight or other blinding light... 46 Shipping 7 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Flashing the rays of a searchlight or other blinding light. 167.65-5 Section 167.65-5 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED...

46 CFR 167.65-5 - Flashing the rays of a searchlight or other blinding light.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... of a searchlight or other blinding light. Flashing the rays of a searchlight or other blinding light... 46 Shipping 7 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Flashing the rays of a searchlight or other blinding light. 167.65-5 Section 167.65-5 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED...

46 CFR 167.65-5 - Flashing the rays of a searchlight or other blinding light.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... of a searchlight or other blinding light. Flashing the rays of a searchlight or other blinding light... 46 Shipping 7 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Flashing the rays of a searchlight or other blinding light. 167.65-5 Section 167.65-5 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED...

Au Contraire: Gifted in a Flash (Mob)

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Delisle, James R.

2012-01-01

A "flash mob" is defined by Wikipedia as "a large group of people who assemble suddenly in a public place, perform an unusual and pointless act for a brief time, then disperse." Fueled by social media and Smartphones, flash mobs have been used, primarily, as entertaining diversions by addicted techies with (apparently) tons of time on their hands.…

Assessing Homegrown Library Collections: Using Google Analytics to Track Use of Screencasts and Flash-Based Learning Objects

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Betty, Paul

2009-01-01

Increasing use of screencast and Flash authoring software within libraries is resulting in "homegrown" library collections of digital learning objects and multimedia presentations. The author explores the use of Google Analytics to track usage statistics for interactive Shockwave Flash (.swf) files, the common file output for screencast and Flash…

76 FR 40931 - In the Matter of Certain Flash Memory and Products Containing Same; Notice of Commission...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-07-12

... INTERNATIONAL TRADE COMMISSION [Inv. No. 337-TA-685] In the Matter of Certain Flash Memory and... for importation, and the sale within the United States after importation of certain flash memory and... other agreements, written or oral, express or implied, between the parties concerning the subject matter...

76 FR 55417 - In the Matter of Certain Dynamic Random Access Memory and Nand Flash Memory Devices and Products...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-09-07

... Access Memory and Nand Flash Memory Devices and Products Containing Same; Notice of Institution of... importation, and the sale within the United States after importation of certain dynamic random access memory and NAND flash memory devices and products containing same by reason of infringement of certain claims...

75 FR 82071 - In the Matter of Certain Flash Memory Chips and Products Containing Same; Notice of Commission...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-12-29

... INTERNATIONAL TRADE COMMISSION [Investigation No. 337-TA-664] In the Matter of Certain Flash Memory Chips and Products Containing Same; Notice of Commission Decision Not To Review the ALJ'S Final... States after importation of certain flash memory chips and products containing the same by reason of...

75 FR 82071 - In the Matter of Certain Flash Memory Chips and Products Containing Same; Notice of Commission...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-12-29

... INTERNATIONAL TRADE COMMISSION [Investigation No. 337-TA-664] In the Matter of Certain Flash Memory Chips and Products Containing Same; Notice of Commission Decision Not To Review the ALJ's Final... flash memory chips and products containing the same by reason of infringement of various claims of...

46 CFR 113.25-10 - Emergency red-flashing lights.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Emergency red-flashing lights. 113.25-10 Section 113.25... lights. (a) In a space described in § 113.25-9(a), where the general emergency alarm signal cannot be heard over the background noise, there must be a red-flashing light or rotating beacon, in addition to...

46 CFR 113.25-10 - Emergency red-flashing lights.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Emergency red-flashing lights. 113.25-10 Section 113.25... lights. (a) In a space described in § 113.25-9(a), where the general emergency alarm signal cannot be heard over the background noise, there must be a red-flashing light or rotating beacon, in addition to...

46 CFR 113.25-10 - Emergency red-flashing lights.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Emergency red-flashing lights. 113.25-10 Section 113.25... lights. (a) In a space described in § 113.25-9(a), where the general emergency alarm signal cannot be heard over the background noise, there must be a red-flashing light or rotating beacon, in addition to...

46 CFR 113.25-10 - Emergency red-flashing lights.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Emergency red-flashing lights. 113.25-10 Section 113.25... lights. (a) In a space described in § 113.25-9(a), where the general emergency alarm signal cannot be heard over the background noise, there must be a red-flashing light or rotating beacon, in addition to...

46 CFR 113.25-10 - Emergency red-flashing lights.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Emergency red-flashing lights. 113.25-10 Section 113.25... lights. (a) In a space described in § 113.25-9(a), where the general emergency alarm signal cannot be heard over the background noise, there must be a red-flashing light or rotating beacon, in addition to...

Flash sintering of stoichiometric and hyper-stoichiometric urania

DOE PAGES

Valdez, James Anthony; Byler, Darrin David; Kardoulaki, Erofili; ...

2018-03-29

Flash sintering (FS), a novel fabrication technique belonging to the family of field assisted sintering (FAS) techniques, has been utilized in this study to fabricate uranium dioxide (UO 2) pellets. Stoichiometric (UO 2.00) and hyper-stoichiometric (UO 2.16) pellets were flash sintered at 600 °C within a few (2–3) minutes. This is in sharp contrast to conventional sintering where temperatures hundreds of degrees higher are necessary and the sintering time extends to hours. Relating this in terms of the homologous temperature ratio (T H) for both conditions shows that in the case of flash sintering at 600 °C, T H =more » 0.3 versus T H = 0.6 for conventional sintering at 1600 °C. The highest density achieved for a UO 2.00 pellet was 81% theoretical density (TD) when flash sintered at 600 °C for 184 s at a field of 188 V/cm and a current density of 442 mA/mm 2. For the UO 2.16 pellet, the highest achieved density was 92% TD when flash sintered at 600 °C for 140 s at a field of 188 V/cm and a current density of 632 mA/mm 2. X-ray diffraction (XRD) characterization of the sintered pellets showed the final sintered material to be single cubic fluorite phase. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of longitudinal sections revealed non-uniform microstructures with regions of high density where the grain size ranged from 1 to 15 μm. Comparisons between conventionally and flash sintered pellets that achieved equivalent shrinkage strains were also conducted. Lastly, in all cases, the flash sintered pellets achieved similar densification to the conventionally sintered pellets at much lower furnace temperatures and shorter times.« less

Cost calculation for a flash glucose monitoring system for UK adults with type 1 diabetes mellitus receiving intensive insulin treatment.

PubMed

Hellmund, Richard; Weitgasser, Raimund; Blissett, Deirdre

2018-04-01

To estimate the costs associated with a flash glucose monitoring system as a replacement for routine self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) using intensive insulin, from a UK National Health Service (NHS) perspective. The base-case cost calculation was created using the maximum frequency of glucose monitoring recommended by the 2015 National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines (4-10 tests per day). Scenario analyses considered SMBG at the frequency observed in the IMPACT clinical trial (5.6 tests per day) and at the frequency of flash monitoring observed in a real-world analysis (16 tests per day). A further scenario included potential costs associated with severe hypoglycaemia. In the base case, the annual cost per patient using flash monitoring was £234 (19%) lower compared with routine SMBG (10 tests per day). In scenario analyses, the annual cost per patient of flash monitoring compared with 5.6 and 16 SMBG tests per day was £296 higher and £957 lower, respectively. The annual cost of severe hypoglycaemia for flash monitoring users was estimated to be £221 per patient, compared with £428 for routine SMBG users (based on 5.6 tests/day), corresponding to a reduction in costs of £207. The flash monitoring system has a modest impact on glucose monitoring costs for the UK NHS for patients with T1DM using intensive insulin. For people requiring frequent tests, flash monitoring may be cost saving, especially when taking into account potential reductions in the rate of severe hypoglycaemia. Copyright © 2018 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Electronic Flash In Data Acquisition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miller, C. E.

1982-02-01

Photographic acquisition of data often may be simplified, or the data quality improved upon by employing electronic flash sources with traditional equipment or techniques. The relatively short flash duration compared to movie camera shutters, or to the long integration time of video camera provides improved spatial resolution through blur reduction, particularly important as image movement becomes a significant fraction of film format dimension. Greater accuracy typically is achieved in velocity and acceleration determinations by using a stroboscopic light source rather than a movie camera frame-rate control as a time standard. Electrical efficiency often is an important advantage of electronic flash sources since almost any necessary light level for exposure may be produced, yet the source typically is "off" most of the time. Various synchronization techniques greatly expand the precise control of exposure. Biomechanical and sports equipment studies may involve velocities up to 200 feet-per-second, and often will have associated very rapid actions of interest. The need for brief exposures increases H.s one "ZOOMS in on the action." In golf, for example, the swing may be examined using 100 microsecond (Us) flashes at rates of 60 or 120 flashes-per-second (FPS). Accurate determination of linear and rotational velocity of the ball requires 10 Us flashes at 500-1,000 FPS, while sub-Us flashes at 20,000-50,000 FPS are required to resolve the interaction of the ball and the club, head. Some seldom. used techniques involving streak photography are described, with enhanced results obtained by combining strobe with the usual continuous light source. The combination of strobe and a fast electro-mechanical shutter is considered for Us photography under daylight conditions.

Motorist actions at a crosswalk with an in-pavement flashing light system.

PubMed

Karkee, Ganesh J; Nambisan, Shashi S; Pulugurtha, Srinivas S

2010-12-01

An in-pavement flashing light system is used at crosswalks to alert motorists and pedestrians of possible conflicts and to influence their behavior to enhance safety. The relative behaviors of the drivers and the pedestrians affect safety. An evaluation of motorist behavior at a pedestrian crosswalk with an in-pavement flashing light system is presented in this manuscript. Field observations provide the basis to evaluate motorist behavior at a crosswalk with an in-pavement flashing light system. Outcomes of pedestrian and motorists actions were observed to quantify measures of effectiveness (MOEs) such as yielding behavior of motorists, vehicle speeds, and yielding distance from the crosswalk. A before-and-after study design was used. The before condition was prior to the activation of the in-pavement flashing light system and the after condition was after the activation of the in-pavement flashing light system. The study was conducted on a relatively low-volume roadway located in the Henderson, Nevada. The significance of the differences in the MOEs between the 2 study periods was evaluated using statistical analysis tools such as a one-tailed test for proportions and the Welch-Satterthwaite t-test. The results show that the installation of the in-pavement flashing light system increased the yielding behavior of motorists significantly (P < 0.001). The vehicular speeds decreased when pedestrians were waiting at the curb to cross and when they were crossing (P < 0.001). Motorists yielded to pedestrians on an average about 3 m (∼10 feet) upstream from the yield markings and the yielding distances were consistent in both directions. The in-pavement flashing light system is seen to be effective to improve motorists' yielding behavior and the speeds of vehicles were also observed to decrease in the presence of pedestrians.

Effect of flash-heat treatment on antimicrobial activity of breastmilk.

PubMed

Chantry, Caroline J; Wiedeman, Jean; Buehring, Gertrude; Peerson, Janet M; Hayfron, Kweku; K'Aluoch, Okumu; Lonnerdal, Bo; Israel-Ballard, Kiersten; Coutsoudis, Anna; Abrams, Barbara

2011-06-01

The World Health Organization recommends human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive mothers in resource-poor regions heat-treat expressed breastmilk during periods of increased maternal-to-child transmission risk. Flash-heat, a "low tech" pasteurization method, inactivates HIV, but effects on milk protein bioactivity are unknown. The objectives were to measure flash-heat's effect on antimicrobial properties of lactoferrin, lysozyme, and whole milk and on the digestive resistance of lactoferrin and lysozyme. Flash-heated and unheated breastmilk aliquots from HIV-positive mothers in South Africa were "spiked" with Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli and then cultured for 0, 3, and 6 hours. Lysozyme and lactoferrin activities were determined by lysis of Micrococcus luteus cells and inhibition of enteropathogenic E. coli, respectively, measured spectrophotometrically. Percentages of proteins surviving in vitro digestion, lactoferrin and lysozyme activity, and bacteriostatic activity of whole milk in heated versus unheated samples were compared. There was no difference in rate of growth of E. coli or S. aureus in flash-heated versus unheated whole milk (p = 0.61 and p = 0.96, respectively). Mean (95% confidence interval) antibacterial activity of lactoferrin was diminished 11.1% (7.8%, 14.3%) and that of lysozyme by up to 56.6% (47.1%, 64.5%) by flash-heat. Digestion of lysozyme was unaffected (p = 0.12), but 25.4% less lactoferrin survived digestion (p < 0.0001). In summary, flash-heat resulted in minimally decreased lactoferrin and moderately decreased lysozyme bioactivity, but bacteriostatic activity of whole milk against representative bacteria was unaffected. This suggests flash-heated breastmilk likely has a similar profile of resistance to bacterial contamination as that of unheated milk. Clinical significance of the decreased bioactivity should be tested in clinical trials.

Flash sintering of stoichiometric and hyper-stoichiometric urania

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

Valdez, James Anthony; Byler, Darrin David; Kardoulaki, Erofili

Flash sintering (FS), a novel fabrication technique belonging to the family of field assisted sintering (FAS) techniques, has been utilized in this study to fabricate uranium dioxide (UO 2) pellets. Stoichiometric (UO 2.00) and hyper-stoichiometric (UO 2.16) pellets were flash sintered at 600 °C within a few (2–3) minutes. This is in sharp contrast to conventional sintering where temperatures hundreds of degrees higher are necessary and the sintering time extends to hours. Relating this in terms of the homologous temperature ratio (T H) for both conditions shows that in the case of flash sintering at 600 °C, T H =more » 0.3 versus T H = 0.6 for conventional sintering at 1600 °C. The highest density achieved for a UO 2.00 pellet was 81% theoretical density (TD) when flash sintered at 600 °C for 184 s at a field of 188 V/cm and a current density of 442 mA/mm 2. For the UO 2.16 pellet, the highest achieved density was 92% TD when flash sintered at 600 °C for 140 s at a field of 188 V/cm and a current density of 632 mA/mm 2. X-ray diffraction (XRD) characterization of the sintered pellets showed the final sintered material to be single cubic fluorite phase. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of longitudinal sections revealed non-uniform microstructures with regions of high density where the grain size ranged from 1 to 15 μm. Comparisons between conventionally and flash sintered pellets that achieved equivalent shrinkage strains were also conducted. Lastly, in all cases, the flash sintered pellets achieved similar densification to the conventionally sintered pellets at much lower furnace temperatures and shorter times.« less

Effect of Flash-Heat Treatment on Antimicrobial Activity of Breastmilk

PubMed Central

Wiedeman, Jean; Buehring, Gertrude; Peerson, Janet M.; Hayfron, Kweku; K'Aluoch, Okumu; Lonnerdal, Bo; Israel-Ballard, Kiersten; Coutsoudis, Anna; Abrams, Barbara

2011-01-01

Abstract Background and Objectives The World Health Organization recommends human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive mothers in resource-poor regions heat-treat expressed breastmilk during periods of increased maternal-to-child transmission risk. Flash-heat, a “low tech” pasteurization method, inactivates HIV, but effects on milk protein bioactivity are unknown. The objectives were to measure flash-heat's effect on antimicrobial properties of lactoferrin, lysozyme, and whole milk and on the digestive resistance of lactoferrin and lysozyme. Methods Flash-heated and unheated breastmilk aliquots from HIV-positive mothers in South Africa were “spiked” with Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli and then cultured for 0, 3, and 6 hours. Lysozyme and lactoferrin activities were determined by lysis of Micrococcus luteus cells and inhibition of enteropathogenic E. coli, respectively, measured spectrophotometrically. Percentages of proteins surviving in vitro digestion, lactoferrin and lysozyme activity, and bacteriostatic activity of whole milk in heated versus unheated samples were compared. Results There was no difference in rate of growth of E. coli or S. aureus in flash-heated versus unheated whole milk (p = 0.61 and p = 0.96, respectively). Mean (95% confidence interval) antibacterial activity of lactoferrin was diminished 11.1% (7.8%, 14.3%) and that of lysozyme by up to 56.6% (47.1%, 64.5%) by flash-heat. Digestion of lysozyme was unaffected (p = 0.12), but 25.4% less lactoferrin survived digestion (p < 0.0001). Conclusions In summary, flash-heat resulted in minimally decreased lactoferrin and moderately decreased lysozyme bioactivity, but bacteriostatic activity of whole milk against representative bacteria was unaffected. This suggests flash-heated breastmilk likely has a similar profile of resistance to bacterial contamination as that of unheated milk. Clinical significance of the decreased bioactivity should be tested in clinical trials. PMID:21091243