Uranium hydrogeochemical and stream sediment reconnaissance of the Arminto NTMS quadrangle, Wyoming, including concentrations of forty-three additional elements

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

Morgan, T.L.

1979-11-01

During the summers of 1976 and 1977, 570 water and 1249 sediment samples were collected from 1517 locations within the 18,000-km/sup 2/ area of the Arminto NTMS quadrangle of central Wyoming. Water samples were collected from wells, springs, streams, and artifical ponds; sediment samples were collected from wet and dry streams, springs, and wet and dry ponds. All water samples were analyzed for 13 elements, including uranium, and each sediment sample was analyzed for 43 elements, including uranium and thorium. Uranium concentrations in water samples range from below the detection limit to 84.60 parts per billion (ppb) with a meanmore » of 4.32 ppb. All water sample types except pond water samples were considered as a single population in interpreting the data. Pond water samples were excluded due to possible concentration of uranium by evaporation. Most of the water samples containing greater than 20 ppb uranium grouped into six clusters that indicate possible areas of interest for further investigation. One cluster is associated with the Pumpkin Buttes District, and two others are near the Kaycee and Mayoworth areas of uranium mineralization. The largest cluster is located on the west side of the Powder River Basin. One cluster is located in the central Big Horn Basin and another is in the Wind River Basin; both are in areas underlain by favorable host units. Uranium concentrations in sediment samples range from 0.08 parts per million (ppm) to 115.50 ppm with a mean of 3.50 ppm. Two clusters of sediment samples over 7 ppm were delineated. The first, containing the two highest-concentration samples, corresponds with the Copper Mountain District. Many of the high uranium concentrations in samples in this cluster may be due to contamination from mining or prospecting activity upstream from the sample sites. The second cluster encompasses a wide area in the Wind River Basin along the southern boundary of the quadrangle.« less

Art Projects and Activities for the Mentally Retarded.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Buffalo Public Schools, NY.

Forty-two art activities are suggested for use with mentally handicapped children. These include miscellaneous activities as well as activities appropriate to the four seasons of the year. For each activity, materials, instructional level, procedure, and variations are specified. In addition, display ideas are presented and recipes given for…

Fabrication of FORTIS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McCandliss, Stephan R.; Fleming, Brian; Kaiser, Mary Elizabeth; Kruk, Jeffrey; Feldman, Paul D.; Kutyrev, Alexander S.; Li, Mary J.; Goodwin, Phillip A.; Rapchun, David; Lyness, Eric; Brown, Ari D.; Moseley, Harvey; Siegmund, Oswald; Vallerga, John

2010-07-01

The Johns Hopkins University sounding rocket group is building the Far-ultraviolet Off Rowland-circle Telescope for Imaging and Spectroscopy (FORTIS), which is a Gregorian telescope with rulings on the secondary mirror. FORTIS will be launched on a sounding rocket from White Sand Missile Range to study the relationship between Lyman alpha escape and the local gas-to-dust ratio in star forming galaxies with non-zero redshifts. It is designed to acquire images of a 30' x 30' field and provide fully redundant "on-the-fly" spectral acquisition of 43 separate targets in the field with a bandpass of 900 - 1800 Angstroms. FORTIS is an enabling scientific and technical activity for future cutting edge far- and near-uv survey missions seeking to: search for Lyman continuum radiation leaking from star forming galaxies, determine the epoch of He II reionization and characterize baryon acoustic oscillations using the Lyman forest. In addition to the high efficiency "two bounce" dual-order spectro-telescope design, FORTIS incorporates a number of innovative technologies including: an image dissecting microshutter array developed by GSFC; a large area (~ 45 mm x 170 mm) microchannel plate detector with central imaging and "outrigger" spectral channels provided by Sensor Sciences; and an autonomous targeting microprocessor incorporating commercially available field programable gate arrays. We discuss progress to date in developing our pathfinder instrument.

Analysis and comparison of wrist splint designs using the finite element method: Multi-material three-dimensional printing compared to typical existing practice with thermoplastics.

PubMed

Cazon, Aitor; Kelly, Sarah; Paterson, Abby M; Bibb, Richard J; Campbell, R Ian

2017-09-01

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic disease affecting the joints. Treatment can include immobilisation of the affected joint with a custom-fitting splint, which is typically fabricated by hand from low temperature thermoplastic, but the approach poses several limitations. This study focused on the evaluation, by finite element analysis, of additive manufacturing techniques for wrist splints in order to improve upon the typical splinting approach. An additive manufactured/3D printed splint, specifically designed to be built using Objet Connex multi-material technology and a virtual model of a typical splint, digitised from a real patient-specific splint using three-dimensional scanning, were modelled in computer-aided design software. Forty finite element analysis simulations were performed in flexion-extension and radial-ulnar wrist movements to compare the displacements and the stresses. Simulations have shown that for low severity loads, the additive manufacturing splint has 25%, 76% and 27% less displacement in the main loading direction than the typical splint in flexion, extension and radial, respectively, while ulnar values were 75% lower in the traditional splint. For higher severity loads, the flexion and extension movements resulted in deflections that were 24% and 60%, respectively, lower in the additive manufacturing splint. However, for higher severity loading, the radial defection values were very similar in both splints and ulnar movement deflection was higher in the additive manufacturing splint. A physical prototype of the additive manufacturing splint was also manufactured and was tested under normal conditions to validate the finite element analysis data. Results from static tests showed maximum displacements of 3.46, 0.97, 3.53 and 2.51 mm flexion, extension, radial and ulnar directions, respectively. According to these results, the present research argues that from a technical point of view, the additive manufacturing splint design stands at the same or even better level of performance in displacements and stress values in comparison to the typical low temperature thermoplastic approach and is therefore a feasible approach to splint design and manufacture.

Uranium hydrogeochemical and stream sediment reconnaissance of the Newcastle NTMS quadrangle, Wyoming, including concentrations of forty-two additional elements

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

Goff, S.J.; Sandoval, W.F.; Gallimore, D.L.

1980-06-01

During the summer and fall of 1977, 533 water and 1226 sediment samples were collected from 1740 locations within the 18,000 km/sup 2/ area of the Newcastle quadrangle, Wyoming. Water samples were collected from wells and springs; sediment samples were collected from stream channels and from springs. Each water sample was analyzed for uranium, and each sediment sample was analyzed for 43 elements, including uranium and thorium. Uranium concentrations in water samples range from below the detection limit of 0.02 ppB to 702.26 ppB and have a median of 1.73 ppB and a mean of 11.76 ppB. Water samples containingmore » high uranium concentrations (>20 ppB) generally are associated with known uranium mining activity or units known to be uranium bearing. About one-third of the water samples containing high uranium concentrations were collected from locations within the Pumpkin Buttes and Turnercrest-Ross Districts. Nearly half of the water samples containing high uranium concentrations were collected from locations just west of the Monument Hill and Highland Flats-Box Creek Districts. Similar anomalous uranium concentrations in this region have been reported updip from Exxon's Highland uranium deposits. High uranium concentrations were also found associated with the Lance Creek-Old Woman Anticline District.« less

Perceived Career Barriers for Gay, Lesbian, and Bisexual Individuals

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Parnell, Martha Keeton; Lease, Suzanne H.; Green, Michael L.

2012-01-01

This study examined career-related barriers that gay, lesbian, and bisexual (GLB) individuals had encountered in the past and anticipated in the future and the degree of hindrance associated with future barriers. Two hundred forty-one GLB participants (126 women and 115 men) completed the Career Barriers Inventory-Revised and 11 additional items…

Differential growth forms of the sponge Biemna fortis govern the abundance of its associated brittle star Ophiactis modesta

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dahihande, Azraj S.; Thakur, Narsinh L.

2017-08-01

Marine intertidal regions are physically stressful habitats. In such an environment, facilitator species and positive interactions mitigate unfavorable conditions to the benefit of less tolerant organisms. In sponge-brittle star association, sponges effectively shelter brittle stars from biotic and abiotic stresses. The sponge, Biemna fortis (Topsent, 1897) was examined from two intertidal regions Anjuna and Mhapan along the Central West Coast of India for associated brittle star Ophiactis modesta (Brock, 1888) during 2013-2014. The study sites varied in suspended particulate matter (SPM). B. fortis at the high SPM habitat (Anjuna) had partially buried growth form and at the low SPM habitat (Mhapan) had massive growth form. O. modesta was abundantly associated with the massive growth form (50-259 individuals per 500 ml sponge) but rarely occurred in association with partially buried growth form (6-16 individuals per 500 ml sponge). In laboratory choice assay O. modesta showed equal preference to the chemical cues from both the growth forms of B. fortis. In addition, O. modesta showed significant preference to B. fortis compared to other sympatric sponges. These observations highlight the involvement of chemical cues in host recognition by O. modesta. Massive growth forms transplanted to the high SPM habitat were unable to survive but partially buried growth forms transplanted to the low SPM habitat were able to survive. Differential growth forms of the host sponge B. fortis at different abiotic stresses affect the abundance of the associated brittle star O. modesta.

My Forty-Year Adventure in the Wonderful World of Fiber Optics!

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hodara, Henri

2016-11-01

In the first part of this presentation, I review the key technology developments of the last century up to the present. These developments are what led us to the communication and information revolution. This is followed by a discussion of how the use of optical fibers brought about the fusion of these two elements and the resultant proliferation of smart phones and social networks. In the second part, I recollect some of my work in fiber optics over a period of forty years in the context of those key developments. In particular, I stress what it takes for a company small in comparison to the giants in the field to capture niche markets. I also discuss the criteria that are needed to justify the application of a new technology like optical fibers to existing communication and sensing systems, and make it cost effective. I end this presentation with a few personal considerations regarding technology developments and innovation.

The Job Dimensions Underlying the Job Elements of the Position Analysis Questionnaire (PAQ) (Form B).

DTIC Science & Technology

The study was concerned with the identification of the job dimension underlying the job elements of the Position Analysis Questionnaire ( PAQ ), Form B...The PAQ is a structured job analysis instrument consisting of 187 worker-oriented job elements which are divided into six a priori major divisions...The statistical procedure of principal components analysis was used to identify the job dimensions of the PAQ . Forty-five job dimensions were

Sector magnets or transverse electromagnetic fields in cylindrical coordinates

DOE PAGES

Zolkin, T.

2017-04-10

Laplace’s equation is considered for scalar and vector potentials describing electric or magnetic fields in cylindrical coordinates, with invariance along the azimuthal coordinate. In a series, we found special functions which, when expanded to lowest order in power series in radial and vertical coordinates, replicate harmonic polynomials in two variables. These functions are based on radial harmonics found by Edwin M. McMillan forty years ago. In addition to McMillan’s harmonics, a second family of radial harmonics is introduced to provide a symmetric description between electric and magnetic fields and to describe fields and potentials in terms of the same functions.more » Formulas are provided which relate any transverse fields specified by the coefficients in the power series expansion in radial or vertical planes in cylindrical coordinates with the set of new functions. Our result is important for potential theory and for theoretical study, design and proper modeling of sector dipoles, combined function dipoles and any general sector element for accelerator physics. All results are presented in connection with these problems.« less

Sector magnets or transverse electromagnetic fields in cylindrical coordinates

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

Zolkin, T.

Laplace’s equation is considered for scalar and vector potentials describing electric or magnetic fields in cylindrical coordinates, with invariance along the azimuthal coordinate. In a series, we found special functions which, when expanded to lowest order in power series in radial and vertical coordinates, replicate harmonic polynomials in two variables. These functions are based on radial harmonics found by Edwin M. McMillan forty years ago. In addition to McMillan’s harmonics, a second family of radial harmonics is introduced to provide a symmetric description between electric and magnetic fields and to describe fields and potentials in terms of the same functions.more » Formulas are provided which relate any transverse fields specified by the coefficients in the power series expansion in radial or vertical planes in cylindrical coordinates with the set of new functions. Our result is important for potential theory and for theoretical study, design and proper modeling of sector dipoles, combined function dipoles and any general sector element for accelerator physics. All results are presented in connection with these problems.« less

Middle School Language Arts Teacher Decision-Making Compared to the Reading Next Report's Instructional Elements

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wood, Geralee

2012-01-01

This mixed-methods, collective case study approach explored how one district's forty-four language arts teachers in grades 6, 7, and 8 used their core literacy programs to incorporate the nine instructional elements recommended by the Reading Next report (Biancarosa & Snow, 2006) into the district's literacy program. Acknowledging…

Addition of higher order plate and shell elements into NASTRAN computer program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Narayanaswami, R.; Goglia, G. L.

1976-01-01

Two higher order plate elements, the linear strain triangular membrane element and the quintic bending element, along with a shallow shell element, suitable for inclusion into the NASTRAN (NASA Structural Analysis) program are described. Additions to the NASTRAN Theoretical Manual, Users' Manual, Programmers' Manual and the NASTRAN Demonstration Problem Manual, for inclusion of these elements into the NASTRAN program are also presented.

Characteristics of white-tailed deer fawn beds, Black Hills, South Dakota

Treesearch

Daniel W. Uresk; Ted A. Benzon; Kieth E. Severson; Lakhdar Benkobi

1999-01-01

Forty-two white-tailed deer fawns (Odocoileus virginianus dakotensis) were captured and fitted with radio transmitters and observed from June through September 1991 and 1992 to determine diurnal bed site use in the Black Hills of South Dakota. Fawns were monitored biweekly during daylight hours and 259 bed sites were located. In addition, 301 random...

Teachers' Perceptions about School Violence in One Turkish City

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yavuzer, Yasemin; Gundogdu, Rezzan; Dikici, Ayhan

2009-01-01

The aim of this study is to determine the types and frequencies of violence encountered by teachers in primary and high schools in Nide province in Turkey, and, in addition, to determine the perceptions of teachers regarding the reasons for and methods of prevention of violent actions at schools. One hundred forty-two teachers were chosen for this…

Examination of the Mass Transfer of Additive Elements in Barium Titanate Ceramics during Sintering Process by Laser Ablation ICP-MS.

PubMed

Sakate, Daisuke; Iwazaki, Yoshiki; Kon, Yoshiaki; Yokoyama, Takaomi; Ohata, Masaki

2018-01-01

The mass transfer of additive elements during the sintering of barium titanate (BaTiO 3 ) ceramic was examined by laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) in the present study. An analytical sample consisting of two pellets of BaTiO 3 with different concentrations of additive elements of manganese (Mn) and holmium (Ho) as well as silicon (Si) as a sintering reagent was prepared and measured by LA-ICP-MS with small laser irradiated diameter of 10 μm to evaluate the distributions and concentrations of additive elements in order to examine their mass transfers. As results, enrichments of Mn and Si as an additive element and a sintering reagent, respectively, were observed on the adhesive surface between two BaTiO 3 pellets, even though Ho did not show a similar phenomenon. The mass transfers of additive elements of Mn and Ho were also examined, and Mn seemed to show a larger mass transfer than that of Ho during the sintering process for BaTiO 3 ceramics. The results obtained in this study shows the effectives of LA-ICP-MS for the future improvement of MLCCs.

Computational Thermodynamic Study to Predict Complex Phase Equilibria in the Nickel-Base Superalloy Rene N6

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Copland, Evan H.; Jacobson, Nathan S.; Ritzert, Frank J.

2001-01-01

A previous study by Ritzert et al. on the formation and prediction of topologically closed packed (TCP) phases in the nickel-base superalloy Rene' N6 is re-examined with computational thermodynamics. The experimental data on phase distribution in forty-four alloys with a composition within the patent limits of the nickel-base superalloy Rene' N6 provide a good basis for comparison to and validation of a commercial nickel superalloy database used with ThermoCalc. Volume fraction of the phases and partitioning of the elements are determined for the forty-four alloys in this dataset. The baseline heat treatment of 400 h at 1366 K was used. This composition set is particularly interesting since small composition differences lead to dramatic changes in phase composition. In general the calculated values follow the experimental trends. However, the calculations indicated no TCP phase formation when the experimental measurements gave a volume percent of TCP phase less than 2 percent. When TCP phases were predicted, the calculations under-predict the volume percent of TCP phases by a factor of 2 to 8. The calculated compositions of the gamma and gamma' phases show fair agreement with the measurements. However, the calculated compositions of the P Phase do not agree with those measured. This may be due to inaccuracies in the model parameters for P phase and/or issues with the microprobe analyses of these phases. In addition, phase fraction diagrams and sigma and P phase solvus temperatures are calculated for each of the alloys. These calculations indicate that P phase is the primary TCP phase formed for the alloys considered here at 1366 K. Finally, a series of isopleths are calculated for each of the seven alloying elements. These show the effect of each alloying element on creating TCP phases.

Geochemical survey of the Blood Mountain Roadless Area, Union and Lumpkin counties, Georgia

USGS Publications Warehouse

Koeppen, Robert P.; Nelson, Arthur E.

1989-01-01

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) made a reconnaissance geochemical survey of the Blood Mountain Roadless Area to search for unexposed mineral deposits which might be recognized by a geochemical signature in the abundance of distribution patterns of trace elements. Forty five fine-grained stream-sediment samples and 45 panned-concentrate samples were collected in the Blood Mountain study area (fig. 1). A.E. Nelson, in conjunction with detailed geologic mapping, collected 13 rock-chip samples for geochemical analysis, in addition to a large number of hand specimins for thin-section study. Nelson's geologic study (1983), combined with this geochemical survey, provide the basis for our mineral-resource assessment of the Blood Mountain Roadless Area (Koeppen and others, 1983).

Phylogenetic analysis of HERV-K LTR-like elements in primates: presence in some new world monkeys and evidence of recent parallel evolution in these species and in homo sapiens.

PubMed

Kim, H S; Wadekar, R V; Takenaka, O; Hyun, B H; Crow, T J

1999-01-01

Solitary long terminal repeats (LTRs) of the human endogenous retroviruses K family (HERV-K) have been found to be coexpressed with sequences of closely located genes. We identified forty-three HERV-K LTR-like elements in primates (African great apes, two Old World monkeys, and two New World monkeys) and analyzed them along with human-specific HERV-K LTRs. We report detection of HERV-K LTR-like elements from New World monkeys, as represented by the squirrel monkey and the night monkey, for the first time. Analysis revealed a high degree of sequence homology with human-specific HERV-K LTRs. A phylogenetic tree obtained by the neighbor-joining method revealed that five sequence (SMS-1, 2, 5, 6, 7) from the squirrel monkey and three sequences (NM6-4, 5, 9) from the night monkey are more closely related to human-specific HERV-K LTRs than they are to those of apes (the chimpanzee and gorilla) and Old World monkeys (the African green monkey and rhesus monkey). The findings are consistent with the concept the HERV-K LTR-like elements have proliferated independently and recently in the genome of primates, and that such proliferation has been more recent in Homo sapiens and in these representatives of New World monkeys than in some Old World monkeys.

Transistor step stress testing program for JANTX2N2484

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1979-01-01

The effect of power/temperature step stress when applied to the transistor JANTX2N2484, manufactured by Raytheon and Teledyne was evaluated. Forty-eight samples from each manufacturer were divided equally (16 per group) into three groups and submitted to the processes outlined. In addition, two control sample units were maintained for verification of the electrical parametric testing.

Experimental investigation of a scaled-up passive micromixer with uneven interdigital inlet and teardrop obstruction elements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cook, Kristina J.; Fan, YanFeng; Hassan, Ibrahim

2012-05-01

Micromixers are vital components in micro total analysis systems. It is desirable to develop micromixers which are capable of rapidly mixing two or more fluids in a small footprint area, while minimizing mechanical losses. A novel planar scaled-up passive micromixer is experimentally investigated in this study. The design incorporates a 7-substream uneven interdigital inlet which supplies two liquid species in a parallel arrangement and promotes diffusion along the side walls. Forty-eight staggered teardrop-shaped obstruction elements located along the channel length combined with 32 side walls protrusions increase the two-fluid interfacial area while converging the flow due to periodic reductions in cross-sectional area. The scaled-up micromixer has a mixing channel length of 110 mm with a mixing channel height and width of 2 and 5 mm, respectively. Experimental investigations are carried out at four locations along the channel length and at Reynolds numbers equal to 1, 5, 10, 25, 50, and 100, where the Reynolds number is calculated based on total two-fluid flow and the mixing channel hydraulic diameter. Flow visualization is employed to study flow patterns, while induced fluorescence (IF), using de-ionized water and low concentration Rhodamine 6G solutions, provides mixing efficiency data. Results show a change in dominant mixing mechanism from mass diffusion to mass advection, with a critical Reynolds number of 25. At high Reynolds numbers, the formation of additional lamellae is observed, as is the formation of Dean vortices in the vicinity of the teardrop obstructions. Of the tested cases, the highest outlet mixing efficiency, 68.5%, is achieved at a Reynolds number of 1, where mass diffusion dominates. At low Reynolds numbers, superior mixing efficiency is due primarily to the implementation of the uneven interdigital inlet. A comparable mixing length is proposed to allow for reasonable comparison with published studies.

Medical student use of communication elements and association with patient satisfaction: a prospective observational pilot study.

PubMed

Turner, Joseph S; Pettit, Katie E; Buente, Bryce B; Humbert, Aloysius J; Perkins, Anthony J; Kline, Jeffrey A

2016-05-21

Effective communication with patients impacts clinical outcome and patient satisfaction. We measure the rate at which medical students use six targeted communication elements with patients and association of element use with patient satisfaction. Participants included fourth year medical students enrolled in an emergency medicine clerkship. A trained observer measured use of six communication elements: acknowledging the patient by name, introducing themselves by name, identifying their role, explaining the care plan, explaining that multiple providers would see the patient, and providing an estimated duration of time in the emergency department. The observer then conducted a survey of patient satisfaction with the medical student encounter. A total of 246 encounters were documented among forty medical student participants. For the six communication elements evaluated, in 61% of encounters medical students acknowledged the patient, in 91% they introduced themselves, in 58 % they identified their role as a student, in 64% they explained the care plan, in 80% they explained that another provider would see the patient, and in only 6% they provided an estimated duration of care. Only 1 encounter (0.4%) contained all six elements. Patients' likelihood to refer a loved one to that ED was increased when students acknowledged the patient and described that other providers would be involved in patient care (P = 0.016 and 0.015 respectively, Chi Square). Likewise, patients' likelihood to return to the ED was increased when students described their role in patient care (P = 0.035, Chi Square). This pilot study demonstrates that medical students infrequently use all targeted communication elements. When they did use certain elements, patient satisfaction increased. These data imply potential benefit to additional training for students in patient communication.

K-Ar dating of young volcanic rocks

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

Damon, P.E.; Shafiqullah, M.

1991-01-31

Potassium-Argon (K-Ar) age dates were determined for forty-two young geologic samples by the Laboratory of Isotope Geochemistry, Department of Geosciences, in the period February 1, 1986 to June 30, 1989. Under the terms of Department of Energy Grant No. FG07-86ID12622, The University of Arizona was to provide state-of-the-art K-Ar age dating services, including sample preparation, analytical procedures, and computations, for forty-two young geologic samples submitted by DOE geothermal researchers. We billed only for forty samples. Age dates were determined for geologic samples from five regions with geothermal potential: the Cascade Mountains (Oregon); the Cascade Mountains (Washington); Ascension Island, South Atlanticmore » Ocean; Cerro Prieto, Mexico; and Las Azufres, Mexico. The ages determined varied from 5.92 m.a. to 0.62 m.a. The integration of K-Ar dates with geologic data and the interpretation in terms of geologic and geothermal significance has been reported separately by the various DOE geothermal researchers. Table 1 presents a detailed listing of all samples dated, general sample location, researcher, researcher's organization, rock type, age, and probable error (1 standard deviation). Additional details regarding the geologic samples may be obtained from the respective geothermal researcher. 1 tab.« less

Childhood inflammatory bowel disease: parental concerns and expectations.

PubMed

Day, A-S; Whitten, K-E; Bohane, T-D

2005-02-21

To document the concerns and expectations of parents of children with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) within the context of a multidisciplinary IBD clinic, and to highlight the importance of a holistic approach to the care of these children. The parents of 60 children with IBD were surveyed by mailed questionnaire. Parents were asked to provide details of their concerns regarding their child's condition and to express their expectations of medical care. In addition, enquiry was made in respect to the respondents' learning about IBD. Forty-six questionnaires (77%) returned. Fifty-two percent of the patients were male. Patients were aged a mean of 10.9 (+/-4.1) years and diagnosed at an average age of 2.1 (+/-1.8) years previously. The most common concerns expressed by the parents related to the side- effects of medications and the future prospects for their child. Overall, parents were satisfied with aspects of care within the IBD clinic but many suggested additional personnel such as counselors or educators should be available. Parents also reported the need for continuing education and easy access to up-to-date information. Parents of children and adolescents with IBD have many common concerns regarding their child's condition. On-going attention to holistic care, including psychosocial and educational elements for patients and families, is appropriate in the context of the chronic and unpredictable nature of IBD.

Childhood inflammatory bowel disease: Parental concerns and expectations

PubMed Central

Day, AS; Whitten, KE; Bohane, TD

2005-01-01

AIM: To document the concerns and expectations of parents of children with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) within the context of a multidisciplinary IBD clinic, and to highlight the importance of a holistic approach to the care of these children. METHODS: The parents of 60 children with IBD were surveyed by mailed questionnaire. Parents were asked to provide details of their concerns regarding their child’s condition and to express their expectations of medical care. In addition, enquiry was made in respect to the respondents’ learning about IBD. RESULTS: Forty-six questionnaires (77%) returned. Fifty-two percent of the patients were male. Patients were aged a mean of 10.9 (±4.1) years and diagnosed at an average age of 2.1 (±1.8) years previously. The most common concerns expressed by the parents related to the side- effects of medications and the future prospects for their child. Overall, parents were satisfied with aspects of care within the IBD clinic but many suggested additional personnel such as counselors or educators should be available. Parents also reported the need for continuing education and easy access to up-to-date information. CONCLUSION: Parents of children and adolescents with IBD have many common concerns regarding their child’s condition. On-going attention to holistic care, including psychosocial and educational elements for patients and families, is appropriate in the context of the chronic and unpredictable nature of IBD. PMID:15742408

Trampoline-related injuries.

PubMed

Larson, B J; Davis, J W

1995-08-01

Two hundred and seventeen patients who had sustained an injury during the recreational use of a trampoline were managed in the emergency room of Logan Regional Hospital in Logan, Utah, from January 1991 through December 1992. We retrospectively reviewed the charts and radiographs of these patients to categorize the injuries. Additional details regarding the injuries of seventy-two patients (33 per cent) were obtained by means of a telephone interview with use of a questionnaire. The injuries occurred from February through November, with the peak incidence in July. The patients were eighteen months to forty-five years old (average, ten years old); ninety-four patients (43 per cent) were five to nine years old. Eighty-four patients (39 per cent) sustained a fracture; fifty-four (25 per cent), a sprain or strain; forty-five (21 per cent), a laceration; and thirty-four (16 per cent), a contusion. Fifty-seven injuries (26 per cent) involved the elbow or forearm; forty-six (21 per cent), the head or neck; forty (18 per cent), the ankle or foot; thirty-three (15 per cent), the knee or leg; nineteen (9 per cent), the trunk or back; thirteen (6 per cent), the shoulder or arm; and nine (4 per cent), the wrist or hand. Thirteen patients (6 per cent) had a back injury, but none of them had a permanent neurological deficit. One patient who had an ocular injury was transferred to a tertiary care center. One hundred and fifty-six patients (72 per cent) were evaluated radiographically, fifteen (7 per cent) were admitted to the hospital, and thirteen (6 per cent) had an operation.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

TEMPORAL VARIABILITY OF TOXIC CONTAMINANTS IN ANIMAL DIETS

EPA Science Inventory

Uncertified commercial research animal feed (Purina Chow TM) was analyzed over forty-one months to determine essential and trace elements and toxic contaminants. Parametric statistics and graphic chronologic progressions of the results are presented for cat, monkey, rodent (rat/m...

The Effect of Imagery Instruction on Vocabulary Development. College Reading and Learning Assistance Technical Report No. 87-05.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Smith, Brenda D.; And Others

To explore the usefulness of imagery as a learning tool in a classroom situation, this study investigated whether a visual image has an additive effect on the recall of definitions of previously unknown English words. One-hundred-forty-two students enrolled in six sections of an upper level developmental reading course at Georgia State University…

The promise and challenge of including multimedia items in medical licensure examinations: some insights from an empirical trial.

PubMed

Shen, Linjun; Li, Feiming; Wattleworth, Roberta; Filipetto, Frank

2010-10-01

The Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination conducted a trial of multimedia items in the 2008-2009 Level 3 testing cycle to determine (1) if multimedia items were able to test additional elements of medical knowledge and skills and (2) how to develop effective multimedia items. Forty-four content-matched multimedia and text multiple-choice items were randomly delivered to Level 3 candidates. Logistic regression and paired-samples t tests were used for pairwise and group-level comparisons, respectively. Nine pairs showed significant differences in either difficulty or/and discrimination. Content analysis found that, if text narrations were less direct, multimedia materials could make items easier. When textbook terminologies were replaced by multimedia presentations, multimedia items could become more difficult. Moreover, a multimedia item was found not uniformly difficult for candidates at different ability levels, possibly because multimedia and text items tested different elements of a same concept. Multimedia items may be capable of measuring some constructs different from what text items can measure. Effective multimedia items with reasonable psychometric properties can be intentionally developed.

Molecular characterization and chromosomal distribution of Galileo, Kepler and Newton, three foldback transposable elements of the Drosophila buzzatii species complex.

PubMed

Casals, Ferran; Cáceres, Mario; Manfrin, Maura Helena; González, Josefa; Ruiz, Alfredo

2005-04-01

Galileo is a foldback transposable element that has been implicated in the generation of two polymorphic chromosomal inversions in Drosophila buzzatii. Analysis of the inversion breakpoints led to the discovery of two additional elements, called Kepler and Newton, sharing sequence and structural similarities with Galileo. Here, we describe in detail the molecular structure of these three elements, on the basis of the 13 copies found at the inversion breakpoints plus 10 additional copies isolated during this work. Similarly to the foldback elements described in other organisms, these elements have long inverted terminal repeats, which in the case of Galileo possess a complex structure and display a high degree of internal variability between copies. A phylogenetic tree built with their shared sequences shows that the three elements are closely related and diverged approximately 10 million years ago. We have also analyzed the abundance and chromosomal distribution of these elements in D. buzzatii and other species of the repleta group by Southern analysis and in situ hybridization. Overall, the results suggest that these foldback elements are present in all the buzzatti complex species and may have played an important role in shaping their genomes. In addition, we show that recombination rate is the main factor determining the chromosomal distribution of these elements.

Estimate of contribution of jet aircraft operations to trace element concentration at or near airports

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fordyce, J. S.; Sheibley, D. W.

1974-01-01

Samples of ASTM type A jet fuel were analyzed for trace-element content by instrumental neutron activation techniques. Forty-nine elements were sought. Only ten, aluminum, gold, indium, lanthanum, titanium, vandium, barium, dysprosium, tellurium, and uranium, were observed at levels above the detection limits encountered; of these only aluminum, titanium, and barium were present at concentrations greater than 0.1 ppm. Estimates of exhaust gas concentrations are made, and the ambient contribution at or near airports is calculated by using the Los Angeles International Airport dispersion model. It is shown that the ambient contribution is about an order of magnitude below typical urban levels for virtually all elements sought.

Estimate of contribution of jet aircraft operations to trace element concentration at or near airports

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fordyce, J. S.; Sheibley, D. W.

1975-01-01

Samples of ASTM type A jet fuel were analyzed for trace element content by instrumental neutron activation techniques. Forty-nine elements were sought. Only ten, aluminum, gold, indium, lanthanum, titanium, vanadium, barium, dysprosium, tellurium, and uranium, were observed at levels above the detection limits encountered; of these only aluminum, titanium, and barium were present at concentrations greater than 0.1 ppm. Estimates of exhaust gas concentrations are made, and the ambient contribution at or near airports is calculated by using the Los Angeles International Airport dispersion model. It is shown that the ambient contribution is about an order of magnitude below typical urban levels for virtually all elements sought.

Experimental investigation of vortices shed by various wing fin configurations. M.S. Thesis. Final Report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Iversen, J.; Moghadam, M.

1981-01-01

Forty-six different fins, which were members of twelve plan-form families, were tested. A two dimensional Boeing single element airfoil at an angle of attack of eight degrees and a sweepback angle of thirty-two was used to simulate a portion of the wing of a generator aircraft. Various free stream velocities were used to test any individual fin at its particular angle of attack. While the fin itself was mounted on the upper surface of the generator model, the angle of attack of each fin was varied until stall was reached and/or passed. The relative fin vortex strengths were measured in two ways. First, the maximum angular velocity of a four blade rotor placed in the fin vortex center was measured with the use of a stroboscope. Second, the maximum rolling moment on a following wing model placed in the fin vortex center was measured by a force balance.

GEOTHERMAL ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT BASELINE STUDY: VEGETATION AND SOILS OF THE ROOSEVELT HOT SPRINGS GEOTHERMAL RESOURCE AREA

EPA Science Inventory

Identification and elemental concentrations of indigenous soil and plant systems found on the Roosevelt Hot Spring KGRA are described. Twenty-three different soils and five separate plant communities are geographically mapped and identified. One hundred forty-seven plant species ...

76 FR 32321 - Approval and Promulgation of Air Quality Implementation Plans; Pennsylvania; Revision to the...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-06-06

...-day window allowed under the prior approved SIP. This SIP revision affects forty-two counties in... inspection stations in the forty-two non-I/M counties. The quality assurance program established a window...

Molecular Characterization and Chromosomal Distribution of Galileo, Kepler and Newton, Three Foldback Transposable Elements of the Drosophila buzzatii Species Complex

PubMed Central

Casals, Ferran; Cáceres, Mario; Manfrin, Maura Helena; González, Josefa; Ruiz, Alfredo

2005-01-01

Galileo is a foldback transposable element that has been implicated in the generation of two polymorphic chromosomal inversions in Drosophila buzzatii. Analysis of the inversion breakpoints led to the discovery of two additional elements, called Kepler and Newton, sharing sequence and structural similarities with Galileo. Here, we describe in detail the molecular structure of these three elements, on the basis of the 13 copies found at the inversion breakpoints plus 10 additional copies isolated during this work. Similarly to the foldback elements described in other organisms, these elements have long inverted terminal repeats, which in the case of Galileo possess a complex structure and display a high degree of internal variability between copies. A phylogenetic tree built with their shared sequences shows that the three elements are closely related and diverged ∼10 million years ago. We have also analyzed the abundance and chromosomal distribution of these elements in D. buzzatii and other species of the repleta group by Southern analysis and in situ hybridization. Overall, the results suggest that these foldback elements are present in all the buzzatti complex species and may have played an important role in shaping their genomes. In addition, we show that recombination rate is the main factor determining the chromosomal distribution of these elements. PMID:15695364

Feature co-localization landscape of the human genome

PubMed Central

Ng, Siu-Kin; Hu, Taobo; Long, Xi; Chan, Cheuk-Hin; Tsang, Shui-Ying; Xue, Hong

2016-01-01

Although feature co-localizations could serve as useful guide-posts to genome architecture, a comprehensive and quantitative feature co-localization map of the human genome has been lacking. Herein we show that, in contrast to the conventional bipartite division of genomic sequences into genic and inter-genic regions, pairwise co-localizations of forty-two genomic features in the twenty-two autosomes based on 50-kb to 2,000-kb sequence windows indicate a tripartite zonal architecture comprising Genic zones enriched with gene-related features and Alu-elements; Proximal zones enriched with MIR- and L2-elements, transcription-factor-binding-sites (TFBSs), and conserved-indels (CIDs); and Distal zones enriched with L1-elements. Co-localizations between single-nucleotide-polymorphisms (SNPs) and copy-number-variations (CNVs) reveal a fraction of sequence windows displaying steeply enhanced levels of SNPs, CNVs and recombination rates that point to active adaptive evolution in such pathways as immune response, sensory perceptions, and cognition. The strongest positive co-localization observed between TFBSs and CIDs suggests a regulatory role of CIDs in cooperation with TFBSs. The positive co-localizations of cancer somatic CNVs (CNVT) with all Proximal zone and most Genic zone features, in contrast to the distinctly more restricted co-localizations exhibited by germline CNVs (CNVG), reveal disparate distributions of CNVTs and CNVGs indicative of dissimilarity in their underlying mechanisms. PMID:26854351

Clothing and Textile Student Modules.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

South Carolina State Dept. of Education, Columbia. Office of Vocational Education.

Forty-seven performance-based instructional modules on six major topics are provided for the home economics content area of clothing and textiles. The six topics are (1) planning basics (psychological, physical, social, and behavioral aspects of clothing; elements of design; principles of design; and style and fashion in clothing), (2) buyership…

How Do New Teachers Choose New Labs?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

DeMeo, Stephen

2007-01-01

Forty-eight new secondary science teachers participated in a study that required a listing, discussion, and application of criteria to rank three chemistry laboratory procedures. The three similar lab procedures involved synthesis of a compound from its elements. The top criteria noted by teachers focused on procedural issues (i.e., timeliness,…

Multiple Learning Strategies Project. Medical Assistant. [Regular Vocational. Vol. 3.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Varney, Beverly; And Others

This instructional package, one of four designed for regular vocational students, focuses on the vocational area of medical assistant. Contained in this document are forty learning modules organized into four units: office surgery; telephoning; bandaging; and medications and treatments. Each module includes these elements: a performance objective…

Programming in HAL/S

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ryer, M. J.

1979-01-01

Intended as an introduction to programming in HAL/S, this manual is organized as a tutorial aid which may be used as part of a self-study program or in conjunction with a course of twenty to forty classroom hours over a period of one to two weeks. A number of corrections to the first edition are incorporated into the text along with a chapter on FIXED data and an additional appendix on FORMAT I/0.

The first nest records of the sooty antbird (Myrmeciza fortis) with notes on eggs and nestling development

USGS Publications Warehouse

Wilkinson, F.A.; Smith, U.R.

1997-01-01

Two Myrmeciza fortis nests were discovered in a lowland floodplain forest of Manu National Park, Peru. Both nests were embedded in leaf litter on the ground and were oven-shaped with a an entrance and an inner chamber concealing two eggs. Unlike the known nests of other Myrmeciza spp., the nests of Myrmeciza fortis closely resembled nests of other species in the Thamnophilidae. This discovery suggests that the genus Myrmeciza is polyphyletic

Trace elements in unconventional animals: A 40-year experience.

PubMed

Carpenè, Emilio; Andreani, Giulia; Isani, Gloria

2017-09-01

The role of trace elements in animal health has attracted increasing interest in recent years. The essentiality and toxicity of these elements have been extensively investigated in humans, laboratory animal models and partially in domestic animals, whereas little is known about trace element metabolism in most living organisms. Forty years ago our research started on Cd metabolism in molluscs, thereafter expanding to Zn, Cu, and Fe metabolism in many unconventional animal species of veterinary interest. This review summarizes the main results obtained over this long period of time: some of the findings are original and have not been published to date. They are discussed in more detail and compared with data obtained in conventional animals, including man. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

Micro-finite-element method to assess elastic properties of trabecular bone at micro- and macroscopic level.

PubMed

Rieger, R; Auregan, J C; Hoc, T

2018-03-01

The objective of the present study is to assess the mechanical behavior of trabecular bone based on microCT imaging and micro-finite-element analysis. In this way two methods are detailed: (i) direct determination of macroscopic elastic property of trabecular bone; (ii) inverse approach to assess mechanical properties of trabecular bone tissue. Thirty-five females and seven males (forty-two subjects) mean aged (±SD) 80±11.7 years from hospitals of Assistance publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP) diagnosed with osteoporosis following a femoral neck fracture due to a fall from standing were included in this study. Fractured heads were collected during hip replacement surgery. Standardized bone cores were removed from the femoral head's equator by a trephine in a water bath. MicroCT images acquisition and analysis were performed with CTan ® software and bone volume fraction was then determined. Micro-finite-element simulations were per-formed using Abaqus 6.9-2 ® software in order to determine the macroscopic mechanical behaviour of the trabecular bone. After microCT acquisition, a longitudinal compression test was performed and the experimental macroscopic Young's Modulus was extracted. An inverse approach based on the whole trabecular bone's mechanical response and micro-finite-element analysis was performed to determine microscopic mechanical properties of trabecular bone. In the present study, elasticity of the tissue was shown to be similar to that of healthy tissue but with a lower yield stress. Classical histomorphometric analysis form microCT imaging associated with an inverse micro-finite-element method allowed to assess microscopic mechanical trabecular bone parameters. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Analytical Results for 42 Fluvial Tailings Cores and 7 Stream Sediment Samples from High Ore Creek, Northern Jefferson County, Montana

USGS Publications Warehouse

Fey, David L.; Church, Stan E.

1998-01-01

Metal-mining related wastes in the Boulder River basin study area in northern Jefferson County, Montana have been implicated in their detrimental effects on water quality with regard to acid-generation and toxic-metal solubility. Sediments, fluvial tailings and water from High Ore Creek have been identified as significant contributors to water quality degradation of the Boulder River below Basin, Montana. A study of 42 fluvial tailings cores and 7 stream sediments from High Ore Creek was undertaken to determine the concentrations of environmentally sensitive elements (i.e. Ag, As, Cd, Cu, Pb, Zn) present in these materials, and the mineral phases containing those elements. Two sites of fluvial deposition of mine-waste contaminated sediment on upper High Ore Creek were sampled using a one-inch soil probe. Forty-two core samples were taken producing 247 subsamples. The samples were analyzed by ICP-AES (inductively coupled-plasma atomic emission spectroscopy) using a total mixed-acid digestion. Results of the core analyses show that the elements described above are present at very high concentrations (to 22,000 ppm As, to 460 ppm Ag, to 900 ppm Cd, 4,300 ppm Cu, 46,000ppm Pb, and 50,000 ppm Zn). Seven stream-sediment samples were also analyzed by ICP-AES for total element content and for leachable element content. Results show that the sediment of High Ore Creek has elevated levels of ore-related metals throughout its length, down to the confluence with the Boulder River, and that the metals are, to a significant degree, contained in the leachable phase, namely the hydrous amorphous iron- and manganese-hydroxide coatings on detrital sediment particles.

Human Habitation in a Lunar Electric Rover During a 14-Day Field Trial

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Litaker, Harry, Jr.; Thompson, Shelby; Howard, Robert, Jr.

2010-01-01

Various military and commercial entities, as well as the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), have conducted space cabin confinement studies. However, after an extensive literature search, only one study was found using a simulated lunar rover (LUNEX II), under laboratory conditions, with a crew of two for an eighteen day lunar mission. Forty-three years later, NASA human factors engineers conducted a similar study using the Lunar Electric Rover (LER) in a dynamic real-world lunar simulation at the Black Point Lava Flow in Arizona. The objective of the study was to obtain human-in-the-loop performance data on the vehicle s interior volume with respect to human-system interfaces, crew accommodations, and habitation over a 14-day mission. Though part of a larger study including 212 overall operational elements, this paper will discuss only the performance of fifty different daily habitational elements within the confines of the vehicle carried out by two male subjects. Objective timing data and subjective questionnaire data were collected. Results indicate, much like the LUNEX II study, the LER field study suggest that a crew of two was able to maintain a satisfactory performance of tasks throughout the 14-day field trail within a relative small vehicle volume.

Does Teacher Evaluation Improve School Performance? Experimental Evidence from Chicago's Excellence in Teaching Project

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Steinberg, Matthew P.; Sartain, Lauren

2015-01-01

Chicago Public Schools initiated the Excellence in Teaching Project, a teacher evaluation program designed to increase student learning by improving classroom instruction through structured principal-teacher dialogue. The pilot began in forty-four elementary schools in 2008-09 (cohort 1) and scaled up to include an additional forty-eight…

46 CFR 42.20-75 - Minimum freeboards.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... Freeboards § 42.20-75 Minimum freeboards. (a) Summer freeboard. (1) The minimum freeboard in summer must be... the summer freeboard of one forty-eighth of the summer draft measured from the top of the keel to the... freeboard obtained by an addition to the summer freeboard of one forty-eighth of summer draft, measured from...

46 CFR 42.20-75 - Minimum freeboards.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... Freeboards § 42.20-75 Minimum freeboards. (a) Summer freeboard. (1) The minimum freeboard in summer must be... the summer freeboard of one forty-eighth of the summer draft measured from the top of the keel to the... freeboard obtained by an addition to the summer freeboard of one forty-eighth of summer draft, measured from...

46 CFR 42.20-75 - Minimum freeboards.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... Freeboards § 42.20-75 Minimum freeboards. (a) Summer freeboard. (1) The minimum freeboard in summer must be... the summer freeboard of one forty-eighth of the summer draft measured from the top of the keel to the... freeboard obtained by an addition to the summer freeboard of one forty-eighth of summer draft, measured from...

46 CFR 42.20-75 - Minimum freeboards.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... Freeboards § 42.20-75 Minimum freeboards. (a) Summer freeboard. (1) The minimum freeboard in summer must be... the summer freeboard of one forty-eighth of the summer draft measured from the top of the keel to the... freeboard obtained by an addition to the summer freeboard of one forty-eighth of summer draft, measured from...

46 CFR 42.20-75 - Minimum freeboards.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... Freeboards § 42.20-75 Minimum freeboards. (a) Summer freeboard. (1) The minimum freeboard in summer must be... the summer freeboard of one forty-eighth of the summer draft measured from the top of the keel to the... freeboard obtained by an addition to the summer freeboard of one forty-eighth of summer draft, measured from...

Quality of care for cancer patients on home parenteral nutrition: development of key interventions and outcome indicators using a two-round Delphi approach.

PubMed

Dreesen, Mira; Foulon, Veerle; Hiele, Martin; Vanhaecht, Kris; De Pourcq, Lutgart; Pironi, Loris; Van Gossum, André; Arends, Jann; Cuerda, Cristina; Thul, Paul; Bozzetti, Frederico; Willems, Ludo

2013-05-01

Clear recommendations on how to guide patients with cancer on home parenteral nutrition (HPN) are lacking as the use of HPN in this population remains a controversial issue. Therefore, the aims of this study were to rank treatment recommendations and main outcome indicators to ensure high-quality care and to indicate differences in care concerning benign versus malignant patients. Treatment recommendations, identified from published guidelines, were used as a starting point for a two-round Delphi approach. Comments and additional interventions proposed in the first round were reevaluated in the second round. Ordinal logistic regression with SPSS 2.0 was used to identify differences in care concerning benign versus malignant patients. Twenty-seven experts from five European countries completed two Delphi rounds. After the second Delphi round, the top three most important outcome indicators were (1) quality of life (QoL), (2) incidence of hospital readmission and (3) incidence of catheter-related infections. Forty-two interventions were considered as important for quality of care (28/42 based on published guidelines; 14/42 newly suggested by Delphi panel). The topics 'Liver disease' and 'Metabolic bone disease' were considered less important for cancer patients, together with use of infusion pumps (p = 0.004) and monitoring of vitamins and trace elements (p = 0.000). Monitoring of QoL is considered more important for cancer patients (p = 0.03). Using a two-round Delphi approach, we developed a minimal set of 42 interventions that may be used to determine quality of care in HPN patients with malignancies. This set of interventions differs from a similar set developed for benign patients.

Generalizing the TRAPRG and TRAPAX finite elements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hurwitz, M. M.

1983-01-01

The NASTRAN TRAPRG and TRAPAX finite elements are very restrictive as to shape and grid point numbering. The elements must be trapezoidal with two sides parallel to the radial axis. In addition, the ordering of the grid points on the element connection card must follow strict rules. The paper describes the generalization of these elements so that these restrictions no longer apply.

The Effects of Expert Systems Training versus Content-Based Training on the Troubleshooting Achievement of Onan Corporation Service Personnel. Training and Development Research Center, Project Number Forty-Eight.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Westerdahl, Edward John

This study compared the effectiveness and efficiency of trainees in the Onan small products gasoline course under two training curricula: (1) the control group curriculum was the in-place course on the Emerald generator set; and (2) the experimental group curriculum was essentially the same with the addition of one lesson based on methods used by…

Three dimensional elements with Lagrange multipliers for the modified couple stress theory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kwon, Young-Rok; Lee, Byung-Chai

2018-07-01

Three dimensional mixed elements for the modified couple stress theory are proposed. The C1 continuity for the displacement field, which is required because of the curvature term in the variational form of the theory, is satisfied weakly by introducing a supplementary rotation as an independent variable and constraining the relation between the rotation and the displacement with a Lagrange multiplier vector. An additional constraint about the deviatoric curvature is also considered for three dimensional problems. Weak forms with one constraint and two constraints are derived, and four elements satisfying convergence criteria are developed by applying different approximations to each field of independent variables. The elements pass a [InlineEquation not available: see fulltext.] patch test for three dimensional problems. Numerical examples show that the additional constraint could be considered essential for the three dimensional elements, and one of the elements is recommended for practical applications via the comparison of the performances of the elements. In addition, all the proposed elements can represent the size effect well.

Effects of a Supplemental Vocabulary Program on Word Knowledge and Passage Comprehension

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Apthorp, Helen; Randel, Bruce; Cherasaro, Trudy; Clark, Tedra; McKeown, Margaret; Beck, Isabel

2012-01-01

A cluster randomized trial estimated the effects of a supplemental vocabulary program, Elements of Reading[R]: vocabulary on student vocabulary and passage comprehension in moderate- to high-poverty elementary schools. Forty-four schools participated over a period spanning 2 consecutive school years. At baseline, 1,057 teachers and 16,471 students…

How Reflective Is the Academic Essay?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Maclellan, Effie

2004-01-01

The purpose of this study was to examine the extent of reflection in academic essays. Forty essays, all previously deemed to be of merit quality, were analysed in terms of three elements of reflection--how the educational issue is conceptualized; what the issue means for practice; and how practice might be changed to resolve the problematic. Each…

Educators or Babysitters? Daycare Caregivers Reflect on Their Profession

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Shpancer, Noam; Dunlap, Brandi; Melick, Katherine M.; Coxe, Kelly; Kuntzman, Devon; Sayre, Pamela S.; Toto, Christine; Spivey, Aria T.

2008-01-01

Forty-nine caregivers in eight daycare centres were interviewed about their daycare experiences, their own childcare decisions and practices, and their views of how their profession is perceived by society. Results suggest that: caregivers comment positively on the process elements of their work, such as their enjoyment and love of children, and…

Changing Concepts of Health and Illness among Children of Primary School Age in Western Kenya

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Onyango-Ouma, W.; Aagaard-Hansen, J.; Jensen, B. B.

2004-01-01

This paper examines changes in children's concepts of health and illness following an action-oriented health education intervention in Bondo district of Western Kenya. The study is a feasibility study exploring a specific educational approach, and it combines elements of health education research and anthropological research. Forty primary…

Upper Clear Creek watershed aquatic chemistry and biota surveys, 2004-5, Whiskeytown National Recreation Area, Shasta County, California

USGS Publications Warehouse

Wulff, Marissa L.; May, Jason T.; Brown, Larry R.

2012-01-01

The U.S. Geological Survey, in cooperation with the National Park Service and Whiskeytown National Recreation Area, performed a comprehensive aquatic biota survey of the upper Clear Creek watershed, Shasta County, California, during 2004-5. Data collected in this study can provide resource managers with information regarding aquatic resources, watershed degradation, and regional biodiversity within Whiskeytown National Recreation Area. Surveys of water chemistry, bed-sediment chemistry, algae assemblages, benthic macroinvertebrate assemblages, aquatic vertebrate assemblages, in-stream habitat characteristics, and sediment heterogeneity were conducted at 17 stream sites during both 2004 and 2005, with an additional 4 sites surveyed in 2005. A total of 67 bed-sediment samples were analyzed for major and trace inorganic element concentrations. Forty-six water samples were analyzed for trace metals and nutrients. A total of 224 taxa of invertebrates were collected during these surveys. Eleven fish species, seven of which were native, and two species of larval amphibians, were collected. A total of 24 genera of soft algae and 159 taxa of diatoms were identified. To date, this survey represents the most comprehensive inventory of aquatic resources within Whiskeytown National Recreation Area, and this information can serve as a baseline for future monitoring efforts and to inform management decisions.

STS-67 Space Shuttle mission report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fricke, Robert W., Jr.

1995-01-01

The STS-67 Space Shuttle Program Mission Report provides the results of the orbiter vehicle performance evaluation during this sixty-eighth flight of the Shuttle Program, the forty-third flight since the return to flight, and the eighth flight of the Orbiter vehicle Endeavour (OV-105). In addition, the report summarizes the payload activities and the performance of the External Tank (ET), Solid Rocket Booster (SRB), Reusable Solid Rocket Motor (RSRM), and the Space Shuttle Main Engines (SSME). The serial numbers of the other elements of the flight vehicle were ET-69 for the ET; 2012, 2033, and 2031 for SSME's 1, 2, and 3, respectively; and Bl-071 for the SRB's. The left-hand RSRM was designated 360W043A, and the right-hand RSRM was designated 360L043B. The primary objective of this flight was to successfully perform the operations of the ultraviolet astronomy (ASTRO-2) payload. Secondary objectives of this flight were to complete the operations of the Protein Crystal Growth - Thermal Enclosure System (PCG-TES), the Protein Crystal Growth - Single Locker Thermal Enclosure System (PCG-STES), the Commercial Materials Dispersion Apparatus ITA Experiments (CMIX), the Shuttle Amateur Radio Experiment-2 (SAREX-2), the Middeck Active Control Experiment (MACE), and two Get-Away Special (GAS) payloads.

Co-digestion of manure and industrial waste--The effects of trace element addition.

PubMed

Nordell, Erik; Nilsson, Britt; Nilsson Påledal, Sören; Karisalmi, Kaisa; Moestedt, Jan

2016-01-01

Manure is one of the most common substrates for biogas production. Manure from dairy- and swine animals are often considered to stabilize the biogas process by contributing nutrients and trace elements needed for the biogas process. In this study two lab-scale reactors were used to evaluate the effects of trace element addition during co-digestion of manure from swine- and dairy animals with industrial waste. The substrate used contained high background concentrations of both cobalt and nickel, which are considered to be the most important trace elements. In the reactor receiving additional trace elements, the volatile fatty acids (VFA) concentration was 89% lower than in the control reactor. The lower VFA concentration contributed to a more digested digestate, and thus lower methane emissions in the subsequent storage. Also, the biogas production rate increased with 24% and the biogas production yield with 10%, both as a result of the additional trace elements at high organic loading rates. All in all, even though 50% of the feedstock consisted of manure, trace element addition resulted in multiple positive effects and a more reliable process with stable and high yield. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Relationships among multiple trace elements in coastal Casuarina equisetifolia ecosystems on Hainan Island, South China.

PubMed

Liu, Qiang; Bi, Hua; Hung, Lan; Peng, Shaolin; Sheng, Chengde

2006-01-01

Forty-six trace elements in coastal Casuarina equisetifolia plant-soil systems at nine sampling sites on Hainan Island were analyzed using ICP-MS. The relationships among the trace elements of the same group or the same periodicity of the Periodic Table in the plants and soils were complex and no consistent patterns were found. More combinations of elements occurred with high positive correlation coefficients within the same periodicity than within the same group of the Periodic Table, and there were more high positive correlations in soils than in plants. However, there were many element combinations in Block d (transition elements) with high positive correlation coefficients in plants. Markedly high positive correlation coefficients between individual rare earth elements and Y and among Zr, Nb, Cd existed in both plants and soils. The dendrograms obtained by cluster analysis show that rare earth elements had very similar occurrence and distribution in both soils and plants. Thus, they behaved as a coherent group of elements both geochemically and biogeochemically. The transition elements were more coherent in plants than in soils.

Decay spectroscopy of element 115 daughters: Rg 280 → Mt 276 and Mt 276 → Bh 272

DOE PAGES

Gates, J. M.; Gregorich, K. E.; Gothe, O. R.; ...

2015-08-03

In this study, forty-six decay chains, assigned to the decay of 288115, were produced using the 243Am ( 48Ca, 3n) 288115 reaction at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory 88-in. cyclotron. The resulting series of α decays were studied using α-photon and α-x-ray spectroscopies. Multiple α-photon coincidences were observed in the element 115 decay chain members, particularly in the third- and fourth-generation decays (presumed to be 280Rg and 276Mt, respectively). Upon combining these data with those from 22 288115 decay chains observed in a similar experiment, updated level schemes in 276Mt and 272Bh (populated by the α decay of 280Rg andmore » 276Mt, respectively) are proposed. Additionally, photons were observed in the energy range expected for K x rays coincident with the α decay of both 280Rg and 276Mt. However, Compton scattering of higher-energy γ rays and discrete transitions are present in the K x-ray region preventing a definitive Z identification to be made based on observation of characteristic K x-ray energies.« less

Elemental profiling and geographical differentiation of Ethiopian coffee samples through inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES), ICP-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and direct mercury analyzer (DMA).

PubMed

Habte, Girum; Hwang, In Min; Kim, Jae Sung; Hong, Joon Ho; Hong, Young Sin; Choi, Ji Yeon; Nho, Eun Yeong; Jamila, Nargis; Khan, Naeem; Kim, Kyong Su

2016-12-01

This study was aimed to establish the elemental profiling and provenance of coffee samples collected from eleven major coffee producing regions of Ethiopia. A total of 129 samples were analyzed for forty-five elements using inductively coupled plasma (ICP)-optical emission spectroscopy (OES), ICP-mass spectrometry (MS) and direct mercury analyzer (DMA). Among the macro elements, K showed the highest levels whereas Fe was found to have the lowest concentration values. In all the samples, Ca, K, Mg, P and S contents were statistically significant (p<0.05). Micro elements showed the concentrations order of: Mn>Cu>Sr>Zn>Rb>Ni>B. Contents of the trace elements were lower than the permissible standard values. Inter-regions differentiation by cluster analysis (CA), linear discriminant analysis (LDA) and principal component analysis (PCA) showed that micro and trace elements are the best chemical descriptors of the analyzed coffee samples. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Estrogenic activity of phenolic additives determined by an in vitro yeast bioassay.

PubMed Central

Miller, D; Wheals, B B; Beresford, N; Sumpter, J P

2001-01-01

We used a recombinant yeast estrogen assay to assess the activity of 73 phenolic additives that are used as sunscreens, preservatives, disinfectants, antioxidants, flavorings, or for perfumery. Thirty-two of these compounds displayed activity: 22 with potencies relative to 17beta-estradiol, ranging from 1/3,000 to < 1/3,000,000, and 10 compounds with an impaired response that could not be directly compared with 17beta-estradiol. Forty-one compounds were inactive. The major criteria for activity appear to be the presence of an unhindered phenolic OH group in a para position and a molecular weight of 140-250 Da. PMID:11266322

Hotspots of aberrant enhancer activity punctuate the colorectal cancer epigenome

PubMed Central

Cohen, Andrea J.; Saiakhova, Alina; Corradin, Olivia; Luppino, Jennifer M.; Lovrenert, Katreya; Bartels, Cynthia F.; Morrow, James J.; Mack, Stephen C.; Dhillon, Gursimran; Beard, Lydia; Myeroff, Lois; Kalady, Matthew F.; Willis, Joseph; Bradner, James E.; Keri, Ruth A.; Berger, Nathan A.; Pruett-Miller, Shondra M.; Markowitz, Sanford D.; Scacheri, Peter C.

2017-01-01

In addition to mutations in genes, aberrant enhancer element activity at non-coding regions of the genome is a key driver of tumorigenesis. Here, we perform epigenomic enhancer profiling of a cohort of more than forty genetically diverse human colorectal cancer (CRC) specimens. Using normal colonic crypt epithelium as a comparator, we identify enhancers with recurrently gained or lost activity across CRC specimens. Of the enhancers highly recurrently activated in CRC, most are constituents of super enhancers, are occupied by AP-1 and cohesin complex members, and originate from primed chromatin. Many activate known oncogenes, and CRC growth can be mitigated through pharmacologic inhibition or genome editing of these loci. Nearly half of all GWAS CRC risk loci co-localize to recurrently activated enhancers. These findings indicate that the CRC epigenome is defined by highly recurrent epigenetic alterations at enhancers which activate a common, aberrant transcriptional programme critical for CRC growth and survival. PMID:28169291

Dermatology on Instagram: An Analysis of Hashtags.

PubMed

Park, Joyce H; Christman, Mitalee P; Linos, Eleni; Rieder, Evan A

2018-04-01

Forty-two percent of Americans search for health-related information on social media platforms, and forty-five percent of consumers report that social media health information influences their decision to seek care.

Arrays of flow channels with heat transfer embedded in conducting walls

DOE PAGES

Bejan, A.; Almerbati, A.; Lorente, S.; ...

2016-04-20

Here we illustrate the free search for the optimal geometry of flow channel cross-sections that meet two objectives simultaneously: reduced resistances to heat transfer and fluid flow. The element cross section and the wall material are fixed, while the shape of the fluid flow opening, or the wetted perimeter is free to vary. Two element cross sections are considered, square and equilateral triangular. We find that the two objectives are best met when the solid wall thickness is uniform, i.e., when the wetted perimeters are square and triangular, respectively. In addition, we consider arrays of square elements and triangular elements,more » on the basis of equal mass flow rate per unit of array cross sectional area. The conclusion is that the array of triangular elements meets the two objectives better than the array of square elements.« less

Evaluation of an effective multifaceted implementation strategy for elective single-embryo transfer after in vitro fertilization.

PubMed

Kreuwel, I A M; van Peperstraten, A M; Hulscher, M E J L; Kremer, J A M; Grol, R P T M; Nelen, W L D M; Hermens, R P M G

2013-02-01

What is the relationship between the rate of elective single-embryo transfer (eSET) and couples' exposure to different elements of a multifaceted implementation strategy? Additional elements in a multifaceted implementation strategy do not result in an increased eSET rate. A multifaceted eSET implementation strategy with four different elements is effective in increasing the eSET rate by 11%. It is unclear whether every strategy element contributes equally to the strategy's effectiveness. An observational study was performed among 222 subfertile couples included in a previously performed randomized controlled trial. Of the 222 subfertile couples included, 109 couples received the implementation strategy and 113 couples received standard IVF care. A multivariate regression analysis assessed the effectiveness of four different strategy elements on the decision about the number embryos to be transferred. Questionnaires evaluated the experiences of couples with the different elements. Of the couples who received the implementation strategy, almost 50% (52/109) were exposed to all the four elements of the strategy. The remaining 57 couples who received two or three elements of the strategy could be divided into two further classes of exposure. Our analysis demonstrated that additional elements do not result in an increased eSET rate. In addition to the physician's advice, couples rated a decision aid and a counselling session as more important for their decision to transfer one or two embryos, compared with a phone call and a reimbursement offer (P < 0.001). The differences in eSET rate between exposure groups failed to reach significance, probably because of the small numbers of couples in each exposure group. Adding more elements to an implementation strategy does not always result in an increased effectiveness, which is in concordance with recent literature. This in-depth evaluation of a multifaceted intervention strategy could therefore help to modify strategies, by making them more effective and less expensive.

Evaluation of the use of a singularity element in finite element analysis of center-cracked plates

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mendelson, A.; Gross, B.; Srawley, J., E.

1972-01-01

Two different methods are applied to the analyses of finite width linear elastic plates with central cracks. Both methods give displacements as a primary part of the solution. One method makes use of Fourier transforms. The second method employs a coarse mesh of triangular second-order finite elements in conjunction with a single singularity element subjected to appropriate additional constraints. The displacements obtained by these two methods are in very good agreement. The results suggest considerable potential for the use of a cracked element for related crack problems, particularly in connection with the extension to nonlinear material behavior.

The effect of trace element addition to mono-digestion of grass silage at high organic loading rates.

PubMed

Wall, David M; Allen, Eoin; Straccialini, Barbara; O'Kiely, Padraig; Murphy, Jerry D

2014-11-01

This study investigated the effect of trace element addition to mono-digestion of grass silage at high organic loading rates. Two continuous reactors were compared. The first mono-digested grass silage whilst the second operated in co-digestion, 80% grass silage with 20% dairy slurry (VS basis). The reactors were run for 65weeks with a further 5weeks taken for trace element supplementation for the mono-digestion of grass silage. The co-digestion reactor reported a higher biomethane efficiency (1.01) than mono-digestion (0.90) at an OLR of 4.0kgVSm(-3)d(-1) prior to addition of trace elements. Addition of cobalt, iron and nickel, led to an increase in the SMY in mono-digestion of grass silage by 12% to 404LCH4kg(-1)VS and attained a biomethane efficiency of 1.01. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Bigfoot. a new family of MITE elements characterized from the Medicago genus.

PubMed

Charrier, B; Foucher, F; Kondorosi, E; d'Aubenton-Carafa, Y; Thermes, C; Kondorosi, A; Ratet, P

1999-05-01

We have characterized from the legume plant Medicago a new family of miniature inverted-repeat transposable elements (MITE), called the Bigfoot transposable elements. Two of these insertion elements are present only in a single allele of two different M. sativa genes. Using a PCR strategy we have isolated 19 other Bigfoot elements from the M. sativa and M. truncatula genomes. They differ from the previously characterized MITEs by their sequence, a target site of 9 bp and a partially clustered genomic distribution. In addition, we show that they exhibit a significantly stable secondary structure. These elements may represent up to 0.1% of the genome of the outcrossing Medicago sativa but are present at a reduced copy number in the genome of the autogamous M. truncatula plant, revealing major differences in the genome organization of these two plants.

Error estimation and adaptive mesh refinement for parallel analysis of shell structures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Keating, Scott C.; Felippa, Carlos A.; Park, K. C.

1994-01-01

The formulation and application of element-level, element-independent error indicators is investigated. This research culminates in the development of an error indicator formulation which is derived based on the projection of element deformation onto the intrinsic element displacement modes. The qualifier 'element-level' means that no information from adjacent elements is used for error estimation. This property is ideally suited for obtaining error values and driving adaptive mesh refinements on parallel computers where access to neighboring elements residing on different processors may incur significant overhead. In addition such estimators are insensitive to the presence of physical interfaces and junctures. An error indicator qualifies as 'element-independent' when only visible quantities such as element stiffness and nodal displacements are used to quantify error. Error evaluation at the element level and element independence for the error indicator are highly desired properties for computing error in production-level finite element codes. Four element-level error indicators have been constructed. Two of the indicators are based on variational formulation of the element stiffness and are element-dependent. Their derivations are retained for developmental purposes. The second two indicators mimic and exceed the first two in performance but require no special formulation of the element stiffness mesh refinement which we demonstrate for two dimensional plane stress problems. The parallelizing of substructures and adaptive mesh refinement is discussed and the final error indicator using two-dimensional plane-stress and three-dimensional shell problems is demonstrated.

The forty-day rest period and infant feeding practices among Negev Bedouin Arab women in Israel.

PubMed

Forman, M R; Hundt, G L; Towne, D; Graubard, B; Sullivan, B; Berendes, H W; Sarov, B; Naggan, L

1990-03-01

Four hundred and twelve Bedouin Arab women were interviewed within 48 hours of delivering a newborn in 1982 and two months later to examine the effect of social support during the forty-day postpartum rest period on the incidence of exclusive breast feeding at two months. Whereas the distribution of infant feeding practices at two months did not differ among women with and without support during the "forty days," the number of days of help during the "forty days" was significantly associated with type of feeding at two months. The longer the duration of help, the greater were the odds of maintaining exclusive breast feeding after adjustment for covariates by multinomial logistic regression analysis. The association between duration of help and infant feeding practices at two months was modified by the interview month and the feeding practices of the respondents' primary social supports. More respondents with infants who reached two months of age in May and June were exclusively breast feeding than respondents with infants who reached two months in the hot, dry months of July and August. Also, respondents with sisters-in-law who breast fed alone or in combination with the bottle were feeding their infants in the same way after adjustment for covariates. Given the beneficial effects of breast feeding on infant health and development, these findings identify potential avenues of intervention for programs promoting breast feeding.

Psychedelics and the human receptorome.

PubMed

Ray, Thomas S

2010-02-02

We currently understand the mental effects of psychedelics to be caused by agonism or partial agonism of 5-HT(2A) (and possibly 5-HT(2C)) receptors, and we understand that psychedelic drugs, especially phenylalkylamines, are fairly selective for these two receptors. This manuscript is a reference work on the receptor affinity pharmacology of psychedelic drugs. New data is presented on the affinity of twenty-five psychedelic drugs at fifty-one receptors, transporters, and ion channels, assayed by the National Institute of Mental Health-Psychoactive Drug Screening Program (NIMH-PDSP). In addition, comparable data gathered from the literature on ten additional drugs is also presented (mostly assayed by the NIMH-PDSP). A new method is introduced for normalizing affinity (K(i)) data that factors out potency so that the multi-receptor affinity profiles of different drugs can be directly compared and contrasted. The method is then used to compare the thirty-five drugs in graphical and tabular form. It is shown that psychedelic drugs, especially phenylalkylamines, are not as selective as generally believed, interacting with forty-two of forty-nine broadly assayed sites. The thirty-five drugs of the study have very diverse patterns of interaction with different classes of receptors, emphasizing eighteen different receptors. This diversity of receptor interaction may underlie the qualitative diversity of these drugs. It should be possible to use this diverse set of drugs as probes into the roles played by the various receptor systems in the human mind.

Eighties' Film Noir: An Analysis of the Use of the "Double" in "Miami Vice's" Second and Third Seasons.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Matviko, John W.

A comparison of the current television series "Miami Vice" with the "film noir" genre of American movies from the forties and fifties reveals many similar elements, such as visual style, mood, theme, and sensibility. "Miami Vice" is set in a large city whose art deco architecture provides an ironic contrast to noir's…

Self-management education interventions for patients with cancer: a systematic review.

PubMed

Howell, Doris; Harth, Tamara; Brown, Judy; Bennett, Cathy; Boyko, Susan

2017-04-01

This systematic review was intended to identify the effectiveness and inclusion of essential components of self-management education interventions to support patients with cancer in developing the skills needed for effective self-management of their disease and the acute or immediate, long-term, and late harmful effects of treatments. Self-management education interventions were included if they were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) containing at least one of the eight core elements outlined by the research team. A systematic search was conducted in Ovid MEDLINE (2005 through April 2015), Embase (2005 to 2015, week 15), the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (Issue 4, April 2015), CINAHL (2005 to 2015) and PsychINFO (2005 to 2015). Keywords searched include 'self-management patient education' or 'patient education'. Forty-two RCTs examining self-management education interventions for patients with cancer were identified. Heterogeneity of interventions precluded meta-analysis, but narrative qualitative synthesis suggested that self-management education interventions improve symptoms of fatigue, pain, depression, anxiety, emotional distress and quality of life. Results for specific combinations of core elements were inconclusive. Very few studies used the same combinations of core elements, and among those that did, results were conflicting. Thus, conclusions as to the components or elements of self-management education interventions associated with the strength of the effects could not be assessed by this review. Defining the core components of cancer self-management education and the fundamental elements for inclusion in supporting effective self-management will be critical to ensure consistent and effective provision of self-management support in the cancer system.

Microarray Analyses Reveal Marked Differences in Growth Factor and Receptor Expression Between 8-Cell Human Embryos and Pluripotent Stem Cells

PubMed Central

Vlismas, Antonis; Bletsa, Ritsa; Mavrogianni, Despina; Mamali, Georgina; Pergamali, Maria; Dinopoulou, Vasiliki; Partsinevelos, George; Drakakis, Peter; Loutradis, Dimitris

2016-01-01

Previous microarray analyses of RNAs from 8-cell (8C) human embryos revealed a lack of cell cycle checkpoints and overexpression of core circadian oscillators and cell cycle drivers relative to pluripotent human stem cells [human embryonic stem cells/induced pluripotent stem (hES/iPS)] and fibroblasts, suggesting growth factor independence during early cleavage stages. To explore this possibility, we queried our combined microarray database for expression of 487 growth factors and receptors. Fifty-one gene elements were overdetected on the 8C arrays relative to hES/iPS cells, including 14 detected at least 80-fold higher, which annotated to multiple pathways: six cytokine family (CSF1R, IL2RG, IL3RA, IL4, IL17B, IL23R), four transforming growth factor beta (TGFB) family (BMP6, BMP15, GDF9, ENG), one fibroblast growth factor (FGF) family [FGF14(FH4)], one epidermal growth factor member (GAB1), plus CD36, and CLEC10A. 8C-specific gene elements were enriched (73%) for reported circadian-controlled genes in mouse tissues. High-level detection of CSF1R, ENG, IL23R, and IL3RA specifically on the 8C arrays suggests the embryo plays an active role in blocking immune rejection and is poised for trophectoderm development; robust detection of NRG1, GAB1, -2, GRB7, and FGF14(FHF4) indicates novel roles in early development in addition to their known roles in later development. Forty-four gene elements were underdetected on the 8C arrays, including 11 at least 80-fold under the pluripotent cells: two cytokines (IFITM1, TNFRSF8), five TGFBs (BMP7, LEFTY1, LEFTY2, TDGF1, TDGF3), two FGFs (FGF2, FGF receptor 1), plus ING5, and WNT6. The microarray detection patterns suggest that hES/iPS cells exhibit suppressed circadian competence, underexpression of early differentiation markers, and more robust expression of generic pluripotency genes, in keeping with an artificial state of continual uncommitted cell division. In contrast, gene expression patterns of the 8C embryo suggest that it is an independent circadian rhythm-competent equivalence group poised to signal its environment, defend against maternal immune rejection, and begin the rapid commitment events of early embryogenesis. PMID:26493868

Aphorisms and Short Phrases as Pieces of Knowledge in the Pedagogical Framework of the Andalusian School of Public Health

PubMed Central

González-García, Lorena; Chemello, Clarice; García-Sánchez, Filomena; Serpa-Anaya, Delia C.; Gómez-González, Carmen; Soriano-Carrascosa, Leticia; Muñoz-de Rueda, Paloma; Moya-Molina, Miguel; Sánchez-García, Fernando; Ortega-Calvo, Manuel

2012-01-01

Background: Bearing in mind the philosophical pedagogical significance of short phrases for the training of researchers in the health care ambit, we hence have studied the aphorisms and striking phrases expressed during the epidemiology course at the Andalusian School of Public Health. Methods: Belonging to the qualitative type and applied through the establishment of a multidisciplinary focus group made up of ten post-graduated students, where one of them acted as a moderator. The collection of information lasted four months. Information was classified in two ways: Firstly, aphorisms and short phrases with a pedagogical impact; and secondly, data with statistical, epidemiological, epistemological, pragmatic, or heuristic component, and for scientific diffusion. It was decided to perform a triangulation that included a descriptive presentation and a basic categorical analysis. The two teachers with a highest interpretative load have been identified . Results: A total of 127 elements, regarded as of interest by the focus group, were collected. Forty-four of them (34.6%) were aphorisms, and 83 were short phrases with a pedagogical load (65.3%). Most of all them were classified as statistical elements (35.4%) followed by epistemological (21.3%) and epidemiological (15.7%) elements. There was no tendency towards aphorisms or short phrases (P > 0.05) among the teachers with more informative representation. Conclusion: There has been a tilt in the contents towards the statistical area to the detriment of the epidemiological one. Concept maps have visualized classifications. This sort of qualitative analysis helps the researcher review contents acquired during his/her training process. PMID:22448313

Functions of personal and vicarious life stories: identity and empathy.

PubMed

Lind, Majse; Thomsen, Dorthe Kirkegaard

2018-05-01

The present study investigates functions of personal and vicarious life stories focusing on identity and empathy. Two-hundred-and-forty Danish high school students completed two life story questionnaires: one for their personal life story and one for a close other's life story. In both questionnaires, they identified up to 10 chapters and self-rated the chapters on valence and valence of causal connections. In addition, they completed measures of identity disturbance and empathy. More positive personal life stories were related to lower identity disturbance and higher empathy. Vicarious life stories showed a similar pattern with respect to identity but surprisingly were unrelated to empathy. In addition, we found positive correlations between personal and vicarious life stories for number of chapters, chapter valence, and valence of causal connections. The study indicates that both personal and vicarious life stories may contribute to identity.

Space Shuttle Solid Rocket Booster Lightweight Recovery System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wolf, Dean; Runkle, Roy E.

1995-01-01

The cancellation of the Advanced Solid Rocket Booster Project and the earth-to-orbit payload requirements for the Space Station dictated that the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) look at performance enhancements from all Space Transportation System (STS) elements (Orbiter Project, Space Shuttle Main Engine Project, External Tank Project, Solid Rocket Motor Project, & Solid Rocket Booster Project). The manifest for launching of Space Station components indicated that an additional 12-13000 pound lift capability was required on 10 missions and 15-20,000 pound additional lift capability is required on two missions. Trade studies conducted by all STS elements indicate that by deleting the parachute Recovery System (and associated hardware) from the Solid Rocket Boosters (SRBS) and going to a lightweight External Tank (ET) the 20,000 pound additional lift capability can be realized for the two missions. The deletion of the parachute Recovery System means the loss of four SRBs and this option is two expensive (loss of reusable hardware) to be used on the other 10 Space Station missions. Accordingly, each STS element looked at potential methods of weight savings, increased performance, etc. As the SRB and ET projects are non-propulsive (i.e. does not have launch thrust elements) their only contribution to overall payload enhancement can be achieved by the saving of weight while maintaining adequate safety factors and margins. The enhancement factor for the SRB project is 1:10. That is for each 10 pounds saved on the two SRBS; approximately 1 additional pound of payload in the orbiter bay can be placed into orbit. The SRB project decided early that the SRB recovery system was a prime candidate for weight reduction as it was designed in the early 1970s and weight optimization had never been a primary criteria.

High cell density media for Escherichia coli are generally designed for aerobic cultivations – consequences for large-scale bioprocesses and shake flask cultures

PubMed Central

Soini, Jaakko; Ukkonen, Kaisa; Neubauer, Peter

2008-01-01

Background For the cultivation of Escherichia coli in bioreactors trace element solutions are generally designed for optimal growth under aerobic conditions. They do normally not contain selenium and nickel. Molybdenum is only contained in few of them. These elements are part of the formate hydrogen lyase (FHL) complex which is induced under anaerobic conditions. As it is generally known that oxygen limitation appears in shake flask cultures and locally in large-scale bioreactors, function of the FHL complex may influence the process behaviour. Formate has been described to accumulate in large-scale cultures and may have toxic effects on E. coli. Although the anaerobic metabolism of E. coli is well studied, reference data which estimate the impact of the FHL complex on bioprocesses of E. coli with oxygen limitation have so far not been published, but are important for a better process understanding. Results Two sets of fed-batch cultures with conditions triggering oxygen limitation and formate accumulation were performed. Permanent oxygen limitation which is typical for shake flask cultures was caused in a bioreactor by reduction of the agitation rate. Transient oxygen limitation, which has been described to eventually occur in the feed-zone of large-scale bioreactors, was mimicked in a two-compartment scale-down bioreactor consisting of a stirred tank reactor and a plug flow reactor (PFR) with continuous glucose feeding into the PFR. In both models formate accumulated up to about 20 mM in the culture medium without addition of selenium, molybdenum and nickel. By addition of these trace elements the formate accumulation decreased below the level observed in well-mixed laboratory-scale cultures. Interestingly, addition of the extra trace elements caused accumulation of large amounts of lactate and reduced biomass yield in the simulator with permanent oxygen limitation, but not in the scale-down two-compartment bioreactor. Conclusion The accumulation of formate in oxygen limited cultivations of E. coli can be fully prevented by addition of the trace elements selenium, nickel and molybdenum, necessary for the function of FHL complex. For large-scale cultivations, if glucose gradients are likely, the results from the two-compartment scale-down bioreactor indicate that the addition of the extra trace elements is beneficial. No negative effects on the biomass yield or on any other bioprocess parameters could be observed in cultures with the extra trace elements if the cells were repeatedly exposed to transient oxygen limitation. PMID:18687130

Shape coexistence and the role of axial asymmetry in 72Ge

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

Ayangeakaa, A. D.; Janssens, R. F.; Wu, C. Y.

2016-01-22

The quadrupole collectivity of low-lying states and the anomalous behavior of the0 + 2 and 2 + 3 levels in 72Ge are investigated via projectile multi-step Coulomb excitation with GRETINA and CHICO-2. A total of forty six E2 and M1 matrix elements connecting fourteen low-lying levels were determined using the least-squares search code, GOSIA. Evidence for triaxiality and shape coexistence, based on the model-independent shape invariants deduced from the Kumar–Cline sum rule, is presented. Moreover, these are interpreted using a simple two-state mixing model as well as multi-state mixing calculations carried out within the framework of the triaxial rotor model.more » Our results represent a significant milestone towards the understanding of the unusual structure of this nucleus.« less

NOAA National Status and Trends Program Twelfth Round Intercomparison Exercise Results for Trace Metals in Marine Sediments and Biological Tissues. National Status and Trends Program for marine environmental quality: Technical memo

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

Willie, S.

1998-11-01

The report summarizes the results of the Twelfth Round Intercomparison for Trace Metals in Marine Sediments and Biological Tissues under the directive of the NOAA National Status and Trends Program. A total of forty-four participants were included in the exercise, including NOAA, USEPA, state, Austrailian, Canadian, Mexican and Argentinean laboratories. Two samples were sent by NRC to each participant, a marine sediment collected on the east coast of Canada and a freeze-dried mussel tissue. Laboratories were also asked to analyze two certified reference materials (CRMs) MESS-2 and CRM 2976. The elements to be determined were Al, Cr, Fe, Ni, Cu,more » Zn, As, Se, Ag, Cd, Sn, Hg, and Pb for both matrices, plus Be, Si, Mn, Sb, and Tl for the sediments. An accepted mean and confidence interval was calculated for each analyte in the two unknown samples, laboratory biases were identified and an overall rating of superior, good, fair or others were assigned to each laboratory.« less

Uranium hydrogeochemical and stream sediment reconnaissance of the Albuquerque NTMS Quadrangle, New Mexico, including concentrations of forty-three additional elements

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

Maassen, L.W.; Bolivar, S.L.

1979-06-01

The Los Alamos Scientific Laboratory conducted a hydrogeochemical and stream sediment reconnaissance for uranium. Totals of 408 water and 1538 sediment samples were collected from 1802 locations over a 20 100-km/sup 2/ area at an average density of one location per 11 km/sup 2/. Water samples were collected from springs, wells, and streams; sediments samples were collected predominantly from streams, but also from springs. All water samples were analyzed for uranium and 12 other elements. Sediment samples were analyzed for uranium and 42 additional elements. The uranium concentrations in water samples range from below the detection limit of 0.02 ppBmore » to 194.06 ppB. The mean uranium concentration for all water types containing < 40 ppB uranium is 1.98 ppB. Six samples contained uranium concentrations > 40.00 ppB. Well waters have the highest mean uranium concentration; spring waters have the lowest. Clusters of water samples that contain anomalous uranium concentrations are delineated in nine areas. Sediments collected from the quadrangle have uranium concentrations that range between 0.63 ppM and 28.52 ppM, with a mean for all sediments of 3.53 ppM. Eight areas containing clusters of sediments with anomalous uranium concentrations are delineated. One cluster contains sample locations within the Ambrosia Lake uranium district. Five clusters of sediment samples with anomalous uranium concentrations were collected from streams that drain the Jemez volcanic field. Another cluster defines an area just northeast of Albuquerque where streams drain Precambrian rocks, predominantly granites, of the Sandia Mountains. The last cluster, consisting of spring sediments from Mesa Portales, was collected near the contact of the Tertiary Ojo Alamo sandstone with underlying Cretaceous sediments. Sediments from these springs exhibit some of the highest uranium values reported and are associated with high uranium/thorium ratios.« less

Parental Anxiety and Child Symptomatology: An Examination of Additive and Interactive Effects of Parent Psychopathology

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Burstein, Marcy; Ginsburg, Golda S.; Tein, Jenn-Yun

2010-01-01

The current study examined relations between parent anxiety and child anxiety, depression, and externalizing symptoms. In addition, the study tested the additive and interactive effects of parent anxiety with parent depression and externalizing symptoms in relation to child symptoms. Forty-eight parents with anxiety disorders and 49 parents…

Evaluation of local trace element status and 8-Iso-prostaglandin F2α concentrations in patients with Tinea pedis.

PubMed

Miraloglu, Meral; Kurutas, Ergul Belge; Ozturk, Perihan; Arican, Ozer

2016-01-01

Tinea pedis (TP) is an infection of the feet caused by fungi. The infectious diseases caused by dermatophytes are mainly related to the enzymes produced by these fungi. Up to the now, the local 8-iso-prostaglandin F2α (8-iso-PGF2α), concentration as oxidative stress biomarker and trace elements status have not been published in patients with TP. The aim of this study is to evaluate the relationship between oxidative stress and trace elements (Cu, Zn, Se), and to evaluate the ratios of Cu/Zn and Cu/Se in this disorder. Forty-three consecutive patients with a diagnosis of unilateral interdigital TP were enrolled in this study. The samples were obtained by scraping the skin surface. 8-iso-PGF2α concentrations in scraping samples were determined by ELISA. In addition, the levels of Se, Zn and Cu in scraping samples were determined on flame and furnace atomic absorption spectrophotometer using Zeeman background correction. Oxidative stress was confirmed by the significant elevation in 8-iso-PGF2α concentrations (p < 0.05). When compared to non-lesional area, Zn and Se levels were significantly lower on lesional area, whereas Cu levels was higher on the lesional area than the non-lesional area (p < 0.05). In addition, the correlation results of this study were firstly shown that there were significant and positive correlations between Cu and 8-iso-PGF2α parameters, but negative correlations between Se-Cu; Se-8-iso-PGF2α parameters in lesional area. Furthermore, the ratios of Cu/Zn and Cu/Se were significantly higher on the lesional area than the non-lesional area (p < 0.05). According to sex and fungal subtypes, there was no significant difference in the concentrations of 8-iso-PGF2α and trace elements in patients with TP (p > 0.05). Our results showed that there is a possible link between oxidative stress (increased 8-iso-PGF2α concentrations) and imbalanced of trace elements status in lesional area of TP patients. The use of antifungal agents together with both Zn and Se drugs could be helpful in the both regression of disease and in shortening the duration of disease.

A Synthesis Of Knowledge About Caregiver Decision Making Finds Gaps In Support For Those Who Care For Aging Loved Ones.

PubMed

Garvelink, Mirjam M; Ngangue, Patrice A G; Adekpedjou, Rheda; Diouf, Ndeye T; Goh, Larissa; Blair, Louisa; Légaré, France

2016-04-01

We conducted a mixed-methods knowledge synthesis to assess the effectiveness of interventions to improve caregivers' involvement in decision making with seniors, and to describe caregivers' experiences of decision making in the absence of interventions. We analyzed forty-nine qualitative, fourteen quantitative, and three mixed-methods studies. The qualitative studies indicated that caregivers had unmet needs for information, discussions of values and needs, and decision support, which led to negative sentiments after decision making. Our results indicate that there have been insufficient quantitative evaluations of interventions to involve caregivers in decision making with seniors and that the evaluations that do exist found few clinically significant effects. Elements of usual care that received positive evaluations were the availability of a decision coach and a supportive decision-making environment. Additional rigorously evaluated interventions are needed to help caregivers be more involved in decision making with seniors. Project HOPE—The People-to-People Health Foundation, Inc.

Interventions to improve patient comprehension in informed consent for medical and surgical procedures: a systematic review.

PubMed

Schenker, Yael; Fernandez, Alicia; Sudore, Rebecca; Schillinger, Dean

2011-01-01

Patient understanding in clinical informed consent is often poor. Little is known about the effectiveness of interventions to improve comprehension or the extent to which such interventions address different elements of understanding in informed consent. . To systematically review communication interventions to improve patient comprehension in informed consent for medical and surgical procedures. Data Sources. A systematic literature search of English-language articles in MEDLINE (1949-2008) and EMBASE (1974-2008) was performed. In addition, a published bibliography of empirical research on informed consent and the reference lists of all eligible studies were reviewed. Study Selection. Randomized controlled trials and controlled trials with nonrandom allocation were included if they compared comprehension in informed consent for a medical or surgical procedure. Only studies that used a quantitative, objective measure of understanding were included. All studies addressed informed consent for a needed or recommended procedure in actual patients. Data Extraction. Reviewers independently extracted data using a standardized form. All results were compared, and disagreements were resolved by consensus. Data Synthesis. Forty-four studies were eligible. Intervention categories included written information, audiovisual/multimedia, extended discussions, and test/feedback techniques. The majority of studies assessed patient understanding of procedural risks; other elements included benefits, alternatives, and general knowledge about the procedure. Only 6 of 44 studies assessed all 4 elements of understanding. Interventions were generally effective in improving patient comprehension, especially regarding risks and general knowledge. Limitations. Many studies failed to include adequate description of the study population, and outcome measures varied widely. . A wide range of communication interventions improve comprehension in clinical informed consent. Decisions to enhance informed consent should consider the importance of different elements of understanding, beyond procedural risks, as well as feasibility and acceptability of the intervention to clinicians and patients. Conceptual clarity regarding the key elements of informed consent knowledge will help to focus improvements and standardize evaluations.

Interventions to Improve Patient Comprehension in Informed Consent for Medical and Surgical Procedures: A Systematic Review

PubMed Central

Schenker, Yael; Fernandez, Alicia; Sudore, Rebecca; Schillinger, Dean

2017-01-01

Background Patient understanding in clinical informed consent is often poor. Little is known about the effectiveness of interventions to improve comprehension or the extent to which such interventions address different elements of understanding in informed consent. Purpose To systematically review communication interventions to improve patient comprehension in informed consent for medical and surgical procedures. Data Sources A systematic literature search of English-language articles in MEDLINE (1949–2008) and EMBASE (1974–2008) was performed. In addition, a published bibliography of empirical research on informed consent and the reference lists of all eligible studies were reviewed. Study Selection Randomized controlled trials and controlled trials with non-random allocation were included if they compared comprehension in informed consent for a medical or surgical procedure. Only studies that used a quantitative, objective measure of understanding were included. All studies addressed informed consent for a needed or recommended procedure in actual patients. Data Extraction Reviewers independently extracted data using a standardized form. All results were compared, and disagreements were resolved by consensus. Data Synthesis Forty-four studies were eligible. Intervention categories included written information, audiovisual/multimedia, extended discussions, and test/feedback techniques. The majority of studies assessed patient understanding of procedural risks; other elements included benefits, alternatives, and general knowledge about the procedure. Only 6 of 44 studies assessed all 4 elements of understanding. Interventions were generally effective in improving patient comprehension, especially regarding risks and general knowledge. Limitations Many studies failed to include adequate description of the study population, and outcome measures varied widely. Conclusions A wide range of communication interventions improve comprehension in clinical informed consent. Decisions to enhance informed consent should consider the importance of different elements of understanding, beyond procedural risks, as well as feasibility and acceptability of the intervention to clinicians and patients. Conceptual clarity regarding the key elements of informed consent knowledge will help to focus improvements and standardize evaluations. PMID:20357225

Trace-element concentrations in streambed sediment across the conterminous United States

USGS Publications Warehouse

Rice, Karen C.

1999-01-01

Trace-element concentrations in 541 streambed-sediment samples collected from 20 study areas across the conterminous United States were examined as part of the National Water-Quality Assessment Program of the U.S. Geological Survey. Sediment samples were sieved and the <63-μm fraction was retained for determination of total concentrations of trace elements. Aluminum, iron, titanium, and organic carbon were weakly or not at all correlated with the nine trace elements examined:  arsenic, cadmium, chromium, copper, lead, mercury, nickel, selenium, and zinc. Four different methods of accounting for background/baseline concentrations were examined; however, normalization was not required because field sieving removed most of the background differences between samples. The sum of concentrations of trace elements characteristic of urban settings - copper, mercury, lead, and zinc - was well correlated with population density, nationwide. Median concentrations of seven trace elements (all nine examined except arsenic and selenium) were enriched in samples collected from urban settings relative to agricultural or forested settings. Forty-nine percent of the sites sampled in urban settings had concentrations of one or more trace elements that exceeded levels at which adverse biological effects could occur in aquatic biota.

Benthic foraminiferal assemblages as bio-indicators of metals contamination in sediments, Qarun Lake as a case study, Egypt

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abd El Naby, Ahmed; Al Menoufy, Safia; Gad, Ahmed

2018-03-01

Qarun Lake, in the Fayoum Depression of the Western Desert of Egypt, lies within the deepest area in the River Nile flood plain. The drainage water in the Qarun Lake is derived from the discharge of the natural and artificial drainage systems in the Fayoum. Mixed domestic and agricultural pollutants, including heavy metals, nitrates, phosphates, sulfates and pesticides, are discharged into Qarun Lake. Forty-six samples, collected from the undisturbed layer of sediments were used for benthic foraminiferal analysis. Concentrations of some selected trace metal elements (Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, Sr, V, and Zn) were also determined. Statistical analysis of the abiotic variables (Texture distribution of sediments, Physico-chemical parameters, and metals concentrations) and of the biotic variables (distribution of benthic foraminiferal species) were also performed. The Q-mode cluster analysis of benthic foraminiferal distribution has provided evidence that the Qarun Lake can be subdivided into two cluster groups (A and B), reflecting environmental changes in the lake ecosystem. Cluster B can also be subdivided into two sub-clusters (B1 and B2). The presence of only pollution tolerant taxa with higher faunal density and lower diversity and the absence of the other foraminiferal assemblages in cluster A were attributed to the high concentration of trace metal elements and the strong environmental stress at the eastern and central parts of the Qarun Lake.

Graft versus host disease after stem cell allotransplantation with low-dose total body irradiation, fludarabine, and antithymocyte globulin.

PubMed

Grosskreutz, Celia; Scigliano, Eileen; Osman, Keren; Isola, Luis

2007-09-15

We previously showed that antithymocyte globulin (ATG) given with total body irradiation (TBI) 200 cGy and fludarabine results in high rate of donor engraftment. Its influence on acute and chronic graft versus host disease (GVHD) and on graft versus tumor effect is less known. Sixty-five patients underwent nonmyeloablative stem cell transplant with ATG, TBI 200 cGy, and fludarabine. GVHD prophylaxis was mycophenolate mofetil and cyclosporine. Forty-two patients (pts) (65%) had match related donors, 18 (27%) match unrelated, 1 (1.5%) mismatch related, and 4 (6%) mismatch unrelated donors. At a median follow-up of 862 days, 24 patients (37%) developed GVHD. The median age of the patients with and without GVHD was 56 years respectively. Acute GVHD grade II-IV developed in 19 pts (29%). Fatal GVHD of liver and/or gut occurred in nine pts (14%). Forty-one pts survived more than 100 days. Five pts (12%) had chronic GVHD, two had extensive, and three had limited involvement. Relapsed disease was observed in 22 pts (34%). Infections occurred in 15 pts (23%) and were fatal in 13 (20%). The addition of ATG to TBI 200cGy and fludarabine resulted in a modest incidence of GVHD. The best transplant outcomes were observed in pts with lymphoid malignancies.

Results of a minimally invasive technique for treatment of unicameral bone cysts.

PubMed

Mik, Gökçe; Arkader, Alexandre; Manteghi, Alexander; Dormans, John P

2009-11-01

Unicameral bone cysts are benign bone lesions commonly seen in pediatric patients. Several treatment methods have been described with variable results and high recurrence rates. We previously reported short-term success of a minimally invasive technique that includes combining percutaneous decompression and grafting with medical-grade calcium sulfate pellets. The purpose of this study was to review the additional long-term results with a minimum followup of 24 months (average, 37 months; range, 24-70 months). We identified 55 patients with an average age of 10.8 years (range, 1.3-18 years). Forty-one of 55 lesions occurred in the humerus and femur. Forty-four of 55 (80%) patients had a partial or complete response after initial surgery; of these, seven obtained a partial or complete response after a repeat surgery (cumulative healing rate, 94%). Two patients underwent a third surgery (cumulative healing rate, 98%). One underwent a third repeat surgery (cumulative healing rate, 100%). There were no major complications associated with the procedure. Two patients had a superficial infection that resolved with oral antibiotics. Although some patients required a repeat procedure, complete or partial response at a minimum 24 months' followup was achieved in all patients. Level IV, therapeutic study. See Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Comparative ex vivo evaluation of two electronic percussive testing devices measuring the stability of dental implants.

PubMed

Geckili, Onur; Bilhan, Hakan; Cilingir, Altug; Bilmenoglu, Caglar; Ates, Gokcen; Urgun, Aliye Ceren; Bural, Canan

2014-12-01

A comparative ex vivo study was performed to determine electronic percussive test values (PTVs) measured by cabled and wireless electronic percussive testing (EPT) devices and to evaluate the intra- and interobserver reliability of the wireless EPT device. Forty implants were inserted into the vertebrae and forty into the pelvis of a steer, a safe distance apart. The implants were all 4.3 mm wide and 13 mm long, from the same manufacturer. PTV of each implant was measured by four different examiners, using both EPT devices, and compared. Additionally, the intra- and interobserver reliability of the wireless EPT device was evaluated. Statistically significant differences (P <0.05) were observed between PTVs made by the two EPT devices. PTVs measured by the wireless EPT device were significantly higher than the cabled EPT device (P <0.05), indicating lower implant stability. The intraobserver reliability of the wireless EPT device was evaluated as excellent for the measurements in type II bone and good-to-excellent in type IV bone; interobserver reliability was evaluated as fair-to-good in both bone types. The wireless EPT device gives PTVs higher than the cabled EPT device, indicating lower implant stability, and its inter- and intraobserver reliability is good and acceptable.

Studies on the mechanism of functional cooperativity between progesterone and estrogen receptors.

PubMed

Bradshaw, M S; Tsai, S Y; Leng, X H; Dobson, A D; Conneely, O M; O'Malley, B W; Tsai, M J

1991-09-05

Steroid response elements (SREs) cooperate with many different cis-acting elements including NF-1 sites, CACCC boxes, and other SREs to induce target gene expression (Schule, R., Muller, M., Otsuka-Murakami, H., and Renkawitz, R. (1988) Nature 332, 87-90; Strahle, U., Schmid, W., and Schutz, G. (1988) EMBO J. 7, 3389-3395). Induction of gene expression can be additive or synergistic with respect to the level of activation by either transactivators. Two mechanisms have been proposed for how synergism occurs: 1) cooperative binding of transcriptional activators to DNA or 2) simultaneous interaction of individually bound activators with a common target protein. We have shown previously that cooperative binding of receptors is important for synergism between two progesterone response elements (PREs). Here we showed that an estrogen response element (ERE) and a PRE can also functionally cooperate and this synergism between an ERE and a PRE is not contributed by cooperative DNA binding. Furthermore, we have demonstrated that the activation domains of the progesterone receptor (PR) (C1Act) are required for synergism between two PREs and sufficient for confirming cooperative binding. However these two activation domains of PR are not sufficient for synergism between an ERE and a PRE. Additional regions within the NH2-terminal and COOH-terminal domains are also required for synergistic interaction between two heterologous SREs.

Trace elemental analysis of glass and paint samples of forensic interest by ICP-MS using laser ablation solid sample introduction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Almirall, Jose R.; Trejos, Tatiana; Hobbs, Andria; Furton, Kenneth G.

2003-09-01

The importance of small amounts of glass and paint evidence as a means to associate a crime event to a suspect or a suspect to another individual has been demonstrated in many cases. Glass is a fragile material that is often found at the scenes of crimes such as burglaries, hit-and-run accidents and violent crime offenses. Previous work has demonstrated the utility of elemental analysis by solution ICP-MS of small amounts of glass for the comparison between a fragment found at a crime scene to a possible source of the glass. The multi-element capability and the sensitivity of ICP-MS combined with the simplified sample introduction of laser ablation prior to ion detection provides for an excellent and relatively non-destructive technique for elemental analysis of glass fragments. The direct solid sample introduction technique of laser ablation (LA) is reported as an alternative to the solution method. Direct solid sampling provides several advantages over solution methods and shows great potential for a number of solid sample analyses in forensic science. The advantages of laser ablation include the simplification of sample preparation, thereby reducing the time and complexity of the analysis, the elimination of handling acid dissolution reagents such as HF and the reduction of sources of interferences in the ionization plasma. Direct sampling also provides for essentially "non-destructive" sampling due to the removal of very small amounts of sample needed for analysis. The discrimination potential of LA-ICP-MS is compared with previously reported solution ICP-MS methods using external calibration with internal standardization and a newly reported solution isotope dilution (ID) method. A total of ninety-one different glass samples were used for the comparison study using the techniques mentioned. One set consisted of forty-five headlamps taken from a variety of automobiles representing a range of twenty years of manufacturing dates. A second set consisted of forty-six automotive glasses (side windows and windshields) representing casework glass from different vehicle manufacturers over several years was also characterized by RI and elemental composition analysis. The solution sample introduction techniques (external calibration and isotope dilution) provide for excellent sensitivity and precision but have the disadvantages of destroying the sample and also involve complex sample preparation. The laser ablation method was simpler, faster and produced comparable discrimination to the EC-ICP-MS and ID-ICP-MS. LA-ICP-MS can provide for an excellent alternative to solution analysis of glass in forensic casework samples. Paints and coatings are frequently encountered as trace evidence samples submitted to forensic science laboratories. A LA-ICP-MS method has been developed to complement the commonly used techniques in forensic laboratories in order to better characterize these samples for forensic purposes. Time-resolved plots of each sample can be compared to associate samples to each other or to discriminate between samples. Additionally, the concentration of lead and the ratios of other elements have been determined in various automotive paints by the reported method. A sample set of eighteen (18) survey automotive paint samples have been analyzed with the developed method in order to determine the utility of LA-ICP-MS and to compare the method to the more commonly used scanning electron microscopy (SEM) method for elemental characterization of paint layers in forensic casework.

STRATCOM 8 Data Workshop and supplement

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reed, E. L. (Compiler)

1978-01-01

The STRATCOM-8 effort took place at Holloman Air Force Base and White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico, on September 28-30, 1977. The prime emphasis was on the study of stratospheric photochemistry involving ozone, with secondary objectives including a study of the balloon environment, comparison of independent techniques for the measurement of O3 and NO, and the development of new sensor systems. More than forty sensors were included on the two large balloons, a U-2 aircraft, and several rockets and small balloons, in addition to meteorological balloons and rockets. Most of the systems performed as expected.

Assumed--stress hybrid elements with drilling degrees of freedom for nonlinear analysis of composite structures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Knight, Norman F., Jr. (Principal Investigator)

1996-01-01

The goal of this research project is to develop assumed-stress hybrid elements with rotational degrees of freedom for analyzing composite structures. During the first year of the three-year activity, the effort was directed to further assess the AQ4 shell element and its extensions to buckling and free vibration problems. In addition, the development of a compatible 2-node beam element was to be accomplished. The extensions and new developments were implemented in the Computational Structural Mechanics Testbed COMET. An assessment was performed to verify the implementation and to assess the performance of these elements in terms of accuracy. During the second and third years, extensions to geometrically nonlinear problems were developed and tested. This effort involved working with the nonlinear solution strategy as well as the nonlinear formulation for the elements. This research has resulted in the development and implementation of two additional element processors (ES22 for the beam element and ES24 for the shell elements) in COMET. The software was developed using a SUN workstation and has been ported to the NASA Langley Convex named blackbird. Both element processors are now part of the baseline version of COMET.

Chemical systematics of the Shergotty meteorite and the composition of its parent body (Mars)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Laul, J. C.; Smith, M. R.; Waenke, H.; Jagoutz, E.; Dreibus, G.

1986-01-01

Sixty elements in two bulk samples of Shergotty meteorite and 30 elements in various mineral separates of Shergotty were identified, using mainly INAA and RNAA techniques. In addition, elements leached out from powdered samples of Shergotty and EETA 79001 meteorites by 0.1 N HCl, as well as the elements of their residues, were analyzed. The results have indicated that Shergotty meteorite is homogeneous in its major element composition, but heterogeneous with respect to large-ion lithophile elements, such as K, Ba, Sr, Zr, Hf, Ta, Th, and rare-earth elements (REEs). It is even more heterogeneous with respect to volatile elements, such as Cd, Te, Tl, and Bi, and the siderophiles Au and Ag. The REE patterns of the Shergotty and EETA 79001 residues are identical, indicating that the parent magmas of both meteorites are compositionally similar. However, their leachate (phosphate) patterns are different, suggesting two components for the Shergotty, one of which is similar to the EETA 79001 leachate.

Current matrix element in HAL QCD's wavefunction-equivalent potential method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Watanabe, Kai; Ishii, Noriyoshi

2018-04-01

We give a formula to calculate a matrix element of a conserved current in the effective quantum mechanics defined by the wavefunction-equivalent potentials proposed by the HAL QCD collaboration. As a first step, a non-relativistic field theory with two-channel coupling is considered as the original theory, with which a wavefunction-equivalent HAL QCD potential is obtained in a closed analytic form. The external field method is used to derive the formula by demanding that the result should agree with the original theory. With this formula, the matrix element is obtained by sandwiching the effective current operator between the left and right eigenfunctions of the effective Hamiltonian associated with the HAL QCD potential. In addition to the naive one-body current, the effective current operator contains an additional two-body term emerging from the degrees of freedom which has been integrated out.

Upscaling of Mixed Finite Element Discretization Problems by the Spectral AMGe Method

DOE PAGES

Kalchev, Delyan Z.; Lee, C. S.; Villa, U.; ...

2016-09-22

Here, we propose two multilevel spectral techniques for constructing coarse discretization spaces for saddle-point problems corresponding to PDEs involving a divergence constraint, with a focus on mixed finite element discretizations of scalar self-adjoint second order elliptic equations on general unstructured grids. We use element agglomeration algebraic multigrid (AMGe), which employs coarse elements that can have nonstandard shape since they are agglomerates of fine-grid elements. The coarse basis associated with each agglomerated coarse element is constructed by solving local eigenvalue problems and local mixed finite element problems. This construction leads to stable upscaled coarse spaces and guarantees the inf-sup compatibility ofmore » the upscaled discretization. Also, the approximation properties of these upscaled spaces improve by adding more local eigenfunctions to the coarse spaces. The higher accuracy comes at the cost of additional computational effort, as the sparsity of the resulting upscaled coarse discretization (referred to as operator complexity) deteriorates when we introduce additional functions in the coarse space. We also provide an efficient solver for the coarse (upscaled) saddle-point system by employing hybridization, which leads to a symmetric positive definite (s.p.d.) reduced system for the Lagrange multipliers, and to solve the latter s.p.d. system, we use our previously developed spectral AMGe solver. Numerical experiments, in both two and three dimensions, are provided to illustrate the efficiency of the proposed upscaling technique.« less

Upscaling of Mixed Finite Element Discretization Problems by the Spectral AMGe Method

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

Kalchev, Delyan Z.; Lee, C. S.; Villa, U.

Here, we propose two multilevel spectral techniques for constructing coarse discretization spaces for saddle-point problems corresponding to PDEs involving a divergence constraint, with a focus on mixed finite element discretizations of scalar self-adjoint second order elliptic equations on general unstructured grids. We use element agglomeration algebraic multigrid (AMGe), which employs coarse elements that can have nonstandard shape since they are agglomerates of fine-grid elements. The coarse basis associated with each agglomerated coarse element is constructed by solving local eigenvalue problems and local mixed finite element problems. This construction leads to stable upscaled coarse spaces and guarantees the inf-sup compatibility ofmore » the upscaled discretization. Also, the approximation properties of these upscaled spaces improve by adding more local eigenfunctions to the coarse spaces. The higher accuracy comes at the cost of additional computational effort, as the sparsity of the resulting upscaled coarse discretization (referred to as operator complexity) deteriorates when we introduce additional functions in the coarse space. We also provide an efficient solver for the coarse (upscaled) saddle-point system by employing hybridization, which leads to a symmetric positive definite (s.p.d.) reduced system for the Lagrange multipliers, and to solve the latter s.p.d. system, we use our previously developed spectral AMGe solver. Numerical experiments, in both two and three dimensions, are provided to illustrate the efficiency of the proposed upscaling technique.« less

Evaluation of Sources and Patterns of Elemental Composition of PM2.5 at Three Low-Income Neighborhood Schools and Residences in Quito, Ecuador

PubMed Central

Raysoni, Amit U.; Armijos, Rodrigo X.; Weigel, M. Margaret; Echanique, Patricia; Racines, Marcia; Pingitore, Nicholas E.; Li, Wen-Whai

2017-01-01

Elemental characterization of fine particulate matter was undertaken at schools and residences in three low income neighborhoods in Quito, Ecuador. The three zones were located in the northern (Cotocollao), south central (El Camal), and south east (Los Chillos) neighborhoods and were classified as zones 1–3, respectively. Forty elements were quantified via ICP-MS analysis. Amongst the geogenic elements, the concentration of Si was the most abundant followed by S, Al, and Ca. Elements with predominantly anthropogenic sources such as Zn, V, and Ni were higher in zone 3 school followed by zone 2 and zone 1 schools. Enrichment factors were calculated to study the role of crustal sources in the elemental concentrations. Geogenic elements, except K, all had values <10 and anthropogenic elements such as Ni, V, Zn, Pb, As, Cr had >10. Principal Component Analysis suggested that Ni and V concentrations were strongly attributable to pet coke and heavy oil combustion. Strong associations between As and Pb could be attributed to traffic and other industrial emissions. Resuspended dust, soil erosion, vehicular emissions (tailpipe, brake and tire wear, and engine abrasion), pet coke, heavy oil combustion, and heavy industrial operations were major contributors to air pollution. PMID:28644400

Evaluation of Sources and Patterns of Elemental Composition of PM2.5 at Three Low-Income Neighborhood Schools and Residences in Quito, Ecuador.

PubMed

Raysoni, Amit U; Armijos, Rodrigo X; Weigel, M Margaret; Echanique, Patricia; Racines, Marcia; Pingitore, Nicholas E; Li, Wen-Whai

2017-06-23

Elemental characterization of fine particulate matter was undertaken at schools and residences in three low income neighborhoods in Quito, Ecuador. The three zones were located in the northern (Cotocollao), south central (El Camal), and south east (Los Chillos) neighborhoods and were classified as zones 1-3, respectively. Forty elements were quantified via ICP-MS analysis. Amongst the geogenic elements, the concentration of Si was the most abundant followed by S, Al, and Ca. Elements with predominantly anthropogenic sources such as Zn, V, and Ni were higher in zone 3 school followed by zone 2 and zone 1 schools. Enrichment factors were calculated to study the role of crustal sources in the elemental concentrations. Geogenic elements, except K, all had values <10 and anthropogenic elements such as Ni, V, Zn, Pb, As, Cr had >10. Principal Component Analysis suggested that Ni and V concentrations were strongly attributable to pet coke and heavy oil combustion. Strong associations between As and Pb could be attributed to traffic and other industrial emissions. Resuspended dust, soil erosion, vehicular emissions (tailpipe, brake and tire wear, and engine abrasion), pet coke, heavy oil combustion, and heavy industrial operations were major contributors to air pollution.

Trace elements and oxidative stress levels in the blood of painters in Lagos, Nigeria: occupational survey and health concern.

PubMed

Awodele, Olufunsho; Akinyede, Akin; Babawale, Omotola Opeyemi; Coker, Herbert A Babatunde; Akintonwa, Alade

2013-06-01

Adverse effects attributed to exposure to paints are currently a concern because of the continued widespread use of paint containing trace elements. Thus, occupational survey amongst painters in Lagos and determination of trace elements and oxidative stress parameters were carried out. Descriptive cross-sectional survey was done using a standardized questionnaire to obtain job safety-related information. Forty-eight percent of the painters were aware of hazards associated with painting and 52 % of these workers were aware of the necessary precautionary measures during painting. There were no significant differences (p ≥ 0.05) between the levels of trace elements in the blood of painters and the control subjects. However, there was a significance increase (p ≤ 0.0001) in the level of malondialdehyde and a decrease (p ≤ 0.001) in the levels of reduced glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and catalase of the painters compared to the control. An increase in oxidative stress parameters may not only be due to trace element concentrations, but also the painters' exposure to some petrochemical solvents during mixing of paints.

ACGT-containing abscisic acid response element (ABRE) and coupling element 3 (CE3) are functionally equivalent.

PubMed

Hobo, T; Asada, M; Kowyama, Y; Hattori, T

1999-09-01

ACGT-containing ABA response elements (ABREs) have been functionally identified in the promoters of various genes. In addition, single copies of ABRE have been found to require a cis-acting, coupling element to achieve ABA induction. A coupling element 3 (CE3) sequence, originally identified as such in the barley HVA1 promoter, is found approximately 30 bp downstream of motif A (ACGT-containing ABRE) in the promoter of the Osem gene. The relationship between these two elements was further defined by linker-scan analyses of a 55 bp fragment of the Osem promoter, which is sufficient for ABA-responsiveness and VP1 activation. The analyses revealed that both motif A and CE3 sequence were required not only for ABA-responsiveness but also for VP1 activation. Since the sequences of motif A and CE3 were found to be similar, motif-exchange experiments were carried out. The experiments demonstrated that motif A and CE3 were interchangeable by each other with respect to both ABA and VP1 regulation. In addition, both sequences were shown to be recognized by a VP1-interacting, ABA-responsive bZIP factor TRAB1. These results indicate that ACGT-containing ABREs and CE3 are functionally equivalent cis-acting elements. Furthermore, TRAB1 was shown to bind two other non-ACGT ABREs. Based on these results, all these ABREs including CE3 are proposed to be categorized into a single class of cis-acting elements.

The prevention of baseball and softball injuries.

PubMed

Janda, David H

2003-04-01

Forty million individuals participate in organized softball leagues each year in the United States. Eighteen million additional student athletes and young adults also participate in organized baseball league play. In addition to being two of the most popular team sports in the United States, they also are responsible for a significant percentage of sports-related injuries that are sustained in the United States. Fortunately, numerous interventions independently have been shown to be effective at reducing the injury scenario, which has grown to be of epidemic proportion. Interventions such as break-away bases, batting helmets, face shields on helmets, lighter mass baseballs, and teaching and reiteration of the fundamentals of softball and baseball all have been effective in preventing millions of injuries and billions of dollars in healthcare costs each year in the United States.

Excitation energies of particle-hole states in {sup 208}Pb and the surface delta interaction

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

Heusler, A., E-mail: A.Heusler@mpi-hd.mpg.de; Jolos, R. V., E-mail: Jolos@theor.jinr.ru; Brentano, P. von, E-mail: Brentano@ikp.uni-koeln.de

2013-07-15

The schematic shell model without residual interaction (SSM) assumes the same excitation energy for all spins in each particle-hole configuration multiplet. In {sup 208}Pb, more than forty states are known to contain almost the full strength of a single particle-hole configuration. The experimental excitation energy for a state with a certain spin differs from the energy predicted by the SSM by -0.2 to +0.6 MeV. The multiplet splitting is calculated with the surface delta interaction; it corresponds to the diagonal matrix element of the residual interaction in the SSM. For states containing more than 90% strength of a certain configurationmore » and for the centroid of several completely observed configurations, the calculated multiplet splitting often approximates the experimental excitation energy within 30 keV. The strong mixing within some pairs of states containing the full strengths of two configurations is explained.« less

Uranium hydrogeochemical and stream sediment reconnaissance of the Newcastle NTMS Quadrangle, Wyoming, including concentrations of forty-two additional elements

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

Goff, S.J.; Sandoval, W.F.; Gallimore, D.L.

1980-06-01

Water and sediment samples were collected and each water sample was analyzed for U, and each sediment sample was analyzed for 43 elements, including U and Th. Uranium concentrations in water samples range from below the detection limit of 0.02 ppB to 702.26 ppB and have a median of 1.73 ppB and a mean of 11.76 ppB. Water samples containing high uranium concentrations generally are associated with known uranium mining activity or units known to be uranium bearing. About one-third of the water samples containing high uranium concentrations were collected from locations within the Pumpkin Buttes and Turnercrest-Ross Districts. Nearlymore » half of the water samples containing high uranium concentrations were collected from locations just west of the Monument Hill and Highland Flats-Box Creek Districts. Similar anomalous uranium concentrations in this region have been reported updip from Exxon's Highland uranium deposits. High uranium concentrations were also found associated with the Lance Creek-Old Woman Anticline District. Uranium concentrations in sediment samples range from 1.14 to 220.70 ppM and have a median of 3.37 ppM and a mean of 4.03 ppM. Throughout the major uranium mining districts of the Powder River Basin, sediment samples with high uranium concentrations were collected from dry streams located near wells producing water samples with high uranium concentrations. High uranium concentrations were also found associated with the Lance Creek oil field where uranium mineralization is known in the White River formation. High uranium concentrations were also found in sediment samples in areas where uranium mineralization is not known. These samples are from dry streams in areas underlain by the White River formation, the Niobrara formation, and the Pierre, Carlisle, Belle Fourche, and Mowry shales.« less

Effectiveness of braces designed using computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) and finite element simulation compared to CAD/CAM only for the conservative treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a prospective randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Cobetto, N; Aubin, C E; Parent, S; Clin, J; Barchi, S; Turgeon, I; Labelle, Hubert

2016-10-01

Clinical assessment of immediate in-brace effect of braces designed using CAD/CAM and FEM vs. only CAD/CAM for conservative treatment of AIS, using a randomized blinded and controlled study design. Forty AIS patients were prospectively recruited and randomized into two groups. For 19 patients (control group), the brace was designed using a scan of patient's torso and a conventional CAD/CAM approach (CtrlBrace). For the 21 other patients (test group), the brace was additionally designed using finite element modeling (FEM) and 3D reconstructions of spine, rib cage and pelvis (NewBrace). The NewBrace design was simulated and iteratively optimized to maximize the correction and minimize the contact surface and material. Both groups had comparable age, sex, weight, height, curve type and severity. Scoliosis Research Society standardized criteria for bracing were followed. Average Cobb angle prior to bracing was 27° and 28° for main thoracic (MT) and lumbar (L) curves, respectively, for the control group, while it was 33° and 28° for the test group. CtrlBraces reduced MT and L curves by 8° (29 %) and 10° (40 %), respectively, compared to 14° (43 %) and 13° (46 %) for NewBraces, which were simulated with a difference inferior to 5°. NewBraces were 50 % thinner and had 20 % less covering surface than CtrlBraces. Braces designed with CAD/CAM and 3D FEM simulation were more efficient and lighter than standard CAD/CAM TLSO's at first immediate in-brace evaluation. These results suggest that long-term effect of bracing in AIS may be improved using this new platform for brace fabrication. NCT02285621.

Effects of organic and inorganic compounds of diesel exhaust particles on the mucociliary epithelium: An experimental study on the frog palate preparation.

PubMed

Trindade, Sergio Henrique Kiemle; Seriani, Robson; Lorenzi-Filho, Geraldo; de Mello Júnior, João Ferreira; Sennes, Luiz Ubirajara; Saldiva, Paulo Hilário Nascimento; Macchione, Mariângela

2018-02-01

The toxic actions of acute exposition to different diesel exhaust particles (DEPA) fractions on the mucociliary epithelium are not yet fully understood due to different concentrations of organic and inorganic elements. These chemicals elements produce damage to the respiratory epithelium and exacerbate pre-existent diseases. In our study we showed these differences in two experimental studies. Study I (dose-response curve - DRCS): Forty frog-palates were exposed to the following dilutions: frog ringer, intact DEPA diluted in frog-ringer at 3mg/L, 6mg/L and 12mg/L. Study II (DEPF) (DEPA fractions diluted at 12mg/L): Fifty palates - Frog ringer, intact DEPA, DEPA treated with hexane, nitric acid and methanol. Variables analyzed: relative time of mucociliary transport (MCT), ciliary beating frequency (CBF) and morphometric analysis for mucin profile (neutral/acid) and vacuolization. The Results of DRCS: Group DEPA-12mg/L presented a significant increase in the MCT (p<0.05), proportional volume of acid mucus (p<0.05) and decreased proportional volume of neutral mucus and vacuoles (p<0.05). In relation of DEPF: A significant increase in the MCT associated to a decrease in the proportional volume of neutral mucus was founded in nitric acid group. In addition, a significant increase in the proportional volume of acid mucus was found in methanol group. We concluded that: 1) Increasing concentrations of intact DEPA can progressively increase MCT and promote an acidification of intra-epithelial mucins associated to a depletion of neutral mucus. 2) Intact DEPA seem to act as secretagogue substance, promoting mucus extrusion and consequently reducing epithelial thickness. 3) Organic fraction of low polarity seems to play a pivotal role on the acute toxicity to the mucociliary epithelium, by promoting a significant increase in the MCT associated to changes in the chemical profile of the intracellular mucins. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Transforming Mean and Osculating Elements Using Numerical Methods

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ely, Todd A.

2010-01-01

Mean element propagation of perturbed two body orbits has as its mathematical basis averaging theory of nonlinear dynamical systems. Averaged mean elements define the long-term evolution characteristics of an orbit. Using averaging theory, a near identity transformation can be found that transforms the mean elements back to the osculating elements that contain short period terms in addition to the secular and long period mean elements. The ability to perform the conversion is necessary so that orbit design conducted in mean elements can be converted back into osculating results. In the present work, this near identity transformation is found using the Fast Fourier Transform. An efficient method is found that is capable of recovering the osculating elements to first order

What works for patients in outpatient treatment for alcohol addiction? An explorative study into clients' evaluation of subjective factors and therapy satisfaction.

PubMed

Frick, Katrin M; Loessl, Barbara; Brueck, Rigo K; Kriston, Levente; Jaehne, Andreas; Riemann, Dieter; Gann, Horst; Batra, Anil; Wodarz, Norbert; Mann, Karl F; Berner, Michael M

2011-01-01

This explorative survey investigated clients' evaluation of therapy elements and other supportive factors within a randomized controlled trial. The treatment of patients with alcohol dependence consisted of pharmacotherapy (acamprosate/naltrexone/placebo) and biweekly medical management (MM). Forty-nine study participants were surveyed with a questionnaire to measure both the patients' satisfaction with the therapy and the subjective assessment of treatment elements and supportive factors.Study participants were highly satisfied with the treatment. The supportive factors previously identified by Orford et al1 were confirmed. 'Pharmacotherapy' was rated significantly less effective than 'MM' and 'global study attendance' (P < 0.001). The significant differences in the evaluation of treatment elements point to a preference for regular low-key contacts rather than for medication. Such contacts based on MM could be a useful intervention in clinical care, and its effectivity should be examined more closely in further research.

Maternity Leave (Amendment) Act 1989 (No. 12 of 1989), 5 May 1989.

PubMed

1989-01-01

This Act amends the Grenada Maternity Leave Law 1980 to provide the following pay during maternity leave: "a) in the case of monthly paid employees a sum equal to forty percent of two months' pay; b) in the case of weekly or fortnightly paid employees, a sum equal to forty percent of four fortnights' pay as the case may be; c) in the case of daily paid workers, a sum equal to forty percent of one-fifth the pay earned in the twelve months immediately prior to the commencement of the Maternity Leave."

Cytochrome P450s from the fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda): responses to plant allelochemicals and pesticides.

PubMed

Giraudo, M; Hilliou, F; Fricaux, T; Audant, P; Feyereisen, R; Le Goff, G

2015-02-01

Spodoptera frugiperda is a polyphagous lepidopteran pest that encounters a wide range of toxic plant metabolites in its diet. The ability of this insect to adapt to its chemical environment might be explained by the action of major detoxification enzymes such as cytochrome P450s (or CYP). Forty-two sequences coding for P450s were identified and most of the transcripts were found to be expressed in the midgut, Malpighian tubules and fat body of S. frugiperda larvae. Relatively few P450s were expressed in the established cell line Sf9. In order to gain information on how these genes respond to different chemical compounds, larvae and Sf9 cells were exposed to plant secondary metabolites (indole, indole-3-carbinol, quercetin, 2-tridecanone and xanthotoxin), insecticides (deltamethrin, fipronil, methoprene, methoxyfenozide) or model inducers (clofibrate and phenobarbital). Several genes were induced by plant chemicals such as P450s from the 6B, 321A and 9A subfamilies. Only a few genes responded to insecticides, belonging principally to the CYP9A family. There was little overlap between the response in vivo measured in the midgut and the response in vitro in Sf9 cells. In addition, regulatory elements were detected in the promoter region of these genes. In conclusion, several P450s were identified that could potentially be involved in the adaptation of S. frugiperda to its chemical environment. © 2014 The Royal Entomological Society.

Finite element analysis of three patterns of internal fixation of fractures of the mandibular condyle.

PubMed

Aquilina, Peter; Chamoli, Uphar; Parr, William C H; Clausen, Philip D; Wroe, Stephen

2013-06-01

The most stable pattern of internal fixation for fractures of the mandibular condyle is a matter for ongoing discussion. In this study we investigated the stability of three commonly used patterns of plate fixation, and constructed finite element models of a simulated mandibular condylar fracture. The completed models were heterogeneous in the distribution of bony material properties, contained about 1.2 million elements, and incorporated simulated jaw-adducting musculature. Models were run assuming linear elasticity and isotropic material properties for bone. This model was considerably larger and more complex than previous finite element models that have been used to analyse the biomechanical behaviour of differing plating techniques. The use of two parallel 2.0 titanium miniplates gave a more stable configuration with lower mean element stresses and displacements over the use of a single miniplate. In addition, a parallel orientation of two miniplates resulted in lower stresses and displacements than did the use of two miniplates in an offset pattern. The use of two parallel titanium plates resulted in a superior biomechanical result as defined by mean element stresses and relative movement between the fractured fragments in these finite element models. Copyright © 2012 The British Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Deliberate teaching tools for clinical teaching encounters: A critical scoping review and thematic analysis to establish definitional clarity.

PubMed

Sidhu, Navdeep S; Edwards, Morgan

2018-04-27

We conducted a scoping review of tools designed to add structure to clinical teaching, with a thematic analysis to establish definitional clarity. Six thousand and forty nine citations were screened, 434 reviewed for eligibility, and 230 identified as meeting study inclusion criteria. Eighty-nine names and 51 definitions were identified. Based on a post facto thematic analysis, we propose that these tools be named "deliberate teaching tools" (DTTs) and defined as "frameworks that enable clinicians to have a purposeful and considered approach to teaching encounters by incorporating elements identified with good teaching practice." We identified 46 DTTs in the literature, with 38 (82.6%) originally described for the medical setting. Forty justification articles consisted of 16 feedback surveys, 13 controlled trials, seven pre-post intervention studies with no control group, and four observation studies. Current evidence of efficacy is not entirely conclusive, and many studies contain methodology flaws. Forty-nine clarification articles comprised 12 systematic reviews and 37 narrative reviews. The most number of DTTs described by any review was four. A common design theme was identified in approximately three-quarters of DTTs. Applicability of DTTs to specific alternate settings should be considered in context, and appropriately designed justification studies are warranted to demonstrate efficacy.

Sexual Functioning After Treatment of In Situ Vulvar Cancer: Preliminary Report

PubMed Central

Andersen, Barbara L.; Turnquist, Dawn; LaPolla, James; Turner, Deborah

2010-01-01

Forty-two patients treated for in situ vulvar cancer at two institutions participated in structured assessment interviews and completed questionnaires to examine postoperative sexual, marital, and psychological adjustment. Patient responses were compared with a matched sample of gynecologically healthy women. The results indicated a specific pattern of sexual disruption for the women treated for preinvasive disease. Sexual behavior patterns appeared to be maintained, as was the desire phase of the sexual response cycle. However, there was specific disruption of the phases of excitement and resolution and, to a lesser extent, orgasm. In addition to a two- to threefold increase in the frequency of sexual dysfunction, 30% of the sample was sexually inactive at follow-up. Although replication of these findings is necessary, this investigation suggests that sexual functioning correlates with the magnitude of treatment. PMID:3336539

Certification of elements in and use of standard reference material 3280 multivitamin/multielement tablets.

PubMed

Turk, Gregory C; Sharpless, Katherine E; Cleveland, Danielle; Jongsma, Candice; Mackey, Elizabeth A; Marlow, Anthony F; Oflaz, Rabia; Paul, Rick L; Sieber, John R; Thompson, Robert Q; Wood, Laura J; Yu, Lee L; Zeisler, Rolf; Wise, Stephen A; Yen, James H; Christopher, Steven J; Day, Russell D; Long, Stephen E; Greene, Ella; Harnly, James; Ho, I-Pin; Betz, Joseph M

2013-01-01

Standard Reference Material 3280 Multivitamin/ Multielement Tablets was issued by the National Institute of Standards and Technology in 2009, and has certified and reference mass fraction values for 13 vitamins, 26 elements, and two carotenoids. Elements were measured using two or more analytical methods at NIST with additional data contributed by collaborating laboratories. This reference material is expected to serve a dual purpose: to provide quality assurance in support of a database of dietary supplement products and to provide a means for analysts, dietary supplement manufacturers, and researchers to assess the appropriateness and validity of their analytical methods and the accuracy of their results.

Factors affecting recruitment of physical therapy personnel in Utah.

PubMed

Okerlund, V W; Jackson, P B; Parsons, R J

1994-02-01

This study assessed the current and future needs of physical therapy personnel in Utah, including both physical therapists and physical therapist assistants. Three hundred twenty-two health care facilities selected from four major employer groups in Utah and a total of 590 physical therapy personnel were surveyed. Two hundred forty-four health care facilities (76%) and 198 physical therapy personnel (33.6%) responded. Two survey instruments were developed: one to assess the current and future supply and demand of physical therapy personnel in Utah, and the other to determine recruitment and retention factors. Utah health care facilities projected a need for 46 additional physical therapists and 28 additional physical therapist assistants in 1992. Surveyed physical therapy personnel reported feeling satisfied with the profession and had chosen the profession through a person of influence. Freedom on the job and development of skills were the most often mentioned determinants of job satisfaction, and pay and benefits were the major determinants of retention. Physical therapy personnel should have a role in recruitment efforts. Physical therapy personnel have many options for employment and often choose to seek a diversity of opportunities for better compensation.

Effect of resin on impact damage tolerance of graphite/epoxy laminates

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Williams, J. G.; Rhodes, M. D.

1982-01-01

Twenty-four different epoxy resin systems were evaluated by a variety of test techniques to identify materials that exhibited improved impact damage tolerance in graphite/epoxy composite laminates. Forty-eight-ply composite panels of five of the material systems were able to sustain 100 m/s impact by a 1.27-cm-diameter aluminum projectile while statically loaded to strains of 0.005. Of the five materials with the highest tolerance to impact, two had elastomeric additives, two had thermoplastic additives, and one had a vinyl modifier; all the five systems used bisphenol A as the base resin. An evaluation of test results shows that the laminate damage tolerance is largely determined by the resin tensile properties, and that improvements in laminate damage tolerance are not necessarily made at the expense of room-temperature mechanical properties. The results also suggest that a resin volume fraction of 40 percent or greater may be required to permit the plastic flow between fibers necessary for improved damage tolerance.

The differential effects of teaching addition through strategy instruction versus drill and practice to students with and without learning disabilities.

PubMed

Tournaki, Nelly

2003-01-01

Forty-two second-grade general education students and 42 students with learning disabilities (LD) were taught basic, one-digit addition facts (e.g., 5 + 3 = _). Students received instruction via (a) a minimum addend strategy, (b) drill and practice, or (c) control. The effectiveness of the two methods was measured through students' accuracy and latency scores on a posttest and a transfer task (e.g., 5 + 3 + 7 =_). Students with LD improved significantly only in the strategy condition, as compared to drill-and-practice and control conditions, whereas general education students improved significantly both in the strategy and the drill-and-practice conditions as compared to the control condition. However, in the transfer task, students from all groups became significantly more accurate only in the strategy condition, while all students were significantly faster than their control group peers regardless of teaching method. The implications for teachers' differential choices of methods of instruction for students with different learning characteristics are discussed.

[Finite element study of maxillary Le Fort-I osteotomy with rigid internal fixation].

PubMed

Zhou, Jian; Sun, Geng-Lin; Wu, Wei; Xu, Chong-Tao; Wang, Peng-Lin

2010-05-01

To study the biomechanical characteristic of maxillary Le fort- I osteotomy with rigid internal fixation (RIF) , so as to choose best fixation method. The 3-dimensional finite element models of maxillary Le Fort-I osteotomy with 9 kinds of RIF methods were established. Then the models were divided into three groups to calculate the stress distribution of the maxilla and the displacement of bone segment under 3 kinds of occlusion condition. The fixation stability of the different RIF methods was evaluated. Under the incisor occlusion condition, the stress of the cranio maxillary complex transmits mainly along the nasal-maxillary buttress. Under the premolar and molar occlusion condition, the stress transmits along the alveolar process first, then turns to the nasal-maxillary and zygomatic-maxillary buttress. The focused stress position of the internal fixation system is at the connection between the screws and the plate and at the plate near the osteotomy line. Under the premolar occlusion condition, the displacement of bone segment with different RIF methods was (in a decreasing order) 0.396509 mm (with bio-absorbable plate), 0.148393 mm (with micro-plate ), 0.078436 mm (with mini-plate) in group 1; 0.188791 mm (fixing at the nasal-maxillary buttress), 0.121718 mm (fixing at the zygomatic-maxillary buttress), 0.078436 mm (fixing at the both buttress) in group 2; 0.091023 mm (with straight plate), 0.078436 mm (with L shape plate), 0.072450 mm (with Y shape plate), 0.065617 mm (with T shape plate) in group 3. The fixation stability of using the bio-absorbable plate in Le Fort-I osteotomy is less stable than using the titanium plate. Fixing at the zygomatic-maxillary buttress is more stable than at the naso-maxillary buttress. The fixation stability is different by using different shapes of plates.

Penalty-Based Interface Technology for Prediction of Delamination Growth in Laminated Structures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Averill, Ronald C.

2004-01-01

An effective interface element technology has been developed for connecting and simulating crack growth between independently modeled finite element subdomains (e.g., composite plies). This method has been developed using penalty constraints and allows coupling of finite element models whose nodes do not necessarily coincide along their common interface. Additionally, the present formulation leads to a computational approach that is very efficient and completely compatible with existing commercial software. The present interface element has been implemented in the commercial finite element code ABAQUS as a User Element Subroutine (UEL), making it easy to test the approach for a wide range of problems. The interface element technology has been formulated to simulate delamination growth in composite laminates. Thanks to its special features, the interface element approach makes it possible to release portions of the interface surface whose length is smaller than that of the finite elements. In addition, the penalty parameter can vary within the interface element, allowing the damage model to be applied to a desired fraction of the interface between the two meshes. Results for double cantilever beam DCB, end-loaded split (ELS) and fixed-ratio mixed mode (FRMM) specimens are presented. These results are compared to measured data to assess the ability of the present damage model to simulate crack growth.

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

Ortiz, Rosario, E-mail: r_oh@ciencias.unam.mx; Kouznetsova, Anna, E-mail: Anna.Kouznetsova@ki.se; Echeverría-Martínez, Olga M., E-mail: omem@ciencias.unam.mx

The synaptonemal complex (SC) is a proteinaceous structure that holds the homologous chromosomes in close proximity while they exchange genetic material in a process known as meiotic recombination. This meiotic recombination leads to genetic variability in sexually reproducing organisms. The ultrastructure of the SC is studied by electron microscopy and it is observed as a tripartite structure. Two lateral elements (LE) separated by a central region (CR) confer its classical tripartite organization. The LEs are the anchoring platform for the replicated homologous chromosomes to properly exchange genetic material with one another. An accurate assembly of the LE is indispensable formore » the proper completion of meiosis. Ultrastructural studies suggested that the LE is organized as a multilayered unit. However, no validation of this model has been previously provided. In this ultrastructural study, by using mice with different genetic backgrounds that affect the LE width, we provide further evidence that support a multilayered organization of the LE. Additionally, we provide data suggesting additional roles of the different cohesin complex components in the structure of the LEs of the SC. - Highlights: • The lateral element of the synaptonemal complex is a multilayered structure. • The width of the lateral element in synaptonemal complex-null mice is different. • Two cohesin complex cores plus one axial element form a wild-type lateral element. • The layers of the lateral element can be analyzed in different null mice models.« less

Injection-seeded optical parametric oscillator and system

DOEpatents

Lucht, Robert P.; Kulatilaka, Waruna D.; Anderson, Thomas N.; Bougher, Thomas L.

2007-10-09

Optical parametric oscillators (OPO) and systems are provided. The OPO has a non-linear optical material located between two optical elements where the product of the reflection coefficients of the optical elements are higher at the output wavelength than at either the pump or idler wavelength. The OPO output may be amplified using an additional optical parametric amplifier (OPA) stage.

Influence of phase composition on microstructure and properties of Mg-5Al-0.4Mn-xRE (x = 0, 3 and 5 wt.%) alloys

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

Braszczyńska-Malik, K.N., E-mail: kacha@wip.pcz.pl; Grzybowska, A.

2016-05-15

The microstructure and mechanical properties investigations of two AME503 and AME505 experimental alloys in as-cast conditions were presented. The investigated materials were fabricated on the basis of the AM50 commercial magnesium alloy with 3 and 5 wt.% cerium rich mischmetal. In the as-cast condition, both experimental alloys were mainly composed of α-Mg, Al{sub 11}RE{sub 3} and Al{sub 10}RE{sub 2}Mn{sub 7} intermetallic phases. Additionally, due to non-equilibrium solidification conditions, a small amount of α + γ divorced eutectic and Al{sub 2}RE intermetallic phase were revealed. The obtained results also show a significant influence of rare earth elements on Brinell hardness, tensilemore » and compression properties at ambient temperature and especially on creep properties at 473 K. Improved alloy properties with a rise in rare earth elements mass fraction results from an increase in Al{sub 11}RE{sub 3} phase volume fraction and suppression of α + γ eutectic volume fraction in the alloy microstructure. Additionally, the influence of rare earth elements on the dendrite arm space value was discussed. The presented results also proved the thermal stability of the intermetallic phases during creep testing. - Highlights: • Two different Mg-5Al-0.4Mn alloys containing 3 and 5 wt.% of rare earth elements were fabricated. • Addition of rare earth elements leads to a reduction of dendrite arm spaces. • Mechanical properties depend on the phase composition of the alloys. • The increase of the rare earth elements content causes rise of the creep resistance.« less

The effect of additive geometry on the integration of secondary elements during Friction Stir Processing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zens, A.; Gnedel, M.; Zaeh, M. F.; Haider, F.

2018-06-01

Friction Stir Processing (FSP) can be used to locally modify properties in materials such as aluminium. This may be used, for example, to produce a fine microstructure or to integrate secondary elements into the base material. The purpose of this work is to examine the effect of the properties of the metal additives on the resulting material distribution in the processed region. For this, commercially pure iron and copper were integrated into an EN AW-1050 aluminium base material using FSP. Iron in the form of powder, wire and foil as well as copper in powder form were assessed. The various additive forms represent materials with differing surface-to-volume ratios as well as varying dispersion characteristics in the processing zone. The processing parameters for each additive form remained constant; however, two- and four-pass FSP processes were conducted. The results of CT analysis proved especially insightful regarding the spatial distribution of the various additive form within the workpiece. As expected, the powder additive was most widely distributed within the welding zone. Micro-hardness mappings showed that the powder additive contributed to the hardness within the weld nugget in comparison to the processed material without secondary elements.

Environmental implications of element emissions from phosphate-processing operations in southeastern Idaho

USGS Publications Warehouse

Severson, R.C.; Gough, L.P.

1979-01-01

In order to assess the contribution to plants and soils of certain elements emitted by phosphate processing, we sampled sagebrush, grasses, and A- and C-horizon soils along upwind and downwind transects at Pocatello and Soda Springs, Idaho. Analyses for 70 elements in plants showed that, statistically, the concentration of 7 environmentally important elements, cadmium, chromium, fluorine, selenium, uranium, vanadium, and zinc, were related to emissions from phosphate-processing operations. Two additional elements, lithium and nickel, show probable relationships. The literature on the effects of these elements on plant and animal health is briefly surveyed. Relations between element content in plants and distance from the phosphate-processing operations were stronger at Soda Springs than at Pocatello and, in general, stronger in sagebrush than in the grasses. Analyses for 58 elements in soils showed that, statistically, beryllium, fluorine, iron, lead, lithium, potassium, rubidium, thorium, and zinc were related to emissions only at Pocatello and only in the A horizon. Moreover, six additional elements, copper, mercury, nickel, titanium, uranium, and vanadium, probably are similarly related along the same transect. The approximate amounts of elements added to the soils by the emissions are estimated. In C-horizon soils, no statistically significant relations were observed between element concentrations and distance from the processing sites. At Soda Springs, the nonuniformity of soils at the sampling locations may have obscured the relationship between soil-element content and emissions from phosphate processing.

Low-cost implant overdenture option for patients treated in a predoctoral dental school curriculum.

PubMed

McCracken, Michael S; Aponte-Wesson, Ruth; O'Neal, S Jean; Rajdev, Kavita

2006-06-01

In an effort to make the implant overdenture more affordable for patients, a pricing package at the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Dentistry was established. This package includes two implants, two dentures (upper and lower), and two implant abutments, all for $975. It is known as the "2-2-2" implant program. One concern regarding the program was whether patients would complete overdenture treatment or simply receive implants at this relatively low cost and have the implants restored outside the school. The purpose of this retrospective chart review was to determine how many patients in 2004 received implants as part of this program and how many of these patients completed overdenture treatment. Other data (age, distance from school, number of teeth at start of treatment, and gender) were collected to identify variables that might be associated with greater likelihood of completing overdenture treatment. In 2004, fifty-one patients received 102 implants as part of this program. Two patients had a failed implant prior to restoration (two of 102 implants), and one patient was referred to graduate prosthodontics for restoration. Of the remaining forty-eight patients, forty-one completed overdenture treatment (85 percent), and seven (15 percent) were lost to follow-up. The mean age of patients receiving this treatment was 60.7 years. The mean distance traveled to the school was 70.7 miles. While no variables showed significant predictive value, point estimates (estimate of the odds ratio) suggest that older patients and patients who travel greater distance to the school were less likely to complete treatment. The low-cost implant overdenture has been an important addition to our curriculum. The majority of patients who receive implants as part of this program complete overdenture treatment.

Dynamics of flow control in an emulated boundary layer-ingesting offset diffuser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gissen, A. N.; Vukasinovic, B.; Glezer, A.

2014-08-01

Dynamics of flow control comprised of arrays of active (synthetic jets) and passive (vanes) control elements , and its effectiveness for suppression of total-pressure distortion is investigated experimentally in an offset diffuser, in the absence of internal flow separation. The experiments are conducted in a wind tunnel inlet model at speeds up to M = 0.55 using approach flow conditioning that mimics boundary layer ingestion on a Blended-Wing-Body platform. Time-dependent distortion of the dynamic total-pressure field at the `engine face' is measured using an array of forty total-pressure probes, and the control-induced distortion changes are analyzed using triple decomposition and proper orthogonal decomposition (POD). These data indicate that an array of the flow control small-scale synthetic jet vortices merge into two large-scale, counter-rotating streamwise vortices that exert significant changes in the flow distortion. The two most energetic POD modes appear to govern the distortion dynamics in either active or hybrid flow control approaches. Finally, it is shown that the present control approach is sufficiently robust to reduce distortion with different inlet conditions of the baseline flow.

Plasmid profile in oral Fusobacterium nucleatum from humans and Cebus apella monkeys.

PubMed

Paula, Marcia O; Gaetti-Jardim Júnior, Elerson; Avila-Campos, Mario J

2003-01-01

Fusobacterium nucleatum is a strict anaerobe and is indigenous of the human oral cavity. This organism is commonly recovered from different monomicrobial and mixed infections in humans and animals. In this study, the plasmid profile, the plasmid stability and the penicillin-resistance association in oral F. nucleatum isolated from periodontal patients, healthy subjects and Cebus apella monkeys were evaluated. Forty-five F. nucleatum strains from patients, 38 from healthy subjects and seven from C. apella were identified and analyzed. Plasmid extraction was performed in all the isolated strains. These elements were found in 26.7% strains from patients and one strain from C. apella. Strains from healthy subjects did not show any plasmid. Most of strains showed two plasmid bands ranging from 4 to 16 Kb, but digestions with endonucleases showed that they belonged to a single plasmid. The plasmid profile was similar and stable in human and monkey strains. Also, plasmids were classified into three groups according to size. Two strains were positive to beta-lactamase production and no plasmid DNA-hybridization with a beta-lactamase gene probe was observed, suggesting a chromosomal resistance.

Uncemented glenoid component in total shoulder arthroplasty. Survivorship and outcomes.

PubMed

Martin, Scott David; Zurakowski, David; Thornhill, Thomas S

2005-06-01

Glenoid component loosening continues to be a major factor affecting the long-term survivorship of total shoulder replacements. Radiolucent lines, cement fracture, migration, and loosening requiring revision are common problems with cemented glenoid components. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the results of total shoulder arthroplasty with an uncemented glenoid component and to identify predictors of glenoid component failure. One hundred and forty-seven consecutive total shoulder arthroplasties were performed in 132 patients (mean age, 63.3 years) with use of an uncemented glenoid component fixed with screws between 1988 and 1996. One hundred and forty shoulders in 124 patients were available for follow-up at an average of 7.5 years. One shoulder in which the arthroplasty had failed at 2.4 years and for which the duration of follow-up was four years was also included for completeness. The preoperative diagnoses included osteoarthritis in seventy-two shoulders and rheumatoid arthritis in fifty-five. Radiolucency was noted around the glenoid component and/or screws in fifty-three of the 140 shoulders. The mean modified ASES (American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons) score (and standard deviation) improved from 15.6 +/- 11.8 points preoperatively to 75.8 +/- 17.5 points at the time of follow-up. Eighty-five shoulders were not painful, forty-two were slightly or mildly painful, ten were moderately painful, and three were severely painful. Fifteen (11%) of the glenoid components failed clinically, and ten of them also had radiographic signs of failure. Eleven other shoulders had radiographic signs of failure but no symptoms at the time of writing. Three factors had a significant independent association with clinical failure: male gender (p = 0.02), pain (p < 0.01), and radiolucency adjacent to the flat tray (p < 0.001). In addition, the annual risk of implant revision was nearly seven times higher for patients with radiographic signs of failure. Clinical survivorship was 95% at five years and 85% at ten years. The failure rates of the total shoulder arthroplasties in this study were higher than those in previously reported studies of cemented polyethylene components with similar durations of follow-up. Screw breakage and excessive polyethylene wear were common problems that may lead to additional failures of these uncemented glenoid components in the future.

Exploring the relation between online case-based discussions and learning outcomes in dental education.

PubMed

Koole, Sebastiaan; Vervaeke, Stijn; Cosyn, Jan; De Bruyn, Hugo

2014-11-01

Online case-based discussions, parallel to theoretical dental education, have been highly valued by students and supervisors. This study investigated the relation between variables of online group discussions and learning outcomes. At Ghent University in Belgium, undergraduate dental students (years two and three) are required to participate in online case-based discussion groups (five students/group) in conjunction with two theoretical courses on basic periodontics and related therapy. Each week, a patient case is discussed under supervision of a periodontist, who authored the case and performed the treatment. Each case includes treatment history and demand, intra- and extraoral images, and full diagnostic information with periodontal and radiographic status. For this retrospective study, data were obtained for all 252 students in forty-three discussion groups between 2009 and 2012. Spearman's rank correlations were calculated to investigate the relation among group dynamics (number of group posts and views), individual student contributions (number of individual posts, newly introduced elements, questions, and reactions to other posts), supervisors' interventions (number of posts and posed questions), and learning outcomes (examination result). The results showed that learning outcomes were significantly related to the number of student posts (Spearman's rho (ρ)=0.19), newly introduced elements (ρ=0.21), reactions to other posts (ρ=0.14), number of supervisors' interventions (ρ=0.12), and supervisors' questions (ρ=0.20). These results suggest that individual student contributions during online case-based discussions and the provided supervision were related to learning outcomes.

Identification of TEM-135 β-Lactamase in Neisseria gonorrhoeae Strains Carrying African and Toronto Plasmids in Argentina

PubMed Central

Gianecini, R.; Oviedo, C.; Littvik, A.; Mendez, E.; Piccoli, L.; Montibello, S.

2014-01-01

One hundred forty-three penicillinase-producing Neisseria gonorrhoeae (PPNG) isolates obtained in Argentina from 2008 and 2012 were examined to detect blaTEM-135 genes and to investigate plasmid profiles and multiantigen sequence types. Forty-two PPNG isolates were found to carry TEM-135, and two contained a new TEM derivative characterized as TEM-220. The blaTEM-135 allele was carried by the Toronto/Rio and African plasmids. Molecular epidemiology revealed that two blaTEM-135 isolates were related to previously described isolates from Thailand and China, indicating a common evolutionary origin. PMID:25367903

A Ten-Year Review of Antenatal Complications and Pregnancy Outcomes Among HIV-Positive Pregnant Women.

PubMed

Yudin, Mark H; Caprara, Daniela; MacGillivray, S Jay; Urquia, Marcelo; Shah, Rajiv R

2016-01-01

To review the incidence of antenatal complications among a cohort of HIV-positive pregnant women over a 10-year period. A retrospective review was performed of all HIV-positive pregnant women receiving multidisciplinary prenatal care at an urban tertiary care centre from March 2000 to March 2010. Collected data included the presence of additional infectious or medical conditions, genetic screening information, and the presence or absence of antenatal complications. One hundred and forty-two singleton pregnancies during the study period were identified. Almost 95% of women were taking combination antiretroviral therapy during pregnancy, and greater than 90% had viral loads less than 1000 copies/ml at delivery. The presence of co-infections was low. Forty-one women (29%) had other medical comorbidities. Genetic screening occurred in 104 pregnancies (73%); 4% were abnormal screens. Rates of any hypertension, gestational diabetes, and fetal growth restriction were all low. Thirty-two percent of women were colonized with group B streptococcus. This study adds strength to the argument that good outcomes can be achieved for HIV-positive pregnant women with good access to both prenatal and HIV care, and appropriate management. Women with HIV should be optimally cared for in advance of and during pregnancy in order to maximize the likelihood of good pregnancy outcomes. Crown Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Toxigenic Fungi in Food

PubMed Central

Davis, N. D.; Wagener, R. E.; Dalby, D. K.; Morgan-Jones, G.; Diener, U. L.

1975-01-01

Forty-five fungal isolates from moldy supermarket foods were tested for toxicity to brine shrimp, and twenty-two of these isolates were subsequently tested for toxicity to chicken embryos. Highly toxigenic fungi were Cladosporium sphaerospermum from a bakery product, Fusarium oxysporum from carrots, F. solani from cabbage, Aspergillus niger and Penicillium corylophilum from bread, P. cyclopium and P. herquei from corn meal, P. lanosum from onions, P. steckii from chocolate syrup, Penicillium sp. from jelly, and Rhizopus nigricans isolates from sweet potato, applesauce, and strawberries. Approximately one-third of the fungal cultures were moderately to highly toxigenic to brine shrimp and chicken embryos, while several additional cultures were slightly toxigenic. PMID:1147614

Improved finite element methodology for integrated thermal structural analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dechaumphai, P.; Thornton, E. A.

1982-01-01

An integrated thermal-structural finite element approach for efficient coupling of thermal and structural analysis is presented. New thermal finite elements which yield exact nodal and element temperatures for one dimensional linear steady state heat transfer problems are developed. A nodeless variable formulation is used to establish improved thermal finite elements for one dimensional nonlinear transient and two dimensional linear transient heat transfer problems. The thermal finite elements provide detailed temperature distributions without using additional element nodes and permit a common discretization with lower order congruent structural finite elements. The accuracy of the integrated approach is evaluated by comparisons with analytical solutions and conventional finite element thermal structural analyses for a number of academic and more realistic problems. Results indicate that the approach provides a significant improvement in the accuracy and efficiency of thermal stress analysis for structures with complex temperature distributions.

Interaction of feel system and flight control system dynamics on lateral flying qualities

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bailey, R. E.; Knotts, L. H.

1990-01-01

An experimental investigation of the influence of lateral feel system characteristics on fighter aircraft roll flying qualities was conducted using the variable stability USAF NT-33. Forty-two evaluation flights were flown by three engineering test pilots. The investigation utilized the power approach, visual landing task and up-and-away tasks including formation, gun tracking, and computer-generated compensatory attitude tracking tasks displayed on the Head-Up Display. Experimental variations included the feel system frequency, force-deflection gradient, control system command type (force or position input command), aircraft roll mode time constant, control system prefilter frequency, and control system time delay. The primary data were task performance records and evaluation pilot comments and ratings using the Cooper-Harper scale. The data highlight the unique and powerful effect of the feel system of flying qualities. The data show that the feel system is not 'equivalent' in flying qualities influence to analogous control system elements. A lower limit of allowable feel system frequency appears warranted to ensure good lateral flying qualities. Flying qualities criteria should most properly treat the feel system dynamic influence separately from the control system, since the input and output of this dynamic element is apparent to the pilot and thus, does not produce a 'hidden' effect.

Determination of Rolling-Element Fatigue Life From Computer Generated Bearing Tests

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vlcek, Brian L.; Hendricks, Robert C.; Zaretsky, Erwin V.

2003-01-01

Two types of rolling-element bearings representing radial loaded and thrust loaded bearings were used for this study. Three hundred forty (340) virtual bearing sets totaling 31400 bearings were randomly assembled and tested by Monte Carlo (random) number generation. The Monte Carlo results were compared with endurance data from 51 bearing sets comprising 5321 bearings. A simple algebraic relation was established for the upper and lower L(sub 10) life limits as function of number of bearings failed for any bearing geometry. There is a fifty percent (50 percent) probability that the resultant bearing life will be less than that calculated. The maximum and minimum variation between the bearing resultant life and the calculated life correlate with the 90-percent confidence limits for a Weibull slope of 1.5. The calculated lives for bearings using a load-life exponent p of 4 for ball bearings and 5 for roller bearings correlated with the Monte Carlo generated bearing lives and the bearing data. STLE life factors for bearing steel and processing provide a reasonable accounting for differences between bearing life data and calculated life. Variations in Weibull slope from the Monte Carlo testing and bearing data correlated. There was excellent agreement between percent of individual components failed from Monte Carlo simulation and that predicted.

Element contents in leaves of four plant species (birch, mountain ash, fern and spruce) along anthropogenic and geogenic concentration gradients.

PubMed

Reimann, Clemens; Arnoldussen, Arnold; Boyd, Rognvald; Finne, Tor Erik; Koller, Friedrich; Nordgulen, Øystein; Englmaier, Peter

2007-05-15

Forty samples each of leaves of birch (Betula pubescens Ehrh.), European mountain ash (Sorbus aucuparia (L.)) and bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum (L.) Kuhn) as well as spruce needles (Picea abies (L.) Karsten) were collected along a 120 km south-north transect running through Norway's largest city, Oslo. Concentrations of 25 chemical elements (Ag, Au, B, Ba, Ca, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, K, La, Mg, Mn, Mo, Na, Ni, P, Pb, S, Sb, Sr, Ti, and Zn) as well as loss on ignition for the 4 sample materials are reported. The decline of input of sea spray with distance from the coast, geology, pH and anthropogenic contamination all played a role for the observed element concentrations in the leaves. Although growing under exactly the same natural conditions each plant species displayed quite unique uptake characteristics. Plant-species dependency and individual differences in the reaction of the plant leaves to different element sources make the investigated species of very limited value as bioindicators of anthropogenic activities. Anthropogenic contamination influences plant-leaf element content within a limited distance ( approximately 20 km) from the source.

Disinfection/sterilization of extracted teeth for dental student use.

PubMed

Dominici, J T; Eleazer, P D; Clark, S J; Staat, R H; Scheetz, J P

2001-11-01

Extracted human teeth are used in many preclinical courses. While there has been no report of disease transmission with extracted teeth, sterilization of teeth used in the teaching laboratory should be a concern. The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of different sterilization/disinfection methods of extracted human teeth using Bacillus stearothermophilus, a bacteria resistant to heat and frequently used to test sterilizers. In this study, 110 extracted molars with no carious lesions were collected and stored in buffered saline. An endodontic occlusal access preparation was cut into the pulp chamber of each tooth. Pulp tissue in the chamber was removed with a broach. Approximately 1 x 10(5) B. stearothermophilus endospores in culture medium were injected into the pulp chamber, sealed with Cavit G, and then placed in sterile saline for twelve hours. Ten teeth were placed into each of eleven groups. Seven groups were immersed for one week in one of the following solutions: a) sterile saline (control group), b) 5.25% NaOCl, c) 2.6% NaOCl, d) 1% NaOCl, e) 10% buffered formalin, f) 2% gluteraldehyde, g) 0.28% quaternary ammonium. Four additional groups were treated by h) 10% formalin for two days, i) 10% formalin for four days, j) autoclaving at 240 degrees F and 20 psi for twenty minutes, and k) autoclaving at 240 degrees F and twenty psi for forty minutes. Each tooth was then aseptically split and placed in an individual test tube with growth medium. Samples were examined for evidence of growth (turbidity) at forty-eight hours. Only autoclaving for forty minutes at 240 degrees F and 20 psi or soaking in 10 percent formalin for one week were 100 percent effective in preventing growth. A chi-square analysis of the data indicates these two methods were significantly better than all other methods (p<0.001).

Outcome and Prognostic Factors of Radiation Therapy for Medulloblastoma

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

Rieken, Stefan, E-mail: Stefan.Rieken@med.uni-heidelberg.de; Mohr, Angela; Habermehl, Daniel

2011-11-01

Purpose: To investigate treatment outcome and prognostic factors after radiation therapy in patients with medulloblastomas (MB). Methods and Materials: Sixty-six patients with histologically confirmed MB were treated at University Hospital of Heidelberg between 1985 and 2009. Forty-two patients (64%) were pediatric ({<=}18 years), and 24 patients (36%) were adults. Tumor resection was performed in all patients and was complete in 47%. All patients underwent postoperative craniospinal irradiation (CSI) delivering a median craniospinal dose of 35.5 Gy with additional boosts to the posterior fossa up to 54.0 Gy. Forty-seven patients received chemotherapy, including 21 in whom chemotherapy was administered before CSI.more » Statistical analysis was performed using the log-rank test and the Kaplan-Meier method. Results: Median follow-up was 93 months. Overall survival (OS) and local and distant progression-free survival (LPFS and DPFS) were 73%, 62%, and 77% at 60 months. Both local and distant recurrence predisposed for significantly reduced OS. Macroscopic complete tumor resection, desmoplastic histology and early initiation of postoperative radiation therapy within 28 days were associated with improved outcome. The addition of chemotherapy did not improve survival rates. Toxicity was moderate. Conclusions: Complete resection of MB followed by CSI yields long survival rates in both children and adults. Delayed initiation of CSI is associated with poor outcome. Desmoplastic histology is associated with improved survival. The role of chemotherapy, especially in the adult population, must be further investigated in clinical studies.« less

Early adversity and learning: implications for typical and atypical behavioral development.

PubMed

Hanson, Jamie L; van den Bos, Wouter; Roeber, Barbara J; Rudolph, Karen D; Davidson, Richard J; Pollak, Seth D

2017-07-01

Children who experience early adversity often develop emotion regulatory problems, but little is known about the mechanisms that mediate this relation. We tested whether general associative learning processes contribute to associations between adversity, in the form of child maltreatment, and negative behavioral outcomes. Eighty-one participants between 12 and 17 years of age were recruited for this study and completed a probabilistic learning Task. Forty-one of these participants had been exposed to physical abuse, a form of early adversity. Forty additional participants without any known history of maltreatment served as a comparison group. All participants (and their parents) also completed portions of the Youth Life Stress Interview to understand adolescent's behavior. We calculated measures of associative learning, and also constructed mathematical models of learning. We found that adolescents exposed to high levels of adversity early in their lives had lower levels of associative learning than comparison adolescents. In addition, we found that impaired associative learning partially explained the higher levels of behavioral problems among youth who suffered early adversity. Using mathematical models, we also found that two components of learning were specifically affected in children exposed to adversity: choice variability and biases in their beliefs about the likelihood of rewards in the environment. Participants who had been exposed to early adversity were less able than their peers to correctly learn which stimuli were likely to result in reward, even after repeated feedback. These individuals also used information about known rewards in their environments less often. In addition, individuals exposed to adversity made decisions early in the learning process as if rewards were less consistent and occurred more at random. These data suggest one mechanism through which early life experience shapes behavioral development. © 2017 Association for Child and Adolescent Mental Health.

Early adversity and learning: implications for typical and atypical behavioral development

PubMed Central

Hanson, Jamie L.; van den Bos, Wouter; Roeber, Barbara J.; Rudolph, Karen D.; Davidson, Richard J.; Pollak, Seth D.

2017-01-01

Background Children who experience early adversity often develop emotion regulatory problems, but little is known about the mechanisms that mediate this relation. We tested whether general associative learning processes contribute to associations between adversity, in the form of child maltreatment, and negative behavioral outcomes. Methods Eighty-one participants between 12 and 17 years of age were recruited for this study and completed a probabilistic learning Task. Forty-one of these participants had been exposed to physical abuse, a form of early adversity. Forty additional participants without any known history of maltreatment served as a comparison group. All participants (and their parents) also completed portions of the Youth Life Stress Interview to understand adolescent’s behavior. We calculated measures of associative learning, and also constructed mathematical models of learning. Results We found that adolescents exposed to high levels of adversity early in their lives had lower levels of associative learning than comparison adolescents. In addition, we found that impaired associative learning partially explained the higher levels of behavioral problems among youth who suffered early adversity. Using mathematical models, we also found that two components of learning were specifically affected in children exposed to adversity: choice variability and biases in their beliefs about the likelihood of rewards in the environment. Conclusions Participants who had been exposed to early adversity were less able than their peers to correctly learn which stimuli were likely to result in reward, even after repeated feedback. These individuals also used information about known rewards in their environments less often. In addition, individuals exposed to adversity made decisions early in the learning process as if rewards were less consistent and occurred more at random. These data suggest one mechanism through which early life experience shapes behavioral development. PMID:28158896

The Law of Biot-Savart: The Beginnings of Electrodynamics, Additional Notes. Experiment No. 18.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Devons, Samuel

This paper describes the events following the news of Oersted's discovery of the effects of a current of electricity on a magnetic needle. It focuses on Biot and Savart's law which expresses the force between a current element and a "molecule of magnetism" that can be deduced from Ampere's law of interaction between two current elements.…

The Interaction of Knowledge and Text Structure on the Ability to Identify Main Ideas in Texts. Content Knowledge and Reading Comprehension.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Day, Jeanne D.; Engelhardt, Jean

Two studies examined how the factors of content-relevant knowledge and text organization influence students' abilities to study and to remember text information. The first experiment examined the effect of prior content knowledge on students' ability to identify important information in the text. Forty 7th- and forty 11th-grade students, experts…

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

Gates, J. M.; Gregorich, K. E.; Gothe, O. R.

In this study, forty-six decay chains, assigned to the decay of 288115, were produced using the 243Am ( 48Ca, 3n) 288115 reaction at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory 88-in. cyclotron. The resulting series of α decays were studied using α-photon and α-x-ray spectroscopies. Multiple α-photon coincidences were observed in the element 115 decay chain members, particularly in the third- and fourth-generation decays (presumed to be 280Rg and 276Mt, respectively). Upon combining these data with those from 22 288115 decay chains observed in a similar experiment, updated level schemes in 276Mt and 272Bh (populated by the α decay of 280Rg andmore » 276Mt, respectively) are proposed. Additionally, photons were observed in the energy range expected for K x rays coincident with the α decay of both 280Rg and 276Mt. However, Compton scattering of higher-energy γ rays and discrete transitions are present in the K x-ray region preventing a definitive Z identification to be made based on observation of characteristic K x-ray energies.« less

Near-field investigation of the effect of the array edge on the resonance of loop frequency selective surface elements at mid-infrared wavelengths.

PubMed

Tucker, Eric; D' Archangel, Jeffrey; Raschke, Markus B; Boreman, Glenn

2015-05-04

Mid-infrared scattering scanning near-field optical microscopy, in combination with far-field infrared spectroscopy, and simulations, was employed to investigate the effect of mutual-element coupling towards the edge of arrays of loop elements acting as frequency selective surfaces (FSSs). Two different square loop arrays on ZnS over a ground plane, resonant at 10.3 µm, were investigated. One array had elements that were closely spaced while the other array had elements with greater inter-element spacing. In addition to the dipolar resonance, we observed a new emergent resonance associated with the edge of the closely-spaced array as a finite size effect, due to the broken translational invariance.

Modal element method for scattering of sound by absorbing bodies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Baumeister, Kenneth J.; Kreider, Kevin L.

1992-01-01

The modal element method for acoustic scattering from 2-D body is presented. The body may be acoustically soft (absorbing) or hard (reflecting). The infinite computational region is divided into two subdomains - the bounded finite element domain, which is characterized by complicated geometry and/or variable material properties, and the surrounding unbounded homogeneous domain. The acoustic pressure field is represented approximately in the finite element domain by a finite element solution, and is represented analytically by an eigenfunction expansion in the homogeneous domain. The two solutions are coupled by the continuity of pressure and velocity across the interface between the two subdomains. Also, for hard bodies, a compact modal ring grid system is introduced for which computing requirements are drastically reduced. Analysis for 2-D scattering from solid and coated (acoustically treated) bodies is presented, and several simple numerical examples are discussed. In addition, criteria are presented for determining the number of modes to accurately resolve the scattered pressure field from a solid cylinder as a function of the frequency of the incoming wave and the radius of the cylinder.

On the non-linear spectroscopy including saturated absorption and four-wave mixing in two and multi-level atoms: a computational study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Patel, M.; De Jager, G.; Nkosi, Z.; Wyngaard, A.; Govender, K.

2017-10-01

In this paper we report on the study of two and multi-level atoms interacting with multiple laser beams. The semi-classical approach is used to describe the system in which the atoms are treated quantum mechanically via the density matrix operator, while the laser beams are treated classically using Maxwells equations. We present results of a two level atom interacting with single and multiple laser beams and demonstrate Rabi oscillations between the levels. The effects of laser modulation on the dynamics of the atom (atomic populations and coherences) are examined by solving the optical Bloch equations. Plots of the density matrix elements as a function of time are presented for various parameters such as laser intensity, detuning, modulation etc. In addition, phase-space plots and Fourier analysis of the density matrix elements are provided. The atomic polarization, estimated from the coherence terms of the density matrix elements, is used in the numerical solution of Maxwells equations to determine the behaviour of the laser beams as they propagate through the atomic ensemble. The effects of saturation and hole-burning are demonstrated in the case of two counter propagating beams with one being a strong beam and the other being very weak. The above work is extended to include four-wave mixing in four level atoms in a diamond configuration. Two co-propagating beams of different wavelengths drive the atoms from a ground state |1〉 to an excited state |3〉 via an intermediate state |2〉. The atoms then move back to the ground state via another intermediate state |4〉, resulting in the generation of two additional correlated photon beams. The characteristics of these additional photons are studied.

Modified gastroduodenostomy in laparoscopy-assisted distal gastrectomy: a 'tornado' anastomosis.

PubMed

Kubota, Keisuke; Kuroda, Junko; Yoshida, Masashi; Okada, Akihiro; Nitori, Nobuhiro; Kitajima, Masaki

2013-01-01

This study was to examine the utility of a modified double-stapling end-to-end gastroduodenostomy method ('Tornado' anastomosis) compared to a method with an additional gastrotomy ('Anterior Incision' method) in laparoscopy-assisted distal gastrectomy. Forty-two patients with gastric cancer who underwent laparoscopy-assisted distal gastrectomy were analyzed retrospectively. Billroth-I using an additional gastrotomy was performed in 24 patients (AI group) and Billroth-I without an additional gastrotomy was performed in 18 (TOR group). Clinicopathological features, operative outcomes (lymph node dissection, operative time, operative blood loss) and postoperative outcomes (complications, postoperative hospital stay, and body weight loss at one year after surgery) were evaluated and compared between groups. Operative time was significantly shorter in the TOR group (251 min) than in the AI group (282 min) (p < 0.01). There were no statistically significant differences in operative blood loss, postoperative complications, and hospital stay between the 2 study groups. Body weight loss at one year after surgery was -5.8 kg in the TOR group and -6.5 kg in the AI group, without a statistically significant difference. Completion time for Billroth-I anastomosis was significantly shorter with Tornado anastomosis than with the Anterior Incision method, with safety equal between the two methods.

Building community resilience: what can the United States learn from experiences in other countries?

PubMed

Moore, Melinda; Chandra, Anita; Feeney, Kevin C

2013-06-01

Community resilience (CR) is emerging as a major public policy priority within disaster management and is one of two key pillars of the December 2009 US National Health Security Strategy. However, there is no clear agreement on what key elements constitute CR. We examined exemplary practices from international disaster management to validate the elements of CR, as suggested by Homeland Security Presidential Directive 21 (HSPD-21), to potentially identify new elements and to identify practices that could be emulated or adapted to help build CR. We extracted detailed information relevant to CR from unpublished case studies we had developed previously, describing exemplary practices from international natural disasters occurring between 1985 and 2005. We then mapped specific practices against the five elements of CR suggested by HSPD-21. We identified 49 relevant exemplary practices from 11 natural disasters in 10 countries (earthquakes in Mexico, India, and Iran; volcanic eruption in Philippines; hurricanes in Honduras and Cuba; floods in Bangladesh, Vietnam, and Mozambique; tsunami in Indian Ocean countries; and typhoon in Vietnam). Of these, 35 mapped well against the five elements of CR: community education, community empowerment, practice, social networks, and familiarity with local services; 15 additional practices were related to physical security and economic security. The five HSPD-21 CR elements and two additional ones we identified were closely related to one another; social networks were especially important to CR. While each disaster is unique, the elements of CR appear to be broadly applicable across countries and disaster settings. Our descriptive study provides retrospective empirical evidence that helps validate, and adds to, the elements of CR suggested by HSPD-21. It also generates hypotheses about factors contributing to CR that can be tested in future analytic or experimental research.

NASTRAN implementation of an isoparametric doubly-curved quadrilateral shell element

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Potvin, A. B.; Leick, R. D.

1978-01-01

A quadrilateral shell element, CQUAD4, was added to level 15.5 and subsequently to level 16.0 of NASTRAN. The element exhibited doubly curved surfaces and used biquadratic interpolation functions. Reduced integration techniques were used to improve the performance of the element in thin shell problems. The creation of several new bulk data items is discussed, along with a special module, GPNORM, to process SHLNORM bulk data cards. In addition to the theoretical basis for the element stiffness matrix, consistent mass and load matrices are presented. Several potential sources of degenerate behavior of the element were investigated. Guidelines for proper use of the element were suggested. Performance of the element on several widely published classical examples was demonstrated. The results showed a significant improvement over presently available NASTRAN shell elements for even the coarsest meshes. Potential applications to two classes of practical problems are discussed.

Comparison between results of solution of Burgers' equation and Laplace's equation by Galerkin and least-square finite element methods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Adib, Arash; Poorveis, Davood; Mehraban, Farid

2018-03-01

In this research, two equations are considered as examples of hyperbolic and elliptic equations. In addition, two finite element methods are applied for solving of these equations. The purpose of this research is the selection of suitable method for solving each of two equations. Burgers' equation is a hyperbolic equation. This equation is a pure advection (without diffusion) equation. This equation is one-dimensional and unsteady. A sudden shock wave is introduced to the model. This wave moves without deformation. In addition, Laplace's equation is an elliptical equation. This equation is steady and two-dimensional. The solution of Laplace's equation in an earth dam is considered. By solution of Laplace's equation, head pressure and the value of seepage in the directions X and Y are calculated in different points of earth dam. At the end, water table is shown in the earth dam. For Burgers' equation, least-square method can show movement of wave with oscillation but Galerkin method can not show it correctly (the best method for solving of the Burgers' equation is discrete space by least-square finite element method and discrete time by forward difference.). For Laplace's equation, Galerkin and least square methods can show water table correctly in earth dam.

Identification of TEM-135 β-lactamase in Neisseria gonorrhoeae strains carrying African and Toronto plasmids in Argentina.

PubMed

Gianecini, R; Oviedo, C; Littvik, A; Mendez, E; Piccoli, L; Montibello, S; Galarza, P

2015-01-01

One hundred forty-three penicillinase-producing Neisseria gonorrhoeae (PPNG) isolates obtained in Argentina from 2008 and 2012 were examined to detect blaTEM-135 genes and to investigate plasmid profiles and multiantigen sequence types. Forty-two PPNG isolates were found to carry TEM-135, and two contained a new TEM derivative characterized as TEM-220. The blaTEM-135 allele was carried by the Toronto/Rio and African plasmids. Molecular epidemiology revealed that two blaTEM-135 isolates were related to previously described isolates from Thailand and China, indicating a common evolutionary origin. Copyright © 2015, American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.

A systematic review on the quality, validity and usefulness of current cost-effectiveness studies for treatments of neovascular age-related macular degeneration.

PubMed

Elshout, Mari; Webers, Carroll A B; van der Reis, Margriet I; Schouten, Jan S A G

2018-06-04

Ophthalmologists increasingly depend on new drugs to advance their treatment options. These options are limited by restraints on reimbursements for new and expensive drugs. These restraints are put in place through health policy decisions based on cost-effectiveness analyses (CEA). Cost-effectiveness analyses need to be valid and of good quality to support correct decisions to create new treatment opportunities. In this study, we report the quality, validity and usefulness of CEAs for therapies for nAMD. A systematic review in PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane was performed to include CEAs. Quality and validity assessment was based on current general quality criteria and on elements that are specific to the field of ophthalmology. Forty-eight CEAs were included in the review. Forty-four CEAs did not meet four basic model quality and validity criteria specific to CEAs in the field of ophthalmology (both eyes analysed instead of one; a time horizon extending beyond 4 years; extrapolating VA and treatment intervals beyond trial data realistically; and including the costs of low-vision). Four CEAs aligned with the quality and validity criteria. In two of these CEAs bevacizumab as-needed (PRN) was more cost-effective than bevacizumab monthly; aflibercept (VIEW); or ranibizumab monthly or PRN. In two CEAs, ranibizumab (PRN or treat and extent) was dominant over aflibercept. In two other CEAs, aflibercept was either more cost-effective or dominant over ranibizumab monthly or PRN. Two of the CEAs of sufficient quality and validity show that bevacizumab PRN is the most cost-effective treatment. Comparing ranibizumab and aflibercept, either treatment can be more cost-effective depending on the assumptions used for drug prices and treatment frequencies. The majority of the published CEAs are of insufficient quality and validity. They wrongly inform decision-makers at the cost of opportunities for ophthalmologists to treat patients. As such, they may negatively influence overall patient outcomes and societal costs. For future ophthalmic treatments, CEAs need to be improved and only published when they are of sufficient quality and validity. © 2018 Acta Ophthalmologica Scandinavica Foundation. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Mineral elements and essential trace elements in blood of seals of the North Sea measured by total-reflection X-ray fluorescence analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Griesel, S.; Mundry, R.; Kakuschke, A.; Fonfara, S.; Siebert, U.; Prange, A.

2006-11-01

Mineral and essential trace elements are involved in numerous physiological processes in mammals. Often, diseases are associated with an imbalance of the electrolyte homeostasis. In this study, the concentrations of mineral elements (P, S, K, Ca) and essential trace elements (Fe, Cu, Zn, Se, Rb, Sr) in whole blood of harbor seals ( Phoca vitulina) were determined using total-reflection X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (TXRF). Samples from 81 free-ranging harbor seals from the North Sea and two captive seals were collected during 2003-2005. Reference ranges and element correlations for health status determination were derived for P, S, K, Ca, Fe, Cu, and Zn level in whole blood. Grouping the seals by age, gender and sample location the concentration levels of the elements were compared. The blood from two captive seals with signs of diseases and four free-ranging seals showed reduced element levels of P, S, and Ca and differences in element correlation of electrolytes were ascertained. Thus, simultaneous measurements of several elements in only 500 μL volumes of whole blood provide the possibility to obtain information on both, the electrolyte balance and the hydration status of the seals. The method could therefore serve as an additional biomonitoring tool for the health assessment.

Two new miniature inverted-repeat transposable elements in the genome of the clam Donax trunculus.

PubMed

Šatović, Eva; Plohl, Miroslav

2017-10-01

Repetitive sequences are important components of eukaryotic genomes that drive their evolution. Among them are different types of mobile elements that share the ability to spread throughout the genome and form interspersed repeats. To broaden the generally scarce knowledge on bivalves at the genome level, in the clam Donax trunculus we described two new non-autonomous DNA transposons, miniature inverted-repeat transposable elements (MITEs), named DTC M1 and DTC M2. Like other MITEs, they are characterized by their small size, their A + T richness, and the presence of terminal inverted repeats (TIRs). DTC M1 and DTC M2 are 261 and 286 bp long, respectively, and in addition to TIRs, both of them contain a long imperfect palindrome sequence in their central parts. These elements are present in complete and truncated versions within the genome of the clam D. trunculus. The two new MITEs share only structural similarity, but lack any nucleotide sequence similarity to each other. In a search for related elements in databases, blast search revealed within the Crassostrea gigas genome a larger element sharing sequence similarity only to DTC M1 in its TIR sequences. The lack of sequence similarity with any previously published mobile elements indicates that DTC M1 and DTC M2 elements may be unique to D. trunculus.

Arbitrarily Complete Bell-State Measurement Using only Linear Optical Elements

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

Grice, Warren P

2011-01-01

A complete Bell-state measurement is not possible using only linear-optic elements, and most schemes achieve a success rate of no more than 50%, distinguishing, for example, two of the four Bell states but returning degenerate results for the other two. It is shown here that the introduction of a pair of ancillary entangled photons improves the success rate to 75%. More generally, the addition of 2{sup N}-2 ancillary photons yields a linear-optic Bell-state measurement with a success rate of 1-1/2{sup N}.

Renal Stone Characterization using High Resolution Imaging Mode on a Photon Counting Detector CT System.

PubMed

Ferrero, A; Gutjahr, R; Henning, A; Kappler, S; Halaweish, A; Abdurakhimova, D; Peterson, Z; Montoya, J; Leng, S; McCollough, C

2017-03-09

In addition to the standard-resolution (SR) acquisition mode, a high-resolution (HR) mode is available on a research photon-counting-detector (PCD) whole-body CT system. In the HR mode each detector consists of a 2x2 array of 0.225 mm × 0.225 mm subpixel elements. This is in contrast to the SR mode that consists of a 4x4 array of the same sub-elements, and results in 0.25 mm isotropic resolution at iso-center for the HR mode. In this study, we quantified ex vivo the capabilities of the HR mode to characterize renal stones in terms of morphology and mineral composition. Forty pure stones - 10 uric acid (UA), 10 cystine (CYS), 10 calcium oxalate monohydrate (COM) and 10 apatite (APA) - and 14 mixed stones were placed in a 20 cm water phantom and scanned in HR mode, at radiation dose matched to that of routine dual-energy stone exams. Data from micro CT provided a reference for the quantification of morphology and mineral composition of the mixed stones. The area under the ROC curve was 1.0 for discriminating UA from CYS, 0.89 for CYS vs COM and 0.84 for COM vs APA. The root mean square error (RMSE) of the percent UA in mixed stones was 11.0% with a medium-sharp kernel and 15.6% with the sharpest kernel. The HR showed qualitatively accurate characterization of stone morphology relative to micro CT.

Introducing the "Human Element" in Chemistry by Synthesizing Blue Pigments and Creating Cyanotypes in a First-Year Chemistry Course

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Morizot, Olivier; Audureau, Eric; Briend, Jean-Yves; Hagel, Gaetan; Boulc'h, Florence

2015-01-01

In this article, we present two concrete applications of the concept of the human element to chemistry education; starting with a course and experimental project on blue pigment synthesis and concluding with cross-disciplinary lessons and experiments on blue photography. In addition to the description of the content of these courses, we explore…

Newly Enacted Intent Changes to ADS-B MASPS: Emphasis on Operations, Compatibility, and Integrity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Barhydt, Richard; Warren, Anthony W.

2002-01-01

Significant changes to the intent reporting structure in the Minimum Aviation System Performance Standards (MASPS) for Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) have recently been approved by RTCA Special Committee 186. The re-structured intent formats incorporate two major changes to the current MASPS (DO-242): addition of a Target State (TS) report that provides information on the horizontal and vertical targets for the current flight segment and replacement of the current Trajectory Change Point (TCP) and TCP+1 reports with Trajectory Change (TC) reports. TC reports include expanded information about TCPs and their connecting flight segments, in addition to making provisions for trajectory conformance elements. New intent elements are designed to accommodate a greater range of intent information, better reflect operational use and capabilities of existing and future aircraft avionics, and aid trajectory synthesis and conformance monitoring systems. These elements are expected to benefit near-term and future Air Traffic Management (ATM) applications, including separation assurance, local traffic flow management, and conformance monitoring. The current MASPS revision (DO-242A) implements those intent elements that are supported by current avionics standards and data buses. Additional elements are provisioned for inclusion in future MASPS revisions (beyond DO-242A) as avionics systems are evolved.

An economic cost analysis of emergency department key performance indicators in Ireland.

PubMed

Gannon, Brenda; Jones, Cheryl; McCabe, Aileen; O'Sullivan, Ronan; Wakai, Abel

2017-06-01

High quality data is fundamental to using key performance indicators (KPIs) for performance monitoring. However, the resources required to collect high quality data are often significant and should usually be targeted at high priority areas. As part of a study of 11 emergency department (ED) KPIs in Ireland, the primary objective of this study was to estimate the relative cost of collecting the additional minimum data set (MDS) elements for those 11 KPIs. An economic cost analysis focused on 12 EDs in the Republic of Ireland. The resource use data were obtained using two separate focus group interviews. The number of available MDS elements was obtained from a sample of 100 patient records per KPI per participating ED. Unit costs for all resource use were taken at the midpoint of the relevant staff salary scales. An ED would need to spend an estimated additional &OV0556;3561 per month on average to capture all the MDS elements relevant to the 11 KPIs investigated. The additional cost ranges from 14.8 to 39.2%; this range is 13.9-32.3% for small EDs, whereas the range for medium EDs is 11.7-40%. Regional EDs have a higher additional estimated cost to capture all the relevant MDS elements (&OV0556;3907), compared with urban EDs (&OV0556;3353). The additional cost of data collection, contingent on that already collected, required to capture all the relevant MDS elements for the KPIs examined, ranges from 14.8 to 39.2% per KPI, with variation identified between regional and urban hospitals.

Occurrence of trace elements and antibiotics in manure-based fertilizers from the Zhejiang Province of China.

PubMed

Qian, Mingrong; Wu, Huizhen; Wang, Jianmei; Zhang, Hu; Zhang, Zulin; Zhang, Yongzhi; Lin, Hui; Ma, Junwei

2016-07-15

The occurrence of seven trace elements and forty three antibiotics was investigated in manure-based fertilizers from the Zhejiang province of China. These trace elements included copper, zinc, arsenic, chromium, mercury, lead and cadmium. The targeted antibiotics included four groups: sulfonamides, tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones and chloramphenicols. The median amounts of copper, zinc, arsenic, chromium, mercury, lead and cadmium in the analyzed samples were 160, 465, 7.9, 21.2, 0.3, 8.1 and 0.6mg·kg(-1), respectively. Seventeen antibiotics were detected. Enrofloxacin was the most frequently detected compound, with a detection rate of 39.3% and concentrations ranging from 6.7μg·kg(-1) to 4091μg·kg(-1). Based on the referred loading rates in agricultural soil, 10% of the collected manure-based fertilizer samples might pose a high potential ecological risk due to the presence of antibiotics. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier B.V.

What Works for Patients in Outpatient Treatment for Alcohol Addiction? An Explorative Study into Clients’ Evaluation of Subjective Factors and Therapy Satisfaction

PubMed Central

Frick, Katrin M.; Loessl, Barbara; Brueck, Rigo K.; Kriston, Levente; Jaehne, Andreas; Riemann, Dieter; Gann, Horst; Batra, Anil; Wodarz, Norbert; Mann, Karl F.; Berner, Michael M.

2011-01-01

This explorative survey investigated clients’ evaluation of therapy elements and other supportive factors within a randomized controlled trial. The treatment of patients with alcohol dependence consisted of pharmacotherapy (acamprosate/naltrexone/placebo) and biweekly medical management (MM). Forty-nine study participants were surveyed with a questionnaire to measure both the patients’ satisfaction with the therapy and the subjective assessment of treatment elements and supportive factors. Study participants were highly satisfied with the treatment. The supportive factors previously identified by Orford et al1 were confirmed. ‘Pharmacotherapy’ was rated significantly less effective than ‘MM’ and ‘global study attendance’ (P < 0.001). The significant differences in the evaluation of treatment elements point to a preference for regular low-key contacts rather than for medication. Such contacts based on MM could be a useful intervention in clinical care, and its effectivity should be examined more closely in further research. PMID:22879748

The contribution of nature to people: Applying concepts of values and properties to rate the management importance of natural elements.

PubMed

Smith, Michael J; Wagner, Christian; Wallace, Ken J; Pourabdollah, Amir; Lewis, Loretta

2016-06-15

An important, and yet unresolved question in natural resource management is how best to manage natural elements and their associated values to ensure human wellbeing. Specifically, there is a lack of measurement tools to assess the contribution of nature to people. We present one approach to overcome this global issue and show that the preferred state of any system element, in terms of realising human values, is a function of element properties. Consequently, natural resource managers need to understand the nature of the relationships between element properties and values if they are to successfully manage for human wellbeing. In two case studies of applied planning, we demonstrate how to identify key element properties, quantify their relationships to priority human values, and combine this information to model the contribution of elements to human wellbeing. In one of the two case studies we also compared the modelling outputs with directly elicited stakeholder opinions regarding the importance of the elements for realising the given priority values. The two, largely congruent outputs provide additional support for the approach. The study shows that rating sets of elements on their relative overall value for human wellbeing, or utility, provides critical information for subsequent management decisions and a basis for productive new research. We consider that the described approach is broadly applicable within the domain of natural resource management. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Effect of elemental nano-selenium on semen quality, glutathione peroxidase activity, and testis ultrastructure in male Boer goats.

PubMed

Shi, Li-guang; Yang, Ru-jie; Yue, Wen-bin; Xun, Wen-juan; Zhang, Chun-xiang; Ren, You-she; Shi, Lei; Lei, Fu-lin

2010-04-01

The objective of this experiment is to study the effects of novel elemental nano-selenium in the diet on testicular ultrastructure, semen quality and GSH-Px activity in male goats. Forty-two 2-month-old bucks were offered a total mixed ration which had been supplemented with nano-Se (0.3mg/kg Se) or unsupplemented (the control group only received 0.06mg/kg Se-background), for a period of 12 weeks (from weaning to sexual maturity). Results showed that the testicular Se level, semen glutathione peroxidase and ATPase activity increased significantly in the nano-Se supplementation group compared with control (P<0.05). The semen quality (volume, density, motility and pH) was not affected by added Se in diets, however, the sperm abnormality rate of control bucks was significantly higher than Se supplemented bucks (P<0.05). The testes of 5 goats in each group were examined by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and showed that in Se-deficient bucks the membrane was damaged, and showed the occurrence of abnormalities in the mitochondria of the midpiece of spermatozoa. In conclusion, selenium deficiency resulted in abnormal spermatozoal mitochondria, and supplementation with nano-Se enhanced the testis Se content, testicular and semen GSH-Px activity, protected the membrane system integrity and the tight arrayment of the midpiece of the mitochondria. Further studies are required to research the novel elemental nano-Se with characterization of bioavailability and toxicity in small ruminants. Copyright 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The impact of a faculty learning community on professional and personal development: the facilitator training program of the American Academy on Communication in Healthcare.

PubMed

Chou, Calvin L; Hirschmann, Krista; Fortin, Auguste H; Lichstein, Peter R

2014-07-01

Relationship-centered care attends to the entire network of human relationships essential to patient care. Few faculty development programs prepare faculty to teach principles and skills in relationship-centered care. One exception is the Facilitator Training Program (FTP), a 25-year-old training program of the American Academy on Communication in Healthcare. The authors surveyed FTP graduates to determine the efficacy of its curriculum and the most important elements for participants' learning. In 2007, surveys containing quantitative and narrative elements were distributed to 51 FTP graduates. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The authors analyzed narratives using Burke's dramatistic pentad as a qualitative framework to delineate how interrelated themes interacted in the FTP. Forty-seven respondents (92%) identified two essential acts that happened in the program: an iterative learning process, leading to heightened personal awareness and group facilitation skills; and longevity of learning and effect on career. The structure of the program's learning community provided the scene, and the agents were the participants, who provided support and contributed to mutual success. Methods of developing skills in personal awareness, group facilitation, teaching, and feedback constituted agency. The purpose was to learn skills and to join a community to share common values. The FTP is a learning community that provided faculty with skills in principles of relationship-centered care. Four further features that describe elements of this successful faculty-based learning community are achievement of self-identified goals, distance learning modalities, opportunities to safely discuss workplace issues outside the workplace, and self-renewing membership.

Impact of the proposed I-326 crossing on the 500-year flood stages of the Congaree River near Columbia, South Carolina

USGS Publications Warehouse

Bennett, C.S.

1984-01-01

A two-dimensional finite-element surface water flow modeling system based on the shallow water equations was used to study the hydraulic impact of the proposed Interstate crossing on the 500-year flood. Infrared aerial photography was used to define regions of homogeneous roughness in the flood plain. Finite-element networks approximating flood plain topography were designed using elements of three roughness types. High water marks established during an 8-year flood that occurred in October 1976 were used to calibrate the model. The 500-year flood (630,000 cu ft/sec) was simulated using the dike on the left bank as the left boundary and the right edge of the flood plain as the right boundary. Simulations were performed without and with the proposed highway embankments in place. Detailed information was obtained about backwater effects upstream from the proposed highway embankments, changes in flow distribution resulting from embankments, and velocities in the vicinity of the bridge openings. The results of the study indicate that the four bridge openings in the right flood plain should be adequate to handle the 500-yr flood flow. Forty percent of the flow passes through the main channel bridge, while the remaining 60% of the flow passes through the three overflow bridges. Average velocities in the bridge openings ranged from 3.4 ft/sec to 6.9 ft/sec with a maximum vertically averaged velocity of 9.3 ft/sec occurring at the right edge of one of the overflow bridges. (Author 's abstract)

Empirical Monod-Beuneu relation of spin relaxation revisited for elemental metals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Szolnoki, L.; Kiss, A.; Forró, L.; Simon, F.

2014-03-01

Monod and Beuneu [P. Monod and F. Beuneu, Phys. Rev. B 19, 911 (1979), 10.1103/PhysRevB.19.911] established the validity of the Elliott-Yafet theory for elemental metals through correlating the experimental electron spin resonance linewidth with the so-called spin-orbit admixture coefficients and the momentum-relaxation theory. The spin-orbit admixture coefficients data were based on atomic spin-orbit splitting. We highlight two shortcomings of the previous description: (i) the momentum-relaxation involves the Debye temperature and the electron-phonon coupling whose variation among the elemental metals was neglected, (ii) the Elliott-Yafet theory involves matrix elements of the spin-orbit coupling (SOC), which are however not identical to the SOC induced energy splitting of the atomic levels, even though the two have similar magnitudes. We obtain the empirical spin-orbit admixture parameters for the alkali metals by considering the proper description of the momentum relaxation theory. In addition we present a model calculation, which highlights the difference between the SOC matrix element and energy splitting.

Paroxetine reduces social anxiety in individuals with a co-occurring alcohol use disorder

PubMed Central

Book, Sarah W.; Thomas, Suzanne E.; Randall, Patrick K.; Randall, Carrie L.

2008-01-01

Patients with social anxiety disorder who are seen in clinical practice commonly have additional psychiatric comorbidity, including alcohol use disorders. The first line treatment for social anxiety disorder is selective-serotonin-reuptake-inhibitors (SSRIs), such as paroxetine. However, the efficacy of SSRIs has been determined with studies that excluded alcoholics. Forty two subjects with social anxiety and a co-occurring alcohol use disorder participated in a 16-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial to determine the efficacy of paroxetine for social anxiety in patients with co-occurring alcohol problems. Paroxetine was superior to placebo in reducing social anxiety, as measured by the Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale total and subscale scores and additional measures of social anxiety. This study provides the first evidence-based recommendation for the use of an SSRI to treat social anxiety in this patient population. PMID:17448631

Two ABREs, two redundant root-specific and one W-box cis-acting elements are functional in the sunflower HAHB4 promoter.

PubMed

Manavella, Pablo A; Dezar, Carlos A; Ariel, Federico D; Chan, Raquel L

2008-10-01

HAHB4 is a sunflower gene encoding a homeodomain-leucine zipper (HD-Zip) transcription factor. It was previously demonstrated that this gene is regulated at the transcriptional level by several abiotic factors and hormones. A previous analysis in the PLACE database revealed the presence of four putative ABREs. In this work these four elements and also one W-box and two root-specific expression elements were characterized as functional. Site-directed mutagenesis on the promoter, stable transformation of Arabidopis plants as well as transient transformation of sunflower leaves, were performed. The analysis of the transformants was carried out by histochemistry and real time RT-PCR. The results indicate that just one ABRE out of the four is responsible for ABA, NaCl and drought regulation. However, NaCl induction occurs also by an additional ABA-independent way involving another two overlapped ABREs. On the other hand, it was determined that the W-box located 5' upstream is responsive to ethylene and only two root-specific expression elements, among the several detected, are functional but redundant. Conservation of molecular mechanisms between sunflower and Arabidopsis is strongly supported by this experimental work.

Evaluation of the role of TAX, HBZ, and HTLV-1 proviral load on the survival of ATLL patients.

PubMed

Akbarin, Mohammad Mehdi; Shirdel, Abbas; Bari, Alireza; Mohaddes, Seyedeh Tahereh; Rafatpanah, Houshang; Karimani, Ehsan Ghayour; Etminani, Kobra; Golabpour, Amin; Torshizi, Reza

2017-06-01

Adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATLL) is an aggressive malignancy with very poor prognosis and short survival, caused by the human T-lymphotropic virus type-1 (HTLV-1). The HTLV-1 biomarkers trans-activator x (TAX) and HTLV-1 basic leucine zipper factor (HBZ) are main oncogenes and life-threatening elements. This study aimed to assess the role of the TAX and HBZ genes and HTLV-1 proviral load (PVL) in the survival of patients with ATLL. Forty-three HTLV-1-infected individuals, including 18 asymptomatic carriers (AC) and 25 ATLL patients (ATLL), were evaluated between 2011 and 2015. The mRNA expression of TAX and HBZ and the HTLV-1 PVL were measured by quantitative PCR. Significant differences in the mean expression levels of TAX and HBZ were observed between the two study groups (ATLL and AC, P =0.014 and P =0.000, respectively). In addition, the ATLL group showed a significantly higher PVL than AC ( P =0.000). There was a significant negative relationship between PVL and survival among all study groups ( P =0.047). The HTLV-1 PVL and expression of TAX and HBZ were higher in the ATLL group than in the AC group. Moreover, a higher PVL was associated with shorter survival time among all ATLL subjects. Therefore, measurement of PVL, TAX , and HBZ may be beneficial for monitoring and predicting HTLV-1-infection outcomes, and PVL may be useful for prognosis assessment of ATLL patients. This research demonstrates the possible correlation between these virological markers and survival in ATLL patients.

Myomectomy to conserve fertility: seven-year follow-up.

PubMed

Sangha, Roopina; Strickler, Ronald; Dahlman, Marisa; Havstad, Suzanne; Wegienka, Ganesa

2015-01-01

To observe the occurrence of pregnancy in women undergoing minimally invasive and open myomectomy for symptoms attributed to uterine fibroids and who desire future pregnancy. We performed a retrospective chart review of women who had undergone myomectomy at least two years previously within the Henry Ford Health System in Detroit, MI. We reviewed the subsequent fertility outcomes according to the fertility goals identified by each woman. During the seven-year observation window, 310 women underwent myomectomy and 124 (40%) of these women desired pregnancy. Forty-nine women desiring pregnancy (40%) conceived, and 30 (61% of those who conceived) delivered a viable infant from their first pregnancy. In addition, two women had a live birth after a miscarriage, and one had a live birth after an ectopic pregnancy. Five women had a second live-born baby. There were no differences in the occurrence of pregnancy or pregnancy outcome according to surgical approach, patient age or race, number of uterine incisions, or whether the endometrial cavity was entered. In addition, five of 186 women who did not have a fertility goal (3%) conceived, and one woman delivered two babies. Myomectomy performed to preserve fertility resulted in approximately one in four women having a live birth, independent of surgical technique.

Effectiveness of the Challenging Horizons After-School Program for Young Adolescents With ADHD

PubMed Central

Evans, Steven W.; Schultz, Brandon K.; DeMars, Christine E.; Davis, Heather

2012-01-01

There are no empirically supported psychosocial treatments for adolescents with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This study examined the treatment benefits of the Challenging Horizons Program (CHP), a psychosocial treatment program designed to address the impairment and symptoms associated with this disorder in young adolescents. In addition to evaluating social and academic functioning outcomes, two critical questions from previous studies pertaining to the timing, duration, and family involvement in treatment were addressed. Forty-nine students recruited in two cohorts were randomly assigned to receive either the CHP or a community care condition. Outcomes suggested that students who received the CHP improved compared to students in the control condition on measures of symptoms and impairment. Implications related to timing, duration, and family involvement are reported, as well as recommendations for future studies. PMID:21658528

The novel approach to the biomonitor survey using one- and two-dimensional Kohonen networks.

PubMed

Deljanin, Isidora; Antanasijević, Davor; Urošević, Mira Aničić; Tomašević, Milica; Perić-Grujić, Aleksandra; Ristić, Mirjana

2015-10-01

To compare the applicability of the leaves of horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum) and linden (Tilia spp.) as biomonitors of trace element concentrations, a coupled approach of one- and two-dimensional Kohonen networks was applied for the first time. The self-organizing networks (SONs) and the self-organizing maps (SOMs) were applied on the database obtained for the element accumulation (Cr, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, Pb, V, As, Cd) and the SOM for the Pb isotopes in the leaves for a multiyear period (2002-2006). A. hippocastanum seems to be a more appropriate biomonitor since it showed more consistent results in the analysis of trace elements and Pb isotopes. The SOM proved to be a suitable and sensitive tool for assessing differences in trace element concentrations and for the Pb isotopic composition in leaves of different species. In addition, the SON provided more clear data on seasonal and temporal accumulation of trace elements in the leaves and could be recommended complementary to the SOM analysis of trace elements in biomonitoring studies.

Participatory ergonomics and design of technical assistance.

PubMed

Rodríguez, Claudia Isabel Rojas

2012-01-01

This work describes the experience of application of a procedural initiative, which aimed to identify and address technical assistance needs progressively in therapy and rehabilitation activities. The proposal theoretical axes are the basics of participatory ergonomics and interdisciplinary work, was raised with the intention of addressing important issues for the entire design process including: perception, attention, memory and human being comfort, and the interrelationships that create objects in the context in which they are used. This project was done in collaboration with leading institutes for the rehabilitation of Colombia: Cirec and Roosevelt, through two investigative stages: a first ethnographic stage, during which were observed one hundred forty four (144) procedures of rehabilitation and therapy to build a bank of assistive technology needs, justified on the project observation variables. And a second stage of action research in which they were designed elements that facilitate the implementation of rehabilitation procedures efficiently. Currently being developed experiential situations in different hospitals to examine the reliability of the proposed solutions.

Comparison of indium-labeled-leukocyte imaging with sequential technetium-gallium scanning in the diagnosis of low-grade musculoskeletal sepsis. A prospective study

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

Merkel, K.D.; Brown, M.L.; Dewanjee, M.K.

We prospectively compared sequential technetium-gallium imaging with indium-labeled-leukocyte imaging in fifty patients with suspected low-grade musculoskeletal sepsis. Adequate images and follow-up examinations were obtained for forty-two patients. The presence or absence of low-grade sepsis was confirmed by histological and bacteriological examinations of tissue specimens taken at surgery in thirty of the forty-two patients. In these thirty patients, the sensitivity of sequential Tc-Ga imaging was 48 per cent, the specificity was 86 per cent, and the accuracy was 57 per cent, whereas the sensitivity of the indium-labeled-leukocyte technique was 83 per cent, the specificity was 86 per cent, and the accuracymore » was 83 per cent. When the additional twelve patients for whom surgery was deemed unnecessary were considered, the sensitivity of sequential Tc-Ga imaging was 50 per cent, the specificity was 78 per cent, and the accuracy was 62 per cent, as compared with a sensitivity of 83 per cent, a specificity of 94 per cent, and an accuracy of 88 per cent with the indium-labeled-leukocyte method. In patients with a prosthesis the indium-labeled-leukocyte image was 94 per cent accurate, compared with 75 per cent accuracy for sequential Tc-Ga imaging. Statistical analysis of these data demonstrated that the indium-labeled-leukocyte technique was superior to sequential Tc-Ga imaging in detecting areas of low-grade musculoskeletal sepsis.« less

Modified Treatment Algorithm for Pseudogynecomastia After Massive Weight Loss.

PubMed

Ziegler, Ulrich E; Lorenz, Udo; Daigeler, Adrien; Ziegler, Selina N; Zeplin, Philip H

2018-06-19

Pseudogynecomastia is the increased aggregation of fatty tissue in the area of the male breast with resultant female appearance. Two forms can appear: pseudogynecomastia after massive weight loss (pseudogynecomastia obese [PO]) and pseudogynecomastia, which is caused only by adipose tissue (pseudogynecomastia fat). For PO, only the Gusenoff classification with corresponding operative treatment options exists. However, this classification is limited by the fact that it underestimates the extensive variability of residual fat tissue and skin excess, both crucial factors for operative planning. For this reason, we propose a modification of the treatment algorithm for the Gusenoff classification based on our results to achieve more masculine results. A total of 43 male patients with PO were included in this retrospective study (grade 1a, n = 1; grade 1b, n = 1; grade 2, n = 17; grade 3, n = 24). Forty-two mastectomies with a free nipple-areola complex (NAC) transposition (grades 2 and 3) and 1 with a subcutaneous mastectomy (grade 1a) with periareolar lifting were performed. A retrospective chart review was performed to obtain data regarding age, body mass index, body mass index loss, weight loss, reason for weight loss, comorbidities, nicotine, and additional procedures, postoperative sensitive on the NAC transplants and complications. None of the free-nipple grafts were lost. Forty (95%) of 42 patients with mastectomy had a resensitivity on the NAC. For pseudogynecomastia, the treatment algorithm of the Gusenoff classification should be modified and adapted according to our recommendations to achieve more optimal masculine results.

Determinations of rare earth element abundance and U-Pb age of zircons using multispot laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Yokoyama, Takaomi D; Suzuki, Toshihiro; Kon, Yoshiaki; Hirata, Takafumi

2011-12-01

We have developed a new calibration technique for multielement determination and U-Pb dating of zircon samples using laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICPMS) coupled with galvanometric optics. With the galvanometric optics, laser ablation of two or more sample materials could be achieved in very short time intervals (~10 ms). The resulting sample aerosols released from different ablation pits or different solid samples were mixed and homogenized within the sample cell and then transported into the ICP ion source. Multiple spot laser ablation enables spiking of analytes or internal standard elements directly into the solid samples, and therefore the standard addition calibration method can be applied for the determination of trace elements in solid samples. In this study, we have measured the rare earth element (REE) abundances of two zircon samples (Nancy 91500 and Prešovice) based on the standard addition technique, using a direct spiking of analytes through a multispot laser ablation of the glass standard material (NIST SRM612). The resulting REE abundance data show good agreement with previously reported values within analytical uncertainties achieved in this study (10% for most elements). Our experiments demonstrated that nonspectroscopic interferences on 14 REEs could be significantly reduced by the standard addition technique employed here. Another advantage of galvanometric devices is the accumulation of sample aerosol released from multiple spots. In this study we have measured the U-Pb age of a zircon sample (LMR) using an accumulation of sample aerosols released from 10 separate ablation pits of low diameters (~8 μm). The resulting (238)U-(206)Pb age data for the LMR zircons was 369 ± 64 Ma, which is in good agreement with previously reported age data (367.6 ± 1.5 Ma). (1) The data obtained here clearly demonstrate that the multiple spot laser ablation-ICPMS technique can become a powerful approach for elemental and isotopic ratio measurements in solid materials.

A new perspective of using sequential extraction: To predict the deficiency of trace elements during anaerobic digestion.

PubMed

Cai, Yafan; Wang, Jungang; Zhao, Yubin; Zhao, Xiaoling; Zheng, Zehui; Wen, Boting; Cui, Zongjun; Wang, Xiaofen

2018-09-01

Trace elements were commonly used as additives to facilitate anaerobic digestion. However, their addition is often blind because of the complexity of reaction conditions, which has impeded their widespread application. Therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate deficiencies in trace elements during anaerobic digestion by establishing relationships between changes in trace element bioavailability (the degree to which elements are available for interaction with biological systems) and digestion performance. To accomplish this, two batch experiments were conducted. In the first, sequential extraction was used to detect changes in trace element fractions and then to evaluate trace element bioavailability in the whole digestion cycle. In the second batch experiment, trace elements (Co, Fe, Cu, Zn, Mn, Mo and Se) were added to the reaction system at three concentrations (low, medium and high) and their effects were monitored. The results showed that sequential extraction was a suitable method for assessment of the bioavailability of trace elements (appropriate coefficient of variation and recovery rate). The results revealed that Se had the highest (44.2%-70.9%) bioavailability, while Fe had the lowest (1.7%-3.0%). A lack of trace elements was not directly related to their absolute bioavailability, but was instead associated with changes in their bioavailability throughout the digestion cycle. Trace elements were insufficient when their bioavailability was steady or increased over the digestion cycle. These results indicate that changes in trace element bioavailability during the digestion cycle can be used to predict their deficiency. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The apparatus composition and architecture of Cordylodus pander - Concepts of homology in primitive conodonts

USGS Publications Warehouse

Smith, M.P.; Donoghue, P.C.J.; Repetski, J.E.

2005-01-01

A clear distinction may be drawn between the perpendicular architecture of the feeding apparatus of ozarkodinid, prioniodontid and prioniodinid conodonts, in which the P elements are situated at a high angle to the M and S elements, and the parallel architecture of panderodontid and other coniform apparatuses, where two suites of coniform elements lie parallel to each other and oppose across the midline. The quest for homologies between the two architectures has been fraught with difficulty, at least in part because of the paucity of natural assemblages of coniform taxa. A diagenetically fused apparatus of Cordylodns lindstroini elements is here described which is made up of one rounded and two compressed element morphotypes. One of the compressed elements is bowed and asymmetrical and the other is unbowed and more symmetrical. These compressed elements are considered to be homologous with those of panderodontid apparatuses and would have lain at the caudal end of the parallel arrays, with the more symmetrical morphotypes located rostrally to the asymmetrical ones. The bowed and unbowed compressed elements of Cordylodns thus correspond, respectively, to the pt and pf positions of panderodontid apparatuses. In addition, the presence of symmetry transition within the rounded elements of Cordylodns, but not the compressed morphotypes, enables correlation of these with the S and M element locations of ozarkodinid apparatuses. By extension, the compressed elements must be homologues of the P elements. Specifically, the asymmetrical pt morphotype is homologous with the P1 of ozarkodinids and the more symmetrical and rostral pf morphotype is homologous with the P2 position. However, because of uncertainties over the nature of topological transformation of the rostral element array (the "rounded" or "costate" suites), it is not possible to recognize specific homologies between these elements and the M and S elements of ozarkodinids. Morphologic differentiation of P from M and S element suites thus preceded the topological transformation from parallel to perpendicular apparatus architectures.

Finite element structural redesign by large admissible perturbations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bernitsas, Michael M.; Beyko, E.; Rim, C. W.; Alzahabi, B.

1991-01-01

In structural redesign, two structural states are involved; the baseline (known) State S1 with unacceptable performance, and the objective (unknown) State S2 with given performance specifications. The difference between the two states in performance and design variables may be as high as 100 percent or more depending on the scale of the structure. A Perturbation Approach to Redesign (PAR) is presented to relate any two structural states S1 and S2 that are modeled by the same finite element model and represented by different values of the design variables. General perturbation equations are derived expressing implicitly the natural frequencies, dynamic modes, static deflections, static stresses, Euler buckling loads, and buckling modes of the objective S2 in terms of its performance specifications, and S1 data and Finite Element Analysis (FEA) results. Large Admissible Perturbation (LEAP) algorithms are implemented in code RESTRUCT to define the objective S2 incrementally without trial and error by postprocessing FEA results of S1 with no additional FEAs. Systematic numerical applications in redesign of a 10 element 48 degree of freedom (dof) beam, a 104 element 192 dof offshore tower, a 64 element 216 dof plate, and a 144 element 896 dof cylindrical shell show the accuracy, efficiency, and potential of PAR to find an objective state that may differ 100 percent from the baseline design.

Development of a competency framework for evidence-based practice in nursing.

PubMed

Leung, Kat; Trevena, Lyndal; Waters, Donna

2016-04-01

The measurement of competence in evidence-based practice (EBP) remains challenging to many educators and academics due to the lack of explicit competency criteria. Much uncertainty exists about what specific EBP competencies nurses should meet and how these should be measured. The objectives of this study are to develop a competency framework for measuring evidence-based knowledge and skills in nursing and to elicit the views of health educators/researchers about elements within the framework. A descriptive survey design with questionnaire. Between August and December 2013, forty-two health academics/educators, clinicians; and researchers from the medical and nursing schools at the University of Sydney and the Nurse Teacher's Society in Australia were invited to comment on proposed elements for measuring evidence-based knowledge and skills. The EBP competency framework was designed to measure nurses' knowledge and skills for using evidence in practice. Participants were invited to rate their agreement on the structure and relevance of the framework and to state their opinion about the measurement criteria for evidence-based nursing practice. Participant agreement on the structure and relevance of the framework was substantial, ICC: 0.80, 95% CI: 0.67-0.88, P<0.0001. Qualitative analysis of two open-ended survey questions revealed three common themes in participants' opinion of the competency elements: (1) a useful EBP framework; (2) varying expectations of EBP competence; and (3) challenges to EBP implementation. The findings of this study suggested that the EBP competency framework is of credible value for facilitating evidence-based practice education and research in nursing. However, there remains some uncertainty and disagreement about the levels of EBP competence required for nurses. These challenges further implicate the need for setting a reasonable competency benchmark with a broader group of stakeholders in nursing. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Contribution of Massive Stars to the Production of Neutron Capture Elements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Federman, Steven

2010-09-01

Elements beyond the Fe-peak must be synthesized through neutron-capture processes. With the aim of understanding the contribution of massive stars to the synthesis of neutron-capture elements during the current epoch, we propose an archival survey of interstellar arsenic, cadmium, tin, and lead. Nucleosynthesis via the weak slow process and the rapid process are the routes involving massive stars, while the main slow process arises from the evolution of low-mass stars. Ultraviolet lines for the dominant ions for each element will be used to extract interstellar abundances. The survey involves about forty sight lines, many of which are associated with regions of massive star formation shaped by core-collapse supernovae {SNe II}. The sample will increase the number of published determinations by factors of 2 to 5. HST spectra are the only means for determining the elemental abundances for this set of species in diffuse interstellar clouds. The survey contains directions that are both molecule poor and molecule rich, thereby enabling us to examine the overall level of depletion onto grains as a function of gas density. Complementary laboratory determinations of oscillator strengths will place the interstellar measurements on an absolute scale. The results from the proposed study will be combined with published interstellar abundances for other neutron capture elements and the suite of measurements will be compared to results from stars throughout the history of the Galaxy.

Apoptosis Governs the Elimination of Schistosoma japonicum from the Non-Permissive Host Microtus fortis

PubMed Central

Peng, Jinbiao; Gobert, Geoffrey N.; Hong, Yang; Jiang, Weibin; Han, Hongxiao; McManus, Donald P.; Wang, Xinzhi; Liu, Jinming; Fu, Zhiqiang; Shi, Yaojun; Lin, Jiaojiao

2011-01-01

The reed vole, Microtus fortis, is the only known mammalian host in which schistosomes of Schistosoma japonicum are unable to mature and cause significant pathogenesis. However, little is known about how Schistosoma japonicum maturation (and, therefore, the development of schistosomiasis) is prevented in M. fortis. In the present study, the ultrastructure of 10 days post infection schistosomula from BALB/c mice and M. fortis were first compared using scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Electron microscopic investigations showed growth retardation and ultrastructural differences in the tegument and sub-tegumental tissues as well as in the parenchymal cells of schistosomula from M. fortis compared with those in BALB/c mice. Then, microarray analysis revealed significant differential expression between the schistosomula from the two rodents, with 3,293 down-regulated (by ≥2-fold) and 71 up-regulated (≥2 fold) genes in schistosomula from the former. The up-regulated genes included a proliferation-related gene encoding granulin (Grn) and tropomyosin. Genes that were down-regulated in schistosomula from M. fortis included apoptosis-inhibited genes encoding a baculoviral IAP repeat-containing protein (SjIAP) and cytokine-induced apoptosis inhibitor (SjCIAP), genes encoding molecules involved in insulin metabolism, long-chain fatty acid metabolism, signal transduction, the transforming growth factor (TGF) pathway, the Wnt pathway and in development. TUNEL (terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling) and PI/Annexin V-FITC assays, caspase 3/7 activity analysis, and flow cytometry revealed that the percentages of early apoptotic and late apoptotic and/or necrotic cells, as well as the level of caspase activity, in schistosomula from M. fortis were all significantly higher than in those from BALB/c mice. PMID:21731652

Morphometric and molecular analyses of the sand fly species Lutzomyia shannoni (Diptera: Psychodidae: Phlebotominae) collected from seven different geographical areas in the southeastern United States.

PubMed

Florin, David A; Davies, Stephen J; Olsen, Cara; Lawyer, Phillip; Lipnick, Robert; Schultz, George; Rowton, Edgar; Wilkerson, Richard; Keep, Lisa

2011-03-01

A morphometric and molecular study of adult male and female Lutzomyia shannoni (Dyar 1929) collected at seven different locations within the southeastern United States was conducted to assess the degree of divergence between the grouped specimens from each location. The collection locations were as follows: Fort Bragg, NC; Fort Campbell, KY; Fort Rucker, AL; Ossabaw Island, GA; Patuxent National Wildlife Research Refuge, MD; Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge, FL; and Baton Rouge, LA. Forty males and forty females from each location were analyzed morphometrically from 54 and 49 character measurements, respectively. In addition, the molecular markers consisting of the partial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (from 105 sand flies: 15 specimens/collection site) and the partial internal transcribed spacer 2 (from 42 sand flies: six specimens/collection site) were compared. Multivariate analyses indicate that the low degree of variation between the grouped specimens from each collection site prevents the separation of any collection site into an entity that could be interpreted as a distinct population. The molecular analyses were in concordance with the morphometric study as no collection location grouped into a separate population based on the two partial markers. The grouped specimens from each collection site appear to be within the normal variance of the species, indicating a single population in the southeast United States. It is recommended that additional character analyses of L. shannoni based on more molecular markers, behavioral, ecological, and physiological characteristics, be conducted before ruling out the possibility of populations or a cryptic species complex within the southeastern United States.

Apollo 15 yellow-brown volcanic glass - Chemistry and petrogenetic relations to green volcanic glass and olivine-normative mare basalts

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hughes, S. S.; Schmitt, R. A.; Delano, J. W.

1988-01-01

Electron microprobe and INAA were used to analyze forty spherules of Apollo 15 yellow-brown glass for major and trace elements. The glass is one of twenty-five high-Mg primary magmas emplaced on the lunar surface in pyroclastic eruptions. The abundances show that the magma was produced by partial melting of differentiated cumulates in the lunar mantle. Models to explain the possible source-regions of several Apollo 15 and Apollo 12 low-Ti mare magmas are presented.

Automation and robotics for COLUMBUS: An implementation concept for the free flying laboratory (MTFF)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goelz, G.; Sommer, B.

1992-01-01

With nearly forty percent of the funding, Germany is the main contributor to the European COLUMBUS Programme, followed by Italy, France and further ESA member states. The COLUMBUS elements are the Attached Laboratory (APM) to be permanently attached to the Space Station FREEDOM, the polar platform (PPF) and the Man Tended Free Flyer (MTFF). The latter element is regarded to be of special interest for the German micro-g community. Until now the implementation of A&R Technologies has not been included as part of the system concept for the COLUMBUS laboratory modules. Yet especially for the Free Flyer, a high degree of A&R will be indispensible. An A&R system concept and implementation options for A&R are given to make the COLUMBUS labs 'intelligent' laboratories in orbit.

Congressional Authority to Limit U.S. Military Operations in Iraq

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-07-11

consist of “one major, four captains, sixteen first lieutenants, twelve second lieutenants, forty-eight sergeants, forty-eight corporals , thirty-two...after-the-fact financing . In 1994, for example, President Clinton based his authority to order the participation of U.S. forces in NATO actions in...1973). 97 Fleming v. Mohawk Wrecking & Lumber Co., 331 U.S. 111, 116 (1947). See also Berk v. Laird 317 F. Supp. 715, 727-728 (D.C.N.Y. 1970

Fault Analysis and Detection in Microgrids with High PV Penetration

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

El Khatib, Mohamed; Hernandez Alvidrez, Javier; Ellis, Abraham

In this report we focus on analyzing current-controlled PV inverters behaviour under faults in order to develop fault detection schemes for microgrids with high PV penetration. Inverter model suitable for steady state fault studies is presented and the impact of PV inverters on two protection elements is analyzed. The studied protection elements are superimposed quantities based directional element and negative sequence directional element. Additionally, several non-overcurrent fault detection schemes are discussed in this report for microgrids with high PV penetration. A detailed time-domain simulation study is presented to assess the performance of the presented fault detection schemes under different microgridmore » modes of operation.« less

Workplace harassment: a test of definitional criteria derived from an analysis of research definitions and Canadian social definitions.

PubMed

Claybourn, Marvin; Spinner, Barry; Malcom, Kathryn

2014-01-01

Public awareness of the occurrence and effects of workplace harassment continues to grow. However, despite increasing awareness, ambiguity remains about how harassment is defined and, consequently, how to determine whether a questionable situation should be judged as harassment. For this research we reviewed definitions of workplace harassment and identified four elements that were frequently included as criteria for making judgments of whether harassment had occurred (i.e., repetition, intent, perceived intent, consequences). In two separate studies, fictional scenarios were used to evaluate the extent to which participants' judgments about harassment were affected by the presence or absence of the four elements. Ratings of the scenarios provided by student participants (study one; N=160) and a convenience sample of community participants (study two; N=292) with varying levels of work experience and diverse professional backgrounds were analysed. According to our results the four elements significantly influenced participants' judgments of harassment. The intent of the harasser had the strongest and most consistent effect on harassment judgements and whether the behaviour was repeated had the weakest and least consistent effect. In addition to the unique effects of the individual elements, significant interactions between the elements emerged and suggest that harassment judgements depend on the interplay of a variety of factors. Though the results of these studies add to the growing body of research that focuses on defining workplace harassment, they also highlight the need for additional research in the area. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The relation between amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and inorganic selenium in drinking water: a population-based case-control study

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

Background A community in northern Italy was previously reported to have an excess incidence of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis among residents exposed to high levels of inorganic selenium in their drinking water. Methods To assess the extent to which such association persisted in the decade following its initial observation, we conducted a population-based case-control study encompassing forty-one newly-diagnosed cases of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and eighty-two age- and sex-matched controls. We measured long-term intake of inorganic selenium along with other potentially neurotoxic trace elements. Results We found that consumption of drinking water containing ≥ 1 μg/l of inorganic selenium was associated with a relative risk for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis of 5.4 (95% confidence interval 1.1-26) after adjustment for confounding factors. Greater amounts of cumulative inorganic selenium intake were associated with progressively increasing effects, with a relative risk of 2.1 (95% confidence interval 0.5-9.1) for intermediate levels of cumulative intake and 6.4 (95% confidence interval 1.3-31) for high intake. Conclusion Based on these results, coupled with other epidemiologic data and with findings from animal studies that show specific toxicity of the trace element on motor neurons, we hypothesize that dietary intake of inorganic selenium through drinking water increases the risk for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. PMID:21134276

Influence of Minor Alloying Elements on Selective Oxidation and Reactive Wetting of CMnSi TRIP Steel during Hot Dip Galvanizing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cho, Lawrence; Kim, Myung Soo; Kim, Young Ha; De Cooman, Bruno C.

2014-09-01

The influence of the addition of minor alloying elements on the selective oxidation and the reactive wetting of CMnSi transformation-induced plasticity (TRIP) steels was studied by means of galvanizing simulator tests. Five TRIP steels containing small alloying additions of Cr, Ni, Ti, Cu, and Sn were investigated. After intercritical annealing (IA) at 1093 K (820 °C) in a N2 + 5 pct H2 gas atmosphere with a dew point of 213 K (-60 °C), two types of oxides were formed on the strip surface: Mn-rich xMnO·SiO2 ( x > 1.5) and Si-rich xMnO·SiO2 ( x < 0.3) oxides. The addition of the minor alloying elements changed the morphology of the Si-rich oxides from a continuous film to discrete islands and this improved the wettability by molten Zn. The improved wetting effect of the minor alloying elements was attributed to an increased area fraction of the surface where the oxides were thinner, enabling a direct unhindered reaction between Fe and the Al in the liquid Zn and the formation of the inhibition layer during the hot dip galvanizing. The addition of a small amount of Sn is shown to significantly decrease the density of Zn-coating defects on CMnSi TRIP steels.

New procedure of quantitative mapping of Ti and Al released from dental implant and Mg, Ca, Fe, Zn, Cu, Mn as physiological elements in oral mucosa by LA-ICP-MS.

PubMed

Sajnóg, Adam; Hanć, Anetta; Koczorowski, Ryszard; Barałkiewicz, Danuta

2017-12-01

A new procedure for determination of elements derived from titanium implants and physiological elements in soft tissues by laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) is presented. The analytical procedure was developed which involved preparation of in-house matrix matched solid standards with analyte addition based on certified reference material (CRM) MODAS-4 Cormorant Tissue. Addition of gelatin, serving as a binding agent, essentially improved physical properties of standards. Performance of the analytical method was assayed and validated by calculating parameters like precision, detection limits, trueness and recovery of analyte addition using additional CRM - ERM-BB184 Bovine Muscle. Analyte addition was additionally confirmed by microwave digestion of solid standards and analysis by solution nebulization ICP-MS. The detection limits are in range 1.8μgg -1 to 450μgg -1 for Mn and Ca respectively. The precision values range from 7.3% to 42% for Al and Zn respectively. The estimated recoveries of analyte addition line within scope of 83%-153% for Mn and Cu respectively. Oral mucosa samples taken from patients treated with titanium dental implants were examined using developed analytical method. Standards and tissue samples were cryocut into 30µm thin sections. LA-ICP-MS allowed to obtain two-dimensional maps of distribution of elements in tested samples which revealed high content of Ti and Al derived from implants. Photographs from optical microscope displayed numerous particles with µm size in oral mucosa samples which suggests that they are residues from implantation procedure. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Research and Planning for Higher Education.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fenske, Robert H., Ed.; Staskey, Paul J., Ed.

Forty-four papers are collected in this volume and categorized: invited papers on research and planning for higher education; organizational analysis; finance and resource allocation; program and outcomes analysis; modeling; evaluation; and studies of faculty and students. Abstracts of additional papers are included. (MSE)

Undergraduate Training for Industrial Careers.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stehney, Ann K.

1983-01-01

Forty-eight mathematicians in industry, business, and government replied to a questionnaire on the relative merits of the traditional undergraduate curriculum, advanced topics in pure mathematics, computer programing, additional computer science, and specialized or applied topics. They favored programing and applied mathematics, along with a…

Ontogeny of the cranial skeleton in a Darwin's finch (Geospiza fortis)

PubMed Central

Genbrugge, Annelies; Heyde, Anne-Sophie; Adriaens, Dominique; Boone, Matthieu; Van Hoorebeke, Luc; Dirckx, Joris; Aerts, Peter; Podos, Jeffrey; Herrel, Anthony

2011-01-01

Darwin's finches are a model system in ecological and evolutionary research, but surprisingly little is known about their skull morphology and development. Indeed, only the early beak development and external variation in adult beak shape has been studied. Understanding the development of the skull from embryo up to the adult is important to gain insights into how selection acts upon, and drives, variation in beak shape. Here, we provide a detailed description of the skeletal development of the skull in the medium ground finch (Geospiza fortis). Although the ossification sequence of the cranial elements is broadly similar to that observed for other birds, some differences can be observed. Unexpectedly, our data show that large changes in skull shape take place between the nestling and the juvenile phases. The reorientation of the beak, the orbit and the formation of well-developed processes and cristae suggest that these changes are likely related to the use of the beak after leaving the nest. This suggests that the active use of the jaw muscles during seed cracking plays an important role in shaping the adult skull morphology and may be driving some of the intra-specific variation observed in species such as G. fortis. Investigating the development of the jaw muscles and their interaction with the observed ossification and formation of the skull and lower jaw would allow further insights into the ecology and evolution of beak morphology in Darwin's finches. PMID:21599660

Two main and a new type rare earth elements in Mg alloys: A review

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kong, Linghang

2017-09-01

Magnesium (Mg) alloys stand for the lightest structure engineering materials. Moreover, the strengthening of Mg alloys in ductility, toughness and corrosion predominates their wide applications. With adding rare earth elements in Mg, the mechanical properties will be improved remarkably, especially their plasticity and strength. A brief overview of the addition of rare earth elements for Mg alloys is shown. The basic mechanisms of strengthening Mg alloys with rare earth elements are reviewed, including the solid solution strengthening, grain refinement and long period stacking ordered (LPSO) phase. Furthermore, the available rare earth elements are summarized by type, chemical or physical effects and other unique properties. Finally, some challenge problems that the research is facing and future expectations of ra-re-earth Mg alloys are stated and discussed.

A nuclear factor I-like activity and a liver-specific repressor govern estrogen-regulated in vitro transcription from the Xenopus laevis vitellogenin B1 promoter.

PubMed

Corthésy, B; Cardinaux, J R; Claret, F X; Wahli, W

1989-12-01

A hormone-controlled in vitro transcription system derived from Xenopus liver nuclear extracts was exploited to identify novel cis-acting elements within the vitellogenin gene B1 promoter region. In addition to the already well-documented estrogen-responsive element (ERE), two elements were found within the 140 base pairs upstream of the transcription initiation site. One of them, a negative regulatory element, is responsible for the lack of promoter activity in the absence of the hormone and, as demonstrated by DNA-binding assays, interacts with a liver-specific transcription factor. The second is required in association with the estrogen-responsive element to mediate hormonal induction and is recognized by the Xenopus liver homolog of nuclear factor I.

Prospective cross-sectional study of tuberculosis screening in United Arab Emirates.

PubMed

Almarzooqi, Farida; Alkhemeiri, Aysha; Aljaberi, Ahmed; Hashmey, Rayhan; Zoubeidi, Taoufik; Souid, Abdul-Kader

2018-05-01

Intense migrations from tuberculosis endemic areas to Gulf countries create special risks for people in the region. The purpose of this study was to provide data that could justify implementing universal, regular TB screening in UAE. This prospective, cross-sectional study used interferon-γ release assay (IGRA) to screen for TB among Emirati citizens between August-2016 and May-2017; expatriates were not included in this study. Participants were recruited from Emiratis attending Tawam Hospital Polyclinics for problems unrelated to TB risk assessment. IGRA was requested for all enrolled participants. A risk-assessment questionnaire was completed by all participants. In addition, a retrospective review of IGRA results (January-2011 to April-2016) was conducted to compare prevalence of positive IGRA in the 'prospective sample' with that in 'patients screened in the past'. Four hundred fifty-five participants (69% females) were enrolled in this study. Participants' age (mean±SD) was 42±16y. The majority of participants had traveled to or had helpers from TB-endemic areas. Two hundred forty (53%) participants had IGRA test. Forty-five (18.8%) participants had positive IGRA, similar to the retrospective results of 12.4% to 23.5%. The prevalence of positive-IGRA in this study is high. Copyright © 2018 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Horizontal transfer of transposons between and within crustaceans and insects

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background Horizontal transfer of transposable elements (HTT) is increasingly appreciated as an important source of genome and species evolution in eukaryotes. However, our understanding of HTT dynamics is still poor in eukaryotes because the diversity of species for which whole genome sequences are available is biased and does not reflect the global eukaryote diversity. Results In this study we characterized two Mariner transposable elements (TEs) in the genome of several terrestrial crustacean isopods, a group of animals particularly underrepresented in genome databases. The two elements have a patchy distribution in the arthropod tree and they are highly similar (>93% over the entire length of the element) to insect TEs (Diptera and Hymenoptera), some of which were previously described in Ceratitis rosa (Crmar2) and Drosophila biarmipes (Mariner-5_Dbi). In addition, phylogenetic analyses and comparisons of TE versus orthologous gene distances at various phylogenetic levels revealed that the taxonomic distribution of the two elements is incompatible with vertical inheritance. Conclusions We conclude that the two Mariner TEs each underwent at least three HTT events. Both elements were transferred once between isopod crustaceans and insects and at least once between isopod crustacean species. Crmar2 was also transferred between tephritid and drosophilid flies and Mariner-5 underwent HT between hymenopterans and dipterans. We demonstrate that these various HTTs took place recently (most likely within the last 3 million years), and propose iridoviruses and/or Wolbachia endosymbionts as potential vectors of these transfers. PMID:24472097

Horizontal transfer of transposons between and within crustaceans and insects.

PubMed

Dupeyron, Mathilde; Leclercq, Sébastien; Cerveau, Nicolas; Bouchon, Didier; Gilbert, Clément

2014-01-29

Horizontal transfer of transposable elements (HTT) is increasingly appreciated as an important source of genome and species evolution in eukaryotes. However, our understanding of HTT dynamics is still poor in eukaryotes because the diversity of species for which whole genome sequences are available is biased and does not reflect the global eukaryote diversity. In this study we characterized two Mariner transposable elements (TEs) in the genome of several terrestrial crustacean isopods, a group of animals particularly underrepresented in genome databases. The two elements have a patchy distribution in the arthropod tree and they are highly similar (>93% over the entire length of the element) to insect TEs (Diptera and Hymenoptera), some of which were previously described in Ceratitis rosa (Crmar2) and Drosophila biarmipes (Mariner-5_Dbi). In addition, phylogenetic analyses and comparisons of TE versus orthologous gene distances at various phylogenetic levels revealed that the taxonomic distribution of the two elements is incompatible with vertical inheritance. We conclude that the two Mariner TEs each underwent at least three HTT events. Both elements were transferred once between isopod crustaceans and insects and at least once between isopod crustacean species. Crmar2 was also transferred between tephritid and drosophilid flies and Mariner-5 underwent HT between hymenopterans and dipterans. We demonstrate that these various HTTs took place recently (most likely within the last 3 million years), and propose iridoviruses and/or Wolbachia endosymbionts as potential vectors of these transfers.

Non-additive interactions involving two distinct elements mediate sloppy-paired regulation by pair-rule transcription factors

PubMed Central

Prazak, Lisa; Fujioka, Miki; Gergen, J. Peter

2010-01-01

The relatively simple combinatorial rules responsible for establishing the initial metameric expression of sloppy-paired-1 (slp1) in the Drosophila blastoderm embryo make this system an attractive model for investigating the mechanism of regulation by pair rule transcription factors. This investigation of slp1 cis-regulatory architecture identifies two distinct elements, a proximal early stripe element (PESE) and a distal early stripe element (DESE) located from −3.1 kb to −2.5 kb and from −8.1 kb to −7.1 kb upstream of the slp1 promoter, respectively, that mediate this early regulation. The proximal element expresses only even-numbered stripes and mediates repression by Even-skipped (Eve) as well as by the combination of Runt and Fushi-tarazu (Ftz). A 272 basepair sub-element of PESE retains Eve-dependent repression, but is expressed throughout the even-numbered parasegments due to the loss of repression by Runt and Ftz. In contrast, the distal element expresses both odd and even-numbered stripes and also drives inappropriate expression in the anterior half of the odd-numbered parasegments due to an inability to respond to repression by Eve. Importantly, a composite reporter gene containing both early stripe elements recapitulates pair-rule gene-dependent regulation in a manner beyond what is expected from combining their individual patterns. These results indicate interactions involving distinct cis-elements contribute to the proper integration of pair-rule regulatory information. A model fully accounting for these results proposes that metameric slp1 expression is achieved through the Runt-dependent regulation of interactions between these two pair-rule response elements and the slp1 promoter. PMID:20435028

Center background shows two fortyhorsepower directcurrent electric motors installed in ...

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

Center background shows two forty-horsepower direct-current electric motors installed in 1904 to provide power to two drive shafts for first floor machine shops. - Thomas A. Edison Laboratories, Building No. 5, Main Street & Lakeside Avenue, West Orange, Essex County, NJ

History of satellite break-ups in space

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gabbard, J.

1985-01-01

By 28 June 1961 the 1st Aerospace Control Squadron had cataloged 115 Earth orbiting satellites from data supplied by a rather diverse collection of radar and optical sensors. On 29 June 1961, the Able Star rocket of the 1961 Omicron launch exploded causing a quantum jump in the number of Earth orbiting objects. Since that time there have been 69 Earth orbiting satellites break up in space whose debris remained in orbit long enough for orbital elements to be developed. A list of the 69 breakups is provided. The debris from some of the lower altitude breakups has all decayed. Among the 69 breakups, 44 have cataloged debris remaining in orbit. As of 1 July 1982, the size of the cataloged orbiting population was exactly 4700. Forty-nine percent of these objects are fragments of the forty-four breakups. For each breakup the various orbits of its debris represent a family of orbits that are related in characteristics due to their common impulse launch. A few examples are shown of how the families are oriented in space.

Effects of videogame distraction using a virtual reality type head-mounted display helmet on cold pressor pain in children.

PubMed

Dahlquist, Lynnda M; Weiss, Karen E; Clendaniel, Lindsay Dillinger; Law, Emily F; Ackerman, Claire Sonntag; McKenna, Kristine D

2009-06-01

To test whether a head-mounted display helmet enhances the effectiveness of videogame distraction for children experiencing cold pressor pain. Forty-one children, aged 6-14 years, underwent one or two baseline cold pressor trials followed by two distraction trials in which they played the same videogame with and without the helmet in counterbalanced order. Pain threshold (elapsed time until the child reported pain) and pain tolerance (total time the child kept the hand submerged in the cold water) were measured for each cold pressor trial. Both distraction conditions resulted in improved pain tolerance relative to baseline. Older children appeared to experience additional benefits from using the helmet, whereas younger children benefited equally from both conditions. The findings suggest that virtual reality technology can enhance the effects of distraction for some children. Research is needed to identify the characteristics of children for whom this technology is best suited.

Mixed formulation for seismic analysis of composite steel-concrete frame structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ayoub, Ashraf Salah Eldin

This study presents a new finite element model for the nonlinear analysis of structures made up of steel and concrete under monotonic and cyclic loads. The new formulation is based on a two-field mixed formulation. In the formulation, both forces and deformations are simultaneously approximated within the element through independent interpolation functions. The main advantages of the model is the accuracy in global and local response with very few elements while maintaining rapid numerical convergence and robustness even under severe cyclic loading. Overall four elements were developed based on the new formulation: an element that describes the behavior of anchored reinforcing bars, an element that describes the behavior of composite steel-concrete beams with deformable shear connectors, an element that describes the behavior of reinforced concrete beam-columns with bond-slip, and an element that describes the behavior of pretensioned or posttensioned, bonded or unbonded prestressed concrete structures. The models use fiber discretization of beam sections to describe nonlinear material response. The transfer of forces between steel and concrete is described with bond elements. Bond elements are modeled with distributed spring elements. The non-linear behavior of the composite element derives entirely from the constitutive laws of the steel, concrete and bond elements. Two additional elements are used for the prestressed concrete models, a friction element that models the effect of friction between the tendon and the duct during the posttensioning operation, and an anchorage element that describes the behavior of the prestressing tendon anchorage in posttensioned structures. Two algorithms for the numerical implementation of the new proposed model are presented; an algorithm that enforces stress continuity at element boundaries, and an algorithm in which stress continuity is relaxed locally inside the element. Stability of both algorithms is discussed. Comparison with standard displacement based models and earlier flexibility based models is presented through numerical studies. The studies prove the superiority of the mixed model over both displacement and flexibility models. Correlation studies of the proposed model with experimental results of structural specimens are conducted. The studies show the accuracy of the model and its numerical robustness even under severe cyclic loading conditions.

Trace-metal contamination in the glacierized Rio Santa watershed, Peru.

PubMed

Guittard, Alexandre; Baraer, Michel; McKenzie, Jeffrey M; Mark, Bryan G; Wigmore, Oliver; Fernandez, Alfonso; Rapre, Alejo C; Walsh, Elizabeth; Bury, Jeffrey; Carey, Mark; French, Adam; Young, Kenneth R

2017-11-25

The objective of this research is to characterize the variability of trace metals in the Rio Santa watershed based on synoptic sampling applied at a large scale. To that end, we propose a combination of methods based on the collection of water, suspended sediments, and riverbed sediments at different points of the watershed within a very limited period. Forty points within the Rio Santa watershed were sampled between June 21 and July 8, 2013. Forty water samples, 36 suspended sediments, and 34 riverbed sediments were analyzed for seven trace metals. The results, which were normalized using the USEPA guideline for water and sediments, show that the Rio Santa water exhibits Mn concentrations higher than the guideline at more than 50% of the sampling points. As is the second highest contaminating element in the water, with approximately 10% of the samples containing concentrations above the guideline. Sediments collected in the Rio Santa riverbed were heavily contaminated by at least four of the tested elements at nearly 85% of the sample points, with As presenting the highest normalized concentration, at more than ten times the guideline. As, Cd, Fe, Pb, and Zn present similar concentration trends in the sediment all along the Rio Santa.The findings indicate that care should be taken in using the Rio Santa water and sediments for purposes that could affect the health of humans or the ecosystem. The situation is worse in some tributaries in the southern part of the watershed that host both active and abandoned mines and ore-processing plants.

Double Charge Exchange Reactions and Double Beta Decay

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Auerbach, N.

2018-05-01

The subject of this presentation is at the forefront of nuclear physics, namely double beta decay. In particular one is most interested in the neutrinoless process of double beta decay, when the decay proceeds without the emission of two neutrinos. The observation of such decay would mean that the lepton conservation symmetry is violated and that the neutrinos are of Majorana type, meaning that they are their own anti-particles. The life time of this process has two unknowns, the mass of the neutrino and the nuclear matrix element. Determining the nuclear matrix element and knowing the cross-section well will set limits on the neutrino mass. There is a concentrated effort among the nuclear physics community to calculate this matrix element. Usually these matrix elements are a very small part of the total strength of the transition operators involved in the process. There is no simple way to “calibrate” the nuclear double beta decay matrix element. The double beta decay is a double charge exchange process, therefore it is proposed that double charge exchange reactions using ion projectiles on nuclei that are candidates for double beta decay, will provide additional necessary information about the nuclear matrix elements.

Numerical investigation of multi-element airfoils

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cummings, Russell M.

1993-01-01

The flow over multi-element airfoils with flat-plate lift-enhancing tabs was numerically investigated. Tabs ranging in height from 0.25 percent to 1.25 percent of the reference airfoil chord were studied near the trailing edge of the main-element. This two-dimensional numerical simulation employed an incompressible Navier-Stokes solver on a structured, embedded grid topology. New grid refinements were used to improve the accuracy of the solution near the overlapping grid boundaries. The effects of various tabs were studied at a constant Reynolds number on a two-element airfoil with a slotted flap. Both computed and measured results indicated that a tab in the main-element cove improved the maximum lift and lift-to-drag ratio relative to the baseline airfoil without a tab. Computed streamlines revealed that the additional turning caused by the tab may reduce the amount of separated flow on the flap. A three-element airfoil was also studied over a range of Reynolds numbers. For the optimized flap rigging, the computed and measured Reynolds number effects were similar. When the flap was moved from the optimum position, numerical results indicated that a tab may help to reoptimize the airfoil to within 1 percent of the optimum flap case.

Transterm: a database to aid the analysis of regulatory sequences in mRNAs

PubMed Central

Jacobs, Grant H.; Chen, Augustine; Stevens, Stewart G.; Stockwell, Peter A.; Black, Michael A.; Tate, Warren P.; Brown, Chris M.

2009-01-01

Messenger RNAs, in addition to coding for proteins, may contain regulatory elements that affect how the protein is translated. These include protein and microRNA-binding sites. Transterm (http://mRNA.otago.ac.nz/Transterm.html) is a database of regions and elements that affect translation with two major unique components. The first is integrated results of analysis of general features that affect translation (initiation, elongation, termination) for species or strains in Genbank, processed through a standard pipeline. The second is curated descriptions of experimentally determined regulatory elements that function as translational control elements in mRNAs. Transterm focuses on protein binding sites, particularly those in 3′-untranslated regions (3′-UTR). For this release the interface has been extensively updated based on user feedback. The data is now accessible by strain rather than species, for example there are 10 Escherichia coli strains (genomes) analysed separately. In addition to providing a repository of data, the database also provides tools for users to query their own mRNA sequences. Users can search sequences for Transterm or user defined regulatory elements, including protein or miRNA targets. Transterm also provides a central core of links to related resources for complementary analyses. PMID:18984623

Combined Effect of Heating Rate and Microalloying Elements on Recrystallization During Annealing of Dual-Phase Steels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bellavoine, Marion; Dumont, Myriam; Drillet, Josée; Hébert, Véronique; Maugis, Philippe

2018-05-01

Adjusting ferrite recrystallization kinetics during annealing is a way to control the final microstructure and thus the mechanical properties of advanced cold-rolled high-strength steels. Two strategies are commonly used for this purpose: adjusting heating rates and/or adding microalloying elements. The present work investigates the effect of heating rate and microalloying elements Ti, Nb, and Mo on recrystallization kinetics during annealing in various cold-rolled Dual-Phase steel grades. The use of combined experimental and modeling approaches allows a deeper understanding of the separate influence of heating rate and the addition of microalloying elements. The comparative effect of Ti, Nb, and Mo as solute elements and as precipitates on ferrite recrystallization is also clarified. It is shown that solute drag has the largest delaying effect on recrystallization in the present case and that the order of solute drag effectiveness of microalloying elements is Nb > Mo > Ti.

Combined Effect of Heating Rate and Microalloying Elements on Recrystallization During Annealing of Dual-Phase Steels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bellavoine, Marion; Dumont, Myriam; Drillet, Josée; Hébert, Véronique; Maugis, Philippe

2018-07-01

Adjusting ferrite recrystallization kinetics during annealing is a way to control the final microstructure and thus the mechanical properties of advanced cold-rolled high-strength steels. Two strategies are commonly used for this purpose: adjusting heating rates and/or adding microalloying elements. The present work investigates the effect of heating rate and microalloying elements Ti, Nb, and Mo on recrystallization kinetics during annealing in various cold-rolled Dual-Phase steel grades. The use of combined experimental and modeling approaches allows a deeper understanding of the separate influence of heating rate and the addition of microalloying elements. The comparative effect of Ti, Nb, and Mo as solute elements and as precipitates on ferrite recrystallization is also clarified. It is shown that solute drag has the largest delaying effect on recrystallization in the present case and that the order of solute drag effectiveness of microalloying elements is Nb > Mo > Ti.

Treatment of metastatic testicular tumours with bleomycin, etoposide, cisplatin and vincristine (BEPV).

PubMed Central

Price, B A; Peters, N H

1992-01-01

Between August 1983 and December 1988, 47 patients with metastatic testicular tumours (44 non-seminomatous, three seminomas) were treated with two to six courses of bleomycin, etoposide, cisplatin and vincristine (BEPV). Five stage I tumours were included, three because of raised tumour markers following orchidectomy, one with vascular invasion of spermatic cord vessels and the other with both these features. Forty-four patients (93.6%) are alive and disease free 12-75 months (median 39 months) after completion of BEPV. Further treatment was necessary in 12 of the survivors. Eight had residual disease excised, one of whom received radiotherapy, one additional chemotherapy and one both radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Of the remaining four, two had radiotherapy and two second line chemotherapy. Thirty-one non-seminomatous and the three seminoma patients had small volume disease and all are in complete remission. Ten of the 13 patients with bulky disease are alive. It is concluded that BEPV is a well-tolerated, effective, first line therapy for patients with metastatic testicular tumour. PMID:1282160

Impact of salinity on element incorporation in two benthic foraminiferal species with contrasting magnesium contents

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Geerken, Esmee; de Nooijer, Lennart Jan; van Dijk, Inge; Reichart, Gert-Jan

2018-04-01

Accurate reconstructions of seawater salinity could provide valuable constraints for studying past ocean circulation, the hydrological cycle and sea level change. Controlled growth experiments and field studies have shown the potential of foraminiferal Na / Ca as a direct salinity proxy. Incorporation of minor and trace elements in foraminiferal shell carbonate varies, however, greatly between species and hence extrapolating calibrations to other species needs validation by additional (culturing) studies. Salinity is also known to impact other foraminiferal carbonate-based proxies, such as Mg / Ca for temperature and Sr / Ca for sea water carbonate chemistry. Better constraints on the role of salinity on these proxies will therefore improve their reliability. Using a controlled growth experiment spanning a salinity range of 20 units and analysis of element composition on single chambers using laser ablation-Q-ICP-MS, we show here that Na / Ca correlates positively with salinity in two benthic foraminiferal species (Ammonia tepida and Amphistegina lessonii). The Na / Ca values differ between the two species, with an approximately 2-fold higher Na / Ca in A. lessonii than in A. tepida, coinciding with an offset in their Mg content ( ˜ 35 mmol mol-2 versus ˜ 2.5 mmol mol-1 for A. lessonii and A. tepida, respectively). Despite the offset in average Na / Ca values, the slopes of the Na / Ca-salinity regressions are similar between these two species (0.077 versus 0.064 mmol mol-1 change per salinity unit). In addition, Mg / Ca and Sr / Ca are positively correlated with salinity in cultured A. tepida but show no correlation with salinity for A. lessonii. Electron microprobe mapping of incorporated Na and Mg of the cultured specimens shows that within chamber walls of A. lessonii, Na / Ca and Mg / Ca occur in elevated bands in close proximity to the primary organic lining. Between species, Mg banding is relatively similar, even though Mg content is 10 times lower and that variation within the chamber wall is much less pronounced in A. tepida. In addition, Na banding is much less prominent in this species than it is in A. lessonii. Inter-species differences in element banding reported here are hypothesized to be caused by differences in biomineralization controls responsible for element uptake.

Lawyers' delights and geneticists' nightmares: at forty, the double helix shows some wrinkles.

PubMed

Sgaramella, V

1993-12-15

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) request to patent the base sequences of incomplete and uncharacterized fragments of DNA copied on messenger RNAs (cDNAs) extracted from human tissues, the refusal by the patent office, and the appeal placed by NIH, have incited a violent controversy, fueled by rational, as well as emotional elements. In a compromising mode between liberalism and protectionism, I propose that legal protection be considered only for those RNA/DNA sequences, either natural or artificial, which can generate practical applications per se, and not through their expression products. Another controversy is developing around a popular tool for genomic research: the fidelity of yeast artificial chromosome (YAC) libraries being distributed worldwide for physical mapping is being questioned. Some of these libraries have been shown to be affected by surprisingly high levels of co-cloning, in addition to more common gene reshuffling instances. Also in this case, scientific as well as non-scientific components have to be considered. Possible remedies for the underlying problems may be found in the proper use of kinetic, enzymatic and microbiological variables in the production of YACs. Here too, a sharper distinction between the secular and scientific gratifications of research could help.

Breaking Symmetry Effects on Heavy Tetraquarks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vijande, J.; Valcarce, A.; Richard, J.-M.

In this contribution we present symmetry arguments that can be applied to study the stability of four-quark systems with two different masses. The role played by different symmetry breaking effects and the non-Abelian algebra of color forces is discussed in detail. In the particular case of hidden-flavor all-heavy four-quark states, QQQ¯Q¯, the system becomes unstable for standard color-additive models. Differences and similarities between QqQ¯q¯ and QQq¯q¯ configurations are presented. In the latter case, its stability when the mass ratio M/m increases was established almost forty years ago. In the former case, we find a kind of metastability between the lowest threshold, (QQ¯) ‑ (qq¯) and the highest one, (Qq¯) ‑ (Q¯q).

76 FR 72437 - Minor Boundary Revision at Colorado National Monument

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-11-23

...Notice is hereby given that, pursuant to 16 U.S.C. 460l- 9(c)(1), the boundary of Colorado National Monument is modified to include an additional two and forty-five hundredths (2.45) acres of land identified as Tract 01-140, tax parcel number 2697-343-04-009. The land is located in Mesa County, Colorado, immediately adjacent to the current eastern boundary of Colorado National Monument. The boundary revision is depicted on Map No. 119/106,532 dated January 2011. The map is available for inspection at the following locations: National Park Service, Intermountain Land Resources Program Center, 12795 W. Alameda Parkway, Lakewood, CO 80225-0287 and National Park Service, Department of the Interior, Washington, DC 20240.

STS-49: Space shuttle mission report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fricke, Robert W.

1992-01-01

The STS-49 Space Shuttle Program Mission Report contains a summary of the Orbiter, External Tank (ET), Solid Rocket Booster/Redesigned Solid Rocket Motor (SRB/RSRM), and Space Shuttle main engine (SSME) subsystem performance during the forty-seventh flight of the Space Shuttle Program and the first flight of the Orbiter vehicle Endeavor (OV-105). In addition to the Endeavor vehicle, the flight vehicle consisted of an ET designated as ET-43 (LWT-36); three SSME's which were serial numbers 2030, 2015, and 2017 in positions 1, 2, and 3, respectively; and two SRB's designated as BI-050. The lightweight RSRM's installed in each SRB were designated as 360L022A for the left RSRM and 360L022B for the right RSRM.

STS-49: Space shuttle mission report

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fricke, Robert W.

1992-07-01

The STS-49 Space Shuttle Program Mission Report contains a summary of the Orbiter, External Tank (ET), Solid Rocket Booster/Redesigned Solid Rocket Motor (SRB/RSRM), and Space Shuttle main engine (SSME) subsystem performance during the forty-seventh flight of the Space Shuttle Program and the first flight of the Orbiter vehicle Endeavor (OV-105). In addition to the Endeavor vehicle, the flight vehicle consisted of an ET designated as ET-43 (LWT-36); three SSME's which were serial numbers 2030, 2015, and 2017 in positions 1, 2, and 3, respectively; and two SRB's designated as BI-050. The lightweight RSRM's installed in each SRB were designated as 360L022A for the left RSRM and 360L022B for the right RSRM.

HIV continuum of care in Europe and Central Asia.

PubMed

Drew, R S; Rice, B; Rüütel, K; Delpech, V; Attawell, K A; Hales, D K; Velasco, C; Amato-Gauci, A J; Pharris, A; Tavoschi, L; Noori, T

2017-08-01

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) supports countries to monitor progress in their response to the HIV epidemic. In line with these monitoring responsibilities, we assess how, and to what extent, the continuum of care is being measured across countries. The ECDC sent out questionnaires to 55 countries in Europe and Central Asia in 2014. Nominated country representatives were questioned on how they defined and measured six elements of the continuum. We present our results using three previously described frameworks [breakpoints; Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) 90-90-90 targets; diagnosis and treatment quadrant]. Forty countries provided data for at least one element of the continuum. Countries reported most frequently on the number of people diagnosed with HIV infection (37; 93%), and on the number in receipt of antiretroviral therapy (ART) (35; 88%). There was little consensus across countries in their approach to defining linkage to, and retention in, care. The most common breakpoint (>19% reduction between two adjacent elements) related to the estimated number of people living with HIV who were diagnosed (18 of 23; 78%). We present continuum data from multiple countries that provide both a snapshot of care provision and a baseline against which changes over time in care provision across Europe and Central Asia may be measured. To better inform HIV testing and treatment programmes, standard data collection approaches and definitions across the HIV continuum of care are needed. If countries wish to ensure an unbroken HIV continuum of care, people living with HIV need to be diagnosed promptly, and ART needs to be offered to all those diagnosed. © 2017 The Authors. HIV Medicine published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of British HIV Association.

Effect of two different composts on soil quality and on the growth of various plant species in a polymetallic acidic mine soil.

PubMed

Rossini-Oliva, S; Mingorance, M D; Peña, A

2017-02-01

The effect of the addition (0-10%) of two types of sewage sludge composts (composted sewage sludge [CS] and sewage sludge co-composted with olive prune wastes [CSO]) on a polymetallic acidic soil from the Riotinto mining area was evaluated by i) a soil incubation experiment and ii) a greenhouse pot experiment using tomato (Solanum lycopersicum Mill.), ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) and ahipa (Pachyrhizus ahipa (Wedd.) Parodi). Compost addition improved the soil organic carbon content, increased the pH and the electrical conductivity and enhanced enzyme activities and soil respiration, more for CSO than for CS. Plant growth was generally enhanced after compost addition, but not proportionally to the dose. Foliar concentrations of some hazardous elements (As, Cr, Fe) in tomato growing in non-amended soil were above the thresholds, questioning the adequacy of using this plant species. However, leaf concentrations of essential and potentially toxic elements (Fe, As, Cr and Pb) in tomato and/or ryegrass were reduced after the amendment with both composts, generally more for CSO than for CS. Conversely, foliar concentrations in ahipa, a plant species which is able to grow without the need of compost addition, were safe except for As and were only slightly affected by compost addition. This plant species would be a suitable candidate due to its low requirements and due to the limited element translocation to the leaves. Concerning the composts, amelioration of plant and soil properties was better accomplished when using CSO, a compost of sewage sludge and plant remains, than when using CS, which only contained the sludge. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Survey of Army/NASA Rotorcraft Aeroelastic Stability Research

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-10-01

modal analysis of aeroelastic sLaoili:v of .niform 5ant:- lever rotor blades that clearlv .llustra:ea the significar: ;.fl- ence : :ne -cn - ear bending... ence 8, the Newtonian approach does, not necessarily yield a syMetriC structural operator and althort3. the equations from the two methods are not... ence 69 to a true finite-element form so that the generalized coorainates were actual displacements and slopes at ends of the element. In addition to the

Alloy Design Data Generated for B2-Ordered Compounds

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Noebe, Ronald D.; Bozzolo, Guillermo; Abel, Phillip B.

2003-01-01

Developing alloys based on ordered compounds is significantly more complicated than developing designs based on disordered materials. In ordered compounds, the major constituent elements reside on particular sublattices. Therefore, the addition of a ternary element to a binary-ordered compound is complicated by the manner in which the ternary addition is made (at the expense of which binary component). When ternary additions are substituted for the wrong constituent, the physical and mechanical properties usually degrade. In some cases the resulting degradation in properties can be quite severe. For example, adding alloying additions to NiAl in the wrong combination (i.e., alloying additions that prefer the Al sublattice but are added at the expense of Ni) will severely embrittle the alloy to the point that it can literally fall apart during processing on cooling from the molten state. Consequently, alloying additions that strongly prefer one sublattice over another should always be added at the expense of that component during alloy development. Elements that have a very weak preference for a sublattice can usually be safely added at the expense of either element and will accommodate any deviation from stoichiometry by filling in for the deficient component. Unfortunately, this type of information is not known beforehand for most ordered systems. Therefore, a computational survey study, using a recently developed quantum approximate method, was undertaken at the NASA Glenn Research Center to determine the preferred site occupancy of ternary alloying additions to 12 different B2-ordered compounds including NiAl, FeAl, CoAl, CoFe, CoHf, CoTi, FeTi, RuAl, RuSi, RuHf, RuTi, and RuZr. Some of these compounds are potential high temperature structural alloys; others are used in thin-film magnetic and other electronic applications. The results are summarized. The italicized elements represent the previous sum total alloying information known and verify the computational method used to establish the table. Details of the computational procedures used to determine the preferred site occupancy can be found in reference 2. As further substantiation of the validity of the technique, and its extension to even more complicated systems, it was applied to two simultaneous alloying additions in an ordered alloy.

Geochemical studies of Fe, Mn, Co, As, Cr, Sb, Zn, Sc and V in surface sediments from Jiaozhou Bay

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Run; Li, Pei-Quan; Miao, Lu-Tian; Zhang, Shu-Xin; Tian, Wei-Zhi

1994-12-01

The contents of nearly forty-elements in surface sediments in Jiaozhou Bay were determined using a Neutron Activation Analysis Technique (Grancini, et al., 1976; Li Peiquan et al., 1985, 1986; Li Xiuxia et al., 1986). This paper's detailed discussion on only nine elements (Fe, Mn, Co, Cr, Sc, As, Sb, Zn and V) includes their distributions, concentrations, correlationships, material sources, background, etc. Based on Zavaristski's classification method, Fe, Mn, Co, Cr and V belong to the second group; As and Sb to the eighth groups: Sc and Zn to the third and sixth groups. It was found that their notably good correlationship is mainly due to the similarity of their ionic structures and that their variation is controlled by the Fe content (except Mn). The source of sediments is mainly terristrial material, and the composition of sediment is similar to that of shale and shale+clay. The contents for a large number of elements are within the scope of the background level, but there still is pollution of Zn and Cr, at least in a few stations.

Trace elements and electrolytes in human resting mixed saliva after exercise

PubMed Central

Chicharro, J. L.; Serrano, V.; Urena, R.; Gutierrez, A. M.; Carvajal, A.; Fernandez-, H; Lucia, A.

1999-01-01

OBJECTIVES: Exercise is known to cause changes in the concentration of salivary components such as amylase, Na, and Cl. The aim of this investigation was to evaluate the effect of physical exercise on the levels of trace elements and electrolytes in whole (mixed) saliva. METHODS: Forty subjects performed a maximal exercise test on a cycle ergometer. Samples of saliva were obtained before and immediately after the exercise test. Sample concentrations of Fe, Mg, Sc, Cr, Mn, Co, Cu, Zn, Se, Sr, Ag, Sb, Cs, and Hg were determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and concentrations of Ca and Na by atomic absorption spectrometry. RESULTS: After exercise, Mg and Na levels showed a significant increase (p < 0.05) while Mn levels fell (p < 0.05). Zn/Cu molar ratios were unaffected by exercise. CONCLUSIONS: Intense physical exercise induced changes in the concentrations of only three (Na, Mg, and Mn) of the 16 elements analysed in the saliva samples. Further research is needed to assess the clinical implications of these findings. 


 PMID:10378074

Chemical Compositions and Abundance Anomalies in Stellar Coronae ADP 99

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Drake, Jeremy; Oliversen, Ronald J. (Technical Monitor)

2003-01-01

Progress has been made using both EUVE (Extreme Ultraviolet Explorer) and ASCA (Advanced Satellite for Cosmology and Astrophysics) data and a new postdoctoral scientist has now been hired. Stars studied to date include YY Gem (dMe binary), xi Boo A (intermediate activity G8 V), xi UMa (more active G quadruple system) HR1099 (K1 IV + G5 V) RS CVn-like, AU Mic (dMe). In addition to a paper that concentrated on abundancies in HR1099, a paper was recently submitted on the coronal abundances of AR(tilde)Lac that revealed an interesting pattern of overabundances of very low FIP elements (Al and Ca) compared to the low FIP elements Si, Mg and Fe. Two papers are nearing completion on methods of analysis and on the abundances in the corona of AU(tilde)Mic. Additionally, two invited conference proceedings papers are being published on this work. The main conclusion of the study to date is that our existing ideas of coronal abundance anomalies need complete revision. The solar-like FIP effect is replaced by a pattern than appears to enhance high FIP elements rather than low FIP elements in very active stars. The archival studies we are undertaking now are revealing some key details of these patterns, and are beginning to map out the anomalies as a function of spectral type, a key goal of this study.

Geographic variation in gorilla limb bones.

PubMed

Jabbour, Rebecca S; Pearman, Tessa L

2016-06-01

Gorilla systematics has received increased attention over recent decades from primatologists, conservationists, and paleontologists. Studies of geographic variation in DNA, skulls, and teeth have led to new taxonomic proposals, such as recognition of two gorilla species, Gorilla gorilla (western gorilla) and Gorilla beringei (eastern gorilla). Postcranial differences between mountain gorillas (G. beringei beringei) and western lowland gorillas (G. g. gorilla) have a long history of study, but differences between the limb bones of the eastern and western species have not yet been examined with an emphasis on geographic variation within each species. In addition, proposals for recognition of the Cross River gorilla as Gorilla gorilla diehli and gorillas from Tshiaberimu and Kahuzi as G. b. rex-pymaeorum have not been evaluated in the context of geographic variation in the forelimb and hindlimb skeletons. Forty-three linear measurements were collected from limb bones of 266 adult gorillas representing populations of G. b. beringei, Gorilla beringei graueri, G. g. gorilla, and G. g. diehli in order to investigate geographic diversity. Skeletal elements included the humerus, radius, third metacarpal, third proximal hand phalanx, femur, tibia, calcaneus, first metatarsal, third metatarsal, and third proximal foot phalanx. Comparisons of means and principal components analyses clearly differentiate eastern and western gorillas, indicating that eastern gorillas have absolutely and relatively smaller hands and feet, among other differences. Gorilla subspecies and populations cluster consistently by species, although G. g. diehli may be similar to the eastern gorillas in having small hands and feet. The subspecies of G. beringei are distinguished less strongly and by different variables than the two gorilla species. Populations of G. b. graueri are variable, and Kahuzi and Tshiaberimu specimens do not cluster together. Results support the possible influence of higher-altitude Pleistocene refugia on patterns of geographic variation in gorillas. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

On Multiscale Modeling: Preserving Energy Dissipation Across the Scales with Consistent Handshaking Methods

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pineda, Evan J.; Bednarcyk, Brett A.; Arnold, Steven M.; Waas, Anthony M.

2013-01-01

A mesh objective crack band model was implemented within the generalized method of cells micromechanics theory. This model was linked to a macroscale finite element model to predict post-peak strain softening in composite materials. Although a mesh objective theory was implemented at the microscale, it does not preclude pathological mesh dependence at the macroscale. To ensure mesh objectivity at both scales, the energy density and the energy release rate must be preserved identically across the two scales. This requires a consistent characteristic length or localization limiter. The effects of scaling (or not scaling) the dimensions of the microscale repeating unit cell (RUC), according to the macroscale element size, in a multiscale analysis was investigated using two examples. Additionally, the ramifications of the macroscale element shape, compared to the RUC, was studied.

Geometrically nonlinear analysis of laminated elastic structures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reddy, J. N.; Chandrashekhara, K.; Chao, W. C.

1993-01-01

This final technical report contains three parts: Part 1 deals with the 2-D shell theory and its element formulation and applications. Part 2 deals with the 3-D degenerated element. These two parts constitute the two major tasks that were completed under the grant. Another related topic that was initiated during the present investigation is the development of a nonlinear material model. This topic is briefly discussed in Part 3. To make each part self-contained, conclusions and references are included in each part. In the interest of brevity, the discussions presented are relatively brief. The details and additional topics are described in the references cited.

Architecture and reservoir quality of low-permeable Eocene lacustrine turbidite sandstone from the Dongying Depression, East China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Munawar, Muhammad Jawad; Lin, Chengyan; Chunmei, Dong; Zhang, Xianguo; Zhao, Haiyan; Xiao, Shuming; Azeem, Tahir; Zahid, Muhammad Aleem; Ma, Cunfei

2018-05-01

The architecture and quality of lacustrine turbidites that act as petroleum reservoirs are less well documented. Reservoir architecture and multiscale heterogeneity in turbidites represent serious challenges to production performance. Additionally, establishing a hierarchy profile to delineate heterogeneity is a challenging task in lacustrine turbidite deposits. Here, we report on the turbidites in the middle third member of the Eocene Shahejie Formation (Es3), which was deposited during extensive Middle to Late Eocene rifting in the Dongying Depression. Seismic records, wireline log responses, and core observations were integrated to describe the reservoir heterogeneity by delineating the architectural elements, sequence stratigraphic framework and lithofacies assemblage. A petrographic approach was adopted to constrain microscopic heterogeneity using an optical microscope, routine core analyses and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses. The Es3m member is interpreted as a sequence set composed of four composite sequences: CS1, CS2, CS3 and CS4. A total of forty-five sequences were identified within these four composite sequences. Sand bodies were mainly deposited as channels, levees, overbank splays, lobes and lobe fringes. The combination of fining-upward and coarsening-upward lithofacies patterns in the architectural elements produces highly complex composite flow units. Microscopic heterogeneity is produced by diagenetic alteration processes (i.e., feldspar dissolution, authigenic clay formation and quartz cementation). The widespread kaolinization of feldspar and mobilization of materials enhanced the quality of the reservoir by producing secondary enlarged pores. In contrast, the formation of pore-filling authigenic illite and illite/smectite clays reduced its permeability. Recovery rates are higher in the axial areas and smaller in the marginal areas of architectural elements. This study represents a significant insight into the reservoir architecture and heterogeneity of lacustrine turbidites, and the understanding of compartmentalization and distribution of high-quality sand reservoirs can be applied to improve primary and secondary production in these fields.

Borderline tumors of the ovary: A clinicopathological study

PubMed Central

Yasmeen, Samia; Hannan, Abdul; Sheikh, Fareeha; Syed, Amir Ali; Siddiqui, Neelam

2017-01-01

Objective: To report experience with borderline ovarian tumors (BOTs) in a developing country like Pakistan with limited resources and weak database of health system. Methods: Patients with BOTs managed at Shaukat Khanum Cancer hospital, Lahore, Pakistan from 2004 to 2014 were included and reviewed retrospectively. Data was recorded on histopathological types, age, CA-125, stage of disease, treatment modalities and outcomes. Results: Eighty-six patients with BOT were included with a median age of 35 years. Forty-two (49%) patients had serous BOTs and 43 (50%) had mucinous BOTs, while one (1%) had mixed type. Using FIGO staging, 80 patients had stage I; two patients had IIA, IIB and stage III each. Median follow-up time was 31.5 months. All patients had primary surgery. Seventy (81%) patients underwent complete surgical resection of tumor. Forty-three (50%) patients had fertility preserving surgery. Seventy-three (85%) patients remained in remission. Recurrent disease was observed in 13 (15%) patients. Median time to recurrence was 22 months. On further analysis, age above forty years, late stage at diagnosis and incomplete surgery were significantly associated with invasive recurrence. Conclusion: Despite a low malignant potential, relapses may occur in patients above forty years of age, incomplete surgery and staging information and advanced stage at presentation. Fertility sparing surgery should be considered in young patients. Complete excision of tumor and prolonged follow-up are advised because recurrence and transformation to invasive carcinoma may occur. PMID:28523039

Elements of a Workplace Culture of Health, Perceived Organizational Support for Health, and Lifestyle Risk.

PubMed

Payne, Julianne; Cluff, Laurie; Lang, Jason; Matson-Koffman, Dyann; Morgan-Lopez, Antonio

2018-01-01

We investigated the impact of elements of a workplace culture of health (COH) on employees' perceptions of employer support for health and lifestyle risk. We used 2013 and 2015 survey data from the National Healthy Worksite Program, a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)-led initiative to help workplaces implement health-promoting interventions. Forty-one employers completed the CDC Worksite Health Scorecard to document organizational changes. Eight hundred twenty-five employees provided data to evaluate changes in their health and attitudes. We defined elements of a COH as environmental, policy, and programmatic supports; leadership and coworker support; employee engagement (motivational interventions); and strategic communication. Outcomes included scores of employees' perceptions of employer support for health and lifestyle risk derived from self-reported physical activity, nutrition, and tobacco use. We estimated effects using multilevel regression models. At the employee level and across time, regression coefficients show positive associations between leadership support, coworker support, employee engagement, and perceived support for health ( P < .05). Coefficients suggest a marginally significant negative association between lifestyle risk and the presence of environmental and policy supports ( P < .10) and significant associations with leadership support in 2015 only ( P < .05). Relational elements of COH (leadership and coworker support) tend to be associated with perceived support for health, while workplace elements (environmental and policy supports) are more associated with lifestyle risk. Employers need to confront relational and workplace elements together to build a COH.

Effects of Zn-In-Sn elements on the electric properties of magnesium alloy anode materials.

PubMed

Yu, Zhan; Ju, Dongying; Zhao, Hongyang; Hu, Xiaodong

2011-06-01

A new magnesium alloy anode is based on an environmentally friendly electrode that contains none of mercury, lead and chromate, but it can enhance the electric properties of alloy significantly. Magnesium alloy adding eco-friendly elements Zn-In-Sn which was developed by orthogonal design were obtained by two casting methods. The effect of additive elements on performance of electrode material was studied. The effects of elements addition and casting method on electric properties and corrosive properties of Mg-Zn-In-Sn alloys were investigated by using electrochemical measurements, corrosive tests and observation of surface structure. The results show that Mg-Zn-In-Sn alloy anode has higher electromotive force and more stable work potential than that commercial magnesium alloy AZ91. It is suitable for anode material of magnesium battery for its small hydrogen evolution, less self-corrosion rate and easy to shed corrosive offspring off. Copyright © 2011 The Research Centre for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

X-ray Fluorescence Core Scanning of Oman Drilling Project Holes BT1B and GT3A Cores on D/V CHIKYU

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Johnson, K. T. M.; Kelemen, P. B.; Michibayashi, K.; Greenberger, R. N.; Koepke, J.; Beinlich, A.; Morishita, T.; Jesus, A. P. M.; Lefay, R.

2017-12-01

The JEOL JSX-3600CA1 energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence core logger (XRF-CL) on the D/V Chikyu provides quantitative element concentrations of scanned cores. Scans of selected intervals are made on an x-y grid with point spacing of 5 mm. Element concentrations for Si, Al, Ti, Ca, Mg, Mn, Fe, Na, K, Cr, Ni, S and Zn are collected for each point on the grid. Accuracy of element concentrations provided by the instrument software is improved by applying empirical correction algorithms. Element concentrations were collected for 9,289 points from twenty-seven core intervals in Hole BT1B (basal thrust) and for 6,389 points from forty core intervals in Hole GT3A (sheeted dike-gabbro transition) of the Oman Drilling Project on the D/V Chikyu XRF-CL during Leg 2 of the Oman Drilling Project in August-September, 2017. The geochemical data are used for evaluating downhole compositional details associated with lithological changes, unit contacts and mineralogical variations and are particularly informative when plotted as concentration contour maps or downhole concentration diagrams. On Leg 2 additional core scans were made with X-ray Computed Tomography (X-ray CT) and infrared images from the visible-shortwave infrared imaging spectroscopy (IR) systems on board. XRF-CL, X-ray CT and IR imaging plots used together provide detailed information on rock compositions, textures and mineralogy that assist naked eye visual observations. Examples of some uses of XRF-CL geochemical maps and downhole data are shown. XRF-CL and IR scans of listvenite clearly show zones of magnesite, dolomite and the Cr-rich mica, fuchsite that are subdued in visual observation, and these scans can be used to calculate variations in proportions of these minerals in Hole BT1B cores. In Hole GT3A XRF-CL data can be used to distinguish compositional changes in different generations of sheeted dikes and gabbros and when combined with visual observations of intrusive relationships the detailed geochemical information can be used to infer temporal changes in parental magma compositions. Secondary sulfide mineralization and epidote-rich hydrothermal alteration zones in sheeted dikes and gabbros are clearly highlighted on element maps of S, Fe, Ca, Al, and Zn.

Roles of Approval Motivation and Generalized Expectancy for Reinforcement in Children's Conceptual Discrimination Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nyce, Peggy A.; And Others

1977-01-01

Forty-four third graders were given a two-choice conceptual discrimination learning task. The two major factors were (1) four treatment groups varying at the extremes on two personality measures, approval motivation and locus of control and (2) sex. (MS)

Job Satisfaction among Care Aides in Residential Long-Term Care: A Systematic Review of Contributing Factors, Both Individual and Organizational

PubMed Central

Squires, Janet E.; Hoben, Matthias; Linklater, Stefanie; Carleton, Heather L.; Graham, Nicole; Estabrooks, Carole A.

2015-01-01

Despite an increasing literature on professional nurses' job satisfaction, job satisfaction by nonprofessional nursing care providers and, in particular, in residential long-term care facilities, is sparsely described. The purpose of this study was to systematically review the evidence on which factors (individual and organizational) are associated with job satisfaction among care aides, nurse aides, and nursing assistants, who provide the majority of direct resident care, in residential long-term care facilities. Nine online databases were searched. Two authors independently screened, and extracted data and assessed the included publications for methodological quality. Decision rules were developed a priori to draw conclusions on which factors are important to care aide job satisfaction. Forty-two publications were included. Individual factors found to be important were empowerment and autonomy. Six additional individual factors were found to be not important: age, ethnicity, gender, education level, attending specialized training, and years of experience. Organizational factors found to be important were facility resources and workload. Two additional factors were found to be not important: satisfaction with salary/benefits and job performance. Factors important to care aide job satisfaction differ from those reported among hospital nurses, supporting the need for different strategies to improve care aide job satisfaction in residential long-term care. PMID:26345545

Task 1: Whole-body concentrations of elements in kelp bass (Paralabrax clathratus), kelp rockfish (Sebastes atrovirens), and Pacific sanddab (Citharichthys sordidus) from offshore oil platforms and natural areas in the Southern California Bight

USGS Publications Warehouse

Love, Milton S.

2009-01-01

Resource managers are concerned that offshore oil platforms in the Southern California Bight may be contributing to environmental contaminants accumulated by marine fishes. To examine this possibility, 18 kelp bass (Paralabrax clathratus), 80 kelp rockfish (Sebastes atrovirens), and 98 Pacific sanddab (Citharichthys sordidus) were collected from five offshore oil platforms and 10 natural areas during 2005-2006 for whole-body analysis of 63 elements. The natural areas, which served as reference sites, were assumed to be relatively uninfluenced by contaminants originating from platforms. Forty-two elements were excluded from statistical comparisons for one of three reasons: they consisted of major cations that were unlikely to accumulate to potentially toxic concentrations under ambient exposure conditions; they were not detected by the analytical procedures; or they were detected at concentrations too low to yield reliable quantitative measurements. The remaining 21 elements consisted of aluminum, arsenic, barium, cadmium, chromium, cobalt, copper, gallium, iron, lead, lithium, manganese, mercury, nickel, rubidium, selenium, strontium, tin, titanium, vanadium, and zinc. Statistical comparisons of these 21 elements indicated that none consistently exhibited higher concentrations at oil platforms than at natural areas. Eight comparisons yielded significant interaction effects between total length (TL) of the fish and the two habitat types (oil platforms and natural areas). This indicated that relations between certain elemental concentrations (i.e., copper, rubidium, selenium, tin, titanium, and vanadium) and habitat type varied by TL of affected fish species. To better understand these interactions, we examined elemental concentrations in very small and very large individuals of affected species. Although significant interactions were detected for rubidium, tin, and selenium in kelp rockfish, the concentrations of these elements did not differ significantly between oil platforms and natural areas over the TL range of sampled fish. However, for selenium, titanium, and vanadium in Pacific sanddab, small individuals (average TL, 13.0 cm) exhibited significantly lower concentrations at oil platforms than at natural areas, whereas large individuals (average TL, 27.5 cm) exhibited higher concentrations at oil platforms than at natural areas. For copper in Pacific sanddab, small individuals did not exhibit differences between oil platforms and natural areas, whereas large individuals exhibited significantly higher concentrations at oil platforms than at natural areas. On the other hand, for tin in Pacific sanddab, small individuals did not exhibit differences between oil platforms and natural areas, whereas large individuals exhibited significantly lower concentrations at oil platforms than at natural areas. Although concentrations of arsenic, cadmium, chromium, lead, mercury, and selenium in fishes from some platforms and natural areas equaled or exceeded literature-based toxicity thresholds for fish and fish-eating wildlife, studies are still needed to document evidence of toxicity from these elements. When estimates of elemental concentrations in skinless fillets were compared to risk-based consumption limits for humans, the concentrations of arsenic, cadmium, mercury, and tin in fish from a mix of oil platforms and natural areas were sufficiently elevated to suggest a need for further study of inorganic arsenic, cadmium, mercury, and tributyltin.

Toe transfer in congenital hand malformations.

PubMed

Foucher, G; Medina, J; Navarro, R; Nagel, D

2001-01-01

Fifty-eight patients with congenital hand abnormalities underwent 65 toe-to-hand transfers. Symbrachydactyly (51 cases) was the most frequent indication. Forty-seven second toe-to-hand transfers were performed in 44 patients. The mean follow-up time was 5.2 years. Two failures occurred in cases in which only one artery was anastomosed; no failures were noted when more than one artery fed the transfer. Two patients with a single second-toe transfer presented with lateral instability of the transferred metatarsophalangeal joint. The mean active range of motion was 38 degrees, with a mean extension lag of 25 degrees. The mean two-point discrimination was 5 mm. Forty-one patients used the transferred toe well, when performing activities of daily living and playing games. Toe-to-hand transfer, prior to the establishment of the grip pattern, facilitates integration of the transfer.

A femoral component inserted without cement in total hip arthroplasty. A study of the Tri-Lock component with an average ten-year duration of follow-up.

PubMed

Burt, C F; Garvin, K L; Otterberg, E T; Jardon, O M

1998-07-01

Seventy-four total hip arthroplasties in sixty-six patients were performed, between 1983 and 1986, with use of a Tri-Lock femoral component inserted without cement. This tapered cobalt-chromium component has a fixed head and a circumferential proximal porous coating. Follow-up was conducted with use of a questionnaire, physical examination, and radiographic analysis. At the time of the latest follow-up, fifteen patients (eighteen hips) had died, three patients (four hips) had been lost to follow-up, and one patient (one hip) had refused to participate in the follow-up study; however, the status of fifteen hips at the time of death could be verified. Thus, clinical follow-up data were available for sixty-six of the original seventy-four hips. The average age at the time of the operation was sixty-two years (range, seventeen to eighty-four years), and the average interval between the operation and the latest follow-up evaluation was 10.0 years (range, 8.3 to 11.6 years). The Harris hip score was determined for forty-three hips (forty-one patients) in which the prosthesis was in situ at the time of the latest follow-up. The score was good for thirteen hips and excellent for twenty-eight, so the rate of clinical success was 95 per cent. Two patients had a fair result. One of them had persistent pain and the other had limited motion, but neither had radiographic evidence of loosening of the femoral or acetabular component. All forty-one patients were satisfied with the result. The probability (with standard error) of survival of the femoral component at ten years, with revision as the end point, was 0.95 +/- 0.03. The rate of revision of the femoral component because of aseptic loosening was one (2 per cent) of sixty-six. The overall rate of aseptic loosening of the femoral component in the hips that were followed radiographically was two (4 per cent) of forty-seven. Only one (2 per cent) of the forty-seven acetabular cups had evidence of aseptic loosening. There was no radiographic evidence of distal osteolysis around the prostheses that were well fixed. Proximal osteolysis was present in five (11 per cent) of forty-seven hips, but none of the lesions compromised the stability of the prosthesis or the bone and there were no associated fractures. At an average of ten years postoperatively, the Tri-Lock femoral component functioned well overall and patient satisfaction was high.

A Proposal for an Austrian Nursing Minimum Data Set (NMDS)

PubMed Central

Hackl, W.O.; Ammenwerth, E.

2014-01-01

Summary Objective Nursing Minimum Data Sets can be used to compare nursing care across clinical populations, settings, geographical areas, and time. NMDS can support nursing research, nursing management, and nursing politics. However, in contrast to other countries, Austria does not have a unified NMDS. The objective of this study is to identify possible data elements for an Austrian NMDS. Methods A two-round Delphi survey was conducted, based on a review of available NMDS, 22 expert interviews, and a focus group discussion. Results After reaching consensus, the experts proposed the following 56 data elements for an NMDS: six data elements concerning patient demographics, four data elements concerning data of the healthcare institution, four data elements concerning patient’s medical condition, 20 data elements concerning patient problems (nursing assessment, nursing diagnoses, risk assessment), eight data elements concerning nursing outcomes, 14 data elements concerning nursing interventions, and no additional data elements concerning nursing intensity. Conclusion The proposed NMDS focuses on the long-term and acute care setting. It must now be implemented and tested in the nursing practice. PMID:25024767

Lubricant effects on bearing life

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zaretsky, Erwin V.

1986-01-01

Lubricant considerations for rolling-element bearings have within the last two decades taken on added importance in the design and operation of mechanical systems. The phenomenon which limits the useful life of bearings is rolling-element or surface pitting fatigue. The elastohydrodynamic (EHD) film thickness which separates the ball or roller surface from those of the raceways of the bearing directly affects bearing life. Chemical additives added to the lubricant can also significantly affect bearings life and reliability. The interaction of these physical and chemical effects is important to the design engineer and user of these systems. Design methods and lubricant selection for rolling-element bearings are presented and discussed.

Design of Particulate-Reinforced Composite Materials

PubMed Central

Muc, Aleksander; Barski, Marek

2018-01-01

A microstructure-based model is developed to study the effective anisotropic properties (magnetic, dielectric or thermal) of two-phase particle-filled composites. The Green’s function technique and the effective field method are used to theoretically derive the homogenized (averaged) properties for a representative volume element containing isolated inclusion and infinite, chain-structured particles. Those results are compared with the finite element approximations conducted for the assumed representative volume element. In addition, the Maxwell–Garnett model is retrieved as a special case when particle interactions are not considered. We also give some information on the optimal design of the effective anisotropic properties taking into account the shape of magnetic particles. PMID:29401678

Fast Boundary Element Method for acoustics with the Sparse Cardinal Sine Decomposition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alouges, François; Aussal, Matthieu; Parolin, Emile

2017-07-01

This paper presents the newly proposed method Sparse Cardinal Sine Decomposition that allows fast convolution on unstructured grids. We focus on its use when coupled with finite element techniques to solve acoustic problems with the (compressed) Boundary Element Method. In addition, we also compare the computational performances of two equivalent Matlab® and Python implementations of the method. We show validation test cases in order to assess the precision of the approach. Eventually, the performance of the method is illustrated by the computation of the acoustic target strength of a realistic submarine from the Benchmark Target Strength Simulation international workshop.

Protective coatings for metal alloys and methods incorporating the same

DOEpatents

Seabaugh, Matthew M.; Ibanez, Sergio; Swartz, Scott L.

2015-06-09

An electrochemical device having one or more solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs), each of the SOFCs including a cathode, an anode, and an electrolyte layer positioned between the cathode and anode; and at least one additional component comprising a metallic substrate having an electronically conductive, chromium-free perovskite coating deposited directly thereon. The perovskite coating has the formula ABO.sub.3, wherein A is a lanthanide element or Y, and B is a mixture of two or more transition elements, with the A site undoped by any alkaline earth element, and the perovskite coating exhibits limited or no ionic transport of oxygen.

Efficacy of Using Career and Self-Construction to Help Learners Manage Career-Related Transitions

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cook, A.; Maree, J. G.

2016-01-01

This article explores the extent to which an intervention programme helped learners from two contrasting educational settings manage career-related transitions. Forty-two learners from two schools were selected, using convenience and purposive sampling, to take part in an intervention programme. Two comparison groups comprised of 45 learners from…

Field test and finite element of I-345 bridge in Dallas.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2009-07-01

This report documents a field test to determine the stresses at areas where fatigue cracks had formed in the : bridges. Two bridges were instrumented and subjected to controlled truck traffic. In addition, the service fatigue : stresses were evaluate...

New solutions to realize complex optical systems by a combination of diffractive and refractive optical components

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brunner, Robert; Steiner, Reinhard; Dobschal, Hans-Juergen; Martin, Dietrich; Burkhardt, Matthias; Helgert, Michael

2003-11-01

Diffractive optical elements (DOEs) have a great potential in the complete or partial substitution of refractive or reflective optical elements in imaging systems. The greater design flexibility compared to an all-refractive/reflective solution allows a more convenient realization of the optical systems and additionally opens up new possibilities for optimizing the performance or compactness. To demonstrate the opportunities of the hybrid optical concept we discuss different imaging systems for various applications. We present the lens design of a hybrid microscope objective which is especially applicable for wafer inspection technologies. Meeting the requirements for such a system used in the deep-UV regime (248 nm) is very challenging. The short wavelength limits the material selection and demands cement free optical groups. The additional requirement of an autofocus system, working at a wavelength in the near infrared region, is fulfilled by the special combination of two selected and adjusted DOEs. Furthermore, we discuss the opportunities of the hybrid concept c of a slit lamp used for ophthalmologic examinations. The DOEs are the basic elements of this hybrid concept. We demonstrate that holographic lithography is an appropriate technology to realize a wide variety of elements with different profile geometries. We address in particular the additional possibilities of an UV-laser system as an exposure tool. Additionally to the high spatial frequencies, the 266 nm exposure wavelength allows the use of novel photo resists with advantageous development behavior.

Burnout and Scope of Practice in New Family Physicians.

PubMed

Weidner, Amanda K H; Phillips, Robert L; Fang, Bo; Peterson, Lars E

2018-05-01

Family physicians report some of the highest levels of burnout, but no published work has considered whether burnout is correlated with the broad scope of care that family physicians may provide. We examined the associations between family physician scope of practice and self-reported burnout. Secondary analysis of the 2016 National Family Medicine Graduate Survey respondents who provided outpatient continuity care (N = 1,617). We used bivariate analyses and logistic regression to compare self-report of burnout and measures of scope of practice including: inpatient medicine, obstetrics, pediatric ambulatory care, number of procedures and/or clinical content areas, and providing care outside the principal practice site. Forty-two percent of respondents reported feeling burned out from their work once a week or more. In bivariate analysis, elements of scope of practice associated with higher burnout rates included providing more procedures/clinical content areas (mean procedures/clinical areas: 7.49 vs 7.02; P = .02) and working in more settings than the principal practice site (1+ additional settings: 57.6% vs 48.4%: P = .001); specifically in the hospital (31.4% vs 24.2%; P = .002) and patient homes (3.3% vs 1.5%; P = .02). In adjusted analysis, practice characteristics significantly associated with lower odds of burnout were practicing inpatient medicine (OR = 0.70; 95% CI, 0.56-0.87; P = .0017) and obstetrics (OR = 0.64; 95% CI, 0.47-0.88; P = .0058). Early career family physicians who provide a broader scope of practice, specifically, inpatient medicine, obstetrics, or home visits, reported significantly lower rates of burnout. Our findings suggest that comprehensiveness is associated with less burnout, which is critical in the context of improving access to good quality, affordable care while maintaining physician wellness. © 2018 Annals of Family Medicine, Inc.

Evaluation of a Speed Mentoring Program: Achievement of Short-Term Mentee Goals and Potential for Longer-Term Relationships.

PubMed

Cellini, Melissa M; Serwint, Janet R; D'Alessandro, Donna M; Schulte, Elaine E; Osman, Cynthia

2017-07-01

Speed mentoring provides brief mentoring and networking opportunities. We evaluated 1) a national speed mentoring program's ability to encourage in-person networking and advice-sharing, and 2) 2 potential outcomes: helping mentees achieve 3-month goals, and fostering mentoring relationships after the program. An outcome approach logic model guided our program evaluation. Sixty mentees and 60 mentors participated. Each mentee met with 6 mentors for 10 minutes per pairing. At the program, mentees created goals. At 3 months, mentors sent mentees a reminder e-mail. At 4 months, participants received a Web-based survey. Forty-two (70%) mentees and 46 (77%) mentors completed the survey. Participants reported the program allowed them to share/receive advice, to network, to provide/gain different perspectives, and to learn from each other. Mentors as well as mentees identified shared interests, mentor-mentee chemistry, mentee initiative, and mentor approachability as key qualities contributing to ongoing relationships. Many mentor-mentee dyads had additional contact (approximately 60%) after the program and approximately one-third thought they were likely to continue the relationship. Goal-setting encouraged subsequent mentor-mentee contact and motivated mentees to work toward attaining their 3-month goals. The mentors aided mentees goal attainment by providing advice, offering support, and holding mentees accountable. A national speed mentoring program was an effective and efficient way to establish national connections, obtain different perspectives, and receive advice. Goal-setting helped mentees in achieving 3-month goals and fostering mentoring relationships outside of the program. These elements continue to be a part of this program and might be valuable for similar programs. Copyright © 2017 Academic Pediatric Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A retrospective analysis of short and long term efficacy of RBL for hemorrhoids.

PubMed

Lu, L Y; Zhu, Y; Sun, Q

2013-10-01

Rubber band ligation is an effective treatment for hemorrhoids. A retrospective analysis was performed to evaluate its short and long-term efficacy. From 2000 to 2008, 254 outpatients with II- degree and 114 with III-degree hemorrhoids underwent rubber band ligation. Two or three hemorrhoids were ligated per session. Each haemorrhoid was ligated with two rubber bands through a ligator. All patients were visited after two months and followed up through a telephone after two and eleven years. Twenty-four or forty-eight hours post treatment, 41% of patients had mild-moderate pain. Four patients showed severe pain and required for haemorrhoidectomy within a few days. Only 2% of patients experienced self-limiting rectal bleeding after one week and 6% of patients had an additional ligation within two months. Two months later, 92% of II-degree patients and 76% of III-degree patients showed no residual symptoms. After two and eleven years, the history of 314 patients (85%) were obtained, of them, 70% was asymptomatic, 27% had some residual symptoms of occasional bleeding and prolapse, and 3% needed further surgery. Rubber band ligation is an efficient, cost-effective and simple outpatient procedure for the second and third degree hemorrhoids with minimal complications.

41 CFR 60-2.17 - Additional required elements of affirmative action programs.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... elements of affirmative action programs. 60-2.17 Section 60-2.17 Public Contracts and Property Management... Action Programs § 60-2.17 Additional required elements of affirmative action programs. In addition to the elements required by § 60-2.10 through § 60-2.16, an acceptable affirmative action program must include the...

41 CFR 60-2.17 - Additional required elements of affirmative action programs.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... elements of affirmative action programs. 60-2.17 Section 60-2.17 Public Contracts and Property Management... Action Programs § 60-2.17 Additional required elements of affirmative action programs. In addition to the elements required by § 60-2.10 through § 60-2.16, an acceptable affirmative action program must include the...

41 CFR 60-2.17 - Additional required elements of affirmative action programs.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... elements of affirmative action programs. 60-2.17 Section 60-2.17 Public Contracts and Property Management... Action Programs § 60-2.17 Additional required elements of affirmative action programs. In addition to the elements required by § 60-2.10 through § 60-2.16, an acceptable affirmative action program must include the...

Constitutive Behavior of Reinforced Concrete Membrane Elements under Tri-directional Shear

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Labib, Moheb

The two-dimensional behavior of typical reinforced concrete (RC) structures has been extensively studied in the past several decades by investigating the constitutive behavior of full-scale reinforced concrete elements subjected to a bi-axial state of stress. In order to understand the true behavior of many large complex structures, the goal of this investigation is to develop new constitutive relationships for RC elements subjected to tri-directional shear stresses. Recently, additional out-of-plane jacks were installed on the panel tester at University of Houston so that concrete elements could be subjected to tri-directional shear stresses. This upgrade makes the panel tester the only one of its kind in the US that is capable of applying such combinations of stresses on full-scale reinforced concrete elements. This dissertation presents the details of the mounting and installation of the additional hydraulic jacks on the universal panel tester. The experimental program includes a series of seven reinforced concrete elements subjected to different combinations of in-plane and out-of-plane shear stresses. Increasing the applied out-of-plane shear stresses reduced the membrane shear strength of the elements. The effect of applying out-of-plane shear stresses on the in-plane shear strength was represented by modifying the softening coefficient in the compression stress strain curve of concrete struts. The modified model was able to capture the behavior and the ultimate capacity of the tested elements. The effect of the in-plane shear reinforcement ratio on the interaction between in-plane and out-of-plane shear stresses was evaluated. The model was implemented in the Finite Element package FEAP and was used to predict the ultimate capacity of many structures subjected to a combination of in-plane and out-of-plane shear stresses. The results of the analytical model were used to develop simplified design equations for members subjected to bi-directional shear loads. The applied out-of-plane shear load was resolved in two equal out-of-plane shear components to construct tri-directional shear interaction diagrams.

Improving prokaryotic transposable elements identification using a combination of de novo and profile HMM methods.

PubMed

Kamoun, Choumouss; Payen, Thibaut; Hua-Van, Aurélie; Filée, Jonathan

2013-10-11

Insertion Sequences (ISs) and their non-autonomous derivatives (MITEs) are important components of prokaryotic genomes inducing duplication, deletion, rearrangement or lateral gene transfers. Although ISs and MITEs are relatively simple and basic genetic elements, their detection remains a difficult task due to their remarkable sequence diversity. With the advent of high-throughput genome and metagenome sequencing technologies, the development of fast, reliable and sensitive methods of ISs and MITEs detection become an important challenge. So far, almost all studies dealing with prokaryotic transposons have used classical BLAST-based detection methods against reference libraries. Here we introduce alternative methods of detection either taking advantages of the structural properties of the elements (de novo methods) or using an additional library-based method using profile HMM searches. In this study, we have developed three different work flows dedicated to ISs and MITEs detection: the first two use de novo methods detecting either repeated sequences or presence of Inverted Repeats; the third one use 28 in-house transposase alignment profiles with HMM search methods. We have compared the respective performances of each method using a reference dataset of 30 archaeal and 30 bacterial genomes in addition to simulated and real metagenomes. Compared to a BLAST-based method using ISFinder as library, de novo methods significantly improve ISs and MITEs detection. For example, in the 30 archaeal genomes, we discovered 30 new elements (+20%) in addition to the 141 multi-copies elements already detected by the BLAST approach. Many of the new elements correspond to ISs belonging to unknown or highly divergent families. The total number of MITEs has even doubled with the discovery of elements displaying very limited sequence similarities with their respective autonomous partners (mainly in the Inverted Repeats of the elements). Concerning metagenomes, with the exception of short reads data (<300 bp) for which both techniques seem equally limited, profile HMM searches considerably ameliorate the detection of transposase encoding genes (up to +50%) generating low level of false positives compare to BLAST-based methods. Compared to classical BLAST-based methods, the sensitivity of de novo and profile HMM methods developed in this study allow a better and more reliable detection of transposons in prokaryotic genomes and metagenomes. We believed that future studies implying ISs and MITEs identification in genomic data should combine at least one de novo and one library-based method, with optimal results obtained by running the two de novo methods in addition to a library-based search. For metagenomic data, profile HMM search should be favored, a BLAST-based step is only useful to the final annotation into groups and families.

Dragon Ears airborne acoustic array: CSP analysis applied to cross array to compute real-time 2D acoustic sound field

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cerwin, Steve; Barnes, Julie; Kell, Scott; Walters, Mark

2003-09-01

This paper describes development and application of a novel method to accomplish real-time solid angle acoustic direction finding using two 8-element orthogonal microphone arrays. The developed prototype system was intended for localization and signature recognition of ground-based sounds from a small UAV. Recent advances in computer speeds have enabled the implementation of microphone arrays in many audio applications. Still, the real-time presentation of a two-dimensional sound field for the purpose of audio target localization is computationally challenging. In order to overcome this challenge, a crosspower spectrum phase1 (CSP) technique was applied to each 8-element arm of a 16-element cross array to provide audio target localization. In this paper, we describe the technique and compare it with two other commonly used techniques; Cross-Spectral Matrix2 and MUSIC3. The results show that the CSP technique applied to two 8-element orthogonal arrays provides a computationally efficient solution with reasonable accuracy and tolerable artifacts, sufficient for real-time applications. Additional topics include development of a synchronized 16-channel transmitter and receiver to relay the airborne data to the ground-based processor and presentation of test data demonstrating both ground-mounted operation and airborne localization of ground-based gunshots and loud engine sounds.

An analysis of mobile genetic elements in three Plasmodium species and their potential impact on the nucleotide composition of the P. falciparum genome.

PubMed

Durand, Pierre M; Oelofse, Andries J; Coetzer, Theresa L

2006-11-04

The completed genome sequences of the malaria parasites P. falciparum, P. y. yoelii and P. vivax have revealed some unusual features. P. falciparum contains the most AT rich genome sequenced so far--over 90% in some regions. In comparison, P. y. yoelii is approximately 77% and P. vivax is approximately 55% AT rich. The evolutionary reasons for these findings are unknown. Mobile genetic elements have a considerable impact on genome evolution but a thorough investigation of these elements in Plasmodium has not been undertaken. We therefore performed a comprehensive genome analysis of these elements and their derivatives in the three Plasmodium species. Whole genome analysis was performed using bioinformatic methods. Forty potential protein encoding sequences with features of transposable elements were identified in P. vivax, eight in P. y. yoelii and only six in P. falciparum. Further investigation of the six open reading frames in P. falciparum revealed that only one is potentially an active mobile genetic element. Most of the open reading frames identified in all three species are hypothetical proteins. Some represent annotated host proteins such as the putative telomerase reverse transcriptase genes in P. y. yoelii and P. falciparum. One of the P. vivax open reading frames identified in this study demonstrates similarity to telomerase reverse transcriptase and we conclude it to be the orthologue of this gene. There is a divergence in the frequencies of mobile genetic elements in the three Plasmodium species investigated. Despite the limitations of whole genome analytical methods, it is tempting to speculate that mobile genetic elements might have been a driving force behind the compositional bias of the P. falciparum genome.

rSNPBase 3.0: an updated database of SNP-related regulatory elements, element-gene pairs and SNP-based gene regulatory networks.

PubMed

Guo, Liyuan; Wang, Jing

2018-01-04

Here, we present the updated rSNPBase 3.0 database (http://rsnp3.psych.ac.cn), which provides human SNP-related regulatory elements, element-gene pairs and SNP-based regulatory networks. This database is the updated version of the SNP regulatory annotation database rSNPBase and rVarBase. In comparison to the last two versions, there are both structural and data adjustments in rSNPBase 3.0: (i) The most significant new feature is the expansion of analysis scope from SNP-related regulatory elements to include regulatory element-target gene pairs (E-G pairs), therefore it can provide SNP-based gene regulatory networks. (ii) Web function was modified according to data content and a new network search module is provided in the rSNPBase 3.0 in addition to the previous regulatory SNP (rSNP) search module. The two search modules support data query for detailed information (related-elements, element-gene pairs, and other extended annotations) on specific SNPs and SNP-related graphic networks constructed by interacting transcription factors (TFs), miRNAs and genes. (3) The type of regulatory elements was modified and enriched. To our best knowledge, the updated rSNPBase 3.0 is the first data tool supports SNP functional analysis from a regulatory network prospective, it will provide both a comprehensive understanding and concrete guidance for SNP-related regulatory studies. © The Author(s) 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Nucleic Acids Research.

Combination Effects of Forty Carcinogens Administered at Low Doses to Male Rats

PubMed Central

Takayama, Shozo; Hasegawa, Hirokazu; Ohgaki, Hiroko

1989-01-01

An investigation was conducted to determine whether a mixture of low doses of forty carcinogens that target different organs, including the liver, intestine, thyroid, urinary bladder, and skin, is effective for tumor induction in F344/DuCrj rats. The dose of each carcinogen in the diet was 1/50 of the TD50 value, treatment being continued for 102 weeks. Significant numbers of neoplastic nodules of the liver and follicular cell tumors of the thyroid developed in the animals exposed to the carcinogen mixture, although the question of whether the observed carcinogenic effects were synergistic or additive could not be answered. The results serve to evaluate carcinogenic risk in the search for causes of human cancer. PMID:2511179

Evaluation of a metal shear web selectively reinforced with filamentary composites for space shuttle application. Phase 2: summary report: Shear web component fabrication

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Laakso, J. H.; Smith, D. D.; Zimmerman, D. K.

1973-01-01

The fabrication of two shear web test elements and three large scale shear web test components are reported. In addition, the fabrication of test fixtures for the elements and components is described. The center-loaded beam test fixtures were configured to have a test side and a dummy or permanent side. The test fixtures were fabricated from standard extruded aluminum sections and plates and were designed to be reuseable.

Tensioning of a belt around a drum using membrane element

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chen, C. H. S.

1980-01-01

An application of the membrane element to the problem of the tensioning of a conveyer belt which wraps around a drum is presented. Two cases were investigated: (1) belt tension increase due to drum edge wear; and (2) material trapped between the drum and the belt. In both cases it was found that the increase in belt tension was due to the additional stretching of the belt resulting from the drum radius change rather than from the transverse deflection of the belt.

Two Student Self-Management Techniques Applied to Data-Based Program Modification.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wesson, Caren

Two student self-management techniques, student charting and student selection of instructional activities, were applied to ongoing data-based program modification. Forty-two elementary school resource room students were assigned randomly (within teacher) to one of three treatment conditions: Teacher Chart-Teacher Select Instructional Activities…

Hybrid concatenated codes and iterative decoding

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Divsalar, Dariush (Inventor); Pollara, Fabrizio (Inventor)

2000-01-01

Several improved turbo code apparatuses and methods. The invention encompasses several classes: (1) A data source is applied to two or more encoders with an interleaver between the source and each of the second and subsequent encoders. Each encoder outputs a code element which may be transmitted or stored. A parallel decoder provides the ability to decode the code elements to derive the original source information d without use of a received data signal corresponding to d. The output may be coupled to a multilevel trellis-coded modulator (TCM). (2) A data source d is applied to two or more encoders with an interleaver between the source and each of the second and subsequent encoders. Each of the encoders outputs a code element. In addition, the original data source d is output from the encoder. All of the output elements are coupled to a TCM. (3) At least two data sources are applied to two or more encoders with an interleaver between each source and each of the second and subsequent encoders. The output may be coupled to a TCM. (4) At least two data sources are applied to two or more encoders with at least two interleavers between each source and each of the second and subsequent encoders. (5) At least one data source is applied to one or more serially linked encoders through at least one interleaver. The output may be coupled to a TCM. The invention includes a novel way of terminating a turbo coder.

Whole body-element composition of Atlantic salmon Salmo salar influenced by migration direction and life stage in three distinct populations.

PubMed

Ebel, J D; Leroux, S J; Robertson, M J; Dempson, J B

2016-11-01

Body-element content was measured for three life stages of wild Atlantic salmon Salmo salar from three distinct Newfoundland populations as individuals crossed between freshwater and marine ecosystems. Life stage explained most of the variation in observed body-element concentration whereas river of capture explained very little variation. Element composition of downstream migrating post-spawn adults (i.e. kelts) and juvenile smolts were similar and the composition of these two life stages strongly differed from adults migrating upstream to spawn. Low variation within life stages and across populations suggests that S. salar may exert rheostatic control of their body-element composition. Additionally, observed differences in trace element concentration between adults and other life stages were probably driven by the high carbon concentration in adults because abundant elements, such as carbon, can strongly influence the observed concentrations of less abundant elements. Thus, understanding variation among individuals in trace elements composition requires the measurement of more abundant elements. Changes in element concentration with ontogeny have important consequences the role of fishes in ecosystem nutrient cycling and should receive further attention. © 2016 The Fisheries Society of the British Isles.

The Influence of Social Intelligence on Effective Music Teaching

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Juchniewicz, Jay

2010-01-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of social intelligence on effective music teaching. Forty teachers from "exemplary programs" and "more challenging programs" across band, chorus, orchestra, and general public school music programs were administered the Interpersonal Perception Task-15 (IPT-15). In addition, 84 external…

Applicability of Herzberg's Motivator-Hygiene Theory in Studying Academic Motivation.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Magoon, Robert A.; James, Aaron

1978-01-01

Forty-one community college students were asked to recall one college-related event which made them feel good and one which made them feel bad, and provide additional information about each. Results were analyzed using Herzberg's methods to identify factors related to student motivation, as "satisfiers" or "dissatisfiers" and…

Fire and the Environment: Ecological and Cultural Perspectives

Treesearch

Stephen C. Nodvin; Thomas A. Waldrop; [Editors

1991-01-01

Forty-one papers based on oral presentations are included under four categories: Fire Ecology; Fire Management; Cultural; and Fire History. In addition, three papers are presented from a special session on the 1988 fires in the Greater Yellowstone Area and fourteen papers are presented from a poster session.

Birch nursery practice

Treesearch

Sidney H. Hanks

1969-01-01

Of the forty or so species of trees that comprise this genera, seven are native to North America. Three are of silvicultural importance in North America: yellow birch, paper birch, and sweet birch (USDA Forest Service 1965). When ornamental, landscaping, and reclamation uses are considered, three additional species—gray birch, European white birch, and river...

Psychopathology in African Unaccompanied Refugee Minors in Austria

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Huemer, Julia; Karnik, Niranjan; Voelkl-Kernstock, Sabine; Granditsch, Elisabeth; Plattner, Belinda; Friedrich, Max; Steiner, Hans

2011-01-01

We assessed the prevalence of a range of psychopathology among African unaccompanied refugee minors (URMs) in Austria. Additionally, the predictive value of war exposure on PTSD symptoms was examined. Forty-one URMs were assessed with the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview for children and adolescents, the Youth Self-Report, the UCLA…

Factors Affecting Decision-Making by Young Adults with Intellectual Disabilities.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jenkinson, Josephine C.

1999-01-01

Forty-eight young adults with mental retardation were placed into high and low learned helplessness groups based on responses to a questionnaire. Participants were presented with vignettes and asked what they would do. Results found low learned helplessness participants obtained significantly higher decision-making scores. Additional information…

NASA Automated Rendezvous and Capture Review. Executive summary

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1991-01-01

In support of the Cargo Transfer Vehicle (CTV) Definition Studies in FY-92, the Advanced Program Development division of the Office of Space Flight at NASA Headquarters conducted an evaluation and review of the United States capabilities and state-of-the-art in Automated Rendezvous and Capture (AR&C). This review was held in Williamsburg, Virginia on 19-21 Nov. 1991 and included over 120 attendees from U.S. government organizations, industries, and universities. One hundred abstracts were submitted to the organizing committee for consideration. Forty-two were selected for presentation. The review was structured to include five technical sessions. Forty-two papers addressed topics in the five categories below: (1) hardware systems and components; (2) software systems; (3) integrated systems; (4) operations; and (5) supporting infrastructure.

Health sciences libraries building survey, 1999-2009.

PubMed

Ludwig, Logan

2010-04-01

A survey was conducted of health sciences libraries to obtain information about newer buildings, additions, remodeling, and renovations. An online survey was developed, and announcements of survey availability posted to three major email discussion lists: Medical Library Association (MLA), Association of Academic Health Sciences Libraries (AAHSL), and MEDLIB-L. Previous discussions of library building projects on email discussion lists, a literature review, personal communications, and the author's consulting experiences identified additional projects. Seventy-eight health sciences library building projects at seventy-three institutions are reported. Twenty-two are newer facilities built within the last ten years; two are space expansions; forty-five are renovation projects; and nine are combinations of new and renovated space. Six institutions report multiple or ongoing renovation projects during the last ten years. The survey results confirm a continuing migration from print-based to digitally based collections and reveal trends in library space design. Some health sciences libraries report loss of space as they move toward creating space for "community" building. Libraries are becoming more proactive in using or retooling space for concentration, collaboration, contemplation, communication, and socialization. All are moving toward a clearer operational vision of the library as the institution's information nexus and not merely as a physical location with print collections.

Changes in postural sway as a consequence of wearing a military backpack.

PubMed

Heller, Michelle F; Challis, John H; Sharkey, Neil A

2009-07-01

Military personnel are often required to carry all of their personal supplies and equipment for long distances during both training and combat situations, creating many biomechanical and postural challenges for these individuals. In addition to other problems such as generalized fatigue and the development of stress fractures, significant external loads may also affect a soldier's postural sway. The purpose of this study was to assess changes in postural sway as a consequence of wearing a military backpack in females. Forty-three female subjects between the ages of 18 and 25 volunteered to participate. There were two conditions: unloaded and while wearing an 18.1 kg military backpack. Each subject stood with two feet on a force platform for 30s under both conditions while center of pressure (COP) data were collected. COP path length increased 64%, medial-lateral excursion increased 131%, anterior-posterior excursion increased 54%, and COP area increased 229% with addition of the backpack (p<0.0001 for all of these measures). These data show that wearing 18.1 kg of external weight in a military backpack increases the postural sway of females, which may in turn increase the likelihood of falls and injury.

Work-Anxiety and Sickness Absence After a Short Inpatient Cognitive Behavioral Group Intervention in Comparison to a Recreational Group Meeting.

PubMed

Muschalla, Beate; Linden, Michael; Jöbges, Michael

2016-04-01

The aim of this study was to study the effects of a short-term cognitive behavior therapy on work-anxiety and sickness-absence in patients with work-anxiety. Three-hundred forty-five inpatients who suffered from cardiologic, neurological, or orthopedic problems and additionally work-anxiety were randomly assigned into two different group interventions. Patients got four sessions of a group intervention, which either focused on cognitive behavior-therapy anxiety-management (work-anxiety coping group, WAG) or unspecific recreational activities (RG). No differences were found between WAG and RG for work-anxiety and subjective work ability. When looking at patients who were suffering only from work-anxiety, and no additional mental disorder, the duration of sickness absence until 6 months follow-up was shorter in the WAG (WAG: 11 weeks, RG: 16 weeks, P = 0.050). A short-term WAG may help return to work in patients with work-anxieties, as long as there is no comorbid mental disorder.

Large-scale phytogeographical patterns in East Asia in relation to latitudinal and climatic gradients

USGS Publications Warehouse

Qian, H.; Song, J.-S.; Krestov, P.; Guo, Q.; Wu, Z.; Shen, X.; Guo, X.

2003-01-01

Aim: This paper aims at determining how different floristic elements (e.g. cosmopolitan, tropical, and temperate) change with latitude and major climate factors, and how latitude affects the floristic relationships between East Asia and the other parts of the world. Location: East Asia from the Arctic to tropical regions, an area crossing over 50?? of latitudes and covering the eastern part of China, Korea, Japan and the eastern part of Russia. Methods: East Asia is divided into forty-five geographical regions. Based on the similarity of their world-wide distributional patterns, a total of 2808 indigenous genera of seed plants found in East Asia were grouped into fourteen geographical elements, belonging to three major categories (cosmopolitan, tropical and temperate). The 50??-long latitudinal gradient of East Asia was divided into five latitudinal zones, each of c. 10??. Phytogeographical relationships of East Asia to latitude and climatic variables were examined based on the forty-five regional floras. Results: Among all geographical and climatic variables considered, latitude showed the strongest relationship to phytogeographical composition. Tropical genera (with pantropical, amphi-Pacific tropical, palaeotropical, tropical Asia-tropical Australia, tropical Asia-tropical Africa and tropical Asia geographical elements combined) accounted for c. 80% of the total genera at latitude 20??N and for c. 0% at latitude 55-60??N. In contrast, temperate genera (including holarctic, eastern Asia-North America, temperate Eurasia, temperate Asia, Mediterranean, western Asia to central Asia, central Asia and eastern Asia geographical elements) accounted for 15.5% in the southernmost latitude and for 80% at 55-60??N, from where northward the percentage tended to level off. The proportion of cosmopolitan genera increased gradually with latitude from 5% at the southernmost latitude to 21% at 55-60??N, where it levelled off northward. In general, the genera present in a more northerly flora are a subset of the genera present in a more southerly flora. Main conclusions: The large-scale patterns of phytogeography in East Asia are strongly related to latitude, which covaries with several climatic variables such as temperature. Evolutionary processes such as the adaptation of plants to cold climates and current and past land connections are likely responsible for the observed latitudinal patterns.

Trace elements in canvasbacks (Aythya valisineria) wintering in Louisiana, USA, 1987-1988

USGS Publications Warehouse

Custer, Thomas W.; Hohman, William L.

1994-01-01

We determined trace element concentrations in livers of canvasbacks (Aythya valisineria) collected at Catahoula Lake and the Mississippi River Delta, Louisiana during, the winter of 1987–1988. Forty percent of canvasbacks wintering at Lake Catahoula had elevated concentrations of lead (>6·7 μg g−1 dry weight) in the liver; 33% had concentrations consistent with lead intoxication (>26·7 μg g−1). Based on the number of canvasbacks that winter at Lake Catahoula and the frequency of lead exposure there, more than 5% of the continental population of canvasbacks may be exposed to lead at Lake Catahoula alone. Lead concentrations in livers differed among months and were higher in males than females, but were not different in adults and immatures. Concentrations of selenium and mercury in livers of females differed among months but not by age or location. Cadmium concentrations in livers differed by age, location and month of collection, but not by sex. Frequencies and concentrations of trace elements not commonly associated with adverse effects on avian species (aluminum, arsenic, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, nickel, silver, vanadium and zinc) are presented. Except for the elevated concentrations of lead at Catahoula Lake, all trace elements were at background concentrations.

Uranium hydrogeochemical and stream sediment reconnaissance data release for the Red Creek quartzite special study area, Vernal NTMS Quadrangle, Utah/Colorado, including concentrations of forty-six additional elements

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

Goff, S.; George, W.E.; Apel, C.T.

1981-04-01

Totals of 22 water and 140 sediment samples were collected from 148 locations in the study area. The study area, in the north-central portion of the Vernal NTMS quadrangle, is covered by four 7-1/2' topographic maps: Dutch John, Goslin Mountain, and Clav Basin, Utah; and Willow Creek Butte, Utah/Colorado. Additional HSSR data are available for the entire Vernal quadrangle (Purson, 1980). All field and analytical data are presented in Appendix I. Figure 1 is an index and sample location map that can be used in conjunction with the 1:250,000-scale topographic map of the Vernal quadrangle (USGS, 1954). Standarized field, analytical,more » and data base management procedures were followed in all phases of the study. These procedures are described briefly in Appendix II-A and in reports by Sharp (1977), Hues et al (1977), Sharp and Aamodt (1978), Cheadle (1977), and Kosiewicz (1979). The data presented in Appendix I are available on magnetic tape from GJOIS Project, Union Carbide Corporation (UCC-ND), Computer Applications Department, 4500 North Building, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, P.O. Box X, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37830. Because this is simply a data release, intended to make the data available to the DOE and the public as quickly as possible, no discussion of the geology of the region, uranium occurrences, or data evaluation is included.« less

Improvement of a rapid screening test for chronic granulomatous disease.

PubMed

Iacobini, M; Duse, M; Di Coste, A; Balducci, L

2013-01-01

Diagnosis of CGD is made by demonstrating absent or markedly reduced oxidase activity in stimulated neutrophils. The screening test proposed is based upon the naked eye evaluation of the reduction of NBT on a solid surface. It seems to be a useful tool for rapid and inexpensive detection of CGD patients, especially for large-scale screening purposes. The test was carried out on forty-five subjects: two males affected by CGD, three female carriers and forty healthy donors. The test confirmed the results obtained with flow cytometric and NBT assays.

Assessment of Water-Quality Conditions in Fivemile Creek in the Vicinity of the Fivemile Creek Greenway, Jefferson County, Alabama, 2003-2005

USGS Publications Warehouse

Gill, Amy C.; Robinson, John A.; Redmond, Jymalyn E.; Bradley, Michael W.

2008-01-01

The watershed of Fivemile Creek (FMC), a tributary to the Locust Fork of the Black Warrior River, is located north of Birmingham, Alabama. Areas that have been previously coal-mined border the creek, and portions of the upper watershed have been and are currently (2007) being used for industrial and urban uses. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), in cooperation with the City of Tarrant, the Freshwater Land Trust, and the Jefferson County Commission, conducted a water-quality assessment of 12 sites along FMC during 2003?2005. Water samples were analyzed for basic physical and chemical properties and concentrations of major ions, nutrients, fecal indicator bacteria, organic wastewater compounds, pesticides, trace elements, and semivolatile organic compounds. Streambed-sediment samples were analyzed for concentrations of trace elements and semivolatile organic compounds. Benthic invertebrate communities were evaluated for taxonomic composition and relation to water-quality conditions. Nutrient concentrations in the FMC watershed reflect the influences of natural and anthropogenic sources. Concentrations of total nitrogen in all samples and total Kjeldahl nitrogen in at least one sample each collected from FMC at Hewitt Park, FMC below Springdale Road, FMC at Lewisburg, FMC near Republic, FMC at Brookside, and FMC at Linn Crossing exceeded U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) ecoregion nutrient criteria. Total phosphorus concentrations in about 58 percent of all samples were above the ecoregion nutrient criteria. Concentrations of chlorophyll a, an indicator of algal biomass, in the FMC watershed were below the appropriate USEPA ecoregion criteria. Fecal indicator bacteria concentrations occasionally exceeded criteria established by the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) and the USEPA to protect human health and aquatic life. Median fecal-coliform concentrations equaled or exceeded USEPA criteria at four of the six sites with multiple samples. Maximum Escherichia coli (E. coli) concentrations usually occurred during high-flow conditions and exceeded the single-sample criterion for infrequently-used whole-body contact (576 colonies per 100 milliliters) at all but one site. Median E. coli concentrations for two of the seven sites with multiple samples exceeded USEPA criteria. Twenty-nine samples were collected from sites along FMC and analyzed by the USGS National Water Quality Laboratory for the presence of 57 organic wastewater compounds. Forty-six of the 57 organic wastewater compounds, representing all 11 general-use categories, were detected in samples from FMC. All detections of organic wastewater compounds were estimated below laboratory reporting limits except for several detections of the herbicide bromacil. Herbicides accounted for approximately 62 percent of the number of pesticide detections in the FMC study area. Two herbicides, atrazine and simazine, were detected most frequently, in 100 percent of the surface-water samples. Fipronil sulfide was the most commonly detected insecticide-derived compound, occurring in 52 percent of the surface-water samples. Concentrations of one insecticide, dieldrin, exceeded the USEPA?s health advisory level for drinking water in one sample at FMC at Hewitt Park and in one sample at FMC below Springdale Road. Concentrations of carbaryl in two samples and malathion in one sample exceeded aquatic-life criteria. Only a few trace element concentrations measured in FMC exceeded established standards or criteria. Some concentrations of aluminum and manganese were above secondary drinking-water standards. One cadmium concentration and three selenium concentrations measured at FMC at Lewisburg exceeded ADEM chronic aquatic-life criteria. Streambed-sediment samples were collected at seven sites along FMC, and analyzed for selected semivolatile organic compounds and trace elements. Forty-nine of 98 semivolatile organic compounds were detected in stre

Risk Control Through the Use of Procedures - A Method for Evaluating the Change in Risk

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Praino, Gregory; Sharit, Joseph

2010-01-01

Organizations use procedures to influence or control the behavior of their workers, but often have no basis for determining whether an additional rule, or procedural control will be beneficial. This paper outlines a proposed method for determining if the addition or removal of procedural controls will impact the occurrences of critical consequences. The proposed method focuses on two aspects: how valuable the procedural control is, based on the inevitability of the consequence and the opportunity to intervene; and how likely the control is to fail, based on five procedural design elements that address how well the rule or control has been Defined, Assigned, Trained, Organized and Monitored-referred to as the DATOM elements

Experimental and Computational Investigation of Lift-Enhancing Tabs on a Multi-Element Airfoil

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ashby, Dale L.

1996-01-01

An experimental and computational investigation of the effect of lift-enhancing tabs on a two-element airfoil has been conducted. The objective of the study was to develop an understanding of the flow physics associated with lift-enhancing tabs on a multi-element airfoil. An NACA 63(2)-215 ModB airfoil with a 30% chord fowler flap was tested in the NASA Ames 7- by 10-Foot Wind Tunnel. Lift-enhancing tabs of various heights were tested on both the main element and the flap for a variety of flap riggings. A combination of tabs located at the main element and flap trailing edges increased the airfoil lift coefficient by 11% relative to the highest lift coefficient achieved by any baseline configuration at an angle of attack of 0 deg, and C(sub 1max) was increased by 3%. Computations of the flow over the two-element airfoil were performed using the two-dimensional incompressible Navier-Stokes code INS2D-UP. The computed results predicted all of the trends observed in the experimental data quite well. In addition, a simple analytic model based on potential flow was developed to provide a more detailed understanding of how lift-enhancing tabs work. The tabs were modeled by a point vortex at the air-foil or flap trailing edge. Sensitivity relationships were derived which provide a mathematical basis for explaining the effects of lift-enhancing tabs on a multi-element airfoil. Results of the modeling effort indicate that the dominant effects of the tabs on the pressure distribution of each element of the airfoil can be captured with a potential flow model for cases with no flow separation.

The site-specific ribosomal insertion element type II of Bombyx mori (R2Bm) contains the coding sequence for a reverse transcriptase-like enzyme.

PubMed Central

Burke, W D; Calalang, C C; Eickbush, T H

1987-01-01

Two classes of DNA elements interrupt a fraction of the rRNA repeats of Bombyx mori. We have analyzed by genomic blotting and sequence analysis one class of these elements which we have named R2. These elements occupy approximately 9% of the rDNA units of B. mori and appear to be homologous to the type II rDNA insertions detected in Drosophila melanogaster. Approximately 25 copies of R2 exist within the B. mori genome, of which at least 20 are located at a precise location within otherwise typical rDNA units. Nucleotide sequence analysis has revealed that the 4.2-kilobase-pair R2 element has a single large open reading frame, occupying over 82% of the total length of the element. The central region of this 1,151-amino-acid open reading frame shows homology to the reverse transcriptase enzymes found in retroviruses and certain transposable elements. Amino acid homology of this region is highest to the mobile line 1 elements of mammals, followed by the mitochondrial type II introns of fungi, and the pol gene of retroviruses. Less homology exists with transposable elements of D. melanogaster and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Two additional regions of sequence homology between L1 and R2 elements were also found outside the reverse transcriptase region. We suggest that the R2 elements are retrotransposons that are site specific in their insertion into the genome. Such mobility would enable these elements to occupy a small fraction of the rDNA units of B. mori despite their continual elimination from the rDNA locus by sequence turnover. Images PMID:2439905

Integrated Nondestructive Evaluation and Finite Element Analysis Predicts Crack Location and Shape

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Abdul-Azia, Ali; Baaklini, George Y.; Trudell, Jeffrey J.

2002-01-01

This study describes the finite-element analyses and the NDE modality undertaken on two flywheel rotors that were spun to burst speed. Computed tomography and dimensional measurements were used to nondestructively evaluate the rotors before and/or after they were spun to the first crack detection. Computed tomography data findings of two- and three-dimensional crack formation were used to conduct finite-element (FEA) and fracture mechanics analyses. A procedure to extend these analyses to estimate the life of these components is also outlined. NDE-FEA results for one of the rotors are presented in the figures. The stress results, which represent the radial stresses in the rim, clearly indicate that the maximum stress region is within the section defined by the computed tomography scan. Furthermore, the NDE data correlate well with the FEA results. In addition, the measurements reported show that the NDE and FEA data are in parallel.

An Experimental Investigation of the Confluent Boundary Layer on a High-Lift System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Thomas, F. O.; Nelson, R. C.

1997-01-01

This paper describes a fundamental experimental investigation of the confluent boundary layer generated by the interaction of a leading-edge slat wake with the boundary layer on the main element of a multi-element airfoil model. The slat and airfoil model geometry are both fully two-dimensional. The research reported in this paper is performed in an attempt to investigate the flow physics of confluent boundary layers and to build an archival data base on the interaction of the slat wake and the main element wall layer. In addition, an attempt is made to clearly identify the role that slat wake / airfoil boundary layer confluence has on lift production and how this occurs. Although complete LDV flow surveys were performed for a variety of slat gap and overhang settings, in this report the focus is on two cases representing both strong and weak wake boundary layer confluence.

Method and apparatus for minimizing multiple degree of freedom vibration transmission between two regions of a structure

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Silcox, Richard J. (Inventor); Fuller, Chris R. (Inventor); Gibbs, Gary P. (Inventor)

1992-01-01

Arrays of actuators are affixed to structural elements to impede the transmission of vibrational energy. A single pair is used to provide control of bending and extensional waves and two pairs are used to control torsional motion. The arrays are applied to a wide variety of structural elements such as a beam structure that is part of a larger framework that may or may not support a rigid or non-rigid skin. Electrical excitation is applied to the actuators that generate forces on the structure. These electrical inputs may be adjusted in their amplitude and phase by a controller in communication with appropriate vibrational wave sensors to impede the flow of vibrational power in all of the above mentioned wave forms beyond the actuator location. Additional sensor elements can be used to monitor the performance and adjust the electrical inputs to maximize the attenuation of vibrational energy.

The impact of mind-body medicine facilitation on affirming and enhancing professional identity in health care professions faculty.

PubMed

Talisman, Nicholas; Harazduk, Nancy; Rush, Christina; Graves, Kristi; Haramati, Aviad

2015-06-01

Georgetown University School of Medicine (GUSOM) offers medical students a course in mind-body medicine (MBM) that introduces them to tools that reduce stress and foster self-awareness. Previous studies reported decreases in students' perceived stress and increases in mindfulness-changes that were associated with increased empathic concern and other elements of professional identity formation. However, no reports have described the impact of an MBM course on the facilitators themselves. To explore whether MBM facilitation is associated with changes in professional identity, self-awareness, and/or perceived stress, 62 facilitators, trained by the GUSOM MBM program, were invited to complete two validated surveys: the Freiburg Mindfulness Inventory (FMI) and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). Forty-two participants also completed a six-item open-ended questionnaire addressing their experience in the context of their professional identity. Facilitators' scores were significantly lower on PSS and higher on FMI compared with normative controls (P < .05), and the two parameters were inversely correlated (-0.46, P < .01). Qualitative analysis revealed three main themes: (1) aspects of professional identity (with subthemes of communication; connections and community; empathy and active listening; and self-confidence); (2) self-care; and (3) mindful awareness. Preliminary findings will be extended with larger studies that examine longitudinal quantitative assessment of communication, connection, and self-confidence outcomes in MBM facilitators, and the impact of MBM facilitation on burnout and resilience.

In Vitro and In Vivo Plant Growth Promoting Activities and DNA Fingerprinting of Antagonistic Endophytic Actinomycetes Associates with Medicinal Plants.

PubMed

Passari, Ajit Kumar; Mishra, Vineet Kumar; Gupta, Vijai Kumar; Yadav, Mukesh Kumar; Saikia, Ratul; Singh, Bhim Pratap

2015-01-01

Endophytic actinomycetes have shown unique plant growth promoting as well as antagonistic activity against fungal phytopathogens. In the present study forty-two endophytic actinomycetes recovered from medicinal plants were evaluated for their antagonistic potential and plant growth-promoting abilities. Twenty-two isolates which showed the inhibitory activity against at least one pathogen were subsequently tested for their plant-growth promoting activities and were compared genotypically using DNA based fingerprinting, including enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus (ERIC) and BOX repetitive elements. Genetic relatedness based on both ERIC and BOX-PCR generates specific patterns corresponding to particular genotypes. Exponentially grown antagonistic isolates were used to evaluate phosphate solubilization, siderophores, HCN, ammonia, chitinase, indole-3-acetic acid production, as well as antifungal activities. Out of 22 isolates, the amount of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) ranging between 10-32 μg/ml was produced by 20 isolates and all isolates were positive for ammonia production ranging between 5.2 to 54 mg/ml. Among 22 isolates tested, the amount of hydroxamate-type siderophores were produced by 16 isolates ranging between 5.2 to 36.4 μg/ml, while catechols-type siderophores produced by 5 isolates ranging from 3.2 to 5.4 μg/ml. Fourteen isolates showed the solubilisation of inorganic phosphorous ranging from 3.2 to 32.6 mg/100ml. Chitinase and HCN production was shown by 19 and 15 different isolates, respectively. In addition, genes of indole acetic acid (iaaM) and chitinase (chiC) were successively amplified from 20 and 19 isolates respectively. The two potential strains Streptomyces sp. (BPSAC34) and Leifsonia xyli (BPSAC24) were tested in vivo and improved a range of growth parameters in chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) under greenhouse conditions. This study is the first published report that actinomycetes can be isolated as endophytes from within these plants and were shown to have antagonistic and plant growth promoting abilities. These results clearly suggest the possibility of using endophytic actinomycetes as bioinoculant for plant growth promotion, nutrient mobilization or as biocontrol agent against fungal phytopathogens for sustainable agriculture.

The clc Element of Pseudomonas sp. Strain B13, a Genomic Island with Various Catabolic Properties

PubMed Central

Gaillard, Muriel; Vallaeys, Tatiana; Vorhölter, Frank Jörg; Minoia, Marco; Werlen, Christoph; Sentchilo, Vladimir; Pühler, Alfred; van der Meer, Jan Roelof

2006-01-01

Pseudomonas sp. strain B13 is a bacterium known to degrade chloroaromatic compounds. The properties to use 3- and 4-chlorocatechol are determined by a self-transferable DNA element, the clc element, which normally resides at two locations in the cell's chromosome. Here we report the complete nucleotide sequence of the clc element, demonstrating the unique catabolic properties while showing its relatedness to genomic islands and integrative and conjugative elements rather than to other known catabolic plasmids. As far as catabolic functions, the clc element harbored, in addition to the genes for chlorocatechol degradation, a complete functional operon for 2-aminophenol degradation and genes for a putative aromatic compound transport protein and for a multicomponent aromatic ring dioxygenase similar to anthranilate hydroxylase. The genes for catabolic functions were inducible under various conditions, suggesting a network of catabolic pathway induction. For about half of the open reading frames (ORFs) on the clc element, no clear functional prediction could be given, although some indications were found for functions that were similar to plasmid conjugation. The region in which these ORFs were situated displayed a high overall conservation of nucleotide sequence and gene order to genomic regions in other recently completed bacterial genomes or to other genomic islands. Most notably, except for two discrete regions, the clc element was almost 100% identical over the whole length to a chromosomal region in Burkholderia xenovorans LB400. This indicates the dynamic evolution of this type of element and the continued transition between elements with a more pathogenic character and those with catabolic properties. PMID:16484212

Repression of P Element-Mediated Hybrid Dysgenesis in Drosophila Melanogaster

PubMed Central

Simmons, M. J.; Raymond, J. D.; Rasmusson, K. E.; Miller, L. M.; McLarnon, C. F.; Zunt, J. R.

1990-01-01

Inbred lines derived from a strain called Sexi were analyzed for their abilities to repress P element-mediated gonadal dysgenesis. One line had high repression ability, four had intermediate ability and two had very low ability. The four intermediate lines also exhibited considerable within-line variation for this trait; furthermore, in at least two cases, this variation could not be attributed to recurring P element movement. Repression of gonadal dysgenesis in the hybrid offspring of all seven lines was due primarily to a maternal effect; there was no evidence for repression arising de novo in the hybrids themselves. In one of the lines, repression ability was inherited maternally, indicating the involvement of cytoplasmic factors. In three other lines, repression ability appeared to be determined by partially dominant or additive chromosomal factors; however, there was also evidence for a maternal effect that reduced the expression of these factors in at least two of the lines. In another line, repression ability seemed to be due to recessive chromosomal factors. All seven lines possessed numerous copies of a particular P element, called KP, which has been hypothesized to produce a polypeptide repressor of gonadal dysgenesis. This hypothesis, however, does not explain why the inbred Sexi lines varied so much in their repression abilities. It is suggested that some of this variation may be due to differences in the chromosomal position of the KP elements, or that other nonautonomous P elements are involved in the repression of hybrid dysgenesis in these lines. PMID:2155854

Quality of trace element contaminated soils amended with compost under fast growing tree Paulownia fortunei plantation.

PubMed

Madejón, P; Xiong, J; Cabrera, F; Madejón, E

2014-11-01

The use of fast growing trees could be an alternative in trace element contaminated soils to stabilize these elements and improve soil quality. In this study we investigate the effect of Paulownia fortunei growth on trace element contaminated soils amended with two organic composts under semi-field conditions for a period of 18 months. The experiment was carried out in containers filled with tree different soils, two contaminated soils (neutral AZ and acid V) and a non contaminated soil, NC. Three treatments per soil were established: two organic amendments (alperujo compost, AC, and biosolid compost, BC) and a control without amendment addition. We study parameters related with fertility and contamination in soils and plants. Paulownia growth and amendments increased pH in acid soils whereas no effect of these factors was observed in neutral soils. The plant and the amendments also increased organic matter and consequently, soil fertility. Positive results were also found in soils that were only affected by plant growth (without amendment). A general improvement of "soil biochemical quality" was detected over time and treatments, confirming the positive effect of amendments plus paulownia. Even in contaminated soils, except for Cu and Zn, trace element concentrations in leaves were in the normal range for plants. Results of this mid-term study showed that Paulownia fortunei is a promising species for phytoremediation of trace element polluted soils. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Distribution of radionuclides during melting of carbon steel

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

Thurber, W.C.; MacKinney, J.

1997-02-01

During the melting of steel with radioactive contamination, radionuclides may be distributed among the metal product, the home scrap, the slag, the furnace lining and the off-gas collection system. In addition, some radionuclides will pass through the furnace system and vent to the atmosphere. To estimate radiological impacts of recycling radioactive scrap steel, it is essential to understand how radionuclides are distributed within the furnace system. For example, an isotope of a gaseous element (e.g., radon) will exhaust directly from the furnace system into the atmosphere while a relatively non-volatile element (e.g., manganese) can be distributed among all the othermore » possible media. This distribution of radioactive contaminants is a complex process that can be influenced by numerous chemical and physical factors, including composition of the steel bath, chemistry of the slag, vapor pressure of the particular element of interest, solubility of the element in molten iron, density of the oxide(s), steel melting temperature and melting practice (e.g., furnace type and size, melting time, method of carbon adjustment and method of alloy additions). This paper discusses the distribution of various elements with particular reference to electric arc furnace steelmaking. The first two sections consider the calculation of partition ratios for elements between metal and slag based on thermodynamic considerations. The third section presents laboratory and production measurements of the distribution of various elements among slag, metal, and the off-gas collection system; and the final section provides recommendations for the assumed distribution of each element of interest.« less

Accuracy of the QUAD4 thick shell element

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Case, William R.; Bowles, Tiffany D.; Croft, Alicia K.; Mcginnis, Mark A.

1990-01-01

The accuracy of the relatively new QUAD4 thick shell element is assessed via comparison with a theoretical solution for thick homogeneous and honeycomb flat simply supported plates under the action of a uniform pressure load. The theoretical thick plate solution is based on the theory developed by Reissner and includes the effects of transverse shear flexibility which are not included in the thin plate solutions based on Kirchoff plate theory. In addition, the QUAD4 is assessed using a set of finite element test problems developed by the MacNeal-Schwendler Corp. (MSC). Comparison of the COSMIC QUAD4 element as well as those from MSC and Universal Analytics, Inc. (UAI) for these test problems is presented. The current COSMIC QUAD4 element is shown to have excellent comparison with both the theoretical solutions and also those from the two commercial versions of NASTRAN that it was compared to.

A progress report on estuary modeling by the finite-element method

USGS Publications Warehouse

Gray, William G.

1978-01-01

Various schemes are investigated for finite-element modeling of two-dimensional surface-water flows. The first schemes investigated combine finite-element spatial discretization with split-step time stepping schemes that have been found useful in finite-difference computations. Because of the large number of numerical integrations performed in space and the large sparse matrices solved, these finite-element schemes were found to be economically uncompetitive with finite-difference schemes. A very promising leapfrog scheme is proposed which, when combined with a novel very fast spatial integration procedure, eliminates the need to solve any matrices at all. Additional problems attacked included proper propagation of waves and proper specification of the normal flow-boundary condition. This report indicates work in progress and does not come to a definitive conclusion as to the best approach for finite-element modeling of surface-water problems. The results presented represent findings obtained between September 1973 and July 1976. (Woodard-USGS)

Heat transfer model and finite element formulation for simulation of selective laser melting

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Roy, Souvik; Juha, Mario; Shephard, Mark S.; Maniatty, Antoinette M.

2017-10-01

A novel approach and finite element formulation for modeling the melting, consolidation, and re-solidification process that occurs in selective laser melting additive manufacturing is presented. Two state variables are introduced to track the phase (melt/solid) and the degree of consolidation (powder/fully dense). The effect of the consolidation on the absorption of the laser energy into the material as it transforms from a porous powder to a dense melt is considered. A Lagrangian finite element formulation, which solves the governing equations on the unconsolidated reference configuration is derived, which naturally considers the effect of the changing geometry as the powder melts without needing to update the simulation domain. The finite element model is implemented into a general-purpose parallel finite element solver. Results are presented comparing to experimental results in the literature for a single laser track with good agreement. Predictions for a spiral laser pattern are also shown.

Penalty-Based Finite Element Interface Technology for Analysis of Homogeneous and Composite Structures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Averill, Ronald C.

2002-01-01

An effective and robust interface element technology able to connect independently modeled finite element subdomains has been developed. This method is based on the use of penalty constraints and allows coupling of finite element models whose nodes do not coincide along their common interface. Additionally, the present formulation leads to a computational approach that is very efficient and completely compatible with existing commercial software. A significant effort has been directed toward identifying those model characteristics (element geometric properties, material properties, and loads) that most strongly affect the required penalty parameter, and subsequently to developing simple 'formulae' for automatically calculating the proper penalty parameter for each interface constraint. This task is especially critical in composite materials and structures, where adjacent sub-regions may be composed of significantly different materials or laminates. This approach has been validated by investigating a variety of two-dimensional problems, including composite laminates.

TWO OF THE FORTYSIX EXTANT BEEHIVE COKE OVENS CONSTRUCTED BY ...

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

TWO OF THE FORTY-SIX EXTANT BEEHIVE COKE OVENS CONSTRUCTED BY JOHN NUTTALL DURING THE EARLY 1870S, LOOKING NORTHWEST - Nuttallburg Mine Complex, Coke Ovens, North side of New River, 2.7 miles upstream from Fayette Landing, Lookout, Fayette County, WV

Assessment of Kohlberg's Stages of Moral Development in Two Cultures.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bouhmama, Djilali

1984-01-01

Forty male and female students, ages 14 and 15, from Algeria and the United Kingdom, were interviewed on two of Kohlberg's moral dilemmas. Results support the prediction that cultural and religious values have an impact on Kohlberg's moral stages. (Author/RM)

ENED-GEM: A Conceptual Framework Model for Psychological Enjoyment Factors and Learning Mechanisms in Educational Games about the Environment.

PubMed

Fjællingsdal, Kristoffer S; Klöckner, Christian A

2017-01-01

Based on a thorough review of psychological literature, this article seeks to develop a model of game enjoyment and environmental learning (ENvironmental EDucational Game Enjoyment Model, ENED-GEM) and delineate psychological processes that might facilitate learning and inspire behavioral change from educational games about the environment. A critically acclaimed digital educational game about environmental issues (Fate of the World by Red Redemption/Soothsayer Games) was used as a case study. Two hundred forty-nine reviews of the game from the popular gaming and reviewing platform known as Steam were analyzed by means of a thematic content analysis in order to identify key player enjoyment factors believed to be relevant to the process of learning from games, as well as to gain an understanding of positive and negative impressions about the game's general content. The end results of the thematic analysis were measured up to the suggested ENED-GEM framework. Initial results generally support the main elements of the ENED-GEM, and future research into the importance of these individual core factors is outlined.

ENED-GEM: A Conceptual Framework Model for Psychological Enjoyment Factors and Learning Mechanisms in Educational Games about the Environment

PubMed Central

Fjællingsdal, Kristoffer S.; Klöckner, Christian A.

2017-01-01

Based on a thorough review of psychological literature, this article seeks to develop a model of game enjoyment and environmental learning (ENvironmental EDucational Game Enjoyment Model, ENED-GEM) and delineate psychological processes that might facilitate learning and inspire behavioral change from educational games about the environment. A critically acclaimed digital educational game about environmental issues (Fate of the World by Red Redemption/Soothsayer Games) was used as a case study. Two hundred forty-nine reviews of the game from the popular gaming and reviewing platform known as Steam were analyzed by means of a thematic content analysis in order to identify key player enjoyment factors believed to be relevant to the process of learning from games, as well as to gain an understanding of positive and negative impressions about the game’s general content. The end results of the thematic analysis were measured up to the suggested ENED-GEM framework. Initial results generally support the main elements of the ENED-GEM, and future research into the importance of these individual core factors is outlined. PMID:28701988

Fourier plane filters

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Oliver, D. S.; Aldrich, R. E.; Krol, F. T.

1972-01-01

An electrically addressed liquid crystal Fourier plane filter capable of real time optical image processing is described. The filter consists of two parts: a wedge filter having forty 9 deg segments and a ring filter having twenty concentric rings in a one inch diameter active area. Transmission of the filter in the off (transparent) state exceeds fifty percent. By using polarizing optics, contrast as high as 10,000:1 can be achieved at voltages compatible with FET switching technology. A phenomenological model for the dynamic scattering is presented for this special case. The filter is designed to be operated from a computer and is addressed by a seven bit binary word which includes an on or off command and selects any one of the twenty rings or twenty wedge pairs. The overall system uses addressable latches so that once an element is in a specified state, it will remain there until a change of state command is received. The drive for the liquid crystal filter is ? 30 V peak at 30 Hz to 70 Hz. These parameters give a rise time for the scattering of 20 msec and a decay time of 80 to 100 msec.

Exploring Inpatients' Experiences of Healing and Healing Spaces

PubMed Central

Bellanti, Dawn; Sakallaris, Bonnie R.

2016-01-01

In order to understand a patient’s healing experience it is essential to understand the elements that they, the patient, believes contributed to their healing. Previous research has focused on symptom reducers or contributors through environment such as stress. A person’s experience of healing happens over time not instantaneous. Therefore, in this study, the interviews with patients happened after forty-eight hours of hospitalization. This mixed methods study describes the experiences of seventeen inpatients from two healthcare systems using a phenomenological approach combined with evidence based design evaluation methods to document the setting. The qualitative data was analyzed first for reoccurring themes then further explored and defined through quantitative environmental observations. The seventeen patients defined healing as “getting better/well.” Seventy three statements were recorded about contributors and detractors to healing in the physical environment. Three primary themes emerged from the data as positive influencers of a healing experience: being cared for, being comfortable and experiencing something familiar or like home. These results demonstrate that patients perceive their inpatient healing experience through a supported environment. PMID:28725848

Paleobiology of a Neoproterozoic tidal flat/lagoonal complex: the Draken Conglomerate Formation, Spitsbergen.

PubMed

Knoll, A H; Swett, K; Mark, J

1991-01-01

Carbonates and rare shales of the ca 700-800 Ma old Draken Conglomerate Formation, northeastern Spitsbergen, preserve a record of environmental variation within a Neoproterozoic tidal flat/lagoon complex. Forty-two microfossil taxa have been recognized in Draken rocks, and of these, 39 can be characterized in terms of their paleoenvironmental distributions along a gradient from the supratidal zone to permanently submerged lagoons. Supratidal to subtidal trends include: increasing microbenthic diversity, increasing abundance and diversity of included allochthonous (presumably planktonic) elements, decreasing sheath thickness of mat-building organisms (with significant taphonomic consequences), and an increasing sediment/fossil ratio in fossiliferous rocks. Five principal and several minor biofacies can be distinguished. The paleoecological resolution obtainable in the Draken Conglomerate Formation rivals that achieved for most Phanerozoic fossil deposits. It documents the complexity and diversity of Proterozoic coastal ecosystems and indicates that both environment and taphonomy need to be taken into explicit consideration in attempts to understand evolutionary trends in early fossil record. Three species, Coniunctiophycus majorinum, Myxococcoides distola, and M. chlorelloidea, are described as new; Siphonophycus robustum, Siphonophycus septatum, and Gorgonisphaeridium maximum are proposed as new combinations.

Paleobiology of a Neoproterozoic tidal flat/lagoonal complex: the Draken Conglomerate Formation, Spitsbergen

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Knoll, A. H.; Swett, K.; Mark, J.

1991-01-01

Carbonates and rare shales of the ca 700-800 Ma old Draken Conglomerate Formation, northeastern Spitsbergen, preserve a record of environmental variation within a Neoproterozoic tidal flat/lagoon complex. Forty-two microfossil taxa have been recognized in Draken rocks, and of these, 39 can be characterized in terms of their paleoenvironmental distributions along a gradient from the supratidal zone to permanently submerged lagoons. Supratidal to subtidal trends include: increasing microbenthic diversity, increasing abundance and diversity of included allochthonous (presumably planktonic) elements, decreasing sheath thickness of mat-building organisms (with significant taphonomic consequences), and an increasing sediment/fossil ratio in fossiliferous rocks. Five principal and several minor biofacies can be distinguished. The paleoecological resolution obtainable in the Draken Conglomerate Formation rivals that achieved for most Phanerozoic fossil deposits. It documents the complexity and diversity of Proterozoic coastal ecosystems and indicates that both environment and taphonomy need to be taken into explicit consideration in attempts to understand evolutionary trends in early fossil record. Three species, Coniunctiophycus majorinum, Myxococcoides distola, and M. chlorelloidea, are described as new; Siphonophycus robustum, Siphonophycus septatum, and Gorgonisphaeridium maximum are proposed as new combinations.

Fabrication and Calibration of FORTIS

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fleming, Brian T.; McCandliss, Stephan R.; Kaiser, Mary Elizabeth; Kruk, Jeffery; Feldman, Paul D.; Kutyrev, Alexander S.; Li, Mary J.; Rapchun, David A.; Lyness, Eric; Moseley, S. H.;

Fabrication and calibration of FORTIS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fleming, Brian T.; McCandliss, Stephan R.; Kaiser, Mary Elizabeth; Kruk, Jeffery; Feldman, Paul D.; Kutyrev, Alexander S.; Li, Mary J.; Rapchun, David A.; Lyness, Eric; Moseley, S. H.; Siegmund, Oswald; Vallerga, John; Martin, Adrian

2011-09-01

The Johns Hopkins University sounding rocket group is entering the final fabrication phase of the Far-ultraviolet Off Rowland-circle Telescope for Imaging and Spectroscopy (FORTIS); a sounding rocket borne multi-object spectro-telescope designed to provide spectral coverage of 43 separate targets in the 900 - 1800 Angstrom bandpass over a 30' x 30' field-of- view. Using "on-the-fly" target acquisition and spectral multiplexing enabled by a GSFC microshutter array, FORTIS will be capable of observing the brightest regions in the far-UV of nearby low redshift (z ~ 0.002 - 0.02) star forming galaxies to search for Lyman alpha escape, and to measure the local gas-to-dust ratio. A large area (~ 45 mm x 170 mm) microchannel plate detector built by Sensor Sciences provides an imaging channel for targeting flanked by two redundant spectral outrigger channels. The grating is ruled directly onto the secondary mirror to increase efficiency. In this paper, we discuss the recent progress made in the development and fabrication of FORTIS, as well as the results of early calibration and characterization of our hardware, including mirror/grating measurements, detector performance, and early operational tests of the microshutter arrays.

Baseline element concentrations in soils and plants, Bull Island, Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge, South Carolina, U.S.A.

USGS Publications Warehouse

Gough, L.P.; Severson, R.C.; Jackson, L.L.

1994-01-01

Baseline element concentrations are given for Spanish moss (Tillandsia usneoides), loblolly pine (Pinus taeda), and associated soils. Baseline and variability data for ash, Al, Ba, C, Ca, Cd, Ce, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, La, Li, Mg, Mn, Na, Nb, Nd, Ni, P, Pb, S, Sc, Sr, Th, Ti, V, Y, and Zn are reported; however, not all variables are reported for all media because, in some media, certain elements were below the analytical detection limit. Spatial variation in element concentration among and within 0.5 km grid cells are given for each of the media. In general, only a few elements in Spanish moss showed statistically significant landscape patterns, whereas several elements in loblolly pine and in soils exhibited differences among sampling grids. Significant differences in the concentration of three elements in Spanish moss and eight elements (including total S) in loblolly pine were observed between two sampling dates (November and June); however, the absolute amount of these differences was small. Except for perhaps Ni and Pb concentrations in Spanish moss, element levels in all sample media exhibited ranges that indicate natural rather than anthropogenic additions of trace elements.

Elemental contents in Napoleon's hair cut before and after his death: did Napoleon die of arsenic poisoning?

PubMed

Lin, Xilei; Alber, D; Henkelmann, R

2004-05-01

Whether or not Napoleon died of arsenic poisoning is an open question on which debate has been active since 1960. This work examined several of his hairs, cut at different times and in different places: two pieces cut the day after his death on the island of St. Helena (1821) and two pieces cut seven years earlier (1814) during his first exile on the island of Elba. INAA results show that all of the samples of Napoleon's hair have an elevated arsenic concentration. These results disfavor the arsenic poisoning theory. Aside from arsenic, 18 other elements are reported, providing additional information for examining the arsenic poisoning theory.

Rolling-element fatigue life with two synthetic cycloaliphatic traction fluids

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Loewenthal, S. H.; Parker, R. J.

1976-01-01

The life potential of two synthetic cycloaliphatic hydrocarbon traction fluids in rolling element fatigue was evaluated in a five ball fatigue tester. Life comparisons with a MIL-L-23699 qualified tetraester oil showed that the traction test oils had good fatigue life performance, comparable to that of the tetraester oil. No statistically significant life differences between the traction fluids and the tetraester oil were exhibited under the accelerated fatigue test conditions. Erratic operating behavior was occasionally encountered during tests with the antiwear additive containing traction fluid for reasons thought to be related to excessive chemical activity under high contact pressure. This behavior occasionally resulted in premature test termination due to excessive surface distress and overheating.

STS-40 Space Shuttle mission report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fricke, Robert W.

1991-01-01

The STS-40 Space Shuttle Program Mission Report contains a summary of the vehicle subsystem operations during the forty-first flight of the Space Shuttle and the eleventh flight of the Orbiter Vehicle Columbia (OV-102). In addition to the Columbia vehicle, the flight vehicle consisted of an External Tank (ET) designated as ET-41 (LWT-34), three Space Shuttle main engines (SSME's) (serial numbers 2015, 2022, and 2027 in positions 1, 2, and 3, respectively), and two Solid Rocket Boosters (SRB's) designated as BI-044. The primary objective of the STS-40 flight was to successfully perform the planned operations of the Spacelab Life Sciences-1 (SLS-1) payload. The secondary objectives of this flight were to perform the operations required by the Getaway Special (GAS) payloads and the Middeck O-Gravity Dynamics Experiment (MODE) payload.

STS-40 Space Shuttle mission report

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fricke, Robert W.

1991-07-01

The STS-40 Space Shuttle Program Mission Report contains a summary of the vehicle subsystem operations during the forty-first flight of the Space Shuttle and the eleventh flight of the Orbiter Vehicle Columbia (OV-102). In addition to the Columbia vehicle, the flight vehicle consisted of an External Tank (ET) designated as ET-41 (LWT-34), three Space Shuttle main engines (SSME's) (serial numbers 2015, 2022, and 2027 in positions 1, 2, and 3, respectively), and two Solid Rocket Boosters (SRB's) designated as BI-044. The primary objective of the STS-40 flight was to successfully perform the planned operations of the Spacelab Life Sciences-1 (SLS-1) payload. The secondary objectives of this flight were to perform the operations required by the Getaway Special (GAS) payloads and the Middeck O-Gravity Dynamics Experiment (MODE) payload.

The Effectiveness of an Educational Game for Teaching Optometry Students Basic and Applied Science

PubMed Central

Trevino, Richard; Majcher, Carolyn; Rabin, Jeff; Kent, Theresa; Maki, Yutaka; Wingert, Timothy

2016-01-01

Purpose To compare the effectiveness of an educational board game with interactive didactic instruction for teaching optometry students elements of the core optometric curriculum. Methods Forty-two optometry students were divided into two GPA-matched groups and assigned to either 12 hours of game play (game group) or 12 hours of interactive didactic instruction (lecture group). The same material from the core optometric curriculum was delivered to both groups. Game play was accomplished via an original board game. Written examinations assessed change in knowledge level. A post-intervention opinion survey assessed student attitudes. Results There was no significant difference in pre- or post-intervention test scores between the lecture and game groups (Pre-test: p = 0.9; Post-test: p = 0.5). Post-intervention test scores increased significantly from baseline (Game group: 29.3% gain, Didactic group: 31.5% gain; p<0.001 for each). The score increase difference between groups was not statistically significant (p = 0.6). The post-intervention attitude survey did not reveal any significant between group differences (p = 0.5). Conclusions Our results indicate that an educational game and interactive didactic instruction can be equally effective in teaching optometry students basic and applied science. Furthermore, both modes of instruction have the potential to be equally engaging and enjoyable experiences. PMID:27233041

The Effectiveness of an Educational Game for Teaching Optometry Students Basic and Applied Science.

PubMed

Trevino, Richard; Majcher, Carolyn; Rabin, Jeff; Kent, Theresa; Maki, Yutaka; Wingert, Timothy

2016-01-01

To compare the effectiveness of an educational board game with interactive didactic instruction for teaching optometry students elements of the core optometric curriculum. Forty-two optometry students were divided into two GPA-matched groups and assigned to either 12 hours of game play (game group) or 12 hours of interactive didactic instruction (lecture group). The same material from the core optometric curriculum was delivered to both groups. Game play was accomplished via an original board game. Written examinations assessed change in knowledge level. A post-intervention opinion survey assessed student attitudes. There was no significant difference in pre- or post-intervention test scores between the lecture and game groups (Pre-test: p = 0.9; Post-test: p = 0.5). Post-intervention test scores increased significantly from baseline (Game group: 29.3% gain, Didactic group: 31.5% gain; p<0.001 for each). The score increase difference between groups was not statistically significant (p = 0.6). The post-intervention attitude survey did not reveal any significant between group differences (p = 0.5). Our results indicate that an educational game and interactive didactic instruction can be equally effective in teaching optometry students basic and applied science. Furthermore, both modes of instruction have the potential to be equally engaging and enjoyable experiences.

An Investigation of Energy Transmission Due to Flexural Wave Propagation in Lightweight, Built-Up Structures. Thesis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mickol, John Douglas; Bernhard, R. J.

1986-01-01

A technique to measure flexural structure-borne noise intensity is investigated. Two accelerometers serve as transducers in this cross-spectral technique. The structure-borne sound power is obtained by two different techniques and compared. In the first method, a contour integral of intensity is performed from the values provided by the two-accelerometer intensity technique. In the second method, input power is calculated directly from the output of force and acceleration transducers. A plate and two beams were the subjects of the sound power comparisons. Excitation for the structures was either band-limited white noise or a deterministic signal similar to a swept sine. The two-accelerometer method was found to be sharply limited by near field and transducer spacing limitations. In addition, for the lightweight structures investigated, it was found that the probe inertia can have a significant influence on the power input to the structure. In addition to the experimental investigation of structure-borne sound energy, an extensive study of the point harmonically forced, point-damped beam boundary value problem was performed to gain insight into measurements of this nature. The intensity formulations were also incorporated into the finite element method. Intensity mappings were obtained analytically via finite element modeling of simple structures.

Emily and Rebecca: A Tale of Two Teachers

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brown, S.W.

2005-01-01

Using a qualitative study, two teachers, Emily and Rebecca, who started their teaching careers in their forties were interviewed and followed for 3 years to document their experiences in the teaching profession. The tale of these two teachers includes their joys, frustrations, and problems that surround their lives as middle school math teachers.…

Important Literature in Endocrinology: Citation Analysis and Historial Methodology.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hurt, C. D.

1982-01-01

Results of a study comparing two approaches to the identification of important literature in endocrinology reveals that association between ranking of cited items using the two methods is not statistically significant and use of citation or historical analysis alone will not result in same set of literature. Forty-two sources are appended. (EJS)

Determinants of Effective and Ineffective Supervision in Schools: Teachers Perspectives

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Oghuvbu, Enamiroro Patrick

2007-01-01

This study identified determinants of effective and ineffective supervision in schools. A forty-two items questionnaire was administered on 1150 teachers used in this study. Two research questions were raised and answered using percentages. Two null hypotheses were formulated and tested using spearman rho and z-test statistics at 0.05 level of…

rSNPBase 3.0: an updated database of SNP-related regulatory elements, element-gene pairs and SNP-based gene regulatory networks

PubMed Central

2018-01-01

Abstract Here, we present the updated rSNPBase 3.0 database (http://rsnp3.psych.ac.cn), which provides human SNP-related regulatory elements, element-gene pairs and SNP-based regulatory networks. This database is the updated version of the SNP regulatory annotation database rSNPBase and rVarBase. In comparison to the last two versions, there are both structural and data adjustments in rSNPBase 3.0: (i) The most significant new feature is the expansion of analysis scope from SNP-related regulatory elements to include regulatory element–target gene pairs (E–G pairs), therefore it can provide SNP-based gene regulatory networks. (ii) Web function was modified according to data content and a new network search module is provided in the rSNPBase 3.0 in addition to the previous regulatory SNP (rSNP) search module. The two search modules support data query for detailed information (related-elements, element-gene pairs, and other extended annotations) on specific SNPs and SNP-related graphic networks constructed by interacting transcription factors (TFs), miRNAs and genes. (3) The type of regulatory elements was modified and enriched. To our best knowledge, the updated rSNPBase 3.0 is the first data tool supports SNP functional analysis from a regulatory network prospective, it will provide both a comprehensive understanding and concrete guidance for SNP-related regulatory studies. PMID:29140525

Study of the Reactive-element Effect in Oxidation of Fe-cr Alloys Using Transverse Section Analytical Electron Microscopy

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

King, W. E.; Ethridge, E. C.

1985-01-01

The role of trace additions of reactive elements like Y, Ce, Th, or Hf to Cr bearing alloys was studied by applying a new developed technique of transverse section analytical electron microscopy. This reactive-element effect improves the high temperature oxidation resistance of alloys by strongly reducing the high temperature oxidation rate and enhancing the adhesion of the oxide scale, however, the mechanisms for this important effect remain largely unknown. It is indicated that the presence of yttrium affects the oxidation of Fe-Cr-Y alloys in at least two ways. The reactive element alters the growth mechanism of the oxide scale as evidenced by the marked influence of the reactive element on the oxide scale microstructure. The present results also suggest that reactive-element intermetallic compounds, which internally oxidize in the metal during oxidation, act as sinks for excess vacancies thus inhibiting vacancy condensation at the scale-metal interface and possibly enhancing scale adhesion.

Anesthesia machine checkout and room setup: a randomized, single-blind, comparison of two teaching modalities.

PubMed

Spofford, Christina M; Bayman, Emine O; Szeluga, Debra J; From, Robert P

2012-01-01

Novel methods for teaching are needed to enhance the efficiency of academic anesthesia departments as well as provide approaches to learning that are aligned with current trends and advances in technology. A video was produced that taught the key elements of anesthesia machine checkout and room set up. Novice learners were randomly assigned to receive either the new video format or traditional lecture-based format for this topic during their regularly scheduled lecture series. Primary outcome was the difference in written examination score before and after teaching between the two groups. Secondary outcome was the satisfaction score of the trainees in the two groups. Forty-two students assigned to the video group and 36 students assigned to the lecture group completed the study. Students in each group similar interest in anesthesia, pre-test scores, post-test scores, and final exam scores. The median posttest to pretest difference was greater in the video groups (3.5 (3.0-5.0) vs 2.5 (2.0-3.0), for video and lecture groups respectively, p 0.002). Despite improved test scores, students reported higher satisfaction the traditional, lecture-based format (22.0 (18.0-24.0) vs 24.0 (20.0-28.0), for video and lecture groups respectively, p <0.004). Higher pre-test to post-test improvements were observed among students in the video-based teaching group, however students rated traditional, live lectures higher than newer video-based teaching.

Identification of high-confidence RNA regulatory elements by combinatorial classification of RNA-protein binding sites.

PubMed

Li, Yang Eric; Xiao, Mu; Shi, Binbin; Yang, Yu-Cheng T; Wang, Dong; Wang, Fei; Marcia, Marco; Lu, Zhi John

2017-09-08

Crosslinking immunoprecipitation sequencing (CLIP-seq) technologies have enabled researchers to characterize transcriptome-wide binding sites of RNA-binding protein (RBP) with high resolution. We apply a soft-clustering method, RBPgroup, to various CLIP-seq datasets to group together RBPs that specifically bind the same RNA sites. Such combinatorial clustering of RBPs helps interpret CLIP-seq data and suggests functional RNA regulatory elements. Furthermore, we validate two RBP-RBP interactions in cell lines. Our approach links proteins and RNA motifs known to possess similar biochemical and cellular properties and can, when used in conjunction with additional experimental data, identify high-confidence RBP groups and their associated RNA regulatory elements.

Predictions of thermal buckling strengths of hypersonic aircraft sandwich panels using minimum potential energy and finite element methods

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ko, William L.

1995-01-01

Thermal buckling characteristics of hypersonic aircraft sandwich panels of various aspect ratios were investigated. The panel is fastened at its four edges to the substructures under four different edge conditions and is subjected to uniform temperature loading. Minimum potential energy theory and finite element methods were used to calculate the panel buckling temperatures. The two methods gave fairly close buckling temperatures. However, the finite element method gave slightly lower buckling temperatures than those given by the minimum potential energy theory. The reasons for this slight discrepancy in eigensolutions are discussed in detail. In addition, the effect of eigenshifting on the eigenvalue convergence rate is discussed.

Phased laser array for generating a powerful laser beam

DOEpatents

Holzrichter, John F.; Ruggiero, Anthony J.

2004-02-17

A first injection laser signal and a first part of a reference laser beam are injected into a first laser element. At least one additional injection laser signal and at least one additional part of a reference laser beam are injected into at least one additional laser element. The first part of a reference laser beam and the at least one additional part of a reference laser beam are amplified and phase conjugated producing a first amplified output laser beam emanating from the first laser element and an additional amplified output laser beam emanating from the at least one additional laser element. The first amplified output laser beam and the additional amplified output laser beam are combined into a powerful laser beam.

Common extensor origin release in recalcitrant lateral epicondylitis - role justified?

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

The aim of our study was to analyse the efficacy of operative management in recalcitrant lateral epicondylitis of elbow. Forty patients included in this study were referred by general practitioners with a diagnosis of tennis elbow to the orthopaedic department at a district general hospital over a five year period. All had two or more steroid injections at the tender spot, without permanent relief of pain. All subsequently underwent simple fasciotomy of the extensor origin. Of forty patients thirty five had improvement in pain and function, two had persistent symptoms and three did not perceive any improvement. Twenty five had excellent, ten had well, two had fair and three had poor outcomes (recurrent problem; pain at rest and night). Two patients underwent revision surgery. Majority of the patients had improvement in pain and function following operative treatment. In this study, an extensor fasciotomy was demonstrated to be an effective treatment for refractory chronic lateral epicondylitis; however, further studies are warranted. PMID:20459701

Comparative physiology of forty-five Yarrowia lipolytica strains grown on pretreated switchgrass hydrolysate

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Yarrowia lipolytica is a well-characterized yeast of the phylum Ascomycota with established use in the biotechnology industry for production of organic acids and enzymes. In addition, the yeast is a model oleaginous organism that accumulates lipids during growth on a variety of carbon sources. The a...

Clinic-Referred Mothers' Autobiographical Narratives as Markers of Their Parenting Styles

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rowinski, Katherine S.; Wahler, Robert G.

2010-01-01

Forty clinic-referred mothers completed questionnaires describing their children's problems and the mothers' parenting styles. In addition, each mother told three stories about their personal experiences in child care and one story about being cared for in their families of origin. Each story was transcribed and rated for coherence on six…

Coordinated transcriptional regulation of two key genes in the lignin branch pathway - CAD and CCR - is mediated through MYB- binding sites

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

Background Cinnamoyl CoA reductase (CCR) and cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenase (CAD) catalyze the final steps in the biosynthesis of monolignols, the monomeric units of the phenolic lignin polymers which confer rigidity, imperviousness and resistance to biodegradation to cell walls. We have previously shown that the Eucalyptus gunnii CCR and CAD2 promoters direct similar expression patterns in vascular tissues suggesting that monolignol production is controlled, at least in part, by the coordinated transcriptional regulation of these two genes. Although consensus motifs for MYB transcription factors occur in most gene promoters of the whole phenylpropanoid pathway, functional evidence for their contribution to promoter activity has only been demonstrated for a few of them. Here, in the lignin-specific branch, we studied the functional role of MYB elements as well as other cis-elements identified in the regulatory regions of EgCAD2 and EgCCR promoters, in the transcriptional activity of these gene promoters. Results By using promoter deletion analysis and in vivo footprinting, we identified an 80 bp regulatory region in the Eucalyptus gunnii EgCAD2 promoter that contains two MYB elements, each arranged in a distinct module with newly identified cis-elements. A directed mutagenesis approach was used to introduce block mutations in all putative cis-elements of the EgCAD2 promoter and in those of the 50 bp regulatory region previously delineated in the EgCCR promoter. We showed that the conserved MYB elements in EgCAD2 and EgCCR promoters are crucial both for the formation of DNA-protein complexes in EMSA experiments and for the transcriptional activation of EgCAD2 and EgCCR promoters in vascular tissues in planta. In addition, a new regulatory cis-element that modulates the balance between two DNA-protein complexes in vitro was found to be important for EgCAD2 expression in the cambial zone. Conclusions Our assignment of functional roles to the identified cis-elements clearly demonstrates the importance of MYB cis-elements in the transcriptional regulation of two genes of the lignin-specific pathway and support the hypothesis that MYB elements serve as a common means for the coordinated regulation of genes in the entire lignin biosynthetic pathway. PMID:20584286

Comparative studies of the endonucleases from two related Xenopus laevis retrotransposons, Tx1L and Tx2L: target site specificity and evolutionary implications.

PubMed

Christensen, S; Pont-Kingdon, G; Carroll, D

2000-01-01

In the genome of the South African frog, Xenopus laevis, there are two complex families of transposable elements, Tx1 and Tx2, that have identical overall structures, but distinct sequences. In each family there are approximately 1500 copies of an apparent DNA-based element (Tx1D and Tx2D). Roughly 10% of these elements in each family are interrupted by a non-LTR retrotransposon (Tx1L and Tx2L). Each retrotransposon is flanked by a 23-bp target duplication of a specific D element sequence. In earlier work, we showed that the endonuclease domain (Tx1L EN) located in the second open reading frame (ORF2) of Tx1L encodes a protein that makes a single-strand cut precisely at the expected site within its target sequence, supporting the idea that Tx1L is a site-specific retrotransposon. In this study, we express the endonuclease domain of Tx2L (Tx2L EN) and compare the target preferences of the two enzymes. Each endonuclease shows some preference for its cognate target, on the order of 5-fold over the non-cognate target. The observed discrimination is not sufficient, however, to explain the observation that no cross-occupancy is observed - that is, L elements of one family have never been found within D elements of the other family. Possible sources of additional specificity are discussed. We also compare two hypotheses regarding the genome duplication event that led to the contemporary pseudotetraploid character of Xenopus laevis in light of the Tx1L and Tx2L data.

A general description of additive and nonadditive elements of sperm competitiveness and their relation to male fertilization success.

PubMed

Engqvist, Leif

2013-05-01

A complete understanding of male reproductive success, and thus sexual selection, often requires an insight into male success in sperm competition. Genuine conclusions on male sperm competitiveness can only be made in real competitive situations. However, statistical analyses of sperm competitiveness from fertilization success data have been shown to be problematic. Here, I first outline a comprehensive general description of the different additive and nonadditive elements relevant for the outcome of sperm competition staged between two males. Based on this description, I will highlight two main problems that are frequently encountered in experiments aiming at estimating sperm competitiveness. First, I focus on potential problems when using standardized competitors versus random mating trials, because trials with standardized competitors do not allow generalization if male-male interactions are important. Second, I illustrate the necessity to analyze data on the logit scale rather than on raw proportions, because only the logit scale allows a clean separation of additive and nonadditive effects (i.e., male × male and female × male interactions). © 2012 The Author(s). Evolution © 2012 The Society for the Study of Evolution.

The Space Shuttle Columbia Accident Investigation and Reconstruction: Two Years Later

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

McDanels, Steven J.

2005-01-01

The Space Shuttle Columbia was lost during re-entry over two years ago. Since the release of the official materials-related findings in August of 2003, additional testing and analysis of select pieces of debris has continued. Microanalytical techniques, including EMPA, ESCA, and x-ray elemental dot mapping, were employed during the initial investigation; the results related the microstructural characteristics of deposit layers to the breach location in the leading edge of the left wing. Such characteristics included deposition order, composition, and distribution. Subsequent to the original efforts, new analytical data and information, not available at the time of the primary investigation, has been generated. This data was obtained via a low-vacuum SEM, fitted not only with a light-element EDS detector, but an XRF tube as well. Essentially, for elements up to sodium, classic EDS was utilized; above sodium, XRF was used. Predominantly, the elements of interest were aluminum, titanium, chromium, iron, nickel, and copper. The findings of both old and new data are compared, and their application to the overall accident investigation detailed.

Trace Elements in Hair from Tanzanian Children: Effect of Dietary Factor (abstract)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mohammed, Najat K.; Spyrou, Nicholas M.

2009-04-01

Trace elements in certain amounts are essential for childrens' health, because they are present in tissues participating in metabolic reactions of organisms. Deficiency of the essential elements may result in malnutrition, impaired body immunity, and poor resistance to disease. These conditions might be enhanced against a background of additional adverse environmental factors such as toxic elements. The analysis of elements in childrens' hair will give information on the deficiency of essential elements and excess of toxic elements in relation to their diet. In this study, 141 hair samples from children (girls and boys) living in two regions of Tanzanian mainland (Dar es Salaam and Moshi) and the island of Zanzibar have been analysed for trace elements in relation to food consumption habits. The analysis was carried out using long and short irradiation instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA) of the Nuclear Physics Institute at Rez, Czech Republic. Arithmetic and geometric means with their respective standard deviations are presented for 19 elements. Subgroups were formed according to age, gender, and geographic regions from which the samples were collected. Differences in concentrations for the groups and with other childhood populations were explored and discussed.

Distribution and size fractionation of elemental sulfur in aqueous environments: The Chesapeake Bay and Mid-Atlantic Ridge

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Findlay, Alyssa J.; Gartman, Amy; MacDonald, Daniel J.; Hanson, Thomas E.; Shaw, Timothy J.; Luther, George W.

2014-10-01

Elemental sulfur is an important intermediate of sulfide oxidation and may be produced via abiotic and biotic pathways. In this study the concentration and size fractionation of elemental sulfur were measured in two different sulfidic marine environments: the Chesapeake Bay and buoyant hydrothermal vent plumes along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Nanoparticulate sulfur (<0.2 μm) was found to comprise up to 90% of the total elemental sulfur in anoxic deep waters of the Chesapeake Bay. These data were compared with previous studies of elemental sulfur, and represent one of the few reports of nanoparticulate elemental sulfur in the environment. Additionally, a strain of phototrophic sulfide oxidizing bacteria isolated from the Chesapeake Bay was shown to produce elemental sulfur as a product of sulfide oxidation. Elemental sulfur concentrations are also presented from buoyant hydrothermal vent plumes located along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. In the Mid-Atlantic Ridge plume, S0 concentrations up to 33 μM were measured in the first meter of rising plumes at three different vent sites, and nanoparticulate S0 was up to 44% of total elemental sulfur present.

Trace Elements in Hair from Tanzanian Children: Effect of Dietary Factor

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

Mohammed, Najat K.; Spyrou, Nicholas M.

2009-04-19

Trace elements in certain amounts are essential for childrens' health, because they are present in tissues participating in metabolic reactions of organisms. Deficiency of the essential elements may result in malnutrition, impaired body immunity, and poor resistance to disease. These conditions might be enhanced against a background of additional adverse environmental factors such as toxic elements. The analysis of elements in childrens' hair will give information on the deficiency of essential elements and excess of toxic elements in relation to their diet. In this study, 141 hair samples from children (girls and boys) living in two regions of Tanzanian mainlandmore » (Dar es Salaam and Moshi) and the island of Zanzibar have been analysed for trace elements in relation to food consumption habits. The analysis was carried out using long and short irradiation instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA) of the Nuclear Physics Institute at Rez, Czech Republic. Arithmetic and geometric means with their respective standard deviations are presented for 19 elements. Subgroups were formed according to age, gender, and geographic regions from which the samples were collected. Differences in concentrations for the groups and with other childhood populations were explored and discussed.« less

Multiple circadian transcriptional elements cooperatively regulate cell-autonomous transcriptional oscillation of Period3, a mammalian clock gene.

PubMed

Matsumura, Ritsuko; Akashi, Makoto

2017-09-29

Cell-autonomous oscillation in clock gene expression drives circadian rhythms. The development of comprehensive analytical techniques, such as bioinformatics and ChIP-sequencing, has enabled the genome-wide identification of potential circadian transcriptional elements that regulate the transcriptional oscillation of clock genes. However, detailed analyses using traditional biochemical and molecular-biological approaches, such as binding and reporter assays, are still necessary to determine whether these potential circadian transcriptional elements are actually functional and how significantly they contribute to driving transcriptional oscillation. Here, we focused on the molecular mechanism of transcriptional oscillations in the mammalian clock gene Period3 ( Per3 ). The PER3 protein is essential for robust peripheral clocks and is a key component in circadian output processes. We found three E box-like elements located upstream of human Per3 transcription start sites that additively contributed to cell-autonomous transcriptional oscillation. However, we also found that Per3 is still expressed in a circadian manner when all three E box-like elements are functionally impaired. We noted that Per3 transcription was activated by the synergistic actions of two D box-like elements and the three E box-like elements, leading to a drastic increase in circadian amplitude. Interestingly, circadian expression of Per3 was completely disrupted only when all five transcriptional elements were functionally impaired. These results indicate that three E box-like and two D box-like elements cooperatively and redundantly regulate cell-autonomous transcriptional oscillation of Per3 . © 2017 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

Predicting the behavior of microfluidic circuits made from discrete elements

PubMed Central

Bhargava, Krisna C.; Thompson, Bryant; Iqbal, Danish; Malmstadt, Noah

2015-01-01

Microfluidic devices can be used to execute a variety of continuous flow analytical and synthetic chemistry protocols with a great degree of precision. The growing availability of additive manufacturing has enabled the design of microfluidic devices with new functionality and complexity. However, these devices are prone to larger manufacturing variation than is typical of those made with micromachining or soft lithography. In this report, we demonstrate a design-for-manufacturing workflow that addresses performance variation at the microfluidic element and circuit level, in context of mass-manufacturing and additive manufacturing. Our approach relies on discrete microfluidic elements that are characterized by their terminal hydraulic resistance and associated tolerance. Network analysis is employed to construct simple analytical design rules for model microfluidic circuits. Monte Carlo analysis is employed at both the individual element and circuit level to establish expected performance metrics for several specific circuit configurations. A protocol based on osmometry is used to experimentally probe mixing behavior in circuits in order to validate these approaches. The overall workflow is applied to two application circuits with immediate use at on the bench-top: series and parallel mixing circuits that are modularly programmable, virtually predictable, highly precise, and operable by hand. PMID:26516059

Adsorption of trace elements from poultry litter by montmorillonite clay.

PubMed

Subramanian, Bhaskaran; Gupta, Gian

2006-01-16

Poultry litter (PL) is used as fertilizer on agricultural lands because of its high nutrient content. However, the litter also contains trace elements such as As, Cd, Cu, Pb, and Zn. On land application of PL, these trace elements may be absorbed by crops, leach into groundwater, or enter the aquatic system as run-off. The objective of this research was to study the effect of the addition of montmorillonite clay-mineral (CM) in reducing the release of trace elements from PL. Cd, Cu, and Zn showed significant decreases of 29, 34, and 22%, respectively, in PL aqueous leachate (compared with the control-PL without CM) on mixing with 0.05 g CM but no change in As, Co, and Cr concentrations was observed. Lead showed a significant increase in PL aqueous leachate on mixing with 0.2 g CM but Pb concentration was two orders of magnitude less than in CM aqueous leachate alone. On washing, the settled precipitate (PL+CM) in the centrifuge tubes with water (desorption study) most of the adsorbed metals (Cd 85%, Cu 61%, and Zn 100%) were released. The results of this study show that the addition of CM resulted in significant adsorption of Cd and Cu from PL.

Watermelon consumption improves inflammation and antioxidant capacity in rats fed an atherogenic diet.

PubMed

Hong, Mee Young; Hartig, Nicole; Kaufman, Katy; Hooshmand, Shirin; Figueroa, Arturo; Kern, Mark

2015-03-01

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in the United States. Watermelon, rich in antioxidants and other bioactive components, may be a viable method to improve CVD risk factors through reduced oxidative stress. The purpose of the study was to determine the effects of watermelon powder consumption on lipid profiles, antioxidant capacity, and inflammation in dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-treated rats fed an atherogenic diet. We hypothesized that watermelon would increase antioxidant capacity and reduce blood lipids and inflammation through modulation of related gene expression. Forty male-weanling (21 days old) Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into 4 groups (10 per group, total N = 40) in a 2 diets (control or 0.33% watermelon) × 2 treatments (with or without DSS) factorial design using an atherogenic diet. Watermelon-fed groups exhibited significantly lower serum triglycerides, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (P< .05). C-reactive protein levels were significantly lower in watermelon-fed rats than the control (P= .001). In addition, oxidative stress as measured by thiobarbituric acid reactive substances was significantly lower in watermelon groups (P= .001). Total antioxidant capacity, superoxide dismutase, and catalase activities were greater in watermelon groups (P< .05). Aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, and lactate dehydrogenase were significantly lower in DSS-treated rats when watermelon was consumed (P< .05). Fatty acid synthase, 3-hydroxy-3methyl-glutaryl-CoA reductase, sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1, sterol regulatory element-binding protein 2, and cyclooxygenase-2 gene expression was significantly downregulated in the watermelon group without DSS (P< .05). These findings indicate that watermelon improves risk factors for CVD in rats through better lipid profiles, lower inflammation, and greater antioxidant capacity by altering gene expression for lipid metabolism. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Long-term outcome of pronation-external rotation ankle fractures treated with syndesmotic screws only.

PubMed

Lambers, Kaj T A; van den Bekerom, Michel P J; Doornberg, Job N; Stufkens, Sjoerd A S; van Dijk, C Niek; Kloen, Peter

2013-09-04

There is sparse information in the literature on the outcome of Maisonneuve-type pronation-external rotation ankle fractures treated with syndesmotic screws. The primary aim of this study was to determine the long-term results of such treatment of these fractures as indicated by standardized patient-based and physician-based outcome measures. The secondary aim was to identify predictors of the outcome with use of bivariate and multivariate statistical analysis. Fifty patients with pronation-external rotation (predominantly Maisonneuve) fractures were treated with open reduction and internal fixation of the syndesmosis utilizing only one or two screws. The results were evaluated at a mean of twenty-one years after the fracture utilizing three standardized outcomes instruments: (1) the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM), (2) the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot scale, and (3) the Center for Epidemiologic Studies-Depression (CES-D) Scale. Osteoarthritis was graded according to the van Dijk and revised Takakura radiographic scoring systems. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify predictors of long-term outcome. Forty-four (92%) of forty-eighty patients had good or excellent AOFAS scores, and forty-four (90%) of forty-nine had good or excellent FAAM scores. Arthrodesis for severe osteoarthritis was performed in two patients. Radiographic evidence of osteoarthritis was observed in twenty-four (49%) of forty-nine patients. Multivariate analysis identified pain as the most important independent predictor of long-term ankle function as indicated by the AOFAS and FAAM scores, explaining 91% and 53% of the variation in scores, respectively. Analysis of pain as the dependent variable in bivariate analyses revealed that depression, ankle range of motion, and a subsequent surgery were significantly correlated with higher pain scores. No firm conclusions could be drawn after multivariate analysis of predictors of pain. Long-term functional outcomes at a mean of twenty-one years after pronation-external rotation ankle fractures treated with one or two syndesmotic screws were good to excellent in the great majority of patients despite substantial radiographic evidence of osteoarthritis in one-half of the patients. The most important predictor of long-term functional outcome was patient-reported pain rather than physician-reported function or posttraumatic osteoarthritis. There was no significant association between radiographic signs of posttraumatic osteoarthritis and perceived pain in the present series.

Development and certification of the new SRM 695 trace elements in multi-nutrient fertilizer

USGS Publications Warehouse

MacKey, E.A.; Cronise, M.P.; Fales, C.N.; Greenberg, R.R.; Leigh, S.D.; Long, S.E.; Marlow, A.F.; Murphy, K.E.; Oflaz, R.; Sieber, J.R.; Rearick, M.S.; Wood, L.J.; Yu, L.L.; Wilson, S.A.; Briggs, P.H.; Brown, Z.A.; Budahn, J.; Kane, P.F.; Hall, W.L.

2007-01-01

During the past seven years, several states within the US have enacted regulations that limit the amounts of selected non-nutritive elements in fertilizers. Internationally, several countries, including Japan, China, and Australia, and the European Union also limit the amount of selected elements in fertilizers. The elements of interest include As, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Hg, Mo, Ni, Pb, Se, and Zn. Fertilizer manufacturers and state regulatory authorities, faced with meeting and verifying these limits, need to develop analytical methods for determination of the elements of concern and to validate results obtained using these methods. Until now, there were no certified reference materials available with certified mass fraction values for all elements of interest in a blended, multi-nutrient fertilizer matrix. A new standard reference material (SRM) 695 trace elements in multi-nutrient fertilizer, has been developed to help meet these needs. SRM 695 has recently been issued with certified mass fraction values for seventeen elements, reference values for an additional five elements, and information values for two elements. The certificate of analysis includes an addendum listing percentage recovery for eight of these elements, determined using an acid-extraction inductively-coupled plasma optical-emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) method recently developed and tested by members of the Association of American Plant Food Control Officials. ?? Springer-Verlag 2007.

High-Performance, Large Format Surfaces for Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy: Increasing the Accessibility of an Analytical Platform

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kanipe, Katherine Nicole

Although surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is a spectroscopic technique with unusually high sensitivity and molecular specificity, few practical analytical applications have been implemented that take advantage of its power. Based on what is understood about SERS from the experimental and theoretical research of the past forty years, we developed a few well-defined design principles on the basis of which a reliable and reproducibly manufacturable SERS-active substrate could be fabricated that is highly enhancing, highly uniform, stable, and based on a broad range of metals so that various chemical processes could be probed. Finally, we restricted ourselves to using only readily scalable fabrication techniques. The resulting SERS-active device was a metal over silica, two-dimensional nano-grating that was shown to produce enhancements of ˜107 when compared to a smooth surface of the same metal. This SERS substrate also shows unprecedented signal uniformity over square centimeters, and is fabricated using commonly-available foundry-based approaches exclusively. Initially, we explored the properties of a gold-coated substrates in which a first-order grating resonance due to long-range symmetry is augmented by a local resonance due to the individual core-shell grating elements. The SERS properties of such grating systems were systematically studied as a function of various structural parameters such as the grating pitch, the inter-element gap and the thickness of the metal layer. The most enhancing substrates were found to have a grating parameter with a radiative, rather than evanescent, first-order resonance; a sufficiently small gap between nearest neighbor grating elements to produce near-field interactions; and a gold layer whose thickness was larger than the electronic mean-free-path of the conduction electrons, so as to ensure a high conductivity for the metal layer to sustain strong surface plasmons. We applied these same architectural principles to metals other than gold, and concluded that every workable metal (and virtually any material with sufficiently high electrical conductivity) when appropriately nanostructured, has the potential to be an efficient SERS substrate. The use of materials for SERS beyond silver and gold, has significant advantages, most importantly, allowing SERS to be used to study the surface chemistry and catalysis taking place on metals with more interesting chemistries than those of Au and Ag. Additionally, SERS substrates can be fabricated from high natural abundance, low cost materials. This was illustrated by producing SERS substrates using copper, aluminum, and nickel in addition to silver and gold which were used as benchmarks. All five metals were found to yield high SERS intensities. The variation of the SERS enhancement among them is ascribed mainly to local field effects, with the (larger) grating-based enhancement making an approximately equivalent contribution to the SERS enhancement of the five metals. This conclusion is supported by local electric field simulations. The utility of these new grating-based SERS substrates was demonstrated by implementing them in chemical analysis in both aqueous and gas phases for which, for example, we were able to readily detect opioids such as fentanyl and morphine at concentrations as low as less than one part per billion. Additionally, we have made good progress toward integration of this substrate architecture into a microfluidic channel for a higher degree of sample workup and control.

Re-187-Os-187, Pt-190-Os-186 Isotopic and Highly Siderophile Element Systematics of Group IVA Irons

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Walker, R. J.; McCoy, T. J.; Schulte, R. F.; McDonough, W. F.; Ash, R. D.

2005-01-01

We have recently completed Re-187-Os-187 and Pt-190-Os-186 isotopic and elemental studies of the two largest magmatic iron meteorite groups, IIAB and IIIAB [1]. These studies revealed closed-system behavior of both isotopic systems, but complex trace element behavior for Re, Pt and Os in group IIIAB. Here we examine isotopic and trace elemental systematics of group IVA irons. The IVA irons are not as extensively fractionated as IIAB and IIIAB and their apparently less complex crystallization history may make for more robust interpretation of the relative partitioning behavior of Re, Pt and Os, as well as the other highly siderophile elements (HSE) measured here; Pd, Ru and Ir [e.g. 2]. An additional goal of our continuing research plan for iron meteorites is to assess the possibility of relating certain ungrouped irons with major groups via trace element modeling. Here, the isotopic and trace element systematics of the ungrouped irons Nedagolla and EET 83230 are compared with the IVA irons.

Characteristics of Pediatric Antimicrobial Stewardship Programs: Current Status of the Sharing Antimicrobial Reports for Pediatric Stewardship (SHARPS) Collaborative

PubMed Central

McPherson, Christopher; Lee, Brian R.; Terrill, Cindy; Hersh, Adam L.; Gerber, Jeffrey S.; Kronman, Matthew P.; Newland, Jason G.

2018-01-01

In response to the growing epidemic of antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections, antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASP) have been rapidly implemented in the United States (US). This study examines the prevalence of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) seven core elements of a successful ASP within a large subset of US Children’s Hospitals. In 2016, a survey was conducted of 52 pediatric hospitals assessing the presence of the seven core elements: leadership commitment, accountability, drug expertise, action, tracking, reporting, and education. Forty-nine hospitals (94%) had established ASPs and 41 hospitals (79%) included all seven core elements. Physician accountability (87%) and a dedicated ASP pharmacist or drug expert (88%) were present in the vast majority of hospitals. However, substantial variability existed in the financial support allotted to these positions. This variability did not predict program actions, tracking, reporting, and education. When compared with previous surveys, these results document a dramatic increase in the prevalence and resources of pediatric stewardship programs, although continued expansion is warranted. Further research is required to understand the feasibility of various core stewardship activities and the impact on patient outcomes in the setting of finite resources. PMID:29370071

Characteristics of Pediatric Antimicrobial Stewardship Programs: Current Status of the Sharing Antimicrobial Reports for Pediatric Stewardship (SHARPS) Collaborative.

PubMed

McPherson, Christopher; Lee, Brian R; Terrill, Cindy; Hersh, Adam L; Gerber, Jeffrey S; Kronman, Matthew P; Newland, Jason G

2018-01-25

In response to the growing epidemic of antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections, antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASP) have been rapidly implemented in the United States (US). This study examines the prevalence of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) seven core elements of a successful ASP within a large subset of US Children's Hospitals. In 2016, a survey was conducted of 52 pediatric hospitals assessing the presence of the seven core elements: leadership commitment, accountability, drug expertise, action, tracking, reporting, and education. Forty-nine hospitals (94%) had established ASPs and 41 hospitals (79%) included all seven core elements. Physician accountability (87%) and a dedicated ASP pharmacist or drug expert (88%) were present in the vast majority of hospitals. However, substantial variability existed in the financial support allotted to these positions. This variability did not predict program actions, tracking, reporting, and education. When compared with previous surveys, these results document a dramatic increase in the prevalence and resources of pediatric stewardship programs, although continued expansion is warranted. Further research is required to understand the feasibility of various core stewardship activities and the impact on patient outcomes in the setting of finite resources.

Intrinsic embedded sensors for polymeric mechatronics: flexure and force sensing.

PubMed

Jentoft, Leif P; Dollar, Aaron M; Wagner, Christopher R; Howe, Robert D

2014-02-25

While polymeric fabrication processes, including recent advances in additive manufacturing, have revolutionized manufacturing, little work has been done on effective sensing elements compatible with and embedded within polymeric structures. In this paper, we describe the development and evaluation of two important sensing modalities for embedding in polymeric mechatronic and robotic mechanisms: multi-axis flexure joint angle sensing utilizing IR phototransistors, and a small (12 mm), three-axis force sensing via embedded silicon strain gages with similar performance characteristics as an equally sized metal element based sensor.

Integrated Reconfigurable Aperture, Digital Beam Forming, and Software GPS Receiver for UAV Navigation

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-12-11

Implemented both carrier and code phase tracking loop for performance evaluation of a minimum power beam forming algorithm and null steering algorithm...4 Antennal Antenna2 Antenna K RF RF RF ct, Ct~2 ChKx1 X2 ....... Xk A W ~ ~ =Z, x W ,=1 Fig. 5. Schematics of a K-element antenna array spatial...adaptive processor Antennal Antenna K A N-i V/ ( Vil= .i= VK Fig. 6. Schematics of a K-element antenna array space-time adaptive processor Two additional

Maps showing mines, quarries, and prospects, with analyses of samples, Gee Creek Wilderness, Polk and Monroe counties, Tennessee

USGS Publications Warehouse

Gazdik, Gertrude C.; Behum, Paul T.

1983-01-01

During the recent U.S. Bureau of Mines field investigation, 21 samples were collected (fig. 2) and were submitted to the Bureau's Reno Metallurgy Research Center, Reno, Nev., for analysis. All samples were tested for 40 elements by semiquantitative spectrographic analyses. Additional testing by atomic absorption, neutron activation, and wet chemical techniques was performed for selected elements on some samples. Two shale samples were submitted to the Bureau of Mines, Tuscaloosa Metallurgy Research Center, Tuscaloosa, Ala., for the evaluation of ceramic properties. 

Intrinsic Embedded Sensors for Polymeric Mechatronics: Flexure and Force Sensing

PubMed Central

Jentoft, Leif P.; Dollar, Aaron M.; Wagner, Christopher R.; Howe, Robert D.

2014-01-01

While polymeric fabrication processes, including recent advances in additive manufacturing, have revolutionized manufacturing, little work has been done on effective sensing elements compatible with and embedded within polymeric structures. In this paper, we describe the development and evaluation of two important sensing modalities for embedding in polymeric mechatronic and robotic mechanisms: multi-axis flexure joint angle sensing utilizing IR phototransistors, and a small (12 mm), three-axis force sensing via embedded silicon strain gages with similar performance characteristics as an equally sized metal element based sensor. PMID:24573310

Preparation and provisional certification of NBL Spectrographic Impurity Standards, CRM 123 (1-7) and 124 (1-7)

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

Santoliquido, P.M.

This report describes the design, production, and provisional certification of two new certified reference materials (CRMs): CRM No. 123 (1-7), U/sub 3/O/sub 8/ containing 18 trace elements, and CRM No. 124 (1-7), U/sub 3/O/sub 8/ containing 24 trace elements. The elements to be included and concentrations to be used were decided on the basis of information gathered from users of a previous CRM of this type, CRM No. 98 (1-7). The new CRMs were prepared by the addition of trace elements to high purity U/sub 3/O/sub 8/. Provisional certification was accomplished by an interlaboratory program in which four different laboratoriesmore » analyzed the materials by carrier distillation dc arc emission spectrography.« less

Heavy Element Abundances in Two B0-B0.5 Main Sequence Stars in the Small Magellanic Cloud

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peters, Geraldine J.

We propose FUSE observations of AV304 (B0.5V) and NGC346-637 B0V), two sharp-lined main-sequence stars in the Small Magellanic Cloud, to determine the abundances of heavy elements, especially those of the iron group. The FUSE spectral region contains numerous Fe III lines, including the resonance multiplet (UV 1) near 1130 Angstroms, that is excellent for abundance determinations and two strong multiplets of V III, an ion that does not produce measurable lines longward of 1200 Angstoms, in metal-deficient stars. In addition there are several measurable lines from Cr III and Mn III. A limited analyses of ground-based spectra of these stars by Dufton et al. (1990) and Rolleston et al. (1993) indicated an average underabundance of 0.7-0.8 dex for most light elements and a recent analysis of HSTSTIS data on AV304 by Peters & Grigsby (2001) suggests that the Fe group elements are depleted by the same amount relative to the sun. When combined with the HST-STIS results, this effort will represent the first attempt to measure the abundances of Fe group elements in the photospheres of early B, main sequence stars in an external galaxy. Although abundances of the Fe-peak elements are of interest because they are important for assessing opacities for stellar evolution calculations and the validity of theoretical calculations of explosive nucleosynthesis, the ground-based study did not yield this information because measurable lines from these species are found only in the UV spectral region. Abundances and abundance ratios of both heavy & light elements will be compared with the HST-STIS results from AV304, H II regions, supernova remnants, evolved massive stars in the SMC, and theoretical calculations of nucleosynthesis.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Various elements intended for the International Space Station are lined up in the Space Station Processing Facility. The newest to arrive at KSC are in the rear: at left, the U.S. Node 2, and at right, the Japanese Experiment Module (JEM). The two elements are undergoing a Multi-Element Integrated Test (MEIT). Node 2 attaches to the end of the U.S. Lab on the ISS and provides attach locations for the Japanese laboratory, European laboratory, the Centrifuge Accommodation Module and, eventually, Multipurpose Logistics Modules. It will provide the primary docking location for the Shuttle when a pressurized mating adapter is attached to Node 2. Installation of the module will complete the U.S. Core of the ISS. Developed by the National Space Development Agency of Japan (NASDA), the JEM is Japan's primary contribution to the Station. It will enhance the unique research capabilities of the orbiting complex by providing an additional environment for astronauts to conduct science experiments.

NASA Image and Video Library

2003-08-27

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Various elements intended for the International Space Station are lined up in the Space Station Processing Facility. The newest to arrive at KSC are in the rear: at left, the U.S. Node 2, and at right, the Japanese Experiment Module (JEM). The two elements are undergoing a Multi-Element Integrated Test (MEIT). Node 2 attaches to the end of the U.S. Lab on the ISS and provides attach locations for the Japanese laboratory, European laboratory, the Centrifuge Accommodation Module and, eventually, Multipurpose Logistics Modules. It will provide the primary docking location for the Shuttle when a pressurized mating adapter is attached to Node 2. Installation of the module will complete the U.S. Core of the ISS. Developed by the National Space Development Agency of Japan (NASDA), the JEM is Japan's primary contribution to the Station. It will enhance the unique research capabilities of the orbiting complex by providing an additional environment for astronauts to conduct science experiments.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Various elements intended for the International Space Station are lined up in the Space Station Processing Facility. The newest to arrive at KSC are in the rear: at left, the U.S. Node 2, and next to it at right, the Japanese Experiment Module (JEM). The two elements are undergoing a Multi-Element Integrated Test (MEIT). Node 2 attaches to the end of the U.S. Lab on the ISS and provides attach locations for the Japanese laboratory, European laboratory, the Centrifuge Accommodation Module and, eventually, Multipurpose Logistics Modules. It will provide the primary docking location for the Shuttle when a pressurized mating adapter is attached to Node 2. Installation of the module will complete the U.S. Core of the ISS. Developed by the National Space Development Agency of Japan (NASDA), the JEM is Japan's primary contribution to the Station. It will enhance the unique research capabilities of the orbiting complex by providing an additional environment for astronauts to conduct science experiments.

NASA Image and Video Library

2003-09-03

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Various elements intended for the International Space Station are lined up in the Space Station Processing Facility. The newest to arrive at KSC are in the rear: at left, the U.S. Node 2, and next to it at right, the Japanese Experiment Module (JEM). The two elements are undergoing a Multi-Element Integrated Test (MEIT). Node 2 attaches to the end of the U.S. Lab on the ISS and provides attach locations for the Japanese laboratory, European laboratory, the Centrifuge Accommodation Module and, eventually, Multipurpose Logistics Modules. It will provide the primary docking location for the Shuttle when a pressurized mating adapter is attached to Node 2. Installation of the module will complete the U.S. Core of the ISS. Developed by the National Space Development Agency of Japan (NASDA), the JEM is Japan's primary contribution to the Station. It will enhance the unique research capabilities of the orbiting complex by providing an additional environment for astronauts to conduct science experiments.

Seasonally-resolved trace element concentrations in stalagmites from a shallow cave in New Mexico

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sekhon, N.; Banner, J.; Miller, N. R.; Carlson, P. E.; Breecker, D.

2017-12-01

High-resolution (sub-annual/seasonal) paleoclimate records extending beyond the instrumental period are required to test climate models and better understand how climate warming/cooling and wetting/drying are manifested seasonally. This is particularly the case for areas such as the southwest United States where precipitation and temperature seasonality dictate the regional climate. Study of a 20thcentury stalagmite (Carlson et al., in prep) documented (1) seasonal variation in trace element compositions of a stalagmite from a shallow, well-ventilated cave and (2) demonstrated the seasonal variation in stalagmite Mg to be in agreement with predicted temperature-dependent fractionation between water and calcite. The seasonal nature of variability was constrained by monitoring the cave on a monthly basis (Casteel and Banner, 2015; Carlson et al., in prep). Here we expand on using stalagmites from shallow, well-ventilated caves as archives of seasonally-resolved climate recorders by studying trace element variations in two coeval modern stalagmites (SBFC-1 and SBFC-2) cored from Sitting Bull Falls, southern New Mexico. Seasonal cycles will be confirmed by analyzing Mg, Ba, and Sr in in-situ calcite precipitated on artificial substrates as available (July, Sept., and Nov. 2017). The chronology is constrained by semi-automated peak counting and 14C bomb-peak. In addition, principal component analyses of trace element data identify two primary underlying modes of trace element variability for soil-derived elements (Cu, Zn, and Fe) and bedrock-derived elements (Mg, Sr, and Ba). We hypothesize that the soil-derived elements are transported by seasonal infiltration of organic colloids and the bedrock-derived elements are ­­controlled by variability in cave air temperature, drip water, and calcite growth rate. The two modes of variability will be calibrated against instrumental data over the 20th century. When complete, these new seasonally resolved proxy records will constrain the pattern and mechanism of the regional climate in southwest United States with a focus on drought indicators.

A Galerkin formulation of the MIB method for three dimensional elliptic interface problems

PubMed Central

Xia, Kelin; Wei, Guo-Wei

2014-01-01

We develop a three dimensional (3D) Galerkin formulation of the matched interface and boundary (MIB) method for solving elliptic partial differential equations (PDEs) with discontinuous coefficients, i.e., the elliptic interface problem. The present approach builds up two sets of elements respectively on two extended subdomains which both include the interface. As a result, two sets of elements overlap each other near the interface. Fictitious solutions are defined on the overlapping part of the elements, so that the differentiation operations of the original PDEs can be discretized as if there was no interface. The extra coefficients of polynomial basis functions, which furnish the overlapping elements and solve the fictitious solutions, are determined by interface jump conditions. Consequently, the interface jump conditions are rigorously enforced on the interface. The present method utilizes Cartesian meshes to avoid the mesh generation in conventional finite element methods (FEMs). We implement the proposed MIB Galerkin method with three different elements, namely, rectangular prism element, five-tetrahedron element and six-tetrahedron element, which tile the Cartesian mesh without introducing any new node. The accuracy, stability and robustness of the proposed 3D MIB Galerkin are extensively validated over three types of elliptic interface problems. In the first type, interfaces are analytically defined by level set functions. These interfaces are relatively simple but admit geometric singularities. In the second type, interfaces are defined by protein surfaces, which are truly arbitrarily complex. The last type of interfaces originates from multiprotein complexes, such as molecular motors. Near second order accuracy has been confirmed for all of these problems. To our knowledge, it is the first time for an FEM to show a near second order convergence in solving the Poisson equation with realistic protein surfaces. Additionally, the present work offers the first known near second order accurate method for C1 continuous or H2 continuous solutions associated with a Lipschitz continuous interface in a 3D setting. PMID:25309038

Asteroid families in the Cybele and Hungaria groups

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vinogradova, T.; Shor, V.

2014-07-01

Asteroid families are fragments of some disrupted parent bodies. Planetary perturbations force the primarily close orbits to evolve. One of the main features of the orbit evolution is the long-period variation of the osculating elements, such as the inclination and eccentricity. Proper elements are computed by elimination of short- and long-period perturbations, and, practically, they do not change with time. Therefore, proper elements are important for family-identification procedures. The techniques of proper-element computation have improved over time. More and more accurate dynamical theories are developed. Contrastingly, in this work, an empirical method is proposed for proper-element calculations. The long-term variations of osculating elements manifest themselves very clearly in the distributions of pairs: inclination and longitude of ascending node; eccentricity and longitude of perihelion in the corresponding planes. Both of these dependencies have a nearly sinusoidal form for most asteroid orbits with regular motion of node and perihelion. If these angular parameters librate, then the sinusoids transform to some closed curve. Hence, it is possible to obtain forced elements, as parameters of curves specified above. The proper elements can be calculated by an elimination of the forced ones. The method allows to obtain the proper elements in any region, if there is a sufficient number of asteroids. This fact and the simplicity of the calculations are advantages of the empirical method. The derived proper elements include the short-period perturbations, but their accuracy is sufficient to search for asteroid families. The special techniques have been developed for the identification of the families, but over a long time large discrepancies took place between the lists of families derived by different authors. As late as 1980, a list of 30 reliable families was formed. And now the list by D. Nesvorny includes about 80 robust families. To date, only two families have been found in the most outer part of the main asteroid belt or the Cybele group: Sylvia and Ulla. And the Hungaria group in the most inner part of the belt has always been considered as one family. In this work, the proper elements were calculated by the empirical method for all multi-opposition asteroids in these two zones. As the source of the initial osculating elements, the MPC catalogue (version Feb. 2014) was used. Due to the large set of proper elements used in our work, the families are apparent more clearly. An approach similar to the hierarchical clustering method (HCM) was used for the identification of the families. As a result, five additional families have been found in the Cybele region, associated with (121) Hermione, (643) Scheherezade, (1028) Lydina, (3141) Buchar, and (522) Helga. The small Helga family, including 15 members, is the family in the main belt (3.6--3.7 au) most distant from the Sun. Due to the isolation of this family, its identification is very reliable. As to the Hungaria region, two low-density families have been found additionally: (1453) Fennia and (3854) George. They have inclinations slightly greater than that of the Hungaria family (from 24 to 26 degrees). In contradiction to the predominant C-type of the Hungaria family asteroids, the taxonomy of these families is represented mainly by the S and L types. Most likely, these families are two parts of a single ancient family.

78 FR 63975 - Notice of Effectiveness of Exempt Wholesale Generator or Foreign Utility Company Status

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-10-25

... Energy Inc FortisBC Energy (Vancouver Island) Inc. FortisBC Energy (Whistler) Inc... FortisBC Huntingdon Inc FortisBC Alternative Energy Services Inc. Fortis Generation East Limited FC13-11-000 Partnership... DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Notice of Effectiveness of Exempt...

Expression of SIRT1 and oxidative stress in diabetic dry eye.

PubMed

Liu, Hao; Sheng, Minjie; Liu, Yu; Wang, Peng; Chen, Yihui; Chen, Li; Wang, Weifang; Li, Bing

2015-01-01

To explore the expression of SIRT1 with oxidative stress and observe physiological and pathological changes in the corneas as well as the association between SIRT1 and oxidative stress of diabetic dry eyes in mice. Forty-eight C57BL/6Jdb/db mice at eight weeks of age were divided randomly into two groups: the diabetic dry eye group and the diabetic group. An additional forty-eight C57BL/6J mice at eight weeks of age were divided randomly into two groups: the dry eye group and the control group. Every mouse in the dry eye groups (diabetic and normal) was injected with scopolamine hydrobromide three times daily, combined with low humidity to establish a dry eye model. After the intervention, phenol red cotton string tests and corneal fluorescein staining were performed. In addition, HE staining and immunofluorescence were done. Expression of SIRT1 in the cornea was examined by real-time PCR and Western Blot and expression of FOXO3 and MnSOD proteins was detected by Western Blot. At one, four, and eight weeks post intervention, all of the groups except the controls showed significant decreases in tear production and increases in the corneal fluorescein stain (P<0.05 vs control). Between the experimental groups, the diabetic dry eye group had the least tear production and the highest corneal fluorescein stain score (P<0.05). As the disease progressed, all of the experimental groups showed obviously pathological changes in HE staining, particularly the diabetic dry eye group. In the 1(st) and 4(th) week, the expression of SIRT1, FOXO3, and MnSOD were significantly higher in the diabetic DE and DM groups but lower in the DE group compared to the controls (P<0.05). In the 8(th) week, the expression of SIRT1, FOXO3, and MnSOD was significantly down-regulated in the diabetic DE group and the DM group (P<0.05). Immunofluorescence showed similar results. In the condition of diabetic dry eye, tear production declined markedly coupled with seriously wounded corneal epithelium. Oxidative stress in the cornea was enhanced significantly and the expression of SIRT1 was decreased.

Reporting of NSC Additional (A2) Data Elements. Updated July 29, 2014

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Student Clearinghouse, 2014

2014-01-01

Since the 2008-09 academic year, the National Student Clearinghouse has provided its participating institutions with the option to include 13 additional data elements in their enrollment submissions. These additional data elements help make Clearinghouse data more comprehensive and enable StudentTracker? participants to utilize a more robust data…

41 CFR 60-2.17 - Additional required elements of affirmative action programs.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... elements of affirmative action programs. 60-2.17 Section 60-2.17 Public Contracts and Property Management... EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY, DEPARTMENT OF LABOR 2-AFFIRMATIVE ACTION PROGRAMS Purpose and Contents of Affirmative Action Programs § 60-2.17 Additional required elements of affirmative action programs. In addition to the...

Intraoperative use of a reflective blanket (Sirius rescue sheet) for temperature management in dogs less than 10 kg.

PubMed

Tünsmeyer, J; Bojarski, I; Nolte, I; Kramer, S

2009-07-01

To compare the effects of the Sirius rescue sheet with gel pads versus gel pads alone on intraoperative body temperature in dogs less than 10 kg. Forty small breed dogs undergoing elective surgical procedures were randomly assigned to two groups. One group was intraoperatively laid on warmed gel pads, and the other group was additionally wrapped in a Sirius rescue sheet. Oesophageal body temperature was determined every 10 minutes and compared between groups. Temperature of gel pads was measured preoperatively and postoperatively to compare heat loss of the gel pads between groups. The body temperature of dogs wrapped with the Sirius rescue sheet increased intraoperatively. In dogs just lying on warmed gel pads, a decrease in mean body temperature was revealed and mean body temperatures differed between groups after 40 minutes. Extent of heat loss from the gel pads did not differ between the groups. The Sirius rescue sheet, used in addition to warmed gel pads, led to higher intraoperative body temperatures in small breed dogs undergoing surgical procedures to the extremities and the head. The cost-effectiveness and ease of handling make this a useful addition to clinical practice.

The Relative Effects of Explicit Correction and Recasts on Two Target Structures via Two Communication Modes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yilmaz, Yucel

2012-01-01

This study investigated the effects of negative feedback type (i.e., explicit correction vs. recasts), communication mode (i.e., face-to-face communication vs. synchronous computer-mediated communication), and target structure salience (i.e., salient vs. nonsalient) on the acquisition of two Turkish morphemes. Forty-eight native speakers of…

Growth and Decline in Language and Phonological Memory over Two Years among Adolescents with Down Syndrome

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Conners, Frances A.; Tungate, Andrew S.; Abbeduto, Leonard; Merrill, Edward C.; Faught, Gayle G.

2018-01-01

Forty-two adolescents with Down syndrome (DS) ages 10 to 21 years completed a battery of language and phonological memory measures twice, 2 years apart. Individual differences were highly stable across two years. Receptive vocabulary scores improved, there was no change in receptive or expressive grammar scores, and nonword repetition scores…

The Role of Exposure Condition in the Effectiveness of Explicit Correction

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yilmaz, Yucel

2016-01-01

This article reports on a study that investigated the effects of two feedback exposure conditions on the acquisition of two Turkish morphemes. The study followed a randomized experimental design with an immediate and a delayed posttest. Forty-two Chinese-speaking learners of Turkish were randomly assigned to one of three groups: receivers,…

Defining Elements of Value in Health Care-A Health Economics Approach: An ISPOR Special Task Force Report [3].

PubMed

Lakdawalla, Darius N; Doshi, Jalpa A; Garrison, Louis P; Phelps, Charles E; Basu, Anirban; Danzon, Patricia M

2018-02-01

The third section of our Special Task Force report identifies and defines a series of elements that warrant consideration in value assessments of medical technologies. We aim to broaden the view of what constitutes value in health care and to spur new research on incorporating additional elements of value into cost-effectiveness analysis (CEA). Twelve potential elements of value are considered. Four of them-quality-adjusted life-years, net costs, productivity, and adherence-improving factors-are conventionally included or considered in value assessments. Eight others, which would be more novel in economic assessments, are defined and discussed: reduction in uncertainty, fear of contagion, insurance value, severity of disease, value of hope, real option value, equity, and scientific spillovers. Most of these are theoretically well understood and available for inclusion in value assessments. The two exceptions are equity and scientific spillover effects, which require more theoretical development and consensus. A number of regulatory authorities around the globe have shown interest in some of these novel elements. Augmenting CEA to consider these additional elements would result in a more comprehensive CEA in line with the "impact inventory" of the Second Panel on Cost-Effectiveness in Health and Medicine. Possible approaches for valuation and inclusion of these elements include integrating them as part of a net monetary benefit calculation, including elements as attributes in health state descriptions, or using them as criteria in a multicriteria decision analysis. Further research is needed on how best to measure and include them in decision making. Copyright © 2018 International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research (ISPOR). Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Development of a press and drag method for hyperlink selection on smartphones.

PubMed

Chang, Joonho; Jung, Kihyo

2017-11-01

The present study developed a novel touch method for hyperlink selection on smartphones consisting of two sequential finger interactions: press and drag motions. The novel method requires a user to press a target hyperlink, and if a touch error occurs he/she can immediately correct the touch error by dragging the finger without releasing it in the middle. The method was compared with two existing methods in terms of completion time, error rate, and subjective rating. Forty college students participated in the experiments with different hyperlink sizes (4-pt, 6-pt, 8-pt, and 10-pt) on a touch-screen device. When hyperlink size was small (4-pt and 6-pt), the novel method (time: 826 msec; error: 0.6%) demonstrated better completion time and error rate than the current method (time: 1194 msec; error: 22%). In addition, the novel method (1.15, slightly satisfied, in 7-pt bipolar scale) had significantly higher satisfaction scores than the two existing methods (0.06, neutral). Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Structural and Dialectal Characteristics of the Fictional and Personal Narratives of School-age African American Children

PubMed Central

Mills, Monique T.; Watkins, Ruth V.; Washington, Julie A.

2014-01-01

Purpose To report preliminary comparisons of developing structural characteristics associated with fictional and personal narratives in school-age African American children. Method Forty-three children, grades two through five, generated a fictional and a personal narrative in response to a wordless-book elicitation task and a story-prompt task, respectively. Narratives produced in these two contexts were characterized for macrostructure, microstructure, and dialect density. Differences across narrative type and grade level were examined. Results Statistically significant differences between the two types of narratives were found for both macrostructure and microstructure but not for dialect density. There were no grade-related differences in macrostructure, microstructure, or dialect density. Conclusion The results demonstrate the complementary role of fictional and personal narratives for describing young children's narrative skills. Use of both types of narrative tasks and descriptions of both macrostructure and macrostructure may be particularly useful for characterizing the narrative abilities of young school-age African American children, for whom culture-fair methods are scarce. Further study of additional dialect groups is warranted. PMID:23633645

Effects of Videogame Distraction using a Virtual Reality Type Head-Mounted Display Helmet on Cold Pressor Pain in Children

PubMed Central

Weiss, Karen E.; Dillinger Clendaniel, Lindsay; Law, Emily F.; Ackerman, Claire Sonntag; McKenna, Kristine D.

2009-01-01

Objective To test whether a head-mounted display helmet enhances the effectiveness of videogame distraction for children experiencing cold pressor pain. Method Forty-one children, aged 6–14 years, underwent one or two baseline cold pressor trials followed by two distraction trials in which they played the same videogame with and without the helmet in counterbalanced order. Pain threshold (elapsed time until the child reported pain) and pain tolerance (total time the child kept the hand submerged in the cold water) were measured for each cold pressor trial. Results Both distraction conditions resulted in improved pain tolerance relative to baseline. Older children appeared to experience additional benefits from using the helmet, whereas younger children benefited equally from both conditions. The findings suggest that virtual reality technology can enhance the effects of distraction for some children. Research is needed to identify the characteristics of children for whom this technology is best suited. PMID:18367495

Correspondence between Simulator and On-Road Drive Performance: Implications for Assessment of Driving Safety.

PubMed

Aksan, Nazan; Hacker, Sarah D; Sager, Lauren; Dawson, Jeffrey; Anderson, Steven; Rizzo, Matthew

2016-03-01

Forty-two younger (Mean age = 35) and 37 older drivers (Mean age = 77) completed four similar simulated drives. In addition, 32 younger and 30 older drivers completed a standard on-road drive in an instrumented vehicle. Performance in the simulated drives was evaluated using both electronic drive data and video-review of errors. Safety errors during the on-road drive were evaluated by a certified driving instructor blind to simulator performance, using state Department of Transportation criteria. We examined the degree of convergence in performance across the two platforms on various driving tasks including lane change, lane keeping, speed control, stopping, turns, and overall performance. Differences based on age group indicated a pattern of strong relative validity for simulator measures. However, relative rank-order in specific metrics of performance suggested a pattern of moderate relative validity. The findings have implications for the use of simulators in assessments of driving safety as well as its use in training and/or rehabilitation settings.

Correspondence between Simulator and On-Road Drive Performance: Implications for Assessment of Driving Safety

PubMed Central

Aksan, Nazan; Hacker, Sarah D.; Sager, Lauren; Dawson, Jeffrey; Anderson, Steven; Rizzo, Matthew

2017-01-01

Forty-two younger (Mean age = 35) and 37 older drivers (Mean age = 77) completed four similar simulated drives. In addition, 32 younger and 30 older drivers completed a standard on-road drive in an instrumented vehicle. Performance in the simulated drives was evaluated using both electronic drive data and video-review of errors. Safety errors during the on-road drive were evaluated by a certified driving instructor blind to simulator performance, using state Department of Transportation criteria. We examined the degree of convergence in performance across the two platforms on various driving tasks including lane change, lane keeping, speed control, stopping, turns, and overall performance. Differences based on age group indicated a pattern of strong relative validity for simulator measures. However, relative rank-order in specific metrics of performance suggested a pattern of moderate relative validity. The findings have implications for the use of simulators in assessments of driving safety as well as its use in training and/or rehabilitation settings. PMID:28649572

The legumin gene family: structure of a B type gene of Vicia faba and a possible legumin gene specific regulatory element.

PubMed Central

Bäumlein, H; Wobus, U; Pustell, J; Kafatos, F C

1986-01-01

The field bean, Vicia faba L. var. minor, possesses two sub-families of 11 S legumin genes named A and B. We isolated from a genomic library a B-type gene (LeB4) and determined its primary DNA sequence. Gene LeB4 codes for a 484 amino acid residue prepropolypeptide, encompassing a signal peptide of 22 amino acid residues, an acidic, very hydrophilic alpha-chain of 281 residues and a basic, somewhat hydrophobic beta-chain of 181 residues. The latter two coding regions are immediately contiguous, but each is interrupted by a short intron. Type A legumin genes from soybean and pea are known to have introns in the same two positions, in addition to an extra intron (within the alpha-coding sequence). Sequence comparisons of legumin genes from these three plants revealed a highly conserved sequence element of at least 28 bp, centered at approximately 100 bp upstream of each cap site. The element is absent from the equivalent position of all non-legumin and other plant and fungal genes examined. We tentatively name this element "legumin box" and suggest that it may have a function in the regulation of legumin gene expression. PMID:3960730

Influence of Iatrogenic Gaps, Cement Type, and Time on Microleakage of Cast Posts Using Spectrophotometer and Glucose Filtration Measurements.

PubMed

Al-Madi, Ebtissam M; Al-Saleh, Samar A; Al-Khudairy, Reem I; Aba-Hussein, Taibah W

2018-04-06

To determine the influence of iatrogenic gaps, type of cement, and time on microleakage of cast posts using spectrophotometer and glucose filtration measurements. Forty-eight single-rooted teeth were divided into eight groups of six teeth each. Teeth were instrumented and obturated, and a cast post was fabricated. In addition to two control groups (positive and negative), a total of six groups were prepared: In four groups, an artificial 2- to 3-mm gap was created between post and residual gutta percha (GP), and two groups were prepared with intimate contact between post and residual GP. Posts were cemented with either zinc phosphate cement or resin cement. Leakage through the post after 1, 8, 14, and 20 days was measured using a glucose penetration model with two different reading methods. Mixed analysis of variance tests were performed to analyze the data. The presence of a gap between the apical end of the post and the most coronal portion of the GP remaining in the root canal after post space preparation increased microleakage significantly. However, microleakage was significantly less when the gap was refilled with GP compared to no gap. There was no difference in leakage between luting cements used. It was concluded that none of the cements were able to prevent microleakage. However, the addition of GP to residual GP did increase the sealing ability.

Humanities Perspectives on Technology Program: Science, Technology & Society Program. Lehigh University, 1977-80.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cutcliffe, Stephen H., Ed.

Newsletter issues pertaining to Lehigh University's Humanities Perspectives on Technology (HPT) Program, which was renamed the Science, Technology and Society Program, are presented. Additionally, a newsletter article excerpt entitled "Elements of Technology in a Liberal Education" is included. Two 1977 issues of "HRP News,"…

A Model of Pre-Service Education of Elementary Reading Teachers.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Morgan, Lorraine

A six-phase preparation program, with two additional courses optional, that leads to recommendation for certification of elementary reading teachers ia described. The program begins with freshmen and allows the students to experience the elements of choice, responsibility, individualization, self-awareness, social awareness, and communication in…

Computer as a Tool in SAT Preparation.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Coffin, Gregory C.

Two experimental programs, designed to increase Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) scores of inner city, low achieving students by using computer-assisted SAT preparation, produced differing results. Forty volunteers from a nearby high school were assigned to two groups of 20 each--one experimental and one control group. The first program provided six…

Educational Needs and Barriers for African Refugee Students in Manitoba

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kanu, Yatta

2008-01-01

This study investigated the educational needs and barriers for diverse African refugee students in two inner-city high schools in Manitoba. Forty African refugee students, two principals, eight teachers, four parents, and four community leaders participated in the study. Five focus groups, individual interviews, and school and classroom…

Sex Differences in Self-Estimation of Multiple Intelligences among Portuguese Adolescents

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Neto, Felix; Ruiz, Fatima; Furnham, Adrian

2008-01-01

This study investigated the relationship among sex, attitude toward intelligence, and self-estimation of multiple intelligences for self and parents among Portuguese adolescents in secondary schools. Two hundred and forty-two adolescents estimated their own and their parents' IQ scores on each of Gardner's 10 multiple intelligences: verbal…

76 FR 15042 - Transfer of Federally Assisted Land or Facility

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-03-18

... comprised of approximately Two- hundred Twenty-eight Thousand (228,000) square feet of parking structure...[ccedil]ade. The transfer does not include Eighteen Thousand Three Hundred (18,300) square feet on the... Hundred Forty-six Thousand, Three Hundred (246,300) square feet of which Two Hundred Twenty-eight Thousand...

Electronic structure of boron based single and multi-layer two dimensional materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miyazato, Itsuki; Takahashi, Keisuke

2017-09-01

Two dimensional nanosheets based on boron and Group VA elements are designed and characterized using first principles calculations. B-N, B-P, B-As, B-Sb, and B-Bi are found to possess honeycomb structures where formation energies indicate exothermic reactions. Contrary to B-N, the cases of B-P, B-As, B-Sb, and B-Bi nanosheets are calculated to possess narrow band gaps. In addition, calculations reveal that the electronegativity difference between B and Group VA elements in the designed materials is a good indicator to predict the charge transfer and band gap of the two dimensional materials. Hydrogen adsorption over defect-free B-Sb and B-Bi results in exothermic reactions, while defect-free B-N, B-P, and B-As result in endothermic reactions. The layerability of the designed two dimensional materials is also investigated where the electronic structure of two-layered two dimensional materials is strongly coupled with how the two dimensional materials are layered. Thus, one can consider that the properties of two dimensional materials can be controlled by the composition of two dimensional materials and the structure of layers.

Evaluation of biological hydrogen sulfide oxidation coupled with two-stage upflow filtration for groundwater treatment.

PubMed

Levine, Audrey D; Raymer, Blake J; Jahn, Johna

2004-01-01

Hydrogen sulfide in groundwater can be oxidized by aerobic bacteria to form elemental sulfur and biomass. While this treatment approach is effective for conversion of hydrogen sulfide, it is important to have adequate control of the biomass exiting the biological treatment system to prevent release of elemental sulfur into the distribution system. Pilot scale tests were conducted on a Florida groundwater to evaluate the use of two-stage upflow filtration downstream of biological sulfur oxidation. The combined biological and filtration process was capable of excellent removal of hydrogen sulfide and associated turbidity. Additional benefits of this treatment approach include elimination of odor generation, reduction of chlorine demand, and improved stability of the finished water.

Modal Substructuring of Geometrically Nonlinear Finite-Element Models

DOE PAGES

Kuether, Robert J.; Allen, Matthew S.; Hollkamp, Joseph J.

2015-12-21

The efficiency of a modal substructuring method depends on the component modes used to reduce each subcomponent model. Methods such as Craig–Bampton have been used extensively to reduce linear finite-element models with thousands or even millions of degrees of freedom down orders of magnitude while maintaining acceptable accuracy. A novel reduction method is proposed here for geometrically nonlinear finite-element models using the fixed-interface and constraint modes of the linearized system to reduce each subcomponent model. The geometric nonlinearity requires an additional cubic and quadratic polynomial function in the modal equations, and the nonlinear stiffness coefficients are determined by applying amore » series of static loads and using the finite-element code to compute the response. The geometrically nonlinear, reduced modal equations for each subcomponent are then coupled by satisfying compatibility and force equilibrium. This modal substructuring approach is an extension of the Craig–Bampton method and is readily applied to geometrically nonlinear models built directly within commercial finite-element packages. The efficiency of this new approach is demonstrated on two example problems: one that couples two geometrically nonlinear beams at a shared rotational degree of freedom, and another that couples an axial spring element to the axial degree of freedom of a geometrically nonlinear beam. The nonlinear normal modes of the assembled models are compared with those of a truth model to assess the accuracy of the novel modal substructuring approach.« less

Modal Substructuring of Geometrically Nonlinear Finite-Element Models

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

Kuether, Robert J.; Allen, Matthew S.; Hollkamp, Joseph J.

The efficiency of a modal substructuring method depends on the component modes used to reduce each subcomponent model. Methods such as Craig–Bampton have been used extensively to reduce linear finite-element models with thousands or even millions of degrees of freedom down orders of magnitude while maintaining acceptable accuracy. A novel reduction method is proposed here for geometrically nonlinear finite-element models using the fixed-interface and constraint modes of the linearized system to reduce each subcomponent model. The geometric nonlinearity requires an additional cubic and quadratic polynomial function in the modal equations, and the nonlinear stiffness coefficients are determined by applying amore » series of static loads and using the finite-element code to compute the response. The geometrically nonlinear, reduced modal equations for each subcomponent are then coupled by satisfying compatibility and force equilibrium. This modal substructuring approach is an extension of the Craig–Bampton method and is readily applied to geometrically nonlinear models built directly within commercial finite-element packages. The efficiency of this new approach is demonstrated on two example problems: one that couples two geometrically nonlinear beams at a shared rotational degree of freedom, and another that couples an axial spring element to the axial degree of freedom of a geometrically nonlinear beam. The nonlinear normal modes of the assembled models are compared with those of a truth model to assess the accuracy of the novel modal substructuring approach.« less

A comparative analysis of massed vs. distributed practice on basic math fact fluency growth rates.

PubMed

Schutte, Greg M; Duhon, Gary J; Solomon, Benjamin G; Poncy, Brian C; Moore, Kathryn; Story, Bailey

2015-04-01

To best remediate academic deficiencies, educators need to not only identify empirically validated interventions but also be able to apply instructional modifications that result in more efficient student learning. The current study compared the effect of massed and distributed practice with an explicit timing intervention to evaluate the extent to which these modifications lead to increased math fact fluency on basic addition problems. Forty-eight third-grade students were placed into one of three groups with each of the groups completing four 1-min math explicit timing procedures each day across 19 days. Group one completed all four 1-min timings consecutively; group two completed two back-to-back 1-min timings in the morning and two back-to-back 1-min timings in the afternoon, and group three completed one, 1-min independent timing four times distributed across the day. Growth curve modeling was used to examine the progress throughout the course of the study. Results suggested that students in the distributed practice conditions, both four times per day and two times per day, showed significantly higher fluency growth rates than those practicing only once per day in a massed format. These results indicate that combining distributed practice with explicit timing procedures is a useful modification that enhances student learning without the addition of extra instructional time when targeting math fact fluency. Copyright © 2015 Society for the Study of School Psychology. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Regulatory analysis of the mouse Hoxb3 gene: multiple elements work in concert to direct temporal and spatial patterns of expression.

PubMed

Kwan, C T; Tsang, S L; Krumlauf, R; Sham, M H

2001-04-01

The expression pattern of the mouse Hoxb3 gene is exceptionally complex and dynamic compared with that of other members of the Hoxb cluster. There are multiple types of transcripts for Hoxb3 gene, and the anterior boundaries of its expression vary at different stages of development. Two enhancers flanking Hoxb3 on the 3' and 5' sides regulate Hoxb2 and Hoxb4, respectively, and these control regions define the two ends of a 28-kb interval in and around the Hoxb3 locus. To assay the regulatory potential of DNA fragments in this interval we have used transgenic analysis with a lacZ reporter gene to locate cis-elements for directing the dynamic patterns of Hoxb3 expression. Our detailed analysis has identified four new and widely spaced cis-acting regulatory regions that can together account for major aspects of the Hoxb3 expression pattern. Elements Ib, IIIa, and IVb control gene expression in neural and mesodermal tissues; element Va controls mesoderm-specific gene expression. The most anterior neural expression domain of Hoxb3 is controlled by an r5 enhancer (element IVa); element IIIa directs reporter expression in the anterior spinal cord and hindbrain up to r6, and the region A enhancer (in element I) mediates posterior neural expression. Hence, the regulation of segmental expression of Hoxb3 in the hindbrain is different from that of Hoxa3, as two separate enhancer elements contribute to expression in r5 and r6. The mesoderm-specific element (Va) directs reporter expression to prevertebra C1 at 12.5 dpc, which is the anterior limit of paraxial mesoderm expression for Hoxb3. When tested in combinations, these cis-elements appear to work as modules in an additive manner to recapitulate the major endogenous expression patterns of Hoxb3 during embryogenesis. Together our study shows that multiple control elements direct reporter gene expression in diverse tissue-, temporal-, and spatially restricted subset of the endogenous Hoxb3 expression domains and work in concert to control the neural and mesodermal patterns of expression. Copyright 2001 Academic Press.

Trace element geochemistry of volcanic gases and particles from 1983-1984 eruptive episodes of Kilauea Volcano

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Crowe, Bruce M.; Finnegan, David L.; Zoller, William H.; Boynton, William V.

1987-12-01

Compositional data have been obtained for volcanic gases and particles collected from fume emitted at the Pu'u O'o vent on the east rift zone of Kilauea volcano. The samples were collected by pumping fume through a filter pack system consisting of a front stage particulate filter followed by four base-treated filters (7LiOH). Particles and condensed phases are trapped on the particulate filter, and acidic gases are collected on the treated filters. The filters are analyzed for 30 elements by instrumental neutron activation analysis. Fume samples were collected from the Pu'u O'o vent for two eruptive episodes: (1) 7 days after episode 11 (cooling vent samples) and (2) the waning stage of episode 13 (active vent samples). Additional samples were collected by aircraft from the gas plume released during the lava fountaining phase of episode 17 (aircraft samples). Element concentrations in the vent gases were > 104 μg m-3 for S, Cl, and F. Enrichment factors (EFs) for the volcanic fume versus the source magma were calculated using the volatile element Br as the reference element for normalization and the U.S. Geological Survey standard BHVO-1 as the magma standard. This removes the ash dilution effect obtained by using an ash constituent (Al, Sc, or Mg) as the reference element. Bromine-normalized EFs (× 105) range from 101 to 102 for Na, K, and Cu; 102 to 105 for Zn, W, Sb, In, Ir, Ag, F, and As; and > 105 for Au, Cd, Re, Cl, Se, and S. The highest enrichment factors are for aircraft samples collected during the most gas-rich phase of an eruption cycle. Metal and volatile-element data form two groups: (1) elements showing little or no variation in abundance ratios with sample type (group 1: Cl, Br, and Re) and (2) elements that show significant variation in abundance ratios by sample type (group 2: Zn, W, Sb, In, Ir, Au, and Cd). Bivariate plots of elements of the first group versus elements of the second group separate by sample type. The separation corresponds to samples collected during eruptive activity versus samples collected during repose periods. Monitoring trace metal ratios in volcanic fume could provide an additional tool for predicting volcanic eruptions. The F/Cl ratio of cooling vent samples is higher than those of active vent or aircraft samples, and the ratio is inversely correlated with EFs for most volatile metals.

Capacity for cooperative binding of thyroid hormone (T3) receptor dimers defines wild type T3 response elements.

PubMed

Brent, G A; Williams, G R; Harney, J W; Forman, B M; Samuels, H H; Moore, D D; Larsen, P R

1992-04-01

Thyroid hormone response elements (T3REs) have been identified in a variety of promoters including those directing expression of rat GH (rGH), alpha-myosin heavy chain (rMHC), and malic enzyme (rME). A detailed biochemical and genetic analysis of the rGH element has shown that it consists of three hexamers related to the consensus [(A/G)GGT(C/A)A]. We have extended this analysis to the rMHC and rME elements. Binding of highly purified thyroid hormone receptor (T3R) to T3REs was determined using the gel shift assay, and thyroid hormone (T3) induction was measured in transient tranfections. We show that the wild type version of each of the three elements binds T3R dimers cooperatively. Mutational analysis of the rMHC and rME elements identified domains important for binding T3R dimers and allowed a direct determination of the relationship between T3R binding and function. In each element two hexamers are required for dimer binding, and mutations that interfere with dimer formation significantly reduce T3 induction. Similar to the rGH element, the rMHC T3RE contains three hexameric domains arranged as a direct repeat followed by an inverted copy, although the third domain is weaker than in rGH. All three are required for full function and T3R binding. The rME T3RE is a two-hexamer direct repeat T3RE, which also binds T3R monomer and dimer. Across a series of mutant elements, there was a strong correlation between dimer binding in vitro and function in vivo for rMHC (r = 0.99, P less than 0.01) and rME (r = 0.67, P less than 0.05) T3REs. Our results demonstrate a similar pattern of T3R dimer binding to a diverse array of hexameric sequences and arrangements in three wild type T3REs. Addition of nuclear protein enhanced T3R binding but did not alter the specificity of binding to wild type or mutant elements. Binding of purified T3R to T3REs was highly correlated with function, both with and without the addition of nuclear protein. T3R dimer formation is the common feature which defines the capacity of these elements to confer T3 induction.

The Rise of the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle and its Effect on Manned Tactical Aviation

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-06-16

changes, including the addition of greater numbers of UAVs to their inventory . 4 The UAV while providing valuable information they do so at a cost...have some form of manned and unmanned platforms. Estimates of the world’s UAV inventory include more than 600 types of UAVs in over forty countries...

Forty years later at Taylor Woods: Merging the old and new

Treesearch

John D. Bailey

2008-01-01

The Taylor Woods "Levels-of-Growing-Stock" study was established in 1962 to create a replicated ponderosa pine density experiment for the Southwest, making a valuable addition to research in the Fort Valley Experimental Forest. Basal area treatments ranged from 5-20 m2/ha (19-80 ft2/ac) when installed, designed as...

The statistics of Pearce element diagrams and the Chayes closure problem

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nicholls, J.

1988-05-01

Pearce element ratios are defined as having a constituent in their denominator that is conserved in a system undergoing change. The presence of a conserved element in the denominator simplifies the statistics of such ratios and renders them subject to statistical tests, especially tests of significance of the correlation coefficient between Pearce element ratios. Pearce element ratio diagrams provide unambigous tests of petrologic hypotheses because they are based on the stoichiometry of rock-forming minerals. There are three ways to recognize a conserved element: 1. The petrologic behavior of the element can be used to select conserved ones. They are usually the incompatible elements. 2. The ratio of two conserved elements will be constant in a comagmatic suite. 3. An element ratio diagram that is not constructed with a conserved element in the denominator will have a trend with a near zero intercept. The last two criteria can be tested statistically. The significance of the slope, intercept and correlation coefficient can be tested by estimating the probability of obtaining the observed values from a random population of arrays. This population of arrays must satisfy two criteria: 1. The population must contain at least one array that has the means and variances of the array of analytical data for the rock suite. 2. Arrays with the means and variances of the data must not be so abundant in the population that nearly every array selected at random has the properties of the data. The population of random closed arrays can be obtained from a population of open arrays whose elements are randomly selected from probability distributions. The means and variances of these probability distributions are themselves selected from probability distributions which have means and variances equal to a hypothetical open array that would give the means and variances of the data on closure. This hypothetical open array is called the Chayes array. Alternatively, the population of random closed arrays can be drawn from the compositional space available to rock-forming processes. The minerals comprising the available space can be described with one additive component per mineral phase and a small number of exchange components. This space is called Thompson space. Statistics based on either space lead to the conclusion that Pearce element ratios are statistically valid and that Pearce element diagrams depict the processes that create chemical inhomogeneities in igneous rock suites.

Convergent evolution of Darwin's finches caused by introgressive hybridization and selection.

PubMed

Grant, Peter R; Grant, B Rosemary; Markert, Jeffrey A; Keller, Lukas F; Petren, K

2004-07-01

Between 1973 and 2003 mean morphological features of the cactus finch, Geospiza scandens, and the medium ground finch, G. fortis, populations on the Galápagos island of Daphne Major were subject to fluctuating directional selection. An increase in bluntness or robustness in the beak of G. scandens after 1990 can only partly be explained by selection. We use 16 microsatellite loci to test predictions of the previously proposed hypothesis that introgressive hybridization contributed to the trend, resulting in genes flowing predominantly from G. fortis to G. scandens. To identify F1 hybrids and backcrosses we use pedigrees where known, supplemented by the results of assignment tests based on 14 autosomal loci when parents were not known. We analyze changes in morphology and allelic composition in the two populations over a period of 15-20 years. With samples that included F1 hybrids and backcrosses, the G. scandens population became more similar to the G. fortis population both genetically and morphologically. Gene flow between species was estimated to be three times greater from G. fortis to G. scandens than in the opposite direction, resulting in a 20% reduction in the genetic difference between the species. Nevertheless, removing identified F1 hybrids and backcrosses from the total sample and reanalyzing the traits did not eliminate the convergence. The two species also converged in beak shape by 22.2% and in body size by 45.5%. A combination of introgressive hybridization and selection jointly provide the best explanation of convergence in morphology and genetic constitution under the changed ecological conditions following a major El Niño event in 1983. The study illustrates how species without postmating barriers to gene exchange can alternate between convergence and divergence when environmental conditions oscillate.

The Effect of Volumetric Porosity on Roughness Element Drag

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gillies, John; Nickling, William; Nikolich, George; Etyemezian, Vicken

2016-04-01

Much attention has been given to understanding how the porosity of two dimensional structures affects the drag force exerted by boundary-layer flow on these flow obstructions. Porous structures such as wind breaks and fences are typically used to control the sedimentation of sand and snow particles or create micro-habitats in their lee. Vegetation in drylands also exerts control on sediment transport by wind due to aerodynamic effects and interaction with particles in transport. Recent research has also demonstrated that large spatial arrays of solid three dimensional roughness elements can be used to reduce sand transport to specified targets for control of wind erosion through the effect of drag partitioning and interaction of the moving sand with the large (>0.3 m high) roughness elements, but porous elements may improve the effectiveness of this approach. A thorough understanding of the role porosity plays in affecting the drag force on three-dimensional forms is lacking. To provide basic understanding of the relationship between the porosity of roughness elements and the force of drag exerted on them by fluid flow, we undertook a wind tunnel study that systematically altered the porosity of roughness elements of defined geometry (cubes, rectangular cylinders, and round cylinders) and measured the associated change in the drag force on the elements under similar Reynolds number conditions. The elements tested were of four basic forms: 1) same sized cubes with tubes of known diameter milled through them creating three volumetric porosity values and increasing connectivity between the tubes, 2) cubes and rectangular cylinders constructed of brass screen that nested within each other, and 3) round cylinders constructed of brass screen that nested within each other. The two-dimensional porosity, defined as the ratio of total surface area of the empty space to the solid surface area of the side of the element presented to the fluid flow was conserved at 0.519 for the cubes and 0.525 for the mesh forms. Results from the study indicate that as volumetric porosity increases, the force of drag on an element increases although the 2-dimensional porosity remains unchanged for the case of the cube forms. The mesh forms show a similar result that with increasing number of internal forms present, drag increases, but the drag curves are different, suggesting the kind of porosity has an effect on drag. An important scaling parameter that controls drag on the cubes is the permeability (K) of the element, which is a function of the diameter of the tubes and the porosity. K seems to be of lesser importance for controlling drag on the mesh forms. We hypothesize that the drag force data do not universally collapse as a function of permeability due to Reynolds number dependency on flow conditions within the elements that can be laminar, transitional, or turbulent even though flow exterior to the forms is fully turbulent. For the mesh forms, the greatest effect on drag occurs with the addition of the first internal form with subsequent additions showing very little additional effect.

Modeling delamination growth in composites

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

Reedy, E.D. Jr.; Mello, F.J.

1996-12-01

A method for modeling the initiation and growth of discrete delaminations in shell-like composite structures is presented. The laminate is divided into two or more sublaminates, with each sublaminate modeled with four-noded quadrilateral shell elements. A special, eight-noded hex constraint element connects opposing sublaminate shell elements. It supplies the nodal forces and moments needed to make the two opposing shell elements act as a single shell element until a prescribed failure criterion is satisfied. Once the failure criterion is attained, the connection is broken, creating or growing a discrete delamination. This approach has been implemented in a 3D finite elementmore » code. This code uses explicit time integration, and can analyze shell-like structures subjected to large deformations and complex contact conditions. The shell elements can use existing composite material models that include in-plane laminate failure modes. This analysis capability was developed to perform crashworthiness studies of composite structures, and is useful whenever there is a need to estimate peak loads, energy absorption, or the final shape of a highly deformed composite structure. This paper describes the eight-noded hex constraint element used to model the initiation and growth of a delamination, and discusses associated implementation issues. Particular attention is focused on the delamination growth criterion, and it is verified that calculated results do not depend on element size. In addition, results for double cantilever beam and end notched flexure specimens are presented and compared to measured data to assess the ability of the present approach to model a growing delamination.« less

Discrimination of lichen genera and species using element concentrations

USGS Publications Warehouse

Bennett, James P.

2008-01-01

The importance of organic chemistry in the classification of lichens is well established, but inorganic chemistry has been largely overlooked. Six lichen species were studied over a period of 23 years that were growing in 11 protected areas of the northern Great Lakes ecoregion, which were not greatly influenced by anthropogenic particulates or gaseous air pollutants. The elemental data from these studies were aggregated in order to test the hypothesis that differences among species in tissue element concentrations were large enough to discriminate between taxa faithfully. Concentrations of 16 chemical elements that were found in tissue samples from Cladonia rangiferina, Evernia mesomorpha, Flavopunctelia flaventior, Hypogymnia physodes, Parmelia sulcata, and Punctelia rudecta were analyzed statistically using multivariate discriminant functions and CART analyses, as well as t-tests. Genera and species were clearly separated in element space, and elemental discriminant functions were able to classify 91-100 of the samples correctly into species. At the broadest level, a Zn concentration of 51 ppm in tissues of four of the lichen species effectively discriminated foliose from fruticose species. Similarly, a S concentration of 680 ppm discriminated C. rangiferina and E. mesomorpha, and a Ca concentration of 10 436 ppm discriminated H. physodes from P. sulcata. For the three parmelioid species, a Ca concentration >32 837 ppm discriminated Punctelia rudecta from the other two species, while a Zn concentration of 56 ppm discriminated Parmelia sulcata from F. flaventior. Foliose species also had higher concentrations than did fruticose species of all elements except Na. Elemental signatures for each of the six species were developed using standardized means. Twenty-four mechanisms explaining the differences among species are summarized. Finally, the relationships of four species based on element concentrations, using additive-trees clustering of a Euclidean-distance matrix, produced identical relationships as did analyses based on secondary product chemistry that used additive-trees clustering of a Jaccard similarity matrix. At least for these six species, element composition has taxonomic significance, and may be useful for discriminating other taxa.

Structural Analysis Methods for Structural Health Management of Future Aerospace Vehicles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tessler, Alexander

2007-01-01

Two finite element based computational methods, Smoothing Element Analysis (SEA) and the inverse Finite Element Method (iFEM), are reviewed, and examples of their use for structural health monitoring are discussed. Due to their versatility, robustness, and computational efficiency, the methods are well suited for real-time structural health monitoring of future space vehicles, large space structures, and habitats. The methods may be effectively employed to enable real-time processing of sensing information, specifically for identifying three-dimensional deformed structural shapes as well as the internal loads. In addition, they may be used in conjunction with evolutionary algorithms to design optimally distributed sensors. These computational tools have demonstrated substantial promise for utilization in future Structural Health Management (SHM) systems.

Oceanic Geoid and Tides Obtained from GEOS-3 Satellite Data in the Northwestern Atlantic Ocean

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Won, I. J.; Miller, L. S.

1978-01-01

Two sets of GEO-3 altimeter data which fall within about a 2.5 degree width are analyzed for ocean geoid and tides. One set covers a linear path from Newfoundland to Cuba and the other from Puerto Rico to the North Carolina coast. Forty different analyses using various parameters are performed in order to investigate convergence. Profiles of the geoid and four tides, M sub 2 O sub 1, S sub 2, and K sub 1, are obtained along the two strips. The results demonstrate convergent solutions for all forty cases and show, within expectation, fair agreement with those obtained from the MODE deep-sea tide gauge. It is also shown that the oceanic geoid obtained through this analysis can potentially improve the short wavelength structure over existing geoid models.

Antiviral screening of forty-two Egyptian medicinal plants.

PubMed

Soltan, Maha Mohamed; Zaki, Adel Kamal

2009-10-29

Egyptian medicinal plants are well known by their diverse uses in traditional folk medicine to cure various ailments including infectious diseases. Forty-two Egyptian medicinal plant species were selected from local market and were subjected to antiviral screening bioassay to investigate and to evaluate their biological activities. Hydro-alcoholic extracts of each species were separately prepared and tested against three viruses: herpes simplex-1 virus (HSV), poliomyelitis-1 virus (POLIO) and vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV). The antiviral activity were determined by means of the end point titration technique (EPTT) that depends on the ability of plant extract dilutions to inhibit the produced cytopathogenic effect (CPE) and expressed as reduction factor (Rf) of the viral titer. Achillea fragrantissima, Jasonia montana and Globularia arabica are found to have antiviral activity against POLIO in a concentration dependent manner at complete non-toxic concentration range 10-100 microg/ml (Rf 10(6)), 10-100 microg/ml (Rf 10(5)) and 50-100 microg/ml (Rf 10(4)), respectively while Tanacetum sinaicum are found to have moderate antiviral activity against POLIO at concentration of 50-100 microg/ml (Rf 10(2)). Ephedra alata and Moringa peregrina are found to have antiviral activity against HSV (Rf 10(4)). Also, the results revealed that Capparis sinaica, Tamarix nilotica and Cyperus rotundus are found to have virucidal effect against HSV. All the forty-two plant species are found to have no reliable antiviral activity against VSV. The specific indications claimed by the traditional healers are confirmed by antiviral test.

Practical and quality-control aspects of multi-element analysis with quadrupole ICP-MS with special attention to urine and whole blood.

PubMed

De Boer, Jan L M; Ritsema, Rob; Piso, Sjoerd; Van Staden, Hans; Van Den Beld, Wilbert

2004-07-01

Two screening methods were developed for rapid analysis of a great number of urine and blood samples within the framework of an exposure check of the population after a firework explosion. A total of 56 elements was measured including major elements. Sample preparation consisted of simple dilution. Extensive quality controls were applied including element addition and the use of certified reference materials. Relevant results at levels similar to those found in the literature were obtained for Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Sr, Cd, Sn, Sb, Ba, Tl, and Pb in urine and for the same elements except Ni, Sn, Sb, and Ba in blood. However, quadrupole ICP-MS has limitations, mainly related to spectral interferences, for the analysis of urine and blood, and these cause higher detection limits. The general aspects discussed in the paper give it wider applicability than just for analysis of blood and urine-it can for example be used in environmental analysis.

Health sciences libraries building survey, 1999–2009

PubMed Central

Ludwig, Logan

2010-01-01

Objective: A survey was conducted of health sciences libraries to obtain information about newer buildings, additions, remodeling, and renovations. Method: An online survey was developed, and announcements of survey availability posted to three major email discussion lists: Medical Library Association (MLA), Association of Academic Health Sciences Libraries (AAHSL), and MEDLIB-L. Previous discussions of library building projects on email discussion lists, a literature review, personal communications, and the author's consulting experiences identified additional projects. Results: Seventy-eight health sciences library building projects at seventy-three institutions are reported. Twenty-two are newer facilities built within the last ten years; two are space expansions; forty-five are renovation projects; and nine are combinations of new and renovated space. Six institutions report multiple or ongoing renovation projects during the last ten years. Conclusions: The survey results confirm a continuing migration from print-based to digitally based collections and reveal trends in library space design. Some health sciences libraries report loss of space as they move toward creating space for “community” building. Libraries are becoming more proactive in using or retooling space for concentration, collaboration, contemplation, communication, and socialization. All are moving toward a clearer operational vision of the library as the institution's information nexus and not merely as a physical location with print collections. PMID:20428277

NARC Rayon Replacement Program for the RSRM Nozzle, Phase IV Qualification and Implementation Status

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Haddock, M. Reed; Wendel, Gary M.; Cook, Roger V.

2005-01-01

The Space Shuttle NARC Rayon Replacement Program has down-selected Enka rayon as a replacement for the obsolete NARC rayon in the nozzle carbon cloth phenolic (CCP) ablative insulators. Full qualification testing of the Enka rayon-based carbon cloth phenolic is underway, including processing, thmal/structural properties, and hot-fire subscale tests. Required thermal-structural capabilities, together with confidence in erosio/char performance in simulated and subscale hot fire tests such as Wright-Patterson Air Force Base Laser Hardened Materials Evaluation Laboratory testing, NASA-MSFC 24-inch motor tests, NASA-MSFC Solid Fuel Torch - Super Sonic Blast Tube, NASA-MSFC Plasma Torch Test Bed, ATK Thiokol Forty Pound Charge and NASA-MSFC MNASA justified the testing of the new Enka-rayon candidate on full-scale static test motors. The first RSRM full-scale static test motor nozzle, fabricated using the new Enka rayon-based CCP, was successfully demonstrated in June 2004. Two additional static test motors are planned with the new Enka rayon in the next two years along with additional A-basis property characterization. Process variation or "corner-of-the-box" testing together with cured and uncured aging studies are also planned as some of the pre-flight implementation activities with 5-year cured aging studies over-lapping flight hardware fabrication.

GPS-aided gravimetry at 30 km altitude from a balloon-borne platform

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lazarewicz, Andrew R.; Evans, Alan G.

1989-01-01

A balloon-borne experiment, flown at 30 km altitude over New Mexico, was used to test dynamic differential Global Positioning System (GPS) tracking in support of gravimetry at high-altitudes. The experiment package contained a gravimeter (Vibrating String Accelerometer), a full complement of inertial instruments, a TI-4100 GPS receiver and a radar transponder. The flight was supported by two GPS receivers on the ground near the flight path. From the 8 hour flight, about a forty minute period was selected for analysis. Differential GPS phase measurements were used to estimate changes in position over the sample time interval, or average velocity. In addition to average velocity, differential positions and numerical averages of acceleration were obtained in three components. Gravitational acceleration was estimated by correcting for accelerations due to translational motion, ignoring all rotational effects.

The relationship of the p–k titre to the serum ige level in patients with leprosy

PubMed Central

Hamburger, R. N.; Fernandez-Cruz, E.; Arnaiz, A.; Perez, B.; Bootello, A.

1974-01-01

Fifty patients with leprosy were found to have P–K titres inversely related to their serum IgE levels. Patients with leprosy react in a manner similar to normal individuals and to patients with other diseases. Serum IgG, IgM, IgA and complement were measured in twenty-five of the leprosy patients in addition to the serum IgE and only the IgG significantly positively correlated with the serum IgE. All of these leprosy patients were shown to react to exogenous histamine and they released endogenous histamine when chemically stimulated. Two patients had absent flare responses with normal weals, the remaining forty-eight had complete weal and flare responses. Higher serum IgE levels were noted in those patients with recent institution of chemotherapy. PMID:4143279

STS-48 Space Shuttle mission report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fricke, Robert W.

1991-01-01

The STS-48 Space Shuttle Program Mission Report is a summary of the vehicle subsystem operations during the forty-third flight of the Space Shuttle Program and the thirteenth flight of the Orbiter vehicle Discovery (OV-103). In addition to the Discovery vehicle, the flight vehicle consisted of the following: an External Tank (ET) designated as ET-42 (LUT-35); three Space Shuttle main engines (SSME's) (serial numbers 2019, 2031, and 2107 in positions 1, 2, and 3, respectively); and two Solid Rocket Boosters (SRB's) designated as BI-046. The lightweight redesigned Solid Rocket Motors (RSRM's) installed in each one of the SRB's were designated as 360L018A for the left SRB and 360L018B for the right SRB. The primary objective of the flight was to successfully deploy the Upper Atmospheric Research Satellite (UARS) payload.

Effect of additional etching and ethanol-wet bonding on the dentin bond strength of one-step self-etch adhesives

PubMed Central

Ahn, Joonghee; Jung, Kyoung-Hwa; Son, Sung-Ae; Hur, Bock; Kwon, Yong-Hoon

2015-01-01

Objectives This study examined the effects of additional acid etching on the dentin bond strength of one-step self-etch adhesives with different compositions and pH. The effect of ethanol wetting on etched dentin bond strength of self-etch adhesives was also evaluated. Materials and Methods Forty-two human permanent molars were classified into 21 groups according to the adhesive types (Clearfil SE Bond [SE, control]; G-aenial Bond [GB]; Xeno V [XV]; Beauti Bond [BB]; Adper Easy Bond [AE]; Single Bond Universal [SU]; All Bond Universal [AU]), and the dentin conditioning methods. Composite resins were placed on the dentin surfaces, and the teeth were sectioned. The microtensile bond strength was measured, and the failure mode of the fractured specimens was examined. The data were analyzed statistically using two-way ANOVA and Duncan's post hoc test. Results In GB, XV and SE (pH ≤ 2), the bond strength was decreased significantly when the dentin was etched (p < 0.05). In BB, AE and SU (pH 2.4 - 2.7), additional etching did not affect the bond strength (p > 0.05). In AU (pH = 3.2), additional etching increased the bond strength significantly (p < 0.05). When adhesives were applied to the acid etched dentin with ethanol-wet bonding, the bond strength was significantly higher than that of the no ethanol-wet bonding groups, and the incidence of cohesive failure was increased. Conclusions The effect of additional acid etching on the dentin bond strength was influenced by the pH of one-step self-etch adhesives. Ethanol wetting on etched dentin could create a stronger bonding performance of one-step self-etch adhesives for acid etched dentin. PMID:25671215

The octamer-binding proteins form multi-protein--DNA complexes with the HSV alpha TIF regulatory protein.

PubMed Central

Kristie, T M; LeBowitz, J H; Sharp, P A

1989-01-01

The herpes simplex virus transactivator, alpha TIF, stimulates transcription of the alpha/immediate early genes via a cis-acting site containing an octamer element and a conserved flanking sequence. The alpha TIF protein, produced in a baculovirus expression system, nucleates the formation of at least two DNA--protein complexes on this regulatory element. Both of these complexes contain the ubiquitous Oct-1 protein, whose POU domain alone is sufficient to allow assembly of the alpha TIF-dependent complexes. A second member of the POU domain family, the lymphoid specific Oct-2 protein, can also be assembled into similar complexes at high concentrations of alpha TIF protein. These complexes contain at least two cellular proteins in addition to Oct-1. One of these proteins is present in both insect and HeLa cells and probably recognizes sequences in the cis element. The second cellular protein, only present in HeLa cells, probably binds by protein-protein interactions. Images PMID:2556266

The octamer-binding proteins form multi-protein--DNA complexes with the HSV alpha TIF regulatory protein.

PubMed

Kristie, T M; LeBowitz, J H; Sharp, P A

1989-12-20

The herpes simplex virus transactivator, alpha TIF, stimulates transcription of the alpha/immediate early genes via a cis-acting site containing an octamer element and a conserved flanking sequence. The alpha TIF protein, produced in a baculovirus expression system, nucleates the formation of at least two DNA--protein complexes on this regulatory element. Both of these complexes contain the ubiquitous Oct-1 protein, whose POU domain alone is sufficient to allow assembly of the alpha TIF-dependent complexes. A second member of the POU domain family, the lymphoid specific Oct-2 protein, can also be assembled into similar complexes at high concentrations of alpha TIF protein. These complexes contain at least two cellular proteins in addition to Oct-1. One of these proteins is present in both insect and HeLa cells and probably recognizes sequences in the cis element. The second cellular protein, only present in HeLa cells, probably binds by protein-protein interactions.

Trace element analyses of fluid-bearing diamonds from Jwaneng, Botswana

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schrauder, Marcus; Koeberl, Christian; Navon, Oded

1996-12-01

Fibrous diamonds from Botswana contain abundant micro-inclusions, which represent syngenetic mantle fluids under high pressure. The major element composition of the fluids within individual diamonds was found to be uniform, but a significant compositional variation exists between different diamond specimens. The composition of the fluids varies between a carbonatitic and a hydrous endmember. To constrain the composition of fluids in the mantle, the trace element contents of thirteen micro-inclusion-bearing fibrous diamonds from Botswana was studied using neutron activation analysis. The concentrations of incompatible elements (including K, Na, Br, Rb, Sr, Zr, Cs, Ba, Hf, Ta, Th, U, and the LREEs) in the fluids are higher than those of mantle-derived rocks and melt inclusions. The compatible elements (e.g., Cr, Co, Ni) have abundances that are similar to those of the primitive mantle. The concentrations of most trace elements decrease by a factor of two from the carbonate-rich fluids to the hydrous fluids. Several models may explain the observed elemental variations. Minerals in equilibrium with the fluid were most likely enriched in incompatible elements, which does not agree with derivation of the fluids by partial melting of common peridotites or eclogites. Fractional crystallization of a kimberlite-like magma at depth may yield carbonatitic fluids with low mg numbers (atomic ratio [Mg/(Mg+Fe)]) and high trace element contents. Fractionation of carbonates and additional phases (e.g., rutile, apatite, zircon) may, in general, explain the concentrations of incompatible elements in the fluids, which preferably partition into these phases. Alternatively, mixing of fluids with compositions similar to those of the two endmembers may explain the observed variation of the elemental contents. The fluids in fibrous diamonds might have equilibrated with mineral inclusions in eclogitic diamonds, while peridotitic diamonds do not show evidence of interaction with these fluids. The chemical composition of the fluids in fibrous diamonds indicates that, at p, T conditions that are characteristic for diamond formation, carbonatitic and hydrous fluids are efficient carriers of incompatible elements.

A Century of Change: The History of Two-Year Education in the State of Alabama, 1866-1963

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Smith, Dustin P.

2012-01-01

Much has been written about two-year education in Alabama during the governorships of George C. Wallace, but little about two-year education prior to his first inauguration in 1963. Yet nearly a third of the forty-three junior, technical, and community college institutions that eventually formed the Alabama Community College System had been…

Growth evaluation of Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar) raised in seawater or freshwater and fed either fishmeal based or marine-free diets

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

A forty week feeding study was conducted with Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) smolts in two recirculating aquaculture systems. Two identical systems were used and contained either freshwater (0 ppt) or seawater (about 30 ppt). Fish were fed one of two diets, a control diet containing fishmeal and fi...

The Impact of Two-Way Dual-Immersion Programs on Initially English-Dominant Latino Students' Attitudes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Block, Nicholas

2011-01-01

Forty initially English-dominant Latino students in four 90:10 Spanish two-way dual-immersion programs and 62 of their peers in mainstream English programs were studied to find out if their attitudes toward Spanish and Spanish-dominant individuals differ. Significant differences were found on many variables, with two-way dual-immersion students…

Adequacy of Material Resources Required for Effective Implementation of Upper Basic Education Business Studies Curriculum in Nigeria

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Okoli, B. E.; Okorie, Ogbonnaya

2015-01-01

This work is a descriptive survey of the adequacy of the material resources required for effective implementation of upper basic education business studies curriculum in Ebonyi State. Two research questions and two hypotheses guided the study. The entire population of two hundred and forty-one (241) business studies teachers were used for the…

The Incidence and Management of Conflicts in Secular and Non-Secular Tertiary Institutions in South West Nigeria

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ayodele, Joseph Babatola; Adewumi, Joseph Olukayode

2007-01-01

This paper compared the incidence and management of conflicts in secular and non-secular tertiary institutions in Nigeria. The sample of this study was made of sixty staff, and two hundred and forty students randomly selected each from two secular and two non-secular tertiary institutions in south western Nigeria. A validated questionnaire was…

The 3D inelastic analysis methods for hot section components

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mcknight, R. L.; Maffeo, R. J.; Tipton, M. T.; Weber, G.

1992-01-01

A two-year program to develop advanced 3D inelastic structural stress analysis methods and solution strategies for more accurate and cost effective analysis of combustors, turbine blades, and vanes is described. The approach was to develop a matrix of formulation elements and constitutive models. Three constitutive models were developed in conjunction with optimized iterating techniques, accelerators, and convergence criteria within a framework of dynamic time incrementing. Three formulation models were developed: an eight-noded midsurface shell element; a nine-noded midsurface shell element; and a twenty-noded isoparametric solid element. A separate computer program has been developed for each combination of constitutive model-formulation model. Each program provides a functional stand alone capability for performing cyclic nonlinear structural analysis. In addition, the analysis capabilities incorporated into each program can be abstracted in subroutine form for incorporation into other codes or to form new combinations.

Vibration Response Models of a Stiffened Aluminum Plate Excited by a Shaker

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cabell, Randolph H.

2008-01-01

Numerical models of structural-acoustic interactions are of interest to aircraft designers and the space program. This paper describes a comparison between two energy finite element codes, a statistical energy analysis code, a structural finite element code, and the experimentally measured response of a stiffened aluminum plate excited by a shaker. Different methods for modeling the stiffeners and the power input from the shaker are discussed. The results show that the energy codes (energy finite element and statistical energy analysis) accurately predicted the measured mean square velocity of the plate. In addition, predictions from an energy finite element code had the best spatial correlation with measured velocities. However, predictions from a considerably simpler, single subsystem, statistical energy analysis model also correlated well with the spatial velocity distribution. The results highlight a need for further work to understand the relationship between modeling assumptions and the prediction results.

Adaptive mixed finite element methods for Darcy flow in fractured porous media

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Huangxin; Salama, Amgad; Sun, Shuyu

2016-10-01

In this paper, we propose adaptive mixed finite element methods for simulating the single-phase Darcy flow in two-dimensional fractured porous media. The reduced model that we use for the simulation is a discrete fracture model coupling Darcy flows in the matrix and the fractures, and the fractures are modeled by one-dimensional entities. The Raviart-Thomas mixed finite element methods are utilized for the solution of the coupled Darcy flows in the matrix and the fractures. In order to improve the efficiency of the simulation, we use adaptive mixed finite element methods based on novel residual-based a posteriori error estimators. In addition, we develop an efficient upscaling algorithm to compute the effective permeability of the fractured porous media. Several interesting examples of Darcy flow in the fractured porous media are presented to demonstrate the robustness of the algorithm.

Failure Behavior Characterization of Mo-Modified Ti Surface by Impact Test and Finite Element Analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma, Yong; Qin, Jianfeng; Zhang, Xiangyu; Lin, Naiming; Huang, Xiaobo; Tang, Bin

2015-07-01

Using the impact test and finite element simulation, the failure behavior of the Mo-modified layer on pure Ti was investigated. In the impact test, four loads of 100, 300, 500, and 700 N and 104 impacts were adopted. The three-dimensional residual impact dents were examined using an optical microscope (Olympus-DSX500i), indicating that the impact resistance of the Ti surface was improved. Two failure modes cohesive and wearing were elucidated by electron backscatter diffraction and energy-dispersive spectrometer performed in a field-emission scanning electron microscope. Through finite element forward analysis performed at a typical impact load of 300 N, stress-strain distributions in the Mo-modified Ti were quantitatively determined. In addition, the failure behavior of the Mo-modified layer was determined and an ideal failure model was proposed for high-load impact, based on the experimental and finite element forward analysis results.

ESCHER: An interactive mesh-generating editor for preparing finite-element input

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Oakes, W. R., Jr.

1984-01-01

ESCHER is an interactive mesh generation and editing program designed to help the user create a finite-element mesh, create additional input for finite-element analysis, including initial conditions, boundary conditions, and slidelines, and generate a NEUTRAL FILE that can be postprocessed for input into several finite-element codes, including ADINA, ADINAT, DYNA, NIKE, TSAAS, and ABUQUS. Two important ESCHER capabilities, interactive geometry creation and mesh archival storge are described in detail. Also described is the interactive command language and the use of interactive graphics. The archival storage and restart file is a modular, entity-based mesh data file. Modules of this file correspond to separate editing modes in the mesh editor, with data definition syntax preserved between the interactive commands and the archival storage file. Because ESCHER was expected to be highly interactive, extensive user documentation was provided in the form of an interactive HELP package.

Integrated Utilization of Sewage Sludge and Coal Gangue for Cement Clinker Products: Promoting Tricalcium Silicate Formation and Trace Elements Immobilization

PubMed Central

Yang, Zhenzhou; Zhang, Yingyi; Liu, Lili; Seetharaman, Seshadri; Wang, Xidong; Zhang, Zuotai

2016-01-01

The present study firstly proposed a method of integrated utilization of sewage sludge (SS) and coal gangue (CG), two waste products, for cement clinker products with the aim of heat recovery and environment protection. The results demonstrated that the incremental amounts of SS and CG addition was favorable for the formation of tricalcium silicate (C3S) during the calcinations, but excess amount of SS addition could cause the impediment effect on C3S formation. Furthermore, it was also observed that the C3S polymorphs showed the transition from rhombohedral to monoclinic structure as SS addition was increased to 15 wt %. During the calcinations, most of trace elements could be immobilized especially Zn and cannot be easily leached out. Given the encouraging results in the present study, the co-process of sewage sludge and coal gangue in the cement kiln can be expected with a higher quality of cement products and minimum pollution to the environment. PMID:28773400

Shifts in the evolutionary rate and intensity of purifying selection between two Brassica genomes revealed by analyses of orthologous transposons and relics of a whole genome triplication.

PubMed

Zhao, Meixia; Du, Jianchang; Lin, Feng; Tong, Chaobo; Yu, Jingyin; Huang, Shunmou; Wang, Xiaowu; Liu, Shengyi; Ma, Jianxin

2013-10-01

Recent sequencing of the Brassica rapa and Brassica oleracea genomes revealed extremely contrasting genomic features such as the abundance and distribution of transposable elements between the two genomes. However, whether and how these structural differentiations may have influenced the evolutionary rates of the two genomes since their split from a common ancestor are unknown. Here, we investigated and compared the rates of nucleotide substitution between two long terminal repeats (LTRs) of individual orthologous LTR-retrotransposons, the rates of synonymous and non-synonymous substitution among triplicated genes retained in both genomes from a shared whole genome triplication event, and the rates of genetic recombination estimated/deduced by the comparison of physical and genetic distances along chromosomes and ratios of solo LTRs to intact elements. Overall, LTR sequences and genic sequences showed more rapid nucleotide substitution in B. rapa than in B. oleracea. Synonymous substitution of triplicated genes retained from a shared whole genome triplication was detected at higher rates in B. rapa than in B. oleracea. Interestingly, non-synonymous substitution was observed at lower rates in the former than in the latter, indicating shifted densities of purifying selection between the two genomes. In addition to evolutionary asymmetry, orthologous genes differentially regulated and/or disrupted by transposable elements between the two genomes were also characterized. Our analyses suggest that local genomic and epigenomic features, such as recombination rates and chromatin dynamics reshaped by independent proliferation of transposable elements and elimination between the two genomes, are perhaps partially the causes and partially the outcomes of the observed inter-specific asymmetric evolution. © 2013 Purdue University The Plant Journal © 2013 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Finite-element simulation of blood perfusion in muscle tissue during compression and sustained contraction.

PubMed

Vankan, W J; Huyghe, J M; Slaaf, D W; van Donkelaar, C C; Drost, M R; Janssen, J D; Huson, A

1997-09-01

Mechanical interaction between tissue stress and blood perfusion in skeletal muscles plays an important role in blood flow impediment during sustained contraction. The exact mechanism of this interaction is not clear, and experimental investigation of this mechanism is difficult. We developed a finite-element model of the mechanical behavior of blood-perfused muscle tissue, which accounts for mechanical blood-tissue interaction in maximally vasodilated vasculature. Verification of the model was performed by comparing finite-element results of blood pressure and flow with experimental measurements in a muscle that is subject to well-controlled mechanical loading conditions. In addition, we performed simulations of blood perfusion during tetanic, isometric contraction and maximal vasodilation in a simplified, two-dimensional finite-element model of a rat calf muscle. A vascular waterfall in the venous compartment was identified as the main cause for blood flow impediment both in the experiment and in the finite-element simulations. The validated finite-element model offers possibilities for detailed analysis of blood perfusion in three-dimensional muscle models under complicated loading conditions.

cis- and trans-acting elements of the estrogen-regulated vitellogenin gene B1 of Xenopus laevis.

PubMed

Wahli, W; Martinez, E; Corthésy, B; Cardinaux, J R

1989-01-01

Vitellogenin genes are expressed under strict estrogen control in the liver of female oviparous vertebrates. Gene transfer experiments using estrogen-responsive cells have shown that the 13 bp perfect palindromic element GGTCACTGTGACC found upstream of the Xenopus laevis vitellogenin gene A2 promoter mediates hormonal stimulation and thus, was called the estrogen-responsive element (ERE). In the Xenopus vitellogenin genes B1 and B2 there are two closely adjacent EREs with one or more base substitutions when compared to the consensus ERE GGTCANNNTGACC. On their own, these degenerated elements have only a low or no regulatory capacity at all but act together synergistically to form an estrogen-responsive unit (ERU) with the same strength as the perfect palindromic 13 bp element. Analysis of estrogen receptor binding to the gene B1 ERU revealed a cooperative interaction of receptor dimers to the two adjacent imperfect EREs which most likely explains the synergistic stimulation observed in vivo. Furthermore, a promoter activator element located between positions --113 and --42 of the gene B1 and functional in the human MCF-7 and the Xenopus B3.2 cells has been identified and shown to be involved in the high level of induced transcription activity when the ERE is placed at a distance from the promoter. Finally, a hormone-controlled in vitro transcription system derived from Xenopus liver nuclear extracts was exploited to characterize two additional novel cis-acting elements within the vitellogenin gene B1 promoter. One of them, a negative regulatory element (NRE), is responsible for repression of promoter activity in the absence of hormone. The second is related to the NF-I binding site and is required, together with the ERE, to mediate hormonal induction. Moreover, we detected three trans-acting activities in Xenopus liver nuclear extracts that interact with these regions and demonstrated that they participate in the regulation of the expression of the vitellogenin promoter in vitro.

Topology optimization for three-dimensional electromagnetic waves using an edge element-based finite-element method.

PubMed

Deng, Yongbo; Korvink, Jan G

2016-05-01

This paper develops a topology optimization procedure for three-dimensional electromagnetic waves with an edge element-based finite-element method. In contrast to the two-dimensional case, three-dimensional electromagnetic waves must include an additional divergence-free condition for the field variables. The edge element-based finite-element method is used to both discretize the wave equations and enforce the divergence-free condition. For wave propagation described in terms of the magnetic field in the widely used class of non-magnetic materials, the divergence-free condition is imposed on the magnetic field. This naturally leads to a nodal topology optimization method. When wave propagation is described using the electric field, the divergence-free condition must be imposed on the electric displacement. In this case, the material in the design domain is assumed to be piecewise homogeneous to impose the divergence-free condition on the electric field. This results in an element-wise topology optimization algorithm. The topology optimization problems are regularized using a Helmholtz filter and a threshold projection method and are analysed using a continuous adjoint method. In order to ensure the applicability of the filter in the element-wise topology optimization version, a regularization method is presented to project the nodal into an element-wise physical density variable.

The Regulatory Properties of Autonomous Subtelomeric P Elements Are Sensitive to a Suppressor of Variegation in Drosophila Melanogaster

PubMed Central

Ronsseray, S.; Lehmann, M.; Nouaud, D.; Anxolabehere, D.

1996-01-01

Genetic recombination was used in Drosophila melanogaster to isolate P elements, inserted at the telomeres of X chromosomes (cytological site 1A) from natural populations, in a genetic background devoid of other P elements. We show that complete maternally inherited P repression in the germline (P cytotype) can be elicited by only two autonomous P elements at 1A and that a single element at this site has partial regulatory properties. The analysis of the surrounding chromosomal regions of the P elements at 1A shows that in all cases these elements are flanked by Telomeric Associated Sequences, tandemly repetitive noncoding sequences that have properties of heterochromatin. In addition, we show that the regulatory properties of P elements at 1A can be inhibited by some of the mutant alleles of the Su(var)205 gene and by a deficiency of this gene. However, the regulatory properties of reference P strains (Harwich and Texas 007) are not impaired by Su(var)205 mutations. Su(var)205 encodes Heterochromatin Protein 1 (HP1). These results suggest that the HP1 dosage effect on the P element properties is site-dependent and could involve the structure of the chromatin. PMID:8844154

Topology optimization for three-dimensional electromagnetic waves using an edge element-based finite-element method

PubMed Central

Korvink, Jan G.

2016-01-01

This paper develops a topology optimization procedure for three-dimensional electromagnetic waves with an edge element-based finite-element method. In contrast to the two-dimensional case, three-dimensional electromagnetic waves must include an additional divergence-free condition for the field variables. The edge element-based finite-element method is used to both discretize the wave equations and enforce the divergence-free condition. For wave propagation described in terms of the magnetic field in the widely used class of non-magnetic materials, the divergence-free condition is imposed on the magnetic field. This naturally leads to a nodal topology optimization method. When wave propagation is described using the electric field, the divergence-free condition must be imposed on the electric displacement. In this case, the material in the design domain is assumed to be piecewise homogeneous to impose the divergence-free condition on the electric field. This results in an element-wise topology optimization algorithm. The topology optimization problems are regularized using a Helmholtz filter and a threshold projection method and are analysed using a continuous adjoint method. In order to ensure the applicability of the filter in the element-wise topology optimization version, a regularization method is presented to project the nodal into an element-wise physical density variable. PMID:27279766

Quantification of main and trace metal components in the fly ash of waste-to-energy plants located in Germany and Switzerland: An overview and comparison of concentration fluctuations within and between several plants with particular focus on valuable metals.

PubMed

Haberl, Jasmin; Koralewska, Ralf; Schlumberger, Stefan; Schuster, Michael

2018-05-01

The elemental composition of fly ash from six waste-to-energy (WTE) plants in Germany and two WTE plants in Switzerland were analyzed. Samples were taken daily over a period of one month and mixed to a composite sample for each German plant. From two Swiss plants, two and three of these composite samples, respectively, were collected for different months in order to assess temporal differences between these months. In total, 61 elements, including rare earth elements, were analyzed using ICP-OES and ICP-MS. The analysis method was validated for 44 elements either by reference materials (BCR 176R and NIST 1633c) or analysis with both methods. Good recoveries, mostly ±10%, and high agreements between both methods were achieved. As long as no additives from flue gas cleaning were mixed with the fly ash, quite similar element contents were observed between all of the different incinerators. For most elements, the variations between the different months within the two Swiss plants were lower than differences between various plants. Especially main components show low variations between different months. To get a more detailed insight into temporal fluctuations within the mentioned Swiss plants, the concentrations of Zn, Pb, Cu, Cd, Sb, and Sn are presented over a period of three years (Jan. 2015 - Oct. 2017). The concentration profiles are based on weekly composite samples (consisting of daily taken samples) analyzed by the routine control of these plants using ED-XRF. The standard deviations of the average concentrations were around 20% over the three years for the regarded elements. The fluctuations were comparable at both plants. Due to the relatively low temporal concentration fluctuations observed within the plants, fly ash would be a continuous and constant source of secondary raw materials. Beside Zn, Pb, Cu, and Cd, which were already recovered on an industrial scale, Sb, Sn, and Bi also show a high potential as secondary raw material due to the high concentration of these elements in fly ash. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effects of vane/blade ratio and spacing on fan noise, volume 1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gliebe, P. R.; Kantola, R. A.

1983-01-01

The noise characteristics of a high-speed fan were studied. The experimental investigation was carried out on a 50.8 cm (20 in.) diameter scale model fan stage in an anechoic chamber with an inflow turbulence control screen installed. The forty-four blade rotor was tested with forty-eight vane and eighty-six vane stator rows, over a range of aixal rotor-stator spacings from 0.5 to 2.3 rotor tip chords. A two-dimensional strip theory model of rotor-stator interaction noise was employed to predict the measured tone power level trends, and good overall agreement with measured trends was obtained.

Best Books of 1971

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gerhardt, Lillian N.; And Others

1971-01-01

The forty-two titles selected by the editors of School Library Journal" are the best among over 2,100 new children's books reviewed since last January. Also included are 25 top notch Young Adult titles. (67 references) (MM)

A survey of machine readable data bases

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Matlock, P.

1981-01-01

Forty-two of the machine readable data bases available to the technologist and researcher in the natural sciences and engineering are described and compared with the data bases and date base services offered by NASA.

Molecular envelope and atomic model of an anti-terminated glyQS T-box regulator in complex with tRNAGly

PubMed Central

Chetnani, Bhaskar

2017-01-01

Abstract A T-box regulator or riboswitch actively monitors the levels of charged/uncharged tRNA and participates in amino acid homeostasis by regulating genes involved in their utilization or biosynthesis. It has an aptamer domain for cognate tRNA recognition and an expression platform to sense the charge state and modulate gene expression. These two conserved domains are connected by a variable linker that harbors additional secondary structural elements, such as Stem III. The structural basis for specific tRNA binding is known, but the structural basis for charge sensing and the role of other elements remains elusive. To gain new structural insights on the T-box mechanism, a molecular envelope was calculated from small angle X-ray scattering data for the Bacillus subtilis glyQS T-box riboswitch in complex with an uncharged tRNAGly. A structural model of an anti-terminated glyQS T-box in complex with its cognate tRNAGly was derived based on the molecular envelope. It shows the location and relative orientation of various secondary structural elements. The model was validated by comparing the envelopes of the wild-type complex and two variants. The structural model suggests that in addition to a possible regulatory role, Stem III could aid in preferential stabilization of the T-box anti-terminated state allowing read-through of regulated genes. PMID:28531275

Students' Evaluation of Google Hangouts through a Cross-Cultural Group Discussion Activity

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kobayashi, Michiko

2015-01-01

The study investigated perceived ease of use and usefulness of Google Hangouts as an instructional/learning tool. Forty-two teacher education students at U.S and Japanese universities participated in an online cross-cultural activity using Google Hangouts and discussed cultural differences between the two countries and their teaching philosophies.…

An Empirical Validation of the Effectiveness of a Computerized Game to Teach Troubleshooting.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Simutis, Zita M.; And Others

Forty-two enlisted men and women with no prior knowledge about electronics maintenance or logic diagrams participated in research designed to collect preliminary data on the training effectiveness of a problem solving computerized game for teaching electronics maintenance. Two games available on the University of Illinois PLATO Computer-Based…

The Effect of Online Planning, Strategic Planning and Rehearsal across Two Proficiency Levels

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Baleghizadeh, Sasan; Shahri, Mohammad Naseh Nasrollahi

2017-01-01

The study presents an investigation of the effect of strategic planning, online planning and rehearsal on the fluency, accuracy and complexity of oral productions at two proficiency levels. Forty EFL participants at low and intermediate levels performed picture story tasks in three different conditions: the online planning only condition,…

Author Identification, Idiolect, and Linguistic Uniqueness

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Coulthard, Malcolm

2004-01-01

For forty years linguists have talked about idiolect and the uniqueness of individual utterances. This article explores how far these two concepts can be used to answer certain questions about the authorship of written documents--for instance how similar can two student essays be before one begins to suspect plagiarism? The article examines two…

Does Weight Status Influence Associations between Children's Fundamental Movement Skills and Physical Activity?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hume, Clare; Okely, Anthony; Bagley, Sarah; Telford, Amanda; Booth, Michael; Crawford, David; Salmon, Jo

2008-01-01

This study sought to determine whether weight status influences the association among children's fundamental movement skills (FMS) and physical activity (PA). Two hundred forty-eight children ages 9-12 years participated. Proficiency in three object-control skills and two locomotor skills was examined. Accelerometers objectively assessed physical…

Comparing Voice-Therapy and Vocal-Hygiene Treatments in Dysphonia Using a Limited Multidimensional Evaluation Protocol

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rodriguez-Parra, Maria J.; Adrian, Jose A.; Casado, Juan C.

2011-01-01

Purpose: This study evaluates the effectiveness of two different programs of voice-treatment on a heterogeneous group of dysphonic speakers and the stability of therapeutic progress for longterm follow-up post-treatment period, using a limited multidimensional protocol of evaluation. Method: Forty-two participants with voice disorders were…

Boy Scout 5-a-day badge: Outcome results of a troop and internet intervention

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The effects of a Boy Scout Five-A-Day Badge program on fruit-juice (FJ) and low fat vegetable (LV) consumption were evaluated using a two-condition (treatment, active-attention placebo-control) group randomized trial, with 3 data collection periods (baseline, immediate post, 6-month post). Forty-two...

Emotional Intelligence: A Moderator of Perceived Alcohol Peer Norms and Alcohol Use

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ghee, Anna Cash; Johnson, Candace S.

2008-01-01

This study investigated the roles of emotional intelligence and perceived alcohol peer norms in relation to alcohol use. Two hundred and forty--two undergraduates completed the Campus Survey of Alcohol and Other Drug Norms (Core Institute, 1997) and the Emotional Intelligence Scale (Schutte, Malouff, Hall, Haggerty, & Cooper, 1998). Contrary to…

Parent Perspectives on Pain Management in Preschool-Age Children With Sickle Cell Disease.

PubMed

Smith, Kelsey; Reinman, Laura; Schatz, Jeffrey; Roberts, Carla W

Pain episodes occur for many preschoolers with sickle cell disease (SCD), but little is known about parent perceptions of managing pain episodes in young children. We surveyed parents of young children with SCD who had managed pain episodes in the past year to assess their management and satisfaction with their strategies, challenges of pain management, and interest in additional education. Parents were recruited from health maintenance visits at a SCD specialty clinic. Forty-two of 51 parents (82%) of 2- to-6-year-olds reported managing pain over the past year. Parents who had managed pain primarily reported using medications. These parents reported at least moderate satisfaction with current management strategies and resources. At least one-third of parents found each facet of pain management queried as at least somewhat challenging. Identifying when their child was in pain, encouraging functional activities, and managing irritable behavior were reported as most challenging. Parents of young children with SCD reported interest in additional pain management education, which could promote better parent and child coping skills.

Comparison of the BD MAX MRSA XT to the Cepheid™ Xpert® MRSA assay for the molecular detection of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus from nasal swabs.

PubMed

Mehta, Sanjay R; Estrada, Jasmine; Ybarra, Juan; Fierer, Joshua

2017-04-01

Variation in MRSA genotypes may affect the sensitivity of molecular assays to detect this organism. We compared 2 commonly used screening assays, the Cepheid™ Xpert® MRSA and the BD MAX™ MRSA XT on consecutively obtained nasal swabs from 479 subjects. Specimens giving discordant results were subjected to additional microbiologic and molecular testing. Six hundred forty-two (97.6%) of the 658 test results were concordant. Of the 16 discordant results from 12 subjects, additional results suggested that 9 (60%) of the 15 MRSA XT assays were likely correct, and 6 (40%) of the 15 Xpert® assays were likely correct. One discordant result could not be resolved. A mecA dropout and novel mec right-extremity junction (MREJ) sites led to false-positive and negative results by Xpert®. While both assays performed well, continued vigilance is needed to monitor for Staphylococcus aureus with novel MREJ sites, mecA dropouts, and mecC, leading to inaccurate results in screening assays. Published by Elsevier Inc.

26 CFR 1.1250-5 - Property with two or more elements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

..., are placed in service and that on July 1, 1972, the taxpayer disposes of the building. Assume further... buildings with common heating and plumbing systems, adds to the motel three new buildings which are... for purposes of this subparagraph the cost of the three new buildings shall be treated as an addition...

The Origin of Noble Gas Isotopic Heterogeneity in Icelandic Basalts

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dixon, E. T.; Honda, M.; McDougall, I.

2001-01-01

Two models for generation of heterogeneous He, Ne and Ar isotopic ratios in Icelandic basalts are evaluated using a mixing model and the observed noble gas elemental ratios in Icelandic basalts,Ocean island Basalt (OIBs) and Mid-Ocean Ridge Basalt (MORBs). Additional information is contained in the original extended abstract.

Comparative studies on single-layer reduced graphene oxide films obtained by electrochemical reduction and hydrazine vapor reduction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Zhijuan; Wu, Shixin; Zhang, Juan; Chen, Peng; Yang, Guocheng; Zhou, Xiaozhu; Zhang, Qichun; Yan, Qingyu; Zhang, Hua

2012-02-01

The comparison between two kinds of single-layer reduced graphene oxide (rGO) sheets, obtained by reduction of graphene oxide (GO) with the electrochemical method and hydrazine vapor reduction, referred to as E-rGO and C-rGO, respectively, is systematically studied. Although there is no morphology difference between the E-rGO and C-rGO films adsorbed on solid substrates observed by AFM, the reduction process to obtain the E-rGO and C-rGO films is quite different. In the hydrazine vapor reduction, the nitrogen element is incorporated into the obtained C-rGO film, while no additional element is introduced to the E-rGO film during the electrochemical reduction. Moreover, Raman spectra show that the electrochemical method is more effective than the hydrazine vapor reduction method to reduce the GO films. In addition, E-rGO shows better electrocatalysis towards dopamine than does C-rGO. This study is helpful for researchers to understand these two different reduction methods and choose a suitable one to reduce GO based on their experimental requirements.

[Social representation of AIDS among students of Mexico City].

PubMed

Flores-Palacios, Fátima; Leyva-Flores, René

2003-01-01

To analyze the social representation of AIDS in a group of high school students aged 16 to 23 years in Mexico City. A non-probabilistic, cross-sectional research was carried out in a public high school in Mexico City. Students of all grades were invited to participate in the study, which took place between 1999 and 2000. Forty-six students participated; 28% male and 72% female. This exploratory field study consisted of three phases, each to address one of three dimensions: cognitive using free association techniques, representational field using semi-structured interviews; and context attitude by means of two discussion groups. In the latter, the information was previously collected for discussion. The cognitive nucleus on AIDS included the association between sex, disease, and death. The representational field of AIDS is constructed around the transmission-prevention unit. Construct elements are virus, contagion, sex, protection, and condom. An ambivalent attitude was identified towards HIV prevention and transmission: "We are only half responsible". Situations such as "rape, blood transfusions, infected syringes" were prominent in the discussion group, deemed beyond their control to prevent transmission, thus explaining the group's ambivalent attitude towards prevention. The usefulness of condoms was associated with prevention of pregnancy rather than with prevention of sexually transmitted infections. The social representation of HIV/AIDS in young students conforms a multidimensional corpus where different elements of scientific order and common sense converge and interact, such as beliefs, myths, taboos, and fears. All of these contribute to construct the meaning of AIDS. The English version of this paper is available at:http://www.insp.mx/salud/index.html.

NESSUS/NASTRAN Interface

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Millwater, Harry; Riha, David

1996-01-01

The NESSUS probabilistic analysis computer program has been developed with a built-in finite element analysis program NESSUS/FEM. However, the NESSUS/FEM program is specialized for engine structures and may not contain sufficient features for other applications. In addition, users often become well acquainted with a particular finite element code and want to use that code for probabilistic structural analysis. For these reasons, this work was undertaken to develop an interface between NESSUS and NASTRAN such that NASTRAN can be used for the finite element analysis and NESSUS can be used for the probabilistic analysis. In addition, NESSUS was restructured such that other finite element codes could be more easily coupled with NESSUS. NESSUS has been enhanced such that NESSUS will modify the NASTRAN input deck for a given set of random variables, run NASTRAN and read the NASTRAN result. The coordination between the two codes is handled automatically. The work described here was implemented within NESSUS 6.2 which was delivered to NASA in September 1995. The code runs on Unix machines: Cray, HP, Sun, SGI and IBM. The new capabilities have been implemented such that a user familiar with NESSUS using NESSUS/FEM and NASTRAN can immediately use NESSUS with NASTRAN. In other words, the interface with NASTRAN has been implemented in an analogous manner to the interface with NESSUS/FEM. Only finite element specific input has been changed. This manual is written as an addendum to the existing NESSUS 6.2 manuals. We assume users have access to NESSUS manuals and are familiar with the operation of NESSUS including probabilistic finite element analysis. Update pages to the NESSUS PFEM manual are contained in Appendix E. The finite element features of the code and the probalistic analysis capabilities are summarized.

Trace elements of concern affecting urban agriculture in industrialized areas: A multivariate approach.

PubMed

Boente, C; Matanzas, N; García-González, N; Rodríguez-Valdés, E; Gallego, J R

2017-09-01

The urban and peri-urban soils used for agriculture could be contaminated by atmospheric deposition or industrial releases, thus raising concerns about the potential risk to public health. Here we propose a method to evaluate potential soil pollution based on multivariate statistics, geostatistics (kriging), a novel soil pollution index, and bioavailability assessments. This approach was tested in two districts of a highly populated and industrialized city (Gijón, Spain). The soils showed anomalous content of several trace elements, such as As and Pb (up to 80 and 585 mg kg -1 respectively). In addition, factor analyses associated these elements with anthropogenic activity, whereas other elements were attributed to natural sources. Subsequent clustering also facilitated the differentiation between the northern area studied (only limited Pb pollution found) and the southern area (pattern of coal combustion, including simultaneous anomalies of trace elements and benzo(a)pyrene). A normalized soil pollution index (SPI) was calculated by kriging, using only the elements falling above threshold levels; therefore point-source polluted zones in the northern area and diffuse contamination in the south were identified. In addition, in the six mapping units with the highest SPIs of the fifty studied, we observed low bioavailability for most of the elements that surpassed the threshold levels. However, some anomalies of Pb contents and the pollution fingerprint in the central area of the southern grid call for further site-specific studies. On the whole, the combination of a multivariate (geo) statistic approach and a bioavailability assessment allowed us to efficiently identify sources of contamination and potential risks. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A randomized trial of dexamethasone and acetazolamide for acute mountain sickness prophylaxis.

PubMed

Ellsworth, A J; Larson, E B; Strickland, D

1987-12-01

Forty-seven climbers participated in a double-blind, randomized trial comparing acetazolamide 250 mg, dexamethasone 4 mg, and placebo every eight hours as prophylaxis for acute mountain sickness during rapid, active ascent of Mount Rainier (elevation 4,392 m). Forty-two subjects (89.4 percent) achieved the summit in an average of 34.5 hours after leaving sea level. At the summit or high point attained above base camp, the group taking dexamethasone reported less headache, tiredness, dizziness, nausea, clumsiness, and a greater sense of feeling refreshed (p less than or equal to 0.05). In addition, they reported fewer problems of runny nose and feeling cold, symptoms unrelated to acute mountain sickness. The acetazolamide group differed significantly (p less than or equal to 0.05) from other groups at low elevations (1,300 to 1,600 m), in that they experienced more feelings of nausea and tiredness, and they were less refreshed. These drug side effects probably obscured the previously established prophylactic effects of acetazolamide for acute mountain sickness. Separate analysis of an acetazolamide subgroup that did not experience side effects at low elevations revealed a prophylactic effect of acetazolamide similar in magnitude to the dexamethasone effect but lacking the euphoric effects of dexamethasone. This study demonstrates that prophylaxis with dexamethasone can reduce the symptoms associated with acute mountain sickness during active ascent and that acetazolamide can cause side effects that may limit its effectiveness as prophylaxis against the disease.

Temporal Lobe and Frontal-Subcortical Dissociations in Non-Demented Parkinson's Disease with Verbal Memory Impairment.

PubMed

Tanner, Jared J; Mareci, Thomas H; Okun, Michael S; Bowers, Dawn; Libon, David J; Price, Catherine C

2015-01-01

The current investigation examined verbal memory in idiopathic non-dementia Parkinson's disease and the significance of the left entorhinal cortex and left entorhinal-retrosplenial region connections (via temporal cingulum) on memory impairment in Parkinson's disease. Forty non-demented Parkinson's disease patients and forty non-Parkinson's disease controls completed two verbal memory tests--a wordlist measure (Philadelphia repeatable Verbal Memory Test) and a story measure (Logical Memory). All participants received T1-weighted and diffusion magnetic resonance imaging (3T; Siemens) sequences. Left entorhinal volume and left entorhinal-retrosplenial connectivity (temporal cingulum edge weight) were the primary imaging variables of interest with frontal lobe thickness and subcortical structure volumes as dissociating variables. Individuals with Parkinson's disease showed worse verbal memory, smaller entorhinal volumes, but did not differ in entorhinal-retrosplenial connectivity. For Parkinson's disease entorhinal-retrosplenial edge weight had the strongest associations with verbal memory. A subset of Parkinson's disease patients (23%) had deficits (z-scores < -1.5) across both memory measures. Relative to non-impaired Parkinson's peers, this memory-impaired group had smaller entorhinal volumes. Although entorhinal cortex volume was significantly reduced in Parkinson's disease patients relative to non-Parkinson's peers, only white matter connections associated with the entorhinal cortex were significantly associated with verbal memory performance in our sample. There was also no suggestion of contribution from frontal-subcortical gray or frontal white matter regions. These findings argue for additional investigation into medial temporal lobe gray and white matter connectivity for understanding memory in Parkinson's disease.

Management of Nail Bed Injuries Associated with Fingertip Injuries.

PubMed

George, Alexander; Alexander, Reena; Manju, C

2017-01-01

Management of nail injuries can often be a challenging experience, especially in presence of complex fingertips' injuries that include soft tissue loss and distal phalanx injury. Most studies found in the literature focus on individual injuries and describe methods to tackle those injuries, notwithstanding the fact that the nail, nailbed, distal phalanx, soft tissue and skin of the finger tip form a complex and often more than one element of this complex is injured. This retrospective study therefore focuses on the management of nail bed injuries as a part of the complex finger tip injury and outlines the surgical principles and techniques that were used in their management. Two hundred and forty patients from a tertiary care center in different clinical settings where a wide variety of cases involving the nail bed injuries were included in this study. Patients comprised of 192 (80%) males and 48 (20%) females with the average male age of 37.3 years (range 1-66 years) and average female age of 29 years (range 1-59 years). 210 patients had single finger involment, 30 patients had two finger involvement (total fingers involved- 270). The middle finger was most commonly involved while the index finger was the second most commonest finger involved. In 198 (89.18%) patients local anaesthesia was used while in the rest: regional blocks [ n = 10 (4.5%)] and general anaesthesia [ n = 14 (6.3%)] were used. In this retrospective study, out of the total of two hundred and forty patients, 222 (92.5%) patients underwent surgery, while the rest 18 (7.5%) were treated conservatively. Two hundred and ten patients who underwent surgery had complete healing over the course of treatment and followup, while four patients needed secondary interventional. Eight patients who had surgery were migrant workers were lost to follow up after surgery. Eight patients had postoperative complications that included infection, secondary necrosis, wound breakdown and non healing fractures. Accurate and timely diagnosis of nail bed injury and its meticulous repair is cardinal to the management of any nail bed injury. However all nail bed injuries must be seen in the context of associated injuries of the finger tip complex, namely skin, soft tissue and distal phalanx injuries. Fixation of associated bony injury which closely underlines the nail bed and provides physical support to the nail bed along with correction of soft tissue injuries in the form of flaps or grafts, compounded by the repair or replacement of nail plate in the first 24 hours.

Segregation by onset asynchrony.

PubMed

Hancock, P J B; Walton, L; Mitchell, G; Plenderleith, Y; Phillips, W A

2008-08-05

We describe a simple psychophysical paradigm for studying figure-ground segregation by onset asynchrony. Two pseudorandom arrays of Gabor patches are displayed, to left and right of fixation. Within one array, a subset of elements form a figure, such as a randomly curving path, that can only be reliably detected when their onset is not synchronized with that of the background elements. Several findings are reported. First, for most participants, segregation required an onset asynchrony of 20-40 ms. Second, detection was no better when the figure was presented first, and thus by itself, than when the background elements were presented first, even though in the latter case the figure could not be detected in either of the two successive displays alone. Third, asynchrony segregated subsets of randomly oriented elements equally well. Fourth, asynchronous onsets aligned with the path could be discriminated from those lying on the path but not aligned with it. Fifth, both transient and sustained neural activity contribute to detection. We argue that these findings are compatible with neural signaling by synchronized rate codes. Finally, schizophrenic disorganization is associated with reduced sensitivity. Thus, in addition to bearing upon basic theoretical issues, this paradigm may have clinical utility.

A rapid review of treatment literacy materials for tuberculosis patients.

PubMed

Brumwell, A; Noyes, E; Kulkarni, S; Lin, V; Becerra, M C; Yuen, C M

2018-03-01

To assess available treatment literacy materials for patients undergoing treatment for tuberculosis (TB). We conducted a rapid review by searching the US Centers for Disease Control's Find TB Resources website and the websites of health departments and TB-focused organizations. We included English-language documents intended to educate TB patients about anti-tuberculosis treatment. We evaluated the format, readability, and content of documents, and audience. We defined 12 essential content elements based on those previously identified as facilitating human immunodeficiency virus treatment literacy. Of the 205 documents obtained, 45 were included in our review. The median reading grade level was 7 (IQR 5-8). The median number of essential content elements present was 6 (IQR 4-8), with the most comprehensive document containing 11 of the 12 elements. Only two documents were written for children with TB or their care givers, and two for patients with drug-resistant TB. Many documents contained paternalistic and non-patient-centered language. We found few examples of comprehensive, patient-centered documents. Work is needed to achieve consensus as to the essential elements of TB treatment literacy and to create additional materials for children, patients with drug-resistant TB, and those with lower literacy levels.

Comprehensive PKD1 and PKD2 Mutation Analysis in Prenatal Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease.

PubMed

Audrézet, Marie-Pierre; Corbiere, Christine; Lebbah, Said; Morinière, Vincent; Broux, Françoise; Louillet, Ferielle; Fischbach, Michel; Zaloszyc, Ariane; Cloarec, Sylvie; Merieau, Elodie; Baudouin, Véronique; Deschênes, Georges; Roussey, Gwenaelle; Maestri, Sandrine; Visconti, Chiara; Boyer, Olivia; Abel, Carine; Lahoche, Annie; Randrianaivo, Hanitra; Bessenay, Lucie; Mekahli, Djalila; Ouertani, Ines; Decramer, Stéphane; Ryckenwaert, Amélie; Cornec-Le Gall, Emilie; Salomon, Rémi; Ferec, Claude; Heidet, Laurence

2016-03-01

Prenatal forms of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) are rare but can be recurrent in some families, suggesting a common genetic modifying background. Few patients have been reported carrying, in addition to the familial mutation, variation(s) in polycystic kidney disease 1 (PKD1) or HNF1 homeobox B (HNF1B), inherited from the unaffected parent, or biallelic polycystic kidney and hepatic disease 1 (PKHD1) mutations. To assess the frequency of additional variations in PKD1, PKD2, HNF1B, and PKHD1 associated with the familial PKD mutation in early ADPKD, these four genes were screened in 42 patients with early ADPKD in 41 families. Two patients were associated with de novo PKD1 mutations. Forty patients occurred in 39 families with known ADPKD and were associated with PKD1 mutation in 36 families and with PKD2 mutation in two families (no mutation identified in one family). Additional PKD variation(s) (inherited from the unaffected parent when tested) were identified in 15 of 42 patients (37.2%), whereas these variations were observed in 25 of 174 (14.4%, P=0.001) patients with adult ADPKD. No HNF1B variations or PKHD1 biallelic mutations were identified. These results suggest that, at least in some patients, the severity of the cystic disease is inversely correlated with the level of polycystin 1 function. Copyright © 2016 by the American Society of Nephrology.

Effects of aerobic dance training on blood pressure in individuals with uncontrolled hypertension on two antihypertensive drugs: a randomized clinical trial.

PubMed

Maruf, Fatai Adesina; Akinpelu, Aderonke Omobonike; Salako, Babatunde Lawal; Akinyemi, Joshua Odunayo

2016-04-01

There is a dearth of reports on possible additive blood pressure (BP)-reducing effect of aerobic exercise on antihypertensive drug in humans. This study investigated the additive BP-reducing effect of aerobic exercise on BP in individuals with uncontrolled hypertension. In this 12-week double-blind study, 120 new-diagnosed individuals with mild-to-moderate hypertension were randomized to receive coamilozide + 5/10 mg of amlodipine + aerobic dance or coamilozide + 5/10 mg of amlodipine alone. Forty-five and 43 participants in exercise and control groups, respectively, completed the 12-week intervention. Addition of aerobic exercise to antihypertensive drug therapy significantly reduced systolic BP (7.1 mm Hg [95% confidence interval: 5.0, 9.3]; P < .001) and diastolic BP (1.7 mm Hg [95% confidence interval: 0.4, 3.0]; P = .009) at 12 weeks. BP control rate differed significantly between exercise (53.9%) and control (35.3%) groups, P < .001. Postintervention, proportion of participants in exercise group who had their number of antihypertensive drug reduced to one (20.3%) differed from that in control group (11.1%); (χ(2) = 11.0; P = .001). Combination of aerobic dance and antihypertensive drugs reduces number of antihypertensive drugs needed to achieve BP control and enhances BP control in individuals with hypertension on two antihypertensive drugs. Copyright © 2016 American Society of Hypertension. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Manual for automatic generation of finite element models of spiral bevel gears in mesh

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bibel, G. D.; Reddy, S.; Kumar, A.

1994-01-01

The goal of this research is to develop computer programs that generate finite element models suitable for doing 3D contact analysis of faced milled spiral bevel gears in mesh. A pinion tooth and a gear tooth are created and put in mesh. There are two programs: Points.f and Pat.f to perform the analysis. Points.f is based on the equation of meshing for spiral bevel gears. It uses machine tool settings to solve for an N x M mesh of points on the four surfaces, pinion concave and convex, and gear concave and convex. Points.f creates the file POINTS.OUT, an ASCI file containing N x M points for each surface. (N is the number of node points along the length of the tooth, and M is nodes along the height.) Pat.f reads POINTS.OUT and creates the file tl.out. Tl.out is a series of PATRAN input commands. In addition to the mesh density on the tooth face, additional user specified variables are the number of finite elements through the thickness, and the number of finite elements along the tooth full fillet. A full fillet is assumed to exist for both the pinion and gear.

Joint IKI/ROSCOSMOS - NASA Science Definition Team and concept mission to Venus based on Venera-D

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zasova, L.; Senske, D.; Economou, T.; Eismont, N.; Esposito, L.; Gerasimov, M.; Gorinov, D.; Ignatiev, N.; Ivanov, M.; Jessup, K. Lea; Khatuntsev, I.; Korablev, O.; Kremic, T.; Limaye, S.; Lomakin, I.; Martynov, A.; Ocampo, A.; Vaisberg, O.; Burdanov, A.

2017-09-01

NASA and IKI/Roscosmos established in 2015 a Joint Science Definition Team (JSDT), a key task of which was to codify the synergy between the goals of Venera-D with those of NASA. In addition, the JSDT studied potential NASA provided mission augmentations (experiments /elements) that could to fill identified science gaps. The first report to NASA - IKI/Roscosmos was provided in January 2017. The baseline Venera-D concept includes two elements, and orbiter and a lander, with potential contributions consisting of an aerial platform/balloon, small long-lived surface stations or a sub-satellite.

Simulated weightlessness and synbiotic diet effects on rat bone mechanical strength

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sarper, Hüseyin; Blanton, Cynthia; DePalma, Jude; Melnykov, Igor V.; Gabaldón, Annette M.

2014-10-01

This paper reports results on exposure to simulated weightlessness that leads to a rapid decrease in bone mineral density known as spaceflight osteopenia by evaluating the effectiveness of dietary supplementation with synbiotics to counteract the effects of skeletal unloading. Forty adult male rats were studied under four different conditions in a 2 × 2 factorial design with main effects of diet (synbiotic and control) and weight condition (unloaded and control). Hindlimb unloading was performed at all times for 14 days followed by 14 days of recovery (reambulation). The synbiotic diet contained probiotic strains Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lactococcus lactis lactis and prebiotic fructooligosaccharide. This paper also reports on the development of a desktop three-point bending device to measure the mechanical strength of bones from rats subjected to simulated weightlessness. The importance of quantifying bone resistance to breakage is critical when examining the effectiveness of interventions against osteopenia resulting from skeletal unloading, such as astronauts experience, disuse or disease. Mechanical strength indices provide information beyond measures of bone density and microarchitecture that enhance the overall assessment of a treatment's potency. In this study we used a newly constructed three-point bending device to measure the mechanical strength of femur and tibia bones from hindlimb-unloaded rats fed an experimental synbiotic diet enriched with probiotics and fermentable fiber. Two calculated outputs for each sample were Young's modulus of elasticity and fracture stress. Bone major elements (calcium, magnesium, and phosphorous) were quantified using ICP-MS analysis. Hindlimb unloading was associated with a significant loss of strength in the femur, and with significant reductions in major bone elements. The synbiotic diet did not protect against these unloading effects. Tibia strength and major elements were not reduced by hindlimb unloading, as was the case for femur, but tibia bone strength was negatively affected by the synbiotic diet. Thus, unexpectedly, the synbiotic diet was associated with null or detrimental effects on bone strength.

Investigation of the Influence of Selected Soil and Plant Properties from Sakarya, Turkey, on the Bioavailability of Trace Elements by Applying an In Vitro Digestion Model.

PubMed

Altundag, Huseyin; Albayrak, Sinem; Dundar, Mustafa S; Tuzen, Mustafa; Soylak, Mustafa

2015-11-01

The main aim of this study was an investigation of the influence of selected soil and plant properties on the bioaccessibility of trace elements and hence their potential impacts on human health in urban environments. Two artificial digestion models were used to determine trace element levels passing from soil and plants to man for bioavailability study. Soil and plant samples were collected from various regions of the province of Sakarya, Turkey. Digestive process is started by addition of soil and plant samples to an artificial digestion model based on human physiology. Bioavailability % values are obtained from the ratio of the amount of element passing to human digestion to element content of soil and plants. According to bioavailability % results, element levels passing from soil samples to human digestion were B = Cr = Cu = Fe = Pb = Li < Al < Ni < Co < Ba < Mn < Sr < Cd < Na < Zn < Tl, while element levels passing from plant samples to human digestion were Cu = Fe = Ni = Pb = Tl = Na = Li < Co < Al < Sr < Ba < Mn < Cd < Cr < Zn < B. It was checked whether the results obtained reached harmful levels to human health by examining the literature.

An approach to the optical MSD adder

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takahashi, Hideya; Matsushita, Kenji; Shimizu, Eiji

1990-07-01

The intrinsic parallelism of optical elements for computation is presently taken fuller advantage of than heretofore possible through an optical implementation of the modified signed digit (MSD) number system, which yields carry-free addition and subtraction. In the present optical implementation of the MSD system, optical phase data are used to preclude negative value representation. Attention is given to an MSD adder array for addition operations on two n-digit trinary numbers; the output is composed of n + 1 trinary digits.

Mentoring into Higher Education: A Useful Addition to the Landscape of Widening Access to Higher Education?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wilson, Alistair; Hunter, Katie; Spohrer, Konstanze; Bruner, Richard; Beasley, Anna

2014-01-01

Alan Milburn, the Chair of the Government's Social Mobility and Child Poverty Commission recently highlighted the role of education in progressing social mobility in Scotland; "In my view it's a grave social injustice that only one in forty pupils from Scotland's most deprived households…got three As in their Highers in 2011, compared to one…

How Should the "Ideal-Coach" Be? And How Is the "Real-Coach" Judged by the Athletes?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Moser, Thomas

1992-01-01

Forty-five members of the Norwegian national team in orienteering and 11 coaches ranked 18 items regarding their importance in being a good coach. In addition, the athletes evaluated their individual coaches using the evaluation version of the scale. Compared responses of males and females, junior and senior athletes, and coaches and athletes. (KS)

2.5D Finite/infinite Element Approach for Simulating Train-Induced Ground Vibrations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Y. B.; Hung, H. H.; Kao, J. C.

2010-05-01

The 2.5D finite/infinite element approach for simulating the ground vibrations by surface or underground moving trains will be briefly summarized in this paper. By assuming the soils to be uniform along the direction of the railway, only a two-dimensional profile of the soil perpendicular to the railway need be considered in the modeling. Besides the two in-plane degrees of freedom (DOFs) per node conventionally used for plane strain elements, an extra DOF is introduced to account for the out-of-plane wave transmission. The profile of the half-space is divided into a near field and a semi-infinite far field. The near field containing the train loads and irregular structures is simulated by the finite elements, while the far field covering the soils with infinite boundary by the infinite elements, by which due account is taken of the radiation effects for the moving loads. Enhanced by the automated mesh expansion procedure proposed previously by the writers, the far field impedances for all the lower frequencies are generated repetitively from the mesh created for the highest frequency considered. Finally, incorporated with a proposed load generation mechanism that takes the rail irregularity and dynamic properties of trains into account, an illustrative case study was performed. This paper investigates the vibration isolation effect of the elastic foundation that separates the concrete slab track from the underlying soil or tunnel structure. In addition, the advantage of the 2.5D approach was clearly demonstrated in that the three-dimensional wave propagation effect can be virtually captured using a two-dimensional finite/infinite element mesh. Compared with the conventional 3D approach, the present approach appears to be simple, efficient and generally accurate.

Compact programmable photonic variable delay devices

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yao, X. Steve (Inventor)

1999-01-01

Optical variable delay devices for providing variable true time delay to multiple optical beams simultaneously. A ladder-structured variable delay device comprises multiple basic building blocks stacked on top of each other resembling a ladder. Each basic building block has two polarization beamsplitters and a polarization rotator array arranged to form a trihedron; Controlling an array element of the polarization rotator array causes a beam passing through the array element either going up to a basic building block above it or reflect back towards a block below it. The beams going higher on the ladder experience longer optical path delay. An index-switched optical variable delay device comprises of many birefringent crystal segments connected with one another, with a polarization rotator array sandwiched between any two adjacent crystal segments. An array element in the polarization rotator array controls the polarization state of a beam passing through the element, causing the beam experience different refractive indices or path delays in the following crystal segment. By independently control each element in each polarization rotator array, variable optical path delays of each beam can be achieved. Finally, an index-switched variable delay device and a ladder-structured variable device are cascaded to form a new device which combines the advantages of the two individual devices. This programmable optic device has the properties of high packing density, low loss, easy fabrication, and virtually infinite bandwidth. The device is inherently two dimensional and has a packing density exceeding 25 lines/cm.sup.2. The delay resolution of the device is on the order of a femtosecond (one micron in space) and the total delay exceeds 10 nanosecond. In addition, the delay is reversible so that the same delay device can be used for both antenna transmitting and receiving.

Photonic variable delay devices based on optical birefringence

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yao, X. Steve (Inventor)

2005-01-01

Optical variable delay devices for providing variable true time delay to multiple optical beams simultaneously. A ladder-structured variable delay device comprises multiple basic building blocks stacked on top of each other resembling a ladder. Each basic building block has two polarization beamsplitters and a polarization rotator array arranged to form a trihedron; Controlling an array element of the polarization rotator array causes a beam passing through the array element either going up to a basic building block above it or reflect back towards a block below it. The beams going higher on the ladder experience longer optical path delay. An index-switched optical variable delay device comprises of many birefringent crystal segments connected with one another, with a polarization rotator array sandwiched between any two adjacent crystal segments. An array element in the polarization rotator array controls the polarization state of a beam passing through the element, causing the beam experience different refractive indices or path delays in the following crystal segment. By independently control each element in each polarization rotator array, variable optical path delays of each beam can be achieved. Finally, an index-switched variable delay device and a ladder-structured variable device are cascaded to form a new device which combines the advantages of the two individual devices. This programmable optic device has the properties of high packing density, low loss, easy fabrication, and virtually infinite bandwidth. The device is inherently two dimensional and has a packing density exceeding 25 lines/cm2. The delay resolution of the device is on the order of a femtosecond (one micron in space) and the total delay exceeds 10 nanosecond. In addition, the delay is reversible so that the same delay device can be used for both antenna transmitting and receiving.

Getting the Lead Out of Bermuda; The Legacy of a Forty Year Record in the North Atlantic Using a Transient Experiment in the Atmosphere and Water

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Church, T. M.; Alleman, L. Y.; Veron, A. J. J.; Boyle, E. A.; Zurbrick, C.; Patterson, C. C.; Flegal, A. R., Jr.

2015-12-01

Some forty years ago, Schaule and Patterson established the first accurate profile of lead in waters off Bermuda. In evidence was a massive environmental insult from lead emissions being carried seaward by the atmosphere over the Sargasso Sea. Further documentation was possible using contiguous time series in the atmosphere on Bermuda, surface sea water nearby and recorded in local corals. Lead had then an overwhelming source from the combustion of gasoline, primarily in the USA and secondarily in Europe. These were carried to Bermuda on seasonally alternating temperate and trade winds from the west and east, respectively. The anthropogenic sources were well distinguished based on the unique radiogenic nature of stable lead isotopes in the gasoline being used by these countries. Subsequently, decreasing use in the west (USA) followed by that in the east (Europe) was isotopically evident. As such, the two signatures were subjected to transient mixing in the atmosphere and subsequently with depth in ocean. A transient experiment uses data during 1996-1998, a period of transition in leaded gasoline use in the USA and Europe. Here are complimentary records of lead concentration and stable isotopes in atmospheric deposition and surface waters. The results allow an isotopic mass balance, indicating much of the lead in Bermuda surface water at that time may not have been deposited locally. As such, it may be presumed to reflect easterly advection of some lead at the surface under limited scavenging via the prevailing subtropical gyre circulation. These annual circulation periods are consistent with both physical data and another lead isotopic mass balance in the east. Going forward, Bermuda time series of trace elements and isotopes such as lead could continue to record climatological (e.g. NAO) transients in atmospheric scavenging, potential impact on surface ecosystems, and changes in mixing into deeper waters of the Sargasso Sea and points further afield.

Field Comparison of the Sampling Efficacy of Two Smear Media: Cotton Fiber and Kraft Paper

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

Hogue, M.G.

Two materials were compared in field tests at the Defense Waste Processing Facility: kraft paper (a strong, brown paper made from wood pulp prepared with a sodium sulfate solution) and cotton fiber. Based on a sampling of forty-six pairs of smears, the cotton fiber smears provide a greater sensitivity. The cotton fiber smears collected an average of forty-four percent more beta activity than the kraft paper smears and twenty-nine percent more alpha activity. Results show a greater sensitivity with cotton fiber over kraft paper at the 95 percent confidence level. Regulatory requirements for smear materials are vague. The data demonstratemore » that the difference in sensitivity of smear materials could lead to a large difference in reported results that are subsequently used for meeting shipping regulations or evaluating workplace contamination levels.« less

Reporting of meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials with a focus on drug safety: an empirical assessment.

PubMed

Hammad, Tarek A; Neyarapally, George A; Pinheiro, Simone P; Iyasu, Solomon; Rochester, George; Dal Pan, Gerald

2013-01-01

Due to the sparse nature of serious drug-related adverse events (AEs), meta-analyses combining data from several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to evaluate drug safety issues are increasingly being conducted and published, influencing clinical and regulatory decision making. Evaluation of meta-analyses involves the assessment of both the individual constituent trials and the approaches used to combine them. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) reporting framework is designed to enhance the reporting of systematic reviews and meta-analyses. However, PRISMA may not cover all critical elements useful in the evaluation of meta-analyses with a focus on drug safety particularly in the regulatory-public health setting. This work was conducted to (1) evaluate the adherence of a sample of published drug safety-focused meta-analyses to the PRISMA reporting framework, (2) identify gaps in this framework based on key aspects pertinent to drug safety, and (3) stimulate the development and validation of a more comprehensive reporting tool that incorporates elements unique to drug safety evaluation. We selected a sample of meta-analyses of RCTs based on review of abstracts from high-impact journals as well as top medical specialty journals between 2009 and 2011. We developed a preliminary reporting framework based on PRISMA with specific additional reporting elements critical for the evaluation of drug safety meta-analyses of RCTs. The reporting of pertinent elements in each meta-analysis was reviewed independently by two authors; discrepancies in the independent evaluations were resolved through discussions between the two authors. A total of 27 meta-analyses, 12 from highest impact journals, 13 from specialty medical journals, and 2 from Cochrane reviews, were identified and evaluated. The great majority (>85%) of PRISMA elements were addressed in more than half of the meta-analyses reviewed. However, the majority of meta-analyses (>60%) did not address most (>80%) of the additional reporting elements critical for the evaluation of drug safety. Some of these elements were not addressed in any of the reviewed meta-analyses. This review included a sample of meta-analyses, with a focus on drug safety, recently published in high-impact journals; therefore, we may have underestimated the extent of the reporting problem across all meta-analyses of drug safety. Furthermore, temporal trends in reporting could not be evaluated in this review because of the short time interval selected. While the majority of PRISMA elements were addressed by most studies reviewed, the majority of studies did not address most of the additional safety-related elements. These findings highlight the need for the development and validation of a drug safety reporting framework and the importance of the current initiative by the Council for International Organizations of Medical Sciences (CIOMS) to create a guidance document for drug safety information synthesis/meta-analysis, which may improve reporting, conduct, and evaluation of meta-analyses of drug safety and inform clinical and regulatory decision making.

The Abundances of the Iron Group Elements in Early B Stars in the Magellanic Clouds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peters, C.

FUSE observations of four sharp-lined early B main-sequence band stars in the Magellanic Clouds will be carried through to determine the abundances of the heavy elements, especially those of the Fe group. The FUSE spectral region contains numerous Fe III lines, including the resonance multiplet (UV1) near 1130 A that is excellent for abundance determinations and two strong multiplets of V III, an ion that does not produce measurable lines longward of 1200 A in metal-deficient stars. In addition there are several measurable lines from Cr III and Mn III. Although abundances of the Fe-peak elements are of interest because they are important for assessing opacities for stellar evolution calculations and the validity of theoretical calculations of explosive nucleosynthesis, ground-based studies do not yield this information because measurable lines from these species, except for a few Fe III lines, are found only in the UV spectral region. The abundances of heavy elements provide information on the production of such elements in previous generations of stars. From FUSE data obtained in Cycle 3 we are determining the abundances of the Fe group elements in two sharp-lined early B stars in the SMC (AV 304, a field star, and NGC346-637, a star in a mini-starburst cluster). This project will allow one to compare the abundances in AV 304 and NGC346-637 with those in the LMC and other regions in the SMC and look for asymmetry in heavy element production in the Magellanic Clouds.

Otolith Trace Element Chemistry of Juvenile Black Rockfish

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hardin, W.; Bobko, S. J.; Jones, C. M.

2002-12-01

In the summer of 1997 we collected young-of -the-year (YOY) black rockfish, Sebastes melanops, from floating docks and seagrass beds in Newport and Coos Bay, Oregon. Otoliths were extracted from randomly selected fish, sectioned and polished under general laboratory conditions, and cleaned in a class 100 clean room. We used Laser Ablation - Inductively Coupled Mass Spectrometry (LA-ICPMS) to analyze elemental composition of the estuarine phase of the otoliths. While we observed differences in Mn/Ca ratios between the two estuaries, there was no statistical difference in otolith trace element chemistry ratios between estuaries using MANOVA. To determine if laboratory processing of otoliths might have impeded us from detecting differences in otolith chemistry, we conducted a second experiment. Right and left otoliths from 10 additional Coos Bay fish were randomly allocated to two processing methods. The first method was identical to our initial otolith processing, sectioning and polishing under normal laboratory conditions. In the second method, polishing was done in the clean room. For both methods otoliths went through a final cleaning in the clean room and analyzed with LA-ICPMS. While we did not detect statistical differences in element ratios between the two methods, otoliths polished outside the clean room had much higher variances. This increased variance might have lowered our ability to detect differences in otolith chemistry between estuaries. Based on our results, we recommend polishing otoliths under clean room conditions to reduce contamination.

A Reload and Startup Plan for and #8233;Conversion of the NIST Research Reactor

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

Diamond, D. J.; Varuttamaseni, A.

The National Institute of Standards and Technology operates a 20 MW research reactor for neutron-based research. The heavy-water moderated and cooled reactor is fueled with high-enriched uranium (HEU) but a program to convert the reactor to low-enriched uranium (LEU) fuel is underway. Among other requirements, a reload and startup test plan must be submitted to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) for their approval. The NRC provides guidance for what should be in the plan to ensure that the licensee has sufficient information to operate the reactor safely. Hence, a plan has been generated consisting of two parts.The reload portionmore » of the plan specifies the fuel management whereby initially only two LEU fuel elements are in the core for eight fuel cycles. This is repeated until a point when the optimum approach is to place four fresh LEU elements into the reactor each cycle. This final transition is repeated and after eight cycles the reactor is completely fueled with LEU. By only adding two LEU fuel elements initially, the plan allows for the consumption of HEU fuel elements that are expected to be in storage at the time of conversion and provides additional qualification of production LEU fuel under actual operating conditions. Because the reload is to take place over many fuel cycles, startup tests will be done at different stages of the conversion. The tests, to be compared with calculations to show that the reactor will operate as planned, are the measurement of critical shim arm position and shim arm and regulating rod reactivity worths. An acceptance criterion for each test is specified based on technical specifications that relate to safe operation. Additional tests are being considered that have less safety significance but may be of interest to bolster the validation of analysis tools.« less

A reload and startup plan for conversion of the NIST research reactor

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

D. J. Diamond

The National Institute of Standards and Technology operates a 20 MW research reactor for neutron-based research. The heavy-water moderated and cooled reactor is fueled with high-enriched uranium (HEU) but a program to convert the reactor to low-enriched uranium (LEU) fuel is underway. Among other requirements, a reload and startup test plan must be submitted to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) for their approval. The NRC provides guidance for what should be in the plan to ensure that the licensee has sufficient information to operate the reactor safely. Hence, a plan has been generated consisting of two parts. The reloadmore » portion of the plan specifies the fuel management whereby initially only two LEU fuel elements are in the core for eight fuel cycles. This is repeated until a point when the optimum approach is to place four fresh LEU elements into the reactor each cycle. This final transition is repeated and after eight cycles the reactor is completely fueled with LEU. By only adding two LEU fuel elements initially, the plan allows for the consumption of HEU fuel elements that are expected to be in storage at the time of conversion and provides additional qualification of production LEU fuel under actual operating conditions. Because the reload is to take place over many fuel cycles, startup tests will be done at different stages of the conversion. The tests, to be compared with calculations to show that the reactor will operate as planned, are the measurement of critical shim arm position and shim arm and regulating rod reactivity worths. An acceptance criterion for each test is specified based on technical specifications that relate to safe operation. Additional tests are being considered that have less safety significance but may be of interest to bolster the validation of analysis tools.« less

Stainless steel manual metal arc welding fumes in rats.

PubMed Central

Kalliomäki, P L; Lakomaa, E; Kalliomäki, K; Kiilunen, M; Kivelä, R; Vaaranen, V

1983-01-01

Forty two male Wistar rats were exposed to manual metal arc (MMA) stainless steel (SS) welding fumes generated by an automatic welding device for "nose-only" exposure. The exposure simulated an actual MMA/SS welding environment as closely as possible. For the retention study, the duration of exposure was one hour per workday for one, two, three, of four weeks and for the clearance study four weeks. The retention and clearance of the chromium, nickel, and iron found in MMA/SS welding fumes in the rats' lungs were studied as was the distribution of the metals to other organs. Instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA) was used for the multi-element chemical activation analyses. The concentrations of chromium and nickel in the blood and the urine were determined by atomic absorption method (AAS). The retention of exogenous iron was determined by a magnetic measuring method. The results indicated that the lungs were the target organs of soluble hexavalent chromates. The half times of lung clearance for Cr, Ni, and Fe were 40 +/- 4 d, 20 +/- d, and 50 +/- 10 d. When the lung clearance curves are compared, the half times of Cr and Fe lung clearance are similar but nickel disappears faster. The distribution and clearance patterns of chromium to other organs differ from those obtained after single intravenous or intratracheal injections of alkaline chromates. PMID:6830723

On the automaticity of response inhibition in individuals with alcoholism.

PubMed

Noël, Xavier; Brevers, Damien; Hanak, Catherine; Kornreich, Charles; Verbanck, Paul; Verbruggen, Frederick

2016-06-01

Response inhibition is usually considered a hallmark of executive control. However, recent work indicates that stop performance can become associatively mediated ('automatic') over practice. This study investigated automatic response inhibition in sober and recently detoxified individuals with alcoholism.. We administered to forty recently detoxified alcoholics and forty healthy participants a modified stop-signal task that consisted of a training phase in which a subset of the stimuli was consistently associated with stopping or going, and a test phase in which this mapping was reversed. In the training phase, stop performance improved for the consistent stop stimuli, compared with control stimuli that were not associated with going or stopping. In the test phase, go performance tended to be impaired for old stop stimuli. Combined, these findings support the automatic inhibition hypothesis. Importantly, performance was similar in both groups, which indicates that automatic inhibitory control develops normally in individuals with alcoholism.. This finding is specific to individuals with alcoholism without other psychiatric disorders, which is rather atypical and prevents generalization. Personalized stimuli with a stronger affective content should be used in future studies. These results advance our understanding of behavioral inhibition in individuals with alcoholism. Furthermore, intact automatic inhibitory control may be an important element of successful cognitive remediation of addictive behaviors.. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Multielement analysis and antioxidant capacity of Merlot wine clones developed in Montenegro.

PubMed

Đorđević, Neda O; Pejin, Boris; Novaković, Miroslav M; Stanković, Dalibor M; Mutić, Jelena J; Pajović, Snežana B; Tešević, Vele V

2018-02-01

The overall aim of this paper was to compare the multielement composition and antioxidant capacity of two Montenegrin Merlot wines obtained from specific vine clones (VCR1 and VCR 101) along with commercial Merlot wine throughout the consecutive vintages in 2010 and 2011. Elemental composition was analysed using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Additionally, antioxidant capacity was assessed by cyclic voltammetry. VCR 1 wine from 2011 stood out for its elemental composition. On the other hand, antioxidant capacity of VCR 101 wines was the highest one for the both vintages. According to the experimental data obtained, all three wines are good source of essential elements and products with a significant antioxidant activity and specific geographical origin.

A 2.5D finite element and boundary element model for the ground vibration from trains in tunnels and validation using measurement data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jin, Qiyun; Thompson, David J.; Lurcock, Daniel E. J.; Toward, Martin G. R.; Ntotsios, Evangelos

2018-05-01

A numerical model is presented for the ground-borne vibration produced by trains running in tunnels. The model makes use of the assumption that the geometry and material properties are invariant in the axial direction. It is based on the so-called two-and-a-half dimensional (2.5D) coupled Finite Element and Boundary Element methodology, in which a two-dimensional cross-section is discretised into finite elements and boundary elements and the third dimension is represented by a Fourier transform over wavenumbers. The model is applied to a particular case of a metro line built with a cast-iron tunnel lining. An equivalent continuous model of the tunnel is developed to allow it to be readily implemented in the 2.5D framework. The tunnel structure and the track are modelled using solid and beam finite elements while the ground is modelled using boundary elements. The 2.5D track-tunnel-ground model is coupled with a train consisting of several vehicles, which are represented by multi-body models. The response caused by the passage of a train is calculated as the sum of the dynamic component, excited by the combined rail and wheel roughness, and the quasi-static component, induced by the constant moving axle loads. Field measurements have been carried out to provide experimental validation of the model. These include measurements of the vibration of the rail, the tunnel invert and the tunnel wall. In addition, simultaneous measurements were made on the ground surface above the tunnel. Rail roughness and track characterisation measurements were also made. The prediction results are compared with measured vibration obtained during train passages, with good agreement.

Distinct families of cis-acting RNA replication elements epsilon from hepatitis B viruses

PubMed Central

Chen, Augustine; Brown, Chris

2012-01-01

The hepadnavirus encapsidation signal, epsilon (ε), is an RNA structure located at the 5′ end of the viral pregenomic RNA. It is essential for viral replication and functions in polymerase protein binding and priming. This structure could also have potential regulatory roles in controlling the expression of viral replicative proteins. In addition to its structure, the primary sequence of this RNA element has crucial functional roles in the viral lifecycle. Although the ε elements in hepadnaviruses share common critical functions, there are some significant differences in mammalian and avian hepadnaviruses, which include both sequence and structural variations.   Here we present several covariance models for ε elements from the Hepadnaviridae. The model building included experimentally determined data from previous studies using chemical probing and NMR analysis. These models have sufficient similarity to comprise a clan. The clan has in common a highly conserved overall structure consisting of a lower-stem, bulge, upper-stem and apical-loop. The models differ in functionally critical regions—notably the two types of avian ε elements have a tetra-loop (UGUU) including a non-canonical UU base pair, while the hepatitis B virus (HBV) epsilon has a tri-loop (UGU). The avian epsilon elements have a less stable dynamic structure in the upper stem. Comparisons between these models and all other Rfam models, and searches of genomes, showed these structures are specific to the Hepadnaviridae. Two family models and the clan are available from the Rfam database. PMID:22418844

Dietary assessment in minority ethnic groups: a systematic review of instruments for portion-size estimation in the United Kingdom

PubMed Central

Almiron-Roig, Eva; Aitken, Amanda; Galloway, Catherine

2017-01-01

Context: Dietary assessment in minority ethnic groups is critical for surveillance programs and for implementing effective interventions. A major challenge is the accurate estimation of portion sizes for traditional foods and dishes. Objective: The aim of this systematic review was to assess records published up to 2014 describing a portion-size estimation element (PSEE) applicable to the dietary assessment of UK-residing ethnic minorities. Data sources, selection, and extraction: Electronic databases, internet sites, and theses repositories were searched, generating 5683 titles, from which 57 eligible full-text records were reviewed. Data analysis: Forty-two publications about minority ethnic groups (n = 20) or autochthonous populations (n = 22) were included. The most common PSEEs (47%) were combination tools (eg, food models and portion-size lists), followed by portion-size lists in questionnaires/guides (19%) and image-based and volumetric tools (17% each). Only 17% of PSEEs had been validated against weighed data. Conclusions: When developing ethnic-specific dietary assessment tools, it is important to consider customary portion sizes by sex and age, traditional household utensil usage, and population literacy levels. Combining multiple PSEEs may increase accuracy, but such methods require validation. PMID:28340101

Chromatographic-ICPMS methods for trace element and isotope analysis of water and biogenic calcite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Klinkhammer, G. P.; Haley, B. A.; McManus, J.; Palmer, M. R.

2003-04-01

ICP-MS is a powerful technique because of its sensitivity and speed of analysis. This is especially true for refractory elements that are notoriously difficult using TIMS and less energetic techniques. However, as ICP-MS instruments become more sensitive to elements of interest they also become more sensitive to interference. This becomes a pressing issue when analyzing samples with high total dissolved solids. This paper describes two trace element methods that overcome these problems by using chromatographic techniques to precondition samples prior to analysis by ICP-MS: separation of rare earth elements (REEs) from seawater using HPLC-ICPMS, and flow-through dissolution of foraminiferal calcite. Using HPLC in combination with ICP-MS it is possible to isolate the REEs from matrix, other transition elements, and each other. This method has been developed for small volume samples (5ml) making it possible to analyze sediment pore waters. As another example, subjecting foram shells to flow-through reagent addition followed by time-resolved analysis in the ICP-MS allows for systematic cleaning and dissolution of foram shells. This method provides information about the relationship between dissolution tendency and elemental composition. Flow-through is also amenable to automation thus yielding the high sample throughput required for paleoceanography, and produces a highly resolved elemental matrix that can be statistically analyzed.

Classification of rainfall events for weather forecasting purposes in andean region of Colombia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suárez Hincapié, Joan Nathalie; Romo Melo, Liliana; Vélez Upegui, Jorge Julian; Chang, Philippe

2016-04-01

This work presents a comparative analysis of the results of applying different methodologies for the identification and classification of rainfall events of different duration in meteorological records of the Colombian Andean region. In this study the work area is the urban and rural area of Manizales that counts with a monitoring hydro-meteorological network. This network is composed of forty-five (45) strategically located stations, this network is composed of forty-five (45) strategically located stations where automatic weather stations record seven climate variables: air temperature, relative humidity, wind speed and direction, rainfall, solar radiation and barometric pressure. All this information is sent wirelessly every five (5) minutes to a data warehouse located at the Institute of Environmental Studies-IDEA. With obtaining the series of rainfall recorded by the hydrometeorological station Palogrande operated by the National University of Colombia in Manizales (http://froac.manizales.unal.edu.co/bodegaIdea/); it is with this information that we proceed to perform behavior analysis of other meteorological variables, monitored at surface level and that influence the occurrence of such rainfall events. To classify rainfall events different methodologies were used: The first according to Monjo (2009) where the index n of the heavy rainfall was calculated through which various types of precipitation are defined according to the intensity variability. A second methodology that permitted to produce a classification in terms of a parameter β introduced by Rice and Holmberg (1973) and adapted by Llasat and Puigcerver, (1985, 1997) and the last one where a rainfall classification is performed according to the value of its intensity following the issues raised by Linsley (1977) where the rains can be considered light, moderate and strong fall rates to 2.5 mm / h; from 2.5 to 7.6 mm / h and above this value respectively for the previous classifications. The main contribution which is done with this research is the obtainment elements to optimize and to improve the spatial resolution of the results obtained with mesoscale models such as the Weather Research & Forecasting Model- WRF, used in Colombia for the purposes of weather forecasting and that in addition produces other tools used in current issues such as risk management.

Strategies for the sustained human exploration of Mars

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Landau, Damon Frederick

A variety of mission scenarios are compared in this thesis to assess the strengths and weaknesses of options for Mars exploration. The mission design space is modeled along two dimensions: trajectory architectures and propulsion system technologies. Direct, semi-direct, stop-over, semi-cycler, and cycler architectures are examined, and electric propulsion, nuclear thermal rockets, methane and oxygen production on Mars, Mars water excavation, aerocapture, and reusable propulsion systems are included in the technology assessment. The mission sensitivity to crew size, vehicle masses, and crew travel time is also examined. The primary figure of merit for a mission scenario is the injected mass to low-Earth orbit (IMLEO), though technology readiness levels (TRL) are also included. Several elements in the architecture dimension are explored in more detail. The Earth-Mars semi-cycler architecture is introduced and five families of Earth-Mars semi-cycler trajectories are presented along with optimized itineraries. Optimized cycler trajectories are also presented. In addition to Earth-Mars semi-cycler and cycler trajectories, conjunction-class, free-return, Mars-Earth semi-cycler, and low-thrust trajectories are calculated. Design parameters for optimal DeltaV trajectories are provided over a range of flight times (from 120 to 270 days) and launch years (between 2009 and 2022). Unlike impulsive transfers, the mass-optimal low-thrust trajectory depends strongly on the thrust and specific impulse of the propulsion system. A low-thrust version of the rocket equation is provided where the initial mass or thrust may be minimized by varying the initial acceleration and specific impulse. Planet-centered operations are also examined. A method to rotate a parking orbit about the line of apsides to achieve the proper orientation at departure is discussed, thus coupling the effects of parking-orbit orientation with the interplanetary trajectories. Also, a guidance algorithm for rendezvous during flybys in semi-cycler and cycler missions is presented with a control law for final approach. A forty-year plan to establish a permanent base on Mars is detailed and methods to expand the base are discussed. Once a large base is established, one-, two-, or three-vehicle systems may sustain the colonization of Mars.