Training Effectiveness of The Inertial Training and Measurement System

PubMed Central

Naczk, Mariusz; Brzenczek-Owczarzak, Wioletta; Arlet, Jarosław; Naczk, Alicja; Adach, Zdzisław

2014-01-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of inertial training with different external loads using a new original device - the Inertial Training and Measurement System (ITMS). Forty-six physical education male students were tested. The participants were randomly divided into three training groups and a control group (C group). The training groups performed inertial training with three different loads three times weekly for four weeks. The T0 group used only the mass of the ITMS flywheel (19.4 kg), the T5 and T10 groups had an additional 5 and 10 kg on the flywheel, respectively. Each training session included three exercise sets involving the shoulder joint adductors. Before and after training, the maximal torque and power were measured on an isokinetic dynamometer during adduction of the shoulder joint. Simultaneously, the electromyography activity of the pectoralis major muscle was recorded. Results of the study indicate that ITMS training induced a significant increase in maximal muscle torque in the T0, T5, T10 groups (15.5%, 13.0%, and 14.0%, respectively). Moreover, ITMS training caused a significant increase in power in the T0, T5, T10 groups (16.6%, 19.5%, and 14.5%, respectively). The percentage changes in torque and power did not significantly differ between training groups. Electromyography activity of the pectoralis major muscle increased only in the T0 group after four weeks of training. Using the ITMS device in specific workouts allowed for an increase of shoulder joint adductors torque and power in physical education students. PMID:25713662

A randomised controlled trial comparing three analgesia regimens following total knee joint replacement: continuous femoral nerve block, intrathecal morphine or both.

PubMed

Olive, D J; Barrington, M J; Simone, S A; Kluger, R

2015-07-01

This randomised controlled trial compared three analgesia regimens following primary unilateral total knee joint replacement: continuous femoral nerve block (CFNB), intrathecal morphine (ITM), and both. The primary outcome was pain ratings over the first 24 hours. Secondary outcomes included morphine consumption, nausea, pruritus and sedation ratings, oxygen saturation (SpO2) ratings, and ability to mobilise postoperatively. All patients received a spinal anaesthetic and a postoperative patient-controlled morphine pump. Patients were randomised to receive CFNB, ITM, or both. In patients with no CFNB, the use of ITM was blinded. Eighty-one patients were randomised and there were no withdrawals. At 24 hours, the ITM-only group had higher pain ratings than either of the other groups (P=0.04 versus CFNB, P=0.01 versus combination). In the 18 to 24 hour period, the ITM group used more morphine than either of the other groups. There were no statistically significant differences in pain ratings or morphine consumption at earlier time intervals. The ITM group were less likely to be able to sit out of bed on day one. Patients who received ITM were more likely to have pruritus. There were no statistically significant differences in nausea, SpO₂or sedation ratings. This study showed that a CFNB resulted in reduced pain and was also associated with less morphine consumption and improved mobilisation at 24 hours compared to ITM. This study did not show any statistically significant differences between CFNB alone and CFNB+ITM.

A Survey on Saffron in Major Islamic Traditional Medicine Books

PubMed Central

Javadi, Behjat; Sahebkar, Amirhossein; Emami, Seyed Ahmad

2013-01-01

Islamic Traditional Medicine (ITM) is a holistic system of medicine. Saffron (Crocus sativus) is one of the most famous plants cultivated in Iran and has a wide range of activities such as oxytocic, anti-carcinogenic, exhilarant, anti-depressant, and anti-asthma effects. In addition, saffron can increase the bioavailability and enhance absorption of other drugs. This study comprises a bibliographical survey of 13 major ITM books regarding different medical aspects of this species. Ferdows al-Hekmah fi’l-Tibb (The Paradise of Wisdom in Medicine), Al-Hawi fi’l-Tibb (Comprehensive Book of Medicine), Kamel al-Sanaat al-Tibbyyah (Complete Book of the Medical Art), Al-Qanun fi’l-Tibb (Canon of Medicine), Zakhireh Kharazmshahi (Treasure of Kharazmshahi), and Makhzan al-Adwiah (Drug Treasure) are some of the most important ITM books used in this survey. PMID:23638288

Comparative and cost effectiveness of telemedicine versus telephone counseling for smoking cessation.

PubMed

Richter, Kimber P; Shireman, Theresa I; Ellerbeck, Edward F; Cupertino, A Paula; Catley, Delwyn; Cox, Lisa Sanderson; Preacher, Kristopher J; Spaulding, Ryan; Mussulman, Laura M; Nazir, Niaman; Hunt, Jamie J; Lambart, Leah

2015-05-08

In rural America, cigarette smoking is prevalent and health care providers lack the time and resources to help smokers quit. Telephone quitlines are important avenues for cessation services in rural areas, but they are poorly integrated with local health care resources. The intent of the study was to assess the comparative effectiveness and cost effectiveness of two models for delivering expert tobacco treatment at a distance: telemedicine counseling that was integrated into smokers' primary care clinics (Integrated Telemedicine-ITM) versus telephone counseling, similar to telephone quitline counseling, delivered to smokers in their homes (Phone). Smokers (n=566) were recruited offline from 20 primary care and safety net clinics across Kansas. They were randomly assigned to receive 4 sessions of ITM or 4 sessions of Phone counseling. Patients in ITM received real-time video counseling, similar to Skype, delivered by computer/webcams in clinic exam rooms. Three full-time equivalent trained counselors delivered the counseling. The counseling duration and content was the same in both groups and was available in Spanish or English. Both groups also received identical materials and assistance in selecting and obtaining cessation medications. The primary outcome was verified 7-day point prevalence smoking abstinence at month 12, using an intent-to-treat analysis. There were no significant baseline differences between groups, and the trial achieved 88% follow-up at 12 months. Verified abstinence at 12 months did not significantly differ between ITM or Phone (9.8%, 27/280 vs 12%, 34/286; P=.406). Phone participants completed somewhat more counseling sessions than ITM (mean 2.6, SD 1.5 vs mean 2.4, SD 1.5; P=.0837); however, participants in ITM were significantly more likely to use cessation medications than participants in Phone (55.9%, 128/280 vs 46.1%, 107/286; P=.03). Compared to Phone participants, ITM participants were significantly more likely to recommend the program to a family member or friend (P=.0075). From the combined provider plus participant (societal) perspective, Phone was significantly less costly than ITM. Participants in ITM had to incur time and mileage costs to travel to clinics for ITM sessions. From the provider perspective, counseling costs were similar between ITM (US $45.46, SD 31.50) and Phone (US $49.58, SD 33.35); however, total provider costs varied widely depending on how the clinic space for delivering ITM was valued. Findings did not support the superiority of ITM over telephone counseling for helping rural patients quit smoking. ITM increased utilization of cessation pharmacotherapy and produced higher participant satisfaction, but Phone counseling was significantly less expensive. Future interventions could combine elements of both approaches to optimize pharmacotherapy utilization, counseling adherence, and satisfaction. Such an approach could commence with a telemedicine-delivered clinic office visit for pharmacotherapy guidance, and continue with telephone or real-time video counseling delivered via mobile phones to flexibly deliver behavioral support to patients where they most need it-in their homes and communities. Clinicaltrials.gov NCT00843505; http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00843505 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6YKSinVZ9).

Comparative and Cost Effectiveness of Telemedicine Versus Telephone Counseling for Smoking Cessation

PubMed Central

Shireman, Theresa I; Ellerbeck, Edward F; Cupertino, A Paula; Catley, Delwyn; Cox, Lisa Sanderson; Preacher, Kristopher J; Spaulding, Ryan; Mussulman, Laura M; Nazir, Niaman; Hunt, Jamie J; Lambart, Leah

2015-01-01

Background In rural America, cigarette smoking is prevalent and health care providers lack the time and resources to help smokers quit. Telephone quitlines are important avenues for cessation services in rural areas, but they are poorly integrated with local health care resources. Objective The intent of the study was to assess the comparative effectiveness and cost effectiveness of two models for delivering expert tobacco treatment at a distance: telemedicine counseling that was integrated into smokers’ primary care clinics (Integrated Telemedicine—ITM) versus telephone counseling, similar to telephone quitline counseling, delivered to smokers in their homes (Phone). Methods Smokers (n=566) were recruited offline from 20 primary care and safety net clinics across Kansas. They were randomly assigned to receive 4 sessions of ITM or 4 sessions of Phone counseling. Patients in ITM received real-time video counseling, similar to Skype, delivered by computer/webcams in clinic exam rooms. Three full-time equivalent trained counselors delivered the counseling. The counseling duration and content was the same in both groups and was available in Spanish or English. Both groups also received identical materials and assistance in selecting and obtaining cessation medications. The primary outcome was verified 7-day point prevalence smoking abstinence at month 12, using an intent-to-treat analysis. Results There were no significant baseline differences between groups, and the trial achieved 88% follow-up at 12 months. Verified abstinence at 12 months did not significantly differ between ITM or Phone (9.8%, 27/280 vs 12%, 34/286; P=.406). Phone participants completed somewhat more counseling sessions than ITM (mean 2.6, SD 1.5 vs mean 2.4, SD 1.5; P=.0837); however, participants in ITM were significantly more likely to use cessation medications than participants in Phone (55.9%, 128/280 vs 46.1%, 107/286; P=.03). Compared to Phone participants, ITM participants were significantly more likely to recommend the program to a family member or friend (P=.0075). From the combined provider plus participant (societal) perspective, Phone was significantly less costly than ITM. Participants in ITM had to incur time and mileage costs to travel to clinics for ITM sessions. From the provider perspective, counseling costs were similar between ITM (US $45.46, SD 31.50) and Phone (US $49.58, SD 33.35); however, total provider costs varied widely depending on how the clinic space for delivering ITM was valued. Conclusions Findings did not support the superiority of ITM over telephone counseling for helping rural patients quit smoking. ITM increased utilization of cessation pharmacotherapy and produced higher participant satisfaction, but Phone counseling was significantly less expensive. Future interventions could combine elements of both approaches to optimize pharmacotherapy utilization, counseling adherence, and satisfaction. Such an approach could commence with a telemedicine-delivered clinic office visit for pharmacotherapy guidance, and continue with telephone or real-time video counseling delivered via mobile phones to flexibly deliver behavioral support to patients where they most need it—in their homes and communities. Trial Registration Clinicaltrials.gov NCT00843505; http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00843505 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6YKSinVZ9). PMID:25956257

Comparing the performance of cluster random sampling and integrated threshold mapping for targeting trachoma control, using computer simulation.

PubMed

Smith, Jennifer L; Sturrock, Hugh J W; Olives, Casey; Solomon, Anthony W; Brooker, Simon J

2013-01-01

Implementation of trachoma control strategies requires reliable district-level estimates of trachomatous inflammation-follicular (TF), generally collected using the recommended gold-standard cluster randomized surveys (CRS). Integrated Threshold Mapping (ITM) has been proposed as an integrated and cost-effective means of rapidly surveying trachoma in order to classify districts according to treatment thresholds. ITM differs from CRS in a number of important ways, including the use of a school-based sampling platform for children aged 1-9 and a different age distribution of participants. This study uses computerised sampling simulations to compare the performance of these survey designs and evaluate the impact of varying key parameters. Realistic pseudo gold standard data for 100 districts were generated that maintained the relative risk of disease between important sub-groups and incorporated empirical estimates of disease clustering at the household, village and district level. To simulate the different sampling approaches, 20 clusters were selected from each district, with individuals sampled according to the protocol for ITM and CRS. Results showed that ITM generally under-estimated the true prevalence of TF over a range of epidemiological settings and introduced more district misclassification according to treatment thresholds than did CRS. However, the extent of underestimation and resulting misclassification was found to be dependent on three main factors: (i) the district prevalence of TF; (ii) the relative risk of TF between enrolled and non-enrolled children within clusters; and (iii) the enrollment rate in schools. Although in some contexts the two methodologies may be equivalent, ITM can introduce a bias-dependent shift as prevalence of TF increases, resulting in a greater risk of misclassification around treatment thresholds. In addition to strengthening the evidence base around choice of trachoma survey methodologies, this study illustrates the use of a simulated approach in addressing operational research questions for trachoma but also other NTDs.

Evaluation of idiopathic transverse myelitis revealing specific myelopathy diagnoses.

PubMed

Zalewski, Nicholas L; Flanagan, Eoin P; Keegan, B Mark

2018-01-09

To evaluate specific myelopathy diagnoses made in patients with suspected idiopathic transverse myelitis (ITM). A total of 226 patients 18 years and older were referred to Mayo Clinic Neurology for suspected ITM from December 1, 2010, to December 31, 2015. Electronic medical records were reviewed for detailed clinical presentation and course, laboratory and electrophysiologic investigations, and neuroimaging to determine the etiology. Current diagnostic criteria for ITM and alternative myelopathy diagnoses were applied. All cases where any discrepancy was suspected from the final reported clinical diagnosis were reviewed by each author and a consensus final diagnosis was made. The diagnostic criteria for ITM were met in 41 of 226 patients (18.1%). In 158 patients (69.9%), an alternative specific myelopathy diagnosis was made: multiple sclerosis or clinically isolated syndrome, 75; vascular myelopathy, 41; neurosarcoidosis, 12; neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder, 12; myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein myelopathy, 5; neoplastic, 4; compressive, 3; nutritional, 3; infectious, 2; and other, 2. A myelopathy was not confirmed in 27 patients. Time from symptom onset to final clinical diagnosis in patients without ITM was a median of 9 months (range 0-288). Fifty-five patients (24%) required treatment changes according to their final clinical diagnosis. The majority of patients with suspected ITM have an alternative specific myelopathy diagnosis. A presumptive diagnosis of ITM can lead to premature diagnostic conclusions affecting patient treatment. Copyright © 2017 American Academy of Neurology.

Effects of injectable trace minerals on humoral and cell-mediated immune responses to Bovine viral diarrhea virus, Bovine herpes virus 1 and Bovine respiratory syncytial virus following administration of a modified-live virus vaccine in dairy calves.

PubMed

Palomares, R A; Hurley, D J; Bittar, J H J; Saliki, J T; Woolums, A R; Moliere, F; Havenga, L J; Norton, N A; Clifton, S J; Sigmund, A B; Barber, C E; Berger, M L; Clark, M J; Fratto, M A

2016-10-01

Our objective was to evaluate the effect of an injectable trace mineral (ITM) supplement containing zinc, manganese, selenium, and copper on the humoral and cell mediated immune (CMI) responses to vaccine antigens in dairy calves receiving a modified-live viral (MLV) vaccine containing BVDV, BHV1, PI3V and BRSV. A total of 30 dairy calves (3.5 months of age) were administered a priming dose of the MLV vaccine containing BHV1, BVDV1 & 2, BRSV, PI3V, and an attenuated-live Mannheimia-Pasteurella bacterin subcutaneously (SQ). Calves were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 groups: (1) administration of ITM SQ (ITM, n=15) or (2) injection of sterile saline SQ (Control; n=15). Three weeks later, calves received a booster of the same vaccine combination SQ, and a second administration of ITM, or sterile saline, according to the treatment group. Blood samples were collected on days 0, 7, 14, 21, 28, 42, 56, and 90 post-vaccination for determination of antibody titer, viral recall antigen-induced IFN-γ production, and viral antigen-induced proliferation by peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). Administration of ITM concurrently with MLV vaccination resulted in higher antibody titers to BVDV1 on day 28 after priming vaccination compared to the control group (P=0.03). Calves treated with ITM showed an earlier enhancement in PBMC proliferation to BVDV1 following vaccination compared to the control group. Proliferation of PBMC after BVDV stimulation tended to be higher on day 14 after priming vaccination in calves treated with ITM than in the control group (P=0.08). Calves that received ITM showed higher PBMC proliferation to BRSV stimulation on day 7 after priming vaccination compared to the control group (P=0.01). Moreover, calves in the ITM group also had an enhanced production IFN-γ by PBMC after stimulation with BRSV on day 21 after priming vaccination compared to day 0 (P<0.01). In conclusion, administration of ITM concurrently with MLV vaccination in dairy calves resulted in increased antibody titer to BVDV1, and greater PBMC proliferation to BVDV1 and BRSV recall stimulation compared to the control group, suggesting that ITM might represent a promising tool to enhance the humoral and CMI responses to MLV vaccines in cattle. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Community cooperatives and insecticide-treated materials for malaria control: a new experience in Latin America.

PubMed

Kroeger, Axel; Aviñna, Ana; Ordoñnez-Gonzalez, José; Escandon, Celia

2002-11-15

Insecticide-treated materials (ITMs) are effective in substantially reducing the burden of malaria and other vector-borne diseases; but how can high coverage rates of ITMs be achieved and maintained? In south Mexico and on the Pacific and Atlantic coasts of Colombia 14 community-based cooperatives offering three different kinds of ITM services (sale of impregnation services; sale of impregnated nets; production of nets and sale of impregnated nets) were formed and supervised by a national health service (IMSS-SOLIDARIDAD, Mexico) and by an academic institution (the Colombian Institute of Tropical Medicine) along with local district health services. The objectives of this research were to analyse the processes and results of this approach and to identify the favourable and limiting factors. The methods used for data collection and analysis were group discussions, individual and semi-structured interviews with users and non-users of ITMs, individual in-depth interviews with cooperative members and supervisors, checks of sales book and observation of impregnation services. Coverage with unimpregnated nets was above 50% in all study areas. The fastest increase of ITM coverage was achieved through the exclusive sale of impregnation services. Low-cost social marketing techniques were used to increase demand. The large-scale production of nets in two cooperatives was only possible with the aid of an international NGO which ordered impregnated bednets for their target group. A number of favourable and limiting factors relating to the success of ITM cooperatives were identified. Of particular importance for the more successful Mexican cooperatives were: a) support by health services, b) smaller size, c) lesser desire for quick returns and d) lower ITM unit costs. ITM community cooperatives supported and supervised by the health services have good potential in the Latin American context for achieving and maintaining high impregnation rates.

Double Versus Single Tendon Transfers to Improve Shoulder Function in Brachial Plexus Birth Palsy.

PubMed

Greenhill, Dustin A; Smith, William R; Ramsey, F V; Kozin, Scott H; Zlotolow, Dan A

2017-03-27

In children with brachial plexus birth palsy (BPBP) undergoing tendon transfers to augment shoulder external rotation, it is unclear whether transfer of the latissimus dorsi with its combined latissimus dorsi and teres major (cLT) versus isolated teres major (iTM) tendon transfer yield different outcomes. Records of patients with BPBP who underwent shoulder tendon transfers to augment external rotation were retrospectively reviewed. Transfer type (cLT or iTM) was considered indiscriminate by virtue of surgeon preference. Modified Mallet Scale (mMS) and Active Movement Scale scores were recorded. Patients with <12 months' follow-up, C7 or lower palsy, humeral osteotomy, shoulder procedure(s) within 8 months, microsurgery within 1 year, or recurrent glenohumeral subluxation confirmed by postoperative imaging were excluded. Matched cohorts were identified within each tendon transfer group to yield similar preoperative shoulder function and glenohumeral alignment status. Outcomes for all tendon transfers as well as differences between cLT and iTM cohorts were analyzed. Among 121 cLT and 34 iTM transfers, 49 cLT and 14 iTM met the inclusion criteria. Subsequent matching of cohorts yielded 28 patients (14 cLT and 14 iTM). Average age at time of transfer was 3.0±1.4 years. Follow-up averaged 4.1±3.1 years. There were no statistically significant preoperative differences between cohorts, thus matching criteria were validated. Regardless of tendon(s) transferred, mMS external rotation improved (2.2 to 3.5, P<0.001), whereas mMS internal rotation decreased (3.8 to 3.2, P<0.001). When comparing matched cohorts, cLT transfer produced a greater mMS external rotation improvement than iTM (2.1 vs. 1.5, respectively; P=0.025). Loss of midline function (defined as mMS external rotation <3) occurred in 5 (35.7%) cLT and 2 (14.3%) iTM patients. Both cLT or iTM transfer are effective at augmenting shoulder external rotation in children with C5-C6 BPBP. Furthermore, cLT transfers may yield a larger improvement in external rotation in certain patients. However, both techniques slightly decrease shoulder internal rotation. Given that more total cLT patients lost midline function among matched cohorts, iTM transfer may still be considered when limited midline function is a concern. Level III.

Paresthesia: A Review of Its Definition, Etiology and Treatments in View of the Traditional Medicine.

PubMed

Emami, Seyed Ahmad; Sahebkar, Amirhossein; Javadi, Behjat

2016-01-01

To search major Islamic Traditional Medicine (ITM) textbooks for definition, etiology and medicinal plants used to manage 'khadar' or 'paresthesia', a common sensory symptom of multiple sclerosis (MS) and peripheral neuropathies. In addition, the conformity of the efficacy of ITM-suggested plants with the findings from modern pharmacological research on MS will be discussed. Data on the medicinal plants used to treat 'khadar' were obtained from major ITM texts. A detailed search in PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus and Google Scholar databases was performed to confirm the effects of ITM-mentioned medicinal plants on MS in view of identified pharmacological actions. Moringa oleifera Lam., Aloe vera (L.) Burm.f., Euphorbia species, Citrullus colocynthis (L.) Schrad., and Costus speciosus (Koen ex. Retz) Sm. are among the most effective ITM plants for the management of 'khadar'. Recent experimental evidence confirms the effectiveness of the mentioned plants in ameliorating MS symptoms. Moreover, according to ITM, prolonged exposure to cold and consuming foodstuff with cold temperament might be involved in the etiopathogenesis of MS. The use of traditional knowledge can help finding neglected risk factors as well as effective and safe therapeutic approaches, phytomedicines and dietary habits for the management of paresthesia and related disorders such as MS.

Development of ITM Oxygen Technology for Low-cost and Low-emission Gasification and Other Industrial Applications

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

Fogash, Kevin

2015-12-15

Air Products carried out a scope of work under DOE Award No. DE-FE0012065 “Development of ITM Oxygen Technology for Low-cost and Low-emission Gasification and Other Industrial Applications” with subcontractors Ceramatec, Penn State, and WorleyParsons. The scope of work under this award was aimed at furthering the development of the Ion Transport Membrane (ITM) Oxygen production process toward a demonstration-scale facility known as the Oxygen Development Facility (ODF). Specific activities will help to enable design and construction of the ODF through advancement of a number of challenging technical elements that are required to manage risk in the initial deployment of ITMmore » technology. Major objectives of the work included developing ITM Oxygen ceramic membrane materials with improved performance and reliability, optimizing ceramic module geometry and fabrication methods, testing module performance, trialing the improved fabrication process at commercial scale in the Ceramic Membrane Module Fabrication Facility (CerFab), and advancing engineering development of the ITM oxygen production process, including vessel design and contaminant control measures to prepare for deployment of the ODF. The comprehensive report that follows details the team’s work, which includes several notable accomplishments: 1) compressive creep, a likely limiter of ceramic module lifetime in service, was demonstrated to be retarded by an order of magnitude by changes in material formulation, module joining dimensions, and internal wafer geometry; 2) two promising new materials were shown to be superior to the incumbent ITM material in a key material parameter related to oxygen flux; 3) module degradation mechanisms were identified following operation in large pilot-scale equipment; 4) options for utilizing ITM in a coal-to-liquids (CTL) facility to enable liquids production with carbon capture were identified and studied; and 5) the benefits of potential improvements to the technology were assessed for their cost impact on ITM Oxygen applications to clean power, fuels, and other applications.« less

Community cooperatives and insecticide-treated materials for malaria control: a new experience in Latin America

PubMed Central

Kroeger, Axel; Aviñna, Ana; Ordoñnez-Gonzalez, José; Escandon, Celia

2002-01-01

Background and objectives Insecticide-treated materials (ITMs) are effective in substantially reducing the burden of malaria and other vector-borne diseases; but how can high coverage rates of ITMs be achieved and maintained? In south Mexico and on the Pacific and Atlantic coasts of Colombia 14 community-based cooperatives offering three different kinds of ITM services (sale of impregnation services; sale of impregnated nets; production of nets and sale of impregnated nets) were formed and supervised by a national health service (IMSS-SOLIDARIDAD, Mexico) and by an academic institution (the Colombian Institute of Tropical Medicine) along with local district health services. The objectives of this research were to analyse the processes and results of this approach and to identify the favourable and limiting factors. Methods The methods used for data collection and analysis were group discussions, individual and semi-structured interviews with users and non-users of ITMs, individual in-depth interviews with cooperative members and supervisors, checks of sales book and observation of impregnation services. Results Coverage with unimpregnated nets was above 50% in all study areas. The fastest increase of ITM coverage was achieved through the exclusive sale of impregnation services. Low-cost social marketing techniques were used to increase demand. The large-scale production of nets in two cooperatives was only possible with the aid of an international NGO which ordered impregnated bednets for their target group. A number of favourable and limiting factors relating to the success of ITM cooperatives were identified. Of particular importance for the more successful Mexican cooperatives were: a) support by health services, b) smaller size, c) lesser desire for quick returns and d) lower ITM unit costs. Conclusions ITM community cooperatives supported and supervised by the health services have good potential in the Latin American context for achieving and maintaining high impregnation rates. PMID:12473181

Development of ITM Oxygen Technology for Low-cost and Low-emission Gasification and Other Industrial Applications

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

Fogash, Kevin

Air Products carried out a scope of work under DOE Award No. DE-FE0012065 “Development of ITM Oxygen Technology for Low-cost and Low-emission Gasification and Other Industrial Applications” with subcontractors Ceramatec, Penn State, and WorleyParsons. The scope of work under this award was aimed at furthering the development of the Ion Transport Membrane (ITM) Oxygen production process toward a demonstration-scale facility known as the Oxygen Development Facility (ODF). Specific activities will help to enable design and construction of the ODF through advancement of a number of challenging technical elements that are required to manage risk in the initial deployment of ITMmore » technology. Major objectives of the work included developing ITM Oxygen ceramic membrane materials with improved performance and reliability, optimizing ceramic module geometry and fabrication methods, testing module performance, trialing the improved fabrication process at commercial scale in the Ceramic Membrane Module Fabrication Facility (CerFab), and advancing engineering development of the ITM oxygen production process, including vessel design and contaminant control measures to prepare for deployment of the ODF. The comprehensive report that follows details the team’s work, which includes several notable accomplishments: 1) compressive creep, a likely limiter of ceramic module lifetime in service, was demonstrated to be retarded by an order of magnitude by changes in material formulation, module joining dimensions, and internal wafer geometry; 2) two promising new materials were shown to be superior to the incumbent ITM material in a key material parameter related to oxygen flux; 3) module degradation mechanisms were identified following operation in large pilot-scale equipment; 4) options for utilizing ITM in a coal-to-liquids (CTL) facility to enable liquids production with carbon capture were identified and studied; and 5) the benefits of potential improvements to the technology were assessed for their cost impact on ITM Oxygen applications to clean power, fuels, and other applications.« less

Effects of hydroxy trace minerals on oxidative metabolism, cytological endometritis, and performance of transition dairy cows.

PubMed

Yasui, T; Ryan, C M; Gilbert, R O; Perryman, K R; Overton, T R

2014-01-01

Multiparous Holstein cows (n=60) were used to determine effects of supplementing hydroxy forms of Zn, Cu, and Mn compared with 2 other common supplementation strategies on oxidative metabolism, cytological endometritis, and performance of transition cows. After a 1-wk pretreatment period, cows were assigned randomly to 1 of 3 dietary treatments from 21 d before expected calving through 84 d postcalving. Dietary treatments administered by daily top-dressing included (1) inorganic sulfate forms of Zn, Cu, and Mn (ITM); (2) a blend (75:25) of sulfates and organic complexes of Zn, Cu, and Mn (ITM/OTM); and (3) hydroxy trace minerals (HTM) of Zn, Cu, and Mn. The resulting dietary concentrations of supplemental Zn, Cu, and Mn were similar among treatments and averaged 40, 10, and 27 mg/kg, respectively, before calving and 59, 15, and 40 mg/kg, respectively, after calving. Total concentrations of Zn, Cu, and Mn averaged 80, 16, and 62 mg/kg during the prepartum period and 102, 23, and 75 mg/kg, respectively, during the postpartum period. Overall, effects of treatment on milk yield and milk composition were not significant. Cows fed HTM during the prepartum period had higher body weight (BW) than those fed ITM during the prepartum period and had higher BW during the postpartum period than those fed the other treatments; however, BW change, body condition score, and body condition score change were not affected by treatment. Plasma total antioxidant capacity was lower in cows fed HTM than ITM but was not different from cows fed ITM/OTM. Cows fed HTM tended to have lower concentrations of plasma thiobarbituric acid reactive substances than those fed ITM during the whole study period, but plasma thiobarbituric acid reactive substances were not different between HTM and ITM/OTM. Plasma haptoglobin was lower in cows fed HTM than ITM/OTM at 1 wk postpartum. Endometrial cytology 7d postcalving and cytological endometritis as assessed on 1d between 40 and 60 d postcalving was not affected by treatment. In conclusion, supplementation with HTM sources of Zn, Cu, and Mn modulated plasma variables related to oxidative metabolism compared with supplementation with ITM; however, HTM and ITM/OTM resulted in similar responses. Furthermore, the source of trace minerals did not affect performance or uterine health in this experiment. Copyright © 2014 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Caspase-9 mediates synaptic plasticity and memory deficits of Danish dementia knock-in mice: caspase-9 inhibition provides therapeutic protection.

PubMed

Tamayev, Robert; Akpan, Nsikan; Arancio, Ottavio; Troy, Carol M; D'Adamio, Luciano

2012-12-10

Mutations in either Aβ Precursor protein (APP) or genes that regulate APP processing, such as BRI2/ITM2B and PSEN1/PSEN2, cause familial dementias. Although dementias due to APP/PSEN1/PSEN2 mutations are classified as familial Alzheimer disease (FAD) and those due to mutations in BRI2/ITM2B as British and Danish dementias (FBD, FDD), data suggest that these diseases have a common pathogenesis involving toxic APP metabolites. It was previously shown that FAD mutations in APP and PSENs promote activation of caspases leading to the hypothesis that aberrant caspase activation could participate in AD pathogenesis. Here, we tested whether a similar mechanism applies to the Danish BRI2/ITM2B mutation. We have generated a genetically congruous mouse model of FDD, called FDD(KI), which presents memory and synaptic plasticity deficits. We found that caspase-9 is activated in hippocampal synaptic fractions of FDD(KI) mice and inhibition of caspase-9 activity rescues both synaptic plasticity and memory deficits. These data directly implicate caspase-9 in the pathogenesis of Danish dementia and suggest that reducing caspase-9 activity is a valid therapeutic approach to treating human dementias.

Caspase-9 mediates synaptic plasticity and memory deficits of Danish dementia knock-in mice: caspase-9 inhibition provides therapeutic protection

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background Mutations in either Aβ Precursor protein (APP) or genes that regulate APP processing, such as BRI2/ITM2B and PSEN1/PSEN2, cause familial dementias. Although dementias due to APP/PSEN1/PSEN2 mutations are classified as familial Alzheimer disease (FAD) and those due to mutations in BRI2/ITM2B as British and Danish dementias (FBD, FDD), data suggest that these diseases have a common pathogenesis involving toxic APP metabolites. It was previously shown that FAD mutations in APP and PSENs promote activation of caspases leading to the hypothesis that aberrant caspase activation could participate in AD pathogenesis. Results Here, we tested whether a similar mechanism applies to the Danish BRI2/ITM2B mutation. We have generated a genetically congruous mouse model of FDD, called FDDKI, which presents memory and synaptic plasticity deficits. We found that caspase-9 is activated in hippocampal synaptic fractions of FDDKI mice and inhibition of caspase-9 activity rescues both synaptic plasticity and memory deficits. Conclusion These data directly implicate caspase-9 in the pathogenesis of Danish dementia and suggest that reducing caspase-9 activity is a valid therapeutic approach to treating human dementias. PMID:23217200

RHODES-ITMS-MILOS : ramp metering system test

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2002-04-01

The RHODES-Integrated Traffic Management System Program addresses the design and development of a real-time traffic adaptive control system for an integrated system of freeways and arterial roads. The goals of this project were to test coordinated, a...

Comparative evaluation of three different ELISA assays and HPLC-ESI-ITMS/MS for the analysis of Nε-carboxymethyl lysine in food samples.

PubMed

Gómez-Ojeda, Armando; Jaramillo-Ortíz, Sarahi; Wrobel, Katarzyna; Wrobel, Kazimierz; Barbosa-Sabanero, Gloria; Luevano-Contreras, Claudia; de la Maza, Maria Pia; Uribarri, Jaime; Del Castillo, Ma Dolores; Garay-Sevilla, Ma Eugenia

2018-03-15

N ε -carboxymethyl-lysine (CML) is measured in food, but there is a controversy concerning the most convenient yet reliable method(s) for this task. This work compares three different ELISA assays and HPLC-ESI-ITMS/MS for the analysis of CML in several food items. The four methods showed the same decreasing order of CML concentration: beef, bacon>chicken > fish>dairy products>grain products>fruits/vegetables. HPLC-ESI-ITMS/MS results highly correlated with those obtained by ELISA performed with monoclonal CML-antibody (β=0.98, p<0.0001) whereas My Bio Source® kit results were not correlated with those provided by Lamider®. Small differences of CML concentrations in food items prepared by different culinary treatment were clearly distinguished by HPLC-ESI-ITMS/MS, but could not always be detected by ELISA. This work demonstrates a reasonable relationship between CM determined by ELISA and HPLC-ESI-ITMS/MS and therefore supports the implementation of ELISA in food CML/AGEs screening. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Medicinal Herbs in Iranian Traditional Medicine for Learning and Memory.

PubMed

Shojaii, Asie; Ghods, Roshanak; Fard, Mehri Abdollahi

2016-05-01

A few factors such as age, stress, and emotions may lead to impaired learning, memory loss, amnesia, and dementia or threats like schizophrenia and Alzheimer's disease (AD). Iranian traditional medicine (ITM) recommends some herbs and herbal preparations for the treatment or prevention of CNS problems. In this study, scientific evidence related to the effectiveness of ITM herbal medicine on memory, learning and AD is reviewed. The scientific evidence of plant efficacy was searched in electronic databases including PubMed, Scopus, SID, Science Direct, and Google Scholar by keywords such as memory, Alzheimer, amnesia, learning and scientific plant names from 1969 to 2014. The findings of this study confirmed the effectiveness of certain ITM medicinal plants on enhancing memory and learning or in the treatment/prevention of amnesia and AD. Some ITM plants like Melissa officinalis, Crocus sativus and Nigella sativa showed improving effects on memory and the treatment of AD in clinical trials. In some cases, active principles responsible for the efficacy of these plants on memory were also determined. Most of the studies on ITM plants were designed in animal models and a few herbs were evaluated in clinical trials on AD. Furthermore, there are insufficient or no investigations on certain herbal medicines used in ITM to confirm their effectiveness on memory and learning. Therefore, further experimental and clinical studies are necessary to evaluate the effectiveness of these plants on memory and AD as well as determining their active components.

Oxygen Distributions-Evaluation of Computational Methods, Using a Stochastic Model for Large Tumour Vasculature, to Elucidate the Importance of Considering a Complete Vascular Network.

PubMed

Lagerlöf, Jakob H; Bernhardt, Peter

2016-01-01

To develop a general model that utilises a stochastic method to generate a vessel tree based on experimental data, and an associated irregular, macroscopic tumour. These will be used to evaluate two different methods for computing oxygen distribution. A vessel tree structure, and an associated tumour of 127 cm3, were generated, using a stochastic method and Bresenham's line algorithm to develop trees on two different scales and fusing them together. The vessel dimensions were adjusted through convolution and thresholding and each vessel voxel was assigned an oxygen value. Diffusion and consumption were modelled using a Green's function approach together with Michaelis-Menten kinetics. The computations were performed using a combined tree method (CTM) and an individual tree method (ITM). Five tumour sub-sections were compared, to evaluate the methods. The oxygen distributions of the same tissue samples, using different methods of computation, were considerably less similar (root mean square deviation, RMSD≈0.02) than the distributions of different samples using CTM (0.001< RMSD<0.01). The deviations of ITM from CTM increase with lower oxygen values, resulting in ITM severely underestimating the level of hypoxia in the tumour. Kolmogorov Smirnov (KS) tests showed that millimetre-scale samples may not represent the whole. The stochastic model managed to capture the heterogeneous nature of hypoxic fractions and, even though the simplified computation did not considerably alter the oxygen distribution, it leads to an evident underestimation of tumour hypoxia, and thereby radioresistance. For a trustworthy computation of tumour oxygenation, the interaction between adjacent microvessel trees must not be neglected, why evaluation should be made using high resolution and the CTM, applied to the entire tumour.

Oxygen Distributions—Evaluation of Computational Methods, Using a Stochastic Model for Large Tumour Vasculature, to Elucidate the Importance of Considering a Complete Vascular Network

PubMed Central

Bernhardt, Peter

2016-01-01

Purpose To develop a general model that utilises a stochastic method to generate a vessel tree based on experimental data, and an associated irregular, macroscopic tumour. These will be used to evaluate two different methods for computing oxygen distribution. Methods A vessel tree structure, and an associated tumour of 127 cm3, were generated, using a stochastic method and Bresenham’s line algorithm to develop trees on two different scales and fusing them together. The vessel dimensions were adjusted through convolution and thresholding and each vessel voxel was assigned an oxygen value. Diffusion and consumption were modelled using a Green’s function approach together with Michaelis-Menten kinetics. The computations were performed using a combined tree method (CTM) and an individual tree method (ITM). Five tumour sub-sections were compared, to evaluate the methods. Results The oxygen distributions of the same tissue samples, using different methods of computation, were considerably less similar (root mean square deviation, RMSD≈0.02) than the distributions of different samples using CTM (0.001< RMSD<0.01). The deviations of ITM from CTM increase with lower oxygen values, resulting in ITM severely underestimating the level of hypoxia in the tumour. Kolmogorov Smirnov (KS) tests showed that millimetre-scale samples may not represent the whole. Conclusions The stochastic model managed to capture the heterogeneous nature of hypoxic fractions and, even though the simplified computation did not considerably alter the oxygen distribution, it leads to an evident underestimation of tumour hypoxia, and thereby radioresistance. For a trustworthy computation of tumour oxygenation, the interaction between adjacent microvessel trees must not be neglected, why evaluation should be made using high resolution and the CTM, applied to the entire tumour. PMID:27861529

The biology of Theileria parva and control of East Coast fever - Current status and future trends.

PubMed

Nene, Vishvanath; Kiara, Henry; Lacasta, Anna; Pelle, Roger; Svitek, Nicholas; Steinaa, Lucilla

2016-06-01

Tremendous progress has been made over the last ten years on East Coast fever (ECF) research. Publication of a reference genome sequence of Theileria parva, the causative agent of ECF, has led to a more thorough characterization of the genotypic and antigenic diversity of the pathogen. It also facilitated identification of antigens that are targets of bovine major histocompatibility complex class I restricted cytotoxic T-lymphocytes (CTLs), induced by a live parasite-based infection and treatment method (ITM) vaccine. This has led to improved knowledge of epitope-specific T-cell responses to ITM that most likely contribute to the phenomenon of strain-specific immunity. The Muguga cocktail ITM vaccine, which provides broad-spectrum immunity to ECF is now a registered product in three countries in eastern Africa. Effort is directed at improving and scaling up the production process to make this vaccine more widely available on a commercial basis in the region. Meanwhile, research to develop a subunit vaccine based on parasite neutralizing antibodies and CTLs has been revived through convening of a research consortium to develop proof-of-concept for a next generation vaccine. Many new scientific and technical advances are facilitating this objective. Hence, the next decade promises even more progress toward an improved control of ECF. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier GmbH.. All rights reserved.

Intrathecal morphine for postoperative pain control following robot-assisted prostatectomy: a prospective randomized trial.

PubMed

Bae, Junyeol; Kim, Hyun-Chang; Hong, Deok Man

2017-08-01

Robot-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy (RALP) is minimally invasive surgery, but also causes moderate to severe pain during the immediate postoperative period. We evaluated the efficacy and safety of intrathecal morphine (ITM) for postoperative pain control in patients undergoing RALP. Thirty patients scheduled for RALP were randomly assigned into one of two groups. In the ITM group (n = 15), postoperative pain was managed using 300 µg intrathecal morphine with intravenous patient-controlled analgesia (IV-PCA). In the IV-PCA group (n = 15), only intravenous patient-controlled analgesia was used. The numerical pain score (NPS; 0 = no pain, 100 = worst pain imaginable), postoperative IV-PCA requirements and opioid-related complications including nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headache and pruritus were compared between the two groups. The NPSs on coughing were 20 (IQR 10-50) in the ITM group and 60 (IQR 40-80) in the IV-PCA group at postoperative 24 h (p = 0.001). The NPSs were significantly lower in the ITM group up to postoperative 24 h. The ITM group showed less morphine consumption at postoperative 24 h in the ITM group than in the IV-PCA group [5 (IQR 3-15) mg vs 17 (IQR 11-24) mg, p = 0.001]. Complications associated with morphine were comparable between the two groups and respiratory depression was not reported in either group. Intrathecal morphine provided more satisfactory analgesia without serious complications during the early postoperative period in patients undergoing RALP.

Supporting ITM Missions by Observing System Simulation Experiments: Initial Design, Challenges and Perspectives

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yudin, V. A.; England, S.; Matsuo, T.; Wang, H.; Immel, T. J.; Eastes, R.; Akmaev, R. A.; Goncharenko, L. P.; Fuller-Rowell, T. J.; Liu, H.; Solomon, S. C.; Wu, Q.

2014-12-01

We review and discuss the capability of novel configurations of global community (WACCM-X and TIME-GCM) and planned-operational (WAM) models to support current and forthcoming space-borne missions to monitor the dynamics and composition of the Ionosphere-Thermosphere-Mesosphere (ITM) system. In the specified meteorology model configuration of WACCM-X, the lower atmosphere is constrained by operational analyses and/or short-term forecasts provided by the Goddard Earth Observing System (GEOS-5) of GMAO/NASA/GSFC. With the terrestrial weather of GEOS-5 and updated model physics, WACCM-X simulations are capable to reproduce the observed signatures of the perturbed wave dynamics and ion-neutral coupling during recent (2006-2013) stratospheric warming events, short-term, annual and year-to-year variability of prevailing flows, planetary waves, tides, and composition. With assimilation of the NWP data in the troposphere and stratosphere the planned-operational configuration of WAM can also recreate the observed features of the ITM day-to-day variability. These "terrestrial-weather" driven whole atmosphere simulations, with day-to-day variable solar and geomagnetic inputs, can provide specification of the background state (first guess) and errors for the inverse algorithms of forthcoming NASA ITM missions, such as ICON and GOLD. With two different viewing geometries (sun-synchronous, for ICON and geostationary for GOLD) these missions promise to perform complimentary global observations of temperature, winds and constituents to constrain the first-principle space weather forecast models. The paper will discuss initial designs of Observing System Simulation Experiments (OSSE) in the coupled simulations of TIME-GCM/WACCM-X/GEOS5 and WAM/GIP. As recognized, OSSE represent an excellent learning tool for designing and evaluating observing capabilities of novel sensors. The choice of assimilation schemes, forecast and observational errors will be discussed along with challenges and perspectives to constrain fast-varying dynamics of tides and planetary waves by observations made from sun-synchronous and geostationary space-borne platforms. We will also discuss how correlative space-borne and ground-based observations can evaluate OSSE results.

Live immunization against East Coast fever--current status.

PubMed

Di Giulio, Giuseppe; Lynen, Godelieve; Morzaria, Subhash; Oura, Chris; Bishop, Richard

2009-02-01

The infection-and-treatment method (ITM) for immunization of cattle against East Coast fever has historically been used only on a limited scale because of logistical and policy constraints. Recent large-scale deployment among pastoralists in Tanzania has stimulated demand. Concurrently, a suite of molecular tools, developed from the Theileria parva genome, has enabled improved quality control of the immunizing stabilate and post-immunization monitoring of the efficacy and biological impact of ITM in the field. This article outlines the current status of ITM immunization in the field, with associated developments in the molecular epidemiology of T. parva.

Sustainable use of resources : recycling of sewage treatment plant water in concrete

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2010-06-28

Our transportation system is made up of many parts: roadways, buses, trains, ships, airports, bike and pedestrian paths, park-and-rides, etc. The Integrated Transportation Management System (ITMS) looks at transportation as a whole and uses modern te...

Fast detection of narcotics by single photon ionization mass spectrometry and laser ion mobility spectrometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Laudien, Robert; Schultze, Rainer; Wieser, Jochen

2010-10-01

In this contribution two analytical devices for the fast detection of security-relevant substances like narcotics and explosives are presented. One system is based on an ion trap mass spectrometer (ITMS) with single photon ionization (SPI). This soft ionization technique, unlike electron impact ionization (EI), reduces unwanted fragment ions in the mass spectra allowing the clear determination of characteristic (usually molecular) ions. Their enrichment in the ion trap and identification by tandem MS investigations (MS/MS) enables the detection of the target substances in complex matrices at low concentrations without time-consuming sample preparation. For SPI an electron beam pumped excimer light source of own fabrication (E-Lux) is used. The SPI-ITMS system was characterized by the analytical study of different drugs like cannabis, heroin, cocaine, amphetamines, and some precursors. Additionally, it was successfully tested on-site in a closed illegal drug laboratory, where low quantities of MDMA could be directly detected in samples from floors, walls and lab equipments. The second analytical system is based on an ion mobility (IM) spectrometer with resonant multiphoton ionization (REMPI). With the frequency quadrupled Nd:YAG laser (266 nm), used for ionization, a selective and sensitive detection of aromatic compounds is possible. By application of suited aromatic dopants, in addition, also non-aromatic polar compounds are accessible by ion molecule reactions like proton transfer or complex formation. Selected drug precursors could be successfully detected with this device as well, qualifying it to a lower-priced alternative or useful supplement of the SPI-ITMS system for security analysis.

Medicinal Plants Used in Iranian Traditional Medicine (ITM) as Contraceptive Agents.

PubMed

Sabourian, Reyhaneh; Karimpour-Razkenari, Elahe; Saeedi, Mina; Bagheri, Maryam S; Khanavi, Mahnaz; Sadati, Narges; Akbarzadeh, Tahmineh; Ardekani, Mohammad R S

In recent years, rapid population growth and unsafe abortions have emerged as controversial health issues in some countries. Hence, safe and effective contraceptive methods or agents have attracted a great deal of attention and the corresponding market has been widely expanded. In this study, we present a review profiting from Iranian Traditional Medicine (ITM) to introduce expedient plants as efficient contraceptive agents. Medicinal plants suggested as contraceptive agents were obtained from ITM text books and they were also investigated using search engines to confirm their in vitro and in vivo efficacy. According to credible Iranian medical literature a wide spectrum of plants possesses contraceptive activity and among them, Ruta graveolens, Ricinus communis, Piper nigrum, and Physalis alkekengi were found to be more efficient. Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM), particularly herbal remedies have received a lot of attention because of their truly healing properties. Focusing on ITM knowledge, there are various comments based on medicinal plants to reduce unsafe abortions leading to better public health in the society.

Interaction of ApoE3 and ApoE4 isoforms with an ITM2b/BRI2 mutation linked to the Alzheimer disease-like Danish dementia: Effects on learning and memory

PubMed Central

Biundo, Fabrizio; Ishiwari, Keita; Del Prete, Dolores; D’Adamio, Luciano

2015-01-01

Mutations in Amyloid β Precursor Protein (APP) and in genes that regulate APP processing – such as PSEN1/2 and ITM2b/BRI2 – cause familial dementia, such Familial Alzheimer disease (FAD), Familial Danish (FDD) and British (FBD) dementias. The ApoE gene is the major genetic risk factor for sporadic AD. Three major variants of ApoE exist in humans (ApoE2, ApoE3, and ApoE4), with the ApoE4 allele being strongly associated with AD. ITM2b/BRI2 is also a candidate regulatory node genes predicted to mediate the common patterns of gene expression shared by healthy ApoE4 carriers and late-onset AD patients not carrying ApoE4. This evidence provides a direct link between ITM2b/BRI2 and ApoE4. To test whether ApoE4 and pathogenic ITM2b/BRI2 interact to modulate learning and memory, we crossed a mouse carrying the ITM2b/BRI2 mutations that causes FDD knocked-in the endogenous mouse Itm2b/Bri2 gene (FDDKI mice) with human ApoE3 and ApoE4 targeted replacement mice. The resultant ApoE3, FDDKI/ApoE3, ApoE4, FDDKI/ApoE4 male mice were assessed longitudinally for learning and memory at 4, 6, 12, and 16– 17 months of age. The results showed that ApoE4-carrying mice displayed spatial working/short-term memory deficits relative to ApoE3-carrying mice starting in early middle age, while long-term spatial memory of ApoE4 mice was not adversely affected even at 16–17 months, and that the FDD mutation impaired working/short-term spatial memory in ApoE3-carrying mice and produced impaired long-term spatial memory in ApoE4-carrying mice in middle age. The present results suggest that the FDD mutation may differentially affect learning and memory in ApoE4 carriers and non-carriers. PMID:26528887

Interaction of ApoE3 and ApoE4 isoforms with an ITM2b/BRI2 mutation linked to the Alzheimer disease-like Danish dementia: Effects on learning and memory.

PubMed

Biundo, Fabrizio; Ishiwari, Keita; Del Prete, Dolores; D'Adamio, Luciano

2015-12-01

Mutations in Amyloid β Precursor Protein (APP) and in genes that regulate APP processing--such as PSEN1/2 and ITM2b/BRI2--cause familial dementia, such Familial Alzheimer disease (FAD), Familial Danish (FDD) and British (FBD) dementias. The ApoE gene is the major genetic risk factor for sporadic AD. Three major variants of ApoE exist in humans (ApoE2, ApoE3, and ApoE4), with the ApoE4 allele being strongly associated with AD. ITM2b/BRI2 is also a candidate regulatory node genes predicted to mediate the common patterns of gene expression shared by healthy ApoE4 carriers and late-onset AD patients not carrying ApoE4. This evidence provides a direct link between ITM2b/BRI2 and ApoE4. To test whether ApoE4 and pathogenic ITM2b/BRI2 interact to modulate learning and memory, we crossed a mouse carrying the ITM2b/BRI2 mutations that causes FDD knocked-in the endogenous mouse Itm2b/Bri2 gene (FDDKI mice) with human ApoE3 and ApoE4 targeted replacement mice. The resultant ApoE3, FDDKI/ApoE3, ApoE4, FDDKI/ApoE4 male mice were assessed longitudinally for learning and memory at 4, 6, 12, and 16-17 months of age. The results showed that ApoE4-carrying mice displayed spatial working/short-term memory deficits relative to ApoE3-carrying mice starting in early middle age, while long-term spatial memory of ApoE4 mice was not adversely affected even at 16-17 months, and that the FDD mutation impaired working/short-term spatial memory in ApoE3-carrying mice and produced impaired long-term spatial memory in ApoE4-carrying mice in middle age. The present results suggest that the FDD mutation may differentially affect learning and memory in ApoE4 carriers and non-carriers. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Differential role of calpain-dependent protein cleavage in intermediate and long-term operant memory in Aplysia.

PubMed

Lyons, Lisa C; Gardner, Jacob S; Lentsch, Cassidy T; Gandour, Catherine E; Krishnan, Harini C; Noakes, Eric J

2017-01-01

In addition to protein synthesis, protein degradation or protein cleavage may be necessary for intermediate (ITM) and long-term memory (LTM) to remove molecular constraints, facilitate persistent kinase activity and modulate synaptic plasticity. Calpains, a family of conserved calcium dependent cysteine proteases, modulate synaptic function through protein cleavage. We used the marine mollusk Aplysia californica to investigate the in vivo role of calpains during intermediate and long-term operant memory formation using the learning that food is inedible (LFI) paradigm. A single LFI training session, in which the animal associates a specific netted seaweed with the failure to swallow, generates short (30min), intermediate (4-6h) and long-term (24h) memory. Using the calpain inhibitors calpeptin and MDL-28170, we found that ITM requires calpain activity for induction and consolidation similar to the previously reported requirements for persistent protein kinase C activity in intermediate-term LFI memory. The induction of LTM also required calpain activity. In contrast to ITM, calpain activity was not necessary for the molecular consolidation of LTM. Surprisingly, six hours after LFI training we found that calpain activity was necessary for LTM, although this is a time at which neither persistent PKC activity nor protein synthesis is required for the maintenance of long-term LFI memory. These results demonstrate that calpains function in multiple roles in vivo during associative memory formation. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

New SuperDARN Radar Capabilities for Observing Ionospheric Plasma Convection and ITM Coupling in the Mid-Latitude Ionosphere

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ruohoniemi, J. M.; Baker, J. B.; Greenwald, R. A.; Clausen, L. B.; Shepherd, S. G.; Bristow, W. A.; Talaat, E. R.; Barnes, R. J.

2010-12-01

Within the past year the first pair of SuperDARN radars funded under the NSF MSI program has become operational at a site near Hays, Kansas. The fields of view of the co-located radars are oriented to provide common-volume observations with two existing radars in Virginia (Wallops, Blackstone) and two MSI radars under construction in Oregon (Christmas Valley). The emerging mid-latitude radar chain will complement the existing SuperDARN coverage at polar cap and auroral latitudes within North America. The mid-latitude radars observe the expansion of auroral effects during disturbed periods, subauroral polarization streams, and small-scale ionospheric irregularities on the nightside that open a window on the plasma drifts and electric fields of the quiet-time subauroral ionosphere. They also measure neutral winds at mesospheric heights and the propagation of ionospheric disturbances due to the passage of atmospheric gravity waves. The new radar capabilities provide unprecedented views of ITM processes in the subauroral ionosphere with applications to studies of ionospheric electric fields, ion-neutral coupling, atmospheric tides and planetary waves, ionospheric plasma structuring and plasma instability. In this talk we describe the new capabilities and the potential for providing large-scale context for related ITM measurements over North America. We present the first high-resolution two-dimensional maps of ionospheric plasma convection at mid-latitudes as generated from common-volume observations with the Hays and Blackstone radars.

Framework for Mapping of Receiver Interference Tolerance Masks to Tolerable Effective Isotropic Radiated Power Levels : GPS ABC Workshop V RTCA Washington, DC October 14, 2016.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2016-10-14

Outline : : Interference Tolerance Mask (ITM) to Effective Isotropic Radiated Power (IRP) for the particular case of a single transmitter : : ITM() to IRP() for the general case of multiple transmitters : : Input parameters needed to solv...

It's a Trap! A Review of MOMA and Other Ion Traps in Space or Under Development

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Arevalo, R., Jr.; Brinckerhoff, W. B.; Mahaffy, P. R.; van Amerom, F. H. W.; Danell, R. M.; Pinnick, V. T.; Li, X.; Hovmand, L.; Getty, S. A.; Goesmann, F.;

Progress in Ion Transport Membranes for Gas Separation Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bose, Arun C.; Stiegel, Gary J.; Armstrong, Phillip A.; Halper, Barry J.; (Ted) Foster, E. P.

This chapter describes the evolution and advances of ion transport membranes for gas separation applications, especially separation of oxygen from air. In partnership with the US Department of Energy (DOE), Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. (Air Products) successfully developed a novel class of mixed ion-electron conducting materials and membrane architecture. These novel materials are referred to as ion transport membranes (ITM). Generically, ITMs consist of modified perovskite and brownmillerite oxide solid electrolytes and provide high oxygen anion and electron conduction typically at high temperatures driven by an oxygen potential gradient without the need for external power. The partial pressure ratio across the ITM layer creates the driving force for oxygen separation.

Role of Proteasome-Dependent Protein Degradation in Long-Term Operant Memory in "Aplysia"

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lyons, Lisa C.; Gardner, Jacob S.; Gandour, Catherine E.; Krishnan, Harini C.

2017-01-01

We investigated the in vivo role of protein degradation during intermediate (ITM) and long-term memory (LTM) in "Aplysia" using an operant learning paradigm. The proteasome inhibitor MG-132 inhibited the induction and molecular consolidation of LTM with no effect on ITM. Remarkably, maintenance of steady-state protein levels through…

Integrated Thermal Modules for Cooling Silicon and Silicon Carbide Power Modules

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-06-11

analyses, bench tests, and motor tests comprise the program. The ITMs, in place of standard heatsinks, use a highly conductive pyrolytic graphite to...passively cool power modules. Initial results show that even simple ITMs can lower chip temperatures by 20 deg. C and 10 deg. C with engine oil and

76 FR 9020 - Disease, Disability, and Injury Prevention and Control; Special Emphasis Panel (SEP): Ability of...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-02-16

... Integrated Tick Management (ITM) Technologies To Reduce the Entomological Risk of Lyme Disease, Funding... Tick Management (ITM) Technologies To Reduce the Entomological Risk of Lyme Disease, FOA CK11-005...), Title 5 U.S.C., and the Determination of the Director, Management Analysis and Services Office, CDC...

Online in-tube microextractor coupled with UV-Vis spectrophotometer for bisphenol A detection.

PubMed

Poorahong, Sujittra; Thammakhet, Chongdee; Thavarungkul, Panote; Kanatharana, Proespichaya

2013-01-01

A simple and high extraction efficiency online in-tube microextractor (ITME) was developed for bisphenol A (BPA) detection in water samples. The ITME was fabricated by a stepwise electrodeposition of polyaniline, polyethylene glycol and polydimethylsiloxane composite (CPANI) inside a silico-steel tube. The obtained ITME coupled with UV-Vis detection at 278 nm was investigated. By this method, the extraction and pre-concentration of BPA in water were carried out in a single step. Under optimum conditions, the system provided a linear dynamic range of 0.1 to 100 μM with a limit of detection of 20 nM (S/N ≥3). A single in-tube microextractor had a good stability of more than 60 consecutive injections for 10.0 μM BPA with a relative standard deviation of less than 4%. Moreover, a good tube-to-tube reproducibility and precision were obtained. The system was applied to detect BPA in water samples from six brands of baby bottles and the results showed good agreement with those obtained from the conventional GC-MS method. Acceptable percentage recoveries from the spiked water samples were obtained, ranging from 83-102% for this new method compared with 73-107% for the GC-MS standard method. This new in-tube CPANI microextractor provided an excellent extraction efficiency and a good reproducibility. In addition, it can also be easily applied for the analysis of other polar organic compounds contaminated in water sample.

Micro-segmental hair analysis for proving drug-facilitated crimes: Evidence that a victim ingested a sleeping aid, diphenhydramine, on a specific day.

PubMed

Kuwayama, Kenji; Nariai, Maika; Miyaguchi, Hajime; Iwata, Yuko T; Kanamori, Tatsuyuki; Tsujikawa, Kenji; Yamamuro, Tadashi; Segawa, Hiroki; Abe, Hiroko; Iwase, Hirotaro; Inoue, Hiroyuki

2018-07-01

Sleeping aids are often abused in the commission of drug-facilitated crimes. Generally, there is little evidence that a victim ingested a spiked drink unknowingly because the unconscious victim cannot report the situation to the police immediately after the crime occurred. Although conventional segmental hair analysis can estimate the number of months since a targeted drug was ingested, this analysis cannot determine the specific day of ingestion. We recently developed a method of micro-segmental hair analysis using internal temporal markers (ITMs) to estimate the day of drug ingestion. This method was based on volunteer ingestion of ITMs to determine a timescale within individual hair strands, by segmenting a single hair strand at 0.4-mm intervals, corresponding to daily hair growth. This study assessed the ability of this method to estimate the day of ingestion of an over-the-counter sleeping aid, diphenhydramine, which can be easily abused. To model ingestion of a diphenhydramine-spiked drink unknowingly, each subject ingested a dose of diphenhydramine, followed by ingestion of two doses of the ITM, chlorpheniramine, 14days apart. Several hair strands were collected from each subject's scalp several weeks after the second ITM ingestion. Diphenhydramine and ITM were detected at specific regions within individual hair strands. The day of diphenhydramine ingestion was estimated from the distances between the regions and the days of ITM ingestion. The error between estimated and actual ingestion day ranged from -0.1 to 1.9days regardless of subjects and hair collection times. The total time required for micro-segmental analysis of 96 hair segments (hair length: 3.84cm) was approximately 2days and the cost was almost the same as in general drug analysis. This procedure may be applicable to the investigation of crimes facilitated by various drugs. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Fast Uncooled Low Density FPA of VPD PbSe for Applications in Hyperspectral Imagery

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-10-01

Marañosa (ITM-CIDA). Area de Optronica y Acustica Unidad de Sensores y Micro-Nano Tecnologia Arturo Soria, 289 E-28033 Madrid, Spain ABSTRACT...ADDRESS(ES) Instituto Tecnologico de la Marañosa (ITM-CIDA). Area de Optronica y Acustica Unidad de Sensores y Micro-Nano Tecnologia Arturo Soria, 289

Military Housing Inspection-Camp Buehring, Kuwait

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-09-30

General DPW Director Public Works FAS Fire Alarm System HVAC Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning IAW In Accordance With ITM Inspection...safety policies and standards regarding electrical and fire protection systems . Findings We found significant deficiencies in electrical and fire...protection systems during the physical inspections of the U.S. military-occupied facilities at Camp Buehring. We identified a total of 538

A Sundial-Atlas Precursor to the TIMED Mission: A Quick-Response Global Investigation into Coupled Lower Thermospheric, Ionospheric, and Mesospheric Physics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Szuszczewicz, E. P.

1996-01-01

The SUNDIAL-ATLAS effort was a global-scale investigation which responded to the science priorities of the ITM Panel, the Integrated SPD Strategy Implementation Plan as a whole, and the need for potential cost-saving design criteria for the TIMED mission. The investigation focused on coupling processes in the ionospheric-thermospheric system, taking advantage of the timelines of the ATLAS-1 mission (March 1992), and the global-scale ground-based measurement and modeling activities of the SUNDIAL program. The collaborative SUNDIAL-ATLAS activity was the first opportunity for global measurements of the chemistry, kinetics, and electrodynamics which couple the E-, Fl-, and F2-regions into a single interactive system. As such, the program represented an important first step in studying global issues; and accordingly, was an important proof of concept experiment relevant to the strategic mission plans for the ITM community and the upcoming intermediate class satellite program called TIMED. To meet its projected goals, TIMED must perform a number of critical measurements and execute a number of correlations that were to be tried and tested for the first time in the SUNDIAL-ATLAS investigation. This was designed to include global correlations of thermospheric and ionospheric composition during quiet and disturbed conditions and the co-registration of global-scale ground-based measurements with along-track satellite diagnostics. The SUNDIAL component of the current investigation addressed this need by acquiring, reducing, and analyzing a multi-sensor database that complemented and extended that which was generated in the ATLAS mission (Atmospheric Laboratory for Applications and Science). The SUNDIAL data defined the state and condition of the global-scale ionosphere in the altitude range from 100 km to the F2-peak. These data specified the peak heights and densities of the E-, Fl-, and F2-regions, along with the global distributions of intermediate, descending, and sequential layers which play a critical role in the dynamo region of the lower ionospheric-thermospheric domain. The data were collected by the SUNDIAL network of more than 50 ground-based stations utilizing ionosondes, radars, photometers, Fabry-Perot interferometers, and total electron content measurements. The data were acquired during a three-week period centered on the eight-day ATLAS-1 mission, which provided image and photometric sensing of the altitude distributions of the major and minor ions and neutrals in the ITM system. This report focuses on the scientific contributions of the SUNDIAL component of the overall investigation. Specific findings are described in seven papers (attached) published in the Journal of Geophysical Research.

Longitudinal extensive transverse myelitis (LETM) in children: A twenty-year study from Oman.

PubMed

Koul, Roshan; Alfutaisi, Amna M; Mani, Renjith; Abdel Rahim, Rana A; Sankhla, Dilip K; Al Azri, Faisal M

2017-04-01

The data on children with diagnosis of idiopathic transverse myelitis (ITM) was searched to find the pattern of myelitis in Oman. A retrospective study was carried out from January1995 to December 2014. Electronic medical records and patient medical files were seen to get the complete data of the children with ITM. This work was carried out at Sultan Qaboos University hospital, Muscat, Oman. The ethical committee of the hospital had approved the study. The diagnosis was based on the established criteria. Other causes of myelopathy were excluded. 19 children with idiopathic transverse myelitis were found. There were 18 out of 19 (94.6%) children with longitudinal extensive transverse myelitis (LETM). Longitudinal transverse extensive myelitis is the most common form of ITM in Oman.

Effects of injectable trace mineral supplementation in lactating dairy cows with elevated somatic cell counts.

PubMed

Ganda, E K; Bisinotto, R S; Vasquez, A K; Teixeira, A G V; Machado, V S; Foditsch, C; Bicalho, M; Lima, F S; Stephens, L; Gomes, M S; Dias, J M; Bicalho, R C

2016-09-01

Objectives of this clinical trial were to evaluate the effects of injectable trace mineral supplementation (ITMS) on somatic cell count (SCC), linear score (LS), milk yield, milk fat and protein contents, subclinical mastitis cure, and incidence of clinical mastitis in cows with elevated SCC. Holstein cows from a commercial dairy farm in New York were evaluated for subclinical mastitis, defined as SCC ≥200×10(3) cells/mL on the test day preceding enrollment. Cows with a history of treatment for clinical mastitis in the current lactation and those pregnant for more than 150d were not eligible for enrollment. Cows fitting inclusion criteria were randomly allocated to 1 of 2 treatment groups. Cows assigned to ITMS (n=306) received 1 subcutaneous injection containing zinc (300mg), manganese (50mg), selenium (25mg), and copper (75mg) at enrollment (d 0). Control cows (CTRL; n=314) received 1 subcutaneous injection of sterile saline solution. Following treatment, visual assessment of milk was performed daily, and cows with abnormal milk (i.e., presence of flakes, clots, or serous milk) were diagnosed with clinical mastitis (CM). Chronic clinical mastitis was defined as cows with 3 or more cases of CM. Milk yield, milk fat and protein contents, SCC, and LS were evaluated once monthly. Additionally, randomly selected animals were sampled to test serum concentrations of selected minerals on d0 and 30 (n=30 cows/treatment). Treatment did not affect serum concentrations of calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, copper, iron, manganese, selenium, and zinc on d30. Injectable supplementation with trace minerals did not improve overall cure of subclinical mastitis (CTRL=42.8 vs. ITMS=46.5%), although a tendency was observed in cows with 3 or more lactations (CTRL=27.1 vs. ITMS=40.0%). Supplementation did not reduce treatment incidence of CM (CTRL=48.2 vs. ITMS=41.7%); however, it tended to reduce the proportion of cows diagnosed with chronic CM (CTRL=16.9 vs. ITMS=12.0%), particularly among first-lactation cows (CTRL=18.4 vs. ITMS=7.6%). Cure of subclinical mastitis was associated with higher serum concentrations of phosphorus and selenium on d30. Supplementing trace minerals to cows with elevated SCC had no effect on milk yield, milk fat and protein contents, SCC, and LS. Copyright © 2016 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The Effect of Traditional Treatments on Heavy Metal Toxicity of Armenian Bole

PubMed Central

Hosamo, Ammar; Zarshenas, Mohammad Mehdi; Mehdizadeh, Alireza; Zomorodian, Kamiar; Khani, Ayda Hossein

2016-01-01

Background: Clay has been used for its nutrition, cosmetic, and antibacterial properties for thousands of years. Its small particle size, large surface area, and high concentration of ions have made it an interesting subject for pharmaceutical research. There have been studies on scavenging foreign substances and antibacterial properties of clay minerals. The main problem with the medical use of these agents, today, is their heavy metal toxicity. This includes arsenic, cadmium, lead, nickel, zinc, and iron. Iranian traditional medicine (ITM) introduces different clays as medicaments. In this system, there are specific processes for these agents, which might reduce the chance of heavy metal toxicity. Armenian bole is a type of clay that has been used to treat a wound. Before in vivo studies of this clay, its safety should be confirmed. Methods: In this work, we investigated the effect of washing process as mentioned in ITM books regarding the presence of Pb, As, and Cd in 5 samples using atomic absorption spectrometry. We washed each sample (50 g) with 500 cc of distilled water. The samples were filtered and dried at room temperature for 24 hours. Results: In all studied samples, the amount of Pb and Cd was reduced after the ITM washing process. The amount of As was reduced in 3 samples and increased in 2 other samples. Conclusion: In ITM books, there are general considerations for the use of medicinal clay. These agents should not be used before special treatments such as the washing process. In this study, we observed the effect of washing process on reducing the amount of heavy metals in Armenian bole samples. In two samples, washing caused an increase in the amount of As. As these heavy metals sediment according to their density in different layers, the sample layer on which the spectrometry is performed could have an effect on the results. PMID:27840531

The Effect of Traditional Treatments on Heavy Metal Toxicity of Armenian Bole

PubMed Central

Hosamo, Ammar; Zarshenas, Mohammad Mehdi; Mehdizadeh, Alireza; Zomorodian, Kamiar; Khani, Ayda Hossein

2016-01-01

Background: Clay has been used for its nutrition, cosmetic, and antibacterial properties for thousands of years. Its small particle size, large surface area, and high concentration of ions have made it an interesting subject for pharmaceutical research. There have been studies on scavenging foreign substances and antibacterial properties of clay minerals. The main problem with the medical use of these agents, today, is their heavy metal toxicity. This includes arsenic, cadmium, lead, nickel, zinc, and iron. Iranian traditional medicine (ITM) introduces different clays as medicaments. In this system, there are specific processes for these agents, which might reduce the chance of heavy metal toxicity. Armenian bole is a type of clay that has been used to treat a wound. Before in vivo studies of this clay, its safety should be confirmed. Methods: In this work, we investigated the effect of washing process as mentioned in ITM books regarding the presence of Pb, As, and Cd in 5 samples using atomic absorption spectrometry. We washed each sample (50 g) with 500 cc of distilled water. The samples were filtered and dried at room temperature for 24 hours. Results: In all studied samples, the amount of Pb and Cd was reduced after the ITM washing process. The amount of As was reduced in 3 samples and increased in 2 other samples. Conclusion: In ITM books, there are general considerations for the use of medicinal clay. These agents should not be used before special treatments such as the washing process. In this study, we observed the effect of washing process on reducing the amount of heavy metals in Armenian bole samples. In two samples, washing caused an increase in the amount of As. As these heavy metals sediment according to their density in different layers, the sample layer on which the spectrometry is performed could have an effect on the results. PMID:27516695

The Effect of Traditional Treatments on Heavy Metal Toxicity of Armenian Bole.

PubMed

Hosamo, Ammar; Zarshenas, Mohammad Mehdi; Mehdizadeh, Alireza; Zomorodian, Kamiar; Khani, Ayda Hossein

2016-05-01

Clay has been used for its nutrition, cosmetic, and antibacterial properties for thousands of years. Its small particle size, large surface area, and high concentration of ions have made it an interesting subject for pharmaceutical research. There have been studies on scavenging foreign substances and antibacterial properties of clay minerals. The main problem with the medical use of these agents, today, is their heavy metal toxicity. This includes arsenic, cadmium, lead, nickel, zinc, and iron. Iranian traditional medicine (ITM) introduces different clays as medicaments. In this system, there are specific processes for these agents, which might reduce the chance of heavy metal toxicity. Armenian bole is a type of clay that has been used to treat a wound. Before in vivo studies of this clay, its safety should be confirmed. In this work, we investigated the effect of washing process as mentioned in ITM books regarding the presence of Pb, As, and Cd in 5 samples using atomic absorption spectrometry. We washed each sample (50 g) with 500 cc of distilled water. The samples were filtered and dried at room temperature for 24 hours. In all studied samples, the amount of Pb and Cd was reduced after the ITM washing process. The amount of As was reduced in 3 samples and increased in 2 other samples. In ITM books, there are general considerations for the use of medicinal clay. These agents should not be used before special treatments such as the washing process. In this study, we observed the effect of washing process on reducing the amount of heavy metals in Armenian bole samples. In two samples, washing caused an increase in the amount of As. As these heavy metals sediment according to their density in different layers, the sample layer on which the spectrometry is performed could have an effect on the results.

Structural characterisation by both positive- and negative-ion electrospray mass spectrometry of partially methyl-esterified oligogalacturonides purified by semi-preparative high-performance anion-exchange chromatography.

PubMed

Quéméner, Bernard; Désiré, Cédric; Lahaye, Marc; Debrauwer, Laurent; Negroni, Luc

2003-01-01

The off-line coupling of high-performance anion-exchange chromatography (HPAEC) to electrospray ionisation/ion trap mass spectrometry (ESI-ITMS) is described. The Dionex carbohydrate membrane desalter (CMD) has been assessed as an on-line chromatographic desalting system to remove the high sodium concentration necessary for the HPAEC separation of partially methyl-esterified oligogalacturonides. The developed HPAEC configuration proved to be suitable for indirect coupling with ESI-ITMS. This paper provides some interesting features of positive- and negative-ion multistage tandem mass spectrometry (MS(n)) analysis of these acidic oligosaccharides. The spectra acquired in both negative- and positive-ion modes show characteristic fragment ions resulting from glycosidic bond and cross-ring cleavages. Some new mass spectrometric fragmentation routes are also described. The positive-ion mode gave more complex spectra but was as informative as the negative-ion mode. ESI-ITMS was revealed to be, as previously reported from direct use on an unseparated enzymatic digest, a powerful sequencing technique for the determination of linkage type and the methyl ester distribution of partially methyl-esterified oligogalacturonides. Moreover, unlike matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionisation time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-ToF MS), it gives valuable information on the elution behaviour of these oligomers in relation to their structure, namely the HPAEC co-elution of isomeric structures.

Maintenance and sustained use of insecticide-treated bednets and curtains three years after a controlled trial in western Kenya.

PubMed

Kachur, S P; Phillips-Howard, P A; Odhacha, A M; Ruebush, T K; Oloo, A J; Nahlen, B L

1999-11-01

In large experimental trials throughout Africa, insecticide-treated bednets and curtains have reduced child mortality in malaria-endemic communities by 15%-30%. While few questions remain about the efficacy of this intervention, operational issues around how to implement and sustain insecticide-treated materials (ITM) projects need attention. We revisited the site of a small-scale ITM intervention trial, 3 years after the project ended, to assess how local attitudes and practices had changed. Qualitative and quantitative methods, including 16 focus group discussions and a household survey (n = 60), were employed to assess use, maintenance, retreatment and perceptions of ITM and the insecticide in former study communities. Families that had been issued bednets were more likely to have kept and maintained them and valued bednets more highly than those who had been issued curtains. While most households retained their original bednets, none had treated them with insecticide since the intervention trial was completed 3 years earlier. Most of those who had been issued bednets repaired them, but none acquired new or replacement nets. In contrast, households that had been issued insecticide-treated curtains often removed them. Three (15%) of the households issued curtains had purchased one or more bednets since the study ended. In households where bednets had been issued, children 10 years of age and younger were a third as likely to sleep under a net as were adults (relative risk (RR) = 0. 32; 95% confidence interval (95%CI) = 0.19, 0.53). Understanding how and why optimal ITM use declined following this small-scale intervention trial can suggest measures that may improve the sustainability of current and future ITM efforts.

Ion transport membrane reactor systems and methods for producing synthesis gas

DOEpatents

Repasky, John Michael

2015-05-12

Embodiments of the present invention provide cost-effective systems and methods for producing a synthesis gas product using a steam reformer system and an ion transport membrane (ITM) reactor having multiple stages, without requiring inter-stage reactant injections. Embodiments of the present invention also provide techniques for compensating for membrane performance degradation and other changes in system operating conditions that negatively affect synthesis gas production.

"Advances in Coupled Air Quality, Farm Management and Biogeochemistry to address bidirectional ammonia flux"

EPA Science Inventory

A cropland farm management modeling system for regional air quality and field-scale applications of bi-directional ammonia exchange was presented at ITM XXI. The goal of this research is to improve estimates of nitrogen deposition to terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems and ambien...

Direct characterization of aqueous extract of Hibiscus sabdariffa using HPLC with diode array detection coupled to ESI and ion trap MS.

PubMed

Rodríguez-Medina, Inmaculada C; Beltrán-Debón, Raúl; Molina, Vicente Micol; Alonso-Villaverde, Carlos; Joven, Jorge; Menéndez, Javier A; Segura-Carretero, Antonio; Fernández-Gutiérrez, Alberto

2009-10-01

The phenolic fraction and other polar compounds of the Hibiscus sabdariffa were separated and identified by HPLC with diode array detection coupled to electrospray TOF and IT tandem MS (DAD-HPLC-ESI-TOF-MS and IT-MS). The H. sabdariffa aqueous extract was filtered and directly injected into the LC system. The analysis of the compounds was carried out by RP HPLC coupled to DAD and TOF-MS in order to obtain molecular formula and exact mass. Posterior analyses with IT-MS were performed and the fragmentation pattern and confirmation of the structures were achieved. The H. sabdariffa samples were successfully analyzed in positive and negative ionization modes with two optimized linear gradients. In positive mode, the two most representative anthocyanins and other compounds were identified whereas the phenolic fraction, hydroxycitric acid and its lactone were identified using the negative ionization mode.

A High-Efficiency Organic Solar Cell Enabled by the Strong Intramolecular Electron Push-Pull Effect of the Nonfullerene Acceptor.

PubMed

Li, Wanning; Ye, Long; Li, Sunsun; Yao, Huifeng; Ade, Harald; Hou, Jianhui

2018-04-01

Besides broadening of the absorption spectrum, modulating molecular energy levels, and other well-studied properties, a stronger intramolecular electron push-pull effect also affords other advantages in nonfullerene acceptors. A strong push-pull effect improves the dipole moment of the wings in IT-4F over IT-M and results in a lower miscibility than IT-M when blended with PBDB-TF. This feature leads to higher domain purity in the PBDB-TF:IT-4F blend and makes a contribution to the better photovoltaic performance. Moreover, the strong push-pull effect also decreases the vibrational relaxation, which makes IT-4F more promising than IT-M in reducing the energetic loss of organic solar cells. Above all, a power conversion efficiency of 13.7% is recorded in PBDB-TF:IT-4F-based devices. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Integrate Thermal Modules for Cooling Silicon and Silicon Carbide Power Modules

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-06-01

currently valid OMB control number. 1 . REPORT DATE 11 JUN 2007 2 . REPORT TYPE N/A 3. DATES COVERED - 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE Integrate Thermal...vehicle operation as follows: 1 ) Normal Operation at High Speed 2 ) Normal Operation at Low Speed 3) Acceleration at High Speed 4) Acceleration at Low...diodes. For a basis of comparing the performance of the ITMs, we are using the Semikron 100 kW SKAI inverter (fig 1 ) to quantify and generate

Influence of short-term inertial training on swimming performance in young swimmers.

PubMed

Naczk, Mariusz; Lopacinski, Artur; Brzenczek-Owczarzak, Wioletta; Arlet, Jarosław; Naczk, Alicja; Adach, Zdzisław

2017-05-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of dry-land inertial training (IT) on muscle force, muscle power, and swimming performance. Fourteen young, national-level, competitive swimmers were randomly divided into IT and control (C) groups. The experiment lasted four weeks, during which time both groups underwent their regular swimming training. In addition, the IT group underwent IT using the Inertial Training Measurement System (ITMS) three times per week. The muscle groups involved during the upsweep phase of the arm stroke in front crawl and butterfly stroke were trained. Before and after training, muscle force and power were measured under IT conditions. Simultaneously with the biomechanical measurements on the ITMS, the electrical activity of the triceps brachii was registered. After four weeks of training, a 12.8% increase in the muscle force and 14.2% increase in the muscle power (p < .05) were noted in the IT group. Moreover, electromyography amplitude of triceps brachii recorded during strength measurements increased by 22.7% in the IT group. Moreover, swimming velocity in the 100 m butterfly and 50 m freestyle improved significantly following the four weeks of dry-land IT (-1.86% and -0.76%, respectively). Changes in the C group were trivial. Moreover, values of force and power registered during the ITMS test correlated negatively with the 100 m butterfly and 50 m freestyle swimming times (r value ranged from -.80 to -.91). These results suggest that IT can be useful in swimming practice.

Performance of the future MOMA GC-ITMS instrument

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grand, Noel; Buch, Arnaud; Veronica, Pinnick; Szopa, Cyril; Danell, Ryan; Van Amerom, Friso H. W.; Glavin, Daniel P.; Freissinet, Caroline; Arevalo, Ricardo; Stalport, Fabien; Getty, Stephanie; Coll, Patrice; Steinninger, Harald; Brinckerhoff, William; Mahaffy, Paul; Goesmann, Fred; Raulin, F.; Goetz, Walter; MOMA Team

2016-10-01

The Mars Organic Molecule Analyzer (MOMA) experiment aboard the future ExoMars mission will be the continuation of the SAM expirement aboard the Curiosity rover, with the search for the organic composition of the Mars surface. With ExoMars the sample will be extracted as deep as 2 meters below the martian surface to minimize effects of radiation and oxidation on organic materials. To analyze the wide range of organic composition (volatile and non-volatiles compounds) of the Martian soil MOMA is composed with an UV laser desorption / ionization (LDI) and a pyrolysis gas chromatography ion trap mass spectrometry (pyr-GC-ITMS). In order to analyze refractory organic compounds and chirality samples which undergo GC-ITMS analysis may be submitted to a derivatization process, consisting of the reaction of the sample components with specific reactants (MTBSTFA [1], DMF-DMA [2] or TMAH [3]).To optimize and test the performance of the GC-ITMS instrument we have performed several coupling tests campaigns between the GC, providing by the French team (LISA, LATMOS, CentraleSupelec), and the MS, providing by the US team (NASA, GSFC). Last campaign has been done with the ETU models which is similar to the flight model and which include the oven and the taping station providing by the German team (MPS).The results obtained demonstrate the current status of the end-to-end performance of the gas chromatography-mass spectrometry mode of operation.

Microscopic evaluation of induced tooth movement after subluxation trauma: an experimental study in rats

PubMed Central

Busato, Mauro Carlos Agner; Pereira, Alex Luiz Pozzobon; Sonoda, Celso Koogi; Cuoghi, Osmar Aparecido; de Mendonça, Marcos Rogério

2014-01-01

Objective The objective of this study was to assess the histological alterations that occurred in the periodontal area of rat molars submitted to induced tooth movement (ITM) right after an intentional trauma (subluxation). Methods Forty adult male Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus albinus) were selected. The animals were divided into eight groups (n = 5), according to the combination of variables: Group 1 - control (neither trauma nor ITM); Group 2 - ITM; Groups 3, 4, 5 and 6 - dentoalveolar trauma groups corresponding, respectively, to 1, 3, 8 and 10 days after trauma; Groups 7 and 8 - the animals' molars were subjected to a 900 cN impact and, one and three days after the trauma event, tooth movement was induced. The rats' maxillary first molars were mesially moved during seven days with a closed coil (50 cN). After the experimental period of each group, the animals were sacrificed by anesthetic overdose and the right maxillas were removed and processed for histological analysis under light microscopy. Results In the animals of group 3, 4, 5 and 6, the histological alterations were not very significant. Consequently, the effect of induced tooth movement right after a subluxation event (groups 7 and 8) was very similar to those described for Group 2. Conclusion There was no difference in the quality of periodontal repair when ITM was applied to teeth that had suffered a subluxation trauma. PMID:24713565

Effect of trace minerals and starch on digestibility and rumen fermentation in diets for dairy heifers.

PubMed

Pino, F; Heinrichs, A J

2016-04-01

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of different forms of trace minerals (TM) and the use of different starch levels in dairy heifer diets on rumen fermentation and digestibility. Eight rumen cannulated dairy heifers (15.4 ± 0.8 mo of age and 438.31 ± 18.08 kg of body weight) were subjected to a split-plot, 4 × 4 Latin square design with 19-d periods: 15d of adaptation and 4d of sampling. The whole-plot factor was type of TM; organic as proteinates (OTM) or inorganic sulfates (ITM), and the subplot was starch level (3.54, 12.95, 22.25, and 31.73%). Total collection of feces and urine was completed on d 15 to 19 to determine digestibility and TM excretion. Rumen contents were sampled on d 18 to 19 at 0, 1, 2, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, and 22 h after feeding to measure pH and volatile fatty acid (VFA) concentrations. Plasma samples were collected to evaluate TM concentrations and enzymatic activity for ceruloplasmin, glutathione peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase. Starch level affected pH, individual VFA concentrations, and nutrient excretion. Trace mineral intake was lower for OTM compared with ITM. No effect of TM form on dry matter digestibility was detected, but as level of starch increased, diet dry matter digestibility increased. Rumen pH was lower for diets with OTM, which is consistent with higher total VFA production and butyrate proportion observed for heifers fed OTM diets. These variables may be explained by the higher bioavailability of OTM and faster utilization and fermentation by rumen microorganisms. Heifers that consumed ITM had higher moisture in feces and higher urine excretion, which increased total manure production. Total excretion of TM was not different by treatment. Blood plasma mineral concentration was not different between treatments except for Mn, which was higher for OTM. Enzymatic activity was not affected by treatments. Mineral intake was reduced and blood mineral levels were not different, suggesting enhanced absorption of OTM compared with ITM. In conclusion, based on rumen pH, VFA production, and plasma TM concentration, OTM may be more ruminally bioavailable and absorbed to a greater extent than ITM. Also, TM form affected fecal moisture and urine excretion, suggesting that ITM may stimulate water intake. Copyright © 2016 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Dynamics of the Mesopause Region as Revealed in Images of Polar Mesospheric Clouds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bailey, Scott; Thurairajah, Brentha; Nielsen, Kim; Lumpe, Jerry; Randall, Cora; Taylor, Michael J.; Zhao, Yucheng

Studying the geospace response to variable inputs and waves from the lower atmosphere is particularly important since the induced variability competes with the solar and magnetic driving from above. Consequences for telecommunications, re-entry and satellite operations still need to be explored. The extent to which the effects of this quiescent atmospheric variability are transmitted to the magnetosphere is yet to be resolved. We thus stand right now at an exciting research frontier: understanding the cause-and-effect chain that connects tropospheric and strato-/mesospheric variability with geospace processes. CAWSES-II Task Group 4 (TG4) will therefore elucidate the dynamical coupling from the low and middle atmosphere to geospace including the upper atmosphere, ionosphere, and magnetosphere, for various frequencies and scales, such as gravity waves, tides, and planetary waves, and for equatorial, middle, and high latitudes. Attacking the problem clearly requires a systems approach involving experimentalists, data analysts and modelers from different communities. For that purpose, the most essential part of TG4 is to encourage interactions between atmospheric scientists and plasma scientists on all occasions. Four project are established in TG4, i.e., Project 1: How do atmospheric waves connect tropospheric weather with ITM variability?, Project 2: What is the relation between atmospheric waves and ionospheric instabilities?, Project 3: How do the different types of waves interact as they propagate through the stratosphere to the ionosphere?, and Project 4: How do thermospheric disturbances generated by auroral processes interact with the neutral and ionized atmosphere? A joint project with TG2 is also proposed for the topic of Project 5: How does climate change affects atmospheric waves in the ITM? In this presentation we show current status and future plan of CAWSES-II TG4 activities of 2009-2013.

New, high-efficiency ion trap mobility detection system for narcotics and explosives

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McGann, William J.; Bradley, V.; Borsody, A.; Lepine, S.

1994-10-01

A new patented Ion Trap Mobility Spectrometer (ITMS) design is presented. Conventional IMS designs typically operate below 0.1% efficiency. This is due primarily to electric field driven, sample ion discharge on a shutter grid. Since 99.9% of the sample ions generated in the reaction region are lost in this discharge process, the sensitivity of conventional systems is limited. The new design provides greater detection efficiency than conventional designs through the use of an `ion trap' concept. The paper describes the plasma and sample ion dynamics in the reaction region of the new detector and discusses the advantages of utilizing a `field-free' space to generate sample ions with high efficiency. Fast electronic switching is described which is used to perturb the field-free space and pulse the sample ions into the drift region for separation and subsequent detection using pseudo real-time software for analysis and display of the data. Many applications for this new detector are now being considered including the detection of narcotics and explosives. Preliminary ion spectra, reduced mobility data and sensitivity data are presented for fifteen narcotics, including cocaine, THC and LSD are reported.

Selective determination of pyridine alkaloids in tobacco by PFTBA ions/analyte molecule reaction ionization ion trap mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Zhang, Jianxun; Ji, Houwei; Sun, Shihao; Mao, Duobin; Liu, Huwei; Guo, Yinlong

2007-10-01

The application of perfluorotributylamine (PFTBA) ions/analyte molecule reaction ionization for the selective determination of tobacco pyridine alkaloids by ion trap mass spectrometry (IT-MS) is reported. The main three PFTBA ions (CF(3)(+), C(3)F(5)(+), and C(5)F(10)N(+)) are generated in the external source and then introduced into ion trap for reaction with analytes. Because the existence of the tertiary nitrogen atom in the pyridine makes it possible for PFTBA ions to react smoothly with pyridine and forms adduct ions, pyridine alkaloids in tobacco were selectively ionized and formed quasi-molecular ion [M + H](+)and adduct ions, including [M + 69](+), [M + 131](+), and [M + 264](+), in IT-MS. These ions had distinct abundances and were regarded as the diagnostic ions of each tobacco pyridine alkaloid for quantitative analysis in selected-ion monitoring mode. Results show that the limit of detection is 0.2 microg/mL, and the relative standard deviations for the seven alkaloids are in the range of 0.71% to 6.8%, and good recovery of 95.6% and 97.2%. The proposed method provides substantially greater selectivity and sensitivity compared with the conventional approach and offers an alternative approach for analysis of tobacco alkaloids.

Single-run determination of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) di- to deca-brominated in fish meal, fish oil and fish feed by isotope dilution: application of automated sample purification and gas chromatography/ion trap tandem mass spectrometry (GC/ITMS).

PubMed

Blanco, Sonia Lucía; Vieites, Juan M

2010-07-05

The present paper describes the application of automated cleanup and fractionation procedures of the Power Prep system (Fluid Management Systems) for the determination of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in feeding stuffs and fish meal and oil. Gas chromatography (GC) separation followed by ion trap tandem mass spectrometry detection in EI mode (ITMS) allowed the analysis of di- to deca-BDEs in the samples matrices used in fish aquaculture. The method developed enabled the determination of 26 native PBDE congeners and 11 (13)C(12)-labelled congeners, including deca-BDE 209, in a single-run analysis, using isotope dilution. The automated cleanup, consisting of a succession of multilayer silica and basic alumina columns previously applied by Wyrzykowska et al. (2009) [28] in combustion flue gas, was successfully applied in our complex matrices. The method allowed an increase in productivity, i.e. lower time was required to process samples, and simultaneous purification of several samples was achieved at a time, reducing analyst dedication and human error input. Average recoveries of 43-96% were obtained. GC/ITMS can overcome the complexity originating from the sample matrix, eliminating matrix effects by tandem MS, to enable the detection of congeners penta- to nona-BDEs where interferent masses were present. The provisional detection limits, estimated in the samples, were 5-30 pg for di-, tri-, tetra-, and penta-BDEs, 20-65 pg for hexa-, hepta-, octa- and nona-BDEs, and 105 pg for deca-BDE. Reduction of deca-BDE 209 blank values is of concern to ongoing research. Good accuracy was obtained by application of the whole procedure, representing an efficient, low-cost and fast alternative for routine analyses. Copyright 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Oblique Intrathecal Injection in Lumbar Spine Surgery: A Technical Note.

PubMed

Jewett, Gordon A E; Yavin, Daniel; Dhaliwal, Perry; Whittaker, Tara; Krupa, JoyAnne; Du Plessis, Stephan

2017-09-01

Intrathecal morphine (ITM) is an efficacious method of providing postoperative analgesia and reducing pain associated complications. Despite adoption in many surgical fields, ITM has yet to become a standard of care in lumbar spine surgery. Spine surgeons' reticence to make use of the technique may in part be attributed to concerns of precipitating a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak. Herein we describe a method for oblique intrathecal injection during lumbar spine surgery to minimize risk of CSF leak. The dural sac is penetrated obliquely at a 30° angle to offset dural and arachnoid puncture sites. Oblique injection in instances of limited dural exposure is made possible by introducing a 60° bend to a standard 30-gauge needle. The technique was applied for injection of ITM or placebo in 104 cases of lumbar surgery in the setting of a randomized controlled trial. Injection was not performed in two cases (2/104, 1.9%) following preinjection dural tear. In the remaining 102 cases no instances of postoperative CSF leakage attributable to oblique intrathecal injection occurred. Three cases (3/102, 2.9%) of transient CSF leakage were observed immediately following intrathecal injection with no associated sequelae or requirement for postsurgical intervention. In two cases, the observed leak was repaired by sealing with fibrin glue, whereas in a single case the leak was self-limited requiring no intervention. Oblique dural puncture was not associated with increased incidence of postoperative CSF leakage. This safe and reliable method of delivery of ITM should therefore be routinely considered in lumbar spine surgery.

Formulation of a Traditionally Used Polyherbal Product for Burn Healing and HPTLC Fingerprinting of Its Phenolic Contents

PubMed Central

Fahimi, Shirin; Mortazavi, Seyed Alireza; Abdollahi, Mohammad; Hajimehdipoor, Homa

2016-01-01

Nowadays, plants have been considered as powerful agents for treatment of disorders regarding to their traditional use. In Iranian Traditional Medicine (ITM), plants have a special role in the treatment of various diseases. Burns with their devastating outcomes have been discussed in ITM as well. In the present study, a polyherbal ointment (PHO), retrieved from ITM, was formulated for burn healing and it’s HPTLC fingerprint was prepared. Aqueous extracts of Malva sylvestris and Solanum nigrum leaves and oily extract of Rosa damascena petals (4.85%, 4.85% and 33%, respectively) were added to white beeswax, eucerin and white petrolatum as ointment base. In addition to the microbiological tests, physical stability and rheological behavior of the product were assessed. Fingerprinting of phytochemical constituents of PHO was performed by using silica gel plates and toluene: ethyl acetate: acetic acid (60:40:1) and ethyl acetate: formic acid: acetic acid: water (100:11:11:10) as mobile phases. The results showed that PHO was stable towards physical changes and successfully passed microbiological tests. Moreover, PHO exhibited plastic behavior which is in favor of a topical burn product. In addition, HPTLC fingerprinting of PHO demonstrated the presence of several phenolic constituents corresponding to the plant extracts. Regarding to the role of phenolic compounds in wound healing process, PHO could be an appropriate candidate for burn healing with respect to its traditional use in ITM. Moreover, HPTLC fingerprinting could be utilized as an applicable method for quality control of the prepared formulation. PMID:27610150

Comparison between Complementary Dietary Treatment of Alzheimer Disease in Iranian Traditional Medicine and Modern Medicine

PubMed Central

AHMADIAN-ATTARI, Mohammad Mahdi; MOSADDEGH, Mahmoud; KAZEMNEJAD, Anooshiravan; NOORBALA, Ahmad Ali

2013-01-01

Abstract Background Dietary notifications have been introduced recently for Alzheimer Disease (AD). In Iranian old medical manuscripts, there are some nutritional recommendations related to Nesyan (AD equivalent). The aim of this article was to compare dietary recommendations of Iranian traditional medicine (ITM) with novel medical outcomes. Methods 1) Searching for dietary recommendations and abstinences described in ITM credible manuscripts; 2) Extracting fatty components of ITM diet according to the database of the Department of Agriculture of the USA; 3) Statistical analysis of fatty elements of traditionally recommended foods via Mann-Whitney Test in comparison with elements of the abstinent ones; 4) Searching for AD dietary recommendations and abstinences which currently published in medical journals; 5) Comparing traditional and new dietary suggestions with each other. Results 1) Traditionally recommended foods are fattier than abstinent ones (P<0.001). There are meaningful differences between unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs) (P<0.001), saturated fatty acids (P<0.001), and cholesterol (P<0.05) of recommended foods and abstinent ones. 2) Traditionally recommended diet is also fattier than the abstinent diet (4.5 times); UFAs of the recommended diet is 11 times more than that of the abstinent one; it is the same story for cholesterol (1.4 times); 3) Recent studies show that diets with high amounts of UFAs have positive effects on AD; a considerable number of papers emphasizes on probable positive role of cholesterol on AD; 4) Traditional recommended diet is in agreement with recent studies. Conclusion ITM recommended diet which is full of unsaturated fatty acids and cholesterol can be utilized for complementary treatment of AD. PMID:26060643

Treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease in Iranian Traditional Medicine

PubMed Central

Ahmadian-Attari, Mohammad Mahdi; Ahmadiani, Abolhassan; Kamalinejad, Mohammad; Dargahi, Leila; Shirzad, Meysam; Mosaddegh, Mahmoud

2014-01-01

Background: Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease with a high prevalence in recent years. Dramatic growth in AD prevalence has increased the importance of more researches on AD treatment. History has shown that traditional medicine can be a source of inspiration to find new therapies. Objectives: This study tried to codify the recommendations of Iranian traditional medicine (ITM) by studying the main medical manuscripts. The second purpose was to compare these findings with new medical information. Materials and Methods: Cardinal traditional medical and pharmacological texts from 10th to 18th century were searched for traditional terms of dementia (Nesyan, Fisad-uz-Zekr, Faramooshkari) focused on treatment methods. The findings were classified into three groups: lifestyle recommendations, dietary approaches, and drug therapies. These findings were compared with new medical findings. Results: ITM has dietary recommendations for dementia such as increasing consumption of nuts, poultry and eggs, milk, and grape products (like raisin and currant). These compounds are full of unsaturated fatty acids, cholesterol, and polyphenolic compounds. New findings suggest that these substances can help in prevention and treatment of AD. ITM has some lifestyle considerations like increasing physical and mental activities, listening to music, attending musical feasts, and smelling specific perfumes. New medical findings confirm nearly all of these recommendations. Along with the aforementioned items, treatment with natural medicines is in the first line of traditional treatment of dementia. New investigations show that many of these herbs have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory factors and acetylcholine esterase inhibitory effects. A few of them also have N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) blocking activity. When these herbs are put together in traditional formulations, they can comprehensively fight against the disease. Conclusions: More ethnopharmacological and ethnomedical studies on ITM antidementia therapy can be followed by fruitful results. PMID:25763264

Temperature Pill

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1988-01-01

Ingestible Thermal Monitoring System was developed at Johns Hopkins University as means of getting internal temperature readings for treatments of such emergency conditions as dangerously low (hypothermia) and dangerously high (hyperthermia) body temperatures. ITMS's accuracy is off no more than one hundredth of a degree and provides the only means of obtaining deep body temperature. System has additional applicability in fertility monitoring and some aspects of surgery, critical care obstetrics, metabolic disease treatment, gerontology (aging) and food processing research. Three-quarter inch silicone capsule contains telemetry system, micro battery, and a quartz crystal temperature sensor inserted vaginally, rectally, or swallowed.

Foucault's "fearless speech" and the transformation and mentoring of medical students.

PubMed

Papadimos, Thomas J; Murray, Stuart J

2008-04-17

In his six 1983 lectures published under the title, Fearless Speech (2001), Michel Foucault developed the theme of free speech and its relation to frankness, truth-telling, criticism, and duty. Derived from the ancient Greek word parrhesia, Foucault's analysis of free speech is relevant to the mentoring of medical students. This is especially true given the educational and social need to transform future physicians into able citizens who practice a fearless freedom of expression on behalf of their patients, the public, the medical profession, and themselves in the public and political arena. In this paper, we argue that Foucault's understanding of free speech, or parrhesia, should be read as an ethical response to the American Medical Association's recent educational effort, Initiative to Transform Medical Education (ITME): Recommendations for change in the system of medical education (2007). In this document, the American Medical Association identifies gaps in medical education, emphasizing the need to enhance health system safety and quality, to improve education in training institutions, and to address the inadequacy of physician preparedness in new content areas. These gaps, and their relationship to the ITME goal of promoting excellence in patient care by implementing reform in the US system of medical education, call for a serious consideration and use of Foucault's parrhesia in the way that medical students are trained and mentored.

Foucault's "fearless speech" and the transformation and mentoring of medical students

PubMed Central

Papadimos, Thomas J; Murray, Stuart J

2008-01-01

In his six 1983 lectures published under the title, Fearless Speech (2001), Michel Foucault developed the theme of free speech and its relation to frankness, truth-telling, criticism, and duty. Derived from the ancient Greek word parrhesia, Foucault's analysis of free speech is relevant to the mentoring of medical students. This is especially true given the educational and social need to transform future physicians into able citizens who practice a fearless freedom of expression on behalf of their patients, the public, the medical profession, and themselves in the public and political arena. In this paper, we argue that Foucault's understanding of free speech, or parrhesia, should be read as an ethical response to the American Medical Association's recent educational effort, Initiative to Transform Medical Education (ITME): Recommendations for change in the system of medical education (2007). In this document, the American Medical Association identifies gaps in medical education, emphasizing the need to enhance health system safety and quality, to improve education in training institutions, and to address the inadequacy of physician preparedness in new content areas. These gaps, and their relationship to the ITME goal of promoting excellence in patient care by implementing reform in the US system of medical education, call for a serious consideration and use of Foucault's parrhesia in the way that medical students are trained and mentored. PMID:18419809

Performance of the Linear Ion Trap Mass Spectrometer for the Mars Organic Molecule Analyzer (MOMA) Investigation on the 2018 Exomars Rover

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Arevalo, Ricardo, Jr.; Brinckerhoff, William B.; Pinnick, Veronica T.; van Amerom, Friso H. W.; Danell, Ryan M.; Li, Xiang; Getty, Stephanie; Hovmand, Lars; Atanassova, Martina; Mahaffy, Paul R.;

Preoperative Ultrasound Prediction of Essential Landmarks for Successful Fetoscopic Laser Treatment of Twin-Twin Transfusion Syndrome.

PubMed

Miller, Jena L; Block-Abraham, Dana M; Blakemore, Karin J; Baschat, Ahmet A

2018-06-06

The insertion site of the fetoscope for laser occlusion (FLOC) treatment of twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) determines the likelihood of treatment success. We assessed a standardized preoperative ultrasound approach for its ability to identify critical landmarks for successful FLOC. Three surgeons independently performed preoperative ultrasound and deduced the likely orientation of the intertwin membrane (ITM) and vascular equator (VE) based on the sites of the cord insertion, the lie of the donor, and the size discordance between twins. At FLOC, these landmarks were visually verified and compared to preoperative assessments. Fifty consecutive FLOC surgeries had 127 preoperative assessments. Basic ITM and VE orientation were accurately predicted in 115 (90.6%), 109 (85.8%), and 105 (82.7%) assessments. Predictions were anatomically correct in 96 (75.6%), 70 (55.1%), and 58 (45.7%) assessments with no differences in accuracy between operators of different training level. The ITM/VE relationship was most poorly predicted in stage-3 TTTS (χ2, p = 0.016). In TTTS, preoperative ultrasound identification of placental cord insertion sites, lie of the donor twin, and size discordance enables preoperative prediction of key landmarks for successful FLOC. © 2018 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Alternative Treatment in Prostate Pain Syndrome Based on Iranian Traditional Medicine

PubMed Central

Latifi, Seied Amirhossein; Kamalinejad, Mohammad; Minaiee, Bagher; Bahrami, Mohsen; Gooran, Shahram; Nikbakht Nasrabadi, Alireza

2014-01-01

Introduction: Unknown etiology and pathophysiology of prostate pain syndrome (PPS) has led to a lack of proper and competent treatment in modern medicine. According to the guidelines of European Association of Urology (EAU), use of complementary treatments is recommended for PPS. In this preliminary study, analyzing the signs and symptoms of PPS from the viewpoint of Iranian traditional medicine (ITM) was helpful in selecting the appropriate alternative treatment. Case Presentation: Two male patients diagnosed with PPS were evaluated and treated according to the ITM. Each patient took 15 mL oxymel 45 minutes after lunch and dinner. For each patient, four clinical visits were made with one week intervals and the validated Farsi version of international prostate symptom score (IPSS) and numeric pain rating score (NPRS) were completed for them. Conclusions: Considering the fact that other major pathological causes are ruled out, many of the symptoms and signs observed in these patients were similar to those associated with flatulency-related diseases in ITM. Selecting treatment with oxymel was based on this view and led to improvements in the digestive and urinary symptoms according to Farsi version of the IPSS and NPRS. PMID:25237573

On temporal connectivity of PFC via Gauss-Markov modeling of fNIRS signals.

PubMed

Aydöre, Sergül; Mihçak, M Kivanç; Ciftçi, Koray; Akin, Ata

2010-03-01

Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) is an optical imaging method, which monitors the brain activation by measuring the successive changes in the concentration of oxy- and deoxyhemoglobin in real time. In this study, we present a method to investigate the functional connectivity of prefrontal cortex (PFC) Sby applying a Gauss-Markov model to fNIRS signals. The hemodynamic changes on PFC during the performance of cognitive paradigm are measured by fNIRS for 17 healthy adults. The color-word matching Stroop task is performed to activate 16 different regions of PFC. There are three different types of stimuli in this task, which can be listed as incongruent stimulus (IS), congruent stimulus (CS), and neutral stimulus (NS), respectively. We introduce a new measure, called "information transfer metric" (ITM) for each time sample. The behavior of ITMs during IS are significantly different from the ITMs during CS and NS, which is consistent with the outcome of the previous research, which concentrated on fNIRS signal analysis via color-word matching Stroop task. Our analysis shows that the functional connectivity of PFC is highly relevant with the cognitive load, i.e., functional connectivity increases with the increasing cognitive load.

The Future of Systems Aeronomy in Addressing New Science Frontiers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kozyra, J. U.; Paxton, L. J.; Ridley, A.

2005-12-01

The future will see a new era in our ability to characterize the state of the sun-Earth system using the SEC Great Observatory, new electronic data handling and data mining technologies, high-performance sun-to-Earth models, new techniques for assimilation of sparse data, and the development of innovative worldwide research tools through integration of ground-based observing sites. The time has come to pull these developing capabilities together into an investigation that seeks to understand aeronomy at a higher level than has previously been possible. Systems Aeronomy is a study of this global system behavior but, more than that, it investigates the large-scale systems-level features that result from elemental processes, like ion-neutral coupling, plasma drifts or radiative cooling. Currently the TIMED mission is making important contributions in identifying and characterizing the "building block" processes that change, evolve and combine to form the system response. Systems Aeronomy must have observational, theoretical and computational components to succeed. One of the key requirements is the ability to capture global data sets and integrate them into a coherent picture of the ITM system and its relationship to geospace. Success requires enhanced coordination between operating satellites throughout the sun-Earth system, new techniques for creating global maps from networks of ground-based and satellite-based sensors, and a new level of international cooperation leveraging off IPY2007, IHY2007, eGY2007, CAWSES, ICESTAR, and other planned worldwide programs. Twenty years down the road, Systems Aeronomy will provide the foundation for understanding planetary atmospheres, significantly extend the range of useful space weather prediction, and provide an important approach for investigating the impacts of anthropogenic and climatological changes in the ITM and on the geospace system as a whole.

DYNAMIC: A Decadal Survey and NASA Roadmap Mission

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Paxton, L. J.; Oberheide, J.

2016-12-01

In this talk we will review the DYNAMIC mission science and implementation plans. DYNAMIC is baselined as a two satellite mission to delineate the dynamical behavior and structure of the ionosphere, thermosphere and mesosphere system. DYNAMIC was considered the top priority in the Decadal Survey upper atmosphere missions by the AIMI panel. The NASA Heliophysics Roadmap recommended that consideration be given to flying DYNAMIC as the STP 5 (next STP mission) rather than IMAP given the time-lag between the Decadal Survey recommendations and the flight of the STP 5 mission. It certainly seems as though STP 5 will be the IMAP mission. In that case what is the status of DYNAMIC? DYNAMIC could be STP 6 or some portion of the DYNAMIC mission could be executed as the next MidEx mission. In this talk we discuss the DYNAMIC science questions and goals and how they might be addressed. We note that DYNAMIC is not a mission just for the space community. DYNAMIC will enable new groundbased investigations and provide a global context for the long and rich history of groundbased observations of the dynamical state of the ITM system. Issues include: How and to what extent do waves and tides in the lower atmosphere contribute to the variability and mean state of the IT system? [Mission driver: Must have two spacecraft separated in local solar time in near polar orbits] How does the AIM system respond to outside forcing? [Mission Driver: Must measure high latitude inputs] How do neutral-plasma interactions produce neutral and ionospheric density changes over regional and global scales? [Mission Driver: Must measure all major species (O, N2, O2, H, He) and their ions] What part of the IT response occurs in the form of aurorally generated waves? [Mission Driver: Must measure small and mesoscale phenomena at high latitudes] What is the relative importance of thermal expansion, upwelling and advection in defining total mass density changes? [Mission Driver: Must determine the mid-latitude dynamics and response to external forcing for all species.] Clearly the best possible return from this NASA mission is with the broad support, collaboration and participation from the entire ITM whether their focus is on spacebased measurements, groundbased measurements, or modeling and theory.

Thermosensitive block copolymer [(PNIPAM)-b-(Glycine)] thin film as protective layer for drug loaded mesoporous silica nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Amgoth, Chander; Joshi, Suman

2017-10-01

Synthesis and characterization of [(PNIPAM)-b-(Gly)] and mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MP-SiO2 NPs) were carried out separately and used to develop [(PNIPAM)-b-(Gly)]-(MP-SiO2 NPs). The synthesized MP-SiO2 NPs were meso porous in nature. The size of SiO2 NPs is in the range of ~180-250 nm (in diameter) with an average pore size of 2.8 nm within the particles. Interestingly, these mesoporous SiO2 NPs were loaded with anticancer drug (ITM-imatinib mesylate) fallow by the incubation for 24 h at RT. However, ITM loaded MP-SiO2 NPs were capped or covered with synthesized [(PNIPAM)-b-(Gly)] thin film. Here, thin film acts as protective layer for drug loaded MP-SiO2 NPs, with that leakage of drug molecules throughout its transport pathway can be avoided. Significantly, thermosensitive [(PNIPAM)-b-(Gly)] polymer thin film depletes at body temperature (~37 °C) and drug molecules come out from the pores of SiO2 NPs. However, developed [(PNIPAM)-b-(Gly)]-(MP-SiO2 NPs) is compatible and used for cell inhibition studies. After 24 h treatment, drug ITM released from [(PNIPAM)-b-(Gly)]-(MP-SiO2 NPs) shows significant (>90%) inhibition on leukemia blood cancer (K562) cells.

Production and dose determination of the Infection and Treatment Method (ITM) Muguga cocktail vaccine used to control East Coast fever in cattle.

PubMed

Patel, Ekta; Mwaura, Stephen; Kiara, Henry; Morzaria, Subhash; Peters, Andrew; Toye, Philip

2016-03-01

The Infection and Treatment Method (ITM) of vaccination against the apicomplexan parasite Theileria parva has been used since the early 1970s and is still the only commercially available vaccine to combat the fatal bovine disease, East Coast fever (ECF). The disease is tick-transmitted and results in annual economic losses of at least $300 million per year. While this vaccine technology has been available for over 40 years, few attempts have been made to standardize the production process and characterize the vaccine. The latest batch was produced in early 2008 at the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI). The vaccine production involves the use of cattle free from parasites routinely monitored throughout the production process, and a pathogen-free tick colony. This paper describes the protocol used in the recent production, and the process improvements, including improved quality control tools, that had not been employed in previous ITM productions. The paper also describes the processes involved in determining the appropriate field dose, which involved a three-step in vivo study with various dilutions of the vaccine stabilate. The vaccine was shown to be safe and viable after production, and a suitable field dose was identified as 1 ml of a 1:100 dilution. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

Development of extractive electrospray ionization ion trap mass spectrometry for in vivo breath analysis.

PubMed

Ding, Jianhua; Yang, Shuiping; Liang, Dapeng; Chen, Huanwen; Wu, Zhuanzhang; Zhang, Lili; Ren, Yulin

2009-10-01

In metabolomics studies and clinical diagnosis, interest is increasing in the rapid analysis of exhaled breath. In vivo breath analysis offers a unique, unobtrusive, non-invasive method of investigating human metabolism. To analyze breath in vivo, we constructed a novel platform of extractive electrospray ionization (EESI) ion trap mass spectrometry (ITMS) using a home-made EESI source coupled to a linear trap quadrupole mass spectrometer. A reference compound (authentic n-octyl amine) was used to evaluate effects of systematically varying selected characteristics of the EESI source on signal intensity. Under the optimized working conditions, metabolic changes of human bodies were in vivo followed by performing rapid breath analysis using the multi-stage EESI-ITMS tandem mass spectrometry platform. For nicotine, a limit of determination was found to be 0.05 fg mL(-1) (S/N = 3, RSD = 5.0 %, n = 10) for nicotine in aerosol standard samples; the dynamic response range was from 0.0155 pg mL(-1) to 155 pg mL(-1). The concentration of nicotine in the exhaled breath of a regular smoker was in vivo determined to be 5.8 pg mL(-1), without any sample pre-treatment. Our results show that EESI-ITMS is a powerful analytical platform to provide high sensitivity, high specificity and high throughput for semi-quantitative analysis of complex samples in life science, particularly for in vivo metabolomics studies.

Immune responses in lactating Holstein cows supplemented with Cu, Mn, and Zn as sulfates or methionine hydroxy analogue chelates.

PubMed

Nemec, L M; Richards, J D; Atwell, C A; Diaz, D E; Zanton, G I; Gressley, T F

2012-08-01

The aim of this study was to compare effects of inorganic sulfate versus chelated forms of supplemental Cu, Mn, and Zn on milk production, plasma and milk mineral concentrations, neutrophil activity, and antibody titer response to a model vaccination. Holstein cows (n=25) were assigned in 2 cohorts based on calving date to a 12-wk randomized complete block design study. The first cohort consisted of 17 cows that had greater days in milk (DIM; mean of 77 DIM at the start of the trial) than the second cohort of 8 cows (32 DIM at the start of the trial). Diets were formulated to supplement 100% of National Research Council requirements of Cu, Mn, and Zn by either inorganic trace minerals (ITM) in sulfate forms or chelated trace minerals (CTM) supplied as metal methionine hydroxy analog chelates, without accounting for trace mineral contribution from other dietary ingredients. Intake and milk production were recorded daily. Milk composition was measured weekly, and milk Cu, Mn, and Zn were determined at wk 0 and 8. Plasma Cu and Zn concentrations and neutrophil activity were measured at wk 0, 4, 8, and 12. Neutrophil activity was measured by in vitro assays of chemotaxis, phagocytosis, and reactive oxygen species production. A rabies vaccination was administered at wk 8, and vaccine titer response at wk 12 was measured by both rapid fluorescent focus inhibition test and ELISA. Analyzed dietary Cu was 21 and 23mg/kg, Mn was 42 and 46mg/kg, and Zn was 73 and 94mg/kg for the ITM and CTM diets, respectively. No effect of treatment was observed on milk production, milk composition, or plasma minerals. Dry matter intake was reduced for CTM compared with ITM cows, but this was largely explained by differences in body weight between treatments. Milk Cu concentration was greater for CTM than ITM cows, but this effect was limited to the earlier DIM cohort of cows and was most pronounced for multiparous compared with primiparous cows. Measures of neutrophil function were unaffected by treatment except for an enhancement in neutrophil phagocytosis with the CTM treatment found for the later DIM cohort of cows only. Rabies antibody titer in CTM cows was 2.8 fold that of ITM cows as measured by ELISA, with a trend for the rapid fluorescent focus inhibition test. Supplementation of Cu, Mn, and Zn as chelated sources may enhance immune response of early lactation dairy cows compared with cows supplemented with inorganic sources. Copyright © 2012 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effect of trace mineral supplementation on selected minerals, energy metabolites, oxidative stress, and immune parameters and its association with uterine diseases in dairy cattle.

PubMed

Bicalho, M L S; Lima, F S; Ganda, E K; Foditsch, C; Meira, E B S; Machado, V S; Teixeira, A G V; Oikonomou, G; Gilbert, R O; Bicalho, R C

2014-07-01

The objective of this study was to evaluate the relationship between selected minerals' serum levels, energy metabolites, oxidative stress indicators, IL-8 and haptoglobin levels, and the potential for uterine diseases. Additionally, we investigated the effect of injectable trace mineral supplementation (ITMS) on metabolism, immune function, and animal health under field conditions involving a dairy herd with high milk production. The study was conducted in 1 dairy farm located near Ithaca, New York, with 270 multiparous cows were enrolled from October 3, 2012 until January 10, 2013. Cows were randomly allocated into 1 of 2 treatments groups: ITMS or control. Cows randomly assigned to the ITMS group received 2 injections of trace minerals at 230 and 260 d of gestation; each injection contained 300 mg of Zn, 50mg of Mn, 25mg of Se, and 75 mg of Cu. Retained placenta (RP) and metritis were diagnosed and treated by trained farm personnel. Clinical endometritis evaluation was performed by the investigators. Blood mineral levels, plasma nonesterified fatty acids and serum β-hydroxybutyrate concentrations, plasma IL-8 concentrations, serum haptoglobin concentration, and serum superoxidase dismutase and plasma glutathione peroxidase activities were measured at various time points before and after calving. Four groups of mixed general linear models were fitted to the data using MIXED procedure of SAS. Injectable trace mineral-supplemented cows had increased serum concentration of Cu, Se, and Zn. Conversely, ITMS did not affect energy metabolites or immune and oxidative stress parameters. Serum concentration of Ca, Cu, K, Mg, Mo, Ps, Pt, Se, and Zn varied according to days relative to parturition. Cows with RP had reduced serum concentrations of Ca, Mg, Mo, and Zn when compared with cows without RP. Cows affected with metritis had significantly lower serum concentrations of Ca, Mo, soluble P, total P, Se, and Zn than nonaffected cows. Serum concentration of Ca, Cu, Mo, and Zn were reduced in cows diagnosed with endometritis in comparison to nonaffected ones. Copyright © 2014 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Promoter CpG island methylation in ion transport mechanisms and associated dietary intakes jointly influence the risk of clear-cell renal cell cancer.

PubMed

Deckers, Ivette Ag; van Engeland, Manon; van den Brandt, Piet A; Van Neste, Leander; Soetekouw, Patricia Mmb; Aarts, Maureen Jb; Baldewijns, Marcella Mll; Keszei, András P; Schouten, Leo J

2017-04-01

Sodium intake, but not potassium or fluid intake, has been associated with higher renal cell cancer (RCC) risk. However, risk factors may differ by molecular subtypes of the tumour. In renal physiology, electrolyte and water homeostasis is facilitated by ion transport mechanisms (ITM). Aberrant regulation of ITM genes, for example by promoter CpG island methylation, may modify associations between sodium, potassium and fluid intake and RCC risk. We identified ARHGDIG , ATP1A1 , SCNN1B and SLC8A3 as ITM genes exhibiting RCC-specific promoter methylation and down-regulation. Methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to analyse promoter CpG island methylation in tumour DNA of 453 RCC cases from the Netherlands Cohort Study ( n = 120 852) after 20.3 years of follow-up. Diet was measured at baseline using food-frequency questionnaires. Cox regression analyses were restricted to clear-cell (cc)RCC ( n = 306) and stratified by tumours with no, low (1 gene) and high (≥ 2 genes) methylation. Sodium intake (high vs low) increased ccRCC risk particularly in tumours with a high methylation index: hazard ratio (HR) [95% confidence interval (CI)]: 2.04 (1.16-3.58), whereas heterogeneity across the methylation index was not significant ( P -heterogeneity = 0.26). Potassium intake was differentially associated with ccRCC risk ( P -heterogeneity = 0.008); the risk for high (vs low) potassium intake was low for unmethylated tumours [HR (95% CI): 0.60 (0.36-1.01)], but high for tumours with a high methylation index [HR (95% CI): 1.60 (0.96-2.65)]. Risks similarly differed for fluid intake, though not significantly ( P -heterogeneity = 0.54). Our findings suggest for the first time that dietary intakes are differentially associated with ccRCC risk according to molecular subtypes defined by ITM gene-specific promoter methylation. © The Author 2016; all rights reserved. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the International Epidemiological Association

Efficacy of Myrtus communis L. and Descurainia sophia L. Versus Salicylic Acid for Wart Treatment.

PubMed

Ghadami Yazdi, Elham; Minaei, Mohamad Bagher; Hashem Dabaghian, Fataneh; Ebrahim Zadeh Ardakani, Mohamad; Ranjbar, Ali Mohammad; Rastegari, Mohamad; Ghadami Yazdi, Ali

2014-10-01

Wart is a skin disease with circular appendages, which is called "suloul" in Iranian traditional medicine (ITM). According to ITM literature, warts have different types and causes. The most important mechanism is excretion of materials (Khelt) from body to skin and mucus; its causative material is often phlegm, black bile or a combination of them. To treat warts, it is necessary to consider the patient's life style, modify his dietary intake and moisturize his temperament. This study aimed to compare Myrtus communis L. and Descurainia sophia L. as a method of ITM, versus salicylic acid in treatment of wart. In this study, conducted in Yazd, Iran, 100 patients were selected and randomly divided into four groups. Group 1) salicylic acid, group 2) salicylic acid and D. sophia L. group 3) M. communis L. group 4) M. communis L. and D. sophia L. Numbers, sizes of lesions and symptoms, on days 0, 20, 40 and 90 were examined and analyzed. The relapse rate was investigated three months after. Changes of sizes and numbers of warts in each period of time in each group, compared to baseline, were assessed by Wilcoxon Signed Rank test. To compare these changes between the groups, Kruskal Wallis test was used. In this study 100 patients participated, 69% of which were female. Compared to baseline, mean ± SD of changes for the number of warts in day 40 were 1.12 ± 4.2, 0.96 ± 2.5, 1.32 ± 5.1 and 0.04 ± 0.2 respectively in the four groups (P = 0.02). Mean ± SD of changes for the number of warts in day 90 were 1.84 ± 4.5, 1.56 ± 2.8, 1.24 ± 5.1 and 0.04 ± 0.6 respectively in the four groups (P = 0.03). In addition mean ± SD of changes for the size of warts in day 40 were 0.96 ± 1.8, 1.03 ± 2.4, 2.47 ± 3.0 and 0.45 ± 1.7 respectively in the four groups (P < 0.001). Mean ± SD of changes for the size of warts in day 90 were 1.24 ± 2.1, 1.3 ± 2.3, 2.45 ± 3.1 and 0.45 ± 1.7 respectively in the four groups (P < 0.001). Relapse was not seen in any groups after three months. The frequency of side effects was similar after three months. M. communis L. can be used as a topical treatment for warts. It not only shows more rapid response than salicylic acid, but also has fewer side effects. It seems that D. sophia L. can modify the digestion process and patients can excrete large amounts of the substance that causes warts. Therefore, it is better to use it more than 40 days. According to our investigation, in ITM, considering the cause and mechanism of disease generation and the causing materials of the disease, different treatments should be applied for each patient. Although applying an appropriate treatment is necessary, a unique treatment for all the patients cannot be available.

Fragmentation pathways of 2-substituted pyrrole derivatives using electrospray ionization ion trap and electrospray ionization quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Liang, Xianrui; Guo, Zili; Yu, Chuanming

2013-10-30

Pyrrole derivatives are of considerable importance and are present in a wide range of natural products and used extensively in drug discovery. Fragmentation pathway studies play an important role in the structural identification of pyrrole derivatives. As a part of our ongoing work on heterocycles, fragmentation pathways of 2-substituted pyrrole derivatives were investigated by mass spectrometry (MS). Twelve pyrrole derivatives were synthesized and analyzed. Low-resolution fragmentation ions of all the compounds were generated by ion trap mass spectrometry (ITMS(n) ) with an electrospray ionization (ESI) source in positive mode. Hybrid quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (QTOFMS) was used to determine the elemental compositions of the resultant product ions. The side-chain substituents at the 2-position influence the fragmentation pathways. Typical losses of H2 O, aldehydes and pyrrole moieties from the [M + H](+) ion are observed for the compounds with side chains bearing aromatic groups at the 2-position of the pyrrole. However, losses of H2 O, alcohols and C3 H6 are the main cleavage pathways for compounds 6 and 12 with nonphenyl-substituted side chains at the 2-position. Typical fragmentation mechanisms of 2-substituted pyrrole derivatives are proposed and elucidated based on the observations of ITMS(n) and QTOFMS spectra. The results showed that the fragmentation pathways were remarkably influenced by the side-chain substituents at the 2-position of pyrrole. This investigation should have value in the structural identification of this series of molecules or compounds with similar structures. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Increased AβPP Processing in Familial Danish Dementia Patients

PubMed Central

Matsuda, Shuji; Tamayev, Robert; D’Adamio, Luciano

2013-01-01

An autosomal dominant mutation in the BRI2/ITM2B gene causes Familial Danish Dementia (FDD). We have generated a mouse model of FDD, called FDDKI, genetically congruous to the human disease. These mice carry one mutant and one wild type Bri2/Itm2b allele, like FDD patients. Analysis of FDDKI mice and samples from human patients has shown that the Danish mutation causes loss of Bri2 protein. FDDKI mice show synaptic plasticity and memory impairments. BRI2 is a physiological interactor of amyloid-β protein precursor (AβPP), a gene associated with Alzheimer’s disease, which inhibits processing of AβPP. AβPP/Bri2 complexes are reduced in synaptic membranes of FDDKI mice. Consequently, AβPP metabolites derived from processing of AβPP by β-, α-, and γ-secretases are increased in Danish dementia mice. AβPP haplodeficiency prevents memory and synaptic dysfunctions, consistent with a role for AβPP-metabolites in the pathogenesis of memory and synaptic deficits. This genetic suppression provides compelling evidence that AβPP and BRI2 functionally interact. Here, we have investigated whether AβPP processing is altered in FDD patients’ brain samples. We find that the levels of several AβPP metabolites, including Aβ, are significantly increased in the brain sample derived from an FDD patient. Our data are consistent with the findings in FDDKI mice, and support the hypothesis that the neurological effects of the Danish form of BRI2 are caused by toxic AβPP metabolites, suggesting that Familial Danish and Alzheimer’s dementias share common pathogenic mechanisms. PMID:21841249

Increased AβPP processing in familial Danish dementia patients.

PubMed

Matsuda, Shuji; Tamayev, Robert; D'Adamio, Luciano

2011-01-01

An autosomal dominant mutation in the BRI2/ITM2B gene causes Familial Danish Dementia (FDD). We have generated a mouse model of FDD, called FDDKI, genetically congruous to the human disease. These mice carry one mutant and one wild type Bri2/Itm2b allele, like FDD patients. Analysis of FDDKI mice and samples from human patients has shown that the Danish mutation causes loss of Bri2 protein. FDDKI mice show synaptic plasticity and memory impairments. BRI2 is a physiological interactor of amyloid-β protein precursor (AβPP), a gene associated with Alzheimer's disease, which inhibits processing of AβPP. AβPP/Bri2 complexes are reduced in synaptic membranes of FDDKI mice. Consequently, AβPP metabolites derived from processing of AβPP by β-, α-, and γ-secretases are increased in Danish dementia mice. AβPP haplodeficiency prevents memory and synaptic dysfunctions, consistent with a role for AβPP-metabolites in the pathogenesis of memory and synaptic deficits. This genetic suppression provides compelling evidence that AβPP and BRI2 functionally interact. Here, we have investigated whether AβPP processing is altered in FDD patients' brain samples. We find that the levels of several AβPP metabolites, including Aβ, are significantly increased in the brain sample derived from an FDD patient. Our data are consistent with the findings in FDDKI mice, and support the hypothesis that the neurological effects of the Danish form of BRI2 are caused by toxic AβPP metabolites, suggesting that Familial Danish and Alzheimer's dementias share common pathogenic mechanisms.

Delaware statewide ITMS integration : ITS evaluation strategy

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2002-01-01

In 2000 the U.S. Congress earmarked funds for selected projects that were assessed as supporting the improvements of transportation efficiency, promoting safety, increasing traffic flow, reducing emissions, improving traveler information, enhancing a...

Industrial Technology Modernization Program. Project 80. Increase Efficiency of Card Test/Device Test Areas by the Usage of Improved Material Handling Systems. Revision 1. Phase 2

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-03-01

INDUSTRY ANALYSIS/FINDINGS 132 12 EQUIPMENT/MACHINERY ALTERNATIVES 134 13 MIS REQUIREMENTS/IMPROVEMENTS 135 14 COST BENEFIT ANALYSIS AND PROCEDURE 137 15...SOFTWARE DIAGRAM 14.0-1 COST BENEFIT ANALYSIS METHODOLOGY 138 14.3-1 PROJECT 80 EXPENDITURE SCHEDULE 141 14.4-1 PROJECT 80 CASH FLOWS 142 15.1-1 PROJECT 80...testing, streamlining work flow, and installation of ergonomically designed work cell/work centers. The benefits associated with the implementation of ITM

Antarctic observations at long wavelengths with the IRAIT-ITM Telescope at Dome C

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Durand, Gilles A.; Tremblin, Pascal; Minier, Vincent; Reinert, Yann; Leroy dos Santos, Christophe; Rodriguez, Louis; Joffrin, Xavier; Busso, Maurizio; Tosti, Gino; Nucciarelli, Giuliano; Dolci, Mauro; Straniero, Oscar; Valentini, Angelo; Abia, Carlos; Christille, Jean Marc; Doumayrou, Eric; Lortholary, Michel; Charron, Patrice; Lotrus, Paul; Walter, Christian; Ronayette, Samuel; Challita, Zalpha; Fromont, Laurent; Condamin, Mathieu; Kwon, Min Kyong; Tavagnacco, Daniele

2014-07-01

We illustrate the status of the international infra-red telescope IRAIT-ITM, a project developed thanks to an Italian- Spanish-French collaboration and now sited at the Dome C Antarctic base. The telescope and its subsystems were installed at DomeC by a team of Italian and French scientists. The 80 cm telescope is placed on a small snow hill next to a laboratory of astronomy. The operations started in January 2013, with the Nasmyth focal planes equipped with the midinfrared camera AMICA for 1.25 to 25 μm and the sub-millimetre camera CAMISTIC for observation of the sky noise at 200 and 350 μm using a bolometer camera. During 2013 the two winter-overs worked mainly on technological duties, learning how to operate the telescope, while temperatures decreased down to -80°C. The cryogenic systems could be operated respectively at 0.25K and 4K at all times, with satisfactory use of the heat from the compressors of the cryocoolers to the warm-up the laboratory through a closed loop glycol system. The lack of tests and reliability in extreme conditions of some components and difficult access to maintenance hampered regular observations below -50°C. Using the lessons of this first winter, the summer team improves the robustness of the failing systems and ease the access to maintenance. The winter 2014 is the first one with programmed observations. Because of power restrictions, the two instruments are used each one at a time by periods of 2 weeks. The Camistic camera continues to observe the stability of the sky at a fixed altitude in chopping mode and performs skydips. The TCS is being upgraded in order to prepare the next summer season with extensive observations of the sun with Camistic.

76 FR 27643 - Ocean Transportation Intermediary License; Reissuance

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-05-12

.... Trade Management Group, LLC dba ITM Logistics dba Patriot Lines, 611 Live Oak Drive, McLean, VA 22101. 022665N Pacific Glory March 31, 2011. USA, Inc., 5673 Old Dixie Hwy., Suite 102, Forest Park, GA 30297...

East Coast fever immunisation field trial in crossbred dairy cattle in Hanang and Handeni districts in northern Tanzania.

PubMed

Lynen, Godelieve; Yrjö-Koskinen, Alma E; Bakuname, Christine; Di Giulio, Giuseppe; Mlinga, Nevil; Khama, Isaac; Hanks, James; Taylor, Nick M; James, Andrew D; McKeever, Declan; Peters, Andy R; Rushton, Jonathan

2012-03-01

East Coast fever (ECF) causes considerable mortality and production losses in the Tanzania smallholder dairy sector and limits the introduction of improved dairy breeds in areas where the disease is present. The infection and treatment method (ITM) was adopted by smallholder dairy farms for ECF immunisation in Hanang and Handeni districts of Tanzania. This study recorded incidence rates for ECF and other tick-borne diseases (TBDs) for ECF-immunised and non-immunised cattle between 1997 and 2000. Approximately 80% of smallholder households from both sites (n = 167) participated in this longitudinal study, with immunisations carried out at the request of the livestock owners. Efficacy of ITM for preventing ECF cases in these crossbred dairy cattle was estimated at 97.6%, while that for preventing ECF deaths was 97.9%. One percent of the cattle developed clinical ECF as a result of immunisation. Since ECF immunisation permits a reduction in acaricide use, an increase in other TBDs is a potential concern. Sixty-three percent of farmers continued to use the same acaricide after immunisation, with 80% of these reducing the frequency of applications. Overall, 78% of farmers increased the acaricide application interval after immunisation beyond that recommended by the manufacturer, resulting in annual savings in the region of USD 4.77 per animal. No statistical difference was observed between the immunised and non-immunised animals in the incidence of non-ECF TBDs. However, immunised animals that succumbed to these diseases showed fewer case fatalities. ITM would therefore appear to be a suitable method for ECF control in Tanzania's smallholder dairy sector.

Thermochemolysis and the Search for Organic Material on Mars Onboard the MOMA Experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Morisson, Marietta; Buch, Arnaud; Szopa, Cyril; Glavin, Daniel; Freissinet, Carolinette; Pinnick, Veronica; Goetz, Walter; Stambouli, Moncef; Belmahdi, Imene; Coll, Patrice; Stalport, Fabien; Grand, Noël; Brinckerhoff, William; Goesmann, Fred; Raulin, François; Mahaffy, Paul

2016-04-01

Following the Sample Analysis at Mars (SAM) experiment onboard the Curiosity rover, the Mars Organic Molecule Analyzer (MOMA) experiment onboard the future ExoMars 2018 mission will continue to investigate the organic composition of the martian subsurface. MOMA will have the advantage of extracting the sample from as deep as 2 meters below the martian surface where the deleterious effects of radiation and oxidation on organic matter are minimized. To analyse the wide range of organic compounds (volatile and non-volatile compounds) potentially present in the martian soil, MOMA includes two operational modes: UV laser desorption / ionization ion trap mass spectrometry (LDI-ITMS) and pyrolysis gas chromatography ion trap mass spectrometry (pyr-GC-ITMS). In order to analyse refractory organic compounds and chirality, samples which undergo GC-ITMS analysis may be derivatized beforhands, consisting in the reaction of the sample components with specific chemical reagents (MTBSTFA [1], DMF-DMA [2] or TMAH [3]). To prove the feasibility of the derivatization within the MOMA conditions we have adapated our laboratory procedure for the space conditions (temperature, time, pressure and size). Goal is optimize our detection limits and increase the range of the organic compounds that MOMA will be able to detect. Results of this study, show that Thermochemolysis is one of the most promising technique onboard MOMA to detect organic material. References : [1] Buch, A. et al. (2009) J Chrom. A, 43, 143-151. [2] Freissinet, C. et al. (2013) J Chrom. A, 1306, 731-740. [3] Geffroy-Rodier, C. et al. (2009) JAAP, 85, 454-459.

Evaluation and Quantitation of Intact Wax Esters of Human Meibum by Gas-Liquid Chromatography-Ion Trap Mass Spectrometry

PubMed Central

Butovich, Igor A.; Arciniega, Juan C.; Lu, Hua; Molai, Mike

2012-01-01

Purpose. Wax esters (WE) of human meibum are one of the largest group of meibomian lipids. Their complete characterization on the level of individual intact lipid species has not been completed yet. We obtained detailed structural information on previously uncharacterized meibomian WE. Methods. Intact WE were separated and analyzed by means of high-temperature capillary gas-liquid chromatography (GLC) in combination with low voltage (30 eV) electron ionization ion trap mass spectrometry (ITMS). 3D (mass-to-charge ratio [m/z] versus lipid sample weight versus signal intensity) calibration plots were used for quantitation of WE. Results. We demonstrated that GLC-ITMS was suitable for analyzing unpooled/underivatized WE collected from 14 individual donors. More than 100 of saturated and unsaturated WE (SWE and UWE, respectively) were detected. On average, UWE represented about 82% of the total WE pool. About 90% of UWE were based on oleic acid, while less than 10% were based on palmitoleic acid. The amounts of poly-UWE were <3% of their mono-UWA counterparts. SWE were based primarily on C16–C18 fatty acids (FA) in overall molar ratios of 22:65:13. A pool of C16:0-FA was comprised of a 20:80 (mol/mol) mixture of straight chain and iso-branched isomers, while the corresponding ratio for C18:0-FA was 43:57. Interestingly, C17:0-FA was almost exclusively branched, with anteiso- and iso-isomers found in a ratio of 93:7. Conclusions. GLC-ITMS can be used successfully to analyze more than 100 individual species of meibomian WE, which were shown to comprise 41 ± 8% (wt/wt) of meibum, which made them the largest group of lipids in meibum. PMID:22531701

Evaluation and quantitation of intact wax esters of human meibum by gas-liquid chromatography-ion trap mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Butovich, Igor A; Arciniega, Juan C; Lu, Hua; Molai, Mike

2012-06-20

Wax esters (WE) of human meibum are one of the largest group of meibomian lipids. Their complete characterization on the level of individual intact lipid species has not been completed yet. We obtained detailed structural information on previously uncharacterized meibomian WE. Intact WE were separated and analyzed by means of high-temperature capillary gas-liquid chromatography (GLC) in combination with low voltage (30 eV) electron ionization ion trap mass spectrometry (ITMS). 3D (mass-to-charge ratio [m/z] versus lipid sample weight versus signal intensity) calibration plots were used for quantitation of WE. We demonstrated that GLC-ITMS was suitable for analyzing unpooled/underivatized WE collected from 14 individual donors. More than 100 of saturated and unsaturated WE (SWE and UWE, respectively) were detected. On average, UWE represented about 82% of the total WE pool. About 90% of UWE were based on oleic acid, while less than 10% were based on palmitoleic acid. The amounts of poly-UWE were <3% of their mono-UWA counterparts. SWE were based primarily on C(16)-C(18) fatty acids (FA) in overall molar ratios of 22:65:13. A pool of C(16:0)-FA was comprised of a 20:80 (mol/mol) mixture of straight chain and iso-branched isomers, while the corresponding ratio for C(18:0)-FA was 43:57. Interestingly, C(17:0)-FA was almost exclusively branched, with anteiso- and iso-isomers found in a ratio of 93:7. GLC-ITMS can be used successfully to analyze more than 100 individual species of meibomian WE, which were shown to comprise 41 ± 8% (wt/wt) of meibum, which made them the largest group of lipids in meibum.

Verification of bubble tracking method and DNS examinations of single- and two-phase turbulent channel flows

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

Tryggvason, Gretar; Bolotnov, Igor; Fang, Jun

2017-03-30

Direct numerical simulation (DNS) has been regarded as a reliable data source for the development and validation of turbulence models along with experiments. The realization of DNS usually involves a very fine mesh that should be able to resolve all relevant turbulence scales down to Kolmogorov scale [1]. As the most computationally expensive approach compared to other CFD techniques, DNS applications used to be limited to flow studies at very low Reynolds numbers. Thanks to the tremendous growth of computing power over the past decades, the simulation capability of DNS has now started overlapping with some of the most challengingmore » engineering problems. One of those examples in nuclear engineering is the turbulent coolant flow inside reactor cores. Coupled with interface tracking methods (ITM), the simulation capability of DNS can be extended to more complicated two-phase flow regimes. Departure from nucleate boiling (DNB) is the limiting critical heat flux phenomena for the majority of accidents that are postulated to occur in pressurized water reactors (PWR) [2]. As one of the major modeling and simulation (M&S) challenges pursued by CASL, the prediction capability is being developed for the onset of DNB utilizing multiphase-CFD (M-CFD) approach. DNS (coupled with ITM) can be employed to provide closure law information for the multiphase flow modeling at CFD scale. In the presented work, research groups at NCSU and UND will focus on applying different ITM to different geometries. Higher void fraction flow analysis at reactor prototypical conditions will be performed, and novel analysis methods will be developed, implemented and verified for the challenging flow conditions.« less

Validation of a Solid Rocket Motor Internal Environment Model

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Martin, Heath T.

2017-01-01

In a prior effort, a thermal/fluid model of the interior of Penn State University's laboratory-scale Insulation Test Motor (ITM) was constructed to predict both the convective and radiative heat transfer to the interior walls of the ITM with a minimum of empiricism. These predictions were then compared to values of total and radiative heat flux measured in a previous series of ITM test firings to assess the capabilities and shortcomings of the chosen modeling approach. Though the calculated fluxes reasonably agreed with those measured during testing, this exercise revealed means of improving the fidelity of the model to, in the case of the thermal radiation, enable direct comparison of the measured and calculated fluxes and, for the total heat flux, compute a value indicative of the average measured condition. By replacing the P1-Approximation with the discrete ordinates (DO) model for the solution of the gray radiative transfer equation, the radiation intensity field in the optically thin region near the radiometer is accurately estimated, allowing the thermal radiation flux to be calculated on the heat-flux sensor itself, which was then compared directly to the measured values. Though the fully coupling the wall thermal response with the flow model was not attempted due to the excessive computational time required, a separate wall thermal response model was used to better estimate the average temperature of the graphite surfaces upstream of the heat flux gauges and improve the accuracy of both the total and radiative heat flux computations. The success of this modeling approach increases confidence in the ability of state-of-the-art thermal and fluid modeling to accurately predict SRM internal environments, offers corrections to older methods, and supplies a tool for further studies of the dynamics of SRM interiors.

Hyperhidrosis in Iranian Traditional Medicine.

PubMed

Shahroodi, Aniseh Saffar; Shirbeigi, Leila

2016-05-01

Excessive sweating is a medical condition in which a person sweats much more than needed. The medical name of this disorder is hyperhidrosis known as a common dermal problem that affects people of all ages and leads to negative impact on the quality of life. During the last decades, several studies have shown that in many cases of hyperhidrosis there is no evidence of systemic disease. Therefore, most treatments are temporary and symptomatic therapy. According to Iranian traditional medicine (ITM), different approaches are mentioned for hyperhidrosis. This study has reviewed ITM textbooks, such as "Canon of Medicine and Exir-e-azam" as well as scientific references and databases of modern medicine (ISI, PubMed, etc.) with specific keywords. Contents and related concepts were classified and results prepared. In modern medicine, hyperhidrosis has been defined as an abnormal excessive sweating, which is either primary (idiopathic) or secondary to other systemic diseases such as hyperthyroidism, neurological condition or heart disease. Current modalities for treatment are topical anti-perspiration, iontophoresis, Botox injection (Botulinum toxin type A) and eventually thoracic sympathectomy as the last therapeutic modalities. From the viewpoint of the Iranian traditional medicine as a holistic doctrine, hyperhidrosis etiologies include overfilled and repletion of body due to the accumulation of humors, excessive intake of food, excessive dilated skin pores, vigorous exercise, or physical activity. Therefore, therapeutic plan for hyperhidrosis was based on its cause, which includes reduction in the amount of food, increasing physical activity, purging the body from the excess humors and adjustment in temperament. Hyperhidrosis is not an important or dangerous disorder; however, due to the negative impact on quality of life and failure to achieve perfect answer in modern medicine treatments it seems that the recommendations of Iranian traditional medicine will be helpful to control this disorder.

The Atmospheric Waves Experiment (AWE): Quantifying the Impact of Gravity Waves on the Edge of Space

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Taylor, M. J.; Forbes, J. M.; Fritts, D. C.; Eckermann, S. D.; Snively, J. B.; Liu, H.; Janches, D.; Syrstad, E. A.; Esplin, R. W.; Pautet, P. D.; Zhao, Y.; Pendleton, W. R.

2017-12-01

New theory and modeling now indicate that upward-propagating gravity waves (GWs) originating in the lower atmosphere have profound effects on the variability and mean state of the ionosphere-thermosphere-mesosphere (ITM) system. A major unknown is the spectrum of small-scale ( 30-300 km) GWs entering this system from below. Yet, this part of the spectrum contains most of the waves that will produce the greatest ITM effects. To address this knowledge gap, the Atmospheric Waves Experiment (AWE) plans to deploy a high-resolution imager (based on the successful Utah State University Advanced Mesospheric Temperature Mapper) on the International Space Station (ISS) to gain a transformative set of GW-resolving temperature measurements using the OH nightglow emission (altitude 87 km). The ISS provides the ideal combination of altitude, geographic and local time coverage to accomplish our proposed science objectives, which seeks not only near-global measurements of GW characteristics in the mesopause region, but also quantification of GW momentum and energy fluxes driving the IT from below. Combined with state-of-the-art high-resolution models, the AWE mission will also assess the relative importance of sources versus propagation conditions in explaining the observed spatial and temporal variability of the GWs. The AWE mission was recently selected for a "Phase A" study as part of the NASA 2016 Heliophysics Explorers Mission of Opportunity (MO) Program. In this presentation, we describe the primary goals of this program and introduce our proposed research methods using proven IR instrument technology. AWE's exceptional capabilities are illustrated with recent discoveries in observing GWs from the ground and from aircraft during the NSF DEEPWAVE campaign, promising a major step forward in understanding how troposphere weather translates to space weather.

Diagnosis Protocol of Stomach Distemperament for Clinical Practice in Iranian Traditional Medicine: A Narrative Review

PubMed Central

ALIZADEH, Mahdi; KHADEM, Ebrahim; ALIASL, Jale

2017-01-01

Background: In Iranian traditional medicine (ITM) stomach is the important organ in the body. Its disorders can affect other organs such as liver, heart and also can cause depression. Stomach distemperaments can cause some disorders. The purpose of this study was to provide a diagnostic method of stomach distemperament for clinical practice. Methods: In this study authoritative ITM books such as Canon of Avicenna, Zakhirah-E-Kharazm Shahi by Hakim Esmail Jorjani, Kamel al-Sina’ah al-Tibbiyah by Ali ibn al-‘Abbas al-Majusi were assessed and symptoms and signs of stomach distemperament were collected. Results: Stomach has some normal temperament. The imbalance in temperament and humor can cause distemperments. There are 12 types of stomach distemperament and based on symptoms and signs a primary protocol is designed for diagnosis of stomach distemperament. Conclusion: There is no available guideline for gastric distemperamet diagnosis protocol. As a result, the presented protocol should be considered for use in clinical practice. PMID:28845397

Fate of iprovalicarb, indoxacarb, and boscalid residues in grapes and wine by GC-ITMS analysis.

PubMed

Angioni, Alberto; Dedola, Fabrizio; Garau, Vincenzo Luigi; Schirra, Mario; Caboni, Pierluigi

2011-06-22

The behavior in field and the transfer from grapes to wine during winemaking of iprovalicarb, indoxacarb, and boscalid was studied. The residue levels found in grapes were far below the MRLs set for grapes in EU, accounting at harvest time 0.81, 0.43, and 4.23 mg/kg for iprovalicarb, indoxacarb, and boscalid, respectively. The residue levels in the samples treated with boscalid may have residual problems (due to an accumulation effect) if repeated field treatments will be performed. Winemaking experiments showed a complete transfer of all pesticide from grapes to the must, while in wine the residues were low or negligible due to the adsorbing effect of lees and pomace. The clarification experiments showed a good removal of pesticide residues from the wine media, for all pesticides. The GC-ITMS method showed good performance with adequate recoveries ranging from 75 to 115%, and good method limits of quantitation (LOQs) and of determination (LODs) far below MRLs.

Intercultural Dimensions of Teaching Speech Communication in Malaysia: Negotiating the Malays' Malaise.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dick, Robert C.; Robinson, Brenda M.

A study examined a cooperative international education program established between Indiana University and the government of Malaysia entitled the Institut Teknologi MARA/Midwest University Consortium for International Activities (ITM/MUCIA). It further explored the issues to be addressed in turning over the program to Malaysian faculty and…

75 FR 20998 - Ocean Transportation Intermediary License; Reissuance

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-04-22

... Logistics, Commercial Port Annex, 2nd Floor, 1010 Cabras Highway Piti, Guam 96915. 018413NF Chicago Int'l Forwarder February 11, 2010. Incorporated, 423 East Irving Park Road, Wood Dale, IL 60191. 019908NF International Trade Management February 21, 2010. Group, LLC dba Patriot Lines, dba ITM Logistics, 611 Live Oak...

Information Technology Management: Course Re-Design Using an Assessment Driven Approach

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schwieger, Dana; Surendran, Ken

2013-01-01

One of the core courses in the IS2010 Model Curriculum Guideline is "IS Strategy, Management and Acquisition" ("ISMA"). The authors redesigned their pre-IS2010 model Information Technology Management (ITM) course to meet the skills development stated in the ISMA course. Since the IT discipline is changing rapidly, the technical…

Comparing HPLC-ESI-ITMS and UPLC-ESI-OA-TOF-MS in Characterizing Macrolide Antibiotics and Illicit Drugs in Complex Environmental Matrices

EPA Science Inventory

Among the challenges of characterizing emerging contaminants in complex environmental matrices (e.g., biosolids, sewage, or wastewater) are the co-eluting interferences. For example, surfactants, fats, and humic acids, can be preferentially ionized instead of the analyte(s) of in...

BRI2 (ITM2b) Inhibits Aβ Deposition in Vivo

PubMed Central

Kim, Jungsu; Miller, Victor M.; Levites, Yona; West, Karen Jansen; Zwizinski, Craig W.; Moore, Brenda D.; Troendle, Fredrick J.; Bann, Maralyssa; Verbeeck, Christophe; Price, Robert W.; Smithson, Lisa; Sonoda, Leilani; Wagg, Kayleigh; Rangachari, Vijayaraghavan; Zou, Fanggeng; Younkin, Steven G.; Graff-Radford, Neill; Dickson, Dennis; Rosenberry, Terrone; Golde, Todd E.

2008-01-01

Analyses of the biologic effects of mutations in the BRI2 (ITM2b) and the amyloid β precursor protein (APP) genes support the hypothesis that cerebral accumulation of amyloidogenic peptides in familial British and familial Danish dementias and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is associated with neurodegeneration. We have used somatic brain transgenic technology to express the BRI2 and BRI2-Aβ1-40 transgenes in amyloid β protein precursor (APP) mouse models. Expression of BRI2-Aβ1-40 mimics the suppressive effect previously observed using conventional transgenic methods, further validating the somatic brain transgenic methodology. Unexpectedly, we also find that expression of wild type human BRI2 reduces cerebral Aβ deposition in an AD mouse model. Additional data indicate that the 23 amino acid peptide, Bri23, released from BRI2 by normal processing is present in human cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), inhibits Aβ aggregation in vitro, and mediates its anti-amyloidogenic effect in vivo. These studies demonstrate that BRI2 is a novel mediator of Aβ deposition in vivo. PMID:18524908

Effect of different levels of dietary zinc, manganese, and copper from organic or inorganic sources on performance, bacterial chondronecrosis, intramuscular collagen characteristics, and occurrence of meat quality defects of broiler chickens.

PubMed

Sirri, F; Maiorano, G; Tavaniello, S; Chen, J; Petracci, M; Meluzzi, A

2016-08-01

The aim of the experiment was to assess the effects of 2 dietary levels of trace minerals (TM) zinc, manganese, and copper either from organic (OTM) or inorganic (ITM) sources on broiler performance, carcass traits, intramuscular collagen (IMC) properties, occurrence of hock burns (HB), foot pad dermatitis (FPD), femoral and tibia head necrosis, and breast muscle abnormalities (white striping, WS; wooden breast, WB; poor cohesion, PC). A total of 3,600 one-day-old male chicks were randomly assigned to one of 4 dietary treatments in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement (9 replicates of 100 birds/dietary treatment). Birds were slaughtered at 31 (thinning) and 51 d of age. Body weight, daily weight gain (DWG), feed intake, feed conversion rate (FCR), and mortality were determined. A significant effect of the source of TM supplementation was found only in 51-day-old chickens. Birds of the OTM groups were heavier (P < 0.05), with a higher (P < 0.05) DWG and a better FCR (P < 0.05) compared with those of the ITM groups. OTM significantly reduced the lesion scores of femoral head (P = 0.004) and total leg (femur + tibia, P = 0.02) compared to ITM, which is mainly caused by the reduction of the percentages of femoral head transitional degeneration (FHT, P = 0.04) and femoral head necrosis (FHN, P = 0.07). Carcass traits were similar among the experimental groups. No alleviating effect of TM administration on the incidence of FPD and HB in 31- and 51-day-old chickens was found. Similarly, the occurrence and the degrees of WS and WB in 51-day-old chickens was affected neither by the doses nor by the source of TM supplied. IMC characteristics of broiler pectoral muscle were not affected (P > 0.05) by the different sources and doses of TM administrated. © 2016 Poultry Science Association Inc.

Visual event-related potential studies supporting the validity of VARK learning styles' visual and read/write learners.

PubMed

Thepsatitporn, Sarawin; Pichitpornchai, Chailerd

2016-06-01

The validity of learning styles needs supports of additional objective evidence. The identification of learning styles using subjective evidence from VARK questionnaires (where V is visual, A is auditory, R is read/write, and K is kinesthetic) combined with objective evidence from visual event-related potential (vERP) studies has never been investigated. It is questionable whether picture superiority effects exist in V learners and R learners. Thus, the present study aimed to investigate whether vERP could show the relationship between vERP components and VARK learning styles and to identify the existence of picture superiority effects in V learners and R learners. Thirty medical students (15 V learners and 15 R learners) performed recognition tasks with vERP and an intermediate-term memory (ITM) test. The results of within-group comparisons showed that pictures elicited larger P200 amplitudes than words at the occipital 2 site (P < 0.05) in V learners and at the occipital 1 and 2 sites (P < 0.05) in R learners. The between-groups comparison showed that P200 amplitudes elicited by pictures in V learners were larger than those of R learners at the parietal 4 site (P < 0.05). The ITM test result showed that a picture set showed distinctively more correct responses than that of a word set for both V learners (P < 0.001) and R learners (P < 0.01). In conclusion, the result indicated that the P200 amplitude at the parietal 4 site could be used to objectively distinguish V learners from R learners. A lateralization existed to the right brain (occipital 2 site) in V learners. The ITM test demonstrated the existence of picture superiority effects in both learners. The results revealed the first objective electrophysiological evidence partially supporting the validity of the subjective psychological VARK questionnaire study. Copyright © 2016 The American Physiological Society.

End-To-END Performance of the future MOMA intrument aboard the EXOMARS MISSION

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Buch, A.; Pinnick, V. T.; Szopa, C.; Grand, N.; Danell, R.; van Amerom, F. H. W.; Freissinet, C.; Glavin, D. P.; Stalport, F.; Arevalo, R. D., Jr.; Coll, P. J.; Steininger, H.; Raulin, F.; Goesmann, F.; Mahaffy, P. R.; Brinckerhoff, W. B.

2016-12-01

After the SAM experiment aboard the curiosity rover, the Mars Organic Molecule Analyzer (MOMA) experiment aboard the future ExoMars mission will be the continuation of the search for the organic composition of the Mars surface with the advantage that the sample will be extracted as deep as 2 meters below the martian surface to minimize effects of radiation and oxidation on organic materials. To analyse the wide range of organic composition (volatile and non volatils compounds) of the martian soil MOMA is composed with an UV laser desorption / ionization (LDI) and a pyrolysis gas chromatography ion trap mass spectrometry (pyr-GC-ITMS). In order to analyse refractory organic compounds and chirality samples which undergo GC-ITMS analysis may be submitted to a derivatization process, consisting of the reaction of the sample components with specific reactants (MTBSTFA [1], DMF-DMA [2] or TMAH [3]). To optimize and test the performance of the GC-ITMS instrument we have performed several coupling tests campaigns between the GC, providing by the French team (LISA, LATMOS, CentraleSupelec), and the MS, providing by the US team (NASA, GSFC). Last campaign has been done with the ITU models wich is similar to the flight model and wich include the oven and the taping station providing by the German team (MPS). The results obtained demonstrate the current status of the end-to-end performance of the gas chromatography-mass spectrometry mode of operation. References:[1] Buch, A. et al. (2009) J chrom. A, 43, 143-151. [2] Freissinet et al. (2011) J Chrom A, 1306, 59-71. [3] Geffroy-Rodier, C. et al. (2009) JAAP, 85, 454-459. Acknowledgements: Funding provided by the Mars Exploration Program (point of contact, George Tahu, NASA/HQ). MOMA is a collaboration between NASA and ESA (PI Goesmann, MPS). MOMA-GC team acknowledges support from the French Space Agency (CNES), French National Programme of Planetology (PNP), National French Council (CNRS), Pierre Simon Laplace Institute.

Metabolism and tissue distribution of trace elements in broiler chickens' fed diets containing deficient and plethoric levels of copper, manganese, and zinc.

PubMed

Mondal, Sovik; Haldar, Sudipto; Saha, Pinaki; Ghosh, Tapan Kumar

2010-11-01

Supplementation of broiler diets with copper, manganese, and zinc at levels higher than that stipulated by the National Research Council 1994 reportedly improved live weight, feed conversion, and cured leg abnormality supposedly caused by inadequate intake of Mn and Zn. The objective of the study was to ascertain the effects of plethoric supplementation of copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), and zinc (Zn) on performance and metabolic responses in broiler chickens. The study also aimed to discriminate the responses of the birds when the mineral elements were supplemented either in an inorganic or in an organic form. Cobb 400 broiler chickens (1-day old, n = 300) were assigned to three dietary treatments each containing nine replicates with ten birds for 39 days. The treatments included a control in which the diet was devoid of supplemental trace elements and treatments supplemented with an inorganic trace element premix (ITM) and supplemented with a combination of the inorganic and an organic trace element premix (OTM). The ITM contained (per kilogram) copper, 15 g; iron, 90 g; manganese, 90 g; zinc, 80 g (all as sulfated salts); iodine (as potassium iodide), 2 g; and selenium (as sodium selenite), 0.3 g. The OTM on the other hand, contained copper, 2.5 g; iron, 15 g; manganese, 15 g; zinc, 13.33 g; and chromium, 0.226 g (all as protein chelates). Plethoric supplementation of trace elements improved live weight gain and feed/gain ratio (p < 0.05). Leg abnormality developed in the 16% of the control group of birds but not in the supplemented group. Metabolizability of dry matter, organic matter, and protein was higher (p < 0.01) in the ITM and OTM groups. Excretion of Cu, Fe, and Zn decreased (p < 0.1) due to supplementation of the trace elements leading to increased apparent absorption of the said mineral elements (p < 0.01). Concentration of the concerned trace elements in serum, liver, and composite muscle samples was higher (p < 0.05) in the ITM and OTM dietary groups indicating an increased deposition of the said mineral elements due to supplementation. Although the study revealed subtle difference between the inorganic and organic mineral premixes with regards to the parameters mentioned above, it became apparent that it is possible to reduce excretion of these trace elements by a judicious escalation in the level of supplementation. The results of the present investigation further revealed that the trace mineral requirement of broiler chickens suggested by the National Research Council may not be optimum to support the maximum growth potential of the high yielding strains, and it is reasonable to consider a review of the current NRC recommendations to meet the needs of the modern birds.

Solar Eclipse-Induced Changes in the Ionosphere over the Continental US

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Erickson, P. J.; Zhang, S.; Goncharenko, L. P.; Coster, A. J.; Hysell, D. L.; Sulzer, M. P.; Vierinen, J.

2017-12-01

For the first time in 26 years, a total solar eclipse occurred over the continental United States on 21 August 2017, between 16:00-20:00 UT. We report on American solar eclipse observations of the upper atmosphere, conducted by a team led by MIT Haystack Observatory. Efforts measured ionospheric and thermospheric eclipse perturbations. Although eclipse effects have been studied for more than 50 years, recent major sensitivity and resolution advances using radio-based techniques are providing new information on the eclipse ionosphere-thermosphere-mesosphere (ITM) system response. Our study was focused on quantifying eclipse effects on (1) traveling ionospheric disturbances (TIDs) and atmospheric gravity waves (AGWs); (2) spatial ionospheric variations associated with the eclipse; and (3) altitudinal and temporal ionospheric profile variations. We present selected early findings on ITM eclipse response including a dense global network of 6000 GNSS total electron content (TEC) receivers (100 million measurements per day; 1x1 degree spatial grid) and the Millstone Hill and Arecibo incoherent scatter radars. TEC depletions of up to 60% in magnitude were associated with the eclipse umbra and penumbra and consistently trailed the eclipse totality center. TEC enhancements associated with prominent orographic features were observed in the western US due to complex interactions as the lower atmosphere cooled in response to decreasing EUV energy inputs. Strong TIDs in the form of bow waves, stern waves, and a stern wake were observed in TEC data. Altitude-resolved plasma parameter profiles from Millstone Hill saw a nearly 50% decrease in F region electron density in vertical profiles, accompanied by a corresponding 200-250 K decrease in electron temperature. Wide field Millstone Hill radar scans showed similar decreases in electron density to the southwest, maximizing along the line of closest approach to totality. Data is available to the research community through the MIT Haystack Madrigal system. Alongside a summary of observations, we will also present preliminary quantitative comparisons with several ongoing modeling efforts.

Ternary Nonfullerene Polymer Solar Cells with 12.16% Efficiency by Introducing One Acceptor with Cascading Energy Level and Complementary Absorption.

PubMed

Jiang, Weigang; Yu, Runnan; Liu, Zhiyang; Peng, Ruixiang; Mi, Dongbo; Hong, Ling; Wei, Qiang; Hou, Jianhui; Kuang, Yongbo; Ge, Ziyi

2018-01-01

A novel small-molecule acceptor, (2,2'-((5E,5'E)-5,5'-((5,5'-(4,4,9,9-tetrakis(5-hexylthiophen-2-yl)-4,9-dihydro-s-indaceno[1,2-b:5,6-b']dithiophene-2,7-diyl)bis(4-(2-ethylhexyl)thiophene-5,2-diyl))bis(methanylylidene)) bis(3-hexyl-4-oxothiazolidine-5,2-diylidene))dimalononitrile (ITCN), end-capped with electron-deficient 2-(3-hexyl-4-oxothiazolidin-2-ylidene)malononitrile groups, is designed, synthesized, and used as the third component in fullerene-free ternary polymer solar cells (PSCs). The cascaded energy-level structure enabled by the newly designed acceptor is beneficial to the carrier transport and separation. Meanwhile, the three materials show a complementary absorption in the visible region, resulting in efficient light harvesting. Hence, the PBDB-T:ITCN:IT-M ternary PSCs possess a high short-circuit current density (J sc ) under an optimal weight ratio of donors and acceptors. Moreover, the open-circuit voltage (V oc ) of the ternary PSCs is enhanced with an increase of the third acceptor ITCN content, which is attributed to the higher lowest unoccupied molecular orbital energy level of ITCN than that of IT-M, thus exhibits a higher V oc in PBDB-T:ITCN binary system. Ultimately, the ternary PSCs achieve a power conversion efficiency of 12.16%, which is higher than the PBDB-T:ITM-based PSCs (10.89%) and PBDB-T:ITCN-based ones (2.21%). This work provides an effective strategy to improve the photovoltaic performance of PSCs. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Linear Ion Trap for the Mars Organic Molecule Analyzer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brinckerhoff, William; Arevalo, Ricardo; Danell, Ryan; van Amerom, Friso; Pinnick, Veronica; Li, Xiang; Hovmand, Lars; Getty, Stephanie; Mahaffy, Paul; Goesmann, Fred; Steininger, Harald

2014-05-01

The 2018 ExoMars rover mission includes the Mars Organic Molecule Analyzer (MOMA) investigation. MOMA will examine the chemical composition of samples acquired from depths of up to two meters below the martian surface, where organics may be protected from radiative and oxidative degradation. When combined with the complement of instruments in the rover's Pasteur Payload, MOMA has the potential to reveal the presence of a wide range of organics preserved in a variety of mineralogical environments, and to begin to understand the structural character and potential origin of those compounds. MOMA includes a linear, or 2D, ion trap mass spectrometer (ITMS) that is designed to analyze molecular composition of (i) gas evolved from pyrolyzed powder samples and separated on a gas chromatograph and (ii) ions directly desorbed from solid samples at Mars ambient pressure using a pulsed laser and a fast-valve capillary ion inlet system. This "dual source" approach gives MOMA unprecedented breadth of detection over a wide range of molecular weights and volatilities. Analysis of nonvolatile, higher-molecular weight organics such as carboxylic acids and peptides even in the presence of significant perchlorate concentrations is enabled by the extremely short (~1 ns) pulses of the desorption laser. Use of the ion trap's tandem mass spectrometry mode permits selective focus on key species for isolation and controlled fragmentation, providing structural analysis capabilities. The flight-like engineering test unit (ETU) of the ITMS, now under construction, will be used to verify breadboard performance with high fidelity, while simultaneously supporting the development of analytical scripts and spectral libraries using synthetic and natural Mars analog samples guided by current results from MSL. ETU campaign data will strongly advise the specifics of the calibration applied to the MOMA flight model as well as the science operational procedures during the mission.

POLAR ORGANIC CHEMICAL INTEGRATIVE SAMPLING AND LIQUID CHROMATOGRAPHY-ELECTROSPRAY/ION-TRAP MASS SPECTROMETRY FOR ASSESSING SELECTED PRESCRIPTION AND ILLICIT DRUGS IN TREATED SEWAGE EFFLUENTS

EPA Science Inventory

The purpose of the research presented in this paper is two-fold: (1) to demonstrate the 4 coupling of two state-of-the-art techniques: a time-weighted polar organic integrative sampler (POCIS) and micro-liquid chromatography-electrospray/ion trap mass spectrometry (u-LC-6 ES/ITMS...

Fibromodulin modulates myoblast differentiation by controlling calcium channel.

PubMed

Lee, Eun Ju; Nam, Joo Hyun; Choi, Inho

2018-06-16

Fibromodulin (FMOD) is a proteoglycan present in extracellular matrix (ECM). Based on our previous findings that FMOD controls myoblast differentiation by regulating the gene expressions of collagen type I alpha 1 (COL1α1) and integral membrane protein 2 A (Itm2a), we undertook this study to investigate relationships between FMOD and calcium channels and to understand further the mechanism by which they control myoblast differentiation. Gene expression studies and luciferase reporter assays showed FMOD affected calcium channel gene expressions by regulating calcium channel gene promoter, and patch-clamp experiments showed both L- and T-type calcium channel currents were almost undetectable in FMOD knocked down cells. In addition, gene knock-down studies demonstrated the COL1α1 and Itm2a genes both regulate the expressions of calcium channel genes. Studies using a cardiotoxin-induced mouse muscle injury model demonstrated calcium channels play important roles in the regeneration of muscle tissue, possibly by promoting the differentiation of muscle stem cells (MSCs). Summarizing, the study demonstrates ECM components secreted by myoblasts during differentiation provide an essential environment for muscle differentiation and regeneration. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A new method for the determination of short-chain fatty acids from the aliphatic series in wines by headspace solid-phase microextraction-gas chromatography-ion trap mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Olivero, Sergio J Pérez; Trujillo, Juan P Pérez

2011-06-24

A new analytical method for the determination of nine short-chain fatty acids (acetic, propionic, isobutyric, butyric, isovaleric, 2-methylbutyric, hexanoic, octanoic and decanoic acids) in wines using the automated HS/SPME-GC-ITMS technique was developed and optimised. Five different SPME fibers were tested and the influence of different factors such as temperature and time of extraction, temperature and time of desorption, pH, strength ionic, tannins, anthocyans, SO(2), sugar and ethanol content were studied and optimised using model solutions. Some analytes showed matrix effect so a study of recoveries was performed. The proposed HS/SPME-GC-ITMS method, that covers the concentration range of the different analytes in wines, showed wide linear ranges, values of repeatability and reproducibility lower than 4.0% of RSD and detection limits between 3 and 257 μgL(-1), lower than the olfactory thresholds. The optimised method is a suitable technique for the quantitative analysis of short-chain fatty acids from the aliphatic series in real samples of white, rose and red wines. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Simultaneous analysis of strychnine and brucine and their major metabolites by liquid chromatography-electrospray ion trap mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Chen, Xueguo; Lai, Yongquan; Cai, Zongwei

2012-04-01

A liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-ion trap mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-ITMS) method was developed for the simultaneous analysis of strychnine, brucine and their major metabolites. Strychnine and brucine were individually incubated with rat liver S9 fraction. The incubation samples were pooled together and analyzed with LC-ESI-ITMS in positive ion and full-scan detection mode. The calibration curves of strychnine and brucine in rat liver showed good linearity in ranges of 0.020 to 8.0 µg/mL for strychnine and 0.020 to 8.5 µg/mL for brucine. The limits of detections were both 0.008 µg/mL and the recoveries were 88.3 and 83.2% for strychnine and brucine, respectively. Two metabolites were identified as strychnine N-oxide and brucine N-oxide by comparing the molecular mass, retention time, full-scan mass spectra, tandem MS and MS(3) spectra with those of strychnine and brucine. The developed method provided high sensitivity and selectivity for the determination of poisonous alkaloids and their major metabolites and can be applied in the determination of samples in forensic and clinically toxicological cases.

Quantitation of lysergic acid diethylamide in urine using atmospheric pressure matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization ion trap mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Cui, Meng; McCooeye, Margaret A; Fraser, Catharine; Mester, Zoltán

2004-12-01

A quantitative method was developed for analysis of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) in urine using atmospheric pressure matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization ion trap mass spectrometry (AP MALDI-ITMS). Following solid-phase extraction of LSD from urine samples, extracts were analyzed by AP MALDI-ITMS. The identity of LSD was confirmed by fragmentation of the [M + H](+) ion using tandem mass spectrometry. The quantification of LSD was achieved using stable-isotope-labeled LSD (LSD-d(3)) as the internal standard. The [M + H](+) ion fragmented to produce a dominant fragment ion, which was used for a selected reaction monitoring (SRM) method for quantitative analysis of LSD. SRM was compared with selected ion monitoring and produced a wider linear range and lower limit of quantification. For SRM analysis of samples of LSD spiked in urine, the calibration curve was linear in the range of 1-100 ng/mL with a coefficient of determination, r(2), of 0.9917. This assay was used to determine LSD in urine samples and the AP MALDI-MS results were comparable to the HPLC/ ESI-MS results.

APP heterozygosity averts memory deficit in knockin mice expressing the Danish dementia BRI2 mutant.

PubMed

Tamayev, Robert; Matsuda, Shuji; Giliberto, Luca; Arancio, Ottavio; D'Adamio, Luciano

2011-05-17

An autosomal dominant mutation in the BRI2/ITM2B gene causes familial Danish dementia (FDD). Analysis of FDD(KI) mice, a mouse model of FDD genetically congruous to the human disease since they carry one mutant and one wild-type Bri2/Itm2b allele, has shown that the Danish mutation causes loss of Bri2 protein, synaptic plasticity and memory impairments. BRI2 is a physiological interactor of Aβ-precursor protein (APP), a gene associated with Alzheimer disease, which inhibits processing of APP. Here, we show that APP/Bri2 complexes are reduced in synaptic membranes of FDD(KI) mice. Consequently, APP metabolites derived from processing of APP by β-, α- and γ-secretases are increased in Danish dementia mice. APP haplodeficiency prevents memory and synaptic dysfunctions, consistent with a role for APP metabolites in the pathogenesis of memory and synaptic deficits. This genetic suppression provides compelling evidence that APP and BRI2 functionally interact, and that the neurological effects of the Danish form of BRI2 only occur when sufficient levels of APP are supplied by two alleles. This evidence establishes a pathogenic sameness between familial Danish and Alzheimer's dementias.

APP heterozygosity averts memory deficit in knockin mice expressing the Danish dementia BRI2 mutant

PubMed Central

Tamayev, Robert; Matsuda, Shuji; Giliberto, Luca; Arancio, Ottavio; D'Adamio, Luciano

2011-01-01

An autosomal dominant mutation in the BRI2/ITM2B gene causes familial Danish dementia (FDD). Analysis of FDDKI mice, a mouse model of FDD genetically congruous to the human disease since they carry one mutant and one wild-type Bri2/Itm2b allele, has shown that the Danish mutation causes loss of Bri2 protein, synaptic plasticity and memory impairments. BRI2 is a physiological interactor of Aβ-precursor protein (APP), a gene associated with Alzheimer disease, which inhibits processing of APP. Here, we show that APP/Bri2 complexes are reduced in synaptic membranes of FDDKI mice. Consequently, APP metabolites derived from processing of APP by β-, α- and γ-secretases are increased in Danish dementia mice. APP haplodeficiency prevents memory and synaptic dysfunctions, consistent with a role for APP metabolites in the pathogenesis of memory and synaptic deficits. This genetic suppression provides compelling evidence that APP and BRI2 functionally interact, and that the neurological effects of the Danish form of BRI2 only occur when sufficient levels of APP are supplied by two alleles. This evidence establishes a pathogenic sameness between familial Danish and Alzheimer's dementias. PMID:21587206

VOLATILE CONSTITUENTS OF GINGER OIL PREPARED ACCORDING TO IRANIAN TRADITIONAL MEDICINE AND CONVENTIONAL METHOD: A COMPARATIVE STUDY.

PubMed

Shirooye, Pantea; Mokaberinejad, Roshanak; Ara, Leila; Hamzeloo-Moghadam, Maryam

2016-01-01

Herbal medicines formulated as oils were believed to possess more powerful effects than their original plants in Iranian Traditional Medicine (ITM). One of the popular oils suggested for treatment of various indications was ginger oil. In the present study, to suggest a more convenient method of oil preparation (compared to the traditional method), ginger oil has been prepared according to both the traditional and conventional maceration methods and the volatile oil constituents have been compared. Ginger oil was obtained in sesame oil according to both the traditional way and the conventional (maceration) methods. The volatile oil of dried ginger and both oils were obtained by hydro-distillation and analyzed by gas chromatography/mass spectroscopy. Fifty five, fifty nine and fifty one components consisting 94 %, 94 % and 98 % of the total compounds were identified in the volatile oil of ginger, traditional and conventional oils, respectively. The most dominant compounds of the traditional and conventional oils were almost similar; however they were different from ginger essential oil which has also been to possess limited amounts of anti-inflammatory components. It was concluded that ginger oil could be prepared through maceration method and used for indications mentioned in ITM.

Transforming Science Data for GIS: How to Find and Use NASA Earth Observation Data Without Being a Rocket Scientist

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bagwell, Ross; Peters, Byron; Berrick, Stephen

2017-01-01

NASAs Earth Observing System Data Information System (EOSDIS) manages Earth Observation satellites and the Distributed Active Archive Centers (DAACs), where the data is stored and processed. The challenge is that Earth Observation data is complicated. There is plenty of data available, however, the science teams have had a top-down approach: define what it is you are trying to study -select a set of satellite(s) and sensor(s), and drill down for the data.Our alternative is to take a bottom-up approach using eight environmental fields of interest as defined by the Group on Earth Observations (GEO) called Societal Benefit Areas (SBAs): Disaster Resilience (DR) Public Health Surveillance (PHS) Energy and Mineral Resource Management (EMRM) Water Resources Management (WRM) Infrastructure and Transport Management (ITM) Sustainable Urban Development (SUD) Food Security and Sustainable Agriculture (FSSA) Biodiversity and Ecosystems Sustainability (BES).

Selected Bibliography on Optimizing Techniques in Statistics

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-08-01

problems in business, industry and .ogovern nt ae f rmulated as optimization problem. Topics in optimization constitute an essential area of study in...numerical, iii) mathematical programming, and (iv) variational. We provide pertinent references with statistical applications Sin the above areas in Part I...TMS Advanced Studies in Managentnt Sciences, North-Holland PIIENli iiiany, Amsterdam. (To appear.) Spang, H. A. (1962). A review of minimization

Transversus abdominal plane block for postoperative analgesia: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized-controlled trials.

PubMed

Brogi, Etrusca; Kazan, Roy; Cyr, Shantale; Giunta, Francesco; Hemmerling, Thomas M

2016-10-01

The transversus abdominal plane (TAP) block has been described as an effective pain control technique after abdominal surgery. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized-controlled trials (RCTs) to account for the increasing number of TAP block studies appearing in the literature. The primary outcome we examined was the effect of TAP block on the postoperative pain score at six, 12, and 24 hr. The secondary outcome was 24-hr morphine consumption. We searched the United States National Library of Medicine database, the Excerpta Medica database, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Clinical Studies and identified RCTs focusing on the analgesic efficacy of TAP block compared with a control group [i.e., placebo, epidural analgesia, intrathecal morphine (ITM), and ilioinguinal nerve block after abdominal surgery]. Meta-analyses were performed on postoperative pain scores at rest at six, 12, and 24 hr (visual analogue scale, 0-10) and on 24-hr opioid consumption. In the 51 trials identified, compared with placebo, TAP block reduced the VAS for pain at six hours by 1.4 (95% confidence interval [CI], -1.9 to -0.8; P < 0.001), at 12 hr by 2.0 (95% CI, -2.7 to -1.4; P < 0.001), and at 24 hr by 1.2 (95% CI, -1.6 to -0.8; P < 0.001). Similarly, compared with placebo, TAP block reduced morphine consumption at 24 hr after surgery (mean difference, -14.7 mg; 95% CI, -18.4 to -11.0; P < 0.001). We observed this reduction in pain scores and morphine consumption in the TAP block group after gynecological surgery, appendectomy, inguinal surgery, bariatric surgery, and urological surgery. Nevertheless, separate analysis of the studies comparing ITM with TAP block revealed that ITM seemed to have a greater analgesic efficacy. The TAP block can play an important role in the management of pain after abdominal surgery by reducing both pain scores and 24-hr morphine consumption. It may have particular utility when neuraxial techniques or opioids are contraindicated.

Performances of the Mars Organic Molecule Analyzer (MOMA) GC-MS suite aboard ExoMars Mission

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Buch, A.; Grand, N.; Pinnick, V. T.; Szopa, C.; Humeau, O.; Danell, R.; van Amerom, F. H. W.; Freissinet, C.; Glavin, D. P.; Belmahdi, I.; Coll, P. J.; Lustrement, B.; Brinckerhoff, W. B.; Arevalo, R. D., Jr.; Stalport, F.; Steininger, H.; Goesmann, F.; Raulin, F.; Mahaffy, P. R.

2014-12-01

The Mars Organic Molecule Analyzer (MOMA) aboard the ExoMars rover (Pasteur) will be a key analytical tool in providing chemical (molecular) information from the solid samples collected by the rover, with a particular focus on the characterization of the organic content. Samples will be extracted as deep as 2 meters below the martian surface to minimize effects of radiation and oxidation on organic materials. The core of the MOMA instrument is a dual source UV laser desorption / ionization (LDI) and pyrolysis gas chromatography (pyr-GC) ion trap mass spectrometer (ITMS) which provides the unique capability to characterize a broad range of compounds, including both of volatile and non-volatile species. Samples which undergo GC-ITMS analysis may be submitted to a derivatization process, consisting of the reaction of the sample components with specific reactants (MTBSTFA [1], DMF-DMA [2] or TMAH [3]) which increase the volatility of complex organic species. With the goal to optimize this instrumentation, and especially the GC-ITMS coupling, a series of tests is currently being carried out with prototypes of MOMA instrumentation and with the ETU models wich is similar to the flight model. The MOMA oven and tapping station are also part of these end-to-end experiments. Qualitative and quantitative tests has been done on gas, liquid and solid samples. The results obtained demonstrate the current status of the end-to-end performance of the gas chromatography-mass spectrometry mode of operation. Both prototypes individually meet the performance requirements, but this work particularly demonstrates the capabilities of the critical GC-MS interface. References: [1] Buch, A. et al. (2009) J chrom. A, 43, 143-151. [2] Freissinet et al. (2011) J Chrom A, 1306, 59-71. [3] Geffroy-Rodier, C. et al. (2009) JAAP, 85, 454-459. Acknowledgements: Funding provided by the Mars Exploration Program (point of contact, George Tahu, NASA/HQ). MOMA is a collaboration between NASA and ESA (PI Goesmann, MPS). MOMA-GC team acknowledges support from the French Space Agency (CNES), French National Programme of Planetology (PNP), National French Council (CNRS), Pierre Simon Laplace Institute.

Oxylipins from Dracontium loretense.

PubMed

Benavides, Angelyne; Napolitano, Assunta; Bassarello, Carla; Carbone, Virginia; Gazzerro, Patrizia; Malfitano, Annamaria; Saggese, Paola; Bifulco, Maurizio; Piacente, Sonia; Pizza, Cosimo

2009-05-22

Four novel oxylipins (1-4) were isolated from the n-butanol extract of the corms of Dracontium loretense. Their structures were assigned by 1D and 2D NMR analyses and electrospray ionization multistage ion trap mass spectrometry (ESI-ITMS(n)) data. Relative configurations were assigned on the basis of combined analysis of homonuclear and heteronuclear (2,3)J couplings, along with ROE data. Oxylipin 2 exhibited an immunostimulatory effect on human PBMC proliferation.

Thermal Image Measurements of Infrared Signatures

DTIC Science & Technology

1986-12-01

110A𔃾 (mItm D#Ie. gnea.od Block 19 contd. "ý-been shown to var,% bc.th positively and negatively comparedwith the thermometric tem"h perature...This effective temperature difference has been shown to vary both positively and negatively compared with the thermometric temperature difference... thermometric temperature difference is no longer a good representation of the radiance contrast. An "effective temperature difference" can however be defined

Formulation of an aloe-based product according to Iranian traditional medicine and development of its analysis method.

PubMed

Moein, Elham; Hajimehdipoor, Homa; Toliyat, Tayebeh; Choopani, Rasool; Hamzeloo-Moghadam, Maryam

2017-08-29

Currently, people are more interested to traditional medicine. The traditional formulations should be converted to modern drug delivery systems to be more acceptable for the patients. In the present investigation, a poly herbal medicine "Ayarij-e-Faiqra" (AF) based on Iranian traditional medicine (ITM) has been formulated and its quality control parameters have been developed. The main ingredients of AF including barks of Cinnamomum zeylanicum Blume and Cinnamomum cassia J. Presl, the rhizomes of Nardostachys jatamansi DC., the fruits of Piper cubeba L.f., the flowers of Rosa damascena Herrm., the oleo gum resin of Pistacia terebinthus L. and Aloe spp. dried juice were powdered and used for preparing seven tablet formulations of the herbal mixture. Flowability of the different formulated powders was examined and the best formulations were selected (F6&F7). The tablets were prepared from the selected formulations compared according to the physical characteristics and finally, F7 was selected and coated. Physicochemical characters of core and coated AF tablets were determined and the HPLC method for quantitation of aloin as a marker of tablets was selected and verified according to selectivity, linearity, precision, recovery, LOD and LOQ. The results showed that core and coated AF tablets were in agreement with USP requirements for herbal drugs. They had acceptable appearance, disintegration time, friability, hardness, dissolution behavior, weight variation and content uniformity. The amount of aloin in tablets was found 123.1 mg/tab. The HPLC method for aloin determination in AF tablets was verified according to selectivity, linearity (5-500 μg/ml, r 2 :0.9999), precision (RSD: 1.62%), recovery (108.0%), LOD & LOQ (0.0053 & 0.0161 μg/ml). The formulated tablets could be a good substitute for powder and capsules of AF in ITM clinics with a feasible and precise method for its quality control. Ayarij-e-Faiqra formulation.

Design and Testing of a Linear Ion Trap for the Mars Organic Molecule Analyzer (MOMA) Investigation on the 2018 ExoMars Rover

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brinckerhoff, W. B.; van Amerom, F.; Danell, R.; Pinnick, V. T.; Arevalo, R. D.; Li, X.; Hovmand, L.; Siljestrom, S.; Mahaffy, P. R.; Goetz, W.; Goesmann, F.; Steininger, H.

2013-12-01

The 2018 ExoMars rover mission includes the Mars Organic Molecule Analyzer (MOMA) investigation. MOMA will examine the chemical composition of samples acquired from depths of up to two meters below the martian surface, where organics may be protected from radiative and oxidative degradation. When combined with the complement of instruments in the rover's Pasteur Payload, MOMA has the potential to reveal the presence of a wide range of organics preserved in a variety of mineralogical environments, and to begin to understand the structural character and potential origin of those compounds. MOMA includes an ion trap mass spectrometer (ITMS) that is designed to analyze molecular composition of (i) gas evolved from pyrolyzed powder samples and separated on a gas chromatograph and (ii) ions directly desorbed from solid samples at Mars ambient pressure using a pulsed laser and a fast-valve capillary ion inlet system. This 'dual source' approach gives MOMA unprecedented breadth of detection over a wide range of molecular weights and volatilities. Analysis of nonvolatile, higher-molecular weight organics such as carboxylic acids and peptides even in the presence of significant perchlorate concentrations is enabled by the extremely short (~1 ns) pulses of the desorption laser. Use of the ion trap's tandem mass spectrometry mode permits selective focus on key species for isolation and controlled fragmentation, providing structural analysis capabilities. The flight-like engineering test unit (ETU) of the ITMS, now under construction, will be used to verify breadboard performance with high fidelity, while simultaneously supporting the development of analytical scripts and spectral libraries using synthetic and natural Mars analog samples guided by current results from MSL. ETU campaign data will strongly advise the specifics of the calibration applied to the MOMA flight model as well as the science operational procedures during the mission.

Ternary Polymer Solar Cells based on Two Acceptors and One Donor for Achieving 12.2% Efficiency.

PubMed

Zhao, Wenchao; Li, Sunsun; Zhang, Shaoqing; Liu, Xiaoyu; Hou, Jianhui

2017-01-01

Ternary polymer solar cells are fabricated based on one donor PBDB-T and two acceptors (a methyl-modified small-molecular acceptor (IT-M) and a bis-adduct of Bis[70]PCBM). A high power conversion efficiency of 12.2% can be achieved. The photovoltaic performance of the ternary polymer solar cells is not sensitive to the composition of the blend. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Nanoporous capsules of block co-polymers of [(MeO-PEG-NH)-b-(L-GluA)]-PCL for the controlled release of anticancer drugs for therapeutic applications.

PubMed

Amgoth, Chander; Dharmapuri, Gangappa; Kalle, Arunasree M; Paik, Pradip

2016-03-29

Herein, new nanoporous capsules of the block co-polymers of MeO-PEG-NH-(L-GluA)10 and polycaprolactone (PCL) have been synthesized through a surfactant-free cost-effective self-assembled soft-templating approach for the controlled release of drugs and for therapeutic applications. The nanoporous polymer capsules are designed to be biocompatible and are capable of encapsulating anticancer drugs (e.g., doxorubicin hydrochloride (DOX) and imatinib mesylate (ITM)) with a high extent (∼279 and ∼480 ng μg(-1), respectively). We have developed a nanoformulation of porous MeO-PEG-NH-(L-GluA)10-PCL capsules with DOX and ITM. The porous polymer nanoformulations have been programmed in terms of the release of anticancer drugs with a desired dose to treat the leukemia (K562) and human carcinoma cells (HepG2) in vitro and show promising IC50 values with a very high mortality of cancer cells (up to ∼96.6%). Our nanoformulation arrests the cell divisions due to 'cellular scenescence' and kills the cancer cells specifically. The present findings could enrich the effectiveness of idiosyncratic nanoporous polymer capsules for use in various other nanomedicinal and biomedical applications, such as for killing cancer cells, immune therapy, and gene delivery.

Nanoporous capsules of block co-polymers of [(MeO-PEG-NH)-b-(L-GluA)]-PCL for the controlled release of anticancer drugs for therapeutic applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Amgoth, Chander; Dharmapuri, Gangappa; Kalle, Arunasree M.; Paik, Pradip

2016-03-01

Herein, new nanoporous capsules of the block co-polymers of MeO-PEG-NH-(L-GluA)10 and polycaprolactone (PCL) have been synthesized through a surfactant-free cost-effective self-assembled soft-templating approach for the controlled release of drugs and for therapeutic applications. The nanoporous polymer capsules are designed to be biocompatible and are capable of encapsulating anticancer drugs (e.g., doxorubicin hydrochloride (DOX) and imatinib mesylate (ITM)) with a high extent (˜279 and ˜480 ng μg-1, respectively). We have developed a nanoformulation of porous MeO-PEG-NH-(L-GluA)10-PCL capsules with DOX and ITM. The porous polymer nanoformulations have been programmed in terms of the release of anticancer drugs with a desired dose to treat the leukemia (K562) and human carcinoma cells (HepG2) in vitro and show promising IC50 values with a very high mortality of cancer cells (up to ˜96.6%). Our nanoformulation arrests the cell divisions due to ‘cellular scenescence’ and kills the cancer cells specifically. The present findings could enrich the effectiveness of idiosyncratic nanoporous polymer capsules for use in various other nanomedicinal and biomedical applications, such as for killing cancer cells, immune therapy, and gene delivery.

Efficacy of the Bilateral Ilioinguinal-Iliohypogastric Block with Intrathecal Morphine for Postoperative Cesarean Delivery Analgesia

PubMed Central

Vallejo, Manuel C.; Steen, Talora L.; Cobb, Benjamin T.; Phelps, Amy L.; Pomerantz, Joel M.; Orebaugh, Steven L.; Chelly, Jacques E.

2012-01-01

The ilioinguinal-iliohypogastric (IIIH) block is frequently used as multimodal analgesia for lower abdominal surgeries. The aim of this study is to compare the efficacy of IIIH block using ultrasound visualization for reducing postoperative pain after caesarean delivery (CD) in patients receiving intrathecal morphine (ITM) under spinal anesthesia. Participants were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 treatment groups for the bilateral IIIH block: Group A = 10 mL of 0.5% bupivacaine, Group B = 10 mL of 0.5% bupivacaine on one side and 10 mL of a normal saline (NSS) placebo block on the opposite side, and Group C = 10 mL of NSS placebo per side. Pain and nausea scores, treatment for pain and nausea, and patient satisfaction were recorded for 48 hours after CD. No differences were noted with respect to pain scores or treatment for pain over the 48 hours. There were no differences to the presence of nausea (P = 0.64), treatment for nausea (P = 0.21), pruritus (P = 0.39), emesis (P = 0.35), or patient satisfaction (P = 0.29). There were no differences in pain and nausea scores over the measured time periods (MANOVA, P > 0.05). In parturients receiving ITM for elective CD, IIIH block offers no additional postoperative benefit for up to 48 hours. PMID:23304075

The potential of heart rate variability for exploring dental anxiety in mandibular third molar surgery.

PubMed

Le, S H; Tonami, K; Umemori, S; Nguyen, L T-B; Ngo, L T-Q; Mataki, S

2018-06-01

An objective method to recognize patient psychology using heart rate variability (HRV) has recently been developed and is increasingly being used in medical practice. This study compared the potential of this new method with the use of conventional surveys measuring anxiety levels in patients undergoing impacted third molar (ITM) surgery. Patient anxiety was examined before treatment in 64 adults who required ITM surgery, using two methods: measurement of HRV and conventional questionnaire surveys (state section of the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-S) and Dental Fear Survey (DFS)). Both methods were assessed for their respective abilities to determine the impact of personal background, the amount of information provided, and the surgical procedure on patient psychology. Questionnaires and HRV yielded the same finding: dental experience was the single background factor that correlated with patient anxiety; the other factors remain unclear. The STAI-S showed a significant relationship between the information provided to the patient and their anxiety level, while the DFS and HRV did not. In addition, HRV demonstrated its ability to assess the effects of the surgical procedure on patient psychology. HRV demonstrated great potential as an objective method for evaluating patient stress, especially for providing real-time information on the patient's status. Copyright © 2018 International Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Beta vulgaris - A mini review of traditional uses in Iran, phytochemistry and pharmacology.

PubMed

Hamedi, Shokouhsadat; Honarvar, Masoud

2018-03-08

Beta vulgaris (family: Chenopodiacea) is now much used in the food industry as a rich source of sugar but it is much less considered in medicine. Beet has been used in traditional medicine for hundreds of years to treat a variety of diseases such as constipation, decreased libido, gut and joint pain and dandruff. This study introduced the benefits of Beta vulgaris by reviewing of Iranian traditional documents from 10th century until now and also compared modern phytotherapy of plant beet from the electronic data banks such as ISI, Pub Med and Scopus with findings that extracted from traditional literature. This plant is known in Iranian traditional medicine (ITM) as Selgh (Arabic) or Choghondar (Farsi) and its leaves are used to develop treatments. Results confirmed that the plant referred to as Selgh in traditional books is that the plant Beta vulgaris in contemporary studies. Treatments that have not been evaluated in modern phytotherapy but do appear in traditional treatments include fever, as well as psychological and psychiatric issues. This article tells the history of beet in ITM and can confirm use of plant Beta vulgaris in medicinal practice. The report can be applied for certification of plant Beta vulgaris for researchers and experts. The findings of this study can help the researchers in producing therapeutic products and new application. Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.org.

Fast Context Switching in Real-Time Propositional Reasoning

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nayak, P. Pandurang; Williams, Brian C.

1997-01-01

The trend to increasingly capable and affordable control processors has generated an explosion of embedded real-time gadgets that serve almost every function imaginable. The daunting task of programming these gadgets is greatly alleviated with real-time deductive engines that perform all execution and monitoring functions from a single core model, Fast response times are achieved using an incremental propositional deductive database (an LTMS). Ideally the cost of an LTMS's incremental update should be linear in the number of labels that change between successive contexts. Unfortunately an LTMS can expend a significant percentage of its time working on labels that remain constant between contexts. This is caused by the LTMS's conservative approach: a context switch first removes all consequences of deleted clauses, whether or not those consequences hold in the new context. This paper presents a more aggressive incremental TMS, called the ITMS, that avoids processing a significant number of these consequences that are unchanged. Our empirical evaluation for spacecraft control shows that the overhead of processing unchanged consequences can be reduced by a factor of seven.

Mechanisms of Drug Resistance in Plasmodium Falciparum

DTIC Science & Technology

1994-06-14

for public release; distribution unlimited The views, opinions and/or findings contained in this report are those of the author( s ) and should not be...construed as an official Department of the Army position, policy or decision unless so designated by other documentation. DTIC QUALITY 110MNDM S 94-20472...tnforWotio,. Sand CO Q~meflt = th dn estimate or any other aseof ftm C@Igd0AOf ,nfO•itm. nge.fdff t-. tor rduciXng ths 0d 10 tovasthmngton Hea•l•are• s Se

Scintillation properties of Pr-activated LuAlO 3

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Drozdowski, Winicjusz; Wojtowicz, Andrzej J.; Wiśniewski, Dariusz; Łukasiewicz, Tadeusz; Kisielewski, Jarosław

2006-01-01

Praseodymium activated LuAlO 3 (LuAP) crystals have been grown using the Czochralski method at ITME, Warsaw. In this communication the measurements of radioluminescence (RL), low temperature thermoluminescence (TL), room temperature afterglow (AG), scintillation light yields (LY), and scintillation time profiles (STP), performed on polished 2 × 2 × 10 mm pixels with three Pr concentrations (0.003, 0.04, and 0.08 at.%), are reported. Two sets of samples are compared: (i) "as grown", and (ii) annealed in H 2 atmosphere.

A Cyber-Astronaut's Final Moves

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2005-01-01

This image shows how Deep Impact's impactor targeted comet Tempel 1 as the spacecraft made its final approach in the early morning hours of July 4, Eastern time. The autonomous navigation system on the probe was designed to make as many as three impactor targeting maneuvers, identified as ITMs in this picture, to correct its course to the comet.

The upper left dot indicates where the probe would have passed the comet's nucleus if no maneuvers were performed. The dot below the nucleus shows where the probe would have flown past the comet if only the first maneuver was made. The leftmost dot on the nucleus marks the spot where the probe would have crunched the comet if only the first two maneuvers had been performed. The lower dot on the nucleus indicates the vicinity where, once the third maneuver was performed, the probe met its final reward and collided with the comet.

Review of Medicinal Remedies on Hand Eczema Based on Iranian Traditional Medicine: A Narrative Review Article

PubMed Central

MANSOURI, Parvin; KHADEMI, Aleme; PAHLEVAN, Daryoush; MEMARIANI, Zahra; ALIASL, Jale; SHIRBEIGII, Laila

2016-01-01

Background: Hand Eczema (HE) is a dermatological disorder with frequent relapses and multiple causes such as atopic, allergic and irritant contact dermatitis. The management is complex because of the wide range of different pathogenesis. Efficacy of some of available treatments is not well established and it can affect patients’ quality of life significantly. Methods: Reports on HE such as diagnosis, pathophysiology, pharmacological and nonpharmacological therapy that described in medieval Iranian medicine, were gathered and analyzed from selected medical and pharmaceutical textbooks of Iranian Traditional Medicine (ITM). The search of databases such as PubMed, EMBASE/Excerpta Medica, Science direct, Scopus, Google scholar, Web of science, Sid, Iran medex, Irandoc, was performed to reconfirm the efficacy of ITM remedies in conventional medicine from 1980-Jan-1 to 2015-Dec-30. Results: According to their opinion, HE is highly associated with liver function. This disorder was categorized into two main types as wet and dry ones. Most Iranian textbook explained signs of HE, as excessive skin itching, redness, burning and dryness. Treatments recommended by Iranian scientists were lifestyle modification, dietary intervention and performing the rules of prevention as well as herbal therapy and special manipulations. Conclusion: Iranian practitioners believed that, six essential principles, diet therapy and medicinal plants have high impact on treatment of HE. These remedies based on Iranian scholar’s experiences might be useful for further studies to the management of HE. PMID:27928524

Relative Contributions of Adductor Canal Block and Intrathecal Morphine to Analgesia and Functional Recovery After Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

PubMed

Biswas, Abhijit; Perlas, Anahi; Ghosh, Meela; Chin, KiJinn; Niazi, Ahtsham; Pandher, Barjind; Chan, Vincent

2018-02-01

Effective postoperative analgesia may enhance early rehabilitation after orthopedic surgery. This randomized double-blind trial investigates the relative contributions of adductor canal block and low-dose intrathecal morphine (ITM) to postoperative analgesia and functional recovery after total knee arthroplasty. Two-hundred one patients undergoing elective unilateral total knee arthroplasty under spinal anesthesia were randomized to 3 groups. All patients received standardized intraoperative local infiltration analgesia and postoperative oral analgesics. Patients in group 1 received a "sham" adductor canal block with 30 mL of normal saline. Patients in group 2 received an adductor canal block with 30 mL of ropivacaine 0.5% with 1:400,000 epinephrine, whereas patients in group 3 received the adductor canal block with the active drug and 100 μg of ITM. The primary outcome measure was the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test on the second postoperative day. Secondary outcomes included postoperative pain scores and opioid requirements, distance walked, time to hospital discharge, and self-reported functional outcomes at 3 months. All 3 groups had similar values of TUG test on postoperative day (POD) 2 (46 [36-62], 45 [33-61], and 52 [41-69]; P = 0.166) as well as other short-term and 3-month functional outcomes. Patients in group 3 showed a favorable analgesic profile as evidenced by 3 positive secondary outcomes. These positive outcomes were lower pain scores 12 hours postoperatively both at rest (4 [2-6.3], 4 [2.3-6], and 3 [1-4]; P = 0.007) and on movement (6 [4-8], 6 [3-8], and 4 [2-6]; P = 0.002), a lower incidence of "rescue" intravenous patient-controlled analgesia (42%, 34%, and 20%; P = 0.031), and the lowest cumulative opioid requirements for the first 48 hours postoperatively (86 ± 71, 68 ± 46, and 59 ± 39; P < 0.005, group 3 compared with group 1). Our data suggest that there is no difference in either the primary outcome of TUG test on POD 2, other immediate functional secondary outcomes, or in global functional outcome at 3 months postoperatively across all 3 groups. Our data also suggest an improved analgesic profile in the first 48 hours postoperatively when both adductor canal block and low-dose ITM (100 μg) are added to local infiltration analgesia as evidenced by several positive secondary outcomes of lower pain scores and opioid requirements. This study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT02411149.

Age-related changes in late I-waves influence motor cortex plasticity induction in older adults.

PubMed

Opie, George M; Cirillo, John; Semmler, John G

2018-04-18

The response to neuroplasticity interventions using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is reduced in older adults, which may be due, in part, to age-related alterations in interneuronal (I-wave) circuitry. The current study investigated age-related changes in interneuronal characteristics and whether they influence motor cortical plasticity in older adults. While I-wave recruitment was unaffected by age, there was a shift in the temporal characteristics of the late, but not early I-waves. Using I-wave periodicity repetitive TMS (iTMS), we showed that these differences in I-wave characteristics influence the induction of cortical plasticity in older adults. Previous research shows that neuroplasticity assessed using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is reduced in older adults. While this deficit is often assumed to represent altered synaptic modification processes, age-related changes in the interneuronal circuits activated by TMS may also contribute. Here we assessed age-related differences in the characteristics of the corticospinal indirect (I) waves and how they influence plasticity induction in primary motor cortex. Twenty young (23.7 ± 3.4 years) and 19 older adults (70.6 ± 6.0 years) participated in these studies. I-wave recruitment was assessed by changing the direction of the current used to activate the motor cortex, whereas short-interval intracortical facilitation (SICF) was recorded to assess facilitatory I-wave interactions. In a separate study, I-wave periodicity TMS (iTMS) was used to examine the effect of I-wave latency on motor cortex plasticity. Data from the motor evoked potential (MEP) onset latency produced using different coil orientations suggested that there were no age-related differences in preferential I-wave recruitment (P = 0.6). However, older adults demonstrated significant reductions in MEP facilitation at all 3 SICF peaks (all P-values < 0.05) and a delayed latency of the second and third SICF peaks (all P-values < 0.05). Using I-wave intervals that were optimal for young and older adults, these changes in the late I-waves were shown to influence the plasticity response in older adults after iTMS. These findings suggest that temporal characteristics are delayed for the late I-waves in older adults, and that optimising TMS interventions based on I-wave characteristics may improve the plasticity response in older adults. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Forward and backward tone mapping of high dynamic range images based on subband architecture

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bouzidi, Ines; Ouled Zaid, Azza

2015-01-01

This paper presents a novel High Dynamic Range (HDR) tone mapping (TM) system based on sub-band architecture. Standard wavelet filters of Daubechies, Symlets, Coiflets and Biorthogonal were used to estimate the proposed system performance in terms of Low Dynamic Range (LDR) image quality and reconstructed HDR image fidelity. During TM stage, the HDR image is firstly decomposed in sub-bands using symmetrical analysis-synthesis filter bank. The transform coefficients are then rescaled using a predefined gain map. The inverse Tone Mapping (iTM) stage is straightforward. Indeed, the LDR image passes through the same sub-band architecture. But, instead of reducing the dynamic range, the LDR content is boosted to an HDR representation. Moreover, in our TM sheme, we included an optimization module to select the gain map components that minimize the reconstruction error, and consequently resulting in high fidelity HDR content. Comparisons with recent state-of-the-art methods have shown that our method provides better results in terms of visual quality and HDR reconstruction fidelity using objective and subjective evaluations.

Evaluation of Recommended Improvements to the Family Housing Self-Help Program

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-09-01

FY96 EST. EST. TASK LABOR TASK LABOR :OOPL. COST COMPL. COST ITM OCCURRENCES TIME AVCIDED OCCJRFENCES TIME AVOIDED FRACkE T, C 0 I 1 150 WIRE, FABRIC...InSuLatinq blankets on hot water heater AS i. ;Ieed radiator RG Si. identify 3no report suspected gas *;eaks RU FO 6). qelll~t pi~ot lights RU RU 101 A1...VII Corps ATTN: German Liaison Off icer ATTN: DEN (15) ATTN: Water Resources Support Ctr 21s, Support Command ATTN: Engr Studies Center ATTN: OEM (12

Eight Essential Foods in Iranian Traditional Medicine and their Role in Health Promotion and Well-being.

PubMed

Zeinalian, Mehrdad; Eshaghi, Mehdi; Hadian, Mahdi; Naji, Homayoun; Marandi, Sayed Mohammad Masoud; Asgary, Sedigheh

2017-01-01

Eight essential foods (EEF) described in Iranian traditional medicine (ITM) have a determinant role to balance human temperament insuring health and well-being. EEF included oral, imaginary, auditory, visual, olfactory, touch, sexual, and familiarity food. Oral foods should be halal, compatible with individual temper, consumed up twice a day, and compatible with different seasons and geographic conditions. Imaginary food consists of the individual thought content which is directly related to mental and physical fitness. It helps to balance temperament if be free of negative thoughts such as suspicion and distrust to others. Auditory food includes all sounds surrounding us, some of which are sedative and help to balance temperaments, such as natural sounds, and spiritual and beautiful words. Visual food includes everything in the range of human vision which is impressive on his/her thought. Natural beautiful scenes have almost a warm temper and help to balance human temperament. Olfactory food includes odors which stimulate the smell. Touch food includes all materials in direct contact with body skin, like clothes, which have a determinant role in temper moderation in the case of being natural. Sexual food complies with the human need to express his/her love and/or is loved, so its fulfillment could prevent human mal-temperament. Familiarity food can be provided by companion with friends and family members and has a significant role to insure well-being. Given the comprehensiveness of EEF in ITM which covers all human health-related aspects, we can insure health and well-being among our population by promoting and public educating of these principles.

Eight Essential Foods in Iranian Traditional Medicine and their Role in Health Promotion and Well-being

PubMed Central

Zeinalian, Mehrdad; Eshaghi, Mehdi; Hadian, Mahdi; Naji, Homayoun; Marandi, Sayed Mohammad Masoud; Asgary, Sedigheh

2017-01-01

Eight essential foods (EEF) described in Iranian traditional medicine (ITM) have a determinant role to balance human temperament insuring health and well-being. EEF included oral, imaginary, auditory, visual, olfactory, touch, sexual, and familiarity food. Oral foods should be halal, compatible with individual temper, consumed up twice a day, and compatible with different seasons and geographic conditions. Imaginary food consists of the individual thought content which is directly related to mental and physical fitness. It helps to balance temperament if be free of negative thoughts such as suspicion and distrust to others. Auditory food includes all sounds surrounding us, some of which are sedative and help to balance temperaments, such as natural sounds, and spiritual and beautiful words. Visual food includes everything in the range of human vision which is impressive on his/her thought. Natural beautiful scenes have almost a warm temper and help to balance human temperament. Olfactory food includes odors which stimulate the smell. Touch food includes all materials in direct contact with body skin, like clothes, which have a determinant role in temper moderation in the case of being natural. Sexual food complies with the human need to express his/her love and/or is loved, so its fulfillment could prevent human mal-temperament. Familiarity food can be provided by companion with friends and family members and has a significant role to insure well-being. Given the comprehensiveness of EEF in ITM which covers all human health-related aspects, we can insure health and well-being among our population by promoting and public educating of these principles. PMID:28217264

Production of multi-, oligo- and single-pore membranes using a continuous ion beam

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Apel, P. Yu.; Ivanov, O. M.; Lizunov, N. E.; Mamonova, T. I.; Nechaev, A. N.; Olejniczak, K.; Vacik, J.; Dmitriev, S. N.

2015-12-01

Ion track membranes (ITM) have attracted significant interest over the past two decades due to their numerous applications in physical, biological, chemical, biochemical and medical experimental works. A particular feature of ITM technology is the possibility to fabricate samples with a predetermined number of pores, including single-pore membranes. The present report describes a procedure that allowed for the production of multi-, oligo- and single-pore membranes using a continuous ion beam from an IC-100 cyclotron. The beam was scanned over a set of small diaphragms, from 17 to ∼1000 μm in diameter. Ions passed through the apertures and impinged two sandwiched polymer foils, with the total thickness close to the ion range in the polymer. The foils were pulled across the ion beam at a constant speed. The ratio between the transport speed and the scanning frequency determined the distance between irradiation spots. The beam intensity and the aperture diameters were adjusted such that either several, one or no ions passed through the diaphragms during one half-period of scanning. After irradiation, the lower foil was separated from the upper foil and was etched to obtain pores 6-8 μm in diameter. The pores were found using a color chemical reaction between two reagents placed on opposite sides of the foil. The located pores were further confirmed using SEM and optical microscopy. The numbers of tracks in the irradiation spots were consistent with the Poisson statistics. Samples with single or few tracks obtained in this way were employed to study fine phenomena in ion track nanopores.

Interventional repetitive I-wave transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS): the dimension of stimulation duration.

PubMed

Murray, Lynda M; Nosaka, Kazunori; Thickbroom, Gary W

2011-10-01

A range of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) techniques are now available to modulate human corticomotor excitability and plasticity. One presumably critical aspect of these interventions is their duration of application. In the current study, we investigated whether doubling the duration of an intervention would offer any additional benefit, or invoke self-limiting mechanisms controlling corticomotor excitability or synaptic plasticity. We compared (in a cross-over design) corticomotor excitability (to the first dorsal interosseous muscle) during and after a 15-minute (I15) and 30-minute (I30) TMS intervention targeting indirect (I-) wave interaction (iTMS). The interventions consisted of equi-intensity paired stimuli with an interpulse interval (IPI) of 1.5 milliseconds, corresponding to I-wave periodicity, delivered at a frequency of 0.2 Hz. During both the I15 and I30 interventions, paired-pulse (I-wave) motor evoked potential (iMEP) amplitude significantly increased (by 98.3% and 120.6%, respectively, last versus first minute, P = .001). The increase for I30 occurred in the first 15 minutes, and there was no further change during the remainder of the intervention. Both interventions were equally effective overall. Postintervention, single-pulse MEP amplitude increased by a mean of 91% and 106% (I15 and I30, respectively, P < .01) with no significant difference between interventions. We conclude that repetitive iTMS can increase corticomotor excitability after a relatively short intervention period of stimulation, and that a longer stimulation period has no additional benefit or detriment, perhaps as a result of the action of regulatory mechanisms. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A comparison of two different doses of morphine added to spinal bupivacaine for inguinal hernia repair.

PubMed

Meco, Basak Ceyda; Bermede, Onat; Vural, Cagil; Cakmak, Atil; Alanoglu, Zekeriyya; Alkis, Neslihan

2016-01-01

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of two different doses of intrathecal morphine on postoperative analgesia, postoperative first mobilization and urination times and the severity of side effects. After Institutional Ethical Committee approval, 48 ASA I-II patients were enrolled in this randomized double-blinded study. Spinal anesthesia was performed with 0.1mg (Group I, n=22) or 0.4mg (Group II, n=26) ITM in addition to 7.5mg heavy bupivacaine. The first analgesic requirement, first mobilization and voiding times, and postoperative side effects were recorded. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS 15.0 and p<0.05 was considered as statistically significant. The numeric data were analyzed by the t-test and presented as mean±SD. Categorical data were analyzed with the chi-square test and expressed as number of patients and percentage. Demographic data were similar among groups. There were no differences related to postoperative pain, first analgesic requirements, and first mobilization and first voiding times. The only difference between two groups was the vomiting incidence. In Group II 23% (n=6) of the patients had vomiting during the first postoperative 24h compared to 0% in Group I (p=0.025). For inguinal hernia repairs, the dose of 0.1mg of ITM provides comparable postoperative analgesia with a dose of 0.4mg, with significantly lower vomiting incidence when combined with low dose heavy bupivacaine. Copyright © 2014 Sociedade Brasileira de Anestesiologia. Published by Elsevier Editora Ltda. All rights reserved.

[A comparison of two different doses of morphine added to spinal bupivacaine for inguinal hernia repair].

PubMed

Meco, Basak Ceyda; Bermede, Onat; Vural, Cagil; Cakmak, Atil; Alanoglu, Zekeriyya; Alkis, Neslihan

2016-01-01

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of two different doses of intrathecal morphine on postoperative analgesia, postoperative first mobilization and urination times and the severity of side effects. After Institutional Ethical Committee approval, 48 ASA I-II patients were enrolled in this randomized double-blinded study. Spinal anesthesia was performed with 0.1mg (Group I, n=22) or 0.4mg (Group II, n=26) ITM in addition to 7.5mg heavy bupivacaine. The first analgesic requirement, first mobilization and voiding times, and postoperative side effects were recorded. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS 15.0 and p<0.05 was considered as statistically significant. The numeric data were analyzed by the t-test and presented as mean±SD. Categorical data were analyzed with the chi-square test and expressed as number of patients and percentage. Demographic data were similar among groups. There were no differences related to postoperative pain, first analgesic requirements, and first mobilization and first voiding times. The only difference between two groups was the vomiting incidence. In Group II 23% (n=6) of the patients had vomiting during the first postoperative 24h compared to 0% in Group I (p=0.025). For inguinal hernia repairs, the dose of 0.1mg of ITM provides comparable postoperative analgesia with a dose of 0.4mg, with significantly lower vomiting incidence when combined with low dose heavy bupivacaine. Copyright © 2014 Sociedade Brasileira de Anestesiologia. Publicado por Elsevier Editora Ltda. All rights reserved.

Identification of Organic Sulfate Esters in d-Limonene Ozonolysis SOA Under Acidic Condition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Iinuma, Y.; Mueller, C.; Boege, O.; Herrmann, H.

2006-12-01

Secondary organic aerosol (SOA) components from gas phase ozonolysis of d-limonene were investigated in a series of indoor chamber experiments. The compounds smaller than 300 Da were quantified using capillary electrophoresis coupled to electrospray ionisation ion trap mass spectrometry (CE/ESI-ITMS). HPLC coupled to an ESI-TOFMS and an ESI-ITMS was used for structural study of dimmers and oligomers. Only 10% of the produced SOA could be attributed to low molecular weight carboxylic acids (Mw<300). The oxidation products which have molecular weights over 300 were detected regardless of the seed particle acidity but the concentrations of these compounds were much higher for acidic seed particle experiments. Strong signals of the compounds with mass to charge ratios (m/z) 281, 465 and 481 were detected when sulphuric acid was used in the seed particles. These compounds showed a strong fragment of m/z 97 in MS2 or MS3 spectra indicating the presence of sulfate in the structures. HPLC/ESI-TOFMS analysis suggests the elemental compositions of C10H17O7S-, C20H33O10S- and C20H33O11S- for m/z 281, 465 and 481, respectively. Based on MS^{n} and TOFMS results, they are most likely organic sulfate esters, possibly formed by a heterogeneous acid catalyzed reaction of a limonene oxidation product and sulfuric acid in the particle phase. The concentrations of the organic sulfate ester were as high as 3.7 μgm-3 for m/z 281.

Integrative metabolomics for characterizing unknown low-abundance metabolites by capillary electrophoresis-mass spectrometry with computer simulations.

PubMed

Lee, Richard; Ptolemy, Adam S; Niewczas, Liliana; Britz-McKibbin, Philip

2007-01-15

Characterization of unknown low-abundance metabolites in biological samples is one the most significant challenges in metabolomic research. In this report, an integrative strategy based on capillary electrophoresis-electrospray ionization-ion trap mass spectrometry (CE-ESI-ITMS) with computer simulations is examined as a multiplexed approach for studying the selective nutrient uptake behavior of E. coli within a complex broth medium. On-line sample preconcentration with desalting by CE-ESI-ITMS was performed directly without off-line sample pretreatment in order to improve detector sensitivity over 50-fold for cationic metabolites with nanomolar detection limits. The migration behavior of charged metabolites were also modeled in CE as a qualitative tool to support MS characterization based on two fundamental analyte physicochemical properties, namely, absolute mobility (muo) and acid dissociation constant (pKa). Computer simulations using Simul 5.0 were used to better understand the dynamics of analyte electromigration, as well as aiding de novo identification of unknown nutrients. There was excellent agreement between computer-simulated and experimental electropherograms for several classes of cationic metabolites as reflected by their relative migration times with an average error of <2.0%. Our studies revealed differential uptake of specific amino acids and nucleoside nutrients associated with distinct stages of bacterial growth. Herein, we demonstrate that CE can serve as an effective preconcentrator, desalter, and separator prior to ESI-MS, while providing additional qualitative information for unambiguous identification among isobaric and isomeric metabolites. The proposed strategy is particularly relevant for characterizing unknown yet biologically relevant metabolites that are not readily synthesized or commercially available.

Reduction of Cr (VI) into Cr (III) by organelles of Chlorella vulgaris in aqueous solution: An organelle-level attempt.

PubMed

Chen, Zunwei; Song, Shufang; Wen, Yuezhong

2016-12-01

The priority pollutant chromium (Cr) was ubiquitous and great efforts have been made to reduce Cr (VI) into less-toxic Cr (III) by alga for the convenient availability and low expense. However, the functional role of organelle inside the algal cell in Cr (VI) reduction was poorly understood. In this study, organelles in green algae Chlorella vulgaris were extracted and further decorated for Cr (VI) reduction tests. Results showed that the chloroplast exhibited not only adsorption ability of total Cr (21.18% comparing to control) but also reduction potential of Cr (VI) (almost 70% comparing to control), whose most suitable working concentration was at 17μg/mL. Furtherly, the isolated thylakoid membrane (ITM) showed better Cr (VI) reduction potential with the presence of sodium alginate (SA), even though the Hill reaction activity (HRA) was inhibited. As for photosystem II (PSII), the addition of mesoporous silica SBA-15 enhanced the reduction ability through improving the light-harvesting complex (LHC) II efficiency and electron transport rate. On the whole, the reduction ability order of the three kinds of materials based on chloroplast in C. vulgaris was PSII@SBA-15>Chloroplast>ITM@SA. The attempt made in this study to reduce the Cr (VI) with C. vulgaris organelles might not only offer basement to detect the potential action mechanism of Cr (VI) reduction by C. vulgaris but also provide a new sight for the scavenge of heavy metal with biological materials. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Borehole model for simulation transport geothermal heat with heat pipe system and with forced circulation of heat carrier

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jakubský, Michal; Lenhard, Richard; Vantúch, Martin; Malcho, Milan

2012-04-01

In the call OPVaV-2008/2.2/01-SORO Operational Programme Research and Development - knowledge and technology transfer from research and development into practice (ITMS-26220220057), whose strategic goal is "Device to use low-potential geothermal heat without forced circulation of heat carrier deep in the well "in the Department of Energy laboratory techniques to construct a simulator of transport low potential of geothermal energy in comparative test-drilling in the laboratory. The article describes a device that was designed as a scale model of two deep boreholes each of which withdraws the earth's heat by heat transfer technology and heat carrier. Device using forced circulation of heat carrier will respond in the construction of equipment currently used to transport heat from deep borehole. As the heat carrier will be used CO2. Facilities without using forced circulation of heat carrier, the new technology, which will be used as heat carrier ammonia (NH3).

Engineering Development of Ceramic Membrane Reactor System for Converting Natural Gas to Hydrogen and Synthesis Gas for Liquid Transportation Fuels

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

Air Products and Chemicals

2008-09-30

An Air Products-led team successfully developed ITM Syngas technology from the concept stage to a stage where a small-scale engineering prototype was about to be built. This technology produces syngas, a gas containing carbon monoxide and hydrogen, by reacting feed gas, primarily methane and steam, with oxygen that is supplied through an ion transport membrane. An ion transport membrane operates at high temperature and oxygen ions are transported through the dense membrane's crystal lattice when an oxygen partial pressure driving force is applied. This development effort solved many significant technical challenges and successfully scaled-up key aspects of the technology tomore » prototype scale. Throughout the project life, the technology showed significant economic benefits over conventional technologies. While there are still on-going technical challenges to overcome, the progress made under the DOE-funded development project proved that the technology was viable and continued development post the DOE agreement would be warranted.« less

Proteomic characterization of a mouse model of familial Danish dementia.

PubMed

Vitale, Monica; Renzone, Giovanni; Matsuda, Shuji; Scaloni, Andrea; D'Adamio, Luciano; Zambrano, Nicola

2012-01-01

A dominant mutation in the ITM2B/BRI2 gene causes familial Danish dementia (FDD) in humans. To model FDD in animal systems, a knock-in approach was recently implemented in mice expressing a wild-type and mutant allele, which bears the FDD-associated mutation. Since these FDD(KI) mice show behavioural alterations and impaired synaptic function, we characterized their synaptosomal proteome via two-dimensional differential in-gel electrophoresis. After identification by nanoliquid chromatography coupled to electrospray-linear ion trap tandem mass spectrometry, the differentially expressed proteins were classified according to their gene ontology descriptions and their predicted functional interactions. The Dlg4/Psd95 scaffold protein and additional signalling proteins, including protein phosphatases, were revealed by STRING analysis as potential players in the altered synaptic function of FDD(KI) mice. Immunoblotting analysis finally demonstrated the actual downregulation of the synaptosomal scaffold protein Dlg4/Psd95 and of the dual-specificity phosphatase Dusp3 in the synaptosomes of FDD(KI) mice.

Proteomic Characterization of a Mouse Model of Familial Danish Dementia

PubMed Central

Vitale, Monica; Renzone, Giovanni; Matsuda, Shuji; Scaloni, Andrea; D'Adamio, Luciano; Zambrano, Nicola

2012-01-01

A dominant mutation in the ITM2B/BRI2 gene causes familial Danish dementia (FDD) in humans. To model FDD in animal systems, a knock-in approach was recently implemented in mice expressing a wild-type and mutant allele, which bears the FDD-associated mutation. Since these FDDKI mice show behavioural alterations and impaired synaptic function, we characterized their synaptosomal proteome via two-dimensional differential in-gel electrophoresis. After identification by nanoliquid chromatography coupled to electrospray-linear ion trap tandem mass spectrometry, the differentially expressed proteins were classified according to their gene ontology descriptions and their predicted functional interactions. The Dlg4/Psd95 scaffold protein and additional signalling proteins, including protein phosphatases, were revealed by STRING analysis as potential players in the altered synaptic function of FDDKI mice. Immunoblotting analysis finally demonstrated the actual downregulation of the synaptosomal scaffold protein Dlg4/Psd95 and of the dual-specificity phosphatase Dusp3 in the synaptosomes of FDDKI mice. PMID:22619496

VHSIC Hardware Description Language (VHDL) Benchmark Suite

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-10-01

T7 prit.iy label iTM Architecture label I flO inch Label I TIC ) P rae s Label I W Conkgurstion Spec. 1 21 Appendix B. Test Descriptions, Shell Code...Siensls R Accnss Operaist s Iov (soc 3 3 & 7 3 61 $ File I/0 S1 Reed S2 Write T Label Site TI Signal TIA Archi~ecture TIE Block TIC Port T2 VariableI...Access Operations I (sec 3 3 & 7.3 61 1 S FI I/0 1 Sl Read 52 Write T Label SreI TI Signal TIA Architeclt TIR Block TIC

Intellectual property rights, benefit-sharing and development of "improved traditional medicines": A new approach.

PubMed

Willcox, Merlin; Diallo, Drissa; Sanogo, Rokia; Giani, Sergio; Graz, Bertrand; Falquet, Jacques; Bodeker, Gerard

2015-12-24

Protection of intellectual property rights and benefit-sharing are key issues for all ethnopharmacological research. The International Society of Ethnobiology has produced helpful guidelines on access and benefit-sharing which are widely viewed as a "gold standard" but the question remains how best to apply these guidelines in practice. Difficult questions include ownership of traditional knowledge, making appropriate agreements, and how appropriately to share benefits. We present the case study of the development of an "improved traditional medicine" for malaria in Mali and we report how benefit-sharing was applied in this case. The knowledge about the selected plant came independently from several families and traditional healers. The IPR approach was to recognise that this traditional knowledge belongs to the people of Mali and was used for their benefit in developing a new "improved traditional medicine" (ITM). The traditional healer whose method of preparation was used, and who collaborated in clinical trials, did not request any financial reward but asked for the ITM to be named after him. The most sustainable benefit for the community was sharing the results of which preparation of which medicinal plant seemed to be the most effective for treating malaria. Attempts at providing a health centre and training a health worker for the village did not prove to be sustainable. Respect for intellectual property rights and benefit-sharing are possible even in a context where the knowledge is not owned by a clearly identified person or group of people. The most sustainable benefits are intangible rather than material: namely recognition, improved knowledge about which traditional treatment is the best and how to prepare and take it. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

The First Historically Reported Italian Family with FTD/ALS Teaches a Lesson on C9orf72 RE: Clinical Heterogeneity and Oligogenic Inheritance.

PubMed

Giannoccaro, Maria Pia; Bartoletti-Stella, Anna; Piras, Silvia; Casalena, Alfonsina; Oppi, Federico; Ambrosetto, Giovanni; Montagna, Pasquale; Liguori, Rocco; Parchi, Piero; Capellari, Sabina

2018-01-01

In 1969, Dazzi and Finizio reported the second observation of frontotemporal dementia (FTD) - amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) association in a large Italian kindred affected by an autosomal dominant form of ALS with high penetrance, frequent bulbar onset, and frequent cognitive decline. To expand the original characterization of this family and report the link with the C9orf72 repeat expansion (RE). We followed or reviewed the medical records of thirteen patients belonging to the original family and performed genetic analyses in four individuals. Eight patients presented with ALS, four with FTD, and one with schizophrenia. The C9orf72 RE was found in three patients but not in the healthy survivor. Additionally, we found a novel possible pathogenic variant in the ITM2B gene in one patient with a complex phenotype, associating movement disorders, psychiatric and cognitive features, deafness, and optic atrophy. The neuropathological examination of this patient did not show the classical features of ITM2B mutation related dementias suggesting that the putative pathogenic mechanism does not involve cellular mislocalization of the protein or the formation of amyloid plaques. We showed that the original Italian pedigree described with FTD/ALS carries the C9orf72 RE. Moreover, the finding of an additional mutation in another dementia causing gene in a patient with a more complex phenotype suggests a possible role of genetic modifiers in the disease. Together with other reports showing the coexistence of mutations in multiple ALS/FTD causative genes in the same family, our study supports an oligogenic etiology of ALS/FTD.

The respect of recommendations provided in an international travelers' medical service: far from the cup to the lips.

PubMed

Muller, Jean Michel; Simonet, Anne Laure; Binois, Raphaelle; Muggeo, Elisabeth; Bugnon, Pierre; Liet, Jérome; Duong, Michel; Chavanet, Pascal; Piroth, Lionel

2013-01-01

It is not clearly known how frequently the recommendations given to travelers are followed, and what factors could encourage compliance with these recommended measures. Adults consulting at a Medical Department for International Travelers (International Travelers' Medical Services, ITMS) in October and November 2010 were asked to answer a questionnaire before their journey. They were also contacted for a post-travel telephone interview to determine whether they had followed the recommendations regarding vaccinations and malaria prevention, and the reasons for poor or noncompliance with these recommendations. A total of 353 travelers were included, with post-travel data available for 321 of them. Complete compliance with all the recommendations (vaccinations and malaria chemoprophylaxis) was observed in 186/321 (57.9%) of the travelers. Only 55.6% (233/419) of the prescribed vaccinations were given, with huge variability according to the type of vaccine. Only 57.3% (184/321) of the patients used a mosquito net. Among the 287 prescriptions for antimalarial drugs, 219 (76.3%) were taken correctly, 37 (12.9%) were taken incorrectly (noncompliance with the duration and/or dosage), and 31 (10.8%) were not taken at all. Traveling to areas of mass tourism (Kenya/Senegal), consulting their general practitioner (GP), and being retired were significantly and independently associated with better overall compliance in univariate and multivariate analyses. Compliance could be improved by focusing on factors associated with poor compliance to improve the advice given to less compliant travelers, by providing clear information tailored to each traveler, with a focus on key messages, and by improving coordination between ITMS and GPs. © 2012 International Society of Travel Medicine.

End-To-END Performance of the Future MOMA Instrument Aboard the ExoMars Mission

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pinnick, V. T.; Buch, A.; Szopa, C.; Grand, N.; Danell, R.; Grubisic, A.; van Amerom, F. H. W.; Glavin, D. P.; Freissinet, C.; Coll, P. J.; Stalport, F.; Humeau, O.; Arevalo, R. D., Jr.; Brinckerhoff, W. B.; Steininger, H.; Goesmann, F.; Raulin, F.; Mahaffy, P. R.

2015-12-01

Following the SAM experiment aboard the Curiosity rover, the Mars Organic Molecule Analyzer (MOMA) experiment aboard the 2018 ExoMars mission will be the continuation of the search for organic matter on the Mars surface. One advancement with the ExoMars mission is that the sample will be extracted as deep as 2 meters below the Martian surface to minimize effects of radiation and oxidation on organic materials. To analyze the wide range of organic composition (volatile and non-volatile compounds) of the Martian soil, MOMA is equipped with a dual ion source ion trap mass spectrometer utilizing UV laser desorption / ionization (LDI) and pyrolysis gas chromatography (pyr-GC). In order to analyze refractory organic compounds and chiral molecules during GC-ITMS analysis, samples may be submitted to a derivatization process, consisting of the reaction of the sample components with specific reactants (MTBSTFA [1], DMF-DMA [2] or TMAH [3]). Previous experimental reports have focused on coupling campaigns between the breadboard versions of the GC, provided by the French team (LISA, LATMOS, CentraleSupelec), and the MS, provided by the US team (NASA-GSFC). This work focuses on the performance verification and optimization of the GC-ITMS experiment using the Engineering Test Unit (ETU) models which are representative of the form, fit and function of the flight instrument including a flight-like pyrolysis oven and tapping station providing by the German team (MPS). The results obtained demonstrate the current status of the end-to-end performance of the gas chromatography-mass spectrometry mode of operation. References: [1] Buch, A. et al. (2009) J Chrom. A, 43, 143-151. [2] Freissinet et al. (2011) J Chrom A, 1306, 59-71. [3] Geffroy-Rodier, C. et al. (2009) JAAP, 85, 454-459.

P39-T Analysis of Oligosaccharides by Capillary-Scale High-Performance Anion-Exchange Chromatography with Pulsed Amperometric Detection (CHPAEC-PAD) and On-Line Electrospray-Ionization Ion-Trap Mass Spectrometry (CHPAEC-ITMS)

PubMed Central

Bruggink, C.; Koeleman, C.; Barreto, V.; Lui, Y.; Pohl, C.; Ingendoh, A.; Wuhrer, M.; Hokke, C.; Deelder, A.

2007-01-01

High-pH anion-exchange chromatography with pulsed amperometric detection (HPAEC-PAD) is an established technique for selective separation and analysis of underivatized carbohydrates. The miniaturization of chromatographic techniques by means of capillary columns, and on-line coupling to mass spectrometry are critical to the further development of glycan analysis methods that are compatible with the current requirements in clinical settings. A system has been developed based on the Dionex BioLC equipped with a microbore gradient pump with PEEK flow splitter, a FAMOS micro autosampler, a modified electrochemical cell for on-line capillary PAD, and a capillary column (380 μm i.d.) packed with a new type of anion-exchange resin. This system operates with sensitivity in the low femtomol range. In addition, an on-line capillary desalter has been developed to allow direct coupling to the Bruker Esquire 3000 ion-trap mass spectrometer with electrospray ionization interface (ESI-IT-MS). Both systems have been evaluated using oligosaccharide standards as well as urine samples exhibiting various lysosomal oligosaccharide storage diseases. Initial data indicate that the robust and selective anion-exchange system, in combination with ESI-IT-MS for structure confirmation and analysis, provides a powerful platform that complements existing nano/capillary LC-MS methods for analytical determination of oligosaccharides in biological matrices.

Growth and Electrical and Far-Infrared Properties of Wide Electron Wells in Semiconductors

DTIC Science & Technology

1994-04-15

uniform. cmw where the barrier doping is 5 X 10" 6 cm -’, the well 300 K true electron ,profiles are shown for four dfiffer- depth calculated using Eq...in some samples. The mobility vs temperature characteristic of a where y- 0 . 7 6 . Mobility decreases from -9.4x 10’ cm 2/ sample of n-GaAs bulk doped...x 10 14 cm -3 -wt size effect scattering. Points show experimental data (for sample PBW 3 1). II I I 0 2 O 4 O 6 ITm:’au K I 14 ujanmm Hall eff I At

Integration and disease control: notes from the Prince Leopold Institute of Tropical Medicine Colloquium 2002.

PubMed

Mahendradhata, Yodi; Moerman, Filip

2004-06-01

The discussion on the desirability or not to integrate disease control activities with general health services is a longstanding one. The recent creations of global health initiatives for poverty-related disease control have refueled the debate. The Prince Leopold Institute of Tropical Medicine (ITM) convened a colloquium in Antwerp to clarify concepts involved in integrated disease control and contribute to the creation of a common scientific language and a better understanding of the issues at stake. We present an overview of highlights from the colloquium sessions. Some of the contributions reported here are presented in more detail elsewhere in this special issue.

New biorthogonality relations for inhomogeneous biisotropic planar waveguides

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Topa, Antonio L.; Paiva, Carlos R.; Barbosa, Afonso M.

1994-04-01

Using a linear operator formalism this paper presents new biorthogonality relations for the hybrid modes supported by planar waveguides inhomogeneously filled with general biisotropic media. In the special case of lossless biisotropic media, the linear operator is self-adjoint, the original and adjoint waveguides are identical, and new orthogonality relations can be derived. As an example of application, the radiation modes of a grounded nonreciprocal and lossless biisotropic slab waveguide are analyzed in terms of a pair of incident transverse electric (ITE) and incident transverse magnetic (ITM) continuous modes, which have the advantage of being mutually orthogonal and of having a clear physical interpretation.

In vitro cholinesterase inhibitory activity of some plants used in Iranian traditional medicine.

PubMed

Saeedi, Mina; Babaie, Khatereh; Karimpour-Razkenari, Elahe; Vazirian, Mahdi; Akbarzadeh, Tahmineh; Khanavi, Mahnaz; Hajimahmoodi, Mannan; Shams Ardekani, Mohammad Reza

2017-11-01

In this study, in vitro evaluation of cholinesterase inhibitory (ChEI) activity of various plants including betel nuts (Areca catechu L.), clove buds (Syzygium aromaticum L.), aerial parts of dodder (Cuscuta chinensis Lam.), common polypody rhizomes (Polypodium vulgare L.) and turpeth roots (Ipomoea turpethum R. Br.) which were recommended for the treatment of AD symptoms in Iranian Traditional Medicine (ITM) is reported. Among them, aqueous extract of A. catechu L. was found as the most potent anti-AChE (IC 50  = 32.00 μg/mL) and anti-BChE (IC 50  = 48.81 ± 0.1200 μg/mL) agent.

High polarization purity operation of 99% in 9xx-nm broad stripe laser diodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Morohashi, Rintaro; Yamagata, Yuji; Kaifuchi, Yoshikazu; Tada, Katsuhisa; Nogawa, Ryozaburo; Yamada, Yumi; Yamaguchi, Masayuki

2018-02-01

Polarization characteristics of self-aligned stripe (SAS) laser diodes (LDs) and Ridge-LDs are investigated to realize highly efficient polarization beam combined (PBC) LD modules. Vertical layers of both lasers are designed identically. Near field patterns (NFP) of TM polarization for the Ridge-LD showed peaks at the side edges, as expected by the strain simulation. On the other hand, SAS-LD showed a relatively flat and weak profile. Polarization purity (ITE/ (ITE+ITM)) of SAS-LDs exceeds 99%, while those of the Ridge-LDs are as low as 96%. It is confirmed that our SAS-LDs are suitable sources for PBC with low power loss.

Optimization of biological and instrumental detection of explosives and ignitable liquid residues including canines, SPME/ITMS and GC/MSn

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Furton, Kenneth G.; Harper, Ross J.; Perr, Jeannette M.; Almirall, Jose R.

2003-09-01

A comprehensive study and comparison is underway using biological detectors and instrumental methods for the rapid detection of ignitable liquid residues (ILR) and high explosives. Headspace solid phase microextraction (SPME) has been demonstrated to be an effective sampling method helping to identify active odor signature chemicals used by detector dogs to locate forensic specimens as well as a rapid pre-concentration technique prior to instrumental detection. Common ignitable liquids and common military and industrial explosives have been studied including trinitrotoluene, tetryl, RDX, HMX, EGDN, PETN and nitroglycerine. This study focuses on identifying volatile odor signature chemicals present, which can be used to enhance the level and reliability of detection of ILR and explosives by canines and instrumental methods. While most instrumental methods currently in use focus on particles and on parent organic compounds, which are often involatile, characteristic volatile organics are generally also present and can be exploited to enhance detection particularly for well-concealed devices. Specific examples include the volatile odor chemicals 2-ethyl-1-hexanol and cyclohexanone, which are readily available in the headspace of the high explosive composition C-4; whereas, the active chemical cyclo-1,3,5-trimethylene-2,4,6-trinitramine (RDX) is not. The analysis and identification of these headspace 'fingerprint' organics is followed by double-blind dog trials of the individual components using certified teams in an attempt to isolate and understand the target compounds to which dogs are sensitive. Studies to compare commonly used training aids with the actual target explosive have also been undertaken to determine their suitability and effectiveness. The optimization of solid phase microextraction (SPME) combined with ion trap mobility spectrometry (ITMS) and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry (GC/MSn) is detailed including interface development and comparisons of limits of detection. These instrumental methods are being optimized in order to detect the same target odor chemicals used by detector dogs to reliably locate explosives and ignitable liquids.

Solubility of aluminum and silica in Spodic horizons as affected by drying and freezing

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

Simonsson, M.; Berggren, D.; Gustafsson, J.P.

The release of toxic Al{sup 3+} is one of the most serious consequences of anthropogenic soil acidification. Therefore, the mechanisms controlling Al solubility have been a topic of intense research for more than a decade. For convenience, soil samples are often dried before storage and experimental use. However, the literature offers examples of drying that results in changes in pH, solubility of organic matter, and dissolution rates of Al. In this study, the authors examined the solubility of Al and Si in fresh soil and in soil that had been dried or deep-frozen. Five Spodosol B horizon soils were subjectedmore » to batch titrations, where portions of each soil were equilibrated with solutions with varying concentrations of acid or base added. Extractions with acid oxalate and Na pyrophosphate indicated the presence of imogolite-type materials (ITM) in three of the soils. In the other two soils most secondary solid-phase Al was associated with humic substances. Deep-freezing did not significantly change pH nor the concentration of Al or Si as compared with fresh soil. Drying, on the other hand, yielded pH increases of up to 0.3 units at a given addition of acid or base, whereas Al{sup 3+} changed only slightly, implying a higher Al solubility in all of the soils. Furthermore, dissolved silica increased by up to 200% after drying, except in a soil that almost completely lacked oxalate-extractable Si. The authors suggest that drying enhanced the dissolution of ITM by disrupting soil organic matter, thus exposing formerly coated mineral surfaces. In the soil where dissolved Si did not change with drying, it has been demonstrated that Al-humus complexes controlled Al solubility. They suggest that fissures in the organic material caused by drying may have exposed formerly occluded binding sites that had a higher Al saturation than had sites at the surface of humus particles.« less

High-Level Location Based Search Services That Improve Discoverability of Geophysical Data in the Virtual ITM Observatory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schaefer, R. K.; Morrison, D.; Potter, M.; Barnes, R. J.; Nylund, S. R.; Patrone, D.; Aiello, J.; Talaat, E. R.; Sarris, T.

2015-12-01

The great promise of Virtual Observatories is the ability to perform complex search operations across the metadata of a large variety of different data sets. This allows the researcher to isolate and select the relevant measurements for their topic of study. The Virtual ITM Observatory (VITMO) has many diverse geophysical datasets that cover a large temporal and spatial range that present a unique search problem. VITMO provides many methods by which the user can search for and select data of interest including restricting selections based on geophysical conditions (solar wind speed, Kp, etc) as well as finding those datasets that overlap in time. One of the key challenges in improving discoverability is the ability to identify portions of datasets that overlap in time and in location. The difficulty is that location data is not contained in the metadata for datasets produced by satellites and would be extremely large in volume if it were available, making searching for overlapping data very time consuming. To solve this problem we have developed a series of light-weight web services that can provide a new data search capability for VITMO and others. The services consist of a database of spacecraft ephemerides and instrument fields of view; an overlap calculator to find times when the fields of view of different instruments intersect; and a magnetic field line tracing service that maps in situ and ground based measurements to the equatorial plane in magnetic coordinates for a number of field models and geophysical conditions. These services run in real-time when the user queries for data. These services will allow the non-specialist user to select data that they were previously unable to locate, opening up analysis opportunities beyond the instrument teams and specialists, making it easier for future students who come into the field.

Genes encoding two Theileria parva antigens recognized by CD8+ T-cells exhibit sequence diversity in South Sudanese cattle populations but the majority of alleles are similar to the Muguga component of the live vaccine cocktail

PubMed Central

Pelle, Roger; Mwacharo, Joram M.; Njahira, Moses N.; Marcellino, Wani L.; Kiara, Henry; Malak, Agol K.; EL Hussein, Abdel Rahim M.; Bishop, Richard; Skilton, Robert A.

2017-01-01

East Coast fever (ECF), caused by Theileria parva infection, is a frequently fatal disease of cattle in eastern, central and southern Africa, and an emerging disease in South Sudan. Immunization using the infection and treatment method (ITM) is increasingly being used for control in countries affected by ECF, but not yet in South Sudan. It has been reported that CD8+ T-cell lymphocytes specific for parasitized cells play a central role in the immunity induced by ITM and a number of T. parva antigens recognized by parasite-specific CD8+ T-cells have been identified. In this study we determined the sequence diversity among two of these antigens, Tp1 and Tp2, which are under evaluation as candidates for inclusion in a sub-unit vaccine. T. parva samples (n = 81) obtained from cattle in four geographical regions of South Sudan were studied for sequence polymorphism in partial sequences of the Tp1 and Tp2 genes. Eight positions (1.97%) in Tp1 and 78 positions (15.48%) in Tp2 were shown to be polymorphic, giving rise to four and 14 antigen variants in Tp1 and Tp2, respectively. The overall nucleotide diversity in the Tp1 and Tp2 genes was π = 1.65% and π = 4.76%, respectively. The parasites were sampled from regions approximately 300 km apart, but there was limited evidence for genetic differentiation between populations. Analyses of the sequences revealed limited numbers of amino acid polymorphisms both overall and in residues within the mapped CD8+ T-cell epitopes. Although novel epitopes were identified in the samples from South Sudan, a large number of the samples harboured several epitopes in both antigens that were similar to those in the T. parva Muguga reference stock, which is a key component in the widely used live vaccine cocktail. PMID:28231338

Local infiltration analgesia: a 2-year follow-up of patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty.

PubMed

Kuchálik, Ján; Magnuson, Anders; Lundin, Anders; Gupta, Anil

2017-12-01

Local infiltration analgesia (LIA) is commonly used for postoperative pain management following total hip arthroplasty (THA). However, the long-term effects of the component drugs are unclear. The aim of our study was to investigate functional outcome, quality of life, chronic post-surgical pain, and adverse events in patients within 2 years of undergoing THA. The study was a secondary analysis of data from a previous larger study. Eighty patients were randomized to receive either intrathecal morphine (Group ITM) or local infiltration analgesia (Group LIA) for pain management in a double-blind study. The parameters measured were patient-assessed functional outcome [using the Hip dysfunction and Osteo-arthritis Outcome Score (HOOS) questionnaire], health-related quality of life [using the European Quality of Life-5 dimensions (EQ-5D) questionnaire and the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) score], and pain using the numeric rating score (NRS), with persistent post-surgical pain having a NRS of > 3 or a HOOS pain sub-score of > 30. All complications and adverse events were investigated during the first 2 years after primary surgery. Pain intensity and rescue analgesic consumption were similar between the groups after hospital discharge. No differences were found in HOOS or SF-36 score between the groups up to 6 months after surgery. A significant group × time interaction was seen in the EQ 5D form in favor of the LIA group. No between-group difference in persistent post-surgical pain was found at 3 or 6 months, or in adverse events up to 2 years after surgery. Analysis of functional outcome, quality of life, and post-discharge surgical pain did not reveal significant differences between patients receiving LIA and those receiving ITM. LIA was found to be a safe technique for THA during the long-term follow-up. However, it should be noted that these conclusions are based on a limited number of patients.

Two Well-Miscible Acceptors Work as One for Efficient Fullerene-Free Organic Solar Cells.

PubMed

Yu, Runnan; Zhang, Shaoqing; Yao, Huifeng; Guo, Bing; Li, Sunsun; Zhang, Hao; Zhang, Maojie; Hou, Jianhui

2017-07-01

High-performance ternary organic solar cells are fabricated by using a wide-bandgap polymer donor (bithienyl-benzodithiophene-alt-fluorobenzotriazole copolymer, J52) and two well-miscible nonfullerene acceptors, methyl-modified nonfullerene acceptor (IT-M) and 2,2'-((2Z,2'Z)-((5,5'-(4,4,9,9-tetrakis(4-hexylphenyl)-4,9-dihydros-indaceno[1,2-b:5,6-b']dithiophene-2,7-diyl)bis(4-((2-ethylhexyl)oxy)thiophene-5,2-diyl))bis(methanylylidene))bis(3-oxo-2,3-dihydro-1H-indene-2,1-diylidene))dimalononitrile (IEICO). The two acceptors with complementary absorption spectra and similar lowest unoccupied molecular orbital levels show excellent compatibility in the blend due to their very similar chemical structures. Consequently, the obtained ternary organic solar cells (OSC) exhibits a high efficiency of 11.1%, with an enhanced short-circuit current density of 19.7 mA cm -2 and a fill factor of 0.668. In this ternary system, broadened absorption, similar output voltages, and compatible morphology are achieved simultaneously, demonstrating a promising strategy to further improve the performance of ternary OSCs. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Interlevel Correlations of Temperature and Density, Surface to 60 KM

DTIC Science & Technology

1980-05-14

N 4 W ON . .4 4. 40 N 2NW N N 0.04’ 44 0N4 I N no In CTnO 0y a. N N~ Wq I N 4 M ANA. 4N 4 4 N *f~ 0 I No0 N N won N N I 1 00A N 2 U 0 N In W 04* ON m...40. d 5- 14𔃺 ’ 4’C 110*0 44.4102 . itm 4m, 0 0 4wID oU MI .0 a’n ’. UI tao M u . o0’ Nj It%U’ .4n N 0 1. ow 4LJ N.41 .4 a MMM _j 0 D4 Z P2 0 w0 w

Pulsewidth Modulated Speed Control of Brushless DC Motors.

DTIC Science & Technology

1984-09-01

sped acca - racy of the motoc is defined as tne difference Letweer the maximum and mir.imum motor speed divided by the commai. =e/ s~eed. TABLE I Motor...TO = .OOC C L N I5 THE SYvSTEM ELECTRICAL TIME CONSTANT lN = INCIC/RES F6 (1.c/FREcj D C/100. lIME =Ph 71ME2 l .CiFJREQ PMs C C EO IS THE BACK EtMF C...iu-8.2 J WR ITE (b , -0 I rI M 50 FGRM AT 11 ) t’I1N: 0,Fl 0 3,v ItM : a F10..3) WRITE (6t CC) IAV,IRMS 100 f -.FM tT 1 Xj IAV = ’ ,F 8.4,, v I11RMS F6

The Infertility of Repeat-Breeder Cows During Summer Is Associated with Decreased Mitochondrial DNA and Increased Expression of Mitochondrial and Apoptotic Genes in Oocytes.

PubMed

Ferreira, Roberta Machado; Chiaratti, Marcos Roberto; Macabelli, Carolina Habermann; Rodrigues, Carlos Alberto; Ferraz, Márcio Leão; Watanabe, Yeda Fumie; Smith, Lawrence Charles; Meirelles, Flávio Vieira; Baruselli, Pietro Sampaio

2016-03-01

Oocyte quality is known to be a major cause of infertility in repeat-breeder (RB) and heat-stressed dairy cows. However, the mechanisms by which RB oocytes become less capable of supporting embryo development remain largely unknown. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate whether the decreased oocyte competence of RB cows (RBs) during summer is associated with an altered gene expression profile and a decrease in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy number. Therefore, oocytes collected from heifers, non-RBs in peak lactation (PLs), and RBs were used to evaluate mtDNA amounts as well as the expression levels of genes associated with the mitochondria (MT-CO1, NRF1, POLG, POLG2, PPARGC1A, and TFAM), apoptosis (BAX, BCL2, and ITM2B), and oocyte maturation (BMP15, FGF8, FGF10, FGF16, FGF17, and GDF9). The oocytes retrieved from RBs during winter contained over eight times more mtDNA than those retrieved from RBs during summer. They also contained significantly less mtDNA than oocytes retrieved from heifers and PLs during summer. Moreover, the expression of mitochondria- (NRF1, POLG, POLG2, PPARGC1A, and TFAM) and apoptosis-related (BAX and ITM2B) genes, as well as of GDF9, in RB oocytes collected during summer was significantly greater than that in oocytes collected from heifers and PLs during the same season. In oocytes from heifers and PLs, the expression levels of these genes were lower in those collected during summer compared with winter, but this difference was not observed in oocytes collected from RBs. Altogether, these data provide evidence of altered gene expression and reduced mtDNA copy number in the oocytes collected from RBs during summer. This indicates a loss of fertility in RBs during summer, which might be caused by a possible mitochondrial dysfunction associated with a greater chance of oocytes to undergo apoptosis. © 2016 by the Society for the Study of Reproduction, Inc.

TpUB05, a Homologue of the Immunodominant Plasmodium falciparum Protein UB05, Is a Marker of Protective Immune Responses in Cattle Experimentally Vaccinated against East Coast Fever

PubMed Central

Dinga, Jerome Nyhalah; Wamalwa, Mark; Njimoh, Dieudonné Lemuh; Njahira, Moses N.; Djikeng, Appolinaire; Skilton, Rob; Titanji, Vincent Pryde Kehdingha; Pellé, Roger

2015-01-01

Introduction East Coast fever, a devastating disease of cattle, can be controlled partially by vaccination with live T. parva sporozoites. The antigens responsible for conferring immunity are not fully characterized. Recently it was shown that the P. falciparum immunodominant protein UB05 is highly conserved in T. parva, the causative agent of East Coast fever. The aim of the present investigation was to determine the role of the homologue TpUB05 in protective immunity to East Coast fever. Methods The cloning, sequencing and expression of TpUB05 were done according to standard protocols. Bioinformatics analysis of TpUB05 gene was carried out using algorithms found in the public domain. Polyclonal antiserum against recombinant TpUB05 were raised in rabbits and used for further analysis by Western blotting, ELISA, immunolocalization and in vitro infection neutralization assay. The ability of recombinant TpUB05 (r-TpUB05) to stimulate bovine PBMCs ex-vivo to produce IFN-γ or to proliferate was tested using ELISpot and [3H]-thymidine incorporation assays, respectively. Results All the 20 cattle immunised by the infection and treatment method (ITM) developed significantly higher levels of TpUB05 specific antibodies (p<0.0001) compared to the non-vaccinated ones. Similarly, r-TpUB05 highly stimulated bovine PMBCs from 8/12 (67%) of ITM-immunized cattle tested to produce IFN-γ and proliferate (p< 0.029) as compared to the 04 naїve cattle included as controls. Polyclonal TpUB05 antiserum raised against r-TpUB05 also marginally inhibited infection (p < 0.046) of bovine PBMCs by T. parva sporozoites. In further experiments RT-PCR showed that the TpUB05 gene is expressed by the parasite. This was confirmed by immunolocalization studies which revealed TpUB05 expression by schizonts and piroplasms. Bioinformatics analysis also revealed that this antigen possesses two transmembrane domains, a N-glycosylation site and several O-glycosylation sites. Conclusion It was concluded that TpUB05 is a potential marker of protective immunity in ECF worth investigating further. PMID:26053064

TpUB05, a Homologue of the Immunodominant Plasmodium falciparum Protein UB05, Is a Marker of Protective Immune Responses in Cattle Experimentally Vaccinated against East Coast Fever.

PubMed

Dinga, Jerome Nyhalah; Wamalwa, Mark; Njimoh, Dieudonné Lemuh; Njahira, Moses N; Djikeng, Appolinaire; Skilton, Rob; Titanji, Vincent Pryde Kehdingha; Pellé, Roger

2015-01-01

East Coast fever, a devastating disease of cattle, can be controlled partially by vaccination with live T. parva sporozoites. The antigens responsible for conferring immunity are not fully characterized. Recently it was shown that the P. falciparum immunodominant protein UB05 is highly conserved in T. parva, the causative agent of East Coast fever. The aim of the present investigation was to determine the role of the homologue TpUB05 in protective immunity to East Coast fever. The cloning, sequencing and expression of TpUB05 were done according to standard protocols. Bioinformatics analysis of TpUB05 gene was carried out using algorithms found in the public domain. Polyclonal antiserum against recombinant TpUB05 were raised in rabbits and used for further analysis by Western blotting, ELISA, immunolocalization and in vitro infection neutralization assay. The ability of recombinant TpUB05 (r-TpUB05) to stimulate bovine PBMCs ex-vivo to produce IFN-γ or to proliferate was tested using ELISpot and [3H]-thymidine incorporation assays, respectively. All the 20 cattle immunised by the infection and treatment method (ITM) developed significantly higher levels of TpUB05 specific antibodies (p<0.0001) compared to the non-vaccinated ones. Similarly, r-TpUB05 highly stimulated bovine PMBCs from 8/12 (67%) of ITM-immunized cattle tested to produce IFN-γ and proliferate (p< 0.029) as compared to the 04 naїve cattle included as controls. Polyclonal TpUB05 antiserum raised against r-TpUB05 also marginally inhibited infection (p < 0.046) of bovine PBMCs by T. parva sporozoites. In further experiments RT-PCR showed that the TpUB05 gene is expressed by the parasite. This was confirmed by immunolocalization studies which revealed TpUB05 expression by schizonts and piroplasms. Bioinformatics analysis also revealed that this antigen possesses two transmembrane domains, a N-glycosylation site and several O-glycosylation sites. It was concluded that TpUB05 is a potential marker of protective immunity in ECF worth investigating further.

Atmospheric pressure matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization as a plume diagnostic tool in laser evaporation methods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Callahan, John H.; Galicia, Marsha C.; Vertes, Akos

2002-09-01

Laser evaporation techniques, including matrix-assisted pulsed laser evaporation (MAPLE), are attracting increasing attention due to their ability to deposit thin layers of undegraded synthetic and biopolymers. Laser evaporation methods can be implemented in reflection geometry with the laser and the substrate positioned on the same side of the target. In some applications (e.g. direct write, DW), however, transmission geometry is used, i.e. the thin target is placed between the laser and the substrate. In this case, the laser pulse perforates the target and transfers some target material to the substrate. In order to optimize evaporation processes it is important to know the composition of the target plume and the material deposited from the plume. We used a recently introduced analytical method, atmospheric pressure matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization (AP-MALDI) to characterize the ionic components of the plume both in reflection and in transmission geometry. This technique can also be used to directly probe materials deposited on surfaces (such as glass slides) by laser evaporation methods. The test compound (small peptides, e.g. Angiotensin I, ATI or Substance P) was mixed with a MALDI matrix (α-cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid (CHCA), sinapinic acid (SA) or 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid (DHB)) and applied to the stainless steel (reflection geometry) or transparent conducting (transmission geometry) target holder. In addition to the classical dried droplet method, we also used electrospray target deposition to gain better control of crystallite size, thickness and homogeneity. The target was mounted in front of the inlet orifice of an ion trap mass spectrometer (IT-MS) that sampled the ionic components of the plume generated by a nitrogen laser. We studied the effect of several parameters, such as, the orifice to target distance, illumination geometry, extracting voltage distribution and sample preparation on the generated ions. Various analyte-matrix and matrix-matrix cluster ions were observed with relatively low abundance of the matrix ions.

"Advances in Coupled Air Quality, Farm Management and ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

A cropland farm management modeling system for regional air quality and field-scale applications of bi-directional ammonia exchange was presented at ITM XXI. The goal of this research is to improve estimates of nitrogen deposition to terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems and ambient ammonium aerosol particle concentrations injurious to human health. These concepts have been implemented and have been released as options in CMAQ 5.01. This presentation will summarize the integration of these two models and will present model performance results relative to wet deposition measurements, ambient ammonium aerosol and ambient ammonia observations. Results indicate a shift in the timing of current U.S. agricultural emission inventories and improved CMAQ model performance. Comparison to annual wet deposition observations suggests remaining bias may be attributable primarily to precipitation model errors. Preliminary results of CMAQ deposition and ambient ammonia response to interannual variability in farm management activities will also be presented. The USEPA Office of Air and Radiation is currently considering the recommendation of the coupled model for use in standard setting activities and applications are being developed in collaboration with USEPA Office of Water and Regional Offices. The National Exposure Research Laboratory (NERL) Atmospheric Modeling and Analysis Division (AMAD) conducts research in support of EPA mission to protect human health and the envi

Generalization and transfer of advanced Ukrainian expertise in dynamic aerospace design to students

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Konyukhov, Stanislav; Igdalov, Iosif; Polyakov, Nikolai; Sheptun, Yuory

2009-01-01

The presentation of the textbooks, A launch Vehicle as a Control Object (2004) and Launch Vehicles and Space Stages as Control Objects (2007, an updated and structured edition of the first book in Ukrainian), is discussed here. The textbooks are edited by Academician S.N. Konyukhov and the authors are I.M. Igdalov, L.D. Kuchma, N.V. Polyakov, and Yu.D. Sheptun. The textbooks are devoted to the problems of the theory and practice of dynamic design of long-range ballistic missiles (LRBM) and launch vehicles designed using "unconventional" approaches or original engineering solutions by a team of specialized companies lead by the Dniepropetrovsk Aerospace Center at Yuzhnoye SDO and Yuzhmash, with the participation of scientists of the Dniepropetrovsk National University (DNU) and the Institute of Technical Mechanics (ITM) at the National Academy of Science of Ukraine.

Determination of glutathione in spruce needles by liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Gucek, Marjan; Makuc, Simon; Mlakar, Anita; Bericnik-Vrbovsek, Julija; Marsel, Joze

2002-01-01

For the determination of glutathione (GSH) and its oxidized form (GSSG) in spruce needles their electrospray mass and MS/MS spectra were recorded with an ion trap mass spectrometer (ITMS, LCQ, Finnigan) and a triple stage quadrupole mass spectrometer (TSQ, Quattro II, Micromass). A study of the stability of GSH in aqueous solutions shows the presence of dimeric and trimeric forms of GSH, as well as GSSG, GSH-sulfonate and GSH-sulfinic acid. The same components were also found in extracts of spruce needles. We developed an assay which is suitable for monitoring low concentrations of GSH and similar compounds in plant tissues, employing the sensitivity and specificity of LC/MS/MS. Preliminary results on the mass spectrometric determination of GSH in spruce needles are given. Copyright 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Education in physics and the support of professional orientation of pupils

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

ŠebeÅ, Vladimír; Lapitková, Viera

2017-01-01

Authors in the article present some of the conclusions resulting from execution of a national project ITMS: 26110130549 "Support for guidance primary school pupils for vocational education and training through the development of polytechnic education aimed at developing work skills and work with talents". Authors focus on the influence of selected determinants of students' interest in Physics. Outputs linked to the increase of pupils' knowledge of physics; ways of increasing interest in physics and thus influencing the choice of secondary studies are presented based on two-year research that was realized in forms of experimental activities in newly built laboratories. Selection of physics experiments realized during lessons was determined by implementation of innovative teaching aids and information and communication technologies. The most important results that were analysed related to the research were presented.

The Geospace Dynamics Observatory; a mission of discovery for Geospace

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Spann, J. F.; Paxton, L.; Burch, J. L.; Reardon, P.; Habash Krause, L.; Gallagher, D. L.; Hopkins, R.

2013-12-01

Geospace Dynamics Observatory (GDO) takes advantage a repurposed optical system to provide new, unique, and cost-effective insights into the dynamics of geospace. New missions investigating the ITM system and the magnetospheric-ionospheric coupling processes have generally been very focused on specific phenomena, generally limited by the resource constraints and mission size. Exploring options for observing these regions with instrumentation that is 'non-traditional' is not often considered. The possibility of using very large optics to image Geospace has recently come to the fore. This talk will address the science that would be enabled by flying an ultraviolet telescope imaging the ITM region with an aperture greater than 2 meters. A brief overview of the use of this asset in a science-driven mission concept called the Geospace Dynamics Observatory (GDO) will be presented. This talk will explore the optical and technical aspects of the GDO mission and the implementation strategy. Additionally, the case will be made that GDO will address a significant portion of the priority mission science articulated in the recent Solar and Space Physics Decadal Survey, and provide unprecedented discovery opportunities. One of the problems common to all of geospace research is that of resolving temporal and spatial ambiguities: are the observed changes due the fact that the location of the observation has changed or have the state variables changed? This is a particularly vexing problem for low-cost missions that may have to rely on in situ measurements or other low spatial resolution techniques such as GPS radio occultation. The exceptional capabilities of the GDO mission include (1) unprecedented improvement in signal to noise for global-scale imaging of Earth's space environment that enables changes in the Earth's space environment to be resolved with orders of magnitude higher temporal and spatial resolution compared to existing data and other approaches, and (2) unrivaled capability for resolving the temporal evolution, over many days, in local time or latitude with a continuous view of Earth's global-scale evolution while simultaneously capturing the changes at scales smaller than are possible with other methods. GDO can provide the contextual measurements to support other investigations in space or from the ground or provide its own unique insights into the system. This combination of new capabilities found in GDO is a proven path to major scientific advances. A few examples of potential advances include: 1. Unparalleled advances in the connection of the upper atmosphere to the Sun. In the aurora and lower latitudes, extending the duration of uninterrupted images would advance understanding of the transfer of energy from the Sun to the upper atmosphere and the response of the space environment. 2. Advances in the influence of waves and tides on the upper atmosphere. Increasing both the signal to noise and the duration of the observations would reveal contributions that are not identifiable using other approaches. 3. The ability to probe the mechanisms that control the evolution of planetary atmospheres. The vantage point provided by this mission allows the flux of hydrogen (which is tied to the escape of water from a planet) to be mapped globally. It also allows unique observations of changes in the atmospheric structure and their causes.

Recent developments in multi-layer flat knitting technology for waste free production of complex shaped 3D-reinforcing structures for composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Trümper, W.; Lin, H.; Callin, T.; Bollengier, Q.; Cherif, C.; Krzywinski, S.

2016-07-01

Constantly increasing prices for raw materials and energy as well as the current discourse on the reduction of CO2-emissions places a special emphasis on the advantages of lightweight constructions and its resource conserving production methods. Fibre-reinforced composites are already seeing a number of applications in automobile, energy and mechanical engineering. Future applications within the named areas require greater material and energy efficiency and therefore manufacturing methods for textile preforms and lightweight constructions enabling an optimal arrangement of the reinforcing fibres while in the same time limiting waste to a minimum. One manufacturing method for textile reinforced preforms fulfilling quite many of the named requirements is the multilayer weft knitting technology. Multilayer weft knitted fabrics containing straight reinforcing yarns at least in two directions. The arrangement of these yarns is fixed by the loop yarn. Used yarn material in each knitting row is adaptable e. g. according to the load requirements or for the local integration of sensors. Draping properties of these fabrics can be varied within a great range and through this enabling draping of very complex shaped 3D-preforms without wrinkles from just one uncut fabric. The latest developments at ITM are concentrating on the development of a full production chain considering the 3D-CAD geometry, the load analysis, the generation of machine control programs as well as the development of technology and machines to enable the manufacturing of innovative net shape 3D-multilayer weft knitted fabrics such as complex shaped spacer fabrics and tubular fabrics with biaxial reinforcement.

Method of joining ITM materials using a partially or fully-transient liquid phase

DOEpatents

Butt, Darryl Paul; Cutler, Raymond Ashton; Rynders, Steven Walton; Carolan, Michael Francis

2006-03-14

A method of forming a composite structure includes: (1) providing first and second sintered bodies containing first and second multicomponent metallic oxides having first and second identical crystal structures that are perovskitic or fluoritic; (2) providing a joint material containing at least one metal oxide: (a) containing (i) at least one metal of an identical IUPAC Group as at least one sintered body metal in one of the multicomponent metallic oxides, (ii) a first row D-Block transition metal not contained in the multicomponent metallic oxides, and/or (iii) a lanthanide not contained in the multicomponent metallic oxides; (b) free of metals contained in the multicomponent metallic oxides; (c) free of cations of boron, silicon, germanium, tin, lead, arsenic, antimony, phosphorus and tellurium; and (d) having a melting point below the sintering temperatures of the sintered bodies; and (3) heating to a joining temperature above the melting point and below the sintering temperatures.

Wound Healing Activity of a Traditionally Used Poly Herbal Product in a Burn Wound Model in Rats

PubMed Central

Fahimi, Shirin; Abdollahi, Mohammad; Mortazavi, Seyed Alireza; Hajimehdipoor, Homa; Abdolghaffari, Amir Hossein; Rezvanfar, Mohammad Amin

2015-01-01

Background: Burns are known as one of the most common and destructive forms of injury with a vast spectrum of consequences. Despite the discovery of various antibacterial and antiseptic agents, burn wound healing still has remained a challenge to modern medicine. Plants, with a valuable traditional support, have been considered as potential agents for prevention and treatment of disorders in recent years. However, modern scientific methods should be applied to validate the claims about the therapeutic effects of the herbal products. Objectives: This study was conducted to evaluate the wound-healing activity of a poly herbal cream (PHC), retrieved from Iranian Traditional Medicine (ITM), in a rat burn wound model in Iran. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, PHC containing aqueous extracts of Malva sylvestris and Solanum nigrum leaves and oily extract of Rosa damascena petals was used. Second-degree burn wounds were induced in four groups of five rats each. Group 1 received no treatment while groups 2, 3 and 4 were given cream base, silver sulfadiazine (SS) 1% and PHC, respectively to compare the efficacy of PHC with the negative and positive control groups. The percentage of wound healing on days 2, 6, 10 and 14 and histopathological parameters of healed wounds on the 14th day were assessed. Antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of PHC were evaluated using 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and micro-dilution methods, respectively. Results: There was a significant improvement in healing percentage of PHC-treated rats in comparison to the other groups at the end of the treatment period (87.0% ± 2.1% for PHC in comparison to 32.2% ± 1.6%, 57.0% ± 5.3% and 70.8% ± 3.5% for the control, cream base and SS groups, respectively). Moreover, the healed wounds in PHC-treated animals contained less inflammatory cells and had desirable re-epithelialization with remarkable neovascularization. In addition to the antioxidant activity, PHC exhibited antibacterial effect against Staphylococcus aureus. Conclusions: Poly herbal cream experimentally and histopathologically revealed a burn wound healing activity probably due to the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities of its phytochemical contents. Therefore, this study confirms the use of M. sylvestris, S. nigrum and R. damascena in burn prescriptions in ITM. PMID:26473072

CT-guided Irreversible Electroporation in an Acute Porcine Liver Model: Effect of Previous Transarterial Iodized Oil Tissue Marking on Technical Parameters, 3D Computed Tomographic Rendering of the Electroporation Zone, and Histopathology

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

Sommer, C. M., E-mail: christof.sommer@med.uni-heidelberg.de; Fritz, S., E-mail: stefan.fritz@med.uni-heidelberg.de; Vollherbst, D., E-mail: dominikvollherbst@web.de

PurposeTo evaluate the effect of previous transarterial iodized oil tissue marking (ITM) on technical parameters, three-dimensional (3D) computed tomographic (CT) rendering of the electroporation zone, and histopathology after CT-guided irreversible electroporation (IRE) in an acute porcine liver model as a potential strategy to improve IRE performance.MethodsAfter Ethics Committee approval was obtained, in five landrace pigs, two IREs of the right and left liver (RL and LL) were performed under CT guidance with identical electroporation parameters. Before IRE, transarterial marking of the LL was performed with iodized oil. Nonenhanced and contrast-enhanced CT examinations followed. One hour after IRE, animals were killedmore » and livers collected. Mean resulting voltage and amperage during IRE were assessed. For 3D CT rendering of the electroporation zone, parameters for size and shape were analyzed. Quantitative data were compared by the Mann–Whitney test. Histopathological differences were assessed.ResultsMean resulting voltage and amperage were 2,545.3 ± 66.0 V and 26.1 ± 1.8 A for RL, and 2,537.3 ± 69.0 V and 27.7 ± 1.8 A for LL without significant differences. Short axis, volume, and sphericity index were 16.5 ± 4.4 mm, 8.6 ± 3.2 cm{sup 3}, and 1.7 ± 0.3 for RL, and 18.2 ± 3.4 mm, 9.8 ± 3.8 cm{sup 3}, and 1.7 ± 0.3 for LL without significant differences. For RL and LL, the electroporation zone consisted of severely widened hepatic sinusoids containing erythrocytes and showed homogeneous apoptosis. For LL, iodized oil could be detected in the center and at the rim of the electroporation zone.ConclusionThere is no adverse effect of previous ITM on technical parameters, 3D CT rendering of the electroporation zone, and histopathology after CT-guided IRE of the liver.« less

Effect of supplementing different concentrations of organic trace minerals on performance, antioxidant activity, and bone mineralization in Vanaraja chickens developed for free range farming.

PubMed

Rao, Savaram Venkata Rama; Prakash, Bhukya; Kumari, Kanya; Raju, Mantena Venkata Laxmi Narasimha; Panda, Arun Kumar

2013-08-01

An experiment was conducted to determine the performance, antioxidation activity, and bone mineral content in Vanaraja chickens fed diet supplemented with organic trace minerals (oTM) at reduced levels. A total of 360 day-old chicks were selected and distributed randomly into 60 battery brooder pens. A maize-soybean meal-based control diet was supplemented with inorganic trace minerals (iTM), i.e., Mn, Zn, Fe, and Cu at 50, 45, 40, and 7.5 mg/kg, respectively, and varying concentration of oTM, i.e., Zn, Mn, Cu, Fe, I, Se, and Cr at 45, 50, 7.5, 40, 2, 0.30, and 0.25 mg/kg (diet II); 33.75, 37.50, 5.63, 30.0, 1.50, 0.23, and 0.19 mg/kg (diet III); 22.5, 25.0, 3.75, 20.0, 1.0, 0.15, and 0.13 mg/kg (diet IV); 18.0, 20.0, 3.0, 16.0, 0.80, 0.12, and 0.10 mg/kg (diet V); and 13.5, 15.0, 2.25, 12.0, 0.60, 0.09, and 0.08 mg/kg (diet VI), respectively. Each diet was allotted randomly to ten replicates and fed ad libitum from 1 to 42 days of age. The body weight at 14, 28, and 42 days was not affected by reducing the supplementation of oTM concentration in the diets. Similarly, feed intake at 14 days of age was not affected but reduced significantly (P < 0.05) in the group fed diet IV (50% oTM) compared to that in the other groups. The higher feed conversion ratio and increased concentration of Ca, P, and trace minerals in tibia were evident in the group fed oTM-supplemented diets compared to the diet containing iTM. Activities of glutathione peroxidase and ferric reducing ability in plasma did not differ in the groups fed on lower concentration of oTM compared to those fed on diet I (control diet). Therefore, it is concluded that the dietary supplementation of trace minerals can be reduced greatly when supplemented as organic form without affecting growth and antioxidant status in Vanaraja chickens.

Evaluation of trace mineral source and preharvest deletion of trace minerals from finishing diets on tissue mineral status in pigs

PubMed Central

Ma, Y. L.; Webb, S. F.; Rentfrow, G.

2018-01-01

Objective An experiment was conducted to evaluate dietary supplemental trace mineral source and deletion on mineral content in tissues. Methods Weanling crossbred pigs (n = 144; 72 barrows and 72 gilts; body weight [BW] = 7.4±1.05 kg) were used. A basal diet was prepared, and trace mineral premix containing either inorganic (ITM) or organic (OTM) trace minerals (Cu, Fe, Mn, and Zn) was added to the basal diet. Pigs were blocked by sex and BW and randomly allotted to 24 pens for a total of 6 pigs per pen, and fed a diet containing either ITM or OTM supplemented at the 1998 NRC requirement estimates for each of 5 BW phases (Phase I to V) from 7 to 120 kg. The trace mineral supplementation was deleted for 6, 4, 2, and 0 wk of Phase V; regarding nutrient adequacy during this phase, the indigenous dietary Fe and Mn was sufficient, Cu was marginal and Zn was deficient. Results At the end of Phase IV, Mn content (mg/kg on the dry matter basis) was greater (p<0.05) in heart (0.77 vs 0.68), kidney (6.32 vs 5.87), liver (9.46 vs 8.30), and longissimus dorsi (LD; 0.30 vs 0.23) of pigs fed OTM. The pigs fed OTM were greater (p<0.05) in LD Cu (2.12 vs 1.89) and Fe (21.75 vs 19.40) and metacarpal bone Zn (141.86 vs 130.05). At the end of Phase V, increased length of deletion period (from 0 to 6 wk) resulted in a decrease (linear, p<0.01) in liver Zn (196.5 to 121.8), metacarpal bone Zn (146.6 to 86.2) and an increase (linear, p<0.01) in heart Mn (0.70 to 1.08), liver Mn (7.74 to 12.96), and kidney Mn (5.58 to 7.56). The only mineral source by deletion period interaction (p<0.05) was observed in LD Zn. Conclusion The results demonstrated differential effects of mineral deletion on tissue mineral content depending on both mineral assessed and source of the mineral. PMID:28728408

Microdosing and Other Phase 0 Clinical Trials: Facilitating Translation in Drug Development.

PubMed

Burt, T; Yoshida, K; Lappin, G; Vuong, L; John, C; de Wildt, S N; Sugiyama, Y; Rowland, M

2016-04-01

A number of drivers and developments suggest that microdosing and other phase 0 applications will experience increased utilization in the near-to-medium future. Increasing costs of drug development and ethical concerns about the risks of exposing humans and animals to novel chemical entities are important drivers in favor of these approaches, and can be expected only to increase in their relevance. An increasing body of research supports the validity of extrapolation from the limited drug exposure of phase 0 approaches to the full, therapeutic exposure, with modeling and simulations capable of extrapolating even non-linear scenarios. An increasing number of applications and design options demonstrate the versatility and flexibility these approaches offer to drug developers including the study of PK, bioavailability, DDI, and mechanistic PD effects. PET microdosing allows study of target localization, PK and receptor binding and occupancy, while Intra-Target Microdosing (ITM) allows study of local therapeutic-level acute PD coupled with systemic microdose-level exposure. Applications in vulnerable populations and extreme environments are attractive due to the unique risks of pharmacotherapy and increasing unmet healthcare needs. All phase 0 approaches depend on the validity of extrapolation from the limited-exposure scenario to the full exposure of therapeutic intent, but in the final analysis the potential for controlled human data to reduce uncertainty about drug properties is bound to be a valuable addition to the drug development process.

Surpassing 10% Efficiency Benchmark for Nonfullerene Organic Solar Cells by Scalable Coating in Air from Single Nonhalogenated Solvent

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

Ye, Long; Xiong, Yuan; Zhang, Qianqian

The commercialization of nonfullerene organic solar cells (OSCs) relies critically on the response under typical operating conditions (for instance, temperature, humidity) and the ability of scale-up. Despite the rapid increase in power conversion efficiency (PCE) of spin-coated devices fabricated in a protective atmosphere, the device efficiencies of printed nonfullerene OSC devices by blade-coating are still lower than 6%. This slow progress significantly limits the practical printing of high-performance nonfullerene OSCs. Here, a new and stable nonfullerene combination was introduced by pairing a commercially available nonfluorinated acceptor IT-M with the polymeric donor FTAZ. Over 12%-efficiency can be achieved in spincoated FTAZ:IT-Mmore » devices using a single halogen-free solvent. More importantly, chlorinefree, in air blade-coating of FTAZ:IT-M is able to yield a PCE of nearly 11%, despite a humidity of ~50%. X-ray scattering results reveal that large π-π coherence lengths, high degree of faceon orientation with respect to the substrate, and small domain spacings of ~20 nm are closely correlated with such high device performance. Our material system and approach yields the highest reported performance for nonfullerene OSC devices by a coating technique approximating scalable fabrication methods and holds great promise for the development of low-cost, low-toxicity, and high-efficiency OSCs by high-throughput production.« less

Hippocampal microRNA-mRNA regulatory network is affected by physical exercise.

PubMed

Fernandes, Jansen; Vieira, Andre Schwambach; Kramer-Soares, Juliana Carlota; Da Silva, Eduardo Alves; Lee, Kil Sun; Lopes-Cendes, Iscia; Arida, Ricardo Mario

2018-05-08

It is widely known that physical activity positively affects the overall health and brain function. Recently, microRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as potential regulators of numerous biological processes within the brain. These molecules modulate gene expression post-transcriptionally by inducing mRNA degradation and inhibiting the translation of target mRNAs. To verify whether the procognitive effects of physical exercise are accompanied by changes in the activity of miRNA-mRNA network in the brain, differential expression analysis was performed in the hippocampus of control (CTL) and exercised (Ex) rats subjected to 4 weeks of treadmill exercise. Cognition was evaluated by a multiple trial inhibitory avoidance (MTIA) task and Illumina next-generation sequencing (NGS) was used for miRNA and mRNA profiling. Exercise improved memory retention but not acquisition in the MTIA task. It was observed that 4 miRNAs and 54 mRNAs were significantly altered in the hippocampus of Ex2 (euthanized 2 h after the last exercise bout) group when compared to CTL group. Bioinformatic analysis showed an inverse correlation between 3 miRNAs and 6 target mRNAs. The miRNAs miR-129-1-3p and miR-144-5p were inversely correlated to the Igfbp5 and Itm2a, respectively, and the miR-708-5p presented an inverse correlation with Cdkn1a, Per2, Rt1-a2. The exercise-induced memory improvements are accompanied by changes in hippocampal miRNA-mRNA regulatory network. Physical exercise can affect brain function through modulation of epigenetics mechanisms involving miRNA regulation. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Newly designed 11-gene panel reveals first case of hereditary amyloidosis captured by massive parallel sequencing.

PubMed

Chyra Kufova, Zuzana; Sevcikova, Tereza; Januska, Jaroslav; Vojta, Petr; Boday, Arpad; Vanickova, Pavla; Filipova, Jana; Growkova, Katerina; Jelinek, Tomas; Hajduch, Marian; Hajek, Roman

2018-02-17

Amyloidosis is caused by deposition of abnormal protein fibrils, leading to damage of organ function. Hereditary amyloidosis represents a monogenic disease caused by germline mutations in 11 amyloidogenic precursor protein genes. One of the important but non-specific symptoms of amyloidosis is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Diagnostics of hereditary amyloidosis is complicated and the real cause can remain overlooked. We aimed to design hereditary amyloidosis gene panel and to introduce new next-generation sequencing (NGS) approach to investigate hereditary amyloidosis in a cohort of patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy of unknown significance. Design of target enrichment DNA library preparation using Haloplex Custom Kit containing 11 amyloidogenic genes was followed by MiSeq Illumina sequencing and bioinformatics identification of germline variants using tool VarScan in a cohort of 40 patients. We present design of NGS panel for 11 genes ( TTR , FGA , APOA1 , APOA2 , LYZ , GSN , CST3 , PRNP , APP , B2M , ITM2B ) connected to various forms of amyloidosis. We detected one mutation, which is responsible for hereditary amyloidosis. Some other single nucleotide variants are so far undescribed or rare variants or represent common polymorphisms in European population. We report one positive case of hereditary amyloidosis in a cohort of patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy of unknown significance and set up first panel for NGS in hereditary amyloidosis. This work may facilitate successful implementation of the NGS method by other researchers or clinicians and may improve the diagnostic process after validation. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2018. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

A liquid-phase microextraction method, combining a dual gauge microsyringe with a hollow fiber membrane, for the determination of organochlorine pesticides in aqueous solution by gas chromatography/ion trap mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Yan, Chih-Hao; Wu, Hui-Fen

2004-01-01

A liquid-phase microextraction (LPME) method has been demonstrated for the extraction and determination of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) in aqueous solution. The method combines a dual gauge microsyringe with a hollow fiber membrane (LPME/DGM-HF) followed by detection by gas chromatography/ion trap mass spectrometry (GC/ITMS). The advantages include speed, low solvent and sample consumption, simplicity and ease of use. The extraction time, solvent selection, salt concentration and sample stirring rate have been investigated in order to optimize extraction efficiency. The viability is evaluated by measuring the linearity and detection limit of the five OCPs in aqueous solution. Detection linearity for the OCPs has been achieved over a range of concentrations between 1 and 500 microg/L (r2 > 0.930), with a detection limit of 0.1 microg/L for each OCP. Copyright 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

The control of East Coast fever of cattle by live parasite vaccination: A science-to-impact narrative.

PubMed

Perry, B D

2016-12-01

There is an increasing interest in determining the impact of vaccine technologies developed using public funding targeted at international development, and understanding the factors and ingredients which contribute to the success and impacts of such vaccines. This paper chronicles the development of a live vaccine against East Coast fever, a tick-borne disease of cattle caused by Theileria parva . The paper describes the technological innovation, commonly known as infection-and-treatment, which was developed some 40 years ago, explores the institutional settings in which the vaccine was developed and refined, and discusses the political dynamics of both during the decades from first development to field deployment and impacts. The paper also analyses the direct and indirect indicators of success of ITM and the many qualifiers of these, the impacts that the emerging technology has had, both in positive and negative terms, and maps the key contributors and milestones on the research-to-impact pathway.

Enantioselective extraction of (+)-(S)-citalopram and its main metabolites using a tailor-made stir bar chiral imprinted polymer for their LC-ESI-MS/MS quantitation in urine samples.

PubMed

Unceta, Nora; Gómez-Caballero, Alberto; García, Deiene; Díaz, Goretti; Guerreiro, Antonio; Piletsky, Sergey; Goicolea, M Aránzazu; Barrio, Ramón J

2013-11-15

This paper reports the application of a chiral imprinted polymer (CIP)-coated stir bar for the selective extraction of (+)-(S)-citalopram (SCIT) and its main metabolites, (+)-(S)-desmethylcitalopram (SDCIT) and (+)-(S)-didesmethylcitalopram (SDDCIT), from urine samples. The developed device has been demonstrated to be capable of selectively extracting the three target analytes from urine samples without saturating the imprinted sites. A CIP-coated stir bar sorptive extraction procedure (CIP-SBSE) is proposed for the isolation of SCIT, SDCIT and SDDCIT followed by their subsequent analysis using liquid chromatography ion trap mass spectrometry (LC-ITMS). Deuterated SCIT-d6 was used as an internal standard. The method was validated using a standard procedure, which revealed that a quantification of 5 ng mL(-1) was obtained in urine samples and that the accuracy and precision were within the established values while no matrix effect was observed. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Highly Expressed Genes within Hippocampal Sector CA1: Implications for the Physiology of Memory.

PubMed

Meyer, Michael A

2014-04-22

As the CA1 sector has been implicated to play a key role in memory formation, a dedicated search for highly expressed genes within this region was made from an on-line atlas of gene expression within the mouse brain (GENSAT). From a data base of 1013 genes, 16 were identified that had selective localization of gene expression within the CA1 region, and included Angpt2, ARHGEF6, CCK, Cntnap1, DRD3, EMP1, Epha2, Itm2b, Lrrtm2, Mdk, PNMT, Ppm1e, Ppp2r2d, RASGRP1, Slitrk5, and Sstr4. Of the 16 identified, the most selective and intense localization for both adult and post-natal day 7 was noted for ARHGEF6, which is known to be linked to non-syndromic mental retardation, and has also been localized to dendritic spines. Further research on the role played by ARHGEF6 in memory formation is strongly advocated.

Microdosing and Other Phase 0 Clinical Trials: Facilitating Translation in Drug Development

DOE PAGES

Burt, T.; Yoshida, K.; Lappin, G.; ...

2016-02-26

A number of drivers and developments suggest that microdosing and other phase 0 applications will experience increased utilization in the near-to-medium future. Increasing costs of drug development and ethical concerns about the risks of exposing humans and animals to novel chemical entities are important drivers in favor of these approaches, and can be expected only to increase in their relevance. An increasing body of research supports the validity of extrapolation from the limited drug exposure of phase 0 approaches to the full, therapeutic exposure, with modeling and simulations capable of extrapolating even non-linear scenarios. An increasing number of applications andmore » design options demonstrate the versatility and flexibility these approaches offer to drug developers including the study of PK, bioavailability, DDI, and mechanistic PD effects. PET microdosing allows study of target localization, PK and receptor binding and occupancy, while Intra-Target Microdosing (ITM) allows study of local therapeutic-level acute PD coupled with systemic microdose-level exposure. Applications in vulnerable populations and extreme environments are attractive due to the unique risks of pharmacotherapy and increasing unmet healthcare needs. Lastly, all phase 0 approaches depend on the validity of extrapolation from the limited-exposure scenario to the full exposure of therapeutic intent, but in the final analysis the potential for controlled human data to reduce uncertainty about drug properties is bound to be a valuable addition to the drug development process.« less

Microdosing and Other Phase 0 Clinical Trials: Facilitating Translation in Drug Development

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

Burt, T.; Yoshida, K.; Lappin, G.

A number of drivers and developments suggest that microdosing and other phase 0 applications will experience increased utilization in the near-to-medium future. Increasing costs of drug development and ethical concerns about the risks of exposing humans and animals to novel chemical entities are important drivers in favor of these approaches, and can be expected only to increase in their relevance. An increasing body of research supports the validity of extrapolation from the limited drug exposure of phase 0 approaches to the full, therapeutic exposure, with modeling and simulations capable of extrapolating even non-linear scenarios. An increasing number of applications andmore » design options demonstrate the versatility and flexibility these approaches offer to drug developers including the study of PK, bioavailability, DDI, and mechanistic PD effects. PET microdosing allows study of target localization, PK and receptor binding and occupancy, while Intra-Target Microdosing (ITM) allows study of local therapeutic-level acute PD coupled with systemic microdose-level exposure. Applications in vulnerable populations and extreme environments are attractive due to the unique risks of pharmacotherapy and increasing unmet healthcare needs. Lastly, all phase 0 approaches depend on the validity of extrapolation from the limited-exposure scenario to the full exposure of therapeutic intent, but in the final analysis the potential for controlled human data to reduce uncertainty about drug properties is bound to be a valuable addition to the drug development process.« less

Dietary Antioxidant Capacity and Its Association with Preeclampsia.

PubMed

Sheikhi, Mahdiyeh; Sharifi-Zahabi, Elham; Paknahad, Zamzam

2017-01-01

Preeclampsia (PE) is one of the major disorders in pregnancy leading to many adverse maternal outcomes. Although the etiology of PE is not fully understood, resent studies suggest that an imbalance between free radicals production and the antioxidant defense system might have key role. Our aim of the current study was to evaluate the association between dietary total antioxidant capacity (TAC), serum TAC and risk of PE in women with preeclampsia and normal pregnancy. This case-control study conducted on 55 women with preeclampsia and 93 with normal pregnancy. Dietary intakes were obtained by a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) with 168 itmes. Dietary TAC was assessed according to United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Database for oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC), Release 2. Serum TAC was measured by a double-antibody sandwich enzyme-linked immunesorbent assay (ELISA). After adjusting for energy, pre-pregnant body mass index (BMI) and history of PE, no relationship was found between intake of hydrophilic-ORAC (H-ORAC), lipophilic-ORAC (L-ORAC), total phenolics (TP), total-ORAC (T-ORAC), and PE risk. However, serum TAC had a significant positive relationship with the risk of PE after adjusting for energy (odds ratio [OR], 0.07; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.16-0.35), BMI and history of PE (OR, 0.04; 95% CI, 0.01-0.32). Findings of this study indicate that serum TAC is positively associated with the risk of PE but no association was found between intake of antioxidant indices and PE risk.

Comparison of intrathecal and local infiltration analgesia by morphine for pain management in total knee and hip arthroplasty: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Jia, Xu-Feng; Ji, Yong; Huang, Guang-Ping; Zhou, Yu; Long, Miao

2017-04-01

We performed a meta-analysis from randomized controlled trials to evaluate the efficiency and safety between local infiltration analgesia and intrathecal morphine for pain control in total knee and hip arthroplasty. We systemically searched electronic databases including Embase (1980-2016.7), Medline (1966-2016.7), PubMed (1966-2016.7), ScienceDirect (1985-2016.7), web of science (1950-2016.7) and Cochrane Library for relevant articles. All calculation was carried out by Stata 11.0. Four randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 242 patients met the inclusion criteria. The meta-analysis showed that there were significant differences in terms of postoperative pain scores at 24 h during rest (P = 0.008) and mobilization (P = 0.049) following total knee and hip arthroplasty. Significant difference was found regarding the incidence of nausea (P = 0.030), vomiting (P = 0.005), and pruritus (P = 0.000) between two groups. There was no significant difference between groups in terms of morphine equivalent consumption at postoperative 24 or 48 h. Local infiltration analgesia (LIA) provided superior analgesic effects within the first 24 h compared to intrathecal morphine (ITM) following total knee and hip arthroplasty. There were fewer adverse effects in LIA. Doses of morphine consumption were similar in the two groups. Copyright © 2017 IJS Publishing Group Ltd. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Towards more accurate HIV testing in sub-Saharan Africa: a multi-site evaluation of HIV RDTs and risk factors for false positives

PubMed Central

Kosack, Cara S; Page, Anne-Laure; Beelaert, Greet; Benson, Tumwesigye; Savane, Aboubacar; Ng’ang’a, Anne; Andre, Bita; Zahinda, Jean-Paul BN; Shanks, Leslie; Fransen, Katrien

2017-01-01

Abstract Introduction: Although individual HIV rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) show good performance in evaluations conducted by WHO, reports from several African countries highlight potentially significant performance issues. Despite widespread use of RDTs for HIV diagnosis in resource-constrained settings, there has been no systematic, head-to-head evaluation of their accuracy with specimens from diverse settings across sub-Saharan Africa. We conducted a standardized, centralized evaluation of eight HIV RDTs and two simple confirmatory assays at a WHO collaborating centre for evaluation of HIV diagnostics using specimens from six sites in five sub-Saharan African countries. Methods: Specimens were transported to the Institute of Tropical Medicine (ITM), Antwerp, Belgium for testing. The tests were evaluated by comparing their results to a state-of-the-art reference algorithm to estimate sensitivity, specificity and predictive values. Results: 2785 samples collected from August 2011 to January 2015 were tested at ITM. All RDTs showed very high sensitivity, from 98.8% for First Response HIV Card Test 1–2.0 to 100% for Determine HIV 1/2, Genie Fast, SD Bioline HIV 1/2 3.0 and INSTI HIV-1/HIV-2 Antibody Test kit. Specificity ranged from 90.4% for First Response to 99.7% for HIV 1/2 STAT-PAK with wide variation based on the geographical origin of specimens. Multivariate analysis showed several factors were associated with false-positive results, including gender, provider-initiated testing and the geographical origin of specimens. For simple confirmatory assays, the total sensitivity and specificity was 100% and 98.8% for ImmunoComb II HIV 12 CombFirm (ImmunoComb) and 99.7% and 98.4% for Geenius HIV 1/2 with indeterminate rates of 8.9% and 9.4%. Conclusions: In this first systematic head-to-head evaluation of the most widely used RDTs, individual RDTs performed more poorly than in the WHO evaluations: only one test met the recommended thresholds for RDTs of ≥99% sensitivity and ≥98% specificity. By performing all tests in a centralized setting, we show that these differences in performance cannot be attributed to study procedure, end-user variation, storage conditions, or other methodological factors. These results highlight the existence of geographical and population differences in individual HIV RDT performance and underscore the challenges of designing locally validated algorithms that meet the latest WHO-recommended thresholds. PMID:28364560

The Solar Connections Observatory for Planetary Environments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Oliversen, Ronald J.; Harris, Walter M.; Oegerle, William R. (Technical Monitor)

2002-01-01

The NASA Sun-Earth Connection theme roadmap calls for comparative study of how the planets, comets, and local interstellar medium (LISM) interact with the Sun and respond to solar variability. Through such a study we advance our understanding of basic physical plasma and gas dynamic processes, thus increasing our predictive capabilities for the terrestrial, planetary, and interplanetary environments where future remote and human exploration will occur. Because the other planets have lacked study initiatives comparable to the terrestrial ITM, LWS, and EOS programs, our understanding of the upper atmospheres and near space environments on these worlds is far less detailed than our knowledge of the Earth. To close this gap we propose a mission to study {\\it all) of the solar interacting bodies in our planetary system out to the heliopause with a single remote sensing space observatory, the Solar Connections Observatory for Planetary Environments (SCOPE). SCOPE consists of a binocular EUV/FUV telescope operating from a remote, driftaway orbit that provides sub-arcsecond imaging and broadband medium resolution spectro-imaging over the 55-290 nm bandpass, and high (R>10$^{5}$ resolution H Ly-$\\alpha$ emission line profile measurements of small scale planetary and wide field diffuse solar system structures. A key to the SCOPE approach is to include Earth as a primary science target. From its remote vantage point SCOPE will be able to observe auroral emission to and beyond the rotational pole. The other planets and comets will be monitored in long duration campaigns centered when possible on solar opposition when interleaved terrestrial-planet observations can be used to directly compare the response of both worlds to the same solar wind stream and UV radiation field. Using a combination of observations and MHD models, SCOPE will isolate the different controlling parameters in each planet system and gain insight into the underlying physical processes that define the solar connection.

Indirect Tire Monitoring System - Machine Learning Approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Svensson, O.; Thelin, S.; Byttner, S.; Fan, Y.

2017-10-01

The heavy vehicle industry has today no requirement to provide a tire pressure monitoring system by law. This has created issues surrounding unknown tire pressure and thread depth during active service. There is also no standardization for these kind of systems which means that different manufacturers and third party solutions work after their own principles and it can be hard to know what works for a given vehicle type. The objective is to create an indirect tire monitoring system that can generalize a method that detect both incorrect tire pressure and thread depth for different type of vehicles within a fleet without the need for additional physical sensors or vehicle specific parameters. The existing sensors that are connected communicate through CAN and are interpreted by the Drivec Bridge hardware that exist in the fleet. By using supervised machine learning a classifier was created for each axle where the main focus was the front axle which had the most issues. The classifier will classify the vehicles tires condition and will be implemented in Drivecs cloud service where it will receive its data. The resulting classifier is a random forest implemented in Python. The result from the front axle with a data set consisting of 9767 samples of buses with correct tire condition and 1909 samples of buses with incorrect tire condition it has an accuracy of 90.54% (0.96%). The data sets are created from 34 unique measurements from buses between January and May 2017. This classifier has been exported and is used inside a Node.js module created for Drivecs cloud service which is the result of the whole implementation. The developed solution is called Indirect Tire Monitoring System (ITMS) and is seen as a process. This process will predict bad classes in the cloud which will lead to warnings. The warnings are defined as incidents. They contain only the information needed and the bandwidth of the incidents are also controlled so incidents are created within an acceptable range over a period of time. These incidents will be notified through the cloud for the operator to analyze for upcoming maintenance decisions.

Field trials for determining the visible and infrared transmittance of screening smoke

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sánchez Oliveros, Carmen; Santa-María Sánchez, Guillermo; Rosique Pérez, Carlos

2009-09-01

In order to evaluate the concealment capability of smoke, the Countermeasures Laboratory of the Institute of Technology "Marañosa" (ITM) has done a set of tests for measuring the transmittances of multispectral smoke tins in several bands of the electromagnetic spectrum. The smoke composition based on red phosphorous has been developed and patented by this laboratory as a part of a projectile development. The smoke transmittance was measured by means of thermography as well as spectroradiometry. Black bodies and halogen lamps were used as infrared and visible source of radiation. The measurements were carried out in June of 2008 at the Marañosa field (Spain) with two MWIR cameras, two LWIR cameras, one CCD visible camera, one CVF IR spectroradiometer covering the interval 1.5 to 14 microns and one array silicon based spectroradiometer for the 0.2 to 1.1 μm spectra. The transmittance and dimensions of the smoke screen were characterized in the visible band, MWIR (3 - 5 μm and LWIR (8 - 12 μm) regions. The size of the screen was about 30 meters wide and 5 meters high. The transmittances in the IR bands were about 0.3 and better than 0.1 in the visible one. The screens showed to be effective over the time of persistence for all of the tests. The results obtained from the imaging and non-imaging systems were in good accordance. The meteorological conditions during tests such as the wind speed are determinant for the use of this kind of optical countermeasures.

A systematic review of mosquito coils and passive emanators: defining recommendations for spatial repellency testing methodologies.

PubMed

Ogoma, Sheila B; Moore, Sarah J; Maia, Marta F

2012-12-07

Mosquito coils, vaporizer mats and emanators confer protection against mosquito bites through the spatial action of emanated vapor or airborne pyrethroid particles. These products dominate the pest control market; therefore, it is vital to characterize mosquito responses elicited by the chemical actives and their potential for disease prevention. The aim of this review was to determine effects of mosquito coils and emanators on mosquito responses that reduce human-vector contact and to propose scientific consensus on terminologies and methodologies used for evaluation of product formats that could contain spatial chemical actives, including indoor residual spraying (IRS), long lasting insecticide treated nets (LLINs) and insecticide treated materials (ITMs). PubMed, (National Centre for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), U.S. National Library of Medicine, NIH), MEDLINE, LILAC, Cochrane library, IBECS and Armed Forces Pest Management Board Literature Retrieval System search engines were used to identify studies of pyrethroid based coils and emanators with key-words "Mosquito coils" "Mosquito emanators" and "Spatial repellents". It was concluded that there is need to improve statistical reporting of studies, and reach consensus in the methodologies and terminologies used through standardized testing guidelines. Despite differing evaluation methodologies, data showed that coils and emanators induce mortality, deterrence, repellency as well as reduce the ability of mosquitoes to feed on humans. Available data on efficacy outdoors, dose-response relationships and effective distance of coils and emanators is inadequate for developing a target product profile (TPP), which will be required for such chemicals before optimized implementation can occur for maximum benefits in disease control.

Beyond mean pharyngeal constrictor dose for beam path toxicity in non-target swallowing muscles: dose-volume correlates of chronic radiation-associated dysphagia (RAD) after oropharyngeal intensity modulated radiotherapy

PubMed Central

2016-01-01

Purpose/Objective(s) We sought to identify swallowing muscle dose-response thresholds associated with chronic radiation-associated dysphagia (RAD) after IMRT for oropharyngeal cancer. Materials/Methods T1-4 N0-3 M0 oropharyngeal cancer patients who received definitive IMRT and systemic therapy were examined. Chronic RAD was coded as any of the following ≥ 12 months post-IMRT: videofluoroscopy/endoscopy detected aspiration or stricture, gastrostomy tube and/or aspiration pneumonia. DICOM-RT plan data were autosegmented using a custom region-of-interest (ROI) library and included inferior, middle and superior constrictors (IPC, MPC, and SPC), medial and lateral pterygoids (MPM, LPM), anterior and posterior digastrics (ADM, PDM), intrinsic tongue muscles (ITM), mylo/geniohyoid complex (MHM), genioglossus (GGM), ), masseter (MM), Buccinator (BM), palatoglossus (PGM), and cricopharyngeus (CPM), with ROI dose-volume histograms (DVHs) calculated. Recursive partitioning analysis (RPA) was used to identify dose-volume effects associated with chronic-RAD, for use in a multivariate (MV) model. Results Of 300 patients, 34 (11%) had chronic-RAD. RPA showed DVH-derived MHM V69 (i.e. the volume receiving ≥69Gy), GGM V35, ADM V60, MPC V49, and SPC V70 were associated with chronic-RAD. A model including age in addition to MHM V69 as continuous variables was optimal among tested MV models (AUC 0.835). Conclusion In addition to SPCs, dose to MHM should be monitored and constrained, especially in older patients (>62-years), when feasible. PMID:26897515

Beyond mean pharyngeal constrictor dose for beam path toxicity in non-target swallowing muscles: Dose-volume correlates of chronic radiation-associated dysphagia (RAD) after oropharyngeal intensity modulated radiotherapy.

PubMed

2016-02-01

We sought to identify swallowing muscle dose-response thresholds associated with chronic radiation-associated dysphagia (RAD) after IMRT for oropharyngeal cancer. T1-4 N0-3 M0 oropharyngeal cancer patients who received definitive IMRT and systemic therapy were examined. Chronic RAD was coded as any of the following ⩾12months post-IMRT: videofluoroscopy/endoscopy detected aspiration or stricture, gastrostomy tube and/or aspiration pneumonia. DICOM-RT plan data were autosegmented using a custom region-of-interest (ROI) library and included inferior, middle and superior constrictors (IPC, MPC, and SPC), medial and lateral pterygoids (MPM, LPM), anterior and posterior digastrics (ADM, PDM), intrinsic tongue muscles (ITM), mylo/geniohyoid complex (MHM), genioglossus (GGM), masseter (MM), buccinator (BM), palatoglossus (PGM), and cricopharyngeus (CPM), with ROI dose-volume histograms (DVHs) calculated. Recursive partitioning analysis (RPA) was used to identify dose-volume effects associated with chronic-RAD, for use in a multivariate (MV) model. Of 300 patients, 34 (11%) had chronic-RAD. RPA showed DVH-derived MHM V69 (i.e. the volume receiving⩾69Gy), GGM V35, ADM V60, MPC V49, and SPC V70 were associated with chronic-RAD. A model including age in addition to MHM V69 as continuous variables was optimal among tested MV models (AUC 0.835). In addition to SPCs, dose to MHM should be monitored and constrained, especially in older patients (>62-years), when feasible. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Thermodynamic properties of a layered S = 7/2 Heisenberg magnet Gd(OH)CO3

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Orendac, Martin; Ulicny, Martin; Cizmar, Erik; Orendacova, Alzbeta; Chen, Yan-Cong; Meng, Zhao-Sha; Tong, Ming-Liang

2015-03-01

Thermodynamic quantities and ESR spectra of Gd(OH)CO3 (I) are reported. The material may be considered to consist of weakly coupled layers with potentially triangular arrangement of exchange paths within each layer. Different bridging groups and distances among Gd3+ ions may be responsible for spatial anisotropy of magnetic coupling. Preliminary analysis of magnetic susceptibility using Curie-Weiss law yielded θ = -1.05 K indicating weak antiferromagnetic coupling and consequently, spin frustration in (I). More detailed simultaneous analysis of specific heat, susceptibility and magnetization studied down to nominally 0.45 K revealed non-negligible role of single-ion anisotropy. Using the model of weakly interacting S =7/2 trimers, the gross features of measured data may be explained while assuming single-ion anisotropy D /kB ~ 0.6 K and effective intratrimer magnetic coupling | J /kB | ~0.3 K. The obtained D value reasonably reproduces the position and shape of ESR line. The performed analysis suggests that magnetism in (I) is governed predominantly by crystal field effects and frustration plays a minor role. Supported by ITMS26220120005 and VEGA 1/0143/13.

Source-receptor matrix calculation with a Lagrangian particle dispersion model in backward mode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seibert, P.; Frank, A.

2003-04-01

A method for the calculation of source-receptor (s-r) relationships (sensitivity of a trace substance concentration at some place and time to emission at some place and time) with Lagrangian particle models has been derived and presented previously (Air Pollution Modeling and its Application XIV, Proc. of ITM Boulder 2000). Now, the generalisation to any linear s-r relationship, including dry and wet deposition, decay etc., is presented. It was implemented in the model FLEXPART and tested extensively in idealised set-ups. These tests turned out to be very useful for finding minor model bugs and inaccuracies, and can be recommended generally for model testing. Recently, a convection scheme has been integrated in FLEXPART which was also tested. Both source and receptor can be specified in mass mixing ratio or mass units. Properly taking care of this is quite relevant for sources and receptors at different levels in the atmosphere. Furthermore, we present a test with the transport of aerosol-bound Caesium-137 from the areas contaminated by the Chernobyl disaster to Stockholm during one month.

Liquid chromatography coupled with time-of-flight and ion trap mass spectrometry for qualitative analysis of herbal medicines.

PubMed

Chen, Xiao-Fei; Wu, Hai-Tang; Tan, Guang-Guo; Zhu, Zhen-Yu; Chai, Yi-Feng

2011-11-01

With the expansion of herbal medicine (HM) market, the issue on how to apply up-to-date analytical tools on qualitative analysis of HMs to assure their quality, safety and efficacy has been arousing great attention. Due to its inherent characteristics of accurate mass measurements and multiple stages analysis, the integrated strategy of liquid chromatography (LC) coupled with time-of-flight mass spectrometry (TOF-MS) and ion trap mass spectrometry (IT-MS) is well-suited to be performed as qualitative analysis tool in this field. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview on the potential of this integrated strategy, including the review of general features of LC-IT-MS and LC-TOF-MS, the advantages of their combination, the common procedures for structure elucidation, the potential of LC-hybrid-IT-TOF/MS and also the summary and discussion of the applications of the integrated strategy for HM qualitative analysis (2006-2011). The advantages and future developments of LC coupled with IT and TOF-MS are highlighted.

An Intracellular Threonine of Amyloid-β Precursor Protein Mediates Synaptic Plasticity Deficits and Memory Loss

PubMed Central

Lombino, Franco; Biundo, Fabrizio; Tamayev, Robert; Arancio, Ottavio; D’Adamio, Luciano

2013-01-01

Mutations in Amyloid-ß Precursor Protein (APP) and BRI2/ITM2b genes cause Familial Alzheimer and Danish Dementias (FAD/FDD), respectively. APP processing by BACE1, which is inhibited by BRI2, yields sAPPß and ß-CTF. ß-CTF is cleaved by gamma-secretase to produce Aß. A knock-in mouse model of FDD, called FDDKI, shows deficits in memory and synaptic plasticity, which can be attributed to sAPPß/ß-CTF but not Aß. We have investigated further the pathogenic function of ß-CTF focusing on Thr668 of ß-CTF because phosphorylation of Thr668 is increased in AD cases. We created a knock-in mouse bearing a Thr668Ala mutation (APPTA mice) that prevents phosphorylation at this site. This mutation prevents the development of memory and synaptic plasticity deficits in FDDKI mice. These data are consistent with a role for the carboxyl-terminal APP domain in the pathogenesis of dementia and suggest that averting the noxious role of Thr668 is a viable therapeutic strategy for human dementias. PMID:23451158

Geographical Characterization of Tunisian Olive Tree Leaves (cv. Chemlali) Using HPLC-ESI-TOF and IT/MS Fingerprinting with Hierarchical Cluster Analysis

PubMed Central

Arráez Román, David; Gómez Caravaca, Ana María; Zarrouk, Mokhtar

2018-01-01

The olive plant has been extensively studied for its nutritional value, whereas its leaves have been specifically recognized as a processing by-product. Leaves are considered by-products of olive farming, representing a significant material arriving to the olive mill. They have been considered for centuries as an important herbal remedy in Mediterranean countries. Their beneficial properties are generally attributed to the presence of a range of phytochemicals such as secoiridoids, triterpenes, lignans, and flavonoids. With the aim to study the impact of geographical location on the phenolic compounds, Olea europaea leaves were handpicked from the Tunisian cultivar “Chemlali” from nine regions in the north, center, and south of Tunisia. The ground leaves were then extracted with methanol : water 80% (v/v) and analyzed by using high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to electrospray time of flight and ion trap mass spectrometry analyzers. A total of 38 compounds could be identified. Their contents showed significant variation among samples from different regions. Hierarchical cluster analysis was applied to highlight similarities in the phytochemical composition observed between the samples of different regions. PMID:29725553

Alouette and ISIS topside sounder measurements -A data source for improvements of the IRI model in the topside ionosphere

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bilitza, Dieter; Benson, Robert; Reinisch, Bodo; Huang, Xueqin

The Alouette and ISIS topside sounder satellites recorded a great wealth of information about the topside ionosphere during their long period of operations (from 1962 to 1990). So much though that only a small percentage was analyzed during the mission life time. The soundings were stored on more than 100,000 seven-track analog telemetry tapes. In the mid-nineties space limitations and storage costs threatened an imminent loss of these tapes. Only a last minute intervention spear-headed by NASA's Ionosphere, Thermosphere, Mesosphere (ITM) Data Evaluation Panel saved a significant portion of these tapes and with funding from the AISRP program these data were first digitized and then converted into electron density profiles. This data restoration effort more than tripled the Alouette/ISIS topside sounder data base and has led to significant improvements of models for the topside ionosphere, e.g., about a factor of 2 improvement in the case of the IRI-2007 topside electron density profile. We will present a brief history of this successful data restoration effort and its current status. The homepage for the ISIS project is at http://nssdc.gsfc.nasa.gov/space/isis/isis-status.html.

Impact of storage time and temperature on volatomic signature of Tinta Negra wines by LLME/GC-ITMS.

PubMed

Perestrelo, R; Silva, Catarina L; Silva, Pedro; Câmara, J S

2018-07-01

The current study reports the effect of storage temperature, storage time and glucose content on the volatomic signature of Tinta Negra wines using liquid-liquid microextraction (LLME) combined with gas chromatography-ion trap mass spectrometry (GC- IT MS). A total of 65 volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were identified in Tinta Negra, of which only 14 appear during storage. Based on the results, the freshness and fruitiness odours that are related to the presence of some varietal and fermentative components (e.g. terpenic compounds, esters) are lost during wine storage, while other descriptors such as caramel, dried fruit, spice, toast and wood arise due to Maillard reactions (e.g. furanic compounds), among other chemical reactions (e.g. lactones). The results obtained in this study may be applied as a useful tool in the winemaking field in order to introduce changes in the baking (estufagem) process and/or predict the effects of storage time when applying high temperatures. In addition, the VOCs identified in this study may help winemakers and wine chemists better understand the aroma composition and profile of Tinta Negra wines. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Mass Spectrometry Parameters Optimization for the 46 Multiclass Pesticides Determination in Strawberries with Gas Chromatography Ion-Trap Tandem Mass Spectrometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fernandes, Virgínia C.; Vera, Jose L.; Domingues, Valentina F.; Silva, Luís M. S.; Mateus, Nuno; Delerue-Matos, Cristina

2012-12-01

Multiclass analysis method was optimized in order to analyze pesticides traces by gas chromatography with ion-trap and tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS). The influence of some analytical parameters on pesticide signal response was explored. Five ion trap mass spectrometry (IT-MS) operating parameters, including isolation time (IT), excitation voltage (EV), excitation time (ET), maximum excitation energy or " q" value (q), and isolation mass window (IMW) were numerically tested in order to maximize the instrument analytical signal response. For this, multiple linear regression was used in data analysis to evaluate the influence of the five parameters on the analytical response in the ion trap mass spectrometer and to predict its response. The assessment of the five parameters based on the regression equations substantially increased the sensitivity of IT-MS/MS in the MS/MS mode. The results obtained show that for most of the pesticides, these parameters have a strong influence on both signal response and detection limit. Using the optimized method, a multiclass pesticide analysis was performed for 46 pesticides in a strawberry matrix. Levels higher than the limit established for strawberries by the European Union were found in some samples.

Inhibition of γ-secretase worsens memory deficits in a genetically congruous mouse model of Danish dementia

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background A mutation in the BRI2/ITM2b gene causes familial Danish dementia (FDD). BRI2 is an inhibitor of amyloid-β precursor protein (APP) processing, which is genetically linked to Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathogenesis. The FDD mutation leads to a loss of BRI2 protein and to increased APP processing. APP haplodeficiency and inhibition of APP cleavage by β-secretase rescue synaptic/memory deficits of a genetically congruous mouse model of FDD (FDDKI). β-cleavage of APP yields the β-carboxyl-terminal (β-CTF) and the amino-terminal-soluble APPβ (sAPPβ) fragments. γ-secretase processing of β-CTF generates Aβ, which is considered the main cause of AD. However, inhibiting Aβ production did not rescue the deficits of FDDKI mice, suggesting that sAPPβ/β-CTF, and not Aβ, are the toxic species causing memory loss. Results Here, we have further analyzed the effect of γ-secretase inhibition. We show that treatment with a γ-secretase inhibitor (GSI) results in a worsening of the memory deficits of FDDKI mice. This deleterious effect on memory correlates with increased levels of the β/α-CTFs APP fragments in synaptic fractions isolated from hippocampi of FDDKI mice, which is consistent with inhibition of γ-secretase activity. Conclusion This harmful effect of the GSI is in sharp contrast with a pathogenic role for Aβ, and suggests that the worsening of memory deficits may be due to accumulation of synaptic-toxic β/α-CTFs caused by GSI treatment. However, γ-secretase cleaves more than 40 proteins; thus, the noxious effect of GSI on memory may be dependent on inhibition of cleavage of one or more of these other γ-secretase substrates. These two possibilities do not need to be mutually exclusive. Our results are consistent with the outcome of a clinical trial with the GSI Semagacestat, which caused a worsening of cognition, and advise against targeting γ-secretase in the therapy of AD. Overall, the data also indicate that FDDKI is a valuable mouse model to study AD pathogenesis and predict the clinical outcome of therapeutic agents for AD. PMID:22537414

Inhibition of γ-secretase worsens memory deficits in a genetically congruous mouse model of Danish dementia.

PubMed

Tamayev, Robert; D'Adamio, Luciano

2012-04-26

A mutation in the BRI2/ITM2b gene causes familial Danish dementia (FDD). BRI2 is an inhibitor of amyloid-β precursor protein (APP) processing, which is genetically linked to Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis. The FDD mutation leads to a loss of BRI2 protein and to increased APP processing. APP haplodeficiency and inhibition of APP cleavage by β-secretase rescue synaptic/memory deficits of a genetically congruous mouse model of FDD (FDDKI). β-cleavage of APP yields the β-carboxyl-terminal (β-CTF) and the amino-terminal-soluble APPβ (sAPPβ) fragments. γ-secretase processing of β-CTF generates Aβ, which is considered the main cause of AD. However, inhibiting Aβ production did not rescue the deficits of FDDKI mice, suggesting that sAPPβ/β-CTF, and not Aβ, are the toxic species causing memory loss. Here, we have further analyzed the effect of γ-secretase inhibition. We show that treatment with a γ-secretase inhibitor (GSI) results in a worsening of the memory deficits of FDDKI mice. This deleterious effect on memory correlates with increased levels of the β/α-CTFs APP fragments in synaptic fractions isolated from hippocampi of FDDKI mice, which is consistent with inhibition of γ-secretase activity. This harmful effect of the GSI is in sharp contrast with a pathogenic role for Aβ, and suggests that the worsening of memory deficits may be due to accumulation of synaptic-toxic β/α-CTFs caused by GSI treatment. However, γ-secretase cleaves more than 40 proteins; thus, the noxious effect of GSI on memory may be dependent on inhibition of cleavage of one or more of these other γ-secretase substrates. These two possibilities do not need to be mutually exclusive. Our results are consistent with the outcome of a clinical trial with the GSI Semagacestat, which caused a worsening of cognition, and advise against targeting γ-secretase in the therapy of AD. Overall, the data also indicate that FDDKI is a valuable mouse model to study AD pathogenesis and predict the clinical outcome of therapeutic agents for AD.

Current status of the CAWSES-II Task Group 4: What is the geospace response to variable inputs from the lower atmosphere?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shiokawa, Kazuo; Oberheide, Jens

2012-07-01

Recent developments of coupled modeling between neutral and ionized atmosphere and various observation techniques such as advanced radars, airglow imaging, and GPS networks, make it possible to study geospace response to variable inputs from the lower atmosphere. Consequences for telecommunications, re-entry and satellite operations still need to be explored. The extent to which the effects of this quiescent atmospheric variability are transmitted to the magnetosphere is yet to be resolved. We thus stand right now at an exciting research frontier: understanding the cause-and-effect chain that connects tropospheric and strato-/mesospheric variability with geospace processes. CAWSES-II Task Group 4 (TG4) will therefore elucidate the dynamical coupling from the low and middle atmosphere to the geospace including the upper atmosphere, ionosphere, and magnetosphere, for various frequencies and scales, such as gravity waves, tides, and planetary waves, and for equatorial, middle, and high latitudes. Attacking the problem clearly requires asystems approach involving experimentalists, data analysts and modelers from different communities. For that purpose, the most essential part of TG4 is to encourage interactions between atmospheric scientists and plasma scientists on all occasions. TG4 newsletters are distributed to the related scientists every 3-4 months to introduce various activities of atmospheric and ionospheric researches. Five projects are established in TG4, i.e., Project 1: How do atmospheric waves connect tropospheric weather with ITM variability?, Project 2: What is the relation between atmospheric waves and ionospheric instabilities?, Project 3: How do the different types of waves interact as they propagate through the stratosphere to the ionosphere?, Project 4: How do thermospheric disturbances generated by auroral processes interact with the neutral and ionized atmosphere?, and Project 5: How do thunderstorm activities interact with the atmosphere, ionosphere and magnetosphere? Three campaign observations have been carried out in relation to the TG4 activity, i.e, stratospheric sudden warming campaign (January-February, 2010), longitudinal campaign (September 1-November 12, 2010 and August 22-November 2, 2011), and CAWSES Tidal Campaign. In this presentation we show the current status and future plan of CAWSES-II TG4 activities of 2009-2013.

Affordable In-Space Transportation. Phase 2; An Advanced Concepts Project

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1996-01-01

The Affordable In-Space Transportation (AIST) program was established by the NASA Office of Space Access to improve transportation and lower the costs from Low Earth Orbit (LEO) to Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO) and beyond (to Lunar orbit, Mars orbit, inner solar system missions, and return to LEO). A goal was established to identify and develop radically innovative concepts for new upper stages for Reusable Launch Vehicles (RLV) and Highly Reusable Space Transportation (HRST) systems. New architectures and technologies are being identified which have the potential to meet a cost goal of $1,000 to $2,000 per pound for transportation to GEO and beyond for overall mission cost (including the cost to LEO). A Technical Interchange Meeting (ITM) was held on October 16 and 17, 1996 in Huntsville, Alabama to review previous studies, present advanced concepts and review technologies that could be used to meet the stated goals. The TIM was managed by NASA-Mar-shaU Space Flight Center (MSFC) Advanced Concepts Office with Mr. Alan Adams providing TIM coordination. Mr. John C. Manidns of NASA Headquarters provided overall sponsorship. The University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) Propulsion Research Center hosted the TM at the UAH Research Center. Dr. Clark Hawk, Center Director, was the principal investigator. Technical support was provided by Christensen Associates. Approximately 70 attendees were present at the meeting. This Executive Summary provides a record of the key discussions and results of the TIM in a summary format. It incorporates the response to the following basic issues of the TPA, which addressed the following questions: 1. What are the cost drivers and how can they be reduced? 2. What are the operational issues and their impact on cost? What is the current Technology Readiness Level (TRL) and what will it take to reach TRL 6? 4. What are the key enabling technologies and sequence for their accomplishment? 5. What is the proposed implementation time frame? See Appendix A for the TIM Agenda and Appendix C for the AIST Program Terms of Reference.

Identification and determination of the saikosaponins in Radix bupleuri by accelerated solvent extraction combined with rapid-resolution LC-MS.

PubMed

Yang, Yun-Yun; Tang, You-Zhi; Fan, Chun-Lin; Luo, Hui-Tai; Guo, Peng-Ran; Chen, Jian-Xin

2010-07-01

A method based on accelerated solvent extraction combined with rapid-resolution LC-MS for efficient extraction, rapid separation, online identification and accurate determination of the saikosaponins (SSs) in Radix bupleuri (RB) was developed. The RB samples were extracted by accelerated solvent extraction using 70% aqueous ethanol v/v as solvent, at a temperature of 120 degrees C and pressure of 100 bar, with 10 min of static extraction time and three extraction cycles. Rapid-resolution LC separation was performed by using a C(18) column at gradient elution of water (containing 0.5% formic acid) and acetonitrile, and the major constituents were well separated within 20 min. A TOF-MS and an IT-MS were used for online identification of the major constituents, and 27 SSs were identified or tentatively identified. Five major bioactive SSs (SSa, SSc, SSd, 6''-O-acetyl-SSa and 6''-O-acetyl-SSd) with obvious peak areas and good resolution were chosen as benchmark substances, and a triple quadrupole MS operating in multiple-reaction monitoring mode was used for their quantitative analysis. A total of 16 RB samples from different regions of China were analyzed. The results indicated that the method was rapid, efficient, accurate and suitable for use in the quality control of RB.

Trace detection of organic compounds in complex sample matrixes by single photon ionization ion trap mass spectrometry: real-time detection of security-relevant compounds and online analysis of the coffee-roasting process.

PubMed

Schramm, Elisabeth; Kürten, Andreas; Hölzer, Jasper; Mitschke, Stefan; Mühlberger, Fabian; Sklorz, Martin; Wieser, Jochen; Ulrich, Andreas; Pütz, Michael; Schulte-Ladbeck, Rasmus; Schultze, Rainer; Curtius, Joachim; Borrmann, Stephan; Zimmermann, Ralf

2009-06-01

An in-house-built ion trap mass spectrometer combined with a soft ionization source has been set up and tested. As ionization source, an electron beam pumped vacuum UV (VUV) excimer lamp (EBEL) was used for single-photon ionization. It was shown that soft ionization allows the reduction of fragmentation of the target analytes and the suppression of most matrix components. Therefore, the combination of photon ionization with the tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) capability of an ion trap yields a powerful tool for molecular ion peak detection and identification of organic trace compounds in complex matrixes. This setup was successfully tested for two different applications. The first one is the detection of security-relevant substances like explosives, narcotics, and chemical warfare agents. One test substance from each of these groups was chosen and detected successfully with single photon ionization ion trap mass spectrometry (SPI-ITMS) MS/MS measurements. Additionally, first tests were performed, demonstrating that this method is not influenced by matrix compounds. The second field of application is the detection of process gases. Here, exhaust gas from coffee roasting was analyzed in real time, and some of its compounds were identified using MS/MS studies.

Multidimensional profiling of components in complex mixtures of natural products for metabolic analysis, proof of concept: application to Quillaja saponins.

PubMed

Bankefors, Johan; Nord, Lars I; Kenne, Lennart

2010-02-01

A method for separation and detection of major and minor components in complex mixtures has been developed, utilising two-dimensional high-performance liquid chromatography (2D-HPLC) combined with electrospray ionisation ion-trap multiple-stage mass spectrometry (ESI-ITMS(n)). Chromatographic conditions were matched with mass spectrometric detection to maximise the number of components that could be separated. The described procedure has proven useful to discern several hundreds of saponin components when applied to Quillaja saponaria Molina bark extracts. The discrimination of each saponin component relies on the fact that three coordinates (x, y, z) for each component can be derived from the retention time of the two chromatographic steps (x, y) and the m/z-values from the multiple-stage mass spectrometry (z(n), n=1, 2, ...). Thus an improved graphical representation was obtained by combining retention times from the two-stage separation with +MS(1) (z(1)) and the additional structural information from the second mass stage +MS(2) (z(2), z(3)) corresponding to the main fragment ions. By this approach three-dimensional plots can be made that reveal both the chromatographic and structural properties of a specific mixture which can be useful in fingerprinting of complex mixtures. 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

β- but not γ-secretase proteolysis of APP causes synaptic and memory deficits in a mouse model of dementia.

PubMed

Tamayev, Robert; Matsuda, Shuji; Arancio, Ottavio; D'Adamio, Luciano

2012-03-01

A mutation in the BRI2/ITM2b gene causes loss of BRI2 protein leading to familial Danish dementia (FDD). BRI2 deficiency of FDD provokes an increase in amyloid-β precursor protein (APP) processing since BRI2 is an inhibitor of APP proteolysis, and APP mediates the synaptic/memory deficits in FDD. APP processing is linked to Alzheimer disease (AD) pathogenesis, which is consistent with a common mechanism involving toxic APP metabolites in both dementias. We show that inhibition of APP cleavage by β-secretase rescues synaptic/memory deficits in a mouse model of FDD. β-cleavage of APP yields amino-terminal-soluble APPβ (sAPPβ) and β-carboxyl-terminal fragments (β-CTF). Processing of β-CTF by γ-secretase releases amyloid-β (Aβ), which is assumed to cause AD. However, inhibition of γ-secretase did not ameliorate synaptic/memory deficits of FDD mice. These results suggest that sAPPβ and/or β-CTF, rather than Aβ, are the toxic species causing dementia, and indicate that reducing β-cleavage of APP is an appropriate therapeutic approach to treating human dementias. Our data and the failures of anti-Aβ therapies in humans advise against targeting γ-secretase cleavage of APP and/or Aβ. Copyright © 2012 EMBO Molecular Medicine.

β- but not γ-secretase proteolysis of APP causes synaptic and memory deficits in a mouse model of dementia

PubMed Central

Tamayev, Robert; Matsuda, Shuji; Arancio, Ottavio; D'Adamio, Luciano

2012-01-01

A mutation in the BRI2/ITM2b gene causes loss of BRI2 protein leading to familial Danish dementia (FDD). BRI2 deficiency of FDD provokes an increase in amyloid-β precursor protein (APP) processing since BRI2 is an inhibitor of APP proteolysis, and APP mediates the synaptic/memory deficits in FDD. APP processing is linked to Alzheimer disease (AD) pathogenesis, which is consistent with a common mechanism involving toxic APP metabolites in both dementias. We show that inhibition of APP cleavage by β-secretase rescues synaptic/memory deficits in a mouse model of FDD. β-cleavage of APP yields amino-terminal-soluble APPβ (sAPPβ) and β-carboxyl-terminal fragments (β-CTF). Processing of β-CTF by γ-secretase releases amyloid-β (Aβ), which is assumed to cause AD. However, inhibition of γ-secretase did not ameliorate synaptic/memory deficits of FDD mice. These results suggest that sAPPβ and/or β-CTF, rather than Aβ, are the toxic species causing dementia, and indicate that reducing β-cleavage of APP is an appropriate therapeutic approach to treating human dementias. Our data and the failures of anti-Aβ therapies in humans advise against targeting γ-secretase cleavage of APP and/or Aβ. PMID:22170863

Role of BRI2 in dementia.

PubMed

Del Campo, Marta; Teunissen, Charlotte E

2014-01-01

Alzheimer's disease (AD), the most common form of dementia, shares clinical and pathological similarities with familial British and Danish dementias (FBD and FDD). Whereas the etiology of sporadic AD remains unclear, familial AD is linked to mutations in amyloid-β protein precursor (AβPP), presenilin 1 (PS1), and presenilin 2 (PS2). Similarly, FBD and FDD originate from mutations in the BRI2 gene (or ITM2b), causing amyloid angiopathy and neurofibrillary tangles analogous to those observed in AD. Recent studies on the role of BRI2 in FBD and FDD have revealed that the three diseases may share pathophysiological pathways leading to dementia. Interestingly, BRI2 is a potential regulator of AβPP processing, and it can inhibit the production and fibrillation of Aβ. This suggests a role of BRI2 in the amyloid cascade, which is the prevailing hypothesis about AD pathogenesis. To understand a possible relationship of BRI2 with AD, we reviewed the relevant studies on this protein. The data included not only the protein's structure, expression pattern, function, and involvement in FBD and FDD, but also its relationship with memory deficits and the main pathological proteins involved in AD. Thus, we highlight and discuss the potential links between BRI2 and AD, leading to the formulation of a modified hypothesis about AD etiology.

Synthesis of Ag-Cu-Pd alloy thin films by DC-magnetron sputtering: Case study on microstructures and optical properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rezaee, Sahar; Ghobadi, Nader

2018-06-01

The present study aims to investigate optical properties of Ag-Cu-Pd alloy thin films synthesized by DC-magnetron sputtering method. The thin films are deposited on the glass and silicon substrates using Argon gas and Ag-Cu-Pd target. XRD analysis confirms the successful growth of Ag, Cu, and Pd NPs with FCC crystalline structure. Moreover, UV-visible absorption spectroscopy is applied to determine optical properties of the prepared samples which are affected by changes in surface morphology. The existence of single surface plasmon resonance (SPR) peak near 350 nm proves the formation of silver nanoparticles with a slight red shift through increasing deposition time. Ineffective thickness method (ITM) and Derivation of ineffective thickness method (DITM) are applied to extract optical band gap and transition type via absorption spectrum. SEM and AFM analyses show the distribution of near-spherical nanoparticles covering the surface of thin films. Furthermore, thickness variation affects the grain size. In addition, TEM image reveals the uniform size distribution of nanoparticles with an average particle size of about 15 nm. The findings show that increasing grain size and crystallite order along with the decrease of structural defect and disorders decrease optical band gap from 3.86 eV to 2.58 eV.

The ISIS Story - Science Return from Rescuing, Archiving and Analyzing a Unique Dataset

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bilitza, D.; Benson, R. F.; Reinisch, B. W.; Huang, X.

2009-12-01

The Alouette and ISIS topside sounder satellites recorded a great wealth of information about the topside ionosphere during their long periods of operation (from 1962 to 1990). Even though more than 700 publications resulted from this project, only a small percentage of the dataset was analyzed during the mission life time. The soundings were stored on more than 100,000 seven-track analog telemetry tapes. In the mid-nineties space limitations and storage costs threatened an imminent loss of these tapes. Only a last minute intervention spear-headed by NASA’s Ionosphere, Thermosphere, Mesosphere (ITM) Data Evaluation Panel saved a significant portion of these tapes and with funding from the AISRP program these data were first digitized and then converted into electron density profiles. This data restoration effort more than tripled the Alouette/ISIS topside sounder data base and has led to significant improvements of models for the topside ionosphere, e.g., about a factor of 2 improvement in the case of the IRI-2007 topside electron density profile. We will present a brief history of this successful data restoration effort and will highlight the science dividends this investment has produced. The homepage for the ISIS project is at http://nssdc.gsfc.nasa.gov/space/isis/isis-status.html.

Characterization of the volatile constituents in the essential oil of Pistacia lentiscus L. from different origins and its antifungal and antioxidant activity.

PubMed

Barra, Andrea; Coroneo, Valentina; Dessi, Sandro; Cabras, Paolo; Angioni, Alberto

2007-08-22

Essential oil (EO) from aerial parts (leaves, juvenile branches, and flowers when present) of Pistacia lentiscus L. growing wild in five localities of Sardinia (Italy) was extracted by steam-distillation (SD) and analyzed by gas chromatography (GC), FID, and GC-ion trap mass spectrometry (ITMS). Samples of P. lentiscus L. were harvested between April and October to study the seasonal chemical variability of the EO. A total of 45 compounds accounting for 97.5-98.4% of the total EO were identified, and the major compounds were alpha-pinene (14.8-22.6%), beta-myrcene (1-19.4%), p-cymene (1.6-16.2%), and terpinen-4-ol (14.2-28.3%). The yields of EO (v/dry w) ranged between 0.09 and 0.32%. Similar content of the major compounds was found in samples from different origins and seasonal variability was also observed. The EOs were tested for their antifungal activity against Aspergillus flavus, Rhizoctonia solani, Penicillium commune, Fusarium oxysporum. Two samples were weakly effective against Aspergillus flavus. Furthermore, terpinenol and alpha-terpineol, two of the major components of EO of Pistacia lentiscus L., totally inhibited the mycelian growth of A. flavus. Quite good antioxidant activity of the EO was also found.

The Primordial Inflation Explorer (PIXIE) Mission

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kogut, Alan J.; Chuss, David T.; Dotson, Jessie L.; Fixsen, Dale J.; Halpern, Mark; Hinshaw, Gary F.; Meyer, Stephan M.; Moseley, S. Harvey; Seiffert, Michael D.; Spergel, David N.;

Dengue vector management using insecticide treated materials and targeted interventions on productive breeding-sites in Guatemala.

PubMed

Rizzo, Nidia; Gramajo, Rodrigo; Escobar, Maria Cabrera; Arana, Byron; Kroeger, Axel; Manrique-Saide, Pablo; Petzold, Max

2012-10-30

In view of the epidemiological expansion of dengue worldwide and the availability of new tools and strategies particularly for controlling the primary dengue vector Aedes aegypti, an intervention study was set up to test the efficacy, cost and feasibility of a combined approach of insecticide treated materials (ITMs) alone and in combination with appropriate targeted interventions of the most productive vector breeding-sites. The study was conducted as a cluster randomized community trial using "reduction of the vector population" as the main outcome variable. The trial had two arms: 10 intervention clusters (neighborhoods) and 10 control clusters in the town of Poptun Guatemala. Activities included entomological assessments (characteristics of breeding-sites, pupal productivity, Stegomyia indices) at baseline, 6 weeks after the first intervention (coverage of window and exterior doorways made of PermaNet 2.0 netting, factory treated with deltamethrin at 55 mg/m2, and of 200 L drums with similar treated material) and 6 weeks after the second intervention (combination of treated materials and other suitable interventions targeting productive breeding-sites i.e larviciding with Temephos, elimination etc.). The second intervention took place 17 months after the first intervention. The insecticide residual activity and the insecticidal content were also studied at different intervals. Additionally, information about demographic characteristics, cost of the intervention, coverage of houses protected and satisfaction in the population with the interventions was collected. At baseline (during the dry season) a variety of productive container types for Aedes pupae were identified: various container types holding >20 L, 200 L drums, washbasins and buckets (producing 83.7% of all pupae). After covering 100% of windows and exterior doorways and a small number of drums (where the commercial cover could be fixed) in 970 study households, tropical rains occurred in the area and lead to an increase of the vector population, more pronounced (but statistically not significant) in the control arm than in the intervention arm. In the second intervention (17 months later and six weeks after implementing the second intervention) the combined approach of ITMs and a combination of appropriate interventions against productive containers (Temephos in >200 L water drums, elimination of small discarded tins and bottles) lead to significant differences on reductions of the total number of pupae (P = 0.04) and the House index (P = 0.01) between intervention and control clusters, and to borderline differences on reductions of the Pupae per Person and Breteau indices (P = 0.05). The insecticide residual activity on treated curtains was high until month 18 but the chemical concentration showed a high variability. The cost per house protected with treated curtains and drum covers and targeting productive breeding-sites of the dengue vector was $ 5.31 USD. The acceptance of the measure was generally high, particularly in families who had experienced dengue. Even under difficult environmental conditions (open houses, tropical rainfall, challenging container types mainly in the peridomestic environment) the combination of insecticide treated curtains and to a less extent drum covers and interventions targeting the productive container types can reduce the dengue vector population significantly.

Dengue vector management using insecticide treated materials and targeted interventions on productive breeding-sites in Guatemala

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background In view of the epidemiological expansion of dengue worldwide and the availability of new tools and strategies particularly for controlling the primary dengue vector Aedes aegypti, an intervention study was set up to test the efficacy, cost and feasibility of a combined approach of insecticide treated materials (ITMs) alone and in combination with appropriate targeted interventions of the most productive vector breeding-sites. Methods The study was conducted as a cluster randomized community trial using “reduction of the vector population” as the main outcome variable. The trial had two arms: 10 intervention clusters (neighborhoods) and 10 control clusters in the town of Poptun Guatemala. Activities included entomological assessments (characteristics of breeding-sites, pupal productivity, Stegomyia indices) at baseline, 6 weeks after the first intervention (coverage of window and exterior doorways made of PermaNet 2.0 netting, factory treated with deltamethrin at 55 mg/m2, and of 200 L drums with similar treated material) and 6 weeks after the second intervention (combination of treated materials and other suitable interventions targeting productive breeding-sites i.e larviciding with Temephos, elimination etc.). The second intervention took place 17 months after the first intervention. The insecticide residual activity and the insecticidal content were also studied at different intervals. Additionally, information about demographic characteristics, cost of the intervention, coverage of houses protected and satisfaction in the population with the interventions was collected. Results At baseline (during the dry season) a variety of productive container types for Aedes pupae were identified: various container types holding >20 L, 200 L drums, washbasins and buckets (producing 83.7% of all pupae). After covering 100% of windows and exterior doorways and a small number of drums (where the commercial cover could be fixed) in 970 study households, tropical rains occurred in the area and lead to an increase of the vector population, more pronounced (but statistically not significant) in the control arm than in the intervention arm. In the second intervention (17 months later and six weeks after implementing the second intervention) the combined approach of ITMs and a combination of appropriate interventions against productive containers (Temephos in >200 L water drums, elimination of small discarded tins and bottles) lead to significant differences on reductions of the total number of pupae (P = 0.04) and the House index (P = 0.01) between intervention and control clusters, and to borderline differences on reductions of the Pupae per Person and Breteau indices (P = 0.05). The insecticide residual activity on treated curtains was high until month 18 but the chemical concentration showed a high variability. The cost per house protected with treated curtains and drum covers and targeting productive breeding-sites of the dengue vector was $ 5.31 USD. The acceptance of the measure was generally high, particularly in families who had experienced dengue. Conclusion Even under difficult environmental conditions (open houses, tropical rainfall, challenging container types mainly in the peridomestic environment) the combination of insecticide treated curtains and to a less extent drum covers and interventions targeting the productive container types can reduce the dengue vector population significantly. PMID:23110515

Updated Global Data from the Guvi Instrument: New Products, Updated Calibration, and a New Web Interface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schaefer, R. K.; Paxton, L. J.; Romeo, G.; Wolven, B. C.; Zhang, Y.; Comberiate, J.

2014-12-01

With it's high inclination orbit, GUVI provides global coverage of the ionosphere/thermosphere system, revisiting each polar region 15 times a day. The GUVI instrument has long been a resource for the ITM community with a panoply of data products available from the GUVI website (http://guvi.jhuapl.edu). GUVI is in a high inclination orbit and so provides coverage of both hemispheres. With the release last year of the data products from the DMSO/SSUSI instrument, particularly more detailed auroral zone products (Q, E0, Hemispheric Power, discrete auroral arcs, proton precipitation regions), new equatorial ionospheric products (3D electron densities, bubbles), a whole new set of UV data products has become available. SSUSI are available from http://ssusi.jhuapl.edu. To leverage the experience and knowledge gained from running all of these instruments we have adapted the SSUSI products so they can be made from GUVI telemetry. There are now updated versions of GUVI legacy products as well as brand new products. In addition, better on-orbit calibration techniques developed for SSUSI have now been applied to the GUVI instrument calibration - there is now a common set of software for calibrating both instruments. With a common data format, calibration, and product definition, the data from all SSUSI and GUVI instruments can now be easily combined to get multiple instruments to cover the hemispheres to do a variety of global studies. In addition, the GUVI spectrographic mode data provides great detail about spectrographic features (e.g. O/N2 ratios, NO band emission) that are important for understanding dynamical processes in the thermosphere. A new version of the GUVI website (with the same interface as the SSUSI website) has been launched from guvi.jhuapl.edu to showcase the legacy products made with the new calibration and also highlight the newly developed products for the GUVI imaging and spectrographic modes.

APP is cleaved by Bace1 in pre-synaptic vesicles and establishes a pre-synaptic interactome, via its intracellular domain, with molecular complexes that regulate pre-synaptic vesicles functions.

PubMed

Del Prete, Dolores; Lombino, Franco; Liu, Xinran; D'Adamio, Luciano

2014-01-01

Amyloid Precursor Protein (APP) is a type I membrane protein that undergoes extensive processing by secretases, including BACE1. Although mutations in APP and genes that regulate processing of APP, such as PSENs and BRI2/ITM2B, cause dementias, the normal function of APP in synaptic transmission, synaptic plasticity and memory formation is poorly understood. To grasp the biochemical mechanisms underlying the function of APP in the central nervous system, it is important to first define the sub-cellular localization of APP in synapses and the synaptic interactome of APP. Using biochemical and electron microscopy approaches, we have found that APP is localized in pre-synaptic vesicles, where it is processed by Bace1. By means of a proteomic approach, we have characterized the synaptic interactome of the APP intracellular domain. We focused on this region of APP because in vivo data underline the central functional and pathological role of the intracellular domain of APP. Consistent with the expression of APP in pre-synaptic vesicles, the synaptic APP intracellular domain interactome is predominantly constituted by pre-synaptic, rather than post-synaptic, proteins. This pre-synaptic interactome of the APP intracellular domain includes proteins expressed on pre-synaptic vesicles such as the vesicular SNARE Vamp2/Vamp1 and the Ca2+ sensors Synaptotagmin-1/Synaptotagmin-2, and non-vesicular pre-synaptic proteins that regulate exocytosis, endocytosis and recycling of pre-synaptic vesicles, such as target-membrane-SNAREs (Syntaxin-1b, Syntaxin-1a, Snap25 and Snap47), Munc-18, Nsf, α/β/γ-Snaps and complexin. These data are consistent with a functional role for APP, via its carboxyl-terminal domain, in exocytosis, endocytosis and/or recycling of pre-synaptic vesicles.

Use of Lactobacillus plantarum fermentation products in bread-making to prevent Bacillus subtilis ropy spoilage.

PubMed

Valerio, Francesca; De Bellis, Palmira; Lonigro, Stella L; Visconti, Angelo; Lavermicocca, Paola

2008-03-20

Four fermentation products (FPs) of the lactic acid bacterium Lactobacillus plantarum ITM21B were screened for their anti-Bacillus activity in vitro and in bread-making trials. Results of the storage tests performed with loaves prepared with an FP or calcium propionate demonstrated that after 3 days at 30 degrees C, gross spoilage was evident in only the control loaves, which contained Bacillus subtilis at numbers of about 10(9) cfu/g. The highest inhibitory activity was shown by DM-FP obtained by growing L. plantarum in a defined medium (DM). Significantly, this medium contained an amino acceptor of the aminoacid transamination, namely alpha-ketoglutaric acid, and an aminoacid pool. With loaves prepared using the DM-acid mixture which simulated the DM-FP composition, the same reduction of ropy spoilage as with DM-FP was obtained after 3 days, while the efficacy of the mixture decreased after 7 days. This result suggests the potential involvement of some unknown metabolites in the inhibitory activity of DM-FP. In baked products made with flour based media (M1-FP, M2-FP, M3-FP), no ropy symptoms were noticeable after 3 days storage although a considerable Bacillus count was detected. DM-FP was as effective as calcium propionate (0.3% w/w, based on flour mass) in prolonging the Bacillus free-shelf life of yeast-leavened bread for 7 days.

Phase-0/microdosing studies using PET, AMS, and LC-MS/MS: a range of study methodologies and conduct considerations. Accelerating development of novel pharmaceuticals through safe testing in humans - a practical guide.

PubMed

Burt, Tal; John, Christy S; Ruckle, Jon L; Vuong, Le T

2017-05-01

Phase-0 studies, including microdosing, also called Exploratory Investigational New Drug (eIND) or exploratory clinical trials, are a regulatory framework for first-in-human (FIH) trials. Common to these approaches is the use and implied safety of limited exposures to test articles. Use of sub-pharmacological doses in phase-0/microdose studies requires sensitive analytic tools such as accelerator mass spectrometer (AMS), Positron Emission Tomography (PET), and Liquid Chromatography Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) to determine drug disposition. Areas covered: Here we present a practical guide to the range of methodologies, design options, and conduct strategies that can be used to increase the efficiency of drug development. We provide detailed examples of relevant developmental scenarios. Expert opinion: Validation studies over the past decade demonstrated the reliability of extrapolation of sub-pharmacological to therapeutic-level exposures in more than 80% of cases, an improvement over traditional allometric approaches. Applications of phase-0/microdosing approaches include study of pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties, target tissue localization, drug-drug interactions, effects in vulnerable populations (e.g. pediatric), and intra-target microdosing (ITM). Study design should take into account the advantages and disadvantages of each analytic tool. Utilization of combinations of these analytic techniques increases the versatility of study designs and the power of data obtained.

Monitoring of the Earth's surface deformation in the area of water dam Zarnowiec

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mojzes, Marcel; Wozniak, Marek; Habel, Branislav; Macak, Marek

2017-04-01

Mathematical and physical research directly motivates geodetic community which can provide very accurate measurements for testing of the proposed models Earth's surface motion near the water dams should be monitored due to the security of the area. This is a process which includes testing of existing models and their physical parameters. Change of the models can improve the practical results for analyzing the trends of motion in the area of upper reservoir of water dam Zarnowiec. Since 1998 Warsaw University of Technology realized a research focused on the horizontal displacements of the upper reservoir of water dam Zarnowiec. The 15 selected control points located on the upper reservoir crown of the water dam were monitored by classical distance measurements. It was found out that changes in the object's geometry occur due to the variation of the water level. The control measurements of the changes in the object's geometry occurring during the process of emptying and filling of the upper reservoir of water dam were compared with the deformations computed using improved Boussinesqués method programmed in the software MATLAB and ANSYS for elastic and isotropic half space as derivation of suitable potentials extended to the loaded region. The details and numerical results of this process are presented This presentation was prepared within the project "National Centre for Diagnostic of the Earth's Surface Deformations in the Area of Slovakia", ITMS code: 26220220108.

Detection of naproxen and its metabolites in fish bile following intraperitoneal and aqueous exposure.

PubMed

Brozinski, Jenny-Maria; Lahti, Marja; Oikari, Aimo; Kronberg, Leif

2011-06-01

The anti-inflammatory drug naproxen (NPX) has been found as a micropollutant in river water downstream the discharge points of wastewater treatment plants (WWTP). In this study, rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) was exposed to NXP and the uptake and metabolism of the drug was studied. Following exposure through intraperitoneal injection (i.p., 0.5 mg NPX/100 g fish biomass) and through water (1.6 μg L(-1)), the bile was collected and analyzed with various LC-MS/MS methods. The identification of the formed metabolites in i.p. injected fish was based on the exact mass determinations by a time-of-flight mass analyzer (Q-TOF-MS) and on the studies of fragments and fragmentation patterns of precursor ions by an ion trap mass analyzer (IT-MS). No matter the exposure route, the main metabolites were found to be acyl glucuronides of NPX and of 6-O-desmethylnaproxen. Also, unmetabolized NPX was detected in the bile. The total bioconcentration factors (BCF(total-bile)) of NPX and the metabolites in the bile of fish exposed through water ranged from 500 to 2,300. The findings suggest that fish living downstream WWTPs may take up NPX and metabolize the compound. Consequently, NPX and its metabolites in bile can be used to monitor the exposure of fish to NPX.

Information risk and security modeling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zivic, Predrag

2005-03-01

This research paper presentation will feature current frameworks to addressing risk and security modeling and metrics. The paper will analyze technical level risk and security metrics of Common Criteria/ISO15408, Centre for Internet Security guidelines, NSA configuration guidelines and metrics used at this level. Information IT operational standards view on security metrics such as GMITS/ISO13335, ITIL/ITMS and architectural guidelines such as ISO7498-2 will be explained. Business process level standards such as ISO17799, COSO and CobiT will be presented with their control approach to security metrics. Top level, the maturity standards such as SSE-CMM/ISO21827, NSA Infosec Assessment and CobiT will be explored and reviewed. For each defined level of security metrics the research presentation will explore the appropriate usage of these standards. The paper will discuss standards approaches to conducting the risk and security metrics. The research findings will demonstrate the need for common baseline for both risk and security metrics. This paper will show the relation between the attribute based common baseline and corporate assets and controls for risk and security metrics. IT will be shown that such approach spans over all mentioned standards. The proposed approach 3D visual presentation and development of the Information Security Model will be analyzed and postulated. Presentation will clearly demonstrate the benefits of proposed attributes based approach and defined risk and security space for modeling and measuring.

Deletion of the γ-secretase subunits Aph1B/C impairs memory and worsens the deficits of knock-in mice modeling the Alzheimer-like familial Danish dementia

PubMed Central

Biundo, Fabrizio; Ishiwari, Keita; Del Prete, Dolores; D'Adamio, Luciano

2016-01-01

Mutations in BRI2/ITM2b genes cause Familial British and Danish Dementias (FBD and FDD), which are pathogenically similar to Familial Alzheimer Disease (FAD). BRI2 inhibits processing of Amyloid precursor protein (APP), a protein involved in FAD pathogenesis. Accumulation of a carboxyl-terminal APP metabolite –β-CTF- causes memory deficits in a knock-in mouse model of FDD, called FDDKI. We have investigated further the pathogenic function of β-CTF studying the effect of Aph1B/C deletion on FDDKI mice. This strategy is based on the evidence that deletion of Aph1B/C proteins, which are components of the γ-secretase that cleaves β-CTF, results in stabilization of β-CTF and a reduction of Aβ. We found that both the FDD mutation and the Aph1B/C deficiency mildly interfered with spatial long term memory, spatial working/short-term memory and long-term contextual fear memory. In addition, the Aph1BC deficiency induced deficits in long-term cued fear memory. Moreover, the two mutations have additive adverse effects as they compromise the accuracy of spatial long-term memory and induce spatial memory retention deficits in young mice. Overall, the data are consistent with a role for β-CTF in the genesis of memory deficits. PMID:26942869

Deletion of the γ-secretase subunits Aph1B/C impairs memory and worsens the deficits of knock-in mice modeling the Alzheimer-like familial Danish dementia.

PubMed

Biundo, Fabrizio; Ishiwari, Keita; Del Prete, Dolores; D'Adamio, Luciano

2016-03-15

Mutations in BRI2/ITM2b genes cause Familial British and Danish Dementias (FBD and FDD), which are pathogenically similar to Familial Alzheimer Disease (FAD). BRI2 inhibits processing of Amyloid precursor protein (APP), a protein involved in FAD pathogenesis. Accumulation of a carboxyl-terminal APP metabolite -ß-CTF- causes memory deficits in a knock-in mouse model of FDD, called FDDKI.We have investigated further the pathogenic function of ß-CTF studying the effect of Aph1B/C deletion on FDDKI mice. This strategy is based on the evidence that deletion of Aph1B/C proteins, which are components of the γ-secretase that cleaves ß-CTF, results in stabilization of ß-CTF and a reduction of Aβ. We found that both the FDD mutation and the Aph1B/C deficiency mildly interfered with spatial long term memory, spatial working/short-term memory and long-term contextual fear memory. In addition, the Aph1BC deficiency induced deficits in long-term cued fear memory. Moreover, the two mutations have additive adverse effects as they compromise the accuracy of spatial long-term memory and induce spatial memory retention deficits in young mice. Overall, the data are consistent with a role for β-CTF in the genesis of memory deficits.

Polarized edge emission from GaN-based light-emitting diodes sandwiched by dielectric/metal hybrid reflectors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yan, L. J.; Sheu, J. K.; Huang, F. W.; Lee, M. L.

2010-12-01

Edge-emitting c-plane GaN/sapphire-based light-emitting diodes (LEDs) sandwiched by two dielectric/metal hybrid reflectors on both sapphire and GaN surfaces were studied to determine their light emission polarization. The hybrid reflectors comprised dielectric multiple thin films and a metal layer. The metal layers of Au or Ag used in this study were designed to enhance the polarization ratio from S-polarization (transverse electric wave, TE) to P-polarization (transverse magnetic wave, TM). The two sets of optimized dielectric multi thin films served as matching layers for wide-angle incident light on both sapphire and GaN surfaces. To determine which reflector scheme would achieve a higher polarization ratio, simulations of the reflectance at the hybrid reflectors on sapphire (or GaN) interface were performed before the fabrication of experimental LEDs. Compared with conventional c-plane InGaN/GaN/sapphire LEDs without dielectric/metal hybrid reflectors, the experimental LEDs exhibited higher polarization ratio (ITE-max/ITM-max) with r=2.174 (˜3.37 dB) at a wavelength of 460 nm. In contrast, the original polarized light (without dielectric/metal hybrid reflectors) was partially contributed (r=1.398) by C-HH or C-LH (C band to the heavy-hole sub-band or C band to the crystal-field split-off sub-band) transitions along the a-plane or m-plane direction.

POLAR ORGANIC CHEMICAL INTEGRATIVE SAMPLING ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

The purpose of the research presented in this paper is two-fold: (1) to demonstrate the 4 coupling of two state-of-the-art techniques: a time-weighted polar organic integrative sampler (POCIS) and micro-liquid chromatography-electrospray/ion trap mass spectrometry (u-LC-6 ES/ITMS); and (2) the assessment of these methodologies in a real-world environment -wastewater effluent - for detecting six drugs (four prescription and two illicit). In the effluent from three wastewater treatment plants (WWTP), azithromycin was detected at concentrations ranging from 15ng/L to 66ng/L, equivalent to the total annual release of 0.4 -4 kg into the receiving waters. Detected and confirmed in the effluent from two WWTPs were two illicit drugs methamphetamine and methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), at 2ng/L and 0.5ng/L, respectively. While the ecotoxicological significance of drugs in environmental matrices, particularly water, has not been closely examined, it can only be surmised that these substances have the potential to adversely affect biota that are continuously exposed to them even at very low levels. The potential for chronic affects on human health is also unknown, but of increasing concern due to the multi use character of water, particularly in densely populated arid areas. The research focused on in the subtasks is the development and application of state-of the-art technologies to meet the needs of the public, Office of Water, and ORD in the area of Water Quality

[Determination of 21 fragrance allergens in toys by gas chromatography-ion trap mass spectrometry].

PubMed

Lü, Qing; Zang, Qing; Bai, Hua; Li, Haiyu; Kang, Suyuan; Wang, Chao

2012-05-01

A method of gas chromatography-ion trap mass spectrometry (GC-IT-MS) was developed for the determination of 21 fragrance allergens in sticker toys, plush toys and plastic toys. The experimental conditions, such as sample pretreatment conditions, and the analytical conditions of GC-IT-MS, were optimized. The sticker toy samples and plush toy samples were extracted with acetone by ultrasonic wave, and the extracts were separated on an Agilent HP-1 MS column (50 m x 0.2 mm x 0.5 microm), then determined by IT-MS and quantified by external standard method. The plastic toy samples were extracted by the dissolution-precipitation approach, cleaned up with an Envi-carb solid phase extraction column and concentrated by rotary evaporation and nitrogen blowing, then determined by GC-IT-MS and quantified by external standard method. The calibration curves showed good linearity in the range of 0.002-50 mg/L with the correlation coefficients greater than 0.996 8. The limits of quantification (LOQ, S/N > 10) were 0.02-40 mg/kg. The average recoveries of the target compounds spiked in the sample at three concentration levels were in the range of 82.2%-110.8% with the relative standard deviations (RSDs) of 0.6%-10.5%. These results show that this method is accurate and sensitive for the qualitative and quantitative determination of the 21 fragrance allergens in the 3 types of toys.

Comparison of normal tissue pharmacokinetics with {sup 111}In/{sup 9}Y monoclonal antibody m170 for breast and prostate cancer

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

Lehmann, Joerg; Department of Radiodiagnosis and Therapy, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA; DeNardo, Gerald L.

Purpose: Radioactivity deposition in normal tissues limits the dose deliverable by radiopharmaceuticals (RP) in radioimmunotherapy (RIT). This study investigated the absorbed radiation dose in normal tissues for prostate cancer patients in comparison to breast cancer patients for 2 RPs using the monoclonal antibody (MAb) m170. Methods and Materials: {sup 111}In-DOTA-glycylglycylglycyl-L-p-isothiocyanatophenylalanine amide (GGGF)-m170 and {sup 111}In-1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-N,N',N'',N'''-tetraacetic acid (DOTA) 2-iminothiolane (2IT)-m170, representing the same MAb and chelate with and without a cleavable linkage, were studied in 13 breast cancer and 26 prostate cancer patients. Dosimetry for {sup 9}Y was calculated using {sup 111}In MAb pharmacokinetics from the initial imaging study for eachmore » patient, using reference man- and patient-specific masses. Results: The reference man-specific radiation doses (cGy/MBq) were not significantly different for the breast and the prostate cancer patients for both RPs in all but one tissue-RP combination (liver, DOTA-2IT). The patient-specific doses had differences between the groups most of which can be related to weight differences. Conclusions: Similar normal tissue doses were calculated for two groups of patients having different cancers and genders. This similarity combined with continued careful analysis of the imaging data might allow the use of higher starting doses in early phase RIT studies.« less

Lymphogranuloma venereum among patients presenting at the HIV/STI clinic in Antwerp, Belgium : a case series.

PubMed

Apers, Ludwig; Florence, Eric; Crucitti, Tania; Anwar, Nabila

2017-01-01

Objective of this study was to describe the patient characteristics and clinical presentation of laboratory confirmed lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) cases, diagnosed at the Institute of Tropical Medicine (ITM), Antwerp, Belgium. Demographic and biomedical characteristics of all patients with chlamydia-positive sample results were retrieved for the years 2013 and 2014. Samples were obtained from both symptomatic and asymptomatic patients who consulted at the HIV/STI clinic. Fifty four patients with laboratory confirmed LGV were detected among 3885 nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) performed for the detection of chlamydia during the two years under review. Fifty three were men and equally fifty three had sex with men only (MSM). HIV (87%) and HCV (31.5%) were common concomitant infections, whilst anal gonorrhoea and syphilis were detected at the moment of the LGV diagnosis among 19 (35.2%) and 6 (11.0%) cases respectively. All cases were symptomatic, except one. The most frequent symptoms that were recorded could be categorised as proctitis (in 40 patients (74%)). Lymphadenopathy, anal and genital ulcers were signs that were present in 7 (13.0%), 4 (7.4%) and 2 patients (3.7%) respectively. LGV remains an important sexually transmitted disease among MSM. In this retrospective study, the far majority of LGV was detected amongst symptomatic persons. HCV, HIV, anal gonorrhoea and syphilis were associated co-infections. Proctitis in a high risk patient should alert the clinician for the possibility of an STI. © Acta Gastro-Enterologica Belgica.

Two schemes for rapid generation of digital video holograms using PC cluster

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, Hanhoon; Song, Joongseok; Kim, Changseob; Park, Jong-Il

2017-12-01

Computer-generated holography (CGH), which is a process of generating digital holograms, is computationally expensive. Recently, several methods/systems of parallelizing the process using graphic processing units (GPUs) have been proposed. Indeed, use of multiple GPUs or a personal computer (PC) cluster (each PC with GPUs) enabled great improvements in the process speed. However, extant literature has less often explored systems involving rapid generation of multiple digital holograms and specialized systems for rapid generation of a digital video hologram. This study proposes a system that uses a PC cluster and is able to more efficiently generate a video hologram. The proposed system is designed to simultaneously generate multiple frames and accelerate the generation by parallelizing the CGH computations across a number of frames, as opposed to separately generating each individual frame while parallelizing the CGH computations within each frame. The proposed system also enables the subprocesses for generating each frame to execute in parallel through multithreading. With these two schemes, the proposed system significantly reduced the data communication time for generating a digital hologram when compared with that of the state-of-the-art system.

Optimization of Gear Ratio in the Tidal Current Generation System based on Generated Energy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Naoi, Kazuhisa; Shiono, Mitsuhiro; Suzuki, Katsuyuki

It is possible to predict generating power of the tidal current generation, because of the tidal current's periodicity. Tidal current generation is more advantageous than other renewable energy sources, when the tidal current generation system is connected to the power system and operated. In this paper, we propose a method used to optimize the gear ratio and generator capacity, that is fundamental design items in the tidal current generation system which is composed of Darrieus type water turbine and squirrel-cage induction generator coupled with gear. The proposed method is applied to the tidal current generation system including the most large-sized turbine that we have developed and studied. This paper shows optimum gear ratio and generator capacity that make generated energy maximum, and verify effectiveness of the proposed method. The paper also proposes a method of selecting maximum generating current velocity in order to reduce the generator capacity, from the viewpoint of economics.

Thermophotovoltaic energy generation

DOEpatents

Celanovic, Ivan; Chan, Walker; Bermel, Peter; Yeng, Adrian Y. X.; Marton, Christopher; Ghebrebrhan, Michael; Araghchini, Mohammad; Jensen, Klavs F.; Soljacic, Marin; Joannopoulos, John D.; Johnson, Steven G.; Pilawa-Podgurski, Robert; Fisher, Peter

2015-08-25

Inventive systems and methods for the generation of energy using thermophotovoltaic cells are described. Also described are systems and methods for selectively emitting electromagnetic radiation from an emitter for use in thermophotovoltaic energy generation systems. In at least some of the inventive energy generation systems and methods, a voltage applied to the thermophotovoltaic cell (e.g., to enhance the power produced by the cell) can be adjusted to enhance system performance. Certain embodiments of the systems and methods described herein can be used to generate energy relatively efficiently.

New Development of Power Distribution System Resulting from Dispersed Generations and Current Interruption

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yokomizu, Yasunobu

Dispersed generation systems, such as micro gas-turbines and fuel cells, have been installed on some of commercial facilities. Smaller dispersed generators like solar photovoltaics have been also located on the several of individual homes. The trends in the introduction of the these generation systems seem to continue in the future and to cause the power system to have the enormous number of the dispersed generation systems. The present report discusses the near-future power distribution systems.

Forecasting Wind and Solar Generation: Improving System Operations, Greening the Grid (Spanish Version)

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

Tian, Tian; Chernyakhovskiy, Ilya; Brancucci Martinez-Anido, Carlo

This document is the Spanish version of 'Greening the Grid- Forecasting Wind and Solar Generation Improving System Operations'. It discusses improving system operations with forecasting with and solar generation. By integrating variable renewable energy (VRE) forecasts into system operations, power system operators can anticipate up- and down-ramps in VRE generation in order to cost-effectively balance load and generation in intra-day and day-ahead scheduling. This leads to reduced fuel costs, improved system reliability, and maximum use of renewable resources.

PV system field experience and reliability

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Durand, Steven; Rosenthal, Andrew; Thomas, Mike

1997-02-01

Hybrid power systems consisting of battery inverters coupled with diesel, propane, or gasoline engine-driven electrical generators, and photovoltaic arrays are being used in many remote locations. The potential cost advantages of hybrid systems over simple engine-driven generator systems are causing hybrid systems to be considered for numerous applications including single-family residential, communications, and village power. This paper discusses the various design constraints of such systems and presents one technique for reducing hybrid system losses. The Southwest Technology Development Institute under contract to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory and Sandia National Laboratories has been installing data acquisition systems (DAS) on a number of small and large hybrid PV systems. These systems range from small residential systems (1 kW PV - 7 kW generator), to medium sized systems (10 kW PV - 20 kW generator), to larger systems (100 kW PV - 200 kW generator). Even larger systems are being installed with hundreds of kilowatts of PV modules, multiple wind machines, and larger diesel generators.

Computer image generation: Reconfigurability as a strategy in high fidelity space applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bartholomew, Michael J.

1989-01-01

The demand for realistic, high fidelity, computer image generation systems to support space simulation is well established. However, as the number and diversity of space applications increase, the complexity and cost of computer image generation systems also increase. One strategy used to harmonize cost with varied requirements is establishment of a reconfigurable image generation system that can be adapted rapidly and easily to meet new and changing requirements. The reconfigurability strategy through the life cycle of system conception, specification, design, implementation, operation, and support for high fidelity computer image generation systems are discussed. The discussion is limited to those issues directly associated with reconfigurability and adaptability of a specialized scene generation system in a multi-faceted space applications environment. Examples and insights gained through the recent development and installation of the Improved Multi-function Scene Generation System at Johnson Space Center, Systems Engineering Simulator are reviewed and compared with current simulator industry practices. The results are clear; the strategy of reconfigurability applied to space simulation requirements provides a viable path to supporting diverse applications with an adaptable computer image generation system.

CPV hybrid system in ISFOC building, first results

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Trujillo, Pablo; Alamillo, César; Gil, Eduardo; de la Rubia, Óscar; Martínez, María; Rubio, Francisca; Cadavid, Andros; Navarro, José; Hillenbrand, Sascha; Ballesteros-Sánchez, Isabel; Castillo-Cagigal, Manuel; Masa-Bote, Daniel; Matallanas, Eduardo; Caamaño-Martín, Estefanía; Gutiérrez, Álvaro

2012-10-01

PV Off-Grid systems have demonstrated to be a good solution for the electrification of remote areas [1]. A hybrid system is one kind of these systems. The principal characteristic is that it uses PV as the main generator and has a backup power supply, like a diesel generator, for instance, that is used when the CPV generation is not enough to meet demand. To study the use of CPV in these systems, ISFOC has installed a demonstration hybrid system at its headquarters. This hybrid system uses CPV technology as main generator and the utility grid as the backup generator. A group of batteries have been mounted as well to store the remaining energy from the CPV generator when nedeed. The energy flows are managed by a SMA system based on Sunny Island inverters and a Multicluster-Box (figure 1). The Load is the air-conditioning system of the building, as it has a consumption profile higher than the CPV generator and can be controlled by software [2]. The first results of this system, as well as the first chances of improvement, as the need of a bigger CPV generator and a better management of the energy stored in the batteries, are presented in this paper.

Solar energy thermally powered electrical generating system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Owens, William R. (Inventor)

1989-01-01

A thermally powered electrical generating system for use in a space vehicle is disclosed. The rate of storage in a thermal energy storage medium is controlled by varying the rate of generation and dissipation of electrical energy in a thermally powered electrical generating system which is powered from heat stored in the thermal energy storage medium without exceeding a maximum quantity of heat. A control system (10) varies the rate at which electrical energy is generated by the electrical generating system and the rate at which electrical energy is consumed by a variable parasitic electrical load to cause storage of an amount of thermal energy in the thermal energy storage system at the end of a period of insolation which is sufficient to satisfy the scheduled demand for electrical power to be generated during the next period of eclipse. The control system is based upon Kalman filter theory.

Effects of voltage control in utility interactive dispersed storage and generation systems

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

Kirkham, H.; Das, R.

1983-03-15

When a small generator is connected to the distribution system, the voltage at the point of interconnection is determined largely by the system and not the generator. This report examines the effect on the generator, on the load voltage and on the distribution system of a number of different voltage control strategies in the generator. Synchronous generators with three kinds of exciter control are considered, as well as induction generators and dc/ac inverters, with and without capacitor compensation. The effect of varying input power during operation (which may be experienced by generators based on renewable resources) is explored, as wellmore » as the effect of connecting and disconnecting the generator at ten percent of its rated power.« less

30 CFR 75.1101-5 - Installation of foam generator systems.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Installation of foam generator systems. 75.1101...-5 Installation of foam generator systems. (a) Foam generator systems shall be located so as to discharge foam to the belt drive, belt takeup, electrical controls, gear reducing unit and the conveyor belt...

Intima-Media Thickness in the Carotid and Femoral Arteries for Detection of Arteriosclerosis in Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Positive Individuals.

PubMed

Godoi, Emmanuelle Tenório Albuquerque Madruga; Brandt, Carlos Teixeira; Lacerda, Heloisa Ramos; Godoi, Jocelene Tenório Albuquerque Madruga; Oliveira, Dinaldo Cavalcanti de; Costa, Gabriela Farias Araujo Sousa; Santos Junior, Gerson Gomes Dos; Leite, Kaliene Maria Estevão; Godoi, Juannicelle Tenório Albuquerque Madruga; Vasconcelos, Adriana Ferraz de

2017-01-01

The prevalence of atherosclerosis is higher in HIV-positive people, who also experience it earlier than the general population. To assess and compare the prevalence of atherosclerosis evaluated by the intima-media thickness of carotid and femoral arteries, and by the ankle-brachial pressure index (ABPI) in HIV patients treated or not treated with protease inhibitors (PIs) and controls. Eighty HIV+ subjects (40 using PIs and 40 not using PIs) and 65 controls were included in the study. Atherosclerosis was diagnosed by (carotid and femoral) ITM measurement and ABPI. Classical risk factors for atherosclerosis and HIV were compared between the groups by statistical tests. A p ≤ 0.05 was considered significant. An IMT > P75 or the presence of plaque was higher in the HIV+ than in the control group (37.5% vs 19%, p = 0.04). Comparative analysis showed a significant difference (p=0.014) in carotid IMT between HIV+ with PIs (0.71 ± 0.28 mm), without PIs 0.63 ± 0.11 mm and, and controls (0.59 ± 0.11 mm). There was no significant difference in femoral IMT between the groups or in ABPI between HIV+ subjects and controls. However, a significant difference (p=0.015) was found between HIV+ patients not treated with PIs (1.17 [1.08 - 1.23]), and controls 1.08 [1.07 - 1.17]). In HIV patients, atherosclerosis is more prevalent and seems to occur earlier with particular characteristics compared with HIV-negative subjects.

The Effects of Selected Hot and Cold Temperament Herbs Based on Iranian Traditional Medicine on Some Metabolic Parameters in Normal Rats

PubMed Central

Parvinroo, Shirin; Zahediasl, Saleh; Sabetkasaei, Masoumeh; Kamalinejad, Mohammad; Naghibi, Farzaneh

2014-01-01

This study was aimed to evaluate the effects of diets containing some hot and cold temperament herb seeds according to Iranian traditional medicine (ITM) on some metabolic parameters in acute (24 h) and sub-acute (7 day) experiments that were performed on rats. For each experiment, effects of diets containing 10% herb seeds in category of hot (anise, fennel, ajowan) and cold (cucumber, watermelon, pumpkin) temperaments were analyzed on body weight gain, food intake, water consumption, urine output, serum glucose (SG) and insulin levels of rats. In the acute experiment, anise or fennel fed groups showed a significant decrease in food intake and there were not any changes in other parameters. The hot temperament groups in comparison with the cold temperament ones showed a significant decrease in food intake and a significant increase in SG level. In the sub-acute experiment, anise and fennel fed groups had a significant decrease in body weight gain on the 4thday. On the 7th day, the anise fed group experienced a significant decrease in body weight gain and a significant increase in SG levels. The groups that were fed hot temperament diets compared to the ones that consumed cold temperament diets showed a significant decrease in body weight gain and food intake rates and a considerable increase in SG levels. Considering the findings of this study, one can conclude that it is possible that hot temperament herbs such as anise and fennel be useful for humans for certain conditions such as weight control. PMID:24711844

New Approach for the Development of Improved Traditional Medicine: Case of a Preparation of an Oral Hypoglycemic Medicine from Laportea ovalifolia (Schumach. & Thonn.) Chew. (Urticaceae).

PubMed

Tsabang, Nolé; Kadjob, Stella; Mballa, Rose N; Yedjou, Clement G; Nnanga, Nga; Donfagsiteli, Néhémie T; Tchinda, Alembert T; Agbor, Gabriel A; Ntsama, Claudine; Tchounwou, Paul B

2015-08-01

A majority of Africans rely on traditional medicine as the primary form of health care. Yet most traditional medicine products have a short shelf life, especially for water-based formulations such as macerations, infusions and decoctions. Indeed, many of these water extracts become unfit for human consumption after five to seven days of conservation either because of the degradation or toxicity of active components, and/or the growth of pathogenic organisms. The purpose of this study was to describe and apply a new approach for the development of an improved traditional medicine (ITM) that is cheap, very efficient, not toxic, and easy to produce, and that can be conserved for a longer time without a significant loss of activity. Hence, Laportea ovalifolia was selected from an ethnobotanical prospection in all regions of Cameroon, and was used to prepare an oral hypoglycemic product. This preparation required 9 steps focused on the characterization of the plant species, and the standardization of the ethnopharmacological preparation by a multidisciplinary team of scientists with expertise in botany, ecology, pharmacognosy and pharmacology. Resultantly, four galenic formulations of hypoglycemic medications were produced. A relationship between these four formulations was described as follow: One spoon of oral suspension (10 ml)=one sachet of powder=2 tablets=3 capsules. Hence, our research provides new insight into a drug discovery approach that could alleviate the major problems affecting traditional medicine and enhance its effectiveness in addressing health care in developing and undeveloped countries.

Experiences on developing digital down conversion algorithms using Xilinx system generator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Chengfa; Yuan, Yuan; Zhao, Lizhi

2013-07-01

The Digital Down Conversion (DDC) algorithm is a classical signal processing method which is widely used in radar and communication systems. In this paper, the DDC function is implemented by Xilinx System Generator tool on FPGA. System Generator is an FPGA design tool provided by Xilinx Inc and MathWorks Inc. It is very convenient for programmers to manipulate the design and debug the function, especially for the complex algorithm. Through the developing process of DDC function based on System Generator, the results show that System Generator is a very fast and efficient tool for FPGA design.

Culinary and pressure irrigation water system hydroelectric generation

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

Christiansen, Cory

Pleasant Grove City owns and operates a drinking water system that included pressure reducing stations (PRVs) in various locations and flow conditions. Several of these station are suitable for power generation. The City evaluated their system to identify opportunities for power generation that can be implemented based on the analysis of costs and prediction of power generation and associated revenue. The evaluation led to the selection of the Battle Creek site for development of a hydro-electric power generating system. The Battle Creek site includes a pipeline that carries spring water to storage tanks. The system utilizes a PRV to reducemore » pressure before the water is introduced into the tanks. The evaluation recommended that the PRV at this location be replaced with a turbine for the generation of electricity. The system will be connected to the utility power grid for use in the community. A pelton turbine was selected for the site, and a turbine building and piping system were constructed to complete a fully functional power generation system. It is anticipated that the system will generate approximately 440,000 kW-hr per year resulting in $40,000 of annual revenue.« less

Design of energy storage system to improve inertial response for large scale PV generation

DOE PAGES

Wang, Xiaoyu; Yue, Meng

2016-07-01

With high-penetration levels of renewable generating sources being integrated into the existing electric power grid, conventional generators are being replaced and grid inertial response is deteriorating. This technical challenge is more severe with photovoltaic (PV) generation than with wind generation because PV generation systems cannot provide inertial response unless special countermeasures are adopted. To enhance the inertial response, this paper proposes to use battery energy storage systems (BESS) as the remediation approach to accommodate the degrading inertial response when high penetrations of PV generation are integrated into the existing power grid. A sample power system was adopted and simulated usingmore » PSS/E software. Here, impacts of different penetration levels of PV generation on the system inertial response were investigated and then BESS was incorporated to improve the frequency dynamics.« less

Automatic control system generation for robot design validation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bacon, James A. (Inventor); English, James D. (Inventor)

2012-01-01

The specification and drawings present a new method, system and software product for and apparatus for generating a robotic validation system for a robot design. The robotic validation system for the robot design of a robotic system is automatically generated by converting a robot design into a generic robotic description using a predetermined format, then generating a control system from the generic robotic description and finally updating robot design parameters of the robotic system with an analysis tool using both the generic robot description and the control system.

Turbo-Electric Compressor/Generator Using Halbach Arrays

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kloesel, Kurt J. (Inventor)

2016-01-01

The present invention is a turbojet design that integrates power generation into the turbojet itself, rather than use separate generators attached to the turbojet for power generation. By integrating the power generation within the jet engine, the weight of the overall system is significantly reduced, increasing system efficiency. Also, by integrating the power generating elements of the system within the air flow of the jet engine, the present invention can use the heat generated by the power generating elements (which is simply expelled waste heat in current designs) to increase the engine performance.

Application of field-modulated generator systems to dispersed solar thermal electric generation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ramakumar, R.

1979-01-01

The state-of-the-art of field modulated generation system (FMGS) is presented, and the application of FMGS to dispersed solar thermal electric generation is discussed. The control and monitoring requirements for solar generation system are defined. A comparison is presented between the FMGS approach and other options and the technological development needs are discussed.

Automatic Mesh Generation of Hybrid Mesh on Valves in Multiple Positions in Feedline Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ross, Douglass H.; Ito, Yasushi; Dorothy, Fredric W.; Shih, Alan M.; Peugeot, John

2010-01-01

Fluid flow simulations through a valve often require evaluation of the valve in multiple opening positions. A mesh has to be generated for the valve for each position and compounding. The problem is the fact that the valve is typically part of a larger feedline system. In this paper, we propose to develop a system to create meshes for feedline systems with parametrically controlled valve openings. Herein we outline two approaches to generate the meshes for a valve in a feedline system at multiple positions. There are two issues that must be addressed. The first is the creation of the mesh on the valve for multiple positions. The second is the generation of the mesh for the total feedline system including the valve. For generation of the mesh on the valve, we will describe the use of topology matching and mesh generation parameter transfer. For generation of the total feedline system, we will describe two solutions that we have implemented. In both cases the valve is treated as a component in the feedline system. In the first method the geometry of the valve in the feedline system is replaced with a valve at a different opening position. Geometry is created to connect the valve to the feedline system. Then topology for the valve is created and the portion of the topology for the valve is topology matched to the standard valve in a different position. The mesh generation parameters are transferred and then the volume mesh for the whole feedline system is generated. The second method enables the user to generate the volume mesh on the valve in multiple open positions external to the feedline system, to insert it into the volume mesh of the feedline system, and to reduce the amount of computer time required for mesh generation because only two small volume meshes connecting the valve to the feedline mesh need to be updated.

Effects of voltage control in utility interactive dispersed storage and generation systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kirkham, H.; Das, R.

1983-01-01

When a small generator is connected to the distribution system, the voltage at the point of interconnection is determined largely by the system and not the generator. The effect on the generator, on the load voltage and on the distribution system of a number of different voltage control strategies in the generator is examined. Synchronous generators with three kinds of exciter control are considered, as well as induction generators and dc/ac inverters, with and without capacitor compensation. The effect of varying input power during operation (which may be experienced by generators based on renewable resources) is explored, as well as the effect of connecting and disconnecting the generator at ten percent of its rated power. Operation with a constant slightly lagging factor is shown to have some advantages.

Implementation of a next-generation electronic nursing records system based on detailed clinical models and integration of clinical practice guidelines.

PubMed

Min, Yul Ha; Park, Hyeoun-Ae; Chung, Eunja; Lee, Hyunsook

2013-12-01

The purpose of this paper is to describe the components of a next-generation electronic nursing records system ensuring full semantic interoperability and integrating evidence into the nursing records system. A next-generation electronic nursing records system based on detailed clinical models and clinical practice guidelines was developed at Seoul National University Bundang Hospital in 2013. This system has two components, a terminology server and a nursing documentation system. The terminology server manages nursing narratives generated from entity-attribute-value triplets of detailed clinical models using a natural language generation system. The nursing documentation system provides nurses with a set of nursing narratives arranged around the recommendations extracted from clinical practice guidelines. An electronic nursing records system based on detailed clinical models and clinical practice guidelines was successfully implemented in a hospital in Korea. The next-generation electronic nursing records system can support nursing practice and nursing documentation, which in turn will improve data quality.

Game theory competition analysis of reservoir water supply and hydropower generation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, T.

2013-12-01

The total installed capacity of the power generation systems in Taiwan is about 41,000 MW. Hydropower is one of the most important renewable energy sources, with hydropower generation capacity of about 4,540 MW. The aim of this research is to analyze competition between water supply and hydropower generation in water-energy systems. The major relationships between water and energy systems include hydropower generation by water, energy consumption for water system operation, and water consumption for energy system. In this research, a game-theoretic Cournot model is formulated to simulate oligopolistic competition between water supply, hydropower generation, and co-fired power generation in water-energy systems. A Nash equilibrium of the competitive market is derived and solved by GAMS with PATH solver. In addition, a case study analyzing the competition among water supply and hydropower generation of De-ji and Ku-Kuan reservoirs, Taipower, Star Energy, and Star-Yuan power companies in central Taiwan is conducted.

DC Linked Hybrid Generation System with an Energy Storage Device including a Photo-Voltaic Generation and a Gas Engine Cogeneration for Residential Houses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lung, Chienru; Miyake, Shota; Kakigano, Hiroaki; Miura, Yushi; Ise, Toshifumi; Momose, Toshinari; Hayakawa, Hideki

For the past few years, a hybrid generation system including solar panel and gas cogeneration is being used for residential houses. Solar panels can generate electronic power at daytime; meanwhile, it cannot generate electronic power at night time. But the power consumption of residential houses usually peaks in the evening. The gas engine cogeneration system can generate electronic power without such a restriction, and it also can generate heat power to warm up house or to produce hot water. In this paper, we propose the solar panel and gas engine co-generation hybrid system with an energy storage device that is combined by dc bus. If a black out occurs, the system still can supply electronic power for special house loads. We propose the control scheme for the system which are related with the charging level of the energy storage device, the voltage of the utility grid which can be applied both grid connected and stand alone operation. Finally, we carried out some experiments to demonstrate the system operation and calculation for loss estimation.

Power Maximization Control of Variable Speed Wind Generation System Using Permanent Magnet Synchronous Generator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Morimoto, Shigeo; Nakamura, Tomohiko; Takeda, Yoji

This paper proposes the sensorless output power maximization control of the wind generation system. A permanent magnet synchronous generator (PMSG) is used as a variable speed generator in the proposed system. The generator torque is suitably controlled according to the generator speed and thus the power from a wind turbine settles down on the maximum power point by the proposed MPPT control method, where the information of wind velocity is not required. Moreover, the maximum available generated power is obtained by the optimum current vector control. The current vector of PMSG is optimally controlled according to the generator speed and the required torque in order to minimize the losses of PMSG considering the voltage and current constraints. The proposed wind power generation system can be achieved without mechanical sensors such as a wind velocity detector and a position sensor. Several experimental results show the effectiveness of the proposed control method.

Radiative entropy generation in a gray absorbing, emitting, and scattering planar medium at radiative equilibrium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sadeghi, Pegah; Safavinejad, Ali

2017-11-01

Radiative entropy generation through a gray absorbing, emitting, and scattering planar medium at radiative equilibrium with diffuse-gray walls is investigated. The radiative transfer equation and radiative entropy generation equations are solved using discrete ordinates method. Components of the radiative entropy generation are considered for two different boundary conditions: two walls are at a prescribed temperature and mixed boundary conditions, which one wall is at a prescribed temperature and the other is at a prescribed heat flux. The effect of wall emissivities, optical thickness, single scattering albedo, and anisotropic-scattering factor on the entropy generation is attentively investigated. The results reveal that entropy generation in the system mainly arises from irreversible radiative transfer at wall with lower temperature. Total entropy generation rate for the system with prescribed temperature at walls remarkably increases as wall emissivity increases; conversely, for system with mixed boundary conditions, total entropy generation rate slightly decreases. Furthermore, as the optical thickness increases, total entropy generation rate remarkably decreases for the system with prescribed temperature at walls; nevertheless, for the system with mixed boundary conditions, total entropy generation rate increases. The variation of single scattering albedo does not considerably affect total entropy generation rate. This parametric analysis demonstrates that the optical thickness and wall emissivities have a significant effect on the entropy generation in the system at radiative equilibrium. Considering the parameters affecting radiative entropy generation significantly, provides an opportunity to optimally design or increase overall performance and efficiency by applying entropy minimization techniques for the systems at radiative equilibrium.

Thermoelectric power generator for variable thermal power source

DOEpatents

Bell, Lon E; Crane, Douglas Todd

2015-04-14

Traditional power generation systems using thermoelectric power generators are designed to operate most efficiently for a single operating condition. The present invention provides a power generation system in which the characteristics of the thermoelectrics, the flow of the thermal power, and the operational characteristics of the power generator are monitored and controlled such that higher operation efficiencies and/or higher output powers can be maintained with variably thermal power input. Such a system is particularly beneficial in variable thermal power source systems, such as recovering power from the waste heat generated in the exhaust of combustion engines.

Waste remediation

DOEpatents

Halas, Nancy J.; Nordlander, Peter; Neumann, Oara

2017-01-17

A system including a steam generation system and a chamber. The steam generation system includes a complex and the steam generation system is configured to receive water, concentrate electromagnetic (EM) radiation received from an EM radiation source, apply the EM radiation to the complex, where the complex absorbs the EM radiation to generate heat, and transform, using the heat generated by the complex, the water to steam. The chamber is configured to receive the steam and an object, wherein the object is of medical waste, medical equipment, fabric, and fecal matter.

Waste remediation

DOEpatents

Halas, Nancy J.; Nordlander, Peter; Neumann, Oara

2015-12-29

A system including a steam generation system and a chamber. The steam generation system includes a complex and the steam generation system is configured to receive water, concentrate electromagnetic (EM) radiation received from an EM radiation source, apply the EM radiation to the complex, where the complex absorbs the EM radiation to generate heat, and transform, using the heat generated by the complex, the water to steam. The chamber is configured to receive the steam and an object, wherein the object is of medical waste, medical equipment, fabric, and fecal matter.

77 FR 39745 - Fuel Oil Systems for Emergency Power Supplies

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-07-05

... fuel oil systems for safety-related emergency diesel generators and oil-fueled gas turbine generators... emergency diesel generators and oil-fueled gas turbine generators, including assurance of adequate fuel oil.... The DG-1282 is proposed revision 2 of Regulatory Guide 1.137, ``Fuel Oil Systems for Standby Diesel...

Advanced Method of Boundary-Layer Control Based on Localized Plasma Generation

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-05-01

measurements, validation of experiments, wind-tunnel testing of the microwave / plasma generation system , preliminary assessment of energy required...and design of a microwave generator , electrodynamic and multivibrator systems for experiments in the IHM-NAU wind tunnel: MW generator and its high...equipped with the microwave - generation and protection systems to study advanced methods of flow control (Kiev) Fig. 2.1,a. The blade

NASA Missions Enabled by Space Nuclear Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Scott, John H.; Schmidt, George R.

2009-01-01

This viewgraph presentation reviews NASA Space Missions that are enabled by Space Nuclear Systems. The topics include: 1) Space Nuclear System Applications; 2) Trade Space for Electric Power Systems; 3) Power Generation Specific Energy Trade Space; 4) Radioisotope Power Generation; 5) Radioisotope Missions; 6) Fission Power Generation; 7) Solar Powered Lunar Outpost; 8) Fission Powered Lunar Outpost; 9) Fission Electric Power Generation; and 10) Fission Nuclear Thermal Propulsion.

Analysis of the electrical harmonic characteristics of a slip recovery variable speed generating system for wind turbine applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Herrera, J. I.; Reddoch, T. W.

1988-02-01

Variable speed electric generating technology can enhance the general use of wind energy in electric utility applications. This enhancement results from two characteristic properties of variable speed wind turbine generators: an improvement in drive train damping characteristics, which results in reduced structural loading on the entire wind turbine system, and an improvement in the overall efficiency by using a more sophisticated electrical generator. Electronic converter systems are the focus of this investigation -- in particular, the properties of a wound-rotor induction generator with the slip recovery system and direct-current link converter. Experience with solid-state converter systems in large wind turbines is extremely limited. This report presents measurements of electrical performances of the slip recovery system and is limited to the terminal characteristics of the system. Variable speed generating systems working effectively in utility applications will require a satisfactory interface between the turbine/generator pair and the utility network. The electrical testing described herein focuses largely on the interface characteristics of the generating system. A MOD-O wind turbine was connected to a very strong system; thus, the voltage distortion was low and the total harmonic distortion in the utility voltage was less than 3 percent (within the 5 percent limit required by most utilities). The largest voltage component of a frequency below 60 Hz was 40 dB down from the 60-Hz less than component.

Power Control of New Wind Power Generation System with Induction Generator Excited by Voltage Source Converter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Morizane, Toshimitsu; Kimura, Noriyuki; Taniguchi, Katsunori

This paper investigates advantages of new combination of the induction generator for wind power and the power electronic equipment. Induction generator is popularly used for the wind power generation. The disadvantage of it is impossible to generate power at the lower rotor speed than the synchronous speed. To compensate this disadvantage, expensive synchronous generator with the permanent magnets is sometimes used. In proposed scheme, the diode rectifier is used to convert the real power from the induction generator to the intermediate dc voltage, while only the reactive power necessary to excite the induction generator is supplied from the voltage source converter (VSC). This means that the rating of the expensive VSC is minimized and total cost of the wind power generation system is decreased compared to the system with synchronous generator. Simulation study to investigate the control strategy of proposed system is performed. The results show the reduction of the VSC rating is prospective.

Design of portable electric and magnetic field generators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stewart, M. G.; Siew, W. H.; Campbell, L. C.; Stewart, M. G.; Siew, W. H.

2000-11-01

Electric and magnetic field generators capable of producing high-amplitude output are not readily available. This presents difficulties for electromagnetic compatibility testing of new measurement systems where these systems are intended to operate in a particularly hostile electromagnetic environment. A portable electric and a portable magnetic field generator having high pulsed field output are described in this paper. The output of these generators were determined using an electromagnetic-compatible measurement system. These generators allow immunity testing in the laboratory of electronic systems to very high electrical fields, as well as for functional verification of the electronic systems on site. In the longer term, the basic design of the magnetic field generator may be developed as the generator to provide the damped sinusoid magnetic field specified in IEC 61000-4-10, which is adopted in BS EN 61000-4-10.

Vessel structural support system

DOEpatents

Jenko, James X.; Ott, Howard L.; Wilson, Robert M.; Wepfer, Robert M.

1992-01-01

Vessel structural support system for laterally and vertically supporting a vessel, such as a nuclear steam generator having an exterior bottom surface and a side surface thereon. The system includes a bracket connected to the bottom surface. A support column is pivotally connected to the bracket for vertically supporting the steam generator. The system also includes a base pad assembly connected pivotally to the support column for supporting the support column and the steam generator. The base pad assembly, which is capable of being brought to a level position by turning leveling nuts, is anchored to a floor. The system further includes a male key member attached to the side surface of the steam generator and a female stop member attached to an adjacent wall. The male key member and the female stop member coact to laterally support the steam generator. Moreover, the system includes a snubber assembly connected to the side surface of the steam generator and also attached to the adjacent wall for dampening lateral movement of the steam generator. In addition, the system includes a restraining member of "flat" attached to the side surface of the steam generator and a bumper attached to the adjacent wall. The flat and the bumper coact to further laterally support the steam generator.

Structural analysis and design for the development of floating photovoltaic energy generation system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yoon, S. J.; Joo, H. J.; Kim, S. H.

2018-06-01

In this paper, we discussed the structural analysis and design for the development of floating photovoltaic energy generation system. Series of research conducted to develop the system from the analysis and design of the structural system to the installation of the system discussed. In the structural system supporting solar panels PFRP materials and SMC FRP materials used. A unit module structure is fabricated and then the unit module structures are connected each other to assemble whole PV energy generation complex. This system connected directly to the power grid system. In addition, extensive monitoring for the efficiency of electricity generation and the soundness of the structural system is in progress for the further system enhancement.

Heat exchanger bypass system for an absorption refrigeration system

DOEpatents

Reimann, Robert C.

1984-01-01

A heat exchanger bypass system for an absorption refrigeration system is disclosed. The bypass system operates to pass strong solution from the generator around the heat exchanger to the absorber of the absorption refrigeration system when strong solution builds up in the generator above a selected level indicative of solidification of strong solution in the heat exchanger or other such blockage. The bypass system includes a bypass line with a gooseneck located in the generator for controlling flow of strong solution into the bypass line and for preventing refrigerant vapor in the generator from entering the bypass line during normal operation of the refrigeration system. Also, the bypass line includes a trap section filled with liquid for providing a barrier to maintain the normal pressure difference between the generator and the absorber even when the gooseneck of the bypass line is exposed to refrigerant vapor in the generator. Strong solution, which may accumulate in the trap section of the bypass line, is diluted, to prevent solidification, by supplying weak solution to the trap section from a purge system for the absorption refrigeration system.

Multi-processing control system for the SEL 840MP (MPCS/1) users guide. Volume 2: Operations guide

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1972-01-01

The generation and operational use of the SEL 840MP multiprocessing control system (MPCS) are considered. System initialization, job task table generation, the MPCS command language, display library generation, and system error summary are reviewed.

An Implanted, Stimulated Muscle Powered Piezoelectric Generator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lewandowski, Beth; Gustafson, Kenneth; Kilgore, Kevin

2007-01-01

A totally implantable piezoelectric generator system able to harness power from electrically activated muscle could be used to augment the power systems of implanted medical devices, such as neural prostheses, by reducing the number of battery replacement surgeries or by allowing periods of untethered functionality. The features of our generator design are no moving parts and the use of a portion of the generated power for system operation and regulation. A software model of the system has been developed and simulations have been performed to predict the output power as the system parameters were varied within their constraints. Mechanical forces that mimic muscle forces have been experimentally applied to a piezoelectric generator to verify the accuracy of the simulations and to explore losses due to mechanical coupling. Depending on the selection of system parameters, software simulations predict that this generator concept can generate up to approximately 700 W of power, which is greater than the power necessary to drive the generator, conservatively estimated to be 50 W. These results suggest that this concept has the potential to be an implantable, self-replenishing power source and further investigation is underway.

Generation-IV Nuclear Energy Systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McFarlane, Harold

2008-05-01

Nuclear power technology has evolved through roughly three generations of system designs: a first generation of prototypes and first-of-a-kind units implemented during the period 1950 to 1970; a second generation of industrial power plants built from 1970 to the turn of the century, most of which are still in operation today; and a third generation of evolutionary advanced reactors which began being built by the turn of the 20^th century, usually called Generation III or III+, which incorporate technical lessons learned through more than 12,000 reactor-years of operation. The Generation IV International Forum (GIF) is a cooperative international endeavor to develop advanced nuclear energy systems in response to the social, environmental and economic requirements of the 21^st century. Six Generation IV systems under development by GIF promise to enhance the future contribution and benefits of nuclear energy. All Generation IV systems aim at performance improvement, new applications of nuclear energy, and/or more sustainable approaches to the management of nuclear materials. High-temperature systems offer the possibility of efficient process heat applications and eventually hydrogen production. Enhanced sustainability is achieved primarily through adoption of a closed fuel cycle with reprocessing and recycling of plutonium, uranium and minor actinides using fast reactors. This approach provides significant reduction in waste generation and uranium resource requirements.

Modular approach to achieving the next-generation X-ray light source

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Biedron, S. G.; Milton, S. V.; Freund, H. P.

2001-12-01

A modular approach to the next-generation light source is described. The "modules" include photocathode, radio-frequency, electron guns and their associated drive-laser systems, linear accelerators, bunch-compression systems, seed laser systems, planar undulators, two-undulator harmonic generation schemes, high-gain harmonic generation systems, nonlinear higher harmonics, and wavelength shifting. These modules will be helpful in distributing the next-generation light source to many more laboratories than the current single-pass, high-gain free-electron laser designs permit, due to both monetary and/or physical space constraints.

Impact of wind generator infed on dynamic performance of a power system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alam, Md. Ahsanul

Wind energy is one of the most prominent sources of electrical energy in the years to come. A tendency to increase the amount of electricity generation from wind turbine can be observed in many countries. One of the major concerns related to the high penetration level of the wind energy into the existing power grid is its influence on power system dynamic performance. In this thesis, the impact of wind generation system on power system dynamic performance is investigated through detailed dynamic modeling of the entire wind generator system considering all the relevant components. Nonlinear and linear models of a single machine as well as multimachine wind-AC system have been derived. For the dynamic model of integrated wind-AC system, a general transformation matrix is determined for the transformation of machine and network quantities to a common reference frame. Both time-domain and frequency domain analyses on single machine and multimachine systems have been carried out. The considered multimachine systems are---A 4 machine 12 bus system, and 10 machine 39 bus New England system. Through eigenvalue analysis, impact of asynchronous wind system on overall network damping has been quantified and modes responsible for the instability have been identified. Over with a number of simulation studies it is observed that for a induction generator based wind generation system, the fixed capacitor located at the generator terminal cannot normally cater for the reactive power demand during the transient disturbances like wind gust and fault on the system. For weak network connection, system instability may be initiated because of induction generator terminal voltage collapse under certain disturbance conditions. Incorporation of dynamic reactive power compensation scheme through either variable susceptance control or static compensator (STATCOM) is found to improve the dynamic performance significantly. Further improvement in transient profile has been brought in by supporting STATCOM with bulk energy storage devices. Two types of energy storage system (ESS) have been considered---battery energy storage system, and supercapacitor based energy storage system. A decoupled P -- Q control strategy has been implemented on STATCOM/ESS. It is observed that wind generators when supported by STATCOM/ESS can achieve significant withstand capability in the presence of grid fault of reasonable duration. It experiences almost negligible rotor speed variation, maintains constant terminal voltage, and resumes delivery of smoothed (almost transient free) power to the grid immediately after the fault is cleared. Keywords: Wind energy, induction generator, dynamic performance of wind generators, energy storage system, decoupled P -- Q control, multimachine system.

Information retrieval system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Berg, R. F.; Holcomb, J. E.; Kelroy, E. A.; Levine, D. A.; Mee, C., III

1970-01-01

Generalized information storage and retrieval system capable of generating and maintaining a file, gathering statistics, sorting output, and generating final reports for output is reviewed. File generation and file maintenance programs written for the system are general purpose routines.

Electricity generation using electromagnetic radiation

DOEpatents

Halas, Nancy J.; Nordlander, Peter; Neumann, Oara

2017-08-22

In general, in one aspect, the invention relates to a system to create vapor for generating electric power. The system includes a vessel comprising a fluid and a complex and a turbine. The vessel of the system is configured to concentrate EM radiation received from an EM radiation source. The vessel of the system is further configured to apply the EM radiation to the complex, where the complex absorbs the EM radiation to generate heat. The vessel of the system is also configured to transform, using the heat generated by the complex, the fluid to vapor. The vessel of the system is further configured to sending the vapor to a turbine. The turbine of the system is configured to receive, from the vessel, the vapor used to generate the electric power.

Optimal Design of Wind-PV-Diesel-Battery System using Genetic Algorithm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suryoatmojo, Heri; Hiyama, Takashi; Elbaset, Adel A.; Ashari, Mochamad

Application of diesel generators to supply the load demand on isolated islands in Indonesia has widely spread. With increases in oil price and the concerns about global warming, the integration of diesel generators with renewable energy systems have become an attractive energy sources for supplying the load demand. This paper performs an optimal design of integrated system involving Wind-PV-Diesel-Battery system for isolated island with CO2 emission evaluation by using genetic algorithm. The proposed system has been designed for the hybrid power generation in East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia-latitude 09.30S, longitude 122.0E. From simulation results, the proposed system is able to minimize the total annual cost of the system under study and reduce CO2 emission generated by diesel generators.

Analysis of the electrical harmonic characteristics of a slip recovery variable speed generating system for wind turbine applications

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

Herrera, J.I.; Reddoch, T.W.

1988-02-01

Variable speed electric generating technology can enhance the general use of wind energy in electric utility applications. This enhancement results from two characteristic properties of variable speed wind turbine generators: an improvement in drive train damping characteristics, which results in reduced structural loading on the entire wind turbine system, and an improvement in the overall efficiency by using a more sophisticated electrical generator. Electronic converter systems are the focus of this investigation -- in particular, the properties of a wound-rotor induction generator with the slip recovery system and direct-current link converter. Experience with solid-state converter systems in large wind turbinesmore » is extremely limited. This report presents measurements of electrical performances of the slip recovery system and is limited to the terminal characteristics of the system. Variable speed generating systems working effectively in utility applications will require a satisfactory interface between the turbine/generator pair and the utility network. The electrical testing described herein focuses largely on the interface characteristics of the generating system. A MOD-O wind turbine was connected to a very strong system; thus, the voltage distortion was low and the total harmonic distortion in the utility voltage was less than 3% (within the 5% limit required by most utilities). The largest voltage component of a frequency below 60 Hz was 40 dB down from the 60-Hz< component. 8 refs., 14 figs., 8 tabs.« less

The salinity gradient power generating system integrated into the seawater desalination system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Yongqiang; Wang, Wanjun; Cai, Bingqian; Hao, Jiacheng; Xia, Ruihua

2017-01-01

Seawater desalination is an important way to solve the problem of fresh water shortage. Low energy efficiency and high cost are disadvantages existing in seawater desalination. With huge reserve and the highest energy density among different types of marine energy, salinity gradient energy has a bright application prospect. The promotion of traditional salinity gradient power generating systems is hindered by its low efficiency and specific requirements on site selection. This paper proposes a salinity gradient power generating system integrated into the seawater desalination system which combines the salinity gradient power generating system and the seawater desalination system aiming to remedy the aforementioned deficiency and could serve as references for future seawater desalination and salinity gradient energy exploitation. The paper elaborates on the operating principles of the system, analyzes the detailed working process, and estimates the energy output and consumption of the system. It is proved that with appropriate design, the energy output of the salinity gradient power generating system can satisfy the demand of the seawater desalination system.

Using a Language Generation System for Second Language Learning.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Levison, Michael; Lessard, Greg

1996-01-01

Describes a language generation system, which, given data files describing a natural language, generates utterances of the class the user has specified. The system can exercise control over the syntax, lexicon, morphology, and semantics of the language. This article explores a range of the system's potential applications to second-language…

Integrated geometry and grid generation system for complex configurations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Akdag, Vedat; Wulf, Armin

1992-01-01

A grid generation system was developed that enables grid generation for complex configurations. The system called ICEM/CFD is described and its role in computational fluid dynamics (CFD) applications is presented. The capabilities of the system include full computer aided design (CAD), grid generation on the actual CAD geometry definition using robust surface projection algorithms, interfacing easily with known CAD packages through common file formats for geometry transfer, grid quality evaluation of the volume grid, coupling boundary condition set-up for block faces with grid topology generation, multi-block grid generation with or without point continuity and block to block interface requirement, and generating grid files directly compatible with known flow solvers. The interactive and integrated approach to the problem of computational grid generation not only substantially reduces manpower time but also increases the flexibility of later grid modifications and enhancements which is required in an environment where CFD is integrated into a product design cycle.

Combustion driven ammonia generation strategies for passive ammonia SCR system

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

Toner, Joel G.; Narayanaswamy, Kushal; Szekely, Jr., Gerald A.

A method for controlling ammonia generation in an exhaust gas feedstream output from an internal combustion engine equipped with an exhaust aftertreatment system including a first aftertreatment device includes executing an ammonia generation cycle to generate ammonia on the first aftertreatment device. A desired air-fuel ratio output from the engine and entering the exhaust aftertreatment system conducive for generating ammonia on the first aftertreatment device is determined. Operation of a selected combination of a plurality of cylinders of the engine is selectively altered to achieve the desired air-fuel ratio entering the exhaust aftertreatment system.

Evaluation Of Different Power Conditioning Options For Stirling Generators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Garrigos, A.; Blanes, J. M.; Carrasco, J. A.; Maset, E.; Montalban, G.; Ejea, J.; Ferreres, A.; Sanchis, E.

2011-10-01

Free-piston Stirling engines are an interesting alternative for electrical power systems, especially in deep space missions where photovoltaic systems are not feasible. This kind of power generators contains two main parts, the Stirling machine and the linear alternator that converts the mechanical energy from the piston movement to electrical energy. Since the generated power is in AC form, several aspects should be assessed to use such kind of generators in a spacecraft power system: AC/DC topologies, power factor correction, power regulation techniques, integration into the power system, etc. This paper details power generator operation and explores different power conversion approaches.

Boundary-fitted coordinate systems for numerical solution of partial differential equations - A review

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Thompson, J. F.; Warsi, Z. U. A.; Mastin, C. W.

1982-01-01

A comprehensive review of methods of numerically generating curvilinear coordinate systems with coordinate lines coincident with all boundary segments is given. Some general mathematical framework and error analysis common to such coordinate systems is also included. The general categories of generating systems are those based on conformal mapping, orthogonal systems, nearly orthogonal systems, systems produced as the solution of elliptic and hyperbolic partial differential equations, and systems generated algebraically by interpolation among the boundaries. Also covered are the control of coordinate line spacing by functions embedded in the partial differential operators of the generating system and by subsequent stretching transformation. Dynamically adaptive coordinate systems, coupled with the physical solution, and time-dependent systems that follow moving boundaries are treated. References reporting experience using such coordinate systems are reviewed as well as those covering the system development.

The study on working fluids of airborne power generation system based on Rankine cycle by heat energy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, Yuan

2017-05-01

This paper proposed a new concept named airborne power generation system based on Rankine cycle by heat energy, namely, the presented system combined the Rankine cycle with environmental control system in aircraft to recycle the waste heat of engine bleed air with high temperature and generate power. This paper mainly discussed the choosing of optimum working fluid which could apply in the combined power generation system mentioned above when the temperature of the coming bleed air was about 400 degree centigrade.

Thermophotovoltaic systems for civilian and industrial applications in Japan

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yugami, Hiroo; Sasa, Hiromi; Yamaguchi, Masafumi

2003-05-01

The potential market for thermophotovoltaic (TPV) applications has been studied for civilian and industrial sectors in Japan. Comparing the performance of gas engines or turbines, as well as the underdeveloped power generation technologies such as fuel cells or chemical batteries, we have discussed the feasible application field of TPV systems to compete with those power generations. From the point of view of applicability for TPV systems in Japan, portable generators, co-generation systems and solar power plants are selected for our system analysis. The cost and performance targets of TPV systems for co-generation are also discussed by assuming a typical daily profile of electricity and hot water demands in Japanese homes. A progress report on the recent TPV research activities is given as well as a feasibility study concerning such TPV systems in Japan.

Design, economic and system considerations of large wind-driven generators

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jorgensen, G. E.; Lotker, M.; Meier, R. C.; Brierley, D.

1976-01-01

The increased search for alternative energy sources has lead to renewed interest and studies of large wind-driven generators. This paper presents the results and considerations of such an investigation. The paper emphasizes the concept selection of wind-driven generators, system optimization, control system design, safety aspects, economic viability on electric utility systems and potential electric system interfacing problems.

Automated Concurrent Blackboard System Generation in C++

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kaplan, J. A.; McManus, J. W.; Bynum, W. L.

1999-01-01

In his 1992 Ph.D. thesis, "Design and Analysis Techniques for Concurrent Blackboard Systems", John McManus defined several performance metrics for concurrent blackboard systems and developed a suite of tools for creating and analyzing such systems. These tools allow a user to analyze a concurrent blackboard system design and predict the performance of the system before any code is written. The design can be modified until simulated performance is satisfactory. Then, the code generator can be invoked to generate automatically all of the code required for the concurrent blackboard system except for the code implementing the functionality of each knowledge source. We have completed the port of the source code generator and a simulator for a concurrent blackboard system. The source code generator generates the necessary C++ source code to implement the concurrent blackboard system using Parallel Virtual Machine (PVM) running on a heterogeneous network of UNIX(trademark) workstations. The concurrent blackboard simulator uses the blackboard specification file to predict the performance of the concurrent blackboard design. The only part of the source code for the concurrent blackboard system that the user must supply is the code implementing the functionality of the knowledge sources.

Using Model-Based Systems Engineering To Provide Artifacts for NASA Project Life-Cycle and Technical Reviews

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Parrott, Edith L.; Weiland, Karen J.

2017-01-01

The ability of systems engineers to use model-based systems engineering (MBSE) to generate self-consistent, up-to-date systems engineering products for project life-cycle and technical reviews is an important aspect for the continued and accelerated acceptance of MBSE. Currently, many review products are generated using labor-intensive, error-prone approaches based on documents, spreadsheets, and chart sets; a promised benefit of MBSE is that users will experience reductions in inconsistencies and errors. This work examines features of SysML that can be used to generate systems engineering products. Model elements, relationships, tables, and diagrams are identified for a large number of the typical systems engineering artifacts. A SysML system model can contain and generate most systems engineering products to a significant extent and this paper provides a guide on how to use MBSE to generate products for project life-cycle and technical reviews. The use of MBSE can reduce the schedule impact usually experienced for review preparation, as in many cases the review products can be auto-generated directly from the system model. These approaches are useful to systems engineers, project managers, review board members, and other key project stakeholders.

Systematic Approach to Better Understanding Integration Costs: Preprint

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

Stark, Gregory B.

2015-09-28

When someone mentions integration costs, thoughts of the costs of integrating renewable generation into an existing system come to mind. We think about how variability and uncertainty can increase power system cycling costs as increasing amounts of wind or solar generation are incorporated into the generation mix. However, seldom do we think about what happens to system costs when new baseload generation is added to an existing system or when generation self-schedules. What happens when a highly flexible combined-cycle plant is added? Do system costs go up, or do they go down? Are other, non-cycling, maintenance costs impacted? In thismore » paper we investigate six technologies and operating practices--including VG, baseload generation, generation mix, gas prices, self-scheduling, and fast-start generation--and how changes in these areas can impact a system's operating costs. This paper provides a working definition of integration costs and four components of variable costs. It describes the study approach and how a production cost modeling-based method was used to determine the cost effects, and, as a part of the study approach section, it describes the test system and data used for the comparisons. Finally, it presents the research findings, and, in closing, suggests three areas for future work.« less

Technology survey of electrical power generation and distribution for MIUS application

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gill, W. L.; Redding, T. E.

1975-01-01

Candidate electrical generation power systems for the modular integrated utility systems (MIUS) program are described. Literature surveys were conducted to cover both conventional and exotic generators. Heat-recovery equipment associated with conventional power systems and supporting equipment are also discussed. Typical ranges of operating conditions and generating efficiencies are described. Power distribution is discussed briefly. Those systems that appear to be applicable to MIUS have been indicated, and the criteria for equipment selection are discussed.

System and method for generating a relationship network

DOEpatents

Franks, Kasian; Myers, Cornelia A; Podowski, Raf M

2015-05-05

A computer-implemented system and process for generating a relationship network is disclosed. The system provides a set of data items to be related and generates variable length data vectors to represent the relationships between the terms within each data item. The system can be used to generate a relationship network for documents, images, or any other type of file. This relationship network can then be queried to discover the relationships between terms within the set of data items.

System and method for generating a relationship network

DOEpatents

Franks, Kasian [Kensington, CA; Myers, Cornelia A [St. Louis, MO; Podowski, Raf M [Pleasant Hill, CA

2011-07-26

A computer-implemented system and process for generating a relationship network is disclosed. The system provides a set of data items to be related and generates variable length data vectors to represent the relationships between the terms within each data item. The system can be used to generate a relationship network for documents, images, or any other type of file. This relationship network can then be queried to discover the relationships between terms within the set of data items.

Increasing the Efficiency of a Thermoelectric Generator Using an Evaporative Cooling System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boonyasri, M.; Jamradloedluk, J.; Lertsatitthanakorn, C.; Therdyothin, A.; Soponronnarit, S.

2017-05-01

A system for reducing heat from the cold side of a thermoelectric (TE) power generator, based on the principle of evaporative cooling, is presented. An evaporative cooling system could increase the conversion efficiency of a TE generator. To this end, two sets of TE generators were constructed. Both TE generators were composed of five TE power modules. The cold and hot sides of the TE modules were fixed to rectangular fin heat sinks. The hot side heat sinks were inserted in a hot gas duct. The cold side of one set was cooled by the cooling air from a counter flow evaporative cooling system, whereas the other set was cooled by the parallel flow evaporative cooling system. The counter flow pattern had better performance than the parallel flow pattern. A comparison between the TE generator with and without an evaporative cooling system was made. Experimental results show that the power output increased by using the evaporative cooling system. This can significantly increase the TE conversion efficiency. The evaporative cooling system increased the power output of the TE generator from 22.9 W of ambient air flowing through the heat sinks to 28.6 W at the hot gas temperature of 350°C (an increase of about 24.8%). The present study shows the promising potential of using TE generators with evaporative cooling for waste heat recovery.

Study on Micro Wind Generator System for Automobile

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fujimoto, Koji; Washizu, Shinsuke; Ichikawa, Tomohiko; Yukita, Kazuto; Goto, Yasuyuki; Ichiyanagi, Katsuhiro; Oshima, Takamitsu; Hayashi, Niichi; Tobi, Nobuo

This paper proposes the micro wind generator system for automobile. This proposes system is composed of the deflector, the micro windmill, the generator, and electric storage device. Then, the effectiveness is confirmed from an examination using air blower. Therefore, new energy can be expected to be obtained by installing this system in the truck.

Modular Analysis of Automobile Exhaust Thermoelectric Power Generation System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Deng, Y. D.; Zhang, Y.; Su, C. Q.

2015-06-01

In this paper, an automobile exhaust thermoelectric power generation system is packaged into a model with its own operating principles. The inputs are the engine speed and power, and the output is the power generated by the system. The model is divided into two submodels. One is the inlet temperature submodel, and the other is the power generation submodel. An experimental data modeling method is adopted to construct the inlet temperature submodel, and a theoretical modeling method is adopted to construct the power generation submodel. After modeling, simulation is conducted under various engine operating conditions to determine the variation of the power generated by the system. Finally, the model is embedded into a Honda Insight vehicle model to explore the energy-saving effect of the system on the vehicle under Economic Commission for Europe and cyc-constant_60 driving cycles.

0.4-1.4 μm Visible to Near-Infrared Widely Broadened Super Continuum Generation with Er-doped Ultrashort Pulse Fiber Laser System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nishizawa, Norihiko; Mitsuzawa, Hideyuki; Sumimura, Kazuhiko

2009-03-01

Visible to near-infrared widely broadened super continuum generation is demonstrated using ultrashort-pulse fiber laser system. Er-doped fiber chirped-pulse amplification system operated at 1550 nm in wavelength is used for the amplifier system, which generated ultrashort-pulse of 112 fs in FWHM with output power of 160 mW, on average. Almost pedestal free 200 fs second harmonic generation pulse is generated at 780 nm region using periodically poled LiNbO3 and conversion efficiency is as high as 37%. 0.45-1.40 μm widely broadened super continuum is generated in highly nonlinear photonic crystal fiber and spectrum flatness is within ±6 dB. All of the fiber devices are fusion spliced so that this system shows a good stability.

Systems Prototyping with Fourth Generation Tools.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sholtys, Phyllis

1983-01-01

The development of information systems using an engineering approach that uses both traditional programing techniques and fourth generation software tools is described. Fourth generation applications tools are used to quickly develop a prototype system that is revised as the user clarifies requirements. (MLW)

A Low-cost System for Generating Near-realistic Virtual Actors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Afifi, Mahmoud; Hussain, Khaled F.; Ibrahim, Hosny M.; Omar, Nagwa M.

2015-06-01

Generating virtual actors is one of the most challenging fields in computer graphics. The reconstruction of a realistic virtual actor has been paid attention by the academic research and the film industry to generate human-like virtual actors. Many movies were acted by human-like virtual actors, where the audience cannot distinguish between real and virtual actors. The synthesis of realistic virtual actors is considered a complex process. Many techniques are used to generate a realistic virtual actor; however they usually require expensive hardware equipment. In this paper, a low-cost system that generates near-realistic virtual actors is presented. The facial features of the real actor are blended with a virtual head that is attached to the actor's body. Comparing with other techniques that generate virtual actors, the proposed system is considered a low-cost system that requires only one camera that records the scene without using any expensive hardware equipment. The results of our system show that the system generates good near-realistic virtual actors that can be used on many applications.

Analysis of a novel autonomous marine hybrid power generation/energy storage system with a high-voltage direct current link

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Li; Lee, Dong-Jing; Lee, Wei-Jen; Chen, Zhe

This paper presents both time-domain and frequency-domain simulated results of a novel marine hybrid renewable-energy power generation/energy storage system (PG/ESS) feeding isolated loads through an high-voltage direct current (HVDC) link. The studied marine PG subsystems comprise both offshore wind turbines and Wells turbines to respectively capture wind energy and wave energy from marine wind and ocean wave. In addition to wind-turbine generators (WTGs) and wave-energy turbine generators (WETGs) employed in the studied system, diesel-engine generators (DEGs) and an aqua electrolyzer (AE) absorbing a part of generated energy from WTGs and WETGs to generate available hydrogen for fuel cells (FCs) are also included in the PG subsystems. The ES subsystems consist of a flywheel energy storage system (FESS) and a compressed air energy storage (CAES) system to balance the required energy in the hybrid PG/ESS. It can be concluded from the simulation results that the proposed hybrid marine PG/ESS feeding isolated loads can stably operate to achieve system power-frequency balance condition.

Ring system-based chemical graph generation for de novo molecular design

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miyao, Tomoyuki; Kaneko, Hiromasa; Funatsu, Kimito

2016-05-01

Generating chemical graphs in silico by combining building blocks is important and fundamental in virtual combinatorial chemistry. A premise in this area is that generated structures should be irredundant as well as exhaustive. In this study, we develop structure generation algorithms regarding combining ring systems as well as atom fragments. The proposed algorithms consist of three parts. First, chemical structures are generated through a canonical construction path. During structure generation, ring systems can be treated as reduced graphs having fewer vertices than those in the original ones. Second, diversified structures are generated by a simple rule-based generation algorithm. Third, the number of structures to be generated can be estimated with adequate accuracy without actual exhaustive generation. The proposed algorithms were implemented in structure generator Molgilla. As a practical application, Molgilla generated chemical structures mimicking rosiglitazone in terms of a two dimensional pharmacophore pattern. The strength of the algorithms lies in simplicity and flexibility. Therefore, they may be applied to various computer programs regarding structure generation by combining building blocks.

Simulation of a microgrid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dulǎu, Lucian Ioan

2015-12-01

This paper describes the simulation of a microgrid system with storage technologies. The microgrid comprises 6 distributed generators (DGs), 3 loads and a 150 kW storage unit. The installed capacity of the generators is 1100 kW, while the total load demand is 900 kW. The simulation is performed by using a SCADA software, considering the power generation costs, the loads demand and the system's power losses. The generators access the system in order of their power generation cost. The simulation is performed for the entire day.

Automatic generation of nursing narratives from entity-attribute-value triplet for electronic nursing records system.

PubMed

Min, Yul Ha; Park, Hyeoun-Ae; Lee, Joo Yun; Jo, Soo Jung; Jeon, Eunjoo; Byeon, Namsoo; Choi, Seung Yong; Chung, Eunja

2014-01-01

The aim of this study is to develop and evaluate a natural language generation system to populate nursing narratives using detailed clinical models. Semantic, contextual, and syntactical knowledges were extracted. A natural language generation system linking these knowledges was developed. The quality of generated nursing narratives was evaluated by the three nurse experts using a five-point rating scale. With 82 detailed clinical models, in total 66,888 nursing narratives in four different types of statement were generated. The mean scores for overall quality was 4.66, for content 4.60, for grammaticality 4.40, for writing style 4.13, and for correctness 4.60. The system developed in this study generated nursing narratives with different levels of granularity. The generated nursing narratives can improve semantic interoperability of nursing data documented in nursing records.

Evaluating the impacts of real-time pricing on the usage of wind generation

DOE PAGES

Sioshansi, Ramteen; Short, Walter

2009-02-13

One of the impediments to large-scale use of wind generation within power systems is its nondispatchability and variable and uncertain real-time availability. Operating constraints on conventional generators such as minimum generation points, forbidden zones, and ramping limits as well as system constraints such as power flow limits and ancillary service requirements may force a system operator to curtail wind generation in order to ensure feasibility. Furthermore, the pattern of wind availability and electricity demand may not allow wind generation to be fully utilized in all hours. One solution to these issues, which could reduce these inflexibilities, is the use ofmore » real-time pricing (RTP) tariffs which can both smooth-out the diurnal load pattern in order to reduce the impact of binding unit operating and system constraints on wind utilization, and allow demand to increase in response to the availability of costless wind generation. As a result, we use and analyze a detailed unit commitment model of the Texas power system with different estimates of demand elasticities to demonstrate the potential increases in wind generation from implementing RTP.« less

Automated knowledge generation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Myler, Harley R.; Gonzalez, Avelino J.

1988-01-01

The general objectives of the NASA/UCF Automated Knowledge Generation Project were the development of an intelligent software system that could access CAD design data bases, interpret them, and generate a diagnostic knowledge base in the form of a system model. The initial area of concentration is in the diagnosis of the process control system using the Knowledge-based Autonomous Test Engineer (KATE) diagnostic system. A secondary objective was the study of general problems of automated knowledge generation. A prototype was developed, based on object-oriented language (Flavors).

Triple-effect absorption refrigeration system with double-condenser coupling

DOEpatents

DeVault, R.C.; Biermann, W.J.

1993-04-27

A triple effect absorption refrigeration system is provided with a double-condenser coupling and a parallel or series circuit for feeding the refrigerant-containing absorbent solution through the high, medium, and low temperature generators utilized in the triple-effect system. The high temperature condenser receiving vaporous refrigerant from the high temperature generator is double coupled to both the medium temperature generator and the low temperature generator to enhance the internal recovery of heat within the system and thereby increase the thermal efficiency thereof.

Triple-effect absorption refrigeration system with double-condenser coupling

DOEpatents

DeVault, Robert C.; Biermann, Wendell J.

1993-01-01

A triple effect absorption refrigeration system is provided with a double-condenser coupling and a parallel or series circuit for feeding the refrigerant-containing absorbent solution through the high, medium, and low temperature generators utilized in the triple-effect system. The high temperature condenser receiving vaporous refrigerant from the high temperature generator is double coupled to both the medium temperature generator and the low temperature generator to enhance the internal recovery of heat within the system and thereby increase the thermal efficiency thereof.

A Feasibility Study of Pressure Retarded Osmosis Power Generation System based on Measuring Permeation Volume using Reverse Osmosis Membrane

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Enomoto, Hiroshi; Fujitsuka, Masashi; Hasegawa, Tomoyasu; Kuwada, Masatoshi; Tanioka, Akihiko; Minagawa, Mie

Pressure Retarded Osmosis (PRO) power generation system is a hydroelectric power system which utilize permeation flow through a semi-permeable membrane. Permeation flow is generated by potential energy of salinity difference between sea water and fresh water. As membrane cost is expensive, permeation performance of membrane must be higher to realize PRO system. We have investigated Reverse Osmosis (RO) membrane products as semi-permeable membrane and measured permeation volume of a few products. Generation power by membrane area calculated from permeation volume is about 0.62W/m2. But by our improvements (more salt water volume, spacer of fresh water channel with a function of discharging concentrated salinity, extra low pressure type of membrane, washing support layer of membrane when generation power reduces to half), generation power may be 2.43W/m2. Then power system cost is about 4.1 million yen/kW. In addition, if support layer of membrane makes thinner and PRO system is applied to the equipment that pumping power on another purpose is avairable (wastewater treatment plant located at the seaside, thermal and nuclear power plant or sea water desalination plant), generation power may be more. By these improvements PRO system may be able to realize at the cost close to photovoltaic power system.

Synchrophasor-Assisted Prediction of Stability/Instability of a Power System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saha Roy, Biman Kumar; Sinha, Avinash Kumar; Pradhan, Ashok Kumar

2013-05-01

This paper presents a technique for real-time prediction of stability/instability of a power system based on synchrophasor measurements obtained from phasor measurement units (PMUs) at generator buses. For stability assessment the technique makes use of system severity indices developed using bus voltage magnitude obtained from PMUs and generator electrical power. Generator power is computed using system information and PMU information like voltage and current phasors obtained from PMU. System stability/instability is predicted when the indices exceeds a threshold value. A case study is carried out on New England 10-generator, 39-bus system to validate the performance of the technique.

Frequency control of wind turbine in power system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Huawei

2018-06-01

In order to improve the stability of the overall frequency of the power system, automatic power generation control and secondary frequency adjustment were applied. Automatic power generation control was introduced into power generation planning. A dual-fed wind generator power regulation model suitable for secondary frequency regulation was established. The results showed that this method satisfied the basic requirements of frequency regulation control of large-scale wind power access power systems and improved the stability and reliability of power system operation. Therefore, this system frequency control method and strategy is relatively simple. The effect is significant. The system frequency can quickly reach a steady state. It is worth applying and promoting.

Conceptual design of thermal energy storage systems for near-term electric utility applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hall, E. W.

1980-01-01

Promising thermal energy storage systems for midterm applications in conventional electric utilities for peaking power generation are evaluated. Conceptual designs of selected thermal energy storage systems integrated with conventional utilities are considered including characteristics of alternate systems for peaking power generation, viz gas turbines and coal fired cycling plants. Competitive benefit analysis of thermal energy storage systems with alternate systems for peaking power generation and recommendations for development and field test of thermal energy storage with a conventional utility are included. Results indicate that thermal energy storage is only marginally competitive with coal fired cycling power plants and gas turbines for peaking power generation.

Power Control for Direct-Driven Permanent Magnet Wind Generator System with Battery Storage

PubMed Central

Guang, Chu Xiao; Ying, Kong

2014-01-01

The objective of this paper is to construct a wind generator system (WGS) loss model that addresses the loss of the wind turbine and the generator. It aims to optimize the maximum effective output power and turbine speed. Given that the wind generator system has inertia and is nonlinear, the dynamic model of the wind generator system takes the advantage of the duty of the Buck converter and employs feedback linearization to design the optimized turbine speed tracking controller and the load power controller. According to that, this paper proposes a dual-mode dynamic coordination strategy based on the auxiliary load to reduce the influence of mode conversion on the lifetime of the battery. Optimized speed and power rapid tracking as well as the reduction of redundant power during mode conversion have gone through the test based on a 5 kW wind generator system test platform. The generator output power as the capture target has also been proved to be efficient. PMID:25050405

Power control for direct-driven permanent magnet wind generator system with battery storage.

PubMed

Guang, Chu Xiao; Ying, Kong

2014-01-01

The objective of this paper is to construct a wind generator system (WGS) loss model that addresses the loss of the wind turbine and the generator. It aims to optimize the maximum effective output power and turbine speed. Given that the wind generator system has inertia and is nonlinear, the dynamic model of the wind generator system takes the advantage of the duty of the Buck converter and employs feedback linearization to design the optimized turbine speed tracking controller and the load power controller. According to that, this paper proposes a dual-mode dynamic coordination strategy based on the auxiliary load to reduce the influence of mode conversion on the lifetime of the battery. Optimized speed and power rapid tracking as well as the reduction of redundant power during mode conversion have gone through the test based on a 5 kW wind generator system test platform. The generator output power as the capture target has also been proved to be efficient.

High flexible Hydropower Generation concepts for future grids

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hell, Johann

2017-04-01

The ongoing changes in electric power generation are resulting in new requirements for the classical generating units. In consequence a paradigm change in operation of power systems is necessary and a new approach in finding solutions is needed. The presented paper is dealing with the new requirements on current and future energy systems with the focus on hydro power generation. A power generation landscape for some European regions is shown and generation and operational flexibility is explained. Based on the requirements from the Transmission System Operator in UK, the transient performance of a Pumped Storage installation is discussed.

A normative price for energy from an electricity generation system: An Owner-dependent Methodology for Energy Generation (system) Assessment (OMEGA). Volume 1: Summary

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chamberlain, R. G.; Mcmaster, K. M.

1981-01-01

The utility owned solar electric system methodology is generalized and updated. The net present value of the system is determined by consideration of all financial benefits and costs (including a specified return on investment). Life cycle costs, life cycle revenues, and residual system values are obtained. Break even values of system parameters are estimated by setting the net present value to zero. While the model was designed for photovoltaic generators with a possible thermal energy byproduct, it applicability is not limited to such systems. The resulting owner-dependent methodology for energy generation system assessment consists of a few equations that can be evaluated without the aid of a high-speed computer.

Achieving more reliable operation of turbine generators at nuclear power plants by improving the water chemistry of the generator stator cooling system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tyapkov, V. F.; Chudakova, I. Yu.; Alekseenko, O. A.

2011-08-01

Ways of improving the water chemistry used in the turbine generator stator's cooling systems at Russian nuclear power plants are considered. Data obtained from operational chemical monitoring of indicators characterizing the quality of cooling water in the turbine generator stator cooling systems of operating power units at nuclear power plants are presented.

Reactive Power Compensation Method Considering Minimum Effective Reactive Power Reserve

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gong, Yiyu; Zhang, Kai; Pu, Zhang; Li, Xuenan; Zuo, Xianghong; Zhen, Jiao; Sudan, Teng

2017-05-01

According to the calculation model of minimum generator reactive power reserve of power system voltage stability under the premise of the guarantee, the reactive power management system with reactive power compensation combined generator, the formation of a multi-objective optimization problem, propose a reactive power reserve is considered the minimum generator reactive power compensation optimization method. This method through the improvement of the objective function and constraint conditions, when the system load growth, relying solely on reactive power generation system can not meet the requirement of safe operation, increase the reactive power reserve to solve the problem of minimum generator reactive power compensation in the case of load node.

Unstructured Cartesian/prismatic grid generation for complex geometries

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Karman, Steve L., Jr.

1995-01-01

The generation of a hybrid grid system for discretizing complex three dimensional (3D) geometries is described. The primary grid system is an unstructured Cartesian grid automatically generated using recursive cell subdivision. This grid system is sufficient for computing Euler solutions about extremely complex 3D geometries. A secondary grid system, using triangular-prismatic elements, may be added for resolving the boundary layer region of viscous flows near surfaces of solid bodies. This paper describes the grid generation processes used to generate each grid type. Several example grids are shown, demonstrating the ability of the method to discretize complex geometries, with very little pre-processing required by the user.

The Identification and Quantification of Suberin Monomers of Root and Tuber Periderm from Potato (Solanum tuberosum) as Fatty Acyl tert-Butyldimethylsilyl Derivatives.

PubMed

Company-Arumí, Dolors; Figueras, Mercè; Salvadó, Victoria; Molinas, Marisa; Serra, Olga; Anticó, Enriqueta

2016-11-01

Protective plant lipophilic barriers such as suberin and cutin, with their associated waxes, are complex fatty acyl derived polyesters. Their precise chemical composition is valuable to understand the specific role of each compound to the physiological function of the barrier. To develop a method for the compositional analysis of suberin and associated waxes by gas chromatography (GC) coupled to ion trap-mass spectrometry (IT-MS) using N-(tert-butyldimethylsilyl)-N-methyl-trifluoroacetamide (MTBSTFA) as sylilating reagent, and apply it to compare the suberin of the root and tuber periderm of potato (Solanum tuberosum). Waxes and suberin monomers from root and periderm were extracted subsequently using organic solvents and by methanolysis, and subjected to MTBSTFA derivatisation. GC analyses of periderm extracts were used to optimise the chromatographic method and the compound identification. Quantitative data was obtained using external calibration curves. The method was fully validated and applied for suberin composition analyses of roots and periderm. Wax and suberin compounds were successfully separated and compound identification was based on the specific (M-57) and non-specific ions in mass spectra. The use of calibration curves built with different external standards provided quantitative accurate data and showed that suberin from root contains shorter chained fatty acyl derivatives and a relative predominance of α,ω-alkanedioic acids compared to that of the periderm. We present a method for the analysis of suberin and their associated waxes based on MTBSTFA derivatisation. Moreover, the characteristic root suberin composition may be the adaptive response to its specific regulation of permeability to water and gases. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Validation and results of a scale model of dew deposition in urban environments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Richards, K.; Oke, T. R.

2002-12-01

There is growing interest in urban dew and its significance in questions of urban climate and air pollution deposition, but little research has been undertaken to study it. In this study, a generic, urban residential neighbourhood is modelled out-of-doors at a scale of 0.125, using three wooden houses (1.08 m tall), a concrete pavement (1.0 m in width), a grassed park (7.5 m in half-width) and several small trees (up to 1.5 m tall). The thermal inertia of each house is inflated, according to the internal thermal mass (ITM) approach, so that nocturnal surface temperatures are conserved. First-order validation was achieved through comparison with data collected at nearby full-scale sites in Vancouver, BC, Canada. Moisture accumulation (measured by blotting on grass and by lysimetry) is found to be primarily controlled by nocturnal weather conditions and the intrinsic nature of each substrate, e.g. dewfall is abundant on nights with few clouds and light winds, and on surfaces such as grass and asphalt-shingle roofs, which cool rapidly after sunset. However, these responses are modified by location effects related to the net radiation balance of the surface, which itself is strongly linked to site geometry as expressed by sky view factor and whether surfaces are isolated from heat sources. The dominant mechanism is argued to be the systematic increase in longwave radiation loss that is associated with increased sky view. Results agree with those observed at the full scale and suggest that maps of sky view factor, and knowledge of dew at an open site, can potentially be used to create maps of dew distribution in urban and other complex environments.

Observation and modelling of urban dew

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Richards, Katrina

Despite its relevance to many aspects of urban climate and to several practical questions, urban dew has largely been ignored. Here, simple observations an out-of-doors scale model, and numerical simulation are used to investigate patterns of dewfall and surface moisture (dew + guttation) in urban environments. Observations and modelling were undertaken in Vancouver, B.C., primarily during the summers of 1993 and 1996. Surveys at several scales (0.02-25 km) show that the main controls on dew are weather, location and site configuration (geometry and surface materials). Weather effects are discussed using an empirical factor, FW . Maximum dew accumulation (up to ~ 0.2 mm per night) is seen on nights with moist air and high FW , i.e., cloudless conditions with light winds. Favoured sites are those with high Ysky and surfaces which cool rapidly after sunset, e.g., grass and well insulated roofs. A 1/8-scale model is designed, constructed, and run at an out-of-doors site to study dew patterns in an urban residential landscape which consists of house lots, a street and an open grassed park. The Internal Thermal Mass (ITM) approach is used to scale the thermal inertia of buildings. The model is validated using data from full-scale sites in Vancouver. Patterns in the model agree with those seen at the full-scale, i.e., dew distribution is governed by weather, site geometry and substrate conditions. Correlation is shown between Ysky and surface moisture accumulation. The feasibility of using a numerical model to simulate urban dew is investigated using a modified version of a rural dew model. Results for simple isolated surfaces-a deciduous tree leaf and an asphalt shingle roof-show promise, especially for built surfaces.

Point sources of emerging contaminants along the Colorado River Basin: Source water for the arid Southwestern United States

USGS Publications Warehouse

Jones-Lepp, Tammy L.; Sanchez, Charles; Alvarez, David A.; Wilson, Doyle C.; Taniguchi-Fu, Randi-Laurant

2012-01-01

Emerging contaminants (ECs) (e.g., pharmaceuticals, illicit drugs, personal care products) have been detected in waters across the United States. The objective of this study was to evaluate point sources of ECs along the Colorado River, from the headwaters in Colorado to the Gulf of California. At selected locations in the Colorado River Basin (sites in Colorado, Utah, Nevada, Arizona, and California), waste stream tributaries and receiving surface waters were sampled using either grab sampling or polar organic chemical integrative samplers (POCIS). The grab samples were extracted using solid-phase cartridge extraction (SPE), and the POCIS sorbents were transferred into empty SPEs and eluted with methanol. All extracts were prepared for, and analyzed by, liquid chromatography–electrospray-ion trap mass spectrometry (LC–ESI-ITMS). Log DOW values were calculated for all ECs in the study and compared to the empirical data collected. POCIS extracts were screened for the presence of estrogenic chemicals using the yeast estrogen screen (YES) assay. Extracts from the 2008 POCIS deployment in the Las Vegas Wash showed the second highest estrogenicity response. In the grab samples, azithromycin (an antibiotic) was detected in all but one urban waste stream, with concentrations ranging from 30 ng/L to 2800 ng/L. Concentration levels of azithromycin, methamphetamine and pseudoephedrine showed temporal variation from the Tucson WWTP. Those ECs that were detected in the main surface water channels (those that are diverted for urban use and irrigation along the Colorado River) were in the region of the limit-of-detection (e.g., 10 ng/L), but most were below detection limits.

Enantioselective determination of triazole fungicide simeconazole in vegetables, fruits, and cereals using modified QuEChERS (quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged and safe) coupled to gas chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Li, Jing; Dong, Fengshou; Xu, Jun; Liu, Xingang; Li, Yuanbo; Shan, Weili; Zheng, Yongquan

2011-09-19

A rapid and effective method for enantioselective determination of simeconazole enantiomers in food products (cucumber, tomato, apple, pear, wheat and rice) has been developed. The enantiomers were resolved by capillary gas chromatography (GC) using a commercial chiral column (BGB-172) and a temperature program from 150°C (held for 1 min) and then raised at 10°C min(-1) to 240°C (held for 10 min). This enantioselective gas chromatographic separation was combined with a clean-up/enrichment procedure based on the modification of QuEChERS (quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged and safe) method. Co-extractives were removed with graphitized carbon black/primary secondary amine (GCB/PSA) solid-phase extraction (SPE) cartridges using acetonitrile:toluene (3:1, v/v) as eluent. Gas chromatography/ion trap mass spectrometry (GC-ITMS) with electron ionization (EI) was then used for qualitative and quantitative determination of the simeconazole enantiomers. Two precursor-to-product ion transitions (m/z 121-101 and 195-153) with the best signal intensity were chosen to build the multiple-reaction monitoring (MRM) acquisition method. The limits of detection for each enantiomer of simeconazole in six food products ranged between 0.4 and 0.9 μg kg(-1), which were much lower than maximum residue levels (MRLs) established by Japan. The methodology was successfully applied for the enantioselective analysis of simeconazole enantiomers in real samples, indicating its efficacy in investigating the environmental stereochemistry of simeconazole in food matrix. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Secondary organic aerosol formation and composition from the photo-oxidation of methyl chavicol (estragole)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pereira, K. L.; Hamilton, J. F.; Rickard, A. R.; Bloss, W. J.; Alam, M. S.; Camredon, M.; Muñoz, A.; Vásquez, M.; Borrás, E.; Ródenas, M.

2013-12-01

The increasing demand for palm oil for uses in biofuel and food products is leading to rapid expansion of oil palm agriculture. Methyl chavicol (also known as estragole and 1-allyl-4-methoxybenzene) is an oxygenated biogenic volatile organic compound that was recently identified as the main floral emission from an oil palm plantation in Malaysian Borneo. The emissions of methyl chavicol observed may impact regional atmospheric chemistry, but little is known of its ability to form secondary organic aerosol (SOA). The photo-oxidation of methyl chavicol was investigated at the European Photoreactor chamber as a part of the atmospheric chemistry of methyl chavicol (ATMECH) project. Aerosol samples were collected using a particle into liquid sampler (PILS) and analysed offline using an extensive range of instruments including; high performance liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (HPLC-ITMS), high performance liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (HPLC-QTOFMS) and Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FTICR-MS). The SOA yield was determined as 18-29% depending on initial precursor (VOC : NOx) mixing ratios. In total, 59 SOA compounds were observed and the structures of 10 compounds have been identified using high resolution tandem mass spectrometry. The addition of hydroxyl and/or nitro functional groups to the aromatic ring appears to be an important mechanistic pathway for aerosol formation. This results in the formation of compounds with both low volatility and high O : C ratios, where functionalisation rather than fragmentation is mainly observed as a~result of the stability of the ring. The SOA species observed can be characterized as semi-volatile to low volatile oxygenated organic aerosol (SVOOA and LVOOA) components and therefore may be important in aerosol formation and growth.

Development of a Sodium Resonance Lidar for Spaceborne Missions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Janches, D.; Krainak, M. A.; Yu, A. W.; Oleg, K. A.; Jones, S.; Huang, R.

2016-12-01

Layers of neutral metal atoms (i.e. Fe, Mg, Ca, K, Na), which peak between 85 and 95 km and are 20 km in width, are produced by the daily ablation of billions of Interplanetary Dust Particles (IDPs). As these metallic species are ionized during ablation, by sunlights ultraviolet photons, or by charge exchange with existing atmospheric ions, meteoroids affect the structure, chemistry, dynamics, and energetics of the Mesosphere and Lower Thermosphere (MLT). In particular, the strong optical signals produced by the Na layer, makes it an optimal tracer of atmospheric dynamics and circulation and enabling the measurement of quantities, such as composition, temperature and winds, that are critical to address several compelling scientific questions related to the Earth's Upper Atmosphere and the Geospace Environment. In particular, there is a pressing need in the Ionosphere-Thermosphere-Mesosphere (ITM) community to be able to perform high resolution measurements that can be used to characterize the small-scale variability in the MLT on a global basis. Such measurements must include highly resolved, in space and time, global temperatures profiles, which will add to the understanding of key indicators of radiative cooling in the mesosphere. We present in this paper a status update of the efforts carried out at NASA/GSFC to develop and demonstrate an integrated ground-based operational sodium lidar science instrument. The instrument, which uses key space-flight-precursor components, has currently a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 4. Efforts to raise its TRL to 6 will be presented to demonstrate the spaceflight instrument viability in a cost-efficient approach and serve as the core for the future planning of a Heliophysics space mission.

Spatial distribution of organochlorine contaminants in soil, sediment, and fish in Bikini and Enewetak Atolls of the Marshall Islands, Pacific Ocean.

PubMed

Wang, Jun; Caccamise, Sarah A L; Wu, Liejun; Woodward, Lee Ann; Li, Qing X

2011-08-01

Several nuclear tests were performed at Enewetak and Bikini Atolls in the Marshall Islands between 1946 and 1958. The events at Bikini Atoll involved several ships that were tested for durability during nuclear explosions, and 24 vessels now rest on the bottom of the Bikini lagoon. Nine soil samples were collected from different areas on the two islands of the atoll, and eighteen sediment, nine fish, and one lobster were collected in the vicinity of the sunken ships. Organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and polychlorinated terphenyls (PCTs) in these samples were analyzed using gas chromatography/ion trap mass spectrometry (GC/ITMS). The average recoveries ranged from 78% to 104% for the different PCB congeners. The limits of detection (LOD) for PCBs, PCTs, DDE, DDT, and dieldrin ranged 10-50 pg g(-1). Some fish from Enewetak contained PCBs at a concentration range of 37-137 ng g(-1), dry weight (dw), and most of the soils from Enewetak showed evidence of PCBs (22-392 ng g(-1)dw). Most of the Bikini lagoon sediment samples contained PCBs, and the highest was the one collected from around the Saratoga, an aircraft carrier (1555 ng g(-1)dw). Some of the fish samples, most of the soil samples, and only one of the sediment samples contained 2,2-bis(4-chlorophenyl)-1,1-dichloroethylene (DDE) and PCBs. In addition to PCBs, the soils from Enewetak Atoll contained PCTs. PCTs were not detected in the sediment samples from Bikini Atoll. The results suggest local pollution sources of PCBs, PCTs, and OCPs. Copyright © 2011. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Revisiting the linkage between ethnomedical use and development of new medicines: A novel plant collection strategy towards the discovery of anticancer agents

PubMed Central

Henkin, Joshua M.; Sydara, Kongmany; Xayvue, Mouachanh; Souliya, Onevilay; Kinghorn, A. Douglas; Burdette, Joanna E.; Chen, Wei-Lun; Elkington, Bethany G.; Soejarto, Djaja D.

2017-01-01

The Vietnam-Laos International Cooperative Biodiversity Group (ICBG) based at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) catalyzed a country-wide network of medicinal plant preserves (MPP) and medicinal biodiversity preserves (MBP) now established in ten provinces of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), which are relied upon as protected sources of ethnomedicines for local villagers and traditional healers. In collaboration with the Lao PDR’s Institute of Traditional Medicine (ITM), our ongoing P01 Program Project (Ohio State University) examined the anticancer bioprospecting potential for two of the most exhaustively inventoried of these sites: the Bolikhamxay MPP and the Xiengkhouang MBP. Guided by prior voucher specimens sourced from these preserves with an overwhelming emphasis on plants employed in traditional medicine, 201 distinct samples from 96 species were collected along with proper herbarium documentation. Aliquots of these plant samples were extracted in azeotropic ethanol and evaporated to dryness for initial biological evaluation. In six samples from six different species (2.99% of the collected samples, 6.25% of taxa) it was observed that extracts exhibited notable cytotoxicity against HT-29 colon adenocarcinoma cells. The wisdom behind the utilization of HT-29 cells in this preliminary biological screen is discussed. Furthermore, comparison of screening results based on longstanding considerations and ideological underpinnings of ethnobotanical vs. “random” biodiversity-based collection approaches is detailed herein. The results of this interdisciplinary study support the hypothesis that, by privileging the initial sample set in terms of human safety and pharmacological activity, ethnobotanically driven collection for biological screening efforts can produce leads unprecedented by the strict traditional usages of plants. PMID:29152156

Effect of an orally formulated processed black cumin, from Iranian traditional medicine pharmacopoeia, in relieving symptoms of knee osteoarthritis: A prospective, randomized, double-blind and placebo-controlled clinical trial.

PubMed

Salimzadeh, Ahmad; Ghourchian, Anahita; Choopani, Rasool; Hajimehdipoor, Homa; Kamalinejad, Mohammad; Abolhasani, Maryam

2017-06-01

Osteoarthritis is a global health problem, especially for the elderly. A good replacement for non-surgical treatments is the use of traditional medicines. We selected a revere plant (Nigella sativa L.), a widely utilized medicinal herb for the treatment of inflammatory conditions, from the Iranian traditional medicine (ITM) pharmacopoeia with proven anti-inflammatory and analgesic actions. We performed a prospective, randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled clinical trial, in order to investigate whether the herb is useful in alleviating the symptoms of knee osteoarthritis. American College of Rheumatology clinical criteria were the basis of diagnosis, while the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) questionnaire was considered as the main outcome measure. One hundred and ten eligible patients were assigned to receive a placebo or an active intervention (2 g/day of processed N. sativa seed powder in divided doses). Acetaminophen tablets were the rescue medicine. Finally, 40 patients in the placebo group and 37 patients in the active group completed the trial and were included in the statistical analysis. Both cohorts demonstrated statistically significant within-group differences (P < 0.05) in some subscales that were more prominent in the active group without any considerable adverse effects. Nevertheless, KOOS score results and the mean number of acetaminophen tablets used by patients showed no statistically significant between-group differences. It can be concluded that future programmed studies with larger sample sizes, longer follow-up periods, and other forms of N. sativa seeds as an active intervention is necessary to evaluate its efficacy in relieving the symptoms of knee osteoarthritis. © 2017 Asia Pacific League of Associations for Rheumatology and John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd.

Determination of 3-MCPD by GC-MS/MS with PTV-LV injector used for a survey of Spanish foodstuffs.

PubMed

León, Nuria; Yusà, Vicent; Pardo, Olga; Pastor, Agustín

2008-05-15

3-Monochloropropane-1,2-diol (3-MCPD) is the most common chemical contaminant of the group of chloropropanols. It can occur in foods and food ingredients at low levels as a result of processing, migration from packaging materials during storage and domestic cooking. A sensitive method for determination of 3-MCPD in foodstuffs using programmable temperature vaporization (PTV) with large-volume injection (LVI) gas chromatography (GC) with tandem mass spectrometry detection (MS/MS) has been developed and optimized. The optimization of the injection and detection parameters was carried out using statistical experimental design. A Plackett-Burman design was used to estimate the influence of resonance excitation voltage (REV), isolation time (IT), excitation time (ET), ion source temperature (IST), and electron energy (EE) on the analytical response in the ion trap mass spectrometer (ITMS). Only REV was found to have a statically significant effect. On the other hand, a central composite design was used to optimize the settings of injection temperature (T(inlet)), vaporization temperature (T(vap)), vaporization time (t(vap)) and flow (Flow). The optimized method has an instrumental limit of detection (signal-to-noise ratio 3:1) of 0.044 ng mL(-1). From Valencian, Spain, supermarkets 94 samples of foods were surveyed for 3-MCPD. Using the optimized method levels higher than the limit established for soy sauce by the European Union were found in some samples. The estimated daily intake of 3-MCPD throughout the investigated foodstuffs for adults and children was found about 0.005 and 0.01%, respectively, of the established provisional tolerable daily intake.

Improving Discoverability of Geophysical Data using Location Based Services

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Morrison, D.; Barnes, R. J.; Potter, M.; Nylund, S. R.; Patrone, D.; Weiss, M.; Talaat, E. R.; Sarris, T. E.; Smith, D.

2014-12-01

The great promise of Virtual Observatories is the ability to perform complex search operations across the metadata of a large variety of different data sets. This allows the researcher to isolate and select the relevant measurements for their topic of study. The Virtual ITM Observatory (VITMO) has many diverse geophysical datasets that cover a large temporal and spatial range that present a unique search problem. VITMO provides many methods by which the user can search for and select data of interest including restricting selections based on geophysical conditions (solar wind speed, Kp, etc) as well as finding those datasets that overlap in time. One of the key challenges in improving discoverability is the ability to identify portions of datasets that overlap in time and in location. The difficulty is that location data is not contained in the metadata for datasets produced by satellites and would be extremely large in volume if it were available, making searching for overlapping data very time consuming. To solve this problem we have developed a series of light-weight web services that can provide a new data search capability for VITMO and others. The services consist of a database of spacecraft ephemerides and instrument fields of view; an overlap calculator to find times when the fields of view of different instruments intersect; and a magnetic field line tracing service that maps in situ and ground based measurements to the equatorial plane in magnetic coordinates for a number of field models and geophysical conditions. These services run in real-time when the user queries for data. They will allow the non-specialist user to select data that they were previously unable to locate, opening up analysis opportunities beyond the instrument teams and specialists, making it easier for future students who come into the field.

Microturbine and Thermoelectric Generator Combined System: A Case Study.

PubMed

Miozzo, Alvise; Boldrini, Stefano; Ferrario, Alberto; Fabrizio, Monica

2017-03-01

Waste heat recovery is one of the suitable industrial applications of thermoelectrics. Thermoelectric generators (TEG) are used, commonly, only for low-mid size power generation systems. The low efficiency of thermoelectric modules generally does not encourage their combination with high power and temperature sources, such as gas turbines. Nevertheless, the particular features of thermoelectric technology (no moving parts, scalability, reliability, low maintenance costs) are attractive for many applications. In this work, the feasibility of the integration of a TE generator into a cogeneration system is evaluated. The cogeneration system consists of a microturbine and heat exchangers for the production of electrical and thermal energy. The aim is to improve electric power generation by using TE modules and the “free” thermal energy supplied by the cogeneration system, through the exhaust pipe of the microturbine. Three different solutions for waste heat recovery from the exhausts gas are evaluated, from the fluid dynamics and heat transfer point of view, to find out a suitable design strategy for a combined power generation system.

Real-time simulation of a Doubly-Fed Induction Generator based wind power system on eMEGASimRTM Real-Time Digital Simulator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boakye-Boateng, Nasir Abdulai

The growing demand for wind power integration into the generation mix prompts the need to subject these systems to stringent performance requirements. This study sought to identify the required tools and procedures needed to perform real-time simulation studies of Doubly-Fed Induction Generator (DFIG) based wind generation systems as basis for performing more practical tests of reliability and performance for both grid-connected and islanded wind generation systems. The author focused on developing a platform for wind generation studies and in addition, the author tested the performance of two DFIG models on the platform real-time simulation model; an average SimpowerSystemsRTM DFIG wind turbine, and a detailed DFIG based wind turbine using ARTEMiSRTM components. The platform model implemented here consists of a high voltage transmission system with four integrated wind farm models consisting in total of 65 DFIG based wind turbines and it was developed and tested on OPAL-RT's eMEGASimRTM Real-Time Digital Simulator.

Synthetic guide star generation

DOEpatents

Payne, Stephen A [Castro Valley, CA; Page, Ralph H [Castro Valley, CA; Ebbers, Christopher A [Livermore, CA; Beach, Raymond J [Livermore, CA

2008-06-10

A system for assisting in observing a celestial object and providing synthetic guide star generation. A lasing system provides radiation at a frequency at or near 938 nm and radiation at a frequency at or near 1583 nm. The lasing system includes a fiber laser operating between 880 nm and 960 nm and a fiber laser operating between 1524 nm and 1650 nm. A frequency-conversion system mixes the radiation and generates light at a frequency at or near 589 nm. A system directs the light at a frequency at or near 589 nm toward the celestial object and provides synthetic guide star generation.

System and method for islanding detection and prevention in distributed generation

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

Bhowmik, Shibashis; Mazhari, Iman; Parkhideh, Babak

Various examples are directed to systems and methods for detecting an islanding condition at an inverter configured to couple a distributed generation system to an electrical grid network. A controller may determine a command frequency and a command frequency variation. The controller may determine that the command frequency variation indicates a potential islanding condition and send to the inverter an instruction to disconnect the distributed generation system from the electrical grid network. When the distributed generation system is disconnected from the electrical grid network, the controller may determine whether the grid network is valid.

Synthetic guide star generation

DOEpatents

Payne, Stephen A.; Page, Ralph H.; Ebbers, Christopher A.; Beach, Raymond J.

2004-03-09

A system for assisting in observing a celestial object and providing synthetic guide star generation. A lasing system provides radiation at a frequency at or near 938 nm and radiation at a frequency at or near 1583 nm. The lasing system includes a fiber laser operating between 880 nm and 960 nm and a fiber laser operating between 1524 nm and 1650 nm. A frequency-conversion system mixes the radiation and generates light at a frequency at or near 589 nm. A system directs the light at a frequency at or near 589 nm toward the celestial object and provides synthetic guide star generation.

Reliability model generator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cohen, Gerald C. (Inventor); McMann, Catherine M. (Inventor)

1991-01-01

An improved method and system for automatically generating reliability models for use with a reliability evaluation tool is described. The reliability model generator of the present invention includes means for storing a plurality of low level reliability models which represent the reliability characteristics for low level system components. In addition, the present invention includes means for defining the interconnection of the low level reliability models via a system architecture description. In accordance with the principles of the present invention, a reliability model for the entire system is automatically generated by aggregating the low level reliability models based on the system architecture description.

GRID2D/3D: A computer program for generating grid systems in complex-shaped two- and three-dimensional spatial domains. Part 2: User's manual and program listing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bailey, R. T.; Shih, T. I.-P.; Nguyen, H. L.; Roelke, R. J.

1990-01-01

An efficient computer program, called GRID2D/3D, was developed to generate single and composite grid systems within geometrically complex two- and three-dimensional (2- and 3-D) spatial domains that can deform with time. GRID2D/3D generates single grid systems by using algebraic grid generation methods based on transfinite interpolation in which the distribution of grid points within the spatial domain is controlled by stretching functions. All single grid systems generated by GRID2D/3D can have grid lines that are continuous and differentiable everywhere up to the second-order. Also, grid lines can intersect boundaries of the spatial domain orthogonally. GRID2D/3D generates composite grid systems by patching together two or more single grid systems. The patching can be discontinuous or continuous. For continuous composite grid systems, the grid lines are continuous and differentiable everywhere up to the second-order except at interfaces where different single grid systems meet. At interfaces where different single grid systems meet, the grid lines are only differentiable up to the first-order. For 2-D spatial domains, the boundary curves are described by using either cubic or tension spline interpolation. For 3-D spatial domains, the boundary surfaces are described by using either linear Coon's interpolation, bi-hyperbolic spline interpolation, or a new technique referred to as 3-D bi-directional Hermite interpolation. Since grid systems generated by algebraic methods can have grid lines that overlap one another, GRID2D/3D contains a graphics package for evaluating the grid systems generated. With the graphics package, the user can generate grid systems in an interactive manner with the grid generation part of GRID2D/3D. GRID2D/3D is written in FORTRAN 77 and can be run on any IBM PC, XT, or AT compatible computer. In order to use GRID2D/3D on workstations or mainframe computers, some minor modifications must be made in the graphics part of the program; no modifications are needed in the grid generation part of the program. The theory and method used in GRID2D/3D is described.

GRID2D/3D: A computer program for generating grid systems in complex-shaped two- and three-dimensional spatial domains. Part 1: Theory and method

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shih, T. I.-P.; Bailey, R. T.; Nguyen, H. L.; Roelke, R. J.

1990-01-01

An efficient computer program, called GRID2D/3D was developed to generate single and composite grid systems within geometrically complex two- and three-dimensional (2- and 3-D) spatial domains that can deform with time. GRID2D/3D generates single grid systems by using algebraic grid generation methods based on transfinite interpolation in which the distribution of grid points within the spatial domain is controlled by stretching functions. All single grid systems generated by GRID2D/3D can have grid lines that are continuous and differentiable everywhere up to the second-order. Also, grid lines can intersect boundaries of the spatial domain orthogonally. GRID2D/3D generates composite grid systems by patching together two or more single grid systems. The patching can be discontinuous or continuous. For continuous composite grid systems, the grid lines are continuous and differentiable everywhere up to the second-order except at interfaces where different single grid systems meet. At interfaces where different single grid systems meet, the grid lines are only differentiable up to the first-order. For 2-D spatial domains, the boundary curves are described by using either cubic or tension spline interpolation. For 3-D spatial domains, the boundary surfaces are described by using either linear Coon's interpolation, bi-hyperbolic spline interpolation, or a new technique referred to as 3-D bi-directional Hermite interpolation. Since grid systems generated by algebraic methods can have grid lines that overlap one another, GRID2D/3D contains a graphics package for evaluating the grid systems generated. With the graphics package, the user can generate grid systems in an interactive manner with the grid generation part of GRID2D/3D. GRID2D/3D is written in FORTRAN 77 and can be run on any IBM PC, XT, or AT compatible computer. In order to use GRID2D/3D on workstations or mainframe computers, some minor modifications must be made in the graphics part of the program; no modifications are needed in the grid generation part of the program. This technical memorandum describes the theory and method used in GRID2D/3D.

Online Optimization Method for Operation of Generators in a Micro Grid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hayashi, Yasuhiro; Miyamoto, Hideki; Matsuki, Junya; Iizuka, Toshio; Azuma, Hitoshi

Recently a lot of studies and developments about distributed generator such as photovoltaic generation system, wind turbine generation system and fuel cell have been performed under the background of the global environment issues and deregulation of the electricity market, and the technique of these distributed generators have progressed. Especially, micro grid which consists of several distributed generators, loads and storage battery is expected as one of the new operation system of distributed generator. However, since precipitous load fluctuation occurs in micro grid for the reason of its smaller capacity compared with conventional power system, high-accuracy load forecasting and control scheme to balance of supply and demand are needed. Namely, it is necessary to improve the precision of operation in micro grid by observing load fluctuation and correcting start-stop schedule and output of generators online. But it is not easy to determine the operation schedule of each generator in short time, because the problem to determine start-up, shut-down and output of each generator in micro grid is a mixed integer programming problem. In this paper, the authors propose an online optimization method for the optimal operation schedule of generators in micro grid. The proposed method is based on enumeration method and particle swarm optimization (PSO). In the proposed method, after picking up all unit commitment patterns of each generators satisfied with minimum up time and minimum down time constraint by using enumeration method, optimal schedule and output of generators are determined under the other operational constraints by using PSO. Numerical simulation is carried out for a micro grid model with five generators and photovoltaic generation system in order to examine the validity of the proposed method.

The value of improved wind power forecasting: Grid flexibility quantification, ramp capability analysis, and impacts of electricity market operation timescales

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

Wang, Qin; Wu, Hongyu; Florita, Anthony R.

The value of improving wind power forecasting accuracy at different electricity market operation timescales was analyzed by simulating the IEEE 118-bus test system as modified to emulate the generation mixes of the Midcontinent, California, and New England independent system operator balancing authority areas. The wind power forecasting improvement methodology and error analysis for the data set were elaborated. Production cost simulation was conducted on the three emulated systems with a total of 480 scenarios, considering the impacts of different generation technologies, wind penetration levels, and wind power forecasting improvement timescales. The static operational flexibility of the three systems was comparedmore » through the diversity of generation mix, the percentage of must-run baseload generators, as well as the available ramp rate and the minimum generation levels. The dynamic operational flexibility was evaluated by the real-time upward and downward ramp capacity. Simulation results show that the generation resource mix plays a crucial role in evaluating the value of improved wind power forecasting at different timescales. In addition, the changes in annual operational electricity generation costs were mostly influenced by the dominant resource in the system. Lastly, the impacts of pumped-storage resources, generation ramp rates, and system minimum generation level requirements on the value of improved wind power forecasting were also analyzed.« less

Power quality control of an autonomous wind-diesel power system based on hybrid intelligent controller.

PubMed

Ko, Hee-Sang; Lee, Kwang Y; Kang, Min-Jae; Kim, Ho-Chan

2008-12-01

Wind power generation is gaining popularity as the power industry in the world is moving toward more liberalized trade of energy along with public concerns of more environmentally friendly mode of electricity generation. The weakness of wind power generation is its dependence on nature-the power output varies in quite a wide range due to the change of wind speed, which is difficult to model and predict. The excess fluctuation of power output and voltages can influence negatively the quality of electricity in the distribution system connected to the wind power generation plant. In this paper, the authors propose an intelligent adaptive system to control the output of a wind power generation plant to maintain the quality of electricity in the distribution system. The target wind generator is a cost-effective induction generator, while the plant is equipped with a small capacity energy storage based on conventional batteries, heater load for co-generation and braking, and a voltage smoothing device such as a static Var compensator (SVC). Fuzzy logic controller provides a flexible controller covering a wide range of energy/voltage compensation. A neural network inverse model is designed to provide compensating control amount for a system. The system can be optimized to cope with the fluctuating market-based electricity price conditions to lower the cost of electricity consumption or to maximize the power sales opportunities from the wind generation plant.

The value of improved wind power forecasting: Grid flexibility quantification, ramp capability analysis, and impacts of electricity market operation timescales

DOE PAGES

Wang, Qin; Wu, Hongyu; Florita, Anthony R.; ...

2016-11-11

The value of improving wind power forecasting accuracy at different electricity market operation timescales was analyzed by simulating the IEEE 118-bus test system as modified to emulate the generation mixes of the Midcontinent, California, and New England independent system operator balancing authority areas. The wind power forecasting improvement methodology and error analysis for the data set were elaborated. Production cost simulation was conducted on the three emulated systems with a total of 480 scenarios, considering the impacts of different generation technologies, wind penetration levels, and wind power forecasting improvement timescales. The static operational flexibility of the three systems was comparedmore » through the diversity of generation mix, the percentage of must-run baseload generators, as well as the available ramp rate and the minimum generation levels. The dynamic operational flexibility was evaluated by the real-time upward and downward ramp capacity. Simulation results show that the generation resource mix plays a crucial role in evaluating the value of improved wind power forecasting at different timescales. In addition, the changes in annual operational electricity generation costs were mostly influenced by the dominant resource in the system. Lastly, the impacts of pumped-storage resources, generation ramp rates, and system minimum generation level requirements on the value of improved wind power forecasting were also analyzed.« less

Hybrid diversity method utilizing adaptive diversity function for recovering unknown aberrations in an optical system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dean, Bruce H. (Inventor)

2009-01-01

A method of recovering unknown aberrations in an optical system includes collecting intensity data produced by the optical system, generating an initial estimate of a phase of the optical system, iteratively performing a phase retrieval on the intensity data to generate a phase estimate using an initial diversity function corresponding to the intensity data, generating a phase map from the phase retrieval phase estimate, decomposing the phase map to generate a decomposition vector, generating an updated diversity function by combining the initial diversity function with the decomposition vector, generating an updated estimate of the phase of the optical system by removing the initial diversity function from the phase map. The method may further include repeating the process beginning with iteratively performing a phase retrieval on the intensity data using the updated estimate of the phase of the optical system in place of the initial estimate of the phase of the optical system, and using the updated diversity function in place of the initial diversity function, until a predetermined convergence is achieved.

Using Model-Based Systems Engineering to Provide Artifacts for NASA Project Life-cycle and Technical Reviews

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Parrott, Edith L.; Weiland, Karen J.

2017-01-01

This paper is for the AIAA Space Conference. The ability of systems engineers to use model-based systems engineering (MBSE) to generate self-consistent, up-to-date systems engineering products for project life-cycle and technical reviews is an important aspect for the continued and accelerated acceptance of MBSE. Currently, many review products are generated using labor-intensive, error-prone approaches based on documents, spreadsheets, and chart sets; a promised benefit of MBSE is that users will experience reductions in inconsistencies and errors. This work examines features of SysML that can be used to generate systems engineering products. Model elements, relationships, tables, and diagrams are identified for a large number of the typical systems engineering artifacts. A SysML system model can contain and generate most systems engineering products to a significant extent and this paper provides a guide on how to use MBSE to generate products for project life-cycle and technical reviews. The use of MBSE can reduce the schedule impact usually experienced for review preparation, as in many cases the review products can be auto-generated directly from the system model. These approaches are useful to systems engineers, project managers, review board members, and other key project stakeholders.

Secondary electric power generation with minimum engine bleed

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tagge, G. E.

1983-01-01

Secondary electric power generation with minimum engine bleed is discussed. Present and future jet engine systems are compared. The role of auxiliary power units is evaluated. Details of secondary electric power generation systems with and without auxiliary power units are given. Advanced bleed systems are compared with minimum bleed systems. A cost model of ownership is given. The difference in the cost of ownership between a minimum bleed system and an advanced bleed system is given.

46 CFR 111.05-17 - Generation and distribution system grounding.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... Section 111.05-17 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING ELECTRIC SYSTEMS-GENERAL REQUIREMENTS Equipment Ground, Ground Detection, and Grounded Systems § 111.05-17... must: (a) Be grounded at the generator switchboard, except the neutral of an emergency power generation...

46 CFR 111.05-17 - Generation and distribution system grounding.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... Section 111.05-17 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING ELECTRIC SYSTEMS-GENERAL REQUIREMENTS Equipment Ground, Ground Detection, and Grounded Systems § 111.05-17... must: (a) Be grounded at the generator switchboard, except the neutral of an emergency power generation...

46 CFR 111.05-17 - Generation and distribution system grounding.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... Section 111.05-17 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING ELECTRIC SYSTEMS-GENERAL REQUIREMENTS Equipment Ground, Ground Detection, and Grounded Systems § 111.05-17... must: (a) Be grounded at the generator switchboard, except the neutral of an emergency power generation...

Prototyping with Application Generators: Lessons Learned from the Naval Aviation Logistics Command Management Information System Case

DTIC Science & Technology

1992-10-01

Prototyping with Application Generators: Lessons Learned from the Naval Aviation Logistics Command Management Information System Case. This study... management information system to automate manual Naval aviation maintenance tasks-NALCOMIS. With the use of a fourth-generation programming language

Empirical Analysis and Refinement of Expert System Knowledge Bases

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-08-31

refinement. Both a simulated case generation program, and a random rule basher were developed to enhance rule refinement experimentation. *Substantial...the second fiscal year 88 objective was fully met. Rule Refinement System Simulated Rule Basher Case Generator Stored Cases Expert System Knowledge...generated until the rule is satisfied. Cases may be randomly generated for a given rule or hypothesis. Rule Basher Given that one has a correct

Return of neonatal CPAP resistance - the Medijet device family examined using in vitro flow simulations.

PubMed

Falk, Markus; Donaldsson, Snorri; Jonsson, Baldvin; Drevhammar, Thomas

2017-11-01

Medijet nasal continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) generators are a family of devices developed from the Benveniste valve. Previous studies have shown that the in vitro performance of the Medijet disposable generator was similar to the Neopuff resistor system. We hypothesised that resistance would be the main mechanism of CPAP generation in the Medijet disposable generator. The in vitro performance of the Medijet reusable and disposable systems, the Neopuff resistor system and the Benveniste and Infant Flow nonresistor systems were investigated using static and dynamic bench tests. Large differences in performance were found between the different systems. The disposable Medijet demonstrated high resistance, low pressure stability and high imposed work of breathing. The results also showed that encapsulating the Benveniste valve changed it into a resistor system. The main mechanism of CPAP generation for the disposable Medijet generator was resistance. The Medijet device family showed increasing resistance with each design generation. The high resistance of the Medijet disposable generator could be of great value when examining the clinical importance of pressure stability. Our results suggest that this device should be used cautiously in patients where pressure-stable CPAP is believed to be clinically important. ©2017 Foundation Acta Paediatrica. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

A Method for Optimal Load Dispatch of a Multi-zone Power System with Zonal Exchange Constraints

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hazarika, Durlav; Das, Ranjay

2018-04-01

This paper presented a method for economic generation scheduling of a multi-zone power system having inter zonal operational constraints. For this purpose, the generator rescheduling for a multi area power system having inter zonal operational constraints has been represented as a two step optimal generation scheduling problem. At first, the optimal generation scheduling has been carried out for the zone having surplus or deficient generation with proper spinning reserve using co-ordination equation. The power exchange required for the deficit zones and zones having no generation are estimated based on load demand and generation for the zone. The incremental transmission loss formulas for the transmission lines participating in the power transfer process among the zones are formulated. Using these, incremental transmission loss expression in co-ordination equation, the optimal generation scheduling for the zonal exchange has been determined. Simulation is carried out on IEEE 118 bus test system to examine the applicability and validity of the method.

The MOD-OA 200 kilowatt wind turbine generator design and analysis report

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Andersen, T. S.; Bodenschatz, C. A.; Eggers, A. G.; Hughes, P. S.; Lampe, R. F.; Lipner, M. H.; Schornhorst, J. R.

1980-08-01

The project requirements, approach, system description, design requirements, design, analysis, system tests, installation safety considerations, failure modes and effects analysis, data acquisition, and initial performance for the MOD-OA 200 kw wind turbine generator are discussed. The components, the rotor, driven train, nacelle equipment, yaw drive mechanism and brake, tower, foundation, electrical system, and control systems are presented. The rotor includes the blades, hub and pitch change mechanism. The drive train includes the low speed shaft, speed increaser, high speed shaft, and rotor brake. The electrical system includes the generator, switchgear, transformer, and utility connection. The control systems are the blade pitch, yaw, and generator control, and the safety system. Manual, automatic, and remote control and Dynamic loads and fatigue are analyzed.

The MOD-OA 200 kilowatt wind turbine generator design and analysis report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Andersen, T. S.; Bodenschatz, C. A.; Eggers, A. G.; Hughes, P. S.; Lampe, R. F.; Lipner, M. H.; Schornhorst, J. R.

1980-01-01

The project requirements, approach, system description, design requirements, design, analysis, system tests, installation safety considerations, failure modes and effects analysis, data acquisition, and initial performance for the MOD-OA 200 kw wind turbine generator are discussed. The components, the rotor, driven train, nacelle equipment, yaw drive mechanism and brake, tower, foundation, electrical system, and control systems are presented. The rotor includes the blades, hub and pitch change mechanism. The drive train includes the low speed shaft, speed increaser, high speed shaft, and rotor brake. The electrical system includes the generator, switchgear, transformer, and utility connection. The control systems are the blade pitch, yaw, and generator control, and the safety system. Manual, automatic, and remote control and Dynamic loads and fatigue are analyzed.

Investigation of a generator system for generating electrical power, to supply directly to the public network, using a windmill

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tromp, C.

1979-01-01

A windpowered generator system is described which uses a windmill to convert mechanical energy to electrical energy for a three phase (network) voltage of constant amplitude and frequency. The generator system controls the windmill by the number of revolutions so that the power drawn from the wind for a given wind velocity is maximum. A generator revolution which is proportional to wind velocity is achieved. The stator of the generator is linked directly to the network and a feed converter at the rotor takes care of constant voltage and frequency at the stator.

FUZZY LOGIC BASED INTELLIGENT CONTROL OF A VARIABLE SPEED CAGE MACHINE WIND GENERATION SYSTEM

EPA Science Inventory

The paper describes a variable-speed wind generation system where fuzzy logic principles are used to optimize efficiency and enhance performance control. A squirrel cage induction generator feeds the power to a double-sided pulse width modulated converter system which either pump...

78 FR 68058 - Next Generation Risk Assessment: Incorporation of Recent Advances in Molecular, Computational...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-11-13

... Generation Risk Assessment: Incorporation of Recent Advances in Molecular, Computational, and Systems Biology... Generation Risk Assessment: Incorporation of Recent Advances in Molecular, Computational, and Systems Biology..., computational, and systems biology data can better inform risk assessment. This draft document is available for...

Systems of Generators for the Normalizers of Certain Elements of the Braid Group

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gurzo, G. G.

1985-06-01

Systems of generators of normalizers are determined for certain elements of the braid group {\\mathfrak{B}}_{n+1}. These systems of generators consist of fewer than 2n explicitly written words in the positive alphabet of {\\mathfrak{B}}_{n+1}. Bibliography: 10 titles.

Monitoring and control requirement definition study for Dispersed Storage and Generation (DSG), volume 1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1980-01-01

Twenty-four functional requirements were prepared under six categories and serve to indicate how to integrate dispersed storage generation (DSG) systems with the distribution and other portions of the electric utility system. Results indicate that there are no fundamental technical obstacles to prevent the connection of dispersed storage and generation to the distribution system. However, a communication system of some sophistication is required to integrate the distribution system and the dispersed generation sources for effective control. The large-size span of generators from 10 KW to 30 MW means that a variety of remote monitoring and control may be required. Increased effort is required to develop demonstration equipment to perform the DSG monitoring and control functions and to acquire experience with this equipment in the utility distribution environment.

Mitigation of steam generator tube rupture in a pressurized water reactor with passive safety systems

DOEpatents

McDermott, D.J.; Schrader, K.J.; Schulz, T.L.

1994-05-03

The effects of steam generator tube ruptures in a pressurized water reactor are mitigated by reducing the pressure in the primary loop by diverting reactor coolant through the heat exchanger of a passive heat removal system immersed in the in containment refueling water storage tank in response to a high feed water level in the steam generator. Reactor coolant inventory is maintained by also in response to high steam generator level introducing coolant into the primary loop from core make-up tanks at the pressure in the reactor coolant system pressurizer. The high steam generator level is also used to isolate the start-up feed water system and the chemical and volume control system to prevent flooding into the steam header. 2 figures.

Mitigation of steam generator tube rupture in a pressurized water reactor with passive safety systems

DOEpatents

McDermott, Daniel J.; Schrader, Kenneth J.; Schulz, Terry L.

1994-01-01

The effects of steam generator tube ruptures in a pressurized water reactor are mitigated by reducing the pressure in the primary loop by diverting reactor coolant through the heat exchanger of a passive heat removal system immersed in the in containment refueling water storage tank in response to a high feed water level in the steam generator. Reactor coolant inventory is maintained by also in response to high steam generator level introducing coolant into the primary loop from core make-up tanks at the pressure in the reactor coolant system pressurizer. The high steam generator level is also used to isolate the start-up feed water system and the chemical and volume control system to prevent flooding into the steam header. 2 figures.

A trajectory generation and system characterization model for cislunar low-thrust spacecraft. Volume 2: Technical manual

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Korsmeyer, David J.; Pinon, Elfego, III; Oconnor, Brendan M.; Bilby, Curt R.

1990-01-01

The documentation of the Trajectory Generation and System Characterization Model for the Cislunar Low-Thrust Spacecraft is presented in Technical and User's Manuals. The system characteristics and trajectories of low thrust nuclear electric propulsion spacecraft can be generated through the use of multiple system technology models coupled with a high fidelity trajectory generation routine. The Earth to Moon trajectories utilize near Earth orbital plane alignment, midcourse control dependent upon the spacecraft's Jacobian constant, and capture to target orbit utilizing velocity matching algorithms. The trajectory generation is performed in a perturbed two-body equinoctial formulation and the restricted three-body formulation. A single control is determined by the user for the interactive midcourse portion of the trajectory. The full spacecraft system characteristics and trajectory are provided as output.

Welfare and Generational Equity in Sustainable Unfunded Pension Systems

PubMed Central

Auerbach, Alan J.; Lee, Ronald

2011-01-01

Using stochastic simulations we analyze how public pension structures spread the risks arising from demographic and economic shocks across generations. We consider several actual and hypothetical sustainable PAYGO pension structures, including: (1) versions of the US Social Security system with annual adjustments of taxes or benefits to maintain fiscal balance; (2) Sweden’s Notional Defined Contribution system and several variants developed to improve fiscal stability; and (3) the German system, which also includes annual adjustments to maintain fiscal balance. For each system, we present descriptive measures of uncertainty in representative outcomes for a typical generation and across generations. We then estimate expected utility for generations based on simplifying assumptions and incorporate these expected utility calculations in an overall social welfare measure. Using a horizontal equity index, we also compare the different systems’ performance in terms of how neighboring generations are treated. While the actual Swedish system smoothes stochastic fluctuations more than any other and produces the highest degree of horizontal equity, it does so by accumulating a buffer stock of assets that alleviates the need for frequent adjustments. In terms of social welfare, this accumulation of assets leads to a lower average rate of return that more than offsets the benefits of risk reduction, leaving systems with more frequent adjustments that spread risks broadly among generations as those most preferred. PMID:21818166

Dynamic Radioisotope Power System Development for Space Explorations

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

Qualls, A L

Dynamic power conversion offers the potential to produce radioisotope power systems (RPS) that generate higher power outputs and utilize the Pu-238 radioisotope more efficiently than Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generators (RTG). Additionally, dynamic systems also offer the potential of producing generators with significantly reduced power degradation over the course of deep space missions so that more power will be available at the end of the mission when it is needed for both powering the science and transmitting the results. The development of dynamic generators involves addressing technical issues not typically associated with traditional thermoelectric generators. Developing long-life, robust and reliable dynamic conversionmore » technology is challenging yet essential to building a suitable generator. Considerations include working within existing handling infrastructure where possible so that development costs can be kept low and integrating dynamic generators into spacecraft, which may be more complex than integration of static systems. Methods of interfacing to and controlling a dynamic generator must be considered and new potential failure modes must be taken into account. This paper will address some of the key issues of dynamic RPS design, development and adaption.Dynamic power conversion offers the potential to produce Radioisotope Power Systems (RPS) that generate higher power outputs and utilize the available heat source plutonium fuel more efficiently than Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generators. Additionally, dynamic systems offer the potential of producing generators with significantly reduced power degradation over the course of deep space missions so that more power would be available at the end of the mission, when it is needed most for both powering science instruments and transmitting the resulting data. The development of dynamic generators involves addressing technical issues not typically associated with traditional thermoelectric generators. Developing long-life, robust, and reliable dynamic conversion technology is challenging yet essential to building a suitable flight-ready generator. Considerations include working within existing hardware-handling infrastructure, where possible, so that development costs can be kept low, and integrating dynamic generators into spacecraft, which may be more complex than integration of static thermoelectric systems. Methods of interfacing to and controlling a dynamic generator must also be considered, and new potential failure modes must be taken into account. This paper will address some of the key issues of dynamic RPS design, development, and adaption.« less

78 FR 24101 - Generator Requirements at the Transmission Interface

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-04-24

... (Transmission Vegetation Management), PRC-004- 2.1a (Analysis and Mitigation of Transmission and Generation Protection System Misoperations), and PRC-005-1.1b (Transmission and Generation Protection System Maintenance... (Transmission Vegetation Management), PRC-004- 2.1a (Analysis and Mitigation of Transmission and Generation...

Combustion Stability of the Gas Generator Assembly from J-2X Engine E10001 and Powerpack Tests

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hulka, J. R.; Kenny, R. L.; Casiano, M. J.

2013-01-01

Testing of a powerpack configuration (turbomachinery and gas generator assembly) and the first complete engine system of the liquid oxygen/liquid hydrogen propellant J-2X rocket engine have been completed at the NASA Stennis Space Center. The combustion stability characteristics of the gas generator assemblies on these two systems are of interest for reporting since considerable effort was expended to eliminate combustion instability during early development of the gas generator assembly with workhorse hardware. Comparing the final workhorse gas generator assembly development test data to the powerpack and engine system test data provides an opportunity to investigate how the nearly identical configurations of gas generator assemblies operate with two very different propellant supply systems one the autonomous pressure-fed test configuration on the workhorse development test stand, the other the pump-fed configurations on the powerpack and engine systems. The development of the gas generator assembly and the elimination of the combustion instability on the pressure-fed workhorse test stand have been reported extensively in the two previous Liquid Propulsion Subcommittee meetings 1-7. The powerpack and engine system testing have been conducted from mid-2011 through 2012. All tests of the powerpack and engine system gas generator systems to date have been stable. However, measureable dynamic behavior, similar to that observed on the pressure-fed test stand and reported in Ref. [6] and attributed to an injection-coupled response, has appeared in both powerpack and engine system tests. As discussed in Ref. [6], these injection-coupled responses are influenced by the interaction of the combustion chamber with a branch pipe in the hot gas duct that supplies gaseous helium to pre-spin the turbine during the start transient. This paper presents the powerpack and engine system gas generator test data, compares these data to the development test data, and provides additional combustion stability analyses of the configurations.

Analysis of the design and economics of molten carbonate fuel cell tri-generation systems providing heat and power for commercial buildings and H2 for FC vehicles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Xuping; Ogden, Joan; Yang, Christopher

2013-11-01

This study models the operation of molten carbonate fuel cell (MCFC) tri-generation systems for “big box” store businesses that combine grocery and retail business, and sometimes gasoline retail. Efficiency accounting methods and parameters for MCFC tri-generation systems have been developed. Interdisciplinary analysis and an engineering/economic model were applied for evaluating the technical, economic, and environmental performance of distributed MCFC tri-generation systems, and for exploring the optimal system design. Model results show that tri-generation is economically competitive with the conventional system, in which the stores purchase grid electricity and NG for heat, and sell gasoline fuel. The results are robust based on sensitivity analysis considering the uncertainty in energy prices and capital cost. Varying system sizes with base case engineering inputs, energy prices, and cost assumptions, it is found that there is a clear tradeoff between the portion of electricity demand covered and the capital cost increase of bigger system size. MCFC Tri-generation technology provides lower emission electricity, heat, and H2 fuel. With NG as feedstock the CO2 emission can be reduced by 10%-43.6%, depending on how the grid electricity is generated. With renewable methane as feedstock CO2 emission can be further reduced to near zero.

Automatic HDL firmware generation for FPGA-based reconfigurable measurement and control systems with mezzanines in FMC standard

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wojenski, Andrzej; Kasprowicz, Grzegorz; Pozniak, Krzysztof T.; Romaniuk, Ryszard

2013-10-01

The paper describes a concept of automatic firmware generation for reconfigurable measurement systems, which uses FPGA devices and measurement cards in FMC standard. Following sections are described in details: automatic HDL code generation for FPGA devices, automatic communication interfaces implementation, HDL drivers for measurement cards, automatic serial connection between multiple measurement backplane boards, automatic build of memory map (address space), automatic generated firmware management. Presented solutions are required in many advanced measurement systems, like Beam Position Monitors or GEM detectors. This work is a part of a wider project for automatic firmware generation and management of reconfigurable systems. Solutions presented in this paper are based on previous publication in SPIE.

Synthesis gas production by mixed conducting membranes with integrated conversion into liquid products

DOEpatents

Nataraj, Shankar; Russek, Steven Lee; Dyer, Paul Nigel

2000-01-01

Natural gas or other methane-containing feed gas is converted to a C.sub.5 -C.sub.19 hydrocarbon liquid in an integrated system comprising an oxygenative synthesis gas generator, a non-oxygenative synthesis gas generator, and a hydrocarbon synthesis process such as the Fischer-Tropsch process. The oxygenative synthesis gas generator is a mixed conducting membrane reactor system and the non-oxygenative synthesis gas generator is preferably a heat exchange reformer wherein heat is provided by hot synthesis gas product from the mixed conducting membrane reactor system. Offgas and water from the Fischer-Tropsch process can be recycled to the synthesis gas generation system individually or in combination.

Entertainment and Pacification System For Car Seat

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Elrod, Susan Vinz (Inventor); Dabney, Richard W. (Inventor)

2006-01-01

An entertainment and pacification system for use with a child car seat has speakers mounted in the child car seat with a plurality of audio sources and an anti-noise audio system coupled to the child car seat. A controllable switching system provides for, at any given time, the selective activation of i) one of the audio sources such that the audio signal generated thereby is coupled to one or more of the speakers, and ii) the anti-noise audio system such that an ambient-noise-canceling audio signal generated thereby is coupled to one or more of the speakers. The controllable switching system can receive commands generated at one of first controls located at the child car seat and second controls located remotely with respect to the child car seat with commands generated by the second controls overriding commands generated by the first controls.

Comparative Emissions of Random Orbital Sanding between Conventional and Self-Generated Vacuum Systems

PubMed Central

Liverseed, David R.

2013-01-01

Conventional abrasive sanding generates high concentrations of particles. Depending on the substrate being abraded and exposure duration, overexposure to the particles can cause negative health effects ranging from respiratory irritation to cancer. The goal of this study was to understand the differences in particle emissions between a conventional random orbital sanding system and a self-generated vacuum random orbital sanding system with attached particle filtration bag. Particle concentrations were sampled for each system in a controlled test chamber for oak wood, chromate painted (hexavalent chromium) steel panels, and gel-coated (titanium dioxide) fiberglass panels using a Gesamtstaub-Probenahmesystem (GSP) sampler at three different locations adjacent to the sanding. Elevated concentrations were reported for all particles in the samples collected during conventional sanding. The geometric mean concentration ratios for the three substrates ranged from 320 to 4640 times greater for the conventional sanding system than the self-generated vacuum sanding system. The differences in the particle concentration generated by the two sanding systems were statistically significant with the two sample t-test (P < 0.0001) for all three substances. The data suggest that workers using conventional sanding systems could utilize the self-generated vacuum sanding system technology to potentially reduce exposure to particles and mitigate negative health effects. PMID:23065674

Comparative emissions of random orbital sanding between conventional and self-generated vacuum systems.

PubMed

Liverseed, David R; Logan, Perry W; Johnson, Carl E; Morey, Sandy Z; Raynor, Peter C

2013-03-01

Conventional abrasive sanding generates high concentrations of particles. Depending on the substrate being abraded and exposure duration, overexposure to the particles can cause negative health effects ranging from respiratory irritation to cancer. The goal of this study was to understand the differences in particle emissions between a conventional random orbital sanding system and a self-generated vacuum random orbital sanding system with attached particle filtration bag. Particle concentrations were sampled for each system in a controlled test chamber for oak wood, chromate painted (hexavalent chromium) steel panels, and gel-coated (titanium dioxide) fiberglass panels using a Gesamtstaub-Probenahmesystem (GSP) sampler at three different locations adjacent to the sanding. Elevated concentrations were reported for all particles in the samples collected during conventional sanding. The geometric mean concentration ratios for the three substrates ranged from 320 to 4640 times greater for the conventional sanding system than the self-generated vacuum sanding system. The differences in the particle concentration generated by the two sanding systems were statistically significant with the two sample t-test (P < 0.0001) for all three substances. The data suggest that workers using conventional sanding systems could utilize the self-generated vacuum sanding system technology to potentially reduce exposure to particles and mitigate negative health effects.

Variable Cycle Intake for Reverse Core Engine

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chandler, Jesse M (Inventor); Staubach, Joseph B (Inventor); Suciu, Gabriel L (Inventor)

2016-01-01

A gas generator for a reverse core engine propulsion system has a variable cycle intake for the gas generator, which variable cycle intake includes a duct system. The duct system is configured for being selectively disposed in a first position and a second position, wherein free stream air is fed to the gas generator when in the first position, and fan stream air is fed to the gas generator when in the second position.

The generative power of weighted one-sided and regular sticker systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Siang, Gan Yee; Heng, Fong Wan; Sarmin, Nor Haniza; Turaev, Sherzod

2014-06-01

Sticker systems were introduced in 1998 as one of the DNA computing models by using the recombination behavior of DNA molecules. The Watson-Crick complementary principle of DNA molecules is abstractly used in the sticker systems to perform the computation of sticker systems. In this paper, the generative power of weighted one-sided sticker systems and weighted regular sticker systems are investigated. Moreover, the relationship of the families of languages generated by these two variants of sticker systems to the Chomsky hierarchy is also presented.

Mathematical modeling of control system for the experimental steam generator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Podlasek, Szymon; Lalik, Krzysztof; Filipowicz, Mariusz; Sornek, Krzysztof; Kupski, Robert; Raś, Anita

2016-03-01

A steam generator is an essential unit of each cogeneration system using steam machines. Currently one of the cheapest ways of the steam generation can be application of old steam generators came from army surplus store. They have relatively simple construction and in case of not so exploited units - quite good general conditions, and functionality of mechanical components. By contrast, electrical components and control systems (mostly based on relay automatics) are definitely obsolete. It is not possible to use such units with cooperation of steam bus or with steam engines. In particular, there is no possibility for automatically adjustment of the pressure and the temperature of the generated steam supplying steam engines. Such adjustment is necessary in case of variation of a generator load. The paper is devoted to description of improvement of an exemplary unit together with construction of the measurement-control system based on a PLC. The aim was to enable for communication between the steam generator and controllers of the steam bus and steam engines in order to construction of a complete, fully autonomic and maintenance-free microcogeneration system.

Wind Energy Management System Integration Project Incorporating Wind Generation and Load Forecast Uncertainties into Power Grid Operations

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

Makarov, Yuri V.; Huang, Zhenyu; Etingov, Pavel V.

2010-09-01

The power system balancing process, which includes the scheduling, real time dispatch (load following) and regulation processes, is traditionally based on deterministic models. Since the conventional generation needs time to be committed and dispatched to a desired megawatt level, the scheduling and load following processes use load and wind power production forecasts to achieve future balance between the conventional generation and energy storage on the one side, and system load, intermittent resources (such as wind and solar generation) and scheduled interchange on the other side. Although in real life the forecasting procedures imply some uncertainty around the load and windmore » forecasts (caused by forecast errors), only their mean values are actually used in the generation dispatch and commitment procedures. Since the actual load and intermittent generation can deviate from their forecasts, it becomes increasingly unclear (especially, with the increasing penetration of renewable resources) whether the system would be actually able to meet the conventional generation requirements within the look-ahead horizon, what the additional balancing efforts would be needed as we get closer to the real time, and what additional costs would be incurred by those needs. In order to improve the system control performance characteristics, maintain system reliability, and minimize expenses related to the system balancing functions, it becomes necessary to incorporate the predicted uncertainty ranges into the scheduling, load following, and, in some extent, into the regulation processes. It is also important to address the uncertainty problem comprehensively, by including all sources of uncertainty (load, intermittent generation, generators’ forced outages, etc.) into consideration. All aspects of uncertainty such as the imbalance size (which is the same as capacity needed to mitigate the imbalance) and generation ramping requirement must be taken into account. The latter unique features make this work a significant step forward toward the objective of incorporating of wind, solar, load, and other uncertainties into power system operations. In this report, a new methodology to predict the uncertainty ranges for the required balancing capacity, ramping capability and ramp duration is presented. Uncertainties created by system load forecast errors, wind and solar forecast errors, generation forced outages are taken into account. The uncertainty ranges are evaluated for different confidence levels of having the actual generation requirements within the corresponding limits. The methodology helps to identify system balancing reserve requirement based on a desired system performance levels, identify system “breaking points”, where the generation system becomes unable to follow the generation requirement curve with the user-specified probability level, and determine the time remaining to these potential events. The approach includes three stages: statistical and actual data acquisition, statistical analysis of retrospective information, and prediction of future grid balancing requirements for specified time horizons and confidence intervals. Assessment of the capacity and ramping requirements is performed using a specially developed probabilistic algorithm based on a histogram analysis incorporating all sources of uncertainty and parameters of a continuous (wind forecast and load forecast errors) and discrete (forced generator outages and failures to start up) nature. Preliminary simulations using California Independent System Operator (California ISO) real life data have shown the effectiveness of the proposed approach. A tool developed based on the new methodology described in this report will be integrated with the California ISO systems. Contractual work is currently in place to integrate the tool with the AREVA EMS system.« less

FEM Simulation of Small Wind Power Generating System Using PMSG

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kesamaru, Katsumi; Ohno, Yoshihiro; Sonoda, Daisuke

The paper describes a new approach to simulate the small wind power generating systems using PMSG, in which the output is connected to constant resistive load, such as heaters, through the rectifier and the dc chopper. The dynamics of the wind power generating system is presented, and it is shown by simulation results that this approach is useful for system dynamics, such as starting phenomena.

Optimal Configuration of PV System with Different Solar Cell Arrays

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Machida, Sadayuki; Tani, Tatsuo

Photovoltaic (PV) power generation is spreading steadily, and the dispersed PV array system is increasing from the architectural restrictions. In the case of dispersed array system, if the arrays are installed in a different azimuth or if the module that constitutes array is different, mismatching loss will be generated when a single inverter is used to convert the output of arrays, because of the difference of optimal operating voltage. The loss is related to the array configuration. However the relation between array configuration and power generation output is not clear. In order to avoid generation of mismatching loss, introducing a distributed inverter system such as string inverter system or AC modules system is considered. However it is not clear which is more advantageous between a distributed system and a concentrated system. In this paper, we verified the output characteristics of two different solar cell arrays with various strings, azimuths and tilt angles, and clarified the relation between array configuration and power generation output by the computer simulations. We also compared the distributed inverter system with the concentrated inverter system, and clarified the optimal configuration of PV system with different solar cell arrays.

Comparing Different Fault Identification Algorithms in Distributed Power System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alkaabi, Salim

A power system is a huge complex system that delivers the electrical power from the generation units to the consumers. As the demand for electrical power increases, distributed power generation was introduced to the power system. Faults may occur in the power system at any time in different locations. These faults cause a huge damage to the system as they might lead to full failure of the power system. Using distributed generation in the power system made it even harder to identify the location of the faults in the system. The main objective of this work is to test the different fault location identification algorithms while tested on a power system with the different amount of power injected using distributed generators. As faults may lead the system to full failure, this is an important area for research. In this thesis different fault location identification algorithms have been tested and compared while the different amount of power is injected from distributed generators. The algorithms were tested on IEEE 34 node test feeder using MATLAB and the results were compared to find when these algorithms might fail and the reliability of these methods.

Aircraft Photovoltaic Power-Generating System.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Doellner, Oscar Leonard

Photovoltaic cells, appropriately cooled and operating in the combustion-created high radiant-intensity environment of gas-turbine and jet engines, may replace the conventional (gearbox-driven) electrical power generators aboard jet aircraft. This study projects significant improvements not only in aircraft electrical power-generating-system performance, but also in overall aircraft performance. Jet -engine design modifications incorporating this concept not only save weight (and thus fuel), but are--in themselves --favorable to jet-engine performance. The dissertation concentrates on operational, constructional, structural, thermal, optical, radiometrical, thin-film, and solid-state theoretical aspects of the overall project. This new electrical power-generating system offers solid-state reliability with electrical power-output capability comparable to that of existing aircraft electromechanical power-generating systems (alternators and generators). In addition to improvements in aircraft performance, significant aircraft fuel- and weight-saving advantages are projected.

A two-channel action-potential generator for testing neurophysiologic data acquisition/analysis systems.

PubMed

Lisiecki, R S; Voigt, H F

1995-08-01

A 2-channel action-potential generator system was designed for use in testing neurophysiologic data acquisition/analysis systems. The system consists of a personal computer controlling an external hardware unit. This system is capable of generating 2 channels of simulated action potential (AP) waveshapes. The AP waveforms are generated from the linear combination of 2 principal-component template functions. Each channel generates randomly occurring APs with a specified rate ranging from 1 to 200 events per second. The 2 trains may be independent of one another or the second channel may be made to be excited or inhibited by the events from the first channel with user-specified probabilities. A third internal channel may be made to excite or inhibit events in both of the 2 output channels with user-specified rate parameters and probabilities. The system produces voltage waveforms that may be used to test neurophysiologic data acquisition systems for recording from 2 spike trains simultaneously and for testing multispike-train analysis (e.g., cross-correlation) software.

An Approach to Establishing System Benefits for Technology in NASA's Hypersonics Investment Area

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hueter, Uwe; Pannell, Bill; Cook, Stephen (Technical Monitor)

2001-01-01

NASA's has established long term goals for access-to-space. The third generation launch systems are to be fully reusable and operational around 2025. The goals for the third generation launch system are to significantly reduce cost and improve safety over current systems. The Advanced Space Transportation Program (ASTP) Office at the NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, AL has the agency lead to develop space transportation technologies. Within ASTP, under the Hypersonics Investment Area, third generation technologies are being pursued. The Hypersonics Investment Area's primary objective is to mature vehicle technologies to enable substantial increases in the design and operating margins of third generation RLVs (current Space Shuttle is considered the first generation RLV) by incorporating advanced propulsion systems, materials, structures, thermal protection systems, power, and avionics technologies. The paper describes the system process, tools and concepts used to determine the technology benefits. Preliminary results will be presented along with the current technology investments that are being made by ASTP's Hypersonics Investment Area.

Maskless micro-ion-beam reduction lithography system

DOEpatents

Leung, Ka-Ngo; Barletta, William A.; Patterson, David O.; Gough, Richard A.

2005-05-03

A maskless micro-ion-beam reduction lithography system is a system for projecting patterns onto a resist layer on a wafer with feature size down to below 100 nm. The MMRL system operates without a stencil mask. The patterns are generated by switching beamlets on and off from a two electrode blanking system or pattern generator. The pattern generator controllably extracts the beamlet pattern from an ion source and is followed by a beam reduction and acceleration column.

Competition and Cooperation of Distributed Generation and Power System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miyake, Masatoshi; Nanahara, Toshiya

Advances in distributed generation technologies together with the deregulation of an electric power industry can lead to a massive introduction of distributed generation. Since most of distributed generation will be interconnected to a power system, coordination and competition between distributed generators and large-scale power sources would be a vital issue in realizing a more desirable energy system in the future. This paper analyzes competitions between electric utilities and cogenerators from the viewpoints of economic and energy efficiency based on the simulation results on an energy system including a cogeneration system. First, we examine best response correspondence of an electric utility and a cogenerator with a noncooperative game approach: we obtain a Nash equilibrium point. Secondly, we examine the optimum strategy that attains the highest social surplus and the highest energy efficiency through global optimization.

Implantable power generation system utilizing muscle contractions excited by electrical stimulation.

PubMed

Sahara, Genta; Hijikata, Wataru; Tomioka, Kota; Shinshi, Tadahiko

2016-06-01

An implantable power generation system driven by muscle contractions for supplying power to active implantable medical devices, such as pacemakers and neurostimulators, is proposed. In this system, a muscle is intentionally contracted by an electrical stimulation in accordance with the demands of the active implantable medical device for electrical power. The proposed system, which comprises a small electromagnetic induction generator, electrodes with an electrical circuit for stimulation and a transmission device to convert the linear motion of the muscle contractions into rotational motion for the magneto rotor, generates electrical energy. In an ex vivo demonstration using the gastrocnemius muscle of a toad, which was 28 mm in length and weighed 1.3 g, the electrical energy generated by the prototype exceeded the energy consumed for electrical stimulation, with the net power being 111 µW. It was demonstrated that the proposed implantable power generation system has the potential to replace implantable batteries for active implantable medical devices. © IMechE 2016.

Solar power generation system for reducing leakage current

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Jinn-Chang; Jou, Hurng-Liahng; Hung, Chih-Yi

2018-04-01

This paper proposes a transformer-less multi-level solar power generation system. This solar power generation system is composed of a solar cell array, a boost power converter, an isolation switch set and a full-bridge inverter. A unipolar pulse-width modulation (PWM) strategy is used in the full-bridge inverter to attenuate the output ripple current. Circuit isolation is accomplished by integrating the isolation switch set between the solar cell array and the utility, to suppress the leakage current. The isolation switch set also determines the DC bus voltage for the full-bridge inverter connecting to the solar cell array or the output of the boost power converter. Accordingly, the proposed transformer-less multi-level solar power generation system generates a five-level voltage, and the partial power of the solar cell array is also converted to AC power using only the full-bridge inverter, so the power efficiency is increased. A prototype is developed to validate the performance of the proposed transformer-less multi-level solar power generation system.

Programmable Pulse Generator for Aditya Gas Puffing System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Patel, Narendra; Chavda, Chhaya; Bhatt, S. B.; Chattopadhyay, Prabal; Saxena, Y. C.

2012-11-01

In the Aditya Tokamak, one of primary requirement for plasma generation is to feed the required quantity of the fuel gas prior to plasma shot. Gas feed system mainly consists of piezoelectric gas leak valve and gas reservoir. The Hydrogen gas is prior to 300ms loop voltage for the duration of 4 msec to 7 msec. Gas is puffed during the shot for required plasma parameters and to increase plasma density using the same system. The valve is controlled by either continuous voltage or pulses of different width, amplitude and delay with respect to loop voltage. These voltage pulses are normally applied through standard pulse generator. The standard pulse generator is replaced by micro controller based in housed developed programmable pulse generator system consists of in built power supply, BNC input for external trigger, BNC output and serial interface. This programmable pulse generator is successfully tested and is in operation for gas puffing during ADITYA Tokamak experiments. The paper discusses the design and development aspect of the system.

Assessment of the Study of Army Logistics 1981. Volume II. Analysis of Recommendations.

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-02-01

conceived. This third generation equipment, because of its size, cost and processing characteristics, demands large scale integrated processing with a... generated by DS4. Three systems changes to SAILS ABX have been implemented which reduce the volume of supply status provided to the DS4 system. 15... generated by the wholesale system by 50 percent or nearly 1,000,000 transactions per month. Additional reductions will be generated by selected status

Entry System Design Considerations for Mars Landers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lockwood, Mary Kae; Powell, Richard W.; Graves, Claude A.; Carman, Gilbert L.

2001-01-01

The objective for the next generation or Mars landers is to enable a safe landing at specific locations of scientific interest. The 1st generation entry, descent and landing systems, ex. Viking and Pathfinder, provided successful landing on Mars but by design were limited to large scale, 100s of km, landing sites with minimal local hazards. The 2 nd generation landers, or smart landers, will provide scientists with access to previously unachievable landing sites by providing precision landing to less than 10 km of a target landing site, with the ability to perform local hazard avoidance, and provide hazard tolerance. This 2nd generation EDL system can be utilized for a range of robotic missions with vehicles sized for science payloads from the small 25-70 kg, Viking, Pathfinder, Mars Polar Lander and Mars Exploration Rover-class, to the large robotic Mars Sample Return, 300 kg plus, science payloads. The 2nd generation system can also be extended to a 3nd generation EDL system with pinpoint landing, 10's of meters of landing accuracy, for more capable robotic or human missions. This paper will describe the design considerations for 2nd generation landers. These landers are currently being developed by a consortium of NASA centers, government agencies, industry and academic institutions. The extension of this system and additional considerations required for a 3nd generation human mission to Mars will be described.

Thin Thermoelectric Generator System for Body Energy Harvesting

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Settaluri, Krishna T.; Lo, Hsinyi; Ram, Rajeev J.

2012-06-01

Wearable thermoelectric generators (TEGs) harvest thermal energy generated by the body to generate useful electricity. The performance of these systems is limited by (1) the small working temperature differential between the body and ambient, (2) the desire to use natural air convection cooling on the cold side of the generator, and (3) the requirement for thin, lightweight systems that are comfortable for long-term use. Our work has focused on the design of the heat transfer system as part of the overall thermoelectric (TE) system. In particular, the small heat transfer coefficient for natural air convection results in a module thermal impedance that is smaller than that of the heat sink. In this heat-sink-limited regime, the thermal resistance of the generator should be optimized to match that of the heat sink to achieve the best performance. In addition, we have designed flat (1 mm thickness) copper heat spreaders to realize performance surpassing splayed pin heat sinks. Two-dimensional (2-D) heat spreading exploits the large surface area available in a wristband and allows patterned copper to efficiently cool the TE. A direct current (DC)/DC converter is integrated on the wristband. The system generates up to 28.5 μW/cm2 before the converter and 8.6 μW/cm2 after the converter, with 30% efficiency. It generates output of 4.15 V with overall thickness under 5 mm.

Improvement of the efficiency of a space oxygen-hydrogen electrochemical generator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Glukhikh, I. N.; Shcherbakov, A. N.; Chelyaev, V. F.

2014-12-01

This paper describes the method used for cooling of an on-board oxygen-hydrogen electrochemical generator (ECG). Apart from electric power, such a unit produces water of reaction and heat; the latter is an additional load on the thermal control system of a space vehicle. This load is undesirable in long-duration space flights, when specific energy characteristics of on-board systems are the determining factors. It is suggested to partially compensate the energy consumption by the thermal control system of a space vehicle required for cooling of the electrochemical generator through evaporation of water of reaction from the generator into a vacuum (or through ice sublimation if the pressure in the ambient space is lower than that in the triple point of water.) Such method of cooling of an electrochemical generator improves specific energy parameters of an on-board electric power supply system, and, due to the presence of the negative feedback, it makes the operation of this system more stable. Estimates suggest that it is possible to compensate approximately one half of heat released from the generator through evaporation of its water of reaction at the electrical efficiency of the electrochemical generator equal to 60%. In this case, even minor increase in the efficiency of the generator would result in a considerable increase in the efficiency of the evaporative system intended for its cooling.

Real-time high speed generator system emulation with hardware-in-the-loop application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stroupe, Nicholas

The emerging emphasis and benefits of distributed generation on smaller scale networks has prompted much attention and focus to research in this field. Much of the research that has grown in distributed generation has also stimulated the development of simulation software and techniques. Testing and verification of these distributed power networks is a complex task and real hardware testing is often desired. This is where simulation methods such as hardware-in-the-loop become important in which an actual hardware unit can be interfaced with a software simulated environment to verify proper functionality. In this thesis, a simulation technique is taken one step further by utilizing a hardware-in-the-loop technique to emulate the output voltage of a generator system interfaced to a scaled hardware distributed power system for testing. The purpose of this thesis is to demonstrate a new method of testing a virtually simulated generation system supplying a scaled distributed power system in hardware. This task is performed by using the Non-Linear Loads Test Bed developed by the Energy Conversion and Integration Thrust at the Center for Advanced Power Systems. This test bed consists of a series of real hardware developed converters consistent with the Navy's All-Electric-Ship proposed power system to perform various tests on controls and stability under the expected non-linear load environment of the Navy weaponry. This test bed can also explore other distributed power system research topics and serves as a flexible hardware unit for a variety of tests. In this thesis, the test bed will be utilized to perform and validate this newly developed method of generator system emulation. In this thesis, the dynamics of a high speed permanent magnet generator directly coupled with a micro turbine are virtually simulated on an FPGA in real-time. The calculated output stator voltage will then serve as a reference for a controllable three phase inverter at the input of the test bed that will emulate and reproduce these voltages on real hardware. The output of the inverter is then connected with the rest of the test bed and can consist of a variety of distributed system topologies for many testing scenarios. The idea is that the distributed power system under test in hardware can also integrate real generator system dynamics without physically involving an actual generator system. The benefits of successful generator system emulation are vast and lead to much more detailed system studies without the draw backs of needing physical generator units. Some of these advantages are safety, reduced costs, and the ability of scaling while still preserving the appropriate system dynamics. This thesis will introduce the ideas behind generator emulation and explain the process and necessary steps to obtaining such an objective. It will also demonstrate real results and verification of numerical values in real-time. The final goal of this thesis is to introduce this new idea and show that it is in fact obtainable and can prove to be a highly useful tool in the simulation and verification of distributed power systems.

Power Couples: The Synergy Value of Battery-Generator Hybrids

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

Ericson, Sean J; Anderson, Katherine H; Engel-Cox, Jill

Battery hybrids - a battery system paired operationally with a generation system - can often provide more value than the individual systems alone. We identify and describe eight value streams that battery hybrids can provide. Additionally, we identify the trends of increasing renewable energy, demand for resilience, need for flexibility, and the increasing economics of hybrid systems of standalone diesel generation as supporting increased battery hybridization in the future.

Model-Driven Test Generation of Distributed Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Easwaran, Arvind; Hall, Brendan; Schweiker, Kevin

2012-01-01

This report describes a novel test generation technique for distributed systems. Utilizing formal models and formal verification tools, spe cifically the Symbolic Analysis Laboratory (SAL) tool-suite from SRI, we present techniques to generate concurrent test vectors for distrib uted systems. These are initially explored within an informal test validation context and later extended to achieve full MC/DC coverage of the TTEthernet protocol operating within a system-centric context.

NASTRAN data generation of helicopter fuselages using interactive graphics. [preprocessor system for finite element analysis using IBM computer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sainsbury-Carter, J. B.; Conaway, J. H.

1973-01-01

The development and implementation of a preprocessor system for the finite element analysis of helicopter fuselages is described. The system utilizes interactive graphics for the generation, display, and editing of NASTRAN data for fuselage models. It is operated from an IBM 2250 cathode ray tube (CRT) console driven by an IBM 370/145 computer. Real time interaction plus automatic data generation reduces the nominal 6 to 10 week time for manual generation and checking of data to a few days. The interactive graphics system consists of a series of satellite programs operated from a central NASTRAN Systems Monitor. Fuselage structural models including the outer shell and internal structure may be rapidly generated. All numbering systems are automatically assigned. Hard copy plots of the model labeled with GRID or elements ID's are also available. General purpose programs for displaying and editing NASTRAN data are included in the system. Utilization of the NASTRAN interactive graphics system has made possible the multiple finite element analysis of complex helicopter fuselage structures within design schedules.

Transient Analysis Generator /TAG/ simulates behavior of large class of electrical networks

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Thomas, W. J.

1967-01-01

Transient Analysis Generator program simulates both transient and dc steady-state behavior of a large class of electrical networks. It generates a special analysis program for each circuit described in an easily understood and manipulated programming language. A generator or preprocessor and a simulation system make up the TAG system.

46 CFR 129.326 - Dual-voltage generators.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Dual-voltage generators. 129.326 Section 129.326... INSTALLATIONS Power Sources and Distribution Systems § 129.326 Dual-voltage generators. If a dual-voltage generator is installed on an OSV— (a) The neutral of the dual-voltage system must be solidly grounded at the...

77 FR 40647 - Biweekly Notice; Applications and Amendments to Facility Operating Licenses and Combined Licenses...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-07-10

... operation of the shared unit's diesel generator (emergency power) and to assure long term operation of the... actuation system limiting safety system settings, and emergency diesel generator surveillance start voltage... specification for the Vogtle Electric Generating Plant, Units 1 and 2, associated with the ``Steam Generator (SG...

Limits and Economic Effects of Distributed PV Generation in North and South Carolina

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Holt, Kyra Moore

The variability of renewable sources, such as wind and solar, when integrated into the electrical system must be compensated by traditional generation sources in-order to maintain the constant balance of supply and demand required for grid stability. The goal of this study is to analyze the effects of increasing large levels of solar Photovoltaic (PV) penetration (in terms of a percentage of annual energy production) on a test grid with similar characteristics to the Duke Energy Carolinas (DEC) and Progress Energy Carolinas (PEC) regions of North and South Carolina. PV production is modeled entering the system at the distribution level and regional PV capacity is based on household density. A gridded hourly global horizontal irradiance (GHI) dataset is used to capture the variable nature of PV generation. A unit commitment model (UCM) is then used determine the hourly dispatch of generators based on generator parameters and costs to supply generation to meet demand. Annual modeled results for six different scenarios are evaluated to determine technical, environmental and economic effects of varying levels of distributed PV penetration on the system. This study finds that the main limiting factor for PV integration in the DEC and PEC balancing authority regions is defined by the large generating capacity of base-load nuclear plants within the system. This threshold starts to affect system stability at integration levels of 5.7%. System errors, defined by imbalances caused by over or under generation with respect to demand, are identified in the model however the validity of these errors in real world context needs further examination due to the lack of high frequency irradiance data and modeling limitations. Operational system costs decreased as expected with PV integration although further research is needed to explore the impacts of the capital costs required to achieve the penetration levels found in this study. PV system generation was found to mainly displace coal generation creating a loss of revenue for generator owners. In all scenarios, CO 2 emissions were reduced with PV integration. This reduction could be used to meet impending EPA state-specific CO2 emissions targets.

Flow pumping system for physiological waveforms.

PubMed

Tsai, William; Savaş, Omer

2010-02-01

A pulsatile flow pumping system is developed to replicate flow waveforms with reasonable accuracy for experiments simulating physiological blood flows at numerous points in the body. The system divides the task of flow waveform generation between two pumps: a gear pump generates the mean component and a piston pump generates the oscillatory component. The system is driven by two programmable servo controllers. The frequency response of the system is used to characterize its operation. The system has been successfully tested in vascular flow experiments where sinusoidal, carotid, and coronary flow waveforms are replicated.

The Goodrich 3rd generation DB-110 system: operational on tactical and unmanned aircraft

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Iyengar, Mrinal; Lange, Davis

2006-05-01

Goodrich's DB-110 Reconnaissance Airborne Pod for TORnado (RAPTOR) and Data Link Ground Station (DLGS) have been used operationally for several years by the Royal Air Force (RAF). A variant of the RAPTOR DB-110 Sensor System is currently being used by the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF). Recently, the DB-110 system was flown on the Predator B Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), demonstrating the DB-110 system's utility on unmanned reconnaissance aircraft. The DB-110 is a dual-band EO and IR imaging capability for long, medium, and short standoff ranges, including oblique and over-flight imaging, in a single sensor package. The DB-110 system has also proven performance for real-time high bandwidth data link imagery transmission. Goodrich has leveraged this operational experience in building a 3rd Generation DB-110 system including new Reconnaissance Airborne Pod and Ground System, to be first used by the Polish Air Force. This 3rd Generation system maintains all the capability of the current 2nd Generation DB-110 system and adds several new features. The 3rd Generation system upgrades include an increase in resolution via new focal planes, addition of a third ("super-wide") field of view, and new avionics. This paper summarizes the Goodrich DB-110 3rd Generation System in terms of its basic design and capabilities. Recent demonstration of the DB-110 on the Predator B UAV is overviewed including sample imagery.

Solar Thermal Small Power Systems Study. Inventory of US industrial small electric power generating systems. [Less than 10 MW

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

Not Available

This inventory of small industrial electric generating systems was assembled by The Aerospace Corporation to provide a data base for analyses being conducted to estimate the potential for displacement of these fossil-fueled systems by solar thermal electric systems no larger than 10 MW in rated capacity. The approximately 2100 megawatts generating capacity of systems in this category constitutes a potential market for small solar thermal and other solar electric power systems. The sources of data for this inventory were the (former) Federal Power Commission (FPC) Form 4 Industrial Ledger and Form 12-C Ledger for 1976. Table 1 alphabetically lists generatingmore » systems located at industrial plants and at Federal government installations in each of the 50 states. These systems are differentiated by type of power plant: steam turbine, diesel generator, or gas turbine. Each listing is designated as a power system rather than a power unit because the FPC Ledgers do not provide a means of determining whether more than one unit is associated with each industrial installation. Hence, the user should consider each listing to be a system capacity rating wherein the system may consist of one or more generating units with less than 10 MW/sub e/ combined rating. (WHK)« less

Control System for Bearingless Motor-generator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kascak, Peter E. (Inventor); Jansen, Ralph H. (Inventor); Dever, Timothy P. (Inventor)

2008-01-01

A control system for an electromagnetic rotary drive for bearingless motor-generators comprises a winding configuration comprising a plurality of individual pole pairs through which phase current flows, each phase current producing both a lateral force and a torque. A motor-generator comprises a stator, a rotor supported for movement relative to the stator, and a control system. The motor-generator comprises a winding configuration supported by the stator. The winding configuration comprises at least three pole pairs through which phase current flows resulting in three three-phase systems. Each phase system has a first rotor reference frame axis current that produces a levitating force with no average torque and a second rotor reference frame axis current that produces torque.

Supplementary steam - A viable hydrogen power generation concept

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wright, D. E.; Lee, J. C.

1979-01-01

Technical and economic aspects of a supplementary steam generation for peaking power applications are discussed. Preliminary designs of the hydrogen/oxygen combustors to be used for such applications are described. The integration of the hydrogen/oxygen steam-generating equipment into a typical coal-fired steam station is studied. The basic steam generation system was designed as a 20 MW supplementary system to be added to the existing 160 MW system. An analysis of the operating and design requirements of the supplementary system is conducted. Estimates were made for additional steam and fuel supply lines and for additional control required to operate the combustors and to integrate the combustor system into the facility.

Control system for bearingless motor-generator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jansen, Ralph H. (Inventor); Dever, Timothy P. (Inventor); Kascak, Peter E. (Inventor)

2010-01-01

A control system for an electromagnetic rotary drive for bearingless motor-generators comprises a winding configuration comprising a plurality of individual pole pairs through which phase current flows, each phase current producing both a lateral force and a torque. A motor-generator comprises a stator, a rotor supported for movement relative to the stator, and a control system. The motor-generator comprises a winding configuration supported by the stator. The winding configuration comprises at least three pole pairs through which phase current flows resulting in three three-phase systems. Each phase system has a first rotor reference frame axis current that produces a levitating force with no average torque and a second rotor reference frame axis current that produces torque.

Parity generator and parity checker in the modified trinary number system using savart plate and spatial light modulator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ghosh, Amal K.

2010-09-01

The parity generators and the checkers are the most important circuits in communication systems. With the development of multi-valued logic (MVL), the proposed system with parity generators and checkers is the most required using the recently developed optoelectronic technology in the modified trinary number (MTN) system. This system also meets up the tremendous needs of speeds by exploiting the savart plates and spatial light modulators (SLM) in the optical tree architecture (OTA).

Induction generators for Wind Energy Conversion Systems. Part I: review of induction generator with squirrel cage rotor. Part II: the Double Output Induction Generator (DOIG). Progress report, July-December 1975

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

Jayadev, T.S.

1976-02-01

The application of induction generators in Wind Energy Conversion Systems (WECS) is described. The conventional induction generator, which is an induction machine with a squirrel cage rotor, had been used in large wind power plants in Europe, but has not caught much attention until now by designers of large systems in this country. The induction generator with a squirrel cage rotor is described and useful design techniques to build induction generators for wind energy application are outlined. The Double Output Induction Generator (DOIG) - so called because power is fed into the grid from the stator, as well as themore » rotor is described. It is a wound rotor induction machine with power electronics to convert rotor slip frequency power to that of line frequency.« less

75 FR 63198 - Notice of Availability of the Record of Decision for the Ivanpah Solar Electric Generating System...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-10-14

... Ivanpah Solar Electric Generating System (ISEGS) Project located in San Bernardino County, California. The... FX0000 LVRWB09B2400 LLCAD09000] Notice of Availability of the Record of Decision for the Ivanpah Solar Electric Generating System Project and Approved Plan Amendment to the California Desert Conservation Area...

Analysis and discussion on anti-thunder scheme of wind power generation system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Shuguang

2017-01-01

Anti-thunder scheme of wind power generation system is discussed in this paper. Through the research and analysis on the harm of the thunder, division of lightning protection zone and lightning protection measures are put forward, which has a certain practical significance on the design and application of wind power generation system.

Transient stability enhancement of electric power generating systems by 120-degree phase rotation

DOEpatents

Cresap, Richard L.; Taylor, Carson W.; Kreipe, Michael J.

1982-01-01

A method and system for enhancing the transient stability of an intertied three-phase electric power generating system. A set of power exporting generators (10) is connected to a set of power importing generators (20). When a transient cannot be controlled by conventional stability controls, and imminent loss of synchronism is detected (such as when the equivalent rotor angle difference between the two generator sets exceeds a predetermined value, such as 150 degrees), the intertie is disconnected by circuit breakers. Then a switch (30) having a 120-degree phase rotation, or a circuit breaker having a 120-degree phase rotation is placed in the intertie. The intertie is then reconnected. This results in a 120-degree reduction in the equivalent rotor angle difference between the two generator sets, making the system more stable and allowing more time for the conventional controls to stabilize the transient.

Dispersed solar thermal generation employing parabolic dish-electric transport with field modulated generator systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ramakumar, R.; Bahrami, K.

1981-01-01

This paper discusses the application of field modulated generator systems (FMGS) to dispersed solar-thermal-electric generation from a parabolic dish field with electric transport. Each solar generation unit is rated at 15 kWe and the power generated by an array of such units is electrically collected for insertion into an existing utility grid. Such an approach appears to be most suitable when the heat engine rotational speeds are high (greater than 6000 r/min) and, in particular, if they are operated in the variable speed mode and if utility-grade a.c. is required for direct insertion into the grid without an intermediate electric energy storage and reconversion system. Predictions of overall efficiencies based on conservative efficiency figures for the FMGS are in the range of 25 per cent and should be encouraging to those involved in the development of cost-effective dispersed solar thermal power systems.

Case Study: Mobile Photovoltaic System at Bechler Meadows Ranger Station, Yellowstone National Park (Brochure)

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

None, None

The mobile PV/generator hybrid system deployed at Bechler Meadows provides a number of advantages. It reduces on-site air emissions from the generator. Batteries allow the generator to operate only at its rated power, reducing run-time and fuel consumption. Energy provided by the solar array reduces fuel consumption and run-time of the generator. The generator is off for most hours providing peace and quiet at the site. Maintenance trips from Mammoth Hot Springs to the remote site are reduced. The frequency of intrusive fuel deliveries to the pristine site is reduced. And the system gives rangers a chance to interpret Greenmore » Park values to the visiting public. As an added bonus, the system provides all these benefits at a lower cost than the basecase of using only a propane-fueled generator, reducing life cycle cost by about 26%.« less

Case Study: Mobile Photovoltaic System at Bechler Meadows Ranger Station, Yellowstone National Park

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

Andy Walker

The mobile PV/generator hybrid system deployed at Bechler Meadows provides a number of advantages. It reduces on-site air emissions from the generator. Batteries allow the generator to operate only at its rated power, reducing run-time and fuel consumption. Energy provided by the solar array reduces fuel consumption and run-time of the generator. The generator is off for most hours providing peace and quiet at the site. Maintenance trips from Mammoth Hot Springs to the remote site are reduced. The frequency of intrusive fuel deliveries to the pristine site is reduced. And the system gives rangers a chance to interpret Greenmore » Park values to the visiting public. As an added bonus, the system provides all these benefits at a lower cost than the basecase of using only a propane-fueled generator, reducing life cycle cost by about 26%.« less

Smart pitch control strategy for wind generation system using doubly fed induction generator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Raza, Syed Ahmed

A smart pitch control strategy for a variable speed doubly fed wind generation system is presented in this thesis. A complete dynamic model of DFIG system is developed. The model consists of the generator, wind turbine, aerodynamic and the converter system. The strategy proposed includes the use of adaptive neural network to generate optimized controller gains for pitch control. This involves the generation of controller parameters of pitch controller making use of differential evolution intelligent technique. Training of the back propagation neural network has been carried out for the development of an adaptive neural network. This tunes the weights of the network according to the system states in a variable wind speed environment. Four cases have been taken to test the pitch controller which includes step and sinusoidal changes in wind speeds. The step change is composed of both step up and step down changes in wind speeds. The last case makes use of scaled wind data collected from the wind turbine installed at King Fahd University beach front. Simulation studies show that the differential evolution based adaptive neural network is capable of generating the appropriate control to deliver the maximum possible aerodynamic power available from wind to the generator in an efficient manner by minimizing the transients.

Grants Document-Generation System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hairell, Terri; Kreymer, Lev; Martin, Greg; Sheridan, Patrick

2008-01-01

The Grants Document-Generation System (GDGS) software allows the generation of official grants documents for distribution to the appropriate parties. The documents are created after the selection and entry of specific data elements and clauses. GDGS is written in Cold Fusion that resides on an SQL2000 database and is housed on-site at Goddard Space Flight Center. It includes access security written around GSFC's (Goddard Space Flight Center's) LIST system, and allows for the entry of Procurement Request information necessary for the generation of the resulting Grant Award.

Automated generation of image products for Mars Exploration Rover Mission tactical operations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Alexander, Doug; Zamani, Payam; Deen, Robert; Andres, Paul; Mortensen, Helen

2005-01-01

This paper will discuss, from design to implementation, the methodologies applied to MIPL's automated pipeline processing as a 'system of systems' integrated with the MER GDS. Overviews of the interconnected product generating systems will also be provided with emphasis on interdependencies, including those for a) geometric rectificationn of camera lens distortions, b) generation of stereo disparity, c) derivation of 3-dimensional coordinates in XYZ space, d) generation of unified terrain meshes, e) camera-to-target ranging (distance) and f) multi-image mosaicking.

An Analysis of Elliptic Grid Generation Techniques Using an Implicit Euler Solver.

DTIC Science & Technology

1986-06-09

automatic determination of the control fu.nction, . elements of covariant metric tensor in the elliptic grid generation system , from the Cm = 1,2,3...computational fluid d’nan1-cs code. Tne code Inclues a tnree-dimensional current research is aimed primaril: at algebraic generation system based on transfinite...start the iterative solution of the f. ow, nea, transfer, and combustion proble:s. elliptic generation system . Tn13 feature also .:ven-.ts :.t be made

Pseudo-Random Number Generator Based on Coupled Map Lattices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lü, Huaping; Wang, Shihong; Hu, Gang

A one-way coupled chaotic map lattice is used for generating pseudo-random numbers. It is shown that with suitable cooperative applications of both chaotic and conventional approaches, the output of the spatiotemporally chaotic system can easily meet the practical requirements of random numbers, i.e., excellent random statistical properties, long periodicity of computer realizations, and fast speed of random number generations. This pseudo-random number generator system can be used as ideal synchronous and self-synchronizing stream cipher systems for secure communications.

U.S. Patent Pending, Cyberspace Security System for Complex Systems, U.S. Patent Application No.: 14/134,949

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

Abercrombie, Robert K; Sheldon, Frederick T; Mili, Ali

A computer implemented method monetizes the security of a cyber-system in terms of losses each stakeholder may expect to lose if a security break down occurs. A non-transitory media stores instructions for generating a stake structure that includes costs that each stakeholder of a system would lose if the system failed to meet security requirements and generating a requirement structure that includes probabilities of failing requirements when computer components fails. The system generates a vulnerability model that includes probabilities of a component failing given threats materializing and generates a perpetrator model that includes probabilities of threats materializing. The system generatesmore » a dot product of the stakes structure, the requirement structure, the vulnerability model and the perpetrator model. The system can further be used to compare, contrast and evaluate alternative courses of actions best suited for the stakeholders and their requirements.« less

Maximum wind energy extraction strategies using power electronic converters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Quincy Qing

2003-10-01

This thesis focuses on maximum wind energy extraction strategies for achieving the highest energy output of variable speed wind turbine power generation systems. Power electronic converters and controls provide the basic platform to accomplish the research of this thesis in both hardware and software aspects. In order to send wind energy to a utility grid, a variable speed wind turbine requires a power electronic converter to convert a variable voltage variable frequency source into a fixed voltage fixed frequency supply. Generic single-phase and three-phase converter topologies, converter control methods for wind power generation, as well as the developed direct drive generator, are introduced in the thesis for establishing variable-speed wind energy conversion systems. Variable speed wind power generation system modeling and simulation are essential methods both for understanding the system behavior and for developing advanced system control strategies. Wind generation system components, including wind turbine, 1-phase IGBT inverter, 3-phase IGBT inverter, synchronous generator, and rectifier, are modeled in this thesis using MATLAB/SIMULINK. The simulation results have been verified by a commercial simulation software package, PSIM, and confirmed by field test results. Since the dynamic time constants for these individual models are much different, a creative approach has also been developed in this thesis to combine these models for entire wind power generation system simulation. An advanced maximum wind energy extraction strategy relies not only on proper system hardware design, but also on sophisticated software control algorithms. Based on literature review and computer simulation on wind turbine control algorithms, an intelligent maximum wind energy extraction control algorithm is proposed in this thesis. This algorithm has a unique on-line adaptation and optimization capability, which is able to achieve maximum wind energy conversion efficiency through continuously improving the performance of wind power generation systems. This algorithm is independent of wind power generation system characteristics, and does not need wind speed and turbine speed measurements. Therefore, it can be easily implemented into various wind energy generation systems with different turbine inertia and diverse system hardware environments. In addition to the detailed description of the proposed algorithm, computer simulation results are presented in the thesis to demonstrate the advantage of this algorithm. As a final confirmation of the algorithm feasibility, the algorithm has been implemented inside a single-phase IGBT inverter, and tested with a wind simulator system in research laboratory. Test results were found consistent with the simulation results. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)

Design and Development of Micro-Power Generating Device for Biomedical Applications of Lab-on-a-Disc.

PubMed

Joseph, Karunan; Ibrahim, Fatimah; Cho, Jongman; Thio, Tzer Hwai Gilbert; Al-Faqheri, Wisam; Madou, Marc

2015-01-01

The development of micro-power generators for centrifugal microfluidic discs enhances the platform as a green point-of-care diagnostic system and eliminates the need for attaching external peripherals to the disc. In this work, we present micro-power generators that harvest energy from the disc's rotational movement to power biomedical applications on the disc. To implement these ideas, we developed two types of micro-power generators using piezoelectric films and an electromagnetic induction system. The piezoelectric-based generator takes advantage of the film's vibration during the disc's rotational motion, whereas the electromagnetic induction-based generator operates on the principle of current generation in stacks of coil exposed to varying magnetic flux. We have successfully demonstrated that at the spinning speed of 800 revolutions per minute (RPM) the piezoelectric film-based generator is able to produce up to 24 microwatts using 6 sets of films and the magnetic induction-based generator is capable of producing up to 125 milliwatts using 6 stacks of coil. As a proof of concept, a custom made localized heating system was constructed to test the capability of the magnetic induction-based generator. The heating system was able to achieve a temperature of 58.62 °C at 2200 RPM. This development of lab-on-a-disc micro power generators preserves the portability standards and enhances the future biomedical applications of centrifugal microfluidic platforms.

Advanced Direct-Drive Generator for Improved Availability of Oscillating Wave Surge Converter Power Generation Systems Final Technical Report

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

Englebretson, Steven; Ouyang, Wen; Tschida, Colin

This report summarizes the activities conducted under the DOE-EERE funded project DE-EE0006400, where ABB Inc. (ABB), in collaboration with Texas A&M’s Advanced Electric Machines & Power Electronics (EMPE) Lab and Resolute Marine Energy (RME) designed, derisked, developed, and demonstrated a novel magnetically geared electrical generator for direct-drive, low-speed, high torque MHK applications The project objective was to investigate a novel and compact direct-drive electric generator and its system aspects that would enable elimination of hydraulic components in the Power Take-Off (PTO) of a Marine and Hydrokinetic (MHK) system with an oscillating wave surge converter (OWSC), thereby improving the availability ofmore » the MHK system. The scope of this project was limited to the development and dry lab demonstration of a low speed generator to enable future direct drive MHK systems.« less

Hydrogen generation systems utilizing sodium silicide and sodium silica gel materials

DOEpatents

Wallace, Andrew P.; Melack, John M.; Lefenfeld, Michael

2015-07-14

Systems, devices, and methods combine reactant materials and aqueous solutions to generate hydrogen. The reactant materials can sodium silicide or sodium silica gel. The hydrogen generation devices are used in fuels cells and other industrial applications. One system combines cooling, pumping, water storage, and other devices to sense and control reactions between reactant materials and aqueous solutions to generate hydrogen. Multiple inlets of varied placement geometries deliver aqueous solution to the reaction. The reactant materials and aqueous solution are churned to control the state of the reaction. The aqueous solution can be recycled and returned to the reaction. One system operates over a range of temperatures and pressures and includes a hydrogen separator, a heat removal mechanism, and state of reaction control devices. The systems, devices, and methods of generating hydrogen provide thermally stable solids, near-instant reaction with the aqueous solutions, and a non-toxic liquid by-product.

Quantitative Evaluation Method of Each Generation Margin for Power System Planning

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Su, Su; Tanaka, Kazuyuki

As the power system deregulation advances, the competition among the power companies becomes heated, and they seek more efficient system planning using existing facilities. Therefore, an efficient system planning method has been expected. This paper proposes a quantitative evaluation method for the (N-1) generation margin considering the overload and the voltage stability restriction. Concerning the generation margin related with the overload, a fast solution method without the recalculation of the (N-1) Y-matrix is proposed. Referred to the voltage stability, this paper proposes an efficient method to search the stability limit. The IEEE30 model system which is composed of 6 generators and 14 load nodes is employed to validate the proposed method. According to the results, the proposed method can reduce the computational cost for the generation margin related with the overload under the (N-1) condition, and specify the value quantitatively.

Fuel cell using a hydrogen generation system

DOEpatents

Dentinger, Paul M.; Crowell, Jeffrey A. W.

2010-10-19

A system is described for storing and generating hydrogen and, in particular, a system for storing and generating hydrogen for use in an H.sub.2/O.sub.2 fuel cell. The hydrogen storage system uses beta particles from a beta particle emitting material to degrade an organic polymer material to release substantially pure hydrogen. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, beta particles from .sup.63Ni are used to release hydrogen from linear polyethylene.

Hydrogen storage and generation system

DOEpatents

Dentinger, Paul M.; Crowell, Jeffrey A. W.

2010-08-24

A system for storing and generating hydrogen generally and, in particular, a system for storing and generating hydrogen for use in an H.sub.2/O.sub.2 fuel cell. The hydrogen storage system uses the beta particles from a beta particle emitting material to degrade an organic polymer material to release substantially pure hydrogen. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, beta particles from .sup.63Ni are used to release hydrogen from linear polyethylene.

The Sortie-Generation Model System. Volume 5. Maintenance Subsystem

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-09-01

Compuger RoanutI f and moidel 11, Computer operatinS system 17, Proorammino largualviso IS. Numlier of .ugic proltsm Hoewl -3 CSCobol 600 stuscomentm...THE SORTIE-GENERATION MODEL SYSTEM OC’ VOLUME V MAINTENANCE SUBSYSTEM September 1981 Robert S. Greenberg 05$ Prepared pursuant to Department of...Generation Model System Volume V Maintenance Subsystem 6. PERFORMING ORG. REPORT NUMBER LMI Task- L102 7. AUTHOR(a) 8. CONTRACT OR GRANT NUMBER(a

The Evaluation of a Temporal Reasoning System in Processing Clinical Discharge Summaries

PubMed Central

Zhou, Li; Parsons, Simon; Hripcsak, George

2008-01-01

Context TimeText is a temporal reasoning system designed to represent, extract, and reason about temporal information in clinical text. Objective To measure the accuracy of the TimeText for processing clinical discharge summaries. Design Six physicians with biomedical informatics training served as domain experts. Twenty discharge summaries were randomly selected for the evaluation. For each of the first 14 reports, 5 to 8 clinically important medical events were chosen. The temporal reasoning system generated temporal relations about the endpoints (start or finish) of pairs of medical events. Two experts (subjects) manually generated temporal relations for these medical events. The system and expert-generated results were assessed by four other experts (raters). All of the twenty discharge summaries were used to assess the system’s accuracy in answering time-oriented clinical questions. For each report, five to ten clinically plausible temporal questions about events were generated. Two experts generated answers to the questions to serve as the gold standard. We wrote queries to retrieve answers from system’s output. Measurements Correctness of generated temporal relations, recall of clinically important relations, and accuracy in answering temporal questions. Results The raters determined that 97% of subjects’ 295 generated temporal relations were correct and that 96.5% of the system’s 995 generated temporal relations were correct. The system captured 79% of 307 temporal relations determined to be clinically important by the subjects and raters. The system answered 84% of the temporal questions correctly. Conclusion The system encoded the majority of information identified by experts, and was able to answer simple temporal questions. PMID:17947618

Wind power systems for individual applications. [electric power supplies for homes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Clews, H. M.

1973-01-01

A small windpower system is described which is suitable for electrifying a house. The self-contained unit consists of a two kilowatt wind driven generator, a set of 19 storage batteries, a small dc to ac inverter, and a gasoline generator for use as an emergency backup system in case of prolonged calm periods. Cost effectiveness of the electricity generated by this windmill system comes out to about 15 cents per kilowatt hour - assuming a 10 year life for the batteries and a 20 year life for the other components. Some other small windpower systems are also described, and it is shown that a windpowered generator in the 15- to 25-kilowatt output range coupled to a direct heated water storage system is able to heat a typical New England home.

2nd & 3rd Generation Vehicle Subsystems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2000-01-01

This paper contains viewgraph presentation on the "2nd & 3rd Generation Vehicle Subsystems" project. The objective behind this project is to design, develop and test advanced avionics, power systems, power control and distribution components and subsystems for insertion into a highly reliable and low-cost system for a Reusable Launch Vehicles (RLV). The project is divided into two sections: 3rd Generation Vehicle Subsystems and 2nd Generation Vehicle Subsystems. The following topics are discussed under the first section, 3rd Generation Vehicle Subsystems: supporting the NASA RLV program; high-performance guidance & control adaptation for future RLVs; Evolvable Hardware (EHW) for 3rd generation avionics description; Scaleable, Fault-tolerant Intelligent Network or X(trans)ducers (SFINIX); advance electric actuation devices and subsystem technology; hybrid power sources and regeneration technology for electric actuators; and intelligent internal thermal control. Topics discussed in the 2nd Generation Vehicle Subsystems program include: design, development and test of a robust, low-maintenance avionics with no active cooling requirements and autonomous rendezvous and docking systems; design and development of a low maintenance, high reliability, intelligent power systems (fuel cells and battery); and design of a low cost, low maintenance high horsepower actuation systems (actuators).

RE-Europe, a large-scale dataset for modeling a highly renewable European electricity system

PubMed Central

Jensen, Tue V.; Pinson, Pierre

2017-01-01

Future highly renewable energy systems will couple to complex weather and climate dynamics. This coupling is generally not captured in detail by the open models developed in the power and energy system communities, where such open models exist. To enable modeling such a future energy system, we describe a dedicated large-scale dataset for a renewable electric power system. The dataset combines a transmission network model, as well as information for generation and demand. Generation includes conventional generators with their technical and economic characteristics, as well as weather-driven forecasts and corresponding realizations for renewable energy generation for a period of 3 years. These may be scaled according to the envisioned degrees of renewable penetration in a future European energy system. The spatial coverage, completeness and resolution of this dataset, open the door to the evaluation, scaling analysis and replicability check of a wealth of proposals in, e.g., market design, network actor coordination and forecasting of renewable power generation. PMID:29182600

RE-Europe, a large-scale dataset for modeling a highly renewable European electricity system.

PubMed

Jensen, Tue V; Pinson, Pierre

2017-11-28

Future highly renewable energy systems will couple to complex weather and climate dynamics. This coupling is generally not captured in detail by the open models developed in the power and energy system communities, where such open models exist. To enable modeling such a future energy system, we describe a dedicated large-scale dataset for a renewable electric power system. The dataset combines a transmission network model, as well as information for generation and demand. Generation includes conventional generators with their technical and economic characteristics, as well as weather-driven forecasts and corresponding realizations for renewable energy generation for a period of 3 years. These may be scaled according to the envisioned degrees of renewable penetration in a future European energy system. The spatial coverage, completeness and resolution of this dataset, open the door to the evaluation, scaling analysis and replicability check of a wealth of proposals in, e.g., market design, network actor coordination and forecasting of renewable power generation.

RE-Europe, a large-scale dataset for modeling a highly renewable European electricity system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jensen, Tue V.; Pinson, Pierre

2017-11-01

Future highly renewable energy systems will couple to complex weather and climate dynamics. This coupling is generally not captured in detail by the open models developed in the power and energy system communities, where such open models exist. To enable modeling such a future energy system, we describe a dedicated large-scale dataset for a renewable electric power system. The dataset combines a transmission network model, as well as information for generation and demand. Generation includes conventional generators with their technical and economic characteristics, as well as weather-driven forecasts and corresponding realizations for renewable energy generation for a period of 3 years. These may be scaled according to the envisioned degrees of renewable penetration in a future European energy system. The spatial coverage, completeness and resolution of this dataset, open the door to the evaluation, scaling analysis and replicability check of a wealth of proposals in, e.g., market design, network actor coordination and forecasting of renewable power generation.

Onboard Inert Gas Generation System/Onboard Oxygen Gas Generation System (OBIGGS/OBOGS) Study. Part 1; Aircraft System Requirements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reynolds, Thomas L.; Bailey, Delbert B.; Lewinski, Daniel F.; Roseburg, Conrad M.; Palaszewski, Bryan (Technical Monitor)

2001-01-01

The purpose of this technology assessment is to define a multiphase research study program investigating Onboard Inert Gas Generation Systems (OBIGGS) and Onboard Oxygen Generation Systems (OBOGS) that would identify current airplane systems design and certification requirements (Subtask 1); explore state-of-the-art technology (Subtask 2); develop systems specifications (Subtask 3); and develop an initial system design (Subtask 4). If feasible, consideration may be given to the development of a prototype laboratory test system that could potentially be used in commercial transport aircraft (Subtask 5). These systems should be capable of providing inert nitrogen gas for improved fire cargo compartment fire suppression and fuel tank inerting and emergency oxygen for crew and passenger use. Subtask I of this research study, presented herein, defines current production aircraft certification requirements and design objectives necessary to meet mandatory FAA certification requirements and Boeing design and performance specifications. These requirements will be utilized for baseline comparisons for subsequent OBIGGS/OBOGS application evaluations and assessments.

New GOES satellite synchronized time code generation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fossler, D. E.; Olson, R. K.

1984-01-01

The TRAK Systems' GOES Satellite Synchronized Time Code Generator is described. TRAK Systems has developed this timing instrument to supply improved accuracy over most existing GOES receiver clocks. A classical time code generator is integrated with a GOES receiver.

Variable speed generator technology options for wind turbine generators

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lipo, T. A.

1995-01-01

The electrical system options for variable speed operation of a wind turbine generator are treated in this paper. The key operating characteristics of each system are discussed and the major advantages and disadvantages of each are identified

Design and assembly of a catalyst bed gas generator for the catalytic decomposition of high concentration hydrogen peroxide propellants and the catalytic combustion of hydrocarbon/air mixtures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lohner, Kevin A. (Inventor); Mays, Jeffrey A. (Inventor); Sevener, Kathleen M. (Inventor)

2004-01-01

A method for designing and assembling a high performance catalyst bed gas generator for use in decomposing propellants, particularly hydrogen peroxide propellants, for use in target, space, and on-orbit propulsion systems and low-emission terrestrial power and gas generation. The gas generator utilizes a sectioned catalyst bed system, and incorporates a robust, high temperature mixed metal oxide catalyst. The gas generator requires no special preheat apparatus or special sequencing to meet start-up requirements, enabling a fast overall response time. The high performance catalyst bed gas generator system has consistently demonstrated high decomposition efficiency, extremely low decomposition roughness, and long operating life on multiple test articles.

Development of germ-line-specific CRISPR-Cas9 systems to improve the production of heritable gene modifications in Arabidopsis

PubMed Central

Mao, Yanfei; Zhang, Zhengjing; Feng, Zhengyan; Wei, Pengliang; Zhang, Hui; Botella, José Ramón; Zhu, Jian-Kang

2017-01-01

Summary The Streptococcus-derived CRISPR/Cas9 system is being widely used to perform targeted gene modifications in plants. This customized endonuclease system has two components, the single-guide RNA (sgRNA) for target DNA recognition and the CRISPR-associated protein 9 (Cas9) for DNA cleavage. Ubiquitously expressed CRISPR/Cas9 systems (UC) generate targeted gene modifications with high efficiency but only those produced in reproductive cells are transmitted to the next generation. We report the design and characterization of a germ-line-specific Cas9 system (GSC) for Arabidopsis gene modification in male gametocytes, constructed using a SPOROCYTELESS (SPL) genomic expression cassette. Four loci in two endogenous genes were targeted by both systems for comparative analysis. Mutations generated by the GSC system were rare in T1 plants but were abundant (30%) in the T2 generation. The vast majority (70%) of the T2 mutant population generated using the UC system were chimeras while the newly developed GSC system produced only 29% chimeras, with 70% of the T2 mutants being heterozygous. Analysis of two loci in the T2 population showed that the abundance of heritable gene mutations was 37% higher in the GSC system compared to the UC system and the level of polymorphism of the mutations was also dramatically increased with the GSC system. Two additional systems based on germ-line-specific promoters (pDD45-GT and pLAT52-GT) were also tested, and one of them was capable of generating heritable homozygous T1 mutant plants. Our results suggest that future application of the described GSC system will facilitate the screening for targeted gene modifications, especially lethal mutations in the T2 population. PMID:26360626

Algebraic grid generation for coolant passages of turbine blades with serpentine channels and pin fins

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shih, T. I.-P.; Roelke, R. J.; Steinthorsson, E.

1991-01-01

In order to study numerically details of the flow and heat transfer within coolant passages of turbine blades, a method must first be developed to generate grid systems within the very complicated geometries involved. In this study, a grid generation package was developed that is capable of generating the required grid systems. The package developed is based on an algebraic grid generation technique that permits the user considerable control over how grid points are to be distributed in a very explicit way. These controls include orthogonality of grid lines next to boundary surfaces and ability to cluster about arbitrary points, lines, and surfaces. This paper describes that grid generation package and shows how it can be used to generate grid systems within complicated-shaped coolant passages via an example.

Automotive dual-mode hydrogen generation system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kelly, D. A.

The automotive dual mode hydrogen generation system is advocated as a supplementary hydrogen fuel means along with the current metallic hydride hydrogen storage method for vehicles. This system consists of utilizing conventional electrolysis cells with the low voltage dc electrical power supplied by two electrical generating sources within the vehicle. Since the automobile engine exhaust manifold(s) are presently an untapped useful source of thermal energy, they can be employed as the heat source for a simple heat engine/generator arrangement. The second, and minor electrical generating means consists of multiple, miniature air disk generators which are mounted directly under the vehicle's hood and at other convenient locations within the engine compartment. The air disk generators are revolved at a speed which is proportionate to the vehicles forward speed and do not impose a drag on the vehicles motion.

Economic Justification of Concentrating Solar Power in High Renewable Energy Penetrated Power Systems

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

Hodge, Brian S; Kroposki, Benjamin D; Du, Ershun

Concentrating solar power (CSP) plants are able to provide both renewable energy and operational flexibility at the same time due to its thermal energy storage (TES). It is ideal generation to power systems lacking in flexibility to accommodate variable renewable energy (VRE) generation such as wind power and photovoltaics. However, its investment cost currently is too high to justify its benefit in terms of providing renewable energy only. In this paper we evaluate the economic benefit of CSP in high renewable energy penetrated power systems from two aspects: generating renewable energy and providing operational flexibility to help accommodating VRE. Inmore » order to keep the same renewable energy penetration level during evaluation, we compare the economic costs between the system with a high share of VRE and another in which some part of the VRE generation is replaced by CSP generation. The generation cost of a power system is analyzed through chronological operation simulation over a whole year. The benefit of CSP is quantified into two parts: (1) energy benefit - the saving investment of substituted VRE generation and (2) flexibility benefit - the reduction in operating cost due to substituting VRE with CSP. The break-even investment cost of CSP is further discussed. The methodology is tested on a modified IEEE RTS-79 system. The economic justifications of CSP are demonstrated in two practical provincial power systems with high penetration of renewable energy in northwestern China, Qinghai and Gansu, where the former province has massive inflexible thermal power plants but later one has high share of flexible hydro power. The results suggest that the CSP is more beneficial in Gansu system than in Qinghai. The levelized benefit of CSP, including both energy benefit and flexibility benefit, is about 0.177-0.191 $/kWh in Qinghai and about 0.238-0.300 $/kWh in Gansu, when replacing 5-20% VRE generation with CSP generation.« less

Smart campus: Data on energy generation costs from distributed generation systems of electrical energy in a Nigerian University.

PubMed

Okeniyi, Joshua O; Atayero, Aderemi A; Popoola, Segun I; Okeniyi, Elizabeth T; Alalade, Gbenga M

2018-04-01

This data article presents comparisons of energy generation costs from gas-fired turbine and diesel-powered systems of distributed generation type of electrical energy in Covenant University, Ota, Nigeria, a smart university campus driven by Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). Cumulative monthly data of the energy generation costs, for consumption in the institution, from the two modes electric power, which was produced at locations closed to the community consuming the energy, were recorded for the period spanning January to December 2017. By these, energy generation costs from the turbine system proceed from the gas-firing whereas the generation cost data from the diesel-powered generator also include data on maintenance cost for this mode of electrical power generation. These energy generation cost data that were presented in tables and graphs employ descriptive probability distribution and goodness-of-fit tests of statistical significance as the methods for the data detailing and comparisons. Information details from this data of energy generation costs are useful for furthering research developments and aiding energy stakeholders and decision-makers in the formulation of policies on energy generation modes, economic valuation in terms of costing and management for attaining energy-efficient/smart educational environment.

On the Use of Extended TAM to Assess Students' Acceptance and Intent to Use Third-Generation Learning Management Systems

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ros, Salvador; Hernández, Roberto; Caminero, Agustín; Robles, Antonio; Barbero, Isabel; Maciá, Araceli; Holgado, Francisco Pablo

2015-01-01

Service-oriented e-learning platforms can be considered as a third generation of learning management systems (LMSs). As opposed to the previous generations, consisting of ad hoc solutions and traditional LMS, this new technology contemplates e-learning systems as services that can be integrated into different learning scenarios. This paper shows…

Brake blending strategy for a hybrid vehicle

DOEpatents

Boberg, Evan S.

2000-12-05

A hybrid electric powertrain system is provided including a transmission for driving a pair of wheels of a vehicle and a heat engine and an electric motor/generator coupled to the transmission. A friction brake system is provided for applying a braking torque to said vehicle. A controller unit generates control signals to the electric motor/generator and the friction brake system for controllably braking the vehicle in response to a drivers brake command. The controller unit determines and amount of regenerative torque available and compares this value to a determined amount of brake torque requested for determining the control signals to the electric motor/generator and the friction brake system.

The first and second generation Aussat systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hope, W.

1988-12-01

The present three-spacecraft Aussat satellite communication system is described and illustrated with extensive drawings, diagrams, and photographs; and plans for the second-generation system (Aussat-B, to begin replacing the current spacecraft in 1992) are discussed. Consideration is given to the legal status, structure, and staff of the Aussat organization; the first-generation space segment; satellite launch and orbital transfer procedures; the Aussat communication payload; the ground segment; and the current market for satellite services in Australia. For the second-generation system, topics addressed include additional and improved services, the Aussat-B procurement program, mobile satellite services, and the impact on the Australian space industry.

Initial benchmarking of a new electron-beam raster pattern generator for 130-100 nm maskmaking

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sauer, Charles A.; Abboud, Frank E.; Babin, Sergey V.; Chakarian, Varoujan; Ghanbari, Abe; Innes, Robert; Trost, David; Raymond, Frederick, III

2000-07-01

The decision by the Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA) to accelerate the continuing evolution to smaller linewidths is consistent with the commitment by Etec Systems, Inc. to rapidly develop new technologies for pattern generation systems with improved resolution, critical dimension (CD) uniformity, positional accuracy, and throughput. Current pattern generation designs are inadequate to meet the more advanced requirements for masks, particularly at or below the 100 nm node. Major changes to all pattern generation tools will be essential to meet future market requirements. An electron-beam (e-beam) system that is designed to meet the challenges for 130 - 100 nm device generation with extendibility to the 70-nm range will be discussed. This system has an architecture that includes a graybeam writing strategy, a new state system, and improved thermal management. Detailed changes include a pulse width modulated blanking system, per-pixel deflection, retrograde scanning multipass writing, and a column with a 50 kV accelerating voltage that supports a dose of up to 45 (mu) C/cm2 with minimal amounts of resist heating. This paper examines current issues, our approach to meeting International Technology Roadmap for Semiconductors (ITRS) requirements, and some preliminary results from a new pattern generator.

Oxygen transport membrane reactor based method and system for generating electric power

DOEpatents

Kelly, Sean M.; Chakravarti, Shrikar; Li, Juan

2017-02-07

A carbon capture enabled system and method for generating electric power and/or fuel from methane containing sources using oxygen transport membranes by first converting the methane containing feed gas into a high pressure synthesis gas. Then, in one configuration the synthesis gas is combusted in oxy-combustion mode in oxygen transport membranes based boiler reactor operating at a pressure at least twice that of ambient pressure and the heat generated heats steam in thermally coupled steam generation tubes within the boiler reactor; the steam is expanded in steam turbine to generate power; and the carbon dioxide rich effluent leaving the boiler reactor is processed to isolate carbon. In another configuration the synthesis gas is further treated in a gas conditioning system configured for carbon capture in a pre-combustion mode using water gas shift reactors and acid gas removal units to produce hydrogen or hydrogen-rich fuel gas that fuels an integrated gas turbine and steam turbine system to generate power. The disclosed method and system can also be adapted to integrate with coal gasification systems to produce power from both coal and methane containing sources with greater than 90% carbon isolation.

Quasi-Static Electric Field Generator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Generazio, Edward R. (Inventor)

2017-01-01

A generator for producing an electric field for with an inspection technology system is provided. The generator provides the required variable magnitude quasi-static electric fields for the "illumination" of objects, areas and volumes to be inspected by the system, and produces human-safe electric fields that are only visible to the system. The generator includes a casing, a driven, non-conducting and triboelectrically neutral rotation shaft mounted therein, an ungrounded electrostatic dipole element which works in the quasi-static range, and a non-conducting support for mounting the dipole element to the shaft. The dipole element has a wireless motor system and a charging system which are wholly contained within the dipole element and the support that uses an electrostatic approach to charge the dipole element.

Transient Stability Assessment of Power Systems With Uncertain Renewable Generation: Preprint

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

Villegas Pico, Hugo Nestor; Aliprantis, Dionysios C.; Lin, Xiaojun

2017-08-09

The transient stability of a power system depends heavily on its operational state at the moment of a fault. In systems where the penetration of renewable generation is significant, the dispatch of the conventional fleet of synchronous generators is uncertain at the time of dynamic security analysis. Hence, the assessment of transient stability requires the solution of a system of nonlinear ordinary differential equations with unknown initial conditions and inputs. To this end, we set forth a computational framework that relies on Taylor polynomials, where variables are associated with the level of renewable generation. This paper describes the details ofmore » the method and illustrates its application on a nine-bus test system.« less

Steam generator on-line efficiency monitor

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

Johnson, R.K.; Kaya, A.; Keyes, M.A. IV

1987-08-04

This patent describes a system for automatically and continuously determining the efficiency of a combustion process in a fossil-fuel fired vapor generator for utilization by an automatic load control system that controls the distribution of a system load among a plurality of vapor generators, comprising: a first function generator, connected to an oxygen transducer for sensing the level of excess air in the flue gas, for generating a first signal indicative of the total air supplied for combustion in percent by weight; a second function generator, connected to a combustibles transducer for sensing the level of combustibles in the fluemore » gas, for generating a second signal indicative of the percent combustibles present in the flue gas; means for correcting the first signal, connected to the first and second function generators, when the oxygen transducer is of a type that operates at a temperature level sufficient to cause the unburned combustibles to react with the oxygen present in the flue gas; an ambient air temperature transducer for generating a third signal indicative of the temperature of the ambient air supplied to the vapor generator for combustion.« less

Residential Photovoltaic/Thermal Energy System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Selcuk, M. K.

1987-01-01

Proposed system supplies house with both heat and electricity. Pair of reports describes concept for self-sufficient heating, cooling, and power-generating system for house. Panels on walls of house provide hot water, space heating, and heat to charge heat-storage system, and generate electricity for circulation pumps and fans. Roof panels generate electricity for household, operate heat pump for summer cooling, and provide supplementary winter heating via heat pump, using solar-cell cooling-fluid loop. Wall and roof panels used independently.

The NASA Advanced Exploration Systems Nuclear Thermal Propulsion Project

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Houts, Michael G.; Mitchell, Doyce P.; Kim, Tony; Emrich, William J.; Hickman, Robert R.; Gerrish, Harold P.; Doughty, Glen; Belvin, Anthony; Clement, Steven; Borowski, Stanley K.;

A Timer for Synchronous Digital Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

McKenney, Elizabeth; Irwin, Philip

2003-01-01

The Real-Time Interferometer Control Systems Testbed (RICST) timing board is a VersaModule Eurocard (VME)-based board that can generate up to 16 simultaneous, phase-locked timing signals at a rate defined by the user. It can also generate all seven VME interrupt requests (IRQs). The RICST timing board is suitable mainly for robotic, aerospace, and real-time applications. Several circuit boards on the market are capable of generating periodic IRQs. Most are associated with Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers and Inter Range Instrumentation Group (IRIG) time-code generators, whereas this board uses either an internal VME clock or an externally generated clock signal to synchronize multiple components of the system. The primary advantage of this board is that there is no discernible jitter in the output clock waveforms because the signals are divided down from a high-frequency clock signal instead of being phase-locked from a lower frequency. The primary disadvantage to this board, relative to other periodic-IRQ-generating boards, is that it is more difficult to synchronize the system to wall clock time.

Comprehensive Evaluation of Repowering Systems for Utilizing Waste Heat from Small Scale Garbage Incineration Plants

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pak, Pyong Sik

This paper evaluates two proposed repowering systems together with a conventional repowering system. A power generation system utilizing waste heat produced by a garbage incineration plant (GIP), which treats 45 t/d of garbage, was taken as an objective power generation system to be repowered. As the conventional repowering system (Sys-C), a gas turbine system with waste heat boiler was adopted. In the proposed system 1 (Sys-P1), temperature of the low temperature steam generated at the GIP is raised in the gas combustor by burning fuel, and used to drive a gas turbine generator. Hence, required power for compressing the air becomes remarkably small and expected to be high efficient compared with Sys-C. In the proposed system 2 (Sys-P2), the low temperature steam generated at the GIP is superheated by using regenerative burner and used to drive a steam turbine generator, and hence making steam condition optimal becomes easy. Various basic characteristics of the three repowering systems were estimated through computer simulation, such as repowering efficiency, energy saving characteristics, and amount of CO2 reduction. It was shown that Sys-P1 and Sys-P2 were both superior to the conventional repowering system Sys-C in the all characteristics, and Sys-P1 to Sys-P2 in repowering efficiency, and that Sys-P2 to Sys-P1 in energy saving characteristics and CO2 reduction effect. It has also been estimated that all the repowering systems are economically feasible, and that the proposed systems Sys-P1 and Sys-P2 are both superior to the Sys-C in the three economical indices of unit cost of power, annual gross profit and depreciation year.

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

None available

For the purpose of this STI product and unless otherwise stated, hybrid fuel cell systems are power generation systems in which a high temperature fuel cell is combined with another power generating technology. The resulting system exhibits a synergism in which the combination performs with an efficiency far greater than can be provided by either system alone. Hybrid fuel cell designs under development include fuel cell with gas turbine, fuel cell with reciprocating (piston) engine, and designs that combine different fuel cell technologies. Hybrid systems have been extensively analyzed and studied over the past five years by the Department ofmore » Energy (DOE), industry, and others. These efforts have revealed that this combination is capable of providing remarkably high efficiencies. This attribute, combined with an inherent low level of pollutant emission, suggests that hybrid systems are likely to serve as the next generation of advanced power generation systems.« less

Experience in connecting the power generating units of thermal power plants to automatic secondary frequency regulation within the united power system of Russia

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

Zhukov, A. V.; Komarov, A. N.; Safronov, A. N.

The principles of central control of the power generating units of thermal power plants by automatic secondary frequency and active power overcurrent regulation systems, and the algorithms for interactions between automatic power control systems for the power production units in thermal power plants and centralized systems for automatic frequency and power regulation, are discussed. The order of switching the power generating units of thermal power plants over to control by a centralized system for automatic frequency and power regulation and by the Central Coordinating System for automatic frequency and power regulation is presented. The results of full-scale system tests ofmore » the control of power generating units of the Kirishskaya, Stavropol, and Perm GRES (State Regional Electric Power Plants) by the Central Coordinating System for automatic frequency and power regulation at the United Power System of Russia on September 23-25, 2008, are reported.« less

Motor/Generator and Inverter Characterization for Flywheel System Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tamarcus, Jeffries L.

2004-01-01

The Advanced Electrical Systems Development Branch at NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC) has been involved in the research and development of high speed flywheels systems for satellite energy storage and attitude applications. These flywheels will serve as replacement for chemical nickel hydrogen, nickel cadmium batteries and gyroscopic wheels. The advantages of using flywheel systems for energy storage on satellites are high energy density, high power density, long life, deep depth of discharge, and broad operating temperature ranges. A flywheel system for space applications consist of a number of flywheel modules, the motor/generator and magnetic bearing, and an electronics package. The motor/generator electronics package includes a pulse-width modulated inverter that drives the flywheel permanent magnet motor/generator located at one end of the shaft. This summer, I worked under the direct supervision of my mentor, Walter Santiago, and the goal for this summer was to characterize motor generator and inverter attributes in order to increase their viability as a more efficient energy storage source for space applications. To achieve this goal, magnetic field measurements around the motor/generator permanent magnet and the impedance of the motor/generator three phase windings were characterized, and a recreation of the inverter pulse width modulated control system was constructed. The Flywheel modules for space use are designed to maximize energy density and minimize loss, and attaining these values will aid in locating and reducing losses within the flywheel system as a whole, making flywheel technology more attractive for use as energy storage in future space applications.

Reliability and cost/worth evaluation of generating systems utilizing wind and solar energy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bagen

The utilization of renewable energy resources such as wind and solar energy for electric power supply has received considerable attention in recent years due to adverse environmental impacts and fuel cost escalation associated with conventional generation. At the present time, wind and/or solar energy sources are utilized to generate electric power in many applications. Wind and solar energy will become important sources for power generation in the future because of their environmental, social and economic benefits, together with public support and government incentives. The wind and sunlight are, however, unstable and variable energy sources, and behave far differently than conventional sources. Energy storage systems are, therefore, often required to smooth the fluctuating nature of the energy conversion system especially in small isolated applications. The research work presented in this thesis is focused on the development and application of reliability and economic benefits assessment associated with incorporating wind energy, solar energy and energy storage in power generating systems. A probabilistic approach using sequential Monte Carlo simulation was employed in this research and a number of analyses were conducted with regards to the adequacy and economic assessment of generation systems containing wind energy, solar energy and energy storage. The evaluation models and techniques incorporate risk index distributions and different operating strategies associated with diesel generation in small isolated systems. Deterministic and probabilistic techniques are combined in this thesis using a system well-being approach to provide useful adequacy indices for small isolated systems that include renewable energy and energy storage. The concepts presented and examples illustrated in this thesis will help power system planners and utility managers to assess the reliability and economic benefits of utilizing wind energy conversion systems, solar energy conversion systems and energy storage in electric power systems and provide useful input to the managerial decision process.

On-Orbit Checkout and Activation of the ISS Oxygen Generation System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bagdigian, Robert M.; Prokhorov, Kimberlee S.

2007-01-01

NASA has developed and; deployed an Oxygen Generation System (OGS) into the Destiny Module of the International Space Station (ISS). The major. assembly; included in this system is the Oxygen Generator Assembly. (OGA) which was developed under NASA contract by Hamilton Sundstrand Space Systems International (HSSSI), Inc. This paper summarizes the installation of the system into the Destiny Module, its initial checkout and periodic preventative maintenance activities, and its operational activation. Trade studies and analyses that were conducted with the goal of mitigating on-orbit operational risks are also discussed.

System and method of active vibration control for an electro-mechanically cooled device

DOEpatents

Lavietes, Anthony D.; Mauger, Joseph; Anderson, Eric H.

2000-01-01

A system and method of active vibration control of an electro-mechanically cooled device is disclosed. A cryogenic cooling system is located within an environment. The cooling system is characterized by a vibration transfer function, which requires vibration transfer function coefficients. A vibration controller generates the vibration transfer function coefficients in response to various triggering events. The environments may differ by mounting apparatus, by proximity to vibration generating devices, or by temperature. The triggering event may be powering on the cooling system, reaching an operating temperature, or a reset action. A counterbalance responds to a drive signal generated by the vibration controller, based on the vibration signal and the vibration transfer function, which adjusts vibrations. The method first places a cryogenic cooling system within a first environment and then generates a first set of vibration transfer function coefficients, for a vibration transfer function of the cooling system. Next, the cryogenic cooling system is placed within a second environment and a second set of vibration transfer function coefficients are generated. Then, a counterbalance is driven, based on the vibration transfer function, to reduce vibrations received by a vibration sensitive element.

Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Hybrid System for Distributed Power Generation

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

David Deangelis; Rich Depuy; Debashis Dey

2004-09-30

This report summarizes the work performed by Hybrid Power Generation Systems, LLC (HPGS) during the April to October 2004 reporting period in Task 2.3 (SOFC Scaleup for Hybrid and Fuel Cell Systems) under Cooperative Agreement DE-FC26-01NT40779 for the U. S. Department of Energy, National Energy Technology Laboratory (DOE/NETL), entitled ''Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Hybrid System for Distributed Power Generation''. This study analyzes the performance and economics of power generation systems for central power generation application based on Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) technology and fueled by natural gas. The main objective of this task is to develop credible scale upmore » strategies for large solid oxide fuel cell-gas turbine systems. System concepts that integrate a SOFC with a gas turbine were developed and analyzed for plant sizes in excess of 20 MW. A 25 MW plant configuration was selected with projected system efficiency of over 65% and a factory cost of under $400/kW. The plant design is modular and can be scaled to both higher and lower plant power ratings. Technology gaps and required engineering development efforts were identified and evaluated.« less

76 FR 68299 - Airworthiness Directives; Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH (ECD) Model MBB-BK 117 C-2 Helicopters

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-11-04

...: Starter-Generator, 2437: DC Indicating System, and 2430: DC Generator System. (d) Revise the Emergency... Performance Data sections of the RFM to alert the operators to monitor the power display when a generator is... when one generator is deactivated. The actions specified in this AD are intended to prevent failure of...