Development of the roadmap for reducing cardiovascular morbidity and mortality through the detection, treatment and control of hypertension in Africa: report of a working group of the PASCAR Hypertension Task Force.

PubMed

Dzudie, Anastase; Kane, Abdoul; Kramoh, Euloge; Anzouan-Kacou, Jean-Baptiste; Damourou, Jean Marie; Allawaye, Lucien; Nzisabira, Jolis; Mousse, Latif; Balde, Dadier; Nouhom, Ouane; Nkoa, Jean Louis; Kaki, Kimbally; Djomou, Armel; Menanga, Alain; Nganou, Christ Nadege; Mipinda, Jean Bruno; Nebie, Lucie; Kuate, Liliane Mfeukeu; Kingue, Samuel; Ba, Serigne Abdou

The fourth Pan-African Society of Cardiology (PASCAR) hypertension taskforce meeting was held at the Yaoundé Hilton Hotel on 16 March 2016. Its main goals were to update and facilitate understanding of the PASCAR roadmap for the control of hypertension on the continent, to refine the PASCAR hypertension algorithm, and to discuss the next steps of the PASCAR hypertension policy, including how the PASCAR initiative can be customised at country level. The formation of the PASCAR coalition against hypertension, the writing group and the current status of the PASCAR hypertension policy document as well as the algorithm were presented to delegates representing 12 French-speaking countries. The urgency to finalise the continental policy was recognised and consensus was achieved by discussion on the main points and strategy. Relevant scientific issues were discussed and comments were received on all points, including how the algorithm could be simplified and made more accessible for implementation at primary healthcare centres.

Rio Grande valley Colorado new Mexico and Texas

USGS Publications Warehouse

Ellis, Sherman R.; Levings, Gary W.; Carter, Lisa F.; Richey, Steven F.; Radell, Mary Jo

1993-01-01

Two structural settings are found in the study unit: alluvial basins and bedrock basins. The alluvial basins can have through-flowing surface water or be closed basins. The discussion of streamflow and water quality for the surface-water system is based on four river reaches for the 750 miles of the main stem. the quality of the ground water is affected by both natural process and human activities and by nonpoint and point sources. Nonpoint sources for surface water include agriculture, hydromodification, and mining operations; point sources are mainly discharge from wastewater treatment plants. Nonpoint sources for ground water include agriculture and septic tanks and cesspools; point sources include leaking underground storage tanks, unlined or manure-lined holding ponds used for disposal of dairy wastes, landfills, and mining operations.

The potential of cloud point system as a novel two-phase partitioning system for biotransformation.

PubMed

Wang, Zhilong

2007-05-01

Although the extractive biotransformation in two-phase partitioning systems have been studied extensively, such as the water-organic solvent two-phase system, the aqueous two-phase system, the reverse micelle system, and the room temperature ionic liquid, etc., this has not yet resulted in a widespread industrial application. Based on the discussion of the main obstacles, an exploitation of a cloud point system, which has already been applied in a separation field known as a cloud point extraction, as a novel two-phase partitioning system for biotransformation, is reviewed by analysis of some topical examples. At the end of the review, the process control and downstream processing in the application of the novel two-phase partitioning system for biotransformation are also briefly discussed.

Serious games for health: three steps forwards.

PubMed

Drummond, David; Hadchouel, Alice; Tesnière, Antoine

2017-01-01

Serious games are educational tools which are more and more used in patient and health professional education. In this article, we discuss three main points that developers and educators need to address during the development of a serious game for health. We first explain how to develop motivating serious games by finding a point where the intrinsic and extrinsic motivations of end users can converge. Then, we propose to identify the features of serious games which enhance their learning effectiveness on the basis of a framework derived from cognitive science and called "the four pillars of learning." Finally, we discuss issues and solutions related to the evaluation of serious games.

Summarizing my DHS Internship Experience

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

Roberts, D L

2006-09-06

In this paper, the author addresses four main topics: (1) A description of the topic of his internship at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security; (2) A description of his contributions to the project; (3) A discussion of research directions beneficial to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS); and (4) A discussion of the impact the internship experience had on his career aspirations. He feels the first three points can best be addressed using the contents of a paper his mentor, Dr. Tina Eliassi-Rad, and he have published based on their work this summer [Roberts and Eliassi-Rad, 2006]. Sections 2more » - 5 are intended for this purpose and have been excerpted from that paper. He concludes this paper in Section 6 with a discussion of the fourth point.« less

Information measures in nonlinear experimental design

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Niple, E.; Shaw, J. H.

1980-01-01

Some different approaches to the problem of designing experiments which estimate the parameters of nonlinear models are discussed. The assumption in these approaches that the information in a set of data can be represented by a scalar is criticized, and the nonscalar discrimination information is proposed as the proper measure to use. The two-step decay example in Box and Lucas (1959) is used to illustrate the main points of the discussion.

Recent Trends in Monitoring of European Water Framework Directive Priority Substances Using Micro-Sensors: A 2007–2009 Review

PubMed Central

Namour, Philippe; Lepot, Mathieu; Jaffrezic-Renault, Nicole

2010-01-01

This review discusses from a critical perspective the development of new sensors for the measurement of priority pollutants targeted in the E.U. Water Framework Directive. Significant advances are reported in the paper and their advantages and limitations are also discussed. Future perspectives in this area are also pointed out in the conclusions. This review covers publications appeared since December 2006 (the publication date of the Swift report). Among priority substances, sensors for monitoring the four WFD metals represent 81% of published papers. None of analyzed publications present a micro-sensor totally validated in laboratory, ready for tests under real conditions in the field. The researches are mainly focused on the sensing part of the micro-sensors. Nevertheless, the main factor limiting micro-sensor applications in the environment is the ruggedness of the receptor towards environmental conditions. This point constitutes the first technological obstacle to be overcome for any long-term field tests. PMID:22163635

Space shuttle main engine plume radiation model

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reardon, J. E.; Lee, Y. C.

1978-01-01

The methods are described which are used in predicting the thermal radiation received by space shuttles, from the plumes of the main engines. Radiation to representative surface locations were predicted using the NASA gaseous plume radiation GASRAD program. The plume model is used with the radiative view factor (RAVFAC) program to predict sea level radiation at specified body points. The GASRAD program is described along with the predictions. The RAVFAC model is also discussed.

Systems Health Care: daily measurement and lifestyle change

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nakajima, Hiroshi; Tsuchiya, Naoki; Shiga, Toshikazu; Hata, Yutaka

2012-06-01

Health is quite important to be realized in our daily life. However, its idea covers wide area and has individual dependency. Activities in health care have been widely developed by medical, drag, insurance, food, and other types of industries mainly centering diseases. In this article, systems approach named Systems Health Care is introduced and discussed to generate new and precious values based on measurements in daily life to change lifestyle habits for realizing each health. Firstly, issues related to health such as its definitions are introduced and discussed by centering health rather than disease. In response to the discussions on health, Home and Medical Care is continuously introduced to point out the important role causality between life style and vital signal such as exercise and blood pressure based on detailed sampling time. Systems approaches of Systems Health Care are discussed from various points of views. Real applications of devices and services are used to make the studies and discussions deeper on the subjects of the article.

Sketch of J. R. Kantor's Psychological Interbehavioral Field Theory

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Delprato, Dennis J.; Smith, Noel W.

2009-01-01

We provide a sketch of J. R. Kantor's (1959, 1971) psychological interbehavioral field (IBF) theory by identifying 9 essential points and briefly discussing each. The main emphasis of this sketch is on the foundation of Kantor's thinking, the IBF. Suggestions for further study are provided.

Promoting Creativity in Local Tourist Businesses

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Perivoliotis-Chryssovergis, Margaret-Catherine

2007-01-01

This paper discusses an e-learning pilot study focusing on local tourist producers and businesses involved in the production of artefacts, mainly textiles. The project included research into the possibilities of incorporating the strengths of local cultural heritage as a vital starting point for design creativity, innovation, production and…

Organic Reaction Mechanisms in the Sixth Form Part 3: Reactions of Electron Pair Acceptors with Compounds Containing Multiple Bonds.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Simpson, Peter

1989-01-01

The ideas behind electrophilic addition to alkenes, and electrophilic substitution in benzene derivatives are discussed. Teaching these concepts to secondary school students is stressed. Five main points useful at this age level are summarized. (Author/CW)

A pseudospectral Legendre method for hyperbolic equations with an improved stability condition

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tal-Ezer, Hillel

1986-01-01

A new pseudospectral method is introduced for solving hyperbolic partial differential equations. This method uses different grid points than previously used pseudospectral methods: in fact the grid points are related to the zeroes of the Legendre polynomials. The main advantage of this method is that the allowable time step is proportional to the inverse of the number of grid points 1/N rather than to 1/n(2) (as in the case of other pseudospectral methods applied to mixed initial boundary value problems). A highly accurate time discretization suitable for these spectral methods is discussed.

An X-ray investigation of the unusual supernova remnant CTB 80

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wang, Z. R.; Seward, F. D.

1984-01-01

The X-ray properties of SNR CTB 80 (G68.8 + 2.8) are discussed based on both low- and high-resolution images from the Einstein satellite. The X-ray maps show a point source coinciding with the region of maximum radio emission. Diffuse X-ray emission is evident mainly along the radio lobe extending about 8 arcmin east of the point source and aligned with the projected magnetic field lines. The observed X-ray luminosity is 3.2 x 10 to the 34th ergs/s with 1.0 x 10 to the 3th ergs/s from the point source (assuming a distance of 3 kpc). There is also faint, diffuse, X-ray emission south of the point source, where radio emission is absent. The unusual radio and X-ray morphologies are interpreted as a result of relativistic jets energized by the central object, and the possible association of CTB 80 with SN 1408 as recorded by Chinese observers is discussed.

Science Is an Attitude: A Response to Kamhi

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Apel, Kenn

2011-01-01

Purpose: I provide alternative views to Kamhi's (2011) assertion that clinical practice cannot be scientific. I also discuss how the field of communication sciences and disorders might encourage scientific thinking about clinical practices in researchers and clinicians. Method: Kamhi's three main points for why clinical practice cannot be…

The Literacy Practices of "Transfronterizos" in a Multilingual World

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

de la Piedra, Maria Teresa; Guerra, Juan C.

2012-01-01

This introduction provides the background for this special issue by first describing the US-Mexico border, a fascinating context in which to research issues related to Spanish-English biliteracy and multilingualism. We present main points in the prevailing discussion within the field of literacy studies about issues of multilingualism and…

Space Instrument Optimization by Implementing of Generic Three Bodies Circular Restricted Problem

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nejat, Cyrus

2011-01-01

In this study, the main discussion emphasizes on the spacecraft operation with a concentration on stationary points in space. To achieve these objectives, the circular restricted problem was solved for selected approaches. The equations of motion of three body restricted problem was demonstrated to apply in cases other than Lagrange's (1736-1813 A.D.) achievements, by means of the purposed CN (Cyrus Nejat) theorem along with appropriate comments. In addition to five Lagrange, two other points, CN1 and CN2 were found to be in unstable equilibrium points in a very large distance respect to Lagrange points, but stable at infinity. A very interesting simulation of Milky Way Galaxy and Andromeda Galaxy were created to find the Lagrange points, CN points (Cyrus Nejat Points), and CN lines (Cyrus Nejat Lines). The equations of motion were rearranged such a way that the transfer trajectory would be conical, by means of decoupling concept. The main objective was to make a halo orbit transfer about CN lines. The author purposes therefore that all of the corresponding sizing design that they must be developed by optimization techniques would be considered in future approaches. The optimization techniques are sufficient procedures to search for the most ideal response of a system.

Grid generation by elliptic partial differential equations for a tri-element Augmentor-Wing airfoil

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sorenson, R. L.

1982-01-01

Two efforts to numerically simulate the flow about the Augmentor-Wing airfoil in the cruise configuration using the GRAPE elliptic partial differential equation grid generator algorithm are discussed. The Augmentor-Wing consists of a main airfoil with a slotted trailing edge for blowing and two smaller airfoils shrouding the blowing jet. The airfoil and the algorithm are described, and the application of GRAPE to an unsteady viscous flow simulation and a transonic full-potential approach is considered. The procedure involves dividing a complicated flow region into an arbitrary number of zones and ensuring continuity of grid lines, their slopes, and their point distributions across the zonal boundaries. The method for distributing the body-surface grid points is discussed.

TVET Teacher Education on the Threshold of Internationalisation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bunning, Frank, Ed.; Zhao, Zhi-Qun, Ed.

2006-01-01

The UNESCO International Meeting on Innovation and Excellence in TVET Teacher Education took place in Hangzhou/China in November 2004. The main aim of this conference was to establish a platform for discussion about improving the quality of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). The focal point was the development and…

Bridges to Opportunity for New Mexico.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bird, Keith W.

This document, presented in PowerPoint slide print-outs, discusses the Kentucky Community and Technical College System's role as strategic partner in Kentucky's economic and workforce development system. The KCTCS is composed of 25 colleges in sixteen geographic districts. The KCTCS has 3 main goals that it hopes to achieve by 2020: (1) access…

"Thriving on Chaos." A Colloquium Review (Hagerstown, Maryland, May 18, 1988).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ernst, Charles M.; And Others

Three authors discuss Tom Peters' management guide, "Thriving on Chaos," and its implications for community colleges. First, Dixie D. LeHardy delineates Peters' main points concerning the U.S. economic system, the need for new organizational structures, the importance of quality in an unstable, competitive world market, methods of…

Mentoring the Gifted: A Conceptual Analysis

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Grassinger, Robert; Porath, Marion; Ziegler, Albert

2010-01-01

Mentoring is considered among the most effective pedagogical measures, yet it is rarely used in gifted education. One of the main reasons for this neglect seems to be the lack of a thorough analysis of its conceptual foundations from the point of view of giftedness research. This contribution starts with a discussion of conceptual and definitional…

Nuclear magnetic resonance of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells.

PubMed

Suarez, Sophia; Greenbaum, Steve

2010-12-01

In this review, the contribution of NMR spectroscopy to the development of the proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) is discussed, with particular emphasis on its use in the characterization of structure and transport in proton exchange membranes (PEMs). Owing to copious amount of information available, results of the past decade will be the main focal point. In addition, its use as a screening tool for the PEM materials will be discussed. Copyright © 2010 The Japan Chemical Journal Forum and Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The Analysis and Discussion in the Effective Application of the Dispatcher Training Based on Case Teaching Method with the Cause from the Action of the Gap Protection of Main Transformer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yuanyuan, Xu; Zhengmao, Zhang; Xiang, Fang; Yuanshuai, Xu; Xinxin, Song

2018-03-01

The combination of theory and practice is a difficult problem on dispatcher training. Through a typical example of case, this paper provides an effective case teaching method for dispatcher training, and combines the theoretical discussion of the rule of experience with cases and achieves vividness. It helps students to understand and catch the key points of the theory, and improve their practical skills.

Geometric Modeling of Cellular Materials for Additive Manufacturing in Biomedical Field: A Review

PubMed Central

Rosso, Stefano; Meneghello, Roberto; Concheri, Gianmaria

2018-01-01

Advances in additive manufacturing technologies facilitate the fabrication of cellular materials that have tailored functional characteristics. The application of solid freeform fabrication techniques is especially exploited in designing scaffolds for tissue engineering. In this review, firstly, a classification of cellular materials from a geometric point of view is proposed; then, the main approaches on geometric modeling of cellular materials are discussed. Finally, an investigation on porous scaffolds fabricated by additive manufacturing technologies is pointed out. Perspectives in geometric modeling of scaffolds for tissue engineering are also proposed. PMID:29487626

Geometric Modeling of Cellular Materials for Additive Manufacturing in Biomedical Field: A Review.

PubMed

Savio, Gianpaolo; Rosso, Stefano; Meneghello, Roberto; Concheri, Gianmaria

2018-01-01

Advances in additive manufacturing technologies facilitate the fabrication of cellular materials that have tailored functional characteristics. The application of solid freeform fabrication techniques is especially exploited in designing scaffolds for tissue engineering. In this review, firstly, a classification of cellular materials from a geometric point of view is proposed; then, the main approaches on geometric modeling of cellular materials are discussed. Finally, an investigation on porous scaffolds fabricated by additive manufacturing technologies is pointed out. Perspectives in geometric modeling of scaffolds for tissue engineering are also proposed.

Distribution of curvature of 3D nonrotational surfaces approximating the corneal topography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kasprzak, Henryk T.

1998-10-01

The first part of the paper presents the analytical curves used to approximate the corneal profile. Next, some definition of 3D surfaces curvature, like main normal sections, main radii of curvature and their orientations are given. The examples of four nonrotational 3D surfaces such as: ellipsoidal, surface based on hyperbolic cosine function, sphero-cylindrical and toroidal, approximating the corneal topography are proposed. The 3D surface and the contour plots of main radii of curvature and their orientation for four nonrotational approximation of the cornea are shown. Results of calculations are discussed from the point of view of videokeratometric images.

From Constructivism to Dialogism in the Classroom. Theory and Learning Environments

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

de Mello, Roseli Rodrigues

2012-01-01

This paper discusses the move from learning theories from the industrial society to learning theories from and for dialogic societies. While in the past intrapsychological elements, such as mental schemata of prior knowledge, were the key to explain learning, today's theories point to interaction and dialogue as the main means for achieving deep…

Shakespeare in New South Wales Secondary Schools: A Brief History.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Watson, Ken

2003-01-01

Explains that throughout the past one hundred years, the question of how Shakespeare plays should be taught has been a point of contention in the New South Wales secondary English curriculum. Outlines the two main stances, the traditional literature-based approach and the active approach with emphasis on the text as play script. Discusses the…

Dialectics Instead of Dichotomy: Perspectives on the Twin Ambitions Movement

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Eriksson, Lisbeth

2013-01-01

This article discusses the mobilizing work of a disability organization, at the local chapter level. I have spent about a year following the work of a chapter, mainly through contacts, conversations and interviews with the persons who are active on its board. The analysis of the chapter's work takes as its starting point two traditions that…

Proceedings of the Symposium on Nondestructive Testing of Wood.

Treesearch

1964-01-01

This report summarizes the main points considered and the conclusions reached during the Symposium on Nondestructive Testing, October 7 to 9, 1963, at the Forest Products Laboratory. The purpose of this symposium was to bring research and industry leaders together to examine what is being done in nondestructive testing and discuss its applications to the wood products...

From Primary to Secondary Science: Keeping the Threads Intact

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mould, Kirsten

2015-01-01

There are many transition points in the school life of a child, but the move from primary to secondary school is a particularly significant one. How can both the social and academic threads remain intact? In this article, Kristen Mould discusses the main issues relating to transition from primary to secondary science. She cites the primary factors…

Mobility of Knowledge as a Recognition Challenge: Experiences from Sweden

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Andersson, Per; Fejes, Andreas

2010-01-01

This article focuses on the tensions between mobility, knowledge and recognition, and what the impact of migration could be on lifelong education and society. This is discussed with the case of Sweden as the starting point. The main issue in Sweden concerning migration is the admission of refugees. Sweden has had a relatively open policy…

Visualization and interaction tools for aerial photograph mosaics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fernandes, João Pedro; Fonseca, Alexandra; Pereira, Luís; Faria, Adriano; Figueira, Helder; Henriques, Inês; Garção, Rita; Câmara, António

1997-05-01

This paper describes the development of a digital spatial library based on mosaics of digital orthophotos, called Interactive Portugal, that will enable users both to retrieve geospatial information existing in the Portuguese National System for Geographic Information World Wide Web server, and to develop local databases connected to the main system. A set of navigation, interaction, and visualization tools are proposed and discussed. They include sketching, dynamic sketching, and navigation capabilities over the digital orthophotos mosaics. Main applications of this digital spatial library are pointed out and discussed, namely for education, professional, and tourism markets. Future developments are considered. These developments are related to user reactions, technological advancements, and projects that also aim at delivering and exploring digital imagery on the World Wide Web. Future capabilities for site selection and change detection are also considered.

Quasisaddles as relevant points of the potential energy surface in the dynamics of supercooled liquids

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Angelani, L.; Di Leonardo, R.; Ruocco, G.; Scala, A.; Sciortino, F.

2002-06-01

The supercooled dynamics of a Lennard-Jones model liquid is numerically investigated studying relevant points of the potential energy surface, i.e., the minima of the square gradient of total potential energy V. The main findings are (i) the number of negative curvatures n of these sampled points appears to extrapolate to zero at the mode coupling critical temperature Tc; (ii) the temperature behavior of n(T) has a close relationship with the temperature behavior of the diffusivity; (iii) the potential energy landscape shows a high regularity in the distances among the relevant points and in their energy location. Finally we discuss a model of the landscape, previously introduced by Madan and Keyes [J. Chem. Phys. 98, 3342 (1993)], able to reproduce the previous findings.

Tooth enamel remineralization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arends, J.; Ten Cate, J. M.

1981-05-01

In this paper a survey is given on tooth remineralization from remineralizing solutions and from saliva. The substrate, sound tooth enamel, is described from a chemical as well as from an ultrastructural point of view. Because saliva plays a crucial role in in vivo remineralizations, the most relevant properties of saliva, such as the thermodynamic stabilities with respect to calcium phosphates of interest, are considered. Tooth remineralization can be divided into three main types: lesion remineralization, surface softened remineralization and etched enamel remineralization. The main emphasis in this survey is given to lesion and surface softened remineralization which are the most important from a practical view point. In these two cases, the reaction order, the activation energy and the mechanism are discussed as well as the ultrastructure of remineralized material, the influence of various agents (especially F -)and differences between in vitro and in vivo data.

A survey and analysis of commercially available hydrogen sensors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hunter, Gary W.

1992-01-01

The performance requirements for hydrogen detection in aerospace applications often exceed those of more traditional applications. In order to ascertain the applicability of existing hydrogen sensors to aerospace applications, a survey was conducted of commercially available point-contact hydrogen sensors, and their operation was analyzed. The operation of the majority of commercial hydrogen sensors falls into four main categories: catalytic combustion, electrochemical, semiconducting oxide sensors, and thermal conductivity detectors. The physical mechanism involved in hydrogen detection for each main category is discussed in detail. From an understanding of the detection mechanism, each category of sensor is evaluated for use in a variety of space and propulsion environments. In order to meet the needs of aerospace applications, the development of point-contact hydrogen sensors that are based on concepts beyond those used in commercial sensors is necessary.

Food-packaging migration models: A critical discussion.

PubMed

Gavriil, Gavriil; Kanavouras, Antonis; Coutelieris, Frank A

2017-06-14

The widely accepted and used migration models that describe the mass transport from polymeric packaging material to food and food simulants are confirmed here. A critical review of the most accepted models is presented in detail. Their main advantages and weak points, regarding their predictive accuracy, are discussed and weighted toward their usage extensiveness. By identifying the specific areas where using such models may not provide a strong correlation between theoretical and actual results, this work also aims in outlining some particular directions regarding further research on food - packaging interactions.

Non-Lipschitz Dynamics Approach to Discrete Event Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zak, M.; Meyers, R.

1995-01-01

This paper presents and discusses a mathematical formalism for simulation of discrete event dynamics (DED) - a special type of 'man- made' system designed to aid specific areas of information processing. A main objective is to demonstrate that the mathematical formalism for DED can be based upon the terminal model of Newtonian dynamics which allows one to relax Lipschitz conditions at some discrete points.

Education, Language and Professionalism: Issues in the Professional Development of Early Years Practitioners in Germany

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fried, Lilian

2009-01-01

In the Federal Republic of Germany, many efforts are currently under way to improve the quality of early childhood education. One starting point is the quality of the professional training of early childhood practitioners. However, discussions mainly refer to input factors, such as the training curricula or the formal level of training. Output…

Executive Programs for Brazilian Mid-Career Public Managers: Pitfalls and Challenges

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pacheco, Regina Silvia; Franzese, Cibele

2017-01-01

This paper discusses the challenges of professional education for mid-career public managers at graduate level, pointing out pitfalls to avoid and obstacles to face. Analyzing the Brazilian case, the goal is to raise issues that may also be present in other cases. The main argument developed here is that the puzzle faced by graduate programs on…

The Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Act of 1996: What Welfare Reform Means for Head Start.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Shuell, Julie; Hanna, Jeff; Oterlei, Jannell; Kariger, Patricia

This National Head Start Association booklet outlines the main provisions of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Act and describes how it may affect local Head Start Programs. The document is intended to serve as a starting point for local programs, parents, administrators and policy workers to discuss and plan how Head Start will…

How to Produce Vocabulary Lists? Issues of Definition, Selection and Pedagogical Aims. A Response to Gabriele Stein

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brezina, Vaclav; Gablasova, Dana

2017-01-01

This short contribution is a response to Stein's critical review of the New General Service List; it reviews Stein's argument and replies to the main points raised in her paper. We identify and discuss three fundamental principles of wordlist creation. In particular, we focus on defining and operationalising the vocabulary construct and the…

Funding Systems for Higher Education and Their Impacts on Institutional Strategies and Academia: A Comparative Perspective

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Frolich, Nicoline; Kalpazidou Schmidt, Evanthia; Rosa, Maria J.

2010-01-01

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to discuss how funding systems influence higher education institutions and their strategies and core tasks. Design/methodology/approach: Taking the results of a comparative study between Denmark, Norway and Portugal as a point of departure, the paper identifies and analyses the main features of these state…

Existence results for degenerate p(x)-Laplace equations with Leray-Lions type operators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ho, Ky; Sim, Inbo

2017-01-01

We show the various existence results for degenerate $p(x)$-Laplace equations with Leray-Lions type operators. A suitable condition on degeneracy is discussed and proofs are mainly based on direct methods and critical point theories in Calculus of Variations. In particular, we investigate the various situations of the growth rates between principal operators and nonlinearities.

The Use of Different Achievement Tests in the ESEA Title I Evaluation System.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tallmadge, G. Kasten; Horst, Donald P.

In this discussion of the use of achievement tests in evaluating Title I programs, matching content between test and curriculum is the main theme. The point is made that unless a test measures what is taught, it cannot be sensitive to whatever gains the instruction produces. Thus, if different instructional treatments have different objectives, it…

Teacher Development in Slovenia for Teaching Foreign Languages at the Primary Level

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brumen, Mihaela; Fojkar, Mateja Dagarin

2012-01-01

The introduction of foreign languages into the first three-year cycle of primary school has spurred the need for qualified teachers, and is one of the main discussion points among experts in foreign language teaching. Most of the contemporary studies report that there is a global gap between the supply of qualified teachers of foreign languages to…

Invisible Higher Education: Higher Education Institutions from Central and Eastern Europe in Global Rankings

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Boyadjieva, Pepka

2017-01-01

The starting point of this study is the argument that not only rankings of higher education institutions (HEIs) are inescapable, but so is the constant criticism to which they are subjected. Against this background, the paper discusses how HEIs from Central and Eastern Europe countries (CEECs) are (non)represented in the main global university…

Report on the Third Workshop on Sustainable Software for Science: Practice and Experiences (WSSSPE3)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Katz, Daniel S.; Choi, Sou-Cheng T.; Niemeyer, Kyle E.; Hetherington, James; Löffler, Frank; Gunter, Dan; Idaszak, Ray; Brandt, Steven R.; Miller, Mark A.; Gesing, Sandra; Jones, Nick D.; Weber, Nic; Marru, Suresh; Allen, Gabrielle; Penzenstadler, Birgit; Venters, Colin C.; Davis, Ethan; Hwang, Lorraine; Todorov, Ilian; Patra, Abani; de Val-Borro, Miguel

2016-02-01

This report records and discusses the Third Workshop on Sustainable Software for Science: Practice and Experiences (WSSSPE3). The report includes a description of the keynote presentation of the workshop, which served as an overview of sustainable scientific software. It also summarizes a set of lightning talks in which speakers highlighted to-the-point lessons and challenges pertaining to sustaining scientific software. The final and main contribution of the report is a summary of the discussions, future steps, and future organization for a set of self-organized working groups on topics including developing pathways to funding scientific software; constructing useful common metrics for crediting software stakeholders; identifying principles for sustainable software engineering design; reaching out to research software organizations around the world; and building communities for software sustainability. For each group, we include a point of contact and a landing page that can be used by those who want to join that group's future activities. The main challenge left by the workshop is to see if the groups will execute these activities that they have scheduled, and how the WSSSPE community can encourage this to happen.

Ion dynamics in the Venus ionosphere

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miller, K. L.; Whitten, R. C.

1991-02-01

Measurement data on the ion velocity in the Venus ionosphere (mainly from the Pioneer Venus Orbiter Retarding Potential Analyzer) are summarized, and theoretical models developed to explain them are reviewed. Data and theoretical predictions are compared in extensive graphs and diagrams and discussed in detail. It is shown that the predominant flow is away from the subsolar point, at up to 3 km/sec in the terminator region. A model of axisymmetric flow based on momentum, energy, and mass conservation laws is found to reproduce the observed ion velocities at solar zenith angles less than about 140 deg, but not the high velocities and chaotic behavior seen near the antisolar point. Also discussed are significant differences between the flow above and below about 400 km and the effects of changes in the dynamic pressure of the solar wind.

Focal points and principal solutions of linear Hamiltonian systems revisited

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Šepitka, Peter; Šimon Hilscher, Roman

2018-05-01

In this paper we present a novel view on the principal (and antiprincipal) solutions of linear Hamiltonian systems, as well as on the focal points of their conjoined bases. We present a new and unified theory of principal (and antiprincipal) solutions at a finite point and at infinity, and apply it to obtain new representation of the multiplicities of right and left proper focal points of conjoined bases. We show that these multiplicities can be characterized by the abnormality of the system in a neighborhood of the given point and by the rank of the associated T-matrix from the theory of principal (and antiprincipal) solutions. We also derive some additional important results concerning the representation of T-matrices and associated normalized conjoined bases. The results in this paper are new even for completely controllable linear Hamiltonian systems. We also discuss other potential applications of our main results, in particular in the singular Sturmian theory.

Design and Implementation of a Digital Controller for a Vibration Isolation and Vernier Pointing System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Neff, Daniel J.; Britcher, Colin P.

1996-01-01

This paper discusses the recommissioning of the Annular Suspension and Pointing System (ASPS), originally developed in the mid 1970's for pointing and vibration isolation of space experiments. The hardware was developed for NASA Langley Research Center by Sperry Flight Systems (now Honeywell Satellite Systems), was delivered to NASA in 1983. Recently, the hardware was loaned to Old Dominion University (ODU). The ASPS includes coarse gimbal assemblies and a Vernier Pointing Assembly (VPA) that utilize magnetic suspension to provide noncontacting vibration isolation and vernier pointing of the payload. The VPA is the main focus of this research. At ODU, the system has been modified such that it can now be operated in a l-g environment without a gravity offload. Suspension of the annular iron rotor in five degrees-of-freedom has been achieved with the use of modern switching power amplifiers and a digital controller implemented on a 486-class PC.

Evaluation of Methods for Coregistration and Fusion of Rpas-Based 3d Point Clouds and Thermal Infrared Images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hoegner, L.; Tuttas, S.; Xu, Y.; Eder, K.; Stilla, U.

2016-06-01

This paper discusses the automatic coregistration and fusion of 3d point clouds generated from aerial image sequences and corresponding thermal infrared (TIR) images. Both RGB and TIR images have been taken from a RPAS platform with a predefined flight path where every RGB image has a corresponding TIR image taken from the same position and with the same orientation with respect to the accuracy of the RPAS system and the inertial measurement unit. To remove remaining differences in the exterior orientation, different strategies for coregistering RGB and TIR images are discussed: (i) coregistration based on 2D line segments for every single TIR image and the corresponding RGB image. This method implies a mainly planar scene to avoid mismatches; (ii) coregistration of both the dense 3D point clouds from RGB images and from TIR images by coregistering 2D image projections of both point clouds; (iii) coregistration based on 2D line segments in every single TIR image and 3D line segments extracted from intersections of planes fitted in the segmented dense 3D point cloud; (iv) coregistration of both the dense 3D point clouds from RGB images and from TIR images using both ICP and an adapted version based on corresponding segmented planes; (v) coregistration of both image sets based on point features. The quality is measured by comparing the differences of the back projection of homologous points in both corrected RGB and TIR images.

A pseudospectral Legendre method for hyperbolic equations with an improved stability condition

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tal-Ezer, H.

1984-01-01

A new pseudospectral method is introduced for solving hyperbolic partial differential equations. This method uses different grid points than previously used pseudospectral methods: in fact the grid are related to the zeroes of the Legendre polynomials. The main advantage of this method is that the allowable time step is proportional to the inverse of the number of grid points 1/N rather than to 1/n(2) (as in the case of other pseudospectral methods applied to mixed initial boundary value problems). A highly accurate time discretization suitable for these spectral methods is discussed.

Registration of Vehicle-Borne Point Clouds and Panoramic Images Based on Sensor Constellations.

PubMed

Yao, Lianbi; Wu, Hangbin; Li, Yayun; Meng, Bin; Qian, Jinfei; Liu, Chun; Fan, Hongchao

2017-04-11

A mobile mapping system (MMS) is usually utilized to collect environmental data on and around urban roads. Laser scanners and panoramic cameras are the main sensors of an MMS. This paper presents a new method for the registration of the point clouds and panoramic images based on sensor constellation. After the sensor constellation was analyzed, a feature point, the intersection of the connecting line between the global positioning system (GPS) antenna and the panoramic camera with a horizontal plane, was utilized to separate the point clouds into blocks. The blocks for the central and sideward laser scanners were extracted with the segmentation feature points. Then, the point clouds located in the blocks were separated from the original point clouds. Each point in the blocks was used to find the accurate corresponding pixel in the relative panoramic images via a collinear function, and the position and orientation relationship amongst different sensors. A search strategy is proposed for the correspondence of laser scanners and lenses of panoramic cameras to reduce calculation complexity and improve efficiency. Four cases of different urban road types were selected to verify the efficiency and accuracy of the proposed method. Results indicate that most of the point clouds (with an average of 99.7%) were successfully registered with the panoramic images with great efficiency. Geometric evaluation results indicate that horizontal accuracy was approximately 0.10-0.20 m, and vertical accuracy was approximately 0.01-0.02 m for all cases. Finally, the main factors that affect registration accuracy, including time synchronization amongst different sensors, system positioning and vehicle speed, are discussed.

Conservation laws and stress-energy-momentum tensors for systems with background fields

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

Gratus, Jonathan, E-mail: j.gratus@lancaster.ac.uk; The Cockcroft Institute, Daresbury Laboratory, Warrington WA4 4AD; Obukhov, Yuri N., E-mail: yo@thp.uni-koeln.de

2012-10-15

This article attempts to delineate the roles played by non-dynamical background structures and Killing symmetries in the construction of stress-energy-momentum tensors generated from a diffeomorphism invariant action density. An intrinsic coordinate independent approach puts into perspective a number of spurious arguments that have historically lead to the main contenders, viz the Belinfante-Rosenfeld stress-energy-momentum tensor derived from a Noether current and the Einstein-Hilbert stress-energy-momentum tensor derived in the context of Einstein's theory of general relativity. Emphasis is placed on the role played by non-dynamical background (phenomenological) structures that discriminate between properties of these tensors particularly in the context of electrodynamics inmore » media. These tensors are used to construct conservation laws in the presence of Killing Lie-symmetric background fields. - Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The role of background fields in diffeomorphism invariant actions is demonstrated. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Interrelations between different stress-energy-momentum tensors are emphasised. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The Abraham and Minkowski electromagnetic tensors are discussed in this context. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Conservation laws in the presence of nondynamic background fields are formulated. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The discussion is facilitated by the development of a new variational calculus.« less

High-sensitivity fiber optic acoustic sensors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lu, Ping; Liu, Deming; Liao, Hao

2016-11-01

Due to the overwhelming advantages compared with traditional electronicsensors, fiber-optic acoustic sensors have arisen enormous interest in multiple disciplines. In this paper we present the recent research achievements of our group on fiber-optic acoustic sensors. The main point of our research is high sensitivity interferometric acoustic sensors, including Michelson, Sagnac, and Fabry-Pérot interferometers. In addition, some advanced technologies have been proposed for acoustic or acoustic pressure sensing such as single-mode/multimode fiber coupler, dual FBGs and multi-longitudinal mode fiber laser based acoustic sensors. Moreover, our attention we have also been paid on signal demodulation schemes. The intensity-based quadrature point (Q-point) demodulation, two-wavelength quadrature demodulation and symmetric 3×3 coupler methodare discussed and compared in this paper.

Nuclear Cryogenic Propulsion Stage Conceptual Design and Mission Analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kos, Larry D.; Russell, Tiffany E.

2014-01-01

The Nuclear Cryogenic Propulsion Stage (NCPS) is an in-space transportation vehicle, comprised of three main elements, designed to support a long-stay human Mars mission architecture beginning in 2035. The stage conceptual design and the mission analysis discussed here support the current nuclear thermal propulsion going on within partnership activity of NASA and the Department of Energy (DOE). The transportation system consists of three elements: 1) the Core Stage, 2) the In-line Tank, and 3) the Drop Tank. The driving mission case is the piloted flight to Mars in 2037 and will be the main point design shown and discussed. The corresponding Space Launch System (SLS) launch vehicle (LV) is also presented due to it being a very critical aspect of the NCPS Human Mars Mission architecture due to the strong relationship between LV lift capability and LV volume capacity.

Monitoring of rock glacier dynamics by multi-temporal UAV images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Morra di Cella, Umberto; Pogliotti, Paolo; Diotri, Fabrizio; Cremonese, Edoardo; Filippa, Gianluca; Galvagno, Marta

2015-04-01

During the last years several steps forward have been made in the comprehension of rock glaciers dynamics mainly for their potential evolution into rapid mass movements phenomena. Monitoring the surface movement of creeping mountain permafrost is important for understanding the potential effect of ongoing climate change on such a landforms. This study presents the reconstruction of two years of surface movements and DEM changes obtained by multi-temporal analysis of UAV images (provided by SenseFly Swinglet CAM drone). The movement rate obtained by photogrammetry are compared to those obtained by differential GNSS repeated campaigns on almost fifty points distributed on the rock glacier. Results reveals a very good agreements between both rates velocities obtained by the two methods and vertical displacements on fixed points. Strengths, weaknesses and shrewdness of this methods will be discussed. Such a method is very promising mainly for remote regions with difficult access.

The change of steel surface chemistry regarding oxygen partial pressure and dew point

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Norden, Martin; Blumenau, Marc; Wuttke, Thiemo; Peters, Klaus-Josef

2013-04-01

By investigating the surface state of a Ti-IF, TiNb-IF and a MnCr-DP after several series of intercritical annealing, the impact of the annealing gas composition on the selective oxidation process is discussed. On behalf of the presented results, it can be concluded that not the general oxygen partial pressure in the annealing furnace, which is a result of the equilibrium reaction of water and hydrogen, is the main driving force for the selective oxidation process. It is shown that the amounts of adsorbed gases at the strip surface and the effective oxygen partial pressure resulting from the adsorbed gases, which is mainly dependent on the water content of the annealing furnace, is driving the selective oxidation processes occurring during intercritical annealing. Thus it is concluded, that for industrial applications the dew point must be the key parameter value for process control.

[On eco-ethics and sustainable development of natural resources].

PubMed

Wang, Qingli; Deng, Hongbing

2002-07-01

In this paper, definition of natural resources was discussed at first, and chief characteristics of natural resources were concluded and summarized systematically. Then, in point of eco-ethics, relationship between natural resources and human was discussed. Human in the contemporary era should hold the responsibilities and commitments to remain abundant resources for survival and development of the offspring, and it is the same important to meet the requirement of human in the contemporary era and the offspring. Bringing eco-ethics into the practice of protection, exploitation, and sustainable development of natural resources has very important theoretic and practical significance undoubtedly. Therefore, approaches and main measures to sustainable development of natural resources were also discussed in this paper.

Terminal Dynamics Approach to Discrete Event Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zak, Michail; Meyers, Ronald

1995-01-01

This paper presents and discusses a mathematical formalism for simulation of discrete event dynamic (DED)-a special type of 'man-made' systems to serve specific purposes of information processing. The main objective of this work is to demonstrate that the mathematical formalism for DED can be based upon a terminal model of Newtonian dynamics which allows one to relax Lipschitz conditions at some discrete points.!.

Part II--IEPS Reports. The proper function of teaching hospitals within health systems.

PubMed

1998-01-01

The main points of the discussions from the international seminar organised by the World Health Organisation and the Institute for the Study of Health Policies (IEPS) were published in French by Flammarion Medecine-Sciences in the Collection entitled "The IEPS Reports" and in English by the WHO under the title "The Proper Function of Teaching Hospitals within Health Systems" (1995).

Learning through Teaching: Challenges and Opportunities in Facilitating Student Learning in Food Science and Nutrition by Using the Interteaching Approach

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Goto, Keiko; Schneider, Julie

2010-01-01

Interteaching is a new pedagogical strategy for classroom instruction that demonstrates great effective student learning outcomes in the field of psychology. It is a 20 to 30 min student-to-student discussion addressing the main points in a specified body of reading materials. Interteaching includes elements such as reciprocal peer tutoring,…

Response format, magnitude of laterality effects, and sex differences in laterality.

PubMed

Voyer, Daniel; Doyle, Randi A

2012-01-01

The present study examined the evidence for the claim that response format might affect the magnitude of laterality effects by means of a meta-analysis. The analysis included the 396 effect sizes drawn from 266 studies retrieved by Voyer (1996) and relevant to the main effect of laterality and sex differences in laterality for verbal and non-verbal tasks in the auditory, tactile, and visual sensory modality. The response format used in specific studies was the only moderator variable of interest in the present analysis, resulting in four broad response categories (oral, written, computer, and pointing). A meta-analysis analogue to ANOVA showed no significant influence of response format on either the main effect of laterality or sex differences in laterality when all sensory modalities were combined. However, when modalities were considered separately, response format affected the main effect of laterality in the visual modality, with a clear advantage for written responses. Further pointed analyses revealed some specific differences among response formats. Results are discussed in terms of their implications for the measurement of laterality.

Free-trade agreements: challenges for global health

PubMed Central

Ribeiro, Helena

2015-01-01

In this study new free-trade agreements are discussed, which are based on the breaking down of tariff and technical barriers and normally exclude most of the poorest countries in the world. Considering the current context of economic globalization and its health impacts, seven controversial points of these treaties and their possible implications for global public health are presented, mainly regarding health equity and other health determinants. Finally, this research proposes a greater social and health professionals participation in the formulation and discussion of these treaties, and a deeper insertion of Brazil in this important international agenda. PMID:26270018

Improving "lab-on-a-chip" techniques using biomedical nanotechnology: a review.

PubMed

Gorjikhah, Fatemeh; Davaran, Soodabeh; Salehi, Roya; Bakhtiari, Mohsen; Hasanzadeh, Arash; Panahi, Yunes; Emamverdy, Masumeh; Akbarzadeh, Abolfazl

2016-11-01

Nanotechnology and its applications in biomedical sciences principally in molecular nanodiagnostics are known as nanomolecular diagnostics, which provides new options for clinical nanodiagnostic techniques. Molecular nanodiagnostics are a critical role in the development of personalized medicine, which features point-of care performance of diagnostic procedure. This can to check patients at point-of-care facilities or in remote or resource-poor locations, therefore reducing checking time from days to minutes. In this review, applications of nanotechnology suited to biomedicine are discussed in two main class: biomedical applications for use inside (such as drugs, diagnostic techniques, prostheses, and implants) and outside the body (such as "lab-on-a-chip" techniques). A lab-on-a-chip (LOC) is a tool that incorporates numerous laboratory tasks onto a small device, usually only millimeters or centimeters in size. Finally, are discussed the applications of biomedical nanotechnology in improving "lab-on-a-chip" techniques.

Groin Pain Syndrome Italian Consensus Conference on terminology, clinical evaluation and imaging assessment in groin pain in athlete

PubMed Central

Bisciotti, G N; Volpi, P; Zini, R; Auci, A; Aprato, A; Belli, A; Bellistri, G; Benelli, P; Bona, S; Bonaiuti, D; Carimati, G; Canata, G L; Cassaghi, G; Cerulli, S; Delle Rose, G; Di Benedetto, P; Di Marzo, F; Di Pietto, F; Felicioni, L; Ferrario, L; Foglia, A; Galli, M; Gervasi, E; Gia, L; Giammattei, C; Guglielmi, A; Marioni, A; Moretti, B; Niccolai, R; Orgiani, N; Pantalone, A; Parra, F; Quaglia, A; Respizzi, F; Ricciotti, L; Pereira Ruiz, M T; Russo, A; Sebastiani, E; Tancredi, G; Tosi, F; Vuckovic, Z

2016-01-01

The nomenclature and the lack of consensus of clinical evaluation and imaging assessment in groin pain generate significant confusion in this field. The Groin Pain Syndrome Italian Consensus Conference has been organised in order to prepare a consensus document regarding taxonomy, clinical evaluation and imaging assessment for groin pain. A 1-day Consensus Conference was organised on 5 February 2016, in Milan (Italy). 41 Italian experts with different backgrounds participated in the discussion. A consensus document previously drafted was discussed, eventually modified, and finally approved by all members of the Consensus Conference. Unanimous consensus was reached concerning: (1) taxonomy (2) clinical evaluation and (3) imaging assessment. The synthesis of these 3 points is included in this paper. The Groin Pain Syndrome Italian Consensus Conference reached a consensus on three main points concerning the groin pain syndrome assessment, in an attempt to clarify this challenging medical problem. PMID:28890800

Distance-based microfluidic quantitative detection methods for point-of-care testing.

PubMed

Tian, Tian; Li, Jiuxing; Song, Yanling; Zhou, Leiji; Zhu, Zhi; Yang, Chaoyong James

2016-04-07

Equipment-free devices with quantitative readout are of great significance to point-of-care testing (POCT), which provides real-time readout to users and is especially important in low-resource settings. Among various equipment-free approaches, distance-based visual quantitative detection methods rely on reading the visual signal length for corresponding target concentrations, thus eliminating the need for sophisticated instruments. The distance-based methods are low-cost, user-friendly and can be integrated into portable analytical devices. Moreover, such methods enable quantitative detection of various targets by the naked eye. In this review, we first introduce the concept and history of distance-based visual quantitative detection methods. Then, we summarize the main methods for translation of molecular signals to distance-based readout and discuss different microfluidic platforms (glass, PDMS, paper and thread) in terms of applications in biomedical diagnostics, food safety monitoring, and environmental analysis. Finally, the potential and future perspectives are discussed.

Class-first analysis in a continuum: an approach to the complexities of schools, society, and insurgent science

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Valdiviezo, Laura Alicia

2010-06-01

This essay addresses Katherine Richardson Bruna's paper: Mexican Immigrant Transnational Social Capital and Class Transformation: Examining the Role of Peer Mediation in Insurgent Science, through five main points . First, I offer a comparison between the traditional analysis of classism in Latin America and Richardson Bruna's call for a class-first analysis in the North American social sciences where there has been a tendency to obviate the specific examination of class relations and class issues. Secondly, I discuss that a class-first analysis solely cannot suffice to depict the complex dimensions in the relations of schools and society. Thus, I suggest a continuum in the class-first analysis. Third, I argue that social constructions surrounding issues of language, ethnicity, and gender necessarily intersect with issues of class and that, in fact, those other constructions offer compatible epistemologies that aid in representing the complexity of social and institutional practices in the capitalist society. Richardson Bruna's analysis of Augusto's interactions with his teacher and peers in the science class provides a fourth point of discussion in this essay. As a final point in my response I discuss Richardson Bruna's idea of making accessible class-first analysis knowledge to educators and especially to science teachers.

DNA as information: at the crossroads between biology, mathematics, physics and chemistry

PubMed Central

2016-01-01

On the one hand, biology, chemistry and also physics tell us how the process of translating the genetic information into life could possibly work, but we are still very far from a complete understanding of this process. On the other hand, mathematics and statistics give us methods to describe such natural systems—or parts of them—within a theoretical framework. Also, they provide us with hints and predictions that can be tested at the experimental level. Furthermore, there are peculiar aspects of the management of genetic information that are intimately related to information theory and communication theory. This theme issue is aimed at fostering the discussion on the problem of genetic coding and information through the presentation of different innovative points of view. The aim of the editors is to stimulate discussions and scientific exchange that will lead to new research on why and how life can exist from the point of view of the coding and decoding of genetic information. The present introduction represents the point of view of the editors on the main aspects that could be the subject of future scientific debate. PMID:26857674

Advanced DNA-Based Point-of-Care Diagnostic Methods for Plant Diseases Detection.

PubMed

Lau, Han Yih; Botella, Jose R

2017-01-01

Diagnostic technologies for the detection of plant pathogens with point-of-care capability and high multiplexing ability are an essential tool in the fight to reduce the large agricultural production losses caused by plant diseases. The main desirable characteristics for such diagnostic assays are high specificity, sensitivity, reproducibility, quickness, cost efficiency and high-throughput multiplex detection capability. This article describes and discusses various DNA-based point-of care diagnostic methods for applications in plant disease detection. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is the most common DNA amplification technology used for detecting various plant and animal pathogens. However, subsequent to PCR based assays, several types of nucleic acid amplification technologies have been developed to achieve higher sensitivity, rapid detection as well as suitable for field applications such as loop-mediated isothermal amplification, helicase-dependent amplification, rolling circle amplification, recombinase polymerase amplification, and molecular inversion probe. The principle behind these technologies has been thoroughly discussed in several review papers; herein we emphasize the application of these technologies to detect plant pathogens by outlining the advantages and disadvantages of each technology in detail.

Advanced DNA-Based Point-of-Care Diagnostic Methods for Plant Diseases Detection

PubMed Central

Lau, Han Yih; Botella, Jose R.

2017-01-01

Diagnostic technologies for the detection of plant pathogens with point-of-care capability and high multiplexing ability are an essential tool in the fight to reduce the large agricultural production losses caused by plant diseases. The main desirable characteristics for such diagnostic assays are high specificity, sensitivity, reproducibility, quickness, cost efficiency and high-throughput multiplex detection capability. This article describes and discusses various DNA-based point-of care diagnostic methods for applications in plant disease detection. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is the most common DNA amplification technology used for detecting various plant and animal pathogens. However, subsequent to PCR based assays, several types of nucleic acid amplification technologies have been developed to achieve higher sensitivity, rapid detection as well as suitable for field applications such as loop-mediated isothermal amplification, helicase-dependent amplification, rolling circle amplification, recombinase polymerase amplification, and molecular inversion probe. The principle behind these technologies has been thoroughly discussed in several review papers; herein we emphasize the application of these technologies to detect plant pathogens by outlining the advantages and disadvantages of each technology in detail. PMID:29375588

Registration of Vehicle-Borne Point Clouds and Panoramic Images Based on Sensor Constellations

PubMed Central

Yao, Lianbi; Wu, Hangbin; Li, Yayun; Meng, Bin; Qian, Jinfei; Liu, Chun; Fan, Hongchao

2017-01-01

A mobile mapping system (MMS) is usually utilized to collect environmental data on and around urban roads. Laser scanners and panoramic cameras are the main sensors of an MMS. This paper presents a new method for the registration of the point clouds and panoramic images based on sensor constellation. After the sensor constellation was analyzed, a feature point, the intersection of the connecting line between the global positioning system (GPS) antenna and the panoramic camera with a horizontal plane, was utilized to separate the point clouds into blocks. The blocks for the central and sideward laser scanners were extracted with the segmentation feature points. Then, the point clouds located in the blocks were separated from the original point clouds. Each point in the blocks was used to find the accurate corresponding pixel in the relative panoramic images via a collinear function, and the position and orientation relationship amongst different sensors. A search strategy is proposed for the correspondence of laser scanners and lenses of panoramic cameras to reduce calculation complexity and improve efficiency. Four cases of different urban road types were selected to verify the efficiency and accuracy of the proposed method. Results indicate that most of the point clouds (with an average of 99.7%) were successfully registered with the panoramic images with great efficiency. Geometric evaluation results indicate that horizontal accuracy was approximately 0.10–0.20 m, and vertical accuracy was approximately 0.01–0.02 m for all cases. Finally, the main factors that affect registration accuracy, including time synchronization amongst different sensors, system positioning and vehicle speed, are discussed. PMID:28398256

KSC-98pc786

NASA Image and Video Library

1998-07-06

James W. Tibble (pointing at engine), an Engine Systems/Ground Support Equipment team manager for Rocketdyne, discusses the operation of a Space Shuttle Main Engine with Robert B. Sieck, director of Shuttle Processing; U.S. Congressman Dave Weldon; and KSC Center Director Roy D. Bridges Jr. Following the ribbon cutting ceremony for KSC's new 34,600-square-foot Space Shuttle Main Engine Processing Facility (SSMEPF), KSC employees and media explored the facility. A major addition to the existing Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3, the SSMEPF replaces the Shuttle Main Engine Shop located in the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB). The decision to move the shop out of the VAB was prompted by safety considerations and recent engine processing improvements. The first three main engines to be processed in the new facility will fly on Shuttle Endeavour's STS-88 mission in December 1998

The SSMEPF opens with a ribbon-cutting ceremony

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1998-01-01

James W. Tibble (pointing at engine), an Engine Systems/Ground Support Equipment team manager for Rocketdyne, discusses the operation of a Space Shuttle Main Engine with Robert B. Sieck, director of Shuttle Processing; U.S. Congressman Dave Weldon; and KSC Center Director Roy D. Bridges Jr. Following the ribbon cutting ceremony for KSC's new 34,600-square-foot Space Shuttle Main Engine Processing Facility (SSMEPF), KSC employees and media explored the facility. A major addition to the existing Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3, the SSMEPF replaces the Shuttle Main Engine Shop located in the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB). The decision to move the shop out of the VAB was prompted by safety considerations and recent engine processing improvements. The first three main engines to be processed in the new facility will fly on Shuttle Endeavour's STS-88 mission in December 1998.

Yttrium recovery from primary and secondary sources: A review of main hydrometallurgical processes

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

Innocenzi, Valentina, E-mail: valentina.innocenzi1@univaq.it; De Michelis, Ida; Kopacek, Bernd

2014-07-15

Highlights: • Review of the main hydrometallurgical processes to recover yttrium. • Recovery of yttrium from primary sources. • Recovery of yttrium from e-waste and other types of waste. - Abstract: Yttrium is important rare earths (REs) used in numerous fields, mainly in the phosphor powders for low-energy lighting. The uses of these elements, especially for high-tech products are increased in recent years and combined with the scarcity of the resources and the environmental impact of the technologies to extract them from ores make the recycling waste, that contain Y and other RE, a priority. The present review summarized themore » main hydrometallurgical technologies to extract Y from ores, contaminated solutions, WEEE and generic wastes. Before to discuss the works about the treatment of wastes, the processes to retrieval Y from ores are discussed, since the processes are similar and derived from those already developed for the extraction from primary sources. Particular attention was given to the recovery of Y from WEEE because the recycle of them is important not only for economical point of view, considering its value, but also for environmental impact that this could be generated if not properly disposal.« less

A simple mechanical system mimicking phase transitions in a one-dimensional medium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Charru, François

1997-11-01

We study a simple mechanical oscillator the bifurcations of which illustrate first- and second-order phase transitions. The phase diagram of the oscillator exhibits a coexistence curve. This curve ends at a critical point, where three critical exponents can be defined. A metronome may be used to illustrate the main results. We then consider a linear array of such oscillators with elastic coupling, which is governed by the damped Klein - Gordon equation. The classical solutions of this equation, such as fronts propagating in an unstable or in a metastable state, can be guessed at and discussed from the point of view of a mechanical model.

Space-Borne Laser Altimeter Geolocation Error Analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Y.; Fang, J.; Ai, Y.

2018-05-01

This paper reviews the development of space-borne laser altimetry technology over the past 40 years. Taking the ICESAT satellite as an example, a rigorous space-borne laser altimeter geolocation model is studied, and an error propagation equation is derived. The influence of the main error sources, such as the platform positioning error, attitude measurement error, pointing angle measurement error and range measurement error, on the geolocation accuracy of the laser spot are analysed by simulated experiments. The reasons for the different influences on geolocation accuracy in different directions are discussed, and to satisfy the accuracy of the laser control point, a design index for each error source is put forward.

[Achievements and problems of modern trials of antihypertensive drugs].

PubMed

Kobalava, Zh D; Kotovskaia, Iu V

2011-01-01

Most important value of lowering of substantially elevated arterial pressure (AP) for improvement of outcomes in patients with arterial hypertension (AH) was convincingly confirmed by large truly placebo controlled randomized clinical trials (RCT) with the use of mainly diuretics, and/or beta-adrenoblockers in the 60-80ths. Later comparative RCT confirmed equal antihypertensive efficacy of 5 main drug classes relative to AP level in brachial artery. In this review we discuss merit of auxiliary class-specific properties of antihypertensive agents potentially affecting prognosis besides AP lowering. We also discuss problems related to decline of significance of quantitative criteria of AH and consideration of AP level in general context of cardiovascular risk; problems of external validity of RCT; extrapolation of RCT results obtained in patients with complicated AH and very high cardiovascular risk on young patients with uncomplicated AH; significance of hard and surrogate end points.

Applying the vantage PDMS to jack-up drilling ships

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yin, Peng; Chen, Yuan-Ming; Cui, Tong-Kai; Wang, Zi-Shen; Gong, Li-Jiang; Yu, Xiang-Fen

2009-09-01

The plant design management system (PDMS) is an integrated application which includes a database and is useful when designing complex 3-D industrial projects. It could be used to simplify the most difficult part of a subsea oil extraction project—detailed pipeline design. It could also be used to integrate the design of equipment, structures, HVAC, E-ways as well as the detailed designs of other specialists. This article mainly examines the applicability of the Vantage PDMS database to pipeline projects involving jack-up drilling ships. It discusses the catalogue (CATA) of the pipeline, the spec-world (SPWL) of the pipeline, the bolt tables (BLTA) and so on. This article explains the main methods for CATA construction as well as problem in the process of construction. In this article, the authors point out matters needing attention when using the Vantage PDMS database in the design process and discuss partial solutions to these questions.

Complex Pupil Masks for Aberrated Imaging of Closely Spaced Objects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Reddy, A. N. K.; Sagar, D. K.; Khonina, S. N.

2017-12-01

Current approach demonstrates the suppression of optical side-lobes and the contraction of the main lobe in the composite image of two object points of the optical system under the influence of defocusing effect when an asymmetric phase edges are imposed over the apodized circular aperture. The resolution of two point sources having different intensity ratio is discussed in terms of the modified Sparrow criterion, functions of the degree of coherence of the illumination, the intensity difference and the degree of asymmetric phase masking. Here we have introduced and explored the effects of focus aberration (defect-of-focus) on the two-point resolution of the optical systems. Results on the aberrated composite image of closely spaced objects with amplitude mask and asymmetric phase masks forms a significant contribution in astronomical and microscopic observations.

Ethical, legal and clinical aspects of live surgery in urology – contemporary issues and a glimpse of the future

PubMed Central

Ferician, Ovidiu Catalin; Latcu, Silviu Constantin; Pricop, Catalin; Bardan, Razvan Tiberiu

2017-01-01

Beside dry and wet lab training, simulators, video tapes, fellowships and clinical visits, live surgery has gained popularity during the last years, being an attraction point at large scientific meetings and at postgraduate courses as well. This type of surgical training raises both ethical and legal issues. Thus, there are professional societies that have banned such meetings, mainly due to safety reasons for the patient. The current article aims to identify and to discuss ethical and legal issues related to the topic, advantages, disadvantages and weak points of this emerging challenge for modern medicine, trying to analyze the issues from all relevant points of view: those of the patient, the surgeon and the session attendant. PMID:28446925

Lactose intolerance: diagnosis, genetic, and clinical factors

PubMed Central

Mattar, Rejane; de Campos Mazo, Daniel Ferraz; Carrilho, Flair José

2012-01-01

Most people are born with the ability to digest lactose, the major carbohydrate in milk and the main source of nutrition until weaning. Approximately 75% of the world’s population loses this ability at some point, while others can digest lactose into adulthood. This review discusses the lactase-persistence alleles that have arisen in different populations around the world, diagnosis of lactose intolerance, and its symptomatology and management. PMID:22826639

Products of composite operators in the exact renormalization group formalism

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pagani, C.; Sonoda, H.

2018-02-01

We discuss a general method of constructing the products of composite operators using the exact renormalization group formalism. Considering mainly the Wilson action at a generic fixed point of the renormalization group, we give an argument for the validity of short-distance expansions of operator products. We show how to compute the expansion coefficients by solving differential equations, and test our method with some simple examples.

Work Requirements in Transformation, Competence for the Future: A Critical Look at the Consequences of Current Positions. IAB Labour Market Research Topics No. 45.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Plath, Hans-Eberhard

In Germany and elsewhere, the literature on current and future work requirements rarely discusses the effects of globalization, internationalization, computerization, and other factors from the point of view of workers. Some have suggested that a blurring of limits will be one of the main changes in work in the future. This blurring will involve…

Mesoscale Modeling of the Atmosphere

DTIC Science & Technology

1993-03-31

using a nudging procedure. Operational evaluation is planned in 3-6 months. The main points arising from the discussion concerned the use of nudging ...adaption when it became available. However, there was one crucial condition to be met before this change of strategy could be finally adopted. The NORAPS...weather prediction with scientists such as Dr. Madala, Dr. Chang , and Dr. Sashegyi at NRL Washington, and Dr. Hovermale and Dr. Hodur at NRL Monterey

Clinical practice: vocal nodules in dysphonic children.

PubMed

Martins, Regina Helena Garcia; Branco, Anete; Tavares, Elaine Lara Mendes; Gramuglia, Andrea Cristina Jóia

2013-09-01

Common among children, vocal symptoms are a cause of concern for parents who seek elucidation of their diagnosis and treatment. Vocal nodules are the major cause of dysphonias in children and are related to vocal abuse. We conducted a literature review considering clinical, physiopathological, epidemiological, and histological aspects of vocal nodules, as well as diagnostic methods, highlighting the main studies addressing this issue. The controversial points of treatments were also discussed.

Current Nucleic Acid Extraction Methods and Their Implications to Point-of-Care Diagnostics.

PubMed

Ali, Nasir; Rampazzo, Rita de Cássia Pontello; Costa, Alexandre Dias Tavares; Krieger, Marco Aurelio

2017-01-01

Nucleic acid extraction (NAE) plays a vital role in molecular biology as the primary step for many downstream applications. Many modifications have been introduced to the original 1869 method. Modern processes are categorized into chemical or mechanical, each with peculiarities that influence their use, especially in point-of-care diagnostics (POC-Dx). POC-Dx is a new approach aiming to replace sophisticated analytical machinery with microanalytical systems, able to be used near the patient, at the point of care or point of need . Although notable efforts have been made, a simple and effective extraction method is still a major challenge for widespread use of POC-Dx. In this review, we dissected the working principle of each of the most common NAE methods, overviewing their advantages and disadvantages, as well their potential for integration in POC-Dx systems. At present, it seems difficult, if not impossible, to establish a procedure which can be universally applied to POC-Dx. We also discuss the effects of the NAE chemicals upon the main plastic polymers used to mass produce POC-Dx systems. We end our review discussing the limitations and challenges that should guide the quest for an efficient extraction method that can be integrated in a POC-Dx system.

Treatment of electronic waste to recover metal values using thermal plasma coupled with acid leaching - A response surface modeling approach

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

Rath, Swagat S., E-mail: swagat.rath@gmail.com; Nayak, Pradeep; Mukherjee, P.S.

2012-03-15

Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Sentences/phrases were modified. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Necessary discussions for different figures were included. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer More discussion have been included on the flue gas analysis. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Queries to both the reviewers have been given. - Abstract: The global crisis of the hazardous electronic waste (E-waste) is on the rise due to increasing usage and disposal of electronic devices. A process was developed to treat E-waste in an environmentally benign process. The process consisted of thermal plasma treatment followed by recovery of metal values through mineral acid leaching. In the thermal process, the E-waste was melted to recover the metal values asmore » a metallic mixture. The metallic mixture was subjected to acid leaching in presence of depolarizer. The leached liquor mainly contained copper as the other elements like Al and Fe were mostly in alloy form as per the XRD and phase diagram studies. Response surface model was used to optimize the conditions for leaching. More than 90% leaching efficiency at room temperature was observed for Cu, Ni and Co with HCl as the solvent, whereas Fe and Al showed less than 40% efficiency.« less

Current Nucleic Acid Extraction Methods and Their Implications to Point-of-Care Diagnostics

PubMed Central

Ali, Nasir; Rampazzo, Rita de Cássia Pontello; Krieger, Marco Aurelio

2017-01-01

Nucleic acid extraction (NAE) plays a vital role in molecular biology as the primary step for many downstream applications. Many modifications have been introduced to the original 1869 method. Modern processes are categorized into chemical or mechanical, each with peculiarities that influence their use, especially in point-of-care diagnostics (POC-Dx). POC-Dx is a new approach aiming to replace sophisticated analytical machinery with microanalytical systems, able to be used near the patient, at the point of care or point of need. Although notable efforts have been made, a simple and effective extraction method is still a major challenge for widespread use of POC-Dx. In this review, we dissected the working principle of each of the most common NAE methods, overviewing their advantages and disadvantages, as well their potential for integration in POC-Dx systems. At present, it seems difficult, if not impossible, to establish a procedure which can be universally applied to POC-Dx. We also discuss the effects of the NAE chemicals upon the main plastic polymers used to mass produce POC-Dx systems. We end our review discussing the limitations and challenges that should guide the quest for an efficient extraction method that can be integrated in a POC-Dx system. PMID:28785592

Impact of uncertainty on modeling and testing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Coleman, Hugh W.; Brown, Kendall K.

1995-01-01

A thorough understanding of the uncertainties associated with the modeling and testing of the Space Shuttle Main Engine (SSME) Engine will greatly aid decisions concerning hardware performance and future development efforts. This report will describe the determination of the uncertainties in the modeling and testing of the Space Shuttle Main Engine test program at the Technology Test Bed facility at Marshall Space Flight Center. Section 2 will present a summary of the uncertainty analysis methodology used and discuss the specific applications to the TTB SSME test program. Section 3 will discuss the application of the uncertainty analysis to the test program and the results obtained. Section 4 presents the results of the analysis of the SSME modeling effort from an uncertainty analysis point of view. The appendices at the end of the report contain a significant amount of information relative to the analysis, including discussions of venturi flowmeter data reduction and uncertainty propagation, bias uncertainty documentations, technical papers published, the computer code generated to determine the venturi uncertainties, and the venturi data and results used in the analysis.

Alternative fuelds in urban fleets

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

Lindsay, T.

1994-12-31

In this presentation the author addresses four main objectives. They are to: discuss programs that are driving the introduction of alternative fuels into fleet operations in urban areas around the country; define alternative fuels; quantify the present use and future projections on alternative fuel vehicles (AVFs) in the Chicago metropolitan statistical area; and discuss benefits of increased use of alternative fuels in urban areas. Factors which touch on these points include: present domestic dependence on petroleum for autos, with usage exceeding production; the large populations in urban areas which do not meet Clean Air Standards; recent legislative initiatives which givemore » guidance and aid in the adoption of such strategies.« less

A critical review of liquid helium temperature high frequency pulse tube cryocoolers for space applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, B.; Gan, Z. H.

2013-08-01

The importance of liquid helium temperature cooling technology in the aerospace field is discussed, and the results indicate that improving the efficiency of liquid helium cooling technologies, especially the liquid helium high frequency pulse tube cryocoolers, is the principal difficulty to be solved. The state of the art and recent developments of liquid helium high frequency pulse tube cryocoolers are summarized. The main scientific challenges for high frequency pulse tube cryocoolers to efficiently reach liquid helium temperatures are outlined, and the research progress addressing those challenges are reviewed. Additionally some possible solutions to the challenges are pointed out and discussed.

Extended micro objects as dark matter particles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Belotsky, K.; Rubin, S.; Svadkovsky, I.

2017-05-01

Models of various forms of composite dark matter (DM) predicted by particle theory and the DM constituents formed by gravity that are not reduced to new elementary particle candidates are discussed. Main attention is paid to a gravitational origin of the DM. The influence of extended mass spectrum of primordial black holes on observational limits is considered. It is shown that non-uniformly deformed extra space can be considered as point-like masses which possess only gravitational interaction with each other and with the ordinary particles. The recently discussed six-dimensional stable wormholes could contribute to the DM. The contribution of dark atoms is also considered.

Sterile neutrinos and B-L symmetry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fileviez Pérez, Pavel; Murgui, Clara

2018-02-01

We revisit the relation between the neutrino masses and the spontaneous breaking of the B-L gauge symmetry. We discuss the main scenarios for Dirac and Majorana neutrinos and point out two simple mechanisms for neutrino masses. In this context the neutrino masses can be generated either at tree level or at quantum level and one predicts the existence of very light sterile neutrinos with masses below the eV scale. The predictions for lepton number violating processes such as μ → e and μ → eγ are discussed in detail. The impact from the cosmological constraints on the effective number of relativistic degree of freedom is investigated.

Feedback from the European Bioanalysis Forum: focus workshop on current analysis of immunogenicity: best practices and regulatory hurdles.

PubMed

Goodman, Joanne; Cowen, Simon; Devanarayan, Viswanath; Egging, David; Emrich, Thomas; Golob, Michaela; Kramer, Daniel; McNally, Jim; Munday, James; Nelson, Robert; Pedras-Vasconcelos, João A; Piironen, Timo; Sickert, Denise; Skibeli, Venke; Fjording, Marianne Scheel; Timmerman, Philip

2018-02-01

European Bioanalysis Forum Workshop, Lisbon, Portugal, September 2016: At the recent European Bioanalysis Forum Focus Workshop, 'current analysis of immunogenicity: best practices and regulatory hurdles', several important challenges facing the bioanalytical community in relation to immunogenicity assays were discussed through a mixture of presentations and panel sessions. The main areas of focus were the evolving regulatory landscape, challenges of assay interferences from either drug or target, cut-point setting and whether alternative assays can be used to replace neutralizing antibody assays. This workshop report captures discussions and potential solutions and/or recommendations made by the speakers and delegates.

Applied Swarm-based medicine: collecting decision trees for patterns of algorithms analysis.

PubMed

Panje, Cédric M; Glatzer, Markus; von Rappard, Joscha; Rothermundt, Christian; Hundsberger, Thomas; Zumstein, Valentin; Plasswilm, Ludwig; Putora, Paul Martin

2017-08-16

The objective consensus methodology has recently been applied in consensus finding in several studies on medical decision-making among clinical experts or guidelines. The main advantages of this method are an automated analysis and comparison of treatment algorithms of the participating centers which can be performed anonymously. Based on the experience from completed consensus analyses, the main steps for the successful implementation of the objective consensus methodology were identified and discussed among the main investigators. The following steps for the successful collection and conversion of decision trees were identified and defined in detail: problem definition, population selection, draft input collection, tree conversion, criteria adaptation, problem re-evaluation, results distribution and refinement, tree finalisation, and analysis. This manuscript provides information on the main steps for successful collection of decision trees and summarizes important aspects at each point of the analysis.

Remote sensing in biological oceanography

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Esaias, W. E.

1981-01-01

The main attribute of remote sensing is seen as its ability to measure distributions over large areas on a synoptic basis and to repeat this coverage at required time periods. The way in which the Coastal Zone Color Scanner, by showing the distribution of chlorophyll a, can locate areas productive in both phytoplankton and fishes is described. Lidar techniques are discussed, and it is pointed out that lidar will increase the depth range for observations.

Cockpit resource management training

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yocum, M.; Foushee, C.

1984-01-01

Cockpit resource management which is a multifaceted concept is outlined. The system involves the effective coordination of many resources: aircraft systems, company, air traffic control, equipment, navigational aids, documents, and manuals. The main concept, however, is group interaction. Problems which arise from lack of coordination, decision making, and lack of communication are pointed out. Implementation by the regional airline industry of cockpit resource management, designed to deal with human interactions problems in the most cost effective manner, is discussed.

Part I--IEPS (Institute for the Study of Health Policies) reports. The proper function of teaching hospitals within health systems.

PubMed

1997-01-01

The main points of the discussions from the international seminar organised by the World Health Organisation and the Institute for the Study of Health Policies (IEPS) were published in French by Flammarion Medecine-Sciences in the Collection entitled "The IEPS Reports" and in English by the WHO under the title "The Proper Function of Teaching Hospitals within Health Systems" (1995).

Data on microscale atmospheric pollution of Bolshoy Kamen town (Primorsky region, Russia)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kholodov, Aleksei; Ugay, Sergey; Drozd, Vladimir; Maiss, Natalia; Golokhvast, Kirill

2017-10-01

The paper discusses the study of atmospheric particulate matter of Bolshoy Kamen town by means of laser granulometry of snow water samples. Snow sampling points were selected close to major enterprises, along the main streets and roads of the town and in the residential area. The near-ground layer of atmospheric air of the town contains particulate matter of three main size classes: under 10 microns, 10-50 microns and over 700 microns. It is shown that the atmosphere of this town is lightly polluted with particles under 10 μm (PM10). Only in 5 sampling points out of 11 we found microparticles potentially hazardous to human health in significant quantities - from 16.2% to 34.6%. On the most territory of the town large particles (over 400 μm) dominate reaching 79.2%. We can conclude that judging by the particle size analysis of snow water samples Bolshoy Kamen town can be considered safe in terms of presence of particles under 10 μm (PM10) in the atmosphere.

Shielding design of an underground experimental area at point 5 of the CERN Super Proton Synchrotron (SPS).

PubMed

Mueller, Mario J; Stevenson, Graham R

2005-01-01

Increasing projected values of the circulating beam intensity in the Super Proton Synchrotron (SPS) and decreasing limits to radiation exposure, taken with the increasing non-acceptance of unjustified and unoptimised radiation exposures, have led to the need to re-assess the shielding between the ECX and ECA5 underground experimental areas of the SPS. Twenty years ago, these experimental areas at SPS-Point 5 housed the UA1 experiment, where Carlo Rubbia and his team verified the existence of W and Z bosons. The study reported here describes such a re-assessment based on simulations using the multi-purpose FLUKA radiation transport code. This study concludes that while the main shield which is made of concrete blocks and is 4.8 m thick satisfactorily meets the current design limits even at the highest intensities presently planned for the SPS, dose rates calculated for liaison areas on both sides of the main shield significantly exceed the design limits. Possible ways of improving the shielding situation are discussed.

DNA as information: at the crossroads between biology, mathematics, physics and chemistry.

PubMed

Cartwright, Julyan H E; Giannerini, Simone; González, Diego L

2016-03-13

On the one hand, biology, chemistry and also physics tell us how the process of translating the genetic information into life could possibly work, but we are still very far from a complete understanding of this process. On the other hand, mathematics and statistics give us methods to describe such natural systems-or parts of them-within a theoretical framework. Also, they provide us with hints and predictions that can be tested at the experimental level. Furthermore, there are peculiar aspects of the management of genetic information that are intimately related to information theory and communication theory. This theme issue is aimed at fostering the discussion on the problem of genetic coding and information through the presentation of different innovative points of view. The aim of the editors is to stimulate discussions and scientific exchange that will lead to new research on why and how life can exist from the point of view of the coding and decoding of genetic information. The present introduction represents the point of view of the editors on the main aspects that could be the subject of future scientific debate. © 2016 The Author(s).

Point-of-care sonographic detection of left endobronchial main stem intubation and obstruction versus endotracheal intubation.

PubMed

Blaivas, Michael; Tsung, James W

2008-05-01

Determining the correct position of endotracheal tubes in critically ill patients may be complicated by external factors such as noise, body habitus, and the need for ongoing resuscitation. Multiple detection techniques have been developed to determine the correct endotracheal tube position, recently including the use of sonography to evaluate lung expansion and diaphragmatic excursion. These techniques have also been applied to diagnosis of right endobronchial main stem intubation, which may be confused with a unilateral pneumothorax in some cases. We describe the sonographic findings in a case series of endobronchial main stem intubations and obstruction, highlighting the utility of this sonographic application. Previous literature and future applications are discussed. Sonographic detection of the sliding lung sign, the lung pulse, and diaphragmatic excursion can accurately detect main stem bronchial intubation as well as bronchial obstruction. Clinical use of lung sonography may decrease the need for chest radiography and may allow more rapid diagnosis of main stem intubation and bronchial obstruction.

A Comparison of Optical, Electrochemical, Magnetic, and Colorimetric Point-of-Care Biosensors for Infectious Disease Diagnosis.

PubMed

Pashchenko, Oleksandra; Shelby, Tyler; Banerjee, Tuhina; Santra, Santimukul

2018-06-18

Each year, infectious diseases are responsible for millions of deaths, most of which occur in the rural areas of developing countries. Many of the infectious disease diagnostic tools used today require a great deal of time, a laboratory setting, and trained personnel. Due to this, the need for effective point-of-care (POC) diagnostic tools is greatly increasing with an emphasis on affordability, portability, sensitivity, specificity, timeliness, and ease of use. In this Review, we discuss the various diagnostic modalities that have been utilized toward this end and are being further developed to create POC diagnostic technologies, and we focus on potential effectiveness in resource-limited settings. The main modalities discussed herein are optical-, electrochemical-, magnetic-, and colorimetric-based modalities utilized in diagnostic technologies for infectious diseases. Each of these modalities feature pros and cons when considering application in POC settings but, overall, reveal a promising outlook for the future of this field of technological development.

Thrust chamber performance using Navier-Stokes solution. [space shuttle main engine viscous nozzle calculation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chan, J. S.; Freeman, J. A.

1984-01-01

The viscous, axisymmetric flow in the thrust chamber of the space shuttle main engine (SSME) was computed on the CRAY 205 computer using the general interpolants method (GIM) code. Results show that the Navier-Stokes codes can be used for these flows to study trends and viscous effects as well as determine flow patterns; but further research and development is needed before they can be used as production tools for nozzle performance calculations. The GIM formulation, numerical scheme, and computer code are described. The actual SSME nozzle computation showing grid points, flow contours, and flow parameter plots is discussed. The computer system and run times/costs are detailed.

Translational research in addiction: toward a framework for the development of novel therapeutics.

PubMed

Paterson, Neil E

2011-06-15

The development of novel substance use disorder (SUD) therapeutics is insufficient to meet the medical needs of a growing SUD patient population. The identification of translatable SUD models and tests is a crucial step in establishing a framework for SUD therapeutic development programs. The present review begins by identifying the clinical features of SUDs and highlights the narrow regulatory end-point required for approval of a novel SUD therapeutic. A conceptual overview of dependence is provided, followed by identification of potential intervention targets in the addiction cycle. The main components of the addiction cycle provide the framework for a discussion of preclinical models and their clinical analogs, all of which are focused on isolated behavioral end-points thought to be relevant to the persistence of compulsive drug use. Thus, the greatest obstacle to successful development is the gap between the multiplicity of preclinical and early clinical end-points and the regulatory end-point of sustained abstinence. This review proposes two pathways to bridging this gap: further development and validation of the preclinical extended access self-administration model; inclusion of secondary end-points comprising all of the measures highlighted in the present discussion in Phase 3 trials. Further, completion of the postdictive validation of analogous preclinical and clinical assays is of high priority. Ultimately, demonstration of the relevance and validity of a variety of end-points to the ultimate goal of abstinence will allow researchers to identify truly relevant therapeutic mechanisms and intervention targets, and establish a framework for SUD therapeutic development that allows optimal decision-making and resource allocation. 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Ethical issues and best practice in clinically based genomic research: Exeter Stakeholders Meeting Report.

PubMed

Carrieri, D; Bewshea, C; Walker, G; Ahmad, T; Bowen, W; Hall, A; Kelly, S

2016-09-27

Current guidelines on consenting individuals to participate in genomic research are diverse. This creates problems for participants and also for researchers, particularly for clinicians who provide both clinical care and research to their patients. A group of 14 stakeholders met on 7 October 2015 in Exeter to discuss the ethical issues and the best practice arising in clinically based genomic research, with particular emphasis on the issue of returning results to study participants/patients in light of research findings affecting research and clinical practices. The group was deliberately multidisciplinary to ensure that a diversity of views was represented. This report outlines the main ethical issues, areas of best practice and principles underlying ethical clinically based genomic research discussed during the meeting. The main point emerging from the discussion is that ethical principles, rather than being formulaic, should guide researchers/clinicians to identify who the main stakeholders are to consult with for a specific project and to incorporate their voices/views strategically throughout the lifecycle of each project. We believe that the mix of principles and practical guidelines outlined in this report can contribute to current debates on how to conduct ethical clinically based genomic research. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/

1st German Phage Symposium—Conference Report

PubMed Central

Huber, Irene; Potapova, Katerina; Kuhn, Andreas; Schmidt, Herbert; Hinrichs, Jörg; Rohde, Christine; Beyer, Wolfgang

2018-01-01

In Germany, phage research and application can be traced back to the beginning of the 20th century. However, with the triumphal march of antibiotics around the world, the significance of bacteriophages faded in most countries, and respective research mainly focused on fundamental questions and niche applications. After a century, we pay tribute to the overuse of antibiotics that led to multidrug resistance and calls for new strategies to combat pathogenic microbes. Against this background, bacteriophages came into the spotlight of researchers and practitioners again resulting in a fast growing “phage community”. In October 2017, part of this community met at the 1st German Phage Symposium to share their knowledge and experiences. The participants discussed open questions and challenges related to phage therapy and the application of phages in general. This report summarizes the presentations given, highlights the main points of the round table discussion and concludes with an outlook for the different aspects of phage application. PMID:29596346

[Müller-Hegemann's classification of depressions of 1964 as a proposal for a conceptualization of affective disorders: A critical review].

PubMed

Schmidt, R; Steinberg, H

2016-06-01

Against the background of current discussions on the classification of psychiatric disorders, this study analyses and discusses the East-German psychiatrist Dietfried Müller-Hegemann's concept of a clinical classification of depressions of 1964.In his paper, Müller-Hegemann differentiated between two main forms of depression, namely the "vitally tinged depression" (= melancholy), found mainly in the depressive phases of the manic-depressive disorder, and the "depressive disgruntlement" (= dysthymia) seen in "reactive and neurotic depression", "involutional depression", and in the depressive states in psychopathic personalities. Due to a lack of sufficient biological evidence, Müller-Hegemann refrained from a purely etiological differentiation.His proposal is significant in so far as it provided a classification that could easily be used in clinical practice, and at the same time, by pointing to the traditional concept of melancholy and by calling for a differentiated psychopathology, anticipated aspects of topical interest. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

The Role of Motion Concepts in Understanding Non-Motion Concepts

PubMed Central

Khatin-Zadeh, Omid; Banaruee, Hassan; Khoshsima, Hooshang; Marmolejo-Ramos, Fernando

2017-01-01

This article discusses a specific type of metaphor in which an abstract non-motion domain is described in terms of a motion event. Abstract non-motion domains are inherently different from concrete motion domains. However, motion domains are used to describe abstract non-motion domains in many metaphors. Three main reasons are suggested for the suitability of motion events in such metaphorical descriptions. Firstly, motion events usually have high degrees of concreteness. Secondly, motion events are highly imageable. Thirdly, components of any motion event can be imagined almost simultaneously within a three-dimensional space. These three characteristics make motion events suitable domains for describing abstract non-motion domains, and facilitate the process of online comprehension throughout language processing. Extending the main point into the field of mathematics, this article discusses the process of transforming abstract mathematical problems into imageable geometric representations within the three-dimensional space. This strategy is widely used by mathematicians to solve highly abstract and complex problems. PMID:29240715

The strategic skills of business continuity managers: putting business continuity management into corporate long-term planning.

PubMed

Wong, Wei Ning Zechariah

2009-11-01

Despite its rapid development in the last two decades, business continuity management (BCM) as a discipline and a profession is still regarded by many as an operational entity of management. Two main issues are discussed in this paper: the role of BCM in strategic management and the strategic skills of business continuity managers. These issues are crucial as they represent the role of BCM in high-level corporate management. The paper discusses the importance of BCM in the long-term planning of organisational success and the preservation of future competitiveness. Finally, salient points that underpin the importance of its role in sustaining organisational performance are addressed.

Sputnik, a virophage infecting the viral domain of life.

PubMed

Desnues, Christelle; Boyer, Mickaël; Raoult, Didier

2012-01-01

This chapter discusses the astonishing discovery of the Sputnik virophage, a new virus infecting giant viruses of the genera Mimivirus and Mamavirus. While other virophages have also since been described, this chapter focuses mainly on Sputnik, which is the best described. We detail the general properties of the virophage life cycle, as well as its hosts, genomic characteristics, ecology, and origin. In addition to genetic, phylogenetic, and structural evidence, the existence of virophages has deeply altered our view of the tripartite division of life to include the addition of a fourth domain constituted of the nucleocytoplasmic large DNA viruses, an important point that is discussed. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Spatial Point Pattern Analysis of Neurons Using Ripley's K-Function in 3D

PubMed Central

Jafari-Mamaghani, Mehrdad; Andersson, Mikael; Krieger, Patrik

2010-01-01

The aim of this paper is to apply a non-parametric statistical tool, Ripley's K-function, to analyze the 3-dimensional distribution of pyramidal neurons. Ripley's K-function is a widely used tool in spatial point pattern analysis. There are several approaches in 2D domains in which this function is executed and analyzed. Drawing consistent inferences on the underlying 3D point pattern distributions in various applications is of great importance as the acquisition of 3D biological data now poses lesser of a challenge due to technological progress. As of now, most of the applications of Ripley's K-function in 3D domains do not focus on the phenomenon of edge correction, which is discussed thoroughly in this paper. The main goal is to extend the theoretical and practical utilization of Ripley's K-function and corresponding tests based on bootstrap resampling from 2D to 3D domains. PMID:20577588

Nanoparticles and self-organisation: the emergence of hierarchical properties from the nanoparticle soup (i.e., the small is getting bigger). Concluding remarks for Faraday Discussion: Nanoparticle Synthesis and Assembly.

PubMed

Schiffrin, David J

2015-01-01

Some four years ago, one of the participants in this Discussion (Prof. Nicholas Kotov) predicted that: "within five years we shall see multiple examples of electronic, sensor, optical and other devices utilizing self-assembled superstructures" (N. A. Kotov, J. Mater. Chem., 2011, 21, 16673-16674). Although this prediction came partially to fruition, we have witnessed an unprecedented interest in the properties of materials at the nanoscale. The point highlighted by Kotov, however, was the importance of self-assembly of structures from well characterised building blocks to yield hierarchical structures, hopefully with predictable properties, a concept that is an everyday pursuit of synthetic chemists. This Discussion has brought together researchers from a wide range of disciplines, i.e., colloid science, modelling, nanoparticle synthesis and organisation, magnetic and optical materials, and new imaging methods, within the excellent traditional Faraday Discussion format, to discuss advances in areas relevant to the main theme of the meeting.

Cystic fibrosis.

PubMed

Bye, M R; Ewig, J M; Quittell, L M

1994-01-01

While the care of cystic fibrosis (CF) patients has been mainly the province of pediatricians, great improvements in the therapy and life span of CF patients often results in their transition to care by adult physicians. In this review of CF, we begin with an overview of the epidemiology and genetics of the disease, with a discussion of the recently found ion abnormalities that lead to the clinical manifestations. This is followed by a discussion of the pathophysiology. Methods of diagnosis, ranging from the gold standard, the sweat test, to recent advances based on a greater understanding of the genetics of the disease are reviewed. This is followed by a discussion of therapy primarily geared to the treatment of the respiratory complications, as they are the most common lethal factors of the disease. We point out controversies where they exist. Newer forms of therapy such as lung transplantation are discussed, and we finish with a discussion about future therapeutic modalities, some of which are being approved as the paper is in print.

Knowledge-attitude-practice survey among Portuguese gynaecologists regarding combined hormonal contraceptives methods.

PubMed

Bombas, Teresa; Costa, Ana Rosa; Palma, Fátima; Vicente, Lisa; Sá, José Luís; Nogueira, Ana Maria; Andrade, Sofia

2012-04-01

ABSTRACT Objectives To evaluate knowledge, attitude and practices of Portuguese gynaecologists regarding combined hormonal contraceptives. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 303 gynaecologists. Results Ninety percent of the gynaecologists considered that deciding on contraceptive methods is a process wherein the woman has her say. Efficacy, safety and the woman's preference were the major factors influencing gynaecologists, while efficacy, tolerability and ease of use were the major factors perceived by the specialists to influence the women's choice. Gynaecologists believed that only 2% of women taking the pill were 100% compliant compared to 48% of those using the patch and 75% of those using the ring. The lower risk of omission was the strong point for the latter methods. Side effects were the main reason to change to another method. Vaginal manipulation was the most difficult topic to discuss. Conclusions Most gynaecologists decided with the woman on the contraceptive method. The main reasons for the gynaecologist's recommendation of a given contraceptive method and the women's choice were different. Counselling implies an open discussion and topics related to sexuality were considered difficult to discuss. Improving communication skills and understanding women's requirements are critical for contraceptive counselling.

Estimating Phenomenological Parameters in Multi-Assets Markets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Raffaelli, Giacomo; Marsili, Matteo

Financial correlations exhibit a non-trivial dynamic behavior. This is reproduced by a simple phenomenological model of a multi-asset financial market, which takes into account the impact of portfolio investment on price dynamics. This captures the fact that correlations determine the optimal portfolio but are affected by investment based on it. Such a feedback on correlations gives rise to an instability when the volume of investment exceeds a critical value. Close to the critical point the model exhibits dynamical correlations very similar to those observed in real markets. We discuss how the model's parameter can be estimated in real market data with a maximum likelihood principle. This confirms the main conclusion that real markets operate close to a dynamically unstable point.

Molecular dynamics simulation on the elastoplastic properties of copper nanowire under torsion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Yong; Li, Ying; Yang, Zailin; Zhang, Guowei; Wang, Xizhi; Liu, Jin

2018-02-01

Influences of different factors on the torsion properties of single crystal copper nanowire are studied by molecular dynamics method. The length, torsional rate, and temperature of the nanowire are discussed at the elastic-plastic critical point. According to the average potential energy curve and shear stress curve, the elastic-plastic critical angle is determined. Also, the dislocation at elastoplastic critical points is analyzed. The simulation results show that the single crystal copper nanowire can be strengthened by lengthening the model, decreasing the torsional rate, and lowering the temperature. Moreover, atoms move violently and dislocation is more likely to occur with a higher temperature. This work mainly describes the mechanical behavior of the model under different states.

Battling demons with medical authority: werewolves, physicians and rationalization.

PubMed

Metzger, Nadine

2013-09-01

Werewolves and physicians experienced their closest contact in the context of early modern witch and werewolf trials. For medical critics of the trials, melancholic diseases served as reference points for medical explanations of both individual cases and werewolf beliefs in general. This paper attempts to construct a conceptual history of werewolf beliefs and their respective medical responses. After differentiating the relevant terms, pre-modern werewolf concepts and medical lycanthropy are introduced. The early modern controversy between medical and demonological explanations forms the main part of this study. The history of werewolves and their medical explanations is then traced through to present times. An important point of discussion is to what extent the physicians' engagements with werewolves can be characterized as rationalization.

Battling demons with medical authority: werewolves, physicians and rationalization

PubMed Central

Metzger, Nadine

2014-01-01

Werewolves and physicians experienced their closest contact in the context of early modern witch and werewolf trials. For medical critics of the trials, melancholic diseases served as reference points for medical explanations of both individual cases and werewolf beliefs in general. This paper attempts to construct a conceptual history of werewolf beliefs and their respective medical responses. After differentiating the relevant terms, pre-modern werewolf concepts and medical lycanthropy are introduced. The early modern controversy between medical and demonological explanations forms the main part of this study. The history of werewolves and their medical explanations is then traced through to present times. An important point of discussion is to what extent the physicians’ engagements with werewolves can be characterized as rationalization. PMID:24573449

Perceptions by Army Junior Noncommissioned Officers and Their Spouses of the Impact of Leader Power and Behavior on Their Family Well-Being

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-01-01

using Blau’s structural exchange theory to provide an understanding of soldier and spouse perceptions. The analysis draws upon leadership theory , as...well as research in the sociology of work and family, including military families. The analysis is organized into components from Blau’s theory , and...incorporates vignettes of respondent statements to exemplify the utility of the theory . The discussion includes a synopsis of the main points learned

Observations from Sarmizegetusa Sanctuary

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barbosu, M.

2000 years ago, Sarmizegetusa Regia was the capital of ancient Dacia (today: Romania). It is known that the Dacian high priests used the Sanctuary of Sarmizegetusa not only for religious ceremonies, but also for astronomical observations. After having completed geodesic measurements, we analyzed the architecture of the sanctuary with its main points, directions and circles. We discuss here what kind of astronomical observations could have been made with the scientific knowledge of that time. The final section of this work is dedicated to the remarkable resemblance between Sarmizegztusa and Stonehenge.

Building Computer-Based Experiments in Psychology without Programming Skills.

PubMed

Ruisoto, Pablo; Bellido, Alberto; Ruiz, Javier; Juanes, Juan A

2016-06-01

Research in Psychology usually requires to build and run experiments. However, although this task has required scripting, recent computer tools based on graphical interfaces offer new opportunities in this field for researchers with non-programming skills. The purpose of this study is to illustrate and provide a comparative overview of two of the main free open source "point and click" software packages for building and running experiments in Psychology: PsychoPy and OpenSesame. Recommendations for their potential use are further discussed.

Visual field defects after missile injuries to the geniculo-striate pathway in man.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Koerner, F.; Teuber, H.-L.

1973-01-01

The main objective of the survey reported was a quantitative comparison of different visual functions at identical retinal points of individual patients. The possibility to develop objective forms of visual-field testing was also explored, taking into account reports by Frydrychowicz and Harms (1940) and Harms (1951). These investigators had insisted that pupillary responses to light are depressed in areas of homonymous scotomata. The shapes of homonymous visual field defects are discussed together with questions regarding the association and dissociation of symptoms.

Characterization and Calibration of the 12-m Antenna in Warkworth, New Zealand

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gulyaev, Sergei; Natusch, Tim; Wilson, David

2010-01-01

The New Zealand 12-m antenna is scheduled to start participating in regular IVS VLBI sessions from the middle of 2010. Characterization procedures and results of calibration of the New Zealand 12- m radio telescope are presented, including the main reflector surface accuracy measurement, pointing model creation, and the system equivalent flux density (SEFD) determination in both S and X bands. Important issues of network connectivity, co-located geodetic systems, and the use of the antenna in education are also discussed.

Mandibular molar with five root canals.

PubMed

Barletta, Fernando Branco; Dotto, Sidney Ricardo; Reis, Magda de Sousa; Ferreira, Ronise; Travassos, Rosana Maria Coelho

2008-12-01

The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the importance of knowledge of the internal anatomy of root canals for the success of endodontic treatment. Lack of knowledge of anatomic variations and their characteristics in different teeth has been pointed out as one of the main causes of endodontic therapy failure. In this report, the authors describe the endodontic treatment of a mandibular first molar with five root canals, evaluate the rate of occurrence of this number of canals, and discuss the importance of their identification and treatment.

Reply to the discussion of Pinter et al. on ‘Fluvial system response to late Pleistocene-Holocene sea-level change on Santa Rosa Island, Channel Islands National Park, California’ by Schumann et al. (2016)

USGS Publications Warehouse

Schumann, R. Randall; Pigati, Jeffrey S.

2017-01-01

We appreciate the thoughtful discussion offered by Pinter et al. (2017) because it gives us an opportunity to elucidate some of the main points of our study, address some apparent misinterpretations, and recapitulate one of our conclusions. Pinter et al.’s discussion emphasizes and reinforces some of the important concepts we presented but also raises questions regarding specific aspects of our study, including that: (1) base level is the dominant control on fluvial system change on Santa Rosa Island (SRI); (2) post-Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) fluvial aggradation on SRI occurred at uniform rates; and (3) the transition from aggradation to incision on SRI occurred during the last 500 to ≤150 years.

Reply to the discussion of Pinter et al. on 'Fluvial system response to late Pleistocene-Holocene sea-level change on Santa Rosa Island, Channel Islands National Park, California' by Schumann et al. (2016)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schumann, R. Randall; Pigati, Jeffrey S.

2018-01-01

We appreciate the thoughtful discussion offered by Pinter et al. (2017) because it gives us an opportunity to elucidate some of the main points of our study, address some apparent misinterpretations, and recapitulate one of our conclusions. Pinter et al.'s discussion emphasizes and reinforces some of the important concepts we presented but also raises questions regarding specific aspects of our study, including that: (1) base level is the dominant control on fluvial system change on Santa Rosa Island (SRI); (2) post-Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) fluvial aggradation on SRI occurred at uniform rates; and (3) the transition from aggradation to incision on SRI occurred during the last 500 to ≤ 150 years.

A Consideration of HALO Type Orbit Designation and Maintaining for KUAFU-A and WSO/UV Missions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nianchuan, J.; Xian, S.; Jianguo, Y.; Guangli, W.; Jingsong, P.

In the new era of deep space exploration more and more explorations at special places or points in solar system are carried out and planned There are five equilibrium points in the Sun-Earth system and the orbits around these points have good dynamic attribute Due to this reason The areas vicinity equilibrium points have many advantages for space exploration In recent 20 years the NASA and ESA have successfully launched several spacecrafts orbiting the Sun-Earth collinear equilibrium points Following the developing steps of space and deep space exploration in China Chinese scientists and engineers are considering and suggesting two equilibrium points explorations One is named KUAFU-A mission whose craft will orbit L1 point and the scientific target is studying the evolution of space weather of solar-terrestrial area The other is WSO UV mission whose craft will orbit L2 point and the scientific target is studying the structure and evolution of galaxies This report is mainly about HALO type orbit designation and maintaining for these two missions Following points are included 1 Briefly reviewing the explorations at the equilibrium points launched by NASA and ESA 2 Simply introducing the exploration KUAFU-A and WSO UV 3 Discussing the designation and maintaining of HALO type orbits in some detail for KUAFU-A and WSO UV

Optical Fiber Sensors Based on Fiber Ring Laser Demodulation Technology

PubMed Central

Xie, Wen-Ge; Wang, Peng-Zhao; Wang, Jian-Zhang

2018-01-01

A review for optical fiber sensors based on fiber ring laser (FRL) demodulation technology is presented. The review focuses on the principles, main structures, and the sensing performances of different kinds of optical fiber sensors based on FRLs. First of all, the theory background of the sensors has been discussed. Secondly, four different types of sensors are described and compared, which includes Mach–Zehnder interferometer (MZI) typed sensors, Fabry–Perot interferometer (FPI) typed sensors, Sagnac typed sensors, and fiber Bragg grating (FBG) typed sensors. Typical studies and main properties of each type of sensors are presented. Thirdly, a comparison of different types of sensors are made. Finally, the existing problems and future research directions are pointed out and analyzed. PMID:29419745

Forensic applications of supercritical fluid chromatography - mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Pauk, Volodymyr; Lemr, Karel

2018-06-01

Achievements of supercritical fluid chromatography with mass spectrometric detection made in the field of forensic science during the last decade are reviewed. The main topics include analysis of traditional drugs of abuse (e.g. cannabis, methamphetamine) as well as new psychoactive substances (synthetic cannabinoids, cathinones and phenethylamines), doping agents (anabolic steroids, stimulants, diuretics, analgesics etc.) and chemical warfare agents. Control of food authenticity, detection of adulteration and identification of toxic substances in food are also pointed out. Main aspects of an analytical workflow, such as sample preparation, separation and detection are discussed. A special attention is paid to the performance characteristics and validation parameters of supercritical fluid chromatography-mass spectrometric methods in comparison with other separation techniques. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

IT behind a platform for Translational Cancer Research - concept and objectives.

PubMed

Steffens, Michael; Husmann, Gabriele; Koca, Mithat; Lablans, Martin; Komor, Martina; Zeissig, Sylke; Emrich, Katharina; Brandts, Christian; Serve, Hubert; Blettner, Maria; Uckert, Frank

2012-01-01

The German Consortium for Translational Cancer Research (DKTK) and the Rhine-Main Translational Cancer Research Network (RM-TCRN) are designed to exploit large population cohorts of cancer patients for the purpose of bio-banking, clinical trials, and clinical cancer registration. Hence, the success of these platforms is heavily dependent on the close interlinking of clinical data from cancer patients, information from study registries, and data from bio-banking systems of different laboratories and scientific institutions. This article referring to the poster discusses the main challenges of the platforms from an information technology point of view, legal and data security issues, and outlines an integrative IT-concept concerning a decentralized, distributed search approach where data management and search is in compliance with existing legislative rules.

Optical Fiber Sensors Based on Fiber Ring Laser Demodulation Technology.

PubMed

Xie, Wen-Ge; Zhang, Ya-Nan; Wang, Peng-Zhao; Wang, Jian-Zhang

2018-02-08

A review for optical fiber sensors based on fiber ring laser (FRL) demodulation technology is presented. The review focuses on the principles, main structures, and the sensing performances of different kinds of optical fiber sensors based on FRLs. First of all, the theory background of the sensors has been discussed. Secondly, four different types of sensors are described and compared, which includes Mach-Zehnder interferometer (MZI) typed sensors, Fabry-Perot interferometer (FPI) typed sensors, Sagnac typed sensors, and fiber Bragg grating (FBG) typed sensors. Typical studies and main properties of each type of sensors are presented. Thirdly, a comparison of different types of sensors are made. Finally, the existing problems and future research directions are pointed out and analyzed.

Impacts of climate change on surface water quality in relation to drinking water production.

PubMed

Delpla, I; Jung, A-V; Baures, E; Clement, M; Thomas, O

2009-11-01

Besides climate change impacts on water availability and hydrological risks, the consequences on water quality is just beginning to be studied. This review aims at proposing a synthesis of the most recent existing interdisciplinary literature on the topic. After a short presentation about the role of the main factors (warming and consequences of extreme events) explaining climate change effects on water quality, the focus will be on two main points. First, the impacts on water quality of resources (rivers and lakes) modifying parameters values (physico-chemical parameters, micropollutants and biological parameters) are considered. Then, the expected impacts on drinking water production and quality of supplied water are discussed. The main conclusion which can be drawn is that a degradation trend of drinking water quality in the context of climate change leads to an increase of at risk situations related to potential health impact.

[Xerostomia: clinic, etiology, diagnosis and treatment].

PubMed

Guobis, Zygimantas; Baseviciene, Nomeda; Paipaliene, Pajauta; Sabalys, Gintautas; Kubilius, Ricardas

2006-01-01

The aim of this article is to review the problem of xerostomia considering its clinical, etiological, diagnostic and treatment features, basing on the today's tutorials and scientific articles found in databases on the Internet. Recent epidemiologic data on the prevalence of xerostomia in different countries are introduced. There are analyzed the main aspects of clinical manifestations of xerostomia, according to the different etiology analyzed. The most common etiological factors causing xerostomia, especially the main three of them: radiation therapy, Sjögren's syndrome, and drugs, are pointed out. The most popular and accepted clinical and laboratory assays for measuring and evaluating the function of salivary glands are represented. Attention is paid to xerostomia as substantiation of the separate diagnosis and its role in diagnosing other diseases. The concept of possible treatment modalities and prognosis are discussed. The main and most common problems concerning xerostomia are revealed.

Comparative Study of Two InGaAs-Based Reference Radiation Thermometers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nasibov, H.; Diril, A.; Pehlivan, O.; Kalemci, M.

2017-07-01

More than one decade ago, an InGaAs detector-based transfer standard infrared radiation thermometer working in the temperature range from 150 {^{circ }}\\hbox {C} to 1100 {^{circ }}\\hbox {C} was built at TUBITAK UME in the scope of collaboration with IMGC (INRIM since 2006). During this timescale, the radiation thermometer was used for the dissemination of the radiation temperature scale below the silver fixed-point temperature. Recently, a new radiation thermometer with the same design but with different spectral responsivity was constructed and employed in the laboratory. In this work, we present the comparative study of these thermometers. Furthermore, the paper describes the measurement results of the thermometer's main characteristics such as the size-of-source effect, spectral responsivity, gain ratio, and linearity. Besides, both thermometers were calibrated at the freezing temperatures of indium, tin, zinc, aluminum, and copper reference fixed-point blackbodies. The main study is focused on the impact of the spectral responsivity of thermometers on the interpolation parameters of the Sakuma-Hattori equation. Furthermore, the calibration results and the uncertainty sources are discussed in this paper.

THE CHANDRA SURVEY OF THE COSMOS FIELD. II. SOURCE DETECTION AND PHOTOMETRY

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

Puccetti, S.; Vignali, C.; Cappelluti, N.

2009-12-01

The Chandra COSMOS Survey (C-COSMOS) is a large, 1.8 Ms, Chandra program that covers the central contiguous {approx}0.92 deg{sup 2} of the COSMOS field. C-COSMOS is the result of a complex tiling, with every position being observed in up to six overlapping pointings (four overlapping pointings in most of the central {approx}0.45 deg{sup 2} area with the best exposure, and two overlapping pointings in most of the surrounding area, covering an additional {approx}0.47 deg{sup 2}). Therefore, the full exploitation of the C-COSMOS data requires a dedicated and accurate analysis focused on three main issues: (1) maximizing the sensitivity when themore » point-spread function (PSF) changes strongly among different observations of the same source (from {approx}1 arcsec up to {approx}10 arcsec half-power radius); (2) resolving close pairs; and (3) obtaining the best source localization and count rate. We present here our treatment of four key analysis items: source detection, localization, photometry, and survey sensitivity. Our final procedure consists of a two step procedure: (1) a wavelet detection algorithm to find source candidates and (2) a maximum likelihood PSF fitting algorithm to evaluate the source count rates and the probability that each source candidate is a fluctuation of the background. We discuss the main characteristics of this procedure, which was the result of detailed comparisons between different detection algorithms and photometry tools, calibrated with extensive and dedicated simulations.« less

Basic principles of flight test instrumentation engineering, volume 1, issue 2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Borek, Robert W., Sr. (Editor); Pool, A. (Editor)

1994-01-01

Volume 1 of the AG 300 series on 'Flight Test Instrumentation' gives a general introduction to the basic principles of flight test instrumentation. The other volumes in the series provide more detailed treatments of selected topics on flight test instrumentation. Volume 1, first published in 1974, has been used extensively as an introduction for instrumentation courses and symposia, as well as being a reference work on the desk of most flight test and instrumentation engineers. It is hoped that this second edition, fully revised, will be used with as much enthusiasm as the first edition. In this edition a flight test system is considered to include both the data collection and data processing systems. In order to obtain an optimal data flow, the overall design of these two subsystems must be carefully matched; the detail development and the operation may have to be done by separate groups of specialists. The main emphasis is on the large automated instrumentation systems used for the initial flight testing of modern military and civil aircraft. This is done because there, many of the problems, which are discussed here, are more critical. It does not imply, however, that smaller systems with manual data processing are no longer used. In general, the systems should be designed to provide the required results at the lowest possible cost. For many tests which require only a few parameters, relatively simple systems are justified, especially if no complex equipment is available to the user. Although many of the aspects discussed in this volume apply to both small and large systems, aspects of the smaller systems are mentioned only when they are of special interest. The volume has been divided into three main parts. Part 1 defines the main starting points for the design of a flight test instrumentation system, as seen from the points of view of the flight test engineer and the instrumentation engineer. In Part 2 the discussion is concentrated on those aspects which apply to each individual measuring channel, and in Part 3 the main emphasis is on the integration of the individual data channels into one data collection system and on those aspects of the data processing which apply to the complete system.

Greenhouse gases emissions accounting for typical sewage sludge digestion with energy utilization and residue land application in China

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

Niu Dongjie, E-mail: niudongjie@tongji.edu.cn; UNEP-Tongji Institute of Environment for Sustainable Development, 1239 Siping Road, Shanghai 200092; Huang Hui

2013-01-15

Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer GHGs emissions from sludge digestion + residue land use in China were calculated. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The AD unit contributes more than 97% of total biogenic GHGs emissions. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer AD with methane recovery is attractive for sludge GHGs emissions reduction. - Abstract: About 20 million tonnes of sludge (with 80% moisture content) is discharged by the sewage treatment plants per year in China, which, if not treated properly, can be a significant source of greenhouse gases (GHGs) emissions. Anaerobic digestion is a conventional sewage sludge treatment method and will continue to be one of the main technologies in the followingmore » years. This research has taken into consideration GHGs emissions from typical processes of sludge thickening + anaerobic digestion + dewatering + residue land application in China. Fossil CO{sub 2}, biogenic CO{sub 2}, CH{sub 4,} and avoided CO{sub 2} as the main objects is discussed respectively. The results show that the total CO{sub 2}-eq is about 1133 kg/t DM (including the biogenic CO{sub 2}), while the net CO{sub 2}-eq is about 372 kg/t DM (excluding the biogenic CO{sub 2}). An anaerobic digestion unit as the main GHGs emission source occupies more than 91% CO{sub 2}-eq of the whole process. The use of biogas is important for achieving carbon dioxide emission reductions, which could reach about 24% of the total CO{sub 2}-eq reduction.« less

Effect of river flow fluctuations on riparian vegetation dynamics: Processes and models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vesipa, Riccardo; Camporeale, Carlo; Ridolfi, Luca

2017-12-01

Several decades of field observations, laboratory experiments and mathematical modelings have demonstrated that the riparian environment is a disturbance-driven ecosystem, and that the main source of disturbance is river flow fluctuations. The focus of the present work has been on the key role that flow fluctuations play in determining the abundance, zonation and species composition of patches of riparian vegetation. To this aim, the scientific literature on the subject, over the last 20 years, has been reviewed. First, the most relevant ecological, morphological and chemical mechanisms induced by river flow fluctuations are described from a process-based perspective. The role of flow variability is discussed for the processes that affect the recruitment of vegetation, the vegetation during its adult life, and the morphological and nutrient dynamics occurring in the riparian habitat. Particular emphasis has been given to studies that were aimed at quantifying the effect of these processes on vegetation, and at linking them to the statistical characteristics of the river hydrology. Second, the advances made, from a modeling point of view, have been considered and discussed. The main models that have been developed to describe the dynamics of riparian vegetation have been presented. Different modeling approaches have been compared, and the corresponding advantages and drawbacks have been pointed out. Finally, attention has been paid to identifying the processes considered by the models, and these processes have been compared with those that have actually been observed or measured in field/laboratory studies.

Quantifying chaotic dynamics from integrate-and-fire processes

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

Pavlov, A. N.; Saratov State Technical University, Politehnicheskaya Str. 77, 410054 Saratov; Pavlova, O. N.

2015-01-15

Characterizing chaotic dynamics from integrate-and-fire (IF) interspike intervals (ISIs) is relatively easy performed at high firing rates. When the firing rate is low, a correct estimation of Lyapunov exponents (LEs) describing dynamical features of complex oscillations reflected in the IF ISI sequences becomes more complicated. In this work we discuss peculiarities and limitations of quantifying chaotic dynamics from IF point processes. We consider main factors leading to underestimated LEs and demonstrate a way of improving numerical determining of LEs from IF ISI sequences. We show that estimations of the two largest LEs can be performed using around 400 mean periodsmore » of chaotic oscillations in the regime of phase-coherent chaos. Application to real data is discussed.« less

Legitimizing surrogacy in Israel.

PubMed

Benshushan, A; Schenker, J G

1997-08-01

Recently the Israeli Parliament passed legislation regarding all aspects of assisted reproductive techniques, including surrogacy. The main points of this legislation are presented and discussed. The most important aspects are: (i) a public committee authorizes and supervises every single case; (ii) only full surrogacy is permitted; (iii) the agreement is not commercial, reasonable expenses can be paid to the surrogate mother under the supervision of the Approving Committee; (iv) the surrogate mother must be single or divorced; (v) under certain conditions the surrogate mother can withdraw from the agreement; (vi) the child is under the tutelage of a social worker, representing the state, from birth until the completion of the adoption procedure. The religious, social and legal status of surrogate pregnancies worldwide are discussed.

Aloe vera as a functional ingredient in foods.

PubMed

Rodríguez Rodríguez, Elena; Darias Martín, Jacinto; Díaz Romero, Carlos

2010-04-01

The main scientific discoveries on Aloe vera published mainly in the last three decades are presented in this work. After describing Aloe from a botanical point of view, the papers related with the chemical composition of different parts of the leaf of Aloe, particularly those in which the gel is described and are presented in a synthetic manner. The chemical analyses reveal that Aloe gel contains mannose polymers with some glucose and other sugars, among which the most important is Acemannan. Besides these, other components such as glycoproteins, enzymes, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals are described. Different factors also affecting the chemical composition of the gel, such as species and variety, climatic and soil conditions, cultivation methods, processing and preservation, are enumerated and discussed. On the other hand, the main therapeutic applications have been revised and the possible damaging effects of Aloe are also commented upon. A special emphasis is placed on the biologically active compounds or groups of compounds responsible for the therapeutic applications and which are their action mechanisms. The paper concludes that more research is needed to confirm the therapeutic and beneficial effects and to definitively clarify the myth surrounding Aloe vera. A general view on the problem of the commercialization and establishment of the quality and safety of Aloe products in the food industry has been offered here. The main points and European regulations that need to be considered regarding the quality control of prepared Aloe products are presented in this paper.

Do We Really Want a Future as Qualitative Psychologists?

PubMed

Fasulo, Alessandra

2015-12-01

In this article I pick up some threads from the contributions in the previous special issue of IPSB dedicated to the future of qualitative psychology, and elaborate on them around two main points. The first is the status of qualitative psychology as a social and institutional category; the second is what we mean by experience. As concerns the first point, I argue that using the label of qualitative psychology may separate us from the rest of psychology, also creating a false impression of homogeneity among qualitative approaches and a false opposition with quantitative methods. Implications for teaching as well as research are discussed. The second issue has to do with experience as the object of qualitative psychology investigations. I propose three ways of formulating experience in research which would prevent naïve assumptions about accessing it directly through language. These are 1) experience as experience of the researcher, 2) experience as situated intersubjectivity, and 3) experience as expression. I discuss how being clearer about definitions of experience and going towards engaged forms of research could safeguard the integrity of both researcher and participants.

33 CFR 334.30 - Gulf of Maine off Pemaquid Point, Maine; naval sonobuoy test area.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

..., Maine; naval sonobuoy test area. 334.30 Section 334.30 Navigation and Navigable Waters CORPS OF....30 Gulf of Maine off Pemaquid Point, Maine; naval sonobuoy test area. (a) The area. The test area or... enforced by the Commanding Officer, U.S. Naval Air Station, Brunswick, Maine, or such agencies as he may...

33 CFR 334.30 - Gulf of Maine off Pemaquid Point, Maine; naval sonobuoy test area.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

..., Maine; naval sonobuoy test area. 334.30 Section 334.30 Navigation and Navigable Waters CORPS OF....30 Gulf of Maine off Pemaquid Point, Maine; naval sonobuoy test area. (a) The area. The test area or... enforced by the Commanding Officer, U.S. Naval Air Station, Brunswick, Maine, or such agencies as he may...

33 CFR 334.30 - Gulf of Maine off Pemaquid Point, Maine; naval sonobuoy test area.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

..., Maine; naval sonobuoy test area. 334.30 Section 334.30 Navigation and Navigable Waters CORPS OF....30 Gulf of Maine off Pemaquid Point, Maine; naval sonobuoy test area. (a) The area. The test area or... enforced by the Commanding Officer, U.S. Naval Air Station, Brunswick, Maine, or such agencies as he may...

33 CFR 334.30 - Gulf of Maine off Pemaquid Point, Maine; naval sonobuoy test area.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

..., Maine; naval sonobuoy test area. 334.30 Section 334.30 Navigation and Navigable Waters CORPS OF....30 Gulf of Maine off Pemaquid Point, Maine; naval sonobuoy test area. (a) The area. The test area or... enforced by the Commanding Officer, U.S. Naval Air Station, Brunswick, Maine, or such agencies as he may...

33 CFR 334.30 - Gulf of Maine off Pemaquid Point, Maine; naval sonobuoy test area.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

..., Maine; naval sonobuoy test area. 334.30 Section 334.30 Navigation and Navigable Waters CORPS OF....30 Gulf of Maine off Pemaquid Point, Maine; naval sonobuoy test area. (a) The area. The test area or... enforced by the Commanding Officer, U.S. Naval Air Station, Brunswick, Maine, or such agencies as he may...

Summary of the 2014 Sandia V&V Challenge Workshop

DOE PAGES

Schroeder, Benjamin B.; Hu, Kenneth T.; Mullins, Joshua Grady; ...

2016-02-19

A discussion of the five responses to the 2014 Sandia Verification and Validation (V&V) Challenge Problem, presented within this special issue, is provided hereafter. Overviews of the challenge problem workshop, workshop participants, and the problem statement are also included. Brief summations of teams' responses to the challenge problem are provided. Issues that arose throughout the responses that are deemed applicable to the general verification, validation, and uncertainty quantification (VVUQ) community are the main focal point of this paper. The discussion is oriented and organized into big picture comparison of data and model usage, VVUQ activities, and differentiating conceptual themes behindmore » the teams' VVUQ strategies. Significant differences are noted in the teams' approaches toward all VVUQ activities, and those deemed most relevant are discussed. Beyond the specific details of VVUQ implementations, thematic concepts are found to create differences among the approaches; some of the major themes are discussed. Lastly, an encapsulation of the key contributions, the lessons learned, and advice for the future are presented.« less

Non-uniform sampling: post-Fourier era of NMR data collection and processing.

PubMed

Kazimierczuk, Krzysztof; Orekhov, Vladislav

2015-11-01

The invention of multidimensional techniques in the 1970s revolutionized NMR, making it the general tool of structural analysis of molecules and materials. In the most straightforward approach, the signal sampling in the indirect dimensions of a multidimensional experiment is performed in the same manner as in the direct dimension, i.e. with a grid of equally spaced points. This results in lengthy experiments with a resolution often far from optimum. To circumvent this problem, numerous sparse-sampling techniques have been developed in the last three decades, including two traditionally distinct approaches: the radial sampling and non-uniform sampling. This mini review discusses the sparse signal sampling and reconstruction techniques from the point of view of an underdetermined linear algebra problem that arises when a full, equally spaced set of sampled points is replaced with sparse sampling. Additional assumptions that are introduced to solve the problem, as well as the shape of the undersampled Fourier transform operator (visualized as so-called point spread function), are shown to be the main differences between various sparse-sampling methods. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Radio and infrared properties of young stars

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Panagia, Nino

1987-01-01

Observing young stars, or more appropriately, pre-main-sequence (PMS) stars, in the infrared and at radio frequencies has the advantage over optical observation in that the heavy extinction associated with a star forming region is only a minor problem, so that the whole region can be studied thoroughly. Therefore, it means being able to: (1) search for stars and do statistical studies on the rate of star formation; (2) determine their luminosity, hence, to study luminosity functions and initial mass functions down to low masses; and (3) to study their spectra and, thus, to determine the prevailing conditions at and near the surface of a newly born star and its relations with the surrounding environment. The third point is of principal interest. The report limits itself to a consideration of the observations concerning the processes of outflows from, and accretion onto, PMS stars and the theory necessary to interpret them. Section 2 discusses the radiative processes relevant in stellar outflows. The main observational results are presented in Section 3. A discussion of the statistical properties of stellar winds from PMS stars are given in Section 4.

Biotechnology applied to fish reproduction: tools for conservation.

PubMed

de Siqueira-Silva, Diógenes Henrique; Saito, Taiju; Dos Santos-Silva, Amanda Pereira; da Silva Costa, Raphael; Psenicka, Martin; Yasui, George Shigueki

2018-04-29

This review discusses the new biotechnological tools that are arising and promising for conservation and enhancement of fish production, mainly regarding the endangered and the most economically important species. Two main techniques, in particular, are available to avoid extinction of endangered fish species and to improve the production of commercial species. Germ cell transplantation technology includes a number of approaches that have been studied, such as the transplantation of embryo-to-embryo blastomere, embryo-to-embryo differentiated PGC, larvae to larvae and embryo differentiated PGC, transplantation of spermatogonia from adult to larvae or between adults, and oogonia transplantation. However, the success of germ cell transplantation relies on the prior sterilization of fish, which can be performed at different stages of fish species development by means of several protocols that have been tested in order to achieve the best approach to produce a sterile fish. Among them, fish hybridization and triploidization, germline gene knockdown, hyperthermia, and chemical treatment deserve attention based on important results achieved thus far. This review currently used technologies and knowledge about surrogate technology and fish sterilization, discussing the stronger and the weaker points of each approach.

[Biases in the study of prognostic factors].

PubMed

Delgado-Rodríguez, M

1999-01-01

The main objective is to detail the main biases in the study of prognostic factors. Confounding bias is illustrated with social class, a prognostic factor still discussed. Within selection bias several cases are commented: response bias, specially frequent when the patients of a clinical trial are used; the shortcomings in the formation of an inception cohort; the fallacy of Neyman (bias due to the duration of disease) when the study begins with a cross-sectional study; the selection bias in the treatment of survivors for the different treatment opportunity of those living longer; the bias due to the inclusion of heterogeneous diagnostic groups; and the selection bias due to differential information losses and the use of statistical multivariate procedures. Within the biases during follow-up, an empiric rule to value the impact of the number of losses is given. In information bias the Will Rogers' phenomenon and the usefulness of clinical databases are discussed. Lastly, a recommendation against the use of cutoff points yielded by bivariate analyses to select the variable to be included in multivariate analysis is given.

Tackling antibiotic resistance: the environmental framework.

PubMed

Berendonk, Thomas U; Manaia, Célia M; Merlin, Christophe; Fatta-Kassinos, Despo; Cytryn, Eddie; Walsh, Fiona; Bürgmann, Helmut; Sørum, Henning; Norström, Madelaine; Pons, Marie-Noëlle; Kreuzinger, Norbert; Huovinen, Pentti; Stefani, Stefania; Schwartz, Thomas; Kisand, Veljo; Baquero, Fernando; Martinez, José Luis

2015-05-01

Antibiotic resistance is a threat to human and animal health worldwide, and key measures are required to reduce the risks posed by antibiotic resistance genes that occur in the environment. These measures include the identification of critical points of control, the development of reliable surveillance and risk assessment procedures, and the implementation of technological solutions that can prevent environmental contamination with antibiotic resistant bacteria and genes. In this Opinion article, we discuss the main knowledge gaps, the future research needs and the policy and management options that should be prioritized to tackle antibiotic resistance in the environment.

The ORSER System for the Analysis of Remotely Sensed Digital Data

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Myers, W. L.; Turner, B. J.

1981-01-01

The main effort of the University of Pennsylvania's Office for Remote Sensing of Earth Resources (ORSER) is the processing, analysis, and interpretation of multispectral data, most often supplied by NASA in the form of imagery and digital data. The facilities used for data reduction and image enhancement are described as well as the development of algorithms for producing a computer map showing various environmental and land use characteristics of data points in the analyzed scenes. The application of an (ORSER) capability for statewide monitoring of gypsy moth defoliation is discussed.

Methods for scalar-on-function regression.

PubMed

Reiss, Philip T; Goldsmith, Jeff; Shang, Han Lin; Ogden, R Todd

2017-08-01

Recent years have seen an explosion of activity in the field of functional data analysis (FDA), in which curves, spectra, images, etc. are considered as basic functional data units. A central problem in FDA is how to fit regression models with scalar responses and functional data points as predictors. We review some of the main approaches to this problem, categorizing the basic model types as linear, nonlinear and nonparametric. We discuss publicly available software packages, and illustrate some of the procedures by application to a functional magnetic resonance imaging dataset.

Flight Tests of the Sikorsky HNS-1 (Army YR-4B) Helicopter. 2 - Hovering and Vertical-Flight Performance with the Original and an Alternative Set of Main-Rotor Blades, Including a Comparison with Hovering Performance Theory

DTIC Science & Technology

1945-04-01

sustentation at various altitudes in the ground-effect region is shown in figure 2. A hovering point obtained at approximately 400 feet altitude and a...power required. DISCUSSION Ground-effect data.- The effect of rpm on the power— .— required for sustentation is clearly indicated by figure 2. A ret...Alfred ORIG. AGENCY : Langley Memorial Aeronautical Lab., Langley Field, Va. PUBLISHED BY : National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics

SIG: a general-purpose signal processing program. User's manual. Revision 1

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

Lager, D.; Azevedo, S.

1985-05-09

SIG is a general-purpose signal processing, analysis, and display program. Its main purpose is to perform manipulations on time-domain and frequenccy-domain signals. The manual contains a complete description of the SIG program from the user's stand-point. A brief exercise in using SIG is shown. Complete descriptions are given of each command in the SIG core. General information about the SIG structure, command processor, and graphics options are provided. An example usage of SIG for solving a problem is developed, and error message formats are briefly discussed. (LEW)

A criterion for establishing life limits. [for Space Shuttle Main Engine service

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Skopp, G. H.; Porter, A. A.

1990-01-01

The development of a rigorous statistical method that would utilize hardware-demonstrated reliability to evaluate hardware capability and provide ground rules for safe flight margin is discussed. A statistical-based method using the Weibull/Weibayes cumulative distribution function is described. Its advantages and inadequacies are pointed out. Another, more advanced procedure, Single Flight Reliability (SFR), determines a life limit which ensures that the reliability of any single flight is never less than a stipulated value at a stipulated confidence level. Application of the SFR method is illustrated.

Literal algebra for satellite dynamics. [perturbation analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gaposchkin, E. M.

1975-01-01

A description of the rather general class of operations available is given and the operations are related to problems in satellite dynamics. The implementation of an algebra processor is discussed. The four main categories of symbol processors are related to list processing, string manipulation, symbol manipulation, and formula manipulation. Fundamental required operations for an algebra processor are considered. It is pointed out that algebra programs have been used for a number of problems in celestial mechanics with great success. The advantage of computer algebra is its accuracy and speed.

CONSTITUTING THE OUTLINES OF A PHILOSOPHY OF AYURVEDA: MAINLY ON MENTAL HEALTH IMPORT

PubMed Central

Balodhi, J.P.

1987-01-01

SUMMARY The antiquity of achievements of Hindus in the field of Mental health is explained. The chief points discussed in this article are: (1) The exact sense in which the school of ancient Indian Medicine (Ayurveda) is to be understood. (2) The interpretation of some of the fundamental philosophical issues governing the laws of mental sciences and (3) The relevance of such laws to modern scientific world. However, the present article limits its scope to Charaka Samhita- the most fundamental book on Ayurveda only. PMID:21927226

Identifying and characterizing major emission point sources as a basis for geospatial distribution of mercury emissions inventories

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Steenhuisen, Frits; Wilson, Simon J.

2015-07-01

Mercury is a global pollutant that poses threats to ecosystem and human health. Due to its global transport, mercury contamination is found in regions of the Earth that are remote from major emissions areas, including the Polar regions. Global anthropogenic emission inventories identify important sectors and industries responsible for emissions at a national level; however, to be useful for air transport modelling, more precise information on the locations of emission is required. This paper describes the methodology applied, and the results of work that was conducted to assign anthropogenic mercury emissions to point sources as part of geospatial mapping of the 2010 global anthropogenic mercury emissions inventory prepared by AMAP/UNEP. Major point-source emission sectors addressed in this work account for about 850 tonnes of the emissions included in the 2010 inventory. This work allocated more than 90% of these emissions to some 4600 identified point source locations, including significantly more point source locations in Africa, Asia, Australia and South America than had been identified during previous work to geospatially-distribute the 2005 global inventory. The results demonstrate the utility and the limitations of using existing, mainly public domain resources to accomplish this work. Assumptions necessary to make use of selected online resources are discussed, as are artefacts that can arise when these assumptions are applied to assign (national-sector) emissions estimates to point sources in various countries and regions. Notwithstanding the limitations of the available information, the value of this procedure over alternative methods commonly used to geo-spatially distribute emissions, such as use of 'proxy' datasets to represent emissions patterns, is illustrated. Improvements in information that would facilitate greater use of these methods in future work to assign emissions to point-sources are discussed. These include improvements to both national (geo-referenced) emission inventories and also to other resources that can be employed when such national inventories are lacking.

Price game and chaos control among three oligarchs with different rationalities in property insurance market.

PubMed

Ma, Junhai; Zhang, Junling

2012-12-01

Combining with the actual competition in Chinese property insurance market and assuming that the property insurance companies take the marginal utility maximization as the basis of decision-making when they play price games, we first established the price game model with three oligarchs who have different rationalities. Then, we discussed the existence and stability of equilibrium points. Third, we studied the theoretical value of Lyapunov exponent at Nash equilibrium point and its change process with the main parameters' changes though having numerical simulation for the system such as the bifurcation, chaos attractors, and so on. Finally, we analyzed the influences which the changes of different parameters have on the profits and utilities of oligarchs and their corresponding competition advantage. Based on this, we used the variable feedback control method to control the chaos of the system and stabilized the chaos state to Nash equilibrium point again. The results have significant theoretical and practical application value.

Price game and chaos control among three oligarchs with different rationalities in property insurance market

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma, Junhai; Zhang, Junling

2012-12-01

Combining with the actual competition in Chinese property insurance market and assuming that the property insurance companies take the marginal utility maximization as the basis of decision-making when they play price games, we first established the price game model with three oligarchs who have different rationalities. Then, we discussed the existence and stability of equilibrium points. Third, we studied the theoretical value of Lyapunov exponent at Nash equilibrium point and its change process with the main parameters' changes though having numerical simulation for the system such as the bifurcation, chaos attractors, and so on. Finally, we analyzed the influences which the changes of different parameters have on the profits and utilities of oligarchs and their corresponding competition advantage. Based on this, we used the variable feedback control method to control the chaos of the system and stabilized the chaos state to Nash equilibrium point again. The results have significant theoretical and practical application value.

Basic design studies for a 600 MWe CFB boiler (270b, 2 x 600 C)

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

Bursi, J.M.; Lafanechere, L.; Jestin, L.

Commercial CFB boilers are currently available in the 300 MWe equivalent range for use with international coal. Retrofitting of Provence 4 with a 250 MWe CFB boiler was an important step in CFB development. In light of the results obtained from two large French units--Emile Huchet 4 (125 MWe) and Provence 4 (250 MWe)--this paper focuses on the main technical points which are currently being studied in relation to the basic design of a 600 MWe CFB boiler, a project that has been undertaken by EDF. The general aim of this project is to demonstrate the competitiveness of a CFBmore » boiler compared with a PF boiler. The main areas of focus in the design of this large CFB boiler with advanced steam conditions are described. These points are subjected to particular analysis from a design standpoint. The objective is to prepare the precise specifications needed to ensure a product which is optimized in terms of quality/cost or service/cost. Due to the present lack of theoretical understanding of the refined and complex two-phase flow, design is a challenge which has to be based on reliable and comprehensive data obtained from large plants in commercial operation. This will ensure that the advantages of CFB which arise from the hydrodynamics within the circulation loop are maintained. The major goals of maintaining good particle residence time and concentration in the furnace are described. Misunderstanding of CFB furnace bottom conditions is also pointed out, with cost reduction and better NO{sub x} capture certainly among the major new targets in relation to bottom furnace design. General problems associated with the heat exchanger arrangement, principally those linked to high steam conditions and, especially, the vaporization system, are discussed. Once again, comparison with PF in this area showed that CFB boilers appear more competitive. Finally, the main area in which there is a need for sharing of CFB experience among CFB users is pointed out.« less

Processes governing the temperature structure of the tropical tropopause layer (Invited)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Birner, T.

2013-12-01

The tropical tropopause layer (TTL) is among the most important but least understood regions of the global climate system. The TTL sets the boundary condition for atmospheric tracers entering the stratosphere. Specifically, TTL temperatures control stratospheric water vapor concentrations, which play a key role in the radiative budget of the entire stratosphere with implications for tropospheric and surface climate. The TTL shows a curious stratification structure: temperature continues to decrease beyond the level of main convective outflow (~200 hPa) up to the cold point tropopause (~100 hPa), but TTL lapse rates are smaller than in the upper troposphere. A cold point tropopause well separated from the level of main convective outflow requires TTL cooling which may be the result of: 1) the detailed radiative balance in the TTL, 2) large-scale upwelling (forced by extratropical or tropical waves), 3) the large-scale hydrostatic response aloft deep convective heating, 4) overshooting convection, 5) breaking gravity waves. All of these processes may act in isolation or combine to produce the observed TTL temperature structure. Here, a critical discussion of these processes / mechanisms and their role in lifting the cold point tropopause above the level of main convective outflow is presented. Results are based on idealized radiative-convective equilibrium model simulations, contrasting single-column with cloud-resolving simulations, as well on simulations with chemistry-climate models and reanalysis data. While all of the above processes are capable of producing a TTL-like region in isolation, their combination is found to produce important feedbacks. In particular, both water vapor and ozone are found to have strong radiative effects on TTL temperatures, highlighting important feedbacks between transport circulations setting temperatures and tracer structures and the resulting tracer structures in turn affecting temperatures.

Stochastic Geometry and Quantum Gravity: Some Rigorous Results

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zessin, H.

The aim of these lectures is a short introduction into some recent developments in stochastic geometry which have one of its origins in simplicial gravity theory (see Regge Nuovo Cimento 19: 558-571, 1961). The aim is to define and construct rigorously point processes on spaces of Euclidean simplices in such a way that the configurations of these simplices are simplicial complexes. The main interest then is concentrated on their curvature properties. We illustrate certain basic ideas from a mathematical point of view. An excellent representation of this area can be found in Schneider and Weil (Stochastic and Integral Geometry, Springer, Berlin, 2008. German edition: Stochastische Geometrie, Teubner, 2000). In Ambjørn et al. (Quantum Geometry Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, 1997) you find a beautiful account from the physical point of view. More recent developments in this direction can be found in Ambjørn et al. ("Quantum gravity as sum over spacetimes", Lect. Notes Phys. 807. Springer, Heidelberg, 2010). After an informal axiomatic introduction into the conceptual foundations of Regge's approach the first lecture recalls the concepts and notations used. It presents the fundamental zero-infinity law of stochastic geometry and the construction of cluster processes based on it. The second lecture presents the main mathematical object, i.e. Poisson-Delaunay surfaces possessing an intrinsic random metric structure. The third and fourth lectures discuss their ergodic behaviour and present the two-dimensional Regge model of pure simplicial quantum gravity. We terminate with the formulation of basic open problems. Proofs are given in detail only in a few cases. In general the main ideas are developed. Sufficiently complete references are given.

Analysing causal structures with entropy

PubMed Central

Weilenmann, Mirjam

2017-01-01

A central question for causal inference is to decide whether a set of correlations fits a given causal structure. In general, this decision problem is computationally infeasible and hence several approaches have emerged that look for certificates of compatibility. Here, we review several such approaches based on entropy. We bring together the key aspects of these entropic techniques with unified terminology, filling several gaps and establishing new connections, all illustrated with examples. We consider cases where unobserved causes are classical, quantum and post-quantum, and discuss what entropic analyses tell us about the difference. This difference has applications to quantum cryptography, where it can be crucial to eliminate the possibility of classical causes. We discuss the achievements and limitations of the entropic approach in comparison to other techniques and point out the main open problems. PMID:29225499

Quasi-Normal Modes of Stars and Black Holes.

PubMed

Kokkotas, Kostas D; Schmidt, Bernd G

1999-01-01

Perturbations of stars and black holes have been one of the main topics of relativistic astrophysics for the last few decades. They are of particular importance today, because of their relevance to gravitational wave astronomy. In this review we present the theory of quasi-normal modes of compact objects from both the mathematical and astrophysical points of view. The discussion includes perturbations of black holes (Schwarzschild, Reissner-Nordström, Kerr and Kerr-Newman) and relativistic stars (non-rotating and slowly-rotating). The properties of the various families of quasi-normal modes are described, and numerical techniques for calculating quasi-normal modes reviewed. The successes, as well as the limits, of perturbation theory are presented, and its role in the emerging era of numerical relativity and supercomputers is discussed.

Analysing causal structures with entropy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Weilenmann, Mirjam; Colbeck, Roger

2017-11-01

A central question for causal inference is to decide whether a set of correlations fits a given causal structure. In general, this decision problem is computationally infeasible and hence several approaches have emerged that look for certificates of compatibility. Here, we review several such approaches based on entropy. We bring together the key aspects of these entropic techniques with unified terminology, filling several gaps and establishing new connections, all illustrated with examples. We consider cases where unobserved causes are classical, quantum and post-quantum, and discuss what entropic analyses tell us about the difference. This difference has applications to quantum cryptography, where it can be crucial to eliminate the possibility of classical causes. We discuss the achievements and limitations of the entropic approach in comparison to other techniques and point out the main open problems.

Comparative analysis of different configurations of PLC-based safety systems from reliability point of view

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tapia, Moiez A.

1993-01-01

The study of a comparative analysis of distinct multiplex and fault-tolerant configurations for a PLC-based safety system from a reliability point of view is presented. It considers simplex, duplex and fault-tolerant triple redundancy configurations. The standby unit in case of a duplex configuration has a failure rate which is k times the failure rate of the standby unit, the value of k varying from 0 to 1. For distinct values of MTTR and MTTF of the main unit, MTBF and availability for these configurations are calculated. The effect of duplexing only the PLC module or only the sensors and the actuators module, on the MTBF of the configuration, is also presented. The results are summarized and merits and demerits of various configurations under distinct environments are discussed.

Some insights on the dust properties of nearby galaxies, as seen with Herschel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Galliano, Frédéric

2017-12-01

Nearby galaxies are particularly relevant laboratories to study dust evolution due to the diversity of physical conditions they harbor and to the wealth of data at our disposal. In this paper, we review several recent advances in this field, mainly based on Herschel observations. We first discuss the problems linked with our ignorance of grain emissivities, and show that it can be constrained in some cases. New models are starting to incorporate these constraints. We then present methodological issues encountered when fitting spectral energy distributions, leading to biases in derived dust properties, and some attempts to solve them. Subsequently, we review studies scrutinizing dust evolution: (i) from a global point of view, inferring long term cosmic dust evolution; (ii) from a local point of view, looking for indices of dust processing in the ISM.

Multi-Point Thomson Scattering Diagnostic for the Helicity Injected Torus

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liptac, J. E.; Smith, R. J.; Hoffman, C. S.; Jarboe, T. R.; Nelson, B. A.; Leblanc, B. P.; Phillips, P.

1999-11-01

The multi-point Thomson scattering system on the Helicity Injected Torus--II can determine electron temperature and density at 11 radial positions at a single time during the plasma discharge. The system includes components on loan from both PPPL and from the University of Texas. The collection optics and Littrow spectrometer from Princeton, and the 1 GW laser and multi-anode microchannel plate detector from Texas have been integrated into a compact structure, creating a mobile and reliable diagnostic. The mobility of the system allows alignment to occur in a room adjacent to the experiment, greatly reducing the disturbance to normal machine operation. The four main parts of the Thomson scattering system, namely, the laser, the beam line, the collection optics, and the mobile structure are presented and discussed.

Crossing the quasi-threshold manifold of a noise-driven excitable system

PubMed Central

Zhu, Jinjie; Liu, Xianbin

2017-01-01

We consider the noise-induced escapes in an excitable system possessing a quasi-threshold manifold, along which there exists a certain point of minimal quasi-potential. In the weak noise limit, the optimal escaping path turns out to approach this particular point asymptotically, making it analogous to an ordinary saddle. Numerical simulations are performed and an elaboration on the effect of small but finite noise is given, which shows that the ridges where the prehistory probability distribution peaks are located mainly within the region where the quasi-potential increases gently. The cases allowing anisotropic noise are discussed and we found that varying the noise term in the slow variable would dramatically raise the whole level of quasi-potentials, leading to significant changes in both patterns of optimal paths and exit locations. PMID:28588411

Soil ecotoxicology in Brazil is taking its course.

PubMed

Niva, Cintia Carla; Niemeyer, Julia Carina; Júnior, Flávio Manoel Rodrigues Da Silva; Nunes, Maria Edna Tenório; De Sousa, Danilo Lourenço; Aragão, Clara Wandenkolck Silva; Sautter, Klaus Dieter; Espindola, Evaldo Gaeta; Sousa, José Paulo; Römbke, Jörg

2016-06-01

Soil ecotoxicology has been motivated by the increasing global awareness on environmental issues. Northern Hemisphere has been the main driver of this science branch; however, the number and quality of contributions from the Southern Hemisphere are increasing quickly. In this case study, Brazil is taken as an example of how soil ecotoxicology has developed over the last 30 years. It starts with a brief historical overview depicting the main events on soil ecotoxicology in the country. Following, an overview on the Brazilian legislation related to soil ecotoxicology is given, covering regulations with prospective focus, mainly on the registration of pesticides. Regulations with retrospective focus in contaminated areas are also given. Then, an outline of the actors in soil ecotoxicology and examples of prospective ecotoxicological studies performed with soil organisms and plants are given by stressor groups: pesticides, pharmaceuticals, metals, and residues. Experiences from retrospective studies, mainly looking at the assessment of industrial sites, are also covered. Emphasis is given on methodological aspects, pointing to needed actions, mainly regarding the different biotic and abiotic conditions of a tropical country. Finally, the last session discusses how soil ecotoxicology could be improved in methodological adaptations as well as legal requirements.

[The progress in speciation analysis of trace elements by atomic spectrometry].

PubMed

Wang, Zeng-Huan; Wang, Xu-Nuo; Ke, Chang-Liang; Lin, Qin

2013-12-01

The main purpose of the present work is to review the different non-chromatographic methods for the speciation analysis of trace elements in geological, environmental, biological and medical areas. In this paper, the sample processing methods in speciation analysis were summarized, and the main strategies for non-chromatographic technique were evaluated. The basic principles of the liquid extractions proposed in the published literatures recently and their advantages and disadvantages were discussed, such as conventional solvent extraction, cloud point extraction, single droplet microextraction, and dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction. Solid phase extraction, as a non-chromatographic technique for speciation analysis, can be used in batch or in flow detection, and especially suitable for the online connection to atomic spectrometric detector. The developments and applications of sorbent materials filled in the columns of solid phase extraction were reviewed. The sorbents include chelating resins, nanometer materials, molecular and ion imprinted materials, and bio-sorbents. Other techniques, e. g. hydride generation technique and coprecipitation, were also reviewed together with their main applications.

Calculation and analysis of the non-point source pollution in the upstream watershed of the Panjiakou Reservoir, People's Republic of China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, S.; Tang, L.

2007-05-01

Panjiakou Reservoir is an important drinking water resource in Haihe River Basin, Hebei Province, People's Republic of China. The upstream watershed area is about 35,000 square kilometers. Recently, the water pollution in the reservoir is becoming more serious owing to the non-point pollution as well as point source pollution on the upstream watershed. To effectively manage the reservoir and watershed and develop a plan to reduce pollutant loads, the loading of non-point and point pollution and their distribution on the upstream watershed must be understood fully. The SWAT model is used to simulate the production and transportation of the non-point source pollutants in the upstream watershed of the Panjiakou Reservoir. The loadings of non-point source pollutants are calculated for different hydrologic years and the spatial and temporal characteristics of non-point source pollution are studied. The stream network and topographic characteristics of the stream network and sub-basins are all derived from the DEM by ArcGIS software. The soil and land use data are reclassified and the soil physical properties database file is created for the model. The SWAT model was calibrated with observed data of several hydrologic monitoring stations in the study area. The results of the calibration show that the model performs fairly well. Then the calibrated model was used to calculate the loadings of non-point source pollutants for a wet year, a normal year and a dry year respectively. The time and space distribution of flow, sediment and non-point source pollution were analyzed depending on the simulated results. The comparison of different hydrologic years on calculation results is dramatic. The loading of non-point source pollution in the wet year is relatively larger but smaller in the dry year since the non-point source pollutants are mainly transported through the runoff. The pollution loading within a year is mainly produced in the flood season. Because SWAT is a distributed model, it is possible to view model output as it varies across the basin, so the critical areas and reaches can be found in the study area. According to the simulation results, it is found that different land uses can yield different results and fertilization in rainy season has an important impact on the non- point source pollution. The limitations of the SWAT model are also discussed and the measures of the control and prevention of non- point source pollution for Panjiakou Reservoir are presented according to the analysis of model calculation results.

Science motivation by discussion and controversy (SMDC) model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Izadi, Dina; Mora Ley, César Eduardo; Ramírez Díaz, Mario Humberto

2017-05-01

Succeeding theories and empirical investigations have often been built over conceptual understanding to develop talent education. Opportunities provided by society are crucial at every point in the talent-development process. Abilities differ and can vary among boys and girls. Although they have some responsibility for their own growth and development, the educational system and psychosocial variables influence on the successful development of high levels of education. This research explores students’ attitudes to science education to establish why many disengage with the subject in class and what can be done to reverse this trend to produce unimaginable scientific and practical benefits to society. The control group is students from several schools with traditional education in Iran and the experimental group is teams who have taken part in several activities such as national and international tournaments (2005-2013). This research has two parts: 1—how innovation in teaching and 2—discussion and controversy in class can improve science education and cause motivation. The average scores are divided into 5 ranges in both experimental and traditional groups. As shown by Spearman’s correlation rank (ρ) the difference between boys’ and girls’ average scores is about (2.71) in the control group but it has decreased to (0.29) in the experimental group. The main point of discussion is on problems in class which advance a set of interrelated scientific arguments for outstanding achievement.

Conditional, Time-Dependent Probabilities for Segmented Type-A Faults in the WGCEP UCERF 2

USGS Publications Warehouse

Field, Edward H.; Gupta, Vipin

2008-01-01

This appendix presents elastic-rebound-theory (ERT) motivated time-dependent probabilities, conditioned on the date of last earthquake, for the segmented type-A fault models of the 2007 Working Group on California Earthquake Probabilities (WGCEP). These probabilities are included as one option in the WGCEP?s Uniform California Earthquake Rupture Forecast 2 (UCERF 2), with the other options being time-independent Poisson probabilities and an ?Empirical? model based on observed seismicity rate changes. A more general discussion of the pros and cons of all methods for computing time-dependent probabilities, as well as the justification of those chosen for UCERF 2, are given in the main body of this report (and the 'Empirical' model is also discussed in Appendix M). What this appendix addresses is the computation of conditional, time-dependent probabilities when both single- and multi-segment ruptures are included in the model. Computing conditional probabilities is relatively straightforward when a fault is assumed to obey strict segmentation in the sense that no multi-segment ruptures occur (e.g., WGCEP (1988, 1990) or see Field (2007) for a review of all previous WGCEPs; from here we assume basic familiarity with conditional probability calculations). However, and as we?ll see below, the calculation is not straightforward when multi-segment ruptures are included, in essence because we are attempting to apply a point-process model to a non point process. The next section gives a review and evaluation of the single- and multi-segment rupture probability-calculation methods used in the most recent statewide forecast for California (WGCEP UCERF 1; Petersen et al., 2007). We then present results for the methodology adopted here for UCERF 2. We finish with a discussion of issues and possible alternative approaches that could be explored and perhaps applied in the future. A fault-by-fault comparison of UCERF 2 probabilities with those of previous studies is given in the main part of this report.

97. POINT SPILL, TWIN FALLS MAIN CANAL, TWIN FALLS COUNTY ...

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

97. POINT SPILL, TWIN FALLS MAIN CANAL, TWIN FALLS COUNTY NORTHWEST OF MURTAUGH, IDAHO; OVERALL WEST VIEW FROM CANAL SIDE. - Milner Dam & Main Canal: Twin Falls Canal Company, On Snake River, 11 miles West of city of Burley, Idaho, Twin Falls, Twin Falls County, ID

Unconventional Solar Sailing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ceriotti, Matteo

The idea of exploiting solar radiation pressure for space travel, or solar sailing, is more than a 100 years old, and yet most of the research thus far has considered only a limited number of sail configurations. However solar sails do not have to be inertially-pointing squares, spin-stabilised discs or heliogyros: there is a range of different configurations and concepts that present some advantageous features. This chapter will show and discuss three non-conventional solar sail configurations and their applications. In the first, the sail is complemented by an electric thruster, resulting in a hybrid-propulsion spacecraft which is capable to hover above the Earth's Poles in a stationary position (pole-sitter). The second concept makes use of a variable-geometry pyramidal sail, naturally pointing towards the sun, to increase or decrease the orbit altitude without the need of propellant or attitude manoeuvres. Finally, the third concept shows that the orbit altitude can also be changed, without active manoeuvres or geometry change, if the sail naturally oscillates synchronously with the orbital motion. The main motivation behind these novel configurations is to overcome some of the engineering limitations of solar sailing; the resulting concepts pose some intriguing orbital and attitude dynamics problems, which will be discussed.

Practical challenges related to point of care testing.

PubMed

Shaw, Julie L V

2016-04-01

Point of care testing (POCT) refers to laboratory testing that occurs near to the patient, often at the patient bedside. POCT can be advantageous in situations requiring rapid turnaround time of test results for clinical decision making. There are many challenges associated with POCT, mainly related to quality assurance. POCT is performed by clinical staff rather than laboratory trained individuals which can lead to errors resulting from a lack of understanding of the importance of quality control and quality assurance practices. POCT is usually more expensive than testing performed in the central laboratory and requires a significant amount of support from the laboratory to ensure the quality testing and meet accreditation requirements. Here, specific challenges related to POCT compliance with accreditation standards are discussed along with strategies that can be used to overcome these challenges. These areas include: documentation of POCT orders, charting of POCT results as well as training and certification of individuals performing POCT. Factors to consider when implementing connectivity between POCT instruments and the electronic medical record are also discussed in detail and include: uni-directional versus bidirectional communication, linking patient demographic information with POCT software, the importance of positive patient identification and considering where to chart POCT results in the electronic medical record.

From Pathways to Targets: Understanding the Mechanisms behind Polyglutamine Disease

PubMed Central

Weber, Jonasz Jeremiasz; Sowa, Anna Sergeevna

2014-01-01

The history of polyglutamine diseases dates back approximately 20 years to the discovery of a polyglutamine repeat in the androgen receptor of SBMA followed by the identification of similar expansion mutations in Huntington's disease, SCA1, DRPLA, and the other spinocerebellar ataxias. This common molecular feature of polyglutamine diseases suggests shared mechanisms in disease pathology and neurodegeneration of disease specific brain regions. In this review, we discuss the main pathogenic pathways including proteolytic processing, nuclear shuttling and aggregation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and clearance of misfolded polyglutamine proteins and point out possible targets for treatment. PMID:25309920

Periodical cicadas: A minimal automaton model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

de O. Cardozo, Giovano; de A. M. M. Silvestre, Daniel; Colato, Alexandre

2007-08-01

The Magicicada spp. life cycles with its prime periods and highly synchronized emergence have defied reasonable scientific explanation since its discovery. During the last decade several models and explanations for this phenomenon appeared in the literature along with a great deal of discussion. Despite this considerable effort, there is no final conclusion about this long standing biological problem. Here, we construct a minimal automaton model without predation/parasitism which reproduces some of these aspects. Our results point towards competition between different strains with limited dispersal threshold as the main factor leading to the emergence of prime numbered life cycles.

New klystron technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Faillon, G.

1985-10-01

It is pointed out that klystrons representing high-power RF sources are mainly used in applications related to radars and scientific instrumentation. High peak power pulsed klystrons are discussed. It is found that a large number of linacs are powered by S-band klystrons (2.856 or 2.9985 GHz) with pulse durations of a few microseconds. Special precautions are being taken to insure that the breakdown voltage will not be reached, and very thin titanium coatings are employed to protect the ceramic against discharges. Attention is given to very large pulse width tubes, CW tubes, and limits of the power-frequency domain.

30 cm Engineering Model thruster design and qualification tests

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schnelker, D. E.; Collett, C. R.

1975-01-01

Development of a 30-cm mercury electron bombardment Engineering Model ion thruster has successfully brought the thruster from the status of a laboratory experimental device to a point approaching flight readiness. This paper describes the development progress of the Engineering Model (EM) thruster in four areas: (1) design features and fabrication approaches, (2) performance verification and thruster to thruster variations, (3) structural integrity, and (4) interface definition. The design of major subassemblies, including the cathode-isolator-vaporizer (CIV), main isolator-vaporizer (MIV), neutralizer isolator-vaporizer (NIV), ion optical system, and discharge chamber/outer housing is discussed along with experimental results.

Metrological Reliability of Medical Devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Costa Monteiro, E.; Leon, L. F.

2015-02-01

The prominent development of health technologies of the 20th century triggered demands for metrological reliability of physiological measurements comprising physical, chemical and biological quantities, essential to ensure accurate and comparable results of clinical measurements. In the present work, aspects concerning metrological reliability in premarket and postmarket assessments of medical devices are discussed, pointing out challenges to be overcome. In addition, considering the social relevance of the biomeasurements results, Biometrological Principles to be pursued by research and innovation aimed at biomedical applications are proposed, along with the analysis of their contributions to guarantee the innovative health technologies compliance with the main ethical pillars of Bioethics.

Transport as a system: reorganization of perinatal assistance in Northern Lombardy.

PubMed

Martinelli, Stefano; Vergani, Patrizia; Zanini, Rinaldo; Bellù, Roberto; Farina, Clotilde; Tagliabue, Paolo

2011-10-01

The organization of perinatal care has been a pivotal mean for improvement in neonatal survivals. Despite the excellent standard of assistance in Lombardy, Obstetrics and Neonatal Units of MBBM Foundation-Monza, Manzoni Hospital-Lecco and Niguarda Hospital-Milan put forward a pilot project proposing reorganization of perinatal care in the northern part of Lombardy. The main goals of the project are implementation of maternal transport system and use of neonatal back transport as a system to increase the availability of intensive care beds. The project's fundamental steps and critical points will be discussed.

Space Station accommodation of attached payloads

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Browning, Ronald K.; Gervin, Janette C.

1987-01-01

The Attached Payload Accommodation Equipment (APAE), which provides the structure to attach payloads to the Space Station truss assembly, to access Space Station resources, and to orient payloads relative to specified targets, is described. The main subelements of the APAE include a station interface adapter, payload interface adapter, subsystem support module, contamination monitoring system, payload pointing system, and attitude determination system. These components can be combined to provide accommodations for small single payloads, small multiple payloads, large self-supported payloads, carrier-mounted payloads, and articulated payloads. The discussion also covers the power, thermal, and data/communications subsystems and operations.

KEY ITEMS OF INNOVATION MANAGEMENT IN THE PRIMARY HEALTHCARE CENTRES CASE STUDY: FINLAND.

PubMed

Aslani, Alireza; Zolfagharzadeh, Mohammad Mahdi; Naaranoja, Marja

2015-09-01

Trends such as aging populations, excess costs, rising public expectations, and progress in medical science and technologies point out the necessity of adaptation and development of innovation in the healthcare systems particularly in developed countries. The main objective of this article is to review diffusion of innovation in the healthcare sector. Different types of innovation, diffusion characteristics, and adoption mechanisms are the subjects that are discussed in the selected case study, Finland. Finally, the key items of innovation management in the Finnish health system are introduced. The results can be implemented in other countries as well.

Benford's law first significant digit and distribution distances for testing the reliability of financial reports in developing countries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shi, Jing; Ausloos, Marcel; Zhu, Tingting

2018-02-01

We discuss a common suspicion about reported financial data, in 10 industrial sectors of the 6 so called "main developing countries" over the time interval [2000-2014]. These data are examined through Benford's law first significant digit and through distribution distances tests. It is shown that several visually anomalous data have to be a priori removed. Thereafter, the distributions much better follow the first digit significant law, indicating the usefulness of a Benford's law test from the research starting line. The same holds true for distance tests. A few outliers are pointed out.

«Smart Grid» Concept As A Modern Technology For The Power Industry Development

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vidyaev, Igor G.; Ivashutenko, Alexandr S.; Samburskaya, Maria A.

2017-01-01

The article discusses the main problems of the power industry and energy supply to the distribution networks. One of the suggested solutions for these problems is the use of intelligent energy networks on the basis of digital reality simulation, in particular, the concept of «SMART GRID». The article presents the basic points of the concept and the peculiarities of its application at the enterprises. It was demonstrated that the use of this technology eliminates power shortage, reduces the energy intensity and improves the energy efficiency throughout the operation of an enterprise as a whole.

Detection of genetically modified organisms in foods by DNA amplification techniques.

PubMed

García-Cañas, Virginia; Cifuentes, Alejandro; González, Ramón

2004-01-01

In this article, the different DNA amplification techniques that are being used for detecting genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in foods are examined. This study intends to provide an updated overview (including works published till June 2002) on the principal applications of such techniques together with their main advantages and drawbacks in GMO detection in foods. Some relevant facts on sampling, DNA isolation, and DNA amplification methods are discussed. Moreover; these analytical protocols are discuissed from a quantitative point of view, including the newest investigations on multiplex detection of GMOs in foods and validation of methods.

Missing Data in Clinical Studies: Issues and Methods

PubMed Central

Ibrahim, Joseph G.; Chu, Haitao; Chen, Ming-Hui

2012-01-01

Missing data are a prevailing problem in any type of data analyses. A participant variable is considered missing if the value of the variable (outcome or covariate) for the participant is not observed. In this article, various issues in analyzing studies with missing data are discussed. Particularly, we focus on missing response and/or covariate data for studies with discrete, continuous, or time-to-event end points in which generalized linear models, models for longitudinal data such as generalized linear mixed effects models, or Cox regression models are used. We discuss various classifications of missing data that may arise in a study and demonstrate in several situations that the commonly used method of throwing out all participants with any missing data may lead to incorrect results and conclusions. The methods described are applied to data from an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group phase II clinical trial of liver cancer and a phase III clinical trial of advanced non–small-cell lung cancer. Although the main area of application discussed here is cancer, the issues and methods we discuss apply to any type of study. PMID:22649133

Talking Points: Discussion Activities in the Primary Classroom

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dawes, Lyn

2011-01-01

"Talking Points: Discussion Activities in the Primary Classroom" encourages and supports classroom discussion on a range of topics, enabling children to develop the important life-skill of effective group communication. Children who can explain their own ideas and take account of the points of view and reasons of others are in the process of…

Telepractice: Creating a Statewide Network of Support in Rural Maine

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hopkins, Karen; Keefe, Barbara; Bruno, Angela

2012-01-01

The Maine Educational Center for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing's (MECDHH's) "POINT" (Providing Opportunities for Integrating New Technologies) project is implementing a telepractice, distance learning collaborative in Maine with eight hub sites and 18 end points using Tandberg videoconferencing technology. This network is planned to be a…

99. POINT SPILL, TWIN FALLS MAIN CANAL, TWIN FALLS COUNTY ...

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

99. POINT SPILL, TWIN FALLS MAIN CANAL, TWIN FALLS COUNTY NORTHWEST OF MURTAUGH, IDAHO; CLOSE-UP OF OUTLET SIDE OF GATES, SOUTH VIEW. - Milner Dam & Main Canal: Twin Falls Canal Company, On Snake River, 11 miles West of city of Burley, Idaho, Twin Falls, Twin Falls County, ID

Brokerage mechanism proposal for teleradiology studies distribution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ferreira Polónia, Daniel; da Silva, Augusto F.; Costa, Carlos M.; Oliveira, José Luís

2008-03-01

The asymmetric distribution of PACS equipment and service providers across countries leads typically to the need to hire third party service professionals outside the institutions where the exams were made. In this paper we present a brokerage mechanism that puts customers and remote providers together in a seamless way. The proposed solution, asserted with a case study for the Portuguese national health system, addresses the problems that now impair the optimal provision of those services, enabling a more agile relationship between buyers and sellers, optimizing administrative work and complying with clinical and legal requirements under discussion in the European Union for the free movement of patients and professional health workers. In this document, the detailed process and technical description of the broker functioning is made, and the main benefits for the participants are also evaluated from a technical and economical point of view. Finally, in the discussion chapter, an assessment of the creation of a spot market for imaging studies is made and the integration with other similar markets is discussed.

Computational fluid dynamics at NASA Ames and the numerical aerodynamic simulation program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Peterson, V. L.

1985-01-01

Computers are playing an increasingly important role in the field of aerodynamics such as that they now serve as a major complement to wind tunnels in aerospace research and development. Factors pacing advances in computational aerodynamics are identified, including the amount of computational power required to take the next major step in the discipline. The four main areas of computational aerodynamics research at NASA Ames Research Center which are directed toward extending the state of the art are identified and discussed. Example results obtained from approximate forms of the governing equations are presented and discussed, both in the context of levels of computer power required and the degree to which they either further the frontiers of research or apply to programs of practical importance. Finally, the Numerical Aerodynamic Simulation Program--with its 1988 target of achieving a sustained computational rate of 1 billion floating-point operations per second--is discussed in terms of its goals, status, and its projected effect on the future of computational aerodynamics.

Apoptosis and Molecular Targeting Therapy in Cancer

PubMed Central

Hassan, Mohamed; Watari, Hidemichi; AbuAlmaaty, Ali; Ohba, Yusuke; Sakuragi, Noriaki

2014-01-01

Apoptosis is the programmed cell death which maintains the healthy survival/death balance in metazoan cells. Defect in apoptosis can cause cancer or autoimmunity, while enhanced apoptosis may cause degenerative diseases. The apoptotic signals contribute into safeguarding the genomic integrity while defective apoptosis may promote carcinogenesis. The apoptotic signals are complicated and they are regulated at several levels. The signals of carcinogenesis modulate the central control points of the apoptotic pathways, including inhibitor of apoptosis (IAP) proteins and FLICE-inhibitory protein (c-FLIP). The tumor cells may use some of several molecular mechanisms to suppress apoptosis and acquire resistance to apoptotic agents, for example, by the expression of antiapoptotic proteins such as Bcl-2 or by the downregulation or mutation of proapoptotic proteins such as BAX. In this review, we provide the main regulatory molecules that govern the main basic mechanisms, extrinsic and intrinsic, of apoptosis in normal cells. We discuss how carcinogenesis could be developed via defective apoptotic pathways or their convergence. We listed some molecules which could be targeted to stimulate apoptosis in different cancers. Together, we briefly discuss the development of some promising cancer treatment strategies which target apoptotic inhibitors including Bcl-2 family proteins, IAPs, and c-FLIP for apoptosis induction. PMID:25013758

Towards automatic SAR-optical stereogrammetry over urban areas using very high resolution imagery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qiu, Chunping; Schmitt, Michael; Zhu, Xiao Xiang

2018-04-01

In this paper we discuss the potential and challenges regarding SAR-optical stereogrammetry for urban areas, using very-high-resolution (VHR) remote sensing imagery. Since we do this mainly from a geometrical point of view, we first analyze the height reconstruction accuracy to be expected for different stereogrammetric configurations. Then, we propose a strategy for simultaneous tie point matching and 3D reconstruction, which exploits an epipolar-like search window constraint. To drive the matching and ensure some robustness, we combine different established hand-crafted similarity measures. For the experiments, we use real test data acquired by the Worldview-2, TerraSAR-X and MEMPHIS sensors. Our results show that SAR-optical stereogrammetry using VHR imagery is generally feasible with 3D positioning accuracies in the meter-domain, although the matching of these strongly hetereogeneous multi-sensor data remains very challenging.

Point defects in crystalline zircon (zirconium silicate), ZrSiO4: electron paramagnetic resonance studies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tennant, W. C.; Claridge, R. F. C.; Walsby, C. J.; Lees, N. S.

This article outlines the present state of knowledge of paramagnetic defects in crystalline zircon as obtained mainly, but not exclusively, from electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) studies in crystalline zircon (zirconium silicate, ZrSiO4). The emphasis is on single-crystal studies where, in principle, unambiguous analysis is possible. Firstly, the crystallography of zircon is presented. Secondly, the relationships between available crystal-site symmetries and the symmetries of observed paramagnetic species in zircon, and how these observations lead to unambiguous assignments of point-group symmetries for particular paramagnetic species are detailed. Next, spin-Hamiltonian (SH) analysis is discussed with emphasis on the symmetry relationships that necessarily exist amongst the Laue classes of the crystal sites in zircon, the paramagnetic species occupying those sites and the SH itself. The final sections of the article then survey the results of EPR studies on zircon over the period 1960-2002.

Fluorescent nucleobases as tools for studying DNA and RNA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Wang; Chan, Ke Min; Kool, Eric T.

2017-11-01

Understanding the diversity of dynamic structures and functions of DNA and RNA in biology requires tools that can selectively and intimately probe these biomolecules. Synthetic fluorescent nucleobases that can be incorporated into nucleic acids alongside their natural counterparts have emerged as a powerful class of molecular reporters of location and environment. They are enabling new basic insights into DNA and RNA, and are facilitating a broad range of new technologies with chemical, biological and biomedical applications. In this Review, we will present a brief history of the development of fluorescent nucleobases and explore their utility as tools for addressing questions in biophysics, biochemistry and biology of nucleic acids. We provide chemical insights into the two main classes of these compounds: canonical and non-canonical nucleobases. A point-by-point discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of both types of fluorescent nucleobases is made, along with a perspective into the future challenges and outlook for this burgeoning field.

Towards automatic SAR-optical stereogrammetry over urban areas using very high resolution imagery.

PubMed

Qiu, Chunping; Schmitt, Michael; Zhu, Xiao Xiang

2018-04-01

In this paper we discuss the potential and challenges regarding SAR-optical stereogrammetry for urban areas, using very-high-resolution (VHR) remote sensing imagery. Since we do this mainly from a geometrical point of view, we first analyze the height reconstruction accuracy to be expected for different stereogrammetric configurations. Then, we propose a strategy for simultaneous tie point matching and 3D reconstruction, which exploits an epipolar-like search window constraint. To drive the matching and ensure some robustness, we combine different established hand-crafted similarity measures. For the experiments, we use real test data acquired by the Worldview-2, TerraSAR-X and MEMPHIS sensors. Our results show that SAR-optical stereogrammetry using VHR imagery is generally feasible with 3D positioning accuracies in the meter-domain, although the matching of these strongly hetereogeneous multi-sensor data remains very challenging.

Time- & Load-Dependence of Triboelectric Effect.

PubMed

Pan, Shuaihang; Yin, Nian; Zhang, Zhinan

2018-02-06

Time- and load-dependent friction behavior is considered as important for a long time, due to its time-evolution and force-driving characteristics. However, its electronic behavior, mainly considered in triboelectric effect, has almost never been given the full attention and analyses from the above point of view. In this paper, by experimenting with fcc-latticed aluminum and copper friction pairs, the mechanical and electronic behaviors of friction contacts are correlated by time and load analyses, and the behind physical understanding is provided. Most importantly, the difference of "response lag" in force and electricity is discussed, the extreme points of coefficient of friction with the increasing normal loads are observed and explained with the surface properties and dynamical behaviors (i.e. wear), and the micro and macro theories linking tribo-electricity to normal load and wear (i.e. the physical explanation between coupled electrical and mechanical phenomena) are successfully developed and tested.

[Is medicine an art or a science?--considerations in the light of Polish school of medicine philosophy and views of other European doctors from the beginning of 19th century till outbreak of the Second World War"].

PubMed

Gryglewski, Ryszard W

2006-01-01

This paper is devoted to the problem of real nature of medicine, as it was seen in Polish school of the philosophy of the medicine. Is medicine more (or only) science, or is it an art was the crucial point of discussion, which was held in European philosophy of the medicine for the first time in late 19th century. The important voice in it was given by Polish scientists such as Zygmunt Kramsztyk, Henryk Nusbaum, Władysław Biegański, Edmund Biernacki, Władyslaw Szumowski and Ludwik Zembrzuski. How they understood place and meaning of medicine in the realm of human activities, in which points they found the same grounds and in which they differed, should be seen as the main topic for this article.

Arthroscopic approach and anatomy of the hip.

PubMed

Aprato, Alessandro; Giachino, Matteo; Masse, Alessandro

2016-01-01

Hip arthroscopy has gained popularity among the orthopedic community and a precise assessment of indications, techniques and results is constantly brought on. In this chapter the principal standard entry portals for central and peripheral compartment are discussed. The description starts from the superficial landmarks for portals placement and continues with the deep layers. For each entry point an illustration of the main structures encountered is provided and the principal structures at risk for different portals are accurately examined. Articular anatomical description is carried out from the arthroscope point of view and sub-divided into central and peripheral compartment. The two compartments are systematically analyzed and the accessible articular areas for each portal explained. Moreover, some anatomical variations that can be found in the normal hip are reported. The anatomical knowledge of the hip joint along with a precise notion of the structures encountered with the arthroscope is an essential requirement for a secure and successful surgery. Level of evidence: V.

Being human and doing primatology: national, socioeconomic, and ethnic influences on primatological practice.

PubMed

Fuentes, Agustin

2011-03-01

The emerging manifesto, center of the essay collection this commentary is part of, points out that primatology is a primate's science and field of endeavor. It is about primates, and constructed and carried out by primates. But the relationships between different primates involved in primatology cannot be described merely as scientific, zoological, or conservatory. A main point emerging from this perspective is that the relationships amongst primates (as scientists and as subjects) are affected by primatologists' experiences outside of academic science and within the cultural schema that we acquire as members of human societies. My contribution focuses on the primatologists and their sometimes discussed, but too often ignored, cultural and ethnic contexts as influences on how they study, think about, and interact with other primates. In our views and bonds with other primates, do national, class, and ethnic factors count? 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Challenges and Opportunities of Gas Engine Driven Heat Pumps: Two Case Studies

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

Abu-Heiba, Ahmad; Mahderekal, Dr. Isaac; Mehdizadeh Momen, Ayyoub

Gas engine driven heat pumps (GHP) currently hold a small market share. This share is considerably smaller than what the full potential of GHP technology can realize. Of the main benefits of the GHP technology is their better primary energy utilization mainly due to the ability to recover the engine heat. However, development and market penetration of GHP technology have been challenged by various market and technical barriers. The main barriers are the high initial cost, low awareness of the technology, and poor perception. On the other hand, several opportunities arise that the GHP technology can take advantage of tomore » increase its market share. The most direct opportunity is the abundance of cheap natural gas. This translates directly into monetary savings and higher ROI. GHPs offer the advantage of reducing the peak demand by 80% compared to electric counterpart. From the point of view of utilities, this eliminates the need for lower-efficiency peaking power plants and over-expansion only to cover maximum peak times. From the point of view of renewable customers, GHPs eliminate the need to buy power from the grid at a high price. This is especially important in hot climates with high cooling loads. When built and operated as distributed generation, GHPs can improve the reliability of power delivery to consumers. The paper discusses the challenges and opportunities as seen during the development and commercialization of two different GHP products; a 10-ton packaged unit and 5-ton split unit.« less

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

Rasouli, C.; Abbasi Davani, F.; Rokrok, B.

Plasma confinement using external magnetic field is one of the successful ways leading to the controlled nuclear fusion. Development and validation of the solution process for plasma equilibrium in the experimental toroidal fusion devices is the main subject of this work. Solution of the nonlinear 2D stationary problem as posed by the Grad-Shafranov equation gives quantitative information about plasma equilibrium inside the vacuum chamber of hot fusion devices. This study suggests solving plasma equilibrium equation which is essential in toroidal nuclear fusion devices, using a mesh-free method in a condition that the plasma boundary is unknown. The Grad-Shafranov equation hasmore » been solved numerically by the point interpolation collocation mesh-free method. Important features of this approach include truly mesh free, simple mathematical relationships between points and acceptable precision in comparison with the parametric results. The calculation process has been done by using the regular and irregular nodal distribution and support domains with different points. The relative error between numerical and analytical solution is discussed for several test examples such as small size Damavand tokamak, ITER-like equilibrium, NSTX-like equilibrium, and typical Spheromak.« less

Effets pathogènes d'un faible débit de dose : la relation « dose effet »

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Masse, Roland

2002-10-01

There is no evidence of pathogenic effects in human groups exposed to less than 100 mSv at low dose-rate. The attributed effects are therefore the result of extrapolations from higher doses. The validity of such extrapolations is discussed from the point of view of epidemiology as well as cellular and molecular biology. The Chernobyl accident resulted in large excess of thyroid cancers in children; it also raised the point that some actual sanitary effects among distressed populations might be a direct consequence of low doses. Studies under the control of UN have not confirmed this point identifying no dose-effect relationship and " severe socio-economic and psychological pressures… poverty, poor diet and living conditions, and lifestyle factors" as the main cause for depressed health. Some hypothesis are considered for explaining the dose-dependence and high prevalence of non-cancer causes of death among human groups exposed to more than 300 mSv. To cite this article: R. Masse, C. R. Physique 3 (2002) 1049-1058.

Preliminary survey and performance of land subsidence in North Semarang Demak

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yuwono, B. D.; Abidin, H. Z.; Gumilar, I.; Andreas, H.; Awaluddin, M.; Haqqi, K. F.; Khoirunisa, R.

2016-05-01

Land subsidence in Semarang is a severe hazard threatening people and urban infrastructure. Land subsidence is suspected expand to North Demak. It shows that has been leading to severe and costly damages to urban infrastructure such as buildings and roads. Another disaster like flooding will ruin the city frequently and is increasingly severely affecting the living conditions. The Principle of land subsidence monitoring with a GPS is to determine the coordinates of a point on a carefully selected location and are conducted periodically at regular. By studying the characteristic and speed of change in ellipsoid height of the point - the point of the survey is a survey to the next, then the greater the reduction in soil characteristics and will be known. This paper mainly discusses the results obtained by GPS surveys that have been conducted in 2011, 2013, 2014 and2015. Land subsidence in Semarang until now still occur, especially in the northern region of Semarang. In the range of 2011-2015 land subsidence rates of 15 cm / year besides that for studying land subsidence in Demak, there was 10 Bench Mark was established.

Patients' involvement in decisions about medicines: GPs' perceptions of their preferences

PubMed Central

Cox, Kate; Britten, Nicky; Hooper, Richard; White, Patrick

2007-01-01

Background Patients vary in their desire to be involved in decisions about their care. Aim To assess the accuracy and impact of GPs' perceptions of their patients' desire for involvement. Design of study Consultation-based study. Setting Five primary care centres in south London. Method Consecutive patients completed decision-making preference questionnaires before and after consultation. Eighteen GPs completed a questionnaire at the beginning of the study and reported their perceptions of patients' preferences after each consultation. Patients' satisfaction was assessed using the Medical Interview Satisfaction Scale. Analyses were conducted in 190 patient–GP pairs that identified the same medicine decision about the same main health problem. Results A total of 479 patients participated (75.7% of those approached). Thirty-nine per cent of these patients wanted their GPs to share the decision, 45% wanted the GP to be the main (28%) or only (17%) decision maker regarding their care, and 16% wanted to be the main (14%) or only (2%) decision maker themselves. GPs accurately assessed patients' preferences in 32% of the consultations studied, overestimated patients' preferences for involvement in 45%, and underestimated them in 23% of consultations studied. Factors protective against GPs underestimating patients' preferences were: patients preferring the GP to make the decision (odds ratio [OR] 0.2 per point on the five-point scale; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.1 to 0.4), and the patient having discussed their main health problem before (OR 0.3; 95% CI = 0.1 to 0.9). Patients' educational attainment was independently associated with GPs underestimation of preferences. Conclusion GPs' perceptions of their patients' desire to be involved in decisions about medicines are inaccurate in most cases. Doctors are more likely to underestimate patients' preferred level of involvement when patients have not consulted about their condition before. PMID:17925134

The challenge of assessing social dimensions of avoided deforestation: Examples from Cambodia

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

Pasgaard, M., E-mail: mase@life.ku.dk

Reduced Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation in developing countries (REDD +) has moved to the central stage of the climate change debate by being promoted as a significant, cheap, and quick win-win strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and thereby mitigate climate change. In order to be successful in reducing emissions while providing the projected social and environmental co-benefits, REDD + needs to overcome key challenges of insecure forest tenure and inequity in the distribution of benefits. Such challenges threaten to affect the livelihoods and well-being in the local communities and in turn the effectiveness of REDD+. While REDDmore » + programs will affect the participating communities, there is limited knowledge as to what social impacts these projects may bring to the local population. Similarly, assessment of these social dimensions has received little attention until recently, and is consequently out of sync with the realities of REDD + projects. The present paper aims to shed light on the methodological and contextual challenges in the assessment of the social dimensions of REDD+. Some of the main social concerns of REDD + are outlined with an emphasis on the uniqueness and complexity of REDD + interventions. Recently proposed approaches to assess social impacts in REDD + are critically assessed in terms of the diversity of frameworks proposed, choice of social indicators, and data collection requirements. Specifically, these methodological implications are further discussed in the light of the social dimensions and the prescribed regulations of REDD + in a Cambodian context. - Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Insecure tenure and inequitable benefit sharing are main social concerns in REDD +. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Two guides to social assessments in REDD + are critically reviewed. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Mismatch between social assessment requirements and the reality of REDD + is analyzed. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Concrete, topical examples from Cambodian REDD + are used. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Support the claim to add qualitative assessment of social dimensions in REDD +.« less

Serum Magnesium after Kidney Transplantation: A Systematic Review.

PubMed

Garnier, Anne-Sophie; Duveau, Agnès; Planchais, Martin; Subra, Jean-François; Sayegh, Johnny; Augusto, Jean-François

2018-06-06

Magnesium (Mg) status has recently drawn close attention in chronic kidney disease and in kidney transplant recipients. This review aims to evaluate the body of evidence linking hypomagnesemia to clinical consequences in these specific populations. After a brief summary of the main mechanisms involved in Mg regulation and of Mg status in end-stage renal disease, the review focuses on the relationship between hypomagnesemia and cardiovascular risk in kidney transplant recipients. A body of evidence in recent studies points to a negative impact of hypomagnesemia on post-transplant diabetes mellitus (PTDM) and cardiovascular risk, which currently represent the main threat for morbidity and mortality in kidney transplantation. Deleterious biological mechanisms induced by hypomagnesemia are also discussed. While data analysis enables us to conclude that hypomagnesemia is linked to the development of PTDM, studies prospectively evaluating the impact of hypomagnesemia correction after kidney transplantation are still lacking and needed.

[One hundred years of Freud editions in The Netherlands].

PubMed

Greven, Elsbeth

2009-01-01

The history of Dutch editions of Freud is discussed from a publisher's point of view. The author focuses on the main publishers involved in presenting Freud's work to the Dutch public: S. C. van Doesburgh, De Wereldbibliotheek, De Bezige Bij and Uitgeverij Boom. She describes their role, together with their networks of translators, editors and psychoanalysts, in the production, perception and reception of Freud's work--and hence in the development of psychoanalysis in The Netherlands--as well as their approaches to translation, publishing strategies and use of paratextual resources. Three main stages can be identified: 1. 1912 to World War I (Freud was introduced), 2. World War I to 1950 (Freud was popularised), and 3. 1960 to 1990 (Freud was canonised, but also criticised). A fourth stage, the historicisation of Freud, began in 2006 with a new, scholarly edition of his Werken, arranged in chronological order.

Understanding human perception by human-made illusions

PubMed Central

Carbon, Claus-Christian

2014-01-01

It may be fun to perceive illusions, but the understanding of how they work is even more stimulating and sustainable: They can tell us where the limits and capacity of our perceptual apparatus are found—they can specify how the constraints of perception are set. Furthermore, they let us analyze the cognitive sub-processes underlying our perception. Illusions in a scientific context are not mainly created to reveal the failures of our perception or the dysfunctions of our apparatus, but instead point to the specific power of human perception. The main task of human perception is to amplify and strengthen sensory inputs to be able to perceive, orientate and act very quickly, specifically and efficiently. The present paper strengthens this line of argument, strongly put forth by perceptual pioneer Richard L. Gregory (e.g., Gregory, 2009), by discussing specific visual illusions and how they can help us to understand the magic of perception. PMID:25132816

[Abdominal bloating: an up-to-date].

PubMed

Ducrotté, P

2009-10-01

Bloating is a common symptom, especially in women. In the clinical practice, it remains a therapeutic challenge. Since recently, its pathophysiology is better understood: an impaired transit of gas (particularly in the small bowel) or a visceral hypersensitivity leading to the induction of an abdominal discomfort despite a normal volume of gas are two of the main causes, far more frequent than an excessive production of gas. Moreover, bloating can be related to abnormal viscera-somatic reflexes promoting both an abdomino-phrenic dyssynergia and the relaxation of the muscles of the abdominal wall. From a therapeutic point of view, the efficacy of the gas absorbants remains to be more documented. Besides the treatment of a constipation and the avoidance of nutrients either highly fermentable or rich in fructose, other therapeutic options include prokinetics and drugs acting on visceral sensitivity. Probiotics are another promising option. In some centers, a non pharmacological therapeutic approach, mainly based on hypnosis, is discussed.

Using the phase shift to asymptotically characterize the dipolar mixed modes in post-main-sequence stars

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jiang, C.; Christensen-Dalsgaard, J.; Cunha, M.

2018-03-01

Mixed modes have been extensively observed in post-main-sequence stars by the Kepler and CoRoT space missions. The mixture of the p and g modes can be measured by the dimensionless coefficient q, the so-called coupling strength factor. In this paper, we discuss the utility of the phase shifts θ from the eigenvalue condition for mixed modes as a tool to characterize dipolar mixed modes from the theoretical as well as the practical point of view. Unlike the coupling strength, whose variation in a given star is very small over the relevant frequency range, the phase shifts vary significantly for different modes. The analysis in terms of θ can also provide a better understanding of the pressure and gravity radial order for a given mixed mode. Observed frequencies of the Kepler red-giant star KIC 3744043 are used to test the method. The results are very promising.

Global Projection of Coastal Exposure Associated with Sea-level Rise beyond Tipping Points

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tawatari, R.; Miyazaki, C.; Iseri, Y.; Kiguchi, M.; Kanae, S.

2015-12-01

Sea-level rise due to global warming becomes a great matter of concern for global coastal area. Additionally, it has reported in fifth report of IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change) that deglaciation of Greenland ice sheet and Antarctic ice sheet would occur rapidly and enhance sea-level rise if temperature passes certain "Tipping point". In terms of projecting damage induced by sea-level rise globally, some previous studies focused on duration until mainly 2100. Furthermore long-term estimations on centuries to millennial climatic response of the ice sheets which are supposed to be triggered within this or next century would be also important to think about future climate and lifestyle in coastal . In this study, I estimated the long term sea-level which take into account the tipping points of Greenland ice sheet (1.4℃) as sum of 4 factors (thermal expansion, glacier and ice cap, Greenland ice sheet, Antarctic ice sheet). The sea-level follows 4 representative concentration pathways up to 3000 obtained through literature reviewing since there were limited available sea-level projections up to 3000. I also estimated a number of affected population lives in coastal area up to 3000 with using the estimated sea-level. The cost for damage, adaptation and mitigation would be also discussed. These estimations would be useful when decision-makers propose policies for construction of dikes and proposing mitigation plans for sustainable future. The result indicates there would be large and relatively rapid increases in both sea-level rise and coastal exposure if global mean temperature passes the tipping point of Greenland ice sheet. However the tipping points, melting rate and timescale of response are highly uncertain and still discussed among experts. Thus more precise and credible information is required for further accurate estimation of long-term sea-level rise and population exposure in the future.

A critical review of seven selected neighborhood sustainability assessment tools

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

Sharifi, Ayyoob, E-mail: sharifi.ayyoob@a.mbox.nagoya-u.ac.jp; Murayama, Akito, E-mail: murayama@corot.nuac.nagoya-u.ac.jp

2013-01-15

Neighborhood sustainability assessment tools have become widespread since the turn of 21st century and many communities, mainly in the developed world, are utilizing these tools to measure their success in approaching sustainable development goals. In this study, seven tools from Australia, Europe, Japan, and the United States are selected and analyzed with the aim of providing insights into the current situations; highlighting the strengths, weaknesses, successes, and failures; and making recommendations for future improvements. Using a content analysis, the issues of sustainability coverage, pre-requisites, local adaptability, scoring and weighting, participation, reporting, and applicability are discussed in this paper. The resultsmore » of this study indicate that most of the tools are not doing well regarding the coverage of social, economic, and institutional aspects of sustainability; there are ambiguities and shortcomings in the weighting, scoring, and rating; in most cases, there is no mechanism for local adaptability and participation; and, only those tools which are embedded within the broader planning framework are doing well with regard to applicability. - Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Seven widely used assessment tools were analyzed. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer There is a lack of balanced assessment of sustainability dimensions. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Tools are not doing well regarding the applicability. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Refinements are needed to make the tools more effective. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Assessment tools must be integrated into the planning process.« less

[Talks on evaluation of students' writing (discussion)].

PubMed

Terazawa, K; Otaki, J; Abe, K

2001-09-01

We talked about the evaluation of students' writing; this is thought to be difficult for teachers. We have a class "history of medicine" for freshmen in the second semester of the medical course. Students give lecture by themselves on famous historical persons in medicine such as Hippocrates, Vesalius, Pasteur and Sackett, referring to their historical significance in present medicine. As the final work of the subject they write report on "clinical medicine or medical researches 20 years in future and myself". We talked generally about educational evaluation in various aspects, concerning the methods for writing. We discussed mainly on two themes--ability to write and originality in thinking. We give a larger point to the originality, which correlates to ability to write, though we feel difficult in evaluating students' originality only by reading their reports. We also emphasize the importance of active interaction between students and teachers, and to evaluate educational activities of teachers in Japanese universities.

Survey on effect of surface winds on aircraft design and operation and recommendations for needed wind research

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Houbolt, J. C.

1973-01-01

A survey of the effect of environmental surface winds and gusts on aircraft design and operation is presented. A listing of the very large number of problems that are encountered is given. Attention is called to the many studies that have been made on surface winds and gusts, but development in the engineering application of these results to aeronautical problems is pointed out to be still in the embryonic stage. Control of the aircraft is of paramount concern. Mathematical models and their application in simulation studies of airplane operation and control are discussed, and an attempt is made to identify their main gaps or deficiencies. Key reference material is cited. The need for better exchange between the meteorologist and the aeronautical engineer is discussed. Suggestions for improvements in the wind and gust models are made.

The Psychology of Sustainable Seafood Consumption: A Comprehensive Approach

PubMed Central

Richter, Isabel G. M.; Klöckner, Christian A.

2017-01-01

This paper discusses conceptual confusions of sustainable seafood consumption, practical challenges, and potential anchors from where this behaviour can be fostered. The main focus lies on psychological variables. The resulting framework comprises (1) a definition of sustainable seafood consumption, (2) suggestions for corresponding behaviours, (3) the identification of facilitating and hindering factors, (4) an assemblage of these factors into a theoretical model, and (5) a short discussion of how the model adds up value to the current state of the art in marine resource conservation. Behavioural models significantly contribute to behavioural change research. The originality and value of this research are that it tackles the so far relatively neglected field of sustainable seafood consumption as important part of sustainable development and marine conservation in the future. From an interventional perspective, the developed model facilitates the identification of contact points to approach consumers and disseminate sustainable seafood consumption among modern Western consumers. PMID:28956851

Promoting children's health: Toward a consensus statement on food literacy.

PubMed

Truman, Emily; Raine, Kim; Mrklas, Kelly; Prowse, Rachel; Carruthers Den Hoed, Rebecca; Watson-Jarvis, Katherine; Loewen, Jewel; Gorham, Megan; Ricciardi, Carolin; Tyminski, Sheila; Elliott, Charlene

2017-06-16

This consensus statement reflects the views of a diverse group of stakeholders convened to explore the concept of "food literacy" as it relates to children's health. Evidence-based conceptions of food literacy are needed in light of the term's popularity in health promotion and educational interventions designed to increase food skills and knowledge that contribute to overall health. Informed by a comprehensive scoping review that identified seven main themes of food literacy, meeting participants ranked those themes in terms of importance. Discussions highlighted two key points in conceptualizing food literacy: the need to recognize varying food skill and knowledge levels, and the need to recognize critical food contexts. From these discussions, meeting participants created two working definitions of food literacy, as well as the alternative conception of "radical food literacy". We conclude that multiple literacies in relation to food skills and knowledge are needed, and underline the importance of ongoing dialogue in this emergent area of research.

Drude weight of the spin-(1)/(2) XXZ chain: Density matrix renormalization group versus exact diagonalization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Karrasch, C.; Hauschild, J.; Langer, S.; Heidrich-Meisner, F.

2013-06-01

We revisit the problem of the spin Drude weight D of the integrable spin-1/2 XXZ chain using two complementary approaches, exact diagonalization (ED) and the time-dependent density-matrix renormalization group (tDMRG). We pursue two main goals. First, we present extensive results for the temperature dependence of D. By exploiting time translation invariance within tDMRG, one can extract D for significantly lower temperatures than in previous tDMRG studies. Second, we discuss the numerical quality of the tDMRG data and elaborate on details of the finite-size scaling of the ED results, comparing calculations carried out in the canonical and grand-canonical ensembles. Furthermore, we analyze the behavior of the Drude weight as the point with SU(2)-symmetric exchange is approached and discuss the relative contribution of the Drude weight to the sum rule as a function of temperature.

Transfer Reactions Near the Coulomb Barrier

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bonaccorso, Angela

1999-05-01

In this talk I give a brief review of the latest experimental and theoretical developments towards the understanding of the nuclear surface via `quasi-elastic transfer reactions' which are among the best tools for such study since they are very localized both in energy and in impact parameter. There are also comments on how the discovery and study of the so called ``halo'' nuclei has changed or confirmed our previous understanding. The continuous transition towards more complicated reactions like two and multinucleon transfer and fusion is also discussed. Since the problem is still far from being solved I will try to point out the direction for further research, discussing the relative advantages and disadvantages of using reactions with light vs. heavy nuclei and low vs. high beam energies. Special attention is paid to the near to the barrier energies which are the main topic of the conference.

A hundred years with the cosmological constant

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grøn, Øyvind G.

2018-07-01

The main points in the history of the cosmological constant are briefly discussed. As a conceptual background, useful for teaching of physics at an elementary college and university level, Newton’s theory formulated locally in terms of the Poisson equation is presented, and it is shown how it is modified by the introduction of the cosmological constant. The different physical interpretations of the cosmological constant, as introduced by Einstein in 1917 and interpreted by Lemaître in 1934, are presented. Energy conservation in an expanding universe dominated by vacuum energy is discussed. The connection between the cosmological constant and the quantum mechanical vacuum energy is mentioned, together with the problem that a quantum mechanical calculation of the density of the vacuum energy gives a vastly too large value of the cosmological constant. The article is concluded by reviewing a solution of this problem that was presented on May 11, 2017.

Computing and Using Metrics in the ADS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Henneken, E. A.; Accomazzi, A.; Kurtz, M. J.; Grant, C. S.; Thompson, D.; Luker, J.; Chyla, R.; Holachek, A.; Murray, S. S.

2015-04-01

Finding measures for research impact, be it for individuals, institutions, instruments, or projects, has gained a lot of popularity. There are more papers written than ever on new impact measures, and problems with existing measures are being pointed out on a regular basis. Funding agencies require impact statistics in their reports, job candidates incorporate them in their resumes, and publication metrics have even been used in at least one recent court case. To support this need for research impact indicators, the SAO/NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS) has developed a service that provides a broad overview of various impact measures. In this paper we discuss how the ADS can be used to quench the thirst for impact measures. We will also discuss a couple of the lesser-known indicators in the metrics overview and the main issues to be aware of when compiling publication-based metrics in the ADS, namely author name ambiguity and citation incompleteness.

The Psychology of Sustainable Seafood Consumption: A Comprehensive Approach.

PubMed

Richter, Isabel G M; Klöckner, Christian A

2017-09-28

This paper discusses conceptual confusions of sustainable seafood consumption, practical challenges, and potential anchors from where this behaviour can be fostered. The main focus lies on psychological variables. The resulting framework comprises (1) a definition of sustainable seafood consumption, (2) suggestions for corresponding behaviours, (3) the identification of facilitating and hindering factors, (4) an assemblage of these factors into a theoretical model, and (5) a short discussion of how the model adds up value to the current state of the art in marine resource conservation. Behavioural models significantly contribute to behavioural change research. The originality and value of this research are that it tackles the so far relatively neglected field of sustainable seafood consumption as important part of sustainable development and marine conservation in the future. From an interventional perspective, the developed model facilitates the identification of contact points to approach consumers and disseminate sustainable seafood consumption among modern Western consumers.

Persuasive appeals in road safety communication campaigns: Theoretical frameworks and practical implications from the analysis of a decade of road safety campaign materials.

PubMed

Guttman, Nurit

2015-11-01

Communication campaigns are employed as an important tool to promote road safety practices. Researchers maintain road safety communication campaigns are more effective when their persuasive appeals, which are central to their communicative strategy, are based on explicit theoretical frameworks. This study's main objectives were to develop a detailed categorization of persuasive appeals used in road safety communication campaigns that differentiate between appeals that appear to be similar but differ conceptually, and to indicate the advantages, limitations and ethical issues associated with each type, drawing on behavior change theories. Materials from over 300 campaigns were obtained from 41 countries, mainly using road safety organizations' websites. Drawing on the literature, five types of main approaches were identified, and the analysis yielded a more detailed categorizations of appeals within these general categories. The analysis points to advantages, limitations, ethical issues and challenges in using different types of appeals. The discussion summarizes challenges in designing persuasive-appeals for road safety communication campaigns. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Reprint of "Persuasive appeals in road safety communication campaigns: Theoretical frameworks and practical implications from the analysis of a decade of road safety campaign materials".

PubMed

Guttman, Nurit

2016-12-01

Communication campaigns are employed as an important tool to promote road safety practices. Researchers maintain road safety communication campaigns are more effective when their persuasive appeals, which are central to their communicative strategy, are based on explicit theoretical frameworks. This study's main objectives were to develop a detailed categorization of persuasive appeals used in road safety communication campaigns that differentiate between appeals that appear to be similar but differ conceptually, and to indicate the advantages, limitations and ethical issues associated with each type, drawing on behavior change theories. Materials from over 300 campaigns were obtained from 41 countries, mainly using road safety organizations' websites. Drawing on the literature, five types of main approaches were identified, and the analysis yielded a more detailed categorizations of appeals within these general categories. The analysis points to advantages, limitations, ethical issues and challenges in using different types of appeals. The discussion summarizes challenges in designing persuasive-appeals for road safety communication campaigns. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The relation between stressful life events and adjustment in elementary school children: the role of social support and social problem-solving skills.

PubMed

Dubow, E F; Tisak, J

1989-12-01

This study investigated the relation between stressful life events and adjustment in elementary school children, with particular emphasis on the potential main and stress-buffering effects of social support and social problem-solving skills. Third through fifth graders (N = 361) completed social support and social problem-solving measures. Their parents provided ratings of stress in the child's environment and ratings of the child's behavioral adjustment. Teachers provided ratings of the children's behavioral and academic adjustment. Hierarchical multiple regressions revealed significant stress-buffering effects for social support and problem-solving skills on teacher-rated behavior problems, that is, higher levels of social support and problem-solving skills moderated the relation between stressful life events and behavior problems. A similar stress-buffering effect was found for problem-solving skills on grade-point average and parent-rated behavior problems. In terms of children's competent behaviors, analyses supported a main effect model of social support and problem-solving. Possible processes accounting for the main and stress-buffering effects are discussed.

The point of entry contributes to the organization of exploratory behavior of rats on an open field: an example of spontaneous episodic memory.

PubMed

Nemati, Farshad; Whishaw, Ian Q

2007-08-22

The exploratory behavior of rats on an open field is organized in that animals spend disproportionate amounts of time at certain locations, termed home bases, which serve as centers for excursions. Although home bases are preferentially formed near distinctive cues, including visual cues, animals also visit and pause and move slowly, or linger, at many other locations in a test environment. In order to further examine the organization of exploratory behavior, the present study examined the influence of the point of entry on animals placed on an open field table that was illuminated either by room light or infrared light (a wavelength in which they cannot see) and near which, or on which, distinctive cues were placed. The main findings were that in both room light and infrared light tests, rats visited and lingered at the point of entry significantly more often than comparative control locations. Although the rats also visited and lingered in the vicinity of salient visual cues, the point of entry still remained a focus of visits. Finally, the preference for the point of entry increased as a function of salience of the cues marking that location. That the point of entry influences the organization of exploratory behavior is discussed in relation to the idea that the exploratory behavior of the rat is directed toward optimizing security as well as forming a spatial representation of the environment.

Prediction of force coefficients for labyrinth seals

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, O. W. K.; Martinez-Sanchez, M.; Czajkowski, E.

1984-01-01

The development of a linear model for the prediction of labyrinth seal forces and on its comparison to available stiffness data is presented. A discussion of the relevance of fluid damping forces and the preliminary stages of a program to obtain data on these forces are examined. Fluid-dynamic forces arising from nonuniform pressure patterns in labyrinth seal glands are known to be potentially destablizing in high power turbomachinery. A well documented case in point is that of the space Shuttle Main Engine turbopumps. Seal forces are also an important factor for the stability of shrouded turbines, acting in that case in conjunction with the effects of blade-tip clearance variations.

[On controversies around the Oedipus Complex].

PubMed

Drwiega, Marek

2002-01-01

In the article the author would like to draw the readers' attention to one of the central issues of psychoanalysis, i.e. Oedipus complex. In the development of the psychoanalysis the classical conception of Oedipus complex presented by Freud gave rise to a severe criticism both on the part of some psychoanalysts, especially women such as e.g. Melanie Klein, and on the part of ethnographers such as B. Malinowski. In the paper the author presents the main controversies concerning this interesting discussion. The fact of the matter is that the Oedipus complex is a hotly debated subject, not only from the cultural point of view but also within the psychoanalytical movement.

The measles virus N(TAIL)-XD complex: an illustrative example of fuzziness.

PubMed

Longhi, Sonia

2012-01-01

In this chapter, I focus on the biochemical and structural characterization of the complex between the intrinsically disordered C-terminal domain of the measles virus nucleoprotein (N(TAIL)) and the C-terminal X domain (XD) of the viral phosphoprotein (P). I summarize the main experimental data available so far pointing out the prevalently disordered nature of N(TAIL) even after complex formation and the role of the flexible C-terminal appendage in the binding reaction. I finally discuss the possible functional role of these residual disordered regions within the complex in terms of their ability to capture other regulatory, binding partners.

Mechanics analysis of the multi-point-load process for the thin film solar cell

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Zhiming; Wei, Guangpu; Gong, Zhengbang

2008-02-01

The main element of thin film solar cell is silicon. Because of the special mechanical characteristic of silicon, the method of loading pressure on the thin film solar cell and the value of pressure is the key problem which must be solved during the manufacturing of thin film solar cell. This paper describes the special mechanical characteristic of silicon, discussed the test method overall; value of pressure on thin film solar cell; the elements and the method of load by ANSYS finite element, according to these theory analysis, we obtained the key conclusion in the actual operation, these result have a great meaning in industry.

Highlights from the British Society for Heart Failure 20th Annual Autumn Meeting: three decades of heart failure.

PubMed

Abel, Alexandra AI

2018-05-16

The 20th Annual Autumn Meeting of the British Society for Heart Failure took place on the 23-24 November 2017 at the Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre, London, UK. Over 800 delegates were in attendance: a multidisciplinary league of professionals who treat patients with heart failure, including specialist nurses, trainees, cardiologists, geriatricians, pharmacists and general practitioners. The theme of the conference was 'three decades of heart failure' and celebrated the success of modern heart failure management. This report highlights the 'three decades' session, the clinical trials update, and the main discussion points from heart failure question time.

The education of children with special educational needs in England

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Merry, Roger

1986-03-01

In the last few years, the Warnock Report and the 1981 Education Act have had a major effect on the education of children with special educational needs in English schools. This paper discusses the main points of the Report and the subsequent legislation and then takes examples of three local educational authorities — Leicestershire, Coventry, and Barnsley — to illustrate the range of responses that have been made. Although there is obvious overlap, the three approaches are rather different in emphasis and illustrate the ways in which an educational system based on local autonomy can respond to proposals and legislation made at national level.

Images in the rocket ultraviolet - The stellar population in the central bulge of M31

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bohlin, R. C.; Cornett, R. H.; Hill, J. K.; Hill, R. S.; Oconnell, R. W.; Stecher, T. P.

1985-01-01

Imagery of the bulge of M31 obtained with a rocket-borne telescope in two broad bands centered at 1460 A and 2380 A is discussed. The UV spatial profiles over a region about 200 arcsec wide are identical with those at visible wavelengths. The absence of detectable point sources indicates that main-sequence stars hotter than B0 V are not present in the bulge. It is suggested that the far-UV flux in old stellar populations originates in post-AGB stars. The UV flux from such stars is extremely sensitive to age and the physics of their previous mass loss.

Endodontic management of mandibular first molars with mid mesial canal: A case series.

PubMed

Nagmode, Pradnya Sunil; Patel, Ankit Vasant; Satpute, Archana Bhaskar; Gupta, Pooja L

2017-01-01

The purpose of this study is to demonstrate the importance of knowledge of the internal anatomy of root canals for the success of endodontic treatment. Lack of knowledge of anatomic variations and their characteristics in different teeth has been pointed out as one of the main cause of endodontic therapy failure. Dental operating microscope plays a key role in the identification of canal and success of endodontic treatment. This case series describes the endodontic treatment of mandibular first molars with extra root canals, evaluate the occurrence of this extra canal, and discuss the importance of their identification and treatment.

Human intronless genes: Functional groups, associated diseases, evolution, and mRNA processing in absence of splicing

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

Grzybowska, Ewa A., E-mail: ewag@coi.waw.pl

2012-07-20

Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Functional characteristics of intronless genes (IGs). Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Diseases associated with IGs. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Origin and evolution of IGs. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer mRNA processing without splicing. -- Abstract: Intronless genes (IGs) constitute approximately 3% of the human genome. Human IGs are essentially different in evolution and functionality from the IGs of unicellular eukaryotes, which represent the majority in their genomes. Functional analysis of IGs has revealed a massive over-representation of signal transduction genes and genes encoding regulatory proteins important for growth, proliferation, and development. IGs also often display tissue-specific expression, usually in the nervous system and testis. These characteristics translate into IG-associatedmore » diseases, mainly neuropathies, developmental disorders, and cancer. IGs represent recent additions to the genome, created mostly by retroposition of processed mRNAs with retained functionality. Processing, nuclear export, and translation of these mRNAs should be hampered dramatically by the lack of splice factors, which normally tightly cover mature transcripts and govern their fate. However, natural IGs manage to maintain satisfactory expression levels. Different mechanisms by which IGs solve the problem of mRNA processing and nuclear export are discussed here, along with their possible impact on reporter studies.« less

Homeostasis, singularities, and networks.

PubMed

Golubitsky, Martin; Stewart, Ian

2017-01-01

Homeostasis occurs in a biological or chemical system when some output variable remains approximately constant as an input parameter [Formula: see text] varies over some interval. We discuss two main aspects of homeostasis, both related to the effect of coordinate changes on the input-output map. The first is a reformulation of homeostasis in the context of singularity theory, achieved by replacing 'approximately constant over an interval' by 'zero derivative of the output with respect to the input at a point'. Unfolding theory then classifies all small perturbations of the input-output function. In particular, the 'chair' singularity, which is especially important in applications, is discussed in detail. Its normal form and universal unfolding [Formula: see text] is derived and the region of approximate homeostasis is deduced. The results are motivated by data on thermoregulation in two species of opossum and the spiny rat. We give a formula for finding chair points in mathematical models by implicit differentiation and apply it to a model of lateral inhibition. The second asks when homeostasis is invariant under appropriate coordinate changes. This is false in general, but for network dynamics there is a natural class of coordinate changes: those that preserve the network structure. We characterize those nodes of a given network for which homeostasis is invariant under such changes. This characterization is determined combinatorially by the network topology.

Point sensitive NMR imaging system using a magnetic field configuration with a spatial minimum

DOEpatents

Eberhard, P.H.

A point-sensitive NMR imaging system in which a main solenoid coil produces a relatively strong and substantially uniform magnetic field and a pair of perturbing coils powered by current in the same direction superimposes a pair of relatively weak perturbing fields on the main field to produce a resultant point of minimum field strength at a desired location in a direction along the Z-axis. Two other pairs of perturbing coils superimpose relatively weak field gradients on the main field in directions along the X- and Y-axes to locate the minimum field point at a desired location in a plane normal to the Z-axes. An rf generator irradiates a tissue specimen in the field with radio frequency energy so that desired nuclei in a small volume at the point of minimum field strength will resonate.

Genomics of local adaptation with gene flow.

PubMed

Tigano, Anna; Friesen, Vicki L

2016-05-01

Gene flow is a fundamental evolutionary force in adaptation that is especially important to understand as humans are rapidly changing both the natural environment and natural levels of gene flow. Theory proposes a multifaceted role for gene flow in adaptation, but it focuses mainly on the disruptive effect that gene flow has on adaptation when selection is not strong enough to prevent the loss of locally adapted alleles. The role of gene flow in adaptation is now better understood due to the recent development of both genomic models of adaptive evolution and genomic techniques, which both point to the importance of genetic architecture in the origin and maintenance of adaptation with gene flow. In this review, we discuss three main topics on the genomics of adaptation with gene flow. First, we investigate selection on migration and gene flow. Second, we discuss the three potential sources of adaptive variation in relation to the role of gene flow in the origin of adaptation. Third, we explain how local adaptation is maintained despite gene flow: we provide a synthesis of recent genomic models of adaptation, discuss the genomic mechanisms and review empirical studies on the genomics of adaptation with gene flow. Despite predictions on the disruptive effect of gene flow in adaptation, an increasing number of studies show that gene flow can promote adaptation, that local adaptations can be maintained despite high gene flow, and that genetic architecture plays a fundamental role in the origin and maintenance of local adaptation with gene flow. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Chemical toxicity and radioactivity of depleted uranium: The evidence from in vivo and in vitro studies.

PubMed

Asic, Adna; Kurtovic-Kozaric, Amina; Besic, Larisa; Mehinovic, Lejla; Hasic, Azra; Kozaric, Mirza; Hukic, Mirsada; Marjanovic, Damir

2017-07-01

The main aim of this review is to summarize and discuss the current state of knowledge on chemical toxicity and radioactivity of depleted uranium (DU) and their effect on living systems and cell lines. This was done by presenting a summary of previous investigations conducted on different mammalian body systems and cell cultures in terms of potential changes caused by either chemical toxicity or radioactivity of DU. In addition, the authors aimed to point out the limitations of those studies and possible future directions. The majority of both in vitro and in vivo studies performed using animal models regarding possible effects caused by acute or chronic DU exposure has been reviewed. Furthermore, exposure time and dose, DU particle solubility, and uranium isotopes as factors affecting the extent of DU effects have been discussed. Special attention has been dedicated to chromosomal aberrations, DNA damage and DNA breaks, as well as micronuclei formation and epigenetic changes, as DU has recently been considered a possible causative factor of all these processes. Therefore, this approach might represent a novel area of study of DU-related irradiation effects on health. Since different studies offer contradictory results, the main aim of this review is to summarize and briefly discuss previously obtained results in order to identify the current opinion on DU toxicity and radioactivity effects in relation to exposure type and duration, as well as DU properties. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Survey Data for Geomagnetic Field Modelling

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Barraclough, D. R.; Macmillan, S.

1992-01-01

The survey data discussed here are based on observations made relatively recently at points on land. A special subset of land survey data consists of those made at specially designated sites known as repeat stations. This class of data will be discussed in another part of this document (Barton, 1991b), so only the briefest of references will be made to repeat stations here. This discussion of 'ordinary' land survey data begins with a description of the spatial and temporal distributions of available survey data based on observations made since 1900. (The reason for this rather arbitrary choice of cut-off date is that this was the value used in the production of the computer file of magnetic survey data (land, sea, air, satellite, rocket) that is the primary source of data for geomagnetic main-field modeling). This is followed by a description of the various types of error to which these survey data are, or may be, subject and a discussion of the likely effects of such errors on field models produced from the data. Finally, there is a short section on the availability of geomagnetic survey data, which also describes how the data files are maintained.

Cryogenic system configuration for the International Linear Collider (ILC) at mountainous site

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nakai, H.; Okamura, T.; Delikaris, D.; Peterson, T.; Yamamoto, A.

2017-02-01

The International Linear Collider (ILC) plans to make use of ten cryoplants for its main linacs, each providing 19 kW at 4.5 K equivalent and among of it 3.6 kW at 2 K. Each cryoplant will consist of various cryogenic components such as a 4.5 K refrigerator cold box, a 2 K refrigerator cold box, and helium compressors and so on. In the technical design report (TDR) of the ILC, due to the mountainous topology, almost all cryogenic components would be installed in underground cryogenic caverns next to the main linac tunnels and only cooling towers on surface area. However, we would like to find a more effective and sophisticated configuration of the cryoplant components (cryogenic configuration). Under several constraints of technical, geographical, and environmental points of view, the cryogenic configuration should be considered carefully to satisfy such various conditions. After discussions on this topic conducted at various workshops and conferences, an updated cryogenic configuration is suggested. The proposed updated configuration may affect the total construction cost of the ILC and the entire structure of the ILC conventional facilities. The updated cryogenic configuration is presented and the on-going discussions with the conventional facilities and siting (CFS) colleagues for further improvement of the cryogenic configuration is introduced.

Clinical Reasoning in the Real World Is Mediated by Bounded Rationality: Implications for Diagnostic Clinical Practice Guidelines

PubMed Central

Bonilauri Ferreira, Ana Paula Ribeiro; Ferreira, Rodrigo Fernando; Rajgor, Dimple; Shah, Jatin; Menezes, Andrea; Pietrobon, Ricardo

2010-01-01

Background Little is known about the reasoning mechanisms used by physicians in decision-making and how this compares to diagnostic clinical practice guidelines. We explored the clinical reasoning process in a real life environment. Method This is a qualitative study evaluating transcriptions of sixteen physicians' reasoning during appointments with patients, clinical discussions between specialists, and personal interviews with physicians affiliated to a hospital in Brazil. Results Four main themes were identified: simple and robust heuristics, extensive use of social environment rationality, attempts to prove diagnostic and therapeutic hypothesis while refuting potential contradictions using positive test strategy, and reaching the saturation point. Physicians constantly attempted to prove their initial hypothesis while trying to refute any contradictions. While social environment rationality was the main factor in the determination of all steps of the clinical reasoning process, factors such as referral letters and number of contradictions associated with the initial hypothesis had influence on physicians' confidence and determination of the threshold to reach a final decision. Discussion Physicians rely on simple heuristics associated with environmental factors. This model allows for robustness, simplicity, and cognitive energy saving. Since this model does not fit into current diagnostic clinical practice guidelines, we make some propositions to help its integration. PMID:20421920

Financial incentives for antipsychotic depot medication: ethical issues.

PubMed

Claassen, Dirk

2007-04-01

Giving money as a direct incentive for patients in exchange for depot medication has proved beneficial in some clinical cases in assertive outreach (AO). However, ethical concerns around this practice have been raised, and will be analysed in more detail here. Ethical concern voiced in a survey of all AO teams in England were analysed regarding their content. These were grouped into categories. 53 of 70 team managers mentioned concerns, many of them serious and expressing a negative attitude towards giving money for depot adherence. Four broad categories of ethical concern following Christensen's concept were distinguished: valid consent and refusal (n = 5), psychiatric paternalism (n = 31), resource allocation (n = 4), organisational relationships (n = 2), with a residual category others and unspecified (n = 11). The main concerns identified are discussed on the background of existing ethical theories in healthcare and the specific problems of community mental health and AO. Points for practice are derived from this discussion. A way forward is outlined that includes informed consent and an operational policy in the use of incentives, further randomised controlled trials and qualitative studies, and continuing discussions with all stakeholders, especially service users.

Room-temperature-operation visible-emission semiconductor diode lasers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ladany, I.; Kressel, H.; Nuese, C. J.

1977-01-01

There were two main approaches taken to develop shorter wavelength lasers. (1) Based on (AlGa)As and liquid-phase epitaxy, significant new results were obtained: Properties of these laser diodes (power output, spectra, and beam patterns), materials considerations, laser theory, and growth problems are discussed. The design of (AlGa)As layers is discussed from the vertical point of view, and various design curves are given. Horizontal structural requirements are also discussed. Experimental results from measurements done as a function of hydrostatic pressure are correlated with other results. (2) The first heterojunction laser structures using GaAs sub l-x P sub x and In sub y Ga sub l-y P at compositions, where the lattice constants are matched, were grown using vapor-phase growth technology and are described in detail, including experimental device results. Threshold current densities from 3,000 to 5,000 A per sq cm. and emission wavelengths from 6,520 A to 6,640 A were obtained at 77 K. The limiting factor in these devices is nonradiative recombination at the heterojunctions. Life tests on facet-coated (AlGa)As CW diodes are reported.

Perceived challenges to obtaining informed consent for a time-sensitive emergency department study of pediatric status epilepticus: results of two focus groups.

PubMed

Chamberlain, James M; Lillis, Kathleen; Vance, Cheryl; Brown, Kathleen M; Fawumi, Olubunmi; Nichols, Shari; Davis, Colleen O; Singh, Tasmeen; Baren, Jill M

2009-08-01

The objective was to describe the perspective of research personnel on issues of informed consent in a time-sensitive clinical study under emergency circumstances. The authors convened concurrent focus groups of research staff and investigators involved in a pharmacokinetic study of lorazepam for status epilepticus (SE). Moderators led discussion with open-ended questions on selected issues of parental consent, communication and understanding, patient assent, and comparison to other types of studies. Focus group transcripts were analyzed to identify themes and subthemes from the discussions. Most themes and subthemes were identified in both research staff and investigator focus groups. Focus group discussion points were categorized into three main themes: barriers to and enablers of informed consent, barriers to and enablers of actual enrollment, and overall ethical concerns about the research. Many of the issues identified were unique to emergency research. From the perspectives of research staff and investigators enrolling patients in a time-sensitive emergency department study, the authors identified several areas of concern that should be addressed when planning future emergency studies.

Dynamics Analysis of Anti-predator Model on Intermediate Predator With Ratio Dependent Functional Responses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Savitri, D.

2018-01-01

This articel discusses a predator prey model with anti-predator on intermediate predator using ratio dependent functional responses. Dynamical analysis performed on the model includes determination of equilibrium point, stability and simulation. Three kinds of equilibrium points have been discussed, namely the extinction of prey point, the extinction of intermediate predator point and the extinction of predator point are exists under certain conditions. It can be shown that the result of numerical simulations are in accordance with analitical results

Points of attention in designing tools for regional brownfield prioritization.

PubMed

Limasset, Elsa; Pizzol, Lisa; Merly, Corinne; Gatchett, Annette M; Le Guern, Cécile; Martinát, Stanislav; Klusáček, Petr; Bartke, Stephan

2018-05-01

The regeneration of brownfields has been increasingly recognized as a key instrument in sustainable land management, since free developable land (or so called "greenfields") has become a scare and more expensive resource, especially in densely populated areas. However, the complexity of these sites requires considerable efforts to successfully complete their revitalization projects, thus requiring the development and application of appropriate tools to support decision makers in the selection of promising sites where efficiently allocate the limited financial resources. The design of effective prioritization tools is a complex process, which requires the analysis and consideration of critical points of attention (PoAs) which has been identified considering the state of the art in literature, and lessons learned from previous developments of regional brownfield (BF) prioritization processes, frameworks and tools. Accordingly, we identified 5 PoAs, namely 1) Assessing end user needs and orientation discussions, 2) Availability and quality of the data needed for the BF prioritization tool, 3) Communication and stakeholder engagement 4) Drivers of regeneration success, and 5) Financing and application costs. To deepen and collate the most recent knowledge on the topics from scientists and practitioners, we organized a focus group discussion within a special session at the AquaConSoil (ACS) conference 2017, where participants were asked to add their experience and thoughts to the discussion in order to identify the most significant and urgent points of attention in BF prioritization tool design. The result of this assessment is a comprehensive table (Table 2), which can support problem owners, investors, service providers, regulators, public and private land managers, decision makers etc. in the identification of the main aspects (sub-topics) to be considered and their relative influences and in the comprehension of the general patterns and challenges to be faced when dealing with the development of BF prioritization tools. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Comparative Analysis of Data Structures for Storing Massive Tins in a Dbms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kumar, K.; Ledoux, H.; Stoter, J.

2016-06-01

Point cloud data are an important source for 3D geoinformation. Modern day 3D data acquisition and processing techniques such as airborne laser scanning and multi-beam echosounding generate billions of 3D points for simply an area of few square kilometers. With the size of the point clouds exceeding the billion mark for even a small area, there is a need for their efficient storage and management. These point clouds are sometimes associated with attributes and constraints as well. Storing billions of 3D points is currently possible which is confirmed by the initial implementations in Oracle Spatial SDO PC and the PostgreSQL Point Cloud extension. But to be able to analyse and extract useful information from point clouds, we need more than just points i.e. we require the surface defined by these points in space. There are different ways to represent surfaces in GIS including grids, TINs, boundary representations, etc. In this study, we investigate the database solutions for the storage and management of massive TINs. The classical (face and edge based) and compact (star based) data structures are discussed at length with reference to their structure, advantages and limitations in handling massive triangulations and are compared with the current solution of PostGIS Simple Feature. The main test dataset is the TIN generated from third national elevation model of the Netherlands (AHN3) with a point density of over 10 points/m2. PostgreSQL/PostGIS DBMS is used for storing the generated TIN. The data structures are tested with the generated TIN models to account for their geometry, topology, storage, indexing, and loading time in a database. Our study is useful in identifying what are the limitations of the existing data structures for storing massive TINs and what is required to optimise these structures for managing massive triangulations in a database.

Contour matching for a fish recognition and migration-monitoring system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Dah-Jye; Schoenberger, Robert B.; Shiozawa, Dennis; Xu, Xiaoqian; Zhan, Pengcheng

2004-12-01

Fish migration is being monitored year round to provide valuable information for the study of behavioral responses of fish to environmental variations. However, currently all monitoring is done by human observers. An automatic fish recognition and migration monitoring system is more efficient and can provide more accurate data. Such a system includes automatic fish image acquisition, contour extraction, fish categorization, and data storage. Shape is a very important characteristic and shape analysis and shape matching are studied for fish recognition. Previous work focused on finding critical landmark points on fish shape using curvature function analysis. Fish recognition based on landmark points has shown satisfying results. However, the main difficulty of this approach is that landmark points sometimes cannot be located very accurately. Whole shape matching is used for fish recognition in this paper. Several shape descriptors, such as Fourier descriptors, polygon approximation and line segments, are tested. A power cepstrum technique has been developed in order to improve the categorization speed using contours represented in tangent space with normalized length. Design and integration including image acquisition, contour extraction and fish categorization are discussed in this paper. Fish categorization results based on shape analysis and shape matching are also included.

[Carbonyl compounds emission and uptake by plant: Research progress].

PubMed

Li, Jian; Cai, Jing; Yan, Liu-Shui; Li, Ling-Na; Tao, Min

2013-02-01

This paper reviewed the researches on the carbonyl compounds emission and uptake by plants, and discussed the compensation point of the bidirectional exchange of carbonyl compounds between plants and atmosphere. The uptake by leaf stomata and stratum corneum is the principal way for the purification of air aldehydes by plants. After entering into plant leaves, most parts of carbonyl compounds can be metabolized into organic acid, glucide, amino acid, and carbon dioxide, etc. , by the endoenzymes in leaves. The exchange direction of the carbonyl compounds between plants and atmosphere can be preliminarily predicted by the compensation point and the concentrations of ambient carbonyl compounds. This paper summarized the analytical methods such as DNPH/HPLC/UV and PFPH/GC/MS used for the determination of carbonyl compounds emitted from plants or in plant leaves. The main research interests in the future were pointed out, e. g. , to improve and optimize the analytical methods for the determination of carbonyl compounds emitted from plants and the researches on systems (e. g. , plant-soil system), to enlarge the detection species of carbonyl compounds emitted from plants, to screen the plant species which can effectively metabolize the pollutants, and to popularize the phytoremediation techniques for atmospheric

What Is the Boiling Point and Heat of Vaporization of Sulfuric Acid?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Myers, R. Thomas

1983-01-01

Discusses the values presented in various handbooks for the boiling point and heat of vaporization of sulfuric acid, noting discrepencies. Analyzes various approaches to data presentation, discussing the data on sulfuric acid in light of the Trouton constant. Points out the need for a more critical use of tables. (JM)

Gas Dynamics of a Recessed Nozzle in Its Displacement in the Radial Direction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Volkov, K. N.; Denisikhin, S. V.; Emel'yanov, V. N.

2017-07-01

Numerical simulation of gasdynamic processes accompanying the operation of the recessed nozzle of a solid-propellant rocket motor in its linear displacement is carried out. Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes equations closed using the equations of a k-ɛ turbulence model are used for calculations. The calculations are done for different rates of flow of the gas in the main channel and in the over-nozzle gap, and also for different displacements of the nozzle from an axisymmetric position. The asymmetry of geometry gives rise to a complicated spatial flow pattern characterized by the presence of singular points of spreading and by substantially inhomogeneous velocity and pressure distributions. The vortex flow pattern resulting from the linear displacement of the nozzle from an axisymmetric position is compared with the data of experimental visualization. The change in the vortex pattern of the flow and in the position of the singular points as a function of the flow coefficient and the displacement of the nozzle from the symmetry axis is discussed.

Technical Aspects Related to the Application of SFM Photogrammetry in High Mountain

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Scaioni, M.; Crippa, J.; Corti, M.; Barazzetti, L.; Fugazza, D.; Azzoni, R.; Cernuschi, M.; Diolaiuti, G. A.

2018-05-01

Structure-from-Motion (SfM) photogrammetry is a flexible and powerful tool to provide 3D point clouds describing the surface of objects. Due to the easy transportability and low-cost of necessary equipment with respect to laser scanning techniques, SfM photogrammetry has great potential to be applied in harsh high-mountain environment. Here point clouds and derived by-products (DEM's, orthoimages, Virtual-Reality models) are needed to document surface morphology and to investigate dynamic processes such as landslides, avalanches, river and soil erosion, glacier retreat. On the other hand, from both the literature and the direct experience of the authors, there are some technical issues that still deserve thorough investigations. The paper would like to address some open problems and suggest solutions, in particular on regards of the photogrammetric network design, the strategy for georeferencing the final products, and for their comparison within time. The discussion is documented with some examples, mainly from surveying campaigns at the Forni Glacier in Italian Alps.

Tossing on a Rotating Space Station

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Paetkau, Mark

2004-10-01

The following analysis was inspired by a question posed by a listener of a radio science show. The listener asked the question: "If an astronaut in a space station that was rotating to simulate gravity threw a ball up, where would the ball go?" The physicist answered, "The ball would travel straight across the space station (assuming an open structure). "The main point is that to an outside observer the ball would not "fall" back down as on Earth. As I pondered this it occurred to me that while the answer is correct, it is a special case with a more general solution. Below is an analysis of the motions a thrown object can undergo on a rotating space station. The first part of the discussion is aimed at lower-level undergraduates who have a basic understanding of vectors and circular motion, and the motion is described from the point of view of an external reference frame. Further analysis of the motion by an observer on the space station is appropriate for upper-level students.

MEXFAM's 'The Last Train'.

PubMed

1988-01-01

One of the short educational video programs produced by MEXFAM is called The Last Train, a love story of 2 teenagers which vividly describes the type of adolescent problems confronting Mexican society today. The film raises a number of questions which teenagers do not often consider. The objective of the film is to put in evidence the principles, myths, beliefs, omissions, and misinformation that exist between youth and adults regarding early genital urges. The movie aims to reach underprivileged urban youth between the ages of 11 and 20 years, as well as teachers and parents who are sensitive to youth's sex problems. MEXFAM emphasizes that the educational objective of the film should be pointed out to its audiences before it is shown. After the screening the main points recommended for discussion are: genital attraction, physical control, masturbation, virginity, and 1st sexual experience. MEXFAM also provides audiences with values sheets on which the participants are to write their reactions to certain situations in the film.

A power allocation method for 2 × 2 VLC-MIMO indoor communication

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dai, Mingjun; Yuan, Jing; Feng, Renhai; Wang, Hui; Chen, Bin; Lin, Xiaohui

2016-08-01

Visible light communication (VLC) has been a promising field of optical communications which focuses on visible light spectrum that humans can see. Unlike existing studies which mainly discuss point-to-point communication, in this paper, we consider a VLC network, in particular a 2 × 2 system. Our focus is on dealing with interference in this network. The objective is to maximize the signal to interference plus noise ratio (SINR) of one receiver for a given SINR of another receiver. We formulate a power allocation optimization problem to deal with such interference, and introduce dichotomy to solve this optimization problem. Simulation results have twofold meaning: First, SINR_1 increases with the growth of SINR_2, which are the SINR of the two receivers, respectively. Second, our proposed scheme outperforms the classical time-division multiple access technique in terms of transmit powers of both light sources when the data rate for these two schemes are set to be identical for each user, respectively.

Arthroscopic approach and anatomy of the hip

PubMed Central

Aprato, Alessandro; Giachino, Matteo; Masse, Alessandro

2016-01-01

Summary Background Hip arthroscopy has gained popularity among the orthopedic community and a precise assessment of indications, techniques and results is constantly brought on. Methods In this chapter the principal standard entry portals for central and peripheral compartment are discussed. The description starts from the superficial landmarks for portals placement and continues with the deep layers. For each entry point an illustration of the main structures encountered is provided and the principal structures at risk for different portals are accurately examined. Articular anatomical description is carried out from the arthroscope point of view and sub-divided into central and peripheral compartment. The two compartments are systematically analyzed and the accessible articular areas for each portal explained. Moreover, some anatomical variations that can be found in the normal hip are reported. Conclusion The anatomical knowledge of the hip joint along with a precise notion of the structures encountered with the arthroscope is an essential requirement for a secure and successful surgery. Level of evidence: V. PMID:28066735

[Family violence and aggressive and oppositional behavior in childhood: a literature review].

PubMed

Pesce, Renata

2009-01-01

This article presents a review of the world literature about two important subjects: family violence and problems of aggressive behavior and oppositional defiant disorder in childhood. We opted for publications that had used the CBCL- Child Behavior Checklist for investigating behavior problems in children. This instrument is internationally recognized for its reliability and validity, considered an efficient tool for identifying behavior problems in children. Our findings showed that marital violence predominated in the studies as kind of familiar violence able to cause problems of aggressiveness and transgression in children. Another point discussed was the lack of consensus on the terms used in the articles to refer to such behavior problems. The review showed the need for in-depth studies into this subject, mainly in the sense of thinking about prevention and health promotion in childhood and adolescence. Aggressive behavior in children tends to remain and increase over time, a fact that points to the need for strategies for preventing these problems in the school, familiar and health environments.

Point sensitive NMR imaging system using a magnetic field configuration with a spatial minimum

DOEpatents

Eberhard, Philippe H.

1985-01-01

A point-sensitive NMR imaging system (10) in which a main solenoid coil (11) produces a relatively strong and substantially uniform magnetic field and a pair of perturbing coils (PZ1 and PZ2) powered by current in the same direction superimposes a pair of relatively weak perturbing fields on the main field to produce a resultant point of minimum field strength at a desired location in a direction along the Z-axis. Two other pairs of perturbing coils (PX1, PX2; PY1, PY2) superimpose relatively weak field gradients on the main field in directions along the X- and Y-axes to locate the minimum field point at a desired location in a plane normal to the Z-axes. An RF generator (22) irradiates a tissue specimen in the field with radio frequency energy so that desired nuclei in a small volume at the point of minimum field strength will resonate.

Shifting baselines in the Ems Dollard estuary: A comparison across three decades reveals changing benthic communities

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Compton, Tanya J.; Holthuijsen, Sander; Mulder, Maarten; van Arkel, Maarten; Schaars, Loran Kleine; Koolhaas, Anita; Dekinga, Anne; ten Horn, Job; Luttikhuizen, Pieternella C.; van der Meer, Jaap; Piersma, Theunis; van der Veer, Henk W.

2017-09-01

At a time when there is a growing discussion about the natural state of estuaries, a comparison of macrozoobenthos communities from two surveys conducted 30 years apart in the Ems Dollard estuary, in the eastern Wadden Sea, The Netherlands, provides a unique opportunity to compare changes over time. As expected, our comparison revealed a gradient in species composition from land (the Dollard) to sea (the Outer Ems) at both points in time, with brackish species in the Dollard and more marine species in the Outer Ems (Wadden Sea). Total richness increased over time; however, this mainly reflected the immigration of new species and sampling differences. In the Dollard, total biomass declined over time, most likely reflecting de-eutrophication in this area. Strikingly, at the meeting point between the sea and the brackish Dollard, i.e. the Inner Ems, the community composition changed from one dominated by bivalves (1970s) to one dominated by worms (since 2009). This change involved a reduction in total biomass, mainly of Mya arenaria, and immigration of polychaete worms (Marenzellaria viridis and Alitta succinea). In the Outer Ems, an increase in total biomass was observed, associated with the recent successful recruitment of Cerastoderma edule. This comparison highlights that historical data provides useful insights at large spatial scales. However, a full understanding of the complex dynamics of estuaries requires an analysis of continuous long-term monitoring series.

In situ high-temperature characterization of AlN-based surface acoustic wave devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aubert, Thierry; Bardong, Jochen; Legrani, Ouarda; Elmazria, Omar; Badreddine Assouar, M.; Bruckner, Gudrun; Talbi, Abdelkrim

2013-07-01

We report on in situ electrical measurements of surface acoustic wave delay lines based on AlN/sapphire structure and iridium interdigital transducers between 20 °C and 1050 °C under vacuum conditions. The devices show a great potential for temperature sensing applications. Burnout is only observed after 60 h at 1050 °C and is mainly attributed to the agglomeration phenomena undergone by the Ir transducers. However, despite the vacuum conditions, a significant oxidation of the AlN film is observed, pointing out the limitation of the considered structure at least at such extreme temperatures. Original structures overcoming this limitation are then proposed and discussed.

Data Applicability of Heritage and New Hardware For Launch Vehicle Reliability Models

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Al Hassan, Mohammad; Novack, Steven

2015-01-01

Bayesian reliability requires the development of a prior distribution to represent degree of belief about the value of a parameter (such as a component's failure rate) before system specific data become available from testing or operations. Generic failure data are often provided in reliability databases as point estimates (mean or median). A component's failure rate is considered a random variable where all possible values are represented by a probability distribution. The applicability of the generic data source is a significant source of uncertainty that affects the spread of the distribution. This presentation discusses heuristic guidelines for quantifying uncertainty due to generic data applicability when developing prior distributions mainly from reliability predictions.

Theory and Application of Magnetic Flux Leakage Pipeline Detection.

PubMed

Shi, Yan; Zhang, Chao; Li, Rui; Cai, Maolin; Jia, Guanwei

2015-12-10

Magnetic flux leakage (MFL) detection is one of the most popular methods of pipeline inspection. It is a nondestructive testing technique which uses magnetic sensitive sensors to detect the magnetic leakage field of defects on both the internal and external surfaces of pipelines. This paper introduces the main principles, measurement and processing of MFL data. As the key point of a quantitative analysis of MFL detection, the identification of the leakage magnetic signal is also discussed. In addition, the advantages and disadvantages of different identification methods are analyzed. Then the paper briefly introduces the expert systems used. At the end of this paper, future developments in pipeline MFL detection are predicted.

Binaries, cluster dynamics and population studies of stars and stellar phenomena

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vanbeveren, Dany

2005-10-01

The effects of binaries on population studies of stars and stellar phenomena have been investigated over the past 3 decades by many research groups. Here we will focus mainly on the work that has been done recently in Brussels and we will consider the following topics: the effect of binaries on overall galactic chemical evolutionary models and on the rates of different types of supernova, the population of point-like X-ray sources where we distinguish the standard high mass X-ray binaries and the ULXs, a UFO-scenario for the formation of WR+OB binaries in dense star systems. Finally we critically discuss the possible effect of rotation on population studies.

Theory and Application of Magnetic Flux Leakage Pipeline Detection

PubMed Central

Shi, Yan; Zhang, Chao; Li, Rui; Cai, Maolin; Jia, Guanwei

2015-01-01

Magnetic flux leakage (MFL) detection is one of the most popular methods of pipeline inspection. It is a nondestructive testing technique which uses magnetic sensitive sensors to detect the magnetic leakage field of defects on both the internal and external surfaces of pipelines. This paper introduces the main principles, measurement and processing of MFL data. As the key point of a quantitative analysis of MFL detection, the identification of the leakage magnetic signal is also discussed. In addition, the advantages and disadvantages of different identification methods are analyzed. Then the paper briefly introduces the expert systems used. At the end of this paper, future developments in pipeline MFL detection are predicted. PMID:26690435

On a communitarian approach to bioethics.

PubMed

Etzioni, Amitai

2011-10-01

A communitarian approach to bioethics adds a core value to a field that is often more concerned with considerations of individual autonomy. Some interpretations of liberalism put the needs of the patient over those of the community; authoritarian communitarianism privileges the needs of society over those of the patient. Responsive communitarianism's main starting point is that we face two conflicting core values, autonomy and the common good, and that neither should be a priori privileged, and that we have principles and procedures that can be used to work out this conflict but not to eliminate it. This discussion uses the debate in the US over funding for entitlements as a case study to apply the values of communitarian bioethics.

Occult purulent pericarditis detected by indium-111 leukocyte imaging

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

Greenberg, M.L.; Niebulski, H.I.; Uretsky, B.F.

1984-05-01

Leukocyte imaging with indium-111 is a relatively new technique which, to this point in time, has been discussed almost exclusively in the radiologic literature. Although this procedure has been used mainly to detect intra-abdominal infection, the thorax is routinely imaged along with the abdomen, and therefore detection of cardiac disease may be feasible. This case report is of a young woman after liver transplantation who developed occult purulent pericarditis initially detected by a leukocyte scan with indium-111. This case demonstrates that striking pericardial uptake on a whole-body indium-111 leukocyte scan can occur with purulent pericarditis, and it reemphasizes how insidiouslymore » purulent pericarditis may present in an immunosuppressed patient.« less

Towards a synergy framework across neuroscience and robotics: Lessons learned and open questions. Reply to comments on: "Hand synergies: Integration of robotics and neuroscience for understanding the control of biological and artificial hands"

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Santello, Marco; Bianchi, Matteo; Gabiccini, Marco; Ricciardi, Emiliano; Salvietti, Gionata; Prattichizzo, Domenico; Ernst, Marc; Moscatelli, Alessandro; Jorntell, Henrik; Kappers, Astrid M. L.; Kyriakopoulos, Kostas; Schaeffer, Alin Abu; Castellini, Claudio; Bicchi, Antonio

2016-07-01

We would like to thank all commentators for their insightful commentaries. Thanks to their diverse and complementary expertise in neuroscience and robotics, the commentators have provided us with the opportunity to further discuss state-of-the-art and gaps in the integration of neuroscience and robotics reviewed in our article. We organized our reply in two sections that capture the main points of all commentaries [1-9]: (1) Advantages and limitations of the synergy approach in neuroscience and robotics, and (2) Learning and role of sensory feedback in biological and robotics synergies.

[Development of the specialty fields of psychiatry and psychotherapy in East Germany].

PubMed

Eichhorn, H

1988-01-01

The development of psychiatry and/with psychotherapy ever since the beginning of the German Democratic Republic after WW2 is described and analysed. The author's main focus is on the confrontation, addition, and cooperation of both the classical medicine of matters and medicine of mind with conflicting, and at least varying paradigmatic reference. The pro and cons on shock therapy are discussed as a crucial point, here. The author holds that shock therapy interferes with the basics of a therapy where the patient is an integral and responsible part of the work as the mode of such treatment annihilates the Leitmotiv of psychotherapy within the framework of social psychiatry.

Research on the measurement of the ultraviolet irradiance in the xenon lamp aging test chamber

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ji, Muyao; Li, Tiecheng; Lin, Fangsheng; Yin, Dejin; Cheng, Weihai; Huang, Biyong; Lai, Lei; Xia, Ming

2018-01-01

This paper briefly introduces the methods of calibrating the irradiance in the Xenon lamp aging test chamber. And the irradiance under ultraviolet region is mainly researched. Three different detectors whose response wave range are respectively UVA (320 400nm), UVB (275 330nm) and UVA+B (280 400nm) are used in the experiment. Through comparing the measuring results with different detectors under the same xenon lamp source, we discuss the difference between UVA, UVB and UVA+B on the basis of the spectrum of the xenon lamp and the response curve of the detectors. We also point out the possible error source, when use these detectors to calibrate the chamber.

Inversion Of Jacobian Matrix For Robot Manipulators

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fijany, Amir; Bejczy, Antal K.

1989-01-01

Report discusses inversion of Jacobian matrix for class of six-degree-of-freedom arms with spherical wrist, i.e., with last three joints intersecting. Shows by taking advantage of simple geometry of such arms, closed-form solution of Q=J-1X, which represents linear transformation from task space to joint space, obtained efficiently. Presents solutions for PUMA arm, JPL/Stanford arm, and six-revolute-joint coplanar arm along with all singular points. Main contribution of paper shows simple geometry of this type of arms exploited in performing inverse transformation without any need to compute Jacobian or its inverse explicitly. Implication of this computational efficiency advanced task-space control schemes for spherical-wrist arms implemented more efficiently.

[The need for experiments using primates from a scientific point of view].

PubMed

Kaup, F J

2007-03-01

Concerning the public discussion on animal experiments using primates, various research fields are demonstrated where non-human primates are necessary for certain scientific reasons at this time. Non-human Primates are used in Germany mainly in regulatory toxicology and pharmaceutical safety studies.A small amount is disposed in different fields of biological or biomedical basic research. This includes in particular neurosciences and infection research. 2006 New and Old World monkeys were needed in Germany in 2005. No chimpanzees are used anymore as laboratory animals in Germany since many years. Several examples are presented to demonstrate that certain research fields need non-human primates as laboratory animals in the foreseeable future.

Advection modes by optimal mass transfer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Iollo, Angelo; Lombardi, Damiano

2014-02-01

Classical model reduction techniques approximate the solution of a physical model by a limited number of global modes. These modes are usually determined by variants of principal component analysis. Global modes can lead to reduced models that perform well in terms of stability and accuracy. However, when the physics of the model is mainly characterized by advection, the nonlocal representation of the solution by global modes essentially reduces to a Fourier expansion. In this paper we describe a method to determine a low-order representation of advection. This method is based on the solution of Monge-Kantorovich mass transfer problems. Examples of application to point vortex scattering, Korteweg-de Vries equation, and hurricane Dean advection are discussed.

The OPALS Plan for Operations: Use of ISS Trajectory and Attitude Models in the OPALS Pointing Strategy

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Abrahamson, Matthew J.; Oaida, Bogdan; Erkmen, Baris

2013-01-01

This paper will discuss the OPALS pointing strategy, focusing on incorporation of ISS trajectory and attitude models to build pointing predictions. Methods to extrapolate an ISS prediction based on past data will be discussed and will be compared to periodically published ISS predictions and Two-Line Element (TLE) predictions. The prediction performance will also be measured against GPS states available in telemetry. The performance of the pointing products will be compared to the allocated values in the OPALS pointing budget to assess compliance with requirements.

Effects of lines of progress and semilogarithmic charts on ratings of charted data

PubMed Central

Bailey, Donald B.

1984-01-01

The extent to which interrater agreement and ratings of significance on both changes in level and trend are affected by lines of progress and semilogarithmic charts was investigated. Thirteen graduate students rated four sets of charts, each set containing 19 phase changes. Set I data were plotted on equal interval charts. In Set II a line of progress was drawn through each phase on each chart. In Set III data points were replotted on semilogarithmic charts. In Set IV a line of progress was drawn through each phase of each Set III chart. A significant main effect on interrater agreement was found for lines of progress as well as a significant 2-way interaction between lines of progress and change type. Three main effects (chart type, lines of progress, and type of change) and a significant 3-way interaction were found for ratings of significance. Implications of these data for visual analysis of charted data are discussed. PMID:16795676

On the mathematical treatment of the Born-Oppenheimer approximation

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

Jecko, Thierry, E-mail: thierry.jecko@u-cergy.fr

2014-05-15

Motivated by the paper by Sutcliffe and Woolley [“On the quantum theory of molecules,” J. Chem. Phys. 137, 22A544 (2012)], we present the main ideas used by mathematicians to show the accuracy of the Born-Oppenheimer approximation for molecules. Based on mathematical works on this approximation for molecular bound states, in scattering theory, in resonance theory, and for short time evolution, we give an overview of some rigorous results obtained up to now. We also point out the main difficulties mathematicians are trying to overcome and speculate on further developments. The mathematical approach does not fit exactly to the common usemore » of the approximation in Physics and Chemistry. We criticize the latter and comment on the differences, contributing in this way to the discussion on the Born-Oppenheimer approximation initiated by Sutcliffe and Woolley. The paper neither contains mathematical statements nor proofs. Instead, we try to make accessible mathematically rigourous results on the subject to researchers in Quantum Chemistry or Physics.« less

Emissions of mercury from the power sector in Poland

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zyśk, J.; Wyrwa, A.; Pluta, M.

2011-01-01

Poland belongs to the European Union countries with the highest mercury emissions. This is mainly related to coal combustion. This paper presents estimates of mercury emissions from power sector in Poland. In this work, the bottom-up approach was applied and over 160 emission point sources were analysed. For each, the characteristics of the whole technological chain starting from fuel quality, boiler type as well as emission controls were taken into account. Our results show that emissions of mercury from brown coal power plants in 2005 were nearly four times greater than those of hard coal power plants. These estimates differ significantly from national statistics and some possible reasons are discussed. For the first time total mercury emissions from the Polish power sector were differentiated into its main atmospheric forms: gaseous elemental (GEM), reactive gaseous (RGM) and particulate-bound mercury. Information on emission source location and the likely vertical distribution of mercury emissions, which can be used in modelling of atmospheric dispersion of mercury is also provided.

When should MELAS (Mitochondrial myopathy, Encephalopathy, Lactic Acidosis, and Stroke-like episodes) be the diagnosis?

PubMed

Lorenzoni, Paulo José; Werneck, Lineu Cesar; Kay, Cláudia Suemi Kamoi; Silvado, Carlos Eduardo Soares; Scola, Rosana Herminia

2015-11-01

Mitochondrial myopathy, Encephalopathy, Lactic Acidosis, and Stroke-like episodes (MELAS) is a rare mitochondrial disorder. Diagnostic criteria for MELAS include typical manifestations of the disease: stroke-like episodes, encephalopathy, evidence of mitochondrial dysfunction (laboratorial or histological) and known mitochondrial DNA gene mutations. Clinical features of MELAS are not necessarily uniform in the early stages of the disease, and correlations between clinical manifestations and physiopathology have not been fully elucidated. It is estimated that point mutations in the tRNALeu(UUR) gene of the DNAmt, mainly A3243G, are responsible for more of 80% of MELAS cases. Morphological changes seen upon muscle biopsy in MELAS include a substantive proportion of ragged red fibers (RRF) and the presence of vessels with a strong reaction for succinate dehydrogenase. In this review, we discuss mainly diagnostic criterion, clinical and laboratory manifestations, brain images, histology and molecular findings as well as some differential diagnoses and current treatments.

Chitin and Chitosan Preparation from Marine Sources. Structure, Properties and Applications

PubMed Central

Younes, Islem; Rinaudo, Marguerite

2015-01-01

This review describes the most common methods for recovery of chitin from marine organisms. In depth, both enzymatic and chemical treatments for the step of deproteinization are compared, as well as different conditions for demineralization. The conditions of chitosan preparation are also discussed, since they significantly impact the synthesis of chitosan with varying degree of acetylation (DA) and molecular weight (MW). In addition, the main characterization techniques applied for chitin and chitosan are recalled, pointing out the role of their solubility in relation with the chemical structure (mainly the acetyl group distribution along the backbone). Biological activities are also presented, such as: antibacterial, antifungal, antitumor and antioxidant. Interestingly, the relationship between chemical structure and biological activity is demonstrated for chitosan molecules with different DA and MW and homogeneous distribution of acetyl groups for the first time. In the end, several selected pharmaceutical and biomedical applications are presented, in which chitin and chitosan are recognized as new biomaterials taking advantage of their biocompatibility and biodegradability. PMID:25738328

Family caregiving at the intersection of private care by migrant home care workers and public care by nursing staff.

PubMed

Ayalon, Liat; Halevy-Levin, Sara; Ben-Yizhak, Zvi; Friedman, Gideon

2013-09-01

This study evaluated private family caregiving at the intersection of private migrant home care and public nursing care on the hospitalization of an older patient. Seventy-three individuals were interviewed, including older hospitalized patients, their family members, accompanying migrant home care workers, and nursing personnel. There was no clear consensus concerning the role of family members. Although family members emphasized care management as their main role, the other three groups emphasized that the family members' mere physical presence was their main role. All four groups identified potential barriers to family caregiving, rather than motives for family caregiving, hence pointing to a potential discrepancy between expected and performed family caregiving roles. An indication of the lack of clarity concerning family caregiving roles stems from the finding that family members were frequently viewed as unengaged and neglectful, yet at times they were criticized for being overly involved in patient care. Implications for the care of hospitalized older adults are discussed.

Copyrolysis of Biomass and Coal: A Review of Effects of Copyrolysis Parameters, Product Properties, and Synergistic Mechanisms

PubMed Central

2016-01-01

Concerns in the last few decades regarding the environmental and socioeconomic impacts of the dependence on fossil fuels have resulted in calls for more renewable and alternative energy sources. This has led to recent interest in copyrolysis of biomass and coal. Numerous reviews have been found related to individual pyrolysis of coal and biomass. This review deals mainly with the copyrolysis of coal and biomass and then compares their results with those obtained using coal and biomass pyrolysis in detail. It is controversial whether there are synergistic or additive behaviours when coal and biomass are blended during copyrolysis. In this review, the effects of reaction parameters such as feedstock types, blending ratio, heating rate, temperature, and reactor types on the occurrence of synergy are discussed. Also, the main properties of the copyrolytic products are pointed out. Some possible synergistic mechanisms are also suggested. Additionally, several outlooks based on studies in the literature are also presented in this paper. PMID:27722171

Personalizing therapies for gastric cancer: Molecular mechanisms and novel targeted therapies

PubMed Central

Luis, Michael; Tavares, Ana; Carvalho, Liliana S; Lara-Santos, Lúcio; Araújo, António; de Mello, Ramon Andrade

2013-01-01

Globally, gastric cancer is the 4th most frequently diagnosed cancer and the 2nd leading cause of death from cancer, with an estimated 990000 new cases and 738000 deaths registered in 2008. In the advanced setting, standard chemotherapies protocols acquired an important role since last decades in prolong survival. Moreover, recent advances in molecular therapies provided a new interesting weapon to treat advanced gastric cancer through anti-human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) therapies. Trastuzumab, an anti-HER2 monoclonal antibody, was the first target drug in the metastatic setting that showed benefit in overall survival when in association with platinum-5-fluorouracil based chemotherapy. Further, HER2 overexpression analysis acquired a main role in predict response for trastuzumab in this field. Thus, we conducted a review that will discuss the main points concerning trastuzumab and HER2 in gastric cancer, providing a comprehensive overview of molecular mechanisms and novel trials involved. PMID:24151357

Ultrasound: a subexploited tool for sample preparation in metabolomics.

PubMed

Luque de Castro, M D; Delgado-Povedano, M M

2014-01-02

Metabolomics, one of the most recently emerged "omics", has taken advantage of ultrasound (US) to improve sample preparation (SP) steps. The metabolomics-US assisted SP step binomial has experienced a dissimilar development that has depended on the area (vegetal or animal) and the SP step. Thus, vegetal metabolomics and US assisted leaching has received the greater attention (encompassing subdisciplines such as metallomics, xenometabolomics and, mainly, lipidomics), but also liquid-liquid extraction and (bio)chemical reactions in metabolomics have taken advantage of US energy. Also clinical and animal samples have benefited from US assisted SP in metabolomics studies but in a lesser extension. The main effects of US have been shortening of the time required for the given step, and/or increase of its efficiency or availability for automation; nevertheless, attention paid to potential degradation caused by US has been scant or nil. Achievements and weak points of the metabolomics-US assisted SP step binomial are discussed and possible solutions to the present shortcomings are exposed. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Mechanical relaxation in a Zr-based bulk metallic glass: Analysis based on physical models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qiao, J. C.; Pelletier, J. M.

2012-08-01

The mechanical relaxation behavior in a Zr55Cu30Ni5Al10 bulk metallic glass is investigated by dynamic mechanical analysis in both temperature and frequency domains. Master curves can be obtained for the storage modulus G' and for the loss modulus G'', confirming the validity of the time-temperature superposition principle. Different models are discussed to describe the main (α) relaxation, e.g., Debye model, Havriliak-Negami (HN) model, Kohlrausch-Williams-Watt (KWW) model, and quasi-point defects (QPDs) model. The main relaxation in bulk metallic glass cannot be described using a single relaxation time. The HN model, the KWW model, and the QPD theory can be used to fit the data of mechanical spectroscopy experiments. However, unlike the HN model and the KWW model, some physical parameters are introduced in QPD model, i.e., atomic mobility and correlation factor, giving, therefore, a new physical approach to understand the mechanical relaxation in bulk metallic glasses.

How best to geo-reference farms? A case study from Cornwall, England.

PubMed

Durr, P A; Froggatt, A E A

2002-11-29

The commonest way of geo-referencing farms as single points is using the location of the farmhouse as either read off a map or approximated by its postcode. While these two methods may be adequate for small farms, they are unlikely to be satisfactory for large ones, or alternatively when they are comprised of several discrete units or holdings. In order to investigate the best representation of the total farm polygon(s) by a single point, we undertook a study using nearly 500 actual farm boundaries in the county of Cornwall, England. For each farm, the farm boundaries were digitised, and its area and centroid determined using ArcView 3.2. A variety of point geo-referencing systems were tested to find the best single point location for a farm, as judged by the proportion of farm area captured. Whilst the centroid was found to capture the largest area, the main farm building was judged to be the best geo-referencing method for practical purposes. In contrast, the various systems of geo-coding using the farm postal address performed relatively poorly. Where there are separate parcels of land managed together in a single parish, they may be identified as a single unit, but if there are separate parcels in different parishes they should be identified as separate units.The implications of these results for Great Britain's national animal health information system (VETNET) are discussed.

Biopiracy of natural products and good bioprospecting practice.

PubMed

Efferth, Thomas; Banerjee, Mita; Paul, Norbert W; Abdelfatah, Sara; Arend, Joachim; Elhassan, Gihan; Hamdoun, Sami; Hamm, Rebecca; Hong, Chunlan; Kadioglu, Onat; Naß, Janine; Ochwangi, Dominic; Ooko, Edna; Ozenver, Nadire; Saeed, Mohamed E M; Schneider, Mathias; Seo, Ean-Jeong; Wu, Ching-Fen; Yan, Ge; Zeino, Maen; Zhao, Qiaoli; Abu-Darwish, Mohammad S; Andersch, Kai; Alexie, Gladys; Bessarab, Dawn; Bhakta-Guha, Dipita; Bolzani, Vanderlan; Dapat, Else; Donenko, Fedor V; Efferth, Monika; Greten, Henry J; Gunatilaka, Leslie; Hussein, Ahmed A; Karadeniz, Asuman; Khalid, Hassan E; Kuete, Victor; Lee, Ik-Soo; Liu, Liang; Midiwo, Jacob; Mora, Rodrigo; Nakagawa, Hiroshi; Ngassapa, Olipa; Noysang, Chanai; Omosa, Leonida K; Roland, Fred Hwiemtun; Shahat, Abdelaaty A; Saab, Antoine; Saeed, Elfatih M; Shan, Letian; Titinchi, Salam J J

2016-02-15

Biopiracy mainly focuses on the use of biological resources and/or knowledge of indigenous tribes or communities without allowing them to share the revenues generated out of economic exploitation or other non-monetary incentives associated with the resource/knowledge. Based on collaborations of scientists from five continents, we have created a communication platform to discuss not only scientific topics, but also more general issues with social relevance. This platform was termed 'PhytCancer -Phytotherapy to Fight Cancer' (www.phyt-cancer.uni-mainz.de). As a starting point, we have chosen the topic "biopiracy", since we feel this is of pragmatic significance for scientists working with medicinal plants. It was argued that the patenting of herbs or natural products by pharmaceutical corporations disregarded the ownership of the knowledge possessed by the indigenous communities on how these substances worked. Despite numerous court decisions in U.S.A. and Europe, several international treaties, (e.g. from United Nations, World Health Organization, World Trade Organization, the African Unity and others), sharing of a rational set of benefits amongst producers (mainly pharmaceutical companies) and indigenous communities is yet a distant reality. In this paper, we present an overview of the legal frameworks, discuss some exemplary cases of biopiracy and bioprospecting as excellent forms of utilization of natural resources. We suggest certain perspectives, by which we as scientists, may contribute towards prevention of biopiracy and also to foster the fair utilization of natural resources. We discuss ways, in which the interests of indigenous people especially from developing countries can be secured. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

Influence of Cements Containing Calcareous Fly Ash as a Main Component Properties of Fresh Cement Mixtures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gołaszewski, Jacek; Kostrzanowska-Siedlarz, Aleksandra; Ponikiewski, Tomasz; Miera, Patrycja

2017-10-01

The main goal of presented research was to examine usability of cements containing calcareous fly ash (W) from technological point of view. In the paper the results of tests concerning the influence of CEM II and CEM IV cements containing fly ash (W) on rheological properties, air content, setting times and plastic shrinkage of mortars are presented and discussed. Moreover, compatibility of plasticizers with cements containing fly ash (W) was also studied. Additionally, setting time and hydration heat of cements containing calcareous fly ash (W) were determined. In a broader aspect, the research contributes to promulgation of the possibility of using calcareous fly ash (W) in cement and concrete technology, what greatly benefits the environment protection (utilization of waste fly ash). Calcareous fly ash can be used successfully as the main component of cement. Cements produced by blending with processed fly ash or cements produced by interginding are characterized by acceptable technological properties. In respect to CEM I cements, cements containing calcareous fly ash worsen workability, decrease air content, delay setting time of mixtures. Cements with calcareous fly ash show good compatibility with plasticizers.

Orbital Decay in Binaries with Evolved Stars

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Meng; Arras, Phil; Weinberg, Nevin N.; Troup, Nicholas; Majewski, Steven R.

2018-01-01

Two mechanisms are often invoked to explain tidal friction in binary systems. The ``dynamical tide” is the resonant excitation of internal gravity waves by the tide, and their subsequent damping by nonlinear fluid processes or thermal diffusion. The ``equilibrium tide” refers to non-resonant excitation of fluid motion in the star’s convection zone, with damping by interaction with the turbulent eddies. There have been numerous studies of these processes in main sequence stars, but less so on the subgiant and red giant branches. Motivated by the newly discovered close binary systems in the Apache Point Observatory Galactic Evolution Experiment (APOGEE-1), we have performed calculations of both the dynamical and equilibrium tide processes for stars over a range of mass as the star’s cease core hydrogen burning and evolve to shell burning. Even for stars which had a radiative core on the main sequence, the dynamical tide may have very large amplitude in the newly radiative core in post-main sequence, giving rise to wave breaking. The resulting large dynamical tide dissipation rate is compared to the equilibrium tide, and the range of secondary masses and orbital periods over which rapid orbital decay may occur will be discussed, as well as applications to close APOGEE binaries.

Electrochemical Genosensing of Circulating Biomarkers

PubMed Central

Campuzano, Susana; Yáñez-Sedeño, Paloma; Pingarrón, José Manuel

2017-01-01

Management and prognosis of diseases requires the measurement in non- or minimally invasively collected samples of specific circulating biomarkers, consisting of any measurable or observable factors in patients that indicate normal or disease-related biological processes or responses to therapy. Therefore, on-site, fast and accurate determination of these low abundance circulating biomarkers in scarcely treated body fluids is of great interest for health monitoring and biological applications. In this field, electrochemical DNA sensors (or genosensors) have demonstrated to be interesting alternatives to more complex conventional strategies. Currently, electrochemical genosensors are considered very promising analytical tools for this purpose due to their fast response, low cost, high sensitivity, compatibility with microfabrication technology and simple operation mode which makes them compatible with point-of-care (POC) testing. In this review, the relevance and current challenges of the determination of circulating biomarkers related to relevant diseases (cancer, bacterial and viral infections and neurodegenerative diseases) are briefly discussed. An overview of the electrochemical nucleic acid–based strategies developed in the last five years for this purpose is given to show to both familiar and non-expert readers the great potential of these methodologies for circulating biomarker determination. After highlighting the main features of the reported electrochemical genosensing strategies through the critical discussion of selected examples, a conclusions section points out the still existing challenges and future directions in this field. PMID:28420103

Hot embossed polyethylene through-hole chips for bead-based microfluidic devices

PubMed Central

Chou, Jie; Du, Nan; Ou, Tina; Floriano, Pierre N.; Christodoulides, Nicolaos; McDevitt, John T.

2013-01-01

Over the past decade, there has been a growth of interest in the translation of microfluidic systems into real-world clinical practice, especially for use in point-of-care or near patient settings. While initial fabrication advances in microfluidics involved mainly the etching of silicon and glass, the economics of scaling of these materials is not amendable for point-of-care usage where single-test applications forces cost considerations to be kept low and throughput high. As such, a materials base more consistent with point-of-care needs is required. In this manuscript, the fabrication of a hot embossed, through-hole low-density polyethylene ensembles derived from an anisotropically etched silicon wafer is discussed. This semi-opaque polymer that can be easily sterilized and recycled provides low background noise for fluorescence measurements and yields more affordable cost than other thermoplastics commonly used for microfluidic applications such as cyclic olefin copolymer (COC). To fabrication through-hole microchips from this alternative material for microfluidics, a fabrication technique that uses a high-temperature, high-pressure resistant mold is described. This aluminum-based epoxy mold, serving as the positive master mold for embossing, is casted over etched arrays of pyramidal pits in a silicon wafer. Methods of surface treatment of the wafer prior to casting and PDMS casting of the epoxy are discussed to preserve the silicon wafer for future use. Changes in the thickness of polyethylene are observed for varying embossing temperatures. The methodology described herein can quickly fabricate 20 disposable, single use chips in less than 30 minutes with the ability to scale up 4x by using multiple molds simultaneously. When coupled as a platform supporting porous bead sensors, as in the recently developed Programmable Bio-Nano-Chip, this bead chip system can achieve limits of detection, for the cardiac biomarker C-reactive protein, of 0.3 ng/mL, thereby demonstrating the approach is compatible with high performance, real-world clinical measurements in the context of point-of-care testing. PMID:23183187

Floating point arithmetic in future supercomputers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bailey, David H.; Barton, John T.; Simon, Horst D.; Fouts, Martin J.

1989-01-01

Considerations in the floating-point design of a supercomputer are discussed. Particular attention is given to word size, hardware support for extended precision, format, and accuracy characteristics. These issues are discussed from the perspective of the Numerical Aerodynamic Simulation Systems Division at NASA Ames. The features believed to be most important for a future supercomputer floating-point design include: (1) a 64-bit IEEE floating-point format with 11 exponent bits, 52 mantissa bits, and one sign bit and (2) hardware support for reasonably fast double-precision arithmetic.

Moving from ideas to action - developing health financing systems towards universal coverage in Africa.

PubMed

Musango, Laurent; Orem, Juliet Nabyonga; Elovainio, Riku; Kirigia, Joses

2012-11-08

Accelerating progress towards universal coverage in African countries calls for concrete actions that reinforce social health protection through establishment of sustainable health financing mechanisms. In order to explore possible pathways for moving past the existing obstacles, panel discussions were organized on health financing bringing together Ministers of health and Ministers of finance with the objective of creating a discussion space where the different perspectives on key issues and needed actions could meet. This article presents a synthesis of panel discussions focusing on the identified challenges and the possible solutions. The overview of this paper is based on the objectives and proceedings of the panel discussions and relies on the observation and study of the interaction between the panelists and on the discourse used. The discussion highlighted that a large proportion of the African population has no access to needed health services with significant reliance on direct out of pocket payments. There are multiple obstacles in making prepayment and pooling mechanisms operational. The relatively strong political commitment to health has not always translated into more public spending for health. Donor investment in health in low income countries still falls below commitments. There is need to explore innovative domestic revenue collection mechanisms. Although inadequate funding for health is a fundamental problem, inefficient use of resources is of great concern. There is need to generate robust evidence focusing on issues of importance to ministry of finance. The current unsatisfactory state of health financing was mainly attributed to lack of clear vision; evidence based plans and costed strategies. Based on the analysis of discussion made, there are points of convergence and divergence in the discourse and positions of the two ministries. The current blockage points holding back budget allocations for health can be solved with a more evidence based approach and dialogue based on a clear vision and costed strategic plan articulated by the ministry of health. Improving health in Africa is a driver for long-term economic growth and development and this is the reason why the ministries of health and finance will need to find common ground on how to create policy coherence and how to articulate their respective objectives.

State of the States 2009: Renewable Energy Development and the Role of Policy

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

Doris, E.; McLaren, J.; Healey, V.

2009-10-01

As U.S. states increasingly focus on developing renewable energy resources, there is a need to track the progress of development, as well as the policies and support mechanisms being implemented to encourage this development. Beyond tracking, the evaluation of policy measures is necessary to determine their effectiveness, guide future efforts, and efficiently allocate resources. This report addresses each of these needs. It provides a detailed picture of the status of renewable energy development in each of the U.S. states using a variety of metrics and discusses the policies being used to encourage this development. The report then explores the contextmore » in which renewable energy development occurs by discussing the factors that can affect the uptake of power generation technologies. The analysis offers suggestions on how policies can be used to address these variables, which leads to tailored policy support that considers the specific circumstances within each state. The analysis presents results of several quantitative evaluation methods that have been designed to explore the link between policy implementation and actual development. Finally, the report discusses contextual factors, aside from policy, that affect renewable energy development. The report concludes with a summary of the main points from each chapter, discussion of next steps, and a list of resources.« less

The workshop on animal botulism in Europe.

PubMed

Skarin, Hanna; Tevell Åberg, Annica; Woudstra, Cédric; Hansen, Trine; Löfström, Charlotta; Koene, Miriam; Bano, Luca; Hedeland, Mikael; Anniballi, Fabrizio; De Medici, Dario; Olsson Engvall, Eva

2013-09-01

A workshop on animal botulism was held in Uppsala, Sweden, in June 2012. Its purpose was to explore the current status of the disease in Europe by gathering the European experts in animal botulism and to raise awareness of the disease among veterinarians and others involved in biopreparedness. Animal botulism is underreported and underdiagnosed, but an increasing number of reports, as well as the information gathered from this workshop, show that it is an emerging problem in Europe. The workshop was divided into 4 sessions: animal botulism in Europe, the bacteria behind the disease, detection and diagnostics, and European collaboration and surveillance. An electronic survey was conducted before the workshop to identify the 3 most needed discussion points, which were: prevention, preparedness and outbreak response; detection and diagnostics; and European collaboration and surveillance. The main conclusions drawn from these discussions were that there is an urgent need to replace the mouse bioassay for botulinum toxin detection with an in vitro test and that there is a need for a European network to function as a reference laboratory, which could also organize a European supply of botulinum antitoxin and vaccines. The foundation of such a network was discussed, and the proposals are presented here along with the outcome of discussions and a summary of the workshop itself.

Measurement of Dam Deformations: Case Study of Obruk Dam (Turkey)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gulal, V. Engin; Alkan, R. Metin; Alkan, M. Nurullah; İlci, Veli; Ozulu, I. Murat; Tombus, F. Engin; Kose, Zafer; Aladogan, Kayhan; Sahin, Murat; Yavasoglu, Hakan; Oku, Guldane

2016-04-01

In the literature, there is information regarding the first deformation and displacement measurements in dams that were conducted in 1920s Switzerland. Todays, deformation measurements in the dams have gained very different functions with improvements in both measurement equipment and evaluation of measurements. Deformation measurements and analysis are among the main topics studied by scientists who take interest in the engineering measurement sciences. The Working group of Deformation Measurements and Analysis, which was established under the International Federation of Surveyors (FIG), carries out its studies and activities with regard to this subject. At the end of the 1970s, the subject of the determination of fixed points in the deformation monitoring network was one of the main subjects extensively studied. Many theories arose from this inquiry, as different institutes came to differing conclusions. In 1978, a special commission with representatives of universities has been established within the FIG 6.1 working group; this commission worked on the issue of determining a general approach to geometric deformation analysis. The results gleaned from the commission were discussed at symposiums organized by the FIG. In accordance with these studies, scientists interested in the subject have begun to work on models that investigate cause and effect relations between the effects that cause deformation and deformation. As of the scientist who interest with the issue focused on different deformation methods, another special commission was established within the FIG engineering measurements commission in order to classify deformation models and study terminology. After studying this material for a long time, the official commission report was published in 2001. In this prepared report, studies have been carried out by considering the FIG Engineering Surveying Commission's report entitled, 'MODELS AND TERMINOLOGY FOR THE ANALYSIS OF GEODETIC MONITORING OBSERVATIONS'. In October of 2015, geodetic deformation measurements were conducted by considering FIG reports related to deformation measurements and German DIN 18710 Engineering Measurements norms in the Çorum province of Turkey. The main purpose of the study is to determine optimum measurement and evaluation methods that will be used to specify movements in the horizontal and vertical directions for the fill dam. For this purpose; • In reference networks consisting of 8 points, measurements were performed by using long-term dual-frequency GNSS receivers for duration of 8 hours. • GNSS measurements were conducted in varying times between 30 minutes and 120 minutes at the 44 units object points on the body of the dam. • Two repetitive measurements of real time kinematic (RTK) GNSS were conducted at the object points on dam. • Geometric leveling measurements were performed between reference and object points. • Trigonometric leveling measurements were performed between reference and object points. • Polar measurements were performed between references and object points. GNSS measurements performed at reference points of the monitoring network for 8 hours have been evaluated by using GAMIT software in accordance with the IGS points in the region. In this manner, regional and local movements in the network can be determined. It is aimed to determine measurement period which will provide 1-2mm accuracy that expected in local GNSS network by evaluating GNSS measurements performed on body of dam. Results will be compared by offsetting GNSS and terrestrial measurements. This study will investigate whether or not there is increased accuracy provided by GNSS measurements carried out among reference points without the possibility of vision.

On the Computation of H/V and its Application to Microzonation and Seismic Design

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Perton, M.; Martínez, J. A.; Lermo, J. F.; Sanchez-Sesma, F. J.

2014-12-01

The H/V ratio is the square root of the ratio of horizontal to vertical energies of ground motion. It has been observed that the frequency of the main peak is well suited for the characterization of site effects and had been widely used for micro-zonation and seismic structural design. Historically that ratio was made from the average of individual H/V ratios obtained from noise autocorrelations. Nevertheless, it has been recently pointed out that the H/V ratio should be calculated differently as the ratio of the average of H over the average of V. This calculation is based on the relation between the directional energies (the imaginary part of Green's function) and the noise autocorrelations. In general, the average of ratios is different from the ratio of averages. Although the frequency of the main response was correctly obtained, the associated amplification factor has generally been badly predicted, having little matching with the amplification observed during strong earthquakes. The unexpected decay behavior of such ratios at high frequency and the lack of stability and reproducibility of the H/V ratios are other problems that face the method. These problems are addressed here from the point of view of normalization of noise correlations. In fact, several normalization techniques have already been proposed in order to correctly retrieve the Green's function. Some of them are well suited for the retrieval of the surface wave contribution, while others are more appropriate for bulk wave incidence. Since the H/V ratio may be used for various purposes like surface wave tomography, micro-zonation or seismic design, different normalizations are discussed in functions of the objectives. The H/V obtained from local historical earthquakes on top or far away from the subduction zone are also discussed. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT This research has been partially supported by DGAPA-UNAM under Project IN104712 and the AXA Research Fund.

Monitoring of trace metals and pharmaceuticals as anthropogenic and socio-economic indicators of urban and industrial impact on surface waters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vystavna, Yuliya

2014-05-01

The research focuses on the monitoring of trace metals and pharmaceuticals as potential anthropogenic indicators of industrial and urban influences on surface water in poorly gauged transboundary Ukraine/Russia region. This study includes analysis of tracers use for the indication of water pollution events, including controlled and emerging discharges, and discussion of the detection method of these chemicals. The following criteria were proposed for the evaluation of indicators: specificity (physical chemical properties), variability (spatial and temporal) and practicality (capacity of the sampling and analytical techniques). The combination of grab and passive water sampling (i.e. DGT and POCIS) procedure was applied for the determination of dissolved and labile trace metals (Ag, Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb and Zn) and pharmaceuticals (carbamazepine, diazepam, paracetamol, caffeine, diclofenac and ketoprofen). Samples were analysed using ICP - MS (trace metals) and LC-MS/MS ESI +/- (pharmaceuticals). Our results demonstrate the distinctive spatial and temporal patterns of trace elements distribution along an urban watercourse. Accordingly, two general groups of trace metals have been discriminated: 'stable' (Cd and Cr) and 'time-varying' (Cu, Zn, Ni and Pb). The relationship Cd >> Cu > Ag > Cr ≥ Zn was proposed as an anthropogenic signature of the industrial and urban activities pressuring the environment from point sources (municipal wastewaters) and the group Pb - Ni was discussed as a relevant fingerprint of the economic activity (industry and transport) mainly from non-point sources (run-off, atmospheric depositions, etc.). Pharmaceuticals with contrasting hydro-chemical properties of molecules (water solubility, bioaccumulation, persistence during wastewater treatment processes) were discriminated on conservative, labile and with combined properties in order to provide information on wastewater treatment plant efficiency, punctual events (e.g. accidents on sewage works, run-off) and uncontrolled discharges. Applying mass balance modeling, medicaments were described as relevant socio-economic indicators, which can give a picture of main social aspects of the region.

Towards more patient centred healthcare: A new Consumer Quality Index instrument to assess patients' experiences with breast care.

PubMed

Damman, Olga C; Hendriks, Michelle; Sixma, Herman J

2009-06-01

To develop a Consumer Quality Index (CQ-index) Breast Care instrument that measures quality of care from the perspective of patients with (suspicion of) breast cancer. To develop a pilot questionnaire, three focus group discussions with breast cancer patients were performed. The questionnaire was sent to 1197 patients. We performed psychometric and descriptive analyses to optimise the new instrument. Focus group discussions revealed nine main themes related to breast care quality. Psychometric analyses resulted in 15 reliable scales. The final instrument consisted of 152 items, of which 118 items regarded patients' experiences. The aspect with the highest need for quality improvement was informing patients about a second opinion. The CQ-index Breast Care (CQI-BC) instrument provides a good starting point for further research on the quality of breast care seen from the perspective of patients. The newly developed instrument can be used by different stakeholders for future quality monitoring.

Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptors in Female Reproduction and Fertility

PubMed Central

Carta, Gaspare; Artini, Paolo Giovanni

2016-01-01

Reproductive functions may be altered by the exposure to a multitude of endogenous and exogenous agents, drug or environmental pollutants, which are known to affect gene transcription through the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) activation. PPARs act as ligand activated transcription factors and regulate metabolic processes such as lipid and glucose metabolism, energy homeostasis, inflammation, and cell proliferation and differentiation. All PPARs isotypes are expressed along the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis and are strictly involved in reproductive functions. Since female fertility and energy metabolism are tightly interconnected, the research on female infertility points towards the exploration of potential PPARs activating/antagonizing compounds, mainly belonging to the class of thiazolidinediones (TZDs) and fibrates, as useful agents for the maintenance of metabolic homeostasis in women with ovarian dysfunctions. In the present review, we discuss the recent evidence about PPARs expression in the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis and their involvement in female reproduction. Finally, the therapeutic potential of their manipulation through several drugs is also discussed. PMID:27559343

Systematic review for geo-authentic Lonicerae Japonicae Flos.

PubMed

Yang, Xingyue; Liu, Yali; Hou, Aijuan; Yang, Yang; Tian, Xin; He, Liyun

2017-06-01

In traditional Chinese medicine, Lonicerae Japonicae Flos is commonly used as anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antipyretic herbal medicine, and geo-authentic herbs are believed to present the highest quality among all samples from different regions. To discuss the current situation and trend of geo-authentic Lonicerae Japonicae Flos, we searched Chinese Biomedicine Literature Database, Chinese Journal Full-text Database, Chinese Scientific Journal Full-text Database, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Wanfang, and PubMed. We investigated all studies up to November 2015 pertaining to quality assessment, discrimination, pharmacological effects, planting or processing, or ecological system of geo-authentic Lonicerae Japonicae Flos. Sixty-five studies mainly discussing about chemical fingerprint, component analysis, planting and processing, discrimination between varieties, ecological system, pharmacological effects, and safety were systematically reviewed. By analyzing these studies, we found that the key points of geo-authentic Lonicerae Japonicae Flos research were quality and application. Further studies should focus on improving the quality by selecting the more superior of all varieties and evaluating clinical effectiveness.

First-year engineering students' use of their mathematics textbook - opportunities and constraints

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Randahl, Mira

2012-09-01

The role of the mathematics textbook at tertiary level has received limited exposure in previous research although it is likely that students work individually and that some of this work depends on the use of the textbook. The aim of this study was to investigate the process of approaching the textbook from epistemological, cognitive, and didactical perspectives. The focus was on identifying and discussing the opportunities and constraints in the process. The study was an explorative case study and the participants were first-year engineering students taking a basic calculus course. The data were collected through questionnaires, observations, and interviews. Results showed that the textbook was used to a very low degree and mainly perceived as a source of tasks. Different opportunities and constraints are pointed out and some didactical implications are suggested. The results and discussion indicate that a need for greater awareness about the use of mathematical textbooks in meaningful ways at tertiary level.

Tele-Autonomous control involving contact. Final Report Thesis; [object localization

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shao, Lejun; Volz, Richard A.; Conway, Lynn; Walker, Michael W.

1990-01-01

Object localization and its application in tele-autonomous systems are studied. Two object localization algorithms are presented together with the methods of extracting several important types of object features. The first algorithm is based on line-segment to line-segment matching. Line range sensors are used to extract line-segment features from an object. The extracted features are matched to corresponding model features to compute the location of the object. The inputs of the second algorithm are not limited only to the line features. Featured points (point to point matching) and featured unit direction vectors (vector to vector matching) can also be used as the inputs of the algorithm, and there is no upper limit on the number of the features inputed. The algorithm will allow the use of redundant features to find a better solution. The algorithm uses dual number quaternions to represent the position and orientation of an object and uses the least squares optimization method to find an optimal solution for the object's location. The advantage of using this representation is that the method solves for the location estimation by minimizing a single cost function associated with the sum of the orientation and position errors and thus has a better performance on the estimation, both in accuracy and speed, than that of other similar algorithms. The difficulties when the operator is controlling a remote robot to perform manipulation tasks are also discussed. The main problems facing the operator are time delays on the signal transmission and the uncertainties of the remote environment. How object localization techniques can be used together with other techniques such as predictor display and time desynchronization to help to overcome these difficulties are then discussed.

Vortex-liquid{endash}vortex-crystal transition in type-II superconductors

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

Newman, T.J.; Moore, M.A.

1996-09-01

We present in detail a functional renormalization group (FRG) study of a Landau-Ginzburg model of type-II superconductors (generalized to {ital N}/2 complex fields) in an external magnetic field, both for a pure system and also in the presence of quenched random impurities. If the coupling functions are restricted to the space of functions with nonzero support only at reciprocal lattice vectors corresponding to the Abrikosov lattice, we find a stable FRG fixed point in the presence of disorder for 1{lt}{ital N}{lt}4, identical to that of the disordered {ital O}({ital N}) model in {ital d}{minus}2 dimensions. This implies a continuous transitionmore » from the vortex crystal to vortex liquid in the presence of disorder, but only for {ital d}{gt}4. The nonzero-temperature transition will disappear in physical dimensions. The pure system has a stable fixed point only for {ital N}{gt}4. Therefore the physical case ({ital N}=2) is likely to have a first-order transition in the absence of quenched disorder. We give a full discussion of both the motivation of the model and the details of the FRG calculation. We also place our results in context with regard to the current experimental scene concerning the high-{ital T}{sub {ital c}} compounds. In particular, we discuss the relevance of our results to the recently discovered critical end point in the phase diagram of Bi-Sr-Ca-Cu-O. The main results of this analysis were previously reported in the form of a Letter [M.A. Moore and T.J. Newman, Phys. Rev. Lett. {bold 75}, 533 (1995)]. {copyright} {ital 1996 The American Physical Society.}« less

Teaching Writing: Support Material for Text Level Objectives. The National Literacy Strategy.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Department for Education and Skills, London (England).

These 10 fliers focus on strategies to improve students' writing. The fliers are: (1) Improving Writing (covers general points related to all types of writing); (2) Writing Narrative (covers the main points to writing narrative, helping children to build up a repertoire of different types of narrative); (3) Writing Poetry (covers the main points…

End points and assessments in esthetic dental treatment.

PubMed

Ishida, Yuichi; Fujimoto, Keiko; Higaki, Nobuaki; Goto, Takaharu; Ichikawa, Tetsuo

2015-10-01

There are two key considerations for successful esthetic dental treatments. This article systematically describes the two key considerations: the end points of esthetic dental treatments and assessments of esthetic outcomes, which are also important for acquiring clinical skill in esthetic dental treatments. The end point and assessment of esthetic dental treatment were discussed through literature reviews and clinical practices. Before designing a treatment plan, the end point of dental treatment should be established. The section entitled "End point of esthetic dental treatment" discusses treatments for maxillary anterior teeth and the restoration of facial profile with prostheses. The process of assessing treatment outcomes entitled "Assessments of esthetic dental treatment" discusses objective and subjective evaluation methods. Practitioners should reach an agreement regarding desired end points with patients through medical interviews, and continuing improvements and developments of esthetic assessments are required to raise the therapeutic level of esthetic dental treatments. Copyright © 2015 Japan Prosthodontic Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

On the challenge of a century lifespan satellite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gonzalo, Jesús; Domínguez, Diego; López, Deibi

2014-10-01

This paper provides a review of the main issues affecting satellite survivability, including a discussion on the technologies to mitigate the risks and to enhance system reliability. The feasibility of a 100-year lifespan space mission is taken as the guiding thread for the discussion. Such a mission, defined with a few preliminary requirements, could be used to deliver messages to our descendants regardless of the on-ground contingencies. After the analysis of the main threats for long endurance in space, including radiation, debris and micrometeoroids, atmospheric drag and thermal environment, the available solutions are investigated. A trade-off study analyses orbital profiles from the point of view of radiation, thermal stability and decay rate, providing best locations to maximize lifespan. Special attention is also paid to on-board power, in terms of energy harvesting and accumulation, highlighting the limitations of current assets, i.e. solar panels and batteries, and revealing possible future solutions. Furthermore, the review includes electronics, non-volatile memories and communication elements, which need extra hardening against radiation and thermal cycling if extra-long endurance is required. As a result of the analysis, a century-lifetime mission is depicted by putting together all the reviewed concepts. The satellite, equipped with reliability enhanced elements and system-level solutions such as smart hibernation policies, could provide limited but still useful performance after a 100-year flight.

Seeking fixed points in multiple coupling scalar theories in the ɛ expansion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Osborn, Hugh; Stergiou, Andreas

2018-05-01

Fixed points for scalar theories in 4 - ɛ, 6 - ɛ and 3 - ɛ dimensions are discussed. It is shown how a large range of known fixed points for the four dimensional case can be obtained by using a general framework with two couplings. The original maximal symmetry, O( N), is broken to various subgroups, both discrete and continuous. A similar discussion is applied to the six dimensional case. Perturbative applications of the a-theorem are used to help classify potential fixed points. At lowest order in the ɛ-expansion it is shown that at fixed points there is a lower bound for a which is saturated at bifurcation points.

Quality of Widely Available Video Instructional Materials for Point-of-Care Ultrasound-Guided Procedure Training in Internal Medicine.

PubMed

Khandelwal, Aditi; Devine, Luke A; Otremba, Mirek

2017-07-01

Many instructional materials for point-of-care ultrasound (US)-guided procedures exist; however, their quality is unknown. This study assessed widely available educational videos for point-of-care US-guided procedures relevant to internal medicine: central venous catheterization, thoracentesis, and paracentesis. We searched Ovid MEDLINE, YouTube, and Google to identify videos for point-of-care US-guided paracentesis, thoracentesis, and central venous catheterization. Videos were evaluated with a 5-point scale assessing the global educational value and a checklist based on consensus guidelines for competencies in point-of-care US-guided procedures. For point-of-care US-guided central venous catheterization, 12 videos were found, with an average global educational value score ± SD of 4.5 ± 0.7. Indications to abort the procedure were discussed in only 3 videos. Five videos described the indications and contraindications for performing central venous catheterization. For point-of-care US-guided thoracentesis, 8 videos were identified, with an average global educational value score of 4.0 ± 0.9. Only one video discussed indications to abort the procedure, and 3 videos discussed sterile technique. For point-of-care US-guided paracentesis, 7 videos were included, with an average global educational value score of 4.1 ± 0.9. Only 1 video discussed indications to abort the procedure, and 2 described the location of the inferior epigastric artery. The 27 videos reviewed contained good-quality general instruction. However, we noted a lack of safety-related information in most of the available videos. Further development of resources is required to teach internal medicine trainees skills that focus on the safety of point-of-care US guidance. © 2017 by the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine.

Fundamentals and applications of SERS-based bioanalytical sensing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kahraman, Mehmet; Mullen, Emma R.; Korkmaz, Aysun; Wachsmann-Hogiu, Sebastian

2017-03-01

Plasmonics is an emerging field that examines the interaction between light and metallic nanostructures at the metal-dielectric interface. Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) is a powerful analytical technique that uses plasmonics to obtain detailed chemical information of molecules or molecular assemblies adsorbed or attached to nanostructured metallic surfaces. For bioanalytical applications, these surfaces are engineered to optimize for high enhancement factors and molecular specificity. In this review we focus on the fabrication of SERS substrates and their use for bioanalytical applications. We review the fundamental mechanisms of SERS and parameters governing SERS enhancement. We also discuss developments in the field of novel SERS substrates. This includes the use of different materials, sizes, shapes, and architectures to achieve high sensitivity and specificity as well as tunability or flexibility. Different fundamental approaches are discussed, such as label-free and functional assays. In addition, we highlight recent relevant advances for bioanalytical SERS applied to small molecules, proteins, DNA, and biologically relevant nanoparticles. Subsequently, we discuss the importance of data analysis and signal detection schemes to achieve smaller instruments with low cost for SERS-based point-of-care technology developments. Finally, we review the main advantages and challenges of SERS-based biosensing and provide a brief outlook.

Towards operational interpretations of generalized entropies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Topsøe, Flemming

2010-12-01

The driving force behind our study has been to overcome the difficulties you encounter when you try to extend the clear and convincing operational interpretations of classical Boltzmann-Gibbs-Shannon entropy to other notions, especially to generalized entropies as proposed by Tsallis. Our approach is philosophical, based on speculations regarding the interplay between truth, belief and knowledge. The main result demonstrates that, accepting philosophically motivated assumptions, the only possible measures of entropy are those suggested by Tsallis - which, as we know, include classical entropy. This result constitutes, so it seems, a more transparent interpretation of entropy than previously available. However, further research to clarify the assumptions is still needed. Our study points to the thesis that one should never consider the notion of entropy in isolation - in order to enable a rich and technically smooth study, further concepts, such as divergence, score functions and descriptors or controls should be included in the discussion. This will clarify the distinction between Nature and Observer and facilitate a game theoretical discussion. The usefulness of this distinction and the subsequent exploitation of game theoretical results - such as those connected with the notion of Nash equilibrium - is demonstrated by a discussion of the Maximum Entropy Principle.

Patient evaluation in idiopathic scoliosis: Radiographic assessment, trunk deformity and back asymmetry.

PubMed

Rigo, Manuel

2011-01-01

Progressive adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) produces specific signs and symptoms, including trunk and spinal deformity and imbalance, impairment of breathing function, pain, progression during adult life, and psychological problems, as a whole resulting in an alteration of the health-related quality of life. A scoliosis-specific rehabilitation program attempts to prevent, improve, or minimize these signs and symptoms by using exercises and braces as the main tools in the rehabilitation treatment. Patient evaluation is an essential point in the decision-making process and determines the selection of the specific exercises and the specifications of the brace design. However, this article is not addressed to scoliosis management. In this present article, a complete definition and discussion of radiological aspects, such as the Cobb angle, axial rotation, curve pattern classifications, and sagittal configuration, follow a short description of the three-dimensional nature of AIS. The relationship between AIS and growth is also discussed. There is also a section dedicated to the assessment of trunk deformity and back asymmetry. Other important clinical aspects, such as pain and disability, changes in other regions of the body, muscular balance, breathing function, and health-related quality of life, are not discussed in this present article.

Management of reforming of housing-and-communal services

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Skripnik, Oksana

2017-10-01

The international experience of reforming of housing and communal services is considered. The main scientific and methodical approaches of system transformation of the housing sphere are analyzed in the article. The main models of reforming are pointed out, interaction of participants of structural change process from the point of view of their commercial and social importance is characterized, advantages and shortcomings are revealed, model elements of the reform transformations from the point of view of the formation of investment appeal, competitiveness, energy efficiency and social importance of the carried-out actions are allocated.

Antenna pointing mechanism for ESA ENVISAT polar platform

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Serrano, J.; SanMillan, J.; Santiago, R.

1996-01-01

INTA is currently developing a two-degree-of-freedom antenna pointing mechanism (APM) as part of the ESA ENVISAT POLAR PLATFORM (PPF) program. This mechanism will drive a Ka-band antenna within the Data-Relay Satellite System (DRS) on board the Polar Platform satellite. The first mission using PPF is ENVISAT, which is expected to be flown in 1998. This paper describes the main requirements, design, and test results of this pointing system, as well as the main technical problems from customer requirements and how those have been faced to achieve a final design.

GARLIC, A SHIELDING PROGRAM FOR GAMMA RADIATION FROM LINE- AND CYLINDER- SOURCES

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

Roos, M.

1959-06-01

GARLlC is a program for computing the gamma ray flux or dose rate at a shielded isotropic point detector, due to a line source or the line equivalent of a cylindrical source. The source strength distribution along the line must be either uniform or an arbitrary part of the positive half-cycle of a cosine function The line source can be orierted arbitrarily with respect to the main shield and the detector, except that the detector must not be located on the line source or on its extensionThe main source is a homogeneous plane slab in which scattered radiation is accountedmore » for by multiplying each point element of the line source by a point source buildup factor inside the integral over the point elements. Between the main shield and the line source additional shields can be introduced, which are either plane slabs, parallel to the main shield, or cylindrical rings, coaxial with the line source. Scattered radiation in the additional shields can only be accounted for by constant build-up factors outside the integral. GARLlC-xyz is an extended version particularly suited for the frequently met problem of shielding a room containing a large number of line sources in diHerent positions. The program computes the angles and linear dimensions of a problem for GARLIC when the positions of the detector point and the end points of the line source are given as points in an arbitrary rectangular coordinate system. As an example the isodose curves in water are presented for a monoenergetic cosine-distributed line source at several source energies and for an operating fuel element of the Swedish reactor R3, (auth)« less

The Effects of Message Summaries on the Immediate Free Recall of Main Points.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Shellen, Wesley N.

This study was designed to test the effects of message summaries on the recall of main points of an informative message. Two different types of summary techniques, a mnemonic and a traditional type, were identified and compared with each other and with a third treatment involving no summaries. One hundred and eleven volunteer subjects were…

Mind the gap in SEA: An institutional perspective on why assessment of synergies amongst climate change mitigation, adaptation and other policy areas are missing

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

Vammen Larsen, Sanne, E-mail: sannevl@plan.aau.dk; Kornov, Lone, E-mail: lonek@plan.aau.dk; Wejs, Anja, E-mail: wejs@plan.aau.dk

2012-02-15

This article takes its point of departure in two approaches to integrating climate change into Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA): Mitigation and adaptation, and in the fact that these, as well as the synergies between them and other policy areas, are needed as part of an integrated assessment and policy response. First, the article makes a review of how positive and negative synergies between a) climate change mitigation and adaptation and b) climate change and other environmental concerns are integrated into Danish SEA practice. Then, the article discusses the implications of not addressing synergies. Finally, the article explores institutional explanations asmore » to why synergies are not addressed in SEA practice. A document analysis of 149 Danish SEA reports shows that only one report comprises the assessment of synergies between mitigation and adaptation, whilst 9,4% of the reports assess the synergies between climate change and other environmental concerns. The consequences of separation are both the risk of trade-offs and missed opportunities for enhancing positive synergies. In order to propose explanations for the lacking integration, the institutional background is analysed and discussed, mainly based on Scott's theory of institutions. The institutional analysis highlights a regulatory element, since the assessment of climate change synergies is underpinned by legislation, but not by guidance. This means that great focus is on normative elements such as the local interpretation of legislation and of climate change mitigation and adaptation. The analysis also focuses on how the fragmentation of the organisation in which climate change and SEA are embedded has bearings on both normative and cultural-cognitive elements. This makes the assessment of synergies challenging. The evidence gathered and presented in the article points to a need for developing the SEA process and methodology in Denmark with the aim to include climate change in the assessments in a more systematic and integrated manner. - Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Synergies between climate change mitigation, adaptation and other environmental concerns are not addressed in Danish SEA. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Institutional explanations relate to organisational set-ups and understandings of climate change as a new planning issue. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The paper points to a need for developing SEA to include climate change in a more systematic and integrated manner.« less

Required transition from research to clinical application: Report on the 4D treatment planning workshops 2014 and 2015.

PubMed

Knopf, Antje-Christin; Stützer, Kristin; Richter, Christian; Rucinski, Antoni; da Silva, Joakim; Phillips, Justin; Engelsman, Martijn; Shimizu, Shinichi; Werner, Rene; Jakobi, Annika; Göksel, Orçun; Zhang, Ye; Oshea, Tuathan; Fast, Martin; Perrin, Rosalind; Bert, Christoph; Rinaldi, Ilaria; Korevaar, EriK; McClelland, Jamie

2016-07-01

Since 2009, a 4D treatment planning workshop has taken place annually, gathering researchers working on the treatment of moving targets, mainly with scanned ion beams. Topics discussed during the workshops range from problems of time resolved imaging, the challenges of motion modelling, the implementation of 4D capabilities for treatment planning, up to different aspects related to 4D dosimetry and treatment verification. This report gives an overview on topics discussed at the 4D workshops in 2014 and 2015. It summarizes recent findings, developments and challenges in the field and discusses the relevant literature of the recent years. The report is structured in three parts pointing out developments in the context of understanding moving geometries, of treating moving targets and of 4D quality assurance (QA) and 4D dosimetry. The community represented at the 4D workshops agrees that research in the context of treating moving targets with scanned ion beams faces a crucial phase of clinical translation. In the coming years it will be important to define standards for motion monitoring, to establish 4D treatment planning guidelines and to develop 4D QA tools. These basic requirements for the clinical application of scanned ion beams to moving targets could e.g. be determined by a dedicated ESTRO task group. Besides reviewing recent research results and pointing out urgent needs when treating moving targets with scanned ion beams, the report also gives an outlook on the upcoming 4D workshop organized at the University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG) in the Netherlands at the end of 2016. Copyright © 2016 Associazione Italiana di Fisica Medica. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Drusus sharrensis sp. n. (Trichoptera, Limnephilidae), a new species from Sharr National Park in Kosovo, with molecular and ecological notes

PubMed Central

Ibrahimi, Halil; Vitecek, Simon; Previšić, Ana; Kučinić, Mladen; Johann Waringer; Graf, Wolfram; Balint, Miklós; Keresztes, Lujza; Pauls, Steffen U.

2016-01-01

Abstract In this paper we describe Drusus sharrensis sp. n., from the Sharr Mountains in Kosovo. Males of the new species are morphologically most similar to Drusus krusniki Malicky, 1981, Drusus kerek Oláh, 2011 and Drusus juliae Oláh, 2011 but differ mainly in exhibiting (1) a differently shaped spinose area on tergite VIII; (2) intermediate appendages anteriorly curved in lateral view with broad tips in dorsal view; (3) inferior appendages with a distinct dorsal protrusion in the proximal half. Females of the new species are morphologically most similar to Drusus krusniki, Drusus kerek, Drusus juliae, and Drusus plicatus Radovanovic, 1942 but mainly differ in (1) segment X that is longer than the supragenital plate with distinctly pointed tips; (2) supragenital plate quadrangular with a distinct round dorsal protrusion; (3) a vulvar scale with a small median lobe. Results of phylogenetic species delimitation support monophyly of Drusus sharrensis sp. n. and recover it as sister to a clade comprising (Drusus pelasgus Oláh, 2010 + Drusus juliae + Drusus arbanios Oláh, 2010 + Drusus plicatus + (Drusus dacothracus Oláh, 2010 + Drusus illyricus Oláh, 2010)). The new species is a micro-endemic of the Sharr Mountains, a main biodiversity hotspot in the Balkan Peninsula. Main threats to the aquatic ecosystems of this part of the Balkan Peninsula are discussed. PMID:27006607

Relational event models for longitudinal network data with an application to interhospital patient transfers.

PubMed

Vu, Duy; Lomi, Alessandro; Mascia, Daniele; Pallotti, Francesca

2017-06-30

The main objective of this paper is to introduce and illustrate relational event models, a new class of statistical models for the analysis of time-stamped data with complex temporal and relational dependencies. We outline the main differences between recently proposed relational event models and more conventional network models based on the graph-theoretic formalism typically adopted in empirical studies of social networks. Our main contribution involves the definition and implementation of a marked point process extension of currently available models. According to this approach, the sequence of events of interest is decomposed into two components: (a) event time and (b) event destination. This decomposition transforms the problem of selection of event destination in relational event models into a conditional multinomial logistic regression problem. The main advantages of this formulation are the possibility of controlling for the effect of event-specific data and a significant reduction in the estimation time of currently available relational event models. We demonstrate the empirical value of the model in an analysis of interhospital patient transfers within a regional community of health care organizations. We conclude with a discussion of how the models we presented help to overcome some the limitations of statistical models for networks that are currently available. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Dynamic topology and flux rope evolution during non-linear tearing of 3D null point current sheets

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

Wyper, P. F., E-mail: peterw@maths.dundee.ac.uk; Pontin, D. I., E-mail: dpontin@maths.dundee.ac.uk

2014-10-15

In this work, the dynamic magnetic field within a tearing-unstable three-dimensional current sheet about a magnetic null point is described in detail. We focus on the evolution of the magnetic null points and flux ropes that are formed during the tearing process. Generally, we find that both magnetic structures are created prolifically within the layer and are non-trivially related. We examine how nulls are created and annihilated during bifurcation processes, and describe how they evolve within the current layer. The type of null bifurcation first observed is associated with the formation of pairs of flux ropes within the current layer.more » We also find that new nulls form within these flux ropes, both following internal reconnection and as adjacent flux ropes interact. The flux ropes exhibit a complex evolution, driven by a combination of ideal kinking and their interaction with the outflow jets from the main layer. The finite size of the unstable layer also allows us to consider the wider effects of flux rope generation. We find that the unstable current layer acts as a source of torsional magnetohydrodynamic waves and dynamic braiding of magnetic fields. The implications of these results to several areas of heliophysics are discussed.« less

Thermal analysis in the rat glioma model during directly multipoint injection hyperthermia incorporating magnetic nanoparticles.

PubMed

Liu, Lianke; Ni, Fang; Zhang, Jianchao; Wang, Chunyu; Lu, Xiang; Guo, Zhirui; Yao, Shaowei; Shu, Yongqian; Xu, Ruizhi

2011-12-01

Hyperthermia incorporating magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) is a hopeful therapy to cancers and steps into clinical tests at present. However, the clinical plan of MNPs deposition in tumors, especially applied for directly multipoint injection hyperthermia (DMIH), and the information of temperature rise in tumors by DMIH is lack of studied. In this paper, we mainly discussed thermal distributions induced by MNPs in the rat brain tumors during DMIH. Due to limited experimental measurement for detecting thermal dose of tumors, and in order to acquire optimized results of temperature distributions clinically needed, we designed the thermal model in which three types of MNPs injection for hyperthermia treatments were simulated. The simulated results showed that MNPs injection plan played an important role in determining thermal distribution, as well as the overall dose of MNPs injected. We found that as injected points enhanced, the difference of temperature in the whole tumor volume decreased. Moreover, from temperature detecting data by Fiber Optic Temperature Sensors (FOTSs) in glioma bearing rats during MNPs hyperthermia, we found the temperature errors by FOTSs reduced as the number of points injected enhanced. Finally, the results showed that the simulations are preferable and the optimized plans of the numbers and spatial positions of MNPs points injected are essential during direct injection hyperthermia.

The development of hydrogen sensor technology at NASA Lewis Research Center

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hunter, Gary W.; Neudeck, Philip G.; Jefferson, G. D.; Madzsar, G. C.; Liu, C. C.; Wu, Q. H.

1993-01-01

The detection of hydrogen leaks in aerospace applications, especially those involving hydrogen fuel propulsion systems, is of extreme importance for reasons of reliability, safety, and economy. Motivated by leaks occurring in liquid hydrogen lines supplying the main engine of the Space Shuttle, NASA Lewis has initiated a program to develop point-contact hydrogen sensors which address the needs of aerospace applications. Several different approaches are being explored. They include the fabrication of PdAg Schottky diode structures, the characterization of PdCr as a hydrogen sensitive alloy, and the use of SiC as a semiconductor for hydrogen sensors. This paper discusses the motivation behind and present status of each of the major components of the NASA LeRC hydrogen sensor program.

Infrared observations of the dust coma

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Campins, Humberto C.; Tokunaga, Alan T.

1988-01-01

The main infrared observational results were briefly reviewed at the start of this session. The new results are summarized. All of these results have yet to be synthesized into a self-consistent picture of the dust grain composition, dust production history, outburst mechanisms, and composition of the nucleus. The workshop discussion was helpful in pointing out problems faced by theorists, such as data quality, the lack of the proper theory for computing the scattering and emission of irregular particles, and in some cases the lack of optical constants of realistic materials. It is expected that the gross spectral and dynamical properties of Halley's Comet can be understood in time, even if the details of the observations and the theoretical calculations continue to vex us in the future.

Dynamics of large-diameter water pipes in hydroelectric power plants

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pavić, G.; Chevillotte, F.; Heraud, J.

2017-04-01

An outline is made of physical behaviour of water - filled large pipes. The fluid-wall coupling, the key factor governing the pipe dynamics, is discussed in some detail. Different circumferential pipe modes and the associated cut-on frequencies are addressed from a theoretical as well as practical point of view. Major attention is paid to the breathing mode in view of its importance regarding main dynamic phenomena, such as water hammer. Selected measurement results done at EDF are presented to demonstrate how an external, non-intrusive sensor can detect pressure pulsations of the breathing mode in a pressure pipe. Differences in the pressure measurement using intrusive and non-intrusive sensors reveal the full complexity of large-diameter pipe dynamics.

[Design and implementation of the ELSA-Brasil biobank: a prospective study in a Brazilian population].

PubMed

Pereira, Alexandre C; Bensenor, Isabela M; Fedeli, Ligia M; Castilhos, Cristina; Vidigal, Pedro G; Maniero, Viviane; Leite, Claudia M; Pimentel, Robercia A; Duncan, Bruce B; Mill, Jose Geraldo; Lotufo, Paulo A

2013-06-01

The Brazilian Longitudinal Study for Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil) is a multicenter prospective cohort of civil servants designed to assess the determinants of chronic diseases, especially cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes. The present article describes the main design and implementation points of the ELSA-Brasil biobank project. Economic, political, logistical and technological aspects of this study are characterized. Additionally, it discusses the final biorepository protocol and the facilities implemented to achieve this objective. The design and implementation process of the ELSA-Brasil biobank took three years to be performed. Both the central and local biobanks were built according to the best biorepository techniques, using different technological solutions for the distinct needs expected in this study.

Magnetization of Paraffin-Based Magnetic Nanocolloids

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dikanskii, Yu. I.; Ispiryan, A. G.; Kunikin, S. A.; Radionov, A. V.

2018-01-01

Using paraffin-based magnetic nanocolloids as an example, the reasons for maxima in the temperature dependence of the magnetic susceptibility of magnetic colloids have been discussed. The behavior of these dependences in a wide temperature interval has been analyzed for colloids in solid and liquid states. It has been concluded that the maximum observed at the melting point of paraffin can be attributed to freezing Brownian degrees of freedom in magnetite coarse particles, the magnetic moment of which is intimately related to the solid matrix. The second main maximum, which arises in the solid state, is explained by the superparamagnetic-magnetically hard transition of most fine particles at lower temperatures. It has been noted that the flatness of this maximum results from the polydispersity of the magnetic nanoparticle ensemble.

Glycerol Production and Transformation: A Critical Review with Particular Emphasis on Glycerol Reforming Reaction for Producing Hydrogen in Conventional and Membrane Reactors.

PubMed

Bagnato, Giuseppe; Iulianelli, Adolfo; Sanna, Aimaro; Basile, Angelo

2017-03-23

Glycerol represents an emerging renewable bio-derived feedstock, which could be used as a source for producing hydrogen through steam reforming reaction. In this review, the state-of-the-art about glycerol production processes is reviewed, with particular focus on glycerol reforming reactions and on the main catalysts under development. Furthermore, the use of membrane catalytic reactors instead of conventional reactors for steam reforming is discussed. Finally, the review describes the utilization of the Pd-based membrane reactor technology, pointing out the ability of these alternative fuel processors to simultaneously extract high purity hydrogen and enhance the whole performances of the reaction system in terms of glycerol conversion and hydrogen yield.

[Problems of food authenticity].

PubMed

Czerwiecki, Ludwik

2004-01-01

In this review the several data concerning food authenticity were presented. Typical examples of food adulteration were described. The most known are adulteration of vegetable and fruit products, adulteration of wine, honeys, olive oil etc. The modern analytical techniques for detection of food adulteration were discussed. Among physicochemical methods isotopic techniques (SCIRA, IRMS, SNIF-NMR) were cited. The main spectral methods are: IACPAES, PyMs, FTIR, NIR. The chromatographic techniques (GC, HPLC, HPAEC, HPTLC) with several kinds of detectors were described and the ELISA and PCR techniques are mentioned, too. The role of chemometrics as a way of several analytical data processing was highlighted. It was pointed out at the necessity of more rigorous control of food to support of all activity in area of fight with fraud in food industry.

[Controversial Issues in Economic Evaluation (III): health Care Interventions in Special Situations].

PubMed

Espín Balbino, Jaime; Brosa Riestra, Max; Oliva Moreno, Juan; Trapero-Bertran, Marta

2015-01-01

The development of the economic evaluation of health care interventions has become a support tool in making decisions on pricing and reimbursement of new health interventions. The increasingly extensive application of these techniques has led to the identification of particular situations in which, for various reasons, it may be reasonable to take into account special considerations when applying the general principles of economic evaluation. In this article, which closes a series of three, we will discuss, using the Metaplan technique, about the economic evaluation of health interventions in special situations such as rare diseases and end of life treatments, as well as consideration of externalities in assessments, finally pointing out some research areas to solve the main problems identified in these fields.

Measurement Marker Recognition In A Time Sequence Of Infrared Images For Biomedical Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fiorini, A. R.; Fumero, R.; Marchesi, R.

1986-03-01

In thermographic measurements, quantitative surface temperature evaluation is often uncertain. The main reason is in the lack of available reference points in transient conditions. Reflective markers were used for automatic marker recognition and pixel coordinate computations. An algorithm selects marker icons to match marker references where particular luminance conditions are satisfied. Automatic marker recognition allows luminance compensation and temperature calibration of recorded infrared images. A biomedical application is presented: the dynamic behaviour of the surface temperature distributions is investigated in order to study the performance of two different pumping systems for extracorporeal circulation. Sequences of images are compared and results are discussed. Finally, the algorithm allows to monitor the experimental environment and to alert for the presence of unusual experimental conditions.

Comment on 'Semitransparency effects in the moving mirror model for Hawking radiation'

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

Elizalde, Emilio; Haro, Jaume

2010-06-15

Particle production by a semitransparent mirror accelerating on trajectories which simulate the Hawking effect was recently discussed in 3. This author points out that some results in 1 are incorrect. We show here that, contrary to statements therein, the main results and conclusions of the last paper remain valid, only Eq. (41) there and some particular implication are not. The misunderstanding actually comes from comparing two very different parameter regions, and from the fact that, in our work, the word statistics was used in an unusual way related to the sign of the {beta}-Bogoliubov coefficient, and not with its ordinarymore » meaning, connected with the number of particles emitted per mode.« less

The interaction of MnH(X 7Σ+) with He: Ab initio potential energy surface and bound states

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Turpin, Florence; Halvick, Philippe; Stoecklin, Thierry

2010-06-01

The potential energy surface of the ground state of the He-MnH(X Σ7+) van der Waals complex is presented. Within the supermolecular approach of intermolecular energy calculations, a grid of ab initio points was computed at the multireference configuration interaction level using the aug-cc-pVQZ basis set for helium and hydrogen and the relativistic aug-cc-pVQZ-DK basis set for manganese. The potential energy surface was then fitted to a global analytical form which main features are discussed. As a first application of this potential energy surface, we present accurate calculations of bound energy levels of the H3e-MnH and H4e-MnH complexes.

The interaction of MnH(X 7Sigma+) with He: ab initio potential energy surface and bound states.

PubMed

Turpin, Florence; Halvick, Philippe; Stoecklin, Thierry

2010-06-07

The potential energy surface of the ground state of the He-MnH(X (7)Sigma(+)) van der Waals complex is presented. Within the supermolecular approach of intermolecular energy calculations, a grid of ab initio points was computed at the multireference configuration interaction level using the aug-cc-pVQZ basis set for helium and hydrogen and the relativistic aug-cc-pVQZ-DK basis set for manganese. The potential energy surface was then fitted to a global analytical form which main features are discussed. As a first application of this potential energy surface, we present accurate calculations of bound energy levels of the (3)He-MnH and (4)He-MnH complexes.

Adverse effects of antioxidative vitamins.

PubMed

Rutkowski, Maciej; Grzegorczyk, Krzysztof

2012-06-01

High doses of synthetic antioxidative vitamins: A, E, C and β-carotene are often used on long-term basis in numerous preventive and therapeutic medical applications. Instead of expected health effects, the use of those vitamins may however lead to cases of hypervitaminosis and even to intoxication. The article points out main principles of safety which are to be observed during supplementation with antioxidative vitamins. Toxic effects resulting from erroneous administration of high doses of those substances on organs and systems of the organism are also discussed. Attention is drawn to interactions of antioxidative vitamins with concomitantly used drugs, as well as intensification of adverse effects caused by various exogenous chemical factors. Moreover, the article presents the evaluation of supplementation with these vitamins, which was performed in large studies.

Content-Based Medical Image Retrieval

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Müller, Henning; Deserno, Thomas M.

This chapter details the necessity for alternative access concepts to the currently mainly text-based methods in medical information retrieval. This need is partly due to the large amount of visual data produced, the increasing variety of medical imaging data and changing user patterns. The stored visual data contain large amounts of unused information that, if well exploited, can help diagnosis, teaching and research. The chapter briefly reviews the history of image retrieval and its general methods before technologies that have been developed in the medical domain are focussed. We also discuss evaluation of medical content-based image retrieval (CBIR) systems and conclude with pointing out their strengths, gaps, and further developments. As examples, the MedGIFT project and the Image Retrieval in Medical Applications (IRMA) framework are presented.

Glycerol Production and Transformation: A Critical Review with Particular Emphasis on Glycerol Reforming Reaction for Producing Hydrogen in Conventional and Membrane Reactors

PubMed Central

Bagnato, Giuseppe; Iulianelli, Adolfo; Sanna, Aimaro; Basile, Angelo

2017-01-01

Glycerol represents an emerging renewable bio-derived feedstock, which could be used as a source for producing hydrogen through steam reforming reaction. In this review, the state-of-the-art about glycerol production processes is reviewed, with particular focus on glycerol reforming reactions and on the main catalysts under development. Furthermore, the use of membrane catalytic reactors instead of conventional reactors for steam reforming is discussed. Finally, the review describes the utilization of the Pd-based membrane reactor technology, pointing out the ability of these alternative fuel processors to simultaneously extract high purity hydrogen and enhance the whole performances of the reaction system in terms of glycerol conversion and hydrogen yield. PMID:28333121

High-resolution nuclear magnetic resonance studies of proteins.

PubMed

Jonas, Jiri

2002-03-25

The combination of advanced high-resolution nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) techniques with high-pressure capability represents a powerful experimental tool in studies of protein folding. This review is organized as follows: after a general introduction of high-pressure, high-resolution NMR spectroscopy of proteins, the experimental part deals with instrumentation. The main section of the review is devoted to NMR studies of reversible pressure unfolding of proteins with special emphasis on pressure-assisted cold denaturation and the detection of folding intermediates. Recent studies investigating local perturbations in proteins and the experiments following the effects of point mutations on pressure stability of proteins are also discussed. Ribonuclease A, lysozyme, ubiquitin, apomyoglobin, alpha-lactalbumin and troponin C were the model proteins investigated.

Quaternions, Torsion and the Physical Vacuum: Theories of M. Sachs and G. Shipov Compared

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cyganski, David; Page, William S.

Of several developments of unified field theories in the spirit of Einstein's original objective of a fully geometric description of all classical fields as well as quantum mechanics, two are particularly noteworthy. The works of Mendel Sachs and Gennady Shipov stand apart as major life works comprising tens of papers, several monographs and decades of effort. Direct comparison of these theories is hampered however by differences in notation and conceptual view-point. Despite these differences, there are many parallels between the fundamental mathematical structures appearing in each. In this paper we discuss the main tenets of the two approaches and demonstrate that they both give rise to a factorization of the invariant interval of general relativity.

Gas-chromatography and UV-spectroscopy of Hymenoptera venoms obtained by trivial centrifugation.

PubMed

Fox, Eduardo G P; Xu, Meng; Wang, Lei; Chen, Li; Lu, Yong-Yue

2018-06-01

This paper summarises gas-chromatography (GC-MS) and preliminary UV-spectroscopy analyses data of fresh, unmodified venom of aculeate hymenopterans (ants, bees, wasps), mainly focusing on red imported fire ants. No solvents nor fractionation were used at any point, which is a novel approach to describing integral toxins cocktails as proposed by Fox et al. (2018a) [1] 10.1016/j.toxicon.2018.02.050 where these results are discussed in deeper details. Herein we focus on further characterising the obtained venom extracted through a novel approach. Pertaining raw data is accessible from Fox et al. (2018b) [2] 10.17632/cpnscw2gkc.1 including further relevant information regarding the used insects, machinery settings, chemical standards.

Stationary equatorial MHD flows in general relativity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Daigne, F.; Drenkhahn, G.

2002-01-01

We derive a new formulation of the fully general relativistic equations describing a stationary equatorial MHD outflow from a rotating central object. The wind solution appears as a level contour of a ``Bernoulli'' function fixed by the requirements that it must pass through the slow and fast critical points. This approach is the general relativistic extension to the classical treatment of Sakurai (\\cite{sakurai:85}). We discuss in details how the efficiency of the magnetic to kinetic energy conversion depends mainly on the geometry of the flux tubes and show that the magnetic acceleration can work very well under some conditions. We show how this tool can be used for the study of several astrophysical phenomena, among which gamma-ray bursts.

New V and V Tools for Diagnostic Modeling Environment (DME)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pecheur, Charles; Nelson, Stacy; Merriam, Marshall (Technical Monitor)

2002-01-01

The purpose of this report is to provide correctness and reliability criteria for verification and validation (V&V) of Second Generation Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) Diagnostic Modeling Environment, describe current NASA Ames Research Center tools for V&V of Model Based Reasoning systems, and discuss the applicability of Advanced V&V to DME. This report is divided into the following three sections: (1) correctness and reliability criteria; (2) tools for V&V of Model Based Reasoning; and (3) advanced V&V applicable to DME. The Executive Summary includes an overview of the main points from each section. Supporting details, diagrams, figures, and other information are included in subsequent sections. A glossary, acronym list, appendices, and references are included at the end of this report.

Research on Formation Mechanism of Dynamic Response and Residual Stress of Sheet Metal Induced by Laser Shock Wave

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Feng, Aixin; Cao, Yupeng; Wang, Heng; Zhang, Zhengang

2018-01-01

In order to reveal the quantitative control of the residual stress on the surface of metal materials, the relevant theoretical and experimental studies were carried out to investigate the dynamic response of metal thin plates and the formation mechanism of residual stress induced by laser shock wave. In this paper, the latest research trends on the surface residual stress of laser shock processing technology were elaborated. The main progress of laser shock wave propagation mechanism and dynamic response, laser shock, and surface residual stress were discussed. It is pointed out that the multi-scale characterization of laser and material, surface residual stress and microstructure change is a new hotspot in laser shock strengthening technology.

Involvement of Hormone- and ROS-Signaling Pathways in the Beneficial Action of Humic Substances on Plants Growing under Normal and Stressing Conditions

PubMed Central

García, Andrés Calderín; Olaetxea, Maite; Santos, Leandro Azevedo; Mora, Verónica; Baigorri, Roberto; Fuentes, Marta; Zamarreño, Angel Maria; Berbara, Ricardo Luis Louro; Garcia-Mina, José María

2016-01-01

The importance of soil humus in soil fertility has been well established many years ago. However, the knowledge about the whole mechanisms by which humic molecules in the rhizosphere improve plant growth remains partial and rather fragmentary. In this review we discuss the relationships between two main signaling pathway families that are affected by humic substances within the plant: one directly related to hormonal action and the other related to reactive oxygen species (ROS). In this sense, our aims are to try the integration of all these events in a more comprehensive model and underline some points in the model that remain unclear and deserve further research. PMID:27366744

Admission and Preventive Load Control for Delivery of Multicast and Broadcast Services via S-UMTS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Angelou, E.; Koutsokeras, N.; Andrikopoulos, I.; Mertzanis, I.; Karaliopoulos, M.; Henrio, P.

2003-07-01

An Admission Control strategy is proposed for unidirectional satellite systems delivering multicast and broadcast services to mobile users. In such systems, both the radio interface and the targeted services impose particular requirements on the RRM task. We briefly discuss the RRM requirements that stem from the services point of view and from the features of the SATIN access scheme that differentiate it from the conventional T-UMTS radio interface. The main functional entities of RRM and the alternative modes of operation are outlined and the proposed Admission Control algorithm is described in detail. The results from the simulation study that demonstrate its performance for a number of different scenarios are finally presented and conclusions derived.

Biosafety considerations for attenuated measles virus vectors used in virotherapy and vaccination.

PubMed

Baldo, Aline; Galanis, Evanthia; Tangy, Frédéric; Herman, Philippe

2016-05-03

Attenuated measles virus (MV) is one of the most effective and safe vaccines available, making it attractive candidate vector to prevent infectious diseases. Attenuated MV have acquired the ability to use the complement regulator CD46 as a major receptor to mediate virus entry and intercellular fusion. Therefore, attenuated MV strains preferentially infect and destroy a wide variety of cancer cells making them also attractive oncolytic vectors. The use of recombinant MV vector has to comply with various regulatory requirements, particularly relating to the assessment of potential risks for human health and the environment. The present article highlights the main characteristics of MV and recombinant MV vectors used for vaccination and virotherapy and discusses these features from a biosafety point of view.

Frontier Research in Astrophysics - II

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

2016-05-01

The purpose of this international workshop is to bring together astrophysicists and physicists who are involved in various topics at the forefront of modern astrophysics and particle physics. The workshop will discuss the most recent experimental and theoretical results in order to advance our understanding of the physics governing our Universe. To accomplish the goals of the workshop, we believe it is necessary to use data from ground-based and space-based experiments and results from theoretical developments: work on the forefront of science which has resulted (or promises to result in) high-impact scientific papers. Hence, the main purpose of the workshop is to discuss in a unique and collaborative setting a broad range of topics in modern astrophysics, from the Big Bang to Planets and Exoplanets. We believe that this can provide a suitable framework for each participant who (while obviously not involved in all the topics discussed), will be able to acquire a general view of the main experimental and theoretical results currently obtained. Such an up-to-date view of the current research on cosmic sources can help guide future research projects by the participants, and will encourage collaborative efforts across various topical areas of research. The proceedings will be published in Proceedings of Science (PoS)- SISSA and will provide a powerful resource for all the scientific community and will be especially helpful for PhD students. The following items will be reviewed: Cosmology: Cosmic Background, Dark Matter, Dark Energy, Clusters of Galaxies. Physics of the Diffuse Cosmic Sources. Physics of Cosmic Rays. Physics of Discrete Cosmic Sources. Extragalactic Sources: Active Galaxies, Normal Galaxies, Gamma-Ray Bursts. Galactic Sources: Star Formation, Pre-Main-Sequence and Main- Sequence Stars, the Sun, Cataclysmic Variables and Novae, Supernovae and SNRs, X-Ray Binary Systems, Pulsars, Black Holes, Gamma-Ray Sources, Nucleosynthesis, Asteroseismology. Planetology: Solar System, Sun-like Stars, Exoplanets. Science from large area multiwavelength surveys and deep-exposure pointings. Future Physics and Astrophysics: Ongoing and Planned Ground- and Space-based Experiments. The workshop will include a few 35-minute general review talks to introduce the current problems, and 20-minute talks to discuss new experimental and theoretical results. A series of 15-minute talks will discuss the ongoing and planned ground- based and space-based experiments. There will also be some general talks about the future directions of scientific research on cosmic sources. The papers will pass a peer-review process and the workshop proceedings will be edited by Franco Giovannelli & Lola Sabau-Graziati. The location of the workshop is the Splendid Hotel La Torre, located in Mondello beach in Palermo, Italy, a venue that will provide a friendly and collaborative atmosphere.

A quasi-Newton algorithm for large-scale nonlinear equations.

PubMed

Huang, Linghua

2017-01-01

In this paper, the algorithm for large-scale nonlinear equations is designed by the following steps: (i) a conjugate gradient (CG) algorithm is designed as a sub-algorithm to obtain the initial points of the main algorithm, where the sub-algorithm's initial point does not have any restrictions; (ii) a quasi-Newton algorithm with the initial points given by sub-algorithm is defined as main algorithm, where a new nonmonotone line search technique is presented to get the step length [Formula: see text]. The given nonmonotone line search technique can avoid computing the Jacobian matrix. The global convergence and the [Formula: see text]-order convergent rate of the main algorithm are established under suitable conditions. Numerical results show that the proposed method is competitive with a similar method for large-scale problems.

Barriers to Point-of-Care Testing in India: Results from Qualitative Research across Different Settings, Users and Major Diseases

PubMed Central

Engel, Nora; Ganesh, Gayatri; Patil, Mamata; Yellappa, Vijayashree; Pant Pai, Nitika; Vadnais, Caroline; Pai, Madhukar

2015-01-01

Background Successful point-of-care testing, namely ensuring the completion of the test and treat cycle in the same encounter, has immense potential to reduce diagnostic and treatment delays, and impact patient outcomes. However, having rapid tests is not enough, as many barriers may prevent their successful implementation in point-of-care testing programs. Qualitative research on diagnostic practices may help identify such barriers across different points of care in health systems. Methods In this exploratory qualitative study, we conducted 78 semi-structured interviews and 13 focus group discussions in an urban and rural area of Karnataka, India, with healthcare providers (doctors, nurses, specialists, traditional healers, and informal providers), patients, community health workers, test manufacturers, laboratory technicians, program managers and policy-makers. Participants were purposively sampled to represent settings of hospitals, peripheral labs, clinics, communities and homes, in both the public and private sectors. Results In the Indian context, the onus is on the patient to ensure successful point-of-care testing across homes, clinics, labs and hospitals, amidst uncoordinated providers with divergent and often competing practices, in settings lacking material, money and human resources. We identified three overarching themes affecting point-of-care testing: the main theme is ‘relationships’ among providers and between providers and patients, influenced by the cross-cutting theme of ‘infrastructure’. Challenges with both result in ‘modified practices’ often favouring empirical (symptomatic) treatment over treatment guided by testing. Conclusions Even if tests can be conducted on the spot and infrastructure challenges have been resolved, relationships among providers and between patients and providers are crucial for successful point-of-care testing. Furthermore, these barriers do not act in isolation, but are interlinked and need to be examined as such. Also, a test alone has only limited power to overcome those difficulties. Test developers, policy-makers, healthcare providers and funders need to use these insights in overcoming barriers to point-of-care testing programs. PMID:26275231

Consideration of climate change impacts and adaptation in EIA practice — Perspectives of actors in Austria and Germany

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

Jiricka, Alexandra, E-mail: alexandra.jiricka@boku.ac.at; Department of Landscape, Spatial and Infrastructure Sciences, Institute for Landscape Development, Recreation and Conservation Planning, Peter-Jordan-Straße 82, 1190 Vienna; Formayer, Herbert

Current political discussions and developments indicate the importance and urgency of incorporating climate change considerations into EIA processes. The recent revision of the EU Directive 2014/52/EU on Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) requires changes in the EIA practice of the EU member states. This paper investigates the extent to which the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) can contribute to an early consideration of climate change consequences in planning processes. In particular the roles of different actors in order to incorporate climate change impacts and adaptation into project planning subject to EIA at the appropriate levels are a core topic. Semi-structured expert interviewsmore » were carried out with representatives of the main infrastructure companies and institutions responsible in these sectors in Austria, which have to carry out EIA regularly. In a second step expert interviews were conducted with EIA assessors and EIA authorities in Austria and Germany, in order to examine the extent to which climate-based changes are already considered in EIA processes. This paper aims to discuss the different perspectives in the current EIA practice with regard to integrating climate change impacts as well as barriers and solutions identified by the groups of actors involved, namely project developers, environmental competent authorities and consultants (EIA assessors/practitioners). The interviews show that different groups of actors consider the topic to different degrees. Downscaling of climate change scenarios is in this context both, a critical issue with regards to availability of data and costs. Furthermore, assistance for the interpretation of relevant impacts, to be deducted from climate change scenarios, on the specific environmental issues in the area is needed. The main barriers identified by the EIA experts therefore include a lack of data as well as general uncertainty as to how far climate change should be considered in the process without reliable data but in the presence of knowledge about possible consequences at an abstract level. A joint strategy on how to cope with uncertain prognoses about main impacts on environmental issues for areas without reliable data requires a discussion and cooperation between EIA consultants and environmental authorities. - Highlights: • The consideration of climate change impacts in EIA practice in Austria and Germany was analysed through expert interviews. • Barriers as well as possible solutions were indentified by the different groups of actors involved in EIA. • The main challenges regard the investigation of specific entry points. • Limits of feasibility need to be discussed amongst the different groups of actors.« less

The Man and the Woman Are One

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

DeCrow, Karen

1974-01-01

The article discusses the laws governing the institution of marriage, and points out that these laws are not the same for females and males. Laws concerning divorce, alimony, custody of children, child support payments are discussed. The inequalities of the laws are pointed out. (Author/RM)

Gender and ergonomics: a case study on the 'non-formal' work of women nurses.

PubMed

Salerno, Silvana; Livigni, Lucilla; Magrini, Andrea; Talamanca, Irene Figà

2012-01-01

Women's work activities are often characterised by 'non-formal actions' (such as giving support). Gender differences in ergonomics may be due to this peculiarity. We applied the method of organisational congruencies (MOC) to ascertain the 'non-formal' work portion of nurses employed in three hospital units (haematology, emergency room and general medicine) during the three work shifts in a major University Hospital in Rome, Italy. We recorded a total of 802 technical actions performed by nine nurses in 72 h of work. Twenty-six percent of the actions in direct patient's care were communicative actions (mainly giving psychological support) while providing physical care. These 'double actions' are often not considered to be a formal part of the job by hospital management. In our case study, the 'non-formal' work of nurses (psychological support) is mainly represented by double actions while taking physical care of the patients. The dual task paradigm in gender oriented research is discussed in terms of its implications in prevention in occupational health. The main purpose of the study was to assess all the formal and non-formal activities of women in the nursing work setting. Offering psychological support to patients is often not considered to be a formal part of the job. Our case study found that nurses receive no explicit guidelines on this activity and no time is assigned to perform it. In measuring the burden of providing psychological support to patients, we found that this is often done while nurses are performing tasks of physical care for the patients (double actions). The article discusses the significance of non-formal psychological work load of women nurses through double actions from the ergonomic point view.

Wall shear stress fixed points in blood flow

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arzani, Amirhossein; Shadden, Shawn

2017-11-01

Patient-specific computational fluid dynamics produces large datasets, and wall shear stress (WSS) is one of the most important parameters due to its close connection with the biological processes at the wall. While some studies have investigated WSS vectorial features, the WSS fixed points have not received much attention. In this talk, we will discuss the importance of WSS fixed points from three viewpoints. First, we will review how WSS fixed points relate to the flow physics away from the wall. Second, we will discuss how certain types of WSS fixed points lead to high biochemical surface concentration in cardiovascular mass transport problems. Finally, we will introduce a new measure to track the exposure of endothelial cells to WSS fixed points.

ADHD, Lifestyles and Comorbidities: A Call for an Holistic Perspective – from Medical to Societal Intervening Factors

PubMed Central

Weissenberger, Simon; Ptacek, Radek; Klicperova-Baker, Martina; Erman, Andreja; Schonova, Katerina; Raboch, Jiri; Goetz, Michal

2017-01-01

The review examines Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD in its Child and Adult form) and its various presentations (Hyperactive Impulsive, Inattentive, and Combined) with a particular focus on environmental (incl. social factors), lifestyles and comorbidities. It is argued that ADHD is best understood in a holistic and interactive context and a vast empirical literature is presented to illustrate the point: Environmental factors include stress in general as well as exposure to toxins (phthalates, bisphenol A). Social factors are illustrated by effects of social deprivation and seduction to unhealthy lifestyles. Maternal lifestyle during pregnancy is pointed out (particularly her exposure to nicotine, alcohol, caffeine, and drugs, even seemingly benign medications like acetaminophen), which all tend to be related to ADHD. Family environment is discussed with respect to protective effect of (mainly authoritative and autocratic) parenting styles. Societal factors include mainly economic and political issues: income inequality and poverty (low SES is an ADHD risk factor) and a growing moral dilemma between a humanistic effort to globally spread the knowledge of ADHD and the medicalization and commercialization of the disorder. The second part of the review is devoted to ADHD related lifestyles and resulting comorbidities (e.g., food addiction and obesity, substance abuse, electronic media dependencies and conduct and personality disorders). Although ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder, its assessment and treatment are also linked to environmental, behavioral and social factors and their interactions. PMID:28428763

Orion Guidance and Control Ascent Abort Algorithm Design and Performance Results

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Proud, Ryan W.; Bendle, John R.; Tedesco, Mark B.; Hart, Jeremy J.

2009-01-01

During the ascent flight phase of NASA s Constellation Program, the Ares launch vehicle propels the Orion crew vehicle to an agreed to insertion target. If a failure occurs at any point in time during ascent then a system must be in place to abort the mission and return the crew to a safe landing with a high probability of success. To achieve continuous abort coverage one of two sets of effectors is used. Either the Launch Abort System (LAS), consisting of the Attitude Control Motor (ACM) and the Abort Motor (AM), or the Service Module (SM), consisting of SM Orion Main Engine (OME), Auxiliary (Aux) Jets, and Reaction Control System (RCS) jets, is used. The LAS effectors are used for aborts from liftoff through the first 30 seconds of second stage flight. The SM effectors are used from that point through Main Engine Cutoff (MECO). There are two distinct sets of Guidance and Control (G&C) algorithms that are designed to maximize the performance of these abort effectors. This paper will outline the necessary inputs to the G&C subsystem, the preliminary design of the G&C algorithms, the ability of the algorithms to predict what abort modes are achievable, and the resulting success of the abort system. Abort success will be measured against the Preliminary Design Review (PDR) abort performance metrics and overall performance will be reported. Finally, potential improvements to the G&C design will be discussed.

Portable microfluidic and smartphone-based devices for monitoring of cardiovascular diseases at the point of care.

PubMed

Hu, Jie; Cui, Xingye; Gong, Yan; Xu, Xiayu; Gao, Bin; Wen, Ting; Lu, Tian Jian; Xu, Feng

2016-01-01

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the main causes of morbidity and mortality in the world where about 4 in every 5 CVD deaths happen in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Most CVDs are preventable and curable, which is largely dependent on timely and effective interventions, including diagnosis, prognosis and therapeutic monitoring. However, these interventions are high-cost in high income countries and are usually lacking in LMICs. Thanks to the rapid development of microfluidics and nanotechnology, lots of portable analytical devices are developed for detection of CVDs at the point-of-care (POC). In the meantime, smartphone, as a versatile and powerful handheld tool, has been employed not only as a reader for microfluidic assays, but also as an analyzer for physiological indexes. In this review, we present a comprehensive introduction of the current status and potential development direction on POC diagnostics for CVDs. First of all, we introduce some main facts about CVDs and their standard diagnostic procedures and methods. Second, we discuss about both commercially available POC devices and developed prototypes for detection of CVDs via immunoassays. Subsequently, we report the advances in smartphone-based readout for microfluidic assays. Finally, we present some examples using smartphone, individually or combined with other components or devices, for CVD monitoring. We envision an integrated smartphone-based system capable of functioning blood tests, disease examination, and imaging will come in the future. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

"A normality for us without confinement for them": notes on the associations of families of the mentally ill.

PubMed

Giannichedda, M G

1989-01-01

Associations of families of the mentally ill arose in Italy in the early 1980s mainly in the country's northern and central regions. They denounced the inadequacies of an extramural service conceived of as an out-patient clinic filling the void left by the shutting down of asylums. The positions elaborated by these associations focus on four main themes: the distribution of the "burden of care" for the ill between services and families; the ill-conceived interpretation of the families' needs owing to the professional's alleged tendency to "point the finger of guilt" at the families themselves; the demand for greater power in regard to decisions made by the services; the interaction with the rights and liberties of the mentally ill. Two different ranges of problems are discussed. First, there is the conflict within the family between the interests and rights of its income-producing and its "dependent" members. This conflict points not to a loss but to an overload of functions shifted to the family at a time of rising expectations for the satisfaction of needs. It therefore calls for services of a new kind, i.e. services capable of making these conflicting interests and rights compatible. Second, extramural services either reject or misinterpret the asylum's labour-saving function. These services thus ascribe care for the material life of the mentally ill to the family's own resources alone.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

[New italian law about end of life: self-determination and shared care pathway.

PubMed

Ciliberti, Rosagemma; Gulino, Matteo; Gorini, Ilaria

2018-05-01

The Italian Parliament has recently approved the Law n. 219/2017 concerning "Rules on informed consent and advance directives". The manuscript points out the main key points of the new law, in order to clarify the role of the advance directives and to provide clear operational guidelines for healthcare personnel. Taking into consideration the Italian deontological and juridical context, along with the main jurisprudential judgements, the law has been analysed. The Authors discussed the new rules and the bioethical issues also in relation to the provisions stated by the Convention on Human Rights and Biomedicine (Convention of Oviedo). The new law deals with relevant issues that were confined to jurisprudential rulings so far, such as the informed consent, the withdrawal/withholding of medical treatment (including artificial nutrition and hydration), the content of medical information, including the modalities, the medical responsibility and, finally, the value of advance directives. In the Authors' opinion this law provides essential rules to expressly strengthen the patients' autonomy, eliminating the juridical uncertainty on many central issues (such us, for example, the refusal of life-sustainment treatments) that have been the subject of contradictory judgments ruled by the Italian Courts. Nevertheless, advance directives should be regarded as a dynamic tools of relationship between physicians and assisted person and, thus, as an essential integrant part of the advance care planning. The education of health professionals and citizens about end of life issues is the basis for the successful implementation of this legislation.

Conformational analysis of a polyconjugated protein-binding ligand by joint quantum chemistry and polarizable molecular mechanics. Addressing the issues of anisotropy, conjugation, polarization, and multipole transferability.

PubMed

Goldwaser, Elodie; de Courcy, Benoit; Demange, Luc; Garbay, Christiane; Raynaud, Françoise; Hadj-Slimane, Reda; Piquemal, Jean-Philip; Gresh, Nohad

2014-11-01

We investigate the conformational properties of a potent inhibitor of neuropilin-1, a protein involved in cancer processes and macular degeneration. This inhibitor consists of four aromatic/conjugated fragments: a benzimidazole, a methylbenzene, a carboxythiourea, and a benzene-linker dioxane, and these fragments are all linked together by conjugated bonds. The calculations use the SIBFA polarizable molecular mechanics procedure. Prior to docking simulations, it is essential to ensure that variations in the ligand conformational energy upon rotations around its six main-chain torsional bonds are correctly represented (as compared to high-level ab initio quantum chemistry, QC). This is done in two successive calibration stages and one validation stage. In the latter, the minima identified following independent stepwise variations of each of the six main-chain torsion angles are used as starting points for energy minimization of all the torsion angles simultaneously. Single-point QC calculations of the minimized structures are then done to compare their relative energies ΔE conf to the SIBFA ones. We compare three different methods of deriving the multipoles and polarizabilities of the central, most critical moiety of the inhibitor: carboxythiourea (CTU). The representation that gives the best agreement with QC is the one that includes the effects of the mutual polarization energy E pol between the amide and thioamide moieties. This again highlights the critical role of this contribution. The implications and perspectives of these findings are discussed.

Moving from ideas to action - developing health financing systems towards universal coverage in Africa

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background Accelerating progress towards universal coverage in African countries calls for concrete actions that reinforce social health protection through establishment of sustainable health financing mechanisms. In order to explore possible pathways for moving past the existing obstacles, panel discussions were organized on health financing bringing together Ministers of health and Ministers of finance with the objective of creating a discussion space where the different perspectives on key issues and needed actions could meet. This article presents a synthesis of panel discussions focusing on the identified challenges and the possible solutions. The overview of this paper is based on the objectives and proceedings of the panel discussions and relies on the observation and study of the interaction between the panelists and on the discourse used. Summary The discussion highlighted that a large proportion of the African population has no access to needed health services with significant reliance on direct out of pocket payments. There are multiple obstacles in making prepayment and pooling mechanisms operational. The relatively strong political commitment to health has not always translated into more public spending for health. Donor investment in health in low income countries still falls below commitments. There is need to explore innovative domestic revenue collection mechanisms. Although inadequate funding for health is a fundamental problem, inefficient use of resources is of great concern. There is need to generate robust evidence focusing on issues of importance to ministry of finance. The current unsatisfactory state of health financing was mainly attributed to lack of clear vision; evidence based plans and costed strategies. Discussion Based on the analysis of discussion made, there are points of convergence and divergence in the discourse and positions of the two ministries. The current blockage points holding back budget allocations for health can be solved with a more evidence based approach and dialogue based on a clear vision and costed strategic plan articulated by the ministry of health. Improving health in Africa is a driver for long-term economic growth and development and this is the reason why the ministries of health and finance will need to find common ground on how to create policy coherence and how to articulate their respective objectives. PMID:23137065

Experimental Aspects in Beam Characterization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sona, Alberto

2004-08-01

Beam characterization is the pre-requisite of any research exploiting light beams, especially in cases involving laser beams. One can rely on the beam parameters provided by the manufacturer but often they are inadequate and/or not sufficient for the experimental data analysis. The full characterization of a laser beam can require the determination of many parameters (about ten for a generic beam); however for symmetrical beams the significant ones can reduce to only to a few. The characterization can be performed with the accuracy requested by the application and limited to the relevant parameters. The main parameters of interest will be defined and the measurement procedures and equipment will be discussed. The ISO standards consider the following parameters mainly of interest for industrial applications: 1) Beam widths, divergence angle and beam propagation ratio. 2) Power, energy density distribution 3) Parameters for stigmatic and simple astigmatic beams 4) Parameters for general astigmatic beams 5) Geometrical laser beams classification and propagation 6) Power, energy and temporal characteristics 7) Beam positional stability 8) Beam polarization 9) Spectral characteristics 10) Shape of a laser wavefront: Phase distribution All the above points will be briefly discussed as regards the experimental problems involved. Special attention will be given to the methods for measuring the intensity distribution and to the related instrumentation to derive the Beam propagation ratio, the Beam Quality factor M2 or the Beam Parameters Product. Examples of the parameters relevance for specific applications will be given. Depending on the spectral range, specific detectors are used: CCD cameras with detector arrays in the visible and near infrared, thermocameras with a single detector and scanning system for the medium and far IR. The major problems in data collection and processing will be discussed. Another new and not yet fully investigated area is the characterization of laser beam by wavefront measuring instruments. One possible approach is the use of self-referencing interferometers such as the point diffraction interferometers. Alternatively wavefront gradient measuring instruments can be used such as the Hartmann-Shack sensors. Wavefront intensity and phase joint distributions can now be measured at the same time. This can provide in addition new methods to derive the modal content. A short review of the experimental problems in this area still looking for a practical solution will be given. Note from Publisher: This article contains the abstract and references only.

An Analysis of Mao Tse-Tung's Three Main Rules of Discipline and Eight Points for Attention. Occasional Paper No. 77-3.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Massie, Michael

The document analyzes Mao Tse-Tung's "Three Main Rules of Discipline" and "Eight Points For Attention" and presents, by way of comparison, the text of the "Code of Conduct" issued by the President of the United States for members of the armed forces during the Vietnam War. Mao's regulations were revised by the General…

Optimal CV-22 Centralized Intermediate Repair Facility Locations and Parts Repair

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-06-01

and Reorder Point for TEWS ............................ 36 Table 8. Excel Model for Safety Stock and Reorder Point for FADEC ...Digital Engine Control ( FADEC ) Main Wheel Assembly Blade Fold System Landing Gear Control Panel Drive System Interface Unit Main Landing Gear...Radar 4 Forward Looking Infrared System (FLIR) 4 Tactical Electronic Warfare System (TEWS) 1 Full Authority Digital Engine Control ( FADEC ) 2 Blade

Perceived Organizational Support for Enhancing Welfare at Work: A Regression Tree Model

PubMed Central

Giorgi, Gabriele; Dubin, David; Perez, Javier Fiz

2016-01-01

When trying to examine outcomes such as welfare and well-being, research tends to focus on main effects and take into account limited numbers of variables at a time. There are a number of techniques that may help address this problem. For example, many statistical packages available in R provide easy-to-use methods of modeling complicated analysis such as classification and tree regression (i.e., recursive partitioning). The present research illustrates the value of recursive partitioning in the prediction of perceived organizational support in a sample of more than 6000 Italian bankers. Utilizing the tree function party package in R, we estimated a regression tree model predicting perceived organizational support from a multitude of job characteristics including job demand, lack of job control, lack of supervisor support, training, etc. The resulting model appears particularly helpful in pointing out several interactions in the prediction of perceived organizational support. In particular, training is the dominant factor. Another dimension that seems to influence organizational support is reporting (perceived communication about safety and stress concerns). Results are discussed from a theoretical and methodological point of view. PMID:28082924

Pervasive mobile healthcare systems for chronic disease monitoring.

PubMed

Huzooree, Geshwaree; Kumar Khedo, Kavi; Joonas, Noorjehan

2017-05-01

Pervasive mobile healthcare system has the potential to improve healthcare and the quality of life of chronic disease patients through continuous monitoring. Recently, many articles related to pervasive mobile healthcare system focusing on health monitoring using wireless technologies have been published. The main aim of this review is to evaluate the state-of-the-art pervasive mobile healthcare systems to identify major technical requirements and design challenges associated with the realization of a pervasive mobile healthcare system. A systematic literature review was conducted over IEEE Xplore Digital Library to evaluate 20 pervasive mobile healthcare systems out of 683 articles from 2011 to 2016. The classification of the pervasive mobile healthcare systems and other important factors are discussed. Potential opportunities and challenges are pointed out for the further deployment of effective pervasive mobile healthcare systems. This article helps researchers in health informatics to have a holistic view toward understanding pervasive mobile healthcare systems and points out new technological trends and design challenges that researchers have to consider when designing such systems for better adoption, usability, and seamless integration.

PV based converter with integrated charger for DC micro-grid applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Salve, Rima

This thesis presents a converter topology for photovoltaic panels. This topology minimizes the number of switching devices used thereby reducing power losses that arise from high frequency switching operations. The control strategy is implemented using a simple microcontroller that implements the proportional plus integral control. All the control loops are closed feedback loops hence minimizing error instantaneously and adjusting efficiently to system variations. The energy management between three components, namely, the photovoltaic panel, a battery and a DC link for a microgrid is shown distributed over three modes. These modes are dependent on the irradiance from the sunlight. All three modes are simulated. The maximum power point tracking of the system plays a crutial role in this configuration as it is one of the main challenge tackled by the control system. Various methods of MPPT are discussed and the Perturb and Observe method is employed and is described in detail. Experimental results are shown for the maximum power point tracking of this system with a scaled down version of the panel's actual capability.

A Closed-Form Error Model of Straight Lines for Improved Data Association and Sensor Fusing

PubMed Central

2018-01-01

Linear regression is a basic tool in mobile robotics, since it enables accurate estimation of straight lines from range-bearing scans or in digital images, which is a prerequisite for reliable data association and sensor fusing in the context of feature-based SLAM. This paper discusses, extends and compares existing algorithms for line fitting applicable also in the case of strong covariances between the coordinates at each single data point, which must not be neglected if range-bearing sensors are used. Besides, in particular, the determination of the covariance matrix is considered, which is required for stochastic modeling. The main contribution is a new error model of straight lines in closed form for calculating quickly and reliably the covariance matrix dependent on just a few comprehensible and easily-obtainable parameters. The model can be applied widely in any case when a line is fitted from a number of distinct points also without a priori knowledge of the specific measurement noise. By means of extensive simulations, the performance and robustness of the new model in comparison to existing approaches is shown. PMID:29673205

Response of Woodpecker's Head during Pecking Process Simulated by Material Point Method.

PubMed

Liu, Yuzhe; Qiu, Xinming; Zhang, Xiong; Yu, T X

2015-01-01

Prevention of brain injury in woodpeckers under high deceleration during the pecking process has been an intriguing biomechanical problem for a long time. Several studies have provided different explanations, but the function of the hyoid bone, one of the more interesting skeletal features of a woodpecker, still has not been fully explored. This paper studies the relationship between a woodpecker head's response to impact and the hyoid bone. Based on micro-CT scanning images, the material point method (MPM) is employed to simulate woodpecker's pecking process. The maximum shear stress in the brainstem (SSS) is adopted as an indicator of brain injury. The motion and deformation of the first cervical vertebra is found to be the main reason of the shear stress of the brain. Our study found that the existence of the hyoid bone reduces the SSS level, enhances the rigidity of the head, and suppresses the oscillation of the endoskeleton after impact. The mechanism is explained by a brief mechanical analysis while the influence of the material properties of the muscle is also discussed.

Is the biggest security threat to medical information simply a lack of understanding?

PubMed

Williams, Patricia A H

2011-01-01

Connecting Australian health services and the e-health initiative is a major focus in the current health environment. Many issues are presented as key to its success including solving issues with confidentiality and privacy. However, the main problem may not be these issues in sharing information but the fact that the point of origin of such records is still relatively insecure. This paper highlights why this may be the case. Research into the security of medical information has shown that many primary healthcare providers are unable to create an environment with effective information security. Numerous factors contribute to this complex situation including a trustful environment, the resultant security culture and the capability of individual healthcare organisations. Further, the growing importance of new directions in the use of patient information is considered. This paper discusses these issues and positions them within the complex environment that is healthcare. In our current health system infrastructure, the points of origin of patient information are our most vulnerable. This entwined with progressively new uses of this information expose additional security concerns, such as re-identification of information, that require attention.

Geodetic monitoring of subrosion-induced subsidence processes in urban areas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kersten, Tobias; Kobe, Martin; Gabriel, Gerald; Timmen, Ludger; Schön, Steffen; Vogel, Detlef

2017-03-01

The research project SIMULTAN applies an advanced combination of geophysical, geodetic, and modelling techniques to gain a better understanding of the evolution and characteristics of sinkholes. Sinkholes are inherently related to surface deformation and, thus, of increasing societal relevance, especially in dense populated urban areas. One work package of SIMULTAN investigates an integrated approach to monitor sinkhole-related mass translations and surface deformations induced by salt dissolution. Datasets from identical and adjacent points are used for a consistent combination of geodetic and geophysical techniques. Monitoring networks are established in Hamburg and Bad Frankenhausen (Thuringia). Levelling surveys indicate subsidence rates of about 4-5 mm per year in the main subsidence areas of Bad Frankenhausen with a local maximum of 10 mm per year around the leaning church tower. Here, the concept of combining geodetic and gravimetric techniques to monitor and characterise geological processes on and below the Earth's surface is exemplary discussed for the focus area Bad Frankenhausen. For the different methods (levelling, GNSS, relative/absolute gravimetry) stable network results at identical points are obtained by the first campaigns, i.e., the results are generally in agreement.

s-Process Branch Point (n,γ) Measurements using NIF^*

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bernstein, Lee; Bleuel, D. L.; Cerjan, C.; Greife, U.; Hoffman, R. D.; Phair, L.; McEvoy, A.; Moody, K. J.; Schneider, D. H. G.; Shaughnessy, D.; Stoyer, M. A.

2008-10-01

The National Ignition Facility (NIF) at LLNL is a laser-driven inertial confinement fusion laboratory designed to compress pellets containing small (<10^20 atoms) samples of material to densities in excess of 100 g/cm^3 and temperatures up to kBT 10 keV. Early NIF shots will feature a proton-tritium (HT) fuel mix that creates a neutron spectrum similar to that found in AGB main sequence stars. In this talk I will discuss nuclear physics experiments using NIF and present a plan to measure the ^171Tm(n,γ) s-process branch point cross section in a NIF plasma environment which will include the plasma-induced population of the first excited state at Ex=5.0 keV. *This work performed under the auspices of the U.S. Department of Energy by Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory under Contract W-7405-Eng-48 and under Contract DE-AC52-07NA27344. For LBNL this work was supported by the U.S. Department of Energy under Contract No. DE-AC02-05CH11231.

Analysis of psychological factors for quality assessment of interactive multimodal service

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yamagishi, Kazuhisa; Hayashi, Takanori

2005-03-01

We proposed a subjective quality assessment model for interactive multimodal services. First, psychological factors of an audiovisual communication service were extracted by using the semantic differential (SD) technique and factor analysis. Forty subjects participated in subjective tests and performed point-to-point conversational tasks on a PC-based TV phone that exhibits various network qualities. The subjects assessed those qualities on the basis of 25 pairs of adjectives. Two psychological factors, i.e., an aesthetic feeling and a feeling of activity, were extracted from the results. Then, quality impairment factors affecting these two psychological factors were analyzed. We found that the aesthetic feeling is mainly affected by IP packet loss and video coding bit rate, and the feeling of activity depends on delay time and video frame rate. We then proposed an opinion model derived from the relationships among quality impairment factors, psychological factors, and overall quality. The results indicated that the estimation error of the proposed model is almost equivalent to the statistical reliability of the subjective score. Finally, using the proposed model, we discuss guidelines for quality design of interactive audiovisual communication services.

Pointing control for the International Comet Mission

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Leblanc, D. R.; Schumacher, L. L.

1980-01-01

The design of the pointing control system for the proposed International Comet Mission, intended to fly by Comet Halley and rendezvous with Comet Tempel-2 is presented. Following a review of mission objectives and the spacecraft configuration, design constraints on the pointing control system controlling the two-axis gimballed scan platform supporting the science instruments are discussed in relation to the scientific requirements of the mission. The primary design options considered for the pointing control system design for the baseline spacecraft are summarized, and the design selected, which employs a target-referenced, inertially stabilized control system, is described in detail. The four basic modes of operation of the pointing control subsystem (target acquisition, inertial hold, target track and slew) are discussed as they relate to operations at Halley and Tempel-2. It is pointed that the pointing control system design represents a significant advance in the state of the art of pointing controls for planetary missions.

Optimal Control Problems with Switching Points. Ph.D. Thesis, 1990 Final Report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Seywald, Hans

1991-01-01

The main idea of this report is to give an overview of the problems and difficulties that arise in solving optimal control problems with switching points. A brief discussion of existing optimality conditions is given and a numerical approach for solving the multipoint boundary value problems associated with the first-order necessary conditions of optimal control is presented. Two real-life aerospace optimization problems are treated explicitly. These are altitude maximization for a sounding rocket (Goddard Problem) in the presence of a dynamic pressure limit, and range maximization for a supersonic aircraft flying in the vertical, also in the presence of a dynamic pressure limit. In the second problem singular control appears along arcs with active dynamic pressure limit, which in the context of optimal control, represents a first-order state inequality constraint. An extension of the Generalized Legendre-Clebsch Condition to the case of singular control along state/control constrained arcs is presented and is applied to the aircraft range maximization problem stated above. A contribution to the field of Jacobi Necessary Conditions is made by giving a new proof for the non-optimality of conjugate paths in the Accessory Minimum Problem. Because of its simple and explicit character, the new proof may provide the basis for an extension of Jacobi's Necessary Condition to the case of the trajectories with interior point constraints. Finally, the result that touch points cannot occur for first-order state inequality constraints is extended to the case of vector valued control functions.

Linearization of Positional Response Curve of a Fiber-optic Displacement Sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Babaev, O. G.; Matyunin, S. A.; Paranin, V. D.

2018-01-01

Currently, the creation of optical measuring instruments and sensors for measuring linear displacement is one of the most relevant problems in the area of instrumentation. Fiber-optic contactless sensors based on the magneto-optical effect are of special interest. They are essentially contactless, non-electrical and have a closed optical channel not subject to contamination. The main problem of this type of sensors is the non-linearity of their positional response curve due to the hyperbolic nature of the magnetic field intensity variation induced by moving the magnetic source mounted on the controlled object relative to the sensing element. This paper discusses an algorithmic method of linearizing the positional response curve of fiber-optic displacement sensors in any selected range of the displacements to be measured. The method is divided into two stages: 1 - definition of the calibration function, 2 - measurement and linearization of the positional response curve (including its temperature stabilization). The algorithm under consideration significantly reduces the number of points of the calibration function, which is essential for the calibration of temperature dependence, due to the use of the points that randomly deviate from the grid points with uniform spacing. Subsequent interpolation of the deviating points and piecewise linear-plane approximation of the calibration function reduces the microcontroller storage capacity for storing the calibration function and the time required to process the measurement results. The paper also presents experimental results of testing real samples of fiber-optic displacement sensors.

Effect of Impurities on the Triple Point of Water: Experiments with Doped Cells at Different Liquid Fractions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dobre, M.; Peruzzi, A.; Kalemci, M.; Van Geel, J.; Maeck, M.; Uytun, A.

2018-05-01

Recent international comparisons showed that there is still room for improvement in triple point of water (TPW) realization uncertainty. Large groups of cells manufactured, maintained and measured in similar conditions still show a spread in the realized TPW temperature that is larger than the best measurement uncertainties (25 µK). One cause is the time-dependent concentration of dissolved impurities in water. The origin of such impurities is the glass/quartz envelope dissolution during a cell lifetime. The effect is a difference in the triple point temperature proportional to the impurities concentration. In order to measure this temperature difference and to investigate the effect of different types of impurities, we manufactured doped cells with different concentrations of silicon (Si), boron (B), sodium (Na) and potassium (K), the glass main chemical components. To identify any influence of the filling process, two completely independent manufacturing procedures were followed in two different laboratories, both national metrology institutes (VSL, Netherlands and UME, Turkey). Cells glass and filling water were also different while the doping materials were identical. Measuring the temperature difference as a function of the liquid fraction is a method to obtain information about impurities concentrations in TPW. Only cells doped with 1 µmol·mol-1 B, Na and K proved to be suitable for measurements at different liquid fractions. We present here the results with related uncertainties and discuss the critical points in this experimental approach.

The Ideology of Certainty in Mathematics Education.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Borba, Marcelo C.; Skovsmose, Ole

1997-01-01

Presents one aspect that makes mathematics the final word in many discussions, the ideology of certainty. Argues that one way of challenging the ideology of certainty is to change classroom practice by introducing a landscape of discussion on chaotic nature where relativity, provisional starting points, different points of view, and uncertainty…

The Artist's View of Points and Lines.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Millman, Richard S.; Speranza, Ramona R.

1991-01-01

Presented is the idea that art can be used to present early concepts of geometry, including the notion of the infinite. Discussed is the symbiosis that exists between the artistic and mathematical views of points, lines, and planes. Geometric models in art and using art in the classroom are discussed. (KR)

Compiling Holocene RSL databases from near- to far-field regions: proxies, difficulties and possible solutions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vacchi, M.; Horton, B.; Mann, T.; Engelhart, S. E.; Rovere, A.; Nikitina, D.; Bender, M.; Roy, K.; Peltier, W. R.

2017-12-01

Reconstructions of relative sea level (RSL) have implications for investigation of crustal movements, calibration of earth rheology models and the reconstruction of ice sheets. In recent years, efforts were made to create RSL databases following a standardized methodology. These regional databases provide a framework for developing our understanding of the primary mechanisms of RSL change since the Last Glacial Maximum and a long-term baseline against which to gauge changes in sea level during the 20th century and forecasts for the 21st. We report here the results of recently compiled databases in very different climatic and geographic contexts that are the northeastern Canadian coast, the Mediterranean Sea as well as the southeastern Asiatic region. Our re-evaluation of sea-level indicators from geological and archaeological investigations have yielded more than 3000 RSL data-points mainly from salt and freshwater wetlands or adjacent estuarine sediment, isolation basins, beach ridges, fixed biological indicators, beachrocks as well as coastal archaeological structures. We outline some of the inherent difficulties, and potential solutions to analyse sea-level data in such different depositional environments. In particular, we discuss problems related with the definition of standardized indicative meaning, and with the re-evaluation of old radiocarbon samples. We further address complex tectonics influences and the framework to compare such large variability of RSL data-points. Finally we discuss the implications of our results for the patterns of glacio-isostatic adjustment in these regions.

Light-sensitive Lipid-based Nanoparticles for Drug Delivery: Design Principles and Future Considerations for Biological Applications

PubMed Central

Yavlovich, Amichai; Smith, Brandon; Gupta, Kshitij; Blumenthal, Robert; Puri, Anu

2011-01-01

Radiation-based therapies aided by nanoparticles have been developed since decades, and can be primarily categorized into two main platforms. First, delivery of payload of photo-reactive drugs (photosensitizers) using the conventional nanoparticles, and second, design and development of photo-triggerable nanoparticles (primarily liposomes) to attain light-assisted on-demand drug delivery. The main focus of this review is to provide an update of the history, current status and future applications of photo-triggerable lipid-based nanoparticles (light-sensitive liposomes). We will begin with a brief overview on the applications of liposomes for delivery of photosensitizers, including the choice of photosensitizers for photodynamic therapy, as well as the currently available light sources (lasers) used for these applications. The main segment of this review will encompass the details on the strategies to develop photo-triggerable designer liposomes for their drug delivery function. The principles underlying the assembly of photoreactive lipids into nanoparticles (liposomes) and photo-triggering mechanisms will be presented. We will also discuss factors that limit the applications of these liposomes for in vivo triggered drug delivery and emerging concepts that may lead to the biologically viable photo-activation strategies. We will conclude with our view point on the future perspectives of light-sensitive liposomes in the clinic. PMID:20939770

A stochastic approach to noise modeling for barometric altimeters.

PubMed

Sabatini, Angelo Maria; Genovese, Vincenzo

2013-11-18

The question whether barometric altimeters can be applied to accurately track human motions is still debated, since their measurement performance are rather poor due to either coarse resolution or drifting behavior problems. As a step toward accurate short-time tracking of changes in height (up to few minutes), we develop a stochastic model that attempts to capture some statistical properties of the barometric altimeter noise. The barometric altimeter noise is decomposed in three components with different physical origin and properties: a deterministic time-varying mean, mainly correlated with global environment changes, and a first-order Gauss-Markov (GM) random process, mainly accounting for short-term, local environment changes, the effects of which are prominent, respectively, for long-time and short-time motion tracking; an uncorrelated random process, mainly due to wideband electronic noise, including quantization noise. Autoregressive-moving average (ARMA) system identification techniques are used to capture the correlation structure of the piecewise stationary GM component, and to estimate its standard deviation, together with the standard deviation of the uncorrelated component. M-point moving average filters used alone or in combination with whitening filters learnt from ARMA model parameters are further tested in few dynamic motion experiments and discussed for their capability of short-time tracking small-amplitude, low-frequency motions.

Best way to revascularize patients with main stem and three vessel lesions: patients should undergo PCI!

PubMed

Schächinger, Volker; Herdeg, Christian; Scheller, Bruno

2010-09-01

The optimal revascularization strategy for multivessel disease is under controversial discussion for long time. Until now, technical innovations have been faster than performance of clinical trials, making results of randomized studies outdated at the time of appearance. Recently, the SYNTAX trial has been published, which compared drug elutings stents (DES) implantation with Coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) patients with multivessel or left main disease in a clinically stable population. Overall, CABG was superior with respect to the clinical endpoint of death, myocardial infarction, stroke, or revascularization. However, the difference is driven by the "weakest" end point, namely repeated revascularization, whereas combined "hard" events did not demonstrate a difference. More detailed analysis demonstrates that only patients with most complex coronary anatomy gain definite benefit from CABG. In addition, SYNTAX demonstrated that left main disease is no longer a domain of CABG, since DES implantation revealed comparable results, as long as there is no concomitant multivessel disease. Regardless the results of SYNTAX, one should not forget that SYNTAX represents only a minority of daily patients in a catheterization laboratory, excluding patients with one- or two-vessel disease and those with an acute coronary syndrome. Especially in the latter, percutaneous coronary intervention has demonstrated to improve prognosis.

PowerPoint Workshop for Teachers[TM].

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Caughlin, Janet

This guide for teachers to the Microsoft PowerPoint multimedia presentation program begins with a section that introduces what PowerPoint is and why teachers should use it, Windows 95/98 basics, Macintosh basics, getting started, PowerPoint toolbars, and presentation tips. The next section discusses learning PowerPoint, including creating a…

The Anopheles gambiae transcriptome - a turning point for malaria control.

PubMed

Domingos, A; Pinheiro-Silva, R; Couto, J; do Rosário, V; de la Fuente, J

2017-04-01

Mosquitoes are important vectors of several pathogens and thereby contribute to the spread of diseases, with social, economic and public health impacts. Amongst the approximately 450 species of Anopheles, about 60 are recognized as vectors of human malaria, the most important parasitic disease. In Africa, Anopheles gambiae is the main malaria vector mosquito. Current malaria control strategies are largely focused on drugs and vector control measures such as insecticides and bed-nets. Improvement of current, and the development of new, mosquito-targeted malaria control methods rely on a better understanding of mosquito vector biology. An organism's transcriptome is a reflection of its physiological state and transcriptomic analyses of different conditions that are relevant to mosquito vector competence can therefore yield important information. Transcriptomic analyses have contributed significant information on processes such as blood-feeding parasite-vector interaction, insecticide resistance, and tissue- and stage-specific gene regulation, thereby facilitating the path towards the development of new malaria control methods. Here, we discuss the main applications of transcriptomic analyses in An. gambiae that have led to a better understanding of mosquito vector competence. © 2017 The Royal Entomological Society.

Vocational aspirations of sheltered workshop workers with intellectual disability in Hong Kong.

PubMed

Li, E P

1998-06-01

In Hong Kong, the understanding of the vocational experience of sheltered workshop workers with intellectual disability is still relatively meagre. Twenty-three participants with intellectual disability and four professionals from their sheltered workshops were interviewed using mainly open-ended questions. Content analysis and constant comparative method were adopted to categorize the descriptive data into themes that were salient to the participants' vocational aspirations to try open employment. The insider perspective showed that all participants were motivated to have employment. Thirteen participants with intellectual disability preferred to try open employment and they had individual vocational preferences which mainly belonged to unskilled and manual work. The professionals pointed out that sheltered workshop workers with intellectual disability needed professionals' assistance and parents' consent in moving on to open employment, and parents were the key people in this decision-making process. These findings indicate that sheltered workshop workers with intellectual disability have limited self-determination in the work arena. The need to empower people with intellectual disability, improve the quality of sheltered employment services and increase the involvement of their family members are discussed.

Cyanotoxins: bioaccumulation and effects on aquatic animals.

PubMed

Ferrão-Filho, Aloysio da S; Kozlowsky-Suzuki, Betina

2011-12-01

Cyanobacteria are photosynthetic prokaryotes with wide geographic distribution that can produce secondary metabolites named cyanotoxins. These toxins can be classified into three main types according to their mechanism of action in vertebrates: hepatotoxins, dermatotoxins and neurotoxins. Many studies on the effects of cyanobacteria and their toxins over a wide range of aquatic organisms, including invertebrates and vertebrates, have reported acute effects (e.g., reduction in survivorship, feeding inhibition, paralysis), chronic effects (e.g., reduction in growth and fecundity), biochemical alterations (e.g., activity of phosphatases, GST, AChE, proteases), and behavioral alterations. Research has also focused on the potential for bioaccumulation and transferring of these toxins through the food chain. Although the herbivorous zooplankton is hypothesized as the main target of cyanotoxins, there is not unquestionable evidence of the deleterious effects of cyanobacteria and their toxins on these organisms. Also, the low toxin burden in secondary consumers points towards biodilution of microcystins in the food web as the predominant process. In this broad review we discuss important issues on bioaccumulation and the effects of cyanotoxins, with emphasis on microcystins, as well as drawbacks and future needs in this field of research.

Why are there few seedlings beneath the myrmecophyte Triplaris americana?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Larrea-Alcázar, Daniel M.; Simonetti, Javier A.

2007-07-01

We compared the relative importance of chemical alellopathy, pruning behaviour of resident ants and other non-related agents to ant-plant mutualism for seedling establishment beneath Triplaris americana L. (Polygonaceae), a myrmecophyte plant. We also included a preliminary analysis of effects of fragmentation on these ecological processes. Seeds and seedlings of Theobroma cacao L. (Sterculiaceae) were used as the target species in all experiments. Leaf-tissue extracts of the myrmecophyte plant did not inhibit germination of cacao seeds. Resident Pseudomyrmex triplarinus Weddell (Pseudomyrmecinae) ants did not remove seeds under the canopy of their host plants. The main seed consumer was the leaf-cutting ant Atta sexdens L. (Myrmicinae). Leaves of cacao seedlings were partially or totally pruned by Pseudomyrmex ants mainly in forest fragments studied. We offer evidence pointing to the possibility that the absence of seedlings beneath Triplaris may result from effects of both ant species. We discuss the benefits of pruning behaviour for the resident ant colony and the effects of ant-ant interactions on seedling establishment beneath this ant-plant system.

Measurements of a Strength of Metals in a Picosecond Time Range

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ashitkov, Sergey; Komarov, Pavel; Agranat, Mikhail; Kanel, Gennady; Fortov, Vladimir

2013-06-01

We studied the shock-wave phenomena in metal films of a micron or submicron thickness irradiated by femtosecond laser pulses. The single-shot interferometer technique was used to record the time and spatial resolved displacements of both the frontal and rear surfaces of the films. The free surface displacement histories were converted into the free surface velocity histories using several various approaches. As a result, new data on the HEL and spall strength values have been obtained for aluminum, iron, nickel and other metals in strongly metastable states close to ultimate shear and tensile stresses. Comparison of measured parameters of elastic shock waves with the data of plate impact experiments at larger sample thicknesses demonstrate different regimes of the decay: whereas for pure fcc metals the decay may be described by one power function over 1 μm to 10 mm range of the distances, in the case of bcc iron main decay occurs obviously at the distance of order of 50 μm. The data are discussed from the view point of main mechanisms of high-rate deformation and fracture.

Geocoronal structure. 3. Optically thin, Doppler-broadened line profiles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bishop, James; Chamberlain, Joseph W.

1987-11-01

Theoretical line profiles, applicable to the analysis of geocoronal Hα prifile measurements, are presented for illustrative cases. While retaining a number of simplifications (classical exobase and diffusive equilibrium plasmasphere conditions), distinctive spectral signatures of mechanisms governing the geocorona are isolated. Examining the consequences of solar radiation pressure dynamics is the main point here. In the prototype evaporative case, radiation pressure acts to form narrow profiles via the creation of an extensive quasi-satellite component. Comparison with a simple extension of the earlier analytic theory discloses the influence of an exopause in this regard. The main modifications to evaporative spectral shapes in the geocoronal application, for shadow heights greater than 2 RE, are predicted to be (1) a blueward ``shift'' or bias near line center, for look directions parallel to the antisolar axis, generated by loss mechanisms acting over the time of flight of exospheric constituents (for example, solar ionization) and (2) an enhanced redward wing at spectral displacements exceeding that defined by the shadow height escape speed, produced by plasmaspheric charge exchange collisions. Implications of these results for recent observations of geocoronal Hα line profiles are briefly discussed.

Anaxagoras and the Scientist/Laity Interaction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Woolf, N. J.

The phenomenon that caused Anaxagoras to develop his model that explained the phases and eclipses of the Moon was a meteorite fall. The model was a turning point for science in explaining more than one phenomenon with a single model. It precipitated the growth of Greek astronomy and the first heliocentric theory. Anaxagoras was also the first scientist to get into trouble for a conflict between science and religion. Contrary to an impression from the title of this conference, scientific literature paid little attention to the meteorite fall phenomenon. Both scientists and the public mainly pay attention to models, and often to the extraneous irrelevant attachments of models, those by which it is placed in memory. Models are artistic creations that are culture dependent. Phenomena are our only solid link to the world of reality. The main issue of this paper is the problems that the individual has with models. The paper discusses the effect of Anaxagoras on scientific thought. It concludes by exploring three areas where relationship of science to society as Anaxagoras set it up, has left unresolved problems.

Overview of nano-drugs characteristics for clinical application: the journey from the entry to the exit point

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bose, Tanima; Latawiec, Diane; Mondal, Partha Pratim; Mandal, Subhra

2014-08-01

The ever-increasing number of diseases worldwide requires comprehensive, efficient, and cost-effective modes of treatments. Among various strategies, nanomaterials fulfill most of these criteria. The unique physicochemical properties of nanoparticles have made them a premier choice as a drug or a drug delivery system for the purpose of treatment, and as bio-detectors for disease prognosis. However, the main challenge is the proper consideration of the physical properties of these nanomaterials, while developing them as potential tools for therapeutics and/or diagnostics. In this review, we focus mainly on the characteristics of nanoparticles to develop an effective and sensitive system for clinical purposes. This review will present an overview of the important properties of nanoparticles, through their journey from its route of administration until disposal from the human body after accomplishing targeted functionality. We have chosen cancer as our model disease to explain the potentiality of nano-systems for therapeutics and diagnostics in relation to several organs (intestine, lung, brain, etc.). Furthermore, we have discussed their biodegradability and accumulation probability which can cause unfavorable side effects in healthy human subjects.

An overview of the use of music therapy in the context of Alzheimer's disease: a report of a French expert group.

PubMed

Guetin, Stéphane; Charras, Kevin; Berard, Alain; Arbus, Christophe; Berthelon, Patrick; Blanc, Frédéric; Blayac, Jean-Pierre; Bonte, Florence; Bouceffa, Jean-Paul; Clement, Sylvain; Ducourneau, Gérard; Gzil, Fabrice; Laeng, Nathalie; Lecourt, Edith; Ledoux, Sylvie; Platel, Hervé; Thomas-Anterion, Catherine; Touchon, Jacques; Vrait, François-Xavier; Leger, Jean-Marie

2013-09-01

The aim of this overview is to present the developments of music therapy in France, its techniques, mechanisms and principal indications, mainly in the context of Alzheimer's disease. An international review of the literature on music therapy applied to Alzheimer's disease was conducted using the principal scientific search engines. A work group of experts in music therapy and psychosocial techniques then considered the different points highlighted in the review of literature and discussed them. Clinical and neurophysiological studies have enlightened some positive benefits of music in providing support for people with Alzheimer's disease or related disorders. Music therapy acts mainly through emotional and psycho-physiological pathways. It includes a series of techniques that can respond to targeted therapeutic objectives. Some studies have shown that music therapy reduces anxiety, alleviates periods of depression and aggressive behaviour and thus significantly improves mood, communication and autonomy of patients. Psychosocial interventions, such as music therapy, can contribute to maintain or rehabilitate functional cognitive and sensory abilities, as well as emotional and social skills and to reduce the severity of some behavioural disorders.

Anions adsorption onto nanoparticles: effects on colloid stability and mobility in the environment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Missana, Tiziana; Benedicto, Ana; Mayordomo, Natalia; Alonso, Ursula

2013-04-01

Nanoparticles and colloids can enhance the contaminant transport in groundwater, if the contaminant is irreversibly adsorbed onto their surface; additionally colloids must be stable and mobile under the chemical conditions of the environment of interest. Colloid stability and mobility are factors directly related to the chemistry of the water, which determines the charge and size of the particles, but these colloidal properties can also be affected by the contaminant adsorption. This last point, which is potentially very relevant on the overall colloid-driven transport, is scarcely investigated. The evaluation of the stability of a colloidal system is generally carried out by measuring the aggregation kinetic after the change of a specific chemical condition, mainly pH or ionic strength of the aqueous solution. The effect of anion adsorption onto the stability of colloidal systems is mostly neglected. Parameters of the nanoparticles,as the point of zero charge (pH PCZ) or the isoelectric point (pH IEP) are determined with "inert" electrolytes and this might not be representative of their real behavior in natural systems. In this work, the effects of the Se(IV) (selenite) adsorption on alumina (Al2O3) nanoparticles have been analyzed. Selenite adsorption was studied in a wide range of pH (2-12) and ionic strengths (0.0005 - 0.1 M in NaClO4) and the effect of the adsorption on the main properties of the colloids (size and charge) were analyzed. Se adsorption on Al2O3 is almost independent of the ionic strength and decreases with increasing pH; sorption data were successfully fit by surface complexation modeling. Selenite adsorption (at medium-high surface occupancies) clearly affected the stability of Al2O3 colloids, with a clear shift of the isoelectric point towards more acid pH and enhancing colloid aggregation when the ionic strength increases. Considering the obtained results, the effect of anions in the chemical composition of natural water, frequently not accounted for in stability studies, will be discussed, as well as their implications on possible colloid-driven selenite transport in the environment.

Accurate documentation in cultural heritage by merging TLS and high-resolution photogrammetric data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grussenmeyer, Pierre; Alby, Emmanuel; Assali, Pierre; Poitevin, Valentin; Hullo, Jean-François; Smigiel, Eddie

2011-07-01

Several recording techniques are used together in Cultural Heritage Documentation projects. The main purpose of the documentation and conservation works is usually to generate geometric and photorealistic 3D models for both accurate reconstruction and visualization purposes. The recording approach discussed in this paper is based on the combination of photogrammetric dense matching and Terrestrial Laser Scanning (TLS) techniques. Both techniques have pros and cons, and criteria as geometry, texture, accuracy, resolution, recording and processing time are often compared. TLS techniques (time of flight or phase shift systems) are often used for the recording of large and complex objects or sites. Point cloud generation from images by dense stereo or multi-image matching can be used as an alternative or a complementary method to TLS. Compared to TLS, the photogrammetric solution is a low cost one as the acquisition system is limited to a digital camera and a few accessories only. Indeed, the stereo matching process offers a cheap, flexible and accurate solution to get 3D point clouds and textured models. The calibration of the camera allows the processing of distortion free images, accurate orientation of the images, and matching at the subpixel level. The main advantage of this photogrammetric methodology is to get at the same time a point cloud (the resolution depends on the size of the pixel on the object), and therefore an accurate meshed object with its texture. After the matching and processing steps, we can use the resulting data in much the same way as a TLS point cloud, but with really better raster information for textures. The paper will address the automation of recording and processing steps, the assessment of the results, and the deliverables (e.g. PDF-3D files). Visualization aspects of the final 3D models are presented. Two case studies with merged photogrammetric and TLS data are finally presented: - The Gallo-roman Theatre of Mandeure, France); - The Medieval Fortress of Châtel-sur-Moselle, France), where a network of underground galleries and vaults has been recorded.

Point Set Denoising Using Bootstrap-Based Radial Basis Function.

PubMed

Liew, Khang Jie; Ramli, Ahmad; Abd Majid, Ahmad

2016-01-01

This paper examines the application of a bootstrap test error estimation of radial basis functions, specifically thin-plate spline fitting, in surface smoothing. The presence of noisy data is a common issue of the point set model that is generated from 3D scanning devices, and hence, point set denoising is one of the main concerns in point set modelling. Bootstrap test error estimation, which is applied when searching for the smoothing parameters of radial basis functions, is revisited. The main contribution of this paper is a smoothing algorithm that relies on a bootstrap-based radial basis function. The proposed method incorporates a k-nearest neighbour search and then projects the point set to the approximated thin-plate spline surface. Therefore, the denoising process is achieved, and the features are well preserved. A comparison of the proposed method with other smoothing methods is also carried out in this study.

Modeling the contribution of point sources and non-point sources to Thachin River water pollution.

PubMed

Schaffner, Monika; Bader, Hans-Peter; Scheidegger, Ruth

2009-08-15

Major rivers in developing and emerging countries suffer increasingly of severe degradation of water quality. The current study uses a mathematical Material Flow Analysis (MMFA) as a complementary approach to address the degradation of river water quality due to nutrient pollution in the Thachin River Basin in Central Thailand. This paper gives an overview of the origins and flow paths of the various point- and non-point pollution sources in the Thachin River Basin (in terms of nitrogen and phosphorus) and quantifies their relative importance within the system. The key parameters influencing the main nutrient flows are determined and possible mitigation measures discussed. The results show that aquaculture (as a point source) and rice farming (as a non-point source) are the key nutrient sources in the Thachin River Basin. Other point sources such as pig farms, households and industries, which were previously cited as the most relevant pollution sources in terms of organic pollution, play less significant roles in comparison. This order of importance shifts when considering the model results for the provincial level. Crosschecks with secondary data and field studies confirm the plausibility of our simulations. Specific nutrient loads for the pollution sources are derived; these can be used for a first broad quantification of nutrient pollution in comparable river basins. Based on an identification of the sensitive model parameters, possible mitigation scenarios are determined and their potential to reduce the nutrient load evaluated. A comparison of simulated nutrient loads with measured nutrient concentrations shows that nutrient retention in the river system may be significant. Sedimentation in the slow flowing surface water network as well as nitrogen emission to the air from the warm oxygen deficient waters are certainly partly responsible, but also wetlands along the river banks could play an important role as nutrient sinks.

Effectiveness of PowerPoint Presentation on Students' Cognitive Achievement in Technical Drawing

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gambari, Amosa Isiaka; Yusuf, Hamdalat Taiwo; Balogun, Sherifat Adepeju

2015-01-01

This paper discusses importance of technology education and evidence of declining performance of junior secondary school students in basic technology subject. Benefits of PowerPoint presentation in classroom instruction as a means to improve classroom teaching in the developing countries are also discussed. The effectiveness of PowerPoint…

Gladwell and Group Communication: Using "The Tipping Point" as a Supplemental Text

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Browning, Blair W.

2011-01-01

This article describes an activity using Malcolm Gladwell's "The Tipping Point" as a supplemental text in an undergraduate group communication course. This book will help stimulate conversation and promote easy avenues for classroom discussion. In addition to weekly quizzes over each chapter to help facilitate rich classroom discussions, the…

Using High-Content Imaging to Analyze Toxicological Tipping ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Presentation at International Conference on Toxicological Alternatives & Translational Toxicology (ICTATT) held in China and Discussing the possibility of using High Content Imaging to Analyze Toxicological Tipping Points Slide Presentation at International Conference on Toxicological Alternatives & Translational Toxicology (ICTATT) held in China and Discussing the possibility of using High Content Imaging to Analyze Toxicological Tipping Points

X-ray Point Source Populations in Spiral and Elliptical Galaxies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Colbert, E.; Heckman, T.; Weaver, K.; Ptak, A.; Strickland, D.

2001-12-01

In the years of the Einstein and ASCA satellites, it was known that the total hard X-ray luminosity from non-AGN galaxies was fairly well correlated with the total blue luminosity. However, the origin of this hard component was not well understood. Some possibilities that were considered included X-ray binaries, extended upscattered far-infrared light via the inverse-Compton process, extended hot 107 K gas (especially in ellipitical galaxies), or even an active nucleus. Now, for the first time, we know from Chandra images that a significant amount of the total hard X-ray emission comes from individual X-ray point sources. We present here spatial and spectral analyses of Chandra data for X-ray point sources in a sample of ~40 galaxies, including both spiral galaxies (starbursts and non-starbursts) and elliptical galaxies. We shall discuss the relationship between the X-ray point source population and the properties of the host galaxies. We show that the slopes of the point-source X-ray luminosity functions are different for different host galaxy types and discuss possible reasons why. We also present detailed X-ray spectral analyses of several of the most luminous X-ray point sources (i.e., IXOs, a.k.a. ULXs), and discuss various scenarios for the origin of the X-ray point sources.

Solution of effective Hamiltonian of impurity hopping between two sites in a metal

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ye, Jinwu

1998-03-01

We analyze in detail all the possible fixed points of the effective Hamiltonian of a non-magnetic impurity hopping between two sites in a metal obtained by Moustakas and Fisher(MF). We find a line of non-fermi liquid fixed points which continuously interpolates between the 2-channel Kondo fixed point(2CK) and the one channel, two impurity Kondo (2IK) fixed point. There is one relevant direction with scaling dimension 1/2 and one leading irrelevant operator with dimension 3/2. There is also one marginal operator in the spin sector moving along this line. The additional non-fermi liquid fixed point found by MF has the same symmetry as the 2IK, it has two relevant directions with scaling dimension 1/2, therefore also unstable. The system is shown to flow to a line of fermi-liquid fixed points which continuously interpolates between the non-interacting fixed point and the 2 channel spin-flavor Kondo fixed point (2CSFK) discussed by the author previously. The effect of particle-hole symmetry breaking is discussed. The effective Hamiltonian in the external magnetic field is analysed. The scaling functions for the physical measurable quantities are derived in the different regimes; their predictions for the experiments are given. Finally the implications are given for a non-magnetic impurity hopping around three sites with triangular symmetry discussed by MF.

Direct measurement of nuclear cross-section of astrophysical interest: Results and perspectives

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cavanna, Francesca; Prati, Paolo

2018-03-01

Stellar evolution and nucleosynthesis are interconnected by a wide network of nuclear reactions: the study of such connection is usually known as nuclear astrophysics. The main task of this discipline is the determination of nuclear cross-section and hence of the reaction rate in different scenarios, i.e. from the synthesis of a few very light isotopes just after the Big Bang to the heavy element production in the violent explosive end of massive stars. The experimental determination of reaction cross-section at the astrophysical relevant energies is extremely difficult, sometime impossible, due to the Coulomb repulsion between the interacting nuclei which turns out in cross-section values down to the fbar level. To overcome these obstacles, several experimental approaches have been developed and the adopted techniques can be roughly divided into two categories, i.e. direct and indirect methods. In this review paper, the general problem of nuclear astrophysics is introduced and discussed from the point of view of experimental approach. We focus on direct methods and in particular on the features of low-background experiments performed at underground laboratory facilities. The present knowledge of reactions involved in the Big Bang and stellar hydrogen-burning scenarios is discussed as well as the ongoing projects aiming to investigate mainly the helium- and carbon-burning phases. Worldwide, a new generation of experiment in the MeV range is in the design phase or at the very first steps and decisive progresses are expected to come in the next years.

Interplay among gut microbiota, intestinal mucosal barrier and enteric neuro-immune system: a common path to neurodegenerative diseases?

PubMed

Pellegrini, Carolina; Antonioli, Luca; Colucci, Rocchina; Blandizzi, Corrado; Fornai, Matteo

2018-05-24

Neurological diseases, such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and multiple sclerosis, are often associated with functional gastrointestinal disorders. These gastrointestinal disturbances may occur at all stages of the neurodegenerative diseases, to such an extent that they are now considered an integral part of their clinical picture. Several lines of evidence support the contention that, in central neurodegenerative diseases, changes in gut microbiota and enteric neuro-immune system alterations could contribute to gastrointesinal dysfunctions as well as initiation and upward spreading of the neurologic disorder. The present review has been intended to provide a comprehensive overview of the available knowledge on the role played by enteric microbiota, mucosal immune system and enteric nervous system, considered as an integrated network, in the pathophysiology of the main neurological diseases known to be associated with intestinal disturbances. In addition, based on current human and pre-clinical evidence, our intent was to critically discuss whether changes in the dynamic interplay between gut microbiota, intestinal epithelial barrier and enteric neuro-immune system are a consequence of the central neurodegeneration or might represent the starting point of the neurodegenerative process. Special attention has been paid also to discuss whether alterations of the enteric bacterial-neuro-immune network could represent a common path driving the onset of the main neurodegenerative diseases, even though each disease displays its own distinct clinical features.

Flow structure and unsteadiness in the supersonic wake of a generic space launcher

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schreyer, Anne-Marie; Stephan, Sören; Radespiel, Rolf

2015-11-01

At the junction between the rocket engine and the main body of a classical space launcher, a separation-dominated and highly unstable flow field develops and induces strong wall-pressure oscillations. These can excite structural vibrations detrimental to the launcher. It is desirable to minimize these effects, for which a better understanding of the flow field is required. We study the wake flow of a generic axisymmetric space-launcher model with and without propulsive jet (cold air). Experimental investigations are performed at Mach 2.9 and a Reynolds number ReD = 1 . 3 .106 based on model diameter D. The jet exits the nozzle at Mach 2.5. Velocity measurements by means of Particle Image Velocimetry and mean and unsteady wall-pressure measurements on the main-body base are performed simultaneously. Additionally, we performed hot-wire measurements at selected points in the wake. We can thus observe the evolution of the wake flow along with its spectral content. We describe the mean and turbulent flow topology and evolution of the structures in the wake flow and discuss the origin of characteristic frequencies observed in the pressure signal at the launcher base. The influence of a propulsive jet on the evolution and topology of the wake flow is discussed in detail. The German Research Foundation DFG is gratefully acknowledged for funding this research within the SFB-TR40 ``Technological foundations for the design of thermally and mechanically highly loaded components of future space transportation systems.''

Pharmacological properties of physical exercise in the elderly.

PubMed

Vina, Jose; Borras, Consuelo; Sanchis-Gomar, Fabian; Martinez-Bello, Vladimir E; Olaso-Gonzalez, Gloria; Gambini, Juan; Ingles, Marta; Gomez-Cabrera, Mari Carmen

2014-01-01

Scientific evidence links physical activity to several benefits. Recently, we proposed the idea that exercise can be regarded as a drug. As with many drugs, dosage is of great importance. However, to issue a public recommendation of physical activity in aging is not an easy task. Exercise in the elderly needs to be carefully tailored and individualized with the specific objectives of the person or group in mind. The beneficial effects of exercise in two of the main age-related diseases, sarcopenia and Alzheimer's Disease, are dealt with at the beginning of this report. Subsequently, dosage of exercise and the molecular signaling pathways involved in its adaptations are discussed. Exercise and aging are associated with oxidative stress so the paradox arises, and is discussed, as to whether exercise would be advisable for the aged population from an oxidative stress point of view. Two of the main redox-sensitive signaling pathways altered in old skeletal muscle during exercise, NF-κB and PGC-1α, are also reviewed. The last section of the manuscript is devoted to the age-associated diseases in which exercise is contraindicated. Finally, we address the option of applying exercise mimetics as an alternative for disabled old people. The overall denouement is that exercise is so beneficial that it should be deemed a drug both for young and old populations. If old adults adopted a more active lifestyle, there would be a significant delay in frailty and dependency with clear benefits to individual well-being and to the public's health.

Choosing and Using Introns in Molecular Phylogenetics

PubMed Central

Creer, Simon

2007-01-01

Introns are now commonly used in molecular phylogenetics in an attempt to recover gene trees that are concordant with species trees, but there are a range of genomic, logistical and analytical considerations that are infrequently discussed in empirical studies that utilize intron data. This review outlines expedient approaches for locus selection, overcoming paralogy problems, recombination detection methods and the identification and incorporation of LVHs in molecular systematics. A range of parsimony and Bayesian analytical approaches are also described in order to highlight the methods that can currently be employed to align sequences and treat indels in subsequent analyses. By covering the main points associated with the generation and analysis of intron data, this review aims to provide a comprehensive introduction to using introns (or any non-coding nuclear data partition) in contemporary phylogenetics. PMID:19461984

Redshift differences of galaxies in nearby groups

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Harrison, E. R.

1975-01-01

It is reported that galaxies in nearby groups exhibit anomalous nonvelocity redshifts. In this discussion, (1) four classes of nearby groups of galacies are analyzed, and no significant nonvelocity redshift effect is found; and (2) it is pointed out that transverse velocities (i.e., velocities transverse to the line of sight of the main galaxy, or center of mass) contribute components to the redshift measurements of companion galaxies. The redshifts of galaxies in nearby groups of appreciable angular size are considerably affected by these velocity projection effects. The transverse velocity contributions average out in rich, isotropic groups, and also in large samples of irregular groups of low membership, as in the four classes referred to in (1), but can introduce apparent discrepancies in small samples (as studied by Arp) of nearby groups of low membership.

Comparative study of the fragments' mass and energy characteristics in the spontaneous fussion of 238Pu, 240Pu and 242Pu and in the thermal-neutron-induced fission of 239Pu

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schillebeeckx, P.; Wagemans, C.; Deruytter, A. J.; Barthélémy, R.

1992-08-01

The energy and mass distribution and their correlations have been studied for the spontaneous fission of 238, 240, 242Pu and for the thermal-neutron-induced fission of 239Pu. A comparison of 240Pu(s.f.) and 239Pu(nth,f) shows that the increase in excitation energy mainly results in an increase of the intrinsic excitation energy. A comparison of the results for 238Pu, 240Pu and 242Pu(s.f.) demonstrates the occurence of different fission modes with varying relative probability. These results are discussed in terms of the scission point model as well as in terms of the fission channel model with random neck-rupture.

Review on microfluidic paper-based analytical devices towards commercialisation.

PubMed

Akyazi, Tugce; Basabe-Desmonts, Lourdes; Benito-Lopez, Fernando

2018-02-25

Paper-based analytical devices introduce an innovative platform technology for fluid handling and analysis, with wide range of applications, promoting low cost, ease of fabrication/operation and equipment independence. This review gives a general overview on the fabrication techniques reported to date, revealing and discussing their weak points as well as the newest approaches in order to overtake current mass production limitations and therefore commercialisation. Moreover, this review aims especially to highlight novel technologies appearing in literature for the effective handling and controlling of fluids. The lack of flow control is the main problem of paper-based analytical devices, which generates obstacles for marketing and slows down the transition of paper devices from the laboratory into the consumers' hands. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

New methods to monitor emerging chemicals in the drinking water production chain.

PubMed

van Wezel, Annemarie; Mons, Margreet; van Delft, Wouter

2010-01-01

New techniques enable a shift in monitoring chemicals that affect water quality from mainly at the end product, tap water, towards monitoring during the whole process along the production chain. This is congruent with the 'HACCP' system (hazard analysis of critical control points) that is fairly well integrated into food production but less well in drinking water production. This shift brings about more information about source quality, the efficiency of treatment and distribution, and understanding of processes within the production chain, and therefore can lead to a more pro-active management of drinking water production. At present, monitoring is focused neither on emerging chemicals, nor on detection of compounds with chronic toxicity. We discuss techniques to be used, detection limits compared to quality criteria, data interpretation and possible interventions in production.

Spiral Bevel Pinion Crack Detection in a Helicopter Gearbox

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Decker, Harry J.; Lewicki, David G.

2003-01-01

The vibration resulting from a cracked spiral bevel pinion was recorded and analyzed using existing Health and Usage Monitoring System (HUMS) techniques. A tooth on the input pinion to a Bell OH-58 main rotor gearbox was notched and run for an extended period at severe over-torque condition to facilitate a tooth fracture. Thirteen vibration-based diagnostic metrics were calculated throughout the run. After 101.41 hours of run time, some of the metrics indicated damage. At that point a visual inspection did not reveal any damage. The pinion was then run for another 12 minutes until a proximity probe indicated that a tooth had fractured. This paper discusses the damage detection effectiveness of the different metrics and a comparison of effects of the different accelerometer locations.

Lactose intolerance: from diagnosis to correct management.

PubMed

Di Rienzo, T; D'Angelo, G; D'Aversa, F; Campanale, M C; Cesario, V; Montalto, M; Gasbarrini, A; Ojetti, V

2013-01-01

This review discusses one of the most relevant problems in gastrointestinal clinical practice: lactose intolerance. The role of lactase-persistence alleles the diagnosis of lactose malabsorption the development of lactose intolerance symptoms and its management. Most people are born with the ability to digest lactose, the major carbohydrate in milk and the main source of nutrition until weaning. Approximately, 75% of the world's population loses this ability at some point, while others can digest lactose into adulthood. Symptoms of lactose intolerance include abdominal pain, bloating, flatulence and diarrhea with a considerable intraindividual and interindividual variability in the severity. Diagnosis is most commonly performed by the non invasive lactose hydrogen breath test. Management of lactose intolerance consists of two possible clinical choice not mutually exclusive: alimentary restriction and drug therapy.

The maze and the minotaur: mental health in primary health care.

PubMed

Hirdes, Alice; Scarparo, Helena Beatriz Kochenborger

2015-02-01

The article aims to discuss the issue of integration of mental health in primary care by matrix support in mental health. We point out the main barriers in the use of this work method, as well as the facilitating factors of the matrix support of mental health in primary care. The first are within the scope of epistemological specificities, professional issues and management in the political and ideological dimensions. Among the second, we highlight: the care for people with mental disorders in the territory; the reduction of stigma and discrimination; the development of new skills for professionals in primary care; reduction of costs; simultaneous treatment of physical and mental illness, which often overlap; the possibility of incorporating mental health care in a perspective of extended clinical service using an inter/transdisciplinary approach.

Friendly protection of houses by affordable isolation

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

Mazzolani, Federico M.; Mandara, Alberto; Froncillo, Salvatore

2008-07-08

The paper deals with a case of seismic isolation carried out in Campania (Italy), referring to the construction of a house building. The concerned case is a three-storey reinforced concrete frame building, in which the isolation system has been applied between the basement top and the first floor deck. The paper reports the main steps of this work, starting from the design, carried out according to the latest Italian seismic code, going throughout the construction stage, up to the extensive on-site testing program performed to evaluate the dynamic response of the building. Relevant technological solutions are illustrated and discussed. Bothmore » theoretical calculation and experimental measurements demonstrate the effectiveness of the solution adopted, not only from the technical point of view, but also in an economic perspective.« less

Active head rotations and eye-head coordination

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zangemeister, W. H.; Stark, L.

1981-01-01

It is pointed out that head movements play an important role in gaze. The interaction between eye and head movements involves both their shared role in directing gaze and the compensatory vestibular ocular reflex. The dynamics of head trajectories are discussed, taking into account the use of parameterization to obtain the peak velocity, peak accelerations, the times of these extrema, and the duration of the movement. Attention is given to the main sequence, neck muscle EMG and details of the head-movement trajectory, types of head model accelerations, the latency of eye and head movement in coordinated gaze, gaze latency as a function of various factors, and coordinated gaze types. Clinical examples of gaze-plane analysis are considered along with the instantaneous change of compensatory eye movement (CEM) gain, and aspects of variability.

Features of Stationary Photoconductivity of High-Ohmic Semiconductors Under Local Illumination

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lysenko, A. P.; Belov, A. G.; Kanevskii, V. E.; Odintsova, E. A.

2018-04-01

Photoconductivity has been thoroughly studied for a long time. However, most researchers have examined photoconductivity of semiconductors while illuminating the entire surface of samples. The present paper examines the effect of local exposure that ensures a high level of injection of free charge carriers upon the conductivity of high-ohmic cadmium telluride and semi-insulating gallium arsenide samples and upon the properties of ohmic contacts to samples. The authors found that regardless of the exposure area the value of transition resistance of ohmic contacts decreases and the concentration of the main charge carriers increases in the sample in proportion to radiation intensity. This research uncovered a number of previously unknown effects that are interesting from the physical point of view. This paper focuses on discussing these effects.

Composite structural materials. [aircraft structures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ansell, G. S.; Loewy, R. G.; Wiberley, S. E.

1980-01-01

The use of filamentary composite materials in the design and construction of primary aircraft structures is considered with emphasis on efforts to develop advanced technology in the areas of physical properties, structural concepts and analysis, manufacturing, and reliability and life prediction. The redesign of a main spar/rib region on the Boeing 727 elevator near its actuator attachment point is discussed. A composite fabrication and test facility is described as well as the use of minicomputers for computer aided design. Other topics covered include (1) advanced structural analysis methids for composites; (2) ultrasonic nondestructive testing of composite structures; (3) optimum combination of hardeners in the cure of epoxy; (4) fatigue in composite materials; (5) resin matrix characterization and properties; (6) postbuckling analysis of curved laminate composite panels; and (7) acoustic emission testing of composite tensile specimens.

New thermodynamics of entropy generation minimization with nonlinear thermal radiation and nanomaterials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hayat, T.; Khan, M. Ijaz; Qayyum, Sumaira; Alsaedi, A.; Khan, M. Imran

2018-03-01

This research addressed entropy generation for MHD stagnation point flow of viscous nanofluid over a stretching surface. Characteristics of heat transport are analyzed through nonlinear radiation and heat generation/absorption. Nanoliquid features for Brownian moment and thermophoresis have been considered. Fluid in the presence of constant applied inclined magnetic field is considered. Flow problem is mathematically modeled and governing expressions are changed into nonlinear ordinary ones by utilizing appropriate transformations. The effects of pertinent variables on velocity, nanoparticle concentration and temperature are discussed graphically. Furthermore Brownian motion and thermophoresis effects on entropy generation and Bejan number have been examined. Total entropy generation is inspected through various flow variables. Consideration is mainly given to the convergence process. Velocity, temperature and mass gradients at the surface of sheet are calculated numerically.

Privacy, anonymity and subjectivity in genomic research.

PubMed

McGonigle, Ian; Shomron, Noam

2016-01-14

The use of non-anonymized human genome data is becoming increasingly popular in research. Here we review the proceedings of a special meeting on this topic that took place at European Molecular Biology Organization (EMBO) in December 2014. The main points discussed centered on how to achieve 'anonymity,' 'trust,' and 'protection of data' in relation to new genomic technologies and research. Following our report of this meeting, we also raise three further issues for future consideration: the harmonization of international law in relation to genetic data protection; the complex issues around the 'dividual' nature of genetic data; and the growing commercial value of personal data. In conclusion, we stress the importance of scientists working in the area of genomic research engaging in interdisciplinary collaborations with humanities and social science scholars and addressing these complicated issues.

The role of vitamin K in vascular calcification of patients with chronic kidney disease.

PubMed

Wuyts, Julie; Dhondt, Annemieke

2016-12-01

Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are prone to vascular calcification. Pathogenetic mechanisms of vascular calcifications have been broadly studied and discussed such as the role of hyperphosphatemia, hypercalcemia, parathormone, and vitamin D. In recent years, new insights have been gained pointing to vitamin K as a main actor. It has been discovered that vitamin K is an essential cofactor for the activation of matrix Gla protein (MGP), a calcification inhibitor in the vessel wall. Patients with CKD often suffer from vitamin K deficiency, resulting in low active MGP and eventually a lack of inhibition of vascular calcification. Vitamin K supplementation and switching warfarin to new oral anticoagulants are potential treatments. In addition, MGP may have a role as a non-invasive biomarker for vascular calcification.

A theory of circular organization and negative feedback: defining life in a cybernetic context.

PubMed

Tsokolov, Sergey

2010-12-01

All life today incorporates a variety of systems controlled by negative feedback loops and sometimes amplified by positive feedback loops. The first forms of life necessarily also required primitive versions of feedback, yet surprisingly little emphasis has been given to the question of how feedback emerged out of primarily chemical systems. One chemical system has been established that spontaneously develops autocatalytic feedback, the Belousov-Zhabotinsky (BZ) reaction. In this essay, I discuss the BZ reaction as a possible model for similar reactions that could have occurred under prebiotic Earth conditions. The main point is that the metabolism of contemporary life evolved from primitive homeostatic networks regulated by negative feedback. Because life could not exist in their absence, feedback loops should be included in definitions of life.

Crystal field effect in light actinide dioxides and oxychalcogenides-a unified phenomenological description

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gajek, Z.

2004-05-01

The electronic properties of the actinide ions in the series of semi-conducting, antiferromagnetic compounds: dioxides, AnO2 and oxychalcogenides, AnOY, where An=U, Np and Y=S, Se, are re-examined from the point of view of the consistency of the crystal field (CF) model. The discussion is based on the supposition that the effective metal-ligand interaction solely determines the net CF effect in non-metallic compounds. The main question we address here is, whether a reliable, consistent description of the CF effect in terms of the intrinsic parameters can be achieved for this particular family of compounds. Encouraging calculations reported previously for the AnO2 and UOY series serve as a reference data in the present estimation of electronic structure parameters for neptunium oxychalcogenides.

First principles molecular dynamics of molten NaCl

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Galamba, N.; Costa Cabral, B. J.

2007-03-01

First principles Hellmann-Feynman molecular dynamics (HFMD) results for molten NaCl at a single state point are reported. The effect of induction forces on the structure and dynamics of the system is studied by comparison of the partial radial distribution functions and the velocity and force autocorrelation functions with those calculated from classical MD based on rigid-ion and shell-model potentials. The first principles results reproduce the main structural features of the molten salt observed experimentally, whereas they are incorrectly described by both rigid-ion and shell-model potentials. Moreover, HFMD Green-Kubo self-diffusion coefficients are in closer agreement with experimental data than those predicted by classical MD. A comprehensive discussion of MD results for molten NaCl based on different ab initio parametrized polarizable interionic potentials is also given.

Ex situ investigation of the step bunching on crystal surfaces by atomic force microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krasinski, Mariusz J.

1997-07-01

We are describing ex situ observation of step bunching on the surfaces of solution grown potassium dihydrogen phosphate (KDP) and sodium chlorate monocrystals. The measurements have been done with the use of atomic force microscope. The use of this equipment allowed us to see directly the structure of macrosteps. Observation confirmed the existence of step pinning which is one of the proposed mechanisms of step bunching. Despite the very high resolution of AFM it was not possible to determine the nature of pinning point. The monatomic steps on KDP and sodium chlorate crystal surfaces are mainly one unit cell high what seems to be the result of the steps pairing. The origin of observed step pattern is discussed in frames of existing theories.

Feasibility and challenges of independent research on drugs: the Italian medicines agency (AIFA) experience.

PubMed

2010-01-01

Key points * National Health Service (NHS) is becoming increasingly aware of the need to support independent research to answer some important questions for patient care in areas of scant commercial interest. * This article reports the main features and strategies of the independent research programme on drugs launched by the Italian Medicines Agency (AIFA) in 2005. * In the three bids launched between 2005 and 2007, a total of 151 studies have been approved for funding for a total of about 78 million Euro. * In this article we describe the Italian legislative framework under which the programme was launched, the types of research funded and discuss how the supported studies could contribute, in an international framework, to the knowledge needed on drug efficacy, effectiveness and safety.

A Theory of Circular Organization and Negative Feedback: Defining Life in a Cybernetic Context

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tsokolov, Sergey

2010-12-01

All life today incorporates a variety of systems controlled by negative feedback loops and sometimes amplified by positive feedback loops. The first forms of life necessarily also required primitive versions of feedback, yet surprisingly little emphasis has been given to the question of how feedback emerged out of primarily chemical systems. One chemical system has been established that spontaneously develops autocatalytic feedback, the Belousov-Zhabotinsky (BZ) reaction. In this essay, I discuss the BZ reaction as a possible model for similar reactions that could have occurred under prebiotic Earth conditions. The main point is that the metabolism of contemporary life evolved from primitive homeostatic networks regulated by negative feedback. Because life could not exist in their absence, feedback loops should be included in definitions of life.

[A cross-correlational analysis of the background neuronal pulse trains in surviving slices of the guinea pig neocortex].

PubMed

Bortnik, A T; Iakupova, L P

1991-01-01

Cross-correlation analysis of interdependence of the background spike activity was carried out for pairs of adjacent neurons simultaneously recorded in the incubated slices of the neocortex of guinea-pig. Statistical correlation of spike discharges was detected in 16 out of 26 recorded pairs of the neurons. Significant correlation was observed mainly in the range of +/- 100 ms from the null point. Cross-correlation had symmetric or asymmetric maxima up to 150 ms long and negative shifts up to 200 ms long. More complex positive-negative types of cross-correlations were also obtained. The data were compared to those known from other authors for the intact brain. The contribution of intrinsic intracortical interactions and extrinsic afferent influences in these correlations of activity is discussed.

Mechanism and kinetics of electrophoretic deposition of Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}

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

Sarkar, P.; Nicholson, P.S.

1996-06-01

The four main electrophoretic deposition (EPD) mechanisms are discussed and their shortcomings pointed out. The Hamaker constant for Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} in ethanol suspension is determined by modelling the relationship between particle interaction energy and suspension stability. The Derjagun-Landau-Verwey-Overbeek (DLVO) interaction energy curve for Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} particles in ethanol suspension is calculated and the minimum deposition voltage determined. Three probe dc measurements were conducted to explain discrepancies between the calculated and experimentally-observed voltage. A mechanism proposed is based on the DLVO theory and particle-lyosphere destortion/thinning. Kinetic equations for EPD are developed for constant current and constant voltage deposition usingmore » mass balance conditions and verified by experimental data.« less

Biosafety considerations for attenuated measles virus vectors used in virotherapy and vaccination

PubMed Central

Baldo, Aline; Galanis, Evanthia; Tangy, Frédéric; Herman, Philippe

2016-01-01

ABSTRACT Attenuated measles virus (MV) is one of the most effective and safe vaccines available, making it attractive candidate vector to prevent infectious diseases. Attenuated MV have acquired the ability to use the complement regulator CD46 as a major receptor to mediate virus entry and intercellular fusion. Therefore, attenuated MV strains preferentially infect and destroy a wide variety of cancer cells making them also attractive oncolytic vectors. The use of recombinant MV vector has to comply with various regulatory requirements, particularly relating to the assessment of potential risks for human health and the environment. The present article highlights the main characteristics of MV and recombinant MV vectors used for vaccination and virotherapy and discusses these features from a biosafety point of view. PMID:26631840

Coordinating perceptually grounded categories through language: a case study for colour.

PubMed

Steels, Luc; Belpaeme, Tony

2005-08-01

This article proposes a number of models to examine through which mechanisms a population of autonomous agents could arrive at a repertoire of perceptually grounded categories that is sufficiently shared to allow successful communication. The models are inspired by the main approaches to human categorisation being discussed in the literature: nativism, empiricism, and culturalism. Colour is taken as a case study. Although we take no stance on which position is to be accepted as final truth with respect to human categorisation and naming, we do point to theoretical constraints that make each position more or less likely and we make clear suggestions on what the best engineering solution would be. Specifically, we argue that the collective choice of a shared repertoire must integrate multiple constraints, including constraints coming from communication.

Recent results from the strong interactions program of NA61/SHINE

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pulawski, Szymon

2017-12-01

The NA61/SHINE experiment studies hadron production in hadron+hadron, hadron+nucleus and nucleus+nucleus collisions. The strong interactions program has two main purposes: study the properties of the onset of deconfinement and search for the signatures of the critical point of strongly interacting matter. This aim is pursued by performing a two-dimensional scan of the phase diagram by varying the energy/momentum (13A-158A GeV/c) and the system size (p+p, Be+Be, Ar+Sc, Xe+La) of the collisions. This publication reviews recent results from p+p, Be+Be and Ar+Sc interactions. Measured particle spectra are discussed and compared to NA49 results from Pb+Pb collisions. The results illustrate the progress towards scanning the phase diagram of strongly interacting matter.

Barriers and decisions when answering clinical questions at the point of care: a grounded theory study.

PubMed

Cook, David A; Sorensen, Kristi J; Wilkinson, John M; Berger, Richard A

2013-11-25

Answering clinical questions affects patient-care decisions and is important to continuous professional development. The process of point-of-care learning is incompletely understood. To understand what barriers and enabling factors influence physician point-of-care learning and what decisions physicians face during this process. Focus groups with grounded theory analysis. Focus group discussions were transcribed and then analyzed using a constant comparative approach to identify barriers, enabling factors, and key decisions related to physician information-seeking activities. Academic medical center and outlying community sites. Purposive sample of 50 primary care and subspecialist internal medicine and family medicine physicians, interviewed in 11 focus groups. Insufficient time was the main barrier to point-of-care learning. Other barriers included the patient comorbidities and contexts, the volume of available information, not knowing which resource to search, doubt that the search would yield an answer, difficulty remembering questions for later study, and inconvenient access to computers. Key decisions were whether to search (reasons to search included infrequently seen conditions, practice updates, complex questions, and patient education), when to search (before, during, or after the clinical encounter), where to search (with the patient present or in a separate room), what type of resource to use (colleague or computer), what specific resource to use (influenced first by efficiency and second by credibility), and when to stop. Participants noted that key features of efficiency (completeness, brevity, and searchability) are often in conflict. Physicians perceive that insufficient time is the greatest barrier to point-of-care learning, and efficiency is the most important determinant in selecting an information source. Designing knowledge resources and systems to target key decisions may improve learning and patient care.

The Schrödinger Equation, the Zero-Point Electromagnetic Radiation, and the Photoelectric Effect

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

França, H. M.; Kamimura, A.; Barreto, G. A.

2016-04-01

A Schrödinger type equation for a mathematical probability amplitude Ψ( x, t) is derived from the generalized phase space Liouville equation valid for the motion of a microscopic particle, with mass M and charge e, moving in a potential V( x). The particle phase space probability density is denoted Q( x, p, t), and the entire system is immersed in the "vacuum" zero-point electromagnetic radiation. We show, in the first part of the paper, that the generalized Liouville equation is reduced to a simpler Liouville equation in the equilibrium limit where the small radiative corrections cancel each other approximately. This leads us to a simpler Liouville equation that will facilitate the calculations in the second part of the paper. Within this second part, we address ourselves to the following task: Since the Schrödinger equation depends on hbar , and the zero-point electromagnetic spectral distribution, given by ρ 0{(ω )} = hbar ω 3/2 π 2 c3, also depends on hbar , it is interesting to verify the possible dynamical connection between ρ 0( ω) and the Schrödinger equation. We shall prove that the Planck's constant, present in the momentum operator of the Schrödinger equation, is deeply related with the ubiquitous zero-point electromagnetic radiation with spectral distribution ρ 0( ω). For simplicity, we do not use the hypothesis of the existence of the L. de Broglie matter-waves. The implications of our study for the standard interpretation of the photoelectric effect are discussed by considering the main characteristics of the phenomenon. We also mention, briefly, the effects of the zero-point radiation in the tunneling phenomenon and the Compton's effect.

Lake Erie Water Level Study. Main Report.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-07-01

of recreational beach activities. Examples include: Rondeau, Long Point and Sandbanks in Canada and Hamlin (New York), Presque Isle ( Pennsylvania ...be most affected by lake level changes. Long Point, Rondeau, Sandusky, and Presque Isle Bays are, due to their shallow nature and sand spit formation...AD-AI14 582 INTERNATIONAL LAKE ERIE REGULATION STUDY BOARD F/9 13/2 LAKE ERIE WATER LEVEL STUDY. MAIN REPORT.(U) UNCLASSIFIED N1.3 iE~hE

Faith healing and faith in healing.

PubMed

Gopichandran, Vijayaprasad

2015-01-01

Sarkar and Seshadri have presented an interesting paper in this issue on the ethical approach that a physician should take when faced with requests for faith healing (1). The paper describes four approaches that the physician can take. These are rejecting the request, keeping oneself detached from the issue, endorsing the request and trying to understand the practices concerned so as to make a reasoned decision. This commentary attempts to explore the issue of faith healing further, from the point of view of clinical care. It shall discuss five important dimensions which can supplement the arguments by Sarkar and Seshadri. These are the concepts of faith, spirituality and religion and faith healing; the difference between cure and healing; patient-centred care; the various factors influencing a doctor's response to requests for faith healing; and finally, the ethical issues to be considered while making a decision. Before launching into the discussion, it should be made clear that this commentary refers mainly to those faith healing practices which are not overtly harmful, such as prayers, and wearing rings and amulets.

What Is Fitness Training? Definitions and Implications: A Systematic Review Article

PubMed Central

PAOLI, Antonio; BIANCO, Antonino

2015-01-01

Background: This review based upon studies searched from the major scientific libraries has the objective of clarifying what is fitness training in modern days, the implications that it has on health in both youth and elderly and finally discuss fitness training practical implications. Methods: The PRISMA statement was partially adopted and a number of 92 items were selected, according to the inclusion criteria. Results were discussed in 4 main sections: 1. Children and adolescents fitness levels; 2. Fitness training in the elderly; 3. Pathology prevention through fitness training; 4. Training through Fitness activities. Results: This review pointed out the fact that nowadays there is a large variety of fitness activities available within gyms and fitness centers. Even though they significantly differ with each other, the common aim they have is the wellbeing of the people through the improvement of the physical fitness components and the psychological balance. Conclusion: Fitness instructors’ recommendations should be followed in gym context and should be contingent upon an individual’s objectives, physical capacity, physical characteristics and experience. PMID:26284201

Printable Electrochemical Biosensors: A Focus on Screen-Printed Electrodes and Their Application

PubMed Central

Yamanaka, Keiichiro; Vestergaard, Mun’delanji C.; Tamiya, Eiichi

2016-01-01

In this review we present electrochemical biosensor developments, focusing on screen-printed electrodes (SPEs) and their applications. In particular, we discuss how SPEs enable simple integration, and the portability needed for on-field applications. First, we briefly discuss the general concept of biosensors and quickly move on to electrochemical biosensors. Drawing from research undertaken in this area, we cover the development of electrochemical DNA biosensors in great detail. Through specific examples, we describe the fabrication and surface modification of printed electrodes for sensitive and selective detection of targeted DNA sequences, as well as integration with reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). For a more rounded approach, we also touch on electrochemical immunosensors and enzyme-based biosensors. Last, we present some electrochemical devices specifically developed for use with SPEs, including USB-powered compact mini potentiostat. The coupling demonstrates the practical use of printable electrode technologies for application at point-of-use. Although tremendous advances have indeed been made in this area, a few challenges remain. One of the main challenges is application of these technologies for on-field analysis, which involves complicated sample matrices. PMID:27775661

The Dreyfus model of clinical problem-solving skills acquisition: a critical perspective

PubMed Central

Peña, Adolfo

2010-01-01

Context The Dreyfus model describes how individuals progress through various levels in their acquisition of skills and subsumes ideas with regard to how individuals learn. Such a model is being accepted almost without debate from physicians to explain the ‘acquisition’ of clinical skills. Objectives This paper reviews such a model, discusses several controversial points, clarifies what kind of knowledge the model is about, and examines its coherence in terms of problem-solving skills. Dreyfus' main idea that intuition is a major aspect of expertise is also discussed in some detail. Relevant scientific evidence from cognitive science, psychology, and neuroscience is reviewed to accomplish these aims. Conclusions Although the Dreyfus model may partially explain the ‘acquisition’ of some skills, it is debatable if it can explain the acquisition of clinical skills. The complex nature of clinical problem-solving skills and the rich interplay between the implicit and explicit forms of knowledge must be taken into consideration when we want to explain ‘acquisition’ of clinical skills. The idea that experts work from intuition, not from reason, should be evaluated carefully. PMID:20563279

Design of Low Inductance Switching Power Cell for GaN HEMT Based Inverter

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

Gurpinar, Emre; Iannuzzo, Francesco; Yang, Yongheng

Here in this paper, an ultra-low inductance power cell is designed for a three-Level Active Neutral Point Clamped (3LANPC) based on 650 V gallium nitride (GaN) HEMT devices. The 3L-ANPC topology with GaN HEMT devices and the selected modulation scheme suitable for wide-bandgap (WBG) devices are presented. The commutation loops, which mainly contribute to voltage overshoots and increase of switching losses, are discussed. The ultra-low inductance power cell design based on a fourlayer Printed Circuit Board (PCB) with the aim to maximize the switching performance of GaN HEMTs is explained. The design of gate drivers for the GaN HEMT devicesmore » is presented. Parasitic inductance and resistance of the proposed design are extracted with finite element analysis and discussed. Common mode behaviours based on the SPICE model of the converter are analyzed. Experimental results on the designed 3L-ANPC with the output power of up to 1 kW are presented, which verifies the performance of the proposed design in terms of ultra-low inductance.« less

Latent hardening size effect in small-scale plasticity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bardella, Lorenzo; Segurado, Javier; Panteghini, Andrea; Llorca, Javier

2013-07-01

We aim at understanding the multislip behaviour of metals subject to irreversible deformations at small-scales. By focusing on the simple shear of a constrained single-crystal strip, we show that discrete Dislocation Dynamics (DD) simulations predict a strong latent hardening size effect, with smaller being stronger in the range [1.5 µm, 6 µm] for the strip height. We attempt to represent the DD pseudo-experimental results by developing a flow theory of Strain Gradient Crystal Plasticity (SGCP), involving both energetic and dissipative higher-order terms and, as a main novelty, a strain gradient extension of the conventional latent hardening. In order to discuss the capability of the SGCP theory proposed, we implement it into a Finite Element (FE) code and set its material parameters on the basis of the DD results. The SGCP FE code is specifically developed for the boundary value problem under study so that we can implement a fully implicit (Backward Euler) consistent algorithm. Special emphasis is placed on the discussion of the role of the material length scales involved in the SGCP model, from both the mechanical and numerical points of view.

The risks and rights of sexualization: an appreciative commentary on Lerum and Dworkin's "bad girls rule".

PubMed

Vanwesenbeeck, Ine

2009-01-01

This commentary wholeheartedly supports the critical observations by Kari Lerum and Shari L. Dworkin in this issue of the Journal of Sex Research with regard to the 2007 Report of the APA (American Psychological Association) Task Force on the Sexualization of Girls. The APA task force makes an overwhelmingly strong point for the dangers of the sexualization of women and girls and the self-objectification connected to it. However, their discussion of the evidence is noteworthy for being one-sided, generalizing, and negatively toned. Among the arguments presented in this commentary are notions about the rather diverse and often ambiguous nature of sexualized imagery and about the all too often ignored complexity of its presumed "effects." In addition, the issue of female sexual power and the case of sex workers are discussed. When sexualization is defined as only negative, both sex worker's rights and, more generally, women's rights to be sexual, get into a tight corner. The main contention is that sexualization is associated with risks, as well as with rights, and that any productive analysis will have to consider both.

Bacteriocins as food preservatives: Challenges and emerging horizons.

PubMed

Johnson, Eldin Maliyakkal; Jung, Dr Yong-Gyun; Jin, Dr Ying-Yu; Jayabalan, Dr Rasu; Yang, Dr Seung Hwan; Suh, Joo Won

2017-09-07

The increasing demand for fresh-like food products and the potential health hazards of chemically preserved and processed food products have led to the advent of alternative technologies for the preservation and maintenance of the freshness of the food products. One such preservation strategy is the usage of bacteriocins or bacteriocins producing starter cultures for the preservation of the intended food matrixes. Bacteriocins are ribosomally synthesized smaller polypeptide molecules that exert antagonistic activity against closely related and unrelated group of bacteria. This review is aimed at bringing to lime light the various class of bacteriocins mainly from gram positive bacteria. The desirable characteristics of the bacteriocins which earn them a place in food preservation technology, the success story of the same in various food systems, the various challenges and the strategies employed to put them to work efficiently in various food systems has been discussed in this review. From the industrial point of view various aspects like the improvement of the producer strains, downstream processing and purification of the bacteriocins and recent trends in engineered bacteriocins has also been briefly discussed in this review.

NCTM workshop splinter session, IR thermal measurement instruments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kaplan, Herbert

1989-06-01

The splinter session dealing with commercial industrial thermal measurement state-of-the-hardware had a total attendance of 15. Two papers were presented in the splinter session as follows: (1) Development of an Infrared Imaging System for the Surface Tension Driven Convection Experiment, Alexander D. Pline, NASA LeRC; (2) A Space-qualified PtSi Thermal Imaging System, Robert W. Astheimer, Barnes Engineering Div., EDO Corp. In addition a brief description of SPRITE detector technology was presented by Richard F. Leftwich of Magnovox. As anticipated, the discussions were concerned mainly with thermal imaging figures of merit rather than those for point measurement instruments. The need for uniform guidelines whereby infrared thermal imaging instruments could be specified and evaluated was identified as most important, particularly where temperature measurements are required. Presently there are differences in the way different manufacturers present significant performance parameters in their instrument data sheets. Furthermore, the prospective user has difficulty relating these parameters to actual measurement needs, and procedures by which performance can be verified are poorly defined. The current availability of powerful thermal imaging diagnostic software was discussed.

NCTM workshop splinter session, IR thermal measurement instruments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kaplan, Herbert

1989-01-01

The splinter session dealing with commercial industrial thermal measurement state-of-the-hardware had a total attendance of 15. Two papers were presented in the splinter session as follows: (1) Development of an Infrared Imaging System for the Surface Tension Driven Convection Experiment, Alexander D. Pline, NASA LeRC; (2) A Space-qualified PtSi Thermal Imaging System, Robert W. Astheimer, Barnes Engineering Div., EDO Corp. In addition a brief description of SPRITE detector technology was presented by Richard F. Leftwich of Magnovox. As anticipated, the discussions were concerned mainly with thermal imaging figures of merit rather than those for point measurement instruments. The need for uniform guidelines whereby infrared thermal imaging instruments could be specified and evaluated was identified as most important, particularly where temperature measurements are required. Presently there are differences in the way different manufacturers present significant performance parameters in their instrument data sheets. Furthermore, the prospective user has difficulty relating these parameters to actual measurement needs, and procedures by which performance can be verified are poorly defined. The current availability of powerful thermal imaging diagnostic software was discussed.

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

Unneberg, L.

The main features of the 16 core grids (top guides) designed by ABB ATOM AB are briefly described and the evolution of the design is discussed. One important characteristic of the first nine grids is the existence of bolts securing guide bars to the core grid plates. These bolts are made of precipitation hardened or solution annealed stainless steel. During operation, bolts in all none grids have cracked. The failure analyses indicate that intergranular stress corrosion cracking (IGSCC), possibly accelerated by crevice conditions and/or irradiation, was the cause of failure. Fast neutron fluences approaching or exceeding the levels considered asmore » critical for irradiation assisted stress corrosion cracking (IASCC) will be reached in a few cases only. Temporary measures were taken immediately after the discovery of the cracking. For five of the nine reactors affected, it was decided to replace the complete grids. Two of these replacements have been successfully carried out to date. IASCC as a potential future problem is discussed and it is pointed out that, during their life times, the ABB ATOM core grids will be exposed to sufficiently high fast neutron fluences to cause some concern.« less

Everolimus-Eluting Stents or Bypass Surgery for Left Main Coronary Artery Disease.

PubMed

Stone, Gregg W; Sabik, Joseph F; Serruys, Patrick W; Simonton, Charles A; Généreux, Philippe; Puskas, John; Kandzari, David E; Morice, Marie-Claude; Lembo, Nicholas; Brown, W Morris; Taggart, David P; Banning, Adrian; Merkely, Béla; Horkay, Ferenc; Boonstra, Piet W; van Boven, Ad J; Ungi, Imre; Bogáts, Gabor; Mansour, Samer; Noiseux, Nicolas; Sabaté, Manel; Pomar, José; Hickey, Mark; Gershlick, Anthony; Buszman, Pawel; Bochenek, Andrzej; Schampaert, Erick; Pagé, Pierre; Dressler, Ovidiu; Kosmidou, Ioanna; Mehran, Roxana; Pocock, Stuart J; Kappetein, A Pieter

2016-12-08

Patients with obstructive left main coronary artery disease are usually treated with coronary-artery bypass grafting (CABG). Randomized trials have suggested that drug-eluting stents may be an acceptable alternative to CABG in selected patients with left main coronary disease. We randomly assigned 1905 eligible patients with left main coronary artery disease of low or intermediate anatomical complexity to undergo either percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with fluoropolymer-based cobalt-chromium everolimus-eluting stents (PCI group, 948 patients) or CABG (CABG group, 957 patients). Anatomic complexity was assessed at the sites and defined by a Synergy between Percutaneous Coronary Intervention with Taxus and Cardiac Surgery (SYNTAX) score of 32 or lower (the SYNTAX score reflects a comprehensive angiographic assessment of the coronary vasculature, with 0 as the lowest score and higher scores [no upper limit] indicating more complex coronary anatomy). The primary end point was the rate of a composite of death from any cause, stroke, or myocardial infarction at 3 years, and the trial was powered for noninferiority testing of the primary end point (noninferiority margin, 4.2 percentage points). Major secondary end points included the rate of a composite of death from any cause, stroke, or myocardial infarction at 30 days and the rate of a composite of death, stroke, myocardial infarction, or ischemia-driven revascularization at 3 years. Event rates were based on Kaplan-Meier estimates in time-to-first-event analyses. At 3 years, a primary end-point event had occurred in 15.4% of the patients in the PCI group and in 14.7% of the patients in the CABG group (difference, 0.7 percentage points; upper 97.5% confidence limit, 4.0 percentage points; P=0.02 for noninferiority; hazard ratio, 1.00; 95% confidence interval, 0.79 to 1.26; P=0.98 for superiority). The secondary end-point event of death, stroke, or myocardial infarction at 30 days occurred in 4.9% of the patients in the PCI group and in 7.9% in the CABG group (P<0.001 for noninferiority, P=0.008 for superiority). The secondary end-point event of death, stroke, myocardial infarction, or ischemia-driven revascularization at 3 years occurred in 23.1% of the patients in the PCI group and in 19.1% in the CABG group (P=0.01 for noninferiority, P=0.10 for superiority). In patients with left main coronary artery disease and low or intermediate SYNTAX scores by site assessment, PCI with everolimus-eluting stents was noninferior to CABG with respect to the rate of the composite end point of death, stroke, or myocardial infarction at 3 years. (Funded by Abbott Vascular; EXCEL ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT01205776 .).

Hot embossed polyethylene through-hole chips for bead-based microfluidic devices.

PubMed

Chou, Jie; Du, Nan; Ou, Tina; Floriano, Pierre N; Christodoulides, Nicolaos; McDevitt, John T

2013-04-15

Over the past decade, there has been a growth of interest in the translation of microfluidic systems into real-world clinical practice, especially for use in point-of-care or near patient settings. While initial fabrication advances in microfluidics involved mainly the etching of silicon and glass, the economics of scaling of these materials is not amendable for point-of-care usage where single-test applications force cost considerations to be kept low and throughput high. As such, materials base more consistent with point-of-care needs is required. In this manuscript, the fabrication of a hot embossed, through-hole low-density polyethylene ensembles derived from an anisotropically etched silicon wafer is discussed. This semi-opaque polymer that can be easily sterilized and recycled provides low background noise for fluorescence measurements and yields more affordable cost than other thermoplastics commonly used for microfluidic applications such as cyclic olefin copolymer (COC). To fabrication through-hole microchips from this alternative material for microfluidics, a fabrication technique that uses a high-temperature, high-pressure resistant mold is described. This aluminum-based epoxy mold, serving as the positive master mold for embossing, is casted over etched arrays of pyramidal pits in a silicon wafer. Methods of surface treatment of the wafer prior to casting and PDMS casting of the epoxy are discussed to preserve the silicon wafer for future use. Changes in the thickness of polyethylene are observed for varying embossing temperatures. The methodology described herein can quickly fabricate 20 disposable, single use chips in less than 30 min with the ability to scale up 4 times by using multiple molds simultaneously. When coupled as a platform supporting porous bead sensors, as in the recently developed Programmable Bio-Nano-Chip, this bead chip system can achieve limits of detection, for the cardiac biomarker C-reactive protein, of 0.3 ng/mL, thereby demonstrating that the approach is compatible with high performance, real-world clinical measurements in the context of point-of-care testing. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Role of bone marrow cells in the development of pancreatic fibrosis in a rat model of pancreatitis induced by a choline-deficient/ethionine-supplemented diet

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

Akita, Shingo; Kubota, Koji; Kobayashi, Akira, E-mail: kbys@shinshu-u.ac.jp

Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer BMC-derived PSCs play a role in a rat CDE diet-induced pancreatitis model. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer BMC-derived PSCs contribute mainly to the early stage of pancreatic fibrosis. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer BMC-derived activated PSCs can produce PDGF and TGF {beta}1. -- Abstract: Bone marrow cell (BMC)-derived myofibroblast-like cells have been reported in various organs, including the pancreas. However, the contribution of these cells to pancreatic fibrosis has not been fully discussed. The present study examined the possible involvement of pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) originating from BMCs in the development of pancreatic fibrosis in a clinically relevant rat model of acute pancreatitis induced by amore » choline-deficient/ethionine-supplemented (CDE) diet. BMCs from female transgenic mice ubiquitously expressing green fluorescent protein (GFP) were transplanted into lethally irradiated male rats. Once chimerism was established, acute pancreatitis was induced by a CDE diet. Chronological changes in the number of PSCs originating from the donor BMCs were examined using double immunofluorescence for GFP and markers for PSCs, such as desmin and alpha smooth muscle actin ({alpha}SMA), 1, 3 and 8 weeks after the initiation of CDE feeding. We also used immunohistochemical staining to evaluate whether the PSCs from the BMCs produce growth factors, such as platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and transforming growth factor (TGF) {beta}1. The percentage of BMC-derived activated PSCs increased significantly, peaking after 1 week of CDE treatment (accounting for 23.3 {+-} 0.9% of the total population of activated PSCs) and then decreasing. These cells produced both PDGF and TGF{beta}1 during the early stage of pancreatic fibrosis. Our results suggest that PSCs originating from BMCs contribute mainly to the early stage of pancreatic injury, at least in part, by producing growth factors in a rat CDE diet-induced pancreatitis model.« less

Odour Detection Methods: Olfactometry and Chemical Sensors

PubMed Central

Brattoli, Magda; de Gennaro, Gianluigi; de Pinto, Valentina; Loiotile, Annamaria Demarinis; Lovascio, Sara; Penza, Michele

2011-01-01

The complexity of the odours issue arises from the sensory nature of smell. From the evolutionary point of view olfaction is one of the oldest senses, allowing for seeking food, recognizing danger or communication: human olfaction is a protective sense as it allows the detection of potential illnesses or infections by taking into account the odour pleasantness/unpleasantness. Odours are mixtures of light and small molecules that, coming in contact with various human sensory systems, also at very low concentrations in the inhaled air, are able to stimulate an anatomical response: the experienced perception is the odour. Odour assessment is a key point in some industrial production processes (i.e., food, beverages, etc.) and it is acquiring steady importance in unusual technological fields (i.e., indoor air quality); this issue mainly concerns the environmental impact of various industrial activities (i.e., tanneries, refineries, slaughterhouses, distilleries, civil and industrial wastewater treatment plants, landfills and composting plants) as sources of olfactory nuisances, the top air pollution complaint. Although the human olfactory system is still regarded as the most important and effective “analytical instrument” for odour evaluation, the demand for more objective analytical methods, along with the discovery of materials with chemo-electronic properties, has boosted the development of sensor-based machine olfaction potentially imitating the biological system. This review examines the state of the art of both human and instrumental sensing currently used for the detection of odours. The olfactometric techniques employing a panel of trained experts are discussed and the strong and weak points of odour assessment through human detection are highlighted. The main features and the working principles of modern electronic noses (E-Noses) are then described, focusing on their better performances for environmental analysis. Odour emission monitoring carried out through both the techniques is finally reviewed in order to show the complementary responses of human and instrumental sensing. PMID:22163901

Odour detection methods: olfactometry and chemical sensors.

PubMed

Brattoli, Magda; de Gennaro, Gianluigi; de Pinto, Valentina; Loiotile, Annamaria Demarinis; Lovascio, Sara; Penza, Michele

2011-01-01

The complexity of the odours issue arises from the sensory nature of smell. From the evolutionary point of view olfaction is one of the oldest senses, allowing for seeking food, recognizing danger or communication: human olfaction is a protective sense as it allows the detection of potential illnesses or infections by taking into account the odour pleasantness/unpleasantness. Odours are mixtures of light and small molecules that, coming in contact with various human sensory systems, also at very low concentrations in the inhaled air, are able to stimulate an anatomical response: the experienced perception is the odour. Odour assessment is a key point in some industrial production processes (i.e., food, beverages, etc.) and it is acquiring steady importance in unusual technological fields (i.e., indoor air quality); this issue mainly concerns the environmental impact of various industrial activities (i.e., tanneries, refineries, slaughterhouses, distilleries, civil and industrial wastewater treatment plants, landfills and composting plants) as sources of olfactory nuisances, the top air pollution complaint. Although the human olfactory system is still regarded as the most important and effective "analytical instrument" for odour evaluation, the demand for more objective analytical methods, along with the discovery of materials with chemo-electronic properties, has boosted the development of sensor-based machine olfaction potentially imitating the biological system. This review examines the state of the art of both human and instrumental sensing currently used for the detection of odours. The olfactometric techniques employing a panel of trained experts are discussed and the strong and weak points of odour assessment through human detection are highlighted. The main features and the working principles of modern electronic noses (E-Noses) are then described, focusing on their better performances for environmental analysis. Odour emission monitoring carried out through both the techniques is finally reviewed in order to show the complementary responses of human and instrumental sensing.

Recent advances in the compilation of holocene relative Sea-level database in North America

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Horton, B.; Vacchi, M.; Engelhart, S. E.; Nikitina, D.

2015-12-01

Reconstruction of relative sea level (RSL) has implications for investigation of crustal movements, calibration of earth rheology models and the reconstruction of ice sheets. In recent years, efforts were made to create RSL databases following a standardized methodology. These regional databases provided a framework for developing our understanding of the primary mechanisms of RSL change since the Last Glacial Maximum and a long-term baseline against which to gauge changes in sea-level during the 20th century and forecasts for the 21st. Here we present two quality-controlled Holocene RSL database compiled for North America. Along the Pacific coast of North America (British Columbia, Canada to California, USA), our re-evaluation of sea-level indicators from geological and archaeological investigations yield 841 RSL data-points mainly from salt and freshwater wetlands or adjacent estuarine sediment as well as from isolation basin. Along the Atlantic coast of North America (Hudson Bay, Canada to South Carolina, USA), we are currently compiling a database including more than 2000 RSL data-points from isolation basin, salt and freshwater wetlands, beach ridges and intratidal deposits. We outline the difficulties and solutions we made to compile databases in such different depostional environment. We address complex tectonics and the framework to compare such large variability of RSL data-point. We discuss the implications of our results for the glacio-isostatic adjustment (GIA) models in the two studied regions.

Growing wheat to maturity in reduced gas pressures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rykiel, Edward J., Jr.; Drew, Malcolm C.; Etter, Brad D.

1993-01-01

The main objective of this project was to determine assimilation of CO2 and efficiency of water use in wheat grown to maturity in a low pressure total gas pressure environment. A functional test of the low pressure plant growth chamber system was accomplished in February and March of 1993 wherein this objective was partially achieved. Plants were grown to maturity in the chambers. Data were actively collected during the first 29 days. The plants were allowed to maintain themselves at the CO2 compensation point until day 45 of the study at which point active atmospheric regulation was resumed. This provided data at the vegetative and reproductive stages of the life cycle of the plants. However, this information may not be representative of the performance of the plants due to the loss of low pressure on a number of days during the study, which affected the plants by changing the pressure potential of the tissues. The performance of the system will be discussed on a component by component basis. The maintenance of the plants at the CO2 compensation point was driven by the failure of the computer program operating the system. The software problems that arose during the functional test have since been corrected. Results from the functional test also indicated that the plants were not receiving adequate light and nutrients. The growth chambers have been relocated and the growth room modified to compensate for these deficiencies.

When the Sun Gets in the Way: Stereo Science Observations on the Far Side of the Sun

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vourlidas, A.; Thompson, W. T.; Gurman, J. B.; Luhmann, J. G.; Curtis, D. W.; Schroeder, P. C.; Mewaldt, R. A.; Davis, A. J.; Wortman, K.; Russell, C. T.; Galvin, A. B.; Popecki, M.; Kistler, L. M.; Ellis, L.; Howard, R.; Rich, N.; Hutting, L.; Maksimovic, M.; Bale, S. D.; Goetz, K.

2014-12-01

With the two STEREO spacecraft on the opposite side of the Sun from Earth, pointing the high gain antenna at Earth means that it's also pointed very close to the Sun. This has resulted in unexpectedly high temperatures in the antenna feed horns on both spacecraft, and is forcing the mission operations team to take corrective action, starting in August 2014 for STEREO Ahead, and December 2014 for STEREO Behind. By off-pointing the antennas to use one of the lower power side lobes instead of the main lobe, the feed horn temperatures can be kept at a safe level while still allowing reliable communication with the spacecraft. However, the amount of telemetry that can be brought down will be highly reduced. Even so, significant science will still be possible from STEREO's unique position on the solar far side. We will discuss the science and space weather products that will be available from each STEREO instrument, when those products will be available, and how they will be used. Some data, including the regular space weather beacon products, will be brought down for an average of a few hours each day during the daily real-time passes, while the in situ and radio beacon data will be stored on the onboard recorder to provide a continuous 24-hour coverage for eventual downlink once the spacecraft is back to normal operations.

Arterial stick

MedlinePlus

... venous blood) mainly in its content of dissolved gases . Testing arterial blood shows the makeup of the ... arteries. Blood samples are mainly taken to measure gases in the arteries. Abnormal results may point to ...

Assessment of the Quality of Digital Terrain Model Produced from Unmanned Aerial System Imagery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kosmatin Fras, M.; Kerin, A.; Mesarič, M.; Peterman, V.; Grigillo, D.

2016-06-01

Production of digital terrain model (DTM) is one of the most usual tasks when processing photogrammetric point cloud generated from Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) imagery. The quality of the DTM produced in this way depends on different factors: the quality of imagery, image orientation and camera calibration, point cloud filtering, interpolation methods etc. However, the assessment of the real quality of DTM is very important for its further use and applications. In this paper we first describe the main steps of UAS imagery acquisition and processing based on practical test field survey and data. The main focus of this paper is to present the approach to DTM quality assessment and to give a practical example on the test field data. For data processing and DTM quality assessment presented in this paper mainly the in-house developed computer programs have been used. The quality of DTM comprises its accuracy, density, and completeness. Different accuracy measures like RMSE, median, normalized median absolute deviation and their confidence interval, quantiles are computed. The completeness of the DTM is very often overlooked quality parameter, but when DTM is produced from the point cloud this should not be neglected as some areas might be very sparsely covered by points. The original density is presented with density plot or map. The completeness is presented by the map of point density and the map of distances between grid points and terrain points. The results in the test area show great potential of the DTM produced from UAS imagery, in the sense of detailed representation of the terrain as well as good height accuracy.

Designing the Bayous: The Control of Water in the Atchafalaya Basin 1800-1995

DTIC Science & Technology

1998-01-01

Franklin, New Iberia, St. Martinville, and Vermilionville possessed the comforts and institutions of a settled life-banks, schools, hotels, churches ...Ohio River’s mouth south to New Madrid , Missouri. The main purpose of this Birds Point- New Madrid Floodway was to relieve flood conditions at Cairo...fuse plug levees at the Birds Point- New Madrid Floodway in Missouri and to request $20 million more for contraction works on the main stem of the

Understanding erosion rates in the Himalayan orogen: A case study from the Arun Valley

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Olen, Stephanie M.; Bookhagen, Bodo; Hoffmann, Bernd; Sachse, Dirk; Adhikari, D. P.; Strecker, Manfred R.

2015-10-01

Understanding the rates and pattern of erosion is a key aspect of deciphering the impacts of climate and tectonics on landscape evolution. Denudation rates derived from terrestrial cosmogenic nuclides (TCNs) are commonly used to quantify erosion and bridge tectonic (Myr) and climatic (up to several kiloyears) time scales. However, how the processes of erosion in active orogens are ultimately reflected in 10Be TCN samples remains a topic of discussion. We investigate this problem in the Arun Valley of eastern Nepal with 34 new 10Be-derived catchment-mean denudation rates. The Arun Valley is characterized by steep north-south gradients in topography and climate. Locally, denudation rates increase northward, from <0.2 mm yr-1 to ~1.5 mm yr-1 in tributary samples, while main stem samples appear to increase downstream from ~0.2 mm yr-1 at the border with Tibet to 0.91 mm yr-1 in the foreland. Denudation rates most strongly correlate with normalized channel steepness (R2 = 0.67), which has been commonly interpreted to indicate tectonic activity. Significant downstream decrease of 10Be concentration in the main stem Arun suggests that upstream sediment grains are fining to the point that they are operationally excluded from the processed sample. This results in 10Be concentrations and denudation rates that do not uniformly represent the upstream catchment area. We observe strong impacts on 10Be concentrations from local, nonfluvial geomorphic processes, such as glaciation and landsliding coinciding with areas of peak rainfall rates, pointing toward climatic modulation of predominantly tectonically driven denudation rates.

Comparative theoretical and experimental study of a Shack-Hartmann and a phase diversity sensor, for high-precision wavefront sensing dedicated to space active optics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Montmerle Bonnefois, A.; Fusco, T.; Meimon, S.; Michau, V.; Mugnier, L.; Sauvage, J.-F.; Engel, C.; Escolle, C.; Ferrari, M.; Hugot, E.; Liotard, A.; Bernot, M.; Carlavan, M.; Falzon, F.; Bret-Dibat, T.; Laubier, D.

2017-11-01

Earth-imaging or Universe Science satellites are always in need of higher spatial resolutions, in order to discern finer and finer details in images. This means that every new generation of satellites must have a larger main mirror than the previous one, because of the diffraction. Since it allows the use of larger mirrors, active optics is presently studied for the next generation of satellites. To measure the aberrations of such an active telescope, the Shack-Hartmann (SH), and the phase-diversity (PD) are the two wavefront sensors (WFS) considered preferentially because they are able to work with an extended source like the Earth's surface, as well as point sources like stars. The RASCASSE project was commissioned by the French spatial agency (CNES) to study the SH and PD sensors for high-performance wavefront sensing. It involved ONERA and Thales Alenia Space (TAS), and LAM. Papers by TAS and LAM on the same project are available in this conference, too [1,2]. The purpose of our work at ONERA was to explore what the best performance both wavefront sensors can achieve in a space optics context. So we first performed a theoretical study in order to identify the main sources of errors and quantify them - then we validated those results experimentally. The outline of this paper follows this approach: we first discuss phase diversity theoretical results, then Shack-Hartmann's, then experimental results - to finally conclude on each sensor's performance, and compare their weak and strong points.

Author Correction: Fermiology and electron dynamics of trilayer nickelate La4Ni3O10.

PubMed

Li, Haoxiang; Zhou, Xiaoqing; Nummy, Thomas; Zhang, Junjie; Pardo, Victor; Pickett, Warren E; Mitchell, J F; Dessau, D S

2018-05-11

The original version of this Article contained errors in Fig. 2, Fig. 3a-c and Supplementary Fig. 2. In Fig. 2g and Supplementary Fig. 2, the band structure plot calculated from density function theory (DFT) had a missing band of mainly z 2 character that starts at about - 0.25 eV at the Y point and disperses downwards towards the Γ point. This band was inadvertently neglected when transferring the lines from the original band plot to the enhanced version for publication. Also in Fig. 2g, the points labelled M and Y were not exactly at (1/2 1/2 0) and (0 1/2 0), but rather (0.52 0.48 0) and (0 0.48 0) due to a bug in XCrysDen for low-symmetry structures that the authors failed to identify before publication. Thus, the bands presented were slightly off the true M-Y direction and additional splitting incorrectly appeared (in particular for the highly dispersive bands of x 2 -y 2 character). The correct versions of Fig. 2g (cited as Fig. 1) and Supplementary Fig. 2 (cited as Fig. 2) are:which replaces the previous incorrect version, cited here as Fig. 3 and Fig. 4:Neither of these errors in Fig. 2g or Supplementary Fig. 2 affects either the discussion or any of the interpretations of the ARPES data provided in the paper. The authors discussed the multilayer band splitting along the Γ-M direction (δ band and α band as assigned in the paper), and ARPES did not see any split band. The authors did not discuss the further splitting that arises due to back folding along the M-Y direction.In Fig. 3a-c, the errors in the M and Y points in Fig. 2g cause subtle changes to the DFT dispersions. The correct version of Fig. 3a-c is cited here as Fig 5:which replaces the previous incorrect version (Fig. 6):However, the influence on the effective mass results of Fig. 3d is negligible.These errors have now been corrected in both the PDF and HTML versions of the Article. The authors acknowledge James Rondinelli and Danilo Puggioni from Northwestern University for calling our attention to these issues.

Polarization singularity indices in Gaussian laser beams

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Freund, Isaac

2002-01-01

Two types of point singularities in the polarization of a paraxial Gaussian laser beam are discussed in detail. V-points, which are vector point singularities where the direction of the electric vector of a linearly polarized field becomes undefined, and C-points, which are elliptic point singularities where the ellipse orientations of elliptically polarized fields become undefined. Conventionally, V-points are characterized by the conserved integer valued Poincaré-Hopf index η, with generic value η=±1, while C-points are characterized by the conserved half-integer singularity index IC, with generic value IC=±1/2. Simple algorithms are given for generating V-points with arbitrary positive or negative integer indices, including zero, at arbitrary locations, and C-points with arbitrary positive or negative half-integer or integer indices, including zero, at arbitrary locations. Algorithms are also given for generating continuous lines of these singularities in the plane, V-lines and C-lines. V-points and C-points may be transformed one into another. A topological index based on directly measurable Stokes parameters is used to discuss this transformation. The evolution under propagation of V-points and C-points initially embedded in the beam waist is studied, as is the evolution of V-dipoles and C-dipoles.

High-immersion three-dimensional display of the numerical computer model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xing, Shujun; Yu, Xunbo; Zhao, Tianqi; Cai, Yuanfa; Chen, Duo; Chen, Zhidong; Sang, Xinzhu

2013-08-01

High-immersion three-dimensional (3D) displays making them valuable tools for many applications, such as designing and constructing desired building houses, industrial architecture design, aeronautics, scientific research, entertainment, media advertisement, military areas and so on. However, most technologies provide 3D display in the front of screens which are in parallel with the walls, and the sense of immersion is decreased. To get the right multi-view stereo ground image, cameras' photosensitive surface should be parallax to the public focus plane and the cameras' optical axes should be offset to the center of public focus plane both atvertical direction and horizontal direction. It is very common to use virtual cameras, which is an ideal pinhole camera to display 3D model in computer system. We can use virtual cameras to simulate the shooting method of multi-view ground based stereo image. Here, two virtual shooting methods for ground based high-immersion 3D display are presented. The position of virtual camera is determined by the people's eye position in the real world. When the observer stand in the circumcircle of 3D ground display, offset perspective projection virtual cameras is used. If the observer stands out the circumcircle of 3D ground display, offset perspective projection virtual cameras and the orthogonal projection virtual cameras are adopted. In this paper, we mainly discussed the parameter setting of virtual cameras. The Near Clip Plane parameter setting is the main point in the first method, while the rotation angle of virtual cameras is the main point in the second method. In order to validate the results, we use the D3D and OpenGL to render scenes of different viewpoints and generate a stereoscopic image. A realistic visualization system for 3D models is constructed and demonstrated for viewing horizontally, which provides high-immersion 3D visualization. The displayed 3D scenes are compared with the real objects in the real world.

The Effect of Hydraulic Gradient and Pattern of Conduit Systems on Tracing Tests: Bench-Scale Modeling.

PubMed

Mohammadi, Zargham; Gharaat, Mohammad Javad; Field, Malcolm

2018-03-13

Tracer breakthrough curves provide valuable information about the traced media, especially in inherently heterogeneous karst aquifers. In order to study the effect of variations in hydraulic gradient and conduit systems on breakthrough curves, a bench scale karst model was constructed. The bench scale karst model contains both matrix and a conduit. Eight tracing tests were conducted under a wide range of hydraulic gradients from 1 to greater than 5 for branchwork and network-conduit systems. Sampling points at varying distances from the injection point were utilized. Results demonstrate that mean tracer velocities, tracer mass recovery and linear rising slope of the breakthrough curves were directly controlled by hydraulic gradient. As hydraulic gradient increased, both one half the time for peak concentration and one fifth the time for peak concentration decreased. The results demonstrate the variations in one half the time for peak concentration and one fifth the time for peak concentration of the descending limb for different sampling points under differing hydraulic gradients are mainly controlled by the interactions of advection with dispersion. The results are discussed from three perspectives: different conduit systems, different hydraulic-gradient conditions, and different sampling points. The research confirmed the undeniable role of hydrogeological setting (i.e., hydraulic gradient and conduit system) on the shape of the breakthrough curve. The extracted parameters (mobile-fluid velocity, tracer-mass recovery, linear rising limb, one half the time for peak concentration, and one fifth the time for peak concentration) allow for differentiating hydrogeological settings and enhance interpretations the tracing tests in karst aquifers. © 2018, National Ground Water Association.

Scored Discussions.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zola, John

1992-01-01

Suggests a classroom strategy to help students learn to analyze and discuss significant issues from history and current policy debates. Describes scored discussions in which small groups of students receive points for participation. Provides an example of a discussion on gold mining. Includes an agenda. Explores uses of scored discussions and…

7 CFR 955.4 - Production area.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... Regulations of the Department of Agriculture (Continued) AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Marketing Agreements... northerly along the main channel of the Ogeechee River to a point where it intersects with the southeastern... main channel of the Savannah River; thence northerly along the main channel of the Savannah River to a...

Near Sun Free-Space Optical Communications from Space

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Biswas, Abhijit; Khatri, F.; Boroson, D.

2006-01-01

Free-space optical communications offers expanded data return capacity, from probes distributed throughout the solar system and beyond. Space-borne and Earth-based optical transceivers used for communicating optically, will periodically encounter near Sun pointing. This will result in an increase in the scattered background light flux, often contributing to degraded link performance. The varying duration of near Sun pointing link operations relative to the location of space-probes, is discussed in this paper. The impact of near Sun pointing on link performance for a direct detection photon-counting communications system is analyzed for both ground- and space-based Earth receivers. Finally, impact of near Sun pointing on spaceborne optical transceivers is discussed.

Monitoring of urban subsidence with SAR interferometric point target analysis: A case study in Suzhou, China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Yonghong; Zhang, Jixian; Wu, Hongan; Lu, Zhong; Guangtong, Sun

2011-10-01

Ground subsidence, mainly caused by over exploitation of groundwater and other underground resources, such as oil, gas and coal, occurs in many cities in China. The annual direct loss associated with subsidence across the country is estimated to exceed 100 million US dollar. Interferometric SAR (InSAR) is a powerful tool to map ground deformation at an unprecedented level of spatial detail. It has been widely used to investigate the deformation resulting from earthquakes, volcanoes and subsidence. Repeat-pass InSAR, however, may fail due to impacts of spatial decorrelation, temporal decorrelation and heterogeneous refractivity of atmosphere. In urban areas, a large amount of natural stable radar reflectors exists, such as buildings and engineering structures, at which radar signals can remain coherent during a long time interval. Interferometric point target analysis (IPTA) technique, also known as persistent scatterers (PS) InSAR is based on these reflectors. It overcomes the shortfalls in conventional InSAR. This paper presents a procedure for urban subsidence monitoring with IPTA. Calculation of linear deformation rate and height residual, and the non-linear deformation estimate, respectively, are discussed in detail. Especially, the former is highlighted by a novel and easily implemented 2-dimensional spatial search algorithm. Practically useful solutions that can significantly improve the robustness of IPTA, are recommended. Finally, the proposed procedure is applied to mapping the ground subsidence in Suzhou city, Jiangsu province, China. Thirty-four ERS-1/2 SAR scenes are analyzed, and the deformation information over 38,881 point targets between 1992 and 2000 are generated. The IPTA-derived deformation estimates correspond well with leveling measurements, demonstrating the potential of the proposed subsidence monitoring procedure based on IPTA technique. Two shortcomings of the IPTA-based procedure, e.g., the requirement of large number of SAR images and assumed linear plus non-linear deformation model, are discussed as the topics of further research.

Reply to “Dicing with earthquakes,” by Paul W. Burton

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Varotsos, P.; Lazaridou, M.

The paper by Burton [1996], besides its unusual title, contains a lot of points that are inaccurate, or erroneous. A clear misuse of statistics is made by Burton, because he handles values of one parameter (i.e., magnitude) without paying attention to essential points like the following: the magnitude value of a prediction referring to a main shock in an area, which becomes very rarely active with such events, cannot be treated equally with a prediction that may have the same magnitude value, but refers to an aftershock in another area. By using simple rules of statistics, we show that the statistical treatment used by Burton is obviously wrong and can “reject” even an ideal prediction method. Furthermore, we show that Burton's criticism on the magnitudes predicted by VAN, is based on a clear misinterpretation of the true meaning of the experimental error and of Gutenberg-Richter relation; the related Burton's claims, contradict the physical expectation. The appropriate spatial resolution of an earthquake prediction is also discussed. For magnitudes between 5.5 and 6.0, the spatial resolution usually achieved by VAN is around 50km; such a value is reasonable from practical point of view, if we also consider the dimensions of the source. For larger magnitudes, i.e., around 7.5, a spatial resolution of ˜150km would be accepted. Therefore, Burton's [1996] claims for VAN to increase the spatial resolution are unjustified, as they have some basis only for smaller events (˜5.0-units) which, however, have no much practical interest. Last but not least, Burton uses unusual phrases like “a posteriori demonstration of predictions prevailed,” “unclear retrospective filters” or “too much is often claimed from too little,” but does not mention facts, e.g., that during the three years period under discussion (i.e., 1987-1989) VAN issued only one public alarm, which was followed by the most strong and destructive activity during this period.

"Raising the Point!": An Artistic Approach in Supporting a Community's Call to Action

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mendez, Jason

2013-01-01

This article discusses the notion of action and personal agency. The author discusses his experiences constructing an arts installation that supported a grassroots effort to revitalize Hunts Point, a community in the South Bronx that is home to 11,000 families, eighteen waste transfer stations, 40% of New York City's sewage, all of the Bronx's…

Visual Communication in PowerPoint Presentations in Applied Linguistics

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kmalvand, Ayad

2014-01-01

PowerPoint knowledge presentation as a digital genre has established itself as the main software by which the findings of theses are disseminated in the academic settings. Although the importance of PowerPoint presentations is typically realized in academic settings like lectures, conferences, and seminars, the study of the visual features of…

77 FR 49459 - Notice of Determinations Regarding Eligibility To Apply for Worker Adjustment Assistance

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-08-16

........ May 30, 2011. Shield of Maine, WellPoint, Inc., Enterprise Business Services, Aerotek, etc. 81,664A Anthem Blue Cross Blue Manchester, NH......... May 30, 2011. Shield of New Hampshire, WellPoint, Inc..., 2011. Shield of Connecticut, WellPoint, Inc., Enterprise Business Services, Aerotek, etc. 81,710 Sun...