Regulation of decellularized tissue remodeling via scaffold-mediated lentiviral delivery in anatomically-shaped osteochondral constructs.

PubMed

Rowland, Christopher R; Glass, Katherine A; Ettyreddy, Adarsh R; Gloss, Catherine C; Matthews, Jared R L; Huynh, Nguyen P T; Guilak, Farshid

2018-05-30

Cartilage-derived matrix (CDM) has emerged as a promising scaffold material for tissue engineering of cartilage and bone due to its native chondroinductive capacity and its ability to support endochondral ossification. Because it consists of native tissue, CDM can undergo cellular remodeling, which can promote integration with host tissue and enables it to be degraded and replaced by neotissue over time. However, enzymatic degradation of decellularized tissues can occur unpredictably and may not allow sufficient time for mechanically competent tissue to form, especially in the harsh inflammatory environment of a diseased joint. The goal of the current study was to engineer cartilage and bone constructs with the ability to inhibit aberrant inflammatory processes caused by the cytokine interleukin-1 (IL-1), through scaffold-mediated delivery of lentiviral particles containing a doxycycline-inducible IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra) transgene on anatomically-shaped CDM constructs. Additionally, scaffold-mediated lentiviral gene delivery was used to facilitate spatial organization of simultaneous chondrogenic and osteogenic differentiation via site-specific transduction of a single mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) population to overexpress either chondrogenic, transforming growth factor-beta 3 (TGF-β3), or osteogenic, bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2), transgenes. Controlled induction of IL-1Ra expression protected CDM hemispheres from inflammation-mediated degradation, and supported robust bone and cartilage tissue formation even in the presence of IL-1. In the absence of inflammatory stimuli, controlled cellular remodeling was exploited as a mechanism for fusing concentric CDM hemispheres overexpressing BMP-2 and TGF-β3 into a single bi-layered osteochondral construct. Our findings demonstrate that site-specific delivery of inducible and tunable transgenes confers spatial and temporal control over both CDM scaffold remodeling and neotissue composition. Furthermore, these constructs provide a microphysiological in vitro joint organoid model with site-specific, tunable, and inducible protein delivery systems for examining the spatiotemporal response to pro-anabolic and/or inflammatory signaling across the osteochondral interface. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Angular Baryon Acoustic Oscillation measure at z=2.225 from the SDSS quasar survey

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

de Carvalho, E.; Bernui, A.; Carvalho, G. C.; Novaes, C. P.; Xavier, H. S.

2018-04-01

Following a quasi model-independent approach we measure the transversal BAO mode at high redshift using the two-point angular correlation function (2PACF). The analyses done here are only possible now with the quasar catalogue from the twelfth data release (DR12Q) from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey, because it is spatially dense enough to allow the measurement of the angular BAO signature with moderate statistical significance and acceptable precision. Our analyses with quasars in the redshift interval z in [2.20,2.25] produce the angular BAO scale θBAO = 1.77° ± 0.31° with a statistical significance of 2.12 σ (i.e., 97% confidence level), calculated through a likelihood analysis performed using the theoretical covariance matrix sourced by the analytical power spectra expected in the ΛCDM concordance model. Additionally, we show that the BAO signal is robust—although with less statistical significance—under diverse bin-size choices and under small displacements of the quasars' angular coordinates. Finally, we also performed cosmological parameter analyses comparing the θBAO predictions for wCDM and w(a)CDM models with angular BAO data available in the literature, including the measurement obtained here, jointly with CMB data. The constraints on the parameters ΩM, w0 and wa are in excellent agreement with the ΛCDM concordance model.

Simulating cosmologies beyond ΛCDM with PINOCCHIO

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

Rizzo, Luca A.; Villaescusa-Navarro, Francisco; Monaco, Pierluigi

2017-01-01

We present a method that extends the capabilities of the PINpointing Orbit-Crossing Collapsed HIerarchical Objects (PINOCCHIO) code, allowing it to generate accurate dark matter halo mock catalogues in cosmological models where the linear growth factor and the growth rate depend on scale. Such cosmologies comprise, among others, models with massive neutrinos and some classes of modified gravity theories. We validate the code by comparing the halo properties from PINOCCHIO against N-body simulations, focusing on cosmologies with massive neutrinos: νΛCDM. We analyse the halo mass function, halo two-point correlation function and halo power spectrum, showing that PINOCCHIO reproduces the results frommore » simulations with the same level of precision as the original code (∼ 5–10%). We demonstrate that the abundance of halos in cosmologies with massless and massive neutrinos from PINOCCHIO matches very well the outcome of simulations, and point out that PINOCCHIO can reproduce the Ω{sub ν}–σ{sub 8} degeneracy that affects the halo mass function. We finally show that the clustering properties of the halos from PINOCCHIO matches accurately those from simulations both in real and redshift-space, in the latter case up to k = 0.3 h Mpc{sup −1}. We emphasize that the computational time required by PINOCCHIO to generate mock halo catalogues is orders of magnitude lower than the one needed for N-body simulations. This makes this tool ideal for applications like covariance matrix studies within the standard ΛCDM model but also in cosmologies with massive neutrinos or some modified gravity theories.« less

Bayesian correction of H(z) data uncertainties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jesus, J. F.; Gregório, T. M.; Andrade-Oliveira, F.; Valentim, R.; Matos, C. A. O.

2018-07-01

We compile 41 H(z) data from literature and use them to constrain OΛCDM and flat ΛCDM parameters. We show that the available H(z) suffers from uncertainties overestimation and propose a Bayesian method to reduce them. As a result of this method, using H(z) only, we find, in the context of OΛCDM, H0 = 69.5 ± 2.5 km s-1 Mpc-1, Ωm = 0.242 ± 0.036, and Ω _Λ =0.68± 0.14. In the context of flat ΛCDM model, we have found H0 = 70.4 ± 1.2 km s-1 Mpc-1 and Ωm = 0.256 ± 0.014. This corresponds to an uncertainty reduction of up to ≈ 30 per cent when compared to the uncorrected analysis in both cases.

Measuring the lensing potential with tomographic galaxy number counts

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

Montanari, Francesco; Durrer, Ruth, E-mail: francesco.montanari@unige.ch, E-mail: ruth.durrer@unige.ch

2015-10-01

We investigate how the lensing potential can be measured tomographically with future galaxy surveys using their number counts. Such a measurement is an independent test of the standard ΛCDM framework and can be used to discern modified theories of gravity. We perform a Fisher matrix forecast based on galaxy angular-redshift power spectra, assuming specifications consistent with future photometric Euclid-like surveys and spectroscopic SKA-like surveys. For the Euclid-like survey we derive a fitting formula for the magnification bias. Our analysis suggests that the cross correlation between different redshift bins is very sensitive to the lensing potential such that the survey canmore » measure the amplitude of the lensing potential at the same level of precision as other standard ΛCDM cosmological parameters.« less

The Effect of Achievement Test Selection on Identification of Learning Disabilities within a Patterns of Strengths and Weaknesses Framework

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Miciak, Jeremy; Taylor, W. Pat; Denton, Carolyn A.; Fletcher, Jack M.

2015-01-01

Few empirical investigations have evaluated learning disabilities (LD) identification methods based on a pattern of cognitive strengths and weaknesses (PSW). This study investigated the reliability of LD classification decisions of the concordance/discordance method (C/DM) across different psychoeducational assessment batteries. C/DM criteria were…

The use of a cartilage decellularized matrix scaffold for the repair of osteochondral defects: the importance of long-term studies in a large animal model.

PubMed

Vindas Bolaños, R A; Cokelaere, S M; Estrada McDermott, J M; Benders, K E M; Gbureck, U; Plomp, S G M; Weinans, H; Groll, J; van Weeren, P R; Malda, J

2017-03-01

To investigate the effect of decellularized cartilage-derived matrix (CDM) scaffolds, by itself and as a composite scaffold with a calcium phosphate (CaP) base, for the repair of osteochondral defects. It was hypothesized that the chondral defects would heal with fibrocartilaginous tissue and that the composite scaffold would result in better bone formation. After an 8-week pilot experiment in a single horse, scaffolds were implanted in eight healthy horses in osteochondral defects on the medial trochlear ridge of the femur. In one joint a composite CDM-CaP scaffold was implanted (+P), in the contralateral joint a CDM only (-P) scaffold. After euthanasia at 6 months, tissues were analysed by histology, immunohistochemistry, micro-CT, biochemistry and biomechanical evaluation. The 8-week pilot showed encouraging formation of bone and cartilage, but incomplete defect filling. At 6 months, micro-CT and histology showed much more limited filling of the defect, but the CaP component of the +P scaffolds was well integrated with the surrounding bone. The repair tissue was fibrotic with high collagen type I and low type II content and with no differences between the groups. There were also no biochemical differences between the groups and repair tissue was much less stiff than normal tissue (P < 0.0001). The implants failed to produce reasonable repair tissue in this osteochondral defect model, although the CaP base in the -P group integrated well with the recipient bone. The study stresses the importance of long-term in vivo studies to assess the efficacy of cartilage repair techniques. Copyright © 2016 Osteoarthritis Research Society International. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A Comparison of the Cheater Detection and the Unrelated Question Models: A Randomized Response Survey on Physical and Cognitive Doping in Recreational Triathletes

PubMed Central

Schröter, Hannes; Studzinski, Beatrix; Dietz, Pavel; Ulrich, Rolf; Striegel, Heiko; Simon, Perikles

2016-01-01

Purpose This study assessed the prevalence of physical and cognitive doping in recreational triathletes with two different randomized response models, that is, the Cheater Detection Model (CDM) and the Unrelated Question Model (UQM). Since both models have been employed in assessing doping, the major objective of this study was to investigate whether the estimates of these two models converge. Material and Methods An anonymous questionnaire was distributed to 2,967 athletes at two triathlon events (Frankfurt and Wiesbaden, Germany). Doping behavior was assessed either with the CDM (Frankfurt sample, one Wiesbaden subsample) or the UQM (one Wiesbaden subsample). A generalized likelihood-ratio test was employed to check whether the prevalence estimates differed significantly between models. In addition, we compared the prevalence rates of the present survey with those of a previous study on a comparable sample. Results After exclusion of incomplete questionnaires and outliers, the data of 2,017 athletes entered the final data analysis. Twelve-month prevalence for physical doping ranged from 4% (Wiesbaden, CDM and UQM) to 12% (Frankfurt CDM), and for cognitive doping from 1% (Wiesbaden, CDM) to 9% (Frankfurt CDM). The generalized likelihood-ratio test indicated no differences in prevalence rates between the two methods. Furthermore, there were no significant differences in prevalences between the present (undertaken in 2014) and the previous survey (undertaken in 2011), although the estimates tended to be smaller in the present survey. Discussion The results suggest that the two models can provide converging prevalence estimates. The high rate of cheaters estimated by the CDM, however, suggests that the present results must be seen as a lower bound and that the true prevalence of doping might be considerably higher. PMID:27218830

Improving 2D and 3D Skin In Vitro Models Using Macromolecular Crowding.

PubMed

Benny, Paula; Badowski, Cedric; Lane, E Birgitte; Raghunath, Michael

2016-08-22

The glycoprotein family of collagens represents the main structural proteins in the human body, and are key components of biomaterials used in modern tissue engineering. A technical bottleneck is the deposition of collagen in vitro, as it is notoriously slow, resulting in sub-optimal formation of connective tissue and subsequent tissue cohesion, particularly in skin models. Here, we describe a method which involves the addition of differentially-sized sucrose co-polymers to skin cultures to generate macromolecular crowding (MMC), which results in a dramatic enhancement of collagen deposition. Particularly, dermal fibroblasts deposited a significant amount of collagen I/IV/VII and fibronectin under MMC in comparison to controls. The protocol also describes a method to decellularize crowded cell layers, exposing significant amounts of extracellular matrix (ECM) which were retained on the culture surface as evidenced by immunocytochemistry. Total matrix mass and distribution pattern was studied using interference reflection microscopy. Interestingly, fibroblasts, keratinocytes and co-cultures produced cell-derived matrices (CDM) of varying composition and morphology. CDM could be used as "bio-scaffolds" for secondary cell seeding, where the current use of coatings or scaffolds, typically from xenogenic animal sources, can be avoided, thus moving towards more clinically relevant applications. In addition, this protocol describes the application of MMC during the submerged phase of a 3D-organotypic skin co-culture model which was sufficient to enhance ECM deposition in the dermo-epidermal junction (DEJ), in particular, collagen VII, the major component of anchoring fibrils. Electron microscopy confirmed the presence of anchoring fibrils in cultures developed with MMC, as compared to controls. This is significant as anchoring fibrils tether the dermis to the epidermis, hence, having a pre-formed mature DEJ may benefit skin graft recipients in terms of graft stability and overall wound healing. Furthermore, culture time was condensed from 5 weeks to 3 weeks to obtain a mature construct, when using MMC, reducing costs.

Cosmological perturbation theory using the FFTLog: formalism and connection to QFT loop integrals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Simonović, Marko; Baldauf, Tobias; Zaldarriaga, Matias; Carrasco, John Joseph; Kollmeier, Juna A.

2018-04-01

We present a new method for calculating loops in cosmological perturbation theory. This method is based on approximating a ΛCDM-like cosmology as a finite sum of complex power-law universes. The decomposition is naturally achieved using an FFTLog algorithm. For power-law cosmologies, all loop integrals are formally equivalent to loop integrals of massless quantum field theory. These integrals have analytic solutions in terms of generalized hypergeometric functions. We provide explicit formulae for the one-loop and the two-loop power spectrum and the one-loop bispectrum. A chief advantage of our approach is that the difficult part of the calculation is cosmology independent, need be done only once, and can be recycled for any relevant predictions. Evaluation of standard loop diagrams then boils down to a simple matrix multiplication. We demonstrate the promise of this method for applications to higher multiplicity/loop correlation functions.

On the Analysis of Fraction Subtraction Data: The DINA Model, Classification, Latent Class Sizes, and the Q-Matrix

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

DeCarlo, Lawrence T.

2011-01-01

Cognitive diagnostic models (CDMs) attempt to uncover latent skills or attributes that examinees must possess in order to answer test items correctly. The DINA (deterministic input, noisy "and") model is a popular CDM that has been widely used. It is shown here that a logistic version of the model can easily be fit with standard software for…

Impact of a clinical decision making module on the attitudes and perceptions of surgical trainees.

PubMed

Bhatt, Nikita R; Doherty, Eva M; Mansour, Ehab; Traynor, Oscar; Ridgway, Paul F

2016-09-01

Decision making, a cognitive non-technical skill, is a key element for clinical practice in surgery. Specific teaching about methods in clinical decision making (CDM) is a very recent addition to surgical training curricula in the UK and Ireland. Baseline trainee opinion on decision-making modules is unknown. The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland's postgraduate training boot camp inaugural CDM module was investigated to elucidate the impact on the attitudes of CDM naïf trainees. Three standardized two-hour workshops for three trainee groups were delivered. The trainees were assessed by an anonymous questionnaire before and after the module. Change in attitude of the trainees was determined by comparing Likert scale ratings using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Fifty-seven newly appointed basic surgical trainees attended these workshops. A statistically significant rise in the proportion of candidates recognizing the importance of being taught CDM skills (P == 0.002) revealed the positive impact of the module, as did the increased understanding of different aspects of CDM like shared decision making (P == 0.035) and different styles of decision making (P == 0.013). These observed positive changes in trainee understanding and attitude toward CDM teaching supports the adoption of standardized modules into the curricula. More study is needed to define whether these modules will have measurable sustained enhancements of CDM skills. © 2016 Royal Australasian College of Surgeons.

Validation of a common data model for active safety surveillance research

PubMed Central

Ryan, Patrick B; Reich, Christian G; Hartzema, Abraham G; Stang, Paul E

2011-01-01

Objective Systematic analysis of observational medical databases for active safety surveillance is hindered by the variation in data models and coding systems. Data analysts often find robust clinical data models difficult to understand and ill suited to support their analytic approaches. Further, some models do not facilitate the computations required for systematic analysis across many interventions and outcomes for large datasets. Translating the data from these idiosyncratic data models to a common data model (CDM) could facilitate both the analysts' understanding and the suitability for large-scale systematic analysis. In addition to facilitating analysis, a suitable CDM has to faithfully represent the source observational database. Before beginning to use the Observational Medical Outcomes Partnership (OMOP) CDM and a related dictionary of standardized terminologies for a study of large-scale systematic active safety surveillance, the authors validated the model's suitability for this use by example. Validation by example To validate the OMOP CDM, the model was instantiated into a relational database, data from 10 different observational healthcare databases were loaded into separate instances, a comprehensive array of analytic methods that operate on the data model was created, and these methods were executed against the databases to measure performance. Conclusion There was acceptable representation of the data from 10 observational databases in the OMOP CDM using the standardized terminologies selected, and a range of analytic methods was developed and executed with sufficient performance to be useful for active safety surveillance. PMID:22037893

Operationalizing clean development mechanism baselines: A case study of China's electrical sector

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Steenhof, Paul A.

The global carbon market is rapidly developing as the first commitment period of the Kyoto Protocol draws closer and Parties to the Protocol with greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction targets seek alternative ways to reduce their emissions. The Protocol includes the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM), a tool that encourages project-based investments to be made in developing nations that will lead to an additional reduction in emissions. Due to China's economic size and rate of growth, technological characteristics, and its reliance on coal, it contains a large proportion of the global CDM potential. As China's economy modernizes, more technologies and processes are requiring electricity and demand for this energy source is accelerating rapidly. Relatively inefficient technology to generate electricity in China thereby results in the electrical sector having substantial GHG emission reduction opportunities as related to the CDM. In order to ensure the credibility of the CDM in leading to a reduction in GHG emissions, it is important that the baseline method used in the CDM approval process is scientifically sound and accessible for both others to use and for evaluation purposes. Three different methods for assessing CDM baselines and environmental additionality are investigated in the context of China's electrical sector: a method based on a historical perspective of the electrical sector (factor decomposition), a method structured upon a current perspective (operating and build margins), and a simulation of the future (dispatch analysis). Assessing future emission levels for China's electrical sector is a very challenging task given the complexity of the system, its dynamics, and that it is heavily influenced by internal and external forces, but of the different baseline methods investigated, dispatch modelling is best suited for the Chinese context as it is able to consider the important regional and temporal dimensions of its economy and its future development. For China, the most promising options for promoting sustainable development, one of the goals of the Kyoto Protocol, appear to be tied to increasing electrical end-use and generation efficiency, particularly clean coal technology for electricity generation since coal will likely continue to be a dominant primary fuel.

A Continuum Damage Mechanics Model to Predict Kink-Band Propagation Using Deformation Gradient Tensor Decomposition

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bergan, Andrew C.; Leone, Frank A., Jr.

2016-01-01

A new model is proposed that represents the kinematics of kink-band formation and propagation within the framework of a mesoscale continuum damage mechanics (CDM) model. The model uses the recently proposed deformation gradient decomposition approach to represent a kink band as a displacement jump via a cohesive interface that is embedded in an elastic bulk material. The model is capable of representing the combination of matrix failure in the frame of a misaligned fiber and instability due to shear nonlinearity. In contrast to conventional linear or bilinear strain softening laws used in most mesoscale CDM models for longitudinal compression, the constitutive response of the proposed model includes features predicted by detailed micromechanical models. These features include: 1) the rotational kinematics of the kink band, 2) an instability when the peak load is reached, and 3) a nonzero plateau stress under large strains.

Active matrix OLED for rugged HMD and viewfinder applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Low, Kia; Jones, Susan K.; Prache, Olivier; Fellowes, David A.

2004-09-01

We present characterization of a full-color 852x3x600-pixel, active matrix organic light emitting diode (AMOLED) color microdisplay (eMagin Corporation's SVGA+ display) for environmentally demanding applications. The results show that the AMOLED microdisplay can provide cold-start turn-on and operate at extreme temperature conditions, far in excess of non-emissive displays. Correction factors for gamma response of the AMOLED microdisplay as a function of temperature have been determined to permit consistent luminance and contrast from -40°C to over +80°C. Gamma adjustments are made by a simple temperature compensation adjustment of the reference voltages of the AMOLED. The typical room temperature full-on luminance half-life of the SVGA+ full color display organic light emitting diode (OLED) display at over 3,000 hr at a starting luminance at approx. 100 cd/m2, translates to more than 15,000 hr of continuous full-motion video usage, based on a 25% duty cycle at a typical 50-60 cd/m2 commercial luminance level, or over 60,000 hr half-life in monochrome white usage, or over 100,000 hr luminance half-life in monochrome yellow usage at similar operating conditions. Half life at typical night vision luminance levels would be much longer.

Solution-Processed Organic Thin-Film Transistor Array for Active-Matrix Organic Light-Emitting Diode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Harada, Chihiro; Hata, Takuya; Chuman, Takashi; Ishizuka, Shinichi; Yoshizawa, Atsushi

2013-05-01

We developed a 3-in. organic thin-film transistor (OTFT) array with an ink-jetted organic semiconductor. All layers except electrodes were fabricated by solution processes. The OTFT performed well without hysteresis, and the field-effect mobility in the saturation region was 0.45 cm2 V-1 s-1, the threshold voltage was 3.3 V, and the on/off current ratio was more than 106. We demonstrated a 3-in. active-matrix organic light-emitting diode (AMOLED) display driven by the OTFT array. The display could provide clear moving images. The peak luminance of the display was 170 cd/m2.

WHAT ARE THE Omh {sup 2} ( z {sub 1}, z {sub 2}) AND Om ( z {sub 1}, z {sub 2}) DIAGNOSTICS TELLING US IN LIGHT OF H ( z ) DATA?

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

Zheng, Xiaogang; Ding, Xuheng; Biesiada, Marek

2016-07-01

The two-point diagnostics Om ( z {sub i} , z {sub j} ) and Omh {sup 2}( z {sub i} , z {sub j} ) have been introduced as an interesting tool for testing the validity of the Λ cold dark matter (ΛCDM) model. Recently, Sahni et al. combined two independent measurements of H ( z ) from baryon acoustic oscillation (BAO) data with the value of the Hubble constant H {sub 0}, and used the second of these diagnostics to test the ΛCDM (a constant equation-of-state parameter for dark energy) model. Their result indicated a considerable tension between observationsmore » and predictions of the ΛCDM model. Since reliable data concerning the expansion rates of the universe at different redshifts H ( z ) are crucial for the successful application of this method, we investigate both two-point diagnostics on the most comprehensive set of N = 36 measurements of H ( z ) from BAOs and the differential ages (DAs) of passively evolving galaxies. We discuss the uncertainties of the two-point diagnostics and find that they are strongly non-Gaussian and follow the patterns deeply rooted in their very construction. Therefore we propose that non-parametric median statistics is the most appropriate way of treating this problem. Our results support the claims that ΛCDM is in tension with H ( z ) data according to the two-point diagnostics developed by Shafieloo, Sahni, and Starobinsky. However, other alternatives to the ΛCDM model, such as the wCDM or Chevalier–Polarski–Linder models, perform even worse. We also note that there are serious systematic differences between the BAO and DA methods that ought to be better understood before H ( z ) measurements can compete with other probes methods.« less

Evolution of the f σ8 tension with the Planck15 /Λ CDM determination and implications for modified gravity theories

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kazantzidis, Lavrentios; Perivolaropoulos, Leandros

2018-05-01

We construct an updated extended compilation of distinct (but possibly correlated) f σ8(z ) redshift space distortion (RSD) data published between 2006 and 2018. It consists of 63 datapoints and is significantly larger than previously used similar data sets. After fiducial model correction we obtain the best fit Ω0 m-σ8 Λ CDM parameters and show that they are at a 5 σ tension with the corresponding Planck15 /Λ CDM values. Introducing a nontrivial covariance matrix correlating randomly 20% of the RSD datapoints has no significant effect on the above tension level. We show that the tension disappears (becomes less than 1 σ ) when a subsample of the 20 most recently published data is used. A partial cause for this reduced tension is the fact that more recent data tend to probe higher redshifts (with higher errorbars) where there is degeneracy among different models due to matter domination. Allowing for a nontrivial evolution of the effective Newton's constant as Geff(z )/GN=1 +ga(z/1+z ) 2-ga(z/1+z ) 4 (ga is a parameter) and fixing a Planck15 /Λ CDM background we find ga=-0.91 ±0.17 from the full f σ8 data set while the 20 earliest and 20 latest datapoints imply ga=-1.28-0.26+0.28 and ga=-0.4 3-0.41+0.46 respectively. Thus, the more recent f σ8 data appear to favor GR in contrast to earlier data. Finally, we show that the parametrization f σ8(z )=λ σ8Ω (z )γ/(1 +z )β provides an excellent fit to the solution of the growth equation for both GR (ga=0 ) and modified gravity (ga≠0 ).

A Semantic Transformation Methodology for the Secondary Use of Observational Healthcare Data in Postmarketing Safety Studies.

PubMed

Pacaci, Anil; Gonul, Suat; Sinaci, A Anil; Yuksel, Mustafa; Laleci Erturkmen, Gokce B

2018-01-01

Background: Utilization of the available observational healthcare datasets is key to complement and strengthen the postmarketing safety studies. Use of common data models (CDM) is the predominant approach in order to enable large scale systematic analyses on disparate data models and vocabularies. Current CDM transformation practices depend on proprietarily developed Extract-Transform-Load (ETL) procedures, which require knowledge both on the semantics and technical characteristics of the source datasets and target CDM. Purpose: In this study, our aim is to develop a modular but coordinated transformation approach in order to separate semantic and technical steps of transformation processes, which do not have a strict separation in traditional ETL approaches. Such an approach would discretize the operations to extract data from source electronic health record systems, alignment of the source, and target models on the semantic level and the operations to populate target common data repositories. Approach: In order to separate the activities that are required to transform heterogeneous data sources to a target CDM, we introduce a semantic transformation approach composed of three steps: (1) transformation of source datasets to Resource Description Framework (RDF) format, (2) application of semantic conversion rules to get the data as instances of ontological model of the target CDM, and (3) population of repositories, which comply with the specifications of the CDM, by processing the RDF instances from step 2. The proposed approach has been implemented on real healthcare settings where Observational Medical Outcomes Partnership (OMOP) CDM has been chosen as the common data model and a comprehensive comparative analysis between the native and transformed data has been conducted. Results: Health records of ~1 million patients have been successfully transformed to an OMOP CDM based database from the source database. Descriptive statistics obtained from the source and target databases present analogous and consistent results. Discussion and Conclusion: Our method goes beyond the traditional ETL approaches by being more declarative and rigorous. Declarative because the use of RDF based mapping rules makes each mapping more transparent and understandable to humans while retaining logic-based computability. Rigorous because the mappings would be based on computer readable semantics which are amenable to validation through logic-based inference methods.

MATTER IN THE BEAM: WEAK LENSING, SUBSTRUCTURES, AND THE TEMPERATURE OF DARK MATTER

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

Mahdi, Hareth S.; Elahi, Pascal J.; Lewis, Geraint F.

2016-08-01

Warm dark matter (WDM) models offer an attractive alternative to the current cold dark matter (CDM) cosmological model. We present a novel method to differentiate between WDM and CDM cosmologies, namely, using weak lensing; this provides a unique probe as it is sensitive to all of the “matter in the beam,” not just dark matter haloes and the galaxies that reside in them, but also the diffuse material between haloes. We compare the weak lensing maps of CDM clusters to those in a WDM model corresponding to a thermally produced 0.5 keV dark matter particle. Our analysis clearly shows thatmore » the weak lensing magnification, convergence, and shear distributions can be used to distinguish between CDM and WDM models. WDM models increase the probability of weak magnifications, with the differences being significant to ≳5 σ , while leaving no significant imprint on the shear distribution. WDM clusters analyzed in this work are more homogeneous than CDM ones, and the fractional decrease in the amount of material in haloes is proportional to the average increase in the magnification. This difference arises from matter that would be bound in compact haloes in CDM being smoothly distributed over much larger volumes at lower densities in WDM. Moreover, the signature does not solely lie in the probability distribution function but in the full spatial distribution of the convergence field.« less

Cosmological model-independent test of ΛCDM with two-point diagnostic by the observational Hubble parameter data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cao, Shu-Lei; Duan, Xiao-Wei; Meng, Xiao-Lei; Zhang, Tong-Jie

2018-04-01

Aiming at exploring the nature of dark energy (DE), we use forty-three observational Hubble parameter data (OHD) in the redshift range 0 < z ≤slant 2.36 to make a cosmological model-independent test of the ΛCDM model with two-point Omh^2(z2;z1) diagnostic. In ΛCDM model, with equation of state (EoS) w=-1, two-point diagnostic relation Omh^2 ≡ Ωmh^2 is tenable, where Ωm is the present matter density parameter, and h is the Hubble parameter divided by 100 {km s^{-1 Mpc^{-1}}}. We utilize two methods: the weighted mean and median statistics to bin the OHD to increase the signal-to-noise ratio of the measurements. The binning methods turn out to be promising and considered to be robust. By applying the two-point diagnostic to the binned data, we find that although the best-fit values of Omh^2 fluctuate as the continuous redshift intervals change, on average, they are continuous with being constant within 1 σ confidence interval. Therefore, we conclude that the ΛCDM model cannot be ruled out.

Do Processing Patterns of Strengths and Weaknesses Predict Differential Treatment Response?

PubMed

Miciak, Jeremy; Williams, Jacob L; Taylor, W Pat; Cirino, Paul T; Fletcher, Jack M; Vaughn, Sharon

2016-08-01

No previous empirical study has investigated whether the LD identification decisions of proposed methods to operationalize processing strengths and weaknesses (PSW) approaches for LD identification are associated with differential treatment response. We investigated whether the identification decisions of the concordance/discordance model (C/DM; Hale & Fiorello, 2004) and Cross Battery Assessment approach (XBA method; Flanagan, Ortiz, & Alfonso, 2007) were consistent and whether they predicted intervention response beyond that accounted for by pretest performance on measures of reading. Psychoeducational assessments were administered at pretest to 203 4 th graders with low reading comprehension and individual results were utilized to identify students who met LD criteria according to the C/DM and XBA methods and students who did not. Resulting group status permitted an investigation of agreement for identification methods and whether group status at pretest (LD or not LD) was associated with differential treatment response to an intensive reading intervention. The LD identification decisions of the XBA and C/DM demonstrated poor agreement with one another (κ = -.10). Comparisons of posttest performance for students who met LD criteria and those who did not meet were largely null, with small effect sizes across all measures. LD status, as identified through the C/DM and XBA approaches, was not associated with differential treatment response and did not contribute educationally meaningful information about how students would respond to intensive reading intervention. These results do not support the value of cognitive assessment utilized in this way as part of the LD identification process.

The role of emotion in clinical decision making: an integrative literature review.

PubMed

Kozlowski, Desirée; Hutchinson, Marie; Hurley, John; Rowley, Joanne; Sutherland, Joanna

2017-12-15

Traditionally, clinical decision making has been perceived as a purely rational and cognitive process. Recently, a number of authors have linked emotional intelligence (EI) to clinical decision making (CDM) and calls have been made for an increased focus on EI skills for clinicians. The objective of this integrative literature review was to identify and synthesise the empirical evidence for a role of emotion in CDM. A systematic search of the bibliographic databases PubMed, PsychINFO, and CINAHL (EBSCO) was conducted to identify empirical studies of clinician populations. Search terms were focused to identify studies reporting clinician emotion OR clinician emotional intelligence OR emotional competence AND clinical decision making OR clinical reasoning. Twenty three papers were retained for synthesis. These represented empirical work from qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods approaches and comprised work with a focus on experienced emotion and on skills associated with emotional intelligence. The studies examined nurses (10), physicians (7), occupational therapists (1), physiotherapists (1), mixed clinician samples (3), and unspecified infectious disease experts (1). We identified two main themes in the context of clinical decision making: the subjective experience of emotion; and, the application of emotion and cognition in CDM. Sub-themes under the subjective experience of emotion were: emotional response to contextual pressures; emotional responses to others; and, intentional exclusion of emotion from CDM. Under the application of emotion and cognition in CDM, sub-themes were: compassionate emotional labour - responsiveness to patient emotion within CDM; interdisciplinary tension regarding the significance and meaning of emotion in CDM; and, emotion and moral judgement. Clinicians' experienced emotions can and do affect clinical decision making, although acknowledgement of that is far from universal. Importantly, this occurs in the in the absence of a clear theoretical framework and educational preparation may not reflect the importance of emotional competence to effective CDM.

Stem revenue losses with effective CDM management.

PubMed

Alwell, Michael

2003-09-01

Effective CDM management not only minimizes revenue losses due to denied claims, but also helps eliminate administrative costs associated with correcting coding errors. Accountability for CDM management should be assigned to a single individual, who ideally reports to the CFO or high-level finance director. If your organization is prone to making billing errors due to CDM deficiencies, you should consider purchasing CDM software to help you manage your CDM.

Electrical Stimulation of the Suprahyoid Muscles in Brain-injured Patients with Dysphagia: A Pilot Study

PubMed Central

Beom, Jaewon; Kim, Sang Jun

2011-01-01

Objective To investigate the therapeutic effects of repetitive electrical stimulation of the suprahyoid muscles in brain-injured patients with dysphagia. Method Twenty-eight brain-injured patients who showed reduced laryngeal elevation and supraglottic penetration or subglottic aspiration during a videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS) were selected. The patients received either conventional dysphagia management (CDM) or CDM with repetitive electrical stimulation of the suprahyoid muscles (ESSM) for 4 weeks. The videofluoroscopic dysphagia scale (VDS) using the VFSS and American Speech-Language-Hearing Association National Outcome Measurement System (ASHA NOMS) swallowing scale (ASHA level) was used to determine swallowing function before and after treatment. Results VDS scores decreased from 29.8 to 17.9 in the ESSM group, and from 29.2 to 16.6 in the CDM group. However, there was no significant difference between the groups (p=0.796). Six patients (85.7%) in the ESSM group and 14 patients (66.7%) in the CDM group showed improvement according to the ASHA level with no significant difference between the ESSM and CDM groups (p=0.633). Conclusion Although repetitive neuromuscular electrical stimulation of the suprahyoid muscles did not further improve the swallowing function of dysphagia patients with reduced laryngeal elevation, more patients in the ESSM group showed improvement in the ASHA level than those in the CDM group. Further studies with concurrent controls and a larger sample group are required to fully establish the effects of repetitive neuromuscular electrical stimulation of the suprahyoid muscles in dysphagia patients. PMID:22506140

Non-local gravity and comparison with observational datasets. II. Updated results and Bayesian model comparison with ΛCDM

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

Dirian, Yves; Foffa, Stefano; Kunz, Martin

We present a comprehensive and updated comparison with cosmological observations of two non-local modifications of gravity previously introduced by our group, the so called RR and RT models. We implement the background evolution and the cosmological perturbations of the models in a modified Boltzmann code, using CLASS. We then test the non-local models against the Planck 2015 TT, TE, EE and Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB) lensing data, isotropic and anisotropic Baryonic Acoustic Oscillations (BAO) data, JLA supernovae, H {sub 0} measurements and growth rate data, and we perform Bayesian parameter estimation. We then compare the RR, RT and ΛCDM models,more » using the Savage-Dickey method. We find that the RT model and ΛCDM perform equally well, while the performance of the RR model with respect to ΛCDM depends on whether or not we include a prior on H {sub 0} based on local measurements.« less

A non-parametric consistency test of the ΛCDM model with Planck CMB data

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

Aghamousa, Amir; Shafieloo, Arman; Hamann, Jan, E-mail: amir@aghamousa.com, E-mail: jan.hamann@unsw.edu.au, E-mail: shafieloo@kasi.re.kr

Non-parametric reconstruction methods, such as Gaussian process (GP) regression, provide a model-independent way of estimating an underlying function and its uncertainty from noisy data. We demonstrate how GP-reconstruction can be used as a consistency test between a given data set and a specific model by looking for structures in the residuals of the data with respect to the model's best-fit. Applying this formalism to the Planck temperature and polarisation power spectrum measurements, we test their global consistency with the predictions of the base ΛCDM model. Our results do not show any serious inconsistencies, lending further support to the interpretation ofmore » the base ΛCDM model as cosmology's gold standard.« less

Psychophysical assessment of low visual function in patients with retinal degenerative diseases (RDDs) with the Diagnosys full-field stimulus threshold (D-FST).

PubMed

Klein, M; Birch, D G

2009-12-01

To determine whether the Diagnosys full-field stimulus threshold (D-FST) is a valid, sensitive and repeatable psychophysical method of measuring and following visual function in low-vision subjects. Fifty-three affected eyes of 42 subjects with severe retinal degenerative diseases (RDDs) were tested with achromatic stimuli on the D-FST. Included were subjects who were either unable to perform a static perimetric field or had non-detectable or sub-microvolt electroretinograms (ERGs). A subset of 21 eyes of 17 subjects was tested on both the D-FST and the FST2, a previous established full-field threshold test. Seven eyes of 7 normal control subjects were tested on both the D-FST and the FST2. Results for the two methods were compared with the Bland-Altman test. On the D-FST, a threshold could successfully be determined for 13 of 14 eyes with light perception (LP) only (median 0.9 +/- 1.4 log cd/m2), and all eyes determined to be counting fingers (CF; median 0.3 +/- 1.8 log cd/m2). The median full-field threshold for the normal controls was -4.3 +/- 0.6 log cd/m2 on the D-FST and -4.8 +/- 0.9 log cd/m2 on the FST2. The D-FST offers a commercially available method with a robust psychophysical algorithm and is a useful tool for following visual function in low vision subjects.

Changes in chronic disease management among community health centers (CHCs) in China: Has health reform improved CHC ability?

PubMed

Wang, Zhaoxin; Shi, Jianwei; Wu, Zhigui; Xie, Huiling; Yu, Yifan; Li, Ping; Liu, Rui; Jing, Limei

2017-07-01

Since the 1980s, China has been criticized for its mode of chronic disease management (CDM) that passively provides treatment in secondary and tertiary hospitals but lacks active prevention in community health centers (CHCs). Since there are few systematic evaluations of the CHCs' methods for CDM, this study aimed to analyze their abilities. On the macroperspective, we searched the literature in China's largest and most authoritative databases and the official websites of health departments. Literature was used to analyze the government's efforts in improving CHCs' abilities to perform CDM. At the microlevel, we examined the CHCs' longitudinal data after the New Health Reform in 2009, including financial investment, facilities, professional capacities, and the conducted CDM activities. A policy analysis showed that there was an increasing tendency towards government efforts in developing CDM, and the peak appeared in 2009. By evaluating the reform at CHCs, we found that there was an obvious increase in fiscal and public health subsidies, large-scale equipment, general practitioners, and public health physicians. The benefited vulnerable population in this area also rose significantly. However, rural centers were inferior in their CDM abilities compared with urban ones, and the referral system is still not effective in China. This study showed that CHCs are increasingly valued in managing chronic diseases, especially after the New Health Reform in 2009. However, we still need to improve collaborative management for chronic diseases in the community and strengthen the abilities of CHCs, especially in rural areas. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Carbon credit of renewable energy projects in Malaysia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lim, X.; Lam, W. H.; Shamsuddin, A. H.

2013-06-01

The introduction of Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) to Malaysia improves the environment of the country. Besides achieving sustainable development, the carbon credit earned through CDM enhances the financial state of the nation. Both CDM and renewable energy contribute to the society by striving to reduce carbon emission. Most of the CDM projects are related to renewable energy, which recorded 69% out of total CDM projects. This paper presents the energy overview and status of renewable energies in the country. Then, the renewable energy will be related to the CDM.

Clinical data miner: an electronic case report form system with integrated data preprocessing and machine-learning libraries supporting clinical diagnostic model research.

PubMed

Installé, Arnaud Jf; Van den Bosch, Thierry; De Moor, Bart; Timmerman, Dirk

2014-10-20

Using machine-learning techniques, clinical diagnostic model research extracts diagnostic models from patient data. Traditionally, patient data are often collected using electronic Case Report Form (eCRF) systems, while mathematical software is used for analyzing these data using machine-learning techniques. Due to the lack of integration between eCRF systems and mathematical software, extracting diagnostic models is a complex, error-prone process. Moreover, due to the complexity of this process, it is usually only performed once, after a predetermined number of data points have been collected, without insight into the predictive performance of the resulting models. The objective of the study of Clinical Data Miner (CDM) software framework is to offer an eCRF system with integrated data preprocessing and machine-learning libraries, improving efficiency of the clinical diagnostic model research workflow, and to enable optimization of patient inclusion numbers through study performance monitoring. The CDM software framework was developed using a test-driven development (TDD) approach, to ensure high software quality. Architecturally, CDM's design is split over a number of modules, to ensure future extendability. The TDD approach has enabled us to deliver high software quality. CDM's eCRF Web interface is in active use by the studies of the International Endometrial Tumor Analysis consortium, with over 4000 enrolled patients, and more studies planned. Additionally, a derived user interface has been used in six separate interrater agreement studies. CDM's integrated data preprocessing and machine-learning libraries simplify some otherwise manual and error-prone steps in the clinical diagnostic model research workflow. Furthermore, CDM's libraries provide study coordinators with a method to monitor a study's predictive performance as patient inclusions increase. To our knowledge, CDM is the only eCRF system integrating data preprocessing and machine-learning libraries. This integration improves the efficiency of the clinical diagnostic model research workflow. Moreover, by simplifying the generation of learning curves, CDM enables study coordinators to assess more accurately when data collection can be terminated, resulting in better models or lower patient recruitment costs.

Chronic disease management interventions for people with chronic kidney disease in primary care: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

Galbraith, Lauren; Jacobs, Casey; Hemmelgarn, Brenda R; Donald, Maoliosa; Manns, Braden J; Jun, Min

2018-01-01

Primary care providers manage the majority of patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), although the most effective chronic disease management (CDM) strategies for these patients are unknown. We assessed the efficacy of CDM interventions used by primary care providers managing patients with CKD. The Medline, Embase and Cochrane Central databases were systematically searched (inception to November 2014) for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing education-based and computer-assisted CDM interventions targeting primary care providers managing patients with CKD in the community. The efficacy of CDM interventions was assessed using quality indicators [use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI) or angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB), proteinuria measurement and achievement of blood pressure (BP) targets] and clinical outcomes (change in BP and glomerular filtration rate). Two independent reviewers evaluated studies for inclusion, quality and extracted data. Random effects models were used to estimate pooled odds ratios (ORs) and weighted mean differences for outcomes of interest. Five studies (188 clinics; 494 physicians; 42 852 patients with CKD) were included. Two studies compared computer-assisted intervention strategies with usual care, two studies compared education-based intervention strategies with computer-assisted intervention strategies and one study compared both these intervention strategies with usual care. Compared with usual care, computer-assisted CDM interventions did not increase the likelihood of ACEI/ARB use among patients with CKD {pooled OR 1.00 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.83-1.21]; I2 = 0.0%}. Similarly, education-related CDM interventions did not increase the likelihood of ACEI/ARB use compared with computer-assisted CDM interventions [pooled OR 1.12 (95% CI 0.77-1.64); I2 = 0.0%]. Inconsistencies in reporting methods limited further pooling of data. To date, there have been very few randomized trials testing CDM interventions targeting primary care providers with the goal of improving care of people with CKD. Those conducted to date have shown minimal impact, suggesting that other strategies, or multifaceted interventions, may be required to enhance care for patients with CKD in the community. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of ERA-EDTA. All rights reserved.

Fiber Optic Biosensors

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-12-01

CDM Camp Dresser & McKee Inc. CSU Colorado State University DCA dichloroethane DO dissolved oxygen DoD Department of Defense EA EA...Ph.D. (PI), Camp Dresser & McKee Inc. (CDM); John Eisenbeis, Ph.D., CDM; Kristy Warren, CDM; Dan Adams, CDM; Michael Allen, Bangor Naval Submarine Base...alcohol (PVA) using cyanuric chloride, and the resulting product was cross -linked with glutaraldehyde in presence of HCl to form a hydrogel that was

How physician and community pharmacist perceptions of the community pharmacist role in Australian primary care influence the quality of collaborative chronic disease management.

PubMed

Rieck, Allison; Pettigrew, Simone

2013-01-01

Community pharmacists (CPs) have been changing their role to focus on patient-centred services to improve the quality of chronic disease management (CDM) in primary care. However, CPs have not been readily included in collaborative CDM with other primary care professionals such as physicians. There is little understanding of the CP role change and whether it affects the utilisation of CPs in primary care collaborative CDM. To explore physician and CP perceptions of the CP's role in Australian primary care and how these perceptions may influence the quality of physician/CP CDM programmes. Data were collected from physicians and CPs using semi-structured interviews. A qualitative methodology utilising thematic analysis was employed during data analysis. Qualitative methodology trustworthiness techniques, negative case analysis and member checking were utilised to substantiate the resultant themes. A total of 22 physicians and 22 CPs were interviewed. Strong themes emerged regarding the participant perceptions of the CP's CDM role in primary care. The majority of interviewed physicians perceived that CPs did not have the appropriate CDM knowledge to complement physician knowledge to provide improved CDM compared with what they could provide on their own. Most of the interviewed CPs expressed a willingness and capability to undertake CDM; however, they were struggling to provide sustainable CDM in the business setting within which they function in the primary care environment. Role theory was selected as it provided the optimum explanation of the resultant themes. First, physician lack of confidence in the appropriateness of CP CDM knowledge causes physicians to be confused about the role CPs would undertake in a collaborative CDM that would benefit the physicians and their patients. Thus, by increasing physician awareness of CP CDM knowledge, physicians may see CPs as suitable CDM collaborators. Second, CPs are experiencing role conflict and stress in trying to change their role. Strengthening the service business model may reduce these CP role issues and allow CPs to reach their full potential in CDM and improve the quality of collaborative CDM in Australian primary care.

Characteristics of Hospitalized Children With a Diagnosis of Malnutrition: United States, 2010.

PubMed

Abdelhadi, Ruba A; Bouma, Sandra; Bairdain, Sigrid; Wolff, Jodi; Legro, Amanda; Plogsted, Steve; Guenter, Peggi; Resnick, Helaine; Slaughter-Acey, Jaime C; Corkins, Mark R

2016-07-01

Malnutrition is common in hospitalized patients in the United States. In 2010, 80,710 of 6,280,710 hospitalized children <17 years old had a coded diagnosis of malnutrition (CDM). This report summarizes nationally representative, person-level characteristics of hospitalized children with a CDM. Data are from the 2010 Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project, which contains patient-level data on hospital inpatient stays. When weighted appropriately, estimates from the project represent all U.S. hospitalizations. The data set contains up to 25 ICD-9-CM diagnostic codes for each patient. Children with a CDM listed during hospitalization were identified. In 2010, 1.3% of hospitalized patients <17 years had a CDM. Since the data include only those with a CDM, malnutrition's true prevalence may be underrepresented. Length of stay among children with a CDM was almost 2.5 times longer than those without a CDM. Hospital costs for children with a CDM were >3 times higher than those without a CDM. Hospitalized children with a CDM were less likely to have routine discharge and almost 3.5 times more likely to require postdischarge home care. Children with a CDM were more likely to have multiple comorbidities. Hospitalized children with a CDM are associated with more comorbidities, longer hospital stay, and higher healthcare costs than those without this diagnosis. These undernourished children may utilize more healthcare resources in the hospital and community. Clinicians and policymakers should factor this into healthcare resource utilization planning. Recognizing and accurately coding malnutrition in hospitalized children may reveal the true prevalence of malnutrition. © 2016 American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition.

Automatic Digital Analysis of Chromogenic Media for Vancomycin-Resistant-Enterococcus Screens Using Copan WASPLab

PubMed Central

Faron, Matthew L.; Coon, Christopher; Liebregts, Theo; van Bree, Anita; Jansz, Arjan R.; Soucy, Genevieve; Korver, John

2016-01-01

Vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) are an important cause of health care-acquired infections (HAIs). Studies have shown that active surveillance of high-risk patients for VRE colonization can aid in reducing HAIs; however, these screens generate a significant cost to the laboratory and health care system. Digital imaging capable of differentiating negative and “nonnegative” chromogenic agar can reduce the labor cost of these screens and potentially improve patient care. In this study, we evaluated the performance of the WASPLab Chromogenic Detection Module (CDM) (Copan, Brescia, Italy) software to analyze VRE chromogenic agar and compared the results to technologist plate reading. Specimens collected at 3 laboratories were cultured using the WASPLab CDM and plated to each site's standard-of-care chromogenic media, which included Colorex VRE (BioMed Diagnostics, White City, OR) or Oxoid VRE (Oxoid, Basingstoke, United Kingdom). Digital images were scored using the CDM software after 24 or 40 h of growth, and all manual reading was performed using digital images on a high-definition (HD) monitor. In total, 104,730 specimens were enrolled and automation agreed with manual analysis for 90.1% of all specimens tested, with sensitivity and specificity of 100% and 89.5%, respectively. Automation results were discordant for 10,348 specimens, and all discordant images were reviewed by a laboratory supervisor or director. After a second review, 499 specimens were identified as representing missed positive cultures falsely called negative by the technologist, 1,616 were identified as containing borderline color results (negative result but with no package insert color visible), and 8,234 specimens were identified as containing colorimetric pigmentation due to residual matrix from the specimen or yeast (Candida). Overall, the CDM was accurate at identifying negative VRE plates, which comprised 84% (87,973) of the specimens in this study. PMID:27413193

Is there a concordance value for H0?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Luković, Vladimir V.; D'Agostino, Rocco; Vittorio, Nicola

2016-11-01

Context. We test the theoretical predictions of several cosmological models against different observables to compare the indirect estimates of the current expansion rate of the Universe determined from model fitting with the direct measurements based on Cepheids data published recently. Aims: We perform a statistical analysis of type Ia supernova (SN Ia), Hubble parameter, and baryon acoustic oscillation data. A joint analysis of these datasets allows us to better constrain cosmological parameters, but also to break the degeneracy that appears in the distance modulus definition between H0 and the absolute B-band magnitude of SN Ia, M0. Methods: From the theoretical side, we considered spatially flat and curvature-free ΛCDM, wCDM, and inhomogeneous Lemaître-Tolman-Bondi (LTB) models. To analyse SN Ia we took into account the distributions of SN Ia intrinsic parameters. Results: For the ΛCDM model we find that Ωm = 0.35 ± 0.02, H0 = (67.8 ± 1.0) km s-1 Mpc-1, while the corrected SN absolute magnitude has a normal distribution N(19.13,0.11). The wCDM model provides the same value for Ωm, while H0 = (66.5 ± 1.8) km s-1 Mpc-1 and w = -0.93 ± 0.07. When an inhomogeneous LTB model is considered, the combined fit provides H0 = (64.2 ± 1.9) km s-1 Mpc-1. Conclusions: Both the Akaike information criterion and the Bayes factor analysis cannot clearly distinguish between ΛCDM and wCDM cosmologies, while they clearly disfavour the LTB model. For the ΛCDM, our joint analysis of the SN Ia, the Hubble parameter, and the baryon acoustic oscillation datasets provides H0 values that are consistent with cosmic microwave background (CMB)-only Planck measurements, but they differ by 2.5σ from the value based on Cepheids data.

Chronic Disease Management Strategies of Early Childhood Caries: Support from the Medical and Dental Literature.

PubMed

Edelstein, Burton L; Ng, Man Wai

2015-01-01

An Institute of Medicine report places chronic disease management (CDM) as an intervention on a treatment spectrum between prevention and acute care. CDM commonly focuses on conditions in which patient self-care efforts are significant. Framing early childhood caries (ECC) as such a chronic condition invites dentistry to reconsider its approach to caries management and shift gears from a strictly surgical approach to one that also incorporates a medical approach. This paper's purpose was to explore the definition of and concepts inherent in CDM. An explanatory model is introduced to describe the multiple factors that influence ECC-CDM strategies. Reviewed literature suggests that early evidence from ECC-CDM interventions, along with results of pediatric asthma and diabetes CDM, supports CDM of ECC as a valid approach that is independent of both prevention and repair. Early results of ECC-CDM endeavors have demonstrated a reduction in rates of new cavitation, dental pain, and referral to the operating room compared to baseline rates. ECC-CDM strategies hold strong promise to curtail caries activity while complementing dental repair when needed, thereby reducing disease progression and cavity recurrence. Institutionalizing ECC-CDM will both require and benefit from evolving health care delivery and financing systems that reward positive health outcomes.

Who's minding the charge description master?

PubMed

Schaum, Kathleen D

2011-11-01

Just as it takes a team to manage chronic wounds, it takes a team to maintain the CDM. The technical staff from the wound care department should be represented on this team and should share the appropriate HCPCS codes and CPT codes, product descriptions, and costs for all procedures, services, supplies, drugs, and biologics used in their department. The billing department should ensure that the appropriate revenue codes for each payer are listed for each item on the CDM. Based on costs supplied by the wound care department, the finance department should consistently assign hospital charges to each line item on the CDM. The information technology department is responsible for making the specific changes to the CDM in the computer system. Most hospitals have a CDM coordinator. The technical staff from the wound care department should work closely with the CDM coordinator and should obtain from him/her the policies and procedures for maintaining the wound care department CDM. Most CDM coordinators will also provide a CDM Change Request Form. Use that form each year when the hospital is performing its annual CDM maintenance and throughout the year to add procedures, services, supplies, drugs, or biologics to your wound care offerings and/or when the cost for these offerings change.

Clinical decision making and outcome in routine care for people with severe mental illness (CEDAR): study protocol.

PubMed

Puschner, Bernd; Steffen, Sabine; Slade, Mike; Kaliniecka, Helena; Maj, Mario; Fiorillo, Andrea; Munk-Jørgensen, Povl; Larsen, Jens Ivar; Egerházi, Anikó; Nemes, Zoltan; Rössler, Wulf; Kawohl, Wolfram; Becker, Thomas

2010-11-10

A considerable amount of research has been conducted on clinical decision making (CDM) in short-term physical conditions. However, there is a lack of knowledge on CDM and its outcome in long-term illnesses, especially in care for people with severe mental illness. The study entitled "Clinical decision making and outcome in routine care for people with severe mental illness" (CEDAR) is carried out in six European countries (Denmark, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Switzerland and UK). First, CEDAR establishes a methodology to assess CDM in people with severe mental illness. Specific instruments are developed (and psychometric properties established) to measure CDM style, key elements of CDM in routine care, as well as CDM involvement and satisfaction from patient and therapist perspectives. Second, these instruments are being put to use in a multi-national prospective observational study (bimonthly assessments during a one-year observation period; N = 560). This study investigates the immediate, short- and long-term effect of CDM on crucial dimensions of clinical outcome (symptom level, quality of life, needs) by taking into account significant variables moderating the relationship between CDM and outcome. The results of this study will make possible to delineate quality indicators of CDM, as well as to specify prime areas for further improvement. Ingredients of best practice in CDM in the routine care for people with severe mental illness will be extracted and recommendations formulated. With its explicit focus on the patient role in CDM, CEDAR will also contribute to strengthening the service user perspective. This project will substantially add to improving the practice of CDM in mental health care across Europe. ISRCTN75841675.

Transparent active matrix organic light-emitting diode displays driven by nanowire transistor circuitry.

PubMed

Ju, Sanghyun; Li, Jianfeng; Liu, Jun; Chen, Po-Chiang; Ha, Young-Geun; Ishikawa, Fumiaki; Chang, Hsiaokang; Zhou, Chongwu; Facchetti, Antonio; Janes, David B; Marks, Tobin J

2008-04-01

Optically transparent, mechanically flexible displays are attractive for next-generation visual technologies and portable electronics. In principle, organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) satisfy key requirements for this application-transparency, lightweight, flexibility, and low-temperature fabrication. However, to realize transparent, flexible active-matrix OLED (AMOLED) displays requires suitable thin-film transistor (TFT) drive electronics. Nanowire transistors (NWTs) are ideal candidates for this role due to their outstanding electrical characteristics, potential for compact size, fast switching, low-temperature fabrication, and transparency. Here we report the first demonstration of AMOLED displays driven exclusively by NW electronics and show that such displays can be optically transparent. The displays use pixel dimensions suitable for hand-held applications, exhibit 300 cd/m2 brightness, and are fabricated at temperatures suitable for integration on plastic substrates.

Indirectly Estimating International Net Migration Flows by Age and Gender: The Community Demographic Model International Migration (CDM-IM) Dataset

PubMed Central

Nawrotzki, Raphael J.; Jiang, Leiwen

2015-01-01

Although data for the total number of international migrant flows is now available, no global dataset concerning demographic characteristics, such as the age and gender composition of migrant flows exists. This paper reports on the methods used to generate the CDM-IM dataset of age and gender specific profiles of bilateral net (not gross) migrant flows. We employ raw data from the United Nations Global Migration Database and estimate net migrant flows by age and gender between two time points around the year 2000, accounting for various demographic processes (fertility, mortality). The dataset contains information on 3,713 net migrant flows. Validation analyses against existing data sets and the historical, geopolitical context demonstrate that the CDM-IM dataset is of reasonably high quality. PMID:26692590

78 FR 32250 - CDM Smith and Dynamac Corp; Transfer of Data

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-05-29

... ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY [EPA-HQ-OPP-2013-0036; FRL-9387-5] CDM Smith and Dynamac Corp... the submitter, will be transferred to CDM Smith and its subcontractor, Dynamac Corp, in accordance with 40 CFR 2.307(h)(3) and 2.308(i)(2). CDM Smith and its subcontractor, Dynamac Corp, have been...

Meso-Scale Progressive Damage Behavior Characterization of Triaxial Braided Composites under Quasi-Static Tensile Load

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ren, Yiru; Zhang, Songjun; Jiang, Hongyong; Xiang, Jinwu

2018-04-01

Based on continuum damage mechanics (CDM), a sophisticated 3D meso-scale finite element (FE) model is proposed to characterize the progressive damage behavior of 2D Triaxial Braided Composites (2DTBC) with 60° braiding angle under quasi-static tensile load. The modified Von Mises strength criterion and 3D Hashin failure criterion are used to predict the damage initiation of the pure matrix and fiber tows. A combining interface damage and friction constitutive model is applied to predict the interface damage behavior. Murakami-Ohno stiffness degradation scheme is employed to predict the damage evolution process of each constituent. Coupling with the ordinary and translational symmetry boundary conditions, the tensile elastic response including tensile strength and failure strain of 2DTBC are in good agreement with the available experiment data. The numerical results show that the main failure modes of the composites under axial tensile load are pure matrix cracking, fiber and matrix tension failure in bias fiber tows, matrix tension failure in axial fiber tows and interface debonding; the main failure modes of the composites subjected to transverse tensile load are free-edge effect, matrix tension failure in bias fiber tows and interface debonding.

Improvement in diagnostic performance of breast cancer: comparison between conventional digital mammography alone and conventional mammography plus digital breast tomosynthesis.

PubMed

Ohashi, Ryoko; Nagao, Michinobu; Nakamura, Izumi; Okamoto, Takahiro; Sakai, Shuji

2018-04-12

The aim of this study was to determine if the diagnostic performance of breast lesion examinations could be improved using both digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) and conventional digital mammography (CDM). Our institutional review board approved the protocol, and patients were provided the opportunity to opt out of the study. A total of 628 patients aged 22-91 years with abnormal screening results or clinical symptoms were consecutively enrolled between June 2015 and March 2016. All patients underwent DBT and CDM, and 1164 breasts were retrospectively analyzed by three radiologists who interpreted the results based on the Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System. Categories 4 and 5 were considered positive, and pathological results were the gold standard. The diagnostic performance of CDM and CDM plus DBT was compared using the mean areas under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. A total of 100 breast cancer cases were identified. The areas under the ROC curves were 0.9160 (95% confidence interval 0.8779-0.9541) for CDM alone and 0.9376 (95% confidence interval 0.9019-0.9733) for CDM plus DBT. The cut-off values for both CDM alone and CDM plus DBT measurements were 4, with sensitivities of 61.0% (61/100) and 83.0% (83/100), respectively, and specificities of 99.1% (1054/1064) and 98.9% (1052/1064), respectively. CDM yielded 39 false-negative diagnoses, while CDM plus DBT identified breast cancer in 22 of those cases (56.4%). The combination of DBT and CDM for the diagnosis of breast cancer in women with abnormal examination findings or clinical symptoms proved effective and should be used to improve the diagnostic performance of breast cancer examinations.

Cosmological constraints from galaxy clustering in the presence of massive neutrinos

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zennaro, M.; Bel, J.; Dossett, J.; Carbone, C.; Guzzo, L.

2018-06-01

The clustering ratio is defined as the ratio between the correlation function and the variance of the smoothed overdensity field. In Λ cold dark matter (ΛCDM) cosmologies without massive neutrinos, it has already been proven to be independent of bias and redshift space distortions on a range of linear scales. It therefore can provide us with a direct comparison of predictions (for matter in real space) against measurements (from galaxies in redshift space). In this paper we first extend the applicability of such properties to cosmologies that account for massive neutrinos, by performing tests against simulated data. We then investigate the constraining power of the clustering ratio on cosmological parameters such as the total neutrino mass and the equation of state of dark energy. We analyse the joint posterior distribution of the parameters that satisfy both measurements of the galaxy clustering ratio in the SDSS-DR12, and the angular power spectra of cosmic microwave background temperature and polarization anisotropies measured by the Planck satellite. We find the clustering ratio to be very sensitive to the CDM density parameter, but less sensitive to the total neutrino mass. We also forecast the constraining power the clustering ratio will achieve, predicting the amplitude of its errors with a Euclid-like galaxy survey. First we compute parameter forecasts using the Planck covariance matrix alone, then we add information from the clustering ratio. We find a significant improvement on the constraint of all considered parameters, and in particular an improvement of 40 per cent for the CDM density and 14 per cent for the total neutrino mass.

Supporting Open Access to European Academic Courses: The ASK-CDM-ECTS Tool

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sampson, Demetrios G.; Zervas, Panagiotis

2013-01-01

Purpose: This paper aims to present and evaluate a web-based tool, namely ASK-CDM-ECTS, which facilitates authoring and publishing on the web descriptions of (open) academic courses in machine-readable format using an application profile of the Course Description Metadata (CDM) specification, namely CDM-ECTS. Design/methodology/approach: The paper…

Copper and zinc uptake by rice and accumulation in soil amended with municipal solid waste compost

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bhattacharyya, P.; Chakraborty, A.; Chakrabarti, K.; Tripathy, S.; Powell, M. A.

2006-04-01

Effect of addition of municipal solid waste compost (MSWC) on two metals viz. copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) contents of submerged rice paddies were studied. Experiments were conducted during the three consecutive wet seasons from 1997 to 1999 on rice grown under submergence, at the Experimental Farm of Calcutta University, India. A sequential extraction method was used to determine the metal (Cu and Zn) fractions in MSWC and cow dung manure (CDM). Both metals were significantly bound to the organic matter and Fe and Mn oxides in MSWC and CDM. Metal content in rice straw was higher than in rice grain. Metal bound with Fe and Mn oxides in MSWC and CDM best correlated with straw and grain metal followed by exchangeable and water soluble fractions. Carbonate, organic matter bound and residual fractions in MSWC and CDM did not significantly correlate with rice straw and grain metal. The MSWC would be a valuable resource for agriculture if it can be used safely, but long-term field experiments with MSWC are needed to assess by regular monitoring of the metal loads and accumulation in soil and plants.

Use of chronic disease management programs for diabetes: in Alberta's primary care networks.

PubMed

Campbell, David J T; Sargious, Peter; Lewanczuk, Richard; McBrien, Kerry; Tonelli, Marcello; Hemmelgarn, Brenda; Manns, Braden

2013-02-01

To determine the types of chronic disease management (CDM) programs offered for patients with diabetes in Alberta's primary care networks (PCNs). A survey was administered to PCNs to determine the types of CDM programs offered for patients with diabetes; CDM programs were organized into categories by their resource intensity and effectiveness. Results of the survey were reported using frequencies and percentages. Alberta has recently created PCNs-groups of family physicians who receive additional funds to enable them to support activities that fall outside the typical physician-based fee-for-service model, but which address specified objectives including CDM. It is currently unknown what additional programs are being provided through the PCN supplemental funding. A survey was administered to the individual responsible for CDM in each PCN. This included executive directors, chronic disease managers, and CDM nurses. We determined the CDM strategies used in each PCN to care for patients with diabetes, whether they were available to all patients, and whether the services were provided exclusively by the PCN or in conjunction with other agencies. There was considerable variation across PCNs with respect to the CDM programs offered for people with diabetes. Nearly all PCNs used multidisciplinary teams (which could include nurses, dietitians, and pharmacists) and patient education. Fewer than half of the PCNs permitted personnel other than the primary physician to write or alter prescriptions for medications. Alberta's PCNs have successfully established many different types of CDM programs. Multidisciplinary care teams, which are among the most effective CDM strategies, are currently being used by most of Alberta's PCNs.

Use of chronic disease management programs for diabetes

PubMed Central

Campbell, David J.T.; Sargious, Peter; Lewanczuk, Richard; McBrien, Kerry; Tonelli, Marcello; Hemmelgarn, Brenda; Manns, Braden

2013-01-01

Objective To determine the types of chronic disease management (CDM) programs offered for patients with diabetes in Alberta's primary care networks (PCNs). Design A survey was administered to PCNs to determine the types of CDM programs offered for patients with diabetes; CDM programs were organized into categories by their resource intensity and effectiveness. Results of the survey were reported using frequencies and percentages. Setting Alberta has recently created PCNs—groups of family physicians who receive additional funds to enable them to support activities that fall outside the typical physician-based fee-for-service model, but which address specified objectives including CDM. It is currently unknown what additional programs are being provided through the PCN supplemental funding. Participants A survey was administered to the individual responsible for CDM in each PCN. This included executive directors, chronic disease managers, and CDM nurses. Main outcome measures We determined the CDM strategies used in each PCN to care for patients with diabetes, whether they were available to all patients, and whether the services were provided exclusively by the PCN or in conjunction with other agencies. Results There was considerable variation across PCNs with respect to the CDM programs offered for people with diabetes. Nearly all PCNs used multidisciplinary teams (which could include nurses, dietitians, and pharmacists) and patient education. Fewer than half of the PCNs permitted personnel other than the primary physician to write or alter prescriptions for medications. Conclusion Alberta's PCNs have successfully established many different types of CDM programs. Multidisciplinary care teams, which are among the most effective CDM strategies, are currently being used by most of Alberta's PCNs. PMID:23418263

Impact of the Medicare Chronic Disease Management program on the conduct of Australian dietitians' private practices.

PubMed

Jansen, Sarah; Ball, Lauren; Lowe, Catherine

2015-04-01

This study explored private practice dietitians' perceptions of the impact of the Australian Chronic Disease Management (CDM) program on the conduct of their private practice, and the care provided to patients. Twenty-five accredited practising dietitians working in primary care participated in an individual semistructured telephone interview. Interview questions focussed on dietitians' perceptions of the proportion of patients receiving care through the CDM program, fee structures, adhering to reporting requirements and auditing. Transcript data were thematically analysed using a process of open coding. Half of the dietitians (12/25) reported that most of their patients (>75%) received care through the CDM program. Many dietitians (19/25) reported providing identical care to patients using the CDM program and private patients, but most (17/25) described spending substantially longer on administrative tasks for CDM patients. Dietitians experienced pressure from doctors and patients to keep their fees low or to bulk-bill patients using the CDM program. One-third of interviewed dietitians (8/25) expressed concern about the potential to be audited by Medicare. Recommendations to improve the CDM program included increasing the consultation length and subsequent rebate available for dietetic consultations, and increasing the number of consultations to align with dietetic best-practice guidelines. The CDM program creates challenges for dietitians working in primary care, including how to sustain the quality of patient-centred care and yet maintain equitable business practices. To ensure the CDM program appropriately assists patients to receive optimal care, further review of the CDM program within the scope of dietetics is required.

Courseware Development Model (CDM): The Effects of CDM on Primary School Pre-Service Teachers' Achievements and Attitudes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Efendioglu, Akin

2012-01-01

The main purpose of this study is to design a "Courseware Development Model" (CDM) and investigate its effects on pre-service teachers' academic achievements in the field of geography and attitudes toward computer-based education (ATCBE). The CDM consisted of three components: content (C), learning theory, namely, meaningful learning (ML), and…

The Learning Process and Technological Change in Wind Power: Evidence from China's CDM Wind Projects

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tang, Tian; Popp, David

2016-01-01

The Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) is a project-based carbon trade mechanism that subsidizes the users of climate-friendly technologies and encourages technology transfer. The CDM has provided financial support for a large share of Chinese wind projects since 2002. Using pooled cross-sectional data of 486 registered CDM wind projects in China…

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

Wright, Bill S.; Winther, Hans A.; Koyama, Kazuya, E-mail: bill.wright@port.ac.uk, E-mail: hans.winther@port.ac.uk, E-mail: kazuya.koyama@port.ac.uk

The effect of massive neutrinos on the growth of cold dark matter perturbations acts as a scale-dependent Newton's constant and leads to scale-dependent growth factors just as we often find in models of gravity beyond General Relativity. We show how to compute growth factors for ΛCDM and general modified gravity cosmologies combined with massive neutrinos in Lagrangian perturbation theory for use in COLA and extensions thereof. We implement this together with the grid-based massive neutrino method of Brandbyge and Hannestad in MG-PICOLA and compare COLA simulations to full N -body simulations of ΛCDM and f ( R ) gravity withmore » massive neutrinos. Our implementation is computationally cheap if the underlying cosmology already has scale-dependent growth factors and it is shown to be able to produce results that match N -body to percent level accuracy for both the total and CDM matter power-spectra up to k ∼< 1 h /Mpc.« less

COLA with massive neutrinos

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wright, Bill S.; Winther, Hans A.; Koyama, Kazuya

2017-10-01

The effect of massive neutrinos on the growth of cold dark matter perturbations acts as a scale-dependent Newton's constant and leads to scale-dependent growth factors just as we often find in models of gravity beyond General Relativity. We show how to compute growth factors for ΛCDM and general modified gravity cosmologies combined with massive neutrinos in Lagrangian perturbation theory for use in COLA and extensions thereof. We implement this together with the grid-based massive neutrino method of Brandbyge and Hannestad in MG-PICOLA and compare COLA simulations to full N-body simulations of ΛCDM and f(R) gravity with massive neutrinos. Our implementation is computationally cheap if the underlying cosmology already has scale-dependent growth factors and it is shown to be able to produce results that match N-body to percent level accuracy for both the total and CDM matter power-spectra up to klesssim 1 h/Mpc.

Data management in clinical research: An overview

PubMed Central

Krishnankutty, Binny; Bellary, Shantala; Kumar, Naveen B.R.; Moodahadu, Latha S.

2012-01-01

Clinical Data Management (CDM) is a critical phase in clinical research, which leads to generation of high-quality, reliable, and statistically sound data from clinical trials. This helps to produce a drastic reduction in time from drug development to marketing. Team members of CDM are actively involved in all stages of clinical trial right from inception to completion. They should have adequate process knowledge that helps maintain the quality standards of CDM processes. Various procedures in CDM including Case Report Form (CRF) designing, CRF annotation, database designing, data-entry, data validation, discrepancy management, medical coding, data extraction, and database locking are assessed for quality at regular intervals during a trial. In the present scenario, there is an increased demand to improve the CDM standards to meet the regulatory requirements and stay ahead of the competition by means of faster commercialization of product. With the implementation of regulatory compliant data management tools, CDM team can meet these demands. Additionally, it is becoming mandatory for companies to submit the data electronically. CDM professionals should meet appropriate expectations and set standards for data quality and also have a drive to adapt to the rapidly changing technology. This article highlights the processes involved and provides the reader an overview of the tools and standards adopted as well as the roles and responsibilities in CDM. PMID:22529469

Estimating the Recurrence Rate of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) in Massachusetts 1998-2007: Methods and Findings.

PubMed

England, Lucinda; Kotelchuck, Milton; Wilson, Hoyt G; Diop, Hafsatou; Oppedisano, Paul; Kim, Shin Y; Cui, Xiaohui; Shapiro-Mendoza, Carrie K

2015-10-01

Women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) may be able to reduce their risk of recurrent GDM and progression to type 2 diabetes mellitus through lifestyle change; however, there is limited population-based information on GDM recurrence rates. We used data from a population of women delivering two sequential live singleton infants in Massachusetts (1998-2007) to estimate the prevalence of chronic diabetes mellitus (CDM) and GDM in parity one pregnancies and recurrence of GDM and progression from GDM to CDM in parity two pregnancies. We examined four diabetes classification approaches; birth certificate (BC) data alone, hospital discharge (HD) data alone, both sources hierarchically combined with a diagnosis of CDM from either source taking priority over a diagnosis of GDM, and both sources combined including only pregnancies with full agreement in diagnosis. Descriptive statistics were used to describe population characteristics, prevalence of CDM and GDM, and recurrence of diabetes in successive pregnancies. Diabetes classification agreement was assessed using the Kappa statistic. Associated maternal characteristics were examined through adjusted model-based t tests and Chi square tests. A total of 134,670 women with two sequential deliveries of parities one and two were identified. While there was only slight agreement on GDM classification across HD and BC records, estimates of GDM recurrence were fairly consistent; nearly half of women with GDM in their parity one pregnancy developed GDM in their subsequent pregnancy. While estimates of progression from GDM to CDM across sequential pregnancies were more variable, all approaches yielded estimates of ≤5 %. The development of either GDM or CDM following a parity one pregnancy with no diagnosis of diabetes was <3 % across approaches. Women with recurrent GDM were disproportionately older and foreign born. Recurrent GDM is a serious life course public health issue; the inter-pregnancy interval provides an important window for diabetes prevention.

Feasibility and utility of applications of the common data model to multiple, disparate observational health databases

PubMed Central

Makadia, Rupa; Matcho, Amy; Ma, Qianli; Knoll, Chris; Schuemie, Martijn; DeFalco, Frank J; Londhe, Ajit; Zhu, Vivienne; Ryan, Patrick B

2015-01-01

Objectives To evaluate the utility of applying the Observational Medical Outcomes Partnership (OMOP) Common Data Model (CDM) across multiple observational databases within an organization and to apply standardized analytics tools for conducting observational research. Materials and methods Six deidentified patient-level datasets were transformed to the OMOP CDM. We evaluated the extent of information loss that occurred through the standardization process. We developed a standardized analytic tool to replicate the cohort construction process from a published epidemiology protocol and applied the analysis to all 6 databases to assess time-to-execution and comparability of results. Results Transformation to the CDM resulted in minimal information loss across all 6 databases. Patients and observations excluded were due to identified data quality issues in the source system, 96% to 99% of condition records and 90% to 99% of drug records were successfully mapped into the CDM using the standard vocabulary. The full cohort replication and descriptive baseline summary was executed for 2 cohorts in 6 databases in less than 1 hour. Discussion The standardization process improved data quality, increased efficiency, and facilitated cross-database comparisons to support a more systematic approach to observational research. Comparisons across data sources showed consistency in the impact of inclusion criteria, using the protocol and identified differences in patient characteristics and coding practices across databases. Conclusion Standardizing data structure (through a CDM), content (through a standard vocabulary with source code mappings), and analytics can enable an institution to apply a network-based approach to observational research across multiple, disparate observational health databases. PMID:25670757

Influence of the sex of the transmitting grandparent in congenital myotonic dystrophy.

PubMed

López de Munain, A; Cobo, A M; Poza, J J; Navarrete, D; Martorell, L; Palau, F; Emparanza, J I; Baiget, M

1995-09-01

To analyse the influence of the sex of the transmitting grandparents on the occurrence of the congenital form of myotonic dystrophy (CDM), we have studied complete three generation pedigrees of 49 CDM cases, analysing: (1) the sex distribution in the grandparents' generation, and (2) the intergenerational amplification of the CTG repeat, measured in its absolute and relative values, between grandparents and the mothers of CDM patients and between the latter and their CDM children. The mean relative intergenerational increase in the 32 grandparent-mother pairs was significantly greater than in the 56 mother-CDM pairs (Mann-Whitney U test, p < 0.001). The mean expansion of the grandfathers (103 CTG repeats) was also significantly different from that seen in the grandmothers' group (154 CTG repeats) (Mann-Whitney U test, p < 0.01). This excess of non-manifesting males between the CDM grandparents' generation with a smaller CTG length than the grandmothers could suggest that the premutation has to be transmitted by a male to reach the degree of instability responsible for subsequent intergenerational CTG expansions without size constraints characteristic of the CDM range.

Exploring the clean development mechanism: Malaysian case study.

PubMed

Pedersen, Anne

2008-02-01

During 2006 the CDM market in Malaysia became established and by December 2007 a total of 20 Malaysian projects had registered with the CDM Executive Board. The Kyoto Protocol defines the Annex 1 countries, as countries that are obliged to reduce their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and the clean development mechanism (CDM) allows Annex 1 countries to develop projects, which contribute to emission reduction, in non-Annex 1 (developing) countries. Currently, two projects have been corrected due to request for review and there is one project for which review is requested. Two projects have been rejected by the Executive Board. The broad knowledge of CDM in Malaysia and the number of successful projects are partly due to the well-functioning CDM institutional framework in Malaysia. As an illustration this article focuses on a Malaysian-Danish project and describes the implementation of CDM in Malaysia and refers to this specific project. The project was registered with the CDM Executive Board in May 2007 and is a methane avoidance project in which methane is captured from a landfill and used to generate electricity.

The Missing Link: Improving Quality With a Chronic Disease Management Intervention for the Primary Care Office

PubMed Central

Zweifler, John

2007-01-01

Bold steps are necessary to improve quality of care for patients with chronic diseases and increase satisfaction of both primary care physicians and patients. Office-based chronic disease management (CDM) workers can achieve these objectives by offering self-management support, maintaining disease registries, and monitoring compliance from the point of care. CDM workers can provide the missing link by connecting patients, primary care physicans, and CDM services sponsored by health plans or in the community. CDM workers should be supported financially by Medicare, Medicaid, and commercial health plans through reimbursements to physicians for units of service, analogous to California’s Comprehensive Perinatal Services Program. Care provided by CDM workers should be standardized, and training requirements should be sufficiently flexible to ensure wide dissemination. CDM workers can potentially improve quality while reducing costs for preventable hospitalizations and emergency department visits, but evaluation at multiple levels is recommended. PMID:17893388

Hierarchy of N-point functions in the ΛCDM and ReBEL cosmologies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hellwing, Wojciech A.; Juszkiewicz, Roman; van de Weygaert, Rien

2010-11-01

In this work we investigate higher-order statistics for the ΛCDM and ReBEL scalar-interacting dark matter models by analyzing 180h-1Mpc dark matter N-body simulation ensembles. The N-point correlation functions and the related hierarchical amplitudes, such as skewness and kurtosis, are computed using the counts-in-cells method. Our studies demonstrate that the hierarchical amplitudes Sn of the scalar-interacting dark matter model significantly deviate from the values in the ΛCDM cosmology on scales comparable and smaller than the screening length rs of a given scalar-interacting model. The corresponding additional forces that enhance the total attractive force exerted on dark matter particles at galaxy scales lower the values of the hierarchical amplitudes Sn. We conclude that hypothetical additional exotic interactions in the dark matter sector should leave detectable markers in the higher-order correlation statistics of the density field. We focused in detail on the redshift evolution of the dark matter field’s skewness and kurtosis. From this investigation we find that the deviations from the canonical ΛCDM model introduced by the presence of the “fifth” force attain a maximum value at redshifts 0.5

Effective theory of dark energy at redshift survey scales

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

Gleyzes, Jérôme; Mancarella, Michele; Vernizzi, Filippo

2016-02-01

We explore the phenomenological consequences of general late-time modifications of gravity in the quasi-static approximation, in the case where cold dark matter is non-minimally coupled to the gravitational sector. Assuming spectroscopic and photometric surveys with configuration parameters similar to those of the Euclid mission, we derive constraints on our effective description from three observables: the galaxy power spectrum in redshift space, tomographic weak-lensing shear power spectrum and the correlation spectrum between the integrated Sachs-Wolfe effect and the galaxy distribution. In particular, with ΛCDM as fiducial model and a specific choice for the time dependence of our effective functions, we performmore » a Fisher matrix analysis and find that the unmarginalized 68% CL errors on the parameters describing the modifications of gravity are of order σ∼10{sup −2}–10{sup −3}. We also consider two other fiducial models. A nonminimal coupling of CDM enhances the effects of modified gravity and reduces the above statistical errors accordingly. In all cases, we find that the parameters are highly degenerate, which prevents the inversion of the Fisher matrices. Some of these degeneracies can be broken by combining all three observational probes.« less

Testing ΛCDM at the lowest redshifts with SN Ia and galaxy velocities

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

Huterer, Dragan; Shafer, Daniel L.; Scolnic, Daniel M.

2017-05-01

Peculiar velocities of objects in the nearby universe are correlated due to the gravitational pull of large-scale structure. By measuring these velocities, we have a unique opportunity to test the cosmological model at the lowest redshifts. We perform this test, using current data to constrain the amplitude of the ''signal'' covariance matrix describing the velocities and their correlations. We consider a new, well-calibrated ''Supercal'' set of low-redshift SNe Ia as well as a set of distances derived from the fundamental plane relation of 6dFGS galaxies. Analyzing the SN and galaxy data separately, both results are consistent with the peculiar velocitymore » signal of our fiducial ΛCDM model, ruling out the noise-only model with zero peculiar velocities at greater than 7σ (SNe) and 8σ (galaxies). When the two data sets are combined appropriately, the precision of the test increases slightly, resulting in a constraint on the signal amplitude of A = 1.05{sub −0.21}{sup +0.25}, where A = 1 corresponds to our fiducial model. Equivalently, we report an 11% measurement of the product of the growth rate and amplitude of mass fluctuations evaluated at z {sub eff} = 0.02, f σ{sub 8} = 0.428{sub −0.045}{sup +0.048}, valid for our fiducial ΛCDM model. We explore the robustness of the results to a number of conceivable variations in the analysis and find that individual variations shift the preferred signal amplitude by less than ∼0.5σ. We briefly discuss our Supercal SN Ia results in comparison with our previous results using the JLA compilation.« less

ETHOS - an effective theory of structure formation: predictions for the high-redshift Universe - abundance of galaxies and reionization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lovell, Mark R.; Zavala, Jesús; Vogelsberger, Mark; Shen, Xuejian; Cyr-Racine, Francis-Yan; Pfrommer, Christoph; Sigurdson, Kris; Boylan-Kolchin, Michael; Pillepich, Annalisa

2018-07-01

We contrast predictions for the high-redshift galaxy population and reionization history between cold dark matter (CDM) and an alternative self-interacting dark matter model based on the recently developed ETHOS framework that alleviates the small-scale CDM challenges within the Local Group. We perform the highest resolution hydrodynamical cosmological simulations (a 36 Mpc3 volume with gas cell mass of ˜ 105 M_{⊙} and minimum gas softening of ˜180 pc) within ETHOS to date - plus a CDM counterpart - to quantify the abundance of galaxies at high redshift and their impact on reionization. We find that ETHOS predicts galaxies with higher ultraviolet (UV) luminosities than their CDM counterparts and a faster build-up of the faint end of the UV luminosity function. These effects, however, make the optical depth to reionization less sensitive to the power spectrum cut-off: the ETHOS model differs from the CDM τ value by only 10 per cent and is consistent with Planck limits if the effective escape fraction of UV photons is 0.1-0.5. We conclude that current observations of high-redshift luminosity functions cannot differentiate between ETHOS and CDM models, but deep James Webb Space Telescope surveys of strongly lensed, inherently faint galaxies have the potential to test non-CDM models that offer attractive solutions to CDM's Local Group problems.

Fundamental electrochemiluminescence characteristics of fluorine-doped tin oxides synthesized by sol-gel combustion.

PubMed

Moon, B H; Chaoumead, A; Sung, Y M

2013-10-01

Fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) materials synthesized by sol-gel combustion method were investigated for electrochemical luminescence (ECL) application. Effects of sol-gel combustion conditions on the structures and morphology of the porous FTO (p-FTO) materials were studied. ECL efficiency of p-FTO-based cell was about 251 cd/m2 at 4 V bias, which is higher than the sell using only FTO electrodes (102.8 cd/m2). The highest intensity of the emitting light was obtained at the wavelength of about 610 nm. The porous FTO layer was effective for increasing ECL intensities.

Creating a Common Data Model for Comparative Effectiveness with the Observational Medical Outcomes Partnership.

PubMed

FitzHenry, F; Resnic, F S; Robbins, S L; Denton, J; Nookala, L; Meeker, D; Ohno-Machado, L; Matheny, M E

2015-01-01

Adoption of a common data model across health systems is a key infrastructure requirement to allow large scale distributed comparative effectiveness analyses. There are a growing number of common data models (CDM), such as Mini-Sentinel, and the Observational Medical Outcomes Partnership (OMOP) CDMs. In this case study, we describe the challenges and opportunities of a study specific use of the OMOP CDM by two health systems and describe three comparative effectiveness use cases developed from the CDM. The project transformed two health system databases (using crosswalks provided) into the OMOP CDM. Cohorts were developed from the transformed CDMs for three comparative effectiveness use case examples. Administrative/billing, demographic, order history, medication, and laboratory were included in the CDM transformation and cohort development rules. Record counts per person month are presented for the eligible cohorts, highlighting differences between the civilian and federal datasets, e.g. the federal data set had more outpatient visits per person month (6.44 vs. 2.05 per person month). The count of medications per person month reflected the fact that one system's medications were extracted from orders while the other system had pharmacy fills and medication administration records. The federal system also had a higher prevalence of the conditions in all three use cases. Both systems required manual coding of some types of data to convert to the CDM. The data transformation to the CDM was time consuming and resources required were substantial, beyond requirements for collecting native source data. The need to manually code subsets of data limited the conversion. However, once the native data was converted to the CDM, both systems were then able to use the same queries to identify cohorts. Thus, the CDM minimized the effort to develop cohorts and analyze the results across the sites.

Can a chronic disease management pulmonary rehabilitation program for COPD reduce acute rural hospital utilization?

PubMed

Rasekaba, T M; Williams, E; Hsu-Hage, B

2009-01-01

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) imposes a costly burden on healthcare. Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) is the best practice to better manage COPD to improve patient outcomes and reduce acute hospital care utilization. To evaluate the impact of a once-weekly, eight-week multidisciplinary PR program as an integral part of the COPD chronic disease management (CDM) Program at Kyabram District Health Services. The study compared two cohorts of COPD patients: CDM-PR Cohort (4-8 weeks) and Opt-out Cohort (0-3 weeks) between February 2006 and March 2007. The CDM-PR Program involved multidisciplinary patient education and group exercise training. Nonparametric statistical tests were used to compare acute hospital care utilization 12 months before and after the introduction of CDM-PR. The number of patients involved in the CDM-PR Cohort was 29 (n = 29), and that in the Opt-out Cohort was 24 (n = 24). The CDM-PR Cohort showed significant reductions in cumulative acute hospital care utilization indicators (95% emergency department presentations, 95% inpatient admissions, 99% length of stay; effect sizes = 0.62-0.66, P < 0.001) 12 months after the introduction of the CDM Program; in contrast, changes in the cumulative indicators were statistically insignificant for the Opt-out Cohort (emergency department presentations decreased by 5%, inpatient admissions decreased by 12%, length of stay increased by 30%; effect size = 0.14-0.40, P > 0.05). Total costs associated with the hospital care utilization decreased from $130,000 to $7,500 for the CDM-PR Cohort and increased from $77,700 to $101,200 for the Opt-out Cohort. Participation in the CDM-PR for COPD patients can significantly reduce acute hospital care utilization and associated costs in a small rural health service.

Luminance level of a monitor: influence on detectability and detection rate of breast cancer in 2D mammography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bemelmans, Frédéric; Rashidnasab, Alaleh; Chesterman, Frédérique; Kimpe, Tom; Bosmans, Hilde

2016-03-01

Purpose: To evaluate lesion detectability and reading time as a function of luminance level of the monitor. Material and Methods: 3D mass models and microcalcification clusters were simulated into ROIs of for processing mammograms. Randomly selected ROIs were subdivided in three groups according to their background glandularity: high (>30%), medium (15-30%) and low (<15%). 6 non-spiculated masses (9 - 11mm), 6 spiculated masses (5 - 7mm) and 6 microcalcification clusters (2 - 4mm) were scaled in 3D to create a range of sizes. The linear attenuation coefficient (AC) of the masses was adjusted from 100% glandular tissue to 90%, 80%, 70%, to create different contrasts. Six physicists read the full database on Barco's Coronis Uniti monitor for four different luminance levels (300, 800, 1000 and 1200 Cd/m2), using a 4-AFC tool. Percentage correct (PC) and time were computed for all different conditions. A paired t-test was performed to evaluate the effect of luminance on PC and time. A multi-factorial analysis was performed using MANOVA.. Results: Paired t-test indicated a statistically significant difference for the average time per session between 300 and 1200; 800 and 1200; 1000 and 1200 Cd/m2, for all participants combined. There was no effect on PC. MANOVA denoted significantly lower reading times for high glandularity images at 1200 Cd/m2. Both types of masses were significantly faster detected at 1200 Cd/m2, for the contrast study. In the size study, microcalcification clusters and spiculated masses had a significantly higher detection rate at 1200 Cd/m2. Conclusion: These results demonstrate a significant decrease in reading time, while detectability remained constant.

Immunoadjuvant potential of cross-linked dextran microspheres mixed with chitosan nanospheres encapsulated with tetanus toxoid.

PubMed

Pirouzmand, Haniyeh; Khameneh, Bahman; Tafaghodi, Mohsen

2017-12-01

Nasal mucosa is a desirable route for mucosal vaccine delivery. Mucosal co-administration of chitosan nanoparticles with absorption enhancers such as cross-linked dextran microspheres (CDM, Sephadex ® ) is a promising antigen delivery system. In the current study, the chitosan nanospheres loaded with tetanus toxoid (CHT:TT NPs) was prepared and characterized. The immune responses against tetanus toxoid after nasal administration of CHT:TT NPs alone or mixed with CDM were also determined. Chitosan nanospheres were prepared by ionic gelation method. Particle size, releasing profile and antigen stability were evaluated by dynamic light scattering, diffusion chamber and SDS-PAGE methods, respectively. Rabbits were nasally immunized with different formulations loaded with 40 Lf TT. After three times immunizations with 2 weeks intervals, sera IgG titres and nasal lavage sIgA titres were determined. Mean size of CHT NPs and CHT:TT NPs were 205 ± 42 nm and 432 ± 85 nm, respectively. The release profile showed that 42.4 ± 10.5% of TT was released after 30 min and reached to a steady state after 1.5 h. Stability of encapsulated TT in nanospheres was confirmed by SDS-PAGE. The antibody titres showed that CHT:TT NPs-induced antibody titres were higher than TT solution. CHT NPs mixed with CDM induced the systemic IgG and nasal lavage sIgA titres higher than intranasal administration of TT solution (p < 0.001). As the results indicated, these CHT:TT NPs when co-administered with CDM were able to induce more immune responses and have the potential to be used in mucosal immunization.

Contrast-guided image interpolation.

PubMed

Wei, Zhe; Ma, Kai-Kuang

2013-11-01

In this paper a contrast-guided image interpolation method is proposed that incorporates contrast information into the image interpolation process. Given the image under interpolation, four binary contrast-guided decision maps (CDMs) are generated and used to guide the interpolation filtering through two sequential stages: 1) the 45(°) and 135(°) CDMs for interpolating the diagonal pixels and 2) the 0(°) and 90(°) CDMs for interpolating the row and column pixels. After applying edge detection to the input image, the generation of a CDM lies in evaluating those nearby non-edge pixels of each detected edge for re-classifying them possibly as edge pixels. This decision is realized by solving two generalized diffusion equations over the computed directional variation (DV) fields using a derived numerical approach to diffuse or spread the contrast boundaries or edges, respectively. The amount of diffusion or spreading is proportional to the amount of local contrast measured at each detected edge. The diffused DV fields are then thresholded for yielding the binary CDMs, respectively. Therefore, the decision bands with variable widths will be created on each CDM. The two CDMs generated in each stage will be exploited as the guidance maps to conduct the interpolation process: for each declared edge pixel on the CDM, a 1-D directional filtering will be applied to estimate its associated to-be-interpolated pixel along the direction as indicated by the respective CDM; otherwise, a 2-D directionless or isotropic filtering will be used instead to estimate the associated missing pixels for each declared non-edge pixel. Extensive simulation results have clearly shown that the proposed contrast-guided image interpolation is superior to other state-of-the-art edge-guided image interpolation methods. In addition, the computational complexity is relatively low when compared with existing methods; hence, it is fairly attractive for real-time image applications.

The Measurement and Correlates of Career Decision Making.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Harren, Vincent A.; Kass, Richard A.

This paper presents a theoretical framework for understanding career decision making (CDM); introduces an instrument, Assessment of Career Decision Making (ACDM) to measure CDM with college students; and presents correlational data on sex role and cognitive style factors hypothesized to influence CDM. The ACDM, designed to measure the Tiedeman and…

Canine degenerative myelopathy: a model of human amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

PubMed

Nardone, Raffaele; Höller, Yvonne; Taylor, Alexandra C; Lochner, Piergiorgio; Tezzon, Frediano; Golaszewski, Stefan; Brigo, Francesco; Trinka, Eugen

2016-02-01

Canine degenerative myelopathy (CDM) represents a unique naturally occurring animal model for human amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) because of similar clinical signs, neuropathologic findings, and involvement of the superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) mutation. A definitive diagnosis can only be made postmortem through microscopic detection of axonal degeneration, demyelination and astroglial proliferation, which is more severe in the dorsal columns of the thoracic spinal cord and in the dorsal portion of the lateral funiculus. Interestingly, the muscle acetylcholine receptor complexes are intact in CDM prior to functional impairment, thus suggesting that muscle atrophy in CDM does not result from physical denervation. Moreover, since sensory involvement seems to play an important role in CDM progression, a more careful investigation of the sensory pathology in ALS is also warranted. The importance of SOD1 expression remains unclear, while oxidative stress and denatured ubiquinated proteins appear to play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of CDM. In this updated narrative review we performed a systematic search of the published studies on CDM that may shed light on the pathophysiological mechanisms of human ALS. A better understanding of the factors that determine the disease progression in CDM may be beneficial for the development of effective treatments for ALS. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

Cold dark matter. 2: Spatial and velocity statistics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gelb, James M.; Bertschinger, Edmund

1994-01-01

We examine high-resolution gravitational N-body simulations of the omega = 1 cold dark matter (CDM) model in order to determine whether there is any normalization of the initial density fluctuation spectrum that yields acceptable results for galaxy clustering and velocities. Dense dark matter halos in the evolved mass distribution are identified with luminous galaxies; the most massive halos are also considered as sites for galaxy groups, with a range of possibilities explored for the group mass-to-light ratios. We verify the earlier conclusions of White et al. (1987) for the low-amplitude (high-bias) CDM model-the galaxy correlation function is marginally acceptable but that there are too many galaxies. We also show that the peak biasing method does not accurately reproduce the results obtained using dense halos identified in the simulations themselves. The Cosmic Background Explorer (COBE) anisotropy implies a higher normalization, resulting in problems with excessive pairwise galaxy velocity dispersion unless a strong velocity bias is present. Although we confirm the strong velocity bias of halos reported by Couchman & Carlberg (1992), we show that the galaxy motions are still too large on small scales. We find no amplitude for which the CDM model can reconcile simultaneously and galaxy correlation function, the low pairwise velocity dispersion, and the richness distribution of groups and clusters. With the normalization implied by COBE, the CDM spectrum has too much power on small scales if omega = 1.

Patterns of Cognitive Strengths and Weaknesses: Identification Rates, Agreement, and Validity for Learning Disabilities Identification

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Miciak, Jeremy; Fletcher, Jack M.; Stuebing, Karla K.; Vaughn, Sharon; Tolar, Tammy D.

2014-01-01

Few empirical investigations have evaluated learning disabilities (LD) identification methods based on a pattern of cognitive strengths and weaknesses (PSW). This study investigated the reliability and validity of two proposed PSW methods: the concordance/discordance method (C/DM) and cross battery assessment (XBA) method. Cognitive assessment…

MOSAIC--A Modular Approach to Data Management in Epidemiological Studies.

PubMed

Bialke, M; Bahls, T; Havemann, C; Piegsa, J; Weitmann, K; Wegner, T; Hoffmann, W

2015-01-01

In the context of an increasing number of multi-centric studies providing data from different sites and sources the necessity for central data management (CDM) becomes undeniable. This is exacerbated by a multiplicity of featured data types, formats and interfaces. In relation to methodological medical research the definition of central data management needs to be broadened beyond the simple storage and archiving of research data. This paper highlights typical requirements of CDM for cohort studies and registries and illustrates how orientation for CDM can be provided by addressing selected data management challenges. Therefore in the first part of this paper a short review summarises technical, organisational and legal challenges for CDM in cohort studies and registries. A deduced set of typical requirements of CDM in epidemiological research follows. In the second part the MOSAIC project is introduced (a modular systematic approach to implement CDM). The modular nature of MOSAIC contributes to manage both technical and organisational challenges efficiently by providing practical tools. A short presentation of a first set of tools, aiming for selected CDM requirements in cohort studies and registries, comprises a template for comprehensive documentation of data protection measures, an interactive reference portal for gaining insights and sharing experiences, supplemented by modular software tools for generation and management of generic pseudonyms, for participant management and for sophisticated consent management. Altogether, work within MOSAIC addresses existing challenges in epidemiological research in the context of CDM and facilitates the standardized collection of data with pre-programmed modules and provided document templates. The necessary effort for in-house programming is reduced, which accelerates the start of data collection.

Patterned mist deposition of tri-colour CdSe/ZnS quantum dot films toward RGB LED devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pickering, S.; Kshirsagar, A.; Ruzyllo, J.; Xu, J.

2012-06-01

In this experiment a technique of mist deposition was explored as a way to form patterned ultra-thin-films of CdSe/ZnS core/shell nanocrystalline quantum dots using colloidal solutions. The objective of this study was to investigate the feasibility of mist deposition as a patterning method for creating multicolour quantum dot light emitting diodes. Mist deposition was used to create three rows of quantum dot light emitting diodes on a single device with each row having a separate colour. The colours chosen were red, green and yellow with corresponding peak wavelengths of 620 nm, 558 nm, and 587 nm. The results obtained from this experiment show that it is possible to create multicolour devices on a single substrate. The peak brightnesses obtained in this experiment for the red, green, and yellow were 508 cd/m, 507 cd/m, and 665 cd/m, respectively. The similar LED brightness is important in display technologies using colloidal quantum dots in a precursor solution to ensure one colour does not dominate the emitted spectrum. Results obtained in-terms of brightness were superior to those achieved with inkjet deposition. This study has shown that mist deposition is a viable method for patterned deposition applied to quantum dot light emitting diode display technologies.

EFFECT OF QUALITY CHRONIC DISEASE MANAGEMENT FOR ALCOHOL AND DRUG DEPENDENCE ON ADDICTION OUTCOMES

PubMed Central

Kim, Theresa W.; Saitz, Richard; Cheng, Debbie M.; Winter, Michael R; Witas, Julie; Samet, Jeffrey H.

2012-01-01

We examinedthe effect ofthe quality of primary care-basedchronic disease management (CDM)for alcohol and/or other drug (AOD) dependenceonaddiction outcomes.We assessed qualityusing 1)avisit frequencybased measure and 2) a self-reported assessment measuring alignment with the chronic care model. The visit frequency based measure had no significant association with addiction outcomes. Theself-reported measure of care - when care was at a CDM clinic - was associated with lower drug addiction severity.The self-reported assessment of care from any healthcare source (CDM clinic or elsewhere)was associated with lower alcoholaddiction severity and abstinence.These findings suggest that high quality CDM for AOD dependence may improve addiction outcomes.Quality measuresbased upon alignment with the chronic care model may better capture features of effective CDM care than a visitfrequency measure. PMID:22840687

The H II galaxy Hubble diagram strongly favours Rh = ct over ΛCDM

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wei, Jun-Jie; Wu, Xue-Feng; Melia, Fulvio

2016-12-01

We continue to build support for the proposal to use H II galaxies (HIIGx) and giant extragalactic H II regions (GEHR) as standard candles to construct the Hubble diagram at redshifts beyond the current reach of Type Ia supernovae. Using a sample of 25 high-redshift HIIGx, 107 local HIIGx, and 24 GEHR, we confirm that the correlation between the emission-line luminosity and ionized-gas velocity dispersion is a viable luminosity indicator, and use it to test and compare the standard model ΛCDM and the Rh = ct universe by optimizing the parameters in each cosmology using a maximization of the likelihood function. For the flat ΛCDM model, the best fit is obtained with Ω _m= 0.40_{-0.09}^{+0.09}. However, statistical tools, such as the Akaike (AIC), Kullback (KIC) and Bayes (BIC) Information Criteria favour Rh = ct over the standard model with a likelihood of ≈94.8-98.8 per cent versus only ≈1.2-5.2 per cent. For wCDM (the version of ΛCDM with a dark-energy equation of state wde ≡ pde/ρde rather than wde = wΛ = -1), a statistically acceptable fit is realized with Ω _m=0.22_{-0.14}^{+0.16} and w_de= -0.51_{-0.25}^{+0.15} which, however, are not fully consistent with their concordance values. In this case, wCDM has two more free parameters than Rh = ct, and is penalized more heavily by these criteria. We find that Rh = ct is strongly favoured over wCDM with a likelihood of ≈92.9-99.6 per cent versus only 0.4-7.1 per cent. The current HIIGx sample is already large enough for the BIC to rule out ΛCDM/wCDM in favour of Rh = ct at a confidence level approaching 3σ.

Dynamic CDM strategies in an EHR environment.

PubMed

Bieker, Michael; Bailey, Spencer

2012-02-01

A dynamic charge description master (CDM) integrates information from clinical ancillary systems into the charge-capture process, so an organization can reduce its reliance on the patient accounting system as the sole source of billing information. By leveraging the information from electronic ancillary systems, providers can eliminate the need for paper charge-capture forms and see increased accuracy and efficiency in the maintenance of billing information. Before embarking on a dynamic CDM strategy, organizations should first determine their goals for implementing an EHR system, include revenue cycle leaders on the EHR implementation team, and carefully weigh the pros and cons of CDM design decisions.

H0LiCOW - V. New COSMOGRAIL time delays of HE 0435-1223: H0 to 3.8 per cent precision from strong lensing in a flat ΛCDM model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bonvin, V.; Courbin, F.; Suyu, S. H.; Marshall, P. J.; Rusu, C. E.; Sluse, D.; Tewes, M.; Wong, K. C.; Collett, T.; Fassnacht, C. D.; Treu, T.; Auger, M. W.; Hilbert, S.; Koopmans, L. V. E.; Meylan, G.; Rumbaugh, N.; Sonnenfeld, A.; Spiniello, C.

2017-03-01

We present a new measurement of the Hubble Constant H0 and other cosmological parameters based on the joint analysis of three multiply imaged quasar systems with measured gravitational time delays. First, we measure the time delay of HE 0435-1223 from 13-yr light curves obtained as part of the COSMOGRAIL project. Companion papers detail the modelling of the main deflectors and line-of-sight effects, and how these data are combined to determine the time-delay distance of HE 0435-1223. Crucially, the measurements are carried out blindly with respect to cosmological parameters in order to avoid confirmation bias. We then combine the time-delay distance of HE 0435-1223 with previous measurements from systems B1608+656 and RXJ1131-1231 to create a Time Delay Strong Lensing probe (TDSL). In flat Λ cold dark matter (ΛCDM) with free matter and energy density, we find H0 =71.9^{+2.4}_{-3.0} {km s^{-1} Mpc^{-1}} and Ω _{Λ }=0.62^{+0.24}_{-0.35}. This measurement is completely independent of, and in agreement with, the local distance ladder measurements of H0. We explore more general cosmological models combining TDSL with other probes, illustrating its power to break degeneracies inherent to other methods. The joint constraints from TDSL and Planck are H0 = 69.2_{-2.2}^{+1.4} {km s^{-1} Mpc^{-1}}, Ω _{Λ }=0.70_{-0.01}^{+0.01} and Ω _k=0.003_{-0.006}^{+0.004} in open ΛCDM and H0 =79.0_{-4.2}^{+4.4} {km s^{-1} Mpc^{-1}}, Ω _de=0.77_{-0.03}^{+0.02} and w=-1.38_{-0.16}^{+0.14} in flat wCDM. In combination with Planck and baryon acoustic oscillation data, when relaxing the constraints on the numbers of relativistic species we find Neff = 3.34_{-0.21}^{+0.21} in NeffΛCDM and when relaxing the total mass of neutrinos we find Σmν ≤ 0.182 eV in mνΛCDM. Finally, in an open wCDM in combination with Planck and cosmic microwave background lensing, we find H0 =77.9_{-4.2}^{+5.0} {km s^{-1} Mpc^{-1}}, Ω _de=0.77_{-0.03}^{+0.03}, Ω _k=-0.003_{-0.004}^{+0.004} and w=-1.37_{-0.23}^{+0.18}.

Adjunctive use of a facial moisturizer SPF 30 containing ceramide precursor improves tolerability of topical tretinoin 0.05%: a randomized, investigator-blinded, split-face study.

PubMed

Schorr, Ethlynn S; Sidou, Farzi; Kerrouche, Nabil

2012-09-01

To assess the benefit of adjunctive use of a SPF 30 moisturizing lotion in reducing local side effects associated with atopical tretinoin cream. This was a randomized, investigator/evaluator-blinded, split-face comparison in subjects with healthy skin. Subjects applied tretinoin cream 0.05% once daily to the whole face and Cetaphil 174; Dermacontrol Moisturizer (CDM) once daily to one side of the face based on randomization. Tolerability, perference and skin hydration were evaluated at each week, and a cosmetic acceptability questionnaire regarding CDM was completed at the end of the study. The majority (about 83% to 86%) of subjects experienced skin irritations on both sides of their face, though predominantly mild for the CDM + tretinoin treated side. Tolerability preferences favored the CDM+tretinoin sides. Adjunctive use of CDM with a topical tretinoin cream improves tolerance of the treatment.

Effect of quality chronic disease management for alcohol and drug dependence on addiction outcomes.

PubMed

Kim, Theresa W; Saitz, Richard; Cheng, Debbie M; Winter, Michael R; Witas, Julie; Samet, Jeffrey H

2012-12-01

We examined the effect of the quality of primary care-based chronic disease management (CDM) for alcohol and/or other drug (AOD) dependence on addiction outcomes. We assessed quality using (1) a visit frequency based measure and (2) a self-reported assessment measuring alignment with the chronic care model. The visit frequency based measure had no significant association with addiction outcomes. The self-reported measure of care-when care was at a CDM clinic-was associated with lower drug addiction severity. The self-reported assessment of care from any healthcare source (CDM clinic or elsewhere) was associated with lower alcohol addiction severity and abstinence. These findings suggest that high quality CDM for AOD dependence may improve addiction outcomes. Quality measures based upon alignment with the chronic care model may better capture features of effective CDM care than a visit frequency measure. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effective crisis decision-making.

PubMed

Kaschner, Holger

2017-01-01

When an organisation's reputation is at stake, crisis decision-making (CDM) is challenging and prone to failure. Most CDM schemes are strong at certain aspects of the overall CDM process, but almost none are strong at all of them. This paper defines criteria for good CDM schemes, analyses common approaches and introduces an alternative, stakeholder-driven scheme. Focusing on the most important stakeholders and directing any actions to preserve the relationships with them is crucial. When doing so, the interdependencies between the stakeholders must be identified and considered. Without knowledge of the sometimes less than obvious links, wellmeaning actions can cause adverse effects, so a cross-check for the impacts of potential options is recommended before making the final decision. The paper also gives recommendations on how to implement these steps at any organisation in order to enhance the quality of CDM and thus protect the organisation's reputation.

Common Data Model for Neuroscience Data and Data Model Exchange

PubMed Central

Gardner, Daniel; Knuth, Kevin H.; Abato, Michael; Erde, Steven M.; White, Thomas; DeBellis, Robert; Gardner, Esther P.

2001-01-01

Objective: Generalizing the data models underlying two prototype neurophysiology databases, the authors describe and propose the Common Data Model (CDM) as a framework for federating a broad spectrum of disparate neuroscience information resources. Design: Each component of the CDM derives from one of five superclasses—data, site, method, model, and reference—or from relations defined between them. A hierarchic attribute-value scheme for metadata enables interoperability with variable tree depth to serve specific intra- or broad inter-domain queries. To mediate data exchange between disparate systems, the authors propose a set of XML-derived schema for describing not only data sets but data models. These include biophysical description markup language (BDML), which mediates interoperability between data resources by providing a meta-description for the CDM. Results: The set of superclasses potentially spans data needs of contemporary neuroscience. Data elements abstracted from neurophysiology time series and histogram data represent data sets that differ in dimension and concordance. Site elements transcend neurons to describe subcellular compartments, circuits, regions, or slices; non-neuroanatomic sites include sequences to patients. Methods and models are highly domain-dependent. Conclusions: True federation of data resources requires explicit public description, in a metalanguage, of the contents, query methods, data formats, and data models of each data resource. Any data model that can be derived from the defined superclasses is potentially conformant and interoperability can be enabled by recognition of BDML-described compatibilities. Such metadescriptions can buffer technologic changes. PMID:11141510

Specification of embryonic stem cell-derived tissues into eye fields by Wnt signaling using rostral diencephalic tissue-inducing culture.

PubMed

Sakakura, Eriko; Eiraku, Mototsugu; Takata, Nozomu

2016-08-01

The eyes are subdivided from the rostral diencephalon in early development. How the neuroectoderm regulates this subdivision, however, is largely unknown. Taking advantage of embryonic stem cell (ESC) culture using a Rax reporter line to monitor rostral diencephalon formation, we found that ESC-derived tissues at day 7 grown in Glasgow Minimum Expression Media (GMEM) containing knockout serum replacement (KSR) exhibited higher levels of expression of axin2, a Wnt target gene, than those grown in chemically defined medium (CDM). Surprisingly, Wnt agonist facilitated eye field-like tissue specification in CDM. In contrast, the addition of Wnt antagonist diminished eye field tissue formation in GMEM+KSR. Furthermore, the morphological formation of the eye tissue anlage, including the optic vesicle, was accompanied by Wnt signaling activation. Additionally, using CDM culture, we developed an efficient method for generating Rax+/Chx10+ retinal progenitors, which could become fully stratified retina. Here we provide a new avenue for exploring the mechanisms of eye field specification in vitro. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Where the world stands still: turnaround as a strong test of ΛCDM cosmology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pavlidou, V.; Tomaras, T. N.

2014-09-01

Our intuitive understanding of cosmic structure formation works best in scales small enough so that isolated, bound, relaxed gravitating systems are no longer adjusting their radius; and large enough so that space and matter follow the average expansion of the Universe. Yet one of the most robust predictions of ΛCDM cosmology concerns the scale that separates these limits: the turnaround radius, which is the non-expanding shell furthest away from the center of a bound structure. We show that the maximum possible value of the turnaround radius within the framework of the ΛCDM model is, for a given mass M, equal to (3GM/Λ c2)1/3, with G Newton's constant and c the speed of light, independently of cosmic epoch, exact nature of dark matter, or baryonic effects. We discuss the possible use of this prediction as an observational test for ΛCDM cosmology. Current data appear to favor ΛCDM over alternatives with local inhomogeneities and no Λ. However there exist several local-universe structures that have, within errors, reached their limiting size. With improved determinations of their turnaround radii and the enclosed mass, these objects may challenge the limit and ΛCDM cosmology.

Consistency of the Planck CMB data and ΛCDM cosmology

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

Shafieloo, Arman; Hazra, Dhiraj Kumar, E-mail: shafieloo@kasi.re.kr, E-mail: dhiraj.kumar.hazra@apc.univ-paris7.fr

We test the consistency between Planck temperature and polarization power spectra and the concordance model of Λ Cold Dark Matter cosmology (ΛCDM) within the framework of Crossing statistics. We find that Planck TT best fit ΛCDM power spectrum is completely consistent with EE power spectrum data while EE best fit ΛCDM power spectrum is not consistent with TT data. However, this does not point to any systematic or model-data discrepancy since in the Planck EE data, uncertainties are much larger compared to the TT data. We also investigate the possibility of any deviation from ΛCDM model analyzing the Planck 2015more » data. Results from TT, TE and EE data analysis indicate that no deviation is required beyond the flexibility of the concordance ΛCDM model. Our analysis thus rules out any strong evidence for beyond the concordance model in the Planck spectra data. We also report a mild amplitude difference comparing temperature and polarization data, where temperature data seems to have slightly lower amplitude than expected (consistently at all multiples), as we assume both temperature and polarization data are realizations of the same underlying cosmology.« less

Editorial Comments, 1974-1986: The Case For and Against the Use of Computer-Assisted Decision Making

PubMed Central

Weaver, Robert R.

1987-01-01

Journal editorials are an important medium for communicating information about medical innovations. Evaluative statements contained in editorials pertain to the innovation's technical merits, as well as its probable economic, social and political, and ethical consequences. This information will either promote or impede the subsequent diffusion of innovations. This paper analyzes the evaluative information contained in thirty editorials that pertain to the topic of computer-assisted decision making (CDM). Most editorials agree that CDM technology is effective and economical in performing routine clinical tasks; controversy surrounds the use of more sophisticated CDM systems for complex problem solving. A few editorials argue that the innovation should play an integral role in transforming the established health care system. Most, however, maintain that it can or should be accommodated within the existing health care framework. Finally, while few editorials discuss the ethical ramifications of CDM technology, those that do suggest that it will contribute to more humane health care. The editorial analysis suggests that CDM technology aimed at routine clinical task will experience rapid diffusion. In contrast, the diffusion of more sophisticated CDM systems will, in the foreseeable future, likely be sporadic at best.

A tiered quality assurance review process for clinical data management standard operating procedures in an academic health center.

PubMed

Ittenbach, Richard F; Baker, Cynthia L; Corsmo, Jeremy J

2014-05-01

Standard operating procedures (SOPs) were once considered the province of the pharmaceutical industry but are now viewed as a key component of quality assurance programs. To address variability and increase the rigor of clinical data management (CDM) operations, the Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center (CCHMC) decided to create CDM SOPs. In response to this challenge, and as part of a broader institutional initiative, the CCHMC leadership established an executive steering committee to oversee the development and implementation of CDM SOPs. This resulted in the creation of a quality assurance review process with three review panels: an SOP development team (16 clinical data managers and technical staff members), a faculty review panel (8 senior faculty and administrators), and an expert advisory panel (3 national CDM experts). This innovative, tiered review process helped ensure that the new SOPs would be created and implemented in accord with good CDM practices and standards. Twelve fully vetted, institutionally endorsed SOPs and one CDM template resulted from the intensive, iterative 10-month process (December 2011 to early October 2012). Phased implementation, which incoporated the CDM SOPs into the existing audit process for certain types of clinical research studies, was on schedule at the time of this writing. Once CCHMC researchers have had the opportunity to use the SOPs over time and across a broad range of research settings and conditions, the SOPs will be revisited and revalidated.

The nursing contribution to chronic disease management: a discussion paper.

PubMed

Forbes, Angus; While, Alison

2009-01-01

This paper explores the nature of the nursing contribution to chronic disease management (CDM) and identifies a number of key nursing activities within CDM both at the individual patient and care system levels. The activities were identified following a detailed review of the literature (160 reports and studies of nursing practice) relating to three tracer disorders: diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and multiple sclerosis. The paper examines these activities collectively to generate models expressing some of the core functions of nursing within CDM. The paper illustrates some of the changing characteristics of nursing roles within CDM. More fundamentally, the paper questions the position of nursing in relation to the technologies that define CDM systems and proposes four levels of contribution: the nurse as technology; the nurse as technologist; the nurse as system engineer; and the nurse as architect. These different levels reflect distinctions in the nature of the nursing gaze and power relations within the health care workforce. The paper also highlights how nurses are failing to develop the evidence for their practice in CDM. The paper concludes that there is a need for some clear principles to guide clinical practice and encourage innovation in CDM. It is argued that the principles should not be rule-bound but define a distinctive nursing gaze that will position the nursing profession within the health care system and in relation to other professions. The gaze should incorporate the needs of the individual patient and the care system that they inhabit.

The Development and Validation of a Tool to Measure Self-Confidence and Anxiety in Nursing Students While Making Clinical Decisions

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

White, Krista Alaine

2011-01-01

Clinical decision making (CDM) is a cornerstone skill for nurses. Self-confidence and anxiety are two affective influences that impact the learning and adeptness of CDM. Currently, no instruments exist that measure perceived self-confidence and anxiety level of undergraduate nursing students related to CDM. The purpose of this research was to…

Effect of Background Luminance Level on the Assessment of Color Visual Acuity Using Colored Landolt Rings in Young Healthy Subjects.

PubMed

Tanaka, Yoshiki; Yokoyama, Sho; Horai, Rie; Kojima, Takashi; Hiroyuki, Sato; Kato, Yukihito; Takagi, Mari; Nakamura, Hideki; Tanaka, Kiyoshi; Ichikawa, Kazuo; Tanabe, Shoko

2018-03-01

To evaluate the color visual acuity (CVA) of young healthy subjects using colored Landolt rings and the effect of background luminance level on the CVA. We measured the CVA of 20 young healthy subjects (age: 23.8 ± 3.8 years) with different colors using a computer and a liquid crystal display, with 15 Landolt ring colors (30 cd/m 2 ) with a background luminance of 30 cd/m 2 , and then 100 cd/m 2 . We then used different background luminance levels (15-50 cd/m 2 ) using four Landolt ring colors (red, green-yellow, green, and blue-green) to evaluate the effect of the background luminance level on CVA. The CVA significantly differed among the colors with a background luminance of 30 cd/m 2 (p < 0.0001). Green-yellow and blue-purple had poor CVA (high LogMAR value; 0.808 ± 0.107 and 0.633 ± 0.150, respectively) with a background luminance of 30 cd/m 2 (same luminance as the Landolt rings). There were no significant differences in the CVAs among the colors with a background luminance of 100 cd/m 2 (p = 0.5999). There were no significant difference in the CVA between background luminance 30 cd/m 2 and other luminance level ranging from 28 to 32 cd/m 2 for colors of red, green-yellow, green, and blue-green. The results reveal that the background luminance of Landolt rings affects the CVA. Distinctive CVAs for each color are measured by equalizing the luminance between the Landolt ring and the background. We consider that the poor CVAs of these colors reflect the visual function of S-cone, because GY and BP are included in the confusion locus of tritan axis on the chromaticity diagram. We believe that CVA assessment may be useful for individuals who have known or suspected ocular dysfunction or color vision deficiencies.

Organic light-emitting diodes for lighting: High color quality by controlling energy transfer processes in host-guest-systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Weichsel, Caroline; Reineke, Sebastian; Furno, Mauro; Lüssem, Björn; Leo, Karl

2012-02-01

Exciton generation and transfer processes in a multilayer organic light-emitting diode (OLED) are studied in order to realize OLEDs with warm white color coordinates and high color-rendering index (CRI). We investigate a host-guest-system containing four phosphorescent emitters and two matrix materials with different transport properties. We show, by time-resolved spectroscopy, that an energy back-transfer from the blue emitter to the matrix materials occurs, which can be used to transport excitons to the other emitter molecules. Furthermore, we investigate the excitonic and electronic transfer processes by designing suitable emission layer stacks. As a result, we obtain an OLED with Commission Internationale de lÉclairage (CIE) coordinates of (0.444;0.409), a CRI of 82, and a spectrum independent of the applied current. The OLED shows an external quantum efficiency of 10% and a luminous efficacy of 17.4 lm/W at 1000 cd/m2.

High Aldehyde Dehydrogenase Activity Identifies a Subset of Human Mesenchymal Stromal Cells with Vascular Regenerative Potential.

PubMed

Sherman, Stephen E; Kuljanin, Miljan; Cooper, Tyler T; Putman, David M; Lajoie, Gilles A; Hess, David A

2017-06-01

During culture expansion, multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) differentially express aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH), an intracellular detoxification enzyme that protects long-lived cells against oxidative stress. Thus, MSC selection based on ALDH-activity may be used to reduce heterogeneity and distinguish MSC subsets with improved regenerative potency. After expansion of human bone marrow-derived MSCs, cell progeny was purified based on low versus high ALDH-activity (ALDH hi ) by fluorescence-activated cell sorting, and each subset was compared for multipotent stromal and provascular regenerative functions. Both ALDH l ° and ALDH hi MSC subsets demonstrated similar expression of stromal cell (>95% CD73 + , CD90 + , CD105 + ) and pericyte (>95% CD146 + ) surface markers and showed multipotent differentiation into bone, cartilage, and adipose cells in vitro. Conditioned media (CDM) generated by ALDH hi MSCs demonstrated a potent proliferative and prosurvival effect on human microvascular endothelial cells (HMVECs) under serum-free conditions and augmented HMVEC tube-forming capacity in growth factor-reduced matrices. After subcutaneous transplantation within directed in vivo angiogenesis assay implants into immunodeficient mice, ALDH hi MSC or CDM produced by ALDH hi MSC significantly augmented murine vascular cell recruitment and perfused vessel infiltration compared with ALDH l ° MSC. Although both subsets demonstrated strikingly similar mRNA expression patterns, quantitative proteomic analyses performed on subset-specific CDM revealed the ALDH hi MSC subset uniquely secreted multiple proangiogenic cytokines (vascular endothelial growth factor beta, platelet derived growth factor alpha, and angiogenin) and actively produced multiple factors with chemoattractant (transforming growth factor-β, C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 1, 2, and 3 (GRO), C-C motif chemokine ligand 5 (RANTES), monocyte chemotactic protein 1 (MCP-1), interleukin [IL]-6, IL-8) and matrix-modifying functions (tissue inhibitor of metalloprotinase 1 & 2 (TIMP1/2)). Collectively, MSCs selected for ALDH hi demonstrated enhanced proangiogenic secretory functions and represent a purified MSC subset amenable for vascular regenerative applications. Stem Cells 2017;35:1542-1553. © 2017 AlphaMed Press.

The influence of visible light on transparent zinc tin oxide thin film transistors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Görrn, P.; Lehnhardt, M.; Riedl, T.; Kowalsky, W.

2007-11-01

The characteristics of transparent zinc tin oxide thin film transistors (TTFTs) upon illumination with visible light are reported. Generally, a reversible decrease of threshold voltage Vth, saturation field effect mobility μsat, and an increase of the off current are found. The time scale of the recovery in the dark is governed by the persistent photoconductivity in the semiconductor. Devices with tuned [Zn]:[Sn] ratio show a shift of Vth of less 2V upon illumination at 5mW/cm2 (brightness >30000cd/m2) throughout the visible spectrum. These results demonstrate TTFTs which are candidates as pixel drivers in transparent active-matrix organic light emitting diode displays.

Conversion of National Health Insurance Service-National Sample Cohort (NHIS-NSC) Database into Observational Medical Outcomes Partnership-Common Data Model (OMOP-CDM).

PubMed

You, Seng Chan; Lee, Seongwon; Cho, Soo-Yeon; Park, Hojun; Jung, Sungjae; Cho, Jaehyeong; Yoon, Dukyong; Park, Rae Woong

2017-01-01

It is increasingly necessary to generate medical evidence applicable to Asian people compared to those in Western countries. Observational Health Data Sciences a Informatics (OHDSI) is an international collaborative which aims to facilitate generating high-quality evidence via creating and applying open-source data analytic solutions to a large network of health databases across countries. We aimed to incorporate Korean nationwide cohort data into the OHDSI network by converting the national sample cohort into Observational Medical Outcomes Partnership-Common Data Model (OMOP-CDM). The data of 1.13 million subjects was converted to OMOP-CDM, resulting in average 99.1% conversion rate. The ACHILLES, open-source OMOP-CDM-based data profiling tool, was conducted on the converted database to visualize data-driven characterization and access the quality of data. The OMOP-CDM version of National Health Insurance Service-National Sample Cohort (NHIS-NSC) can be a valuable tool for multiple aspects of medical research by incorporation into the OHDSI research network.

The role of analogy-guided learning experiences in enhancing students' clinical decision-making skills.

PubMed

Edelen, Bonnie Gilbert; Bell, Alexandra Alice

2011-08-01

The purpose of this study was to address the need for effective educational interventions to promote students' clinical decision making (CDM) within clinical practice environments. Researchers used a quasi-experimental, non-equivalent groups, posttest-only design to assess differences in CDM ability between intervention group students who participated in analogy-guided learning activities and control group students who participated in traditional activities. For the intervention, analogy-guided learning activities were incorporated into weekly group discussions, reflective journal writing, and questioning with clinical faculty. The researcher-designed Assessment of Clinical Decision Making Rubric was used to assess indicators of CDM ability in all students' reflective journal entries. Results indicated that the intervention group demonstrated significantly higher levels of CDM ability in their journals compared with the control group (ES(sm) = 0.52). Recommendations provide nurse educators with strategies to maximize students' development of CDM ability, better preparing students for the demands they face when they enter the profession. Copyright 2011, SLACK Incorporated.

Control the wettability of poly(n-isopropylacrylamide-co-1-adamantan-1-ylmethyl acrylate) modified surfaces: the more Ada, the bigger impact?

PubMed

Shi, Xiu-Juan; Chen, Gao-Jian; Wang, Yan-Wei; Yuan, Lin; Zhang, Qiang; Haddleton, David M; Chen, Hong

2013-11-19

Surface-initiated SET-LRP was used to synthesize polymer brush containing N-isopropylacrylamide and adamantyl acrylate using Cu(I)Cl/Me6-TREN as precursor catalyst and isopropanol/H2O as solvent. Different reaction conditions were explored to investigate the influence of different parameters (reaction time, catalyst concentration, monomer concentration) on the polymerization. Copolymers with variable 1-adamantan-1-ylmethyl acrylate (Ada) content and comparable thickness were synthesized onto silicon surfaces. Furthermore, the hydrophilic and bioactive molecule β-cyclodextrin-(mannose)7 (CDm) was synthesized and complexed with adamantane via host-guest interaction. The effect of adamantane alone and the effect of CDm together with adamantane on the wettability and thermoresponsive property of surface were investigated in detail. Experimental and molecular structure analysis showed that Ada at certain content together with CDm has the greatest impact on surface wettability. When Ada content was high (20%), copolymer-CDm surfaces showed almost no CDm complexed with Ada as the result of steric hindrance.

The Kyoto protocol and payments for tropical forest: An interdisciplinary method for estimating carbon-offset supply and increasing the feasibility of a carbon market under the CDM

USGS Publications Warehouse

Pfaff, Alexander S.P.; Kerr, Suzi; Hughes, R. Flint; Liu, Shuguang; Sanchez-Azofeifa, G. Arturo; Schimel, David; Tosi, Joseph; Watson, Vicente

2000-01-01

Protecting tropical forests under the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) could reduce the cost of emissions limitations set in Kyoto. However, while society must soon decide whether or not to use tropical forest-based offsets, evidence regarding tropical carbon sinks is sparse. This paper presents a general method for constructing an integrated model (based on detailed historical, remote sensing and field data) that can produce land-use and carbon baselines, predict carbon sequestration supply to a carbon-offsets market and also help to evaluate optimal market rules. Creating such integrated models requires close collaboration between social and natural scientists. Our project combines varied disciplinary expertise (in economics, ecology and geography) with local knowledge in order to create high-quality, empirically grounded, integrated models for Costa Rica.

Where the world stands still: turnaround as a strong test of ΛCDM cosmology

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

Pavlidou, V.; Tomaras, T.N., E-mail: pavlidou@physics.uoc.gr, E-mail: tomaras@physics.uoc.gr

Our intuitive understanding of cosmic structure formation works best in scales small enough so that isolated, bound, relaxed gravitating systems are no longer adjusting their radius; and large enough so that space and matter follow the average expansion of the Universe. Yet one of the most robust predictions of ΛCDM cosmology concerns the scale that separates these limits: the turnaround radius, which is the non-expanding shell furthest away from the center of a bound structure. We show that the maximum possible value of the turnaround radius within the framework of the ΛCDM model is, for a given mass M, equalmore » to (3GM/Λ c{sup 2}){sup 1/3}, with G Newton's constant and c the speed of light, independently of cosmic epoch, exact nature of dark matter, or baryonic effects. We discuss the possible use of this prediction as an observational test for ΛCDM cosmology. Current data appear to favor ΛCDM over alternatives with local inhomogeneities and no Λ. However there exist several local-universe structures that have, within errors, reached their limiting size. With improved determinations of their turnaround radii and the enclosed mass, these objects may challenge the limit and ΛCDM cosmology.« less

Growth Media Affect Assessment of Antimicrobial Activity of Plant-Derived Polyphenols.

PubMed

Xu, Xin; Ou, Zhen M; Wu, Christine D

2018-01-01

This study aimed to investigate the effects of different microbial growth media on the laboratory assessment of antimicrobial activity of natural polyphenolic compounds. The inhibition of the tea polyphenol EGCG on growth of selected oral microorganisms was evaluated in complex media and a protein-free chemically defined medium (CDM). Other antimicrobial agents (polyphenolic grape seed extract, plant alkaloid berberine, methyl salicylate, and chlorhexidine gluconate) were also tested in the study. The presence of proteins and their effects on the antimicrobial activity of EGCG were investigated by the addition of BSA to the CDM. The MICs of EGCG against test oral microorganisms were 4 to 64 times higher in complex media than in CDM. The polyphenolic grape seed extract exhibited similar discrepancies. However, the MICs of the nonpolyphenolic compounds (berberine, methyl salicylate, and chlorhexidine) were not significantly different between the two growth media. The MIC of EGCG against S. mutans UA159 in CDM with added BSA was 16 times higher than that in CDM alone. Therefore, nonproteinaceous CDM should be used to avoid interference of proteins with the active ingredients when testing the antimicrobial activity of plant-derived polyphenolic compounds against microorganisms. This will also minimize the discrepancies noted in results obtained by different investigators.

Development and application of a methodology for a clean development mechanism to avoid methane emissions in closed landfills.

PubMed

Janke, Leandro; Lima, André O S; Millet, Maurice; Radetski, Claudemir M

2013-01-01

In Brazil, Solid Waste Disposal Sites have operated without consideration of environmental criteria, these areas being characterized by methane (CH4) emissions during the anaerobic degradation of organic matter. The United Nations organization has made efforts to control this situation, through the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Kyoto Protocol, where projects that seek to reduce the emissions of greenhouse gases (GHG) can be financially rewarded through Certified Emission Reductions (CERs) if they respect the requirements established by the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM), such as the use of methodologies approved by the CDM Executive Board (CDM-EB). Thus, a methodology was developed according to the CDM standards related to the aeration, excavation and composting of closed Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) landfills, which was submitted to CDM-EB for assessment and, after its approval, applied to a real case study in Maringá City (Brazil) with a view to avoiding negative environmental impacts due the production of methane and leachates even after its closure. This paper describes the establishment of this CDM-EB-approved methodology to determine baseline emissions, project emissions and the resultant emission reductions with the application of appropriate aeration, excavation and composting practices at closed MSW landfills. A further result obtained through the application of the methodology in the landfill case study was that it would be possible to achieve an ex-ante emission reduction of 74,013 tCO2 equivalent if the proposed CDM project activity were implemented.

Efficacy of a chronic disease management model for patients with chronic liver failure.

PubMed

Wigg, Alan J; McCormick, Rosemary; Wundke, Rachel; Woodman, Richard J

2013-07-01

Despite the economic impacts of chronic liver failure (CLF) and the success of chronic disease management (CDM) programs in routine clinical practice, there have been no randomized controlled trials of CDM for CLF. We investigated the efficacy of CDM programs for CLF patients in a prospective, controlled trial. Sixty consecutive patients with cirrhosis and complications from CLF were assigned randomly to groups given intervention (n = 40) or usual care (n = 20), from 2009 to 2010. The 12-month intervention comprised 4 CDM components: delivery system redesign, self-management support, decision support, and clinical information systems. The primary outcome was the number of days spent in a hospital bed for liver-related reasons. Secondary outcomes were rates of other hospital use measures, rate of attendance at planned outpatient care, disease severity, quality of life, and quality of care. The intervention did not reduce the number of days patients spent in hospital beds for liver-related reasons, compared with usual care (17.8 vs 11.0 bed days/person/y, respectively; incidence rate ratio, 1.6; 95% confidence interval, 0.5-4.8; P = .39), or affect other measures of hospitalization. Patients given the intervention had a 30% higher rate of attendance at outpatient care (incidence rate ratio, 1.3; 95% confidence interval, 1.1-1.5; P = .004) and significant increases in quality of care, based on adherence to hepatoma screening, osteoporosis and vaccination guidelines, and referral to transplant centers (P < .05 for all). In a pilot study to determine the efficacy of CDM for patients with CLF, patients receiving CDM had significant increases in attendance at outpatient centers and quality of care, compared with patients who did not receive CDM. However, CDM did not appear to reduce hospital admission rates or disease severity or improve patient quality of life. Larger trials with longer follow-up periods are required to confirm these findings and assess cost effectiveness. Copyright © 2013 AGA Institute. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Cosmological test with the QSO Hubble diagram

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

López-Corredoira, M.; Melia, F.; Lusso, E.; Risaliti, G.

2016-03-01

A Hubble diagram (HD) has recently been constructed in the redshift range 0 ≲ z ≲ 6.5 using a nonlinear relation between the ultraviolet (UV) and X-ray luminosities of quasi stellar objects (QSOs). The Type Ia Supernovae (SN) HD has already provided a high-precision test of cosmological models, but the fact that the QSO distribution extends well beyond the supernova range (z ≲ 1.8), in principle provides us with an important complementary diagnostic whose significantly greater leverage in z can impose tighter constraints on the distance versus redshift relationship. In this paper, we therefore perform an independent test of nine different cosmological models, among which six are expanding, while three are static. Many of these are disfavored by other kinds of observations (including the aforementioned Type Ia SNe). We wish to examine whether the QSO HD confirms or rejects these earlier conclusions. We find that four of these models (Einstein-de Sitter, the Milne universe, the static universe with simple tired light and the static universe with plasma tired light) are excluded at the > 99% C.L. The quasi-steady state model is excluded at > 95% C.L. The remaining four models (ΛCDM/wCDM, the Rh = ct universe, the Friedmann open universe and a static universe with a linear Hubble law) all pass the test. However, only ΛCDM/wCDM and Rh = ct also pass the Alcock-Paczyński (AP) test. The optimized parameters in ΛCDM/wCDM are Ωm = 0.20-0.20+0.24 and wde = -1.2-∞+1.6 (the dark energy equation-of-state). Combined with the AP test, these values become Ωm = 0.38-0.19+0.20 and wde = -0.28-0.40+0.52. But whereas this optimization of parameters in ΛCDM/wCDM creates some tension with their concordance values, the Rh = ct universe has the advantage of fitting the QSO and AP data without any free parameters.

A tilted cold dark matter cosmological scenario

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cen, Renyue; Gnedin, Nickolay Y.; Kofman, Lev A.; Ostriker, Jeremiah P.

1992-01-01

A new cosmological scenario based on CDM but with a power spectrum index of about 0.7-0.8 is suggested. This model is predicted by various inflationary models with no fine tuning. This tilted CDM model, if normalized to COBE, alleviates many problems of the standard CDM model related to both small-scale and large-scale power. A physical bias of galaxies over dark matter of about two is required to fit spatial observations.

Cosmic string wakes and large-scale structure

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Charlton, Jane C.

1988-01-01

The formation of structure from infinite cosmic string wakes is modeled for a universe dominated by cold dark matter (CDM). Cross-sectional slices through the wake distribution tend to outline empty regions with diameters which are not inconsistent with the range of sizes of the voids in the CfA slice of the universe. The topology of the wake distribution is found to be spongy rather than cell-like. Correlations between CDM wakes do not extend much beyond a horizon length, so it is unlikely that CDM wakes are responsible for the correlations between clusters of galaxies. An estimate of the fraction of matter to accrete onto CDM wakes indicates that wakes could be more important in galaxy formation than previously anticipated.

The lightest supersymmetric particle and the extragalactic gamma-ray background

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gao, Yi-Tian; Stecker, Floyd W.; Cline, David B.

1991-01-01

The possibility that cosmological photino annihilation is caused by the extragalactic gamma-ray background (EGB) is examined with particular attention given to the lightest supersymmetric particle (LSP). The LSP is considered a general type of the best-motivated candidates for cosmic dark matter (CDM). The theoretical analysis employs a corrected assumption for the annihilation cross section, and cosmological integrations are performed through the early phases of the universe. Romberg's method is used for numerical integration, and the total optical depth is developed for the gamma-ray region. The computed LSP-type annihilation fluxes are found to be negligible when compared to the total EGB observed, suggesting that the LSP candidates for CDM are not significant contributors to the EGB.

Diagnostic Profiles: A Standard Setting Method for Use with a Cognitive Diagnostic Model

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Skaggs, Gary; Hein, Serge F.; Wilkins, Jesse L. M.

2016-01-01

This article introduces the Diagnostic Profiles (DP) standard setting method for setting a performance standard on a test developed from a cognitive diagnostic model (CDM), the outcome of which is a profile of mastered and not-mastered skills or attributes rather than a single test score. In the DP method, the key judgment task for panelists is a…

The clustering of galaxies in the completed SDSS-III Baryon Oscillation Spectroscopic Survey: towards a computationally efficient analysis without informative priors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pellejero-Ibanez, Marcos; Chuang, Chia-Hsun; Rubiño-Martín, J. A.; Cuesta, Antonio J.; Wang, Yuting; Zhao, Gongbo; Ross, Ashley J.; Rodríguez-Torres, Sergio; Prada, Francisco; Slosar, Anže; Vazquez, Jose A.; Alam, Shadab; Beutler, Florian; Eisenstein, Daniel J.; Gil-Marín, Héctor; Grieb, Jan Niklas; Ho, Shirley; Kitaura, Francisco-Shu; Percival, Will J.; Rossi, Graziano; Salazar-Albornoz, Salvador; Samushia, Lado; Sánchez, Ariel G.; Satpathy, Siddharth; Seo, Hee-Jong; Tinker, Jeremy L.; Tojeiro, Rita; Vargas-Magaña, Mariana; Brownstein, Joel R.; Nichol, Robert C.; Olmstead, Matthew D.

2017-07-01

We develop a new computationally efficient methodology called double-probe analysis with the aim of minimizing informative priors (those coming from extra probes) in the estimation of cosmological parameters. Using our new methodology, we extract the dark energy model-independent cosmological constraints from the joint data sets of the Baryon Oscillation Spectroscopic Survey (BOSS) galaxy sample and Planck cosmic microwave background (CMB) measurements. We measure the mean values and covariance matrix of {R, la, Ωbh2, ns, log(As), Ωk, H(z), DA(z), f(z)σ8(z)}, which give an efficient summary of the Planck data and two-point statistics from the BOSS galaxy sample. The CMB shift parameters are R=√{Ω _m H_0^2} r(z_*) and la = πr(z*)/rs(z*), where z* is the redshift at the last scattering surface, and r(z*) and rs(z*) denote our comoving distance to the z* and sound horizon at z*, respectively; Ωb is the baryon fraction at z = 0. This approximate methodology guarantees that we will not need to put informative priors on the cosmological parameters that galaxy clustering is unable to constrain, I.e. Ωbh2 and ns. The main advantage is that the computational time required for extracting these parameters is decreased by a factor of 60 with respect to exact full-likelihood analyses. The results obtained show no tension with the flat Λ cold dark matter (ΛCDM) cosmological paradigm. By comparing with the full-likelihood exact analysis with fixed dark energy models, on one hand we demonstrate that the double-probe method provides robust cosmological parameter constraints that can be conveniently used to study dark energy models, and on the other hand we provide a reliable set of measurements assuming dark energy models to be used, for example, in distance estimations. We extend our study to measure the sum of the neutrino mass using different methodologies, including double-probe analysis (introduced in this study), full-likelihood analysis and single-probe analysis. From full-likelihood analysis, we obtain Σmν < 0.12 (68 per cent), assuming ΛCDM and Σmν < 0.20 (68 per cent) assuming owCDM. We also find that there is degeneracy between observational systematics and neutrino masses, which suggests that one should take great care when estimating these parameters in the case of not having control over the systematics of a given sample.

Constraints on Non-flat Cosmologies with Massive Neutrinos after Planck 2015

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Yun; Ratra, Bharat; Biesiada, Marek; Li, Song; Zhu, Zong-Hong

2016-10-01

We investigate two dark energy cosmological models (I.e., the ΛCDM and ϕCDM models) with massive neutrinos assuming two different neutrino mass hierarchies in both the spatially flat and non-flat scenarios, where in the ϕCDM model the scalar field possesses an inverse power-law potential, V(ϕ) ∝ ϕ -α (α > 0). Cosmic microwave background data from Planck 2015, baryon acoustic oscillation data from 6dFGS, SDSS-MGS, BOSS-LOWZ and BOSS CMASS-DR11, the joint light-curve analysis compilation of SNe Ia apparent magnitude observations, and the Hubble Space Telescope H 0 prior, are jointly employed to constrain the model parameters. We first determine constraints assuming three species of degenerate massive neutrinos. In the spatially flat (non-flat) ΛCDM model, the sum of neutrino masses is bounded as Σm ν < 0.165(0.299) eV at 95% confidence level (CL). Correspondingly, in the flat (non-flat) ϕCDM model, we find Σm ν < 0.164(0.301) eV at 95% CL. The inclusion of spatial curvature as a free parameter results in a significant broadening of confidence regions for Σm ν and other parameters. In the scenario where the total neutrino mass is dominated by the heaviest neutrino mass eigenstate, we obtain similar conclusions to those obtained in the degenerate neutrino mass scenario. In addition, the results show that the bounds on Σm ν based on two different neutrino mass hierarchies have insignificant differences in the spatially flat case for both the ΛCDM and ϕCDM models; however, the corresponding differences are larger in the non-flat case.

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

Chen, Yun; Ratra, Bharat; Biesiada, Marek

We investigate two dark energy cosmological models (i.e., the ΛCDM and ϕ CDM models) with massive neutrinos assuming two different neutrino mass hierarchies in both the spatially flat and non-flat scenarios, where in the ϕ CDM model the scalar field possesses an inverse power-law potential, V ( ϕ ) ∝ ϕ {sup −} {sup α} ( α > 0). Cosmic microwave background data from Planck 2015, baryon acoustic oscillation data from 6dFGS, SDSS-MGS, BOSS-LOWZ and BOSS CMASS-DR11, the joint light-curve analysis compilation of SNe Ia apparent magnitude observations, and the Hubble Space Telescope H {sub 0} prior, are jointly employedmore » to constrain the model parameters. We first determine constraints assuming three species of degenerate massive neutrinos. In the spatially flat (non-flat) ΛCDM model, the sum of neutrino masses is bounded as Σ m {sub ν} < 0.165(0.299) eV at 95% confidence level (CL). Correspondingly, in the flat (non-flat) ϕ CDM model, we find Σ m {sub ν} < 0.164(0.301) eV at 95% CL. The inclusion of spatial curvature as a free parameter results in a significant broadening of confidence regions for Σ m {sub ν} and other parameters. In the scenario where the total neutrino mass is dominated by the heaviest neutrino mass eigenstate, we obtain similar conclusions to those obtained in the degenerate neutrino mass scenario. In addition, the results show that the bounds on Σ m {sub ν} based on two different neutrino mass hierarchies have insignificant differences in the spatially flat case for both the ΛCDM and ϕ CDM models; however, the corresponding differences are larger in the non-flat case.« less

Constraints on deviations from ΛCDM within Horndeski gravity

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

Bellini, Emilio; Cuesta, Antonio J.; Jimenez, Raul

2016-02-01

Recent anomalies found in cosmological datasets such as the low multipoles of the Cosmic Microwave Background or the low redshift amplitude and growth of clustering measured by e.g., abundance of galaxy clusters and redshift space distortions in galaxy surveys, have motivated explorations of models beyond standard ΛCDM. Of particular interest are models where general relativity (GR) is modified on large cosmological scales. Here we consider deviations from ΛCDM+GR within the context of Horndeski gravity, which is the most general theory of gravity with second derivatives in the equations of motion. We adopt a parametrization in which the four additional Horndeskimore » functions of time α{sub i}(t) are proportional to the cosmological density of dark energy Ω{sub DE}(t). Constraints on this extended parameter space using a suite of state-of-the art cosmological observations are presented for the first time. Although the theory is able to accommodate the low multipoles of the Cosmic Microwave Background and the low amplitude of fluctuations from redshift space distortions, we find no significant tension with ΛCDM+GR when performing a global fit to recent cosmological data and thus there is no evidence against ΛCDM+GR from an analysis of the value of the Bayesian evidence ratio of the modified gravity models with respect to ΛCDM, despite introducing extra parameters. The posterior distribution of these extra parameters that we derive return strong constraints on any possible deviations from ΛCDM+GR in the context of Horndeski gravity. We illustrate how our results can be applied to a more general frameworks of modified gravity models.« less

Airway Delivery of Soluble Factors from Plastic-Adherent Bone Marrow Cells Prevents Murine Asthma

PubMed Central

Ionescu, Lavinia I.; Alphonse, Rajesh S.; Arizmendi, Narcy; Morgan, Beverly; Abel, Melanie; Eaton, Farah; Duszyk, Marek; Vliagoftis, Harissios; Aprahamian, Tamar R.; Walsh, Kenneth

2012-01-01

Asthma affects an estimated 300 million people worldwide and accounts for 1 of 250 deaths and 15 million disability-adjusted life years lost annually. Plastic-adherent bone marrow–derived cell (BMC) administration holds therapeutic promise in regenerative medicine. However, given the low cell engraftment in target organs, including the lung, cell replacement cannot solely account for the reported therapeutic benefits. This suggests that BMCs may act by secreting soluble factors. BMCs also possess antiinflammatory and immunomodulatory properties and may therefore be beneficial for asthma. Our objective was to investigate the therapeutic potential of BMC-secreted factors in murine asthma. In a model of acute and chronic asthma, intranasal instillation of BMC conditioned medium (CdM) prevented airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) and inflammation. In the chronic asthma model, CdM prevented airway smooth muscle thickening and peribronchial inflammation while restoring blunted salbutamol-induced bronchodilation. CdM reduced lung levels of the TH2 inflammatory cytokines IL-4 and IL-13 and increased levels of IL-10. CdM up-regulated an IL-10–induced and IL-10–secreting subset of T regulatory lymphocytes and promoted IL-10 expression by lung macrophages. Adiponectin (APN), an antiinflammatory adipokine found in CdM, prevented AHR, airway smooth muscle thickening, and peribronchial inflammation, whereas the effect of CdM in which APN was neutralized or from APN knock-out mice was attenuated compared with wild-type CdM. Our study provides evidence that BMC-derived soluble factors prevent murine asthma and suggests APN as one of the protective factors. Further identification of BMC-derived factors may hold promise for novel approaches in the treatment of asthma. PMID:21903873

Airway delivery of soluble factors from plastic-adherent bone marrow cells prevents murine asthma.

PubMed

Ionescu, Lavinia I; Alphonse, Rajesh S; Arizmendi, Narcy; Morgan, Beverly; Abel, Melanie; Eaton, Farah; Duszyk, Marek; Vliagoftis, Harissios; Aprahamian, Tamar R; Walsh, Kenneth; Thébaud, Bernard

2012-02-01

Asthma affects an estimated 300 million people worldwide and accounts for 1 of 250 deaths and 15 million disability-adjusted life years lost annually. Plastic-adherent bone marrow-derived cell (BMC) administration holds therapeutic promise in regenerative medicine. However, given the low cell engraftment in target organs, including the lung, cell replacement cannot solely account for the reported therapeutic benefits. This suggests that BMCs may act by secreting soluble factors. BMCs also possess antiinflammatory and immunomodulatory properties and may therefore be beneficial for asthma. Our objective was to investigate the therapeutic potential of BMC-secreted factors in murine asthma. In a model of acute and chronic asthma, intranasal instillation of BMC conditioned medium (CdM) prevented airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) and inflammation. In the chronic asthma model, CdM prevented airway smooth muscle thickening and peribronchial inflammation while restoring blunted salbutamol-induced bronchodilation. CdM reduced lung levels of the T(H)2 inflammatory cytokines IL-4 and IL-13 and increased levels of IL-10. CdM up-regulated an IL-10-induced and IL-10-secreting subset of T regulatory lymphocytes and promoted IL-10 expression by lung macrophages. Adiponectin (APN), an antiinflammatory adipokine found in CdM, prevented AHR, airway smooth muscle thickening, and peribronchial inflammation, whereas the effect of CdM in which APN was neutralized or from APN knock-out mice was attenuated compared with wild-type CdM. Our study provides evidence that BMC-derived soluble factors prevent murine asthma and suggests APN as one of the protective factors. Further identification of BMC-derived factors may hold promise for novel approaches in the treatment of asthma.

Impact of large-scale tides on cosmological distortions via redshift-space power spectrum

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Akitsu, Kazuyuki; Takada, Masahiro

2018-03-01

Although large-scale perturbations beyond a finite-volume survey region are not direct observables, these affect measurements of clustering statistics of small-scale (subsurvey) perturbations in large-scale structure, compared with the ensemble average, via the mode-coupling effect. In this paper we show that a large-scale tide induced by scalar perturbations causes apparent anisotropic distortions in the redshift-space power spectrum of galaxies in a way depending on an alignment between the tide, wave vector of small-scale modes and line-of-sight direction. Using the perturbation theory of structure formation, we derive a response function of the redshift-space power spectrum to large-scale tide. We then investigate the impact of large-scale tide on estimation of cosmological distances and the redshift-space distortion parameter via the measured redshift-space power spectrum for a hypothetical large-volume survey, based on the Fisher matrix formalism. To do this, we treat the large-scale tide as a signal, rather than an additional source of the statistical errors, and show that a degradation in the parameter is restored if we can employ the prior on the rms amplitude expected for the standard cold dark matter (CDM) model. We also discuss whether the large-scale tide can be constrained at an accuracy better than the CDM prediction, if the effects up to a larger wave number in the nonlinear regime can be included.

Experimental search for hidden photon CDM in the eV mass range with a dish antenna

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

Suzuki, J.; Horie, T.; Inoue, Y.

2015-09-15

A search for hidden photon cold dark matter (HP CDM) using a new technique with a dish antenna is reported. From the result of the measurement, we found no evidence for the existence of HP CDM and set an upper limit on the photon-HP mixing parameter χ of ∼6×10{sup −12} for the hidden photon mass m{sub γ}=3.1±1.2 eV.

Crystalline lens thickness determines the perceived chromatic difference in magnification.

PubMed

Chen, Yun; Schaeffel, Frank

2014-03-01

Since the origin of the high interindividual variability of the chromatic difference in retinal image magnification (CDM) in the human eye is not well understood, optical parameters that might determine its magnitude were studied in 21 healthy subjects with ages ranging from 21 to 58 years. Two psychophysical procedures were used to quantify CDM. They produced highly correlated results. First, a red and a blue square, presented on a black screen, had to be matched in size by the subjects with their right eyes. Second, a filled red and blue square, flickering on top of each other at 2 Hz, had to be adjusted in perceived brightness and then in size to minimize the impression of flicker. CDM varied widely among subjects from 0.0% to 3.6%. Biometric ocular parameters were measured with low coherence interferometry and crystalline lens tilt and decentration with a custom-built Purkinjemeter. Correlations were studied between CDM and corneal power, anterior chamber depth, lens thickness, lens tilt and lens decentration, and vitreous chamber depths. Lens thickness was found significantly correlated with CDM and accounted for 64% of its variance. Vertical lens tilt and decentration were also significantly correlated. It was also found that CDM increased by 3.5% per year, and part of this change can be attributed to the age-related increase in lens thickness.

Spectral slopes of the absorption coefficient of colored dissolved and detrital material inverted from UV-visible remote sensing reflectance.

PubMed

Wei, Jianwei; Lee, Zhongping; Ondrusek, Michael; Mannino, Antonio; Tzortziou, Maria; Armstrong, Roy

2016-03-01

The spectral slope of the absorption coefficient of colored dissolved and detrital material (CDM), S cdm (units: nm -1 ), is an important optical parameter for characterizing the absorption spectral shape of CDM. Although highly variable in natural waters, in most remote sensing algorithms, this slope is either kept as a constant or empirically modeled with multiband ocean color in the visible domain. In this study, we explore the potential of semianalytically retrieving S cdm with added ocean color information in the ultraviolet (UV) range between 360 and 400 nm. Unique features of hyperspectral remote sensing reflectance in the UV-visible wavelengths (360-500 nm) have been observed in various waters across a range of coastal and open ocean environments. Our data and analyses indicate that ocean color in the UV domain is particularly sensitive to the variation of the CDM spectral slope. Here, we used a synthesized data set to show that adding UV wavelengths to the ocean color measurements will improve the retrieval of S cdm from remote sensing reflectance considerably, while the spectral band settings of past and current satellite ocean color sensors cannot fully account for the spectral variation of remote sensing reflectance. Results of this effort support the concept to include UV wavelengths in the next generation of satellite ocean color sensors.

Consistency of the nonflat Λ CDM model with the new result from BOSS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kumar, Suresh

2015-11-01

Using 137,562 quasars in the redshift range 2.1 ≤z ≤3.5 from the data release 11 (DR11) of the baryon oscillation spectroscopic survey (BOSS) of Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS)-III, the BOSS-SDSS collaboration estimated the expansion rate H (z =2.34 )=222 ±7 km /s /Mpc of the Universe, and reported that this value is in tension with the predictions of flat Λ CDM model at around a 2.5 σ level. In this paper, we briefly describe some attempts made in the literature to relieve the tension, and show that the tension can naturally be alleviated in a nonflat Λ CDM model with positive curvature. We also perform the observational consistency check by considering the constraints on the nonflat Λ CDM model from Planck, WP and BAO data. We find that the nonflat Λ CDM model constrained with Planck+WP data fits better to the line of sight measurement H (z =2.34 )=222 ±7 km /s /Mpc , but only at the expense of still having a poor fit to the BAO transverse measurements.

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

Dirian, Yves; Foffa, Stefano; Kunz, Martin

We study the cosmological predictions of two recently proposed non-local modifications of General Relativity. Both models have the same number of parameters as ΛCDM, with a mass parameter m replacing the cosmological constant. We implement the cosmological perturbations of the non-local models into a modification of the CLASS Boltzmann code, and we make a full comparison to CMB, BAO and supernova data. We find that the non-local models fit these datasets very well, at the same level as ΛCDM. Among the vast literature on modified gravity models, this is, to our knowledge, the only example which fits data as wellmore » as ΛCDM without requiring any additional parameter. For both non-local models parameter estimation using Planck +JLA+BAO data gives a value of H{sub 0} slightly higher than in ΛCDM.« less

Experimental search for hidden photon CDM in the eV mass range with a dish antenna

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

Suzuki, J.; Horie, T.; Minowa, M.

2015-09-01

A search for hidden photon cold dark matter (HP CDM) using a new technique with a dish antenna is reported. From the result of the measurement, we found no evidence for the existence of HP CDM and set an upper limit on the photon-HP mixing parameter χ of ∼ 6× 10{sup −12} for the hidden photon mass m{sub γ} = 3.1 ± 1.2 eV.

Integrated Information Support System (IISS). Volume 4. IISS System. Part 1. System Requirements Document

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-09-30

audit trail for unauthorized entries. B.6.3.3 Manage CDM Resources B.6.3.3.1 Measure CDM Performance 1. Keep running log of CDM accesses by user types...SYSTEM SPPCIFIA OMA8MSTRTO Figure B-12. System Administrator Role B-3 1 SRD620340000 30 September 1990 4. Audit IISS hardware performance (LAN...SRD620340000 30 September 1990 7. Assist IISS service specifier and application specifier in implementing standards recommendation. 8. Perform audit of IISS

The Harrington-O'Shea Career Decision-Making System (CDM) and the Kaufman Adolescent and Adult Intelligence Test (KAIT): Relationship of Interest Scale Scores to Fluid and Crystallized IQs at Ages 12 to 22 Years.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McLean, James E.; Kaufman, Alan S.

1995-01-01

The six Holland-based Interest Scale scores yielded by the Harrington-O'Shea Career Decision-Making System (CDM) (T. Harrington and A. O'Shea, 1982) were related to sex, race, and performance on the Kaufman Adolescent and Adult Intelligence Test for 254 adolescents and young adults. CDM scores did not relate to most of the variables studied, and…

Charm: Cosmic history agnostic reconstruction method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Porqueres, Natalia; Ensslin, Torsten A.

2017-03-01

Charm (cosmic history agnostic reconstruction method) reconstructs the cosmic expansion history in the framework of Information Field Theory. The reconstruction is performed via the iterative Wiener filter from an agnostic or from an informative prior. The charm code allows one to test the compatibility of several different data sets with the LambdaCDM model in a non-parametric way.

Absolute colorimetric characterization of a DSLR camera

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guarnera, Giuseppe Claudio; Bianco, Simone; Schettini, Raimondo

2014-03-01

A simple but effective technique for absolute colorimetric camera characterization is proposed. It offers a large dynamic range requiring just a single, off-the-shelf target and a commonly available controllable light source for the characterization. The characterization task is broken down in two modules, respectively devoted to absolute luminance estimation and to colorimetric characterization matrix estimation. The characterized camera can be effectively used as a tele-colorimeter, giving an absolute estimation of the XYZ data in cd=m2. The user is only required to vary the f - number of the camera lens or the exposure time t, to better exploit the sensor dynamic range. The estimated absolute tristimulus values closely match the values measured by a professional spectro-radiometer.

Comparison between the Logotropic and ΛCDM models at the cosmological scale

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

Chavanis, Pierre-Henri; Kumar, Suresh, E-mail: chavanis@irsamc.ups-tlse.fr, E-mail: suresh.kumar@pilani.bits-pilani.ac.in

We perform a detailed comparison between the Logotropic model [P.H. Chavanis, Eur. Phys. J. Plus, 130 (2015)] and the ΛCDM model. These two models behave similarly at large (cosmological) scales up to the present. Differences will appear only in the far future, in about 25 Gyrs, when the Logotropic Universe becomes phantom while the ΛCDM Universe enters in the de Sitter era. However, the Logotropic model differs from the ΛCDM model at small (galactic) scales, where the latter encounters serious problems. Having a nonvanishing pressure, the Logotropic model can solve the cusp problem and the missing satellite problem of themore » ΛCDM model. In addition, it leads to dark matter halos with a constant surface density Σ{sub 0}=ρ{sub 0} r {sub h} , and can explain its observed value Σ{sub 0}=141 M {sub ⊙}/pc{sup 2} without adjustable parameter. This makes the logotropic model rather unique among all the models attempting to unify dark matter and dark energy. In this paper, we compare the Logotropic and ΛCDM models at the cosmological scale where they are very close to each other in order to determine quantitatively how much they differ. This comparison is facilitated by the fact that these models depend on only two parameters, the Hubble constant H {sub 0} and the present fraction of dark matter Ω{sub m0}. Using the latest observational data from Planck 2015+Lensing+BAO+JLA+HST, we find that the best fit values of H {sub 0} and Ω{sub m0} are H {sub 0}=68.30 km s{sup −1} Mpc{sup −1} and Ω{sub m0}=0.3014 for the Logotropic model, and H {sub 0}=68.02 km s{sup −1} Mpc{sup −1} and Ω{sub m0}=0.3049 for the ΛCDM model. The difference between the two models is at the percent level. As a result, the Logotropic model competes with the ΛCDM model at large scales and solves its problems at small scales. It may therefore represent a viable alternative to the ΛCDM model. Our study provides an explicit example of a theoretically motivated model that is almost indistinguishable from the ΛCDM model at the present time while having a completely different (phantom) evolution in the future. We analytically derive the statefinders of the Logotropic model for all values of the logotropic constant B . We show that the parameter s {sub 0} is directly related to this constant since s {sub 0}=− B /( B +1) independently of any other parameter like H {sub 0} or Ω{sub m0}. For the predicted value of B =3.53× 10{sup −3}, we obtain ( q {sub 0}, r {sub 0}, s {sub 0})=(−0.5516,1.011,−0.003518) instead of ( q {sub 0}, r {sub 0}, s {sub 0})=(−0.5427,1,0) for the ΛCDM model corresponding to 0 B =.« less

Clustering of galaxies in a hierarchical universe - I. Methods and results at z=0

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kauffmann, Guinevere; Colberg, Jorg M.; Diaferio, Antonaldo; White, Simon D. M.

1999-02-01

We introduce a new technique for following the formation and evolution of galaxies in cosmological N-body simulations. Dissipationless simulations are used to track the formation and merging of dark matter haloes as a function of redshift. Simple prescriptions, taken directly from semi-analytic models of galaxy formation, are adopted for gas cooling, star formation, supernova feedback and the merging of galaxies within the haloes. This scheme enables us to explore the clustering properties of galaxies, and to investigate how selection by luminosity, colour or type influences the results. In this paper we study the properties of the galaxy distribution at z=0. These include B- and K-band luminosity functions, two-point correlation functions, pairwise peculiar velocities, cluster mass-to-light ratios, B-V colours, and star formation rates. We focus on two variants of a cold dark matter (CDM) cosmology: a high-density (Omega =1) model with shape-parameter Gamma =0.21 (tau CDM), and a low-density model with Omega =0.3 and Lambda =0.7 (Lambda CDM). Both models are normalized to reproduce the I-band Tully-Fisher relation of Giovanelli et al. near a circular velocity of 220 km s^-1. Our results depend strongly both on this normalization and on the adopted prescriptions for star formation and feedback. Very different assumptions are required to obtain an acceptable model in the two cases. For tau CDM, efficient feedback is required to suppress the growth of galaxies, particularly in low-mass field haloes. Without it, there are too many galaxies and the correlation function exhibits a strong turnover on scales below 1 Mpc. For Lambda CDM, feedback must be weaker, otherwise too few L_* galaxies are produced and the correlation function is too steep. Although neither model is perfect, both come close to reproducing most of the data. Given the uncertainties in modelling some of the critical physical processes, we conclude that it is not yet possible to draw firm conclusions about the values of cosmological parameters from studies of this kind. Further observational work on global star formation and feedback effects is required to narrow the range of possibilities.

Can a void mimic the Λ in ΛCDM?

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

Sundell, Peter; Vilja, Iiro; Mörtsell, Edvard, E-mail: pgsund@utu.fi, E-mail: edvard@fysik.su.se, E-mail: iiro.vilja@utu.fi

2015-08-01

We investigate Lemaítre-Tolman-Bondi (LTB) models, whose early time evolution and bang time are homogeneous and the distance-redshift relation and local Hubble parameter are inherited from the ΛCDM model. We show that the obtained LTB models and the ΛCDM model predict different relative local expansion rates and that the Hubble functions of the models diverge increasingly with redshift. The LTB models show tension between low redshift baryon acoustic oscillation and supernova observations and including Lyman-α forest or cosmic microwave background observations only accentuates the better fit of the ΛCDM model compared to the LTB model. The result indicates that additional degreesmore » of freedom are needed to explain the observations, for example by renouncing spherical symmetry, homogeneous bang time, negligible effects of pressure, or the early time homogeneity assumption.« less

Innovating to enhance clinical data management using non-commercial and open source solutions across a multi-center network supporting inpatient pediatric care and research in Kenya

PubMed Central

Tuti, Timothy; Bitok, Michael; Paton, Chris; Makone, Boniface; Malla, Lucas; Muinga, Naomi; Gathara, David; English, Mike

2016-01-01

Objective To share approaches and innovations adopted to deliver a relatively inexpensive clinical data management (CDM) framework within a low-income setting that aims to deliver quality pediatric data useful for supporting research, strengthening the information culture and informing improvement efforts in local clinical practice. Materials and methods The authors implemented a CDM framework to support a Clinical Information Network (CIN) using Research Electronic Data Capture (REDCap), a noncommercial software solution designed for rapid development and deployment of electronic data capture tools. It was used for collection of standardized data from case records of multiple hospitals’ pediatric wards. R, an open-source statistical language, was used for data quality enhancement, analysis, and report generation for the hospitals. Results In the first year of CIN, the authors have developed innovative solutions to support the implementation of a secure, rapid pediatric data collection system spanning 14 hospital sites with stringent data quality checks. Data have been collated on over 37 000 admission episodes, with considerable improvement in clinical documentation of admissions observed. Using meta-programming techniques in R, coupled with branching logic, randomization, data lookup, and Application Programming Interface (API) features offered by REDCap, CDM tasks were configured and automated to ensure quality data was delivered for clinical improvement and research use. Conclusion A low-cost clinically focused but geographically dispersed quality CDM (Clinical Data Management) in a long-term, multi-site, and real world context can be achieved and sustained and challenges can be overcome through thoughtful design and implementation of open-source tools for handling data and supporting research. PMID:26063746

Reconciling Dwarf Galaxies with ΛCDM Cosmology: Simulating a Realistic Population of Satellites around a Milky Way-mass Galaxy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wetzel, Andrew R.; Hopkins, Philip F.; Kim, Ji-hoon; Faucher-Giguère, Claude-André; Kereš, Dušan; Quataert, Eliot

2016-08-01

Low-mass “dwarf” galaxies represent the most significant challenges to the cold dark matter (CDM) model of cosmological structure formation. Because these faint galaxies are (best) observed within the Local Group (LG) of the Milky Way (MW) and Andromeda (M31), understanding their formation in such an environment is critical. We present first results from the Latte Project: the Milky Way on Feedback in Realistic Environments (FIRE). This simulation models the formation of an MW-mass galaxy to z=0 within ΛCDM cosmology, including dark matter, gas, and stars at unprecedented resolution: baryon particle mass of 7070 {M}⊙ with gas kernel/softening that adapts down to 1 {pc} (with a median of 25{--}60 {pc} at z=0). Latte was simulated using the GIZMO code with a mesh-free method for accurate hydrodynamics and the FIRE-2 model for star formation and explicit feedback within a multi-phase interstellar medium. For the first time, Latte self-consistently resolves the spatial scales corresponding to half-light radii of dwarf galaxies that form around an MW-mass host down to {M}{star}≳ {10}5 {M}⊙ . Latte’s population of dwarf galaxies agrees with the LG across a broad range of properties: (1) distributions of stellar masses and stellar velocity dispersions (dynamical masses), including their joint relation; (2) the mass-metallicity relation; and (3) diverse range of star formation histories, including their mass dependence. Thus, Latte produces a realistic population of dwarf galaxies at {M}{star}≳ {10}5 {M}⊙ that does not suffer from the “missing satellites” or “too big to fail” problems of small-scale structure formation. We conclude that baryonic physics can reconcile observed dwarf galaxies with standard ΛCDM cosmology.

1-Cinnamoyl-3,11-dihydroxymeliacarpin is a natural bioactive compound with antiviral and nuclear factor-{kappa}B modulating properties

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

Barquero, Andrea A.; Michelini, Flavia M.; Alche, Laura E.

2006-06-09

We have reported the isolation of the tetranortriterpenoid 1-cinnamoyl-3,11-dihydroxymeliacarpin (CDM) from partially purified leaf extracts of Melia azedarach L. (MA) that reduced both, vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) and Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) multiplication. CDM blocks VSV entry and the intracellular transport of VSV-G protein, confining it to the Golgi apparatus, by pre- or post-treatment, respectively. Here, we report that HSV-1 glycoproteins were also confined to the Golgi apparatus independently of the nature of the host cell. Considering that MA could be acting as an immunomodulator preventing the development of herpetic stromal keratitis in mice, we also examined anmore » eventual effect of CDM on NF-{kappa}B signaling pathway. CDM is able to impede NF-{kappa}B activation in HSV-1-infected conjunctival cells and leads to the accumulation of p65 NF-{kappa}B subunit in the cytoplasm of uninfected treated Vero cells. In conclusion, CDM is a pleiotropic agent that not only inhibits the multiplication of DNA and RNA viruses by the same mechanism of action but also modulates the NF-{kappa}B signaling pathway.« less

A gamma-ray constraint on the nature of dark matter

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Silk, Joseph; Bloemen, Hans

1987-01-01

If even a small component of the Galactic spheroid consists of the weakly interacting majorana fermions that are cold-dark-matter candidate particles for the Galactic halo, there should be a substantial flux of annihilation gamma rays from a source of about 1-deg extent at the Galactic center. COS B observations already constrain the halo cold-dark-matter (CDM) content entrained in the inner spheroid to be less than about 10 percent. A somewhat weaker constraint applies to the CDM believed to be present in the Galactic disk, but still only about 15 percent can be in such particles. Monochromatic line photons of energy 3-10 GeV are also predicted, and future experiments may be capable of improving these limits. Since both theoretical models of galaxy formation in a CDM-dominated universe and mass models for the rotation curve in the inner Galaxy suggest that a substantial fraction of the spheroid component should be nonluminous and incorporate entrained halo CDM, the hypothesis that the halo CDM consists predominantly of weakly interacting fermions such as photinos or heavy majorana mass neutrinos or higgsinos may already be subject to observational test.

Interactive mixture of inhomogeneous dark fluids driven by dark energy: a dynamical system analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Izquierdo, Germán; Blanquet-Jaramillo, Roberto C.; Sussman, Roberto A.

2018-03-01

We examine the evolution of an inhomogeneous mixture of non-relativistic pressureless cold dark matter (CDM), coupled to dark energy (DE) characterised by the equation of state parameter w<-1/3, with the interaction term proportional to the DE density. This coupled mixture is the source of a spherically symmetric Lemaître-Tolman-Bondi (LTB) metric admitting an asymptotic Friedman-Lemaître-Robertson-Walker (FLRW) background. Einstein's equations reduce to a 5-dimensional autonomous dynamical system involving quasi-local variables related to suitable averages of covariant scalars and their fluctuations. The phase space evolution around the critical points (past/future attractors and five saddles) is examined in detail. For all parameter values and both directions of energy flow (CDM to DE and DE to CDM) the phase space trajectories are compatible with a physically plausible early cosmic times behaviour near the past attractor. This result compares favourably with mixtures with interaction driven by the CDM density, whose past evolution is unphysical for DE to CDM energy flow. Numerical examples are provided describing the evolution of an initial profile that can be associated with idealised structure formation scenarios.

Bulgeless dwarf galaxies and dark matter cores from supernova-driven outflows.

PubMed

Governato, F; Brook, C; Mayer, L; Brooks, A; Rhee, G; Wadsley, J; Jonsson, P; Willman, B; Stinson, G; Quinn, T; Madau, P

2010-01-14

For almost two decades the properties of 'dwarf' galaxies have challenged the cold dark matter (CDM) model of galaxy formation. Most observed dwarf galaxies consist of a rotating stellar disk embedded in a massive dark-matter halo with a near-constant-density core. Models based on the dominance of CDM, however, invariably form galaxies with dense spheroidal stellar bulges and steep central dark-matter profiles, because low-angular-momentum baryons and dark matter sink to the centres of galaxies through accretion and repeated mergers. Processes that decrease the central density of CDM halos have been identified, but have not yet reconciled theory with observations of present-day dwarfs. This failure is potentially catastrophic for the CDM model, possibly requiring a different dark-matter particle candidate. Here we report hydrodynamical simulations (in a framework assuming the presence of CDM and a cosmological constant) in which the inhomogeneous interstellar medium is resolved. Strong outflows from supernovae remove low-angular-momentum gas, which inhibits the formation of bulges and decreases the dark-matter density to less than half of what it would otherwise be within the central kiloparsec. The analogues of dwarf galaxies-bulgeless and with shallow central dark-matter profiles-arise naturally in these simulations.

Can nonadditive dispersion forces explain chain formation of nanoparticles?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kwaadgras, Bas W.; Verdult, Maarten W. J.; Dijkstra, Marjolein; van Roij, René

2013-03-01

We study to what extent dielectric nanoparticles prefer to self-assemble into linear chains or into more compact structures. To calculate the Van der Waals (VdW) attraction between the clusters we use the Coupled Dipole Method (CDM), which treats each atom in the nanoparticle as an inducible oscillating point dipole. The VdW attraction then results from the full many-body interactions between the dipoles. For non-capped nanoparticles, we calculate in which configuration the VdW attraction is maximal. We find that in virtually all cases we studied, many-body effects only result in local potential minima at the linear configuration, as opposed to global ones, and that these metastable minima are in most cases rather shallow compared to the thermal energy. In this work, we also compare the CDM results with those from Hamaker-de Boer and Axilrod-Teller theory to investigate the influence of the many-body effects and the accuracy of these two approximate methods.

Do Teachers Make Decisions Like Firefighters? Applying Naturalistic Decision-Making Methods to Teachers' In-Class Decision Making in Mathematics

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jazby, Dan

2014-01-01

Research into human decision making (DM) processes from outside of education paint a different picture of DM than current DM models in education. This pilot study assesses the use of critical decision method (CDM)--developed from observations of firefighters' DM -- in the context of primary mathematics teachers' in-class DM. Preliminary results…

CLUMP-3D: Testing ΛCDM with Galaxy Cluster Shapes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sereno, Mauro; Umetsu, Keiichi; Ettori, Stefano; Sayers, Jack; Chiu, I.-Non; Meneghetti, Massimo; Vega-Ferrero, Jesús; Zitrin, Adi

2018-06-01

The ΛCDM model of structure formation makes strong predictions on the concentration and shape of dark matter (DM) halos, which are determined by mass accretion processes. Comparison between predicted shapes and observations provides a geometric test of the ΛCDM model. Accurate and precise measurements needs a full three-dimensional (3D) analysis of the cluster mass distribution. We accomplish this with a multi-probe 3D analysis of the X-ray regular Cluster Lensing and Supernova survey with Hubble (CLASH) clusters combining strong and weak lensing, X-ray photometry and spectroscopy, and the Sunyaev–Zel’dovich effect (SZe). The cluster shapes and concentrations are consistent with ΛCDM predictions. The CLASH clusters are randomly oriented, as expected given the sample selection criteria. Shapes agree with numerical results for DM-only halos, which hints at baryonic physics being less effective in making halos rounder.

Is ΛCDM an effective CCDM cosmology?

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

Lima, J.A.S.; Santos, R.C.; Cunha, J.V., E-mail: limajas@astro.iag.usp.br, E-mail: cliviars@gmail.com, E-mail: jvcunha@ufpa.br

We show that a cosmology driven by gravitationally induced particle production of all non-relativistic species existing in the present Universe mimics exactly the observed flat accelerating ΛCDM cosmology with just one dynamical free parameter. This kind of scenario includes the creation cold dark matter (CCDM) model [1] as a particular case and also provides a natural reduction of the dark sector since the vacuum component is not needed to accelerate the Universe. The new cosmic scenario is equivalent to ΛCDM both at the background and perturbative levels and the associated creation process is also in agreement with the universality ofmore » the gravitational interaction and equivalence principle. Implicitly, it also suggests that the present day astronomical observations cannot be considered the ultimate proof of cosmic vacuum effects in the evolved Universe because ΛCDM may be only an effective cosmology.« less

Are dark energy models with variable EoS parameter w compatible with the late inhomogeneous Universe?

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

Akarsu, Özgür; Bouhmadi-López, Mariam; Brilenkov, Maxim

We study the late-time evolution of the Universe where dark energy (DE) is presented by a barotropic fluid on top of cold dark matter (CDM) . We also take into account the radiation content of the Universe. Here by the late stage of the evolution we refer to the epoch where CDM is already clustered into inhomogeneously distributed discrete structures (galaxies, groups and clusters of galaxies). Under this condition the mechanical approach is an adequate tool to study the Universe deep inside the cell of uniformity. More precisely, we study scalar perturbations of the FLRW metric due to inhomogeneities ofmore » CDM as well as fluctuations of radiation and DE. For an arbitrary equation of state for DE we obtain a system of equations for the scalar perturbations within the mechanical approach. First, in the case of a constant DE equation of state parameter w, we demonstrate that our method singles out the cosmological constant as the only viable dark energy candidate. Then, we apply our approach to variable equation of state parameters in the form of three different linear parametrizations of w, e.g., the Chevallier-Polarski-Linder perfect fluid model. We conclude that all these models are incompatible with the theory of scalar perturbations in the late Universe.« less

A cosmology-independent calibration of type Ia supernovae data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hauret, C.; Magain, P.; Biernaux, J.

2018-06-01

Recently, the common methodology used to transform type Ia supernovae (SNe Ia) into genuine standard candles has been suffering criticism. Indeed, it assumes a particular cosmological model (namely the flat ΛCDM) to calibrate the standardisation corrections parameters, i.e. the dependency of the supernova peak absolute magnitude on its colour, post-maximum decline rate and host galaxy mass. As a result, this assumption could make the data compliant to the assumed cosmology and thus nullify all works previously conducted on model comparison. In this work, we verify the viability of these hypotheses by developing a cosmology-independent approach to standardise SNe Ia data from the recent JLA compilation. Our resulting corrections turn out to be very close to the ΛCDM-based corrections. Therefore, even if a ΛCDM-based calibration is questionable from a theoretical point of view, the potential compliance of SNe Ia data does not happen in practice for the JLA compilation. Previous works of model comparison based on these data do not have to be called into question. However, as this cosmology-independent standardisation method has the same degree of complexity than the model-dependent one, it is worth using it in future works, especially if smaller samples are considered, such as the superluminous type Ic supernovae.

Effects of Age on Dynamic Accommodation

PubMed Central

Lockhart, Thurmon E.; Shi, Wen

2010-01-01

Visual accommodation plays a critical role in one’s visual perception and activities of daily living. Age-related accommodation loss poses an increased risk to older adults’ safety and independence. Although extensive effort has been made towards understanding the effect of age on steady-state accommodation, dynamic aspects of accommodation is still unknown. A study was therefore conducted to investigate age-related dynamic accommodative characteristics utilizing a modified autorefractor. Ten individuals from each of three age groups (i.e., younger group: 20 to 29 years old, middle-aged group: 40 to 49 years old, and older group: 60 to 69 years old) were recruited and their dynamic accommodation responses were examined. The laboratory experiment was designed to assess dynamic accommodation associated with an abrupt change from a constant far target (400 cm, 50 cd/m2) to a near target (70 cm, 100 cd/m2 or 20 cd/m2), which aimed to simulate car dashboard reading behavior while driving. The results of the study indicated that age and target intensity both had a significant impact on dynamic accommodation. These effects were attributed to both the age-related physiological limitation of the eye as well as to central neural processing delay. A method of measuring dynamic accommodation and the implications of the study are discussed. PMID:20582770

Observational tests for Λ(t)CDM cosmology

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

Pigozzo, C.; Carneiro, S.; Dantas, M.A.

2011-08-01

We investigate the observational viability of a class of cosmological models in which the vacuum energy density decays linearly with the Hubble parameter, resulting in a production of cold dark matter particles at late times. Similarly to the flat ΛCDM case, there is only one free parameter to be adjusted by the data in this class of Λ(t)CDM scenarios, namely, the matter density parameter. To perform our analysis we use three of the most recent SNe Ia compilation sets (Union2, SDSS and Constitution) along with the current measurements of distance to the BAO peaks at z = 0.2 and zmore » = 0.35 and the position of the first acoustic peak of the CMB power spectrum. We show that in terms of χ{sup 2} statistics both models provide good fits to the data and similar results. A quantitative analysis discussing the differences in parameter estimation due to SNe light-curve fitting methods (SALT2 and MLCS2k2) is studied using the current SDSS and Constitution SNe Ia compilations. A matter power spectrum analysis using the 2dFGRS is also performed, providing a very good concordance with the constraints from the SDSS and Constitution MLCS2k2 data.« less

Hubble Parameter and Baryon Acoustic Oscillation Measurement Constraints on the Hubble Constant, the Deviation from the Spatially Flat ΛCDM Model, the Deceleration–Acceleration Transition Redshift, and Spatial Curvature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, Hai; Ratra, Bharat; Wang, Fa-Yin

2018-03-01

We compile a complete collection of reliable Hubble parameter H(z) data to redshift z ≤ 2.36 and use them with the Gaussian Process method to determine continuous H(z) functions for various data subsets. From these continuous H(z)'s, summarizing across the data subsets considered, we find H 0 ∼ 67 ± 4 km s‑1 Mpc‑1, more consistent with the recent lower values determined using a variety of techniques. In most data subsets, we see a cosmological deceleration–acceleration transition at 2σ significance, with the data subsets transition redshifts varying over 0.33< {z}da}< 1.0 at 1σ significance. We find that the flat-ΛCDM model is consistent with the H(z) data to a z of 1.5 to 2.0, depending on data subset considered, with 2σ deviations from flat-ΛCDM above this redshift range. Using the continuous H(z) with baryon acoustic oscillation distance-redshift observations, we constrain the current spatial curvature density parameter to be {{{Ω }}}K0=-0.03+/- 0.21, consistent with a flat universe, but the large error bar does not rule out small values of spatial curvature that are now under debate.

Effect of the Microstructure on the Fracture Mode of Short-Fiber Reinforced Plastic Composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nishikawa, Masaaki; Okabe, Tomonaga; Takeda, Nobuo

A numerical simulation was presented to discuss the microscopic damage and its influence on the strength and energy-absorbing capability of short-fiber reinforced plastic composites. The dominant damage includes matrix crack and/or interfacial debonding, when the fibers are shorter than the critical length for fiber breakage. The simulation addressed the matrix crack with a continuum damage mechanics (CDM) model and the interfacial debonding with an embedded process zone (EPZ) model. Fictitious free-edge effects on the fracture modes were successfully eliminated with the periodic-cell simulation. The advantage of our simulation was pointed out by demonstrating that the simulation with edge effects significantly overestimates the dissipative energy of the composites. We then investigated the effect of the material microstructure on the fracture modes in the composites. The simulated results clarified that the inter-fiber distance affects the breaking strain of the composites and the fiber-orientation angle affects the position of the damage initiation. These factors influence the strength and energy-absorbing capability of short fiber-reinforced composites.

Testing Viable f(T) Models with Current Observations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Bing; Yu, Hongwei; Wu, Puxun

2018-03-01

We perform observational tests on the f(T) gravity with the BAO data (including the BOSS DR 12 galaxy sample, the DR12 Lyα-Forests measurement, the new eBOSS DR14 quasar sample, the 6dFGS, and the SDSS), the CMB distance priors from the Planck 2015, the SNIa data from the joint light-curve analysis, the latest H(z) data, and the local value of the Hubble constant. Six different f(T) models are investigated. Furthermore, the ΛCDM is also considered. All models are compared by using the Akaike information criteria (AIC) and the Bayesian information criteria (BIC). Our results show that the ΛCDM remains to be the most favored model by current observations. However, there are also the Hubble constant tension between the Planck measurements and the local Universe observations and the tension between the CMB data and the H(z) data in the ΛCDM. For f(T) models considered in this paper, half, which can reduce to the ΛCDM, have values of {{χ }2}\\min smaller than that of the ΛCDM and can relieve the tensions existing in the ΛCDM. However, they are punished slightly by the BIC due to one extra parameter. Two of six f(T) models, in which the crossing of the phantom divide line can be realized for the equation of state of the effective dark energy and this crossing is shown in this paper to be favored by current observations, are punished by the information criteria. In addition, we find that the logarithmic f(T) model is excluded by cosmological observations.

Research Progress on Dark Matter Model Based on Weakly Interacting Massive Particles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

He, Yu; Lin, Wen-bin

2017-04-01

The cosmological model of cold dark matter (CDM) with the dark energy and a scale-invariant adiabatic primordial power spectrum has been considered as the standard cosmological model, i.e. the ΛCDM model. Weakly interacting massive particles (WIMPs) become a prominent candidate for the CDM. Many models extended from the standard model can provide the WIMPs naturally. The standard calculations of relic abundance of dark matter show that the WIMPs are well in agreement with the astronomical observation of ΩDM h2 ≈0.11. The WIMPs have a relatively large mass, and a relatively slow velocity, so they are easy to aggregate into clusters, and the results of numerical simulations based on the WIMPs agree well with the observational results of cosmic large-scale structures. In the aspect of experiments, the present accelerator or non-accelerator direct/indirect detections are mostly designed for the WIMPs. Thus, a wide attention has been paid to the CDM model based on the WIMPs. However, the ΛCDM model has a serious problem for explaining the small-scale structures under one Mpc. Different dark matter models have been proposed to alleviate the small-scale problem. However, so far there is no strong evidence enough to exclude the CDM model. We plan to introduce the research progress of the dark matter model based on the WIMPs, such as the WIMPs miracle, numerical simulation, small-scale problem, and the direct/indirect detection, to analyze the criterion for discriminating the ;cold;, ;hot;, and ;warm; dark matter, and present the future prospects for the study in this field.

Child-directed marketing inside and on the exterior of fast food restaurants.

PubMed

Ohri-Vachaspati, Punam; Isgor, Zeynep; Rimkus, Leah; Powell, Lisa M; Barker, Dianne C; Chaloupka, Frank J

2015-01-01

Children who eat fast food have poor diet and health outcomes. Fast food is heavily marketed to youth, and exposure to such marketing is associated with higher fast food consumption. To examine the extent of child-directed marketing (CDM) inside and on the exterior of fast food restaurants. Data were collected from 6,716 fast food restaurants located in a nationally representative sample of public middle- and high-school enrollment areas in 2010, 2011, and 2012. CDM was defined as the presence of one or more of seven components inside or on the exterior of the restaurant. Analyses were conducted in 2014. More than 20% of fast food restaurants used CDM inside or on their exterior. In multivariate analyses, fast food restaurants that were part of a chain, offered kids' meals, were located in middle- (compared to high)-income neighborhoods, and in rural (compared to urban) areas had significantly higher odds of using any CDM; chain restaurants and those located in majority black neighborhoods (compared to white) had significantly higher odds of having an indoor display of kids' meal toys. Compared to 2010, there was a significant decline in use of CDM in 2011, but the prevalence increased close to the 2010 level in 2012. CDM inside and on the exterior of fast food restaurants is prevalent in chain restaurants; majority black communities, rural areas, and middle-income communities are disproportionately exposed. The fast food industry should limit children's exposure to marketing that promotes unhealthy food choices. Copyright © 2015 American Journal of Preventive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Constraints on cosmological models and reconstructing the acceleration history of the Universe with gamma-ray burst distance indicators

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

Liang Nan; Wu Puxun; Zhang Shuangnan

2010-04-15

Gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) have been regarded as standard candles at very high redshift for cosmology research. We have proposed a new method to calibrate GRB distance indicators with Type Ia supernova (SNe Ia) data in a completely cosmology-independent way to avoid the circularity problem that had limited the direct use of GRBs to probe cosmology [N. Liang, W. K. Xiao, Y. Liu, and S. N. Zhang, Astrophys. J. 685, 354 (2008).]. In this paper, a simple method is provided to combine GRB data into the joint observational data analysis to constrain cosmological models; in this method those SNe Ia datamore » points used for calibrating the GRB data are not used to avoid any correlation between them. We find that the {Lambda}CDM model is consistent with the joint data in the 1-{sigma} confidence region, using the GRB data at high redshift calibrated with the interpolating method, the Constitution set of SNe Ia, the cosmic microwave background radiation from Wilkinson Microwave Anisotropy Probe five year observation, the baryonic acoustic oscillation from the spectroscopic Sloan Digital Sky Survey Data Release 7 galaxy sample, the x-ray baryon mass fraction in clusters of galaxies, and the observational Hubble parameter versus redshift data. Comparing to the joint constraints with GRBs and without GRBs, we find that the contribution of GRBs to the joint cosmological constraints is a slight shift in the confidence regions of cosmological parameters to better enclose the {Lambda}CDM model. Finally, we reconstruct the acceleration history of the Universe up to z>6 with the distance moduli of SNe Ia and GRBs and find some features that deviate from the {Lambda}CDM model and seem to favor oscillatory cosmology models; however, further investigations are needed to better understand the situation.« less

Rubidium as an Alternative Cation for Efficient Perovskite Light-Emitting Diodes.

PubMed

Kanwat, Anil; Moyen, Eric; Cho, Sinyoung; Jang, Jin

2018-05-16

Incorporation of rubidium (Rb) into mixed lead halide perovskites has recently achieved record power conversion efficiency and excellent stability in perovskite solar cells. Inspired by these tremendous advances in photovoltaics, this study demonstrates the impact of Rb incorporation into MAPbBr 3 -based light emitters. Rb partially substitutes MA (methyl ammonium), resulting in a mixed cation perovskite with the formula MA (1- x) Rb x PbBr 3 . Pure MAPbBr 3 crystallizes into a polycrystalline layer with highly defective sub-micrometer grains. However, the addition of a small amount of Rb forms MA (1- x) Rb x PbBr 3 nanocrystals (10 nm) embedded in an amorphous matrix of MA/Rb Br. These nanocrystals grow into defect-free sub-micrometer-sized crystallites with further addition of Rb, resulting in a 3-fold increase in exciton lifetime when the molar ratio of MABr/RbBr is 1:1. A thin film fabricated with a 1:1 molar ratio of MABr/RbBr showed the best electroluminescent properties with a current efficiency (CE) of 9.45 cd/A and a luminance of 7694 cd/m 2 . These values of CE and luminance are, respectively, 19 and 10 times larger than those achieved by pure MAPbBr 3 devices (0.5 cd/A and 790 cd/m 2 ). We believe this work provides important information on the future compositional optimization of Rb + -based mixed cation perovskites for obtaining high-performance light-emitting diodes.

Customer Decision Making in Web Services with an Integrated P6 Model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Zhaohao; Sun, Junqing; Meredith, Grant

Customer decision making (CDM) is an indispensable factor for web services. This article examines CDM in web services with a novel P6 model, which consists of the 6 Ps: privacy, perception, propensity, preference, personalization and promised experience. This model integrates the existing 6 P elements of marketing mix as the system environment of CDM in web services. The new integrated P6 model deals with the inner world of the customer and incorporates what the customer think during the DM process. The proposed approach will facilitate the research and development of web services and decision support systems.

Large-scale structure in superfluid Chaplygin gas cosmology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Rongjia

2014-03-01

We investigate the growth of the large-scale structure in the superfluid Chaplygin gas (SCG) model. Both linear and nonlinear growth, such as σ8 and the skewness S3, are discussed. We find the growth factor of SCG reduces to the Einstein-de Sitter case at early times while it differs from the cosmological constant model (ΛCDM) case in the large a limit. We also find there will be more stricture growth on large scales in the SCG scenario than in ΛCDM and the variations of σ8 and S3 between SCG and ΛCDM cannot be discriminated.

Correlated perturbations from inflation and the cosmic microwave background.

PubMed

Amendola, Luca; Gordon, Christopher; Wands, David; Sasaki, Misao

2002-05-27

We compare the latest cosmic microwave background data with theoretical predictions including correlated adiabatic and cold dark matter (CDM) isocurvature perturbations with a simple power-law dependence. We find that there is a degeneracy between the amplitude of correlated isocurvature perturbations and the spectral tilt. A negative (red) tilt is found to be compatible with a larger isocurvature contribution. Estimates of the baryon and CDM densities are found to be almost independent of the isocurvature amplitude. The main result is that current microwave background data do not exclude a dominant contribution from CDM isocurvature fluctuations on large scales.

Control-display mapping in brain-computer interfaces.

PubMed

Thurlings, Marieke E; van Erp, Jan B F; Brouwer, Anne-Marie; Blankertz, Benjamin; Werkhoven, Peter

2012-01-01

Event-related potential (ERP) based brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) employ differences in brain responses to attended and ignored stimuli. When using a tactile ERP-BCI for navigation, mapping is required between navigation directions on a visual display and unambiguously corresponding tactile stimuli (tactors) from a tactile control device: control-display mapping (CDM). We investigated the effect of congruent (both display and control horizontal or both vertical) and incongruent (vertical display, horizontal control) CDMs on task performance, the ERP and potential BCI performance. Ten participants attended to a target (determined via CDM), in a stream of sequentially vibrating tactors. We show that congruent CDM yields best task performance, enhanced the P300 and results in increased estimated BCI performance. This suggests a reduced availability of attentional resources when operating an ERP-BCI with incongruent CDM. Additionally, we found an enhanced N2 for incongruent CDM, which indicates a conflict between visual display and tactile control orientations. Incongruency in control-display mapping reduces task performance. In this study, brain responses, task and system performance are related to (in)congruent mapping of command options and the corresponding stimuli in a brain-computer interface (BCI). Directional congruency reduces task errors, increases available attentional resources, improves BCI performance and thus facilitates human-computer interaction.

The mass discrepancy acceleration relation in a ΛCDM context

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Di Cintio, Arianna; Lelli, Federico

2016-02-01

The mass discrepancy acceleration relation (MDAR) describes the coupling between baryons and dark matter (DM) in galaxies: the ratio of total-to-baryonic mass at a given radius anticorrelates with the acceleration due to baryons. The MDAR has been seen as a challenge to the Λ cold dark matter (ΛCDM) galaxy formation model, while it can be explained by Modified Newtonian Dynamics. In this Letter, we show that the MDAR arises in a ΛCDM cosmology once observed galaxy scaling relations are taken into account. We build semi-empirical models based on ΛCDM haloes, with and without the inclusion of baryonic effects, coupled to empirically motivated structural relations. Our models can reproduce the MDAR: specifically, a mass-dependent density profile for DM haloes can fully account for the observed MDAR shape, while a universal profile shows a discrepancy with the MDAR of dwarf galaxies with M⋆ < 109.5 M⊙, a further indication suggesting the existence of DM cores. Additionally, we reproduce slope and normalization of the baryonic Tully-Fisher relation (BTFR) with 0.17 dex scatter. These results imply that in ΛCDM (I) the MDAR is driven by structural scaling relations of galaxies and DM density profile shapes, and (II) the baryonic fractions determined by the BTFR are consistent with those inferred from abundance-matching studies.

Reporting Subscores Using R: A Software Review

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dai, Shenghai; Svetina, Dubravka; Wang, Xiaolin

2017-01-01

There is an increasing interest in reporting test subscores for diagnostic purposes. In this article, we review nine popular R packages (subscore, mirt, TAM, sirt, CDM, NPCD, lavaan, sem, and OpenMX) that are capable of implementing subscore-reporting methods within one or more frameworks including classical test theory, multidimensional item…

A Simplified and Reliable Damage Method for the Prediction of the Composites Pieces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Viale, R.; Coquillard, M.; Seytre, C.

2012-07-01

Structural engineers are often faced to test results on composite structures largely tougher than predicted. By attempting to reduce this frequent gap, a survey of some extensive synthesis works relative to the prediction methods and to the failure criteria was led. This inquiry dealts with the plane stress state only. All classical methods have strong and weak points wrt practice and reliability aspects. The main conclusion is that in the plane stress case, the best usaul industrial methods give predictions rather similar. But very generally they do not explain the often large discrepancies wrt the tests, mainly in the cases of strong stress gradients or of bi-axial laminate loadings. It seems that only the methods considering the complexity of the composites damages (so-called physical methods or Continuum Damage Mechanics “CDM”) bring a clear mending wrt the usual methods..The only drawback of these methods is their relative intricacy mainly in urged industrial conditions. A method with an approaching but simplified representation of the CDM phenomenology is presented. It was compared to tests and other methods: - it brings a fear improvement of the correlation with tests wrt the usual industrial methods, - it gives results very similar to the painstaking CDM methods and very close to the test results. Several examples are provided. In addition this method is really thrifty wrt the material characterization as well as for the modelisation and the computation efforts.

Flexible AMOLED backplane using pentacene TFT

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Song, Chung Kun; Ryu, Gi Seong

2005-01-01

In this paper we fabricated a panel consisting of an array of organic TFTs (OTFT) and organic LEDs (OLED) in order to demonstrate the possible application of OTFTs to flexible active matrix OLED (AMOLED). The panel was composed of 64×64 pixels on 4 inch size PET substrate in which each pixel had one OTFT integrated with one green OLED. The panel successfully demonstrated to display some letters and pictures by emitting green light with luminance of 20 cd/m2 at 6 V, which was controlled by the gate voltage of OTFT. In addition we also developed fabrication processes for pentacene TFT with PVP gate on PET substrate. The OTFTs produced the maximum mobility of 1.2 cm2/V"sec and on/off current ratio of 2×106.

Object detectability at increased ambient lighting conditions.

PubMed

Pollard, Benjamin J; Chawla, Amarpreet S; Delong, David M; Hashimoto, Noriyuki; Samei, Ehsan

2008-06-01

Under typical dark conditions encountered in diagnostic reading rooms, a reader's pupils will contract and dilate as the visual focus intermittently shifts between the high luminance display and the darker background wall, resulting in increased visual fatigue and the degradation of diagnostic performance. A controlled increase of ambient lighting may, however, reduce the severity of these pupillary adjustments by minimizing the difference between the luminance level to which the eyes adapt while viewing an image (L(adp)) and the luminance level of diffusely reflected light from the area surrounding the display (L(s)). Although ambient lighting in reading rooms has conventionally been kept at a minimum to maintain the perceived contrast of film images, proper Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) calibration of modern medical-grade liquid crystal displays can compensate for minor lighting increases with very little loss of image contrast. This paper describes two psychophysical studies developed to evaluate and refine optimum reading room ambient lighting conditions through the use of observational tasks intended to simulate real clinical practices. The first study utilized the biologic contrast response of the human visual system to determine a range of representative L(adp) values for typical medical images. Readers identified low contrast horizontal objects in circular foregrounds of uniform luminance (5, 12, 20, and 30 cd/m2) embedded within digitized mammograms. The second study examined the effect of increased ambient lighting on the detection of subtle objects embedded in circular foregrounds of uniform luminance (5, 12, and 35 cd/m2) centered within a constant background of 12 cd/m2 luminance. The images were displayed under a dark room condition (1 lux) and an increased ambient lighting level (50 lux) such that the luminance level of the diffusely reflected light from the background wall was approximately equal to the image L(adp) value of 12 cd/m2. Results from the first study demonstrated that observer true positive and false positive detection rates and true positive detection times were considerably better while viewing foregrounds at 12 and 20 cd/m2 than at the other foreground luminance levels. Results from the second study revealed that under increased room illuminance, the average true positive detection rate improved a statistically significant amount from 39.3% to 55.6% at 5 cd/m2 foreground luminance. Additionally, the true positive rate increased from 46.4% to 56.6% at 35 cd/m2 foreground luminance, and decreased slightly from 90.2% to 87.5% at 12 cd/m2 foreground luminance. False positive rates at all foreground luminance levels remained approximately constant with increased ambient lighting. Furthermore, under increased room illuminance, true positive detection times declined at every foreground luminance level, with the most considerable decrease (approximately 500 ms) at the 5 cd/m2 foreground luminance. The first study suggests that L(adp) of typical mammograms lies between 12 and 20 cd/m2, leading to an optimum reading room illuminance of approximately 50-80 lux. Findings from the second study provide psychophysical evidence that ambient lighting may be increased to a level within this range, potentially improving radiologist comfort, without deleterious effects on diagnostic performance.

Dental Hygienist-Led Chronic Disease Management System to Control Early Childhood Caries.

PubMed

Ng, Man Wai; Fida, Zameera

2016-06-01

Management of the complex chronic disease of early childhood caries requires a system of coordinated health care interventions which can be led by a dental hygienist and where patient self-care efforts are paramount. Even after receiving costly surgical treatment under general anesthesia in the operating room, many children develop new and recurrent caries after only 6-12 months, a sequela that can be prevented. This article describes the chronic disease management (CDM) of dental caries, a science-based approach that can prevent and control caries. In this article, we (1) introduce the concept of CDM of dental caries, (2) provide evidence that CDM improves oral health outcomes, and (3) propose a dental hygienist-led team-based oral health care approach to CDM. Although we will be describing the CDM approach for early childhood caries, CDM of caries is applicable in children, adolescents, and adults. Early childhood caries disease control requires meaningful engagement of patients and parents by the oral health care team to assist them with making behavioral changes in the unique context of their families and communities. The traditional dentist/hygienist/assistant model needs to evolve to a collaborative partnership between care providers and patients/families. This partnership will be focused on systematic risk assessment and behaviorally based management of the disease itself, with sensitivity toward the familial environment. Early pilot study results demonstrate reductions in the rates of new caries, dental pain, and referral to the operating room compared with baseline rates. Dental hygienists are the appropriate team members to lead this approach because of their expertise in behavior change and prevention. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

SIDM on FIRE: hydrodynamical self-interacting dark matter simulations of low-mass dwarf galaxies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Robles, Victor H.; Bullock, James S.; Elbert, Oliver D.; Fitts, Alex; González-Samaniego, Alejandro; Boylan-Kolchin, Michael; Hopkins, Philip F.; Faucher-Giguère, Claude-André; Kereš, Dušan; Hayward, Christopher C.

2017-12-01

We compare a suite of four simulated dwarf galaxies formed in 1010 M⊙ haloes of collisionless cold dark matter (CDM) with galaxies simulated in the same haloes with an identical galaxy formation model but a non-zero cross-section for DM self-interactions. These cosmological zoom-in simulations are part of the Feedback In Realistic Environments (FIRE) project and utilize the FIRE-2 model for hydrodynamics and galaxy formation physics. We find the stellar masses of the galaxies formed in self-interacting dark matter (SIDM) with σ/m = 1 cm2 g-1 are very similar to those in CDM (spanning M⋆ ≈ 105.7-7.0M⊙) and all runs lie on a similar stellar mass-size relation. The logarithmic DM density slope (α = d log ρ/d log r) in the central 250-500 pc remains steeper than α = -0.8 for the CDM-Hydro simulations with stellar mass M⋆ ∼ 106.6 M⊙ and core-like in the most massive galaxy. In contrast, every SIDM hydrodynamic simulation yields a flatter profile, with α > -0.4. Moreover, the central density profiles predicted in SIDM runs without baryons are similar to the SIDM runs that include FIRE-2 baryonic physics. Thus, SIDM appears to be much more robust to the inclusion of (potentially uncertain) baryonic physics than CDM on this mass scale, suggesting that SIDM will be easier to falsify than CDM using low-mass galaxies. Our FIRE simulations predict that galaxies less massive than M⋆ ≲ 3 × 106 M⊙ provide potentially ideal targets for discriminating models, with SIDM producing substantial cores in such tiny galaxies and CDM producing cusps.

Potential contribution of the forestry sector in Bangladesh to carbon sequestration.

PubMed

Yong Shin, Man; Miah, Danesh M; Lee, Kyeong Hak

2007-01-01

The Kyoto Protocol provides for the involvement of developing countries in an atmospheric greenhouse gas reduction regime under its Clean Development Mechanism (CDM). Carbon credits are gained from reforestation and afforestation activities in developing countries. Bangladesh, a densely populated tropical country in South Asia, has a huge degraded forestland which can be reforested by CDM projects. To realize the potential of the forestry sector in developing countries for full-scale emission mitigation, the carbon sequestration potential of different species in different types of plantations should be integrated with the carbon trading system under the CDM of the Kyoto Protocol. This paper discusses the prospects and problems of carbon trading in Bangladesh, in relation to the CDM, in the context of global warming and the potential associated consequences. The paper analyzes the effects of reforestation projects on carbon sequestration in Bangladesh, in general, and in the hilly Chittagong region, in particular, and concludes by demonstrating the carbon trading opportunities. Results showed that tree tissue in the forests of Bangladesh stored 92tons of carbon per hectare (tC/ha), on average. The results also revealed a gross stock of 190tC/ha in the plantations of 13 tree species, ranging in age from 6 to 23 years. The paper confirms the huge atmospheric CO(2) offset by the forests if the degraded forestlands are reforested by CDM projects, indicating the potential of Bangladesh to participate in carbon trading for both its economic and environmental benefit. Within the forestry sector itself, some constraints are identified; nevertheless, the results of the study can expedite policy decisions regarding Bangladesh's participation in carbon trading through the CDM.

A remarkable adsorbent for removal of contaminants of emerging concern from water: Porous carbon derived from metal azolate framework-6.

PubMed

Bhadra, Biswa Nath; Jhung, Sung Hwa

2017-10-15

A series of metal-azolate frameworks or MAFs-MAF-4, -5, and -6-were synthesized and pyrolyzed to prepare porous carbons derived from MAFs (CDM-4, -5, -6, respectively). Not only the obtained carbons but also MAFs were characterized and applied for the adsorption of organic contaminants of emerging concern (CECs, including pharmaceuticals and personal care products) such as salicylic acid, clofibric acid, diclofenac sodium, bisphenol-A, and oxybenzone (OXB) from water. CDM-6 was found to be the most remarkable adsorbent among the tested ones (including activated carbon) for all the adsorbates. OXB was taken as a representative adsorbate for detailed adsorption studies as well as understanding the adsorption mechanism. H-bonding (H-acceptor: CDM; H-donor: CECs) was suggested as the principal mechanism for the adsorption of tested adsorbates. Finally, CDMs, especially CDM-6, were suggested as highly efficient and easily recyclable adsorbents for water purification. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

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

Simard, G.; et al.

We report constraints on cosmological parameters from the angular power spectrum of a cosmic microwave background (CMB) gravitational lensing potential map created using temperature data from 2500 degmore » $^2$ of South Pole Telescope (SPT) data supplemented with data from Planck in the same sky region, with the statistical power in the combined map primarily from the SPT data. We fit the corresponding lensing angular power spectrum to a model including cold dark matter and a cosmological constant ($$\\Lambda$$CDM), and to models with single-parameter extensions to $$\\Lambda$$CDM. We find constraints that are comparable to and consistent with constraints found using the full-sky Planck CMB lensing data. Specifically, we find $$\\sigma_8 \\Omega_{\\rm m}^{0.25}=0.598 \\pm 0.024$$ from the lensing data alone with relatively weak priors placed on the other $$\\Lambda$$CDM parameters. In combination with primary CMB data from Planck, we explore single-parameter extensions to the $$\\Lambda$$CDM model. We find $$\\Omega_k = -0.012^{+0.021}_{-0.023}$$ or $$M_{\

A review of instruments to measure interprofessional collaboration for chronic disease management for community-living older adults.

PubMed

Bookey-Bassett, Sue; Markle-Reid, Maureen; McKey, Colleen; Akhtar-Danesh, Noori

2016-01-01

It is acknowledged internationally that chronic disease management (CDM) for community-living older adults (CLOA) is an increasingly complex process. CDM for older adults, who are often living with multiple chronic conditions, requires coordination of various health and social services. Coordination is enabled through interprofessional collaboration (IPC) among individual providers, community organizations, and health sectors. Measuring IPC is complicated given there are multiple conceptualisations and measures of IPC. A literature review of several healthcare, psychological, and social science electronic databases was conducted to locate instruments that measure IPC at the team level and have published evidence of their reliability and validity. Five instruments met the criteria and were critically reviewed to determine their strengths and limitations as they relate to CDM for CLOA. A comparison of the characteristics, psychometric properties, and overall concordance of each instrument with salient attributes of IPC found the Collaborative Practice Assessment Tool to be the most appropriate instrument for measuring IPC for CDM in CLOA.

Improving nurses' knowledge of continuous ST-segment monitoring.

PubMed

Chronister, Connie

2014-01-01

Continuous ST-segment monitoring can result in detection of myocardial ischemia, but in clinical practice, continuous ST-segment monitoring is conducted incorrectly and underused by many registered nurses (RNs). Many RNs are unable to correctly institute ST-segment monitoring guidelines because of a lack of education. To evaluate whether an educational intervention, provided to 32 RNs, increases knowledge and correct clinical decision making (CDM) for the use of continuous ST-segment monitoring. At a single institution, an ST-segment monitoring class was provided to RNs in 2 cardiovascular units. Knowledge and correct CDM instruments were used for a baseline pretest and subsequent posttest after ST-segment monitoring education. Statistical significance between pretest and posttest scores for knowledge and correct CDM practice was noted with dependent t tests (P = .0001). Many RNs responsible for electrocardiographic monitoring are not aware of evidence-based ST-segment monitoring practice guidelines and cannot properly place precordial leads needed for ST-segment monitoring. Knowledge and correct CDM with ST-segment monitoring can be improved with focused education.

Theoretical implications of the galactic radial acceleration relation of McGaugh, Lelli, and Schombert

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nesbet, Robert K.

2018-05-01

Velocities in stable circular orbits about galaxies, a measure of centripetal gravitation, exceed the expected Kepler/Newton velocity as orbital radius increases. Standard Λ cold dark matter (ΛCDM) attributes this anomaly to galactic dark matter. McGaugh et al. have recently shown for 153 disc galaxies that observed radial acceleration is an apparently universal function of classical acceleration computed for observed galactic baryonic mass density. This is consistent with the empirical modified Newtonian dynamics (MOND) model, not requiring dark matter. It is shown here that suitably constrained ΛCDM and conformal gravity (CG) also produce such a universal correlation function. ΛCDM requires a very specific dark matter distribution, while the implied CG non-classical acceleration must be independent of galactic mass. All three constrained radial acceleration functions agree with the empirical baryonic v4 Tully-Fisher relation. Accurate rotation data in the nominally flat velocity range could distinguish between MOND, ΛCDM, and CG.

Mortality of patients with COPD participating in chronic disease management programmes: a happy end?

PubMed

Peytremann-Bridevaux, I; Taffe, P; Burnand, B; Bridevaux, P O; Puhan, M A

2014-09-01

Concerns about increased mortality could question the role of COPD chronic disease management (CDM) programmes. We aimed at extending a recent Cochrane review to assess the effects of CDM on mortality in patients with COPD. Mortality data were available for 25 out of 29 trials identified in a COPD integrated care systematic review. Meta-analysis using random-effects models was performed, followed by subgroup analyses according to study length (3-12 months vs >12 months), main intervention component (exercise, self-management, structured follow-up) and use of an action plan. The meta-analysis showed no impact of CDM on mortality (pooled OR: 1.00, 95% CI 0.79 to 1.28). These results do not suggest that CDM programmes expose patients with COPD to excessive mortality risk. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://group.bmj.com/group/rights-licensing/permissions.

What is on your mind? Using the perceptual cycle model and critical decision method to understand the decision-making process in the cockpit.

PubMed

Plant, Katherine L; Stanton, Neville A

2013-01-01

Aeronautical decision-making is complex as there is not always a clear coupling between the decision made and decision outcome. As such, there is a call for process-orientated decision research in order to understand why a decision made sense at the time it was made. Schema theory explains how we interact with the world using stored mental representations and forms an integral part of the perceptual cycle model (PCM); proposed here as a way to understand the decision-making process. This paper qualitatively analyses data from the critical decision method (CDM) based on the principles of the PCM. It is demonstrated that the approach can be used to understand a decision-making process and highlights how influential schemata can be at informing decision-making. The reliability of this approach is established, the general applicability is discussed and directions for future work are considered. This paper introduces the PCM, and the associated schema theory, as a framework to structure and explain data collected from the CDM. The reliability of both the method and coding scheme is addressed.

Cold dark matter. 1: The formation of dark halos

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gelb, James M.; Bertschinger, Edmund

1994-01-01

We use numerical simulations of critically closed cold dark matter (CDM) models to study the effects of numerical resolution on observable quantities. We study simulations with up to 256(exp 3) particles using the particle-mesh (PM) method and with up to 144(exp 3) particles using the adaptive particle-particle-mesh (P3M) method. Comparisons of galaxy halo distributions are made among the various simulations. We also compare distributions with observations, and we explore methods for identifying halos, including a new algorithm that finds all particles within closed contours of the smoothed density field surrounding a peak. The simulated halos show more substructure than predicted by the Press-Schechter theory. We are able to rule out all omega = 1 CDM models for linear amplitude sigma(sub 8) greater than or approximately = 0.5 because the simulations produce too many massive halos compared with the observations. The simulations also produce too many low-mass halos. The distribution of halos characterized by their circular velocities for the P3M simulations is in reasonable agreement with the observations for 150 km/s less than or = V(sub circ) less than or = 350 km/s.

A Single CD4 Test with 250 Cells/Mm3 Threshold Predicts Viral Suppression in HIV-Infected Adults Failing First-Line Therapy by Clinical Criteria

PubMed Central

Munderi, Paula; Kityo, Cissy; Reid, Andrew; Katabira, Elly; Goodall, Ruth L.; Grosskurth, Heiner; Mugyenyi, Peter; Hakim, James; Gibb, Diana M.

2013-01-01

Background In low-income countries, viral load (VL) monitoring of antiretroviral therapy (ART) is rarely available in the public sector for HIV-infected adults or children. Using clinical failure alone to identify first-line ART failure and trigger regimen switch may result in unnecessary use of costly second-line therapy. Our objective was to identify CD4 threshold values to confirm clinically-determined ART failure when VL is unavailable. Methods 3316 HIV-infected Ugandan/Zimbabwean adults were randomised to first-line ART with Clinically-Driven (CDM, CD4s measured but blinded) or routine Laboratory and Clinical Monitoring (LCM, 12-weekly CD4s) in the DART trial. CD4 at switch and ART failure criteria (new/recurrent WHO 4, single/multiple WHO 3 event; LCM: CD4<100 cells/mm3) were reviewed in 361 LCM, 314 CDM participants who switched over median 5 years follow-up. Retrospective VLs were available in 368 (55%) participants. Results Overall, 265/361 (73%) LCM participants failed with CD4<100 cells/mm3; only 7 (2%) switched with CD4≥250 cells/mm3, four switches triggered by WHO events. Without CD4 monitoring, 207/314 (66%) CDM participants failed with WHO 4 events, and 77(25%)/30(10%) with single/multiple WHO 3 events. Failure/switching with single WHO 3 events was more likely with CD4≥250 cells/mm3 (28/77; 36%) (p = 0.0002). CD4 monitoring reduced switching with viral suppression: 23/187 (12%) LCM versus 49/181 (27%) CDM had VL<400 copies/ml at failure/switch (p<0.0001). Amongst CDM participants with CD4<250 cells/mm3 only 11/133 (8%) had VL<400copies/ml, compared with 38/48 (79%) with CD4≥250 cells/mm3 (p<0.0001). Conclusion Multiple, but not single, WHO 3 events predicted first-line ART failure. A CD4 threshold ‘tiebreaker’ of ≥250 cells/mm3 for clinically-monitored patients failing first-line could identify ∼80% with VL<400 copies/ml, who are unlikely to benefit from second-line. Targeting CD4s to single WHO stage 3 ‘clinical failures’ would particularly avoid premature, costly switch to second-line ART. PMID:23437399

Successful chronic disease care for Aboriginal Australians requires cultural competence.

PubMed

Liaw, Siaw Teng; Lau, Phyllis; Pyett, Priscilla; Furler, John; Burchill, Marlene; Rowley, Kevin; Kelaher, Margaret

2011-06-01

To review the literature to determine the attributes of culturally appropriate healthcare to inform the design of chronic disease management (CDM) models for Aboriginal patients in urban general practice. A comprehensive conceptual framework, drawing on the Access to Care, Pathway to Care, Chronic Care, Level of Connectedness, and Cultural Security, Cultural Competency and Cultural Respect models, was developed to define the search strategy, inclusion criteria and appraisal methods for the literature review. Selected papers were reviewed in detail if they examined a chronic disease intervention for an Aboriginal population and reported on its evaluation, impacts or outcomes. In the 173 papers examined, only 11 programs met the inclusion criteria. All were programs conducted in rural and remote Aboriginal community-controlled health services. Successful chronic disease care and interventions require adequate Aboriginal community engagement, utilising local knowledge, strong leadership, shared responsibilities, sustainable resources and integrated data and systems. These success factors fitted within the conceptual framework developed. Research and development of culturally appropriate CDM models concurrently in both urban and rural settings will enable more rigorous evaluation, leading to stronger evidence for best practice. A partnership of mainstream and Aboriginal-controlled health services is essential to successfully 'close the gap'. Findings will inform and guide the development, implementation and evaluation of culturally appropriate CDM in mainstream general practice and primary care. © 2011 The Authors. ANZJPH © 2011 Public Health Association of Australia.

The use of supercomputer modelling of high-temperature failure in pipe weldments to optimize weld and heat affected zone materials property selection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Z. P.; Hayhurst, D. R.

1994-07-01

The creep deformation and damage evolution in a pipe weldment has been modeled by using the finite-element continuum damage mechanics (CDM) method. The finite-element CDM computer program DAMAGE XX has been adapted to run with increased speed on a Cray XMP/416 supercomputer. Run times are sufficiently short (20 min) to permit many parametric studies to be carried out on vessel lifetimes for different weld and heat affected zone (HAZ) materials. Finite-element mesh sensitivity was studied first in order to select a mesh capable of correctly predicting experimentally observed results using at least possible computer time. A study was then made of the effect on the lifetime of a butt welded vessel of each of the commomly measured material parameters for the weld and HAZ materials. Forty different ferritic steel welded vessels were analyzed for a constant internal pressure of 45.5 MPa at a temperature of 565 C; each vessel having the same parent pipe material but different weld and HAZ materials. A lifetime improvement has been demonstrated of 30% over that obtained for the initial materials property data. A methodology for weldment design has been established which uses supercomputer-based CDM analysis techniques; it is quick to use, provides accurate results, and is a viable design tool.

Testing cold dark matter models using Hubble flow variations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shi, Xiangdong

1999-05-01

COBE-normalized flat (matter plus cosmological constant) and open cold dark matter (CDM) models are tested by comparing their expected Hubble flow variations and the observed variations in a Type Ia supernova sample and a Tully-Fisher cluster sample. The test provides a probe of the CDM power spectrum on scales of 0.02h Mpc^-1<~ k<~ 0.2h Mpc^-1, free of the bias factor b. The results favour a low matter content universe, or a flat matter-dominated universe with a very low Hubble constant and/or a very small spectral index n^ps, with the best fits having Ο_0~ 0.3 to 0.4. The test is found to be more discriminative to the open CDM models than to the flat CDM models. For example, the test results are found to be compatible with those from the X-ray cluster abundance measurements at smaller length-scales, and consistent with the galaxy and cluster correlation analysis of Peacock & Dodds at similar length-scales, if our universe is flat; but the results are marginally incompatible with the X-ray cluster abundance measurements if our universe is open. The open CDM results are consistent with that of Peacock & Dodds only if the matter density of the universe is less than about 60 per cent of the critical density. The shortcoming of the test is discussed, so are ways to minimize it.

Constraints on Dark Energy from Baryon Acoustic Peak and Galaxy Cluster Gas Mass Measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Samushia, Lado; Ratra, Bharat

2009-10-01

We use baryon acoustic peak measurements by Eisenstein et al. and Percival et al., together with the Wilkinson Microwave Anisotropy Probe (WMAP) measurement of the apparent acoustic horizon angle, and galaxy cluster gas mass fraction measurements of Allen et al., to constrain a slowly rolling scalar field dark energy model, phiCDM, in which dark energy's energy density changes in time. We also compare our phiCDM results with those derived for two more common dark energy models: the time-independent cosmological constant model, ΛCDM, and the XCDM parameterization of dark energy's equation of state. For time-independent dark energy, the Percival et al. measurements effectively constrain spatial curvature and favor a close to the spatially flat model, mostly due to the WMAP cosmic microwave background prior used in the analysis. In a spatially flat model the Percival et al. data less effectively constrain time-varying dark energy. The joint baryon acoustic peak and galaxy cluster gas mass constraints on the phiCDM model are consistent with but tighter than those derived from other data. A time-independent cosmological constant in a spatially flat model provides a good fit to the joint data, while the α parameter in the inverse power-law potential phiCDM model is constrained to be less than about 4 at 3σ confidence level.

CDM analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Larson, Robert E.; Mcentire, Paul L.; Oreilly, John G.

1993-01-01

The C Data Manager (CDM) is an advanced tool for creating an object-oriented database and for processing queries related to objects stored in that database. The CDM source code was purchased and will be modified over the course of the Arachnid project. In this report, the modified CDM is referred to as MCDM. Using MCDM, a detailed series of experiments was designed and conducted on a Sun Sparcstation. The primary results and analysis of the CDM experiment are provided in this report. The experiments involved creating the Long-form Faint Source Catalog (LFSC) database and then analyzing it with respect to following: (1) the relationships between the volume of data and the time required to create a database; (2) the storage requirements of the database files; and (3) the properties of query algorithms. The effort focused on defining, implementing, and analyzing seven experimental scenarios: (1) find all sources by right ascension--RA; (2) find all sources by declination--DEC; (3) find all sources in the right ascension interval--RA1, RA2; (4) find all sources in the declination interval--DEC1, DEC2; (5) find all sources in the rectangle defined by--RA1, RA2, DEC1, DEC2; (6) find all sources that meet certain compound conditions; and (7) analyze a variety of query algorithms. Throughout this document, the numerical results obtained from these scenarios are reported; conclusions are presented at the end of the document.

Myotonic dystrophy type 1: clinical manifestations in children and adolescents.

PubMed

Ho, Genevieve; Carey, Kate A; Cardamone, Michael; Farrar, Michelle A

2018-06-05

Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) is an autosomal-dominant neuromuscular disease with variable severity affecting all ages; however, current care guidelines are adult-focused. The objective of the present study was to profile DM1 in childhood and propose a framework to guide paediatric-focused management. 40 children with DM1 (mean age 12.8 years; range 2-19) were studied retrospectively for a total of 513 follow-up years at Sydney Children's Hospital. 143 clinical parameters were recorded. The clinical spectrum of disease in childhood differs from adults, with congenital myotonic dystrophy (CDM1) having more severe health issues than childhood-onset/juvenile patients (JDM1). Substantial difficulties with intellectual (CDM1 25/26 96.2%; JDM1 9/10, 90.0%), fine motor (CDM1 23/30, 76.6%; JDM1 6/10, 60.0%), gastrointestinal (CDM1 17/30, 70.0%; JDM1 3/10, 30.0%) and neuromuscular function (CDM1 30/30, 100.0%; JDM1 25/30, 83.3%) were evident. The health consequences of DM1 in childhood are diverse, highlighting the need for paediatric multidisciplinary management approaches that encompass key areas of cognition, musculoskeletal, gastrointestinal, respiratory, cardiac and sleep issues. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2018. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

The Effect of Achievement Test Selection on Identification of Learning Disabilities within a Patterns of Strengths and Weaknesses Framework

PubMed Central

Miciak, Jeremy; Taylor, Pat; Denton, Carolyn A.; Fletcher, Jack M.

2014-01-01

Purpose Few empirical investigations have evaluated learning disabilities (LD) identification methods based on a pattern of cognitive strengths and weaknesses (PSW). This study investigated the reliability of LD classification decisions of the concordance/discordance method (C/DM) across different psychoeducational assessment batteries. Methods C/DM criteria were applied to assessment data from 177 second grade students based on two psychoeducational assessment batteries. The achievement tests were different, but were highly correlated and measured the same latent construct. Resulting LD identifications were then evaluated for agreement across batteries on LD status and the academic domain of eligibility. Results The two batteries identified a similar number of participants as having LD (80 and 74). However, indices of agreement for classification decisions were low (kappa = .29), especially for percent positive agreement (62%). The two batteries demonstrated agreement on the academic domain of eligibility for only 25 participants. Conclusions Cognitive discrepancy frameworks for LD identification are inherently unstable because of imperfect reliability and validity at the observed level. Methods premised on identifying a PSW profile may never achieve high reliability because of these underlying psychometric factors. An alternative is to directly assess academic skills to identify students in need of intervention. PMID:25243467

Nurse-led management of chronic disease in a residential care setting.

PubMed

Neylon, Julie

2015-11-01

Introduction of the advanced nurse practitioner (ANP) role has enabled nurses to develop their clinical knowledge and skills, providing greater service provision and improved access to healthcare services. It can also help with the challenges of providing care to an ageing population in primary care. This article reports on the evaluation of an ANP-led clinic in two residential care homes that provides annual reviews for chronic disease management (CDM). A mixed method approach was used to evaluate the service using clinical data obtained from the electronic patient record system and software and patient satisfaction questionnaires. The number of patients receiving CDM reviews in the homes increased as a result of the clinic. Completed satisfaction questionnaires further demonstrated patients' satisfaction and willingness to engage with the service. The service highlights the ANP's effectiveness in managing residential care home patients with chronic diseases and improving their access to healthcare services.

Large-scale structure after COBE: Peculiar velocities and correlations of cold dark matter halos

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zurek, Wojciech H.; Quinn, Peter J.; Salmon, John K.; Warren, Michael S.

1994-01-01

Large N-body simulations on parallel supercomputers allow one to simultaneously investigate large-scale structure and the formation of galactic halos with unprecedented resolution. Our study shows that the masses as well as the spatial distribution of halos on scales of tens of megaparsecs in a cold dark matter (CDM) universe with the spectrum normalized to the anisotropies detected by Cosmic Background Explorer (COBE) is compatible with the observations. We also show that the average value of the relative pairwise velocity dispersion sigma(sub v) - used as a principal argument against COBE-normalized CDM models-is significantly lower for halos than for individual particles. When the observational methods of extracting sigma(sub v) are applied to the redshift catalogs obtained from the numerical experiments, estimates differ significantly between different observation-sized samples and overlap observational estimates obtained following the same procedure.

Constraining the Nature of Dark Matter with the Star-formation History of the Faintest Local Group Dwarf Galaxy Satellites

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

Chau, Alice; Mayer, Lucio; Governato, Fabio

Λ warm dark matter (ΛWDM), realized by collisionless particles of 1–3 keV, has been proposed as an alternative scenario to Λ-Cold-Dark Matter (ΛCDM) for the dwarf galaxy scale discrepancies. We present an approach to test the viability of such WDM models using star-formation histories (SFHs) of the dwarf spheroidal galaxies (dSphs) in the Local Group. We compare their high-time-resolution SFHs with the collapse redshift of their dark halos in CDM and WDM. Collapse redshift is inferred after determining the subhalo infall mass. This is based on the dwarf current mass inferred from stellar kinematics, combined with cosmological simulation results onmore » subhalo evolution. WDM subhalos close to the filtering mass scale, forming significantly later than CDM, are the most difficult to reconcile with early truncation of star formation ( z ≥ 3). The ultra-faint dwarfs (UFDs) provide the most stringent constraints. Using six UFDs and eight classical dSphs, we show that a 1 keV particle is strongly disfavored, consistently with other reported methods. Excluding other models is only hinted for a few UFDs. Other UFDs for which the lack of robust constraints on halo mass prevents us from carrying out our analysis rigorously, show a very early onset of star formation that will strengthen the constraints delivered by our method in the future. We discuss the various caveats, notably the low number of dwarfs with accurately determined SFHs and the uncertainties when determining the subhalo infall mass, most notably the baryonic physics. Our preliminary analysis may serve as a pathfinder for future investigations that will combine accurate SFHs for local dwarfs with direct analysis of WDM simulations with baryons.« less

Mesopic and Photopic Rod and Cone Photoreceptor-Driven Visual Processes in Mice With Long-Wavelength-Shifted Cone Pigments.

PubMed

Tsai, Tina I; Joachimsthaler, Anneka; Kremers, Jan

2017-10-01

The clearer divergence in spectral sensitivity between native rod and human L-cone (L*-cone) opsins in the transgenic Opn1lwLIAIS mouse (LIAIS) allows normal visual processes mediated by these photoreceptor subtypes to be isolated effectively using the silent substitution technique. The objective of this study was to further characterize the influence of mean luminance and temporal frequency on the functional properties of signals originating in each photoreceptor separately and independently of adaptation state in LIAIS mice. Electroretinographic (ERG) recordings to sine-wave rod and L*-cone modulation at different mean luminances (0.1-130.0 cd/m2) and temporal frequencies (6-26 Hz) were examined in anesthetized LIAIS (N = 17) and C57Bl/6 mice (N = 8). We report maximum rod-driven response with 8-Hz modulation at 0.1 to 0.5 cd/m2, which was almost four times larger than maximum cone-driven response at 8 Hz, 21.5 to 130 cd/m2. Over these optimal luminances, both rod- and cone-driven response amplitudes exhibited low-pass functions with similar frequency resolution limits, albeit their distinct luminance sensitivities. There were, however, two distinguishing features: (1) the frequency-dependent amplitude decrease of rod-driven responses was more profound, and (2) linear relationships describing rod-driven response phases as a function of stimulus frequency were steeper. Employing the silent substitution method with stimuli of appropriate luminance on the LIAIS mouse (as on human observers) increases the specificity, robustness, and scope to which photoreceptor-driven responses can be reliably assayed compared to the standard photoreceptor isolation methods.

De novo design and engineering of functional metal and porphyrin-binding protein domains

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Everson, Bernard H.

In this work, I describe an approach to the rational, iterative design and characterization of two functional cofactor-binding protein domains. First, a hybrid computational/experimental method was developed with the aim of algorithmically generating a suite of porphyrin-binding protein sequences with minimal mutual sequence information. This method was explored by generating libraries of sequences, which were then expressed and evaluated for function. One successful sequence is shown to bind a variety of porphyrin-like cofactors, and exhibits light- activated electron transfer in mixed hemin:chlorin e6 and hemin:Zn(II)-protoporphyrin IX complexes. These results imply that many sophisticated functions such as cofactor binding and electron transfer require only a very small number of residue positions in a protein sequence to be fixed. Net charge and hydrophobic content are important in determining protein solubility and stability. Accordingly, rational modifications were made to the aforementioned design procedure in order to improve its overall success rate. The effects of these modifications are explored using two `next-generation' sequence libraries, which were separately expressed and evaluated. Particular modifications to these design parameters are demonstrated to effectively double the purification success rate of the procedure. Finally, I describe the redesign of the artificial di-iron protein DF2 into CDM13, a single chain di-Manganese four-helix bundle. CDM13 acts as a functional model of natural manganese catalase, exhibiting a kcat of 0.08s-1 under steady-state conditions. The bound manganese cofactors have a reduction potential of +805 mV vs NHE, which is too high for efficient dismutation of hydrogen peroxide. These results indicate that as a high-potential manganese complex, CDM13 may represent a promising first step toward a polypeptide model of the Oxygen Evolving Complex of the photosynthetic enzyme Photosystem II.

MODULATING EFFECT OF BODY TEMPERATURE ON THE TOXIC RESPONSE PRODUCED BY THE PESTICIDE CHLORIDEMEFORM IN RATS

EPA Science Inventory

Previous studies from this laboratory have demonstrated significant deficits in cardiovascular function in rats exposed to the pesticide chlordimeform (CDM) when body core temperature (Tco) was maintained at 37oC. o investigate the role of Tco on CDM toxicity, similar experiments...

Effectiveness of knowledge translation tools addressing multiple high-burden chronic diseases affecting older adults: protocol for a systematic review alongside a realist review

PubMed Central

Kastner, Monika; Perrier, Laure; Hamid, Jemila; Tricco, Andrea C; Cardoso, Roberta; Ivers, Noah M; Liu, Barbara; Marr, Sharon; Holroyd-Leduc, Jayna; Wong, Geoff; Graves, Lisa; Straus, Sharon E

2015-01-01

Introduction The burden of chronic disease is a global phenomenon, particularly among people aged 65 years and older. More than half of older adults have more than one chronic disease and their care is not optimal. Chronic disease management (CDM) tools have the potential to meet this challenge but they are primarily focused on a single disease, which fails to address the growing number of seniors with multiple chronic conditions. Methods and analysis We will conduct a systematic review alongside a realist review to identify effective CDM tools that integrate one or more high-burden chronic diseases affecting older adults and to better understand for whom, under what circumstances, how and why they produce their outcomes. We will search MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, AgeLine and the Cochrane Library for experimental, quasi-experimental, observational and qualitative studies in any language investigating CDM tools that facilitate optimal disease management in one or more high-burden chronic diseases affecting adults aged ≥65 years. Study selection will involve calibration of reviewers to ensure reliability of screening and duplicate assessment of articles. Data abstraction and risk of bias assessment will also be performed independently. Analysis will include descriptive summaries of study and appraisal characteristics, effectiveness of each CDM tool (meta-analysis if appropriate); and a realist programme theory will be developed and refined to explain the outcome patterns within the included studies. Ethics and dissemination Ethics approval is not required for this study. We anticipate that our findings, pertaining to gaps in care across high-burden chronic diseases affecting seniors and highlighting specific areas that may require more research, will be of interest to a wide range of knowledge users and stakeholders. We will publish and present our findings widely, and also plan more active dissemination strategies such as workshops with our key stakeholders. Trial registration number Our protocol is registered with PROSPERO (registration number CRD42014014489). PMID:25649215

Exploring the clinical decision-making used by experienced cardiorespiratory physiotherapists: A mixed method qualitative design of simulation, video recording and think aloud techniques.

PubMed

Thackray, Debbie; Roberts, Lisa

2017-02-01

The ability of physiotherapists to make clinical decisions is a vital component of being an autonomous practitioner, yet this complex phenomenon has been under-researched in cardiorespiratory physiotherapy. The purpose of this study was to explore clinical decision-making (CDM) by experienced physiotherapists in a scenario of a simulated patient experiencing acute deterioration of their respiratory function. The main objective of this observational study was to identify the actions, thoughts, and behaviours used by experienced cardiorespiratory physiotherapists in their clinical decision-making processes. A mixed-methods (qualitative) design employing observation and think-aloud, was adopted using a computerised manikin in a simulated environment. The participants clinically assessed the manikin programmed with the same clinical signs, under standardised conditions in the clinical skills practice suite, which was set up as a ward environment. Experienced cardiorespiratory physiotherapists, recruited from clinical practice within a 50-mile radius of the University(*). Participants were video-recorded throughout the assessment and treatment and asked to verbalise their thought processes using the 'think-aloud' method. The recordings were transcribed verbatim and managed using a Framework approach. Eight cardiorespiratory physiotherapists participated (mean 7years clinical experience, range 3.5-16years. CDM was similar to the collaborative hypothetico-deductive model, five-rights nursing model, reasoning strategies, inductive reasoning and pattern recognition. However, the CDM demonstrated by the physiotherapists was complex, interactive and iterative. Information processing occurred continuously throughout the whole interaction with the patient, and the specific cognitive skills of recognition, matching, discriminating, relating, inferring, synthesising and prediction were identified as being used sequentially. The findings from this study were used to develop a new conceptual model of clinical decision-making for cardiorespiratory physiotherapy. This conceptual model can be used to inform future educational strategies to prepare physiotherapists and nurses for working in acute respiratory care. Crown Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Enhanced Emission Efficiency in Organic Light-Emitting Diodes Using Deoxyribonucleic Acid Complex as an Electron Blocking Layer

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-04-28

1. Color online Photographs of EL emission from several devices: a green Alq3 baseline OLED at 25 V 707 mA/cm2—590 cd/m2, 0.35 cd/A; b green... Alq3 BioLED with DNA EBL at 25 V 308 mA/cm2—21 100 cd/m2, 6.56 cd/A; c blue NPB baseline OLED at 20 V 460 mA/cm2—700 cd/m2, 0.14 cd/A; d blue...al. Appl. Phys. Lett. 88, 171109 2006NPB N ,N-bisnaphthalene-1-yl-N ,N-bisphenyl benzi- dine hole transport layer HTL; Alq3 tris-8

CDM: Teaching Discrete Mathematics to Computer Science Majors

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sutner, Klaus

2005-01-01

CDM, for computational discrete mathematics, is a course that attempts to teach a number of topics in discrete mathematics to computer science majors. The course abandons the classical definition-theorem-proof model, and instead relies heavily on computation as a source of motivation and also for experimentation and illustration. The emphasis on…

A Social Learning Theory of Career Decision Making.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mitchell, Anita M., Ed.; And Others

This report contains an analysis of career decision making (CDM), a synthesis of theories and empirical studies related to CDM, and identification of areas in need of further research and/or development. The study includes contributions from the fields of psychology, economics, sociology, guidance and education. An attempt has been made to…

The Effects of Gender on Career Decision Problems in Young Adults.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Larson, Jeffry H.; And Others

1994-01-01

Investigated gender differences in psychological problems--decision anxiety, life-goal awareness, and others--in the career decision-making process (CDM) of 1,006 college students. Results indicated no gender differences in global levels of problems in CDM. Some specific difficulties, such as life-goal awareness and authority orientation, were…

GDINA and CDM Packages in R

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rupp, André A.; van Rijn, Peter W.

2018-01-01

We review the GIDNA and CDM packages in R for fitting cognitive diagnosis/diagnostic classification models. We first provide a summary of their core capabilities and then use both simulated and real data to compare their functionalities in practice. We found that the most relevant routines in the two packages appear to be more similar than…

The formation of cosmic structure in a texture-seeded cold dark matter cosmogony

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gooding, Andrew K.; Park, Changbom; Spergel, David N.; Turok, Neil; Gott, Richard, III

1992-01-01

The growth of density fluctuations induced by global texture in an Omega = 1 cold dark matter (CDM) cosmogony is calculated. The resulting power spectra are in good agreement with each other, with more power on large scales than in the standard inflation plus CDM model. Calculation of related statistics (two-point correlation functions, mass variances, cosmic Mach number) indicates that the texture plus CDM model compares more favorably than standard CDM with observations of large-scale structure. Texture produces coherent velocity fields on large scales, as observed. Excessive small-scale velocity dispersions, and voids less empty than those observed may be remedied by including baryonic physics. The topology of the cosmic structure agrees well with observation. The non-Gaussian texture induced density fluctuations lead to earlier nonlinear object formation than in Gaussian models and may also be more compatible with recent evidence that the galaxy density field is non-Gaussian on large scales. On smaller scales the density field is strongly non-Gaussian, but this appears to be primarily due to nonlinear gravitational clustering. The velocity field on smaller scales is surprisingly Gaussian.

The Case for Chronic Disease Management for Addiction

PubMed Central

Saitz, Richard; Larson, Mary Jo; LaBelle, Colleen; Richardson, Jessica; Samet, Jeffrey H.

2009-01-01

Chronic disease (care) management (CDM) is a patient-centered model of care that involves longitudinal care delivery; integrated, and coordinated primary medical and specialty care; patient and clinician education; explicit evidence-based care plans; and expert care availability. The model, incorporating mental health and specialty addiction care, holds promise for improving care for patients with substance dependence who often receive no care or fragmented ineffective care. We describe a CDM model for substance dependence and discuss a conceptual framework, the extensive current evidence for component elements, and a promising strategy to reorganize primary and specialty health care to facilitate access for people with substance dependence. The CDM model goes beyond integrated case management by a professional, colocation of services, and integrated medical and addiction care—elements that individually can improve outcomes. Supporting evidence is presented that: 1) substance dependence is a chronic disease requiring longitudinal care, although most patients with addictions receive no treatment (eg, detoxification only) or short-term interventions, and 2) for other chronic diseases requiring longitudinal care (eg, diabetes, congestive heart failure), CDM has been proven effective. PMID:19809579

Constraints on Cosmological Parameters from the Angular Power Spectrum of a Combined 2500 deg$^2$ SPT-SZ and Planck Gravitational Lensing Map

DOE PAGES

Simard, G.; et al.

2018-06-20

We report constraints on cosmological parameters from the angular power spectrum of a cosmic microwave background (CMB) gravitational lensing potential map created using temperature data from 2500 degmore » $^2$ of South Pole Telescope (SPT) data supplemented with data from Planck in the same sky region, with the statistical power in the combined map primarily from the SPT data. We fit the corresponding lensing angular power spectrum to a model including cold dark matter and a cosmological constant ($$\\Lambda$$CDM), and to models with single-parameter extensions to $$\\Lambda$$CDM. We find constraints that are comparable to and consistent with constraints found using the full-sky Planck CMB lensing data. Specifically, we find $$\\sigma_8 \\Omega_{\\rm m}^{0.25}=0.598 \\pm 0.024$$ from the lensing data alone with relatively weak priors placed on the other $$\\Lambda$$CDM parameters. In combination with primary CMB data from Planck, we explore single-parameter extensions to the $$\\Lambda$$CDM model. We find $$\\Omega_k = -0.012^{+0.021}_{-0.023}$$ or $$M_{\

Influence of confinement layers in the emitting layer of the blue phosphorescent organic light-emitting diodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ji, Chang-Yan; Gu, Zheng-Tian; Kou, Zhi-Qi

2016-10-01

The electrical and optical properties of the blue phosphorescent organic light-emitting diodes (PHOLEDs) can be affected by the various structure of confinement layer in the emitting layer (EML). A series of devices with different electron or hole confinement layer (TCTA or Bphen) are fabricated, it is more effective to balance charge carriers injection for the device with the double electron confinement layers structure, the power efficiency and luminance can reach 17.7 lm/W (at 103 cd/m2) and 3536 cd/m2 (at 8 V). In case of the same double electron confinement layers, another series of devices with different profile of EML are fabricated by changing the confinement layers position, the power efficiency and luminance can be improved to 21.7 lm/W (at 103 cd/m2) and 7674 cd/m2 (at 8 V) when the thickness of EML separated by confinement layers increases gradually from the hole injection side to the electron injection side, the driving voltage can also be reduced.

Constraints on Cosmological Parameters from the Angular Power Spectrum of a Combined 2500 deg$^2$ SPT-SZ and Planck Gravitational Lensing Map

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

Simard, G.; et al.

We report constraints on cosmological parameters from the angular power spectrum of a cosmic microwave background (CMB) gravitational lensing potential map created using temperature data from 2500 degmore » $^2$ of South Pole Telescope (SPT) data supplemented with data from Planck in the same sky region, with the statistical power in the combined map primarily from the SPT data. We fit the corresponding lensing angular power spectrum to a model including cold dark matter and a cosmological constant ($$\\Lambda$$CDM), and to models with single-parameter extensions to $$\\Lambda$$CDM. We find constraints that are comparable to and consistent with constraints found using the full-sky Planck CMB lensing data. Specifically, we find $$\\sigma_8 \\Omega_{\\rm m}^{0.25}=0.598 \\pm 0.024$$ from the lensing data alone with relatively weak priors placed on the other $$\\Lambda$$CDM parameters. In combination with primary CMB data from Planck, we explore single-parameter extensions to the $$\\Lambda$$CDM model. We find $$\\Omega_k = -0.012^{+0.021}_{-0.023}$$ or $$M_{\

Can the Λ CDM model reproduce MOND-like behavior?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dai, De-Chang; Lu, Chunyu

2017-12-01

It is usually believed that MOND can describe the galactic rotational curves with only baryonic matter and without any dark matter very well, while the Λ CDM model is expected to have difficulty in reproducing MOND-like behavior. Here, we use EAGLE's data to learn whether the Λ CDM model can reproduce MOND-like behavior. EAGLE's simulation result clearly reproduces the MOND-like behavior for ab⪆10-12 m/s 2 at z =0 , although the acceleration constant, a0, is a little larger than the observational data indicate. We find that a0 increases with the redshift in a way different from what Milgrom proposed (a0∝H ). Therefore, while galaxy rotation curves can be fitted by MOND's empirical function in the Λ CDM model, there is no clear connection between a0 and the Hubble constant. We also find that a0 at z ⪆1 is well separated from a0 at z =0 . Once we have enough galaxies observed at high redshifts, we will be able to rule out the modified gravity model based on MOND-like empirical function with a z -independent a0.

Benefits of clean development mechanism application on the life cycle assessment perspective: a case study in the palm oil industry.

PubMed

Chuen, Onn Chiu; Yusoff, Sumiani

2012-03-01

This study performed an assessment on the beneficial of the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) application on waste treatment system in a local palm oil industry in Malaysia. Life cycle assessment (LCA) was conducted to assess the environmental impacts of the greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction from the CDM application. Calculations on the emission reduction used the methodology based on AM002 (Avoided Wastewater and On-site Energy Use Emissions in the Industrial Sector) Version 4 published by United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCC). The results from the studies showed that the introduction of CDM in the palm oil mill through conversion of the captured biogas from palm oil mill effluent (POME) treatment into power generation were able to reduce approximate 0.12 tonnes CO2 equivalent concentration (tCO2e) emission and 30 kW x hr power generation per 1 tonne of fresh fruit bunch processed. Thus, the application of CDM methodology on palm oil mill wastewater treatment was able to reduce up to 1/4 of the overall environment impact generated in palm oil mill.

Modeling of Stone-impact Resistance of Monolithic Glass Ply Using Continuum Damage Mechanics

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

Sun, Xin; Khaleel, Mohammad A.; Davies, Richard W.

2005-04-01

We study the stone-impact resistance of a monolithic glass ply using a combined experimental and computational approach. Instrumented stone impact tests were first carried out in controlled environment. Explicit finite element analyses were then used to simulate the interactions of the indentor and the glass layer during the impact event, and a continuum damage mechanics (CDM) model was used to describe the constitutive behavior of glass. The experimentally measured strain histories for low velocity impact served as validation of the modeling procedures. Next, stair-stepping impact experiments were performed with two indentor sizes on two glass ply thickness, and the testmore » results were used to calibrate the critical stress parameters used in the CDM constitutive model. The purpose of this study is to establish the modeling procedures and the CDM critical stress parameters under impact loading conditions. The modeling procedures and the CDM model will be used in our future studies to predict through-thickness damage evolution patterns for different laminated windshield designs in automotive applications.« less

Ultra-high resolution AMOLED

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wacyk, Ihor; Prache, Olivier; Ghosh, Amal

2011-06-01

AMOLED microdisplays continue to show improvement in resolution and optical performance, enhancing their appeal for a broad range of near-eye applications such as night vision, simulation and training, situational awareness, augmented reality, medical imaging, and mobile video entertainment and gaming. eMagin's latest development of an HDTV+ resolution technology integrates an OLED pixel of 3.2 × 9.6 microns in size on a 0.18 micron CMOS backplane to deliver significant new functionality as well as the capability to implement a 1920×1200 microdisplay in a 0.86" diagonal area. In addition to the conventional matrix addressing circuitry, the HDTV+ display includes a very lowpower, low-voltage-differential-signaling (LVDS) serialized interface to minimize cable and connector size as well as electromagnetic emissions (EMI), an on-chip set of look-up-tables for digital gamma correction, and a novel pulsewidth- modulation (PWM) scheme that together with the standard analog control provides a total dimming range of 0.05cd/m2 to 2000cd/m2 in the monochrome version. The PWM function also enables an impulse drive mode of operation that significantly reduces motion artifacts in high speed scene changes. An internal 10-bit DAC ensures that a full 256 gamma-corrected gray levels are available across the entire dimming range, resulting in a measured dynamic range exceeding 20-bits. This device has been successfully tested for operation at frame rates ranging from 30Hz up to 85Hz. This paper describes the operational features and detailed optical and electrical test results for the new AMOLED WUXGA resolution microdisplay.

Improvement of operation voltage and efficiency in inverted blue phosphorescent organic light-emitting devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chang, Chih-Hao; Huang, Hao Siang; Su, Yu-De; Liang, Yi-Hu; Chang, Yu-Shuo; Chiu, Chuan-Hao; Chang, Hsin-Hua

2013-09-01

Inverted organic light-emitting diodes (IOLEDs) have drawn considerable attention for use in active-matrix OLED (AMOLED) displays because of their easy integration with n-channel metal-oxide-based thin film transistors (TFTs). The most crucial issue for IOLEDs is the poor electron injection caused by the bottom cathode. According to previous reports, the turn-on voltages of FIrpic-based IOLEDs are within a range from 4 to 8 V. In this study, we focus on developing bottom-emission IOLEDs with low operating voltages through the use of adequate-charge injection materials. We successfully demonstrate a turn-on voltage as low as 3.7 V for blue phosphorescent IOLEDs. The effective electron injection layers (EIL) were constructed by combining an ultrathin aluminum layer, an alkali metal oxide layer and an organic layer doped with alkali metal oxide, allowing for the effective adjustment of the carrier balance in IOLEDs. The peak efficiencies of the IOLEDs reached 15.6%, 31.8 cd/A and 23.4 lm/W. An external nanocomposite scattering layer was used to further improve light extraction efficiency. The IOLEDs equipped with the SiO2 nanocomposite scattering layer respectively provided performance improvements of 1.3 and 1.5 times that of pristine blue phosphorescent IOLEDs at practical luminance levels of 100 cd/m2 and 1000 cd/m2. Through sophisticated EIL and external light-extraction structures, we obtained blue phosphorescent IOLEDs with satisfactory efficiency and low operation voltages, thereby demonstrating the great potential of nanocomposite film for application in IOLEDs.

Effect of a rehabilitation-based chronic disease management program targeting severe COPD exacerbations on readmission patterns.

PubMed

Lalmolda, C; Coll-Fernández, R; Martínez, N; Baré, M; Teixidó Colet, M; Epelde, F; Monsó, E

2017-01-01

Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) is recommended after a severe COPD exacerbation, but its short- and long-term effects on health care utilization have not been fully established. The aims of this study were to evaluate patient compliance with a chronic disease management (CDM) program incorporating home-based exercise training as the main component after a severe COPD exacerbation and to determine its effects on health care utilization in the following year. COPD patients with a severe exacerbation were included in a case-cohort study at admission. An intervention group participated in a nurse-supervised CDM program during the 2 months after discharge, comprising of home-based PR with exercise components directly supervised by a physiotherapist, while the remaining patients followed usual care. Nineteen of the twenty-one participants (90.5%) were compliant with the CDM program and were compared with 29 usual-care patients. Compliance with the program was associated with statistically significant reductions in admissions due to respiratory disease in the following year (median [interquartile range]: 0 [0-1] vs 1 [0-2.5]; P =0.022) and in days of admission (0 [0-7] vs 7 [0-12]; P =0.034), and multiple linear regression analysis confirmed the protective effect of the CDM program (β coefficient -0.785, P =0.014, and R 2 =0.219). A CDM program incorporating exercise training for COPD patients without limiting comorbidities after a severe exacerbation achieves high compliance and reduces admissions in the year following after the intervention.

Validation of a Cognitive Diagnostic Model across Multiple Forms of a Reading Comprehension Assessment

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Clark, Amy K.

2013-01-01

The present study sought to fit a cognitive diagnostic model (CDM) across multiple forms of a passage-based reading comprehension assessment using the attribute hierarchy method. Previous research on CDMs for reading comprehension assessments served as a basis for the attributes in the hierarchy. The two attribute hierarchies were fit to data from…

Cosmological perturbation theory for baryons and dark matter: One-loop corrections in the renormalized perturbation theory framework

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Somogyi, Gábor; Smith, Robert E.

2010-01-01

We generalize the renormalized perturbation theory (RPT) formalism of Crocce and Scoccimarro [M. Crocce and R. Scoccimarro, Phys. Rev. DPRVDAQ1550-7998 73, 063519 (2006)10.1103/PhysRevD.73.063519] to deal with multiple fluids in the Universe and here we present the complete calculations up to the one-loop level in the RPT. We apply this approach to the problem of following the nonlinear evolution of baryon and cold dark matter (CDM) perturbations, evolving from the distinct sets of initial conditions, from the high redshift post-recombination Universe right through to the present day. In current theoretical and numerical models of structure formation, it is standard practice to treat baryons and CDM as an effective single matter fluid—the so-called dark matter only modeling. In this approximation, one uses a weighed sum of late-time baryon and CDM transfer functions to set initial mass fluctuations. In this paper we explore whether this approach can be employed for high precision modeling of structure formation. We show that, even if we only follow the linear evolution, there is a large-scale scale-dependent bias between baryons and CDM for the currently favored WMAP5 ΛCDM model. This time evolving bias is significant (>1%) until the present day, when it is driven towards unity through gravitational relaxation processes. Using the RPT formalism we test this approximation in the nonlinear regime. We show that the nonlinear CDM power spectrum in the two-component fluid differs from that obtained from an effective mean-mass one-component fluid by ˜3% on scales of order k˜0.05hMpc-1 at z=10, and by ˜0.5% at z=0. However, for the case of the nonlinear evolution of the baryons the situation is worse and we find that the power spectrum is suppressed, relative to the total matter, by ˜15% on scales k˜0.05hMpc-1 at z=10, and by ˜3%-5% at z=0. Importantly, besides the suppression of the spectrum, the baryonic acoustic oscillation (BAO) features are amplified for baryon and slightly damped for CDM spectra. If we compare the total matter power spectra in the two- and one-component fluid approaches, then we find excellent agreement, with deviations being <0.5% throughout the evolution. Consequences: high precision modeling of the large-scale distribution of baryons in the Universe cannot be achieved through an effective mean-mass one-component fluid approximation; detection significance of BAO will be amplified in probes that study baryonic matter, relative to probes that study the CDM or total mass only. The CDM distribution can be modeled accurately at late times and the total matter at all times. This is good news for probes that are sensitive to the total mass, such as gravitational weak lensing as existing modeling techniques are good enough. Lastly, we identify an analytic approximation that greatly simplifies the evaluation of the full PT expressions, and it is better than <1% over the full range of scales and times considered.

Bioavailable Ferric Iron (BAFelll) Assay

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-02-01

citrate dithionite bicarbonate CDBFe citrate dithionite bicarbonate extractable iron cDCE cis-Dichloroethene CDM Camp Dresser & McKee Inc...Defense (DoD) installations. Camp Dresser & McKee Inc. (CDM), in cooperation with the Naval Facilities Engineering Services Center (NFESC), was the...several upgradient and/or cross - gradient background soil samples. Duplicate analysis of samples is recommended. While these recommendations are not

Application of a Cognitive Diagnostic Model to a High-Stakes Reading Comprehension Test

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ravand, Hamdollah

2016-01-01

General cognitive diagnostic models (CDM) such as the generalized deterministic input, noisy, "and" gate (G-DINA) model are flexible in that they allow for both compensatory and noncompensatory relationships among the subskills within the same test. Most of the previous CDM applications in the literature have been add-ons to simulation…

Is a massive tau neutrino just what cold dark matter needs?

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dodelson, Scott; Gyuk, Geza; Turner, Michael S.

1994-01-01

The cold dark matter (CDM) scenario for structure formation in the Universe is very attractive and has many successes; however, when its spectrum of density perturbations is normalized to the COBE anisotropy measurement the level of inhomogeneity predicted on small scales is too large. This can be remedied by a tau neutrino of mass 1 MeV - 10MeV and lifetime 0.1 sec - 100 sec whose decay products include electron neutrinos because it allows the total energy density in relativistic particles to be doubled without interfering with nucleosynthesis. The anisotropies predicted on the degree scale for 'tau CDM' are larger than standard CDM. Experiments at e(sup +/-) collides may be able to probe such a mass range.

Galaxy Cluster Bulk Flows and Collision Velocities in QUMOND

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Katz, Harley; McGaugh, Stacy; Teuben, Peter; Angus, G. W.

2013-07-01

We examine the formation of clusters of galaxies in numerical simulations of a QUMOND cosmogony with massive sterile neutrinos. Clusters formed in these exploratory simulations develop higher velocities than those found in ΛCDM simulations. The bulk motions of clusters attain ~1000 km s-1 by low redshift, comparable to observations whereas ΛCDM simulated clusters tend to fall short. Similarly, high pairwise velocities are common in cluster-cluster collisions like the Bullet Cluster. There is also a propensity for the most massive clusters to be larger in QUMOND and to appear earlier than in ΛCDM, potentially providing an explanation for "pink elephants" like El Gordo. However, it is not obvious that the cluster mass function can be recovered.

A model for the distribution of dark matter, galaxies, and the intergalactic medium in a cold dark matter-dominated universe

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ryu, Dongsu; Vishniac, Ethan T.; Chiang, Wei-Hwan

1989-01-01

The spatial distribution of the cold-dark-matter (CDM) and baryonic components of CDM-dominated cosmological models are characterized, summarizing the results of recent theoretical investigations. The evolution and distribution of matter in an Einstein-de Sitter universe on length scales small enough so that the Newtonian approximation is valid is followed chronologically, assuming (1) that the galaxies, CDM, and the intergalactic medium (IGM) are coupled by gravity, (2) that galaxies form by taking mass and momentum from the IGM, and (3) that the IGM responds to the energy input from the galaxies. The results of the numerical computations are presented in extensive graphs and discussed in detail.

Gravitational lensing in a cold dark matter universe

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Narayan, Ramesh; White, Simon D. M.

1988-01-01

Gravitational lensing due to mass condensations in a biased cold dark matter (CDM) universe is investigated using the Press-Schechter (1974) theory with density fluctuation amplitudes taken from previous N-body work. Under the critical assumption that CDM haloes have small core radii, a distribution of image angular separations for high-z lensed quasars with a peak at about 1 arcsec and a half-width of a factor of about 10. Allowing for selection effects at small angular separations, this is in good agreement with the observed separations. The estimated frequency of lensing is somewhat lower than that observed, but the discrepancy can be removed by invoking amplification bias and by making a small upward adjustment to the density fluctuation amplitudes assumed in the CDM model.

Updated reduced CMB data and constraints on cosmological parameters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cai, Rong-Gen; Guo, Zong-Kuan; Tang, Bo

2015-07-01

We obtain the reduced CMB data {lA, R, z∗} from WMAP9, WMAP9+BKP, Planck+WP and Planck+WP+BKP for the ΛCDM and wCDM models with or without spatial curvature. We then use these reduced CMB data in combination with low-redshift observations to put constraints on cosmological parameters. We find that including BKP results in a higher value of the Hubble constant especially when the equation of state (EOS) of dark energy and curvature are allowed to vary. For the ΛCDM model with curvature, the estimate of the Hubble constant with Planck+WP+Lensing is inconsistent with the one derived from Planck+WP+BKP at about 1.2σ confidence level (CL).

Power spectrum estimation from peculiar velocity catalogues

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Macaulay, E.; Feldman, H. A.; Ferreira, P. G.; Jaffe, A. H.; Agarwal, S.; Hudson, M. J.; Watkins, R.

2012-09-01

The peculiar velocities of galaxies are an inherently valuable cosmological probe, providing an unbiased estimate of the distribution of matter on scales much larger than the depth of the survey. Much research interest has been motivated by the high dipole moment of our local peculiar velocity field, which suggests a large-scale excess in the matter power spectrum and can appear to be in some tension with the Λ cold dark matter (ΛCDM) model. We use a composite catalogue of 4537 peculiar velocity measurements with a characteristic depth of 33 h-1 Mpc to estimate the matter power spectrum. We compare the constraints with this method, directly studying the full peculiar velocity catalogue, to results by Macaulay et al., studying minimum variance moments of the velocity field, as calculated by Feldman, Watkins & Hudson. We find good agreement with the ΛCDM model on scales of k > 0.01 h Mpc-1. We find an excess of power on scales of k < 0.01 h Mpc-1 with a 1σ uncertainty which includes the ΛCDM model. We find that the uncertainty in excess at these scales is larger than an alternative result studying only moments of the velocity field, which is due to the minimum variance weights used to calculate the moments. At small scales, we are able to clearly discriminate between linear and non-linear clustering in simulated peculiar velocity catalogues and find some evidence (although less clear) for linear clustering in the real peculiar velocity data.

Chromium uptake by rice and accumulation in soil amended with municipal solid waste compost.

PubMed

Bhattacharyya, P; Chakraborty, A; Chakrabarti, K; Tripathy, S; Powell, M A

2005-09-01

Effect of addition of municipal solid waste compost (MSWC) on chromium (Cr) content of submerged rice paddies was studied. Experiments were conducted during the three consecutive wet seasons from 1997 to 1999 on rice grown under submergence, at the Experimental Farm of Calcutta University, India. A sequential extraction method was used to determine the various chromium fractions in MSWC and cow dung manure (CDM). Chromium was significantly bound to the organic matter and Fe and Mn oxides in MSWC and CDM. Chromium content in rice straw was higher than in rice grain. Chromium bound with organic matter in MSWC best correlated with straw Cr (r=0.99**) followed by Fe and Mn oxides (r=0.97*) and water soluble as well as exchangeable fractions (r=0.96*). The water soluble and the exchangeable fractions in MSWC best correlated with grain Cr (r=0.98*). The Cr content of rice grain had the highest correlation with water soluble and exchangeable Cr (r=0.99**) while the straw Cr best correlated with the Fe and Mn oxides (r=0.98*). Both the carbonate bound and residual fractions in MSWC and CDM did not significantly correlate with rice straw and grain Cr. MSWC would be a valuable resource for agriculture if it can be used safely, but long-term use may require the cessation of the dumping by the leather tanneries and other major contributors of pollutants.

The first prototype of chromatic pupillometer for objective perimetry in retinal degeneration patients

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rotenstreich, Ygal; Chibel, Ron; Haj Yahia, Soad; Achiron, Asaf; Mahajna, Mohamad; Belkin, Michael; Sher, Ifat

2015-03-01

We recently demonstrated the feasibility of quantifying pupil responses (PR) to multifocal chromatic light stimuli for objectively assessing visual field (VF). Here we assessed a second-generation chromatic multifocal pupillometer device with 76 LEDs of 18 degree visual field and a smaller spot size (2mm diameter), aimed of achieving better perimetric resolution. A computerized infrared pupillometer was used to record PR to short- and long-wavelength stimuli (peak 485 nm and 640 nm, respectively) presented by 76 LEDs, 1.8mm spot size, at light intensities of 10-1000 cd/m2 at different points of the 18 degree VF. PR amplitude was measured in 11 retinitis pigmentosa (RP) patients and 20 normal agedmatched controls. RP patients demonstrated statistically significant reduced pupil contraction amplitude in majority of perimetric locations under testing conditions that emphasized rod contribution (short-wavelength stimuli at 200 cd/m2) in peripheral locations (p<0.05). By contrast, the amplitude of pupillary responses under testing conditions that emphasized cone cell contribution (long-wavelength stimuli at 1000 cd/m2) were not significantly different between the groups in majority of perimetric locations, particularly in central locations. Minimal pupil contraction was recorded in areas that were non-detected by chromatic Goldmann. This study demonstrates the feasibility of using pupillometerbased chromatic perimetry for objectively assessing VF defects and retinal function in patients with retinal degeneration. This method may be used to distinguish between the damaged cells underlying the VF defect.

Universal subhalo accretion in cold and warm dark matter cosmologies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kubik, Bogna; Libeskind, Noam I.; Knebe, Alexander; Courtois, Hélène; Yepes, Gustavo; Gottlöber, Stefan; Hoffman, Yehuda

2017-12-01

The influence of the large-scale structure on host haloes may be studied by examining the angular infall pattern of subhaloes. In particular, since warm dark matter (WDM) and cold dark matter (CDM) cosmologies predict different abundances and internal properties for haloes at the low-mass end of the mass function, it is interesting to examine if there are differences in how these low-mass haloes are accreted. The accretion events are defined as the moment a halo becomes a substructure, namely when it crosses its host's virial radius. We quantify the cosmic web at each point by the shear tensor and examine where, with respect to its eigenvectors, such accretion events occur in ΛCDM and ΛWDM (1 keV sterile neutrino) cosmological models. We find that the CDM and WDM subhaloes are preferentially accreted along the principal axis of the shear tensor corresponding to the direction of weakest collapse. The beaming strength is modulated by the host and subhalo masses and by the redshift at which the accretion event occurs. Although strongest for the most massive hosts and subhaloes at high redshift, the preferential infall is found to be always aligned with the axis of weakest collapse, thus we say that it has universal nature. We compare the strength of beaming in the ΛWDM cosmology with the one found in the ΛCDM scenario. While the main findings remain the same, the accretion in the ΛWDM model for the most massive host haloes appears more beamed than in ΛCDM cosmology across all the redshifts.

Free Vibration Analysis of DWCNTs Using CDM and Rayleigh-Schmidt Based on Nonlocal Euler-Bernoulli Beam Theory

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

The free vibration response of double-walled carbon nanotubes (DWCNTs) is investigated. The DWCNTs are modelled as two beams, interacting between them through the van der Waals forces, and the nonlocal Euler-Bernoulli beam theory is used. The governing equations of motion are derived using a variational approach and the free frequencies of vibrations are obtained employing two different approaches. In the first method, the two double-walled carbon nanotubes are discretized by means of the so-called “cell discretization method” (CDM) in which each nanotube is reduced to a set of rigid bars linked together by elastic cells. The resulting discrete system takes into account nonlocal effects, constraint elasticities, and the van der Waals forces. The second proposed approach, belonging to the semianalytical methods, is an optimized version of the classical Rayleigh quotient, as proposed originally by Schmidt. The resulting conditions are solved numerically. Numerical examples end the paper, in which the two approaches give lower-upper bounds to the true values, and some comparisons with existing results are offered. Comparisons of the present numerical results with those from the open literature show an excellent agreement. PMID:24715807

Beyond Ethnic Tidbits: Toward a Critical and Dialogical Model in Multicultural Social Justice Teacher Preparation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Convertino, Christina

2016-01-01

This praxis article outlines the value of using a critical and dialogical model (CDM) to teach multicultural social justice education to preservice teachers. Based on practitioner research, the article draws on the author's own teaching experiences to highlight how key features of CDM can be used to help pre-service teachers move beyond thinking…

Isotropic vs. anisotropic components of BAO data: a tool for model selection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Haridasu, Balakrishna S.; Luković, Vladimir V.; Vittorio, Nicola

2018-05-01

We conduct a selective analysis of the isotropic (DV) and anisotropic (AP) components of the most recent Baryon Acoustic Oscillations (BAO) data. We find that these components provide significantly different constraints and could provide strong diagnostics for model selection, also in view of more precise data to arrive. For instance, in the ΛCDM model we find a mild tension of ~ 2 σ for the Ωm estimates obtained using DV and AP separately. Considering both Ωk and w as free parameters, we find that the concordance model is in tension with the best-fit values provided by the BAO data alone at 2.2σ. We complemented the BAO data with the Supernovae Ia (SNIa) and Observational Hubble datasets to perform a joint analysis on the ΛCDM model and its standard extensions. By assuming ΛCDM scenario, we find that these data provide H0 = 69.4 ± 1.7 km/s Mpc‑1 as the best-fit value for the present expansion rate. In the kΛCDM scenario we find that the evidence for acceleration using the BAO data alone is more than ~ 5.8σ, which increases to 8.4 σ in our joint analysis.

Enhanced peculiar velocities in brane-induced gravity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wyman, Mark; Khoury, Justin

2010-08-01

The mounting evidence for anomalously large peculiar velocities in our Universe presents a challenge for the ΛCDM paradigm. The recent estimates of the large-scale bulk flow by Watkins et al. are inconsistent at the nearly 3σ level with ΛCDM predictions. Meanwhile, Lee and Komatsu have recently estimated that the occurrence of high-velocity merging systems such as the bullet cluster (1E0657-57) is unlikely at a 6.5-5.8σ level, with an estimated probability between 3.3×10-11 and 3.6×10-9 in ΛCDM cosmology. We show that these anomalies are alleviated in a broad class of infrared-modifed gravity theories, called brane-induced gravity, in which gravity becomes higher-dimensional at ultralarge distances. These theories include additional scalar forces that enhance gravitational attraction and therefore speed up structure formation at late times and on sufficiently large scales. The peculiar velocities are enhanced by 24-34% compared to standard gravity, with the maximal enhancement nearly consistent at the 2σ level with bulk flow observations. The occurrence of the bullet cluster in these theories is ≈104 times more probable than in ΛCDM cosmology.

Enhanced peculiar velocities in brane-induced gravity

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

Wyman, Mark; Khoury, Justin

The mounting evidence for anomalously large peculiar velocities in our Universe presents a challenge for the {Lambda}CDM paradigm. The recent estimates of the large-scale bulk flow by Watkins et al. are inconsistent at the nearly 3{sigma} level with {Lambda}CDM predictions. Meanwhile, Lee and Komatsu have recently estimated that the occurrence of high-velocity merging systems such as the bullet cluster (1E0657-57) is unlikely at a 6.5-5.8{sigma} level, with an estimated probability between 3.3x10{sup -11} and 3.6x10{sup -9} in {Lambda}CDM cosmology. We show that these anomalies are alleviated in a broad class of infrared-modifed gravity theories, called brane-induced gravity, in which gravitymore » becomes higher-dimensional at ultralarge distances. These theories include additional scalar forces that enhance gravitational attraction and therefore speed up structure formation at late times and on sufficiently large scales. The peculiar velocities are enhanced by 24-34% compared to standard gravity, with the maximal enhancement nearly consistent at the 2{sigma} level with bulk flow observations. The occurrence of the bullet cluster in these theories is {approx_equal}10{sup 4} times more probable than in {Lambda}CDM cosmology.« less

Commensurate 4a0-period charge density modulations throughout the Bi2Sr2CaCu2O8+x pseudogap regime

PubMed Central

Mesaros, Andrej; Fujita, Kazuhiro; Edkins, Stephen D.; Hamidian, Mohammad H.; Eisaki, Hiroshi; Uchida, Shin-ichi; Davis, J. C. Séamus; Lawler, Michael J.; Kim, Eun-Ah

2016-01-01

Theories based upon strong real space (r-space) electron–electron interactions have long predicted that unidirectional charge density modulations (CDMs) with four-unit-cell (4a0) periodicity should occur in the hole-doped cuprate Mott insulator (MI). Experimentally, however, increasing the hole density p is reported to cause the conventionally defined wavevector QA of the CDM to evolve continuously as if driven primarily by momentum-space (k-space) effects. Here we introduce phase-resolved electronic structure visualization for determination of the cuprate CDM wavevector. Remarkably, this technique reveals a virtually doping-independent locking of the local CDM wavevector at |Q0|=2π/4a0 throughout the underdoped phase diagram of the canonical cuprate Bi2Sr2CaCu2O8. These observations have significant fundamental consequences because they are orthogonal to a k-space (Fermi-surface)–based picture of the cuprate CDMs but are consistent with strong-coupling r-space–based theories. Our findings imply that it is the latter that provides the intrinsic organizational principle for the cuprate CDM state. PMID:27791157

What do parameterized Om(z) diagnostics tell us in light of recent observations?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qi, Jing-Zhao; Cao, Shuo; Biesiada, Marek; Xu, Teng-Peng; Wu, Yan; Zhang, Si-Xuan; Zhu, Zong-Hong

2018-06-01

In this paper, we propose a new parametrization for Om(z) diagnostics and show how the most recent and significantly improved observations concerning the H(z) and SN Ia measurements can be used to probe the consistency or tension between the ΛCDM model and observations. Our results demonstrate that H 0 plays a very important role in the consistency test of ΛCDM with H(z) data. Adopting the Hubble constant priors from Planck 2013 and Riess, one finds considerable tension between the current H(z) data and ΛCDM model and confirms the conclusions obtained previously by others. However, with the Hubble constant prior taken from WMAP9, the discrepancy between H(z) data and ΛCDM disappears, i.e., the current H(z) observations still support the cosmological constant scenario. This conclusion is also supported by the results derived from the Joint Light-curve Analysis (JLA) SN Ia sample. The best-fit Hubble constant from the combination of H(z)+JLA ({H}0={68.81}-1.49+1.50 km s‑1 Mpc‑1) is very consistent with results derived both by Planck 2013 and WMAP9, but is significantly different from the recent local measurement by Riess.

Small scale clustering of late forming dark matter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Agarwal, S.; Corasaniti, P.-S.; Das, S.; Rasera, Y.

2015-09-01

We perform a study of the nonlinear clustering of matter in the late-forming dark matter (LFDM) scenario in which dark matter results from the transition of a nonminimally coupled scalar field from radiation to collisionless matter. A distinct feature of this model is the presence of a damped oscillatory cutoff in the linear matter power spectrum at small scales. We use a suite of high-resolution N-body simulations to study the imprints of LFDM on the nonlinear matter power spectrum, the halo mass and velocity functions and the halo density profiles. The model largely satisfies high-redshift matter power spectrum constraints from Lyman-α forest measurements, while it predicts suppressed abundance of low-mass halos (˜109- 1010 h-1 M⊙ ) at all redshifts compared to a vanilla Λ CDM model. The analysis of the LFDM halo velocity function shows a better agreement than the Λ CDM prediction with the observed abundance of low-velocity galaxies in the local volume. Halos with mass M ≳1011 h-1 M⊙ show minor departures of the density profiles from Λ CDM expectations, while smaller-mass halos are less dense, consistent with the fact that they form later than their Λ CDM counterparts.

High-z objects and cold dark matter cosmogonies - Constraints on the primordial power spectrum on small scales

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kashlinsky, A.

1993-01-01

Modified cold dark matter (CDM) models were recently suggested to account for large-scale optical data, which fix the power spectrum on large scales, and the COBE results, which would then fix the bias parameter, b. We point out that all such models have deficit of small-scale power where density fluctuations are presently nonlinear, and should then lead to late epochs of collapse of scales M between 10 exp 9 - 10 exp 10 solar masses and (1-5) x 10 exp 14 solar masses. We compute the probabilities and comoving space densities of various scale objects at high redshifts according to the CDM models and compare these with observations of high-z QSOs, high-z galaxies and the protocluster-size object found recently by Uson et al. (1992) at z = 3.4. We show that the modified CDM models are inconsistent with the observational data on these objects. We thus suggest that in order to account for the high-z objects, as well as the large-scale and COBE data, one needs a power spectrum with more power on small scales than CDM models allow and an open universe.

[Infrastructure and contents of clinical data management plan].

PubMed

Shen, Tong; Xu, Lie-dong; Fu, Hai-jun; Liu, Yan; He, Jia; Chen, Ping-yan; Song, Yu-fei

2015-11-01

Establishment of quality management system (QMS) plays a critical role in the clinical data management (CDM). The objectives of CDM are to ensure the quality and integrity of the trial data. Thus, every stage or element that may impact the quality outcomes of clinical studies should be in the controlled manner, which is referred to the full life cycle of CDM associated with the data collection, handling and statistical analysis of trial data. Based on the QMS, this paper provides consensus on how to develop a compliant clinical data management plan (CDMP). According to the essential requirements of the CDM, the CDMP should encompass each process of data collection, data capture and cleaning, medical coding, data verification and reconciliation, database monitoring and management, external data transmission and integration, data documentation and data quality assurance and so on. Creating and following up data management plan in each designed data management steps, dynamically record systems used, actions taken, parties involved will build and confirm regulated data management processes, standard operational procedures and effective quality metrics in all data management activities. CDMP is one of most important data management documents that is the solid foundation for clinical data quality.

Commensurate 4 a 0 -period charge density modulations throughout the Bi 2 Sr 2 CaCu 2 O 8+x pseudogap regime

DOE PAGES

Mesaros, Andrej; Fujita, Kazuhiro; Edkins, Stephen D.; ...

2016-10-20

Theories based upon strong real space (r-space) electron–electron interactions have long predicted that unidirectional charge density modulations (CDMs) with four-unit-cell (4 a0) periodicity should occur in the hole-doped cuprate Mott insulator (MI). But, increasing the hole density p is reported to cause the conventionally defined wavevector Q A of the CDM to evolve continuously as if driven primarily by momentum-space (k-space) effects. We introduce phase-resolved electronic structure visualization for determination of the cuprate CDM wavevector. Remarkably, this technique reveals a virtually doping-independent locking of the local CDM wavevector at |Q 0|=2π/4 a0 throughout the underdoped phase diagram of the canonicalmore » cuprate Bi 2Sr 2CaCu 2O 8. Our observations have significant fundamental consequences because they are orthogonal to a k-space (Fermi-surface)–based picture of the cuprate CDMs but are consistent with strong-coupling r-space–based theories. Our findings imply that it is the latter that provides the intrinsic organizational principle for the cuprate CDM state.« less

Dark energy constraints in light of Pantheon SNe Ia, BAO, cosmic chronometers and CMB polarization and lensing data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Deng

2018-06-01

To explore whether there is new physics going beyond the standard cosmological model or not, we constrain seven cosmological models by combining the latest and largest Pantheon Type Ia supernovae sample with the data combination of baryonic acoustic oscillations, cosmic microwave background radiation, Planck lensing and cosmic chronometers. We find that a spatially flat universe is preferred in the framework of Λ CDM cosmology, that the constrained equation of state of dark energy is very consistent with the cosmological constant hypothesis in the ω CDM model, that there is no evidence of dynamical dark energy in the dark energy density-parametrization model, that there is no hint of interaction between dark matter and dark energy in the dark sector of the universe in the decaying vacuum model, and that there does not exist the sterile neutrino in the neutrino sector of the universe in the Λ CDM model. We also give the 95% upper limit of the total mass of three active neutrinos Σ mν<0.178 eV under the assumption of Λ CDM scenario. It is clear that there is no any departure from the standard cosmological model based on current observational datasets.

A hydrodynamic approach to cosmology: The mixed dark matter cosmological scenario

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cen, Renyue; Ostriker, Jeremiah P.

1994-01-01

We compute the evolution of spatially flat, mixed cold and hot dark matter models containing both baryonic matter and two kinds of dark matter. Hydrodynamics is treated with a highly developed Eulerian hydrodynamic code (see Cen 1992). A standard particle-mesh (PM) code is also used in parallel to calculate the motion of the dark matter components. We adopt the following parameters: h equivalent to (sub 0)/100 km/s Mpc(exp -1) = 0.5, OMEGA(sub C) = 0.3, and OMEGA(sub B) = 0.06, with amplitude of the perturbation spectrum fixed by the Cosmic Background Explorer Satellite (COBE) Dark Matter Radiation (DMR) measurements (Smoot et al. 1992) being sigma (sub 8) = 0.67. Four different boxes are simulated with box sizes of L = (64, 16, 4, 1) h(exp -1) Mpc, respectively, the two small boxes providing good resolution but little valid information due to absence of large-scale power. We use 128(exp 3) approximate 10(exp 6.3) baryonic cells, 128(exp .3) cold dark matter particles, and 2 x 128(exp 3) hot dark matter particles. In addition to the dark matter we follow separately six baryonic species (H, H(+), He, He(+), He(++), e(-)) with allowance for both (nonequilibrium) collisional and radiative ionization in every cell. The background radiation field is also followed in detail with allowance made for both continuum and line processes, to allow nonequilibrium heating and cooling processes to be followed in detail. The mean final Zeldovich-Sunyaev y parameter is estimated to be y Bar = (5.4 + or - 2.7) x 10(exp -7) below currently attainable observations, with a rms fluctuation of approximately delta bar y = (0.6 + or - 3.0) x 10(exp -7) on arcminute scales. The rate of galaxy formation peaks at an even later epoch (z approximate 0.3) than in the standard (OMEGA = 1, sigma sub 8 = 0.67) cold dark matter (CDM) model (z approximate 0.5) and, at a redshift of z = 4, is nearly a factor of 100 lower than for the CDM model with the same value of sigma sub 8. With regard to mass function, the smallest objects are stabilized against collapse by thermal energy: the mass-weighted mass spectrum has a broad peak in the vicinity of M(sub B) = 10(exp 9.5) solar mass with a reasonable fit to the Schechter luminosity function if the ratio of baryon mass to blue light is approximately 4. In addition, one very large PM simulation was made in a box with size (320 h(exp - 1) Mpc) containing 3 x 200(exp 3) = 10(exp 7.4) particles. Utilizing this simulation we find that the model yields a cluster mass function which is about a factor of 4 higher than observed, but a cluster-cluster correlation length marginally lower than observed, but that both are closer to observations than in the (COBE) normalized CDM model. The one-dimensional pairwise velocity dispersion is 605 + or - 8 km/s at 1/h separation, lower than that of the DCM model normalized to COBE, but still significant higher than observations (Davis & Peebles 1983). A plausible velocity bias b(sub v) = 0.8 + or - 0.1 on this scale will reduce but not remove the discrepancy. The velocity auto-correlat ion function has a coherence length of 40/h Mpc, which is somewhat lower than the observed counterpart. In all these respects the model would be improved by decreasing the cold fraction of the dark OMEGA(sub CDM)/ (OMEGA(sub CDM) + OMEGA(sub HDB). But formation of galaxies and clusters of galaxies is much later in this model than in COBE-normalized CDM, perhaps too late. To improve on these constraints a larger ratio of OMEGA(sub CDM)/ (OMEGA(sub CDM) + OMEGA(sub HDM)) is required than the value of 0.67 adopted here. It does not seem possible to find a value for this ratio which would satisfy all tests. Overall, the model is similar both on large and intermediate scales to the standard CDM model normalized to the same value of sigma(sub B), but the problem with regard to late formation of galaxies is more severe in this model than in that CDM model. Adding hot dark matter, significantly improves the ability of the COBE-normalized CDM scenario to fit existing observations, but the model is in fact not as good as the CDM model with the same sigma(sub 8) and is still probably unsatisfactory with regard to several critical tests.

GALAXY CLUSTER BULK FLOWS AND COLLISION VELOCITIES IN QUMOND

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

Katz, Harley; McGaugh, Stacy; Teuben, Peter

We examine the formation of clusters of galaxies in numerical simulations of a QUMOND cosmogony with massive sterile neutrinos. Clusters formed in these exploratory simulations develop higher velocities than those found in {Lambda}CDM simulations. The bulk motions of clusters attain {approx}1000 km s{sup -1} by low redshift, comparable to observations whereas {Lambda}CDM simulated clusters tend to fall short. Similarly, high pairwise velocities are common in cluster-cluster collisions like the Bullet Cluster. There is also a propensity for the most massive clusters to be larger in QUMOND and to appear earlier than in {Lambda}CDM, potentially providing an explanation for ''pink elephants''more » like El Gordo. However, it is not obvious that the cluster mass function can be recovered.« less

Padé Approximant and Minimax Rational Approximation in Standard Cosmology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zaninetti, Lorenzo

2016-02-01

The luminosity distance in the standard cosmology as given by $\\Lambda$CDM and consequently the distance modulus for supernovae can be defined by the Pad\\'e approximant. A comparison with a known analytical solution shows that the Pad\\'e approximant for the luminosity distance has an error of $4\\%$ at redshift $= 10$. A similar procedure for the Taylor expansion of the luminosity distance gives an error of $4\\%$ at redshift $=0.7 $; this means that for the luminosity distance, the Pad\\'e approximation is superior to the Taylor series. The availability of an analytical expression for the distance modulus allows applying the Levenberg--Marquardt method to derive the fundamental parameters from the available compilations for supernovae. A new luminosity function for galaxies derived from the truncated gamma probability density function models the observed luminosity function for galaxies when the observed range in absolute magnitude is modeled by the Pad\\'e approximant. A comparison of $\\Lambda$CDM with other cosmologies is done adopting a statistical point of view.

Expert System Development Methodology (ESDM)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sary, Charisse; Gilstrap, Lewey; Hull, Larry G.

1990-01-01

The Expert System Development Methodology (ESDM) provides an approach to developing expert system software. Because of the uncertainty associated with this process, an element of risk is involved. ESDM is designed to address the issue of risk and to acquire the information needed for this purpose in an evolutionary manner. ESDM presents a life cycle in which a prototype evolves through five stages of development. Each stage consists of five steps, leading to a prototype for that stage. Development may proceed to a conventional development methodology (CDM) at any time if enough has been learned about the problem to write requirements. ESDM produces requirements so that a product may be built with a CDM. ESDM is considered preliminary because is has not yet been applied to actual projects. It has been retrospectively evaluated by comparing the methods used in two ongoing expert system development projects that did not explicitly choose to use this methodology but which provided useful insights into actual expert system development practices and problems.

Incentivised chronic disease management and the inverse equity hypothesis: findings from a longitudinal analysis of Scottish primary care practice-level data.

PubMed

Lowrie, Richard; McConnachie, Alex; Williamson, Andrea E; Kontopantelis, Evangelos; Forrest, Marie; Lannigan, Norman; Mercer, Stewart W; Mair, Frances S

2017-04-11

The inverse equity hypothesis asserts that new health policies initially widen inequality, then attenuate inequalities over time. Since 2004, the UK's pay-for-performance scheme for chronic disease management (CDM) in primary care general practices (the Quality and Outcomes Framework) has permitted practices to except (exclude) patients from attending annual CDM reviews, without financial penalty. Informed dissent (ID) is one component of exception rates, applied to patients who have not attended due to refusal or non-response to invitations. 'Population achievement' describes the proportion receiving care, in relation to those eligible to receive it, including excepted patients. Examination of exception reporting (including ID) and population achievement enables the equity impact of the UK pay-for-performance contract to be assessed. We conducted a longitudinal analysis of practice-level rates and of predictors of ID, overall exceptions and population achievement for CDM to examine whether the inverse equity hypothesis holds true. We carried out a retrospective, longitudinal study using routine primary care data, analysed by multilevel logistic regression. Data were extracted from 793 practices (83% of Scottish general practices) serving 4.4 million patients across Scotland from 2010/2011 to 2012/2013, for 29 CDM indicators covering 11 incentivised diseases. This provided 68,991 observations, representing a total of 15 million opportunities for exception reporting. Across all observations, the median overall exception reporting rate was 7.0% (7.04% in 2010-2011; 7.02% in 2011-2012 and 6.92% in 2012-2013). The median non-attendance rate due to ID was 0.9% (0.76% in 2010-2011; 0.88% in 2011-2012 and 0.96% in 2012-2013). Median population achievement was 83.5% (83.51% in 2010-2011; 83.41% in 2011-2012 and 83.63% in 2012-2013). The odds of ID reporting in 2012/2013 were 16.0% greater than in 2010/2011 (p < 0.001). Practices in Scotland's most deprived communities were twice as likely to report non-attendance due to ID (odds ratio 2.10, 95% confidence interval 1.83-2.40, p < 0.001) compared with those in the least deprived; rural practices reported lower levels of non-attendance due to ID. These predictors were also independently associated with overall exceptions. Rates of population achievement did not change over time, with higher levels (higher remuneration) associated with increased rates of overall and ID exception and more affluent practices. Non-attendance for CDM due to ID has risen over time, and higher rates are seen in patients from practices located in disadvantaged areas. This suggests that CDM incentivisation does not conform to the inverse equity hypothesis, because inequalities are widening over time with lower uptake of anticipatory care health checks and CDM reviews noted among those most in need. Incentivised CDM needs to include incentives for engaging with the 'hard to reach' if inequalities in healthcare delivery are to be tackled.

Fabrication of Vertical Organic Light-Emitting Transistor Using ZnO Thin Film

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yamauchi, Hiroshi; Iizuka, Masaaki; Kudo, Kazuhiro

2007-04-01

Organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) combined with thin film transistor (TFT) are well suitable elements for low-cost, large-area active matrix displays. On the other hand, zinc oxide (ZnO) is a transparent material and its electrical conductivity is controlled from conductive to insulating by growth conditions. The drain current of ZnO FET is 180 μA. The OLED uses ZnO thin film (Al-doped) for the electron injection layer and is controlled by radio frequency (rf) and direct current (dc) sputtering conditions, such as Al concentration and gas pressure. Al concentration in the ZnO film and deposition rate have strong effects on electron injection. Furthermore, the OLED driven by ZnO FET shows a luminance of 13 cd/m2, a luminance efficiency of 0.7 cd/A, and an on-off ratio of 650.

Cosmology with the largest galaxy cluster surveys: going beyond Fisher matrix forecasts

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

Khedekar, Satej; Majumdar, Subhabrata, E-mail: satej@mpa-garching.mpg.de, E-mail: subha@tifr.res.in

2013-02-01

We make the first detailed MCMC likelihood study of cosmological constraints that are expected from some of the largest, ongoing and proposed, cluster surveys in different wave-bands and compare the estimates to the prevalent Fisher matrix forecasts. Mock catalogs of cluster counts expected from the surveys — eROSITA, WFXT, RCS2, DES and Planck, along with a mock dataset of follow-up mass calibrations are analyzed for this purpose. A fair agreement between MCMC and Fisher results is found only in the case of minimal models. However, for many cases, the marginalized constraints obtained from Fisher and MCMC methods can differ bymore » factors of 30-100%. The discrepancy can be alarmingly large for a time dependent dark energy equation of state, w(a); the Fisher methods are seen to under-estimate the constraints by as much as a factor of 4-5. Typically, Fisher estimates become more and more inappropriate as we move away from ΛCDM, to a constant-w dark energy to varying-w dark energy cosmologies. Fisher analysis, also, predicts incorrect parameter degeneracies. There are noticeable offsets in the likelihood contours obtained from Fisher methods that is caused due to an asymmetry in the posterior likelihood distribution as seen through a MCMC analysis. From the point of mass-calibration uncertainties, a high value of unknown scatter about the mean mass-observable relation, and its redshift dependence, is seen to have large degeneracies with the cosmological parameters σ{sub 8} and w(a) and can degrade the cosmological constraints considerably. We find that the addition of mass-calibrated cluster datasets can improve dark energy and σ{sub 8} constraints by factors of 2-3 from what can be obtained from CMB+SNe+BAO only . Finally, we show that a joint analysis of datasets of two (or more) different cluster surveys would significantly tighten cosmological constraints from using clusters only. Since, details of future cluster surveys are still being planned, we emphasize that optimal survey design must be done using MCMC analysis rather than Fisher forecasting.« less

Radio telescope search for the resonant conversion of cold dark matter axions from the magnetized astrophysical sources

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Fa Peng; Kadota, Kenji; Sekiguchi, Toyokazu; Tashiro, Hiroyuki

2018-06-01

We study the conditions for the adiabatic resonant conversion of the cold dark matter (CDM) axions into photons in the astrophysically sourced strong magnetic fields such as those in the neutron star magnetosphere. We demonstrate the possibility that the forthcoming radio telescopes such as the SKA (Square Kilometre Array) can probe those photon signals from the CDM axions.

Quantifying the biological impact of surface ocean light attenuation by colored detrital matter in an ESM using a new optical parameterization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, G. E.; Pradal, M.-A.; Gnanadesikan, A.

2015-08-01

Light attenuation by colored detrital material (CDM) was included in a fully coupled Earth system model (ESM). This study presents a modified parameterization for shortwave attenuation, which is an empirical relationship between 244 concurrent measurements of the diffuse attenuation coefficient for downwelling irradiance, chlorophyll concentration and light absorption by CDM. Two ESM model runs using this parameterization were conducted, with and without light absorption by CDM. The light absorption coefficient for CDM was prescribed as the average of annual composite MODIS Aqua satellite data from 2002 to 2013. Comparing results from the two model runs shows that changes in light limitation associated with the inclusion of CDM decoupled trends between surface biomass and nutrients. Increases in surface biomass were expected to accompany greater nutrient uptake and therefore diminish surface nutrients. Instead, surface chlorophyll, biomass and nutrients increased together. These changes can be attributed to the different impact of light limitation on surface productivity versus total productivity. Chlorophyll and biomass increased near the surface but decreased at greater depths when CDM was included. The net effect over the euphotic zone was less total biomass leading to higher nutrient concentrations. Similar results were found in a regional analysis of the oceans by biome, investigating the spatial variability of response to changes in light limitation using a single parameterization for the surface ocean. In coastal regions, surface chlorophyll increased by 35 % while total integrated phytoplankton biomass diminished by 18 %. The largest relative increases in modeled surface chlorophyll and biomass in the open ocean were found in the equatorial biomes, while the largest decreases in depth-integrated biomass and chlorophyll were found in the subpolar and polar biomes. This mismatch of surface and subsurface trends and their regional dependence was analyzed by comparing the competing factors of diminished light availability and increased nutrient availability on phytoplankton growth in the upper 200 m. Understanding changes in biological productivity requires both surface and depth-resolved information. Surface trends may be minimal or of the opposite sign than depth-integrated amounts, depending on the vertical structure of phytoplankton abundance.

Strong gravitational lensing statistics as a test of cosmogonic scenarios

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cen, Renyue; Gott, J. Richard, III; Ostriker, Jeremiah P.; Turner, Edwin L.

1994-01-01

Gravitational lensing statistics can provide a direct and powerful test of cosmic structure formation theories. Since lensing tests, directly, the magnitude of the nonlinear mass density fluctuations on lines of sight to distant objects, no issues of 'bias' (of mass fluctuations with respect to galaxy density fluctuations) exist here, although lensing observations provide their own ambiguities of interpretation. We develop numerical techniques for generating model density distributions with the very large spatial dynamic range required by lensing considerations and for identifying regions of the simulations capable of multiple image lensing in a conservative and computationally efficient way that should be accurate for splittings significantly larger than 3 seconds. Applying these techniques to existing standard Cold dark matter (CDM) (Omega = 1) and Primeval Baryon Isocurvature (PBI) (Omega = 0.2) simulations (normalized to the Cosmic Background Explorer Satellite (COBE) amplitude), we find that the CDM model predicts large splitting (greater than 8 seconds) lensing events roughly an order-of-magnitude more frequently than the PBI model. Under the reasonable but idealized assumption that lensing structrues can be modeled as singular isothermal spheres (SIS), the predictions can be directly compared to observations of lensing events in quasar samples. Several large splitting (Delta Theta is greater than 8 seconds) cases are predicted in the standard CDM model (the exact number being dependent on the treatment of amplification bias), whereas none is observed. In a formal sense, the comparison excludes the CDM model at high confidence (essentially for the same reason that CDM predicts excessive small-scale cosmic velocity dispersions.) A very rough assessment of low-density but flat CDM model (Omega = 0.3, Lambda/3H(sup 2 sub 0) = 0.7) indicates a far lower and probably acceptable level of lensing. The PBI model is consistent with, but not strongly tested by, the available lensing data, and other open models would presumably do as well as PBI. These preliminary conclusions and the assumptions on which they are based can be tested and the analysis can be applied to other cosmogonic models by straightforward extension of the work presented here.

The Quaternary impact record from the Pampas, Argentina

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schultz, Peter H.; Zárate, Marcelo; Hames, Bill; Koeberl, Christian; Bunch, Theodore; Storzer, Dieter; Renne, Paul; Wittke, James

2004-03-01

Loess-like deposits cover much of central Argentina and preserve a rich record of impacts since the late Miocene. The present contribution focuses on two localities containing Quaternary impact glasses: along the coastal sequences near Centinela del Mar (CdM) and from near Rio Cuarto (RC). These highly vesicular glasses contain clear evidence for an impact origin including temperatures sufficient to melt most mineral constituents (1700°C) and to leave unique quench products such as β-cristobolite. The CdM glasses occur within a relatively narrow horizon just below a marine transgression expressed by a series of coastal paleo-dunes and systematic changes in the underlying sediments. High-resolution 40Ar/39Ar dating methods yielded an age of 445±21 ka (2σ). Glasses were also recovered from scattered occurrences lower in the section but were dated to 230±40 ka. This inconsistency between stratigraphic and radiometric age is most likely related to a nearby outcrop of glass that had been exposed and locally re-deposited in coastal lagoons during the last marine transgression at 125 ka. Sediments containing the original impact glass layer are now missing due to an unconformity, perhaps related to subsequent marine transgressions after the impact (410 ka and 340 ka) and hiatuses in deposition. Two different types of impact glasses from RC yield two distinct dates. High-resolution 40Ar/39Ar dating of fresher-appearing glasses (well-preserved tachylitic sheen) indicates an age of 6±2 ka (2σ). Independent fission track analyses yielded a similar age of 2.3±1.6 ka (2σ). More weathered glasses, however, gave significantly older ages of 114±26 ka (2σ). Consequently, materials from two separate Quaternary impacts have been recovered at Rio Cuarto. The younger glasses are consistent with previously reported carbon dates for materials on the floor of one of the large elongate structures. The depths of excavation for the RC and CdM impacts are very different. While the RC glasses are largely derived from near-surface materials, the CdM glasses from the upper level contain added components consistent with Miocene marine evaporites at a depth of about 400-500 m (e.g., high CaO and P2O5). The CdM glasses also incorporated older loess-like sediments from depth based on the geochemistry. Several ratios of key trace and rare earth elements of sediments of different ages from the Miocene to the Holocene indicate a systematic compositional change through time. Such changes calibrate the observed differences in glass composition from their host sediments and further indicate incorporation of materials from depth. Consequently, the Argentine loess-like sediments preserve evidence for at least four separate Quaternary impacts. Based on foreign components in the glasses, the CdM impact very likely produced a crater (now buried or eroded) once as large as 6 km in diameter. The younger RC glasses, however, are consistent with shallower excavation consistent with an oblique impact.

Computerized Color Vision Test Based Upon Postreceptoral Channel Sensitivities

PubMed Central

E, Miyahara; J, Pokorny; VC, Smith; E, Szewczyk; J, McCartin; K, Caldwell; A, Klerer

2006-01-01

An automated, computerized color vision test was designed to diagnose congenital red-green color vision defects. The observer viewed a yellow appearing CRT screen. The principle was to measure increment thresholds for three different chromaticities, the background yellow, a red, and a green chromaticity. Spatial and temporal parameters were chosen to favor parvocellular pathway mediation of thresholds. Thresholds for the three test stimuli were estimated by 4AFC, randomly interleaved staircases. Four 1.5°, 4.2 cd/m2 square pedestals were arranged as a 2 x 2 matrix around the center of the display with 15’ separations. A trial incremented all four squares by 1.0 cd/m2 for 133 msec. One randomly chosen square included an extra increment of a test chromaticity. The observer identified the different appearing square using the cursor. Administration time was ~5 minutes. Normal trichromats showed clear Sloan notch as defined by log (ΔY/ΔR), whereas red-green color defectives generally showed little or no Sloan notch, indicating that their thresholds were mediated by their luminance system, not by the chromatic system. Data from 107 normal trichromats showed a mean Sloan notch of 0.654 (SD = 0.123). Among 16 color vision defectives tested (2 protanopes, 1 protanomal, 6 deuteranopes, 7 deuteranomals), the Sloan notch was between −0.062 and 0.353 for deutans and was < −0.10 for protans. A sufficient number of color defective observers have not yet been tested to determine whether the test can reliably discriminate between protans and deutans. Nevertheless, the current data show that the test can work as a quick diagnostic procedure (functional trichromatism or dichromatism) of red-green color vision defect. PMID:15518231

Influence of calcium depletion on iron-binding properties of milk.

PubMed

Mittal, V A; Ellis, A; Ye, A; Das, S; Singh, H

2015-04-01

We investigated the effects of calcium depletion on the binding of iron in milk. A weakly acidic cation-exchange resin was used to remove 3 different levels (18-22, 50-55, and 68-72%) of calcium from milk. Five levels of iron (5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 mM) were added to each of these calcium-depleted milks (CDM) and the resultant milks were analyzed for particle size, microstructure, and the distribution of protein and minerals between the colloidal and soluble phases. The depletion of calcium affected the distribution of protein and minerals in normal milk. Iron added to normal milk and low-CDM (~20% calcium depletion) bound mainly to the colloidal phase (material sedimented at 100,000 × g for 1 h at 20 °C), with little effect on the integrity of the casein micelles. Depletion of ~70% of the calcium from milk resulted in almost complete disintegration of the casein micelles, as indicated by all the protein remaining in the soluble phase upon ultracentrifugation. Addition of up to ~20 mM iron to high CDM resulted in the formation of small fibrous structures that remained in the soluble phase of milk. It appeared that the iron bound to soluble (nonsedimentable) caseins in high-CDM. We observed a decrease in the aqueous phosphorus content of all milks upon iron addition, irrespective of their calcium content. We considered the interaction between aqueous phosphorus and added iron to be responsible for the high iron-binding capacity of the proteins in milk. The soluble protein-iron complexes formed in high-CDM (~70% calcium depletion) could be used as an effective iron fortificant for a range of food products because of their good solubility characteristics. Copyright © 2015 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Disentangling interacting dark energy cosmologies with the three-point correlation function

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moresco, Michele; Marulli, Federico; Baldi, Marco; Moscardini, Lauro; Cimatti, Andrea

2014-10-01

We investigate the possibility of constraining coupled dark energy (cDE) cosmologies using the three-point correlation function (3PCF). Making use of the CODECS N-body simulations, we study the statistical properties of cold dark matter (CDM) haloes for a variety of models, including a fiducial ΛCDM scenario and five models in which dark energy (DE) and CDM mutually interact. We measure both the halo 3PCF, ζ(θ), and the reduced 3PCF, Q(θ), at different scales (2 < r [h-1 Mpc ] < 40) and redshifts (0 ≤ z ≤ 2). In all cDE models considered in this work, Q(θ) appears flat at small scales (for all redshifts) and at low redshifts (for all scales), while it builds up the characteristic V-shape anisotropy at increasing redshifts and scales. With respect to the ΛCDM predictions, cDE models show lower (higher) values of the halo 3PCF for perpendicular (elongated) configurations. The effect is also scale-dependent, with differences between ΛCDM and cDE models that increase at large scales. We made use of these measurements to estimate the halo bias, that results in fair agreement with the one computed from the two-point correlation function (2PCF). The main advantage of using both the 2PCF and 3PCF is to break the bias-σ8 degeneracy. Moreover, we find that our bias estimates are approximately independent of the assumed strength of DE coupling. This study demonstrates the power of a higher order clustering analysis in discriminating between alternative cosmological scenarios, for both present and forthcoming galaxy surveys, such as e.g. Baryon Oscillation Spectroscopic Survey and Euclid.

Development of a Highly Efficient Hybrid White Organic-Light-Emitting Diode with a Single Emission Layer by Solution Processing.

PubMed

Wu, Jun-Yi; Chen, Show-An

2018-02-07

We use a mixed host, 2,6-bis[3-(carbazol-9-yl)phenyl]pyridine blended with 20 wt % tris(4-carbazoyl-9-ylphenyl)amine, to lower the hole-injection barrier, along with the bipolar and high-photoluminescence-quantum-yield (Φ p = 84%), blue thermally activated delay fluorescence (TADF) material of 9,9-dimethyl-9,10-dihydroacridine-2,4,6-triphenyl-1,3,5-triazine (DMAC-TRZ) as a blue dopant to compose the emission layer for the fabrication of a TADF blue organic-light-emitting diode (BOLED). The device is highly efficient with the following performance parameters: maximum brightness (B max ) = 57586 cd/m 2 , maximum current efficiency (CE max ) = 35.3 cd/A, maximum power efficiency (PE max ) = 21.4 lm/W, maximum external quantum efficiency (EQE max ) = 14.1%, and CIE coordinates (0.18, 0.42). This device has the best performance recorded among the reported solution-processed TADF BOLEDs and has a low efficiency roll-off: at brightness values of 1000 and 5000 cd/m 2 , its CEs are close, being 35.1 and 30.1 cd/A, respectively. Upon further doping of the red phosphor Ir(dpm)PQ 2 (emission peak λ max = 595 nm) into the blue emission layer, we obtained a TADF-phosphor hybrid white organic-light-emitting diode (T-P hybrid WOLED) with high performance: B max = 43594 cd/m 2 , CE max = 28.8 cd/A, PE max = 18.1 lm/W, and CIE coordinates (0.38, 0.44). This B max = 43594 cd/m 2 is better than that of the vacuum-deposited WOLED with a blue TADF emitter, 10000 cd/m 2 . This is also the first report on a T-P hybrid WOLED with a solution-processed emitting layer.

Feasibility and utility of applications of the common data model to multiple, disparate observational health databases.

PubMed

Voss, Erica A; Makadia, Rupa; Matcho, Amy; Ma, Qianli; Knoll, Chris; Schuemie, Martijn; DeFalco, Frank J; Londhe, Ajit; Zhu, Vivienne; Ryan, Patrick B

2015-05-01

To evaluate the utility of applying the Observational Medical Outcomes Partnership (OMOP) Common Data Model (CDM) across multiple observational databases within an organization and to apply standardized analytics tools for conducting observational research. Six deidentified patient-level datasets were transformed to the OMOP CDM. We evaluated the extent of information loss that occurred through the standardization process. We developed a standardized analytic tool to replicate the cohort construction process from a published epidemiology protocol and applied the analysis to all 6 databases to assess time-to-execution and comparability of results. Transformation to the CDM resulted in minimal information loss across all 6 databases. Patients and observations excluded were due to identified data quality issues in the source system, 96% to 99% of condition records and 90% to 99% of drug records were successfully mapped into the CDM using the standard vocabulary. The full cohort replication and descriptive baseline summary was executed for 2 cohorts in 6 databases in less than 1 hour. The standardization process improved data quality, increased efficiency, and facilitated cross-database comparisons to support a more systematic approach to observational research. Comparisons across data sources showed consistency in the impact of inclusion criteria, using the protocol and identified differences in patient characteristics and coding practices across databases. Standardizing data structure (through a CDM), content (through a standard vocabulary with source code mappings), and analytics can enable an institution to apply a network-based approach to observational research across multiple, disparate observational health databases. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the American Medical Informatics Association.

Propulsion Physics Using the Chameleon Density Model

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Robertson, Glen A.

2011-01-01

To grow as a space faring race, future spaceflight systems will require a new theory of propulsion. Specifically one that does not require mass ejection without limiting the high thrust necessary to accelerate within or beyond our solar system and return within a normal work period or lifetime. The Chameleon Density Model (CDM) is one such model that could provide new paths in propulsion toward this end. The CDM is based on Chameleon Cosmology a dark matter theory; introduced by Khrouy and Weltman in 2004. Chameleon as it is hidden within known physics, where the Chameleon field represents a scalar field within and about an object; even in the vacuum. The CDM relates to density changes in the Chameleon field, where the density changes are related to matter accelerations within and about an object. These density changes in turn change how an object couples to its environment. Whereby, thrust is achieved by causing a differential in the environmental coupling about an object. As a demonstration to show that the CDM fits within known propulsion physics, this paper uses the model to estimate the thrust from a solid rocket motor. Under the CDM, a solid rocket constitutes a two body system, i.e., the changing density of the rocket and the changing density in the nozzle arising from the accelerated mass. Whereby, the interactions between these systems cause a differential coupling to the local gravity environment of the earth. It is shown that the resulting differential in coupling produces a calculated value for the thrust near equivalent to the conventional thrust model used in Sutton and Ross, Rocket Propulsion Elements. Even though imbedded in the equations are the Universe energy scale factor, the reduced Planck mass and the Planck length, which relates the large Universe scale to the subatomic scale.

Hidden from view: coupled dark sector physics and small scales

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Elahi, Pascal J.; Lewis, Geraint F.; Power, Chris; Carlesi, Edoardo; Knebe, Alexander

2015-09-01

We study cluster mass dark matter (DM) haloes, their progenitors and surroundings in a coupled dark matter-dark energy (DE) model and compare it to quintessence and Λ cold dark matter (ΛCDM) models with adiabatic zoom simulations. When comparing cosmologies with different expansions histories, growth functions and power spectra, care must be taken to identify unambiguous signatures of alternative cosmologies. Shared cosmological parameters, such as σ8, need not be the same for optimal fits to observational data. We choose to set our parameters to ΛCDM z = 0 values. We find that in coupled models, where DM decays into DE, haloes appear remarkably similar to ΛCDM haloes despite DM experiencing an additional frictional force. Density profiles are not systematically different and the subhalo populations have similar mass, spin, and spatial distributions, although (sub)haloes are less concentrated on average in coupled cosmologies. However, given the scatter in related observables (V_max,R_{V_max}), this difference is unlikely to distinguish between coupled and uncoupled DM. Observations of satellites of Milky Way and M31 indicate a significant subpopulation reside in a plane. Coupled models do produce planar arrangements of satellites of higher statistical significance than ΛCDM models; however, in all models these planes are dynamically unstable. In general, the non-linear dynamics within and near large haloes masks the effects of a coupled dark sector. The sole environmental signature we find is that small haloes residing in the outskirts are more deficient in baryons than their ΛCDM counterparts. The lack of a pronounced signal for a coupled dark sector strongly suggests that such a phenomena would be effectively hidden from view.

Production of the short peptide surfactant DAMP4 from glucose or sucrose in high cell density cultures of Escherichia coli BL21(DE3).

PubMed

Bruschi, Michele; Krömer, Jens O; Steen, Jennifer A; Nielsen, Lars K

2014-08-19

Peptides are increasingly used in industry as highly functional materials. Bacterial production of recombinant peptides has the potential to provide large amounts of renewable and low cost peptides, however, achieving high product titers from Chemically Defined Media (CDM) supplemented with simple sugars remains challenging. In this work, the short peptide surfactant, DAMP4, was used as a model peptide to investigate production in Escherichia coli BL21(DE3), a classical strain used for protein production. Under the same fermentation conditions, switching production of DAMP4 from rich complex media to CDM resulted in a reduction in yield that could be attributed to the reduction in final cell density more so than a significant reduction in specific productivity. To maximize product titer, cell density at induction was maximized using a fed-batch approach. In fed-batch DAMP4 product titer increased 9-fold compared to batch, while maintaining 60% specific productivity. Under the fed-batch conditions, the final product titer of DAMP4 reached more than 7 g/L which is the highest titer of DAMP4 reported to date. To investigate production from sucrose, sucrose metabolism was engineered into BL21(DE3) using a simple plasmid approach. Using this strain, growth and DAMP4 production characteristics obtained from CDM supplemented with sucrose were similar to those obtained when culturing the parent strain on CDM supplemented with glucose. Production of a model peptide was increased to several grams per liter using a CDM medium with either glucose or sucrose feedstock. It is hoped that this work will contribute cost reduction for production of designer peptide surfactants to facilitate their commercial application.

Field spheroid-dominated galaxies in a Λ-CDM Universe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rosito, M. S.; Pedrosa, S. E.; Tissera, P. B.; Avila-Reese, V.; Lacerna, I.; Bignone, L. A.; Ibarra-Medel, H. J.; Varela, S.

2018-06-01

Context. Understanding the formation and evolution of early-type, spheroid-dominated galaxies is an open question within the context of the hierarchical clustering scenario, particularly in low-density environments. Aims: Our goal is to study the main structural, dynamical, and stellar population properties and assembly histories of field spheroid-dominated galaxies formed in a Λ-cold dark matter (Λ-CDM) scenario to assess to what extent they are consistent with observations. Methods: We selected spheroid-dominated systems from a Λ-CDM simulation that includes star formation (SF), chemical evolution, and supernova feedback. The sample is made up of 18 field systems with MStar ≲ 6 × 1010M⊙ that are dominated by the spheroid component. For this sample we estimated the fundamental relations of ellipticals and compared them with current observations. Results: The simulated spheroid galaxies have sizes that are in good agreement with observations. The bulges follow a Sersic law with Sersic indexes that correlate with the bulge-to-total mass ratios. The structural-dynamical properties of the simulated galaxies are consistent with observed Faber-Jackson, fundamental plane, and Tully-Fisher relations. However, the simulated galaxies are bluer and with higher star formation rates (SFRs) than the observed isolated early-type galaxies. The archaeological mass growth histories show a slightly delayed formation and more prominent inside-out growth mode than observational inferences based on the fossil record method. Conclusions: The main structural and dynamical properties of the simulated spheroid-dominated galaxies are consistent with observations. This is remarkable since our simulation has not been calibrated to match them. However, the simulated galaxies are blue and star-forming, and with later stellar mass growth histories compared to observational inferences. This is mainly due to the persistence of extended discs in the simulations. The need for more efficient quenching mechanisms able to avoid further disc growth and SF is required in order to reproduce current observational trends.

Proceedings of the Workshop on Multivariable Control Systems Held at Wright-Patterson AFB, OH, on 3 December 1982.

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-09-01

promising method of af- craft multivariable flight controller design. Like any ne.! design technique, there is still more to learn about the r.~ cd...M4atix - Feedback Gain Ma trix - Fandom ’htrix Z - Number of Outputs L1 - Roll Moment • : ’ - 7oll Moment with Inertia TrML 523 a.. Symbols m - Number of

Polyfluorene light-emitting devices and amorphous silicon:hydrogen TFT pixel circuits for active-matrix organic light-emitting displays

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

He, Yi

2000-10-01

Organic light-emitting devices (OLEDs) made of single-layer and double-layer polymer thin films have been fabricated and studied. The hole transporting (polymer A) and emissive (polymer B) polymers were poly(9,9' -dioctyl fluorene-2,7-diyl)-co-poly(diphenyl-p-tolyl-amine-4,4 '-diyl) and poly(9,9'-dioctyl fluorene-2,7-diyl)-co-poly(benzothiadiazole 2,5-diyl), respectively. The optical bandgaps of polymer A and B were 2.72 and 2.82 eV, respectively. The photoluminescence (PL) peaks for polymer A and B were 502 and 546 nm, respectively. The electroluminescence (EL) peak for polymer B was 547 nm. No EL has been observed from polymer A single layer OLEDs. To obtain the spectral distribution of the emission properties of the light-emitting devices, a new light-output measurement technique was developed. Using this technique, the spectral distribution of the luminance, radiance, photon density emission can be obtained. Moreover, the device external quantum efficiency calculated using this technique is accurate and insensitive to the light emission spectrum shape. Organic light-emitting devices have been fabricated and studied on both glass and flexible plastic substrates. The OLEDs showed a near-linear relationship between the luminance and the applied current density over four orders of magnitude. For the OLEDs fabricated on the glass substrate, luminance ˜9,300 cd/m2, emission efficiency ˜14.5 cd/A, luminescence power efficiency ˜2.26 lm/W, and external quantum efficiency ˜3.85% have been achieved. For the OLEDs fabricated on the flexible plastic substrates, both aluminum and calcium were used as cathode materials. The achieved maximum OLED luminance, emission efficiency, luminescence power efficiency, and external quantum efficiency were ˜13,000 cd/m2, ˜66.1 cd/A, ˜17.2 lm/W, and 16.7%, respectively. To make an active-matrix organic light-emitting display (AM-OLED), a two-TFT pixel electrode circuit was designed and fabricated based on amorphous silicon TFT technology. This circuit was capable of providing continuous pixel excitation and a simple driving scheme. However, it showed an output current variation of ˜40% to 80% due to the drive TFT threshold voltage (V th) shift after long-term operation. To improve the pixel circuit electrical reliability, a four-TFT pixel electrode circuit was proposed and fabricated. This circuit only showed an output current variation <1% for the high currents (>0.5muA) even when a TFT Vth shift as large as 3V was present. This four-TFT pixel electrode circuit was used to fabricate small size active-matrix monochrome organic light-emitting display.

Λ CDM is Consistent with SPARC Radial Acceleration Relation

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

Keller, B. W.; Wadsley, J. W., E-mail: kellerbw@mcmaster.ca

2017-01-20

Recent analysis of the Spitzer Photometry and Accurate Rotation Curve (SPARC) galaxy sample found a surprisingly tight relation between the radial acceleration inferred from the rotation curves and the acceleration due to the baryonic components of the disk. It has been suggested that this relation may be evidence for new physics, beyond Λ CDM . In this Letter, we show that 32 galaxies from the MUGS2 match the SPARC acceleration relation. These cosmological simulations of star-forming, rotationally supported disks were simulated with a WMAP3 Λ CDM cosmology, and match the SPARC acceleration relation with less scatter than the observational data.more » These results show that this acceleration relation is a consequence of dissipative collapse of baryons, rather than being evidence for exotic dark-sector physics or new dynamical laws.« less

Large- and small-scale constraints on power spectra in Omega = 1 universes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gelb, James M.; Gradwohl, Ben-Ami; Frieman, Joshua A.

1993-01-01

The CDM model of structure formation, normalized on large scales, leads to excessive pairwise velocity dispersions on small scales. In an attempt to circumvent this problem, we study three scenarios (all with Omega = 1) with more large-scale and less small-scale power than the standard CDM model: (1) cold dark matter with significantly reduced small-scale power (inspired by models with an admixture of cold and hot dark matter); (2) cold dark matter with a non-scale-invariant power spectrum; and (3) cold dark matter with coupling of dark matter to a long-range vector field. When normalized to COBE on large scales, such models do lead to reduced velocities on small scales and they produce fewer halos compared with CDM. However, models with sufficiently low small-scale velocities apparently fail to produce an adequate number of halos.

Interpretation of the cosmic microwave background radiation anisotropy detected by the COBE Differential Microwave Radiometer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wright, E. L.; Meyer, S. S.; Bennett, C. L.; Boggess, N. W.; Cheng, E. S.; Hauser, M. G.; Kogut, A.; Lineweaver, C.; Mather, J. C.; Smoot, G. F.

1992-01-01

The large-scale cosmic background anisotropy detected by the COBE Differential Microwave Radiometer (DMR) instrument is compared to the sensitive previous measurements on various angular scales, and to the predictions of a wide variety of models of structure formation driven by gravitational instability. The observed anisotropy is consistent with all previously measured upper limits and with a number of dynamical models of structure formation. For example, the data agree with an unbiased cold dark matter (CDM) model with H0 = 50 km/s Mpc and Delta-M/M = 1 in a 16 Mpc radius sphere. Other models, such as CDM plus massive neutrinos (hot dark matter (HDM)), or CDM with a nonzero cosmological constant are also consistent with the COBE detection and can provide the extra power seen on 5-10,000 km/s scales.

Interface and thickness tuning for blade coated small-molecule organic light-emitting diodes with high power efficiency

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chang, Yu-Fan; Chiu, Yu-Chian; Chang, Hao-Wen; Wang, Yi-Siang; Shih, Yi-Lun; Wu, Chih-Hao; Liu, Yi-Lun; Lin, Yu-Sheng; Meng, Hsin-Fei; Chi, Yun; Huang, Heh-Lung; Tseng, Mei-Rurng; Lin, Hao-Wu; Zan, Hsiao-Wen; Horng, Sheng-Fu; Juang, Jenh-Yih

2013-09-01

We developed a general method based on fluorescence microscopy to characterize the interface dissolution in multi-layer organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) by blade coating. A sharp bi-layer edge was created before blade coating, with the bottom layer being insoluble and top layer soluble. After blade coating, fluorescence images showed that the edge of the top layer shifted when the layer dissolved completely, whereas the bottom layer's edge remained in place as a positioning mark. The dissolution depth was determined to be 15-20 nm when the emissive-layer host of 2,6-bis (3-(9H-carbazol-9-yl)phenyl) pyridine (26DCzPPy) was coated on the hole-transport layer of N,N'-bis(naphthalen-1-yl)-N,N'-bis(phenyl)-benzidine(NPB), which was consistent with a sudden drop in efficiency of orange OLEDs with layer thickness below 20 nm. Thus, the layer thickness of OLEDs was optimized to stay more than 20 nm for blade coating. For a two-color white OLED with the structure TCTA/26DCzPPy:PO-01-TB:FIrpic/TPBI, efficiency was 24 cd/A and 8.5 lm/W at 1000 cd/m2. For a three-color white OLED with Os(fptz)2(dhpm) added as the emitter, the efficiency was 12.3 cd/A and 3.7 lm/W at 1000 cd/m2. For a green device with the structure TCTA/26DCzPPy:Ir(mppy)3/TPBI, the efficiency was 41.9 cd/A and 23.4 lm/W at 1000 cd/m2.

Clumpy cold dark matter

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Silk, Joseph; Stebbins, Albert

1993-01-01

A study is conducted of cold dark matter (CDM) models in which clumpiness will inhere, using cosmic strings and textures suited to galaxy formation. CDM clumps of 10 million solar mass/cu pc density are generated at about z(eq) redshift, with a sizable fraction surviving. Observable implications encompass dark matter cores in globular clusters and in galactic nuclei. Results from terrestrial dark matter detection experiments may be affected by clumpiness in the Galactic halo.

Factors Affecting Exocellular Polysaccharide Production by Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus Grown in a Chemically Defined Medium†

PubMed Central

Petry, Sandrine; Furlan, Sylviane; Crepeau, Marie-Jeanne; Cerning, Jutta; Desmazeaud, Michel

2000-01-01

We developed a chemically defined medium (CDM) containing lactose or glucose as the carbon source that supports growth and exopolysaccharide (EPS) production of two strains of Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus. The factors found to affect EPS production in this medium were oxygen, pH, temperature, and medium constituents, such as orotic acid and the carbon source. EPS production was greatest during the stationary phase. Composition analysis of EPS isolated at different growth phases and produced under different fermentation conditions (varying carbon source or pH) revealed that the component sugars were the same. The EPS from strain L. delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus CNRZ 1187 contained galactose and glucose, and that of strain L. delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus CNRZ 416 contained galactose, glucose, and rhamnose. However, the relative proportions of the individual monosaccharides differed, suggesting that repeating unit structures can vary according to specific medium alterations. Under pH-controlled fermentation conditions, L. delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus strains produced as much EPS in the CDM as in milk. Furthermore, the relative proportions of individual monosaccharides of EPS produced in pH-controlled CDM or in milk were very similar. The CDM we developed may be a useful model and an alternative to milk in studies of EPS production. PMID:10919802

NASA Research on an Integrated Concept for Airport Surface Operations Management

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gupta, Gautam

2012-01-01

Surface operations at airports in the US are based on tactical operations, where departure aircraft primarily queue up and wait at the departure runways. There have been attempts to address the resulting inefficiencies with both strategic and tactical tools for metering departure aircraft. This presentation gives an overview of Spot And Runway Departure Advisor with Collaborative Decision Making (SARDA-CDM): an integrated strategic and tactical system for improving surface operations by metering departure aircraft. SARDA-CDM is the augmentation of ground and local controller advisories through sharing of flight movement and related operations information between airport operators, flight operators and air traffic control at the airport. The goal is to enhance the efficiency of airport surface operations by exchanging information between air traffic control and airline operators, while minimizing adverse effects on stakeholders and passengers. The presentation motivates the need for departure metering, and provides a brief background on the previous work on SARDA. Then, the concept of operations for SARDA-CDM is described. Then the preliminary results from testing the concept in a real-time automated simulation environment are described. Results indicate benefits such as reduction in taxiing delay and fuel consumption. Further, the preliminary implementation of SARDA-CDM seems robust for two minutes delay in gate push-back times.

Exploring the nature of power distance on general practitioner and community pharmacist relations in a chronic disease management context.

PubMed

Rieck, Allison Margaret

2014-09-01

To improve collaboration in Australian primary health care, there is a need to understand aspects of the general practitioner (GP)/community pharmacist relationship, its influence on collaborative chronic disease management (CDM) and if this influence can be explained by a pre-existing theory or concept. Adopting a grounded theory approach, 22 GP and 22 community pharmacist semi-structured interviews were undertaken. Analysis of the transcripts identified common themes regarding the GP/community pharmacist relationship. Trustworthiness of the themes identified was tested through negative case analysis and member checking. Hofstede's (in 1980) phenomenon of power distance was employed to illuminate the nature of GP/community pharmacist relations. The majority of GPs and community pharmacists described the characteristics of this phenomenon. The power distance was based on knowledge and expertise and was shown to be a barrier to collaboration between GPs and community pharmacists because GPs perceived that community pharmacists did not have the required expertise to improve CDM above what the GP could deliver alone. Power distance exists within the GP/community pharmacist relationship and has a negative influence on GP/community pharmacist collaborative CDM. Understanding and improving GP awareness of community pharmacist expertise has important implications for the future success of collaborative CDM.

Modified chemically defined medium for enhanced respiratory growth of Lactobacillus casei and Lactobacillus plantarum groups.

PubMed

Ricciardi, A; Ianniello, R G; Parente, E; Zotta, T

2015-09-01

Members of the Lactobacillus casei and Lactobacillus plantarum groups are capable of aerobic and respiratory growth. However, they grow poorly in aerobiosis in the currently available chemically defined media, suggesting that aerobic and respiratory growth require further supplementation. The effect of Tween 80, L-alanine, L-asparagine, L-aspartate, L-proline and L-serine on anaerobic and respiratory growth of Lact. casei N87 was investigated using a 2(5) factorial design. The effectiveness of modified CDM (mCDM) was validated on 21 strains of Lact. casei and Lact. plantarum groups. Tween 80 supplementation did not affect anaerobic growth, but improved respiratory growth. L-asparagine, L-proline and L-serine were stimulatory for respiring cells, while the presence of L-aspartate, generally, impaired biomass production. mCDM promoted the growth of Lact. casei and Lact. plantarum, with best results for strains showing a respiratory phenotype. The nutritional requirements of anaerobic and respiratory cultures of members of the Lact. casei and Lact. plantarum groups differ. Tween 80 and selected amino acids derived from pathways related to TCA cycle, pyruvate conversion and NADH recycling are required for respiration. The availability of mCDM will facilitate the study of aerobic metabolism of lactobacilli under controlled conditions. © 2015 The Society for Applied Microbiology.

Influence of monitor luminance and room illumination on soft-copy reading evaluation with electronically generated contrast-detail phantom: comparison of cathode-ray tube monitor with liquid crystal display.

PubMed

Muramoto, Hideyuki; Shimamoto, Kazuhiro; Ikeda, Mitsuru; Koyama, Kazuyuki; Fukushima, Hiromichi; Ishigaki, Takeo

2006-06-01

The influence of monitor brightness and room illumination on soft-copy diagnosis by both cathode-ray tube (CRT) monitor and liquid crystal display (LCD) was evaluated and compared using a contrast-detail phantom. Nine observers (7 radiologists and 2 radiological technicians) interpreted six types of electronically generated contrast-detail phantom images using a 21-inch CRT (2,048x2,560) and a 21-inch LCD (2,048x2,560) under 6 kinds of viewing conditions, i.e. monitor brightness of 330 cd/m2 or 450 cd/m2, and room illumination of 20, 100 or 420 lux at the center of the display. Observers were requested to determine the visible borderline of the objects. Between 330 cd/m2 and 450 cd/m2, no significant difference in the visible area was found under any of the three lighting conditions. However, in two low-contrast phantom images, the visible area on the LCD was significantly larger than that on the CRT, independent of both monitor brightness and room illumination. (p<0.05). The effect of room illumination was not significant, suggesting that the use of LCD at high room illumination is acceptable.

The Most Massive Galaxies and Black Holes Allowed by ΛCDM

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Behroozi, Peter; Silk, Joseph

2018-04-01

Given a galaxy's stellar mass, its host halo mass has a lower limit from the cosmic baryon fraction and known baryonic physics. At z > 4, galaxy stellar mass functions place lower limits on halo number densities that approach expected ΛCDM halo mass functions. High-redshift galaxy stellar mass functions can thus place interesting limits on number densities of massive haloes, which are otherwise very difficult to measure. Although halo mass functions at z < 8 are consistent with observed galaxy stellar masses if galaxy baryonic conversion efficiencies increase with redshift, JWST and WFIRST will more than double the redshift range over which useful constraints are available. We calculate maximum galaxy stellar masses as a function of redshift given expected halo number densities from ΛCDM. We apply similar arguments to black holes. If their virial mass estimates are accurate, number density constraints alone suggest that the quasars SDSS J1044-0125 and SDSS J010013.02+280225.8 likely have black hole mass — stellar mass ratios higher than the median z = 0 relation, confirming the expectation from Lauer bias. Finally, we present a public code to evaluate the probability of an apparently ΛCDM-inconsistent high-mass halo being detected given the combined effects of multiple surveys and observational errors.

Fracture simulation of restored teeth using a continuum damage mechanics failure model.

PubMed

Li, Haiyan; Li, Jianying; Zou, Zhenmin; Fok, Alex Siu-Lun

2011-07-01

The aim of this paper is to validate the use of a finite-element (FE) based continuum damage mechanics (CDM) failure model to simulate the debonding and fracture of restored teeth. Fracture testing of plastic model teeth, with or without a standard Class-II MOD (mesial-occusal-distal) restoration, was carried out to investigate their fracture behavior. In parallel, 2D FE models of the teeth are constructed and analyzed using the commercial FE software ABAQUS. A CDM failure model, implemented into ABAQUS via the user element subroutine (UEL), is used to simulate the debonding and/or final fracture of the model teeth under a compressive load. The material parameters needed for the CDM model to simulate fracture are obtained through separate mechanical tests. The predicted results are then compared with the experimental data of the fracture tests to validate the failure model. The failure processes of the intact and restored model teeth are successfully reproduced by the simulation. However, the fracture parameters obtained from testing small specimens need to be adjusted to account for the size effect. The results indicate that the CDM model is a viable model for the prediction of debonding and fracture in dental restorations. Copyright © 2011 Academy of Dental Materials. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A Tale of Two Sites: Lessons on Leadership from the Implementation of a Long-term Care Delivery Model (CDM) in Western Canada

PubMed Central

Cloutier, Denise; Cox, Amy; Kampen, Ruth; Kobayashi, Karen; Cook, Heather; Taylor, Deanne; Gaspard, Gina

2016-01-01

Residential, long-term care serves vulnerable older adults in a facility-based environment. A new care delivery model (CDM) designed to promote more equitable care for residents was implemented in a health region in Western Canada. Leaders and managers faced challenges in implementing this model alongside other concurrent changes. This paper explores the question: How did leadership style influence team functioning with the implementation of the CDM? Qualitative data from interviews with leadership personnel (directors and managers, residential care coordinators and clinical nurse educators), and direct care staff (registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, health care aides, and allied health therapists), working in two different facilities comprise the main sources of data for this study. The findings reveal that leaders with a servant leadership style were better able to create and sustain the conditions to support successful model implementation and higher team functioning, compared to a facility in which the leadership style was less inclusive and proactive, and more resistant to the change. Consequently, staff at the second facility experienced a greater sense of overload with the implementation of the CDM. This study concludes that strong leadership is key to facilitating team work and job satisfaction in a context of change. PMID:27417591

A Tale of Two Sites: Lessons on Leadership from the Implementation of a Long-term Care Delivery Model (CDM) in Western Canada.

PubMed

Cloutier, Denise; Cox, Amy; Kampen, Ruth; Kobayashi, Karen; Cook, Heather; Taylor, Deanne; Gaspard, Gina

2016-01-04

Residential, long-term care serves vulnerable older adults in a facility-based environment. A new care delivery model (CDM) designed to promote more equitable care for residents was implemented in a health region in Western Canada. Leaders and managers faced challenges in implementing this model alongside other concurrent changes. This paper explores the question: How did leadership style influence team functioning with the implementation of the CDM? Qualitative data from interviews with leadership personnel (directors and managers, residential care coordinators and clinical nurse educators), and direct care staff (registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, health care aides, and allied health therapists), working in two different facilities comprise the main sources of data for this study. The findings reveal that leaders with a servant leadership style were better able to create and sustain the conditions to support successful model implementation and higher team functioning, compared to a facility in which the leadership style was less inclusive and proactive, and more resistant to the change. Consequently, staff at the second facility experienced a greater sense of overload with the implementation of the CDM. This study concludes that strong leadership is key to facilitating team work and job satisfaction in a context of change.

OLED study for military applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barre, F.; Chiquard, A.; Faure, S.; Landais, L.; Patry, P.

2005-07-01

The presentation deals with some applications of OLED displays in military optronic systems, which are scheduled by SAGEM DS (Defence and Security). SAGEM DS, one of the largest group in the defence and security market, is currently investigating OLED Technologies for military programs. This technology is close from being chosen for optronic equipment such as future infantry night vision goggles, rifle-sight, or, more generally, vision enhancement systems. Most of those applications requires micro-display with an active matrix size below 1". Some others, such as, for instance, ruggedized flat displays do have a need for higher active matrix size (1,5" to 15"). SAGEM DS takes advantages of this flat, high luminance and emissive technology in highly integrated systems. In any case, many requirements have to be fulfilled: ultra-low power consumption, wide viewing angle, good pixel to pixel uniformity, and satisfactory behaviour in extreme environmental conditions.... Accurate measurements have been achieved at SAGEM DS on some micro display OLEDs and will be detailed: luminance (over 2000 cd/m2 achieved), area uniformity and pixel to pixel uniformity, robustness at low and high temperature (-40°C to +60°C), lifetime. These results, which refer to military requirements, provide a valuable feedback representative of the state of the art OLED performances.

Cosmic string with a light massive neutrino

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Albrecht, Andreas; Stebbins, Albert

1992-01-01

We have estimated the power spectra of density fluctuations produced by cosmic strings with neutrino hot dark matter (HDM). Normalizing at 8/h Mpc, we find that the spectrum has more power on small scales than HDM + inflation, less than cold dark matter (CDM) + inflation, and significantly less the CDM + strings. With HDM, large wakes give significant contribution to the power on the galaxy scale and may give rise to large sheets of galaxies.

Sustainable waste management in Africa through CDM projects.

PubMed

Couth, R; Trois, C

2012-11-01

Only few Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) projects (traditionally focussed on landfill gas combustion) have been registered in Africa if compared to similar developing countries. The waste hierarchy adopted by many African countries clearly shows that waste recycling and composting projects are generally the most sustainable. This paper undertakes a sustainability assessment for practical waste treatment and disposal scenarios for Africa and makes recommendations for consideration. The appraisal in this paper demonstrates that mechanical biological treatment of waste becomes more financially attractive if established through the CDM process. Waste will continue to be dumped in Africa with increasing greenhouse gas emissions produced, unless industrialised countries (Annex 1) fund carbon emission reduction schemes through a replacement to the Kyoto Protocol. Such a replacement should calculate all of the direct and indirect carbon emission savings and seek to promote public-private partnerships through a concerted support of the informal sector. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A ROBUST MEASURE OF DARK MATTER HALO ELLIPTICITIES

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

Evslin, Jarah

2016-08-01

In simulations of the standard cosmological model (ΛCDM), dark matter halos are aspherical. However, so far the asphericity of an individual galaxy’s halo has never been robustly established. We use the Jeans equations to define a quantity that robustly characterizes a deviation from rotational symmetry. This quantity is essentially the gravitational torque and it roughly provides the ellipticity projected along the line of sight. We show that the Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT), with a single epoch of observations combined with those of the Gaia Space Telescope , can distinguish the ΛCDM value of the torque from zero for each Sculptor-likemore » dwarf galaxy with a confidence between 0 and 5 σ , depending on the orientation of each halo. With two epochs of observations, TMT will achieve a 5 σ discovery of torque and thus asphericity for most such galaxies, thus providing a new and powerful test of the ΛCDM model.« less

Organic light-emitting diodes with direct contact-printed red, green, blue, and white light-emitting layers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Sun-Zen; Peng, Shiang-Hau; Ting, Tzu-Yu; Wu, Po-Shien; Lin, Chun-Hao; Chang, Chin-Yeh; Shyue, Jing-Jong; Jou, Jwo-Huei

2012-10-01

We demonstrate the feasibility of using direct contact-printing in the fabrication of monochromatic and polychromatic organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs). Bright devices with red, green, blue, and white contact-printed light-emitting layers with a respective maximum luminance of 29 000, 29 000, 4000, and 18 000 cd/m2 were obtained with sound film integrity by blending a polymeric host into a molecular host. For the red OLED as example, the maximum luminance was decreased from 29 000 to 5000 cd/m2 as only the polymeric host was used, or decreased to 7000 cd/m2 as only the molecular host was used. The markedly improved device performance achieved in the devices with blended hosts may be attributed to the employed polymeric host that contributed a good film-forming character, and the molecular host that contributed a good electroluminescence character.

Nursing Student Perceptions Regarding Simulation Experience Sequencing.

PubMed

Woda, Aimee A; Gruenke, Theresa; Alt-Gehrman, Penny; Hansen, Jamie

2016-09-01

The use of simulated learning experiences (SLEs) have increased within nursing curricula with positive learning outcomes for nursing students. The purpose of this study is to explore nursing students' perceptions of their clinical decision making (CDM) related to the block sequencing of different patient care experiences, SLEs versus hospital-based learning experiences (HLEs). A qualitative descriptive design used open-ended survey questions to generate information about the block sequencing of SLEs and its impact on nursing students' perceived CDM. Three themes emerged from the data: Preexperience Anxiety, Real-Time Decision Making, and Increased Patient Care Experiences. Nursing students identified that having SLEs prior to HLEs provided several benefits. Even when students preferred SLEs prior to HLEs, the sequence did not impact their CDM. This suggests that alternating block sequencing can be used without impacting the students' perceptions of their ability to make decisions. [J Nurs Educ. 2016;55(9):528-532.]. Copyright 2016, SLACK Incorporated.

Beyond Λ CDM: Problems, solutions, and the road ahead

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bull, Philip; Akrami, Yashar; Adamek, Julian; Baker, Tessa; Bellini, Emilio; Beltrán Jiménez, Jose; Bentivegna, Eloisa; Camera, Stefano; Clesse, Sébastien; Davis, Jonathan H.; Di Dio, Enea; Enander, Jonas; Heavens, Alan; Heisenberg, Lavinia; Hu, Bin; Llinares, Claudio; Maartens, Roy; Mörtsell, Edvard; Nadathur, Seshadri; Noller, Johannes; Pasechnik, Roman; Pawlowski, Marcel S.; Pereira, Thiago S.; Quartin, Miguel; Ricciardone, Angelo; Riemer-Sørensen, Signe; Rinaldi, Massimiliano; Sakstein, Jeremy; Saltas, Ippocratis D.; Salzano, Vincenzo; Sawicki, Ignacy; Solomon, Adam R.; Spolyar, Douglas; Starkman, Glenn D.; Steer, Danièle; Tereno, Ismael; Verde, Licia; Villaescusa-Navarro, Francisco; von Strauss, Mikael; Winther, Hans A.

2016-06-01

Despite its continued observational successes, there is a persistent (and growing) interest in extending cosmology beyond the standard model, Λ CDM. This is motivated by a range of apparently serious theoretical issues, involving such questions as the cosmological constant problem, the particle nature of dark matter, the validity of general relativity on large scales, the existence of anomalies in the CMB and on small scales, and the predictivity and testability of the inflationary paradigm. In this paper, we summarize the current status of Λ CDM as a physical theory, and review investigations into possible alternatives along a number of different lines, with a particular focus on highlighting the most promising directions. While the fundamental problems are proving reluctant to yield, the study of alternative cosmologies has led to considerable progress, with much more to come if hopes about forthcoming high-precision observations and new theoretical ideas are fulfilled.

Effects of electron transport material on blue organ light-emitting diode with fluorescent dopant of BCzVBi.

PubMed

Meng, Mei; Song, Wook; Kim, You-Hyun; Lee, Sang-Youn; Jhun, Chul-Gyu; Zhu, Fu Rong; Ryu, Dae Hyun; Kim, Woo-Young

2013-01-01

High efficiency blue organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs), based on 2-me-thyl-9,10-di(2-naphthyl) anthracene (MADN) doped with 4,4'-bis(9-ethyl-3-carbazovinylene)-1,1'-biphenyl (BCzVBi), were fabricated using two different electron transport layers (ETLs) of tris(8-hydroxyquinolino)-aluminum (Alq3) and 4,7-di-phenyl-1,10-phenanthroline (Bphen). Bphen ETL layers favored the efficient hole-electron recombination in the emissive layer of the BCzVBi-doped blue OLEDs, leading to high luminous efficiency and quantum efficiency of 8.34 cd/A at 100 mA/cm2 and 5.73% at 100 cd/m2, respectively. Maximum luminance of blue OLED with Bphen ETL and Alq3 ETL were 10670 cd/m2, and CIExy coordinates of blue OLEDs were (0.180, 0279) and (0.155, 0.212) at 100 cd/m2.

Redshift space clustering of galaxies and cold dark matter model

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bahcall, Neta A.; Cen, Renyue; Gramann, Mirt

1993-01-01

The distorting effect of peculiar velocities on the power speturm and correlation function of IRAS and optical galaxies is studied. The observed redshift space power spectra and correlation functions of IRAS and optical the galaxies over the entire range of scales are directly compared with the corresponding redshift space distributions using large-scale computer simulations of cold dark matter (CDM) models in order to study the distortion effect of peculiar velocities on the power spectrum and correlation function of the galaxies. It is found that the observed power spectrum of IRAS and optical galaxies is consistent with the spectrum of an Omega = 1 CDM model. The problems that such a model currently faces may be related more to the high value of Omega in the model than to the shape of the spectrum. A low-density CDM model is also investigated and found to be consistent with the data.

Application of the Consumer Decision-Making Model to Hearing Aid Adoption in First-Time Users

PubMed Central

Amlani, Amyn M.

2016-01-01

Since 1980, hearing aid adoption rates have remained essentially the same, increasing at a rate equal to the organic growth of the population. Researchers have used theoretical models from psychology and sociology to determine those factors or constructs that lead to the adoption of hearing aids by first-time impaired listeners entering the market. In this article, a theoretical model, the Consumer Decision-Making Model (CDM), premised on the neobehavioral approach that considers an individual's psychological and cognitive emphasis toward a product or service, is described. Three theoretical models (i.e., transtheoretical, social model of disability, Health Belief Model), and their relevant findings to the hearing aid market, are initially described. The CDM is then presented, along with supporting evidence of the model's various factors from the hearing aid literature. Future applications of the CDM to hearing health care also are discussed. PMID:27516718

New observational constraints on f ( T ) gravity from cosmic chronometers

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

Nunes, Rafael C.; Pan, Supriya; Saridakis, Emmanuel N., E-mail: nunes@ecm.ub.edu, E-mail: span@iiserkol.ac.in, E-mail: Emmanuel_Saridakis@baylor.edu

2016-08-01

We use the local value of the Hubble constant recently measured with 2.4% precision, as well as the latest compilation of cosmic chronometers data, together with standard probes such as Supernovae Type Ia and Baryon Acoustic Oscillation distance measurements, in order to impose constraints on the viable and most used f ( T ) gravity models, where T is the torsion scalar in teleparallel gravity. In particular, we consider three f ( T ) models with two parameters, out of which one is independent, and we quantify their deviation from ΛCDM cosmology through a sole parameter. Our analysis reveals thatmore » for one of the models a small but non-zero deviation from ΛCDM cosmology is slightly favored, while for the other models the best fit is very close to ΛCDM scenario. Clearly, f ( T ) gravity is consistent with observations, and it can serve as a candidate for modified gravity.« less

Application of the Consumer Decision-Making Model to Hearing Aid Adoption in First-Time Users.

PubMed

Amlani, Amyn M

2016-05-01

Since 1980, hearing aid adoption rates have remained essentially the same, increasing at a rate equal to the organic growth of the population. Researchers have used theoretical models from psychology and sociology to determine those factors or constructs that lead to the adoption of hearing aids by first-time impaired listeners entering the market. In this article, a theoretical model, the Consumer Decision-Making Model (CDM), premised on the neobehavioral approach that considers an individual's psychological and cognitive emphasis toward a product or service, is described. Three theoretical models (i.e., transtheoretical, social model of disability, Health Belief Model), and their relevant findings to the hearing aid market, are initially described. The CDM is then presented, along with supporting evidence of the model's various factors from the hearing aid literature. Future applications of the CDM to hearing health care also are discussed.

Chronic disease management in general practice: results from a national study.

PubMed

Darker, C; Martin, C; O'Dowd, T; O'Kelly, F; O'Shea, B

2012-04-01

The aim of this study was to provide baseline data on chronic disease management (CDM) provision in Irish general practice (GP). The survey instrument was previously used in a study of primary care physicians in 11 countries, thus allowing international comparisons. The response rate was 72% (380/527).The majority of GPs (240/380; 63%) reported significant changes are needed in our health care system to make CDM work better. Small numbers of routine clinical audits are being performed (95/380; 25%). Irish GPs use evidence based guidelines for treatment of diabetes (267/380; 71%), asthma / COPD (279/380; 74%) and hypertension (297/380; 79%), to the same extent as international counterparts. Barriers to delivering chronic care include increased workload (379/380; 99%), lack of appropriate funding (286/380; 76%), with GPs interested in targeted payments (244/380; 68%). This study provides baseline data to assess future changes in CDM.

A correction in the CDM methodological tool for estimating methane emissions from solid waste disposal sites.

PubMed

Santos, M M O; van Elk, A G P; Romanel, C

2015-12-01

Solid waste disposal sites (SWDS) - especially landfills - are a significant source of methane, a greenhouse gas. Although having the potential to be captured and used as a fuel, most of the methane formed in SWDS is emitted to the atmosphere, mainly in developing countries. Methane emissions have to be estimated in national inventories. To help this task the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has published three sets of guidelines. In addition, the Kyoto Protocol established the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) to assist the developed countries to offset their own greenhouse gas emissions by assisting other countries to achieve sustainable development while reducing emissions. Based on methodologies provided by the IPCC regarding SWDS, the CDM Executive Board has issued a tool to be used by project developers for estimating baseline methane emissions in their project activities - on burning biogas from landfills or on preventing biomass to be landfilled and so avoiding methane emissions. Some inconsistencies in the first two IPCC guidelines have already been pointed out in an Annex of IPCC latest edition, although with hidden details. The CDM tool uses a model for methane estimation that takes on board parameters, factors and assumptions provided in the latest IPCC guidelines, while using in its core equation the one of the second IPCC edition with its shortcoming as well as allowing a misunderstanding of the time variable. Consequences of wrong ex-ante estimation of baseline emissions regarding CDM project activities can be of economical or environmental type. Example of the first type is the overestimation of 18% in an actual project on biogas from landfill in Brazil that harms its developers; of the second type, the overestimation of 35% in a project preventing municipal solid waste from being landfilled in China, which harms the environment, not for the project per se but for the undue generated carbon credits. In a simulated landfill - the same amount of waste for 20 years -, the error would be an overestimation of 25% if the CDM project activity starts from the very first year or an underestimation of 15% if it starts just after the landfill closure. Therefore, a correction in the tool to calculate emissions from landfills as adopted by the CDM Executive Board is needed. Moreover, in countries not using the latest IPCC guidelines, which provides clear formulas to prevent misunderstandings, inventory compilers can also benefit from this paper by having more accurate results in national GHG inventories related to solid waste disposal, especially when increasing amounts of waste are landfilled, which is the case of the developing countries. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Bright high z SnIa: A challenge for ΛCDM

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Perivolaropoulos, L.; Shafieloo, A.

2009-06-01

It has recently been pointed out by Kowalski et. al. [Astrophys. J. 686, 749 (2008).ASJOAB0004-637X10.1086/589937] that there is “an unexpected brightness of the SnIa data at z>1.” We quantify this statement by constructing a new statistic which is applicable directly on the type Ia supernova (SnIa) distance moduli. This statistic is designed to pick up systematic brightness trends of SnIa data points with respect to a best fit cosmological model at high redshifts. It is based on binning the normalized differences between the SnIa distance moduli and the corresponding best fit values in the context of a specific cosmological model (e.g. ΛCDM). These differences are normalized by the standard errors of the observed distance moduli. We then focus on the highest redshift bin and extend its size toward lower redshifts until the binned normalized difference (BND) changes sign (crosses 0) at a redshift zc (bin size Nc). The bin size Nc of this crossing (the statistical variable) is then compared with the corresponding crossing bin size Nmc for Monte Carlo data realizations based on the best fit model. We find that the crossing bin size Nc obtained from the Union08 and Gold06 data with respect to the best fit ΛCDM model is anomalously large compared to Nmc of the corresponding Monte Carlo data sets obtained from the best fit ΛCDM in each case. In particular, only 2.2% of the Monte Carlo ΛCDM data sets are consistent with the Gold06 value of Nc while the corresponding probability for the Union08 value of Nc is 5.3%. Thus, according to this statistic, the probability that the high redshift brightness bias of the Union08 and Gold06 data sets is realized in the context of a (w0,w1)=(-1,0) model (ΛCDM cosmology) is less than 6%. The corresponding realization probability in the context of a (w0,w1)=(-1.4,2) model is more than 30% for both the Union08 and the Gold06 data sets indicating a much better consistency for this model with respect to the BND statistic.

Adversarial Collaboration Decision-Making: An Overview of Social Quantum Information Processing

DTIC Science & Technology

2002-01-01

collaborative decision - making (CDM) to solve problems is an aspect of human behavior least yielding to rational predictions. To reduce the complexity of CDM...increases. Implications for C2 decision - making are discussed. Overview of research Game theory was one of the first rational approaches to the study of...Psychologist, 36, 343-356. Lawless, W.F. (2001), The quantum of social action and the function of emotion in decision - making , Proceedings, Emotional and

Efficient fluorescence/phosphorescence white organic light-emitting diodes with ultra high color stability and mild efficiency roll-off

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Du, Xiaoyang; Tao, Silu; Huang, Yun; Yang, Xiaoxia; Ding, Xulin; Zhang, Xiaohong

2015-11-01

Efficient fluorescence/phosphorescence hybrid white organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) with single doped co-host structure have been fabricated. Device using 9-Naphthyl-10 -(4-triphenylamine)anthrancene as the fluorescent dopant and Ir(ppy)3 and Ir(2-phq)3 as the green and orange phosphorescent dopants show the luminous efficiency of 12.4% (17.6 lm/W, 27.5 cd/A) at 1000 cd/m2. Most important to note that the efficiency-brightness roll-off of the device was very mild. With the brightness rising up to 5000 and 10 000 cd/m2, the efficiency could be kept at 11.8% (14.0 lm/W, 26.5 cd/A) and 11.0% (11.8 lm/W, 25.0 cd/A). The Commission Internationale de L'Eclairage (CIE) coordinates and color rending index (CRI) were measured to be (0.45, 0.48) and 65, respectively, and remained the same in a large range of brightness (1000-10 000 cd/m2), which is scarce in the reported white OLEDs. The performance of the device at high luminance (5000 and 10 000 cd/m2) was among the best reported results including fluorescence/phosphorescence hybrid and all-phosphorescent white OLEDs. Moreover, the CRI of the white OLED can be improved to 83 by using a yellow-green emitter (Ir(ppy)2bop) in the device.

Did CDM particles of mass 2.47 x 10(-3) eV interact with precursor biopolymers and nucleic acids to initiate and boost lifeforms on Earth?

PubMed

Rosen, Gerald

2011-06-01

Recent observations and theoretical studies have shown that non-baryonic Cold Dark Matter (CDM), which constitutes about 84% of all matter in the Universe, may feature a complex-scalar-field that carries particles of mass ≅ 2.47 x 10(-3)eV with the associated Compton range m(-1) ≅8.02 x 10(-3) cm, a distance on the scale of extended bionucleic acids and living cells. Such a complex-scalar-field can enter a weak-isospin Lorentz-invariant interaction that generates the flow of right-handed electrons and induces a chirality-imbued quantum chemistry on the m (-1) scale. A phenomenological Volterra-type equation is proposed for the CDM-impacted time development of N, the number of base pairs in the most advanced organism at Earth-age t. The solution to this equation suggests that the boosts in N at t ≅ 1.1 Gyr (advent of the first living prokaryotic cells), at t ≅ 2.9 Gyr (advent of eukaryotic single-celled organisms) and finally at t ≅ 4.0 Gyr (the Cambrian explosion) may be associated with three multi-Myr-duration cosmic showers of the complex-scalar-field CDM particles. If so, the signature of the particles may be detectible in Cambrian rocks.

The Rh = ct universe in alternative theories of gravity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sultana, Joseph; Kazanas, Demosthenes

2017-12-01

The Λ cold dark matter (ΛCDM) model (one comprising of a cosmological constant Λ and cold dark matter) is generally considered the standard model in cosmology. One of the alternatives that has received attention in the last few years is the Rh = ct universe, which provides an age for the Universe similar to that of ΛCDM and whose (vanishing) deceleration parameter is apparently not inconsistent with observations. Like the ΛCDM, the Rh = ct universe is based on a Friedmann-Robertson-Walker cosmology with the total energy density ρ and pressure p of the cosmic fluid satisfying the simple equation of state ρ + 3p = 0, i.e. a vanishing total active gravitational mass. In an earlier paper, we examined the possible sources for the Rh = ct universe within general relativity, and we have shown that it still contains a dark energy component, albeit not in the form of a cosmological constant. The growing interest in gravitational theories, alternative to Einstein's general relativity, in cosmology, is mainly driven by the need for cosmological models that attain a late-time accelerated expansion without the presence of a cosmological constant as in the ΛCDM, and thereby avoiding the problems associated with it. In this paper, we discuss some of these common alternative theories and show that the Rh = ct is also a solution to some of them.

Can f(T) gravity theories mimic ΛCDM cosmic history

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

Setare, M.R.; Mohammadipour, N., E-mail: rezakord@ipm.ir, E-mail: N.Mohammadipour@uok.ac.ir

2013-01-01

Recently the teleparallel Lagrangian density described by the torsion scalar T has been extended to a function of T. The f(T) modified teleparallel gravity has been proposed as the natural gravitational alternative for dark energy to explain the late time acceleration of the universe. In order to reconstruct the function f(T) by demanding a background ΛCDM cosmology we assume that, (i) the background cosmic history provided by the flat ΛCDM (the radiation ere with ω{sub eff} = (1/3), matter and de Sitter eras with ω{sub eff} = 0 and ω{sub eff} = −1, respectively) (ii) the radiation dominate in themore » radiation era with Ω{sub 0r} = 1 and the matter dominate during the matter phases when Ω{sub 0m} = 1. We find the cosmological dynamical system which can obey the ΛCDM cosmic history. In each era, we find a critical lines that, the radiation dominated and the matter dominated are one points of them in the radiation and matter phases, respectively. Also, we drive the cosmologically viability condition for these models. We investigate the stability condition with respect to the homogeneous scalar perturbations in each era and we obtain the stability conditions for the fixed points in each eras. Finally, we reconstruct the function f(T) which mimics cosmic expansion history.« less

Model Selection with Strong-lensing Systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Leaf, Kyle; Melia, Fulvio

2018-05-01

In this paper, we use an unprecedentedly large sample (158) of confirmed strong lens systems for model selection, comparing five well studied Friedmann-Robertson-Walker cosmologies: ΛCDM, wCDM (the standard model with a variable dark-energy equation of state), the Rh = ct universe, the (empty) Milne cosmology, and the classical Einstein-de Sitter (matter dominated) universe. We first use these sources to optimize the parameters in the standard model and show that they are consistent with Planck, though the quality of the best fit is not satisfactory. We demonstrate that this is likely due to under-reported errors, or to errors yet to be included in this kind of analysis. We suggest that the missing dispersion may be due to scatter about a pure single isothermal sphere (SIS) model that is often assumed for the mass distribution in these lenses. We then use the Bayes information criterion, with the inclusion of a suggested SIS dispersion, to calculate the relative likelihoods and ranking of these models, showing that Milne and Einstein-de Sitter are completely ruled out, while Rh = ct is preferred over ΛCDM/wCDM with a relative probability of ˜73% versus ˜24%. The recently reported sample of new strong lens candidates by the Dark Energy Survey, if confirmed, may be able to demonstrate which of these two models is favoured over the other at a level exceeding 3σ.

Reconstruction, thermodynamics and stability of the ΛCDM model in f(T,{ T }) gravity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Junior, Ednaldo L. B.; Rodrigues, Manuel E.; Salako, Ines G.; Houndjo, Mahouton J. S.

2016-06-01

We reconstruct the ΛCDM model for f(T,{ T }) theory, where T is the torsion scalar and { T } the trace of the energy-momentum tensor. The result shows that the action of ΛCDM is a combination of a linear term, a constant (-2{{Λ }}) and a nonlinear term given by the product \\sqrt{-T}{F}g[({T}1/3/16π G) (16π G{ T }+T+8{{Λ }})], with F g being a generic function. We show that to maintain conservation of the energy-momentum tensor, we should impose that {F}g[y] must be linear on the trace { T }. This reconstruction decays in f (T) theory for {F}g\\equiv Q, with Q a constant. Our reconstruction describes the cosmological eras to the present time. The model present stability within the geometric and matter perturbations for the choice {F}g=y, where y=({T}1/3/16π G)(16π G{ T }+T+8{{Λ }}), except for the geometric part in the de Sitter model. We impose the first and second laws of thermodynamics to ΛCDM and find the condition where they are satisfied, that is, {T}A,{G}{{eff}}\\gt 0, however where this is not possible in the cases that we choose, this leads to a breakdown of positive entropy and Misner-Sharp energy.

Accommodation to Wavefront Vergence and Chromatic Aberration

PubMed Central

Wang, Yinan; Kruger, Philip B.; Li, James S.; Lin, Peter L.; Stark, Lawrence R.

2011-01-01

Purpose Longitudinal chromatic aberration (LCA) provides a cue to accommodation with small pupils. However, large pupils increase monochromatic aberrations, which may obscure chromatic blur. In the present study, we examined the effect of pupil size and LCA on accommodation. Methods Accommodation was recorded by infrared optometer while observers (nine normal trichromats) viewed a sinusoidally moving Maltese cross target in a Badal stimulus system. There were two illumination conditions: white (3000 K; 20 cd/m2) and monochromatic (550 nm with 10 nm bandwidth; 20 cd/m2) and two artificial pupil conditions (3 mm and 5.7 mm). Separately, static measurements of wavefront aberration were made with the eye accommodating to targets between 0 and 4 D (COAS, Wavefront Sciences). Results Large individual differences in accommodation to wavefront vergence and to LCA are a hallmark of accommodation. LCA continues to provide a signal at large pupil sizes despite higher levels of monochromatic aberrations. Conclusions Monochromatic aberrations may defend against chromatic blur at high spatial frequencies, but accommodation responds best to optical vergence and to LCA at 3 c/deg where blur from higher order aberrations is less. PMID:21317666

Ending on a positive: Examining the role of safety leadership decisions, behaviours and actions in a safety critical situation.

PubMed

Donovan, Sarah-Louise; Salmon, Paul M; Horberry, Timothy; Lenné, Michael G

2018-01-01

Safety leadership is an important factor in supporting safe performance in the workplace. The present case study examined the role of safety leadership during the Bingham Canyon Mine high-wall failure, a significant mining incident in which no fatalities or injuries were incurred. The Critical Decision Method (CDM) was used in conjunction with a self-reporting approach to examine safety leadership in terms of decisions, behaviours and actions that contributed to the incidents' safe outcome. Mapping the analysis onto Rasmussen's Risk Management Framework (Rasmussen, 1997), the findings demonstrate clear links between safety leadership decisions, and emergent behaviours and actions across the work system. Communication and engagement based decisions featured most prominently, and were linked to different leadership practices across the work system. Further, a core sub-set of CDM decision elements were linked to the open flow and exchange of information across the work system, which was critical to supporting the safe outcome. The findings provide practical implications for the development of safety leadership capability to support safety within the mining industry. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Maximum likelihood sequence estimation for optical complex direct modulation.

PubMed

Che, Di; Yuan, Feng; Shieh, William

2017-04-17

Semiconductor lasers are versatile optical transmitters in nature. Through the direct modulation (DM), the intensity modulation is realized by the linear mapping between the injection current and the light power, while various angle modulations are enabled by the frequency chirp. Limited by the direct detection, DM lasers used to be exploited only as 1-D (intensity or angle) transmitters by suppressing or simply ignoring the other modulation. Nevertheless, through the digital coherent detection, simultaneous intensity and angle modulations (namely, 2-D complex DM, CDM) can be realized by a single laser diode. The crucial technique of CDM is the joint demodulation of intensity and differential phase with the maximum likelihood sequence estimation (MLSE), supported by a closed-form discrete signal approximation of frequency chirp to characterize the MLSE transition probability. This paper proposes a statistical method for the transition probability to significantly enhance the accuracy of the chirp model. Using the statistical estimation, we demonstrate the first single-channel 100-Gb/s PAM-4 transmission over 1600-km fiber with only 10G-class DM lasers.

Systematic development and optimization of chemically defined medium supporting high cell density growth of Bacillus coagulans.

PubMed

Chen, Yu; Dong, Fengqing; Wang, Yonghong

2016-09-01

With determined components and experimental reducibility, the chemically defined medium (CDM) and the minimal chemically defined medium (MCDM) are used in many metabolism and regulation studies. This research aimed to develop the chemically defined medium supporting high cell density growth of Bacillus coagulans, which is a promising producer of lactic acid and other bio-chemicals. In this study, a systematic methodology combining the experimental technique with flux balance analysis (FBA) was proposed to design and simplify a CDM. The single omission technique and single addition technique were employed to determine the essential and stimulatory compounds, before the optimization of their concentrations by the statistical method. In addition, to improve the growth rationally, in silico omission and addition were performed by FBA based on the construction of a medium-size metabolic model of B. coagulans 36D1. Thus, CDMs were developed to obtain considerable biomass production of at least five B. coagulans strains, in which two model strains B. coagulans 36D1 and ATCC 7050 were involved.

Formation of long-lived CDn2+ and CHn2+ dications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Levy, Y.; Bar-David, A.; Ben-Itzhak, I.; Gertner, I.; Rosner, B.

1999-08-01

A systematic study of the formation of CDn2+ and CHn2+ dications in fast charge-stripping collisions with Ar atoms was conducted. The experimental method was based on the detection of the D (or H) fragments of the molecular ion of interest, and thus reducing the effect of the fraction of molecular ions containing the 13C isotope and other beam impurities. We observed long-lived CD22+, CD42+, and CD52+ dications. In the same process neither long-lived CD2+ nor CD32+ were observed. The mean lifetime of CD22+ was determined to be 4.0±1.11.3 µs, and those of CD42+ and CD52+ were longer than 2.1 and 3.3 µs, respectively. The production cross sections of CDn2+ from different CDm+ beams were measured. Long-lived CD22+ was formed from all CDm+ beams (micons/Journals/Common/geq" ALT="geq" ALIGN="TOP"/>2) and also directly from the rf ion source. In contrast, CD42+ and CD52+ were formed only from CD4+ and CD5+, respectively.

The serendipitous observation of a gravitationally lensed galaxy at z = 0.9057 from the Blanco Cosmology Survey: the Elliot Arc

DOE PAGES

Buckley-Geer, E. J.; Lin, H.; Drabek, E. R.; ...

2011-11-03

We report on the serendipitous discovery in the Blanco Cosmology Survey (BCS) imaging data of a z = 0.9057 galaxy that is being strongly lensed by a massive galaxy cluster at a redshift of z = 0.3838. The lens (BCS J2352-5452) was discovered while examining i- and z-band images being acquired in October 2006 during a BCS observing run. Follow-up spectroscopic observations with the GMOS instrument on the Gemini South 8m telescope confirmed the lensing nature of this system. Using weak plus strong lensing, velocity dispersion, cluster richness N 200, and fitting to an NFW cluster mass density profile, wemore » have made three independent estimates of the mass M 200 which are all very consistent with each other. The combination of the results from the three methods gives M 200 = (5.1 x 1.3) x 10 14 circle_dot, which is fully consistent with the individual measurements. The final NFW concentration c 200 from the combined fit is c 200 = 5.4 -1.1 +1.4. We have compared our measurements of M 200 and c 200 with predictions for (a) clusters from λCDM simulations, (b) lensing selected clusters from simulations, and (c) a real sample of cluster lenses. We find that we are most compatible with the predictions for λCDM simulations for lensing clusters, and we see no evidence based on this one system for an increased concentration compared to λCDM. Finally, using the flux measured from the [OII]3727 line we have determined the star formation rate (SFR) of the source galaxy and find it to be rather modest given the assumed lens magnification.« less

Another baryon miracle? Testing solutions to the `missing dwarfs' problem

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Trujillo-Gomez, Sebastian; Schneider, Aurel; Papastergis, Emmanouil; Reed, Darren S.; Lake, George

2018-04-01

The dearth of dwarf galaxies in the local Universe is hard to reconcile with the large number of low-mass haloes expected within the concordance Λ cold dark matter (ΛCDM) paradigm. In this paper, we perform a systematic evaluation of the uncertainties affecting the measurement of dark matter halo abundance using galaxy kinematics. Using a large sample of dwarf galaxies with spatially resolved kinematics, we derive a correction to obtain the abundance of galaxies as a function of maximum circular velocity - a direct probe of halo mass - from the line-of-sight velocity function in the Local Volume. This method provides a direct means of comparing the predictions of theoretical models and simulations (including non-standard cosmologies and novel galaxy formation physics) to the observational constraints. The new `galactic Vmax' function is steeper than the line-of-sight velocity function but still shallower than the theoretical CDM expectation, implying that unaccounted baryonic physics may be necessary to reduce the predicted abundance of galaxies. Using the galactic Vmax function, we investigate the theoretical effects of feedback-powered outflows and photoevaporation of gas due to reionization. At the 3σ confidence level, we find that feedback and reionization are not effective enough to reconcile the disagreement. In the case of maximum baryonic effects, the theoretical prediction still deviates significantly from the observations for Vmax < 60 km s-1. CDM predicts at least 1.8 times more galaxies with Vmax = 50 km s-1 and 2.5 times more than observed at 30 km s-1. Recent hydrodynamic simulations seem to resolve the discrepancy but disagree with the properties of observed galaxies with spatially resolved kinematics. This abundance problem might point to the need to modify cosmological predictions at small scales.

Is cosmic acceleration proven by local cosmological probes?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tutusaus, I.; Lamine, B.; Dupays, A.; Blanchard, A.

2017-06-01

Context. The cosmological concordance model (ΛCDM) matches the cosmological observations exceedingly well. This model has become the standard cosmological model with the evidence for an accelerated expansion provided by the type Ia supernovae (SNIa) Hubble diagram. However, the robustness of this evidence has been addressed recently with somewhat diverging conclusions. Aims: The purpose of this paper is to assess the robustness of the conclusion that the Universe is indeed accelerating if we rely only on low-redshift (z ≲ 2) observations, that is to say with SNIa, baryonic acoustic oscillations, measurements of the Hubble parameter at different redshifts, and measurements of the growth of matter perturbations. Methods: We used the standard statistical procedure of minimizing the χ2 function for the different probes to quantify the goodness of fit of a model for both ΛCDM and a simple nonaccelerated low-redshift power law model. In this analysis, we do not assume that supernovae intrinsic luminosity is independent of the redshift, which has been a fundamental assumption in most previous studies that cannot be tested. Results: We have found that, when SNIa intrinsic luminosity is not assumed to be redshift independent, a nonaccelerated low-redshift power law model is able to fit the low-redshift background data as well as, or even slightly better, than ΛCDM. When measurements of the growth of structures are added, a nonaccelerated low-redshift power law model still provides an excellent fit to the data for all the luminosity evolution models considered. Conclusions: Without the standard assumption that supernovae intrinsic luminosity is independent of the redshift, low-redshift probes are consistent with a nonaccelerated universe.

Nonparametric test of consistency between cosmological models and multiband CMB measurements

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

Aghamousa, Amir; Shafieloo, Arman, E-mail: amir@apctp.org, E-mail: shafieloo@kasi.re.kr

2015-06-01

We present a novel approach to test the consistency of the cosmological models with multiband CMB data using a nonparametric approach. In our analysis we calibrate the REACT (Risk Estimation and Adaptation after Coordinate Transformation) confidence levels associated with distances in function space (confidence distances) based on the Monte Carlo simulations in order to test the consistency of an assumed cosmological model with observation. To show the applicability of our algorithm, we confront Planck 2013 temperature data with concordance model of cosmology considering two different Planck spectra combination. In order to have an accurate quantitative statistical measure to compare betweenmore » the data and the theoretical expectations, we calibrate REACT confidence distances and perform a bias control using many realizations of the data. Our results in this work using Planck 2013 temperature data put the best fit ΛCDM model at 95% (∼ 2σ) confidence distance from the center of the nonparametric confidence set while repeating the analysis excluding the Planck 217 × 217 GHz spectrum data, the best fit ΛCDM model shifts to 70% (∼ 1σ) confidence distance. The most prominent features in the data deviating from the best fit ΛCDM model seems to be at low multipoles  18 < ℓ < 26 at greater than 2σ, ℓ ∼ 750 at ∼1 to 2σ and ℓ ∼ 1800 at greater than 2σ level. Excluding the 217×217 GHz spectrum the feature at ℓ ∼ 1800 becomes substantially less significance at ∼1 to 2σ confidence level. Results of our analysis based on the new approach we propose in this work are in agreement with other analysis done using alternative methods.« less

A Novel Visual Psychometric Test for Light-Induced Discomfort Using Red and Blue Light Stimuli Under Binocular and Monocular Viewing Conditions.

PubMed

Zivcevska, Marija; Lei, Shaobo; Blakeman, Alan; Goltz, Herbert C; Wong, Agnes M F

2018-03-01

To develop an objective psychophysical method to quantify light-induced visual discomfort, and to measure the effects of viewing condition and stimulus wavelength. Eleven visually normal subjects participated in the study. Their pupils were dilated (2.5% phenylephrine) before the experiment. A Ganzfeld system presented either red (1.5, 19.1, 38.2, 57.3, 76.3, 152.7, 305.3 cd/m2) or blue (1.4, 7.1, 14.3, 28.6, 42.9, 57.1, 71.4 cd/m2) randomized light intensities (1 s each) in four blocks. Constant white-light stimuli (3 cd/m2, 4 s duration) were interleaved with the chromatic trials. Participants reported each stimulus as either "uncomfortably bright" or "not uncomfortably bright." The experiment was done binocularly and monocularly in separate sessions, and the order of color/viewing condition sequence was randomized across participants. The proportion of "uncomfortable" responses was used to generate individual psychometric functions, from which 50% discomfort thresholds were calculated. Light-induced discomfort was higher under blue compared with red light stimulation, both during binocular (t(10) = 3.58, P < 0.01) and monocular viewing (t(10) = 3.15, P = 0.01). There was also a significant difference in discomfort between viewing conditions, with binocular viewing inducing more discomfort than monocular viewing for blue (P < 0.001), but not for red light stimulation. The light-induced discomfort characteristics reported here are consistent with features of the melanopsin-containing intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cell light irradiance pathway, which may mediate photophobia, a prominent feature in many clinical disorders. This is the first psychometric assessment designed around melanopsin spectral properties that can be customized further to assess photophobia in different clinical populations.

Evaluation of Electronic Healthcare Databases for Post-Marketing Drug Safety Surveillance and Pharmacoepidemiology in China.

PubMed

Yang, Yu; Zhou, Xiaofeng; Gao, Shuangqing; Lin, Hongbo; Xie, Yanming; Feng, Yuji; Huang, Kui; Zhan, Siyan

2018-01-01

Electronic healthcare databases (EHDs) are used increasingly for post-marketing drug safety surveillance and pharmacoepidemiology in Europe and North America. However, few studies have examined the potential of these data sources in China. Three major types of EHDs in China (i.e., a regional community-based database, a national claims database, and an electronic medical records [EMR] database) were selected for evaluation. Forty core variables were derived based on the US Mini-Sentinel (MS) Common Data Model (CDM) as well as the data features in China that would be desirable to support drug safety surveillance. An email survey of these core variables and eight general questions as well as follow-up inquiries on additional variables was conducted. These 40 core variables across the three EHDs and all variables in each EHD along with those in the US MS CDM and Observational Medical Outcomes Partnership (OMOP) CDM were compared for availability and labeled based on specific standards. All of the EHDs' custodians confirmed their willingness to share their databases with academic institutions after appropriate approval was obtained. The regional community-based database contained 1.19 million people in 2015 with 85% of core variables. Resampled annually nationwide, the national claims database included 5.4 million people in 2014 with 55% of core variables, and the EMR database included 3 million inpatients from 60 hospitals in 2015 with 80% of core variables. Compared with MS CDM or OMOP CDM, the proportion of variables across the three EHDs available or able to be transformed/derived from the original sources are 24-83% or 45-73%, respectively. These EHDs provide potential value to post-marketing drug safety surveillance and pharmacoepidemiology in China. Future research is warranted to assess the quality and completeness of these EHDs or additional data sources in China.

Reading performance of monofocal pseudophakic patients with and without glasses under normal and dim light conditions.

PubMed

Radner, Wolfgang; Radner, Stephan; Raunig, Valerian; Diendorfer, Gabriela

2014-03-01

To evaluate reading performance of patients with monofocal intraocular lenses (IOLs) (Acrysof SN60WF) with or without reading glasses under bright and dim light conditions. Austrian Academy of Ophthalmology, Vienna, Austria. Evaluation of a diagnostic test or technology. In pseudophakic patients, the spherical refractive error was limited to between +0.50 diopter (D) and -0.75 D with astigmatism of 0.75 D (mean spherical equivalent: right eye, -0.08 ± 0.43 [SD]; left eye, -0.15 ± 0.35). Near addition was +2.75 D. Reading performance was assessed binocularly with or without reading glasses at an illumination of 100 candelas (cd)/m(2) and 4 cd/m(2) using the Radner Reading Charts. In the 25 patients evaluated, binocularly, the mean corrected distance visual acuity was -0.07 ± 0.06 logMAR and the mean uncorrected distance visual acuity was 0.01 ± 0.11 logMAR. The mean reading acuity with reading glasses was 0.02 ± 0.10 logRAD at 100 cd/m(2) and 0.12 ± 0.14 logRAD at 4 cd/m(2). Without reading glasses, it was 0.44 ± 0.13 logRAD and 0.56 ± 0.16 logRAD, respectively (P < .05). Without reading glasses and at 100 cd/m(2), 40% of patients read 0.4 logRAD at more than 80 words per minute (wpm), 68% exceeded this limit at 0.5 logRAD, and 92% exceeded it at 0.6 logRAD. The mean reading speed at 0.5 logRAD was 134.76 ± 48.22 wpm; with reading glasses it was 167.65 ± 32.77 wpm (P < .05). A considerable percentage of patients with monofocal IOLs read newspaper print size without glasses under good light conditions. Copyright © 2014 ASCRS and ESCRS. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE SUPERNOVA LEGACY SURVEY SAMPLE WITH ΛCDM AND THE R{sub h}=ct UNIVERSE

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

Wei, Jun-Jie; Wu, Xue-Feng; Melia, Fulvio

The use of Type Ia supernovae (SNe Ia) has thus far produced the most reliable measurement of the expansion history of the universe, suggesting that ΛCDM offers the best explanation for the redshift–luminosity distribution observed in these events. However, analysis of other kinds of sources, such as cosmic chronometers, gamma-ray bursts, and high-z quasars, conflicts with this conclusion, indicating instead that the constant expansion rate implied by the R{sub h} = ct universe is a better fit to the data. The central difficulty with the use of SNe Ia as standard candles is that one must optimize three or fourmore » nuisance parameters characterizing supernova (SN) luminosities simultaneously with the parameters of an expansion model. Hence, in comparing competing models, one must reduce the data independently for each. We carry out such a comparison of ΛCDM and the R{sub h} = ct universe using the SN Legacy Survey sample of 252 SN events, and show that each model fits its individually reduced data very well. However, since R{sub h} = ct has only one free parameter (the Hubble constant), it follows from a standard model selection technique that it is to be preferred over ΛCDM, the minimalist version of which has three (the Hubble constant, the scaled matter density, and either the spatial curvature constant or the dark energy equation-of-state parameter). We estimate using the Bayes Information Criterion that in a pairwise comparison, the likelihood of R{sub h} = ct is ∼90%, compared with only ∼10% for a minimalist form of ΛCDM, in which dark energy is simply a cosmological constant. Compared to R{sub h} = ct, versions of the standard model with more elaborate parametrizations of dark energy are judged to be even less likely.« less

NASA Workmanship Hot Topics: Water Soluble Flux and ESD Charge Device Model

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Plante, Jeannette F.

2009-01-01

This slide presentation reviews two topics of interest to NASA Workmanship: (1) Water Soluble Flux (WSF) and Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) safety. In the first topic, WSF, the presentation reviews voiding and the importance of cleanliness in using WSF for welding and soldering operations. The second topic reviews the NASA-HDBK-8739.21 for Human Body Model, and Machine Model safety methods, and challenges associated with the Charged Device Model (CDM)

Galaxy clusters and cold dark matter - A low-density unbiased universe?

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bahcall, Neta A.; Cen, Renyue

1992-01-01

Large-scale simulations of a universe dominated by cold dark matter (CDM) are tested against two fundamental properties of clusters of galaxies: the cluster mass function and the cluster correlation function. We find that standard biased CDM models are inconsistent with these observations for any bias parameter b. A low-density, low-bias CDM-type model, with or without a cosmological constant, appears to be consistent with both the cluster mass function and the cluster correlations. The low-density model agrees well with the observed correlation function of the Abell, Automatic Plate Measuring Facility (APM), and Edinburgh-Durham cluster catalogs. The model is in excellent agreement with the observed dependence of the correlation strength on cluster mean separation, reproducing the measured universal dimensionless cluster correlation. The low-density model is also consistent with other large-scale structure observations, including the APM angular galaxy-correlations, and for lambda = 1-Omega with the COBE results of the microwave background radiation fluctuations.

Semantic Enhancement for Enterprise Data Management

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma, Li; Sun, Xingzhi; Cao, Feng; Wang, Chen; Wang, Xiaoyuan; Kanellos, Nick; Wolfson, Dan; Pan, Yue

Taking customer data as an example, the paper presents an approach to enhance the management of enterprise data by using Semantic Web technologies. Customer data is the most important kind of core business entity a company uses repeatedly across many business processes and systems, and customer data management (CDM) is becoming critical for enterprises because it keeps a single, complete and accurate record of customers across the enterprise. Existing CDM systems focus on integrating customer data from all customer-facing channels and front and back office systems through multiple interfaces, as well as publishing customer data to different applications. To make the effective use of the CDM system, this paper investigates semantic query and analysis over the integrated and centralized customer data, enabling automatic classification and relationship discovery. We have implemented these features over IBM Websphere Customer Center, and shown the prototype to our clients. We believe that our study and experiences are valuable for both Semantic Web community and data management community.

What do gas-rich galaxies actually tell us about modified Newtonian dynamics?

PubMed

Foreman, Simon; Scott, Douglas

2012-04-06

It has recently been claimed that measurements of the baryonic Tully-Fisher relation (BTFR), a power-law relationship between the observed baryonic masses and outer rotation velocities of galaxies, support the predictions of modified Newtonian dynamics for the slope and scatter in the relation, while challenging the cold dark matter (CDM) paradigm. We investigate these claims, and find that (1) the scatter in the data used to determine the BTFR is in conflict with observational uncertainties on the data, (2) these data do not make strong distinctions regarding the best-fit BTFR parameters, (3) the literature contains a wide variety of measurements of the BTFR, many of which are discrepant with the recent results, and (4) the claimed CDM "prediction" for the BTFR is a gross oversimplification of the complex galaxy-scale physics involved. We conclude that the BTFR is currently untrustworthy as a test of CDM. © 2012 American Physical Society

Curvaton as dark matter with secondary inflation

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

Gong, Jinn-Ouk; Kitajima, Naoya; Terada, Takahiro, E-mail: jinn-ouk.gong@apctp.org, E-mail: naoya.kitajima@apctp.org, E-mail: terada@kias.re.kr

2017-03-01

We consider a novel cosmological scenario in which a curvaton is long-lived and plays the role of cold dark matter (CDM) in the presence of a short, secondary inflation. Non-trivial evolution of the large scale cosmological perturbation in the curvaton scenario can affect the duration of the short term inflation, resulting in the inhomogeneous end of inflation. Non-linear parameters of the curvature perturbation are predicted to be f {sub NL} ≈ 5/4 and g {sub NL} ≈ 0. The curvaton abundance can be well diluted by the short-term inflation and accordingly, it does not have to decay into the Standardmore » Model particles. Then the curvaton can account for the present CDM with the isocurvature perturbation being sufficiently suppressed because both the adiabatic and CDM isocurvature perturbations have the same origin. As an explicit example, we consider the thermal inflation scenario and a string axion as a candidate for this curvaton-dark matter. We further discuss possibilities to identify the curvaton-dark matter with the QCD axion.« less

Topology in two dimensions. IV - CDM models with non-Gaussian initial conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Coles, Peter; Moscardini, Lauro; Plionis, Manolis; Lucchin, Francesco; Matarrese, Sabino; Messina, Antonio

1993-02-01

The results of N-body simulations with both Gaussian and non-Gaussian initial conditions are used here to generate projected galaxy catalogs with the same selection criteria as the Shane-Wirtanen counts of galaxies. The Euler-Poincare characteristic is used to compare the statistical nature of the projected galaxy clustering in these simulated data sets with that of the observed galaxy catalog. All the models produce a topology dominated by a meatball shift when normalized to the known small-scale clustering properties of galaxies. Models characterized by a positive skewness of the distribution of primordial density perturbations are inconsistent with the Lick data, suggesting problems in reconciling models based on cosmic textures with observations. Gaussian CDM models fit the distribution of cell counts only if they have a rather high normalization but possess too low a coherence length compared with the Lick counts. This suggests that a CDM model with extra large scale power would probably fit the available data.

DNA bases thymine and adenine in bio-organic light emitting diodes.

PubMed

Gomez, Eliot F; Venkatraman, Vishak; Grote, James G; Steckl, Andrew J

2014-11-24

We report on the use of nucleic acid bases (NBs) in organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs). NBs are small molecules that are the basic building blocks of the larger DNA polymer. NBs readily thermally evaporate and integrate well into the vacuum deposited OLED fabrication. Adenine (A) and thymine (T) were deposited as electron-blocking/hole-transport layers (EBL/HTL) that resulted in increases in performance over the reference OLED containing the standard EBL material NPB. A-based OLEDs reached a peak current efficiency and luminance performance of 48 cd/A and 93,000 cd/m(2), respectively, while T-based OLEDs had a maximum of 76 cd/A and 132,000 cd/m(2). By comparison, the reference OLED yielded 37 cd/A and 113,000 cd/m(2). The enhanced performance of T-based devices is attributed to a combination of energy levels and structured surface morphology that causes more efficient and controlled hole current transport to the emitting layer.

The tangential velocity of M31: CLUES from constrained simulations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carlesi, Edoardo; Hoffman, Yehuda; Sorce, Jenny G.; Gottlöber, Stefan; Yepes, Gustavo; Courtois, Hélène; Tully, R. Brent

2016-07-01

Determining the precise value of the tangential component of the velocity of M31 is a non-trivial astrophysical issue that relies on complicated modelling. This has recently lead to conflicting estimates, obtained by several groups that used different methodologies and assumptions. This Letter addresses the issue by computing a Bayesian posterior distribution function of this quantity, in order to measure the compatibility of those estimates with Λ cold dark matter (ΛCDM). This is achieved using an ensemble of Local Group (LG) look-alikes collected from a set of constrained simulations (CSs) of the local Universe, and a standard unconstrained ΛCDM. The latter allows us to build a control sample of LG-like pairs and to single out the influence of the environment in our results. We find that neither estimate is at odds with ΛCDM; however, whereas CSs favour higher values of vtan, the reverse is true for estimates based on LG samples gathered from unconstrained simulations, overlooking the environmental element.

Entropy corrected holographic dark energy models in modified gravity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jawad, Abdul; Azhar, Nadeem; Rani, Shamaila

We consider the power law and the entropy corrected holographic dark energy (HDE) models with Hubble horizon in the dynamical Chern-Simons modified gravity. We explore various cosmological parameters and planes in this framework. The Hubble parameter lies within the consistent range at the present and later epoch for both entropy corrected models. The deceleration parameter explains the accelerated expansion of the universe. The equation of state (EoS) parameter corresponds to quintessence and cold dark matter (ΛCDM) limit. The ωΛ-ωΛ‧ approaches to ΛCDM limit and freezing region in both entropy corrected models. The statefinder parameters are consistent with ΛCDM limit and dark energy (DE) models. The generalized second law of thermodynamics remain valid in all cases of interacting parameter. It is interesting to mention here that our results of Hubble, EoS parameter and ωΛ-ωΛ‧ plane show consistency with the present observations like Planck, WP, BAO, H0, SNLS and nine-year WMAP.

Can chronic disease management plans including occupational therapy and physiotherapy services contribute to reducing falls risk in older people?

PubMed

Mackenzie, Lynette; Clemson, Lindy

2014-04-01

Exercise and home modifications are effective interventions for preventing falls. Chronic disease management (CDM) items are one way for general practitioners (GPs) to access these interventions. This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes and feasibility of using CDM items for occupational therapy (OT) and physiotherapy (PT) sessions to address falls risk. A pre-post pilot study design was used to evaluate five collaborative sessions shared by a private OT and PT using CDM items and a GP management plan. Pre and post intervention measures were used to evaluate outcomes for eight patients aged ≥75 years from two GP practices. At 2 months post-intervention there were significant improvements in everyday functioning (P = 0.04), physical capacity (P = 0.01) and falls efficacy (P =0.01). Adherence to the intervention was excellent. Falls prevention interventions can be effective in primary care settings and sustainable pathways need to be developed to ensure access for older people at risk.

Semimicroscopic analysis of 6Li+28Si elastic scattering at 76 to 318 MeV

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hassanain, M. A.; Anwar, M.; Behairy, Kassem O.

2018-04-01

Using the α-cluster structure of colliding nuclei, the elastic scattering of 6Li+28Si at energies from 76 to 318 MeV has been investigated by the use of the real folding cluster approach. The results of the cluster analysis are compared with those obtained by the CDM3Y6 effective density- and energy-dependent nucleon-nucleon (NN) interaction based upon G -matrix elements of the M3Y-Paris potential. A Woods-Saxon (WS) form was used for the imaginary potential. For all energies and derived potentials, the diffraction region was well reproduced, except at Elab=135 and 154 MeV at large angle. These results suggest that the addition of the surface (DWS) imaginary potential term to the volume imaginary potential is essential for a correct description of the refractive structure of the 6Li elastic scattering distribution at these energies. The energy dependence of the total reaction cross sections and that of the real and imaginary volume integrals is also discussed.

Imprint of thawing scalar fields on the large scale galaxy overdensity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dinda, Bikash R.; Sen, Anjan A.

2018-04-01

We investigate the observed galaxy power spectrum for the thawing class of scalar field models taking into account various general relativistic corrections that occur on very large scales. We consider the full general relativistic perturbation equations for the matter as well as the dark energy fluid. We form a single autonomous system of equations containing both the background and the perturbed equations of motion which we subsequently solve for different scalar field potentials. First we study the percentage deviation from the Λ CDM model for different cosmological parameters as well as in the observed galaxy power spectra on different scales in scalar field models for various choices of scalar field potentials. Interestingly the difference in background expansion results from the enhancement of power from Λ CDM on small scales, whereas the inclusion of general relativistic (GR) corrections results in the suppression of power from Λ CDM on large scales. This can be useful to distinguish scalar field models from Λ CDM with future optical/radio surveys. We also compare the observed galaxy power spectra for tracking and thawing types of scalar field using some particular choices for the scalar field potentials. We show that thawing and tracking models can have large differences in observed galaxy power spectra on large scales and for smaller redshifts due to different GR effects. But on smaller scales and for larger redshifts, the difference is small and is mainly due to the difference in background expansion.

Canine diabetes mellitus risk factors: A matched case-control study.

PubMed

Pöppl, Alan Gomes; de Carvalho, Guilherme Luiz Carvalho; Vivian, Itatiele Farias; Corbellini, Luis Gustavo; González, Félix Hilário Díaz

2017-10-01

Different subtypes of canine diabetes mellitus (CDM) have been described based on their aetiopathogenesis. Therefore, manifold risk factors may be involved in CDM development. This study aims to investigate canine diabetes mellitus risk factors. Owners of 110 diabetic dogs and 136 healthy controls matched by breed, sex, and age were interviewed concerning aspects related to diet, weight, physical activity, oral health, reproductive history, pancreatitis, and exposure to exogenous glucocorticoids. Two multivariate multivariable statistical models were created: The UMod included males and females without variables related to oestrous cycle, while the FMod included only females with all analysed variables. In the UMod, "Not exclusively commercial diet" (OR 4.86, 95%CI 2.2-10.7, P<0.001) and "Overweight" (OR 3.51, 95%CI 1.6-7.5, P=0.001) were statistically significant, while in the FMod, "Not exclusively commercial diet" (OR 4.14, 95%CI 1.3-12.7, P=0.01), "Table scraps abuse" (OR 3.62, 95%CI 1.1-12.2, P=0.03), "Overweight" (OR 3.91, 95%CI 1.2-12.6, P=0.02), and "Dioestrus" (OR 5.53, 95%CI 1.9-16.3, P=0.002) were statistically significant. The findings in this study support feeding not exclusively balanced commercial dog food, overweight, treats abuse, and diestrus, as main CDM risk factors. Moreover, those results give subside for preventive care studies against CDM development. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The role of Sudanese community pharmacists in patients' self-care.

PubMed

Mohamed, Sumia S; Mahmoud, Adil A; Ali, Abdulazim A

2014-04-01

To describe the current and potential roles of Sudanese community pharmacists in responding to symptoms (RTS) and chronic diseases management (CDM) and identify perceived barriers. Community pharmacies in Khartoum State. A structured, self-administered, piloted questionnaire was conducted of pharmacists in charge of 274, randomly selected, community pharmacies. Close ended questions and a 5-point Likert-type scale were used to measure responses. Respondents' demographics, their current activities, attitude and involvement in RTS and CDM and potential barriers. Response rate was 67 %. The majority of respondents (>90 %) reported that they are involved in RTS activities but have negative views regarding practice standards. They lack specific lists of minor conditions and their treatment (87.4 %), recorded counseling procedure (84.7 %), and referral forms (85.8 %). Almost all community pharmacists see an important role for them in CDM (4.54 ± 0.74, 95.3 %) and accept team work with other health care providers (4.46 ± 0.74, 87.5 %). Lack of proper knowledge and training, time, space, patients' acceptance and official recognition of pharmacists' new role, were some of the identified barriers. Sudanese community pharmacists provide RTS and CDM services; however, clinical knowledge and training and well defined national practice standards needs were identified. The current product-focused activities need to be refined to include more patient-focused services. For Improved patients' self-care services, a number of obstacles identified by surveyed pharmacists need to resolved. This requires collaboration of different parties including academics, governmental bodies and professional organizations.

Distinguishing CDM dwarfs from SIDM dwarfs in baryonic simulations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Strickland, Emily; Fitts, Alex B.; Boylan-Kolchin, Michael

2017-06-01

Dwarf galaxies in the nearby Universe are the most dark-matter-dominated systems known. They are therefore natural probes of the nature of dark matter, which remains unknown. Our collaboration has performed several high-resolution cosmological zoom-in simulations of isolated dwarf galaxies. We simulate each galaxy in standard cold dark matter (ΛCDM) as well as self-interacting dark matter (SIDM, with a cross section of σ/m ~ 1 cm2/g), both with and without baryons, in order to identify distinguishing characteristics between the two. The simulations are run using GIZMO, a meshless-finite-mass hydrodynamical code, and are part of the Feedback in Realistic Environments (FIRE) project. By analyzing both the global properties and inner structure of the dwarfs in varying dark matter prescriptions, we provide a side-by-side comparison of isolated, dark-matter-dominated galaxies at the mass scale where differences in the two models of dark matter are thought to be the most obvious. We find that the edge of classical dwarfs and ultra-faint dwarfs (at stellar masses of ~105 solar masses) provides the clearest window for distinguishing between the two theories. At these low masses, our SIDM galaxies have a cored inner density profile, while their CDM counterparts have “cuspy” centers. The SIDM versions of each galaxy also have measurably lower stellar velocity dispersions than their CDM counterparts. Future observations of ultra faint dwarfs with JWST and 30-m telescopes will be able to discern whether such alternate theories of dark matter are viable.

Evaluation of newly synthesized and commercially available charged cyclomaltooligosaccharides (cyclodextrins) for capillary electrokinetic chromatography.

PubMed

Culha, Mustafa; Schell, Fred M; Fox, Shannon; Green, Thomas; Betts, Thomas; Sepaniak, Michael J

2004-01-22

A highly new charged cyclodextrin (CD) derivatives, (6-O-carboxymethyl-2,3-di-O-methyl)cyclomaltoheptaoses (CDM-beta-CDs), was synthesized and characterized as anionic reagents for capillary electrophoresis (CE) in an electrokinetic chromatography mode of separation. Substitution with dimethyl groups at the secondary hydroxyl sites of the CD is aimed at influencing the magnitude and selectivity of analyte-CD interactions, while substitution by carboxymethyl groups at the primary hydroxyl sites provides for high charge and electrophoretic mobility. Full regioselective methylation at the secondary hydroxyl sites was achieved in this work, while substitution at the primary hydroxyl sites generated a mixture of multiply charged products. The separation performance of CDM-beta-CD was evaluated using a variety of analyte mixtures. The results obtained from commercially available negatively charged cyclodextrins, heptakis(2,3-di-O-methyl-6-O-sulfo)cyclomaltoheptaose (HDMS-beta-CD) and O-(carboxymethyl)cyclomaltoheptaose (CM-beta-CD) with an average degree of substitution one (DS 1), were compared to CDM-beta-CD using a sample composed of eight positional isomers of dihydroxynaphthalene. Four hydroxylated polychlorobiphenyl derivatives, a group of chiral and isomeric catchecins, and chiral binaphthyl compounds were also separated with CDM-beta-CD. The effect of adding neutral beta-cyclodextrin (beta-CD) into the running buffer containing charged cyclodextrins was investigated and provided evidence of significant inter-CD interactions. Under certain running buffer conditions, the charged cyclodextrins also appear to adsorb to the capillary walls to various degrees.

A measurement of the cosmic microwave background damping tail from the 2500-square-degree SPT-SZ survey

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

Story, K. T.; Keisler, R.; Benson, B. A.

2013-12-10

We present a measurement of the cosmic microwave background (CMB) temperature power spectrum using data from the recently completed South Pole Telescope Sunyaev-Zel'dovich (SPT-SZ) survey. This measurement is made from observations of 2540 deg{sup 2} of sky with arcminute resolution at 150 GHz, and improves upon previous measurements using the SPT by tripling the sky area. We report CMB temperature anisotropy power over the multipole range 650 < ℓ < 3000. We fit the SPT bandpowers, combined with the 7 yr Wilkinson Microwave Anisotropy Probe (WMAP7) data, with a six-parameter ΛCDM cosmological model and find that the two datasets aremore » consistent and well fit by the model. Adding SPT measurements significantly improves ΛCDM parameter constraints; in particular, the constraint on θ {sub s} tightens by a factor of 2.7. The impact of gravitational lensing is detected at 8.1σ, the most significant detection to date. This sensitivity of the SPT+WMAP7 data to lensing by large-scale structure at low redshifts allows us to constrain the mean curvature of the observable universe with CMB data alone to be Ω{sub k}=−0.003{sub −0.018}{sup +0.014}. Using the SPT+WMAP7 data, we measure the spectral index of scalar fluctuations to be n{sub s} = 0.9623 ± 0.0097 in the ΛCDM model, a 3.9σ preference for a scale-dependent spectrum with n{sub s} < 1. The SPT measurement of the CMB damping tail helps break the degeneracy that exists between the tensor-to-scalar ratio r and n{sub s} in large-scale CMB measurements, leading to an upper limit of r < 0.18 (95% C.L.) in the ΛCDM+r model. Adding low-redshift measurements of the Hubble constant (H {sub 0}) and the baryon acoustic oscillation (BAO) feature to the SPT+WMAP7 data leads to further improvements. The combination of SPT+WMAP7+H {sub 0}+BAO constrains n{sub s} = 0.9538 ± 0.0081 in the ΛCDM model, a 5.7σ detection of n{sub s} < 1, and places an upper limit of r < 0.11 (95% C.L.) in the ΛCDM+r model. These new constraints on n{sub s} and r have significant implications for our understanding of inflation, which we discuss in the context of selected single-field inflation models.« less

Cluster Physics with Merging Galaxy Clusters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Molnar, Sandor

Collisions between galaxy clusters provide a unique opportunity to study matter in a parameter space which cannot be explored in our laboratories on Earth. In the standard ΛCDM model, where the total density is dominated by the cosmological constant (Λ) and the matter density by cold dark matter (CDM), structure formation is hierarchical, and clusters grow mostly by merging. Mergers of two massive clusters are the most energetic events in the universe after the Big Bang, hence they provide a unique laboratory to study cluster physics. The two main mass components in clusters behave differently during collisions: the dark matter is nearly collisionless, responding only to gravity, while the gas is subject to pressure forces and dissipation, and shocks and turbulence are developed during collisions. In the present contribution we review the different methods used to derive the physical properties of merging clusters. Different physical processes leave their signatures on different wavelengths, thus our review is based on a multifrequency analysis. In principle, the best way to analyze multifrequency observations of merging clusters is to model them using N-body/HYDRO numerical simulations. We discuss the results of such detailed analyses. New high spatial and spectral resolution ground and space based telescopes will come online in the near future. Motivated by these new opportunities, we briefly discuss methods which will be feasible in the near future in studying merging clusters.

The Effects of Anti-Deforestation Programs on Brazil’s Ecological Sustainability Goals and the Implications for the Economic Objectives of the Strategic Partnership with the European Union

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-06-01

and Invest, “CDM Markt kompakt,” [CDM Market Compact] Cologne: 2009. 104Ministério da Ciência, Tecnologia e Inovação [Ministry of Science...Challenged,” 395‒424. 128“Designated National Authority (Interministerial Commission on Global Climate Change),” Ministério da Ciência, Tecnologia e... Tecnologia e Inovação, accessed March 17, 2014, http://mct.gov.br/index.php/content/view/58160.html. 51

Exact analytic solution for non-linear density fluctuation in a ΛCDM universe

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

Yoo, Jaiyul; Gong, Jinn-Ouk, E-mail: jyoo@physik.uzh.ch, E-mail: jinn-ouk.gong@apctp.org

We derive the exact third-order analytic solution of the matter density fluctuation in the proper-time hypersurface in a ΛCDM universe, accounting for the explicit time-dependence and clarifying the relation to the initial condition. Furthermore, we compare our analytic solution to the previous calculation in the comoving gauge, and to the standard Newtonian perturbation theory by providing Fourier kernels for the relativistic effects. Our results provide an essential ingredient for a complete description of galaxy bias in the relativistic context.

Probing dark energy using convergence power spectrum and bi-spectrum

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

Dinda, Bikash R., E-mail: bikash@ctp-jamia.res.in

Weak lensing convergence statistics is a powerful tool to probe dark energy. Dark energy plays an important role to the structure formation and the effects can be detected through the convergence power spectrum, bi-spectrum etc. One of the most promising and simplest dark energy model is the ΛCDM . However, it is worth investigating different dark energy models with evolving equation of state of the dark energy. In this work, detectability of different dark energy models from ΛCDM model has been explored through convergence power spectrum and bi-spectrum.

High efficiency fluorescent white OLEDs based on DOPPP

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Gang; Chen, Chen; Lang, Jihui; Zhao, Lina; Jiang, Wenlong

2017-08-01

The white organic light-emitting devices (WOLED) with the structures of ITO/m-MTDATA (10 nm)/NPB (30 nm)/Rubrene (0.2 nm)/DOPPP (x nm)/TAz (10 nm)/Alq3 (30 nm)/LiF (0.5 nm)/Al and ITO/NPB (30 nm)/DPAVBi:Rubrene (2 wt.%, 20 nm)/ DOPPP (x nm)/TAZ (10 nm)/Alq3 (30 nm)/LiF (0.5 nm)/Al (100 nm) have been fabricated by the vacuum thermal evaporation method. The results show that the chroma of the non-doped device is the best and the color coordinates are in the range of white light. The maximum luminance is 12,750 cd/m2 and the maximum current efficiency is 8.55 cd/A. The doped device A has the maximum luminance (16,570 cd/m2), when the thickness of blue layer DOPPP is 25 nm, and the doped device B achieves the highest efficiency (10.47 cd/A), when the thickness of DOPPP is 15 nm. All the performances of the doped devices are better than the non-doped one. The results demonstrate that the doped structures can realize the energy transfer and then improve the performance of the device effectively.

Cosmological study with galaxy clusters detected by the Sunyaev-Zel'dovich effect

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mak, Suet-Ying

In this work, we present various studies to forecast the power of the galaxy clusters detected by the Sunyaev-Zel'dovich (SZ) effect in constraining cosmological models. The SZ effect is regarded as one of the new and promising technique to identify and study cluster physics. With the latest data being released in recent years from the SZ telescopes, it is essential to explore their potentials in providing cosmological information and investigate their relative strengths with respect to galaxy cluster data from X-ray and optical, as well as other cosmological probes such as Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB). One of the topics regard resolving the debate on the existence of an anomalous large scale bulk flow as measured from the kinetic SZ signal of galaxy clusters in the WMAP CMB data. We predict that if such measurement is done with the latest CMB data from the Planck satellite, the sensitivity will be improved by a factor of >5 and thus be able to provide an independent view of its existence. As it turns out, the Planck data, when using the technique developed in this work, find that the observed bulk flow amplitude is consistent with those expected from the LambdaCDM, which is in clear contradiction to the previous claim of a significant bulk flow detection in the WMAP data. We also forecast on the capability of the ongoing and future cluster surveys identified through thermal SZ (tSZ) in constraining three extended models to the LambdaCDM model: modified gravity f( R) model, primordial non-Gaussianity of density perturbation, and the presence of massive neutrinos. We do so by employing their effects on the cluster number count and power spectrum and using Fisher Matrix analysis to estimate the errors on the model parameters. We find that SZ cluster surveys can provide vital complementary information to those expected from non-cluster probes. Our results therefore give the confidence for pursuing these extended cosmological models with SZ clusters.

Yellow emitting Iridium (III) phenyl-benzothiazole complexes with different β-diketone ancillary ligands as dopants in white organic light-emitting diodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ivanov, P.; Petrova, P.; Tomova, R.

2018-03-01

We discuss the influence of the type of β-diketone ancillary ligand in Iridium (III) bis phenyl-benzothiazole complexes ((bt)2Ir(β-diketone)) on their photophysical and electroluminescent properties when they are used as dopants in white organic light-emitting diodes (WOLED). For this purpose, we investigated four novel yellow cyclometalated complexes: (bt)2Ir(dbm), (bt)2Ir(fmtdbm), (bt)2Ir(tta) and (bt)2Ir(bsm), where dbm = 1,3-diphenylpropane-1,3-dionate; fmtdbm = 1-(4-fluorophenyl)-3-(4-methoxyphenyl)propane-1,3-dionate; tta = 4,4,4-trifluoro-1-(thiophene-2-yl)butane-1,3-dionate; and bsm = 1-phenylicosane-1,3-dionate). To obtain white light by mixing emissions of two complementary colors (yellow emitted by the dopant and blue, by another emitter), we chose the following OLED structure: ITO/doped HTL/ElL/ETL/M, where ITO was a transparent anode of In2O3:SnO2; M, a metallic Al cathode; HTL, 4,4’-Bis(9H-carbazol-9-yl)biphenyl (CBP) involved in a poly(N-vinylcarbazole) (PVK) matrix; ElL, an electroluminescent layer of aluminum(III)bis(2-methyl-8-quninolinato)-4-phenylphenolate (BAlq); and ETL, an electron-transporting layer of zinc(II)bis(2-2-hydroxyphenyl)benzothiazole. We found that all complexes are suitable candidates for fabrication of WOLED. The best results were demonstrated by the device doped with 2 wt % of (bt)2Ir(bsm), which had twice as high luminescence (1100 cd/m2) and one-and-a-half as high current efficiency (5 cd/A) as the device doped with 1.25 wt % of the known (bt)2Ir(acac), with its 580 cd/m2 and 3.4 cd/A at approximately the same CIE (Commission Internationale de L’Eclairage) (x/y) coordinates of the warm white light emitted by the two devices.

Assessing the potential of group 13 and 14 metal/metalloid phthalocyanines as hole transport layers in organic light emitting diodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Plint, Trevor; Lessard, Benoît H.; Bender, Timothy P.

2016-04-01

In this study, we have assessed the potential application of group 13 and 14 metal and metalloid phthalocyanines ((X)n-MPcs) and their axially substituted derivatives as hole-transporting layers in organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs). OLEDs studied herein have the generic structure of glass/ITO/(N,N'-di(1-naphthyl)-N,N'-diphenyl-(1,1'-biphenyl)-4,4'-diamine (NPB) or (X)n-MPc)(50 nm)/Alq3 (60 nm)/LiF (1 nm)/Al (80 nm), where X is an axial substituent group. OLEDs using chloro aluminum phthalocyanine (Cl-AlPc) showed good peak luminance values of 2620 ± 113 cd/m2 at 11 V. To our knowledge, Cl-AlPc has not previously been shown to work as a hole transport material (HTL) in OLEDs. Conversely, the di-chlorides of silicon, germanium, and tin phthalocyanine (Cl2-SiPc, Cl2-GePc, and Cl2-SnPc, respectively) showed poor performance compared to Cl-AlPc, having peak luminances of only 38 ± 4 cd/m2 (12 V), 23 ± 1 cd/m2 (8.5 V), and 59 ± 5 cd/m2 (13.5 V), respectively. However, by performing a simple axial substitution of the chloride groups of Cl2-SiPc with pentafluorophenoxy groups, the resulting bis(pentafluorophenoxy) silicon phthalocyanine (F10-SiPc) containing OLED had a peak luminance of 5141 ± 941 cd/m2 (10 V), a two order of magnitude increase over its chlorinated precursor. This material showed OLED characteristics approaching those of a baseline OLED based on the well-studied triarylamine NPB. Attempts to attach the pentafluorophenoxy axial group to both SnPc and GePc were hindered by synthetic difficulties and low thermal stability, respectively. In light of the performance improvements observed by simple axial substitution of SiPc in OLEDs, the use of axially substituted MPcs in organic electronic devices remains of continuing interest to us and potentially the field in general.

A Comparative Analysis of the Supernova Legacy Survey Sample With ΛCDM and the Rh=ct Universe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wei, Jun-Jie; Wu, Xue-Feng; Melia, Fulvio; Maier, Robert S.

2015-03-01

The use of Type Ia supernovae (SNe Ia) has thus far produced the most reliable measurement of the expansion history of the universe, suggesting that ΛCDM offers the best explanation for the redshift-luminosity distribution observed in these events. However, analysis of other kinds of sources, such as cosmic chronometers, gamma-ray bursts, and high-z quasars, conflicts with this conclusion, indicating instead that the constant expansion rate implied by the Rh = ct universe is a better fit to the data. The central difficulty with the use of SNe Ia as standard candles is that one must optimize three or four nuisance parameters characterizing supernova (SN) luminosities simultaneously with the parameters of an expansion model. Hence, in comparing competing models, one must reduce the data independently for each. We carry out such a comparison of ΛCDM and the Rh = ct universe using the SN Legacy Survey sample of 252 SN events, and show that each model fits its individually reduced data very well. However, since Rh = ct has only one free parameter (the Hubble constant), it follows from a standard model selection technique that it is to be preferred over ΛCDM, the minimalist version of which has three (the Hubble constant, the scaled matter density, and either the spatial curvature constant or the dark energy equation-of-state parameter). We estimate using the Bayes Information Criterion that in a pairwise comparison, the likelihood of Rh = ct is ˜90%, compared with only ˜10% for a minimalist form of ΛCDM, in which dark energy is simply a cosmological constant. Compared to Rh = ct, versions of the standard model with more elaborate parametrizations of dark energy are judged to be even less likely. This work is dedicated to the memory of Prof. Tan Lu, who sadly passed away 2014 December 3. Among his many achievements, he is considered to be one of the founders of high-energy astrophysics, and a pioneer in modern cosmology, in China.

X-ray clusters in a cold dark matter + lambda universe: A direct, large-scale, high-resolution, hydrodynamic simulation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cen, Renyue; Ostriker, Jeremiah P.

1994-01-01

A new, three-dimensional, shock-capturing, hydrodynamic code is utilized to determine the distribution of hot gas in a cold dark matter (CDM) + lambda model universe. Periodic boundary conditions are assumed: a box with size 85/h Mpc, having cell size 0.31/h Mpc, is followed in a simulation with 270(exp 3) = 10(exp 7.3) cells. We adopt omega = 0.45, lambda = 0.55, h identically equal to H/100 km/s/Mpc = 0.6, and then, from the cosmic background explorer (COBE) and light element nucleosynthesis, sigma(sub 8) = 0.77, omega(sub b) = 0.043. We identify the X-ray emitting clusters in the simulation box, compute the luminosity function at several wavelength bands, the temperature function and estimated sizes, as well as the evolution of these quantities with redshift. This open model succeeds in matching local observations of clusters in contrast to the standard omega = 1, CDM model, which fails. It predicts an order of magnitude decline in the number density of bright (h nu = 2-10 keV) clusters from z = 0 to z = 2 in contrast to a slight increase in the number density for standard omega = 1, CDM model. This COBE-normalized CDM + lambda model produces approximately the same number of X-ray clusters having L(sub x) greater than 10(exp 43) erg/s as observed. The background radiation field at 1 keV due to clusters is approximately the observed background which, after correction for numerical effects, again indicates that the model is consistent with observations.

Spreading out and staying sharp - creating diverse rotation curves via baryonic and self-interaction effects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Creasey, Peter; Sameie, Omid; Sales, Laura V.; Yu, Hai-Bo; Vogelsberger, Mark; Zavala, Jesús

2017-06-01

Galactic rotation curves are a fundamental constraint for any cosmological model. We use controlled N-body simulations of galaxies to study the gravitational effect of baryons in a scenario with collisionless cold dark matter (CDM) versus one with a self-interacting dark matter (SIDM) component. In particular, we examine the inner profiles of the rotation curves in the velocity range Vmax = [30-250] km s-1, whose diversity has been found to be greater than predicted by the ΛCDM scenario. We find that the scatter in the observed rotation curves exceeds that predicted by dark matter only mass-concentration relations in either the CDM nor SIDM models. Allowing for realistic baryonic content and spatial distributions, however, helps create a large variety of rotation curve shapes, which is in a better agreement with observations in the case of self-interactions due to the characteristic cored profiles being more accommodating to the slowly rising rotation curves than CDM. We find individual fits to model two of the most remarkable outliers of similar Vmax, UGC 5721 and IC 2574 - the former a cusp-like rotation curve and the latter a seemingly 8-kpc-cored profile. This diversity in SIDM arises as permutations of overly concentrated haloes with compact baryonic distributions versus underdense haloes with extended baryonic discs. The SIDM solution is promising and its feasibility ultimately depends on the sampling of the halo mass-concentration relation and its interplay with the baryonic profiles, emphasizing the need for a better understanding of the frequency of extreme outliers present in current observational samples.

Cosmological models with running cosmological term and decaying dark matter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Szydłowski, Marek; Stachowski, Aleksander

2017-03-01

We investigate the dynamics of the generalized ΛCDM model, which the Λ term is running with the cosmological time. On the example of the model Λ(t) =Λbare + α2/t2 we show the existence of a mechanism of the modification of the scaling law for energy density of dark matter: ρdm ∝a - 3 + λ(t). We use an approach developed by Urbanowski in which properties of unstable vacuum states are analyzed from the point of view of the quantum theory of unstable states. We discuss the evolution of Λ(t) term and pointed out that during the cosmic evolution there is a long phase in which this term is approximately constant. We also present the statistical analysis of both the Λ(t) CDM model with dark energy and decaying dark matter and the ΛCDM standard cosmological model. We use data such as Planck, SNIa, BAO, H(z) and AP test. While for the former we find the best fit value of the parameter Ωα2,0 is negative (energy transfer is from the dark matter to dark energy sector) and the parameter Ωα2,0 belongs to the interval (- 0 . 000040 , - 0 . 000383) at 2- σ level. The decaying dark matter causes to lowering a mass of dark matter particles which are lighter than CDM particles and remain relativistic. The rate of the process of decaying matter is estimated. Our model is consistent with the decaying mechanism producing unstable particles (e.g. sterile neutrinos) for which α2 is negative.

Cross-sectional survey of older patients' views regarding multidisciplinary care for chronic conditions in general practice.

PubMed

Bonney, Andrew; Magee, Christopher; Pearson, Russell

2014-01-01

The ageing population and increasing prevalence of chronic illness have contributed to the need for significant primary care reform, including increased use of multidisciplinary care and task substitution. This cross-sectional study explores conditions under which older patients would accept having health professionals other than their general practitioner (GP) involved in their care for chronic disease management (CDM). Ten practices were randomly sampled from a contiguous major city and inner regional area. Questionnaires were distributed to consecutive patients aged 60 years and over in each practice. Agency theory was used to inform analyses. Statistical analysis was undertaken using Wald's test, growth modelling and linear regression, controlling for the clustered design. The response rate was 53% (n=272). Most respondents (79%) had at least one chronic health condition. Respondents were more comfortable with GP than with practice nurse management in the CDM scenario (Wald's test=105.49, P<0.001). Comfort with practice nurse CDM was positively associated with increased contact with their GP at the time of the visit (β=0.41, P<0.001), negatively associated with the number of the respondent's chronic conditions (β=-0.13, P=0.030) and not associated with the frequency of other health professional visits. Agency theory suggests that patients employ continuity of care to optimise factors important in CDM: information symmetry and goal alignment. Our findings are consistent with the theory and lend support to ensuring that interpersonal continuity of care is not lost in health care reform. Further research exploring patients' acceptance of differing systems of care is required.

The ISW effect and the lack of large-angle CMB temperature correlations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Copi, Craig J.; O'Dwyer, Márcio; Starkman, Glenn D.

2016-12-01

It is by now well established that the magnitude of the two-point angular-correlation function of the cosmic microwave background temperature anisotropies is anomalously low for angular separations greater than about 60°. Physics explanations of this anomaly typically focus on the properties of the Universe at the surface of last scattering, relying on the fact that large-angle temperature fluctuations are dominated by the Sachs-Wolfe effect (SW). However, these fluctuations also receive important contributions from the integrated Sachs-Wolfe effect (ISW) at both early (eISW) and late (ℓISW) times. Here, we study the correlations in those large-angle temperature fluctuations and their relative contributions to S1/2- the standard measure of the correlations on large angular scales. We find that in the best-fitting lambda cold dark matter (ΛCDM) cosmology, while the autocorrelation of the early contributions (SW plus eISW) dominates S1/2, there are also significant contributions originating from cross-terms between the early and late contributions. In particular, realizations of ΛCDM with low S1/2 are typically produced from a combination of somewhat low pure-early correlations and accidental cancellations among early-late correlations. We also find that if the pure ℓISW autocorrelations were the only contribution to S1/2 in ΛCDM, then the p-value of the observed cut-sky S1/2 would be unremarkable. This suggests that the physical mechanisms operating only at or near the last scattering surface could explain the observed lack of large-angle correlations, though this is not the typical resolution within ΛCDM.

Cosmography by GRBs: Gamma Ray Bursts as possible distance indicators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Capozziello, S.; Izzo, L.

2009-10-01

A new method to constrain the cosmological equation of state is proposed by using combined samples of gammaray bursts (GRBs) and supernovae (SNeIa). The Chevallier-Polarski-Linder parameterization is adopted for the equation of state in order to find out a realistic approach to achieve the deceleration/acceleration transition phase of dark energy models. As results, we find that GRBs, calibrated by SNeIa, could be, at least, good distance indicators capable of discriminating cosmological models with respect to ΛCDM at high redshift.

Building Interoperable FHIR-Based Vocabulary Mapping Services: A Case Study of OHDSI Vocabularies and Mappings.

PubMed

Jiang, Guoqian; Kiefer, Richard; Prud'hommeaux, Eric; Solbrig, Harold R

2017-01-01

The OHDSI Common Data Model (CDM) is a deep information model, in which its vocabulary component plays a critical role in enabling consistent coding and query of clinical data. The objective of the study is to create methods and tools to expose the OHDSI vocabularies and mappings as the vocabulary mapping services using two HL7 FHIR core terminology resources ConceptMap and ValueSet. We discuss the benefits and challenges in building the FHIR-based terminology services.

Large-area high-efficiency flexible PHOLED lighting panels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pang, Huiqing; Mandlik, Prashant; Levermore, Peter A.; Silvernail, Jeff; Ma, Ruiqing; Brown, Julie J.

2012-09-01

Organic Light Emitting Diodes (OLEDs) provide various attractive features for next generation illumination systems, including high efficiency, low power, thin and flexible form factor. In this work, we incorporated phosphorescent emitters and demonstrated highly efficient white phosphorescent OLED (PHOLED) devices on flexible plastic substrates. The 0.94 cm2 small-area device has total thickness of approximately 0.25 mm and achieved 63 lm/W at 1,000 cd/m2 with CRI = 85 and CCT = 2920 K. We further designed and fabricated a 15 cm x 15 cm large-area flexible white OLED lighting panels, finished with a hybrid single-layer ultra-low permeability single layer barrier (SLB) encapsulation film. The flexible panel has an active area of 116.4 cm2, and achieved a power efficacy of 47 lm/W at 1,000 cd/m2 with CRI = 83 and CCT = 3470 K. The efficacy of the panel at 3,000 cd/m2 is 43 lm/W. The large-area flexible PHOLED lighting panel is to bring out enormous possibilities to the future general lighting applications.

Probing the matter and dark energy sources in a viable Big Rip model of the Universe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kumar, Suresh

2014-08-01

Chevallier-Polarski-Linder (CPL) parametrization for the equation of state (EoS) of dark energy in terms of cosmic redshift or scale factor have been frequently studied in the literature. In this study, we consider cosmic time-based CPL parametrization for the EoS parameter of the effective cosmic fluid that fills the fabric of spatially flat and homogeneous Robertson-Walker (RW) spacetime in General Relativity. The model exhibits two worthy features: (i) It fits the observational data from the latest H(z) and Union 2.1 SN Ia compilations matching the success of ΛCDM model. (ii) It describes the evolution of the Universe from the matter-dominated phase to the recent accelerating phase similar to the ΛCDM model but leads to Big Rip end of the Universe contrary to the everlasting de Sitter expansion in the ΛCDM model. We investigate the matter and dark energy sources in the model, in particular, behavior of the dynamical dark energy responsible for the Big Rip end of Universe.

Preference limits of the visual dynamic range for ultra high quality and aesthetic conveyance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Daly, Scott; Kunkel, Timo; Sun, Xing; Farrell, Suzanne; Crum, Poppy

2013-03-01

A subjective study was conducted to investigate the preferred maximum and minimum display luminances in order to determine the dynamic ranges for future displays. Two studies address the diffuse reflective regions, and a third study tested preferences of highlight regions. Preferences, as opposed to detection thresholds, were studied to provide results more directly relevant to the viewing of entertainment or art. Test images were specifically designed to test these limits without the perceptual conflicts that usually occur in these types of studies. For the diffuse range, we found a display with a dynamic range having luminances between 0.1 and 650 cd/m2 matches the average preferences. However, to satisfy 90% of the population, a dynamic range from 0.005 and ~3,000 cd/m2 is needed. Since a display should be able to produce values brighter than the diffuse white maximum, as in specular highlights and emissive sources, the highlight study concludes that even the average preferred maximum luminance for highlight reproduction is ~4,000 cd/m2.

A two-point diagnostic for the H II galaxy Hubble diagram

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Leaf, Kyle; Melia, Fulvio

2018-03-01

A previous analysis of starburst-dominated H II galaxies and H II regions has demonstrated a statistically significant preference for the Friedmann-Robertson-Walker cosmology with zero active mass, known as the Rh = ct universe, over Λcold dark matter (ΛCDM) and its related dark-matter parametrizations. In this paper, we employ a two-point diagnostic with these data to present a complementary statistical comparison of Rh = ct with Planck ΛCDM. Our two-point diagnostic compares, in a pairwise fashion, the difference between the distance modulus measured at two redshifts with that predicted by each cosmology. Our results support the conclusion drawn by a previous comparative analysis demonstrating that Rh = ct is statistically preferred over Planck ΛCDM. But we also find that the reported errors in the H II measurements may not be purely Gaussian, perhaps due to a partial contamination by non-Gaussian systematic effects. The use of H II galaxies and H II regions as standard candles may be improved even further with a better handling of the systematics in these sources.

New astrophysical bounds on ultralight axionlike particles

DOE PAGES

Banik, Nilanjan; Christopherson, Adam J.; Sikivie, Pierre; ...

2017-02-15

Motivated by tension between the predictions of ordinary cold dark matter (CDM) and observations at galactic scales, ultralight axionlike particles (ULALPs) with mass of the order 10 -22 eV have been proposed as an alternative CDM candidate. We consider cold and collisionless ULALPs produced in the early Universe by the vacuum realignment mechanism and constituting most of CDM. The ULALP fluid is commonly described by classical field equations. However, we show that, like QCD axions, the ULALPs thermalize by gravitational self-interactions and form a Bose-Einstein condensate, a quantum phenomenon. ULALPs, like QCD axions, explain the observational evidence for caustic ringsmore » of dark matter because they thermalize and go to the lowest energy state available to them. This is one of rigid rotation on the turnaround sphere. Here, by studying the heating effect of infalling ULALPs on galactic disk stars and the thickness of the nearby caustic ring as observed from a triangular feature in the infrared astronomical satellite map of our galactic disk, we obtain lower-mass bounds on the ULALP mass of order 10 -23 and 10 -20 eV, respectively.« less

Lensing convergence in galaxy clustering in ΛCDM and beyond

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Villa, Eleonora; Di Dio, Enea; Lepori, Francesca

2018-04-01

We study the impact of neglecting lensing magnification in galaxy clustering analyses for future galaxy surveys, considering the ΛCDM model and two extensions: massive neutrinos and modifications of General Relativity. Our study focuses on the biases on the constraints and on the estimation of the cosmological parameters. We perform a comprehensive investigation of these two effects for the upcoming photometric and spectroscopic galaxy surveys Euclid and SKA for different redshift binning configurations. We also provide a fitting formula for the magnification bias of SKA. Our results show that the information present in the lensing contribution does improve the constraints on the modified gravity parameters whereas the lensing constraining power is negligible for the ΛCDM parameters. For photometric surveys the estimation is biased for all the parameters if lensing is not taken into account. This effect is particularly significant for the modified gravity parameters. Conversely for spectroscopic surveys the bias is below one sigma for all the parameters. Our findings show the importance of including lensing in galaxy clustering analyses for testing General Relativity and to constrain the parameters which describe its modifications.

Relationship Between Dental Students' Pre-Admission Record and Performance on the Comprehensive Basic Science Examination.

PubMed

Lee, Kevin C; Lee, Victor Y; Zubiaurre, Laureen A; Grbic, John T; Eisig, Sidney B

2018-04-01

The Comprehensive Basic Science Examination (CBSE) is the entrance examination for oral and maxillofacial surgery, but its implementation among dental students is a relatively recent and unintended use. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between pre-admission data and performance on the CBSE for dental students at the Columbia University College of Dental Medicine (CDM). This study followed a retrospective cohort, examining data for the CDM Classes of 2014-19. Data collected were Dental Admission Test (DAT) and CBSE scores and undergraduate GPAs for 49 CDM students who took the CBSE from September 2013 to July 2016. The results showed that the full regression model did not demonstrate significant predictive capability (F[8,40]=1.70, p=0.13). Following stepwise regression, only the DAT Perceptual Ability score remained in the final model (F[1,47]=7.97, p<0.01). Variations in DAT Perceptual Ability scores explained 15% of the variability in CBSE scores (R 2 =0.15). This study found that, among these students, pre-admission data were poor predictors of CBSE performance.

GACD: Integrated Software for Genetic Analysis in Clonal F1 and Double Cross Populations.

PubMed

Zhang, Luyan; Meng, Lei; Wu, Wencheng; Wang, Jiankang

2015-01-01

Clonal species are common among plants. Clonal F1 progenies are derived from the hybridization between 2 heterozygous clones. In self- and cross-pollinated species, double crosses can be made from 4 inbred lines. A clonal F1 population can be viewed as a double cross population when the linkage phase is determined. The software package GACD (Genetic Analysis of Clonal F1 and Double cross) is freely available public software, capable of building high-density linkage maps and mapping quantitative trait loci (QTL) in clonal F1 and double cross populations. Three functionalities are integrated in GACD version 1.0: binning of redundant markers (BIN); linkage map construction (CDM); and QTL mapping (CDQ). Output of BIN can be directly used as input of CDM. After adding the phenotypic data, the output of CDM can be used as input of CDQ. Thus, GACD acts as a pipeline for genetic analysis. GACD and example datasets are freely available from www.isbreeding.net. © The American Genetic Association. 2015. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

General equilibrium effects of a supply side GHG mitigation option under the Clean Development Mechanism.

PubMed

Timilsina, Govinda R; Shrestha, Ram M

2006-09-01

The Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) under the Kyoto Protocol to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change is considered a key instrument to encourage developing countries' participation in the mitigation of global climate change. Reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions through the energy supply and demand side activities are the main options to be implemented under the CDM. This paper analyses the general equilibrium effects of a supply side GHG mitigation option-the substitution of thermal power with hydropower--in Thailand under the CDM. A static multi-sector general equilibrium model has been developed for the purpose of this study. The key finding of the study is that the substitution of electricity generation from thermal power plants with that from hydropower plants would increase economic welfare in Thailand. The supply side option would, however, adversely affect the gross domestic product (GDP) and the trade balance. The percentage changes in economic welfare, GDP and trade balance increase with the level of substitution and the price of certified emission reduction (CER) units.

Effective field theory of cosmic acceleration: Constraining dark energy with CMB data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Raveri, Marco; Hu, Bin; Frusciante, Noemi; Silvestri, Alessandra

2014-08-01

We introduce EFTCAMB/EFTCosmoMC as publicly available patches to the commonly used camb/CosmoMC codes. We briefly describe the structure of the codes, their applicability and main features. To illustrate the use of these patches, we obtain constraints on parametrized pure effective field theory and designer f(R) models, both on ΛCDM and wCDM background expansion histories, using data from Planck temperature and lensing potential spectra, WMAP low-ℓ polarization spectra (WP), and baryon acoustic oscillations (BAO). Upon inspecting the theoretical stability of the models on the given background, we find nontrivial parameter spaces that we translate into viability priors. We use different combinations of data sets to show their individual effects on cosmological and model parameters. Our data analysis results show that, depending on the adopted data sets, in the wCDM background case these viability priors could dominate the marginalized posterior distributions. Interestingly, with Planck +WP+BAO+lensing data, in f(R) gravity models, we get very strong constraints on the constant dark energy equation of state, w0∈(-1,-0.9997) (95% C.L.).

Planck 2015 results. XIII. Cosmological parameters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Planck Collaboration; Ade, P. A. R.; Aghanim, N.; Arnaud, M.; Ashdown, M.; Aumont, J.; Baccigalupi, C.; Banday, A. J.; Barreiro, R. B.; Bartlett, J. G.; Bartolo, N.; Battaner, E.; Battye, R.; Benabed, K.; Benoît, A.; Benoit-Lévy, A.; Bernard, J.-P.; Bersanelli, M.; Bielewicz, P.; Bock, J. J.; Bonaldi, A.; Bonavera, L.; Bond, J. R.; Borrill, J.; Bouchet, F. R.; Boulanger, F.; Bucher, M.; Burigana, C.; Butler, R. C.; Calabrese, E.; Cardoso, J.-F.; Catalano, A.; Challinor, A.; Chamballu, A.; Chary, R.-R.; Chiang, H. C.; Chluba, J.; Christensen, P. R.; Church, S.; Clements, D. L.; Colombi, S.; Colombo, L. P. L.; Combet, C.; Coulais, A.; Crill, B. P.; Curto, A.; Cuttaia, F.; Danese, L.; Davies, R. D.; Davis, R. J.; de Bernardis, P.; de Rosa, A.; de Zotti, G.; Delabrouille, J.; Désert, F.-X.; Di Valentino, E.; Dickinson, C.; Diego, J. M.; Dolag, K.; Dole, H.; Donzelli, S.; Doré, O.; Douspis, M.; Ducout, A.; Dunkley, J.; Dupac, X.; Efstathiou, G.; Elsner, F.; Enßlin, T. A.; Eriksen, H. K.; Farhang, M.; Fergusson, J.; Finelli, F.; Forni, O.; Frailis, M.; Fraisse, A. A.; Franceschi, E.; Frejsel, A.; Galeotta, S.; Galli, S.; Ganga, K.; Gauthier, C.; Gerbino, M.; Ghosh, T.; Giard, M.; Giraud-Héraud, Y.; Giusarma, E.; Gjerløw, E.; González-Nuevo, J.; Górski, K. M.; Gratton, S.; Gregorio, A.; Gruppuso, A.; Gudmundsson, J. E.; Hamann, J.; Hansen, F. K.; Hanson, D.; Harrison, D. L.; Helou, G.; Henrot-Versillé, S.; Hernández-Monteagudo, C.; Herranz, D.; Hildebrandt, S. R.; Hivon, E.; Hobson, M.; Holmes, W. A.; Hornstrup, A.; Hovest, W.; Huang, Z.; Huffenberger, K. M.; Hurier, G.; Jaffe, A. H.; Jaffe, T. R.; Jones, W. C.; Juvela, M.; Keihänen, E.; Keskitalo, R.; Kisner, T. S.; Kneissl, R.; Knoche, J.; Knox, L.; Kunz, M.; Kurki-Suonio, H.; Lagache, G.; Lähteenmäki, A.; Lamarre, J.-M.; Lasenby, A.; Lattanzi, M.; Lawrence, C. R.; Leahy, J. P.; Leonardi, R.; Lesgourgues, J.; Levrier, F.; Lewis, A.; Liguori, M.; Lilje, P. B.; Linden-Vørnle, M.; López-Caniego, M.; Lubin, P. M.; Macías-Pérez, J. F.; Maggio, G.; Maino, D.; Mandolesi, N.; Mangilli, A.; Marchini, A.; Maris, M.; Martin, P. G.; Martinelli, M.; Martínez-González, E.; Masi, S.; Matarrese, S.; McGehee, P.; Meinhold, P. R.; Melchiorri, A.; Melin, J.-B.; Mendes, L.; Mennella, A.; Migliaccio, M.; Millea, M.; Mitra, S.; Miville-Deschênes, M.-A.; Moneti, A.; Montier, L.; Morgante, G.; Mortlock, D.; Moss, A.; Munshi, D.; Murphy, J. A.; Naselsky, P.; Nati, F.; Natoli, P.; Netterfield, C. B.; Nørgaard-Nielsen, H. U.; Noviello, F.; Novikov, D.; Novikov, I.; Oxborrow, C. A.; Paci, F.; Pagano, L.; Pajot, F.; Paladini, R.; Paoletti, D.; Partridge, B.; Pasian, F.; Patanchon, G.; Pearson, T. J.; Perdereau, O.; Perotto, L.; Perrotta, F.; Pettorino, V.; Piacentini, F.; Piat, M.; Pierpaoli, E.; Pietrobon, D.; Plaszczynski, S.; Pointecouteau, E.; Polenta, G.; Popa, L.; Pratt, G. W.; Prézeau, G.; Prunet, S.; Puget, J.-L.; Rachen, J. P.; Reach, W. T.; Rebolo, R.; Reinecke, M.; Remazeilles, M.; Renault, C.; Renzi, A.; Ristorcelli, I.; Rocha, G.; Rosset, C.; Rossetti, M.; Roudier, G.; Rouillé d'Orfeuil, B.; Rowan-Robinson, M.; Rubiño-Martín, J. A.; Rusholme, B.; Said, N.; Salvatelli, V.; Salvati, L.; Sandri, M.; Santos, D.; Savelainen, M.; Savini, G.; Scott, D.; Seiffert, M. D.; Serra, P.; Shellard, E. P. S.; Spencer, L. D.; Spinelli, M.; Stolyarov, V.; Stompor, R.; Sudiwala, R.; Sunyaev, R.; Sutton, D.; Suur-Uski, A.-S.; Sygnet, J.-F.; Tauber, J. A.; Terenzi, L.; Toffolatti, L.; Tomasi, M.; Tristram, M.; Trombetti, T.; Tucci, M.; Tuovinen, J.; Türler, M.; Umana, G.; Valenziano, L.; Valiviita, J.; Van Tent, F.; Vielva, P.; Villa, F.; Wade, L. A.; Wandelt, B. D.; Wehus, I. K.; White, M.; White, S. D. M.; Wilkinson, A.; Yvon, D.; Zacchei, A.; Zonca, A.

2016-09-01

This paper presents cosmological results based on full-mission Planck observations of temperature and polarization anisotropies of the cosmic microwave background (CMB) radiation. Our results are in very good agreement with the 2013 analysis of the Planck nominal-mission temperature data, but with increased precision. The temperature and polarization power spectra are consistent with the standard spatially-flat 6-parameter ΛCDM cosmology with a power-law spectrum of adiabatic scalar perturbations (denoted "base ΛCDM" in this paper). From the Planck temperature data combined with Planck lensing, for this cosmology we find a Hubble constant, H0 = (67.8 ± 0.9) km s-1Mpc-1, a matter density parameter Ωm = 0.308 ± 0.012, and a tilted scalar spectral index with ns = 0.968 ± 0.006, consistent with the 2013 analysis. Note that in this abstract we quote 68% confidence limits on measured parameters and 95% upper limits on other parameters. We present the first results of polarization measurements with the Low Frequency Instrument at large angular scales. Combined with the Planck temperature and lensing data, these measurements give a reionization optical depth of τ = 0.066 ± 0.016, corresponding to a reionization redshift of z_re=8.8+1.7-1.4. These results are consistent with those from WMAP polarization measurements cleaned for dust emission using 353-GHz polarization maps from the High Frequency Instrument. We find no evidence for any departure from base ΛCDM in the neutrino sector of the theory; for example, combining Planck observations with other astrophysical data we find Neff = 3.15 ± 0.23 for the effective number of relativistic degrees of freedom, consistent with the value Neff = 3.046 of the Standard Model of particle physics. The sum of neutrino masses is constrained to ∑ mν < 0.23 eV. The spatial curvature of our Universe is found to be very close to zero, with | ΩK | < 0.005. Adding a tensor component as a single-parameter extension to base ΛCDM we find an upper limit on the tensor-to-scalar ratio of r0.002< 0.11, consistent with the Planck 2013 results and consistent with the B-mode polarization constraints from a joint analysis of BICEP2, Keck Array, and Planck (BKP) data. Adding the BKP B-mode data to our analysis leads to a tighter constraint of r0.002 < 0.09 and disfavours inflationarymodels with a V(φ) ∝ φ2 potential. The addition of Planck polarization data leads to strong constraints on deviations from a purely adiabatic spectrum of fluctuations. We find no evidence for any contribution from isocurvature perturbations or from cosmic defects. Combining Planck data with other astrophysical data, including Type Ia supernovae, the equation of state of dark energy is constrained to w = -1.006 ± 0.045, consistent with the expected value for a cosmological constant. The standard big bang nucleosynthesis predictions for the helium and deuterium abundances for the best-fit Planck base ΛCDM cosmology are in excellent agreement with observations. We also constraints on annihilating dark matter and on possible deviations from the standard recombination history. In neither case do we find no evidence for new physics. The Planck results for base ΛCDM are in good agreement with baryon acoustic oscillation data and with the JLA sample of Type Ia supernovae. However, as in the 2013 analysis, the amplitude of the fluctuation spectrum is found to be higher than inferred from some analyses of rich cluster counts and weak gravitational lensing. We show that these tensions cannot easily be resolved with simple modifications of the base ΛCDM cosmology. Apart from these tensions, the base ΛCDM cosmology provides an excellent description of the Planck CMB observations and many other astrophysical data sets.

Challenges and Opportunities for Biophotonic Devices in the Liquid State and the Solid State

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-07-01

of the NPB:Eu device and a baseline device (without the NPB layer and emitting from the Alq3 layer) as a function of current density. The luminance...of the NPB:Eu device is clearly superior, with a maximum of 590 cd/m2 at 375 mA/cm2, whereas the Alq3 OLED peaks at only 45 cd/m2 at 30 mA/cm2...Luminance versus current density for Eu-doped BioLED and for baseline Alq3 device. 1-4244-0078-3/06/$20.00 (c) 2006 IEEE B. Electrofluidic

Power spectrum, correlation function, and tests for luminosity bias in the CfA redshift survey

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, Changbom; Vogeley, Michael S.; Geller, Margaret J.; Huchra, John P.

1994-08-01

We describe and apply a method for directly computing the power spectrum for the galaxy distribution in the extension of the Center for Astrophysics Redshift Survey. Tests show that our technique accurately reproduces the true power spectrum for k greater than 0.03 h Mpc-1. The dense sampling and large spatial coverage of this survey allow accurate measurement of the redshift-space power spectrum on scales from 5 to approximately 200 h-1 Mpc. The power spectrum has slope n approximately equal -2.1 on small scales (lambda less than or equal 25 h-1 Mpc) and n approximately -1.1 on scales 30 less than lambda less than 120 h-1 Mpc. On larger scales the power spectrum flattens somewhat, but we do not detect a turnover. Comparison with N-body simulations of cosmological models shows that an unbiased, open universe CDM model (OMEGA h = 0.2) and a nonzero cosmological constant (CDM) model (OMEGA h = 0.24, lambdazero = 0.6, b = 1.3) match the CfA power spectrum over the wavelength range we explore. The standard biased CDM model (OMEGA h = 0.5, b = 1.5) fails (99% significance level) because it has insufficient power on scales lambda greater than 30 h-1 Mpc. Biased CDM with a normalization that matches the Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB) anisotropy (OMEGA h = 0.5, b = 1.4, sigma8 (mass) = 1) has too much power on small scales to match the observed galaxy power spectrum. This model with b = 1 matches both Cosmic Background Explorer Satellite (COBE) and the small-scale power spect rum but has insufficient power on scales lambda approximately 100 h-1 Mpc. We derive a formula for the effect of small-scale peculiar velocities on the power spectrum and combine this formula with the linear-regime amplification described by Kaiser to compute an estimate of the real-space power spectrum. Two tests reveal luminosity bias in the galaxy distribution: First, the amplitude of the power spectrum is approximately 40% larger for the brightest 50% of galaxies in volume-limited samples that have Mlim greater than M*. This bias in the power spectrum is independent of scale, consistent with the peaks-bias paradigm for galaxy formation. Second, the distribution of local density around galaxies shows that regions of moderate and high density contain both very bright (M less than M* = -19.2 + 5 log h) and fainter galaxies, but that voids preferentially harbor fainter galaxies (approximately 2 sigma significance level).

Feasibility of community-based screening for cardiovascular disease risk in an ethnic community: the South Asian Cardiovascular Health Assessment and Management Program (SA-CHAMP)

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background South Asian Canadians experience disproportionately high rates of cardiovascular disease (CVD). The goal of this qualitative study was to determine the feasibility of implementing a sustainable, culturally adapted, community-based CVD risk factor screening program for this population. Methods South Asians (≥ 45 years) in Calgary, Alberta underwent opportunistic cardiovascular risk factor screening by lay trained volunteers at local religious facilities. Those with elevated blood pressure (BP) or ≥ 1 risk factor underwent point of care cholesterol testing, 10-year CVD risk calculation, counseling, and referral to family physicians and local culturally tailored chronic disease management (CDM) programs. Participants were invited for re-screening and were surveyed about health system follow-up, satisfaction with the program and suggestions for improvement. Changes in risk factors from baseline were estimated using McNemar’s test (proportions) and paired t-tests (continuous measures). Results Baseline assessment was completed for 238 participants (median age 64 years, 51% female). Mean TC, HDL and TC/HDL were 5.41 mmol/L, 1.12 mmol/L and 4.7, respectively. Mean systolic and diastolic blood pressures (mmHg) were 129 and 75 respectively. Blood pressure and TC/HDL ratios exceeded recommended targets in 36% and 58%, respectively, and 76% were at high risk for CVD. Ninety-nine participants (47% female) attended re-screening. 82% had accessed health care providers, 22% reported medication changes and 3.5% had attended the CDM programs. While BP remained unchanged, TC and TC/HDL decreased and HDL increased significantly (mean differences: -0.52 mmol/L, -1.04 and +0.07 mmol/L, respectively). Participants were very satisfied (80%) or satisfied (20%) with the project. Participants suggested screening sessions and CDM programs be more accessible by: delivering evening or weekends programs at more sites, providing transportation, offering multilingual programs/translation assistance, reducing screening wait times and increasing numbers of project staff. Conclusions SA-CHAMP demonstrated the feasibility and value of implementing a lay volunteer–led, culturally adapted, sustainable community-based CVD risk factor screening program in South Asian places of worship in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Subsequent screening and CDM programs were refined based on the learnings from this study. Further research is needed to determine physician and patient factors associated with uptake of and adherence to risk reduction strategies. PMID:23432996

Multipole models of four-image gravitational lenses with anomalous flux ratios

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Congdon, Arthur B.; Keeton, Charles R.

2005-12-01

It has been known for over a decade that many four-image gravitational lenses exhibit anomalous radio flux ratios. These anomalies can be explained by adding a clumpy cold dark matter (CDM) component to the background galactic potential of the lens. As an alternative, Evans & Witt (2003) recently suggested that smooth multipole perturbations provide a reasonable alternative to CDM substructure in some but not all cases. We generalize their method in two ways so as to determine whether multipole models can explain highly anomalous systems. We carry the multipole expansion to higher order, and also include external tidal shear as a free parameter. Fitting for the shear proves crucial to finding a physical (positive-definite density) model. For B1422+231, working to order kmax= 5 (and including shear) yields a model that is physical but implausible. Going to higher order (kmax>~ 9) reduces global departures from ellipticity, but at the cost of introducing small-scale wiggles in proximity to the bright images. These localized undulations are more pronounced in B2045+265, where kmax~ 17 multipoles are required to smooth out large-scale deviations from elliptical symmetry. Such modes surely cannot be taken at face value; they must indicate that the models are trying to reproduce some other sort of structure. Our formalism naturally finds models that fit the data exactly, but we use B0712+472 to show that measurement uncertainties have little effect on our results. Finally, we consider the system B1933+503, where two sources are lensed by the same foreground galaxy. The additional constraints provided by the images of the second source render the multipole model unphysical. We conclude that external shear must be taken into account to obtain plausible models, and that a purely smooth angular structure for the lens galaxy does not provide a viable alternative to the prevailing CDM clump hypothesis.

THE SERENDIPITOUS OBSERVATION OF A GRAVITATIONALLY LENSED GALAXY AT z = 0.9057 FROM THE BLANCO COSMOLOGY SURVEY: THE ELLIOT ARC

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

Buckley-Geer, E. J.; Lin, H.; Drabek, E. R.

2011-11-20

We report on the serendipitous discovery in the Blanco Cosmology Survey (BCS) imaging data of a z = 0.9057 galaxy that is being strongly lensed by a massive galaxy cluster at a redshift of z = 0.3838. The lens (BCS J2352-5452) was discovered while examining i- and z-band images being acquired in 2006 October during a BCS observing run. Follow-up spectroscopic observations with the Gemini Multi-Object Spectrograph instrument on the Gemini-South 8 m telescope confirmed the lensing nature of this system. Using weak-plus-strong lensing, velocity dispersion, cluster richness N{sub 200}, and fitting to a Navarro-Frenk-White (NFW) cluster mass density profile,more » we have made three independent estimates of the mass M{sub 200} which are all very consistent with each other. The combination of the results from the three methods gives M{sub 200} = (5.1 {+-} 1.3) Multiplication-Sign 10{sup 14} M{sub Sun }, which is fully consistent with the individual measurements. The final NFW concentration c{sub 200} from the combined fit is c{sub 200} = 5.4{sup +1.4}{sub -1.1}. We have compared our measurements of M{sub 200} and c{sub 200} with predictions for (1) clusters from {Lambda}CDM simulations, (2) lensing-selected clusters from simulations, and (3) a real sample of cluster lenses. We find that we are most compatible with the predictions for {Lambda}CDM simulations for lensing clusters, and we see no evidence based on this one system for an increased concentration compared to {Lambda}CDM. Finally, using the flux measured from the [O II]3727 line we have determined the star formation rate of the source galaxy and find it to be rather modest given the assumed lens magnification.« less

Ultralight scalars as cosmological dark matter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hui, Lam; Ostriker, Jeremiah P.; Tremaine, Scott; Witten, Edward

2017-02-01

Many aspects of the large-scale structure of the Universe can be described successfully using cosmological models in which 27 ±1 % of the critical mass-energy density consists of cold dark matter (CDM). However, few—if any—of the predictions of CDM models have been successful on scales of ˜10 kpc or less. This lack of success is usually explained by the difficulty of modeling baryonic physics (star formation, supernova and black-hole feedback, etc.). An intriguing alternative to CDM is that the dark matter is an extremely light (m ˜10-22 eV ) boson having a de Broglie wavelength λ ˜1 kpc , often called fuzzy dark matter (FDM). We describe the arguments from particle physics that motivate FDM, review previous work on its astrophysical signatures, and analyze several unexplored aspects of its behavior. In particular, (i) FDM halos or subhalos smaller than about 1 07(m /10-22 eV )-3 /2 M⊙ do not form, and the abundance of halos smaller than a few times 1 010(m /10-22 eV )-4 /3 M⊙ is substantially smaller in FDM than in CDM. (ii) FDM halos are comprised of a central core that is a stationary, minimum-energy solution of the Schrödinger-Poisson equation, sometimes called a "soliton," surrounded by an envelope that resembles a CDM halo. The soliton can produce a distinct signature in the rotation curves of FDM-dominated systems. (iii) The transition between soliton and envelope is determined by a relaxation process analogous to two-body relaxation in gravitating N-body systems, which proceeds as if the halo were composed of particles with mass ˜ρ λ3 where ρ is the halo density. (iv) Relaxation may have substantial effects on the stellar disk and bulge in the inner parts of disk galaxies, but has negligible effect on disk thickening or globular cluster disruption near the solar radius. (v) Relaxation can produce FDM disks but a FDM disk in the solar neighborhood must have a half-thickness of at least ˜300 (m /10-22 eV )-2/3 pc and a midplane density less than 0.2 (m /10-22 eV )2/3 times the baryonic disk density. (vi) Solitonic FDM subhalos evaporate by tunneling through the tidal radius and this limits the minimum subhalo mass inside ˜30 kpc of the Milky Way to a few times 1 08(m /10-22 eV )-3 /2 M⊙ . (vii) If the dark matter in the Fornax dwarf galaxy is composed of CDM, most of the globular clusters observed in that galaxy should have long ago spiraled to its center, and this problem is resolved if the dark matter is FDM. (viii) FDM delays galaxy formation relative to CDM but its galaxy-formation history is consistent with current observations of high-redshift galaxies and the late reionization observed by Planck. If the dark matter is composed of FDM, most observations favor a particle mass ≳10-22 eV and the most significant observational consequences occur if the mass is in the range 1 - 10 ×10-22 eV . There is tension with observations of the Lyman-α forest, which favor m ≳10 - 20 ×10-22 eV and we discuss whether more sophisticated models of reionization may resolve this tension.

Reionization in a cold dark matter universe: The feedback of galaxy formation on the intergalactic medium

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shapiro, Paul R.; Giroux, Mark L.; Babul, Arif

1994-01-01

We study the coupled evolution of the intergalactic medium (IGM) and the emerging structure in the universe in the context of the cold dark matter (CDM) model, with a special focus on the consequences of imposing reionization and the Gunn-Peterson constraint as a boundary condition on the model. We have calculated the time-varying density of the IGM by coupling our detailed, numerical calculations of the thermal and ionization balance and radiative transfer in a uniform, spatially averaged IGM of H and He, including the mean opacity of an evolving distribution of gas clumps which correspond to quasar absorption line clouds, to the linearized equations for the growth of density fluctuations in both the gaseous and dark matter components in a CDM universe. We use the linear growth equations to identify the fraction of the gas which must have collapsed out at each epoch, an approach similar in spirit to the so-called Press-Schechter formalism. We identify the IGM density with the uncollapsed baryon fraction. The collapsed fraction is postulated to be a source of energy injection into the IGM, by radiation or bulk hydrodynamical heating (e.g., via shocks) or both, at a rate which is marginally enough to satisfy the Gunn-Peterson constraint at z less than 5. Our results include the following: (1) We find that the IGM in a CDM model must have contained a substantial fraction of the total baryon density of the universe both during and after its reionization epoch. (2) As a result, our previous conclusion that the observed Quasi-Stellar Objects (QSOs) at high redshift are not sufficient to ionize the IGM enough to satisfy the Gunn-Peterson constraint is confirmed. (3) We predict a detectable He II Gunn-Peterson effect at 304(1 + z) A in the spectra of quasars at a range of redshift z greater than or approx. 3, depending on the nature of the sources of IGM reionization. (4) We find, moreover, that a CDM model with high bias parameter b (i.e., b greater than or approx. 2) cannot account for the baryon content of the universe at z approximately 3 observed in quasar absorption line gas unless Omega (sub B) significantly exceeds the maximum value allowed by big bang nucleocynthesis. (5) For a CDM model with bias parameter within the allowed range of (lower) values, the lower limit to Omega(sub B) imposed by big bang nucleosynthesis (Omega(sub B) h(sup 2) greater than or equal to 0.01) combines with our results to yield the minimum IGM density for the CDM fodel. For CDM with b = 1 (Cosmic Background Explorer (COBE) normalization), we find Omega(sub IGM)(sup min) (z approximately 4) approx. equal 0.02-0.03, and Omega(sub IGM)(sup min)(z approximately 0) approx. equal 0.005-0.03, depending upon the nature of the sources of IGM reionization. (6) In general, we find that self-consistent reionization of the IGM by the collapsed baryon fraction has a strong effect on the rate of collapse. (7) As a further example, we show that the feedback effect on the IGM of energy release by the collapsed baryon fraction may explain the slow evolution of the observed comoving QSO number density between z = 5 and z = 2, followed by the sharp decline after z = 2.

Distinguishing interacting dark energy from wCDM with CMB, lensing, and baryon acoustic oscillation data

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

Väliviita, Jussi; Palmgren, Elina, E-mail: jussi.valiviita@helsinki.fi, E-mail: elina.palmgren@helsinki.fi

2015-07-01

We employ the Planck 2013 CMB temperature anisotropy and lensing data, and baryon acoustic oscillation (BAO) data to constrain a phenomenological wCDM model, where dark matter and dark energy interact. We assume time-dependent equation of state parameter for dark energy, and treat dark matter and dark energy as fluids whose energy-exchange rate is proportional to the dark-matter density. The CMB data alone leave a strong degeneracy between the interaction rate and the physical CDM density parameter today, ω{sub c}, allowing a large interaction rate |Γ| ∼ H{sub 0}. However, as has been known for a while, the BAO data break this degeneracy.more » Moreover, we exploit the CMB lensing potential likelihood, which probes the matter perturbations at redshift z ∼ 2 and is very sensitive to the growth of structure, and hence one of the tools for discerning between the ΛCDM model and its alternatives. However, we find that in the non-phantom models (w{sub de}>−1), the constraints remain unchanged by the inclusion of the lensing data and consistent with zero interaction, −0.14 < Γ/H{sub 0} < 0.02 at 95% CL. On the contrary, in the phantom models (w{sub de}<−1), energy transfer from dark energy to dark matter is moderately favoured over the non-interacting model; 0−0.57 < Γ/H{sub 0} < −0.1 at 95% CL with CMB+BAO, while addition of the lensing data shifts this to −0.46 < Γ/H{sub 0} < −0.01.« less

Combined cosmological tests of a bivalent tachyonic dark energy scalar field model

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

Keresztes, Zoltán; Gergely, László Á., E-mail: zkeresztes@titan.physx.u-szeged.hu, E-mail: gergely@physx.u-szeged.hu

A recently investigated tachyonic scalar field dark energy dominated universe exhibits a bivalent future: depending on initial parameters can run either into a de Sitter exponential expansion or into a traversable future soft singularity followed by a contraction phase. We also include in the model (i) a tiny amount of radiation, (ii) baryonic matter (Ω{sub b}h{sup 2} = 0.022161, where the Hubble constant is fixed as h = 0.706) and (iii) cold dark matter (CDM). Out of a variety of six types of evolutions arising in a more subtle classification, we identify two in which in the past the scalar field effectively degenerates intomore » a dust (its pressure drops to an insignificantly low negative value). These are the evolutions of type IIb converging to de Sitter and type III hitting the future soft singularity. We confront these background evolutions with various cosmological tests, including the supernova type Ia Union 2.1 data, baryon acoustic oscillation distance ratios, Hubble parameter-redshift relation and the cosmic microwave background (CMB) acoustic scale. We determine a subset of the evolutions of both types which at 1σ confidence level are consistent with all of these cosmological tests. At perturbative level we derive the CMB temperature power spectrum to find the best agreement with the Planck data for Ω{sub CDM} = 0.22. The fit is as good as for the ΛCDM model at high multipoles, but the power remains slightly overestimated at low multipoles, for both types of evolutions. The rest of the CDM is effectively generated by the tachyonic field, which in this sense acts as a combined dark energy and dark matter model.« less

Galileon gravity in light of ISW, CMB, BAO and H0 data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Renk, Janina; Zumalacárregui, Miguel; Montanari, Francesco; Barreira, Alexandre

2017-10-01

Cosmological models with Galileon gravity are an alternative to the standard ΛCDM paradigm with testable predictions at the level of its self-accelerating solutions for the expansion history, as well as large-scale structure formation. Here, we place constraints on the full parameter space of these models using data from the cosmic microwave background (CMB) (including lensing), baryonic acoustic oscillations (BAO) and the Integrated Sachs-Wolfe (ISW) effect. We pay special attention to the ISW effect for which we use the cross-spectra, ClTg, of CMB temperature maps and foreground galaxies from the WISE survey. The sign of ClTg is set by the time evolution of the lensing potential in the redshift range of the galaxy sample: it is positive if the potential decays (like in ΛCDM), negative if it deepens. We constrain three subsets of Galileon gravity separately known as the Cubic, Quartic and Quintic Galileons. The cubic Galileon model predicts a negative ClTg and exhibits a 7.8σ tension with the data, which effectively rules it out. For the quartic and quintic models the ISW data also rule out a significant portion of the parameter space but permit regions where the goodness-of-fit is comparable to ΛCDM. The data prefers a non zero sum of the neutrino masses (∑mν ≈ 0.5eV) with ~ 5σ significance in these models. The best-fitting models have values of H0 consistent with local determinations, thereby avoiding the tension that exists in ΛCDM. We also identify and discuss a ~ 2σ tension that Galileon gravity exhibits with recent BAO measurements. Our analysis shows overall that Galileon cosmologies cannot be ruled out by current data but future lensing, BAO and ISW data hold strong potential to do so.

Towards an ontology for data quality in integrated chronic disease management: a realist review of the literature.

PubMed

Liaw, S T; Rahimi, A; Ray, P; Taggart, J; Dennis, S; de Lusignan, S; Jalaludin, B; Yeo, A E T; Talaei-Khoei, A

2013-01-01

Effective use of routine data to support integrated chronic disease management (CDM) and population health is dependent on underlying data quality (DQ) and, for cross system use of data, semantic interoperability. An ontological approach to DQ is a potential solution but research in this area is limited and fragmented. Identify mechanisms, including ontologies, to manage DQ in integrated CDM and whether improved DQ will better measure health outcomes. A realist review of English language studies (January 2001-March 2011) which addressed data quality, used ontology-based approaches and is relevant to CDM. We screened 245 papers, excluded 26 duplicates, 135 on abstract review and 31 on full-text review; leaving 61 papers for critical appraisal. Of the 33 papers that examined ontologies in chronic disease management, 13 defined data quality and 15 used ontologies for DQ. Most saw DQ as a multidimensional construct, the most used dimensions being completeness, accuracy, correctness, consistency and timeliness. The majority of studies reported tool design and development (80%), implementation (23%), and descriptive evaluations (15%). Ontological approaches were used to address semantic interoperability, decision support, flexibility of information management and integration/linkage, and complexity of information models. DQ lacks a consensus conceptual framework and definition. DQ and ontological research is relatively immature with little rigorous evaluation studies published. Ontology-based applications could support automated processes to address DQ and semantic interoperability in repositories of routinely collected data to deliver integrated CDM. We advocate moving to ontology-based design of information systems to enable more reliable use of routine data to measure health mechanisms and impacts. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

The COBE normalization for standard cold dark matter

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bunn, Emory F.; Scott, Douglas; White, Martin

1995-01-01

The Cosmic Background Explorer Satellite (COBE) detection of microwave anisotropies provides the best way of fixing the amplitude of cosmological fluctuations on the largest scales. This normalization is usually given for an n = 1 spectrum, including only the anisotropy caused by the Sachs-Wolfe effect. This is certainly not a good approximation for a model containing any reasonable amount of baryonic matter. In fact, even tilted Sachs-Wolfe spectra are not a good fit to models like cold dark matter (CDM). Here, we normalize standard CDM (sCDM) to the two-year COBE data and quote the best amplitude in terms of the conventionally used measures of power. We also give normalizations for some specific variants of this standard model, and we indicate how the normalization depends on the assumed values on n, Omega(sub B) and H(sub 0). For sCDM we find the mean value of Q = 19.9 +/- 1.5 micro-K, corresponding to sigma(sub 8) = 1.34 +/- 0.10, with the normalization at large scales being B = (8.16 +/- 1.04) x 10(exp 5)(Mpc/h)(exp 4), and other numbers given in the table. The measured rms temperature fluctuation smoothed on 10 deg is a little low relative to this normalization. This is mainly due to the low quadrupole in the data: when the quadrupole is removed, the measured value of sigma(10 deg) is quite consistent with the best-fitting the mean value of Q. The use of the mean value of Q should be preferred over sigma(10 deg), when its value can be determined for a particular theory, since it makes full use of the data.

Innovating to enhance clinical data management using non-commercial and open source solutions across a multi-center network supporting inpatient pediatric care and research in Kenya.

PubMed

Tuti, Timothy; Bitok, Michael; Paton, Chris; Makone, Boniface; Malla, Lucas; Muinga, Naomi; Gathara, David; English, Mike

2016-01-01

To share approaches and innovations adopted to deliver a relatively inexpensive clinical data management (CDM) framework within a low-income setting that aims to deliver quality pediatric data useful for supporting research, strengthening the information culture and informing improvement efforts in local clinical practice. The authors implemented a CDM framework to support a Clinical Information Network (CIN) using Research Electronic Data Capture (REDCap), a noncommercial software solution designed for rapid development and deployment of electronic data capture tools. It was used for collection of standardized data from case records of multiple hospitals' pediatric wards. R, an open-source statistical language, was used for data quality enhancement, analysis, and report generation for the hospitals. In the first year of CIN, the authors have developed innovative solutions to support the implementation of a secure, rapid pediatric data collection system spanning 14 hospital sites with stringent data quality checks. Data have been collated on over 37 000 admission episodes, with considerable improvement in clinical documentation of admissions observed. Using meta-programming techniques in R, coupled with branching logic, randomization, data lookup, and Application Programming Interface (API) features offered by REDCap, CDM tasks were configured and automated to ensure quality data was delivered for clinical improvement and research use. A low-cost clinically focused but geographically dispersed quality CDM (Clinical Data Management) in a long-term, multi-site, and real world context can be achieved and sustained and challenges can be overcome through thoughtful design and implementation of open-source tools for handling data and supporting research. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the American Medical Informatics Association.

Probing the nature of dark matter through the metal enrichment of the intergalactic medium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bremer, Jonas; Dayal, Pratika; Ryan-Weber, Emma V.

2018-06-01

We focus on exploring the metal enrichment of the intergalactic medium (IGM) in cold and warm (1.5 and 3 keV) dark matter (DM) cosmologies, and the constraints this yields on the DM particle mass, using a semi-analytic model, DELPHI, that jointly tracks the DM and baryonic assembly of galaxies at z ≃ 4-20 including both supernova (SN) and (a range of) reionization feedback (models). We find that while M_{UV}≳ -15 galaxies contribute half of all IGM metals in the cold dark matter (CDM) model by z ≃ 4.5, given the suppression of low-mass haloes, larger haloes with M_{UV}≲ -15 provide about 80 per cent of the IGM metal budget in 1.5 keV warm dark matter (WDM) models using two different models for the metallicity of the interstellar medium. Our results also show that the only models compatible with two different high-redshift data sets, provided by the evolving ultraviolet luminosity function (UV LF) at z ≃ 6-10 and IGM metal density, are standard CDM and 3 keV WDM that do not include any reionization feedback; a combination of the UV LF and the Díaz et al. point provides a weaker constraint, allowing CDM and 3 and 1.5 keV WDM models with SN feedback only, as well as CDM with complete gas suppression of all haloes with v_{circ} ≲ 30 km s^{-1}. Tightening the error bars on the IGM metal enrichment, future observations, at z ≳ 5.5, could therefore represent an alternative way of shedding light on the nature of DM.

Availability of color calibration for consistent color display in medical images and optimization of reference brightness for clinical use

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Iwai, Daiki; Suganami, Haruka; Hosoba, Minoru; Ohno, Kazuko; Emoto, Yutaka; Tabata, Yoshito; Matsui, Norihisa

2013-03-01

Color image consistency has not been accomplished yet except the Digital Imaging and Communication in Medicine (DICOM) Supplement 100 for implementing a color reproduction pipeline and device independent color spaces. Thus, most healthcare enterprises could not check monitor degradation routinely. To ensure color consistency in medical color imaging, monitor color calibration should be introduced. Using simple color calibration device . chromaticity of colors including typical color (Red, Green, Blue, Green and White) are measured as device independent profile connection space value called u'v' before and after calibration. In addition, clinical color images are displayed and visual differences are observed. In color calibration, monitor brightness level has to be set to quite lower value 80 cd/m2 according to sRGB standard. As Maximum brightness of most color monitors available currently for medical use have much higher brightness than 80 cd/m2, it is not seemed to be appropriate to use 80 cd/m2 level for calibration. Therefore, we propose that new brightness standard should be introduced while maintaining the color representation in clinical use. To evaluate effects of brightness to chromaticity experimentally, brightness level is changed in two monitors from 80 to 270cd/m2 and chromaticity value are compared with each brightness levels. As a result, there are no significant differences in chromaticity diagram when brightness levels are changed. In conclusion, chromaticity is close to theoretical value after color calibration. Moreover, chromaticity isn't moved when brightness is changed. The results indicate optimized reference brightness level for clinical use could be set at high brightness in current monitors .

Constraints to Dark Energy Using PADE Parameterizations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rezaei, M.; Malekjani, M.; Basilakos, S.; Mehrabi, A.; Mota, D. F.

2017-07-01

We put constraints on dark energy (DE) properties using PADE parameterization, and compare it to the same constraints using Chevalier-Polarski-Linder (CPL) and ΛCDM, at both the background and the perturbation levels. The DE equation of the state parameter of the models is derived following the mathematical treatment of PADE expansion. Unlike CPL parameterization, PADE approximation provides different forms of the equation of state parameter that avoid the divergence in the far future. Initially we perform a likelihood analysis in order to put constraints on the model parameters using solely background expansion data, and we find that all parameterizations are consistent with each other. Then, combining the expansion and the growth rate data, we test the viability of PADE parameterizations and compare them with CPL and ΛCDM models, respectively. Specifically, we find that the growth rate of the current PADE parameterizations is lower than ΛCDM model at low redshifts, while the differences among the models are negligible at high redshifts. In this context, we provide for the first time a growth index of linear matter perturbations in PADE cosmologies. Considering that DE is homogeneous, we recover the well-known asymptotic value of the growth index (namely {γ }∞ =\\tfrac{3({w}∞ -1)}{6{w}∞ -5}), while in the case of clustered DE, we obtain {γ }∞ ≃ \\tfrac{3{w}∞ (3{w}∞ -5)}{(6{w}∞ -5)(3{w}∞ -1)}. Finally, we generalize the growth index analysis in the case where γ is allowed to vary with redshift, and we find that the form of γ (z) in PADE parameterization extends that of the CPL and ΛCDM cosmologies, respectively.

On the relationship between satellite-estimated bio-optical and thermal properties in the Gulf of Mexico

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jolliff, Jason K.; Kindle, John C.; Penta, Bradley; Helber, Robert; Lee, Zhongping; Shulman, Igor; Arnone, Robert; Rowley, Clark D.

2008-03-01

Three years of Sea-viewing Wide Field-of-view Sensor (SeaWiFS) ocean color data were combined with three-dimensional thermal fields generated by the U.S. Navy's Modular Ocean Data Assimilation System (MODAS) in order to examine the interdependencies between bio-optical fields and their relationship to seasonal and mesoscale changes in upper ocean thermal structure. The combined data set suggests that the oceanic boundary layer within the Gulf of Mexico may be broadly defined by two seasonally occurring bio-thermal periods. A winter mixing period, characterized by net heat losses to the atmosphere, deepening of the isothermal layer depth, and annual maxima of satellite-estimated colored detrital matter (CDM) absorption coefficients and surface pigment concentration, was followed by a thermally stratified period characterized by net surface ocean heating, reduced isothermal layer depths, and annual minima in surface bio-optical fields. Variability in the interdependencies of ocean color products was used to diagnose an attendant shift in the size-structure of surface phytoplankton communities as well as identify CDM as the constituent responsible for the majority of blue-light absorption in Gulf of Mexico surface waters. The mesoscale circulation, as resolved by MODAS thermal fields into cold and warm-core eddies, appears to significantly modulate the seasonal bio-optical cycle of CDM absorption and surface pigment concentration. An empirical model was developed to describe CDM absorption as a function of upper ocean thermal energy. The model accounted for nearly half the variance in the satellite-estimate of this bio-optical variable. Large mismatches between the model and satellite data implied episodes of shelf water export to the deep Gulf of Mexico.

[Sound improves distinction of low intensities of light in the visual cortex of a rabbit].

PubMed

Polianskiĭ, V B; Alymkulov, D E; Evtikhin, D V; Chernyshev, B V

2011-01-01

Electrodes were implanted into cranium above the primary visual cortex of four rabbits (Orictolagus cuniculus). At the first stage, visual evoked potentials (VEPs) were recorded in response to substitution of threshold visual stimuli (0.28 and 0.31 cd/m2). Then the sound (2000 Hz, 84 dB, duration 40 ms) was added simultaneously to every visual stimulus. Single sounds (without visual stimuli) did not produce a VEP-response. It was found that the amplitude ofVEP component N1 (85-110 ms) in response to complex stimuli (visual and sound) increased 1.6 times as compared to "simple" visual stimulation. At the second stage, paired substitutions of 8 different visual stimuli (range 0.38-20.2 cd/m2) by each other were performed. Sensory spaces of intensity were reconstructed on the basis of factor analysis. Sensory spaces of complexes were reconstructed in a similar way for simultaneous visual and sound stimulation. Comparison of vectors representing the stimuli in the spaces showed that the addition of a sound led to a 1.4-fold expansion of the space occupied by smaller intensities (0.28; 1.02; 3.05; 6.35 cd/m2). Also, the addition of the sound led to an arrangement of intensities in an ascending order. At the same time, the sound 1.33-times narrowed the space of larger intensities (8.48; 13.7; 16.8; 20.2 cd/m2). It is suggested that the addition of a sound improves a distinction of smaller intensities and impairs a dis- tinction of larger intensities. Sensory spaces revealed by complex stimuli were two-dimensional. This fact can be a consequence of integration of sound and light in a unified complex at simultaneous stimulation.

A comparison of cosmological models using time delay lenses

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

Wei, Jun-Jie; Wu, Xue-Feng; Melia, Fulvio, E-mail: jjwei@pmo.ac.cn, E-mail: xfwu@pmo.ac.cn, E-mail: fmelia@email.arizona.edu

2014-06-20

The use of time-delay gravitational lenses to examine the cosmological expansion introduces a new standard ruler with which to test theoretical models. The sample suitable for this kind of work now includes 12 lens systems, which have thus far been used solely for optimizing the parameters of ΛCDM. In this paper, we broaden the base of support for this new, important cosmic probe by using these observations to carry out a one-on-one comparison between competing models. The currently available sample indicates a likelihood of ∼70%-80% that the R {sub h} = ct universe is the correct cosmology versus ∼20%-30% formore » the standard model. This possibly interesting result reinforces the need to greatly expand the sample of time-delay lenses, e.g., with the successful implementation of the Dark Energy Survey, the VST ATLAS survey, and the Large Synoptic Survey Telescope. In anticipation of a greatly expanded catalog of time-delay lenses identified with these surveys, we have produced synthetic samples to estimate how large they would have to be in order to rule out either model at a ∼99.7% confidence level. We find that if the real cosmology is ΛCDM, a sample of ∼150 time-delay lenses would be sufficient to rule out R {sub h} = ct at this level of accuracy, while ∼1000 time-delay lenses would be required to rule out ΛCDM if the real universe is instead R {sub h} = ct. This difference in required sample size reflects the greater number of free parameters available to fit the data with ΛCDM.« less

Beyond six parameters: Extending Λ CDM

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Di Valentino, Eleonora; Melchiorri, Alessandro; Silk, Joseph

2015-12-01

Cosmological constraints are usually derived under the assumption of a six-parameter Λ CDM theoretical framework or simple one-parameter extensions. In this paper we present, for the first time, cosmological constraints in a significantly extended scenario, varying up to 12 cosmological parameters simultaneously, including the sum of neutrino masses, the neutrino effective number, the dark energy equation of state, the gravitational wave background and the running of the spectral index of primordial perturbations. Using the latest Planck 2015 data release (with polarization), we found no significant indication for extensions to the standard Λ CDM scenario, with the notable exception of the angular power spectrum lensing amplitude, Alens , which is larger than the expected value at more than 2 standard deviations, even when combining the Planck data with BAO and supernovae type Ia external data sets. In our extended cosmological framework, we find that a combined Planck+BAO analysis constrains the value of the rms density fluctuation parameter to σ8=0.781-0.063+0.065 at 95 % C.L., helping to relieve the possible tensions with the CFHTlenS cosmic shear survey. We also find a lower value for the reionization optical depth τ =0.058-0.043+0.040 at 95 % C.L. with respect to the one derived under the assumption of Λ CDM . The scalar spectral index nS is now compatible with a Harrison-Zeldovich spectrum to within 2.5 standard deviations. Combining the Planck data set with the Hubble Space Telescope prior on the Hubble constant provides a value for the equation of state w <-1 at more than 2 standard deviations, while the neutrino effective number is fully compatible with the expectations of the standard three neutrino framework.

Investigating the Cosmic Web with Topological Data Analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cisewski-Kehe, Jessi; Wu, Mike; Fasy, Brittany; Hellwing, Wojciech; Lovell, Mark; Rinaldo, Alessandro; Wasserman, Larry

2018-01-01

Data exhibiting complicated spatial structures are common in many areas of science (e.g. cosmology, biology), but can be difficult to analyze. Persistent homology is a popular approach within the area of Topological Data Analysis that offers a new way to represent, visualize, and interpret complex data by extracting topological features, which can be used to infer properties of the underlying structures. In particular, TDA may be useful for analyzing the large-scale structure (LSS) of the Universe, which is an intricate and spatially complex web of matter. In order to understand the physics of the Universe, theoretical and computational cosmologists develop large-scale simulations that allow for visualizing and analyzing the LSS under varying physical assumptions. Each point in the 3D data set represents a galaxy or a cluster of galaxies, and topological summaries ("persistent diagrams") can be obtained summarizing the different ordered holes in the data (e.g. connected components, loops, voids).The topological summaries are interesting and informative descriptors of the Universe on their own, but hypothesis tests using the topological summaries would provide a way to make more rigorous comparisons of LSS under different theoretical models. For example, the received cosmological model has cold dark matter (CDM); however, while the case is strong for CDM, there are some observational inconsistencies with this theory. Another possibility is warm dark matter (WDM). It is of interest to see if a CDM Universe and WDM Universe produce LSS that is topologically distinct.We present several possible test statistics for two-sample hypothesis tests using the topological summaries, carryout a simulation study to investigate the suitableness of the proposed test statistics using simulated data from a variation of the Voronoi foam model, and finally we apply the proposed inference framework to WDM vs. CDM cosmological simulation data.

A TEST OF COSMOLOGICAL MODELS USING HIGH-z MEASUREMENTS OF H(z)

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

Melia, Fulvio; McClintock, Thomas M., E-mail: fmelia@email.arizona.edu, E-mail: tmcclintock89@gmail.com

2015-10-15

The recently constructed Hubble diagram using a combined sample of SNLS and SDSS-II SNe Ia, and an application of the Alcock–Paczyński (AP) test using model-independent Baryon Acoustic Oscillation (BAO) data, have suggested that the principal constraint underlying the cosmic expansion is the total equation-of-state of the cosmic fluid, rather than that of its dark energy. These studies have focused on the critical redshift range (0 ≲ z ≲ 2) within which the transition from decelerated to accelerated expansion is thought to have occurred, and they suggest that the cosmic fluid has zero active mass, consistent with a constant expansion rate.more » The evident impact of this conclusion on cosmological theory calls for an independent confirmation. In this paper, we carry out this crucial one-on-one comparison between the R{sub h} = ct universe (a Friedmann–Robertson–Walker cosmology with zero active mass) and wCDM/ΛCDM, using the latest high-z measurements of H(z). Whereas the SNe Ia yield the integrated luminosity distance, while the AP diagnostic tests the geometry of the universe, the Hubble parameter directly samples the expansion rate itself. We find that the model-independent cosmic chronometer data prefer R{sub h} = ct over wCDM/ΛCDM with a Bayes Information Criterion likelihood of ∼95% versus only ∼5%, in strong support of the earlier SNe Ia and AP results. This contrasts with a recent analysis of H(z) data based solely on BAO measurements which, however, strongly depend on the assumed cosmology. We discuss why the latter approach is inappropriate for model comparisons, and emphasize again the need for truly model-independent observations to be used in cosmological tests.« less

The clustering of galaxies in the completed SDSS-III Baryon Oscillation Spectroscopic Survey: cosmological analysis of the DR12 galaxy sample

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alam, Shadab; Ata, Metin; Bailey, Stephen; Beutler, Florian; Bizyaev, Dmitry; Blazek, Jonathan A.; Bolton, Adam S.; Brownstein, Joel R.; Burden, Angela; Chuang, Chia-Hsun; Comparat, Johan; Cuesta, Antonio J.; Dawson, Kyle S.; Eisenstein, Daniel J.; Escoffier, Stephanie; Gil-Marín, Héctor; Grieb, Jan Niklas; Hand, Nick; Ho, Shirley; Kinemuchi, Karen; Kirkby, David; Kitaura, Francisco; Malanushenko, Elena; Malanushenko, Viktor; Maraston, Claudia; McBride, Cameron K.; Nichol, Robert C.; Olmstead, Matthew D.; Oravetz, Daniel; Padmanabhan, Nikhil; Palanque-Delabrouille, Nathalie; Pan, Kaike; Pellejero-Ibanez, Marcos; Percival, Will J.; Petitjean, Patrick; Prada, Francisco; Price-Whelan, Adrian M.; Reid, Beth A.; Rodríguez-Torres, Sergio A.; Roe, Natalie A.; Ross, Ashley J.; Ross, Nicholas P.; Rossi, Graziano; Rubiño-Martín, Jose Alberto; Saito, Shun; Salazar-Albornoz, Salvador; Samushia, Lado; Sánchez, Ariel G.; Satpathy, Siddharth; Schlegel, David J.; Schneider, Donald P.; Scóccola, Claudia G.; Seo, Hee-Jong; Sheldon, Erin S.; Simmons, Audrey; Slosar, Anže; Strauss, Michael A.; Swanson, Molly E. C.; Thomas, Daniel; Tinker, Jeremy L.; Tojeiro, Rita; Magaña, Mariana Vargas; Vazquez, Jose Alberto; Verde, Licia; Wake, David A.; Wang, Yuting; Weinberg, David H.; White, Martin; Wood-Vasey, W. Michael; Yèche, Christophe; Zehavi, Idit; Zhai, Zhongxu; Zhao, Gong-Bo

2017-09-01

We present cosmological results from the final galaxy clustering data set of the Baryon Oscillation Spectroscopic Survey, part of the Sloan Digital Sky Survey III. Our combined galaxy sample comprises 1.2 million massive galaxies over an effective area of 9329 deg2 and volume of 18.7 Gpc3, divided into three partially overlapping redshift slices centred at effective redshifts 0.38, 0.51 and 0.61. We measure the angular diameter distance DM and Hubble parameter H from the baryon acoustic oscillation (BAO) method, in combination with a cosmic microwave background prior on the sound horizon scale, after applying reconstruction to reduce non-linear effects on the BAO feature. Using the anisotropic clustering of the pre-reconstruction density field, we measure the product DMH from the Alcock-Paczynski (AP) effect and the growth of structure, quantified by fσ8(z), from redshift-space distortions (RSD). We combine individual measurements presented in seven companion papers into a set of consensus values and likelihoods, obtaining constraints that are tighter and more robust than those from any one method; in particular, the AP measurement from sub-BAO scales sharpens constraints from post-reconstruction BAOs by breaking degeneracy between DM and H. Combined with Planck 2016 cosmic microwave background measurements, our distance scale measurements simultaneously imply curvature ΩK = 0.0003 ± 0.0026 and a dark energy equation-of-state parameter w = -1.01 ± 0.06, in strong affirmation of the spatially flat cold dark matter (CDM) model with a cosmological constant (ΛCDM). Our RSD measurements of fσ8, at 6 per cent precision, are similarly consistent with this model. When combined with supernova Ia data, we find H0 = 67.3 ± 1.0 km s-1 Mpc-1 even for our most general dark energy model, in tension with some direct measurements. Adding extra relativistic species as a degree of freedom loosens the constraint only slightly, to H0 = 67.8 ± 1.2 km s-1 Mpc-1. Assuming flat ΛCDM, we find Ωm = 0.310 ± 0.005 and H0 = 67.6 ± 0.5 km s-1 Mpc-1, and we find a 95 per cent upper limit of 0.16 eV c-2 on the neutrino mass sum.

Development of anaerobic digestion methods for palm oil mill effluent (POME) treatment.

PubMed

Poh, P E; Chong, M F

2009-01-01

Palm oil mill effluent (POME) is a highly polluting wastewater that pollutes the environment if discharged directly due to its high chemical oxygen demand (COD) and biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) concentration. Anaerobic digestion has been widely used for POME treatment with large emphasis placed on capturing the methane gas released as a product of this biodegradation treatment method. The anaerobic digestion method is recognized as a clean development mechanism (CDM) under the Kyoto protocol. Certified emission reduction (CER) can be obtained by using methane gas as a renewable energy. This review aims to discuss the various anaerobic treatments of POME and factors that influence the operation of anaerobic treatment. The POME treatment at both mesophilic and thermophilic temperature ranges are also analyzed.

Numerical simulations of detonation propagation in gaseous fuel-air mixtures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Honhar, Praveen; Kaplan, Carolyn; Houim, Ryan; Oran, Elaine

2017-11-01

Unsteady multidimensional numerical simulations of detonation propagation and survival in mixtures of fuel (hydrogen or methane) diluted with air were carried out with a fully compressible Navier-Stokes solver using a simplified chemical-diffusive model (CDM). The CDM was derived using a genetic algorithm combined with the Nelder-Mead optimization algorithm and reproduces physically correct laminar flame and detonation properties. Cases studied are overdriven detonations propagating through confined mediums, with or without gradients in composition. Results from simulations confirm that the survival of the detonation depends on the channel heights. In addition, the simulations show that the propagation of the detonation waves depends on the steepness in composition gradients.

Cluster-void degeneracy breaking: Modified gravity in the balance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sahlén, Martin; Silk, Joseph

2018-05-01

Combining galaxy cluster and void abundances is a novel, powerful way to constrain deviations from general relativity and the Λ CDM model. For a flat w CDM model with growth of large-scale structure parametrized by the redshift-dependent growth index γ (z )=γ0+γ1z /(1 +z ) of linear matter perturbations, combining void and cluster abundances in future surveys with Euclid and the four-meter multiobject spectroscopic telescope could improve the figure of merit for (w ,γ0,γ1) by a factor of 20 compared to individual abundances. In an ideal case, improvement on current cosmological data is a figure of merit factor 600 or more.

ΛCDM model with dissipative nonextensive viscous dark matter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gimenes, H. S.; Viswanathan, G. M.; Silva, R.

2018-03-01

Many models in cosmology typically assume the standard bulk viscosity. We study an alternative interpretation for the origin of the bulk viscosity. Using nonadditive statistics proposed by Tsallis, we propose a bulk viscosity component that can only exist by a nonextensive effect through the nonextensive/dissipative correspondence (NexDC). In this paper, we consider a ΛCDM model for a flat universe with a dissipative nonextensive viscous dark matter component, following the Eckart theory of bulk viscosity, without any perturbative approach. In order to analyze cosmological constraints, we use one of the most recent observations of Type Ia Supernova, baryon acoustic oscillations and cosmic microwave background data.

Degeneracy between nonadiabatic dark energy models and Λ CDM : Integrated Sachs-Wolfe effect and the cross correlation of CMB with galaxy clustering data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Velten, Hermano; Fazolo, Raquel Emy; von Marttens, Rodrigo; Gomes, Syrios

2018-05-01

As recently pointed out in [Phys. Rev. D 96, 083502 (2017), 10.1103/PhysRevD.96.083502] the evolution of the linear matter perturbations in nonadiabatic dynamical dark energy models is almost indistinguishable (quasidegenerated) to the standard Λ CDM scenario. In this work we extend this analysis to CMB observables in particular the integrated Sachs-Wolfe effect and its cross-correlation with large scale structure. We find that this feature persists for such CMB related observable reinforcing that new probes and analysis are necessary to reveal the nonadiabatic features in the dark energy sector.

SARDA: An Integrated Concept for Airport Surface Operations Management

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gupta, Gautam; Hoang, Ty; Jung, Yoon Chul

2013-01-01

The Spot and Runway Departure Advisor (SARDA) is an integrated decision support tool for airlines and air traffic control tower enabling surface collaborative decision making (CDM) and departure metering in order to enhance efficiency of surface operations at congested airports. The presentation describes the concept and architecture of the SARDA as a CDM tool, and the results from a human-in-the-loop simulation of the tool conducted in 2012 at the FutureFlight Central, the tower simulation facility. Also, presented is the current activities and future plan for SARDA development. The presentation was given at the meeting with the FAA senior advisor of the Surface Operations Office.

On the emergence of the ΛCDM model from self-interacting Brans-Dicke theory in d= 5

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Reyes, Luz Marina; Perez Bergliaffa, Santiago Esteban

2018-01-01

We investigate whether a self-interacting Brans-Dicke theory in d=5 without matter and with a time-dependent metric can describe, after dimensional reduction to d=4, the FLRW model with accelerated expansion and non-relativistic matter. By rewriting the effective 4-dimensional theory as an autonomous 3-dimensional dynamical system and studying its critical points, we show that the ΛCDM cosmology cannot emerge from such a model. This result suggests that a richer structure in d=5 may be needed to obtain the accelerated expansion as well as the matter content of the 4-dimensional universe.

The Formation of Shell Galaxies Similar to NGC 7600 in the Cold Dark Matter Cosmogony

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cooper, Andrew P.; Martínez-Delgado, David; Helly, John; Frenk, Carlos; Cole, Shaun; Crawford, Ken; Zibetti, Stefano; Carballo-Bello, Julio A.; GaBany, R. Jay

2011-12-01

We present new deep observations of "shell" structures in the halo of the nearby elliptical galaxy NGC 7600, alongside a movie of galaxy formation in a cold dark matter (CDM) universe. The movie, based on an ab initio cosmological simulation, shows how continuous accretion of clumps of dark matter and stars creates a swath of diffuse circumgalactic structures. The disruption of a massive clump on a near-radial orbit creates a complex system of transient concentric shells which bare a striking resemblance to those of NGC 7600. With the aid of the simulation we interpret NGC 7600 in the context of the CDM model.

Testing modified gravity using a marked correlation function

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Armijo, Joaquí n.; Cai, Yan-Chuan; Padilla, Nelson; Li, Baojiu; Peacock, John A.

2018-05-01

In theories of modified gravity with the chameleon screening mechanism, the strength of the fifth force depends on environment. This induces an environment dependence of structure formation, which differs from ΛCDM. We show that these differences can be captured by the marked correlation function. With the galaxy correlation functions and number densities calibrated to match between f(R) and ΛCDM models in simulations, we show that the marked correlation functions from using either the local galaxy number density or halo mass as the marks encode extra information, which can be used to test these theories. We discuss possible applications of these statistics in observations.

Promoting protein crystallization using a plate with simple geometry.

PubMed

Chen, Rui-Qing; Yin, Da-Chuan; Liu, Yong-Ming; Lu, Qin-Qin; He, Jin; Liu, Yue

2014-03-01

Increasing the probability of obtaining protein crystals in crystallization screening is always an important goal for protein crystallography. In this paper, a new method called the cross-diffusion microbatch (CDM) method is presented, which aims to efficiently promote protein crystallization and increase the chance of obtaining protein crystals. In this method, a very simple crystallization plate was designed in which all crystallization droplets are in one sealed space, so that a variety of volatile components from one droplet can diffuse into any other droplet via vapour diffusion. Crystallization screening and reproducibility tests indicate that this method could be a potentially powerful technique in practical protein crystallization screening. It can help to obtain crystals with higher probability and at a lower cost, while using a simple and easy procedure.

The Prolate Dark Matter Halo of the Andromeda Galaxy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hayashi, Kohei; Chiba, Masashi

2014-07-01

We present new limits on the global shape of the dark matter halo in the Andromeda galaxy using and generalizing non-spherical mass models developed by Hayashi & Chiba and compare our results with theoretical predictions of cold dark matter (CDM) models. This is motivated by the fact that CDM models predict non-spherical virialized dark halos, which reflect the process of mass assembly in the galactic scale. Applying our models to the latest kinematic data of globular clusters and dwarf spheroidal galaxies in the Andromeda halo, we find that the most plausible cases for Andromeda yield a prolate shape for its dark halo, irrespective of assumed density profiles. We also find that this prolate dark halo in Andromeda is consistent with theoretical predictions in which the satellites are distributed anisotropically and preferentially located along major axes of their host halos. It is a reflection of the intimate connection between galactic dark matter halos and the cosmic web. Therefore, our result is profound in understanding internal dynamics of halo tracers in Andromeda, such as orbital evolutions of tidal stellar streams, which play important roles in extracting the abundance of CDM subhalos through their dynamical effects on stream structures.

Dynamics of supersymmetric chameleons

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

Brax, Philippe; Davis, Anne-Christine; Sakstein, Jeremy, E-mail: Philippe.Brax@cea.fr, E-mail: A.C.Davis@damtp.cam.ac.uk, E-mail: J.A.Sakstein@damtp.cam.ac.uk

2013-10-01

We investigate the cosmological dynamics of a class of supersymmetric chameleon models coupled to cold dark matter fermions. The model includes a cosmological constant in the form of a Fayet-Illiopoulos term, which emerges at late times due to the coupling of the chameleon to two charged scalars. Supergravity corrections ensure that the supersymmetric chameleons are efficiently screened in all astrophysical objects of interest, however this does not preclude the enhancement of gravity on linear cosmological scales. We solve the modified equations for the growth of cold dark matter density perturbations in closed form in the matter era. Using this, wemore » go on to derive the modified linear power spectrum which is characterised by two scales, the horizon size at matter-radiation equality and at the redshift when the chameleon reaches the minimum of its effective potential. We analyse the deviations from the ΛCDM predictions in the linear regime. We find that there is generically a region in the model's parameter space where the model's background cosmology coincides with that of the ΛCDM model. Furthermore, we find that characteristic deviations from ΛCDM are present on the matter power spectrum providing a clear signature of supersymmetric chameleons.« less

Resolution of the apparent discrepancy between the number of massive subhaloes in Abell 2744 and ΛCDM

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mao, Tian-Xiang; Wang, Jie; Frenk, Carlos S.; Gao, Liang; Li, Ran; Wang, Qiao; Cao, Xiaoyue; Li, Ming

2018-07-01

Schwinn et al. have recently compared the abundance and distribution of massive substructures identified in a gravitational lensing analysis of Abell 2744 by Jauzac et al. and N-body simulation, and found no cluster in Lambda cold dark matter (ΛCDM) simulation that is similar to Abell 2744. Schwinn et al. identified the measured projected aperture masses with the actual masses associated with subhaloes in the Millenium XXL N-body simulation. We have used the high-resolution Phoenix cluster simulations to show that such an identification is incorrect: the aperture mass is dominated by mass in the body of the cluster that happens to be projected along the line of sight to the subhalo. This enhancement varies from factors of a few to factors of more than 100, particularly for subhaloes projected near the centre of the cluster. We calculate aperture masses for subhaloes in our simulation and compare them to the measurements for Abell 2744. We find that the data for Abell 2744 are in excellent agreement with the matched predictions from ΛCDM. We provide further predictions for aperture mass functions of subhaloes in idealized surveys with varying mass detection thresholds.

A nonlinear CDM based damage growth law for ductile materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gautam, Abhinav; Priya Ajit, K.; Sarkar, Prabir Kumar

2018-02-01

A nonlinear ductile damage growth criterion is proposed based on continuum damage mechanics (CDM) approach. The model is derived in the framework of thermodynamically consistent CDM assuming damage to be isotropic. In this study, the damage dissipation potential is also derived to be a function of varying strain hardening exponent in addition to damage strain energy release rate density. Uniaxial tensile tests and load-unload-cyclic tensile tests for AISI 1020 steel, AISI 1030 steel and Al 2024 aluminum alloy are considered for the determination of their respective damage variable D and other parameters required for the model(s). The experimental results are very closely predicted, with a deviation of 0%-3%, by the proposed model for each of the materials. The model is also tested with predictabilities of damage growth by other models in the literature. Present model detects the state of damage quantitatively at any level of plastic strain and uses simpler material tests to find the parameters of the model. So, it should be useful in metal forming industries to assess the damage growth for the desired deformation level a priori. The superiority of the new model is clarified by the deviations in the predictability of test results by other models.

From Planck Data to Planck Era: Observational Tests of Holographic Cosmology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Afshordi, Niayesh; Corianò, Claudio; Delle Rose, Luigi; Gould, Elizabeth; Skenderis, Kostas

2017-01-01

We test a class of holographic models for the very early Universe against cosmological observations and find that they are competitive to the standard cold dark matter model with a cosmological constant (Λ CDM ) of cosmology. These models are based on three-dimensional perturbative superrenormalizable quantum field theory (QFT), and, while they predict a different power spectrum from the standard power law used in Λ CDM , they still provide an excellent fit to the data (within their regime of validity). By comparing the Bayesian evidence for the models, we find that Λ CDM does a better job globally, while the holographic models provide a (marginally) better fit to the data without very low multipoles (i.e., l ≲30 ), where the QFT becomes nonperturbative. Observations can be used to exclude some QFT models, while we also find models satisfying all phenomenological constraints: The data rule out the dual theory being a Yang-Mills theory coupled to fermions only but allow for a Yang-Mills theory coupled to nonminimal scalars with quartic interactions. Lattice simulations of 3D QFTs can provide nonperturbative predictions for large-angle statistics of the cosmic microwave background and potentially explain its apparent anomalies.

Relaxing the σ 8-tension through running vacuum in the Universe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gómez-Valent, Adrià; Solà, Joan

2017-11-01

It has recently been shown that the class of running vacuum models (RVMs) has the capacity to fit the overall cosmological observations better than the concordance ΛCDM model, therefore supporting the possibility of dynamical dark energy (DE). Apart from the cosmic microwave background (CMB) anisotropies, the most crucial datasets involved are: i) baryonic acoustic oscillations (BAO), and ii) direct large scale structure (LSS) formation data. Analyses mainly focusing on CMB and with insufficient BAO + LSS input generally fail to capture the dynamical DE signature, whereas the few existing studies accounting for the wealth of known CMB+BAO+LSS data (see in particular Solà, Gómez-Valent and de Cruz Pérez (2015), (2017); and Zhao et al. (2017)) do converge to the remarkable conclusion that dynamical DE might well be encoded in the current cosmological observations at 3-4σ c.l. A decisive factor is the persistent σ 8-tension between the ΛCDM and the data. Because the issue is obviously pressing, we devote this work to explain how and why running vacuum in the expanding universe successfully relaxes the existing σ 8-tension and describes the LSS formation data significantly better than the ΛCDM.

Beyond shared decision-making: Collaboration in the age of recovery from serious mental illness.

PubMed

Treichler, Emily B H; Spaulding, William D

2017-01-01

The role that people with serious mental illness (SMI) play in making decisions about their own treatment and rehabilitation is attracting increasing attention and scrutiny. This attention is embedded in a broader social/consumer movement, the recovery movement , whose agenda includes extensive reform of the mental health system and advancing respect for the dignity and autonomy of people with SMI. Shared decision-making (SDM) is an approach for enhancing consumer participation in health-care decision-making. SDM translates straightforwardly to specific clinical procedures that systematically identify domains of decision-making and guide the practitioner and consumer through making the decisions. In addition, Collaborative decision-making (CDM) is a set of guiding principles that avoids the connotations and limitations of SDM. CDM looks broadly at the range of decisions to be made in mental health care, and assigns consumers and providers equal responsibility and power in the decision-making process. It recognizes the diverse history, knowledge base, and values of each consumer by assuming patients can lead and contribute to decision-making, contributing both value-based information and technical information. This article further discusses the importance of CDM for people with SMI. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved).

First Evidence of Running Cosmic Vacuum: Challenging the Concordance Model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Solà, Joan; Gómez-Valent, Adrià; de Cruz Pérez, Javier

2017-02-01

Despite the fact that a rigid {{Λ }}-term is a fundamental building block of the concordance ΛCDM model, we show that a large class of cosmological scenarios with dynamical vacuum energy density {ρ }{{Λ }} together with a dynamical gravitational coupling G or a possible non-conservation of matter, are capable of seriously challenging the traditional phenomenological success of the ΛCDM. In this paper, we discuss these “running vacuum models” (RVMs), in which {ρ }{{Λ }}={ρ }{{Λ }}(H) consists of a nonvanishing constant term and a series of powers of the Hubble rate. Such generic structure is potentially linked to the quantum field theoretical description of the expanding universe. By performing an overall fit to the cosmological observables SN Ia+BAO+H(z)+LSS+BBN+CMB (in which the WMAP9, Planck 2013, and Planck 2015 data are taken into account), we find that the class of RVMs appears significantly more favored than the ΛCDM, namely, at an unprecedented level of ≳ 4.2σ . Furthermore, the Akaike and Bayesian information criteria confirm that the dynamical RVMs are strongly preferred compared to the conventional rigid {{Λ }}-picture of the cosmic evolution.

From Planck Data to Planck Era: Observational Tests of Holographic Cosmology.

PubMed

Afshordi, Niayesh; Corianò, Claudio; Delle Rose, Luigi; Gould, Elizabeth; Skenderis, Kostas

2017-01-27

We test a class of holographic models for the very early Universe against cosmological observations and find that they are competitive to the standard cold dark matter model with a cosmological constant (ΛCDM) of cosmology. These models are based on three-dimensional perturbative superrenormalizable quantum field theory (QFT), and, while they predict a different power spectrum from the standard power law used in ΛCDM, they still provide an excellent fit to the data (within their regime of validity). By comparing the Bayesian evidence for the models, we find that ΛCDM does a better job globally, while the holographic models provide a (marginally) better fit to the data without very low multipoles (i.e., l≲30), where the QFT becomes nonperturbative. Observations can be used to exclude some QFT models, while we also find models satisfying all phenomenological constraints: The data rule out the dual theory being a Yang-Mills theory coupled to fermions only but allow for a Yang-Mills theory coupled to nonminimal scalars with quartic interactions. Lattice simulations of 3D QFTs can provide nonperturbative predictions for large-angle statistics of the cosmic microwave background and potentially explain its apparent anomalies.

The prolate dark matter halo of the Andromeda galaxy

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

Hayashi, Kohei; Chiba, Masashi, E-mail: k.hayasi@astr.tohoku.ac.jp, E-mail: chiba@astr.tohoku.ac.jp

We present new limits on the global shape of the dark matter halo in the Andromeda galaxy using and generalizing non-spherical mass models developed by Hayashi and Chiba and compare our results with theoretical predictions of cold dark matter (CDM) models. This is motivated by the fact that CDM models predict non-spherical virialized dark halos, which reflect the process of mass assembly in the galactic scale. Applying our models to the latest kinematic data of globular clusters and dwarf spheroidal galaxies in the Andromeda halo, we find that the most plausible cases for Andromeda yield a prolate shape for itsmore » dark halo, irrespective of assumed density profiles. We also find that this prolate dark halo in Andromeda is consistent with theoretical predictions in which the satellites are distributed anisotropically and preferentially located along major axes of their host halos. It is a reflection of the intimate connection between galactic dark matter halos and the cosmic web. Therefore, our result is profound in understanding internal dynamics of halo tracers in Andromeda, such as orbital evolutions of tidal stellar streams, which play important roles in extracting the abundance of CDM subhalos through their dynamical effects on stream structures.« less

Hydrodynamical simulations of coupled and uncoupled quintessence models - II. Galaxy clusters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carlesi, Edoardo; Knebe, Alexander; Lewis, Geraint F.; Yepes, Gustavo

2014-04-01

We study the z = 0 properties of clusters (and large groups) of galaxies within the context of interacting and non-interacting quintessence cosmological models, using a series of adiabatic SPH simulations. Initially, we examine the average properties of groups and clusters, quantifying their differences in ΛCold Dark Matter (ΛCDM), uncoupled Dark Energy (uDE) and coupled Dark Energy (cDE) cosmologies. In particular, we focus upon radial profiles of the gas density, temperature and pressure, and we also investigate how the standard hydrodynamic equilibrium hypothesis holds in quintessence cosmologies. While we are able to confirm previous results about the distribution of baryons, we also find that the main discrepancy (with differences up to 20 per cent) can be seen in cluster pressure profiles. We then switch attention to individual structures, mapping each halo in quintessence cosmology to its ΛCDM counterpart. We are able to identify a series of small correlations between the coupling in the dark sector and halo spin, triaxiality and virialization ratio. When looking at spin and virialization of dark matter haloes, we find a weak (5 per cent) but systematic deviation in fifth force scenarios from ΛCDM.

Do current cosmological observations rule out all covariant Galileons?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peirone, Simone; Frusciante, Noemi; Hu, Bin; Raveri, Marco; Silvestri, Alessandra

2018-03-01

We revisit the cosmology of covariant Galileon gravity in view of the most recent cosmological data sets, including weak lensing. As a higher derivative theory, covariant Galileon models do not have a Λ CDM limit and predict a very different structure formation pattern compared with the standard Λ CDM scenario. Previous cosmological analyses suggest that this model is marginally disfavored, yet cannot be completely ruled out. In this work we use a more recent and extended combination of data, and we allow for more freedom in the cosmology, by including a massive neutrino sector with three different mass hierarchies. We use the Planck measurements of cosmic microwave background temperature and polarization; baryonic acoustic oscillations measurements by BOSS DR12; local measurements of H0; the joint light-curve analysis supernovae sample; and, for the first time, weak gravitational lensing from the KiDS Collaboration. We find, that in order to provide a reasonable fit, a nonzero neutrino mass is indeed necessary, but we do not report any sizable difference among the three neutrino hierarchies. Finally, the comparison of the Bayesian evidence to the Λ CDM one shows that in all the cases considered, covariant Galileon models are statistically ruled out by cosmological data.

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

Nersisyan, Henrik; Cid, Adrian Fernandez; Amendola, Luca, E-mail: h.nersisyan@thphys.uni-heidelberg.de, E-mail: fernandez@thphys.uni-heidelberg.de, E-mail: l.amendola@thphys.uni-heidelberg.de

In this work, we extend previous analyses of the structure formation in the f (□{sup −1} R ) model of nonlocal gravity proposed by Deser and Woodard (DW), which reproduces the background expansion of ΛCDM with no need of a cosmological constant nor of any dimensional constant beside Newton's one. A previous analysis based on redshift-space distortions (RSD) data concluded that the model was ruled out. In this work we revisit the issue and find that, when recast in a localized model, the DW model is not ruled out and actually gives a better fit to RSD data than ΛCDM.more » In fact, the DW model presents a suppressed growth of matter perturbations with respect to ΛCDM and a slightly lower value of σ{sub 8}, as favored by observations. We also produce analytical approximations of the two modified gravity functions, i.e. the anisotropic stress η and the relative change of Newton's constant Y , and of f σ{sub 8}( z ) as a function of redshift. Finally, we also show how much the fit depends on initial conditions when these are generalized with respect to a standard matter-dominated era.« less

Distinguishing cold dark matter dwarfs from self-interacting dark matter dwarfs in baryonic simulations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Strickland, Emily; Fitts, Alex; Boylan-Kolchin, Michael

2018-01-01

Our collaboration has simulated several high-resolution (mbaryon = 500Mo, mdm = 2500Mo) cosmological zoom-in simulations of isolated dwarf galaxies. We simulate each galaxy in standard cold dark matter (ΛCDM) as well as a self-interacting dark matter (SIDM) (with a cross section of σ/m ~ 1 cm2/g), both with and without baryons, to identify distinguishing characteristics between the two. The simulations are run using GIZMO, a meshless-finite-mass (MFM) hydrodynamical code, and are part of the Feedback in Realistic Environments (FIRE) project. By analyzing both the global properties and inner structure of the dwarfs in varying dark matter prescriptions, we provide a side-by-side comparison of isolated, dark matter dominated galaxies at the mass scale where differences in the two models of dark matter are thought to be the most obvious. We find that the edge of classical dwarfs and ultra-faint dwarfs (UFDs) (at ~105 Mo) provides the clearest window for distinguishing between the two theories. Here our SIDM galaxies continue to display a cored inner profile unlike their CDM counterparts. The SIDM versions of each galaxy also have measurably lower stellar velocity dispersions than their CDM counterparts.

Application of cognitive diagnosis models to competency-based situational judgment tests.

PubMed

García, Pablo Eduardo; Olea, Julio; De la Torre, Jimmy

2014-01-01

Profiling of jobs in terms of competency requirements has increasingly been applied in many organizational settings. Testing these competencies through situational judgment tests (SJTs) leads to validity problems because it is not usually clear which constructs SJTs measure. The primary purpose of this paper is to evaluate whether the application of cognitive diagnosis models (CDM) to competency-based SJTs can ascertain the underlying competencies measured by the items, and whether these competencies can be estimated precisely. The generalized deterministic inputs, noisy "and" gate (G-DINA) model was applied to 26 situational judgment items measuring professional competencies based on the great eight model. These items were applied to 485 employees of a Spanish financial company. The fit of the model to the data and the convergent validity between the estimated competencies and personality dimensions were examined. The G-DINA showed a good fit to the data and the estimated competency factors, adapting and coping and interacting and presenting were positively related to emotional stability and extraversion, respectively. This work indicates that CDM can be a useful tool when measuring professional competencies through SJTs. CDM can clarify the competencies being measured and provide precise estimates of these competencies.

Indications of a late-time interaction in the dark sector.

PubMed

Salvatelli, Valentina; Said, Najla; Bruni, Marco; Melchiorri, Alessandro; Wands, David

2014-10-31

We show that a general late-time interaction between cold dark matter and vacuum energy is favored by current cosmological data sets. We characterize the strength of the coupling by a dimensionless parameter q(V) that is free to take different values in four redshift bins from the primordial epoch up to today. This interacting scenario is in agreement with measurements of cosmic microwave background temperature anisotropies from the Planck satellite, supernovae Ia from Union 2.1 and redshift space distortions from a number of surveys, as well as with combinations of these different data sets. Our analysis of the 4-bin interaction shows that a nonzero interaction is likely at late times. We then focus on the case q(V)≠0 in a single low-redshift bin, obtaining a nested one parameter extension of the standard ΛCDM model. We study the Bayesian evidence, with respect to ΛCDM, of this late-time interaction model, finding moderate evidence for an interaction starting at z=0.9, dependent upon the prior range chosen for the interaction strength parameter q(V). For this case the null interaction (q(V)=0, i.e., ΛCDM) is excluded at 99% C.L.

A single CD4 test with 250 cells/mm3 threshold predicts viral suppression in HIV-infected adults failing first-line therapy by clinical criteria.

PubMed

Gilks, Charles F; Walker, A Sarah; Munderi, Paula; Kityo, Cissy; Reid, Andrew; Katabira, Elly; Goodall, Ruth L; Grosskurth, Heiner; Mugyenyi, Peter; Hakim, James; Gibb, Diana M

2013-01-01

In low-income countries, viral load (VL) monitoring of antiretroviral therapy (ART) is rarely available in the public sector for HIV-infected adults or children. Using clinical failure alone to identify first-line ART failure and trigger regimen switch may result in unnecessary use of costly second-line therapy. Our objective was to identify CD4 threshold values to confirm clinically-determined ART failure when VL is unavailable. 3316 HIV-infected Ugandan/Zimbabwean adults were randomised to first-line ART with Clinically-Driven (CDM, CD4s measured but blinded) or routine Laboratory and Clinical Monitoring (LCM, 12-weekly CD4s) in the DART trial. CD4 at switch and ART failure criteria (new/recurrent WHO 4, single/multiple WHO 3 event; LCM: CD4<100 cells/mm(3)) were reviewed in 361 LCM, 314 CDM participants who switched over median 5 years follow-up. Retrospective VLs were available in 368 (55%) participants. Overall, 265/361 (73%) LCM participants failed with CD4<100 cells/mm(3); only 7 (2%) switched with CD4≥250 cells/mm(3), four switches triggered by WHO events. Without CD4 monitoring, 207/314 (66%) CDM participants failed with WHO 4 events, and 77(25%)/30(10%) with single/multiple WHO 3 events. Failure/switching with single WHO 3 events was more likely with CD4≥250 cells/mm(3) (28/77; 36%) (p = 0.0002). CD4 monitoring reduced switching with viral suppression: 23/187 (12%) LCM versus 49/181 (27%) CDM had VL<400 copies/ml at failure/switch (p<0.0001). Amongst CDM participants with CD4<250 cells/mm(3) only 11/133 (8%) had VL<400 copies/ml, compared with 38/48 (79%) with CD4≥250 cells/mm(3) (p<0.0001). Multiple, but not single, WHO 3 events predicted first-line ART failure. A CD4 threshold 'tiebreaker' of ≥250 cells/mm(3) for clinically-monitored patients failing first-line could identify ∼80% with VL<400 copies/ml, who are unlikely to benefit from second-line. Targeting CD4s to single WHO stage 3 'clinical failures' would particularly avoid premature, costly switch to second-line ART.

Grating acuity at different luminances in wild-type mice and in mice lacking rod or cone function.

PubMed

Schmucker, Christine; Seeliger, Mathias; Humphries, Pete; Biel, Martin; Schaeffel, Frank

2005-01-01

The mouse eye has become an important model in vision research. However, it is not known how visual acuity changes with luminance. Therefore, grating acuity of mice was measured at different luminances in an automated optomotor paradigm. Furthermore, mutant mice lacking either rods (RHO-/- and CNGB1-/-) or cones (CNGA3-/-), or both, were studied to determine the rod and cone contribution to visual acuity. Freely ranging individual mice were automatically tracked at a 25-Hz sampling rate with a self-programmed video system in a large rotating optomotor drum. The drum had a square-wave grating inside with adjustable spatial frequency. The angular speed of the mice with respect to the center of the drum and the angular orientation of the snout-tail body axis were analyzed. In addition, the motor activity of the wild-type mice was recorded at different luminances. The optomotor drum provided reliable data on visual input to the mouse's behavior and was convenient to use, since the experimenter's had only to place the mice individually in a Perspex cylinder. Optomotor grating acuity of the wild-type mice was limited to 0.3 to 0.4 cyc/deg. Maximum optomotor responses were obtained at 0.1 to 0.2 cyc/deg. The importance of visual input declined monotonically with decreasing luminance (30 cd/m2, 100%; 0.1 cd/m2, 76.4%; 0.005 cd/m2, 45.9%; and darkness, -9%). Mice lacking functional rods were able to resolve gratings up to 0.1 cyc/deg at 30 cd/m2. Surprisingly, mice lacking functional cones had an optomotor acuity that was similar to the wild-type. Double-knockout mice without rods and cones had no detectable grating acuity. Because the visual system of the mouse is more responsive at bright luminances, experiments in which visual input is important should be performed in photopic conditions (30 cd/m2 or even more). Apparently, spatial vision is governed by the rod system, which is not saturated in the mesopic or low photopic range. Mice lacking both rods and cones have no detectable grating acuity, indicating that the retinal melanopsin system does not contribute to spatial vision.

Characterization of Fluid Transfer Properties in a Transpressive Fault System: Chaîne des Matheux Fold-and-Thrust Belt and Enriquillo-Plantain Garden Fault Zone - Haiti

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wessels, R.; Ellouz-Zimmermann, N.; Rosenberg, C.; Hamon, Y.; Battani, A.; Bellahsen, N.; Deschamps, R.; Leroy, S. D.; Momplaisir, R.

2016-12-01

The NW - SE trending Chaîne des Matheux (CdM) comprises the onshore frontal thrust sheet of the SW-verging Haitian fold-and-thrust belt (HFTB). The HFTB's active deformation front is covered by sediments of the Cul-de-Sac plain and is bounded on the south by the E - W trending left-lateral Enriquillo-Plantain Garden fault zone (EPGFZ). Seismicity down to the junction between the two systems has been recorded during the 12 January 2010 Mw 7.0 Léogâne earthquake. Stratigraphic, structural and kinematic field data on a transect from the CdM to the EPGFZ indicate (N)NE - (S)SW oriented shortening, which is partitioned over 1) (N)NE-dipping oblique thrusts rooted in Cretaceous basement, 2) decollement levels in both latest Cretaceous and Paleogene limestones, and 3) by strike-slip and positive flower structures along the EPGFZ. We investigated the geometry and kinematics of both fault and fracture systems, which was coupled with sampling and analysis of fluid-derived mineralizations to constrain the timing and geological evolution. C & O isotope and whole-rock analyses have been performed to characterize the geochemistry of the source of these fluids. Raman spectroscopy and fluid-inclusion analyses has been applied to selected samples to comprehend the local burial history. Fluid and gas seepages along fault planes are qualitative indicators for transfer properties between different fault segments and their connectivity with deeper crustal or mantle reservoirs. Relative timing of structures in the CdM coupled with cathodoluminescence (CL) microscopy reveals three deformation phases, characterized by associated calcite veins that precipitated from oxidizing meteoric fluids. The deeply rooted frontal CdM thrust lacks mineralization, but fluids expelled from along-strike natural springs registered He and Ne isotope ratios suggesting a strong mantle-derived component. CL microscopy results on calcite veins from the EPGFZ's fault core imply fluid circulation in an episodically `open' system under a reducing environment. He and Ne isotope ratios from fluids derived along the EPGFZ suggest a significant, but less pronounced, mantle-derived component compared to the frontal thrust of the CdM. The above results indicate a change in fluid transfer properties over time for this transpressive system.

A Progressive Damage Model for Predicting Permanent Indentation and Impact Damage in Composite Laminates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ji, Zhaojie; Guan, Zhidong; Li, Zengshan

2017-10-01

In this paper, a progressive damage model was established on the basis of ABAQUS software for predicting permanent indentation and impact damage in composite laminates. Intralaminar and interlaminar damage was modelled based on the continuum damage mechanics (CDM) in the finite element model. For the verification of the model, low-velocity impact tests of quasi-isotropic laminates with material system of T300/5228A were conducted. Permanent indentation and impact damage of the laminates were simulated and the numerical results agree well with the experiments. It can be concluded that an obvious knee point can be identified on the curve of the indentation depth versus impact energy. Matrix cracking and delamination develops rapidly with the increasing impact energy, while considerable amount of fiber breakage only occurs when the impact energy exceeds the energy corresponding to the knee point. Predicted indentation depth after the knee point is very sensitive to the parameter μ which is proposed in this paper, and the acceptable value of this parameter is in range from 0.9 to 1.0.

Deconstructing the neutrino mass constraint from galaxy redshift surveys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boyle, Aoife; Komatsu, Eiichiro

2018-03-01

The total mass of neutrinos can be constrained in a number of ways using galaxy redshift surveys. Massive neutrinos modify the expansion rate of the Universe, which can be measured using baryon acoustic oscillations (BAOs) or the Alcock-Paczynski (AP) test. Massive neutrinos also change the structure growth rate and the amplitude of the matter power spectrum, which can be measured using redshift-space distortions (RSD). We use the Fisher matrix formalism to disentangle these information sources, to provide projected neutrino mass constraints from each of these probes alone and to determine how sensitive each is to the assumed cosmological model. We isolate the distinctive effect of neutrino free-streaming on the matter power spectrum and structure growth rate as a signal unique to massive neutrinos that can provide the most robust constraints, which are relatively insensitive to extensions to the cosmological model beyond ΛCDM . We also provide forecasted constraints using all of the information contained in the observed galaxy power spectrum combined, and show that these maximally optimistic constraints are primarily limited by the accuracy to which the optical depth of the cosmic microwave background, τ, is known.

Hydroxyethyl cellulose doped with copper(II) phthalocyanine-tetrasulfonic acid tetrasodium salt as an effective dual functional hole-blocking layer for polymer light-emitting diodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Cheng-Liang; Chen, Yun

2017-07-01

We report a doping method to improve the performance of solution-processed polymer light-emitting diodes (PLEDs). Doping 12 wt% copper(II) phthalocyanine-tetrasulfonated acid tetrasodium salt (TS-CuPc) into hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC) as a dual functional hole-blocking layer (df-HBL) of multilayer PLED (glass/ITO/PEDOT:PSS/HY-PPV/TS-CuPc-doped HEC/LiF/Al) significantly enhanced maximum luminance, maximum current and power efficiency over that without the df-HBL (10,319 cd/m2, 2.98 cd/A and 1.24 lm/W) to (29,205 cd/m2, 13.27 cd/A and 9.56 lm/W). CV measurements reveal that HEC possesses a powerful hole-blocking capability. Topography and conductivity AFM images show that doping TS-CuPc increases the interfacial contact area and interfacial conductivity, which can overcome the insulating nature of HEC and thus further facilitate electron injection. Enhancements in device performance are attributed to the improved carrier balance and recombination in the presence of df-HBL, confirmed in electron-only and hole-only devices. Moreover, apparently raised open-circuit voltages provide further evidence that enhanced electron injection is indeed realized by the df-HBL. This study demonstrates an effective approach to develop highly efficient PLEDs.

Are the World's Oceans Optically Different?

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Szeto, M.; Werdell, P. J.; Moore, T. S.; Campbell, J. W.

2011-01-01

Regional differences in the Sea-viewing Wide Field-of-view Sensor chlorophyll algorithm uncertainty were observed in a large global data set containing coincident in situ measurements of chlorophyll a concentration (Chla) and spectral radiometry. The uncertainty was found to be systematic when the data were sorted by ocean: Atlantic, Pacific, Southern, and Indian Oceans. Artifacts associated with different instrumentation and analytical methods had been previously ruled out. Given these oceanic biases in the chlorophyll algorithm, we hypothesized that the oceans may be optically different, and their optical differences may be intrinsically related to regional differences in phytoplankton community structure or biogeochemical processes. The oceanic biases, originally observed using radiometric measurements, were independently verified using total absorption measurements in a subset of the data. Moreover, they were explained through oceanic differences in the absorption of colored detrital matter (CDM) and phytoplankton. Both effects were considered together in explaining the ocean biases through a stepwise linear regression analysis. Significant oceanic differences in the amount of CDM and in phytoplankton cell sizes and pigmentation would give rise to optical differences, but we raise a concern for the spatial coverage of the data. We do not suggest the application of ocean-based algorithms but rather emphasize the importance of consolidating regional data sets before reaching this conclusion.

Fault Tolerant Homopolar Magnetic Bearings

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Li, Ming-Hsiu; Palazzolo, Alan; Kenny, Andrew; Provenza, Andrew; Beach, Raymond; Kascak, Albert

2003-01-01

Magnetic suspensions (MS) satisfy the long life and low loss conditions demanded by satellite and ISS based flywheels used for Energy Storage and Attitude Control (ACESE) service. This paper summarizes the development of a novel MS that improves reliability via fault tolerant operation. Specifically, flux coupling between poles of a homopolar magnetic bearing is shown to deliver desired forces even after termination of coil currents to a subset of failed poles . Linear, coordinate decoupled force-voltage relations are also maintained before and after failure by bias linearization. Current distribution matrices (CDM) which adjust the currents and fluxes following a pole set failure are determined for many faulted pole combinations. The CDM s and the system responses are obtained utilizing 1D magnetic circuit models with fringe and leakage factors derived from detailed, 3D, finite element field models. Reliability results are presented vs. detection/correction delay time and individual power amplifier reliability for 4, 6, and 7 pole configurations. Reliability is shown for two success criteria, i.e. (a) no catcher bearing contact following pole failures and (b) re-levitation off of the catcher bearings following pole failures. An advantage of the method presented over other redundant operation approaches is a significantly reduced requirement for backup hardware such as additional actuators or power amplifiers.

Simulations of the Formation and Evolution of X-ray Clusters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bryan, G. L.; Klypin, A.; Norman, M. L.

1994-05-01

We describe results from a set of Omega = 1 Cold plus Hot Dark Matter (CHDM) and Cold Dark Matter (CDM) simulations. We examine the formation and evolution of X-ray clusters in a cosmological setting with sufficient numbers to perform statistical analysis. We find that CDM, normalized to COBE, seems to produce too many large clusters, both in terms of the luminosity (dn/dL) and temperature (dn/dT) functions. The CHDM simulation produces fewer clusters and the temperature distribution (our numerically most secure result) matches observations where they overlap. The computed cluster luminosity function drops below observations, but we are almost surely underestimating the X-ray luminosity. Because of the lower fluctuations in CHDM, there are only a small number of bright clusters in our simulation volume; however we can use the simulated clusters to fix the relation between temperature and velocity dispersion, allowing us to use collisionless N-body codes to probe larger length scales with correspondingly brighter clusters. The hydrodynamic simulations have been performed with a hybrid particle-mesh scheme for the dark matter and a high resolution grid-based piecewise parabolic method for the adiabatic gas dynamics. This combination has been implemented for massively parallel computers, allowing us to achive grids as large as 512(3) .

GIS-based integrated assessment and decision support system for land use planning in consideration of carbon sequestration benefits

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Jun; Chen, J. M.; Li, Manchun; Ju, Weimin

2007-06-01

As the major eligible land use activities in the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM), afforestation and reforestation offer opportunities and potential economic benefits for developing countries to participate in carbon-trade in the potential international carbon (C) sink markets. However, the design and selection of appropriate afforestation and reforestation locations in CDM are complex processes which need integrated assessment (IA) of C sequestration (CS) potential, environmental effects, and socio-economic impacts. This paper promotes the consideration of CS benefits in local land use planning and presents a GIS-based integrated assessment and spatial decision support system (IA-SDSS) to support decision-making on 'where' and 'how' to afforest. It integrates an Integrated Terrestrial Ecosystem Carbon Model (InTEC) and a GIS platform for modeling regional long-term CS potential and assessment of geo-referenced land use criteria including CS consequence, and produces ranking of plantation schemes with different tree species using the Analytic hierarchy process (AHP) method. Three land use scenarios are investigated: (i) traditional land use planning criteria without C benefits, (ii) land use for CS with low C price, and (iii) land use for CS with high price. Different scenarios and consequences will influence the weights of tree-species selection in the AHP decision process.

Creation of a Mock Universe: Photometric Astronomy on Simulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nene, Ajinkya; Rodriguez, Aldo; Primack, Joel R.

2016-01-01

A major focus in astronomy is to understand how galaxies form and evolve in the Universe. The current model known as ΛCDM explains that galaxies form and evolve in halos composed of cold dark matter. In an effort to understand galactic processes in relation to halos, researchers have developed statistical methods to connect galaxies to their halos. One of these approaches is abundance matching: a technique in which the galaxy number density of a property is connected to a theoretical halo number density. In this study, we exploit the abundance matching technique and create a massive photometric mock catalog. We populate millions of dark matter halos in the Bolshoi-Planck Simulation with highly defined galaxies that each has: luminosities, magnitudes, fluxes, masses, and Sérsic profiles. Our catalog acts as an interface between cold dark matter theory and observations: astronomers can use this mock galaxy catalog to compare ΛCDM predictions to observations as well as constrain galaxy formation models. Using our catalog, we can make powerful predictions about both theoretical data and about future astronomical surveys. We demonstrate the usability of our catalog through angular power spectra. Specifically, we shed light on the controversial intrahalo light phenomena. We emphasize that this is the first catalog of this accuracy and size and has incredible potential for application.

COLA with scale-dependent growth: applications to screened modified gravity models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Winther, Hans A.; Koyama, Kazuya; Manera, Marc; Wright, Bill S.; Zhao, Gong-Bo

2017-08-01

We present a general parallelized and easy-to-use code to perform numerical simulations of structure formation using the COLA (COmoving Lagrangian Acceleration) method for cosmological models that exhibit scale-dependent growth at the level of first and second order Lagrangian perturbation theory. For modified gravity theories we also include screening using a fast approximate method that covers all the main examples of screening mechanisms in the literature. We test the code by comparing it to full simulations of two popular modified gravity models, namely f(R) gravity and nDGP, and find good agreement in the modified gravity boost-factors relative to ΛCDM even when using a fairly small number of COLA time steps.

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

Winther, Hans A.; Koyama, Kazuya; Wright, Bill S.

We present a general parallelized and easy-to-use code to perform numerical simulations of structure formation using the COLA (COmoving Lagrangian Acceleration) method for cosmological models that exhibit scale-dependent growth at the level of first and second order Lagrangian perturbation theory. For modified gravity theories we also include screening using a fast approximate method that covers all the main examples of screening mechanisms in the literature. We test the code by comparing it to full simulations of two popular modified gravity models, namely f ( R ) gravity and nDGP, and find good agreement in the modified gravity boost-factors relative tomore » ΛCDM even when using a fairly small number of COLA time steps.« less

Adaptive single-pixel imaging with aggregated sampling and continuous differential measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huo, Yaoran; He, Hongjie; Chen, Fan; Tai, Heng-Ming

2018-06-01

This paper proposes an adaptive compressive imaging technique with one single-pixel detector and single arm. The aggregated sampling (AS) method enables the reduction of resolutions of the reconstructed images. It aims to reduce the time and space consumption. The target image with a resolution up to 1024 × 1024 can be reconstructed successfully at the 20% sampling rate. The continuous differential measurement (CDM) method combined with a ratio factor of significant coefficient (RFSC) improves the imaging quality. Moreover, RFSC reduces the human intervention in parameter setting. This technique enhances the practicability of single-pixel imaging with the benefits from less time and space consumption, better imaging quality and less human intervention.

Effect of repulsive and attractive three-body forces on nucleus-nucleus elastic scattering

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

Furumoto, T.; Sakuragi, Y.; Yamamoto, Y.

2009-10-15

The effect of the three-body force (TBF) is studied in nucleus-nucleus elastic scattering on the basis of Brueckner theory for nucleon-nucleon (NN) effective interaction (complex G matrix) in the nuclear matter. A new G matrix called CEG07 proposed recently by the present authors includes the TBF effect and reproduces a realistic saturation curve in the nuclear matter, and it is shown to well reproduce proton-nucleus elastic scattering. The microscopic optical potential for the nucleus-nucleus system is obtained by folding the G matrix with nucleon density distributions in colliding nuclei. We first analyze in detail the {sup 16}O+{sup 16}O elastic scatteringmore » at E/A=70 MeV. The observed cross sections are nicely reproduced up to the most backward scattering angles only when the TBF effect is included. The use of the frozen-density approximation (FDA) is essentially important to properly estimate the effect of the TBF in nucleus-nucleus scattering. Other prescriptions for defining the local density have also been tested, but only the FDA prescription gives a proper description of the experimental cross sections as well as the effect of the TBF. The effects of the three-body attraction and the {omega}-rearrangement term are also analyzed. The CEG07 interaction is compared with CDM3Y6, which is a reliable and successful effective density-dependent NN interaction used in the double-folding model. The CEG07 G matrix is also tested in the elastic scattering of {sup 16}O by the {sup 12}C, {sup 28}Si, and {sup 40}Ca targets at E/A=93.9 MeV, and in the elastic scattering of {sup 12}C by the {sup 12}C target at E/A=135 MeV with great success. The decisive effect of the TBF is clearly seen also in those systems. Finally, we have tested CEG07a, CEG07b, and CEG07c for the {sup 16}O+{sup 16}O system at various energies.« less

Power spectrum, correlation function, and tests for luminosity bias in the CfA redshift survey

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Park, Changbom; Vogeley, Michael S.; Geller, Margaret J.; Huchra, John P.

1994-01-01

We describe and apply a method for directly computing the power spectrum for the galaxy distribution in the extension of the Center for Astrophysics Redshift Survey. Tests show that our technique accurately reproduces the true power spectrum for k greater than 0.03 h Mpc(exp -1). The dense sampling and large spatial coverage of this survey allow accurate measurement of the redshift-space power spectrum on scales from 5 to approximately 200 h(exp -1) Mpc. The power spectrum has slope n approximately equal -2.1 on small scales (lambda less than or equal 25 h(exp -1) Mpc) and n approximately -1.1 on scales 30 less than lambda less than 120 h(exp -1) Mpc. On larger scales the power spectrum flattens somewhat, but we do not detect a turnover. Comparison with N-body simulations of cosmological models shows that an unbiased, open universe CDM model (OMEGA h = 0.2) and a nonzero cosmological constant (CDM) model (OMEGA h = 0.24, lambda(sub zero) = 0.6, b = 1.3) match the CfA power spectrum over the wavelength range we explore. The standard biased CDM model (OMEGA h = 0.5, b = 1.5) fails (99% significance level) because it has insufficient power on scales lambda greater than 30 h(exp -1) Mpc. Biased CDM with a normalization that matches the Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB) anisotropy (OMEGA h = 0.5, b = 1.4, sigma(sub 8) (mass) = 1) has too much power on small scales to match the observed galaxy power spectrum. This model with b = 1 matches both Cosmic Background Explorer Satellite (COBE) and the small-scale power spect rum but has insufficient power on scales lambda approximately 100 h(exp -1) Mpc. We derive a formula for the effect of small-scale peculiar velocities on the power spectrum and combine this formula with the linear-regime amplification described by Kaiser to compute an estimate of the real-space power spectrum. Two tests reveal luminosity bias in the galaxy distribution: First, the amplitude of the pwer spectrum is approximately 40% larger for the brightest 50% of galaxies in volume-limited samples that have M(sub lim) greater than M*. This bias in the power spectrum is independent of scale, consistent with the peaks-bias paradigm for galaxy formation. Second, the distribution of local density around galaxies shows that regions of moderate and high density contain both very bright (M less than M* = -19.2 + 5 log h) and fainter galaxies, but that voids preferentially harbor fainter galaxies (approximately 2 sigma significance level).

Dark matter deprivation in the field elliptical galaxy NGC 7507

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lane, Richard R.; Salinas, Ricardo; Richtler, Tom

2015-02-01

Context. Previous studies have shown that the kinematics of the field elliptical galaxy NGC 7507 do not necessarily require dark matter. This is troubling because, in the context of ΛCDM cosmologies, all galaxies should have a large dark matter component. Aims: Our aims are to determine the rotation and velocity dispersion profile out to larger radii than do previous studies, and, therefore, more accurately estimate of the dark matter content of the galaxy. Methods: We use penalised pixel-fitting software to extract velocities and velocity dispersions from GMOS slit mask spectra. Using Jeans and MONDian modelling, we then produce models with the goal of fitting the velocity dispersion data. Results: NGC 7507 has a two-component stellar halo, with the outer halo counter rotating with respect to the inner halo, with a kinematic boundary at a radius of ~110'' (~12.4 kpc). The velocity dispersion profile exhibits an increase at ~70'' (~7.9 kpc), reminiscent of several other elliptical galaxies. Our best fit models are those under mild anisotropy, which include ~100 times less dark matter than predicted by ΛCDM, although mildly anisotropic models that are completely dark matter free fit the measured dynamics almost equally well. Our MONDian models, both isotropic and anisotropic, systematically fail to reproduce the measured velocity dispersions at almost all radii. Conclusions: The counter-rotating outer halo implies a merger remnant, as does the increase in velocity dispersion at ~70''. From simulations it seems plausible that the merger that caused the increase in velocity dispersion was a spiral-spiral merger. Our Jeans models are completely consistent with a no dark matter scenario, however, some dark matter can be accommodated, although at much lower concentrations than predicted by ΛCDM simulations. This indicates that NGC 7507 may be a dark matter free elliptical galaxy. Regardless of whether NGC 7507 is completely dark matter free or very dark matter poor, it is at odds with predictions from current ΛCDM cosmological simulations. It may be possible that the observed velocity dispersions could be reproduced if the galaxy is significantly flattened along the line of sight (e.g. due to rotation); however, invoking this flattening is problematic. Based on observations taken at the Gemini Observatory, operated by the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy, Inc., under a cooperative agreement with the NSF on behalf of the Gemini partnership: the National Science Foundation (United States), the Science and Technology Facilities Council (United Kingdom), the National Research Council (Canada), CONICYT (Chile), the Australian Research Council (Australia), Ministério da Ciência e Tecnologia (Brazil) and SECYT (Argentina).

Scalar-tensor extension of the ΛCDM model

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

Algoner, W.C.; Velten, H.E.S.; Zimdahl, W., E-mail: w.algoner@cosmo-ufes.org, E-mail: velten@pq.cnpq.br, E-mail: winfried.zimdahl@pq.cnpq.br

2016-11-01

We construct a cosmological scalar-tensor-theory model in which the Brans-Dicke type scalar Φ enters the effective (Jordan-frame) Hubble rate as a simple modification of the Hubble rate of the ΛCDM model. This allows us to quantify differences between the background dynamics of scalar-tensor theories and general relativity (GR) in a transparent and observationally testable manner in terms of one single parameter. Problems of the mapping of the scalar-field degrees of freedom on an effective fluid description in a GR context are discused. Data from supernovae, the differential age of old galaxies and baryon acoustic oscillations are shown to strongly limitmore » potential deviations from the standard model.« less

Criticality and big brake singularities in the tachyonic evolutions of closed Friedmann universes with cold dark matter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Horváth, Zsolt; Keresztes, Zoltán; Kamenshchik, Alexander Yu.; Gergely, László Á.

2015-05-01

The evolution of a closed Friedmann universe filled by a tachyon scalar field with a trigonometric potential and cold dark matter (CDM) is investigated. A subset of the evolutions consistent to 1 σ confidence level with the Union 2.1 supernova data set is identified. The evolutions of the tachyon field are classified. Some of them evolve into a de Sitter attractor, while others proceed through a pseudotachyonic regime into a sudden future singularity. Critical evolutions leading to big brake singularities in the presence of CDM are found and a new type of cosmological evolution characterized by singularity avoidance in the pseudotachyon regime is presented.

Relieving the tension between weak lensing and cosmic microwave background with interacting dark matter and dark energy models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

An, Rui; Feng, Chang; Wang, Bin

2018-02-01

We constrain interacting dark matter and dark energy (IDMDE) models using a 450-degree-square cosmic shear data from the Kilo Degree Survey (KiDS) and the angular power spectra from Planck's latest cosmic microwave background measurements. We revisit the discordance problem in the standard Lambda cold dark matter (ΛCDM) model between weak lensing and Planck datasets and extend the discussion by introducing interacting dark sectors. The IDMDE models are found to be able to alleviate the discordance between KiDS and Planck as previously inferred from the ΛCDM model, and moderately favored by a combination of the two datasets.

Design of ortho-Substituted Donor-Acceptor Molecules as Highly Efficient Green Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescent Emitters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cha, Jae-Ryung; Gong, Myoung-Seon; Lee, Tak Jae; Ha, Tae Hoon; Lee, Chil Won

2018-04-01

The ortho-substituted donor-acceptor molecules 2-(4,6-diphenyl-1, 3, 5-triazin-2-yl)- N,Ndiphenylaniline (DPA- o-Trz) and 2-(4,6-diphenyl-1, 3, 5-triazine-2-yl)- N,N-di- p-tolylaniline (MPA- o-Trz) were designed, synthesized, and found to exhibit green fluorescence characteristics. Notably, the singlet-triplet energy gap was less than 0.1 eV, indicating that reverse intersystem crossing gave rise to thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF). The organic light-emitting device performance of MPA- o-Trz showed a high external quantum efficiency of 16.3% and good color stability from 0.1 cd/m2 to 5000 cd/m2.

Anisotropies of the cosmic microwave background in nonstandard cold dark matter models

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vittorio, Nicola; Silk, Joseph

1992-01-01

Small angular scale cosmic microwave anisotropies in flat, vacuum-dominated, cold dark matter cosmological models which fit large-scale structure observations and are consistent with a high value for the Hubble constant are reexamined. New predictions for CDM models in which the large-scale power is boosted via a high baryon content and low H(0) are presented. Both classes of models are consistent with current limits: an improvement in sensitivity by a factor of about 3 for experiments which probe angular scales between 7 arcmin and 1 deg is required, in the absence of very early reionization, to test boosted CDM models for large-scale structure formation.

Observations of the anisotropy in the cosmic microwave background by the FIRS, SK93, and MSAM-I experiments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kowitt, Matt; Cheng, Ed; Silverberg, Bob; Ganga, Ken; Page, Lyman; Jarosik, Norm; Netterfield, Barth; Wilkinson, Dave; Meyer, Stephan; Inman, Casey;

f( R) gravity modifications: from the action to the data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lazkoz, Ruth; Ortiz-Baños, María; Salzano, Vincenzo

2018-03-01

It is a very well established matter nowadays that many modified gravity models can offer a sound alternative to General Relativity for the description of the accelerated expansion of the universe. But it is also equally well known that no clear and sharp discrimination between any alternative theory and the classical one has been found so far. In this work, we attempt at formulating a different approach starting from the general class of f( R) theories as test probes: we try to reformulate f( R) Lagrangian terms as explicit functions of the redshift, i.e., as f( z). In this context, the f( R) setting to the consensus cosmological model, the Λ CDM model, can be written as a polynomial including just a constant and a third-order term. Starting from this result, we propose various different polynomial parameterizations f( z), including new terms which would allow for deviations from Λ CDM, and we thoroughly compare them with observational data. While on the one hand we have found no statistically preference for our proposals (even if some of them are as good as Λ CDM by using Bayesian Evidence comparison), we think that our novel approach could provide a different perspective for the development of new and observationally reliable alternative models of gravity.

Behavioral evaluation of visual function of rats using a visual discrimination apparatus.

PubMed

Thomas, Biju B; Samant, Deedar M; Seiler, Magdalene J; Aramant, Robert B; Sheikholeslami, Sharzad; Zhang, Kevin; Chen, Zhenhai; Sadda, SriniVas R

2007-05-15

A visual discrimination apparatus was developed to evaluate the visual sensitivity of normal pigmented rats (n=13) and S334ter-line-3 retinal degenerate (RD) rats (n=15). The apparatus is a modified Y maze consisting of two chambers leading to the rats' home cage. Rats were trained to find a one-way exit door leading into their home cage, based on distinguishing between two different visual alternatives (either a dark background or black and white stripes at varying luminance levels) which were randomly displayed on the back of each chamber. Within 2 weeks of training, all rats were able to distinguish between these two visual patterns. The discrimination threshold of normal pigmented rats was a luminance level of -5.37+/-0.05 log cd/m(2); whereas the threshold level of 100-day-old RD rats was -1.14+/-0.09 log cd/m(2) with considerable variability in performance. When tested at a later age (about 150 days), the threshold level of RD rats was significantly increased (-0.82+/-0.09 log cd/m(2), p<0.03, paired t-test). This apparatus could be useful to train rats at a very early age to distinguish between two different visual stimuli and may be effective for visual functional evaluations following therapeutic interventions.

[Study on the DNA vaccine against foot-and-mouth disease virus using the heavy chain constant region of swine IgG as the carrier for peptide epitopes].

PubMed

Li, G J; Yan, W Y; Xu, Q X; Sheng, Z T; Zheng, Z X

2001-05-01

The peptide of amino acids 141-160 of VP1 protein of foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) is a major B cell epitope and the peptide of amino acids 21-40 is an important T cell epitope. In this study, the DNA fragments of 141-160 and 21-40 peptide epitopes of a strain of type O FMDV was chemically synthesized and arranged into a tandem repeat 141-160 (20AA)-21-40 (20AA)-141-160 (20AA). This tandem sequence was fused to the 3' end of the heavy chain constant region gene of swine immunoglobulin G and was then cloned into mammalian expression vector pCDM8 to form a recombinant plasmid pCDM8FZ3. After pCDM8FZ3 was inoculated intramuscularly into guinea pigs, it elicited a neutralizing antibody response and a specific spleen T cell proliferative response, and 66% of the vaccinated animals were protected from viral challenge. Our study indicated that the heavy chain constant region of swine IgG can act as the carrier protein for FMDV peptide epitopes, and pC-DM8FZ3 is a potential DNA vaccine candidate to prevent FMDV infection.

Code-division-multiplexed readout of large arrays of TES microcalorimeters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Morgan, K. M.; Alpert, B. K.; Bennett, D. A.; Denison, E. V.; Doriese, W. B.; Fowler, J. W.; Gard, J. D.; Hilton, G. C.; Irwin, K. D.; Joe, Y. I.; O'Neil, G. C.; Reintsema, C. D.; Schmidt, D. R.; Ullom, J. N.; Swetz, D. S.

2016-09-01

Code-division multiplexing (CDM) offers a path to reading out large arrays of transition edge sensor (TES) X-ray microcalorimeters with excellent energy and timing resolution. We demonstrate the readout of X-ray TESs with a 32-channel flux-summed code-division multiplexing circuit based on superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) amplifiers. The best detector has energy resolution of 2.28 ± 0.12 eV FWHM at 5.9 keV and the array has mean energy resolution of 2.77 ± 0.02 eV over 30 working sensors. The readout channels are sampled sequentially at 160 ns/row, for an effective sampling rate of 5.12 μs/channel. The SQUID amplifiers have a measured flux noise of 0.17 μΦ0/√Hz (non-multiplexed, referred to the first stage SQUID). The multiplexed noise level and signal slew rate are sufficient to allow readout of more than 40 pixels per column, making CDM compatible with requirements outlined for future space missions. Additionally, because the modulated data from the 32 SQUID readout channels provide information on each X-ray event at the row rate, our CDM architecture allows determination of the arrival time of an X-ray event to within 275 ns FWHM with potential benefits in experiments that require detection of near-coincident events.

Exploring cosmic homogeneity with the BOSS DR12 galaxy sample

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ntelis, Pierros; Hamilton, Jean-Christophe; Le Goff, Jean-Marc; Burtin, Etienne; Laurent, Pierre; Rich, James; Guillermo Busca, Nicolas; Tinker, Jeremy; Aubourg, Eric; du Mas des Bourboux, Hélion; Bautista, Julian; Palanque Delabrouille, Nathalie; Delubac, Timothée; Eftekharzadeh, Sarah; Hogg, David W.; Myers, Adam; Vargas-Magaña, Mariana; Pâris, Isabelle; Petitjean, Partick; Rossi, Graziano; Schneider, Donald P.; Tojeiro, Rita; Yeche, Christophe

2017-06-01

In this study, we probe the transition to cosmic homogeneity in the Large Scale Structure (LSS) of the Universe using the CMASS galaxy sample of BOSS spectroscopic survey which covers the largest effective volume to date, 3 h-3 Gpc3 at 0.43 <= z <= 0.7. We study the scaled counts-in-spheres, N(2.97 for r>RH, we find RH = (63.3±0.7) h-1 Mpc, in agreement at the percentage level with the predictions of the ΛCDM model RH=62.0 h-1 Mpc. Thanks to the large cosmic depth of the survey, we investigate the redshift evolution of the transition to homogeneity scale and find agreement with the ΛCDM prediction. Finally, we find that Script D2 is compatible with 3 at scales larger than 300 h-1 Mpc in all redshift bins. These results consolidate the Cosmological Principle and represent a precise consistency test of the ΛCDM model.

Investigation of the Impact of User Gaming in the Next Generation National Airspace System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hunter, George C.; Gao, Huina

2011-01-01

Over the past three decades, growth in the demand for air transportation has exceeded the growth in the national airspace system (NAS) capacity. Systems operating near capacity inevitably have delays and NAS d elays have increased in recent years. The desire to minimize delay costs has placed attention on the NAS air traffic management (ATM) syste m.One initiative that has helped to provide user representation in the ATM solution is the collaborative decision making (CDM) process. CDM addresses this issue by bringing users (referred to here as airline operation centers [AOCs]) and ATM providers together for information e xchange and cooperative planning. Such cooperative planning has been instituted, for instance, for the purpose of planning airport slot control strategies and rerouting strategies. While the CDM initiatives ha ve met with much success, they have also introduced the potential for AOCs to manipulate the system in unforeseen, unintended, and perhaps undesirable ways, from a system-wide, synoptic perspective. This type of manipulation is sometimes referred to as "gaming" the system. This study uses a high-fidelity simulation tool to investigate several models of user decision making behavior which could be considered to be gaming behavior and the emergent system dynamics and interactions between AOCs and traffic management.

Towards precision constraints on gravity with the Effective Field Theory of Large-Scale Structure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bose, Benjamin; Koyama, Kazuya; Lewandowski, Matthew; Vernizzi, Filippo; Winther, Hans A.

2018-04-01

We compare analytical computations with numerical simulations for dark-matter clustering, in general relativity and in the normal branch of DGP gravity (nDGP). Our analytical frameword is the Effective Field Theory of Large-Scale Structure (EFTofLSS), which we use to compute the one-loop dark-matter power spectrum, including the resummation of infrared bulk displacement effects. We compare this to a set of 20 COLA simulations at redshifts z = 0, z = 0.5, and z = 1, and fit the free parameter of the EFTofLSS, called the speed of sound, in both ΛCDM and nDGP at each redshift. At one-loop at z = 0, the reach of the EFTofLSS is kreach ≈ 0.14 Mpc‑1 for both ΛCDM and nDGP. Along the way, we compare two different infrared resummation schemes and two different treatments of the time dependence of the perturbative expansion, concluding that they agree to approximately 1% over the scales of interest. Finally, we use the ratio of the COLA power spectra to make a precision measurement of the difference between the speeds of sound in ΛCDM and nDGP, and verify that this is proportional to the modification of the linear coupling constant of the Poisson equation.

EDGES result versus CMB and low-redshift constraints on ionization histories

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Witte, Samuel; Villanueva-Domingo, Pablo; Gariazzo, Stefano; Mena, Olga; Palomares-Ruiz, Sergio

2018-05-01

We examine the results from the Experiment to Detect the Global Epoch of Reionization Signature (EDGES), which has recently claimed the detection of a strong absorption in the 21 cm hyperfine transition line of neutral hydrogen, at redshifts demarcating the early stages of star formation. More concretely, we study the compatibility of the shape of the EDGES absorption profile, centered at a redshift of z ˜17.2 , with measurements of the reionization optical depth, the Gunn-Peterson optical depth, and Lyman-α emission from star-forming galaxies, for a variety of possible reionization models within the standard Λ CDM framework (that is, a Universe with a cosmological constant Λ and cold dark matter CDM). When, conservatively, we only try to accommodate the location of the absorption dip, we identify a region in the parameter space of the astrophysical parameters that successfully explains all of the aforementioned observations. However, one of the most abnormal features of the EDGES measurement is the absorption amplitude, which is roughly a factor of 2 larger than the maximum allowed value in the Λ CDM framework. We point out that the simple considered astrophysical models that produce the largest absorption amplitudes are unable to explain the depth of the dip and of reproducing the observed shape of the absorption profile.

Properties of Local Group galaxies in hydrodynamical simulations of sterile neutrino dark matter cosmologies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lovell, Mark R.; Bose, Sownak; Boyarsky, Alexey; Crain, Robert A.; Frenk, Carlos S.; Hellwing, Wojciech A.; Ludlow, Aaron D.; Navarro, Julio F.; Ruchayskiy, Oleg; Sawala, Till; Schaller, Matthieu; Schaye, Joop; Theuns, Tom

2017-07-01

We study galaxy formation in sterile neutrino dark matter models that differ significantly from both cold and from 'warm thermal relic' models. We use the eagle code to carry out hydrodynamic simulations of the evolution of pairs of galaxies chosen to resemble the Local Group, as part of the APOSTLE simulations project. We compare cold dark matter (CDM) with two sterile neutrino models with 7 keV mass: one, the warmest among all models of this mass (LA120) and the other, a relatively cold case (LA10). We show that the lower concentration of sterile neutrino subhaloes compared to their CDM counterparts makes the inferred inner dark matter content of galaxies like Fornax (or Magellanic Clouds) less of an outlier in the sterile neutrino cosmologies. In terms of the galaxy number counts, the LA10 simulations are indistinguishable from CDM when one takes into account halo-to-halo (or 'simulation-to-simulation') scatter. In order for the LA120 model to match the number of Local Group dwarf galaxies, a higher fraction of low-mass haloes is required to form galaxies than is predicted by the eagle simulations. As the census of the Local Group galaxies nears completion, this population may provide a strong discriminant between cold and warm dark matter models.

Efficient simulations of large-scale structure in modified gravity cosmologies with comoving Lagrangian acceleration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Valogiannis, Georgios; Bean, Rachel

2017-05-01

We implement an adaptation of the cola approach, a hybrid scheme that combines Lagrangian perturbation theory with an N-body approach, to model nonlinear collapse in chameleon and symmetron modified gravity models. Gravitational screening is modeled effectively through the attachment of a suppression factor to the linearized Klein-Gordon equations. The adapted cola approach is benchmarked, with respect to an N-body code both for the Λ cold dark matter (Λ CDM ) scenario and for the modified gravity theories. It is found to perform well in the estimation of the dark matter power spectra, with consistency of 1% to k ˜2.5 h /Mpc . Redshift space distortions are shown to be effectively modeled through a Lorentzian parametrization with a velocity dispersion fit to the data. We find that cola performs less well in predicting the halo mass functions but has consistency, within 1 σ uncertainties of our simulations, in the relative changes to the mass function induced by the modified gravity models relative to Λ CDM . The results demonstrate that cola, proposed to enable accurate and efficient, nonlinear predictions for Λ CDM , can be effectively applied to a wider set of cosmological scenarios, with intriguing properties, for which clustering behavior needs to be understood for upcoming surveys such as LSST, DESI, Euclid, and WFIRST.

Antioxidant activity of Caesalpinia digyna root.

PubMed

Srinivasan, R; Chandrasekar, M J N; Nanjan, M J; Suresh, B

2007-09-05

The antioxidant properties of three successive extracts of Caesalpinia digyna Rottler root and the isolated compound, bergenin, were tested using standard in vitro and in vivo models. The amount of the total phenolic compounds present was also determined. The successive methanol extract of Caesalpinia digyna root (CDM) exhibited strong scavenging effect on 2,2-diphenyl-2-picryl hydrazyl (DPPH) free radical, 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzo-thiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS) radical cation, hydrogen peroxide, nitric oxide, hydroxyl radical and inhibition of lipid peroxidation. The free radical scavenging effect of CDM was comparable with that of reference antioxidants. The CDM having the highest content of phenolic compounds and strong free radical scavenging effect when administered orally to male albino rats at 100, 200 and 400mg/kg body weight for 7 days, prior to carbontetrachloride (CCl(4)) treatment, caused a significant increase in the levels of catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) and significant decrease in the levels of lipidperoxidation (LPO) in serum, liver and kidney in a dose dependent manner, when compared to CCl(4) treated control. These results clearly indicate the strong antioxidant property of Caesalpinia digyna root. The study provides a proof for the ethnomedical claims and reported biological activities. The plant has, therefore, very good therapeutic potential.

Integrated cosmological probes: concordance quantified

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

Nicola, Andrina; Amara, Adam; Refregier, Alexandre, E-mail: andrina.nicola@phys.ethz.ch, E-mail: adam.amara@phys.ethz.ch, E-mail: alexandre.refregier@phys.ethz.ch

2017-10-01

Assessing the consistency of parameter constraints derived from different cosmological probes is an important way to test the validity of the underlying cosmological model. In an earlier work [1], we computed constraints on cosmological parameters for ΛCDM from an integrated analysis of CMB temperature anisotropies and CMB lensing from Planck, galaxy clustering and weak lensing from SDSS, weak lensing from DES SV as well as Type Ia supernovae and Hubble parameter measurements. In this work, we extend this analysis and quantify the concordance between the derived constraints and those derived by the Planck Collaboration as well as WMAP9, SPT andmore » ACT. As a measure for consistency, we use the Surprise statistic [2], which is based on the relative entropy. In the framework of a flat ΛCDM cosmological model, we find all data sets to be consistent with one another at a level of less than 1σ. We highlight that the relative entropy is sensitive to inconsistencies in the models that are used in different parts of the analysis. In particular, inconsistent assumptions for the neutrino mass break its invariance on the parameter choice. When consistent model assumptions are used, the data sets considered in this work all agree with each other and ΛCDM, without evidence for tensions.« less

Cosmological Parameters from the QUAD CMB Polarization Experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Castro, P. G.; Ade, P.; Bock, J.; Bowden, M.; Brown, M. L.; Cahill, G.; Church, S.; Culverhouse, T.; Friedman, R. B.; Ganga, K.; Gear, W. K.; Gupta, S.; Hinderks, J.; Kovac, J.; Lange, A. E.; Leitch, E.; Melhuish, S. J.; Memari, Y.; Murphy, J. A.; Orlando, A.; Pryke, C.; Schwarz, R.; O'Sullivan, C.; Piccirillo, L.; Rajguru, N.; Rusholme, B.; Taylor, A. N.; Thompson, K. L.; Turner, A. H.; Wu, E. Y. S.; Zemcov, M.; QUa D Collaboration

2009-08-01

In this paper, we present a parameter estimation analysis of the polarization and temperature power spectra from the second and third season of observations with the QUaD experiment. QUaD has for the first time detected multiple acoustic peaks in the E-mode polarization spectrum with high significance. Although QUaD-only parameter constraints are not competitive with previous results for the standard six-parameter ΛCDM cosmology, they do allow meaningful polarization-only parameter analyses for the first time. In a standard six-parameter ΛCDM analysis, we find the QUaD TT power spectrum to be in good agreement with previous results. However, the QUaD polarization data show some tension with ΛCDM. The origin of this 1σ-2σ tension remains unclear, and may point to new physics, residual systematics, or simple random chance. We also combine QUaD with the five-year WMAP data set and the SDSS luminous red galaxies 4th data release power spectrum, and extend our analysis to constrain individual isocurvature mode fractions, constraining cold dark matter density, αcdmi < 0.11 (95% confidence limit (CL)), neutrino density, αndi < 0.26 (95% CL), and neutrino velocity, αnvi < 0.23 (95% CL), modes. Our analysis sets a benchmark for future polarization experiments.

Luminance requirements for lighted signage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Freyssinier, Jean Paul; Narendran, Nadarajah; Bullough, John D.

2006-08-01

Light-emitting diode (LED) technology is presently targeted to displace traditional light sources in backlighted signage. The literature shows that brightness and contrast are perhaps the two most important elements of a sign that determine its attention-getting capabilities and its legibility. Presently, there are no luminance standards for signage, and the practice of developing brighter signs to compete with signs in adjacent businesses is becoming more commonplace. Sign luminances in such cases may far exceed what people usually need for identifying and reading a sign. Furthermore, the practice of higher sign luminance than needed has many negative consequences, including higher energy use and light pollution. To move toward development of a recommendation for lighted signage, several laboratory human factors evaluations were conducted. A scale model of a storefront was used to present human subjects with a typical red channel-letter sign at luminances ranging from 8 cd/m2 to 1512 cd/m2 under four background luminances typical of nighttime outdoor and daytime inside-mall conditions (1, 100, 300, 1000 cd/m2), from three scaled viewing distances (30, 60, 340 ft), and either in isolation or adjacent to two similar signs. Subjects rated the brightness, acceptability, and ease of reading of the test sign for each combination of sign and background luminances and scaled viewing distances.

Particle Astrophysics after COBE- Blois 92- Summary Talk

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Primack, J. R.

The IV Rencontres de Blois, on Particle Astrophysics, held at the Ch\\^ateau de Blois, June 15-20, 1992, was a meeting well-timed for a reconsideration of the issues in particle astrophysics in the light of the COBE discovery of the cosmic microwave background (CMB) fluctuations. This is a summary of what I thought were the most interesting things discussed at Blois: (1) The near-success of Cold Dark Matter (CDM) in predicting the COBE fluctuation amplitude, which favors the hypothesis that structure formed in the universe through gravitational collapse. (2) The indications that $\\Omega\\approx1$ and that the power spectrum has a little more power on supercluster and larger scales than CDM. These are suggested by the IRAS and CfA redshift surveys and POTENT galaxy peculiar velocity analysis, and also by the COBE data. (3) The consequent demise of CDM and the rise of hybrid schemes such as Cold+Hot Dark Matter (C+HDM). (4) The possible implications for neutrino masses and mixings, and for cosmology, of the recent results on solar neutrinos. (5) The first discovery of TeV $\\gamma$ rays from an extragalactic source, which was announced at Blois. I also summarize here a number of the exciting ongoing and planned experiments and observations discussed at Blois: CERN experiments on $\

New Kinematical Constraints on Cosmic Acceleration

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

Rapetti, David; Allen, Steve W.; Amin, Mustafa A.

2007-05-25

We present and employ a new kinematical approach to ''dark energy'' studies. We construct models in terms of the dimensionless second and third derivatives of the scale factor a(t) with respect to cosmic time t, namely the present-day value of the deceleration parameter q{sub 0} and the cosmic jerk parameter, j(t). An elegant feature of this parameterization is that all {Lambda}CDM models have j(t)=1 (constant), which facilitates simple tests for departures from the {Lambda}CDM paradigm. Applying our model to redshift-independent distance measurements, from type Ia supernovae and X-ray cluster gas mass fraction measurements, we obtain clear statistical evidence for amore » late time transition from a decelerating to an accelerating phase. For a flat model with constant jerk, j(t)=j, we measure q{sub 0}=-0.81 {+-} 0.14 and j=2.16 +0.81 -0.75, results that are consistent with {Lambda}CDM at about the 1{sigma} confidence level. In comparison to dynamical analyses, the kinematical approach uses a different model set and employs a minimum of prior information, being independent of any particular gravity theory. The results obtained with this new approach therefore provide important additional information and we argue that both kinematical and dynamical techniques should be employed in future dark energy studies, where possible.« less

Effects of coupled dark energy on the Milky Way and its satellites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Penzo, Camilla; Macciò, Andrea V.; Baldi, Marco; Casarini, Luciano; Oñorbe, Jose; Dutton, Aaron A.

2016-09-01

We present the first numerical simulations in coupled dark energy cosmologies with high enough resolution to investigate the effects of the coupling on galactic and subgalactic scales. We choose two constant couplings and a time-varying coupling function and we run simulations of three Milky Way-sized haloes (˜1012 M⊙), a lower mass halo (6 × 1011 M⊙) and a dwarf galaxy halo (5 × 109 M⊙). We resolve each halo with several million dark matter particles. On all scales, the coupling causes lower halo concentrations and a reduced number of substructures with respect to Λ cold dark matter (ΛCDM). We show that the reduced concentrations are not due to different formation times. We ascribe them to the extra terms that appear in the equations describing the gravitational dynamics. On the scale of the Milky Way satellites, we show that the lower concentrations can help in reconciling observed and simulated rotation curves, but the coupling values necessary to have a significant difference from ΛCDM are outside the current observational constraints. On the other hand, if other modifications to the standard model allowing a higher coupling (e.g. massive neutrinos) are considered, coupled dark energy can become an interesting scenario to alleviate the small-scale issues of the ΛCDM model.

A comparative evaluation of two decompression procedures for technical diving using inflammatory responses: compartmental versus ratio deco.

PubMed

Spisni, Enzo; Marabotti, Claudio; De Fazio, Luigia; Valerii, Maria Chiara; Cavazza, Elena; Brambilla, Stefano; Hoxha, Klarida; L'Abbate, Antonio; Longobardi, Pasquale

2017-03-01

The aim of this study was to compare two decompression procedures commonly adopted by technical divers: the ZH-L16 algorithm modified by 30/85 gradient factors (compartmental decompression model, CDM) versus the 'ratio decompression strategy' (RDS). The comparison was based on an analysis of changes in diver circulating inflammatory profiles caused by decompression from a single dive. Fifty-one technical divers performed a single trimix dive to 50 metres' sea water (msw) for 25 minutes followed by enriched air (EAN50) and oxygen decompression. Twenty-three divers decompressed according to a CDM schedule and 28 divers decompressed according to a RDS schedule. Peripheral blood for detection of inflammatory markers was collected before and 90 min after diving. Venous gas emboli were measured 30 min after diving using 2D echocardiography. Matched groups of 23 recreational divers (dive to 30 msw; 25 min) and 25 swimmers were also enrolled as control groups to assess the effects of decompression from a standard air dive or of exercise alone on the inflammatory profile. Echocardiography at the single 30 min observation post dive showed no significant differences between the two decompression procedures. Divers adopting the RDS showed a worsening of post-dive inflammatory profile compared to the CDM group, with significant increases in circulating chemokines CCL2 (P = 0.001) and CCL5 (P = 0.006) levels. There was no increase in chemokines following the CDM decompression. The air scuba group also showed a statistically significant increase in CCL2 (P < 0.001) and CCL5 (P = 0.003) levels post dive. No cases of decompression sickness occurred. The ratio deco strategy did not confer any benefit in terms of bubbles but showed the disadvantage of increased decompression-associated secretion of inflammatory chemokines involved in the development of vascular damage.

Changing the Bayesian prior: Absolute neutrino mass constraints in nonlocal gravity*

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dirian, Yves

2017-10-01

Prior change is discussed in observational constraints studies of nonlocally modified gravity, where a model characterized by a modification of the form ˜m2R □-2R to the Einstein-Hilbert action was compared against the base Λ CDM one in a Bayesian way. It was found that the competing modified gravity model is significantly disfavored (at 22 ∶1 in terms of betting-odds) against Λ CDM given CMB +SNIa +BAO data, because of a tension appearing in the H0- ΩM plane. We identify the underlying mechanism generating such a tension and show that it is mostly caused by the late-time, quite smooth, phantom nature of the effective dark energy described by the nonlocal model. We find that the tension is resolved by considering an extension of the initial baseline, consisting in allowing the absolute mass of three degenerated massive neutrino species ∑mν/3 to take values within a prior interval consistent with existing data. As a net effect, the absolute neutrino mass is inferred to be nonvanishing at 2 σ level, best-fitting at ∑mν≈0.21 eV , and the Bayesian tension disappears rendering the nonlocal gravity model statistically equivalent to Λ CDM , given recent CMB +SNIa +BAO data. We also discuss constraints from growth rate measurements f σ8, whose fit is found to be improved by a larger massive neutrino fraction as well. The ν -extended nonlocal model also prefers a higher value of H0 than Λ CDM , therefore in better agreement with local measurements. Our study provides one more example suggesting that the neutrino density fraction Ων is partially degenerated with the nature of the dark energy. This emphasizes the importance of cosmological and terrestrial neutrino research and, as a massive neutrino background impacts structure formation observables non-negligibly, proves to be especially relevant for future galaxy surveys.

Assessment of Rod, Cone, and Intrinsically Photosensitive Retinal Ganglion Cell Contributions to the Canine Chromatic Pupillary Response.

PubMed

Yeh, Connie Y; Koehl, Kristin L; Harman, Christine D; Iwabe, Simone; Guzman, José M; Petersen-Jones, Simon M; Kardon, Randy H; Komáromy, András M

2017-01-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate a chromatic pupillometry protocol for specific functional assessment of rods, cones, and intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) in dogs. Chromatic pupillometry was tested and compared in 37 dogs in different stages of primary loss of rod, cone, and combined rod/cone and optic nerve function, and in 5 wild-type (WT) dogs. Eyes were stimulated with 1-s flashes of dim (1 cd/m2) and bright (400 cd/m2) blue light (for scotopic conditions) or bright red (400 cd/m2) light with 25-cd/m2 blue background (for photopic conditions). Canine retinal melanopsin/Opn4 was cloned, and its expression was evaluated using real-time quantitative reverse transcription-PCR and immunohistochemistry. Mean ± SD percentage of pupil constriction amplitudes induced by scotopic dim blue (scDB), scotopic bright blue (scBB), and photopic bright red (phBR) lights in WT dogs were 21.3% ± 10.6%, 50.0% ± 17.5%, and 19.4% ± 7.4%, respectively. Melanopsin-mediated responses to scBB persisted for several minutes (7.7 ± 4.6 min) after stimulus offset. In dogs with inherited retinal degeneration, loss of rod function resulted in absent scDB responses, followed by decreased phBR responses with disease progression and loss of cone function. Primary loss of cone function abolished phBR responses but preserved those responses to blue light (scDB and scBB). Although melanopsin/Opn4 expression was diminished with retinal degeneration, melanopsin-expressing ipRGCs were identified for the first time in both WT and degenerated canine retinas. Pupil responses elicited by light stimuli of different colors and intensities allowed differential functional assessment of canine rods, cones, and ipRGCs. Chromatic pupillometry offers an effective tool for diagnosing retinal and optic nerve diseases.

Multi-project baselines for potential clean development mechanism projects in the electricity sector in South Africa

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

Winkler, H.; Spalding-Fecher, R.; Sathaye, J.

2002-06-26

The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) aims to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases (GHGs) in order to ''prevent dangerous anthropogenic interference with the climate system'' and promote sustainable development. The Kyoto Protocol, which was adopted in 1997 and appears likely to be ratified by 2002 despite the US withdrawing, aims to provide means to achieve this objective. The Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) is one of three ''flexibility mechanisms'' in the Protocol, the other two being Joint Implementation (JI) and Emissions Trading (ET). These mechanisms allow flexibility for Annex I Parties (industrialized countries) to achieve reductions by extra-territorialmore » as well as domestic activities. The underlying concept is that trade and transfer of credits will allow emissions reductions at least cost. Since the atmosphere is a global, well-mixed system, it does not matter where greenhouse gas emissions are reduced. The CDM allows Annex I Parties to meet part of their emissions reductions targets by investing in developing countries. CDM projects must also meet the sustainable development objectives of the developing country. Further criteria are that Parties must participate voluntarily, that emissions reductions are ''real, measurable and long-term'', and that they are additional to those that would have occurred anyway. The last requirement makes it essential to define an accurate baseline. The remaining parts of section 1 outline the theory of baselines, emphasizing the balance needed between environmental integrity and reducing transaction costs. Section 2 develops an approach to multi-project baseline for the South African electricity sector, comparing primarily to near future capacity, but also considering recent plants. Five potential CDM projects are briefly characterized in section 3, and compared to the baseline in section 4. Section 5 concludes with a discussion of options and choices for South Africa regarding electricity sector baselines.« less

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

Renk, Janina; Zumalacárregui, Miguel; Montanari, Francesco

Cosmological models with Galileon gravity are an alternative to the standard ΛCDM paradigm with testable predictions at the level of its self-accelerating solutions for the expansion history, as well as large-scale structure formation. Here, we place constraints on the full parameter space of these models using data from the cosmic microwave background (CMB) (including lensing), baryonic acoustic oscillations (BAO) and the Integrated Sachs-Wolfe (ISW) effect. We pay special attention to the ISW effect for which we use the cross-spectra, C {sub ℓ}{sup Tg}, of CMB temperature maps and foreground galaxies from the WISE survey. The sign of C {sub ℓ}{supmore » Tg} is set by the time evolution of the lensing potential in the redshift range of the galaxy sample: it is positive if the potential decays (like in ΛCDM), negative if it deepens. We constrain three subsets of Galileon gravity separately known as the Cubic, Quartic and Quintic Galileons. The cubic Galileon model predicts a negative C {sub ℓ}{sup Tg} and exhibits a 7.8σ tension with the data, which effectively rules it out. For the quartic and quintic models the ISW data also rule out a significant portion of the parameter space but permit regions where the goodness-of-fit is comparable to ΛCDM. The data prefers a non zero sum of the neutrino masses (∑ m {sub ν} ≈ 0.5eV) with ∼ 5σ significance in these models. The best-fitting models have values of H {sub 0} consistent with local determinations, thereby avoiding the tension that exists in ΛCDM. We also identify and discuss a ∼ 2σ tension that Galileon gravity exhibits with recent BAO measurements. Our analysis shows overall that Galileon cosmologies cannot be ruled out by current data but future lensing, BAO and ISW data hold strong potential to do so.« less

Statistical Measures of Large-Scale Structure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vogeley, Michael; Geller, Margaret; Huchra, John; Park, Changbom; Gott, J. Richard

1993-12-01

\\inv Mpc} To quantify clustering in the large-scale distribution of galaxies and to test theories for the formation of structure in the universe, we apply statistical measures to the CfA Redshift Survey. This survey is complete to m_{B(0)}=15.5 over two contiguous regions which cover one-quarter of the sky and include ~ 11,000 galaxies. The salient features of these data are voids with diameter 30-50\\hmpc and coherent dense structures with a scale ~ 100\\hmpc. Comparison with N-body simulations rules out the ``standard" CDM model (Omega =1, b=1.5, sigma_8 =1) at the 99% confidence level because this model has insufficient power on scales lambda >30\\hmpc. An unbiased open universe CDM model (Omega h =0.2) and a biased CDM model with non-zero cosmological constant (Omega h =0.24, lambda_0 =0.6) match the observed power spectrum. The amplitude of the power spectrum depends on the luminosity of galaxies in the sample; bright (L>L(*) ) galaxies are more strongly clustered than faint galaxies. The paucity of bright galaxies in low-density regions may explain this dependence. To measure the topology of large-scale structure, we compute the genus of isodensity surfaces of the smoothed density field. On scales in the ``non-linear" regime, <= 10\\hmpc, the high- and low-density regions are multiply-connected over a broad range of density threshold, as in a filamentary net. On smoothing scales >10\\hmpc, the topology is consistent with statistics of a Gaussian random field. Simulations of CDM models fail to produce the observed coherence of structure on non-linear scales (>95% confidence level). The underdensity probability (the frequency of regions with density contrast delta rho //lineρ=-0.8) depends strongly on the luminosity of galaxies; underdense regions are significantly more common (>2sigma ) in bright (L>L(*) ) galaxy samples than in samples which include fainter galaxies.

THE INNER STRUCTURE OF DWARF-SIZED HALOS IN WARM AND COLD DARK MATTER COSMOLOGIES

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

González-Samaniego, A.; Avila-Reese, V.; Colín, P.

2016-03-10

By means of N-body + hydrodynamic zoom-in simulations we study the evolution of the inner dark matter and stellar mass distributions of central dwarf galaxies formed in halos of virial masses M{sub v} = (2–3) × 10{sup 10} h{sup −1} M{sub ⊙} at z = 0, both in a warm dark matter (WDM) and cold dark matter (CDM) cosmology. The half-mode mass in the WDM power spectrum of our simulations is M{sub f} = 2 × 10{sup 10} h{sup −1} M{sub ⊙}. In the dark matter (DM) only simulations halo density profiles are well described by the Navarro–Frenk–White parametric fit in both cosmologies, though the WDM halos have concentrations lower bymore » factors of 1.5–2.0 than their CDM counterparts. In the hydrodynamic simulations, the effects of baryons significantly flatten the inner density, velocity dispersion, and pseudo phase space density profiles of the WDM halos but not of the CDM ones. The density slope, measured at ≈0.02R{sub v}, α{sub 0.02}, becomes shallow in periods of 2–5 Gyr in the WDM runs. We explore whether this flattening process correlates with the global star formation (SF), M{sub s}/M{sub v} ratio, gas outflow, and internal specific angular momentum histories. We do not find any clear trends, but when α{sub 0.02} is shallower than −0.5, M{sub s}/M{sub v} is always between 0.25% and 1%. We conclude that the main reason for the formation of the shallow core is the presence of strong gas mass fluctuations inside the inner halo, which are a consequence of the feedback driven by a very bursty and sustained SF history in shallow gravitational potentials. Our WDM halos, which assemble late and are less concentrated than the CDM ones, obey these conditions. There are also (rare) CDM systems with extended mass assembly histories that obey these conditions and form shallow cores. The dynamical heating and expansion processes behind the DM core flattening apply also to the stars in such a way that the stellar age and metallicity gradients of the dwarfs are softened, their stellar half-mass radii strongly grow with time, and their central surface densities decrease.« less

A parametrization of the growth index of matter perturbations in various Dark Energy models and observational prospects using a Euclid-like survey

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

Belloso, Alicia Bueno; García-Bellido, Juan; Sapone, Domenico, E-mail: alicia.bueno@uam.es, E-mail: juan.garciabellido@uam.es, E-mail: domenico.sapone@uam.es

2011-10-01

We provide exact solutions to the cosmological matter perturbation equation in a homogeneous FLRW universe with a vacuum energy that can be parametrized by a constant equation of state parameter w and a very accurate approximation for the Ansatz w(a) = w{sub 0}+w{sub a}(1−a). We compute the growth index γ = log f(a)/log Ω{sub m}(a), and its redshift dependence, using the exact and approximate solutions in terms of Legendre polynomials and show that it can be parametrized as γ(a) = γ{sub 0}+γ{sub a}(1−a) in most cases. We then compare four different types of dark energy (DE) models: wΛCDM, DGP, f(R)more » and a LTB-large-void model, which have very different behaviors at z∼>1. This allows us to study the possibility to differentiate between different DE alternatives using wide and deep surveys like Euclid, which will measure both photometric and spectroscopic redshifts for several hundreds of millions of galaxies up to redshift z ≅ 2. We do a Fisher matrix analysis for the prospects of differentiating among the different DE models in terms of the growth index, taken as a given function of redshift or with a principal component analysis, with a value for each redshift bin for a Euclid-like survey. We use as observables the complete and marginalized power spectrum of galaxies P(k) and the Weak Lensing (WL) power spectrum. We find that, using P(k), one can reach (2%, 5%) errors in (w{sub 0},w{sub a}), and (4%, 12%) errors in (γ{sub 0},γ{sub a}), while using WL we get errors at least twice as large. These estimates allow us to differentiate easily between DGP, f(R) models and ΛCDM, while it would be more difficult to distinguish the latter from a variable equation of state parameter or LTB models using only the growth index.« less

Planck 2015 results: XIII. Cosmological parameters

DOE PAGES

Ade, P. A. R.; Aghanim, N.; Arnaud, M.; ...

2016-09-20

Here, this paper presents cosmological results based on full-mission Planck observations of temperature and polarization anisotropies of the cosmic microwave background (CMB) radiation. Our results are in very good agreement with the 2013 analysis of the Planck nominal-mission temperature data, but with increased precision. The temperature and polarization power spectra are consistent with the standard spatially-flat 6-parameter ΛCDM cosmology with a power-law spectrum of adiabatic scalar perturbations (denoted “base ΛCDM” in this paper). From the Planck temperature data combined with Planck lensing, for this cosmology we find a Hubble constant, H 0 = (67.8 ± 0.9) km s -1Mpc -1, a matter density parameter Ω m = 0.308 ± 0.012, and a tilted scalar spectral index with n s = 0.968 ± 0.006, consistent with the 2013 analysis. Note that in this abstract we quote 68% confidence limits on measured parameters and 95% upper limits on other parameters. We present the first results of polarization measurements with the Low Frequency Instrument at large angular scales. Combined with the Planck temperature and lensing data, these measurements give a reionization optical depth of τ = 0.066 ± 0.016, corresponding to a reionization redshift of z re= 8.8more » $$+1.7\\atop{-1.4}$$. These results are consistent with those from WMAP polarization measurements cleaned for dust emission using 353-GHz polarization maps from the High Frequency Instrument. We find no evidence for any departure from base ΛCDM in the neutrino sector of the theory; for example, combining Planck observations with other astrophysical data we find N eff = 3.15 ± 0.23 for the effective number of relativistic degrees of freedom, consistent with the value N eff = 3.046 of the Standard Model of particle physics. The sum of neutrino masses is constrained to Σ m ν < 0.23 eV. The spatial curvature of our Universe is found to be very close to zero, with | Ω K | < 0.005. Adding a tensor component as a single-parameter extension to base ΛCDM we find an upper limit on the tensor-to-scalar ratio of r 0.002< 0.11, consistent with the Planck 2013 results and consistent with the B-mode polarization constraints from a joint analysis of BICEP2, Keck Array, and Planck (BKP) data. Adding the BKP B-mode data to our analysis leads to a tighter constraint of r 0.002 < 0.09 and disfavours inflationarymodels with a V(φ) ∝ φ 2 potential. The addition of Planck polarization data leads to strong constraints on deviations from a purely adiabatic spectrum of fluctuations. We find no evidence for any contribution from isocurvature perturbations or from cosmic defects. Combining Planck data with other astrophysical data, including Type Ia supernovae, the equation of state of dark energy is constrained to w = -1.006 ± 0.045, consistent with the expected value for a cosmological constant. The standard big bang nucleosynthesis predictions for the helium and deuterium abundances for the best-fit Planck base ΛCDM cosmology are in excellent agreement with observations. We also constraints on annihilating dark matter and on possible deviations from the standard recombination history. In neither case do we find no evidence for new physics. The Planck results for base ΛCDM are in good agreement with baryon acoustic oscillation data and with the JLA sample of Type Ia supernovae. However, as in the 2013 analysis, the amplitude of the fluctuation spectrum is found to be higher than inferred from some analyses of rich cluster counts and weak gravitational lensing. We show that these tensions cannot easily be resolved with simple modifications of the base ΛCDM cosmology. Finally, apart from these tensions, the base ΛCDM cosmology provides an excellent description of the Planck CMB observations and many other astrophysical data sets.« less

Planck 2015 results: XIII. Cosmological parameters

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

Ade, P. A. R.; Aghanim, N.; Arnaud, M.

Here, this paper presents cosmological results based on full-mission Planck observations of temperature and polarization anisotropies of the cosmic microwave background (CMB) radiation. Our results are in very good agreement with the 2013 analysis of the Planck nominal-mission temperature data, but with increased precision. The temperature and polarization power spectra are consistent with the standard spatially-flat 6-parameter ΛCDM cosmology with a power-law spectrum of adiabatic scalar perturbations (denoted “base ΛCDM” in this paper). From the Planck temperature data combined with Planck lensing, for this cosmology we find a Hubble constant, H 0 = (67.8 ± 0.9) km s -1Mpc -1, a matter density parameter Ω m = 0.308 ± 0.012, and a tilted scalar spectral index with n s = 0.968 ± 0.006, consistent with the 2013 analysis. Note that in this abstract we quote 68% confidence limits on measured parameters and 95% upper limits on other parameters. We present the first results of polarization measurements with the Low Frequency Instrument at large angular scales. Combined with the Planck temperature and lensing data, these measurements give a reionization optical depth of τ = 0.066 ± 0.016, corresponding to a reionization redshift of z re= 8.8more » $$+1.7\\atop{-1.4}$$. These results are consistent with those from WMAP polarization measurements cleaned for dust emission using 353-GHz polarization maps from the High Frequency Instrument. We find no evidence for any departure from base ΛCDM in the neutrino sector of the theory; for example, combining Planck observations with other astrophysical data we find N eff = 3.15 ± 0.23 for the effective number of relativistic degrees of freedom, consistent with the value N eff = 3.046 of the Standard Model of particle physics. The sum of neutrino masses is constrained to Σ m ν < 0.23 eV. The spatial curvature of our Universe is found to be very close to zero, with | Ω K | < 0.005. Adding a tensor component as a single-parameter extension to base ΛCDM we find an upper limit on the tensor-to-scalar ratio of r 0.002< 0.11, consistent with the Planck 2013 results and consistent with the B-mode polarization constraints from a joint analysis of BICEP2, Keck Array, and Planck (BKP) data. Adding the BKP B-mode data to our analysis leads to a tighter constraint of r 0.002 < 0.09 and disfavours inflationarymodels with a V(φ) ∝ φ 2 potential. The addition of Planck polarization data leads to strong constraints on deviations from a purely adiabatic spectrum of fluctuations. We find no evidence for any contribution from isocurvature perturbations or from cosmic defects. Combining Planck data with other astrophysical data, including Type Ia supernovae, the equation of state of dark energy is constrained to w = -1.006 ± 0.045, consistent with the expected value for a cosmological constant. The standard big bang nucleosynthesis predictions for the helium and deuterium abundances for the best-fit Planck base ΛCDM cosmology are in excellent agreement with observations. We also constraints on annihilating dark matter and on possible deviations from the standard recombination history. In neither case do we find no evidence for new physics. The Planck results for base ΛCDM are in good agreement with baryon acoustic oscillation data and with the JLA sample of Type Ia supernovae. However, as in the 2013 analysis, the amplitude of the fluctuation spectrum is found to be higher than inferred from some analyses of rich cluster counts and weak gravitational lensing. We show that these tensions cannot easily be resolved with simple modifications of the base ΛCDM cosmology. Finally, apart from these tensions, the base ΛCDM cosmology provides an excellent description of the Planck CMB observations and many other astrophysical data sets.« less

On the anisotropic satellite distribution around Milky-way-like galaxies in cosmological simulations.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kihm, Seoneui; Seo, Seongu; Yoon, Suk-jin

2018-01-01

The presence of "anisotropic satellite distribution (ASD)" around massive galaxies is often taken as evidence against the ΛCDM cosmology. To address whether such anisotropy can be reconciled with the standard cosmology, we examine the spatial distributions of satellites around central galaxies in the hydrodynamic cosmological simulation, Illustris. In an attempt to understand the ASD of our Galaxy, we limit our analysis to the systems consisting of a MW-sized host and at least 11 satellites. We find that ASDs are rather a common feature in the simulation and that ASD systems tend to possess a larger fraction of recently accreted satellites than isotropy systems. We discuss a possible link of ASD formation to the surrounding environment in the ΛCDM setting.

ΛCDM Cosmology for Astronomers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Condon, J. J.; Matthews, A. M.

2018-07-01

The homogeneous, isotropic, and flat ΛCDM universe favored by observations of the cosmic microwave background can be described using only Euclidean geometry, locally correct Newtonian mechanics, and the basic postulates of special and general relativity. We present simple derivations of the most useful equations connecting astronomical observables (redshift, flux density, angular diameter, brightness, local space density, ...) with the corresponding intrinsic properties of distant sources (lookback time, distance, spectral luminosity, linear size, specific intensity, source counts, ...). We also present an analytic equation for lookback time that is accurate within 0.1% for all redshifts z. The exact equation for comoving distance is an elliptic integral that must be evaluated numerically, but we found a simple approximation with errors <0.2% for all redshifts up to z ≈ 50.

Effective Dark Matter Halo Catalog in f(R) Gravity.

PubMed

He, Jian-Hua; Hawken, Adam J; Li, Baojiu; Guzzo, Luigi

2015-08-14

We introduce the idea of an effective dark matter halo catalog in f(R) gravity, which is built using the effective density field. Using a suite of high resolution N-body simulations, we find that the dynamical properties of halos, such as the distribution of density, velocity dispersion, specific angular momentum and spin, in the effective catalog of f(R) gravity closely mimic those in the cold dark matter model with a cosmological constant (ΛCDM). Thus, when using effective halos, an f(R) model can be viewed as a ΛCDM model. This effective catalog therefore provides a convenient way for studying the baryonic physics, the galaxy halo occupation distribution and even semianalytical galaxy formation in f(R) cosmologies.

An analytic formula for the supercluster mass function

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

Lim, Seunghwan; Lee, Jounghun, E-mail: slim@astro.umass.edu, E-mail: jounghun@astro.snu.ac.kr

2014-03-01

We present an analytic formula for the supercluster mass function, which is constructed by modifying the extended Zel'dovich model for the halo mass function. The formula has two characteristic parameters whose best-fit values are determined by fitting to the numerical results from N-body simulations for the standard ΛCDM cosmology. The parameters are found to be independent of redshifts and robust against variation of the key cosmological parameters. Under the assumption that the same formula for the supercluster mass function is valid for non-standard cosmological models, we show that the relative abundance of the rich superclusters should be a powerful indicatormore » of any deviation of the real universe from the prediction of the standard ΛCDM model.« less

Creep Tests and Modeling Based on Continuum Damage Mechanics for T91 and T92 Steels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pan, J. P.; Tu, S. H.; Zhu, X. W.; Tan, L. J.; Hu, B.; Wang, Q.

2017-12-01

9-11%Cr ferritic steels play an important role in high-temperature and high-pressure boilers of advanced power plants. In this paper, a continuum damage mechanics (CDM)-based creep model was proposed to study the creep behavior of T91 and T92 steels at high temperatures. Long-time creep tests were performed for both steels under different conditions. The creep rupture data and creep curves obtained from creep tests were captured well by theoretical calculation based on the CDM model over a long creep time. It is shown that the developed model is able to predict creep data for the two ferritic steels accurately up to tens of thousands of hours.

Testing cosmogonic models with gravitational lensing.

PubMed

Wambsganss, J; Cen, R; Ostriker, J P; Turner, E L

1995-04-14

Gravitational lensing provides a strict test of cosmogonic models because it is directly sensitive to mass inhomogeneities. Detailed numerical propagation of light rays through a universe that has a distribution of inhomogeneities derived from the standard CDM (cold dark matter) scenario, with the aid of massive, fully nonlinear computer simulations, was used to test the model. It predicts that more widely split quasar images should have been seen than were actually found. These and other inconsistencies rule out the Cosmic Background Explorer (COBE)-normalized CDM model with density parameter Omega = 1 and the Hubble constant (H(o)) = 50 kilometers second(-1) megaparsec(-1); but variants of this model might be constructed, which could pass the stringent tests provided by strong gravitational lensing.

Galaxy motions cause trouble for cosmology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boylan-Kolchin, Michael

2018-02-01

According to the widely accepted dark energy plus cold dark matter (ΛCDM) model, dark matter is responsible for both the growth of cosmological structures and the motions of galaxies relative to the expansion of the universe. The dynamics of small galaxies orbiting larger ones provides a crucial window into this mysterious dark matter, which leaves its gravitational mark throughout the universe but has not yet been detected directly. On page 534 of this issue, Müller et al. (1) describe observations of satellite galaxies around Centaurus A, the largest galaxy system in the vicinity of the Milky Way. The results may lead to either a better understanding of galaxy formation within the ΛCDM model or a push to overthrow its underlying assumptions.

Early cosmology constrained

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

Verde, Licia; Jimenez, Raul; Bellini, Emilio

We investigate our knowledge of early universe cosmology by exploring how much additional energy density can be placed in different components beyond those in the ΛCDM model. To do this we use a method to separate early- and late-universe information enclosed in observational data, thus markedly reducing the model-dependency of the conclusions. We find that the 95% credibility regions for extra energy components of the early universe at recombination are: non-accelerating additional fluid density parameter Ω{sub MR} < 0.006 and extra radiation parameterised as extra effective neutrino species 2.3 < N {sub eff} < 3.2 when imposing flatness. Our constraintsmore » thus show that even when analyzing the data in this largely model-independent way, the possibility of hiding extra energy components beyond ΛCDM in the early universe is seriously constrained by current observations. We also find that the standard ruler, the sound horizon at radiation drag, can be well determined in a way that does not depend on late-time Universe assumptions, but depends strongly on early-time physics and in particular on additional components that behave like radiation. We find that the standard ruler length determined in this way is r {sub s} = 147.4 ± 0.7 Mpc if the radiation and neutrino components are standard, but the uncertainty increases by an order of magnitude when non-standard dark radiation components are allowed, to r {sub s} = 150 ± 5 Mpc.« less

Early cosmology constrained

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Verde, Licia; Bellini, Emilio; Pigozzo, Cassio; Heavens, Alan F.; Jimenez, Raul

2017-04-01

We investigate our knowledge of early universe cosmology by exploring how much additional energy density can be placed in different components beyond those in the ΛCDM model. To do this we use a method to separate early- and late-universe information enclosed in observational data, thus markedly reducing the model-dependency of the conclusions. We find that the 95% credibility regions for extra energy components of the early universe at recombination are: non-accelerating additional fluid density parameter ΩMR < 0.006 and extra radiation parameterised as extra effective neutrino species 2.3 < Neff < 3.2 when imposing flatness. Our constraints thus show that even when analyzing the data in this largely model-independent way, the possibility of hiding extra energy components beyond ΛCDM in the early universe is seriously constrained by current observations. We also find that the standard ruler, the sound horizon at radiation drag, can be well determined in a way that does not depend on late-time Universe assumptions, but depends strongly on early-time physics and in particular on additional components that behave like radiation. We find that the standard ruler length determined in this way is rs = 147.4 ± 0.7 Mpc if the radiation and neutrino components are standard, but the uncertainty increases by an order of magnitude when non-standard dark radiation components are allowed, to rs = 150 ± 5 Mpc.

The clustering of galaxies in the completed SDSS-III Baryon Oscillation Spectroscopic Survey: cosmological analysis of the DR12 galaxy sample

DOE PAGES

Alam, Shadab; Ata, Metin; Bailey, Stephen; ...

2017-03-28

Here we present cosmological results from the final galaxy clustering data set of the Baryon Oscillation Spectroscopic Survey, part of the Sloan Digital Sky Survey III. Our combined galaxy sample comprises 1.2 million massive galaxies over an effective area of 9329 deg 2 and volume of 18.7 Gpc 3, divided into three partially overlapping redshift slices centred at effective redshifts 0.38, 0.51 and 0.61. We measure the angular diameter distance DM and Hubble parameter H from the baryon acoustic oscillation (BAO) method, in combination with a cosmic microwave background prior on the sound horizon scale, after applying reconstruction to reducemore » non-linear effects on the BAO feature. Using the anisotropic clustering of the pre-reconstruction density field, we measure the product DMH from the Alcock–Paczynski (AP) effect and the growth of structure, quantified by fσ8(z), from redshift-space distortions (RSD). We combine individual measurements presented in seven companion papers into a set of consensus values and likelihoods, obtaining constraints that are tighter and more robust than those from any one method; in particular, the AP measurement from sub-BAO scales sharpens constraints from post-reconstruction BAOs by breaking degeneracy between DM and H. Combined with Planck 2016 cosmic microwave background measurements, our distance scale measurements simultaneously imply curvature ΩK = 0.0003 ± 0.0026 and a dark energy equation-of-state parameter w = -1.01 ± 0.06, in strong affirmation of the spatially flat cold dark matter (CDM) model with a cosmological constant (ΛCDM). Our RSD measurements of fσ8, at 6 per cent precision, are similarly consistent with this model. When combined with supernova Ia data, we find H0 = 67.3 ± 1.0 km s -1 Mpc -1 even for our most general dark energy model, in tension with some direct measurements. Adding extra relativistic species as a degree of freedom loosens the constraint only slightly, to H0 = 67.8 ± 1.2km s -1 Mpc -1. Assuming flat ΛCDM, we find Ωm = 0.310 ± 0.005 and H0 = 67.6 ± 0.5 km s -1 Mpc -1, and we find a 95 per cent upper limit of 0.16 eV c -2 on the neutrino mass sum.« less

The clustering of galaxies in the completed SDSS-III Baryon Oscillation Spectroscopic Survey: cosmological analysis of the DR12 galaxy sample

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

Alam, Shadab; Ata, Metin; Bailey, Stephen

Here we present cosmological results from the final galaxy clustering data set of the Baryon Oscillation Spectroscopic Survey, part of the Sloan Digital Sky Survey III. Our combined galaxy sample comprises 1.2 million massive galaxies over an effective area of 9329 deg 2 and volume of 18.7 Gpc 3, divided into three partially overlapping redshift slices centred at effective redshifts 0.38, 0.51 and 0.61. We measure the angular diameter distance DM and Hubble parameter H from the baryon acoustic oscillation (BAO) method, in combination with a cosmic microwave background prior on the sound horizon scale, after applying reconstruction to reducemore » non-linear effects on the BAO feature. Using the anisotropic clustering of the pre-reconstruction density field, we measure the product DMH from the Alcock–Paczynski (AP) effect and the growth of structure, quantified by fσ8(z), from redshift-space distortions (RSD). We combine individual measurements presented in seven companion papers into a set of consensus values and likelihoods, obtaining constraints that are tighter and more robust than those from any one method; in particular, the AP measurement from sub-BAO scales sharpens constraints from post-reconstruction BAOs by breaking degeneracy between DM and H. Combined with Planck 2016 cosmic microwave background measurements, our distance scale measurements simultaneously imply curvature ΩK = 0.0003 ± 0.0026 and a dark energy equation-of-state parameter w = -1.01 ± 0.06, in strong affirmation of the spatially flat cold dark matter (CDM) model with a cosmological constant (ΛCDM). Our RSD measurements of fσ8, at 6 per cent precision, are similarly consistent with this model. When combined with supernova Ia data, we find H0 = 67.3 ± 1.0 km s -1 Mpc -1 even for our most general dark energy model, in tension with some direct measurements. Adding extra relativistic species as a degree of freedom loosens the constraint only slightly, to H0 = 67.8 ± 1.2km s -1 Mpc -1. Assuming flat ΛCDM, we find Ωm = 0.310 ± 0.005 and H0 = 67.6 ± 0.5 km s -1 Mpc -1, and we find a 95 per cent upper limit of 0.16 eV c -2 on the neutrino mass sum.« less

Cosmology with gamma-ray bursts. II. Cosmography challenges and cosmological scenarios for the accelerated Universe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Demianski, Marek; Piedipalumbo, Ester; Sawant, Disha; Amati, Lorenzo

2017-02-01

Context. Explaining the accelerated expansion of the Universe is one of the fundamental challenges in physics today. Cosmography provides information about the evolution of the universe derived from measured distances, assuming only that the space time geometry is described by the Friedman-Lemaitre-Robertson-Walker metric, and adopting an approach that effectively uses only Taylor expansions of basic observables. Aims: We perform a high-redshift analysis to constrain the cosmographic expansion up to the fifth order. It is based on the Union2 type Ia supernovae data set, the gamma-ray burst Hubble diagram, a data set of 28 independent measurements of the Hubble parameter, baryon acoustic oscillations measurements from galaxy clustering and the Lyman-α forest in the SDSS-III Baryon Oscillation Spectroscopic Survey (BOSS), and some Gaussian priors on h and ΩM. Methods: We performed a statistical analysis and explored the probability distributions of the cosmographic parameters. By building up their regions of confidence, we maximized our likelihood function using the Markov chain Monte Carlo method. Results: Our high-redshift analysis confirms that the expansion of the Universe currently accelerates; the estimation of the jerk parameter indicates a possible deviation from the standard ΛCDM cosmological model. Moreover, we investigate implications of our results for the reconstruction of the dark energy equation of state (EOS) by comparing the standard technique of cosmography with an alternative approach based on generalized Padé approximations of the same observables. Because these expansions converge better, is possible to improve the constraints on the cosmographic parameters and also on the dark matter EOS. Conclusions: The estimation of the jerk and the DE parameters indicates at 1σ a possible deviation from the ΛCDM cosmological model.

Processing and characterization of high resolution GaN/InGaN LED arrays at 10 micron pitch for micro display applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dupré, Ludovic; Marra, Marjorie; Verney, Valentin; Aventurier, Bernard; Henry, Franck; Olivier, François; Tirano, Sauveur; Daami, Anis; Templier, François

2017-02-01

We report the fabrication process and characterization of high resolution 873 x 500 pixels emissive arrays based on blue or green GaN/InGaN light emitting diodes (LEDs) at a reduced pixel pitch of 10 μm. A self-aligned process along with a combination of damascene metallization steps is presented as the key to create a common cathode which is expected to provide good thermal dissipation and prevent voltage drops between center and side of the micro LED matrix. We will discuss the challenges of a self-aligned technology related to the choice of a good P contact metal and will present our solutions for the realization of the metallic interconnections between the GaN contacts and the higher levels of metallization at such a small pixel pitch. Enhanced control of each technological step allows scalability of the process up to 4 inch LED wafers and production of high quality LED arrays. The very high brightness (up to 107 cd.m-2) and good external quantum efficiency (EQE) of the resulting device make these kind of micro displays suitable for augmented reality or head up display applications.

Scalar perturbations in the late Universe: viability of the Chaplygin gas models

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

Bouhmadi-López, Mariam; Brilenkov, Maxim; Brilenkov, Ruslan

We study the late-time evolution of the Universe where dark energy (DE) is parametrised by a modified generalised Chaplygin gas (mGCG) on top of cold dark matter (CDM) . We also take into account the radiation content of the Universe. In this context, the late stage of the evolution of the universe refers to the epoch where CDM is already clustered into inhomogeneously distributed discrete structures (galaxies, groups and clusters of galaxies). Under these conditions, the mechanical approach is an adequate tool to study the Universe deep inside the cell of uniformity. To be more accurate, we study scalar perturbationsmore » of the Friedmann-Lemaȋtre-Robertson-Walker metric due to inhomogeneities of CDM as well as fluctuations of radiation and mGCG, the later driving the late-time acceleration of the universe. Our analysis applies as well to the case where mGCG plays the role of DM and DE . We select the sets of parameters of the mGCG that are compatible with the mechanical approach. These sets define prospective mGCG models. By comparing the selected sets of models with some of the latest observational data results, we conclude that the mGCG is in tight agreement with those observations particularly for a mGCG playing the role of DE and DM.« less

The most massive galaxies and black holes allowed by ΛCDM

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Behroozi, Peter; Silk, Joseph

2018-07-01

Given a galaxy's stellar mass, its host halo mass has a lower limit from the cosmic baryon fraction and known baryonic physics. At z> 4, galaxy stellar mass functions place lower limits on halo number densities that approach expected Lambda Cold Dark Matter halo mass functions. High-redshift galaxy stellar mass functions can thus place interesting limits on number densities of massive haloes, which are otherwise very difficult to measure. Although halo mass functions at z < 8 are consistent with observed galaxy stellar masses if galaxy baryonic conversion efficiencies increase with redshift, JWST(James Webb Space Telescope) and WFIRST(Wide-Field InfraRed Survey Telescope) will more than double the redshift range over which useful constraints are available. We calculate maximum galaxy stellar masses as a function of redshift given expected halo number densities from ΛCDM. We apply similar arguments to black holes. If their virial mass estimates are accurate, number density constraints alone suggest that the quasars SDSS J1044-0125 and SDSS J010013.02+280225.8 likely have black hole mass to stellar mass ratios higher than the median z = 0 relation, confirming the expectation from Lauer bias. Finally, we present a public code to evaluate the probability of an apparently ΛCDM-inconsistent high-mass halo being detected given the combined effects of multiple surveys and observational errors.

Exploring cosmic homogeneity with the BOSS DR12 galaxy sample

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

Ntelis, Pierros; Hamilton, Jean-Christophe; Busca, Nicolas Guillermo

2017-06-01

In this study, we probe the transition to cosmic homogeneity in the Large Scale Structure (LSS) of the Universe using the CMASS galaxy sample of BOSS spectroscopic survey which covers the largest effective volume to date, 3 h {sup −3} Gpc{sup 3} at 0.43 ≤ z ≤ 0.7. We study the scaled counts-in-spheres, N(< r ), and the fractal correlation dimension, D{sub 2}( r ), to assess the homogeneity scale of the universe using a Landy and Szalay inspired estimator. Defining the scale of transition to homogeneity as the scale at which D{sub 2}( r ) reaches 3 within 1%,more » i.e. D{sub 2}( r )>2.97 for r >R {sub H} , we find R {sub H} = (63.3±0.7) h {sup −1} Mpc, in agreement at the percentage level with the predictions of the ΛCDM model R {sub H} =62.0 h {sup −1} Mpc. Thanks to the large cosmic depth of the survey, we investigate the redshift evolution of the transition to homogeneity scale and find agreement with the ΛCDM prediction. Finally, we find that D{sub 2} is compatible with 3 at scales larger than 300 h {sup −1} Mpc in all redshift bins. These results consolidate the Cosmological Principle and represent a precise consistency test of the ΛCDM model.« less

Scottish Asthma Management Initiative.

PubMed

Hoskins, G; Neville, R G; McCowan, C; Smith, B; Clark, R A; Ricketts, I W

2000-11-01

To describe the development process of a system that links audit, research and patient care and to detail the lessons learned from establishing a Scotland wide asthma management initiative. Health Boards and practices throughout Scotland were invited to participate in an initiative which links review of care, guideline implementation, chronic disease management (CDM) approval and post-graduate education for doctors (PGEA) and nurses (PREP). Participating practices were given the materials to review 30 patients randomly selected from their asthma register. Health service resource use and drugs prescribed over a retrospective 12 month period were recorded for each patient using paper or electronic materials. All patients were invited for clinical assessment. A two-tier management system proved effective. Twelve of the 15 Scottish health authorities agreed to recognise the audit for automatic CDM approval although the negotiation process was prolonged; 566 practices from all parts of Scotland have expressed an interest in the initiative. Provision of distance learning material linked to PGEA accreditation is free to general practitioners (GP's) and is a useful incentive for participation. To date 42 GPs have completed the distance learning element. The Scottish Asthma Management Initiative has provided the opportunity for all sectors of the health service in Scotland to work together to explore innovative ways to improve the management and care of chronic disease. Participation in an initiative linked to guidelines, education and CDM approval is an excellent way to facilitate health professionals to improve care.

Spectral slopes of the absorption coefficient of colored dissolved and detrital material inverted from UV-visible remote sensing reflectance

PubMed Central

Wei, Jianwei; Lee, Zhongping; Ondrusek, Michael; Mannino, Antonio; Tzortziou, Maria; Armstrong, Roy

2017-01-01

The spectral slope of the absorption coefficient of colored dissolved and detrital material (CDM), Scdm (units: nm−1), is an important optical parameter for characterizing the absorption spectral shape of CDM. Although highly variable in natural waters, in most remote sensing algorithms, this slope is either kept as a constant or empirically modeled with multiband ocean color in the visible domain. In this study, we explore the potential of semianalytically retrieving Scdm with added ocean color information in the ultraviolet (UV) range between 360 and 400 nm. Unique features of hyperspectral remote sensing reflectance in the UV-visible wavelengths (360–500 nm) have been observed in various waters across a range of coastal and open ocean environments. Our data and analyses indicate that ocean color in the UV domain is particularly sensitive to the variation of the CDM spectral slope. Here, we used a synthesized data set to show that adding UV wavelengths to the ocean color measurements will improve the retrieval of Scdm from remote sensing reflectance considerably, while the spectral band settings of past and current satellite ocean color sensors cannot fully account for the spectral variation of remote sensing reflectance. Results of this effort support the concept to include UV wavelengths in the next generation of satellite ocean color sensors. PMID:29201583

Searching for sterile neutrinos in dynamical dark energy cosmologies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Feng, Lu; Zhang, Jing-Fei; Zhang, Xin

2018-05-01

We investigate how the dark energy properties change the cosmological limits on sterile neutrino parameters by using recent cosmological observations. We consider the simplest dynamical dark energy models, the wCDM model and the holographic dark energy (HDE) model, to make an analysis. The cosmological observations used in this work include the Planck 2015 CMB temperature and polarization data, the baryon acoustic oscillation data, the type Ia supernova data, the Hubble constant direct measurement data, and the Planck CMB lensing data. We find that, m v,terile ff < 0.2675 eV and Ne f f < 3.5718 for ACDM cosmology, m v,terile ff < 0.5313 eV and Ne f f < 3.5008 for wCDM cosmology, and raffterile < 0.1989 eV and Ne f f < 3.6701 for HDE cosmology, from the constraints of the combination of these data. Thus, without the addition of measurements of growth of structure, only upper limits on both m v,terile ff and Ne f f can be derived, indicating that no evidence of the existence of a sterile neutrino species with eV-scale mass is found in this analysis. Moreover, compared to the ACDM model, in the wCDM model the limit on m v,terile ff becomes much looser, but in the HDE model the limit becomes much tighter. Therefore, the dark energy properties could significantly influence the constraint limits of sterile neutrino parameters.

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

Dhawan, Suhail; Goobar, Ariel; Mörtsell, Edvard

Recent re-calibration of the Type Ia supernova (SNe Ia) magnitude-redshift relation combined with cosmic microwave background (CMB) and baryon acoustic oscillation (BAO) data have provided excellent constraints on the standard cosmological model. Here, we examine particular classes of alternative cosmologies, motivated by various physical mechanisms, e.g. scalar fields, modified gravity and phase transitions to test their consistency with observations of SNe Ia and the ratio of the angular diameter distances from the CMB and BAO. Using a model selection criterion for a relative comparison of the models (the Bayes Factor), we find moderate to strong evidence that the data prefermore » flat ΛCDM over models invoking a thawing behaviour of the quintessence scalar field. However, some exotic models like the growing neutrino mass cosmology and vacuum metamorphosis still present acceptable evidence values. The bimetric gravity model with only the linear interaction term as well as a simplified Galileon model can be ruled out by the combination of SNe Ia and CMB/BAO datasets whereas the model with linear and quadratic interaction terms has a comparable evidence value to standard ΛCDM. Thawing models are found to have significantly poorer evidence compared to flat ΛCDM cosmology under the assumption that the CMB compressed likelihood provides an adequate description for these non-standard cosmologies. We also present estimates for constraints from future data and find that geometric probes from oncoming surveys can put severe limits on non-standard cosmological models.« less

Trends of the electricity output, power conversion efficiency, and the grid emission factor in North Korea

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yeo, M. J.; Kim, Y. P.

2017-12-01

Recently, concerns about the atmospheric environmental problems in North Korea (NK) have been growing. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) (2017), NK was the first ranked country in mortality rate attributed to household and ambient air pollution in 2012. Reliable energy-related data in NK were needed to understand the characteristics of air quality in NK. However, data from the North Korean government were limited. Nevertheless, we could find specific energy-related data produced by NK in the Project Design Documents (PDDs) of the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) submitted to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). There were the 6 registered CDM projects hosted by North Korea, developed as small hydropower plants. Several data of each power plant, such as the electricity output, connected to the Eastern Power Grid (EPG) or the Western Power Grid (WPG) in North Korea were provided in the CDM PDDs. We (1) figured out the trends of the electricity output, the `power conversion efficiency' which we defined the amount of generated electricity to the supplied input primary energy for power generation, and fuel mix as grid emission factor in NK as using the data produced by NK between 2005 and 2009, (2) discussed the operating status of the thermal power plants in NK, and (3) discussed the energy/environmental-related policies and the priority issues in NK in this study.

CMB-galaxy correlation in Unified Dark Matter scalar field cosmologies

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

Bertacca, Daniele; Bartolo, Nicola; Matarrese, Sabino

We present an analysis of the cross-correlation between the CMB and the large-scale structure (LSS) of the Universe in Unified Dark Matter (UDM) scalar field cosmologies. We work out the predicted cross-correlation function in UDM models, which depends on the speed of sound of the unified component, and compare it with observations from six galaxy catalogues (NVSS, HEAO, 2MASS, and SDSS main galaxies, luminous red galaxies, and quasars). We sample the value of the speed of sound and perform a likelihood analysis, finding that the UDM model is as likely as the ΛCDM, and is compatible with observations for amore » range of values of c{sub ∞} (the value of the sound speed at late times) on which structure formation depends. In particular, we obtain an upper bound of c{sub ∞}{sup 2} ≤ 0.009 at 95% confidence level, meaning that the ΛCDM model, for which c{sub ∞}{sup 2} = 0, is a good fit to the data, while the posterior probability distribution peaks at the value c{sub ∞}{sup 2} = 10{sup −4} . Finally, we study the time dependence of the deviation from ΛCDM via a tomographic analysis using a mock redshift distribution and we find that the largest deviation is for low-redshift sources, suggesting that future low-z surveys will be best suited to constrain UDM models.« less

Λ(t)CDM model as a unified origin of holographic and agegraphic dark energy models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Yun; Zhu, Zong-Hong; Xu, Lixin; Alcaniz, J. S.

2011-04-01

Motivated by the fact that any nonzero Λ can introduce a length scale or a time scale into Einstein's theory, r=ct=3/|Λ|. Conversely, any cosmological length scale or time scale can introduce a Λ(t), Λ(t)=3/rΛ2(t)=3/(c2tΛ2(t)). In this Letter, we investigate the time varying Λ(t) corresponding to the length scales, including the Hubble horizon, the particle horizon and the future event horizon, and the time scales, including the age of the universe and the conformal time. It is found out that, in this scenario, the Λ(t)CDM model can be taken as the unified origin of the holographic and agegraphic dark energy models with interaction between the matter and the dark energy, where the interacting term is determined by Q=-ρ. We place observational constraints on the Λ(t)CDM models originating from different cosmological length scales and time scales with the recently compiled “Union2 compilation” which consists of 557 Type Ia supernovae (SNIa) covering a redshift range 0.015⩽z⩽1.4. In conclusion, an accelerating expansion universe can be derived in the cases taking the Hubble horizon, the future event horizon, the age of the universe and the conformal time as the length scale or the time scale.

Cosmic microwave background anisotropies in cold dark matter models with cosmological constant: The intermediate versus large angular scales

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stompor, Radoslaw; Gorski, Krzysztof M.

1994-01-01

We obtain predictions for cosmic microwave background anisotropies at angular scales near 1 deg in the context of cold dark matter models with a nonzero cosmological constant, normalized to the Cosmic Background Explorer (COBE) Differential Microwave Radiometer (DMR) detection. The results are compared to those computed in the matter-dominated models. We show that the coherence length of the Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB) anisotropy is almost insensitive to cosmological parameters, and the rms amplitude of the anisotropy increases moderately with decreasing total matter density, while being most sensitive to the baryon abundance. We apply these results in the statistical analysis of the published data from the UCSB South Pole (SP) experiment (Gaier et al. 1992; Schuster et al. 1993). We reject most of the Cold Dark Matter (CDM)-Lambda models at the 95% confidence level when both SP scans are simulated together (although the combined data set renders less stringent limits than the Gaier et al. data alone). However, the Schuster et al. data considered alone as well as the results of some other recent experiments (MAX, MSAM, Saskatoon), suggest that typical temperature fluctuations on degree scales may be larger than is indicated by the Gaier et al. scan. If so, CDM-Lambda models may indeed provide, from a point of view of CMB anisotropies, an acceptable alternative to flat CDM models.

Large scale structures in the kinetic gravity braiding model that can be unbraided

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

Kimura, Rampei; Yamamoto, Kazuhiro, E-mail: rampei@theo.phys.sci.hiroshima-u.ac.jp, E-mail: kazuhiro@hiroshima-u.ac.jp

2011-04-01

We study cosmological consequences of a kinetic gravity braiding model, which is proposed as an alternative to the dark energy model. The kinetic braiding model we study is characterized by a parameter n, which corresponds to the original galileon cosmological model for n = 1. We find that the background expansion of the universe of the kinetic braiding model is the same as the Dvali-Turner's model, which reduces to that of the standard cold dark matter model with a cosmological constant (ΛCDM model) for n equal to infinity. We also find that the evolution of the linear cosmological perturbation inmore » the kinetic braiding model reduces to that of the ΛCDM model for n = ∞. Then, we focus our study on the growth history of the linear density perturbation as well as the spherical collapse in the nonlinear regime of the density perturbations, which might be important in order to distinguish between the kinetic braiding model and the ΛCDM model when n is finite. The theoretical prediction for the large scale structure is confronted with the multipole power spectrum of the luminous red galaxy sample of the Sloan Digital Sky survey. We also discuss future prospects of constraining the kinetic braiding model using a future redshift survey like the WFMOS/SuMIRe PFS survey as well as the cluster redshift distribution in the South Pole Telescope survey.« less

Halo abundance and assembly history with extreme-axion wave dark matter at z ≥ 4

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schive, Hsi-Yu; Chiueh, Tzihong

2018-01-01

Wave dark matter (ψDM) composed of extremely light bosons (mψ ˜ 10 - 22 eV), with quantum pressure suppressing structures below a kpc-scale de Broglie wavelength, has become a viable dark matter candidate. Compared to the conventional free-particle ψDM (FPψDM), the extreme-axion ψDM model (EAψDM) proposed by Zhang & Chiueh features a larger cut-off wavenumber and a broad spectral bump in the matter transfer function. Here, we conduct cosmological simulations to compare the halo abundances and assembly histories at z = 4-11 between three different scenarios: FPψDM, EAψDM and cold dark matter (CDM). We show that EAψDM produces significantly more abundant low-mass haloes than FPψDM with the same mψ, and therefore could alleviate the tension in mψ required by the Lyα forest data and by the kpc-scale dwarf galaxy cores. We also find that, compared to the CDM counterparts, massive EAψDM haloes are, on average, 3-4 times more massive at z = 10-11 due to their earlier formation, undergo a slower mass accretion at 7 ≲ z ≲ 11, and then show a rapidly rising major merger rate exceeding CDM by ˜ 50 per cent at 4 ≲ z ≲ 7. This fact suggests that EAψDM haloes may exhibit more prominent starbursts at z ≲ 7.

Efficient white-light-emitting diodes based on poly(N-vinylcarbazole) doped with blue fluorescent and orange phosphorescent materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shih, Ping-I.; Shu, Ching-Fong; Tung, Yung-Liang; Chi, Yun

2006-06-01

We have fabricated polymer white-light-emitting devices possessing a single emitting layer containing a hole-transporting host polymer, poly(N-vinylcarbazole), and an electron-transporting auxiliary, 2-(4-biphenylyl)-5-(4-tert-butylphenyl)-1,3,4-oxadiazole, doped with a blue-light-emitting amino-substituted distyrylarylene fluorescent dye and an orange-light-emitting osmium phosphor. The doubly doped device exhibited an intense white emission having Commission Internationale de l'Eclairage coordinates of (0.33, 0.34), a high external quantum efficiency of 6.12% (13.2cd/A), and a maximum brightness of 11306cd/m2. The color coordinates remained unchanged over a range of operating voltages, even at luminance as high as 1×104cd/m2.

Discriminating dark energy models by using the Statefinder hierarchy and the growth rate of matter perturbations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Jun; Yang, Rongjia; Chen, Bohai

2014-12-01

We apply the Statefinder hierarchy and the growth rate of matter perturbations to discriminate modified Chaplygin gas (MCG), generalized Chaplygin gas (GCG), superfluid Chaplygin gas (SCG), purely kinetic k-essence (PKK), and ΛCDM model. We plot the evolutional trajectories of these models in the Statefinder plane and in the composite diagnostic plane. We find that GCG, MCG, SCG, PKK, and ΛCDM can be distinguished well from each other at the present epoch by using the composite diagnostic {epsilon(z), S(1)5}. Using other combinations, such as {S(1)3, S(1)4}, {S(1)3, S5}, {epsilon(z), S(1)3}, and {epsilon(z), S4}, some of these five dark energy models cannot be distinguished.

Large-Scale Clustering of Galaxies in the CFA Survey

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, Changbom

1992-03-01

The power spectrum of the galaxy distribution is accuarately measured up to wavelengths over 100h-1 Mpc from the CfA 1 and 2 catalogs. We find that our results agree with power spectra calculated by others from smaller samples of optical, radio and infrared galaxies. The power spectrum of an open CDM model (Omega h = 0.2 and delta8 = 1; see below for definitions) best approximates the observed power spectrum. The power spectrum of the standard CDM model(Omega h = 0.5 and delta8 = 1) is inconsistent with the observed one at the 99% confidence level. Our best estimation of the corresponding correlation function in real space is Xi(r) = (r/6.2h-1 Mpc)^-1.8 for r < 20h-1 Mpc.

Constraints on holographic cosmologies from strong lensing systems

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

Cárdenas, Víctor H.; Bonilla, Alexander; Motta, Verónica

We use strongly gravitationally lensed (SGL) systems to put additional constraints on a set of holographic dark energy models. Data available in the literature (redshift and velocity dispersion) is used to obtain the Einstein radius and compare it with model predictions. We found that the ΛCDM is the best fit to the data. Although a preliminary statistical analysis seems to indicate that two of the holographic models studied show interesting agreement with observations, a stringent test lead us to the result that neither of the holographic models are competitive with the ΛCDM. These results highlight the importance of Strong Lensingmore » measurements to provide additional observational constraints to alternative cosmological models, which are necessary to shed some light into the dark universe.« less

Disruptive Technologies in Workmanship: pH-neutral Flux, CDM ESD Events, HDI PCBs

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Plante, Jeannette F.

2010-01-01

This slide presentation describes what it calls "disruptive technologies", i.e., "Low-end disruption" occurs when the rate at which products improve exceeds the rate at which customers can adopt the new performance. Therefore, at some point the performance of the product overshoots the needs of certain customer segments. At this point, a disruptive technology may enter the market and provide a product which has lower performance than the incumbent but which exceeds the requirements of certain segments, thereby gaining a foothold in the market. This concept is viewed in impacting incumbent technologies Rosin Flux, with a pH-neutral water soluble Flux; electrostatic discharge models being disrupted by the charge device model (CDM) concept; and High Density Interconnect Printed Circuit Boards (HDI PCB).

Planck 2013 results. XV. CMB power spectra and likelihood

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Planck Collaboration; Ade, P. A. R.; Aghanim, N.; Armitage-Caplan, C.; Arnaud, M.; Ashdown, M.; Atrio-Barandela, F.; Aumont, J.; Baccigalupi, C.; Banday, A. J.; Barreiro, R. B.; Bartlett, J. G.; Battaner, E.; Benabed, K.; Benoît, A.; Benoit-Lévy, A.; Bernard, J.-P.; Bersanelli, M.; Bielewicz, P.; Bobin, J.; Bock, J. J.; Bonaldi, A.; Bonavera, L.; Bond, J. R.; Borrill, J.; Bouchet, F. R.; Boulanger, F.; Bridges, M.; Bucher, M.; Burigana, C.; Butler, R. C.; Calabrese, E.; Cardoso, J.-F.; Catalano, A.; Challinor, A.; Chamballu, A.; Chiang, H. C.; Chiang, L.-Y.; Christensen, P. R.; Church, S.; Clements, D. L.; Colombi, S.; Colombo, L. P. L.; Combet, C.; Couchot, F.; Coulais, A.; Crill, B. P.; Curto, A.; Cuttaia, F.; Danese, L.; Davies, R. D.; Davis, R. J.; de Bernardis, P.; de Rosa, A.; de Zotti, G.; Delabrouille, J.; Delouis, J.-M.; Désert, F.-X.; Dickinson, C.; Diego, J. M.; Dole, H.; Donzelli, S.; Doré, O.; Douspis, M.; Dunkley, J.; Dupac, X.; Efstathiou, G.; Elsner, F.; Enßlin, T. A.; Eriksen, H. K.; Finelli, F.; Forni, O.; Frailis, M.; Fraisse, A. A.; Franceschi, E.; Gaier, T. C.; Galeotta, S.; Galli, S.; Ganga, K.; Giard, M.; Giardino, G.; Giraud-Héraud, Y.; Gjerløw, E.; González-Nuevo, J.; Górski, K. M.; Gratton, S.; Gregorio, A.; Gruppuso, A.; Gudmundsson, J. E.; Hansen, F. K.; Hanson, D.; Harrison, D.; Helou, G.; Henrot-Versillé, S.; Hernández-Monteagudo, C.; Herranz, D.; Hildebrandt, S. R.; Hivon, E.; Hobson, M.; Holmes, W. A.; Hornstrup, A.; Hovest, W.; Huffenberger, K. M.; Hurier, G.; Jaffe, A. H.; Jaffe, T. R.; Jewell, J.; Jones, W. C.; Juvela, M.; Keihänen, E.; Keskitalo, R.; Kiiveri, K.; Kisner, T. S.; Kneissl, R.; Knoche, J.; Knox, L.; Kunz, M.; Kurki-Suonio, H.; Lagache, G.; Lähteenmäki, A.; Lamarre, J.-M.; Lasenby, A.; Lattanzi, M.; Laureijs, R. J.; Lawrence, C. R.; Le Jeune, M.; Leach, S.; Leahy, J. P.; Leonardi, R.; León-Tavares, J.; Lesgourgues, J.; Liguori, M.; Lilje, P. B.; Linden-Vørnle, M.; Lindholm, V.; López-Caniego, M.; Lubin, P. M.; Macías-Pérez, J. F.; Maffei, B.; Maino, D.; Mandolesi, N.; Marinucci, D.; Maris, M.; Marshall, D. J.; Martin, P. G.; Martínez-González, E.; Masi, S.; Massardi, M.; Matarrese, S.; Matthai, F.; Mazzotta, P.; Meinhold, P. R.; Melchiorri, A.; Mendes, L.; Menegoni, E.; Mennella, A.; Migliaccio, M.; Millea, M.; Mitra, S.; Miville-Deschênes, M.-A.; Molinari, D.; Moneti, A.; Montier, L.; Morgante, G.; Mortlock, D.; Moss, A.; Munshi, D.; Murphy, J. A.; Naselsky, P.; Nati, F.; Natoli, P.; Netterfield, C. B.; Nørgaard-Nielsen, H. U.; Noviello, F.; Novikov, D.; Novikov, I.; O'Dwyer, I. J.; Orieux, F.; Osborne, S.; Oxborrow, C. A.; Paci, F.; Pagano, L.; Pajot, F.; Paladini, R.; Paoletti, D.; Partridge, B.; Pasian, F.; Patanchon, G.; Paykari, P.; Perdereau, O.; Perotto, L.; Perrotta, F.; Piacentini, F.; Piat, M.; Pierpaoli, E.; Pietrobon, D.; Plaszczynski, S.; Pointecouteau, E.; Polenta, G.; Ponthieu, N.; Popa, L.; Poutanen, T.; Pratt, G. W.; Prézeau, G.; Prunet, S.; Puget, J.-L.; Rachen, J. P.; Rahlin, A.; Rebolo, R.; Reinecke, M.; Remazeilles, M.; Renault, C.; Ricciardi, S.; Riller, T.; Ringeval, C.; Ristorcelli, I.; Rocha, G.; Rosset, C.; Roudier, G.; Rowan-Robinson, M.; Rubiño-Martín, J. A.; Rusholme, B.; Sandri, M.; Sanselme, L.; Santos, D.; Savini, G.; Scott, D.; Seiffert, M. D.; Shellard, E. P. S.; Spencer, L. D.; Starck, J.-L.; Stolyarov, V.; Stompor, R.; Sudiwala, R.; Sureau, F.; Sutton, D.; Suur-Uski, A.-S.; Sygnet, J.-F.; Tauber, J. A.; Tavagnacco, D.; Terenzi, L.; Toffolatti, L.; Tomasi, M.; Tristram, M.; Tucci, M.; Tuovinen, J.; Türler, M.; Valenziano, L.; Valiviita, J.; Van Tent, B.; Varis, J.; Vielva, P.; Villa, F.; Vittorio, N.; Wade, L. A.; Wandelt, B. D.; Wehus, I. K.; White, M.; White, S. D. M.; Yvon, D.; Zacchei, A.; Zonca, A.

2014-11-01

This paper presents the Planck 2013 likelihood, a complete statistical description of the two-point correlation function of the CMB temperature fluctuations that accounts for all known relevant uncertainties, both instrumental and astrophysical in nature. We use this likelihood to derive our best estimate of the CMB angular power spectrum from Planck over three decades in multipole moment, ℓ, covering 2 ≤ ℓ ≤ 2500. The main source of uncertainty at ℓ ≲ 1500 is cosmic variance. Uncertainties in small-scale foreground modelling and instrumental noise dominate the error budget at higher ℓs. For ℓ < 50, our likelihood exploits all Planck frequency channels from 30 to 353 GHz, separating the cosmological CMB signal from diffuse Galactic foregrounds through a physically motivated Bayesian component separation technique. At ℓ ≥ 50, we employ a correlated Gaussian likelihood approximation based on a fine-grained set of angular cross-spectra derived from multiple detector combinations between the 100, 143, and 217 GHz frequency channels, marginalising over power spectrum foreground templates. We validate our likelihood through an extensive suite of consistency tests, and assess the impact of residual foreground and instrumental uncertainties on the final cosmological parameters. We find good internal agreement among the high-ℓ cross-spectra with residuals below a few μK2 at ℓ ≲ 1000, in agreement with estimated calibration uncertainties. We compare our results with foreground-cleaned CMB maps derived from all Planck frequencies, as well as with cross-spectra derived from the 70 GHz Planck map, and find broad agreement in terms of spectrum residuals and cosmological parameters. We further show that the best-fit ΛCDM cosmology is in excellent agreement with preliminary PlanckEE and TE polarisation spectra. We find that the standard ΛCDM cosmology is well constrained by Planck from the measurements at ℓ ≲ 1500. One specific example is the spectral index of scalar perturbations, for which we report a 5.4σ deviation from scale invariance, ns = 1. Increasing the multipole range beyond ℓ ≃ 1500 does not increase our accuracy for the ΛCDM parameters, but instead allows us to study extensions beyond the standard model. We find no indication of significant departures from the ΛCDM framework. Finally, we report a tension between the Planck best-fit ΛCDM model and the low-ℓ spectrum in the form of a power deficit of 5-10% at ℓ ≲ 40, with a statistical significance of 2.5-3σ. Without a theoretically motivated model for this power deficit, we do not elaborate further on its cosmological implications, but note that this is our most puzzling finding in an otherwise remarkably consistent data set.

Populating dark matter haloes with galaxies: comparing the 2dFGRS with mock galaxy redshift surveys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Xiaohu; Mo, H. J.; Jing, Y. P.; van den Bosch, Frank C.; Chu, YaoQuan

2004-06-01

In two recent papers, we developed a powerful technique to link the distribution of galaxies to that of dark matter haloes by considering halo occupation numbers as a function of galaxy luminosity and type. In this paper we use these distribution functions to populate dark matter haloes in high-resolution N-body simulations of the standard ΛCDM cosmology with Ωm= 0.3, ΩΛ= 0.7 and σ8= 0.9. Stacking simulation boxes of 100 h-1 Mpc and 300 h-1 Mpc with 5123 particles each we construct mock galaxy redshift surveys out to a redshift of z= 0.2 with a numerical resolution that guarantees completeness down to 0.01L*. We use these mock surveys to investigate various clustering statistics. The predicted two-dimensional correlation function ξ(rp, π) reveals clear signatures of redshift space distortions. The projected correlation functions for galaxies with different luminosities and types, derived from ξ(rp, π), match the observations well on scales larger than ~3 h-1 Mpc. On smaller scales, however, the model overpredicts the clustering power by about a factor two. Modelling the `finger-of-God' effect on small scales reveals that the standard ΛCDM model predicts pairwise velocity dispersions (PVD) that are ~400 km s-1 too high at projected pair separations of ~1 h-1 Mpc. A strong velocity bias in massive haloes, with bvel≡σgal/σdm~ 0.6 (where σgal and σdm are the velocity dispersions of galaxies and dark matter particles, respectively) can reduce the predicted PVD to the observed level, but does not help to resolve the overprediction of clustering power on small scales. Consistent results can be obtained within the standard ΛCDM model only when the average mass-to-light ratio of clusters is of the order of 1000 (M/L)solar in the B-band. Alternatively, as we show by a simple approximation, a ΛCDM model with σ8~= 0.75 may also reproduce the observational results. We discuss our results in light of the recent WMAP results and the constraints on σ8 obtained independently from other observations.

Effectiveness of knowledge translation tools addressing multiple high-burden chronic diseases affecting older adults: protocol for a systematic review alongside a realist review.

PubMed

Kastner, Monika; Perrier, Laure; Hamid, Jemila; Tricco, Andrea C; Cardoso, Roberta; Ivers, Noah M; Liu, Barbara; Marr, Sharon; Holroyd-Leduc, Jayna; Wong, Geoff; Graves, Lisa; Straus, Sharon E

2015-02-03

The burden of chronic disease is a global phenomenon, particularly among people aged 65 years and older. More than half of older adults have more than one chronic disease and their care is not optimal. Chronic disease management (CDM) tools have the potential to meet this challenge but they are primarily focused on a single disease, which fails to address the growing number of seniors with multiple chronic conditions. We will conduct a systematic review alongside a realist review to identify effective CDM tools that integrate one or more high-burden chronic diseases affecting older adults and to better understand for whom, under what circumstances, how and why they produce their outcomes. We will search MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, AgeLine and the Cochrane Library for experimental, quasi-experimental, observational and qualitative studies in any language investigating CDM tools that facilitate optimal disease management in one or more high-burden chronic diseases affecting adults aged ≥65 years. Study selection will involve calibration of reviewers to ensure reliability of screening and duplicate assessment of articles. Data abstraction and risk of bias assessment will also be performed independently. Analysis will include descriptive summaries of study and appraisal characteristics, effectiveness of each CDM tool (meta-analysis if appropriate); and a realist programme theory will be developed and refined to explain the outcome patterns within the included studies. Ethics approval is not required for this study. We anticipate that our findings, pertaining to gaps in care across high-burden chronic diseases affecting seniors and highlighting specific areas that may require more research, will be of interest to a wide range of knowledge users and stakeholders. We will publish and present our findings widely, and also plan more active dissemination strategies such as workshops with our key stakeholders. Our protocol is registered with PROSPERO (registration number CRD42014014489). Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://group.bmj.com/group/rights-licensing/permissions.

Parameter estimation with Sandage-Loeb test

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

Geng, Jia-Jia; Zhang, Jing-Fei; Zhang, Xin, E-mail: gengjiajia163@163.com, E-mail: jfzhang@mail.neu.edu.cn, E-mail: zhangxin@mail.neu.edu.cn

2014-12-01

The Sandage-Loeb (SL) test directly measures the expansion rate of the universe in the redshift range of 2 ∼< z ∼< 5 by detecting redshift drift in the spectra of Lyman-α forest of distant quasars. We discuss the impact of the future SL test data on parameter estimation for the ΛCDM, the wCDM, and the w{sub 0}w{sub a}CDM models. To avoid the potential inconsistency with other observational data, we take the best-fitting dark energy model constrained by the current observations as the fiducial model to produce 30 mock SL test data. The SL test data provide an important supplement to the other dark energymore » probes, since they are extremely helpful in breaking the existing parameter degeneracies. We show that the strong degeneracy between Ω{sub m} and H{sub 0} in all the three dark energy models is well broken by the SL test. Compared to the current combined data of type Ia supernovae, baryon acoustic oscillation, cosmic microwave background, and Hubble constant, the 30-yr observation of SL test could improve the constraints on Ω{sub m} and H{sub 0} by more than 60% for all the three models. But the SL test can only moderately improve the constraint on the equation of state of dark energy. We show that a 30-yr observation of SL test could help improve the constraint on constant w by about 25%, and improve the constraints on w{sub 0} and w{sub a} by about 20% and 15%, respectively. We also quantify the constraining power of the SL test in the future high-precision joint geometric constraints on dark energy. The mock future supernova and baryon acoustic oscillation data are simulated based on the space-based project JDEM. We find that the 30-yr observation of SL test would help improve the measurement precision of Ω{sub m}, H{sub 0}, and w{sub a} by more than 70%, 20%, and 60%, respectively, for the w{sub 0}w{sub a}CDM model.« less

A review of the matrix-exponential formalism in radiative transfer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Efremenko, Dmitry S.; Molina García, Víctor; Gimeno García, Sebastián; Doicu, Adrian

2017-07-01

This paper outlines the matrix exponential description of radiative transfer. The eigendecomposition method which serves as a basis for computing the matrix exponential and for representing the solution in a discrete ordinate setting is considered. The mathematical equivalence of the discrete ordinate method, the matrix operator method, and the matrix Riccati equations method is proved rigorously by means of the matrix exponential formalism. For optically thin layers, approximate solution methods relying on the Padé and Taylor series approximations to the matrix exponential, as well as on the matrix Riccati equations, are presented. For optically thick layers, the asymptotic theory with higher-order corrections is derived, and parameterizations of the asymptotic functions and constants for a water-cloud model with a Gamma size distribution are obtained.

ESTIMATION OF NEAR SUBSURFACE COAL FIRE GAS EMISSIONS BASED ON GEOPHYSICAL INVESTIGATIONS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen-Brauchler, D.; Meyer, U.; Schlömer, S.; Kus, J.; Gundelach, V.; Wuttke, M.; Fischer, C.; Rueter, H.

2009-12-01

Spontaneous and industrially caused subsurface coal fires are worldwide disasters that destroy coal resources, cause air pollution and emit a large amount of green house gases. Especially in developing countries, such as China, India and Malaysia, this problem has intensified over the last 15 years. In China alone, 10 to 20 million tons of coal are believed to be lost in uncontrolled coal fires. The cooperation of developing countries and industrialized countries is needed to enforce internationally concerted approaches and political attention towards the problem. The Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) under the framework of the Kyoto Protocol may provide an international stage for financial investment needed to fight the disastrous situation. A Sino-German research project for coal fire exploration, monitoring and extinction applied several geophysical approaches in order to estimate the annual baseline especially of CO2 emissions from near subsurface coal fires. As a result of this project, we present verifiable methodologies that may be used in the CDM framework to estimate the amount of CO2 emissions from near subsurface coal fires. We developed three possibilities to approach the estimation based on (1) thermal energy release, (2) geological and geometrical determinations as well as (3) direct gas measurement. The studies involve the investigation of the physical property changes of the coal seam and bedrock during different burning stages of a underground coal fire. Various geophysical monitoring methods were applied from near surface to determine the coal volume, fire propagation, temperature anomalies, etc.

Near-field visual acuity of pigeons: effects of head location and stimulus luminance.

PubMed

Hodos, W; Leibowitz, R W; Bonbright, J C

1976-03-01

Two pigeons were trained to discriminate a grating stimulus from a blank stimulus of equivalent luminance in a three-key chamber. The stimuli and blanks were presented behind a transparent center key. The procedure was a conditional discrimination in which pecks on the left key were reinforced if the blank had been present behind the center key and pecks on the right key were reinforced if the grating had been present behind the center key. The spatial frequency of the stimuli was varied in each session from four to 29.5 lines per millimeter in accordance with a variation of the method of constant stimuli. The number of lines per millimeter that the subjects could discriminate at threshold was determined from psychometric functions. Data were collected at five values of stimulus luminance ranging from--0.07 to 3.29 log cd/m2. The distance from the stimulus to the anterior nodal point of the eye, which was determined from measurements taken from high-speed motion-picture photographs of three additional pigeons and published intraocular measurements, was 62.0 mm. This distance and the grating detection thresholds were used to calculate the visual acuity of the birds at each level of luminance. Acuity improved with increasing luminance to a peak value of 0.52, which corresponds to a visual angle of 1.92 min, at a luminance of 2.33 log cd/m2. Further increase in luminance produced a small decline in acuity.