Fiber Bragg grating based arterial localization device

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ho, Siu Chun Michael; Li, Weijie; Razavi, Mehdi; Song, Gangbing

2017-06-01

A critical first step to many surgical procedures is locating and gaining access to a patients vascular system. Vascular access allows the deployment of other surgical instruments and also the monitoring of many physiological parameters. Current methods to locate blood vessels are predominantly based on the landmark technique coupled with ultrasound, fluoroscopy, or Doppler. However, even with experience and technological assistance, locating the required blood vessel is not always an easy task, especially with patients that present atypical anatomy or suffer from conditions such as weak pulsation or obesity that make vascular localization difficult. With recent advances in fiber optic sensors, there is an opportunity to develop a new tool that can make vascular localization safer and easier. In this work, the authors present a new fiber Bragg grating (FBG) based vascular access device that specializes in arterial localization. The device estimates the location towards a local artery based on the bending of a needle inserted near the tissue surrounding the artery. Experimental results obtained from an artificial circulatory loop and a mock artery show the device works best for lower angles of needle insertion and can provide an approximately 40° range of estimation towards the location of a pulsating source (e.g. an artery).

Development of a flow feedback pulse duplicator system with rhesus monkey arterial input impedance characteristics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schaub, J. D.; Koenig, S. C.; Schroeder, M. J.; Ewert, D. L.; Drew, G. A.; Swope, R. D.; Convertino, V. A. (Principal Investigator)

1999-01-01

An in vitro pulsatile pump flow system that is capable of producing physiologic pressures and flows in a mock circulatory system tuned to reproduce the first nine harmonics of the input impedance of a rhesus monkey was developed and tested. The system was created as a research tool for evaluating cardiovascular function and for the design, testing, and evaluation of electrical-mechanical cardiovascular models and chronically implanted sensors. The system possesses a computerized user interface for controlling a linear displacement pulsatile pump in a controlled flow loop format to emulate in vivo cardiovascular characteristics. Evaluation of the pump system consisted of comparing its aortic pressure and flow profiles with in vivo rhesus hemodynamic waveforms in the time and frequency domains. Comparison of aortic pressure and flow data between the pump system and in vivo data showed good agreement in the time and frequency domains, however, the pump system produced a larger pulse pressure. The pump system can be used for comparing cardiovascular parameters with predicted cardiovascular model values and for evaluating such items as vascular grafts, heart valves, biomaterials, and sensors. This article describes the development and evaluation of this feedback controlled cardiovascular dynamics simulation modeling system.

The closing behavior of mechanical aortic heart valve prostheses.

PubMed

Lu, Po-Chien; Liu, Jia-Shing; Huang, Ren-Hong; Lo, Chi-Wen; Lai, Ho-Cheng; Hwang, Ned H C

2004-01-01

Mechanical artificial heart valves rely on reverse flow to close their leaflets. This mechanism creates regurgitation and water hammer effects that may form cavitations, damage blood cells, and cause thromboembolism. This study analyzes closing mechanisms of monoleaflet (Medtronic Hall 27), bileaflet (Carbo-Medics 27; St. Jude Medical 27; Duromedics 29), and trileaflet valves in a circulatory mock loop, including an aortic root with three sinuses. Downstream flow field velocity was measured via digital particle image velocimetry (DPIV). A high speed camera (PIVCAM 10-30 CCD video camera) tracked leaflet movement at 1000 frames/s. All valves open in 40-50 msec, but monoleaflet and bileaflet valves close in much less time (< 35 msec) than the trileaflet valve (>75 msec). During acceleration phase of systole, the monoleaflet forms a major and minor flow, the bileaflet has three jet flows, and the trileaflet produces a single central flow like physiologic valves. In deceleration phase, the aortic sinus vortices hinder monoleaflet and bileaflet valve closure until reverse flows and high negative transvalvular pressure push the leaflets rapidly for a hard closure. Conversely, the vortices help close the trileaflet valve more softly, probably causing less damage, lessening back flow, and providing a washing effect that may prevent thrombosis formation.

Initial in vitro testing of a paediatric continuous-flow total artificial heart.

PubMed

Fukamachi, Kiyotaka; Karimov, Jamshid H; Horvath, David J; Sunagawa, Gengo; Byram, Nicole A; Kuban, Barry D; Moazami, Nader

2018-06-01

Mechanical circulatory support has become standard therapy for adult patients with end-stage heart failure; however, in paediatric patients with congenital heart disease, the options for chronic mechanical circulatory support are limited to paracorporeal devices or off-label use of devices intended for implantation in adults. Congenital heart disease and cardiomyopathy often involve both the left and right ventricles; in such cases, heart transplantation, a biventricular assist device or a total artificial heart is needed to adequately sustain both pulmonary and systemic circulations. We aimed to evaluate the in vitro performance of the initial prototype of our paediatric continuous-flow total artificial heart. The paediatric continuous-flow total artificial heart pump was downsized from the adult continuous-flow total artificial heart configuration by a scale factor of 0.70 (1/3 of total volume) to enable implantation in infants. System performance of this prototype was evaluated using the continuous-flow total artificial heart mock loop set to mimic paediatric circulation. We generated maps of pump performance and atrial pressure differences over a wide range of systemic vascular resistance/pulmonary vascular resistance and pump speeds. Performance data indicated left pump flow range of 0.4-4.7 l/min at 100 mmHg delta pressure. The left/right atrial pressure difference was maintained within ±5 mmHg with systemic vascular resistance/pulmonary vascular resistance ratios between 1.4 and 35, with/without pump speed modulation, verifying expected passive self-regulation of atrial pressure balance. The paediatric continuous-flow total artificial heart prototype met design requirements for self-regulation and performance; in vivo pump performance studies are ongoing.

Enhancement of Arterial Pressure Pulsatility by Controlling Continuous-Flow Left Ventricular Assist Device Flow Rate in Mock Circulatory System.

PubMed

Bozkurt, Selim; van de Vosse, Frans N; Rutten, Marcel C M

Continuous-flow left ventricular assist devices (CF-LVADs) generally operate at a constant speed, which reduces pulsatility in the arteries and may lead to complications such as functional changes in the vascular system, gastrointestinal bleeding, or both. The purpose of this study is to increase the arterial pulse pressure and pulsatility by controlling the CF-LVAD flow rate. A MicroMed DeBakey pump was used as the CF-LVAD. A model simulating the flow rate through the aortic valve was used as a reference model to drive the pump. A mock circulation containing two synchronized servomotor-operated piston pumps acting as left and right ventricles was used as a circulatory system. Proportional-integral control was used as the control method. First, the CF-LVAD was operated at a constant speed. With pulsatile-speed CF-LVAD assistance, the pump was driven such that the same mean pump output was generated. Continuous and pulsatile-speed CF-LVAD assistance provided the same mean arterial pressure and flow rate, while the index of pulsatility increased significantly for both arterial pressure and pump flow rate signals under pulsatile speed pump support. This study shows the possibility of improving the pulsatility of CF-LVAD support by regulating pump speed over a cardiac cycle without reducing the overall level of support.

Fixation and mounting of porcine aortic valves for use in mock circuits.

PubMed

Schlöglhofer, Thomas; Aigner, Philipp; Stoiber, Martin; Schima, Heinrich

2013-10-01

Investigations of the circulatory system in vitro use mock circuits that require valves to mimic the cardiac situation. Whereas mechanical valves increase water hammer effects due to inherent stiffness and do not allow the use of pressure lines or catheters, bioprosthetic valves are expensive and of limited durability in test fluids. Therefore, we developed a cheap, fast, alternative method to mount valves obtained from the slaughterhouse in mock circuits. Porcine aortic roots were obtained from the abattoir and used either in native condition or after fixation. Fixation was performed at a constant retrograde pressure to ensure closed valve position. Fixation time was 4 h in a 0.5%-glutaraldehyde phosphate buffer. The fixed valves were molded into a modular mock circulation connector using a fast curing silicone. Valve functionality was evaluated in a pulsatile setting (cardiac output = 4.7 l/min, heart rate = 80 beats/min) and compared before and after fixation. Leaflet motion was recorded with a high-speed camera and valve insufficiency was quantified by leakage flow under steady pressure application (80 mmHg). Under physiological conditions the aortic valves showed almost equal leaflet motion in native and fixed conditions. However, the leaflets of the native valves showed lower stiffness and more fluttering during systole than the fixed specimens. Under retrograde pressure, fresh and fixed valves showed small leakage flows of <30 ml/min. The new mounting and fixation procedure is a fast method to fabricate low cost biologic valves for the use in mock circuits.

A Mock Circulatory System Incorporating a Compliant 3D-Printed Anatomical Model to Investigate Pulmonary Hemodynamics.

PubMed

Knoops, Paul G M; Biglino, Giovanni; Hughes, Alun D; Parker, Kim H; Xu, Linzhang; Schievano, Silvia; Torii, Ryo

2017-07-01

A realistic mock circulatory system (MCS) could be a valuable in vitro testbed to study human circulatory hemodynamics. The objective of this study was to design a MCS replicating the pulmonary arterial circulation, incorporating an anatomically representative arterial model suitable for testing clinically relevant scenarios. A second objective of the study was to ensure the system's compatibility with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for additional measurements. A latex pulmonary arterial model with two generations of bifurcations was manufactured starting from a 3D-printed mold reconstructed from patient data. The model was incorporated into a MCS for in vitro hydrodynamic measurements. The setup was tested under physiological pulsatile flow conditions and results were evaluated using wave intensity analysis (WIA) to investigate waves traveling in the arterial system. Increased pulmonary vascular resistance (IPVR) was simulated as an example of one pathological scenario. Flow split between right and left pulmonary artery was found to be realistic (54 and 46%, respectively). No substantial difference in pressure waveform was observed throughout the various generations of bifurcations. Based on WIA, three main waves were identified in the main pulmonary artery (MPA), that is, forward compression wave, backward compression wave, and forward expansion wave. For IPVR, a rise in mean pressure was recorded in the MPA, within the clinical range of pulmonary arterial hypertension. The feasibility of using the MCS in the MRI scanner was demonstrated with the MCS running 2 h consecutively while acquiring preliminary MRI data. This study shows the development and verification of a pulmonary MCS, including an anatomically correct, compliant latex phantom. The setup can be useful to explore a wide range of hemodynamic questions, including the development of patient- and pathology-specific models, considering the ease and low cost of producing rapid prototyping molds, and the versatility of the setup for invasive and noninvasive (i.e., MRI) measurements. © 2016 International Center for Artificial Organs and Transplantation and Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

A Mock Circulatory System Incorporating a Compliant 3D-Printed Anatomical Model to Investigate Pulmonary Hemodynamics

PubMed Central

Knoops, Paul G.M.; Biglino, Giovanni; Hughes, Alun D.; Parker, Kim H.; Xu, Linzhang; Schievano, Silvia; Torii, Ryo

2017-01-01

A realistic mock circulatory system (MCS) could be a valuable in vitro testbed to study human circulatory hemodynamics. The objective of this study was to design a MCS replicating the pulmonary arterial circulation, incorporating an anatomically representative arterial model suitable for testing clinically relevant scenarios. A second objective of the study was to ensure the system's compatibility with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for additional measurements. A latex pulmonary arterial model with two generations of bifurcations was manufactured starting from a 3D-printed mold reconstructed from patient data. The model was incorporated into a MCS for in vitro hydrodynamic measurements. The setup was tested under physiological pulsatile flow conditions and results were evaluated using wave intensity analysis (WIA) to investigate waves traveling in the arterial system. Increased pulmonary vascular resistance (IPVR) was simulated as an example of one pathological scenario. Flow split between right and left pulmonary artery was found to be realistic (54 and 46%, respectively). No substantial difference in pressure waveform was observed throughout the various generations of bifurcations. Based on WIA, three main waves were identified in the main pulmonary artery (MPA), that is, forward compression wave, backward compression wave, and forward expansion wave. For IPVR, a rise in mean pressure was recorded in the MPA, within the clinical range of pulmonary arterial hypertension. The feasibility of using the MCS in the MRI scanner was demonstrated with the MCS running 2 h consecutively while acquiring preliminary MRI data. This study shows the development and verification of a pulmonary MCS, including an anatomically correct, compliant latex phantom. The setup can be useful to explore a wide range of hemodynamic questions, including the development of patient- and pathology-specific models, considering the ease and low cost of producing rapid prototyping molds, and the versatility of the setup for invasive and noninvasive (i.e., MRI) measurements. PMID:27925228

Muscle powered blood pump: design and initial test results.

PubMed

Trumble, D R; Magovern, J A

1999-01-01

A pneumatic ventricular assist device (Sarns/3M) has been redesigned for low volume hydraulic actuation to accommodate muscle powered drive systems. Design modifications include adding a bellows/piston mechanism (to compress the blood sac) and a compliance chamber for volume compensation. A simple prototype device was constructed to measure the efficacy of piston pump actuation and to validate pusher plate design. Device manufacture was affected by removing the drive line housing from the pneumatic pump and replacing it with a piston/bushing mechanism. A convex piston profile was chosen to maximize ejection fraction and minimize device size. Stroke volume was found to be a linear function of piston displacement (approximately 3 ml/mm) and reached a maximum value of 45 ml. Mean compression forces of 46-56 N acting during a 12 mm stroke (2.1 L/min at 60 cycles/min) were sufficient to generate mean afterload pressures of 70-110 mm Hg in a mock circulatory loop. Peak compression forces ranged from 72 to 86 N and work input was calculated to be 552-672 mJ/stroke. These data indicate that this method for delivering muscle power to the bloodstream is both mechanically viable and compatible with the functional capacity of conditioned latissimus dorsi muscle.

Flow Visualization of Three-Dimensionality Inside the 12 cc Penn State Pulsatile Pediatric Ventricular Assist Device

PubMed Central

Roszelle, Breigh N.; Deutsch, Steven; Manning, Keefe B.

2010-01-01

In order to aid the ongoing concern of limited organ availability for pediatric heart transplants, Penn State has continued development of a pulsatile Pediatric Ventricular Assist Device (PVAD). Initial studies of the PVAD observed an increase in thrombus formation due to differences in flow field physics when compared to adult sized devices, which included a higher degree of three-dimensionality. This unique flow field brings into question the use of 2D planar particle image velocimetry (PIV) as a flow visualization technique, however the small size and high curvature of the PVAD make other tools such as stereoscopic PIV impractical. In order to test the reliability of the 2D results, we perform a pseudo-3D PIV study using planes both parallel and normal to the diaphragm employing a mock circulatory loop containing a viscoelastic fluid that mimics 40% hematocrit blood. We find that while the third component of velocity is extremely helpful to a physical understanding of the flow, particularly of the diastolic jet and the development of a desired rotational pattern, the flow data taken parallel to the diaphragm is sufficient to describe the wall shear rates, a critical aspect to the study of thrombosis and design of such pumps. PMID:19936926

Right Ventricular Failure Post LVAD Implantation Corrected with Biventricular Support: An In Vitro Model.

PubMed

Shehab, Sajad; Allida, Sabine M; Davidson, Patricia M; Newton, Phillip J; Robson, Desiree; Jansz, Paul C; Hayward, Christopher S

Right ventricular failure after left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation is associated with high mortality. Management remains limited to pharmacologic therapy and temporary mechanical support. Delayed right ventricular assist device (RVAD) support after LVAD implantation is associated with poorer outcomes. With the advent of miniaturized, durable, continuous flow ventricular assist device systems, chronic RVAD and biventricular assist device (BiVAD) support has been used with some success. The purpose of this study was to assess combined BiVAD and LVAD with delayed RVAD support within a four-elemental mock circulatory loop (MCL) simulating the human cardiovascular system. Our hypothesis was that delayed continuous flow RVAD (RVAD) would produce similar hemodynamic and flow parameters to those of initial BiVAD support. Using the MCL, baseline biventricular heart failure with elevated right and left filling pressures with low cardiac output was simulated. The addition of LVAD within a biventricular configuration improved cardiac output somewhat, but was associated with persistent right heart failure with elevated right-sided filling pressures. The addition of an RVAD significantly improved LVAD outputs and returned filling pressures to normal throughout the circulation. In conclusion, RVAD support successfully restored hemodynamics and flow parameters of biventricular failure supported with isolated LVAD with persistent elevated right atrial pressure.

Feasibility of a tiny Gyro centrifugal pump as an implantable ventricular assist device.

PubMed

Yoshikawa, M; Nakata, K; Ohtsuka, G; Takano, T; Glueck, J; Fujisawa, A; Makinouchi, K; Yokokawa, M; Nosé, Y

1999-08-01

The Gyro pumps were developed for long-term circulatory support. The first generation Gyro pump (C1E3) achieved 1 month paracorporeal circulatory support in chronic animal experiments; the second generation (PI702) implantable ventricular assist device (VAD) was successful for over 6 months. The objective of the next generation Gyro pump is for use as a long-term totally implantable VAD and for pediatric circulatory support. This tiny Gyro pump (KP101) was fabricated with the same design concept as the other Gyro pumps. The possibility of an implantable VAD was determined after performance and hemolysis test results were compared to those of the other Gyro pumps. The pump housing and impeller were fabricated from polycarbonate with an impeller diameter of 35 mm. The diameter and height of the pump housings are 52.3 mm and 29.9 mm, respectively. At this time, a DC brushless motor drives the KP101, which is the same as that for the C1E3. The pump performance was measured in 37% glycerin water at 37 degrees C. Hemolysis tests were performed utilizing a compact mock loop filled with fresh bovine blood in a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) condition at 37 degrees C. The KP101 achieved the LVAD conditions of 5 L/min and 100 mm Hg at 2,900 rpm; generated 10 L/min against 100 mm Hg at 3,200 rpm; 3 L/min against 90 mm Hg at 2,600 rpm; and 2 L/min against 80 mm Hg at 2,400 rpm. In addition, the pump efficiency during this experiment was 12.5%. The other Gyro pumps. that is, the C1E3, PI601, and PI701, in an LVAD condition require 1,600, 2,000, and 2,000 rpm, respectively. The KP101 produced a normalized index of hemolysis (NIH) value of 0.005 g/100 L. With regard to the NIH, the other Gyro pumps, namely the C1E3, PI601, and PI701 demonstrated 0.0007, 0.0028, and 0.004 g/100 L, respectively. The KP101 produced an acceptable pressure flow curve for a VAD. The NIH value was higher than that of other Gyro pumps, but is in an acceptable range.

Occluder closing behavior: a key factor in mechanical heart valve cavitation.

PubMed

Wu, Z J; Wang, Y; Hwang, N H

1994-04-01

A laser sweeping technique developed in this laboratory was found to be capable of monitoring the leaflet closing motion with microsecond precision. The leaflet closing velocity was measured inside the last three degrees before impact. Mechanical heart valve (MHV) leaflets were observed to close with a three-phase motion; the approaching phase, the decelerating phase, and the rebound phase, all of which take place within one to two milliseconds. The leaflet closing behavior depends mainly on the leaflet design and the hinge mechanism. Bileaflet and monoleaflet types of mechanical heart valves were tested in the mitral position in a physiologic mock circulatory flow loop, which incorporated a computer-controlled magnetic drive and an adjustable afterload system. The test loop was tuned to produce physiologic ventricular and aortic pressure wave forms at 70-120 beats/min, with the maximum ventricular dp/dt varying between 1500-5600 mmHg/sec. The experiments were conducted by controlling the cardiac output at a constant level between 2.0-9.0 liters/min. The measured time-displacement curve of each tested MHV leaflet and its geometry were taken as the input for computation of the squeeze flow field in the narrow gap space between the approaching leaflet and the valve housing. The results indicated rapid build-up of both the pressure and velocity in the gap field within microsecs before the impact. The pressure build-up in the gap space is apparently responsible for the leaflet deceleration before the impact. When the concurrent water hammer pressure reduction at closure was combined with the high energy squeeze jet ejected from the gap space, there were strong indications of the environment which favors micro cavitation inceptions in certain types of MHV.

Feasibility of a miniature centrifugal rotary blood pump for low-flow circulation in children and infants.

PubMed

Takatani, Setsuo; Hoshi, Hideo; Tajima, Kennichi; Ohuchi, Katsuhiro; Nakamura, Makoto; Asama, Junichio; Shimshi, Tadahiko; Yoshikawa, Masaharu

2005-01-01

In this study, a seal-less, tiny centrifugal rotary blood pump was designed for low-flow circulatory support in children and infants. The design was targeted to yield a compact and priming volume of 5 ml with a flow rate of 0.5-4 l/min against a head pressure of 40-100 mm Hg. To meet the design requirements, the first prototype had an impeller diameter of 30 mm with six straight vanes. The impeller was supported with a needle-type hydrodynamic bearing and was driven with a six-pole radial magnetic driver. The external pump dimensions included a pump head height of 20 mm, diameter of 49 mm, and priming volume of 5 ml. The weight was 150 g, including the motor driver. In the mock circulatory loop, using fresh porcine blood, the pump yielded a flow of 0.5-4.0 l/min against a head pressure of 40-100 mm Hg at a rotational speed of 1800-4000 rpm using 1/4" inflow and outflow conduits. The maximum flow and head pressure of 5.25 l/min and 244 mm Hg, respectively, were obtained at a rotational speed of 4400 rpm. The maximum electrical-to-hydraulic efficiency occurred at a flow rate of 1.5-3.5 l/min and at a rotational speed of 2000-4400 rpm. The normalized index of hemolysis, which was evaluated using fresh porcine blood, was 0.0076 g/100 l with the impeller in the down-mode and a bearing clearance of 0.1 mm. Further refinement in the bearing and magnetic coupler are required to improve the hemolytic performance of the pump. The durability of the needle-type hydrodynamic bearing and antithrombotic performance of the pump will be performed before clinical applications. The tiny centrifugal blood pump meets the flow requirements necessary to support the circulation of pediatric patients.

Development of a numerical pump testing framework.

PubMed

Kaufmann, Tim A S; Gregory, Shaun D; Büsen, Martin R; Tansley, Geoff D; Steinseifer, Ulrich

2014-09-01

It has been shown that left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) increase the survival rate in end-stage heart failure patients. However, there is an ongoing demand for an increased quality of life, fewer adverse events, and more physiological devices. These challenges necessitate new approaches during the design process. In this study, computational fluid dynamics (CFD), lumped parameter (LP) modeling, mock circulatory loops (MCLs), and particle image velocimetry (PIV) are combined to develop a numerical Pump Testing Framework (nPTF) capable of analyzing local flow patterns and the systemic response of LVADs. The nPTF was created by connecting a CFD model of the aortic arch, including an LVAD outflow graft to an LP model of the circulatory system. Based on the same geometry, a three-dimensional silicone model was crafted using rapid prototyping and connected to an MCL. PIV studies of this setup were performed to validate the local flow fields (PIV) and the systemic response (MCL) of the nPTF. After validation, different outflow graft positions were compared using the nPTF. Both the numerical and the experimental setup were able to generate physiological responses by adjusting resistances and systemic compliance, with mean aortic pressures of 72.2-132.6 mm Hg for rotational speeds of 2200-3050 rpm. During LVAD support, an average flow to the distal branches (cerebral and subclavian) of 24% was found in the experiments and the nPTF. The flow fields from PIV and CFD were in good agreement. Numerical and experimental tools were combined to develop and validate the nPTF, which can be used to analyze local flow fields and the systemic response of LVADs during the design process. This allows analysis of physiological control parameters at early development stages and may, therefore, help to improve patient outcomes. Copyright © 2014 International Center for Artificial Organs and Transplantation and Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Prediction of the external work of the native heart from the dynamic H-Q curves of the rotary blood pumps during left heart bypass.

PubMed

Yokoyama, Yoshimasa; Kawaguchi, Osamu; Kitao, Takashi; Kimura, Taro; Steinseifer, Ulrich; Takatani, Setsuo

2010-09-01

The ventricular performance is dependent on the drainage effect of rotary blood pumps (RBPs) and the performance of RBPs is affected by the ventricular pulsation. In this study, the interaction between the ventricle and RBPs was examined using the pressure-volume (P-V) diagram of the ventricle and dynamic head pressure-bypass flow (H-Q) curves (H, head pressure: arterial pressure minus ventricular pressure vs. Q, bypass flow) of the RBPs. We first investigated the relationships in a mock loop with a passive fill ventricle, followed by validation in ex vivo animal experiments. An apical drainage cannula with a micro-pressure sensor was especially fabricated to obtain ventricular pressure, while three pairs of ultrasonic crystals placed on the heart wall were used to derive ventricular volume. The mock loop-configured ventricular apical-descending aorta bypass revealed that the external work of the ventricle expressed by the area inside the P-V diagrams (EW(Heart) ) correlated strongly with the area inside dynamic H-Q curves (EW(VAD)), with the coefficients of correlation being R² = 0.869 ∼ 0.961. The results in the mock loop were verified in the ex vivo studies using three Shiba goats (10-25 kg in body weight), showing the correlation coefficients of R² = 0.802 ∼ 0.817. The linear regression analysis indicated that the increase in the bypass flow reduced pulsatility in the ventricle expressed in EW(Heart) as well as in EW(VAD) . Experimental results, both mock loop and animal studies, showed that the interaction between cardiac external work and H-Q performance of RBPs can be expressed by the relationships "EW(Heart) versus EW(VAD) ." The pulsatile nature of the native heart can be expressed in the area underneath the H-Q curves of RBPs EW(VAD) during left heart bypass indicating the status of the level of assistance by RBPs and the native heart function. © 2010, Copyright the Authors. Artificial Organs © 2010, International Center for Artificial Organs and Transplantation and Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

A mock circulatory system with physiological distribution of terminal resistance and compliance: application for testing the intra-aortic balloon pump.

PubMed

Kolyva, Christina; Biglino, Giovanni; Pepper, John R; Khir, Ashraf W

2012-03-01

A mock circulatory system (MCS) was designed to replicate a physiological environment for in vitro testing and was assessed with the intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP). The MCS was comprised of an artificial left ventricle (LV), connected to a 14-branch polyurethane-compound aortic model. Physiological distribution of terminal resistance and compliance according to published data was implemented with capillary tubes of different sizes and syringes of varying air volume, respectively, fitted at the outlets of the branches. The ends of the aortic branches were connected to a common tube representing the venous system and an overhead reservoir provided atrial pressure. An IABP operating a 40-cc balloon was set to counterpulsate with the LV. Total arterial compliance of the system was 0.94 mL/mm Hg and total arterial resistance was 20.3 ± 3.3 mm Hg/L/min. At control, physiological flow distribution was achieved and both mean and phasic aortic pressure and flow were physiological. With the IABP, aortic pressure exhibited the major features of counterpulsation: diastolic augmentation during inflation, inflection point at onset of deflation, and end-diastolic reduction at the end of deflation. The contribution of balloon inflation and deflation was also evident on the aortic flow pattern. This MCS was verified to be suitable for IABP testing and with further adaptations it could be used for studying other hemodynamic problems and ventricular assist devices. © 2010, Copyright the Authors. Artificial Organs © 2010, International Center for Artificial Organs and Transplantation and Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

A Physical Heart Failure Simulation System Utilizing the Total Artificial Heart and Modified Donovan Mock Circulation.

PubMed

Crosby, Jessica R; DeCook, Katrina J; Tran, Phat L; Betterton, Edward; Smith, Richard G; Larson, Douglas F; Khalpey, Zain I; Burkhoff, Daniel; Slepian, Marvin J

2017-07-01

With the growth and diversity of mechanical circulatory support (MCS) systems entering clinical use, a need exists for a robust mock circulation system capable of reliably emulating and reproducing physiologic as well as pathophysiologic states for use in MCS training and inter-device comparison. We report on the development of such a platform utilizing the SynCardia Total Artificial Heart and a modified Donovan Mock Circulation System, capable of being driven at normal and reduced output. With this platform, clinically relevant heart failure hemodynamics could be reliably reproduced as evidenced by elevated left atrial pressure (+112%), reduced aortic flow (-12.6%), blunted Starling-like behavior, and increased afterload sensitivity when compared with normal function. Similarly, pressure-volume relationships demonstrated enhanced sensitivity to afterload and decreased Starling-like behavior in the heart failure model. Lastly, the platform was configured to allow the easy addition of a left ventricular assist device (HeartMate II at 9600 RPM), which upon insertion resulted in improvement of hemodynamics. The present configuration has the potential to serve as a viable system for training and research, aimed at fostering safe and effective MCS device use. © 2016 International Center for Artificial Organs and Transplantation and Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

A compact highly efficient and low hemolytic centrifugal blood pump with a magnetically levitated impeller.

PubMed

Asama, Junichi; Shinshi, Tadahiko; Hoshi, Hideo; Takatani, Setsuo; Shimokohbe, Akira

2006-03-01

A magnetically levitated (maglev) centrifugal blood pump (CBP), intended for use as a ventricular assist device, needs to be highly durable and reliable for long-term use without any mechanical failure. Furthermore, maglev CBPs should be small enough to be implanted into patients of various size and weight. We have developed a compact maglev CBP employing a two-degree-of-freedom controlled magnetic bearing, with a magnetically suspended impeller directly driven by an internal brushless direct current (DC) motor. The magnetic bearing actively controls the radial motion of the impeller and passively supports axial and angular motions using a permanent magnet embedded in the impeller. The overall dimensions of the maglev CBP are 65 mm in diameter and 40 mm in height. The total power consumption and pump efficiency for pumping 6 L/min against a head pressure of 105 mm Hg were 6.5 W and 21%, respectively. To evaluate the characteristics of the maglev CBP when subjected to a disturbance, excitation of the base, simulating the movement of the patient in various directions, and the sudden interception of the outlet tube connected with the pump in a mock circulatory loop, simulating an unexpected kink and emergent clamp during a heart surgery, were tested by monitoring the five-degree-of-freedom motion of the impeller. Furthermore, the hemolytic characteristics of the maglev CBP were compared with those of the Medtronic Biomedicus BPX-80, which demonstrated the superiority of the maglev CBP.

Instrumentation to Record Evoked Potentials for Closed-Loop Control of Deep Brain Stimulation

PubMed Central

Kent, Alexander R.; Grill, Warren M.

2012-01-01

Closed-loop deep brain stimulation (DBS) systems offer promise in relieving the clinical burden of stimulus parameter selection and improving treatment outcomes. In such a system, a feedback signal is used to adjust automatically stimulation parameters and optimize the efficacy of stimulation. We explored the feasibility of recording electrically evoked compound action potentials (ECAPs) during DBS for use as a feedback control signal. A novel instrumentation system was developed to suppress the stimulus artifact and amplify the small magnitude, short latency ECAP response during DBS with clinically relevant parameters. In vitro testing demonstrated the capabilities to increase the gain by a factor of 1,000x over a conventional amplifier without saturation, reduce distortion of mock ECAP signals, and make high fidelity recordings of mock ECAPs at latencies of only 0.5 ms following DBS pulses of 50 to 100 μs duration. Subsequently, the instrumentation was used to make in vivo recordings of ECAPs during thalamic DBS in cats, without contamination by the stimulus artifact. The signal characteristics were similar across three experiments, suggesting common neural activation patterns. The ECAP recordings enabled with this novel instrumentation may provide insight into the type and spatial extent of neural elements activated during DBS, and could serve as feedback control signals for closed-loop systems. PMID:22255894

Experiments of multichannel least-square methods for sound field reproduction inside aircraft mock-up: Objective evaluations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gauthier, P.-A.; Camier, C.; Lebel, F.-A.; Pasco, Y.; Berry, A.; Langlois, J.; Verron, C.; Guastavino, C.

2016-08-01

Sound environment reproduction of various flight conditions in aircraft mock-ups is a valuable tool for the study, prediction, demonstration and jury testing of interior aircraft sound quality and annoyance. To provide a faithful reproduced sound environment, time, frequency and spatial characteristics should be preserved. Physical sound field reproduction methods for spatial sound reproduction are mandatory to immerse the listener's body in the proper sound fields so that localization cues are recreated at the listener's ears. Vehicle mock-ups pose specific problems for sound field reproduction. Confined spaces, needs for invisible sound sources and very specific acoustical environment make the use of open-loop sound field reproduction technologies such as wave field synthesis (based on free-field models of monopole sources) not ideal. In this paper, experiments in an aircraft mock-up with multichannel least-square methods and equalization are reported. The novelty is the actual implementation of sound field reproduction with 3180 transfer paths and trim panel reproduction sources in laboratory conditions with a synthetic target sound field. The paper presents objective evaluations of reproduced sound fields using various metrics as well as sound field extrapolation and sound field characterization.

A numerical method to enhance the performance of a cam-type electric motor-driven left ventricular assist device.

PubMed

Huang, Huan; Yang, Ming; Lu, Cunyue; Xu, Liang; Zhuang, Xiaoqi; Meng, Fan

2013-10-01

Pulsatile left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) driven by electric motors have been widely accepted as a treatment of heart failure. Performance enhancement with computer assistance for this kind of LVAD has seldom been reported. In this article, a numerical method is proposed to assist the design of a cam-type pump. The method requires an integrated model of an LVAD system, consisting of a motor, a transmission mechanism, and a cardiovascular circulation. Performance indices, that is, outlet pressure, outlet flow, and pump efficiency, were used to select the best cam profile from six candidates. A prototype pump connected to a mock circulatory loop (MCL) was used to calibrate the friction coefficient of the cam groove and preliminarily evaluate modeling accuracy. In vitro experiments show that the mean outlet pressure and flow can be predicted with high accuracy by the model, and gross geometries of the measurements can also be reproduced. Simulation results demonstrate that as the total peripheral resistance (TPR) is fixed at 1.1 mm Hg.s/mL, the two-cycle 2/3-rise profile is the best. Compared with other profiles, the maximum increases of pressure and flow indices are 75 and 76%, respectively, and the maximum efficiency increase is over 51%. For different TPRs (0.5∼1.5 mm Hg.s/mL) and operation intervals (0.1∼0.4 s) in counterpulsation, the conclusion is also acceptable. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. and International Center for Artificial Organs and Transplantation.

Development of a hybrid (numerical-hydraulic) circulatory model: prototype testing and its response to IABP assistance.

PubMed

Ferrari, G; Kozarski, M; De Lazzari, C; Górczyńska, K; Tosti, G; Darowski, M

2005-07-01

Merging numerical and physical models of the circulation makes it possible to develop a new class of circulatory models defined as hybrid. This solution reduces the costs, enhances the flexibility and opens the way to many applications ranging from research to education and heart assist devices testing. In the prototype described in this paper, a hydraulic model of systemic arterial tree is connected to a lumped parameters numerical model including pulmonary circulation and the remaining parts of systemic circulation. The hydraulic model consists of a characteristic resistance, of a silicon rubber tube to allow the insertion of an Intra-Aortic Balloon Pump (IABP) and of a lumped parameters compliance. Two electro-hydraulic interfaces, realized by means of gear pumps driven by DC motors, connect the numerical section with both terminals of the hydraulic section. The lumped parameters numerical model and the control system (including analog to digital and digital to analog converters)are developed in LabVIEW environment. The behavior of the model is analyzed by means of the ventricular pressure-volume loops and the time courses of arterial and ventricular pressures and flows in different circulatory conditions. A simulated pathological condition was set to test the IABP and verify the response of the system to this type of mechanical circulatory assistance. The results show that the model can represent hemodynamic relationships in different ventricular and circulatory conditions and is able to react to the IABP assistance.

A computer model of the pediatric circulatory system for testing pediatric assist devices.

PubMed

Giridharan, Guruprasad A; Koenig, Steven C; Mitchell, Michael; Gartner, Mark; Pantalos, George M

2007-01-01

Lumped parameter computer models of the pediatric circulatory systems for 1- and 4-year-olds were developed to predict hemodynamic responses to mechanical circulatory support devices. Model parameters, including resistance, compliance and volume, were adjusted to match hemodynamic pressure and flow waveforms, pressure-volume loops, percent systole, and heart rate of pediatric patients (n = 6) with normal ventricles. Left ventricular failure was modeled by adjusting the time-varying compliance curve of the left heart to produce aortic pressures and cardiac outputs consistent with those observed clinically. Models of pediatric continuous flow (CF) and pulsatile flow (PF) ventricular assist devices (VAD) and intraaortic balloon pump (IABP) were developed and integrated into the heart failure pediatric circulatory system models. Computer simulations were conducted to predict acute hemodynamic responses to PF and CF VAD operating at 50%, 75% and 100% support and 2.5 and 5 ml IABP operating at 1:1 and 1:2 support modes. The computer model of the pediatric circulation matched the human pediatric hemodynamic waveform morphology to within 90% and cardiac function parameters with 95% accuracy. The computer model predicted PF VAD and IABP restore aortic pressure pulsatility and variation in end-systolic and end-diastolic volume, but diminish with increasing CF VAD support.

Physiological Characterization of the SynCardia Total Artificial Heart in a Mock Circulation System

PubMed Central

Crosby, Jessica R.; DeCook, Katrina J.; Tran, Phat L.; Smith, Richard G.; Larson, Douglas F.; Khalpey, Zain I.; Burkhoff, Daniel; Slepian, Marvin J.

2014-01-01

The SynCardia total artificial heart (TAH) has emerged as an effective, life-saving bi-ventricular replacement system for a wide variety of patients with end-stage heart failure. While the clinical performance of the TAH is established, modern physiologic characterization, in terms of elastance behavior and pressure-volume characterization has not been defined. Herein we examine the TAH in terms of elastance using a non-ejecting left-ventricle, and then characterize the pressure-volume relationship of the TAH by varying preload and afterload parameters using a Donovan Mock Circulatory System. We demonstrate that the TAH does not operate with time-varying elastance, differing from the human heart. Further, we show that the TAH has a pressure-volume relationship behavior that also differs from that of the human heart. The TAH does exhibit Starling-like behavior, with output increasing via preload dependent mechanisms, without reliance on an alteration of inotropic state within the operating window of the TAH. Within our testing range, the TAH is insensitive to variations in afterload, however this insensitivity has a limit, the limit being the maximum driving pressure of the pneumatic driver. Understanding the physiology of the TAH affords insight into the functional parameters that govern artificial heart behavior providing perspective on differences compared to the human heart. PMID:25551416

Physiological characterization of the SynCardia total artificial heart in a mock circulation system.

PubMed

Crosby, Jessica R; DeCook, Katrina J; Tran, Phat L; Smith, Richard G; Larson, Douglas F; Khalpey, Zain I; Burkhoff, Daniel; Slepian, Marvin J

2015-01-01

The SynCardia total artificial heart (TAH) has emerged as an effective, life-saving biventricular replacement system for a wide variety of patients with end-stage heart failure. Although the clinical performance of the TAH is established, modern physiological characterization, in terms of elastance behavior and pressure-volume (PV) characterization has not been defined. Herein, we examine the TAH in terms of elastance using a nonejecting left ventricle, and then characterize the PV relation of the TAH by varying preload and afterload parameters using a Donovan Mock Circulatory System. We demonstrate that the TAH does not operate with time-varying elastance, differing from the human heart. Furthermore, we show that the TAH has a PV relation behavior that also differs from that of the human heart. The TAH does exhibit Starling-like behavior, with output increasing via preload-dependent mechanisms, without reliance on an alteration of inotropic state within the operating window of the TAH. Within our testing range, the TAH is insensitive to variations in afterload; however, this insensitivity has a limit, the limit being the maximum driving pressure of the pneumatic driver. Understanding the physiology of the TAH affords insight into the functional parameters that govern artificial heart behavior providing perspective on differences compared with the human heart.

Neutron Tomography Using Mobile Neutron Generators for Assessment of Void Distributions in Thermal Hydraulic Test Loops

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Andersson, P.; Bjelkenstedt, T.; Sundén, E. Andersson; Sjöstrand, H.; Jacobsson-Svärd, S.

Detailed knowledge of the lateral distribution of steam (void) and water in a nuclear fuel assembly is of great value for nuclear reactor operators and fuel manufacturers, with consequences for both reactor safety and economy of operation. Therefore, nuclear relevant two-phase flows are being studied at dedicated thermal-hydraulic test loop, using two-phase flow systems ranging from simplified geometries such as heated circular pipes to full scale mock-ups of nuclear fuel assemblies. Neutron tomography (NT) has been suggested for assessment of the lateral distribution of steam and water in such test loops, motivated by a good ability of neutrons to penetrate the metallic structures of metal pipes and nuclear fuel rod mock-ups, as compared to e.g. conventional X-rays, while the liquid water simultaneously gives comparatively good contrast. However, these stationary test loops require the measurement setup to be mobile, which is often not the case for NT setups. Here, it is acknowledged that fast neutrons of 14 MeV from mobile neutron generators constitute a viable option for a mobile NT system. We present details of the development of neutron tomography for this purpose at the division of Applied Nuclear Physics at Uppsala University. Our concept contains a portable neutron generator, exploiting the fusion reaction of deuterium and tritium, and a detector with plastic scintillator elements designed to achieveadequate spatial and energy resolution, all mounted in a light-weight frame without collimators or bulky moderation to allow for a mobile instrument that can be moved about the stationary thermal hydraulic test sections. The detector system stores event-to-event pulse-height information to allow for discrimination based on the energy deposition in the scintillator elements.

The Use of Fluid Mechanics to Predict Regions of Microscopic Thrombus Formation in Pulsatile VADs.

PubMed

Topper, Stephen R; Navitsky, Michael A; Medvitz, Richard B; Paterson, Eric G; Siedlecki, Christopher A; Slattery, Margaret J; Deutsch, Steven; Rosenberg, Gerson; Manning, Keefe B

2014-03-01

We compare the velocity and shear obtained from particle image velocimetry (PIV) and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) in a pulsatile ventricular assist device (VAD) to further test our thrombus predictive methodology using microscopy data from an explanted VAD. To mimic physiological conditions in vitro , a mock circulatory loop is used with a blood analog that matched blood's viscoelastic behavior at 40% hematocrit. Under normal physiologic pressures and for a heart rate of 75 bpm, PIV data is acquired and wall shear maps are produced. The resolution of the PIV shear rate calculations are tested using the CFD and found to be in the same range. A bovine study, using a model of the 50 cc Penn State V-2 VAD, for 30 days at a constant beat rate of 75 beats per minute (bpm) provides the microscopic data whereby after the 30 days, the device is explanted and the sac surface analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and, after immunofluorescent labeling for platelets and fibrin, confocal microscopy. Areas are examined based on PIV measurements and CFD, with special attention to low shear regions where platelet and fibrin deposition are most likely to occur. Data collected within the outlet port in a direction normal to the front wall of the VAD shows that some regions experience wall shear rates less than 500 s -1 , which increases the likelihood of platelet and fibrin deposition. Despite only one animal study, correlations between PIV, CFD, and in vivo data show promise. Deposition probability is quantified by the thrombus susceptibility potential, a calculation to correlate low shear and time of shear with deposition.

Mathematical multi-scale model of the cardiovascular system including mitral valve dynamics. Application to ischemic mitral insufficiency

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background Valve dysfunction is a common cardiovascular pathology. Despite significant clinical research, there is little formal study of how valve dysfunction affects overall circulatory dynamics. Validated models would offer the ability to better understand these dynamics and thus optimize diagnosis, as well as surgical and other interventions. Methods A cardiovascular and circulatory system (CVS) model has already been validated in silico, and in several animal model studies. It accounts for valve dynamics using Heaviside functions to simulate a physiologically accurate "open on pressure, close on flow" law. However, it does not consider real-time valve opening dynamics and therefore does not fully capture valve dysfunction, particularly where the dysfunction involves partial closure. This research describes an updated version of this previous closed-loop CVS model that includes the progressive opening of the mitral valve, and is defined over the full cardiac cycle. Results Simulations of the cardiovascular system with healthy mitral valve are performed, and, the global hemodynamic behaviour is studied compared with previously validated results. The error between resulting pressure-volume (PV) loops of already validated CVS model and the new CVS model that includes the progressive opening of the mitral valve is assessed and remains within typical measurement error and variability. Simulations of ischemic mitral insufficiency are also performed. Pressure-Volume loops, transmitral flow evolution and mitral valve aperture area evolution follow reported measurements in shape, amplitude and trends. Conclusions The resulting cardiovascular system model including mitral valve dynamics provides a foundation for clinical validation and the study of valvular dysfunction in vivo. The overall models and results could readily be generalised to other cardiac valves. PMID:21942971

Engineering based assessment for a shape design of a pediatric ePTFE pulmonary conduit valve.

PubMed

Tsuboko, Yusuke; Shiraishi, Yasuyuki; Yamada, Akihiro; Yambe, Tomoyuki; Miura, Hidekazu; Mura, Seitaro; Yamagishi, Masaaki

2016-08-01

The authors examined the hemodynamic characteristics of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) pulmonary valved conduits quantitatively by our originally developed pediatric pulmonary mechanical circulatory system, in order to suggest the optimal shape design. The system consisted of pneumatically driven right atrium and ventricle model, a pulmonary valve chamber, and elastic pulmonary compliance model with peripheral vascular resistance units, a venous reservoir. We employed two different types of ePTFE valve and evaluated the relationship between the leaflets motion and hemodynamic characteristics by using a high-speed video camera. As a result, we successfully reproduced hemodynamic simulations in our pediatric pulmonary mock system. We confirmed that the presence of bulging sinuses in the pulmonary valved conduit reduced the transvalvular energy loss and increased the valve opening area during systolic period. Our engineering-based in vitro analysis could be useful for proposing a shape design optimization of sophisticated pediatric ePTFE pulmonary valve.

Vortex Dynamics around Pitching Plates

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-04-29

electrical signals are A/D converted in an ATI NetBox interface and recorded using a Java application, and are filtered in three steps. The first is a low...the plate while staying attached to the corners of the leading edge. During this process, a second vortex loop, created by the quick angular ...is a spike in CL centered around t = 0 due to non-circulatory6 effects from the angular acceleration of the wing. The amplitude of the peak is

Internal hydraulic loss in a seal-less centrifugal Gyro pump.

PubMed

Makinouchi, K; Ohara, Y; Sakuma, I; Damm, G; Mizuguchi, K; Jikuya, T; Takatani, S; Noon, G P; Nosé, Y

1994-01-01

A new index "loss factor Z" defined by Eq. 1 was introduced as the absolute expression of the mock loop resistance for testing a nonpulsatile pump. [formula: see text] where gamma is specific gravity of the fluid, g is the acceleration of gravity, delta P is total pressure head, and Q is flow. Z is expected to be constant, regardless of the pumping parameters. Z values obtained in the same mock loop but with different rotary blood pumps were almost identical and were defined as Z0. New methods of analysis of the flow-restrictive conditions of various rotary blood pumps are proposed in this paper: namely, differential loss factor delta Z, and loss factor sensitivity delta Z/delta A. The proposed Z-Q curves demonstrated better performance mapping than the conventional delta P-Q curves. Delta Z is the difference between the Z-Q curves of two different pumps. A is a design parameter of the pump; therefore delta Z/delta A is a quantitative expression of the effect of the design change on the hydraulic performance. These various indices were used to analyze the internal hydraulic loss of a centrifugal pump (Gyro pump). The relationship between its gap size (rotor casing) and hydraulic performance was assessed quantitatively by these indices. In this paper, the derivation processes and above-mentioned indices are described.

SPECIAL ISSUE ON OPTICAL PROCESSING OF INFORMATION: Circulatory fibre-optic memory loop with a built-in service channel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pilipovich, V. A.; Esman, A. K.; Goncharenko, I. A.; Posed'ko, V. S.; Solonovich, I. F.

1995-10-01

A method for increasing the information capacity and enhancing the reliability of information storage in a dynamic fibre-optic memory is proposed. An additional built-in channel with counterpropagating circulation of signals is provided for this purpose. This additional channel can be used to transmit both information and service signals, such as address words, clock signals, correcting sequences, etc. The possibility of compensating the attenuation of an information signal by stimulated Raman scattering is considered.

Development of an Arm Phantom for Testing Non-Invasive Blood Pressure Monitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anderson-Jackson, LaTecia D.

Approximately one in every three adults age 20 older are diagnosed with high blood pressure or hypertension. It is estimated that hypertension affects 78 million people in the United States, is equally prevalent in both men and woman (Crabtree, Stuart-Shor, & McAllister, 2013). In the United States, around 78% of people suffering from hypertension are aware of their condition, with only 68% using hypertensive medications to control their blood pressure (Writing Group et al., 2010). Clinically, blood pressure measurements may lack accuracy, which can be attributed to various factors, including device limitations, cuff mis-sizing and misplacement, white-coat effect, masked hypertension, and lifestyle factors. The development of an arm phantom to simulate physiologic properties of a human arm and arterial BP waveforms may allow us to better assess the accuracy of non-invasive blood pressure (NIBP) monitors. The objective of this study are to: (1) Develop an arm phantom to replicate physiological properties of the human arm, and (2) Incorporate the arm phantom into a mock circulatory flow loop to simulate different physiological blood pressure readings on the bench. A tissue mimicking material, styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene (SEBS), a co-block polymer was used to develop the arm phantom for in-vitro testing. To determine the optimal mechanical properties for the arm phantom, individual arm components were isolated and tested. A protocol was developed to evaluate various components for optimal arm phantom development. Mechanical testing was conducted on 10%, 15%, and 20% SEBS gel samples for modulus of elasticity measurements in order to simulate physiological properties of the human arm. As a result of the SEBS polymer being a new material for this application, this investigation will contribute to resolving the limitations that occurred during experimentation. In this study, we demonstrated that although SEBS polymer may be an ideal material to use for simulating tissue, further research on the material properties should be conducted.

Modeling Single Ventricle Physiology: Review of Engineering Tools to Study First Stage Palliation of Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome

PubMed Central

Biglino, Giovanni; Giardini, Alessandro; Hsia, Tain-Yen; Figliola, Richard; Taylor, Andrew M.; Schievano, Silvia

2013-01-01

First stage palliation of hypoplastic left heart syndrome, i.e., the Norwood operation, results in a complex physiological arrangement, involving different shunting options (modified Blalock-Taussig, RV-PA conduit, central shunt from the ascending aorta) and enlargement of the hypoplastic ascending aorta. Engineering techniques, both computational and experimental, can aid in the understanding of the Norwood physiology and their correct implementation can potentially lead to refinement of the decision-making process, by means of patient-specific simulations. This paper presents some of the available tools that can corroborate clinical evidence by providing detailed insight into the fluid dynamics of the Norwood circulation as well as alternative surgical scenarios (i.e., virtual surgery). Patient-specific anatomies can be manufactured by means of rapid prototyping and such models can be inserted in experimental set-ups (mock circulatory loops) that can provide a valuable source of validation data as well as hydrodynamic information. Such models can be tuned to respond to differing the patient physiologies. Experimental set-ups can also be compatible with visualization techniques, like particle image velocimetry and cardiovascular magnetic resonance, further adding to the knowledge of the local fluid dynamics. Multi-scale computational models include detailed three-dimensional (3D) anatomical information coupled to a lumped parameter network representing the remainder of the circulation. These models output both overall hemodynamic parameters while also enabling to investigate the local fluid dynamics of the aortic arch or the shunt. As an alternative, pure lumped parameter models can also be employed to model Stage 1 palliation, taking advantage of a much lower computational cost, albeit missing the 3D anatomical component. Finally, analytical techniques, such as wave intensity analysis, can be employed to study the Norwood physiology, providing a mechanistic perspective on the ventriculo-arterial coupling for this specific surgical scenario. PMID:24400277

Porting Gravitational Wave Signal Extraction to Parallel Virtual Machine (PVM)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Thirumalainambi, Rajkumar; Thompson, David E.; Redmon, Jeffery

2009-01-01

Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA) is a planned NASA-ESA mission to be launched around 2012. The Gravitational Wave detection is fundamentally the determination of frequency, source parameters, and waveform amplitude derived in a specific order from the interferometric time-series of the rotating LISA spacecrafts. The LISA Science Team has developed a Mock LISA Data Challenge intended to promote the testing of complicated nested search algorithms to detect the 100-1 millihertz frequency signals at amplitudes of 10E-21. However, it has become clear that, sequential search of the parameters is very time consuming and ultra-sensitive; hence, a new strategy has been developed. Parallelization of existing sequential search algorithms of Gravitational Wave signal identification consists of decomposing sequential search loops, beginning with outermost loops and working inward. In this process, the main challenge is to detect interdependencies among loops and partitioning the loops so as to preserve concurrency. Existing parallel programs are based upon either shared memory or distributed memory paradigms. In PVM, master and node programs are used to execute parallelization and process spawning. The PVM can handle process management and process addressing schemes using a virtual machine configuration. The task scheduling and the messaging and signaling can be implemented efficiently for the LISA Gravitational Wave search process using a master and 6 nodes. This approach is accomplished using a server that is available at NASA Ames Research Center, and has been dedicated to the LISA Data Challenge Competition. Historically, gravitational wave and source identification parameters have taken around 7 days in this dedicated single thread Linux based server. Using PVM approach, the parameter extraction problem can be reduced to within a day. The low frequency computation and a proxy signal-to-noise ratio are calculated in separate nodes that are controlled by the master using message and vector of data passing. The message passing among nodes follows a pattern of synchronous and asynchronous send-and-receive protocols. The communication model and the message buffers are allocated dynamically to address rapid search of gravitational wave source information in the Mock LISA data sets.

Early Impacts of a Human-in-the-Loop Evaluation in a Space Vehicle Mock-up Facility

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Byrne, Vicky; Vos, Gordon; Whitmore, Mihriban

2008-01-01

The development of a new space vehicle, the Orion Crew Exploration Vehicle (CEV), provides Human Factors engineers an excellent opportunity to have an impact early in the design process. This case study highlights a Human-in-the-Loop (HITL) evaluation conducted in a Space Vehicle Mock-Up Facility and will describe the human-centered approach and how the findings are impacting design and operational concepts early in space vehicle design. The focus of this HITL evaluation centered on the activities that astronaut crewmembers would be expected to perform within the functional internal volume of the Crew Module (CM) of the space vehicle. The primary objective was to determine if there are aspects of a baseline vehicle configuration that would limit or prevent the performance of dynamically volume-driving activities (e.g. six crewmembers donning their suits in an evacuation scenario). A second objective was to step through concepts of operations for known systems and evaluate them in integrated scenarios. The functional volume for crewmember activities is closely tied to every aspect of system design (e.g. avionics, safety, stowage, seats, suits, and structural support placement). As this evaluation took place before the Preliminary Design Review of the space vehicle with some designs very early in the development, it was not meant to determine definitely that the crewmembers could complete every activity, but rather to provide inputs that could improve developing designs and concepts of operations definition refinement.

Pressure-wave energy relationship during IABP counterpulsation in a mock circulation: changes with angle and assisting frequency.

PubMed

Biglino, Giovanni; Kolyva, Christina; Khir, Ashraf W

2012-01-01

Despite decades of successful clinical use of the intra aortic balloon pump (IABP), certain aspects of its operation are not yet fully understood. This work aims to investigate in vitro the mechanism underlying balloon inflation and deflation with varying assisting frequency and operating angle with respect to the horizontal, by studying the corresponding pressure and wave energy changes. A mock circulatory system (MCS), with physiological distribution of peripheral resistance and compliance, presented a controllable test bed. We used Wave Intensity Analysis (WIA) to identify balloon-generated waves and quantify their energy. Conventional hemodynamic parameters were also calculated. Tests were repeated at varying operating angles (0°-45°), resembling the semi-recumbent position in the ICU, and at different assisting frequencies (1:1, 1:2, 1:3). Two balloons (25 cc and 40 cc in volume) were tested. The main waves associated with counterpulsation were identified as a backward compression wave associated with balloon inflation and a backward expansion wave associated with balloon deflation. Results showed that the IABP inflation and deflation benefits are reduced with increasing angle, in terms of the size of the inflation and deflation waves as well as in terms of diastolic pressure augmentation and end-diastolic pressure reduction. Both WIA findings and pressure parameters indicated 1:1 as the most effective mode of pumping. This study shows that, in vitro, a greater benefit of counterpulsation can be achieved in the horizontal position at 1:1 assisting frequency, with a good correlation between wave and pressure results.

Pathogenesis of Central and Complex Sleep Apnoea

PubMed Central

Orr, Jeremy E.; Malhotra, Atul; Sands, Scott A.

2016-01-01

Central sleep apnoea (CSA)—the temporary absence or diminution of ventilator effort during sleep—is seen in a variety of forms including periodic breathing in infancy and healthy adults at altitude and Cheyne-Stokes respiration in heart failure. In most circumstances, the cyclic absence of effort is paradoxically a consequence of hypersensitive ventilatory chemoreflex responses to oppose changes in airflow, i.e. elevated loop gain, leading to overshoot/undershoot ventilatory oscillations. Considerable evidence illustrates overlap between CSA and obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), including elevated loop gain in patients with OSA and the presence of pharyngeal narrowing during central apnoeas. Indeed, treatment of OSA, whether via CPAP, tracheostomy, or oral appliances, can reveal CSA, an occurrence referred to as complex sleep apnoea. Factors influencing loop gain include increased chemosensitivity (increased controller gain), reduced damping of blood gas levels (increased plant gain) and increased lung to chemoreceptor circulatory delay. Sleep-wake transitions and pharyngeal dilator muscle responses effectively raise the controller gain and therefore also contribute to total loop gain and overall instability. In some circumstances, for example apnoea of infancy and central congenital hypoventilation syndrome, central apnoeas are the consequence of ventilatory depression and defective ventilatory responses, i.e. low loop gain. The efficacy of available treatments for CSA can be explained in terms of their effects on loop gain, e.g. CPAP improves lung volume (plant gain), stimulants reduce the alveolar-inspired PCO2 difference, supplemental oxygen lowers chemosensitivity. Understanding the magnitude of loop gain and the mechanisms contributing to instability may facilitate personalised interventions for CSA. PMID:27797160

Pathogenesis of central and complex sleep apnoea.

PubMed

Orr, Jeremy E; Malhotra, Atul; Sands, Scott A

2017-01-01

Central sleep apnoea (CSA) - the temporary absence or diminution of ventilatory effort during sleep - is seen in a variety of forms including periodic breathing in infancy and healthy adults at altitude and Cheyne-Stokes respiration in heart failure. In most circumstances, the cyclic absence of effort is paradoxically a consequence of hypersensitive ventilatory chemoreflex responses to oppose changes in airflow, that is elevated loop gain, leading to overshoot/undershoot ventilatory oscillations. Considerable evidence illustrates overlap between CSA and obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), including elevated loop gain in patients with OSA and the presence of pharyngeal narrowing during central apnoeas. Indeed, treatment of OSA, whether via continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), tracheostomy or oral appliances, can reveal CSA, an occurrence referred to as complex sleep apnoea. Factors influencing loop gain include increased chemosensitivity (increased controller gain), reduced damping of blood gas levels (increased plant gain) and increased lung to chemoreceptor circulatory delay. Sleep-wake transitions and pharyngeal dilator muscle responses effectively raise the controller gain and therefore also contribute to total loop gain and overall instability. In some circumstances, for example apnoea of infancy and central congenital hypoventilation syndrome, central apnoeas are the consequence of ventilatory depression and defective ventilatory responses, that is low loop gain. The efficacy of available treatments for CSA can be explained in terms of their effects on loop gain, for example CPAP improves lung volume (plant gain), stimulants reduce the alveolar-inspired PCO 2 difference and supplemental oxygen lowers chemosensitivity. Understanding the magnitude of loop gain and the mechanisms contributing to instability may facilitate personalized interventions for CSA. © 2016 Asian Pacific Society of Respirology.

Hardware-in-the-Loop Co-simulation of Distribution Grid for Demand Response

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

Rotger-Griful, Sergi; Chatzivasileiadis, Spyros; Jacobsen, Rune H.

2016-06-20

In modern power systems, co-simulation is proposed as an enabler for analyzing the interactions between disparate systems. This paper introduces the co-simulation platform Virtual Grid Integration Laboratory (VirGIL) including Hardware-in-the-Loop testing, and demonstrates its potential to assess demand response strategies. VirGIL is based on a modular architecture using the Functional Mock-up Interface industrial standard to integrate new simulators. VirGIL combines state-of-the-art simulators in power systems, communications, buildings, and control. In this work, VirGIL is extended with a Hardware-in-the-Loop component to control the ventilation system of a real 12-story building in Denmark. VirGIL capabilities are illustrated in three scenarios: load following,more » primary reserves and load following aggregation. Experimental results show that the system can track one minute changing signals and it can provide primary reserves for up-regulation. Furthermore, the potential of aggregating several ventilation systems is evaluated considering the impact at distribution grid level and the communications protocol effect.« less

3D Printed Cardiac Phantom for Procedural Planning of a Transcatheter Native Mitral Valve Replacement.

PubMed

Izzo, Richard L; O'Hara, Ryan P; Iyer, Vijay; Hansen, Rose; Meess, Karen M; Nagesh, S V Setlur; Rudin, Stephen; Siddiqui, Adnan H; Springer, Michael; Ionita, Ciprian N

2016-02-27

3D printing an anatomically accurate, functional flow loop phantom of a patient's cardiac vasculature was used to assist in the surgical planning of one of the first native transcatheter mitral valve replacement (TMVR) procedures. CTA scans were acquired from a patient about to undergo the first minimally-invasive native TMVR procedure at the Gates Vascular Institute in Buffalo, NY. A python scripting library, the Vascular Modeling Toolkit (VMTK), was used to segment the 3D geometry of the patient's cardiac chambers and mitral valve with severe stenosis, calcific in nature. A stereolithographic (STL) mesh was generated and AutoDesk Meshmixer was used to transform the vascular surface into a functioning closed flow loop. A Stratasys Objet 500 Connex3 multi-material printer was used to fabricate the phantom with distinguishable material features of the vasculature and calcified valve. The interventional team performed a mock procedure on the phantom, embedding valve cages in the model and imaging the phantom with a Toshiba Infinix INFX-8000V 5-axis C-arm bi-Plane angiography system. After performing the mock-procedure on the cardiac phantom, the cardiologists optimized their transapical surgical approach. The mitral valve stenosis and calcification were clearly visible. The phantom was used to inform the sizing of the valve to be implanted. With advances in image processing and 3D printing technology, it is possible to create realistic patient-specific phantoms which can act as a guide for the interventional team. Using 3D printed phantoms as a valve sizing method shows potential as a more informative technique than typical CTA reconstruction alone.

3D printed cardiac phantom for procedural planning of a transcatheter native mitral valve replacement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Izzo, Richard L.; O'Hara, Ryan P.; Iyer, Vijay; Hansen, Rose; Meess, Karen M.; Nagesh, S. V. Setlur; Rudin, Stephen; Siddiqui, Adnan H.; Springer, Michael; Ionita, Ciprian N.

2016-03-01

3D printing an anatomically accurate, functional flow loop phantom of a patient's cardiac vasculature was used to assist in the surgical planning of one of the first native transcatheter mitral valve replacement (TMVR) procedures. CTA scans were acquired from a patient about to undergo the first minimally-invasive native TMVR procedure at the Gates Vascular Institute in Buffalo, NY. A python scripting library, the Vascular Modeling Toolkit (VMTK), was used to segment the 3D geometry of the patient's cardiac chambers and mitral valve with severe stenosis, calcific in nature. A stereolithographic (STL) mesh was generated and AutoDesk Meshmixer was used to transform the vascular surface into a functioning closed flow loop. A Stratasys Objet 500 Connex3 multi-material printer was used to fabricate the phantom with distinguishable material features of the vasculature and calcified valve. The interventional team performed a mock procedure on the phantom, embedding valve cages in the model and imaging the phantom with a Toshiba Infinix INFX-8000V 5-axis Carm bi-Plane angiography system. Results: After performing the mock-procedure on the cardiac phantom, the cardiologists optimized their transapical surgical approach. The mitral valve stenosis and calcification were clearly visible. The phantom was used to inform the sizing of the valve to be implanted. Conclusion: With advances in image processing and 3D printing technology, it is possible to create realistic patientspecific phantoms which can act as a guide for the interventional team. Using 3D printed phantoms as a valve sizing method shows potential as a more informative technique than typical CTA reconstruction alone.

Development of Highly Sensitive and Specific mRNA Multiplex System (XCYR1) for Forensic Human Body Fluids and Tissues Identification

PubMed Central

Xu, Yan; Xie, Jianhui; Cao, Yu; Zhou, Huaigu; Ping, Yuan; Chen, Liankang; Gu, Lihua; Hu, Wei; Bi, Gang; Ge, Jianye; Chen, Xin; Zhao, Ziqin

2014-01-01

The identification of human body fluids or tissues through mRNA-based profiling is very useful for forensic investigations. Previous studies have shown mRNA biomarkers are effective to identify the origin of biological samples. In this study, we selected 16 tissue specific biomarkers to evaluate their specificities and sensitivities for human body fluids and tissues identification, including porphobilinogen deaminase (PBGD), hemoglobin beta (HBB) and Glycophorin A (GLY) for circulatory blood, protamine 2 (PRM2) and transglutaminase 4 (TGM4) for semen, mucin 4 (MUC4) and human beta defensin 1(HBD1) for vaginal secretion, matrix metalloproteinases 7 and 11 (MMP7 and MMP11) for menstrual blood, keratin 4(KRT4) for oral mucosa, loricrin (LOR) and cystatin 6 (CST6) for skin, histatin 3(HTN3) for saliva, statherin (STATH) for nasal secretion, dermcidin (DCD) for sweat and uromodulin (UMOD) for urine. The above mentioned ten common forensic body fluids or tissues were used in the evaluation. Based on the evaluation, a reverse transcription (RT) PCR multiplex assay, XCYR1, which includes 12 biomarkers (i.e., HBB, GLY, HTN3, PRM2, KRT4, MMP11, MUC4, DCD, UMOD, MMP7, TGM4, and STATH) and 2 housekeeping genes [i.e., glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) and 18SrRNA], was developed. This assay was further validated with real casework samples and mock samples (with both single source and mixture) and it was approved that XCYR1 is effective to identify common body fluids or tissues (i.e., circulatory blood, saliva, semen, vaginal secretion, menstrual blood, oral mucosa, nasal secretion, sweat and urine) in forensic casework samples. PMID:24991806

Development of highly sensitive and specific mRNA multiplex system (XCYR1) for forensic human body fluids and tissues identification.

PubMed

Xu, Yan; Xie, Jianhui; Cao, Yu; Zhou, Huaigu; Ping, Yuan; Chen, Liankang; Gu, Lihua; Hu, Wei; Bi, Gang; Ge, Jianye; Chen, Xin; Zhao, Ziqin

2014-01-01

The identification of human body fluids or tissues through mRNA-based profiling is very useful for forensic investigations. Previous studies have shown mRNA biomarkers are effective to identify the origin of biological samples. In this study, we selected 16 tissue specific biomarkers to evaluate their specificities and sensitivities for human body fluids and tissues identification, including porphobilinogen deaminase (PBGD), hemoglobin beta (HBB) and Glycophorin A (GLY) for circulatory blood, protamine 2 (PRM2) and transglutaminase 4 (TGM4) for semen, mucin 4 (MUC4) and human beta defensin 1(HBD1) for vaginal secretion, matrix metalloproteinases 7 and 11 (MMP7 and MMP11) for menstrual blood, keratin 4(KRT4) for oral mucosa, loricrin (LOR) and cystatin 6 (CST6) for skin, histatin 3(HTN3) for saliva, statherin (STATH) for nasal secretion, dermcidin (DCD) for sweat and uromodulin (UMOD) for urine. The above mentioned ten common forensic body fluids or tissues were used in the evaluation. Based on the evaluation, a reverse transcription (RT) PCR multiplex assay, XCYR1, which includes 12 biomarkers (i.e., HBB, GLY, HTN3, PRM2, KRT4, MMP11, MUC4, DCD, UMOD, MMP7, TGM4, and STATH) and 2 housekeeping genes [i.e., glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) and 18SrRNA], was developed. This assay was further validated with real casework samples and mock samples (with both single source and mixture) and it was approved that XCYR1 is effective to identify common body fluids or tissues (i.e., circulatory blood, saliva, semen, vaginal secretion, menstrual blood, oral mucosa, nasal secretion, sweat and urine) in forensic casework samples.

3D Printed Cardiac Phantom for Procedural Planning of a Transcatheter Native Mitral Valve Replacement

PubMed Central

Izzo, Richard L.; O’Hara, Ryan P.; Iyer, Vijay; Hansen, Rose; Meess, Karen M.; Nagesh, S.V. Setlur; Rudin, Stephen; Siddiqui, Adnan H.; Springer, Michael; Ionita, Ciprian N.

2017-01-01

3D printing an anatomically accurate, functional flow loop phantom of a patient’s cardiac vasculature was used to assist in the surgical planning of one of the first native transcatheter mitral valve replacement (TMVR) procedures. CTA scans were acquired from a patient about to undergo the first minimally-invasive native TMVR procedure at the Gates Vascular Institute in Buffalo, NY. A python scripting library, the Vascular Modeling Toolkit (VMTK), was used to segment the 3D geometry of the patient’s cardiac chambers and mitral valve with severe stenosis, calcific in nature. A stereolithographic (STL) mesh was generated and AutoDesk Meshmixer was used to transform the vascular surface into a functioning closed flow loop. A Stratasys Objet 500 Connex3 multi-material printer was used to fabricate the phantom with distinguishable material features of the vasculature and calcified valve. The interventional team performed a mock procedure on the phantom, embedding valve cages in the model and imaging the phantom with a Toshiba Infinix INFX-8000V 5-axis C-arm bi-Plane angiography system. Results After performing the mock-procedure on the cardiac phantom, the cardiologists optimized their transapical surgical approach. The mitral valve stenosis and calcification were clearly visible. The phantom was used to inform the sizing of the valve to be implanted. Conclusion With advances in image processing and 3D printing technology, it is possible to create realistic patient-specific phantoms which can act as a guide for the interventional team. Using 3D printed phantoms as a valve sizing method shows potential as a more informative technique than typical CTA reconstruction alone. PMID:28615797

A new model of centrifugal blood pump for cardiopulmonary bypass: design improvement, performance, and hemolysis tests.

PubMed

Leme, Juliana; Fonseca, Jeison; Bock, Eduardo; da Silva, Cibele; da Silva, Bruno Utiyama; Dos Santos, Alex Eugênio; Dinkhuysen, Jarbas; Andrade, Aron; Biscegli, José F

2011-05-01

A new model of blood pump for cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) application has been developed and evaluated in our laboratories. Inside the pump housing is a spiral impeller that is conically shaped and has threads on its surface. Worm gears provide an axial motion of the blood column. Rotational motion of the conical shape generates a centrifugal pumping effect and improves pumping performance. One annular magnet with six poles is inside the impeller, providing magnetic coupling to a brushless direct current motor. In order to study the pumping performance, a mock loop system was assembled. Mock loop was composed of Tygon tubes (Saint-Gobain Corporation, Courbevoie, France), oxygenator, digital flowmeter, pressure monitor, electronic driver, and adjustable clamp for flow control. Experiments were performed on six prototypes with small differences in their design. Each prototype was tested and flow and pressure data were obtained for rotational speed of 1000, 1500, 2000, 2500, and 3000 rpm. Hemolysis was studied using pumps with different internal gap sizes (1.35, 1.45, 1.55, and 1.7 mm). Hemolysis tests simulated CPB application with flow rate of 5 L/min against total pressure head of 350 mm Hg. The results from six prototypes were satisfactory, compared to the results from the literature. However, prototype #6 showed the best results. Best hemolysis results were observed with a gap of 1.45 mm, and showed a normalized index of hemolysis of 0.013 g/100 L. When combined, axial and centrifugal pumping principles produce better hydrodynamic performance without increasing hemolysis. © 2011, Copyright the Authors. Artificial Organs © 2011, International Center for Artificial Organs and Transplantation and Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

A laboratory exercise using a physical model for demonstrating countercurrent heat exchange.

PubMed

Loudon, Catherine; Davis-Berg, Elizabeth C; Botz, Jason T

2012-03-01

A physical model was used in a laboratory exercise to teach students about countercurrent exchange mechanisms. Countercurrent exchange is the transport of heat or chemicals between fluids moving in opposite directions separated by a permeable barrier (such as blood within adjacent blood vessels flowing in opposite directions). Greater exchange of heat or chemicals between the fluids occurs when the flows are in opposite directions (countercurrent) than in the same direction (concurrent). When a vessel loops back on itself, countercurrent exchange can occur between the two arms of the loop, minimizing loss or uptake at the bend of the loop. Comprehension of the physical principles underlying countercurrent exchange helps students to understand how kidneys work and how modifications of a circulatory system can influence the movement of heat or chemicals to promote or minimize exchange and reinforces the concept that heat and chemicals move down their temperature or concentration gradients, respectively. One example of a well-documented countercurrent exchanger is the close arrangement of veins and arteries inside bird legs; therefore, the setup was arranged to mimic blood vessels inside a bird leg, using water flowing inside tubing as a physical proxy for blood flow within blood vessels.

Control of respiration-driven retrograde flow in the subdiaphragmatic venous return of the Fontan circulation

PubMed Central

Vukicevic, M; Conover, T; Jaeggli, M; Zhou, J; Pennati, G; Hsia, TY; Figliola, RS

2014-01-01

Respiration influences the subdiaphragmatic venous return in the total cavopulmonary connection (TCPC) of the Fontan circulation whereby both the inferior vena cava (IVC) and hepatic vein flows can experience retrograde motion. Controlling retrograde flows could improve patient outcomes. Using a patient-specific model within a Fontan mock circulatory system with respiration, we inserted a valve into the IVC to examine its effects on local hemodynamics while varying retrograde volumes by changing vascular impedances. A bovine valved conduit reduced IVC retrograde flow to within 3% of antegrade flow in all cases. The valve closed only under conditions supporting retrograde flow and its effects on local hemodynamics increased with larger retrograde volume. Liver and TCPC pressures improved only while the valve leaflets were closed while cycle-averaged pressures improved only slightly (italic>1 mm Hg). Increased pulmonary vascular resistance raised mean circulation pressures but the valve functioned and cardiac output improved and stabilized. Power loss across the TCPC improved by 12–15% (pbold>0.05) with a valve. The effectiveness of valve therapy is dependent on patient vascular impedance. PMID:24814833

Mock Circulatory System of the Fontan Circulation to Study Respiration Effects on Venous Flow Behavior

PubMed Central

Vukicevic, M.; Chiulli, J.A.; Conover, T.; Pennati, G.; Hsia, T.Y.; Figliola, R.S.

2013-01-01

We describe an in vitro model of the Fontan circulation with respiration to study subdiaphragmatic venous flow behavior. The venous and arterial connections of a total cavopulmonary connection (TCPC) test section were coupled with a physical lumped parameter (LP) model of the circulation. Intrathoracic and subdiaphragmatic pressure changes associated with normal breathing were applied. This system was tuned for two patients (5 years, 0.67 m2; 10 years, 1.2 m2) to physiological values. System function was verified by comparison to the analytical model on which it was based and by consistency with published clinical measurements. Overall, subdiaphragmatic venous flow was influenced by respiration. Flow within the arteries and veins increased during inspiration but decreased during expiration with retrograde flow in the inferior venous territories. System pressures and flows showed close agreement with the analytical LP model (p < 0.05). The ratio of the flow rates occurring during inspiration to expiration were within the clinical range of values reported elsewhere. The approach used to setup and control the model was effective and provided reasonable comparisons with clinical data. PMID:23644612

A Multiscale Closed-Loop Cardiovascular Model, with Applications to Heart Pacing and Hemorrhage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Canuto, Daniel; Eldredge, Jeff; Chong, Kwitae; Benharash, Peyman; Dutson, Erik

2017-11-01

A computational tool is developed for simulating the dynamic response of the human cardiovascular system to various stressors and injuries. The tool couples zero-dimensional models of the heart, pulmonary vasculature, and peripheral vasculature to one-dimensional models of the major systemic arteries. To simulate autonomic response, this multiscale circulatory model is integrated with a feedback model of the baroreflex, allowing control of heart rate, cardiac contractility, and peripheral impedance. The performance of the tool is demonstrated in two scenarios: increasing heart rate by stimulating the sympathetic nervous system, and an acute 10 percent hemorrhage from the left femoral artery.

Self sufficient wireless transmitter powered by foot-pumped urine operating wearable MFC.

PubMed

Taghavi, M; Stinchcombe, A; Greenman, J; Mattoli, V; Beccai, L; Mazzolai, B; Melhuish, C; Ieropoulos, I A

2015-12-10

The first self-sufficient system, powered by a wearable energy generator based on microbial fuel cell (MFC) technology is introduced. MFCs made from compliant material were developed in the frame of a pair of socks, which was fed by urine via a manual gaiting pump. The simple and single loop cardiovascular fish circulatory system was used as the inspiration for the design of the manual pump. A wireless programmable communication module, engineered to operate within the range of the generated electricity, was employed, which opens a new avenue for research in the utilisation of waste products for powering portable as well as wearable electronics.

In vitro comparison of support capabilities of intra-aortic balloon pump and Impella 2.5 left percutaneous.

PubMed

Schampaert, Stéphanie; van't Veer, Marcel; van de Vosse, Frans N; Pijls, Nico H J; de Mol, Bas A; Rutten, Marcel C M

2011-09-01

The Impella 2.5 left percutaneous (LP), a relatively new transvalvular assist device, challenges the position of the intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP), which has a long record in supporting patients after myocardial infarction and cardiac surgery. However, while more costly and more demanding in management, the advantages of the Impella 2.5 LP are yet to be established. The aim of this study was to evaluate the benefits of the 40 cc IABP and the Impella 2.5 LP operating at 47,000 rpm in vitro, and compare their circulatory support capabilities in terms of cardiac output, coronary flow, cardiac stroke work, and arterial blood pressure. Clinical scenarios of cardiogenic preshock and cardiogenic shock (CS), with blood pressure depression, lowered cardiac output, and constant heart rate of 80 bpm, were modeled in a model-controlled mock circulation, featuring a systemic, pulmonary, and coronary vascular bed. The ventricles, represented by servomotor-operated piston pumps, included the Frank-Starling mechanism. The systemic circulation was modeled with a flexible tube having close-to-human aortic dimensions and compliance properties. Proximally, it featured a branch mimicking the brachiocephalic arteries and a physiological correct coronary flow model. The rest of the systemic and pulmonary impedance was modeled by four-element Windkessel models. In this system, the enhancement of coronary flow and blood pressure was tested with both support systems under healthy and pathological conditions. Hemodynamic differences between the IABP and the Impella 2.5 LP were small. In our laboratory model, both systems approximately yielded a 10% cardiac output increase and a 10% coronary flow increase. However, since the Impella 2.5 LP provided significantly better left ventricular unloading, the circulatory support capabilities were slightly in favor of the Impella 2.5 LP. On the other hand, pulsatility was enhanced with the IABP and lowered with the Impella 2.5 LP. The support capabilities of both the IABP and the Impella 2.5 LP strongly depended on the simulated hemodynamic conditions. Maximum hemodynamic benefits were achieved when mechanical circulatory support was applied on a simulated scenario of deep CS. © 2011, Copyright Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e). Artificial Organs © 2011, International Center for Artificial Organs and Transplantation and Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Physiological control of dual rotary pumps as a biventricular assist device using a master/slave approach.

PubMed

Stevens, Michael C; Wilson, Stephen; Bradley, Andrew; Fraser, John; Timms, Daniel

2014-09-01

Dual rotary left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) can provide biventricular mechanical support during heart failure. Coordination of left and right pump speeds is critical not only to avoid ventricular suction and to match cardiac output with demand, but also to ensure balanced systemic and pulmonary circulatory volumes. Physiological control systems for dual LVADs must meet these objectives across a variety of clinical scenarios by automatically adjusting left and right pump speeds to avoid catastrophic physiological consequences. In this study we evaluate a novel master/slave physiological control system for dual LVADs. The master controller is a Starling-like controller, which sets flow rate as a function of end-diastolic ventricular pressure (EDP). The slave controller then maintains a linear relationship between right and left EDPs. Both left/right and right/left master/slave combinations were evaluated by subjecting them to four clinical scenarios (rest, postural change, Valsalva maneuver, and exercise) simulated in a mock circulation loop. The controller's performance was compared to constant-rotational-speed control and two other dual LVAD control systems: dual constant inlet pressure and dual Frank-Starling control. The results showed that the master/slave physiological control system produced fewer suction events than constant-speed control (6 vs. 62 over a 7-min period). Left/right master/slave control had lower risk of pulmonary congestion than the other control systems, as indicated by lower maximum EDPs (15.1 vs. 25.2-28.4 mm Hg). During exercise, master/slave control increased total flow from 5.2 to 10.1 L/min, primarily due to an increase of left and right pump speed. Use of the left pump as the master resulted in fewer suction events and lower EDPs than when the right pump was master. Based on these results, master/slave control using the left pump as the master automatically adjusts pump speed to avoid suction and increases pump flow during exercise without causing pulmonary venous congestion. Copyright © 2014 International Center for Artificial Organs and Transplantation and Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Branched hybrid vessel: in vitro loaded hydrodynamic forces influence the tissue architecture.

PubMed

Kobashi, T; Matsuda, T

2000-01-01

This study was conducted to investigate how a continuous load of hydrodynamic stresses influences the tissue architecture of a branched hybrid vessel in vitro. Tubular hybrid medial tissue of small (3 mm) and large (6 mm) diameters, prepared by thermal gelation of a cold mixed solution of bovine smooth muscle cells (SMCs) and type I collagen in glass molds, was assembled into a branched hybrid medial tissue by end-to-side anastomosis. After a 2-week culture period, bovine endothelial cells (ECs) were seeded onto the luminal surface. The branched hybrid vessel was connected to a mock circulatory loop system and tested for two modes of flow: 1) low flow rate for 24 h, 2) high flow rate for 24 or 72 h. After exposure to a low flow rate for 24 h, cobblestone appearance of the ECs was dominant. After exposure to a high flow rate, EC alignment in the direction of flow was observed in the branch region, except at the region of predicted flow separation where ECs retained their polygonal configuration. Elongation of SMCs with no preferential orientation was observed in the case of vessels exposed to a high flow rate for 24 h, and circumferential orientation was prominent in those exposed to a high flow rate for 72 h. On the other hand, collagen fibrils exhibited no preferential orientation in either case. After injection of Evans blue-albumin conjugate into the circulating medium, the luminal surface of the hybrid vessel exposed to a high flow rate for 24 h was examined by confocal laser scanning microscopy. The fluorescence intensity was low at the high shear zone in the branch region, while at the flow separation region it was very high, indicating the increased albumin permeability at the latter region. These findings reflect region-specific tissue architecture in the branch region, in response to the local flow pattern, and may provide an in vitro atherosclerosis model as well as a fundamental basis for the development of functional branched hybrid grafts.

The influence of sex on mock jurors' verdicts across type of child abuse cases.

PubMed

Pettalia, Jennifer; Pozzulo, Joanna D; Reed, Jennifer

2017-07-01

This study examined the influence of victim sex, mock juror sex, and type of child abuse (physical, sexual, emotional, and neglect) on mock jurors' assessments of eyewitness and defendant integrity, continuous guilt ratings, dichotomous verdicts, and sentencing recommendations. Participants read one of eight versions of a trial transcript and then answered a self-report questionnaire. Female mock jurors were significantly more likely to find the defendant guilty overall. Moreover, female mock jurors recommended significantly longer sentences for defendants in sexual abuse cases; whereas, male mock jurors recommended significantly longer sentences for defendants in sexual and physical abuse cases. Male mock jurors perceived the defendant more favorably than female mock jurors; whereas, female mock jurors perceived the alleged victim more favorable than male mock jurors. These results suggest that juror sex may be an influential factor in child abuse cases overall. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Critical end point in the presence of a chiral chemical potential

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

Cui, Z. -F.; Cloët, I. C.; Lu, Y.

A class of Polyakov-loop-modified Nambu-Jona-Lasinio models has been used to support a conjecture that numerical simulations of lattice-regularized QCD defined with a chiral chemical potential can provide information about the existence and location of a critical end point in the QCD phase diagram drawn in the plane spanned by baryon chemical potential and temperature. That conjecture is challenged by conflicts between the model results and analyses of the same problem using simulations of lattice-regularized QCD (lQCD) and well-constrained Dyson-Schwinger equation (DSE) studies. We find the conflict is resolved in favor of the lQCD and DSE predictions when both a physicallymore » motivated regularization is employed to suppress the contribution of high-momentum quark modes in the definition of the effective potential connected with the Polyakov-loop-modified Nambu-Jona-Lasinio models and the four-fermion coupling in those models does not react strongly to changes in the mean field that is assumed to mock-up Polyakov-loop dynamics. With the lQCD and DSE predictions thus confirmed, it seems unlikely that simulations of lQCD with mu(5) > 0 can shed any light on a critical end point in the regular QCD phase diagram.« less

Pediatric Donation After Circulatory Determination of Death: A Scoping Review.

PubMed

Weiss, Matthew J; Hornby, Laura; Witteman, William; Shemie, Sam D

2016-03-01

Although pediatric donation after circulatory determination of death is increasing in frequency, there are no national or international donation after circulatory determination of death guidelines specific to pediatrics. This scoping review was performed to map the pediatric donation after circulatory determination of death literature, identify pediatric donation after circulatory determination of death knowledge gaps, and inform the development of national or regional pediatric donation after circulatory determination of death guidelines. Terms related to pediatric donation after circulatory determination of death were searched in Embase and MEDLINE, as well as the non-MEDLINE sources in PubMed from 1980 to May 2014. Seven thousand five hundred ninety-seven references were discovered and 85 retained for analysis. All references addressing pediatric donation after circulatory determination of death were considered. Exclusion criteria were articles that did not address pediatric patients, animal or laboratory studies, surgical techniques, and local pediatric donation after circulatory determination of death protocols. Narrative reviews and opinion articles were the most frequently discovered reference (25/85) and the few discovered studies were observational or qualitative and almost exclusively retrospective. Retained references were divided into themes and analyzed using qualitative methodology. The main discovered themes were 1) studies estimating the number of potential pediatric donation after circulatory determination of death donors and their impact on donation; 2) ethical issues in pediatric donation after circulatory determination of death; 3) physiology of the dying process after withdrawal of life-sustaining therapy; 4) cardiac pediatric donation after circulatory determination of death; and 5) neonatal pediatric donation after circulatory determination of death. Donor estimates suggest that pediatric donation after circulatory determination of death will remain an event less common than brain death, albeit with the potential to substantially expand the existing organ donation pool. Limited data suggest outcomes comparable with organs donated after neurologic determination of death. Although there is continued debate around ethical aspects of pediatric donation after circulatory determination of death, all pediatric donation after circulatory determination of death publications from professional societies contend that pediatric donation after circulatory determination of death can be practiced ethically. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the published literature related to pediatric donation after circulatory determination of death. In addition to informing the development of pediatric-specific guidelines, this review serves to highlight several important knowledge gaps in this topic.

In Vitro Validation of Real-Time Three-Dimensional Color Doppler Echocardiography for Direct Measurement of Proximal Isovelocity Surface Area in Mitral Regurgitation

PubMed Central

Little, Stephen H.; Igo, Stephen R.; Pirat, Bahar; McCulloch, Marti; Hartley, Craig J.; Nosé, Yukihiko; Zoghbi, William A.

2012-01-01

The 2-dimensional (2D) color Doppler (2D-CD) proximal isovelocity surface area (PISA) method assumes a hemispheric flow convergence zone to estimate transvalvular flow. Recently developed 3-dimensional (3D)-CD can directly visualize PISA shape and surface area without geometric assumptions. To validate a novel method to directly measure PISA using real-time 3D-CD echocardiography, a circulatory loop with an ultrasound imaging chamber was created to model mitral regurgitation (MR). Thirty-two different regurgitant flow conditions were tested using symmetric and asymmetric flow orifices. Three-dimensional–PISA was reconstructed from a hand-held real-time 3D-CD data set. Regurgitant volume was derived using both 2D-CD and 3D-CD PISA methods, and each was compared against a flowmeter standard. The circulatory loop achieved regurgitant volume within the clinical range of MR (11 to 84 ml). Three-dimensional–PISA geometry reflected the 2D geometry of the regurgitant orifice. Correlation between the 2D-PISA method regurgitant volume and actual regurgitant volume was significant (r2 = 0.47, p <0.001). Mean 2D-PISA regurgitant volume underestimate was 19.1 ± 25 ml (2 SDs). For the 3D-PISA method, correlation with actual regurgitant volume was significant (r2 = 0.92, p <0.001), with a mean regurgitant volume underestimate of 2.7 ± 10 ml (2 SDs). The 3D-PISA method showed less regurgitant volume underestimation for all orifice shapes and regurgitant volumes tested. In conclusion, in an in vitro model of MR, 3D-CD was used to directly measure PISA without geometric assumption. Compared with conventional 2D-PISA, regurgitant volume was more accurate when derived from 3D-PISA across symmetric and asymmetric orifices within a broad range of hemodynamic flow conditions. PMID:17493476

System identification of closed-loop cardiovascular control: effects of posture and autonomic blockade

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mullen, T. J.; Appel, M. L.; Mukkamala, R.; Mathias, J. M.; Cohen, R. J.

1997-01-01

We applied system identification to the analysis of fluctuations in heart rate (HR), arterial blood pressure (ABP), and instantaneous lung volume (ILV) to characterize quantitatively the physiological mechanisms responsible for the couplings between these variables. We characterized two autonomically mediated coupling mechanisms [the heart rate baroreflex (HR baroreflex) and respiratory sinus arrhythmia (ILV-HR)] and two mechanically mediated coupling mechanisms [the blood pressure wavelet generated with each cardiac contraction (circulatory mechanics) and the direct mechanical effects of respiration on blood pressure (ILV-->ABP)]. We evaluated the method in humans studied in the supine and standing postures under control conditions and under conditions of beta-sympathetic and parasympathetic pharmacological blockades. Combined beta-sympathetic and parasympathetic blockade abolished the autonomically mediated couplings while preserving the mechanically mediated coupling. Selective autonomic blockade and postural changes also altered the couplings in a manner consistent with known physiological mechanisms. System identification is an "inverse-modeling" technique that provides a means for creating a closed-loop model of cardiovascular regulation for an individual subject without altering the underlying physiological control mechanisms.

Microbiota, immunity and the liver.

PubMed

Vaikunthanathan, T; Safinia, N; Lombardi, G; Lechler, R I

2016-03-01

The gut harbors a complex community of over 100 trillion microbial cells known to exist in symbiotic harmony with the host influencing human physiology, metabolism, nutrition and immune function. It is now widely accepted that perturbations of this close partnership results in the pathogenesis of several major diseases with increasing evidence highlighting their role outside of the intestinal tract. The intimate proximity and circulatory loop of the liver and the gut has attracted significant attention regarding the role of the microbiota in the development and progression of liver disease. Here we give an overview of the interaction between the microbiota and the immune system and focus on their convincing role in both the propagation and treatment of liver disease. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Contemporary Risk Factors and Outcomes of Transfusion-Associated Circulatory Overload.

PubMed

Roubinian, Nareg H; Hendrickson, Jeanne E; Triulzi, Darrell J; Gottschall, Jerome L; Michalkiewicz, Michael; Chowdhury, Dhuly; Kor, Daryl J; Looney, Mark R; Matthay, Michael A; Kleinman, Steven H; Brambilla, Donald; Murphy, Edward L

2018-04-01

Transfusion-associated circulatory overload is characterized by hydrostatic pulmonary edema following blood transfusion. Restrictive transfusion practice may affect the occurrence and severity of transfusion-associated circulatory overload in critically ill patients. We sought to examine contemporary risk factors and outcomes for transfusion-associated circulatory overload. Case-control study. Four tertiary care hospitals. We prospectively enrolled 200 patients with transfusion-associated circulatory overload identified by active surveillance and 405 controls matched by transfusion intensity. None. Among 20,845 transfused patients who received 128,263 blood components from May 2015 until July 2016, transfusion-associated circulatory overload incidence was one case per 100 transfused patients. In addition to cardiovascular comorbidities, multivariable analysis identified the following independent predictors of transfusion-associated circulatory overload: acute kidney injury, emergency surgery, pretransfusion diuretic use, and plasma transfusion-the latter especially in females. Compared with matched controls, transfusion-associated circulatory overload cases were more likely to require mechanical ventilation (71% vs 49%; p < 0.001), experienced longer intensive care and hospital lengths of stay following transfusion, and had higher mortality (21% vs 11%; p = 0.02) even after adjustment for other potentially confounding variables. Despite restrictive transfusion practice, transfusion-associated circulatory overload remains a frequent complication of transfusion and is an independent risk factor for in-hospital morbidity and mortality. In addition to cardiovascular and renal risk factors, plasma transfusion was associated with transfusion-associated circulatory overload after controlling for other covariates. Additional research is needed to examine the benefit of reduced erythrocyte or plasma exposure in patients at high risk for transfusion-associated circulatory overload.

Bibliography of Mock Trial Materials.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Inst. for Citizen Education in the Law, Washington, DC.

This catalog lists general articles on mock trials, information for arranging mock trial competitions, mock trial problem sets, and video tapes. The problem sets contain introductory material, applicable law, statements of facts, witness statements, and documents. The cases include issues in family, consumer, criminal, and immigration law. Several…

Ventilatory Cycle Measurements and Loop Gain in Central Apnea in Mining Drivers Exposed to Intermittent Altitude.

PubMed

Rey de Castro, Jorge; Liendo, Alicia; Ortiz, Oswaldo; Rosales-Mayor, Edmundo; Liendo, César

2017-01-15

By measuring the apnea length, ventilatory phase, respiratory cycle length, and loop gain, we can further characterize the central apneas of high altitude (CAHA). Sixty-three drivers of all-terrain vehicles, working in a Peruvian mine located at 2,020 meters above sea level (MASL), were evaluated. A respiratory polygraph was performed in the first night they slept at high altitude. None of the subjects were exposed to oxygen during the test or acetazolamide in the preceding days of the test. Sixty-three respiratory polygraphs were performed, and 59 were considered for analysis. Forty-six (78%) were normal, 6 (10%) had OSA, and 7 (12%) had CAHA. Key data from subjects include: residing altitude: 341 ± 828 MASL, Lake Louise scoring: 0.4 ± 0.8, Epworth score: 3.4 ± 2.7, apneahypopnea index: 35.7 ± 19.3, CA index: 13.4 ± 14.2, CA length: 14.4 ± 3.6 sec, ventilatory length: 13.5 ± 2.9 sec, cycle length: 26.5 ± 4.0 sec, ventilatory length/CA length ratio 0.9 ± 0.3 and circulatory delay 13.3 ± 2.9 sec. Duty ratio media [ventilatory duration/cycle duration] was 0.522 ± 0 0.128 [0.308-0.700] and loop gain was calculated from the duty ratio utilizing this formula: LG = 2π / [(2πDR-sin(2πDR)]. All subjects have a high loop gain media 2.415 ± 1.761 [1.175-6.260]. Multiple correlations were established with loop gain values, but the only significant correlation detected was between central apnea index and loop gain. Twelve percent of the studied population had CAHA. Measurements of respiratory cycle in workers with CAHA are more similar to idiopathic central apneas rather than Hunter-Cheyne-Stokes respiration. Also, there was a high degree of correlation between severity of central apnea and the degree of loop gain. The abnormal breathing patterns in those subjects could affect the sleep quality and potentially increase the risk for work accidents. © 2017 American Academy of Sleep Medicine

Using Controversial Mock Trials in "Psychology and Law" Courses: Suggestions from Participants.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Werth, James L., Jr.; Harvey, James; McNamara, Rebecca; Svoboda, Andrea; Gulbrandson, Raina; Hendren, Jennifer; Greedy, Tiffany; Leybold, Christie

2002-01-01

Describes a mock trial focused on Jack Kevorkian and an euthanasia case that was included in a psychology and law course. Discusses the course format, provides the reactions to the mock trial by students and consultants, and includes suggestions for improving the mock trial. (CMK)

Blacks' Death Rate Due to Circulatory Diseases Is Positively Related to Whites' Explicit Racial Bias.

PubMed

Leitner, Jordan B; Hehman, Eric; Ayduk, Ozlem; Mendoza-Denton, Rodolfo

2016-10-01

Perceptions of racial bias have been linked to poorer circulatory health among Blacks compared with Whites. However, little is known about whether Whites' actual racial bias contributes to this racial disparity in health. We compiled racial-bias data from 1,391,632 Whites and examined whether racial bias in a given county predicted Black-White disparities in circulatory-disease risk (access to health care, diagnosis of a circulatory disease; Study 1) and circulatory-disease-related death rate (Study 2) in the same county. Results revealed that in counties where Whites reported greater racial bias, Blacks (but not Whites) reported decreased access to health care (Study 1). Furthermore, in counties where Whites reported greater racial bias, both Blacks and Whites showed increased death rates due to circulatory diseases, but this relationship was stronger for Blacks than for Whites (Study 2). These results indicate that racial disparities in risk of circulatory disease and in circulatory-disease-related death rate are more pronounced in communities where Whites harbor more explicit racial bias.

A pacemaker powered by an implantable biofuel cell operating under conditions mimicking the human blood circulatory system--battery not included.

PubMed

Southcott, Mark; MacVittie, Kevin; Halámek, Jan; Halámková, Lenka; Jemison, William D; Lobel, Robert; Katz, Evgeny

2013-05-07

Biocatalytic electrodes made of buckypaper were modified with PQQ-dependent glucose dehydrogenase on the anode and with laccase on the cathode and were assembled in a flow biofuel cell filled with serum solution mimicking the human blood circulatory system. The biofuel cell generated an open circuitry voltage, Voc, of ca. 470 mV and a short circuitry current, Isc, of ca. 5 mA (a current density of 0.83 mA cm(-2)). The power generated by the implantable biofuel cell was used to activate a pacemaker connected to the cell via a charge pump and a DC-DC converter interface circuit to adjust the voltage produced by the biofuel cell to the value required by the pacemaker. The voltage-current dependencies were analyzed for the biofuel cell connected to an Ohmic load and to the electronic loads composed of the interface circuit, or the power converter, and the pacemaker to study their operation. The correct pacemaker operation was confirmed using a medical device - an implantable loop recorder. Sustainable operation of the pacemaker was achieved with the system closely mimicking human physiological conditions using a single biofuel cell. This first demonstration of the pacemaker activated by the physiologically produced electrical energy shows promise for future electronic implantable medical devices powered by electricity harvested from the human body.

Rapid prototyping compliant arterial phantoms for in-vitro studies and device testing

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Compliant vascular phantoms are desirable for in-vitro patient-specific experiments and device testing. TangoPlus FullCure 930® is a commercially available rubber-like material that can be used for PolyJet rapid prototyping. This work aims to gather preliminary data on the distensibility of this material, in order to assess the feasibility of its use in the context of experimental cardiovascular modelling. Methods The descending aorta anatomy of a volunteer was modelled in 3D from cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) images and rapid prototyped using TangoPlus. The model was printed with a range of increasing wall thicknesses (0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 1.0 and 1.5 mm), keeping the lumen of the vessel constant. Models were also printed in both vertical and horizontal orientations, thus resulting in a total of ten specimens. Compliance tests were performed by monitoring pressure variations while gradually increasing and decreasing internal volume. Knowledge of distensibility was thus derived and then implemented with CMR data to test two applications. Firstly, a patient-specific compliant model of hypoplastic aorta suitable for connection in a mock circulatory loop for in-vitro tests was manufactured. Secondly, the right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) of a patient necessitating pulmonary valve replacement was printed in order to physically test device insertion and assess patient’s suitability for percutaneous pulmonary valve intervention. Results The distensibility of the material was identified in a range from 6.5 × 10-3 mmHg-1 for the 0.6 mm case, to 3.0 × 10-3 mmHg-1 for the 1.5 mm case. The models printed in the vertical orientation were always more compliant than their horizontal counterpart. Rapid prototyping of a compliant hypoplastic aorta and of a RVOT anatomical model were both feasible. Device insertion in the RVOT model was successful. Conclusion Values of distensibility, compared with literature data, show that TangoPlus is suitable for manufacturing arterial phantoms, with the added benefit of being compatible with PolyJet printing, thus guaranteeing representative anatomical finishing, and quick and inexpensive fabrication. The appealing possibility of printing models of non-uniform wall thickness, resembling more closely certain physiological scenarios, can also be explored. However, this material appears to be too stiff for modelling the more compliant systemic venous system. PMID:23324211

Rapid prototyping compliant arterial phantoms for in-vitro studies and device testing.

PubMed

Biglino, Giovanni; Verschueren, Peter; Zegels, Raf; Taylor, Andrew M; Schievano, Silvia

2013-01-16

Compliant vascular phantoms are desirable for in-vitro patient-specific experiments and device testing. TangoPlus FullCure 930 is a commercially available rubber-like material that can be used for PolyJet rapid prototyping. This work aims to gather preliminary data on the distensibility of this material, in order to assess the feasibility of its use in the context of experimental cardiovascular modelling. The descending aorta anatomy of a volunteer was modelled in 3D from cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) images and rapid prototyped using TangoPlus. The model was printed with a range of increasing wall thicknesses (0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 1.0 and 1.5 mm), keeping the lumen of the vessel constant. Models were also printed in both vertical and horizontal orientations, thus resulting in a total of ten specimens. Compliance tests were performed by monitoring pressure variations while gradually increasing and decreasing internal volume. Knowledge of distensibility was thus derived and then implemented with CMR data to test two applications. Firstly, a patient-specific compliant model of hypoplastic aorta suitable for connection in a mock circulatory loop for in-vitro tests was manufactured. Secondly, the right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) of a patient necessitating pulmonary valve replacement was printed in order to physically test device insertion and assess patient's suitability for percutaneous pulmonary valve intervention. The distensibility of the material was identified in a range from 6.5 × 10(-3) mmHg(-1) for the 0.6 mm case, to 3.0 × 10(-3) mmHg(-1) for the 1.5 mm case. The models printed in the vertical orientation were always more compliant than their horizontal counterpart. Rapid prototyping of a compliant hypoplastic aorta and of a RVOT anatomical model were both feasible. Device insertion in the RVOT model was successful. Values of distensibility, compared with literature data, show that TangoPlus is suitable for manufacturing arterial phantoms, with the added benefit of being compatible with PolyJet printing, thus guaranteeing representative anatomical finishing, and quick and inexpensive fabrication. The appealing possibility of printing models of non-uniform wall thickness, resembling more closely certain physiological scenarios, can also be explored. However, this material appears to be too stiff for modelling the more compliant systemic venous system.

Street Law Mock Trial Manual.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McGuire, Patricia, Ed.; O'Brien, Edward L.; Arbetman, Lee; Mills, Vivian H.; Pannell, Andrew

Designed to facilitate the expanded use of mock trials, this manual is divided into two principle sections--a teacher's guide and a student's guide. The teacher's guide contains specific advice to teachers on all aspects of preparing for a mock trial and seven specific lesson plans for a 2- to 3-week mock trial unit. Each lesson contains…

The utility of mock oral examinations in preparation for the American Board of Surgery certifying examination.

PubMed

Higgins, Rana M; Deal, Rebecca A; Rinewalt, Daniel; Hollinger, Edward F; Janssen, Imke; Poirier, Jennifer; Austin, Delores; Rendina, Megan; Francescatti, Amanda; Myers, Jonathan A; Millikan, Keith W; Luu, Minh B

2016-02-01

Determine the utility of mock oral examinations in preparation for the American Board of Surgery certifying examination (ABS CE). Between 2002 and 2012, blinded data were collected on 63 general surgery residents: 4th and 5th-year mock oral examination scores, first-time pass rates on ABS CE, and an online survey. Fifty-seven residents took the 4th-year mock oral examination: 30 (52.6%) passed and 27 (47.4%) failed, with first-time ABS CE pass rates 93.3% and 81.5% (P = .238). Fifty-nine residents took the 5th-year mock oral examination: 28 (47.5%) passed and 31 (52.5%) failed, with first-time ABS CE pass rates 82.1% and 93.5% (P = .240). Thirty-eight responded to the online survey, 77.1% ranked mock oral examinations as very or extremely helpful with ABS CE preparation. Although mock oral examinations and ABS CE passing rates do not directly correlate, residents perceive the mock oral examinations to be helpful. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of a mock interview session on residency interview skills.

PubMed

Buckley, Kelsey; Karr, Samantha; Nisly, Sarah A; Kelley, Kristi

2018-04-01

To evaluate the impact of student pharmacist participation in a mock interview session on confidence level and preparation regarding residency interview skills. The study setting was a mock interview session, held in conjunction with student programming at the American College of Clinical Pharmacy (ACCP) Annual Meeting. Prior to the mock interview session, final year student pharmacists seeking residency program placement were asked to complete a pre-session survey assessing confidence level for residency interviews. Each student pharmacist participated in up to three mock interviews. A post-session survey evaluating confidence level was then administered to consenting participants. Following the American Society for Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) Pharmacy Resident Matching Program (RMP), a post-match electronic survey was sent to study participants to determine their perception of the influence of the mock interview session on achieving successful interactions during residency interviews. A total of 59 student pharmacists participated in the mock interview session and completed the pre-session survey. Participants completing the post-session survey (88%, n = 52) unanimously reported an enhanced confidence in interviewing skills following the session. Thirty responders reported a program match rate of 83%. Approximately 97% (n = 29) of the respondents agreed or strongly agreed that the questions asked during the mock interview session were reflective of questions asked during residency interviews. Lessons learned from this mock interview session can be applied to PGY1 residency mock interview sessions held locally, regionally, and nationally. Students participating in the ACCP Mock Interview Session recognized the importance of the interview component in obtaining a postgraduate year 1 (PGY1) pharmacy residency. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Circulatory nucleosome levels are significantly increased in early and late-onset preeclampsia.

PubMed

Zhong, Xiao Yan; Gebhardt, Stefan; Hillermann, Renate; Tofa, Kashefa Carelse; Holzgreve, Wolfgang; Hahn, Sinuhe

2005-08-01

Elevations in circulatory DNA, as measured by real-time PCR, have been observed in pregnancies with manifest preeclampsia. Recent reports have indicated that circulatory nucleosome levels are elevated in the periphery of cancer patients. We have now examined whether circulatory nucleosome levels are similarly elevated in cases with preeclampsia. Maternal plasma samples were prepared from 17 cases with early onset preeclampsia (<34 weeks gestation) with 14 matched normotensive controls, as well as 15 cases late-onset preeclampsia (>34 weeks gestation) with 10 matched normotensive controls. Levels of circulatory nucleosomes were quantified by commercial ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbant assay). The level of circulatory nucleosomes was significantly elevated in both study preeclampsia groups, compared to the matched normotensive control group (p = 0.000 and p = 0.001, respectively). Our data suggests that preeclampsia is associated with the elevated presence of circulatory nucleosomes, and that this phenomenon occurs in both early- and late-onset forms of the disorder. Copyright 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Ventilatory Cycle Measurements and Loop Gain in Central Apnea in Mining Drivers Exposed to Intermittent Altitude

PubMed Central

Rey de Castro, Jorge; Liendo, Alicia; Ortiz, Oswaldo; Rosales-Mayor, Edmundo; Liendo, César

2017-01-01

Study Objectives: By measuring the apnea length, ventilatory phase, respiratory cycle length, and loop gain, we can further characterize the central apneas of high altitude (CAHA). Methods: Sixty-three drivers of all-terrain vehicles, working in a Peruvian mine located at 2,020 meters above sea level (MASL), were evaluated. A respiratory polygraph was performed in the first night they slept at high altitude. None of the subjects were exposed to oxygen during the test or acetazolamide in the preceding days of the test. Results: Sixty-three respiratory polygraphs were performed, and 59 were considered for analysis. Forty-six (78%) were normal, 6 (10%) had OSA, and 7 (12%) had CAHA. Key data from subjects include: residing altitude: 341 ± 828 MASL, Lake Louise scoring: 0.4 ± 0.8, Epworth score: 3.4 ± 2.7, apneahypopnea index: 35.7 ± 19.3, CA index: 13.4 ± 14.2, CA length: 14.4 ± 3.6 sec, ventilatory length: 13.5 ± 2.9 sec, cycle length: 26.5 ± 4.0 sec, ventilatory length/CA length ratio 0.9 ± 0.3 and circulatory delay 13.3 ± 2.9 sec. Duty ratio media [ventilatory duration/cycle duration] was 0.522 ± 0 0.128 [0.308–0.700] and loop gain was calculated from the duty ratio utilizing this formula: LG = 2π / [(2πDR-sin(2πDR)]. All subjects have a high loop gain media 2.415 ± 1.761 [1.175–6.260]. Multiple correlations were established with loop gain values, but the only significant correlation detected was between central apnea index and loop gain. Conclusions: Twelve percent of the studied population had CAHA. Measurements of respiratory cycle in workers with CAHA are more similar to idiopathic central apneas rather than Hunter-Cheyne-Stokes respiration. Also, there was a high degree of correlation between severity of central apnea and the degree of loop gain. The abnormal breathing patterns in those subjects could affect the sleep quality and potentially increase the risk for work accidents. Citation: Rey de Castro J, Liendo A, Ortiz O, Rosales-Mayor E, Liendo C. Ventilatory cycle measurements and loop gain in central apnea in mining drivers exposed to intermittent altitude. J Clin Sleep Med. 2017;13(1):27–32. PMID:27707449

Thermographic and clinical evaluation of 808-nm laser photobiomodulation effects after third molar extraction.

PubMed

Pedreira, Amanda A; Wanderley, Flavia G; Sa, Maira F; Viena, Camila S; Perez, Adriano; Hoshi, Ryuichi; Leite, Marcia P; Reis, Silvia R; Medrado, Alena P

2016-08-01

A randomized, blind, controlled clinical study was conducted with a convenience sample of 24 patients to evaluate the effectiveness of an aluminum gallium arsenide (AlGaAs) infrared laser 808 nm after third molar extraction by the use of infrared thermography technique. Patients were divided into four groups: erupted third molars were extracted from the patients in Group I and Group II, and impacted third molars were extracted from the patients in Group III and Group IV. Group I and Group III received mock laser therapy in which the device was powered off, and Group II and Group IV were exposed to laser light. Postoperative clinical parameters related to the third molar extraction were evaluated; these parameters included pain, trismus and edema. Circulatory patterns were also evaluated by infrared thermography that exhibited local temperature coefficient at different postoperative periods. A slight improvement was observed for swelling, pain and trismus in patients who received laser irradiation, although the differences were not statistically significant (P>0.05). Laser therapy had a significant influence on the local circulation in the area near the temporomandibular joint, as determined by infrared thermography (P<0.05). Laser therapy was able to change the local circulation, although it did not significantly influence swelling, pain or trismus during the postoperative period.

Human Fitting Studies of Cleveland Clinic Continuous-Flow Total Artificial Heart

PubMed Central

Karimov, Jamshid H.; Steffen, Robert J.; Byram, Nicole; Sunagawa, Gengo; Horvath, David; Cruz, Vincent; Golding, Leonard A.R.; Fukamachi, Kiyotaka; Moazami, Nader

2015-01-01

Implantation of mechanical circulatory support devices is challenging, especially in patients with a small chest cavity. We evaluated how well the Cleveland Clinic continuous-flow total artificial heart (CFTAH) fit the anatomy of patients about to receive a heart transplant. A mock pump model of the CFTAH was rapid-prototyped using biocompatible materials. The model was brought to the operative table, and the direction, length, and angulation of the inflow/outflow ports and outflow conduits were evaluated after the recipient's ventricles had been resected. Thoracic cavity measurements were based on preoperative computed tomographic data. The CFTAH fit well in all five patients (height, 170 ± 9 cm; weight, 75 ± 24 kg). Body surface area was 1.9 ± 0.3 m2 (range, 1.6-2.1 m2). The required inflow and outflow port orientation of both the left and right housings appeared consistent with the current version of the CFTAH implanted in calves. The left outflow conduit remained straight, but the right outflow direction necessitated a 73 ± 22 degree angulation to prevent potential kinking when crossing over the connected left outflow. These data support the fact that our design achieves the proper anatomical relationship of the CFTAH to a patient's native vessels. PMID:25806613

Arrestins and Spinophilin Competitively Regulate Na+,K+-ATPase Trafficking through Association with a Large Cytoplasmic Loop of the Na+,K+-ATPase

PubMed Central

Kimura, Tohru; Allen, Patrick B.; Nairn, Angus C.

2007-01-01

The activity and trafficking of the Na+,K+-ATPase are regulated by several hormones, including dopamine, vasopressin, and adrenergic hormones through the action of G-protein–coupled receptors (GPCRs). Arrestins, GPCR kinases (GRKs), 14-3-3 proteins, and spinophilin interact with GPCRs and modulate the duration and magnitude of receptor signaling. We have found that arrestin 2 and 3, GRK 2 and 3, 14-3-3 ε, and spinophilin directly associate with the Na+,K+-ATPase and that the associations with arrestins, GRKs, or 14-3-3 ε are blocked in the presence of spinophilin. In COS cells that overexpressed arrestin, the Na+,K+-ATPase was redistributed to intracellular compartments. This effect was not seen in mock-transfected cells or in cells expressing spinophilin. Furthermore, expression of spinophilin appeared to slow, whereas overexpression of β-arrestins accelerated internalization of the Na+,K+-ATPase endocytosis. We also find that GRKs phosphorylate the Na+,K+-ATPase in vitro on its large cytoplasmic loop. Taken together, it appears that association with arrestins, GRKs, 14-3-3 ε, and spinophilin may be important modulators of Na+,K+-ATPase trafficking. PMID:17804821

Medical care expenditures for selected circulatory diseases: opportunities for reducing national health expenditures.

PubMed

Hodgson, T A; Cohen, A J

1999-10-01

Circulatory system diseases are a significant burden in terms of morbidity, mortality, and use of health care services. This article presents total, per capita, and per condition US medical care expenditures in 1995 for circulatory diseases according to sex, age, and type of health service. Total personal health care expenditures estimated by the Health Care Financing Administration for each type of health care service are separated into components to estimate patient expenditures by age, sex, primary medical diagnosis, and health care service for all diseases of the circulatory system, heart disease, coronary heart disease, congestive heart failure, hypertensive disease, and cerebrovascular disease. Expenditures for circulatory diseases totaled $127.8 billion in 1995 (17% of all personal health care expenditures), $486 per capita, and $1,636 per condition. Approximately one half of expenditures was for hospital care and 20% was for nursing home care. Heart disease accounted for 60% of circulatory expenditures. Expenditures increased with age and reached 35% of expenditures among persons aged 85 years and older, which was almost $7,000 per capita. These relationships vary somewhat according to the specific circulatory disease, type of health care, and age. Expenditures increase with age and circulatory diseases can be expected to command an increasing share of national health expenditures as the number and proportion of the population that is elderly grows. The alteration of lifestyles and medical interventions provide many opportunities to prevent circulatory diseases and to reduce national health expenditures.

Sequential Participation in a Multi-Institutional Mock Oral Examination Is Associated With Improved American Board of Surgery Certifying Examination First-Time Pass Rate.

PubMed

Fingeret, Abbey L; Arnell, Tracey; McNelis, John; Statter, Mindy; Dresner, Lisa; Widmann, Warren

We sought to determine whether sequential participation in a multi-institutional mock oral examination affected the likelihood of passing the American Board of Surgery Certifying Examination (ABSCE) in first attempt. Residents from 3 academic medical centers were able to participate in a regional mock oral examination in the fall and spring of their fourth and fifth postgraduate year from 2011 to 2014. Candidate׳s highest composite score of all mock orals attempts was classified as risk for failure, intermediate, or likely to pass. Factors including United States Medical Licensing Examination steps 1, 2, and 3, number of cases logged, American Board of Surgery In-Training Examination performance, American Board of Surgery Qualifying Examination (ABSQE) performance, number of attempts, and performance in the mock orals were assessed to determine factors predictive of passing the ABSCE. A total of 128 mock oral examinations were administered to 88 (71%) of 124 eligible residents. The overall first-time pass rate for the ABSCE was 82%. There was no difference in pass rates between participants and nonparticipants. Of them, 16 (18%) residents were classified as at risk, 47 (53%) as intermediate, and 25 (29%) as likely to pass. ABSCE pass rate for each group was as follows: 36% for at risk, 84% for intermediate, and 96% for likely pass. The following 4 factors were associated with first-time passing of ABSCE on bivariate analysis: mock orals participation in postgraduate year 4 (p = 0.05), sequential participation in mock orals (p = 0.03), ABSQE performance (p = 0.01), and best performance on mock orals (p = 0.001). In multivariable logistic regression, the following 3 factors remained associated with ABSCE passing: ABSQE performance, odds ratio (OR) = 2.9 (95% CI: 1.3-6.1); mock orals best performance, OR = 1.7 (1.2-2.4); and participation in multiple mock oral examinations, OR = 1.4 (1.1-2.7). Performance on a multi-institutional mock oral examination can identify residents at risk for failure of the ABSCE. Sequential participation in mock oral examinations is associated with improved ABSCE first-time pass rate. Copyright © 2016 Association of Program Directors in Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

User's instructions for the Guyton circulatory dynamics model using the Univac 1110 batch and demand processing (with graphic capabilities)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Archer, G. T.

1974-01-01

The model presents a systems analysis of a human circulatory regulation based almost entirely on experimental data and cumulative present knowledge of the many facets of the circulatory system. The model itself consists of eighteen different major systems that enter into circulatory control. These systems are grouped into sixteen distinct subprograms that are melded together to form the total model. The model develops circulatory and fluid regulation in a simultaneous manner. Thus, the effects of hormonal and autonomic control, electrolyte regulation, and excretory dynamics are all important and are all included in the model.

Vascular and Immunobiology of the Circulatory Sphingosine 1-Phosphate Gradient

PubMed Central

Yanagida, Keisuke; Hla, Timothy

2017-01-01

Vertebrates are endowed with a closed circulatory system, the evolution of which required novel structural and regulatory changes. Furthermore, immune cell trafficking paradigms adapted to the barriers imposed by the closed circulatory system. How did such changes occur mechanistically? We propose that spatial compartmentalization of the lipid mediator sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) may be one such mechanism. In vertebrates, S1P is spatially compartmentalized in the blood and lymphatic circulation, thus comprising a sharp S1P gradient across the endothelial barrier. Circulatory S1P has critical roles in maturation and homeostasis of the vascular system as well as in immune cell trafficking. Physiological functions of S1P are tightly linked to shear stress, the key biophysical stimulus from blood flow. Thus, circulatory S1P confinement could be a primordial strategy of vertebrates in the development of a closed circulatory system. This review discusses the cellular and molecular basis of the S1P gradients and aims to interpret its physiological significance as a key feature of the closed circulatory system. PMID:27813829

In-pile testing of ITER first wall mock-ups at relevant thermal loading conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Litunovsky, N.; Gervash, A.; Lorenzetto, P.; Mazul, I.; Melder, R.

2009-04-01

The paper describes the experimental technique and preliminary results of thermal fatigue testing of ITER first wall (FW) water-cooled mock-ups inside the core of the RBT-6 experimental fission reactor (RIAR, Dimitrovgrad, Russia). This experiment has provided simultaneous effect of neutron fluence and thermal cycling damages on the mock-ups. A PC-controlled high-temperature graphite ohmic heater was applied to provide cyclic thermal load onto the mock-ups surface. This experiment lasted for 309 effective irradiation days with a final damage level (CuCrZr) of 1 dpa in the mock-ups. About 3700 thermal cycles with a heat flux of 0.4-0.5 MW/m 2 onto the mock-ups were realized before the heater fails. Then, irradiation was continued in a non-cycling mode.

Benefits of mock oral examinations in a multi-institutional consortium for board certification in general surgery training.

PubMed

Subhas, Gokulakkrishna; Yoo, Stephen; Chang, Yeon-Jeen; Peiper, David; Frikker, Mark J; Bouwman, David L; Silbergleit, Allen; Lloyd, Larry R; Mittal, Vijay K

2009-09-01

The Southeast Michigan Center for Medical Education (SEMCME) is a consortium of teaching hospitals in the Greater Detroit metropolitan area. SEMCME pools its resources for several educational means, including mock oral board examinations. The educational and cost benefits to mock oral examinations on a multi-institutional basis in preparation for the American Board of Surgery (ABS) certifying examination were analyzed. Ten-year multi-institution data from the mock oral examinations were correlated with ABS certifying examination pass rates. Mock oral examination scores were available for 107 of 147 graduates, which included 12 candidates who failed their certifying examination on the first attempt (pass rate = 89%). Four of 31 examinees who had a low score (4.9 or less) in their mock oral exams failed their certifying examination in their first attempt. The cost of running the mock examination was low (approximately $35/resident for 50 residents). When graduates from the last 10 years were surveyed, the majority of respondents believed that the mock oral examination helped in their success and with their preparation for the certifying examination. Thus, the many benefits of administering the examination with the resources of a consortium of hospitals result in the accurate reproduction of real-life testing conditions with reasonable overall costs per resident.

A faculty-led mock residency interview exercise for fourth-year doctor of pharmacy students.

PubMed

Koenigsfeld, Carrie F; Wall, Geoffrey C; Miesner, Andrew R; Schmidt, Ginelle; Haack, Sally L; Eastman, Darla K; Grady, Sarah; Fornoff, Anisa

2012-02-01

To determine whether a faculty-led mock-interview activity enhanced pharmacy student preparation for the residency interview process and increased match rates. Twenty-eight doctor of pharmacy students volunteered for a 40-minute mock-interview session with 2-person faculty teams. A standard roster of 12 interview questions was derived from published literature and the faculty members' experience. Feedback on the student's interview performance was provided verbally during the session. Following the interview, students were given a 2-part survey instrument. The first part of the survey was administered immediately following the mock-interview session and the second part was administered after the standard date for residency program results (known as "Match Day"). Participant match rates were compared to American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) national rates. 82.5% (23 of 27) of students in the mock-interview group matched a postgraduate year 1 (PGY1) program. Compared to national rates (61.9%), more students in our surveyed mock-interview group matched a PGY1 residency (P = .015; odds ratio [OR] 3.546, 95% CI 1.161-12.116). Higher match rates were seen in the students completing the mock residency interview compared to ASHP national rates. In general, students completing the mock interview found the process helpful and felt better prepared for their residency interviews.

Official 1996 Mock Trial Materials for the Twenty-Fourth Annual District of Columbia Public Schools Mock Trial Program. Kyle Wilkins, Plaintiff, v. New Columbia County School District, Defendant.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ashbrook, Alexandra M.

This guide contains the 1996 mock trial materials for the District of Columbia mock trial program. The trial focuses on a high school student who died of a heart attack attributed to the use of steroids. The plaintiff, the student's father, alleges that the school, its principal, and track coach were negligent in the death because they failed to…

38 CFR 4.62 - Circulatory disturbances.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 38 Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Circulatory disturbances. 4.62 Section 4.62 Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES Disability Ratings The Musculoskeletal System § 4.62 Circulatory disturbances...

38 CFR 4.62 - Circulatory disturbances.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 38 Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief 1 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Circulatory disturbances. 4.62 Section 4.62 Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES Disability Ratings The Musculoskeletal System § 4.62 Circulatory disturbances...

38 CFR 4.62 - Circulatory disturbances.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 38 Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief 1 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Circulatory disturbances. 4.62 Section 4.62 Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES Disability Ratings The Musculoskeletal System § 4.62 Circulatory disturbances...

38 CFR 4.62 - Circulatory disturbances.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 38 Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief 1 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Circulatory disturbances. 4.62 Section 4.62 Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES Disability Ratings The Musculoskeletal System § 4.62 Circulatory disturbances...

38 CFR 4.62 - Circulatory disturbances.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 38 Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief 1 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Circulatory disturbances. 4.62 Section 4.62 Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES Disability Ratings The Musculoskeletal System § 4.62 Circulatory disturbances...

Number of Heat Wave Deaths by Diagnosis, Sex, Age Groups, and Area, in Slovenia, 2015 vs. 2003

PubMed Central

Perčič, Simona; Kukec, Andreja; Cegnar, Tanja; Hojs, Ana

2018-01-01

Background: Number of deaths increases during periods of elevated heat. Objectives: To examine whether differences in heat-related deaths between 2003 and 2015 occurred in Slovenia. Materials and Methods: We estimated relative risks for deaths for the observed diagnoses, sex, age, and area, as well as 95% confidence intervals and excess deaths associated with heat waves occurring in 2015 and 2003. For comparison between 2015 and 2003, we calculated relative risks ratio and 95% confidence intervals. Results: Statistically significant in 2015 were the following: age group 75+, all causes of deaths (RR = 1.10, 95% CI 1.00–1.22); all population, circulatory system diseases (RR = 1.14, 95% CI 1.01–1.30) and age group 75+, diseases of circulatory system (RR = 1.17, 95% CI 1.01–1.34). Statistically significant in 2003 were the following: female, age group 5–74, circulatory system diseases (RR = 1.69, 95% CI 1.08–2.62). Discussion: Comparison between 2015 and 2003, all, circulatory system diseases (RRR = 1.25, 95% CI 1.01–1.55); male, circulatory system diseases (RRR = 1.85, 95% CI 1.41–2.43); all, age group 75+ circulatory system diseases (RRR = 1.34, 95% CI 1.07–1.69); male, age group 75+, circulatory system diseases (RRR = 1.52, 95% CI 1.03–2.25) and female, age group 75+, circulatory system diseases (RRR = 1.43, 95% CI 1.08–1.89). Conclusions: Public health efforts are urgent and should address circulatory system causes and old age groups. PMID:29361792

Simultaneous drag and flow measurements of Olympic skeleton athletes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moon, Yae Eun; Digiulio, David; Peters, Steve; Wei, Timothy

2009-11-01

The Olympic sport of skeleton involves an athlete riding a small sled face first down a bobsled track at speeds up to 130 km/hr. In these races, the difference between gold and missing the medal stand altogether can be hundredths of a second per run. As such, reducing aerodynamic drag through proper body positioning is of first order importance. To better study the flow behavior and to improve the performance of the athletes, we constructed a static force balance system on a mock section of a bobsled track. Athlete and the sled are placed on the force balance system which is positioned at the exit of an open loop wind tunnel. Simultaneous drag force and DPIV velocity field measurements were made along with video recordings of body position to aid the athletes in determining their optimal aerodynamic body position.

Practice pattern and professional issues of nurse practitioners in mechanical circulatory support programs in the United States: a survey report.

PubMed

Casida, Jesus M; Pastor, Jessica

2012-09-01

Few data-based reports about the role and work environment of advanced practice nurses, specifically nurse practitioners in mechanical circulatory support programs, have been published. To describe the practice pattern and professional issues confronted by nurse practitioners in the rapidly evolving and expanding mechanical circulatory support programs in the United States. A descriptive research design was employed using the data from the 2010 mechanical circulatory support nurses survey. Quantitative and qualitative data that pertained to the demographic and practice profiles as well as barriers and overall issues faced by the nurse practitioners in their clinical practice were analyzed. Nonrandom sample of 48 nurse practitioners from 95 mechanical circulatory support programs nationwide. The practice pattern of nurse practitioners in mechanical circulatory support programs is similar to the practice pattern reported for nurse practitioners in acute and critical care settings. However, only 44% and 10% of nurse practitioners in mechanical circulatory support programs are authorized to admit and transfer patients into and out of the hospital, respectively. High workload, lack of institutional support, knowledge deficit, role ambiguity, lack of professional recognition, and burnout were the common issues faced by the participants in their clinical practice. The results provide preliminary evidence on the practice pattern, restrictions, and work environment issues that may threaten the viability of an mechanical circulatory support program in which nurse practitioners play a crucial role. Implications for clinical practice, research, and policy development are discussed.

Characterization of flaws in a tube bundle mock-up for reliability studies

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

Kupperman, D.S.; Bakhtiari, S.

1997-02-01

As part of an assessment of in-service inspection of steam generator tubes, the authors will assemble a steam generator mock-up for round robin studies and use as a test bed in evaluating emerging technologies. Progress is reported on the characterization of flaws that will be part of the mock-up. Eddy current and ultrasonic techniques are being evaluated as a means to characterize the flaws in the mock-up tubes before final assembly. Twenty Inconel 600 tubes with laboratory-grown cracks, typical of those to be used in the mock-up, were provided by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory for laboratory testing. After the tubesmore » were inspected with eddy current and ultrasonic techniques, they were destructively analyzed to establish the actual depths, lengths, and profiles of the cracks. The analysis of the results will allow the best techniques to be used for characterizing the flaws in the mock-up tubes.« less

Philadelphus L.: mock orange

Treesearch

Nancy L. Shaw; Emerenciana G. Hurd; Peter F. Stickney

2008-01-01

The mock oranges - Philadelphus spp. - have been placed in several families: Saxifragaceae (Harrington 1954), Hydrangeaceae (Hitchcock and others 1961), and more recently, the Philadelphaceae (Hickman 1993). Hydrangeaceae, however, is the most widely accepted placement (Cronquist and others 1997; USDA NRCS 2001). There are about 50 to 65 species of mock orange,...

The heart works against gravity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Seymour, R. S.; Hargens, A. R.; Pedley, T. J.

1993-01-01

The circulatory systems of vertebrate animals are closed, and blood leaves and returns to the heart at the same level. It is often concluded, therefore, that the heart works only against the viscous resistance of the system, not against gravity, even in vascular loops above the heart in which the siphon principle operates. However, we argue that the siphon principle does not assist blood flow in superior vascular loops if any of the descending vasculature is collapsible. If central arterial blood pressure is insufficient to support a blood column between the heart and the head, blood flow ceases because of vascular collapse. Furthermore, the siphon principle does not assist the heart even when a continuous stream of blood is flowing in a superior loop. The potential energy gained by blood as it is pumped to the head is lost to friction in partially collapsed descending vessels and thus is not regained. Application of the Poiseuille equation to flow in collapsible vessels is limited; resistance depends on flow rate in partially collapsed vessels with no transmural pressure difference, but flow rate is independent of resistance. Thus the pressure developed by the heart to establish a given flow rate is independent of the resistance occurring in the partially collapsed vessels. The pressure depends only on the height of the blood column and the resistance in the noncollapsed parts of the system. Simple laboratory models, involving water flow in collapsible tubing, dispel the idea that the siphon principle facilitates blood flow and suggest that previously published results may have been affected by experimental artifact.

Computer Simulations of Valveless Pumping using the Immersed Boundary Method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jung, Eunok; Peskin, Charles

2000-03-01

Pumping blood in one direction is the main function of the heart, and the heart is equipped with valves that ensure unidirectional flow. Is it possible, though, to pump blood without valves? This report is intended to show by numerical simulation the possibility of a net flow which is generated by a valveless mechanism in a circulatory system. Simulations of valveless pumping are motivated by biomedical applications: cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR); and the human foetus before the development of the heart valves. The numerical method used in this work is immersed boundary method, which is applicable to problems involving an elastic structure interacting with a viscous incompressible fluid. This method has already been applied to blood flow in the heart, platelet aggregation during blood clotting, aquatic animal locomotion, and flow in collapsible tubes. The direction of flow inside a loop of tubing which consists of (almost) rigid and flexible parts is investigated when the boundary of one end of the flexible segment is forced periodically in time. Despite the absence of valves, net flow around the loop may appear in these simulations. Furthermore, we present the new, unexpected results that the direction of this flow is determined not only by the position of the periodic compression, but also by the frequency and amplitude of the driving force.

Corresponding morphological and molecular indicators of crude oil toxicity to the developing hearts of mahi mahi

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Edmunds, Richard C.; Gill, J. A.; Baldwin, David H.; Linbo, Tiffany L.; French, Barbara L.; Brown, Tanya L.; Esbaugh, Andrew J.; Mager, Edward M.; Stieglitz, John; Hoenig, Ron; Benetti, Daniel; Grosell, Martin; Scholz, Nathaniel L.; Incardona, John P.

2015-12-01

Crude oils from distinct geological sources worldwide are toxic to developing fish hearts. When oil spills occur in fish spawning habitats, natural resource injury assessments often rely on conventional morphometric analyses of heart form and function. The extent to which visible indicators correspond to molecular markers for cardiovascular stress is unknown for pelagic predators from the Gulf of Mexico. Here we exposed mahi (Coryphaena hippurus) embryos to field-collected crude oil samples from the 2010 Deepwater Horizon disaster. We compared visible heart defects (edema, abnormal looping, reduced contractility) to changes in expression of cardiac-specific genes that are diagnostic of heart failure in humans or associated with loss-of-function zebrafish cardiac mutants. Mahi exposed to crude oil during embryogenesis displayed typical symptoms of cardiogenic syndrome as larvae. Contractility, looping, and circulatory defects were evident, but larval mahi did not exhibit downstream craniofacial and body axis abnormalities. A gradation of oil exposures yielded concentration-responsive changes in morphometric and molecular responses, with relative sensitivity being influenced by age. Our findings suggest that 1) morphometric analyses of cardiac function are more sensitive to proximal effects of crude oil-derived chemicals on the developing heart, and 2) molecular indicators reveal a longer-term adverse shift in cardiogenesis trajectory.

Corresponding morphological and molecular indicators of crude oil toxicity to the developing hearts of mahi mahi

PubMed Central

Edmunds, Richard C.; Gill, J. A.; Baldwin, David H.; Linbo, Tiffany L.; French, Barbara L.; Brown, Tanya L.; Esbaugh, Andrew J.; Mager, Edward M.; Stieglitz, John; Hoenig, Ron; Benetti, Daniel; Grosell, Martin; Scholz, Nathaniel L.; Incardona, John P.

2015-01-01

Crude oils from distinct geological sources worldwide are toxic to developing fish hearts. When oil spills occur in fish spawning habitats, natural resource injury assessments often rely on conventional morphometric analyses of heart form and function. The extent to which visible indicators correspond to molecular markers for cardiovascular stress is unknown for pelagic predators from the Gulf of Mexico. Here we exposed mahi (Coryphaena hippurus) embryos to field-collected crude oil samples from the 2010 Deepwater Horizon disaster. We compared visible heart defects (edema, abnormal looping, reduced contractility) to changes in expression of cardiac-specific genes that are diagnostic of heart failure in humans or associated with loss-of-function zebrafish cardiac mutants. Mahi exposed to crude oil during embryogenesis displayed typical symptoms of cardiogenic syndrome as larvae. Contractility, looping, and circulatory defects were evident, but larval mahi did not exhibit downstream craniofacial and body axis abnormalities. A gradation of oil exposures yielded concentration-responsive changes in morphometric and molecular responses, with relative sensitivity being influenced by age. Our findings suggest that 1) morphometric analyses of cardiac function are more sensitive to proximal effects of crude oil-derived chemicals on the developing heart, and 2) molecular indicators reveal a longer-term adverse shift in cardiogenesis trajectory. PMID:26658479

Election '88: Teacher Packet.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

North Carolina State Dept. of Public Instruction, Raleigh. Div. of Social Studies Education.

This materials packet contains information on teaching about the electoral process and the elections of 1988, and on participation in a mock election for students whose schools would take part in the 1988 North Carolina Mock Election. Suggestions for teachers' preparations are given, including a classroom skit and a mock candidates' election…

Abuse Is Abuse: The Influence of Type of Abuse, Victim Age, and Defendant Age on Juror Decision Making.

PubMed

Sheahan, Chelsea L; Pica, Emily; Pozzulo, Joanna D

2017-09-01

The purpose of the current study was to examine the role of victim age, defendant age, and type of abuse on mock juror decision making. Mock jurors ( N = 556) read a trial transcript in which a soccer coach was accused of sexual abuse or physical abuse against a player. The victim's age (child, adolescent, or young adult), the defendant's age (young, middle age, or older adult), and the type of abuse (sexual or physical) were varied. Mock jurors provided a dichotomous and continuous verdict and rated their perceptions of the victim and the defendant. Although no differences on mock jurors' dichotomous verdict were found due to victim age, defendant age, or type of abuse, mock jurors provided higher guilt ratings when the abuse was sexual and both the victim and defendant were described as young adults. Similarly, mock jurors rated the victim more positively when the victim was described as a young adult (vs. child) for both sexual and physical abuse cases, and rated the defendant more positively when the victim was described as a child compared with young adult in sexual abuse cases. These findings suggest that mock jurors were largely influenced by victim age, particularly when the victim was described as an adult compared with a child.

Impact of Selected Socio-demographic Factors on the Development of Mortality due to Circulatory System Diseases in the Slovak Republic.

PubMed

Gavurová, Beáta; Kubák, Matúš

2017-12-01

We mapped the situation within a group of diseases of the circulatory system (I00-I99) in the Slovak Republic during 1996-2014. We focused mainly on spatiotemporal differences in mortality while controlling for age and sex. We performed binary logistic regression aiming to reveal socio-demographic factors that influence the odds of dying due to diseases of the circulatory system (I00-I99). In our analysis, the dependent variable was death diagnosis and the independent variables were age, region, gender, and marital status. Our findings suggest that odds of dying due to diseases of the circulatory system (I00-I99) increased for every year of age by 5.4%. Within the period from 1996 to 2014, the risk of dying from diseases of the circulatory system decreased by 2% every year. We also documented the fact that being female raised the odds of dying due to diseases of the circulatory system (I00-I99) by 12.9% compared to males. Furthermore, it could be argued that serious differences in terms of regional distribution of deaths caused by diseases of the circulatory system (I00-I99) exist in the Slovak Republic. We present the development of diseases of the circulatory system (I00-I99) in the Slovak Republic. Differences in spatial distribution of deaths are documented as well as related gender differences. Our study can serve as a tool for policy makers and benchmark for professionals. Copyright© by the National Institute of Public Health, Prague 2017.

Radiation-associated circulatory disease mortality in a pooled analysis of 77,275 patients from the Massachusetts and Canadian tuberculosis fluoroscopy cohorts.

PubMed

Tran, Van; Zablotska, Lydia B; Brenner, Alina V; Little, Mark P

2017-03-13

High-dose ionising radiation is associated with circulatory disease. Risks associated with lower-dose (<0.5 Gy) exposures remain unclear, with little information on risk modification by age at exposure, years since exposure or dose-rate. Tuberculosis patients in Canada and Massachusetts received multiple diagnostic x-ray fluoroscopic exposures, over a wide range of ages, many at doses <0.5 Gy. We evaluated risks of circulatory-disease mortality associated with <0.5 Gy radiation exposure in a pooled cohort of 63,707 patients in Canada and 13,568 patients in Massachusetts. Under 0.5 Gy there are increasing trends for all circulatory disease (n = 10,209; excess relative risk/Gy = 0.246; 95% CI 0.036, 0.469; p = 0.021) and for ischaemic heart disease (n = 6410; excess relative risk/Gy = 0.267; 95% CI 0.003, 0.552; p = 0.048). All circulatory-disease and ischaemic-heart-disease risk reduces with increasing time since exposure (p < 0.005). Over the entire dose range, there are negative mortality dose trends for all circulatory disease (p = 0.014) and ischaemic heart disease (p = 0.003), possibly due to competing causes of death over this dose interval.These results confirm and extend earlier findings and strengthen the evidence for circulatory-disease mortality radiation risk at doses <0.5 Gy. The limited information on well-known lifestyle/medical risk factors for circulatory disease implies that confounding of the dose trend cannot be entirely excluded.

76 FR 36548 - Circulatory System Devices Panel of the Medical Devices Advisory Committee; Notice of Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-06-22

...] Circulatory System Devices Panel of the Medical Devices Advisory Committee; Notice of Meeting AGENCY: Food and... of Committee: Circulatory System Devices Panel of the Medical Devices Advisory Committee. General... also comes with a sheath, introducer, loader, dilator, balloon (used to pre-dilate the native annulus...

77 FR 25183 - Circulatory System Devices Panel of the Medical Devices Advisory Committee; Notice of Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-04-27

...] Circulatory System Devices Panel of the Medical Devices Advisory Committee; Notice of Meeting AGENCY: Food and... of Committee: Circulatory System Devices Panel of the Medical Devices Advisory Committee. General..., introducer, loader, dilator, balloon (used to pre-dilate the native annulus) and a crimper. FDA intends to...

US FDA perspective on regulatory issues affecting circulatory assist devices.

PubMed

Sapirstein, Wolf; Chen, Eric; Swain, Julie; Zuckerman, Bram

2006-11-01

There has been a rapid development in mechanical circulatory support systems in the decade since the US FDA first approved a mechanical device to provide the circulatory support lacking from a failing heart. Devices are presently approved for marketing by the FDA to replace a failing ventricle, the Ventricular Assist Device or the entire heart, Total Artificial Heart. Contemporaneous with, and permitted by, improvement in technology and design, devices have evolved from units located extracorporeally to paracorporeal systems and totally implanted devices. Clinical studies have demonstrated a parallel improvement in the homeostatic adequacy of the circulatory support provided. Thus, while the circulatory support was initially tolerated for short periods to permit recovery of cardiac function, this technology eventually provided effective circulatory support for increasing periods that permitted the FDA to approve devices for bridging patients in end-stage cardiac failure awaiting transplant and eventually a device for destination therapy where patients in end-stage heart failure are not cardiac transplant candidates. The approved devices have relied on displacement pumps that mimic the pulsatility of the physiological system. Accelerated development of more compact devices that rely on alternative pump mechanisms have challenged both the FDA and device manufacturers to assure that the regulatory requirements for safety and effectiveness are met for use of mechanical circulatory support systems in expanded target populations. An FDA regulatory perspective is reviewed of what can be a potentially critical healthcare issue.

Exploring the Lived Experiences of Participants in Simulation-Based Learning Activities

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Beard, Rachael

2013-01-01

There is currently a small body of research on the experiences of participants, both facilitators and learners, during simulated mock codes (cardiac arrest) in the healthcare setting. This study was based on a practitioner's concerns that mock codes are facilitated differently among educators, mock codes are not aligned with andragogy theory of…

"Surgery interrupted": The effect of multitasking on cognitive and technical tasks in medical students.

PubMed

Evans, C H; Schneider, E; Shostrom, V; Schenarts, P J

2017-02-01

Today's medical learners are Millennials, and reportedly, multitasking pros. We aim to evaluate effect of multitasking on cognitive and technical skills. 16 medical students completed a mock page and laceration closure separately on day 1 and day 13, and in parallel on day 14. Suturing was graded using GRS and mock pages scored. Total time, suturing and loading times, and percent correct on mock page were compared. Percent correct on mock page improved from days 1-13 and 14 (p < 0.01 and 0.04). GRS improved from days 1-13 and 14 (p = 0.04 and <0.01). Total time suturing was similar on all days. However, time suturing during the mock page on day 14 was prolonged compared to before mock page (p = 0.01). Medical students can complete cognitive and technical tasks in parallel, without compromising acceptability. However, multitasking results in longer times to complete the complex component of the technical task. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Can neutrino decay-driven mock gravity save hot dark matter?

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Splinter, Randall J.; Melott, Adrian L.

1992-01-01

The radiative decay of a 30 eV neutrino with a lifetime of order 10 exp 23-24 s has recently been shown to yield a satisfactory explanation of a wide range of problems in astrophysics. In this paper, it is investigated whether the photon flux generated by the radiative decay of a massive neutrino is capable of generating sufficient radiation pressure to cause a 'mock gravitational' collapse of primordial hydrogen clouds. It is shown that when using neutral hydrogen as a source of opacity for mock gravity the time scale for mock gravitational collapse is significantly larger than the expansion time scale. Thus, the model fails as a source of galactic seed perturbations. Furthermore, it is argued that nonlinear feedback mechanisms will be unable to increase the collapse rate of the cloud under mock gravity.

Implementing newborn mock codes.

PubMed

Blakely, Teresa Gail

2007-01-01

This article describes the implementation of a newborn mock code program. Although the Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) is one of the most widely used health education programs in the world and is required for most hospital providers who attend deliveries, research tells us that retention of NRP skills deteriorates rapidly after completion of the course. NRP requires coordination and cooperation among all providers; however, a lack of leadership and teamwork during resuscitation (often associated with a lack of confidence) has been noted. Implementation of newborn mock code scenarios can encourage teamwork, communication, skills building, and increased confidence levels of providers. Mock codes can help providers become strong team members and team leaders by helping them be better prepared for serious situations in the delivery room. Implementation of newborn mock codes can be effectively accomplished with appropriate planning and consideration for adult learning behaviors.

Commentary: Perception of remorse by mock jurors in a capital murder trial.

PubMed

Batista, Leonardo M; Myers, Wade

2012-01-01

The study by Corwin et al. adds to the emerging but limited data on the impact of defendant remorse on sentencing decisions. The authors studied verbal and nonverbal expressions of defendant remorse and whether they were perceived as remorseful by mock jurors. They found that incongruent verbal and nonverbal behavior, as well as mock jurors' willingness to approach emotional situations, resulted in more lenient sentences for defendants. An overarching and as yet unanswered validity concern regarding this line of research in general is whether the use of undergraduate mock jurors reliably models real jurors in actual courtroom settings.

Aortic arch reconstruction: deep and moderate hypothermic circulatory arrest with selective antegrade cerebral perfusion.

PubMed

Wu, YanWen; Xiao, LiQiong; Yang, Ting; Wang, Lei; Chen, Xin

2017-07-01

To compare the effects of moderate and deep hypothermic circulatory arrest (DHCA) with selective antegrade cerebral perfusion (SACP) during aortic arch surgery in adult patients and to offer the evidence for the detection of the temperature which provides best brain protection in the subjects who accept aortic arch reconstruction surgery. A total of 109 patients undergoing surgery of the aortic arch were divided into the moderate hypothermic circulatory arrest group (Group I) and the deep hypothermic circulatory arrest group (Group II). We recorded the data of the patients and their cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) time, aortic clamping time, SACP time and postoperative anesthetized recovery time, tracheal intubation time, time in the intensive care unit (ICU) and postoperative neurologic dysfunction. Patient characteristics were similar in the two groups. There were four patients who died in Group II and 1 patient in Group I. There were no significant differences in aortic clamping time of each group (111.4±58.4 vs. 115.9±16.2) min; SACP time (27.4±5.9 vs. 23.5±6.1) min of the moderate hypothermic circulatory arrest group and the deep hypothermic circulatory arrest group; there were significant differences in cardiopulmonary bypass time (207.4±20.9 vs. 263.8±22.6) min, postoperative anesthetized recovery time (19.0±11.1 vs. 36.8±25.3) hours, extubation time (46.4±15.1 vs. 64.4±6.0) hours; length of stay in the intensive care unit (ICU) (4.7±1.7 vs. 8±2.3) days and postoperative neurologic dysfunction in the two groups. Compared to deep hypothermic circulatory arrest, moderate hypothermic circulatory arrest can provide better brain protection and achieve good clinical results.

Simple retrograde cerebral perfusion is as good as complex antegrade cerebral perfusion for hemiarch replacement.

PubMed

Tanaka, Akiko; Estrera, Anthony L

2018-01-01

Cerebral complication is a major concern after aortic arch surgery, which may lead to death. Thus, cerebral protection strategy plays the key role to obtain respectable results in aortic arch repair. Deep hypothermic circulatory arrest was introduced in 1970s to decrease the ischemic insults to the brain. However, safe duration of circulatory arrest time was limited to 30 minutes. The 1990s was the decade of evolution for cerebral protection, in which two adjuncts for deep hypothermic circulatory arrest were introduced: retrograde and antegrade cerebral perfusion (ACP) techniques. These two cerebral perfusion techniques significantly decreased incidence of postoperative neurological dysfunction and mortality after aortic arch surgery. Although there are no large prospective studies that demonstrate which perfusion technique provide better outcomes, multiple retrospective studies implicate that ACP may decrease cerebral complications compared to retrograde cerebral perfusion (RCP) when a long circulatory arrest time is required during aortic arch reconstructions. To date, many surgeons favor ACP over RCP during a complex aortic arch repair, such as total arch replacement and hybrid arch replacement. However, the question is whether the use of ACP is necessary during a short, limited circulatory arrest time, such as hemiarch replacement? There is a paucity of data that proves the advantages of a complex ACP over a simple RCP for a short circulatory arrest time. RCP with deep hypothermic circulatory arrest is the simple, efficient cerebral protection technique with minimal interference to the surgical field-and it potentially allows to flush atheromatous debris out from the arch vessels. Thus, it is the preferred adjunct to deep hypothermic circulatory arrest during hemiarch replacement in our institution.

Simple retrograde cerebral perfusion is as good as complex antegrade cerebral perfusion for hemiarch replacement

PubMed Central

Tanaka, Akiko

2018-01-01

Cerebral complication is a major concern after aortic arch surgery, which may lead to death. Thus, cerebral protection strategy plays the key role to obtain respectable results in aortic arch repair. Deep hypothermic circulatory arrest was introduced in 1970s to decrease the ischemic insults to the brain. However, safe duration of circulatory arrest time was limited to 30 minutes. The 1990s was the decade of evolution for cerebral protection, in which two adjuncts for deep hypothermic circulatory arrest were introduced: retrograde and antegrade cerebral perfusion (ACP) techniques. These two cerebral perfusion techniques significantly decreased incidence of postoperative neurological dysfunction and mortality after aortic arch surgery. Although there are no large prospective studies that demonstrate which perfusion technique provide better outcomes, multiple retrospective studies implicate that ACP may decrease cerebral complications compared to retrograde cerebral perfusion (RCP) when a long circulatory arrest time is required during aortic arch reconstructions. To date, many surgeons favor ACP over RCP during a complex aortic arch repair, such as total arch replacement and hybrid arch replacement. However, the question is whether the use of ACP is necessary during a short, limited circulatory arrest time, such as hemiarch replacement? There is a paucity of data that proves the advantages of a complex ACP over a simple RCP for a short circulatory arrest time. RCP with deep hypothermic circulatory arrest is the simple, efficient cerebral protection technique with minimal interference to the surgical field—and it potentially allows to flush atheromatous debris out from the arch vessels. Thus, it is the preferred adjunct to deep hypothermic circulatory arrest during hemiarch replacement in our institution. PMID:29682460

Transition of intestinal fatty acid-binding protein on hypothermic circulatory arrest with cardiopulmonary bypass.

PubMed

Kano, Hiroya; Takahashi, Hiroaki; Inoue, Takeshi; Tanaka, Hiroshi; Okita, Yutaka

2017-04-01

Intestinal fatty acid-binding protein (I-FABP) is increasingly employed as a highly specific marker of intestinal necrosis. However, the value of this marker associated with cardiovascular surgery with hypothermic circulatory arrest is unclear. The aim of this study was to measure serum I-FABP levels and provide the transition of I-FABP levels with hypothermic circulatory arrest to help in the management of intestinal perfusion. From August 2011 to September 2013, 33 consecutive patients who had aortic arch surgery with hypothermic circulatory arrest or heart valve surgery performed were enrolled in the study. Twenty patients had aortic surgery with hypothermic (23-29°C) circulatory arrest and 13 patients had heart valve surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass (33°C). I-FABP levels increased, both in patients undergoing aortic surgery with hypothermic circulatory arrest and heart valve surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass, reaching peak levels shortly after the administration of protamine. I-FABP levels in patients with aortic surgery were significantly higher with circulatory arrest. They reached peak levels immediately after recirculation and there was a significant drop at the end of surgery (p<0.001). I-FABP levels in heart valve surgery were gradually increased, with the highest at the administration of protamine; they gradually decreased. Peak I-FABP levels were significantly higher in patients undergoing aortic surgery with hypothermic circulatory arrest than in patients with heart valve surgery. However, no postoperative reperfusion injury occurred in the intestinal tract due to the use of hypothermic organ protection. Plasma I-FABP monitoring could be a valuable method for finding an intestinal ischemia in patients with cardiovascular surgery.

Development of an off bypass mitral valve repair.

PubMed

Morales, D L; Madigan, J D; Choudhri, A F; Williams, M R; Helman, D N; Elder, J B; Naka, Y; Oz, M C

1999-01-01

The Bow Tie Repair (BTR), a single edge-to-edge suture opposing the anterior and posterior leaflets of the mitral valve (MV), has led to satisfactory reduction of mitral regurgitation (MR) with few re-operations and excellent hemodynamic results. The simplicity of the repair lends itself to minimally invasive approaches. A MV grasper has been developed that will coapt both leaflets and fasten the structures with a graduated spiral screw. Eleven explanted adult human MVs were mounted in a mock circulatory loop created for simulating a variety of hemodynamic conditions. The MV grasper was used to place a screw in each valve, which was then continuously run for 300,000 to 1,000,000 cycles with a fixed transvalvular pressure gradient. At the completion of these studies, the valves were stressed to a maximal transvalvular gradient for ten minutes. In seven cases, MR was induced and subsequently repaired using the MV screw. In vivo, the MV screw was tested in nine male canines. Through a subcostal incision, the MV grasper entered the left ventricle, approximated the mitral leaflets and deployed the MV screw under direct visualization via an atriotomy. Follow-up transthoracic echocardiograms were done at postoperative week 1, 6, and 12 to identify screw migration, MV regurgitation/stenosis or clot formation. Dogs were sacrificed up to postoperative week 12 to allow gross and histologic assessment. In vitro, no MV screw detached from the valve leaflets or migrated during the durability testing period of 6.8 million cycles, including periods of stress load testing up to 350 mm Hg. The percent regurgitant flow used to assess MR statistically decreased with the placement of the screw from 72 +/- 7% to 34 +/- 17%; p = 0.0025. In vivo, seven dogs whose valves were examined within the first 48 hours revealed leaflet coaptation with an intact MV screw and no evidence of MR. Two dogs, followed for a prolonged period, had serial postoperative echocardiograms demonstrating consistent coaptation, no screw migration, no clot, and no regurgitation or stenosis. In the animal sacrificed at 12 weeks, the MV screw was integrated into the tissue of both leaflets. The MV screw has provided durable leaflet coaptation and has reduced regurgitation in human MVs. Initial data on the MV screw's biocompatibility and interactions with living valve tissue is promising. Our early success supports further efforts towards the maturation of this prototype into off bypass mitral valve repair technology.

Role of vortices in cavitation formation in the flow across a mechanical heart valve.

PubMed

Li, Chi-Pei; Lu, Po-Chien; Liu, Jia-Shing; Lo, Chi-Wen; Hwang, Ned H

2008-07-01

Cavitation occurs during mechanical heart valve closure when the local pressure drops below vapor pressure. The formation of stable gas bubbles may result in gaseous emboli, and secondarily cause transient ischemic attacks or strokes. It is noted that instantaneous valve closure, occluder rebound and high-speed leakage flow generate vortices that promote low-pressure regions in favor of stable bubble formation; however, to date no studies have been conducted for the quantitative measurement and analysis of these vortices. A Björk-Shiley Monostrut (BSM) monoleaflet valve was placed in the mitral position of a pulsatile mock circulatory loop. Particle image velocimetry (PIV) and pico coulomb (PCB) pressure measurements were applied. Flow field measurements were carried out at t = -5, -3, -1, -0.5, 0 (valve closure), 0.3, 0.5, 0.75, 1.19, 1.44, 1.69, 1.94, 2, 2.19, 2.54, 2.79, 3.04, 3.29, 3.54, 5 and 10 ms. The vortices were quantitatively analyzed using the Rankine vortex model. A single counter-clockwise vortex was The instantaneous formation of cavitation bubbles at mechanical heart valve (MHV) closure, which subsequently damage blood cells and valve integrity, is a well-known and widely studied phenomenon (1-4). Contributing factors seem to include the water-hammer, squeeze flow and Venturi effects, all of which are short-lived. Both, Dauzat et al. (5) and Sliwka et al. (6) have detected high-intensity transient signals (HITS) with transcranial Doppler ultrasound in the carotid and cerebral arteries of MHV recipients, while Deklunder (7) observed clinical occurrences of cerebral gas emboli that were not seen with bioprosthetic valves. These detected over the major orifice, while a pair of counter-rotating vortices was found over the minor orifice. Velocity profiles were consistent with Rankine vortices. The vortex strength and magnitude of the pressure drop peaked shortly after initial occluder-housing impact and rapidly decreased after 0.5 ms, indicating viscous dissipation, with a less significant contribution from the occluder rebound effect. The maximum pressure drop was on the order of magnitude of 40 mmHg. Detailed PIV measurements and quantitative analysis of the BSM mechanical heart valve revealed large-scale vortex formation immediately after valve closure. Of note, the vortices were typical of a Rankine vortex and the maximum pressure change at the vortex center was only 40 mmHg. These data support the conclusion that vortex formation alone cannot generate the magnitude of pressure drop required for cavitation bubble formation.

Design, optimisation and preliminary validation of a human specific loop-mediated amplification assay for the rapid detection of human DNA at forensic crime scenes.

PubMed

Hird, H J; Brown, M K

2017-11-01

The identification of samples at a crime scene which require forensic DNA typing has been the focus of recent research interest. We propose a simple, but sensitive analysis system which can be deployed at a crime scene to identify crime scene stains as human or non-human. The proposed system uses the isothermal amplification of DNA in a rapid assay format, which returns results in as little as 30min from sampling. The assay system runs on the Genie II device, a proven in-field detection system which could be deployed at a crime scene. The results presented here demonstrate that the system was sufficiently specific and sensitive and was able to detect the presence of human blood, semen and saliva on mock forensic samples. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Mock Trials versus Management or Litigation-Driven Models of Business Law Instruction

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gershuny, Pamela; McAllister, Charles; Rainey, Carolyn

2012-01-01

This study was designed to gain a greater understanding of the learning outcomes associated with the mock trial as an active teaching method. Participating in a product liability mock trial presents students with the complex interplay of administrative regulations and common law. As in real life, the harsh constraints of time pressures, less than…

Citizenship Education in Michigan Schools: A Mock Election and Political Awareness Resource Guide. Secondary Level.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Michigan State Board of Education, Lansing.

An eight-chapter resource guide helps high school students become actively involved in the presidential election process. Chapter 1 contains directions for student participation in the 1984 Michigan statewide mock election; these directions are easily adaptable to other state and local mock election projects. Included are sample voter application…

Introducing Preservice Teachers to Issues Surrounding Evolution and Creationism via a Mock Trial.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Helgeson, Lars J.; Hoover, John; Sheehan, James

2002-01-01

Describes cooperation between social studies and science education professors to introduce preservice teachers to the evolution versus creationism debate via a mock trial. Uses a hypothetical situation in which a 6th grade teacher was fired for not balancing evolution and creationism in his teaching. Reports that the mock trial slightly increased…

The Circulatory System. Instructional Materials in Anatomy and Physiology for Pennsylvania Health Occupations Programs.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Evaluation Systems, Inc., Amherst, MA.

This instructional modular unit with instructor's guide provides materials on aspects of one of the major systems of the human body--the circulatory system. Its purpose is to introduce the student to the structures and functions of the human circulatory system--and the interrelationships of the two--and to familiarize the student with some of the…

Mathematical circulatory system model

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lakin, William D. (Inventor); Stevens, Scott A. (Inventor)

2010-01-01

A system and method of modeling a circulatory system including a regulatory mechanism parameter. In one embodiment, a regulatory mechanism parameter in a lumped parameter model is represented as a logistic function. In another embodiment, the circulatory system model includes a compliant vessel, the model having a parameter representing a change in pressure due to contraction of smooth muscles of a wall of the vessel.

What Is the Outcome of an Incision and Drainage Procedure in Endodontic Patients? A Prospective, Randomized, Single-blind Study.

PubMed

Beus, Hannah; Fowler, Sara; Drum, Melissa; Reader, Al; Nusstein, John; Beck, Mike; Jatana, Courtney

2018-02-01

There are no prospective endodontic studies to determine the outcome of an incision and drainage (I&D) procedure for swelling in healthy, endodontic patients. The purpose of this prospective, randomized, single-blind study was to compare the postoperative course of I&D with drain placement versus a mock I&D procedure with mock drain placement after endodontic debridement in swollen emergency patients with symptomatic teeth and a pulpal diagnosis of necrosis. Eighty-one adult emergency patients presenting with clinical swelling received either penicillin or, if allergic, clindamycin and complete endodontic debridement, and then were randomly divided into 2 treatment groups: I&D with drain placement or a mock I&D procedure with mock drain placement. At the end of the appointment, all patients received a combination of ibuprofen/acetaminophen and, if needed, an opioid-containing escape medication. Patients recorded their pain and medication use for 4 days postoperatively. Success was defined as no or mild postoperative pain and no use of an opioid-containing escape medication. Success was evaluated using repeated measure mixed model logistic regression. Both groups had a decrease in postoperative pain and medication use over the 4 days. The mock I&D group had significantly higher success than the I&D group (odds ratio = 2.00; 95% confidence interval, 1.16-3.41). The success rate was 45% with the mock I&D and 33% with the I&D. After endodontic debridement, patients who received a mock I&D procedure with mock drain placement had more success than patients who received I&D with drain placement. Both groups clinically improved over 4 days. Copyright © 2017 American Association of Endodontists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Selective cerebral perfusion prevents abnormalities in glutamate cycling and neuronal apoptosis in a model of infant deep hypothermic circulatory arrest and reperfusion.

PubMed

Kajimoto, Masaki; Ledee, Dolena R; Olson, Aaron K; Isern, Nancy G; Robillard-Frayne, Isabelle; Des Rosiers, Christine; Portman, Michael A

2016-11-01

Deep hypothermic circulatory arrest is often required for the repair of complex congenital cardiac defects in infants. However, deep hypothermic circulatory arrest induces neuroapoptosis associated with later development of neurocognitive abnormalities. Selective cerebral perfusion theoretically provides superior neural protection possibly through modifications in cerebral substrate oxidation and closely integrated glutamate cycling. We tested the hypothesis that selective cerebral perfusion modulates glucose utilization, and ameliorates abnormalities in glutamate flux, which occur in association with neuroapoptosis during deep hypothermic circulatory arrest. Eighteen infant male Yorkshire piglets were assigned randomly to two groups of seven (deep hypothermic circulatory arrest or deep hypothermic circulatory arrest with selective cerebral perfusion for 60 minutes at 18℃) and four control pigs without cardiopulmonary bypass support. Carbon-13-labeled glucose as a metabolic tracer was infused, and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance were used for metabolic analysis in the frontal cortex. Following 2.5 h of cerebral reperfusion, we observed similar cerebral adenosine triphosphate levels, absolute levels of lactate and citric acid cycle intermediates, and carbon-13 enrichment among three groups. However, deep hypothermic circulatory arrest induced significant abnormalities in glutamate cycling resulting in reduced glutamate/glutamine and elevated γ-aminobutyric acid/glutamate along with neuroapoptosis, which were all prevented by selective cerebral perfusion. The data suggest that selective cerebral perfusion prevents these modifications in glutamate/glutamine/γ-aminobutyric acid cycling and protects the cerebral cortex from apoptosis. © The Author(s) 2016.

Neonatal circulatory failure due to acute hypertensive crisis: clinical and echocardiographic clues.

PubMed

Louw, Jacoba; Brown, Stephen; Thewissen, Liesbeth; Smits, Anne; Eyskens, Benedicte; Heying, Ruth; Cools, Bjorn; Levtchenko, Elena; Allegaert, Karel; Gewillig, Marc

2013-04-01

Circulatory failure due to acute arterial hypertension in the neonatal period is rare. This study was undertaken to assess the clinical and echocardiographic manifestations of circulatory failure resulting from acute neonatal hypertensive crisis. Neonatal and cardiology databases from 2007 to 2010 were reviewed. An established diagnosis of circulatory failure due to neonatal hypertension before the age of 14 days was required for inclusion. Six patients were identified. Five patients presented with circulatory failure due to an acute hypertensive crisis. The median age at presentation was 8.5 days (range: 6.0-11.0) with a median body weight of 3.58 kg (range: 0.86-4.70). Echocardiography demonstrated mild left ventricular dysfunction [median shortening fraction (SF) 25%, range 10-30] and mild aortic regurgitation in 83% (5/6) of patients. One patient with left ventricular dysfunction (SF = 17%) had a large apical thrombus. Two patients were hypotensive, and hypertension only became evident after restoration of cardiac output. Administration of intravenous milrinone was successful, with rapid improvement of the clinical condition. Left ventricular function normalised in all survivors. Early neonatal circulatory collapse due to arterial hypertension is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition. At presentation, hypotension, especially in the presence of a dysfunctional left ventricle, does not exclude a hypertensive crisis being the cause of circulatory failure. The echocardiographic presence of mild aortic regurgitation combined with left ventricular hypocontractility in a structurally normal heart should alert the physician to the presence of underlying hypertension.

The Rhetoric of Mock Trial Debate: Using Logos, Pathos and Ethos in Undergraduate Competition

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Walker, Felicia R.

2005-01-01

While engaging in learning about roles of evidence, rules of procedure and case law, undergraduate mock trial students must also learn how to effectively communicate their evidence to the fact-finder. In mock trial, as in real courtroom trials in the United States legal system, communication skills and the ability to persuade are essential. This…

Threat detection in desert environment with passive millimeter-wave sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wilson, John P.; Schuetz, Christopher A.; Martin, Richard D.; Dillon, Thomas E.; Murakowski, Maciej; Prather, Dennis W.

2011-06-01

A new technique for improvised explosive device (IED) creation uses an explosive device buried in foam and covered in a layer of dirt. These devices are difficult to detect visually, however, their material characteristics make them detectable by passive millimeter-wave (pmmW) sensors. Results are presented from a test using a mock IED and an outdoor set-up consisting of two mock IEDs on a dirt background. The results show that the mock IEDs produces a millimeter-wave signature which is distinguishable from the background surrounding the mock IEDs. Simulations based on the measured data are presented and a design for a future vehicle mounted sensor is shown.

Senior Medical Student Mock Interview Program in Pediatrics.

PubMed

Multerer, Sara; Carothers, Becky; Patel, Pradip D; Ziegler, Craig; Rowland, Michael; Davis, Deborah Winders

2016-02-01

Residency interviews play an integral part in medical residency placement. We aimed to develop and evaluate a mock interview program for fourth-year medical students interested in a pediatric specialty. A mock interview program for fourth-year medical students interested in pediatrics was developed and implemented. Preinterview quantitative data and postinterview qualitative data were collected. Fifty-nine students completed the program across three consecutive academic years. Preinterview surveys were completed regarding comfort and confidence levels specific to aspects of the interview process. Descriptive analyses were used. In addition, a focus group was held with nine of the participating students to obtain qualitative data via a paper blog process. Themes in student responses were identified through constant comparative analysis. Before the mock interview, students were most uncomfortable with introductory and closing remarks and their confidence levels varied by topic. A thematic analysis of focus group data identified five themes (preparation, stress reduction, interview process familiarity, confidence of skills, and receiving feedback) for which the mock interviews were most helpful. Implementation of a mock interview program was feasible and acceptable for senior medical students and may improve comfort and confidence levels in the residency interview process. Further longitudinal research is needed.

Development and Validation of a Two-Tier Instrument to Examine Understanding of Internal Transport in Plants and the Human Circulatory System

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wang, Jing-Ru

2004-01-01

This study is intended to develop an assessment instrument to investigate students' understandings about internal transport in plants and human circulatory system. A refined process of a two-tier diagnostic test was used to develop the instrument. Finally, three versions of the Internal Transport in Plants and the Human Circulatory System test…

Development of a pump flow estimator for rotary blood pumps to enhance monitoring of ventricular function.

PubMed

Granegger, Marcus; Moscato, Francesco; Casas, Fernando; Wieselthaler, Georg; Schima, Heinrich

2012-08-01

Estimation of instantaneous flow in rotary blood pumps (RBPs) is important for monitoring the interaction between heart and pump and eventually the ventricular function. Our group has reported an algorithm to derive ventricular contractility based on the maximum time derivative (dQ/dt(max) as a substitute for ventricular dP/dt(max) ) and pulsatility of measured flow signals. However, in RBPs used clinically, flow is estimated with a bandwidth too low to determine dQ/dt(max) in the case of improving heart function. The aim of this study was to develop a flow estimator for a centrifugal pump with bandwidth sufficient to provide noninvasive cardiac diagnostics. The new estimator is based on both static and dynamic properties of the brushless DC motor. An in vitro setup was employed to identify the performance of pump and motor up to 20 Hz. The algorithm was validated using physiological ventricular and arterial pressure waveforms in a mock loop which simulated different contractilities (dP/dt(max) 600 to 2300 mm Hg/s), pump speeds (2 to 4 krpm), and fluid viscosities (2 to 4 mPa·s). The mathematically estimated pump flow data were then compared to the datasets measured in the mock loop for different variable combinations (flow ranging from 2.5 to 7 L/min, pulsatility from 3.5 to 6 L/min, dQ/dt(max) from 15 to 60 L/min/s). Transfer function analysis showed that the developed algorithm could estimate the flow waveform with a bandwidth up to 15 Hz (±2 dB). The mean difference between the estimated and measured average flows was +0.06 ± 0.31 L/min and for the flow pulsatilities -0.27 ± 0.2 L/min. Detection of dQ/dt(max) was possible up to a dP/dt(max) level of 2300 mm Hg/s. In conclusion, a flow estimator with sufficient frequency bandwidth and accuracy to allow determination of changes in ventricular contractility even in the case of improving heart function was developed. © 2012, Copyright the Authors. Artificial Organs © 2012, International Center for Artificial Organs and Transplantation and Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Statement of Facts for 1993 City-Wide Mock Trial Competitions. Sandra W. v. Gregg M.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Inst. for Citizen Education in the Law, Washington, DC.

Prepared by the District of Columbia Street Law Project for its 22nd annual city-wide mock trial competition, this instructional handout provides the material for a mock civil trial in which Sandra Williams sues Gregg Mason for negligent transmission of the Human Immuno-Deficient Virus (HIV). On the night of May 15, 1990, Sandra and Gregg engaged…

Donations After Circulatory Death in Liver Transplant

PubMed Central

Eren, Emre A.; Latchana, Nicholas; Beal, Eliza; Hayes, Don; Whitson, Bryan; Black, Sylvester M.

2017-01-01

The supply of liver grafts for treatment of end-stage liver disease continues to fall short of ongoing demands. Currently, most liver transplants originate from donations after brain death. Enhanced utilization of the present resources is prudent to address the needs of the population. Donation after circulatory or cardiac death is a mechanism whereby the availability of organs can be expanded. Donations after circulatory death pose unique challenges given their exposure to warm ischemia. Technical principles of donations after circulatory death procurement and pertinent studies investigating patient outcomes, graft outcomes, and complications are highlighted in this review. We also review associated risk factors to suggest potential avenues to achieve improved outcomes and reduced complications. Future considerations and alternative techniques of organ preservation are discussed, which may suggest novel strategies to enhance preservation and donor expansion through the use of marginal donors. Ultimately, without effective measures to bolster organ supply, donations after circulatory death should remain a consideration; however, an understanding of inherent risks and limitations is necessary. PMID:27733105

Donations After Circulatory Death in Liver Transplant.

PubMed

Eren, Emre A; Latchana, Nicholas; Beal, Eliza; Hayes, Don; Whitson, Bryan; Black, Sylvester M

2016-10-01

The supply of liver grafts for treatment of end-stage liver disease continues to fall short of ongoing demands. Currently, most liver transplants originate from donations after brain death. Enhanced utilization of the present resources is prudent to address the needs of the population. Donation after circulatory or cardiac death is a mechanism whereby the availability of organs can be expanded. Donations after circulatory death pose unique challenges given their exposure to warm ischemia. Technical principles of donations after circulatory death procurement and pertinent studies investigating patient outcomes, graft outcomes, and complications are highlighted in this review. We also review associated risk factors to suggest potential avenues to achieve improved outcomes and reduced complications. Future considerations and alternative techniques of organ preservation are discussed, which may suggest novel strategies to enhance preservation and donor expansion through the use of marginal donors. Ultimately, without effective measures to bolster organ supply, donations after circulatory death should remain a consideration; however, an understanding of inherent risks and limitations is necessary.

Generation of OH Radical by Ultrasonic Irradiation in Batch and Circulatory Reactor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fang, Yu; Shimizu, Sayaka; Yamamoto, Takuya; Komarov, Sergey

2018-03-01

Ultrasonic technology has been widely investigated in the past as one of the advance oxidation processes to treat wastewater, in this process acoustic cavitation causes generation of OH radical, which play a vital role in improving the treatment efficiency. In this study, OH radical formation rate was measured in batch and circulatory reactor by using Weissler reaction at various ultrasound output power. It is found that the generation rate in batch reactor is higher than that in circulatory reactor at the same output power. The generation rate tended to be slower when output power exceeds 137W. The optimum condition for circulatory reactor was found to be 137W output and 4L/min flow rate. Results of aluminum foil erosion test revealed a strong dependence of cavitation zone length on the ultrasound output power. This is assumed to be one of the reasons why the generation rate of HO radicals becomes slower at higher output power in circulatory reactor.

Cerebral activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases after circulatory arrest and low flow cardiopulmonary bypass.

PubMed

Aharon, Alon S; Mulloy, Matthew R; Drinkwater, Davis C; Lao, Oliver B; Johnson, Mahlon D; Thunder, Megan; Yu, Chang; Chang, Paul

2004-11-01

Mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) are important intermediates in the signal transduction pathways involved in neuronal dysfunction following cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury. One subfamily, extracellular regulated kinase 1/2, has been heavily implicated in the pathogenesis of post-ischemic neuronal damage. However, the contribution of extracellular regulated kinase 1/2 to neuronal damage following deep hypothermic circulatory arrest and low flow cardiopulmonary bypass is unknown. We attempted to correlate the extent of neuronal damage present following deep hypothermic circulatory arrest and low flow cardiopulmonary bypass with phosphorylated extracellular regulated kinase 1/2 expression in the cerebral vascular endothelium. Piglets underwent normal flow cardiopulmonary bypass (n=4) deep hypothermic circulatory arrest (n=6) and low flow cardiopulmonary bypass (n=5). Brains were harvested following 24 h of post-cardiopulmonary bypass recovery. Cerebral cortical watershed zones, hippocampus, basal ganglia, thalamus, cerebellum, mesencephalon, pons and medulla were evaluated using hematoxylin and eosin staining. A section of ischemic cortex was evaluated by immunohistochemistry with rabbit polyclonal antibodies against phosphorylated extracellular regulated kinase 1/2. Compared to cardiopulmonary bypass controls, the deep hypothermic circulatory arrest and low flow cardiopulmonary bypass piglets exhibited diffuse ischemic changes with overlapping severity and distribution. Significant neuronal damage occurred in the frontal watershed zones and basal ganglia of the deep hypothermic circulatory arrest group (P<0.05). No detectable phosphorylated extracellular regulated kinase 1/2 immunoreactivity was found in the cardiopulmonary bypass controls; however, ERK 1/2 immunoreactivity was present in the cerebral vascular endothelium of the deep hypothermic circulatory arrest and low flow cardiopulmonary bypass groups. Our results indicate that phosphorylated extracellular regulated kinase 1/2 may play a prominent role in early cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury and endothelial dysfunction. The pharmacologic inhibition of extracellular regulated kinase 1/2 represents a new and exciting opportunity for the modulation of cerebral tolerance to low flow cardiopulmonary bypass and deep hypothermic circulatory arrest.

Fast and accurate mock catalogue generation for low-mass galaxies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koda, Jun; Blake, Chris; Beutler, Florian; Kazin, Eyal; Marin, Felipe

2016-06-01

We present an accurate and fast framework for generating mock catalogues including low-mass haloes, based on an implementation of the COmoving Lagrangian Acceleration (COLA) technique. Multiple realisations of mock catalogues are crucial for analyses of large-scale structure, but conventional N-body simulations are too computationally expensive for the production of thousands of realizations. We show that COLA simulations can produce accurate mock catalogues with a moderate computation resource for low- to intermediate-mass galaxies in 1012 M⊙ haloes, both in real and redshift space. COLA simulations have accurate peculiar velocities, without systematic errors in the velocity power spectra for k ≤ 0.15 h Mpc-1, and with only 3-per cent error for k ≤ 0.2 h Mpc-1. We use COLA with 10 time steps and a Halo Occupation Distribution to produce 600 mock galaxy catalogues of the WiggleZ Dark Energy Survey. Our parallelized code for efficient generation of accurate halo catalogues is publicly available at github.com/junkoda/cola_halo.

Using an integrative mock-up simulation approach for evidence-based evaluation of operating room design prototypes.

PubMed

Bayramzadeh, Sara; Joseph, Anjali; Allison, David; Shultz, Jonas; Abernathy, James

2018-07-01

This paper describes the process and tools developed as part of a multidisciplinary collaborative simulation-based approach for iterative design and evaluation of operating room (OR) prototypes. Full-scale physical mock-ups of healthcare spaces offer an opportunity to actively communicate with and to engage multidisciplinary stakeholders in the design process. While mock-ups are increasingly being used in healthcare facility design projects, they are rarely evaluated in a manner to support active user feedback and engagement. Researchers and architecture students worked closely with clinicians and architects to develop OR design prototypes and engaged clinical end-users in simulated scenarios. An evaluation toolkit was developed to compare design prototypes. The mock-up evaluation helped the team make key decisions about room size, location of OR table, intra-room zoning, and doors location. Structured simulation based mock-up evaluations conducted in the design process can help stakeholders visualize their future workspace and provide active feedback. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A Mock Randomized Controlled Trial With Audience Response Technology for Teaching and Learning Epidemiology.

PubMed

Baker, Philip R A; Francis, Daniel P; Cathcart, Abby

2017-04-01

The study's objective was to apply and assess an active learning approach to epidemiology and critical appraisal. Active learning comprised a mock, randomized controlled trial (RCT) conducted with learners in 3 countries. The mock trial consisted of blindly eating red Smarties candy (intervention) compared to yellow Smarties (control) to determine whether red Smarties increase happiness. Audience response devices were employed with the 3-fold purposes to produce outcome data for analysis of the effects of red Smarties, identify baseline and subsequent changes in participant's knowledge and confidence in understanding of RCTs, and assess the teaching approach. Of those attending, 82% (117 of 143 learners) participated in the trial component. Participating in the mock trial was a positive experience, and the use of the technology aided learning. The trial produced data that learners analyzed in "real time" during the class. The mock RCT is a fun and engaging approach to teaching RCTs and helping students to develop skills in critical appraisal.

Description, validation, and modification of the Guyton model for space-flight applications. Part A. Guyton model of circulatory, fluid and electrolyte control. Part B. Modification of the Guyton model for circulatory, fluid and electrolyte control

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Leonard, J. I.

1985-01-01

The mathematical model that has been a cornerstone for the systems analysis of space-flight physiological studies is the Guyton model describing circulatory, fluid and electrolyte regulation. The model and the modifications that are made to permit simulation and analysis of the stress of weightlessness are described.

The Circulatory System [and] Instructor's Guide: The Circulatory System. Health Occupations Education Module: Instructional Materials in Anatomy and Physiology for Pennsylvania Health Occupations Programs.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Evaluation Systems, Inc., Amherst, MA.

This module on the circulatory system is one of 17 modules designed for individualized instruction in health occupations education programs at both the secondary and postsecondary levels. It is part of an eight-unit subset on anatomy and physiology within the set of 17 modules. Following a preface which explains to the student how to use the…

Host-Mediated Effects of Semipersistently Transmitted Squash Vein Yellowing Virus on Sweetpotato Whitefly (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) Behavior and Fitness.

PubMed

Shrestha, Deepak; McAuslane, Heather J; Adkins, Scott T; Smith, Hugh A; Dufault, Nicholas; Colee, James; Webb, Susan E

2017-08-01

Plant viruses may indirectly affect insect vector behavior and fitness via a shared host plant. Here, we evaluated the host-mediated effects of Squash vein yellowing virus (SqVYV) on the behavior and fitness of its whitefly vector, Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) Middle East-Asia Minor 1, formerly biotype B. Alighting, settling, and oviposition behavioral assays were conducted on infected and mock-inoculated squash (Cucurbita pepo L.) and watermelon [Citrullus lanatus (Thunb) Matsum and Nakai] plants. Developmental time of immature stages, adult longevity, and fecundity were measured on infected and mock-inoculated squash plants. For adult longevity and fecundity, whiteflies were reared on infected and mock-inoculated squash plants to determine the effects of nymphal rearing host on the adult stage. More whiteflies alighted and remained settled on infected squash than on mock-inoculated squash 0.25, 1, 8, and 24 h after release. No such initial preference was observed on watermelon plants, but by 8 h after release, more whiteflies were found on mock-inoculated watermelon plants than on infected plants. Whiteflies laid approximately six times more eggs on mock-inoculated watermelon than on infected watermelon; however, no differences were observed on squash. Development from egg to adult emergence was 3 d shorter on infected than mock-inoculated squash plants. Females lived 25% longer and had higher fecundity on infected squash plants than on mock-inoculated plants, regardless of infection status of the rearing host. The host-mediated effects of SqVYV infection on whitefly behavior differ on two cucurbit host plants, suggesting the potential for more rapid spread of the virus within watermelon fields. © The Authors 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Entomological Society of America. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Official 1997 Mock Trial Materials for the Twenty-Fifth Annual District of Columbia Public Schools Mock Trail Program: Ricki Jones, Plaintiff v. Metro City, Defendant.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Henderson, Kamina A.; Roe, Richard L.

This packet of materials contains law-related materials for students to conduct a mock trial. In this case a faulty water system, containing the parasite Pindia, contributed to the death of an AIDS patient. Statements from the plaintiff, a representative of the Metro City Water Department, health officials, and others are presented. New releases,…

Design guidelines for robotically serviceable hardware

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gordon, Scott A.

1988-01-01

Research being conducted at the Goddard Space Flight Center into the development of guidelines for the design of robotically serviceable spaceflight hardware is described. A mock-up was built based on an existing spaceflight system demonstrating how these guidelines can be applied to actual hardware. The report examines the basic servicing philosophy being studied and how this philosophy is reflected in the formulation of design guidelines for robotic servicing. A description of the mock-up is presented with emphasis on the design features that make it robot friendly. Three robotic servicing schemes fulfilling the design guidelines were developed for the mock-up. These servicing schemes are examined as to how their implementation was affected by the constraints of the spacecraft system on which the mock-up is based.

Building 9 ISS mock-ups and trainers

NASA Image and Video Library

1999-08-02

Photographic documentation showing the bldg. 9 ISS module mock-ups and trainers. Views include: various overall views of the configuration of the ISS module trainers on the floor of bldg. 9 (08445-46, 08449-51, 08458-61, 08464-65, 08469, 08471, 08476); various portions of the mock-ups (08447-48, 08470); views of the Node 2, Experiment Module and Logistics Module (08452); Node 2 (08453, 08466); Destiny and Node 2 (08454); Destiny, Unity and Airlock (08455); Zarya, Service Module and shuttle mock-ups (08456); Logistics Module and Experiment Module (08457, 08468); various views of Columbia, Node 2 and Destiny (08462-63); Columbus, Node 2, Experiment Module and Logistics Module (08467); U.S. Laboratory module (08472); Logistics Module (08473); module layout (08474); Logistics Module and Experiment Module (08475).

Risk Factors and Outcomes in Transfusion-associated Circulatory Overload

PubMed Central

Murphy, Edward L.; Kwaan, Nicholas; Looney, Mark R.; Gajic, Ognjen; Hubmayr, Rolf D.; Gropper, Michael A.; Koenigsberg, Monique; Wilson, Greg; Matthay, Michael; Bacchetti, Peter; Toy, Pearl

2013-01-01

BACKGROUND Transfusion-associated circulatory overload is characterized by new respiratory distress and hydrostatic pulmonary edema within 6 hours after blood transfusion, but its risk factors and outcomes are poorly characterized. METHODS Using a case control design, we enrolled 83 patients with severe transfusion-associated circulatory overload identified by active surveillance for hypoxemia and 163 transfused controls at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) and Mayo Clinic (Rochester, Minn) hospitals. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using multivariable logistic regression, and survival and length of stay were analyzed using proportional hazard models. RESULTS Transfusion-associated circulatory overload was associated with chronic renal failure (OR 27.0; 95% CI, 5.2–143), a past history of heart failure (OR 6.6; 95% CI, 2.1–21), hemorrhagic shock (OR 113; 95% CI, 14.1–903), number of blood products transfused (OR 1.11 per unit; 95% CI, 1.01–1.22), and fluid balance per hour (OR 9.4 per liter; 95% CI, 3.1–28). Patients with transfusion-associated circulatory overload had significantly increased in-hospital mortality (hazard ratio 3.20; 95% CI, 1.23–8.10) after controlling for Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation-II (APACHE-II) score, and longer hospital and intensive care unit lengths of stay. CONCLUSIONS The risk of transfusion-associated circulatory overload increases with the number of blood products administered and a positive fluid balance, and in patients with pre-existing heart failure and chronic renal failure. These data, if replicated, could be used to construct predictive algorithms for transfusion-associated circulatory overload, and subsequent modifications of transfusion practice might prevent morbidity and mortality associated with this complication. PMID:23357450

Fetal circulatory responses to oxygen lack.

PubMed

Jensen, A; Berger, R

1991-10-01

The knowledge on fetal and neonatal circulatory physiology accumulated by basic scientists and clinicians over the years has contributed considerably to the recent decline of perinatal morbidity and mortality. This review will summarize the peculiarities of the fetal circulation, the distribution of organ blood flow during normoxemia, and that during oxygen lack caused by various experimental perturbations. Furthermore, the relation between oxygen delivery and tissue metabolism during oxygen lack as well as evidence to support a new concept will be presented along with the principal cardiovascular mechanisms involved. Finally, blood flow and oxygen delivery to the principal fetal organs will be examined and discussed in relation to organ function. The fetal circulatory response to hypoxemia and asphyxia is a centralization of blood flow in favour of the brain, heart, and adrenals and at the expense of almost all peripheral organs, particularly of the lungs, carcass, skin and scalp. This response is qualitatively similar but quantitatively different under various experimental conditions. However, at the nadir of severe acute asphyxia the circulatory centralization cannot be maintained. Then there is circulatory decentralization, and the fetus will experience severe brain damage if not expire unless immediate resuscitation occurs. Future work in this field will have to concentrate on the important questions, what factors determine this collapse of circulatory compensating mechanisms in the fetus, how does it relate to neuronal damage, and how can the fetal brain be pharmacologically protected against the adverse effects of asphyxia.

Concept designs of nonrotating-type centrifugal blood pump and basic study on output characteristics of the oscillating disk-type centrifugal pump.

PubMed

Kabei, N; Tuichiya, K; Sakurai, Y

1994-09-01

When designing a turbo-type blood pump as an artificial heart, the gap between a rotating shaft and a pump housing should be perfectly sealed to prevent any leakage or contamination through a seal. In addition, blood coagulation in a blood chamber must be avoided. To overcome these problems, we proposed five different nonrotating-type turbo pumps: a caudal-fin-type axial-flow pump, a caudal-fin-type centrifugal pump, a nutating-column-type centrifugal pump, a nutating-collapsible-tube-type centrifugal pump, and an oscillating-disk-type centrifugal pump. We selected and developed the oscillating-disk-type centrifugal pump that consists of a disk, a driving rod, a seal, an oscillation mechanism, and a pump housing. The disk is mounted on the end of the rod, which is connected to a high-speed DC motor through an oscillation mechanism. The rod and the disk do not rotate, but they oscillate in the pump housing. This movement of the disk generates forward fluid flow around the axis (i.e., the rotational fluid flow). Centrifugal force due to fluid rotation supports the pressure difference between the outlet and the inlet. The diameter of the disk is 39 mm, the maximum inner diameter of the pump housing is 40 mm, and the volume of the blood chamber for 25 degrees' oscillation is 16.9 ml. The performance of the pump was tested in a mock circulatory system.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

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

Gerke, Brian F.; Wechsler, Risa H.; Behroozi, Peter S.

We develop empirical methods for modeling the galaxy population and populating cosmological N-body simulations with mock galaxies according to the observed properties of galaxies in survey data. We use these techniques to produce a new set of mock catalogs for the DEEP2 Galaxy Redshift Survey based on the output of the high-resolution Bolshoi simulation, as well as two other simulations with different cosmological parameters, all of which we release for public use. The mock-catalog creation technique uses subhalo abundance matching to assign galaxy luminosities to simulated dark-matter halos. It then adds color information to the resulting mock galaxies in amore » manner that depends on the local galaxy density, in order to reproduce the measured color-environment relation in the data. In the course of constructing the catalogs, we test various models for including scatter in the relation between halo mass and galaxy luminosity, within the abundance-matching framework. We find that there is no constant-scatter model that can simultaneously reproduce both the luminosity function and the autocorrelation function of DEEP2. This result has implications for galaxy-formation theory, and it restricts the range of contexts in which the mock catalogs can be usefully applied. Nevertheless, careful comparisons show that our new mock catalogs accurately reproduce a wide range of the other properties of the DEEP2 catalog, suggesting that they can be used to gain a detailed understanding of various selection effects in DEEP2.« less

In Vitro Simulation and Validation of the Circulation with Congenital Heart Defects

PubMed Central

Figliola, Richard S.; Giardini, Alessandro; Conover, Tim; Camp, Tiffany A.; Biglino, Giovanni; Chiulli, John; Hsia, Tain-Yen

2010-01-01

Despite the recent advances in computational modeling, experimental simulation of the circulation with congenital heart defect using mock flow circuits remains an important tool for device testing, and for detailing the probable flow consequences resulting from surgical and interventional corrections. Validated mock circuits can be applied to qualify the results from novel computational models. New mathematical tools, coupled with advanced clinical imaging methods, allow for improved assessment of experimental circuit performance relative to human function, as well as the potential for patient-specific adaptation. In this review, we address the development of three in vitro mock circuits specific for studies of congenital heart defects. Performance of an in vitro right heart circulation circuit through a series of verification and validation exercises is described, including correlations with animal studies, and quantifying the effects of circuit inertiance on test results. We present our experience in the design of mock circuits suitable for investigations of the characteristics of the Fontan circulation. We use one such mock circuit to evaluate the accuracy of Doppler predictions in the presence of aortic coarctation. PMID:21218147

Component fears of claustrophobia associated with mock magnetic resonance imaging.

PubMed

McGlynn, F Dudley; Smitherman, Todd A; Hammel, Jacinda C; Lazarte, Alejandro A

2007-01-01

A conceptualization of claustrophobia [Rachman, S., & Taylor, S. (1993). Analyses of claustrophobia. Journal of Anxiety Disorders, 7, 281-291] was evaluated in the context of magnetic resonance imaging. One hundred eleven students responded to questionnaires that quantified fear of suffocation, fear of restriction, and sensitivity to anxiety symptoms. Sixty-four of them were then exposed to a mock magnetic resonance imaging assessment; maximum subjective fear during the mock assessment was self-reported, behavioral reactions to the mock assessment were characterized, and heart rates before and during the assessment were recorded. Scores for fear of suffocation, fear of restriction, and anxiety sensitivity were used to predict subjective, behavioral, and cardiac fear. Subjective fear during the mock assessment was predicted by fears of suffocation and public anxiousness. Behavioral fear (escape/avoidance) was predicted by fears of restriction and suffocation, and sensitivity to symptoms related to suffocation. Cardiac fear was predicted by fear of public anxiousness. The criterion variance predicted was impressive, clearly sufficient to legitimize both the research preparation and the conceptualization of claustrophobia that was evaluated.

The Theoretical Astrophysical Observatory: Cloud-based Mock Galaxy Catalogs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bernyk, Maksym; Croton, Darren J.; Tonini, Chiara; Hodkinson, Luke; Hassan, Amr H.; Garel, Thibault; Duffy, Alan R.; Mutch, Simon J.; Poole, Gregory B.; Hegarty, Sarah

2016-03-01

We introduce the Theoretical Astrophysical Observatory (TAO), an online virtual laboratory that houses mock observations of galaxy survey data. Such mocks have become an integral part of the modern analysis pipeline. However, building them requires expert knowledge of galaxy modeling and simulation techniques, significant investment in software development, and access to high performance computing. These requirements make it difficult for a small research team or individual to quickly build a mock catalog suited to their needs. To address this TAO offers access to multiple cosmological simulations and semi-analytic galaxy formation models from an intuitive and clean web interface. Results can be funnelled through science modules and sent to a dedicated supercomputer for further processing and manipulation. These modules include the ability to (1) construct custom observer light cones from the simulation data cubes; (2) generate the stellar emission from star formation histories, apply dust extinction, and compute absolute and/or apparent magnitudes; and (3) produce mock images of the sky. All of TAO’s features can be accessed without any programming requirements. The modular nature of TAO opens it up for further expansion in the future.

Millimeter wave experiment of ITER equatorial EC launcher mock-up

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

Takahashi, K.; Oda, Y.; Kajiwara, K.

2014-02-12

The full-scale mock-up of the equatorial launcher was fabricated in basis of the baseline design to investigate the mm-wave propagation properties of the launcher, the manufacturability, the cooling line management, how to assemble the components and so on. The mock-up consists of one of three mm-wave transmission sets and one of eight waveguide lines can deliver the mm-wave power. The mock-up was connected to the ITER compatible transmission line and the 170GHz gyrotron and the high power experiment was carried out. The measured radiation pattern of the beam at the location of 2.5m away from the EL mock-up shows themore » successful steering capability of 20°∼40°. It was also revealed that the radiated profile at both steering and fixed focusing mirror agreed with the calculation. The result also suggests that some unwanted modes are included in the radiated beam. Transmission of 0.5MW-0.4sec and of 0.12MW-50sec were also demonstrated.« less

Attractive but guilty: deliberation and the physical attractiveness bias.

PubMed

Patry, Marc W

2008-06-01

The current study examined the effect of jury deliberation on the tendency for mock jurors to find attractive defendants guilty less often. It was expected that there would be an interaction between group deliberation (yes or no) and defendant's appearance (plain-looking or attractive). It was hypothesized that mock jurors who did not deliberate would be more likely to find a plain-looking defendant guilty and that deliberation would mitigate this effect. The study was a 2 x 2 between-subjects factorial design. Participants were assigned randomly to one of four conditions: attractive defendant/deliberation, attractive defendant/no deliberation, plain-looking defendant/deliberation, and plain-looking defendant/no deliberation. A total of 172 undergraduates from a small, rural college in Vermont contributed to this study: mock jurors were 70 men and 52 women, ages ranged from 18 to 52 years (M=20.5, SD=4.9). The hypothesis was supported. Mock jurors who did not deliberate were more likely to find the plain-looking defendant guilty, whereas mock jurors who deliberated were more likely to find the attractive defendant guilty.

Canadian Guidelines for Controlled Pediatric Donation After Circulatory Determination of Death-Summary Report.

PubMed

Weiss, Matthew J; Hornby, Laura; Rochwerg, Bram; van Manen, Michael; Dhanani, Sonny; Sivarajan, V Ben; Appleby, Amber; Bennett, Mary; Buchman, Daniel; Farrell, Catherine; Goldberg, Aviva; Greenberg, Rebecca; Singh, Ram; Nakagawa, Thomas A; Witteman, William; Barter, Jill; Beck, Allon; Coughlin, Kevin; Conradi, Alf; Cupido, Cynthia; Dawson, Rosanne; Dipchand, Anne; Freed, Darren; Hornby, Karen; Langlois, Valerie; Mack, Cheryl; Mahoney, Meagan; Manhas, Deepak; Tomlinson, Christopher; Zavalkoff, Samara; Shemie, Sam D

2017-11-01

Create trustworthy, rigorous, national clinical practice guidelines for the practice of pediatric donation after circulatory determination of death in Canada. We followed a process of clinical practice guideline development based on World Health Organization and Canadian Medical Association methods. This included application of Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation methodology. Questions requiring recommendations were generated based on 1) 2006 Canadian donation after circulatory determination of death guidelines (not pediatric specific), 2) a multidisciplinary symposium of national and international pediatric donation after circulatory determination of death leaders, and 3) a scoping review of the pediatric donation after circulatory determination of death literature. Input from these sources drove drafting of actionable questions and Good Practice Statements, as defined by the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation group. We performed additional literature reviews for all actionable questions. Evidence was assessed for quality using Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation and then formulated into evidence profiles that informed recommendations through the evidence-to-decision framework. Recommendations were revised through consensus among members of seven topic-specific working groups and finalized during meetings of working group leads and the planning committee. External review was provided by pediatric, critical care, and critical care nursing professional societies and patient partners. We generated 63 Good Practice Statements and seven Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation recommendations covering 1) ethics, consent, and withdrawal of life-sustaining therapy, 2) eligibility, 3) withdrawal of life-sustaining therapy practices, 4) ante and postmortem interventions, 5) death determination, 6) neonatal pediatric donation after circulatory determination of death, 7) cardiac and innovative pediatric donation after circulatory determination of death, and 8) implementation. For brevity, 48 Good Practice Statement and truncated justification are included in this summary report. The remaining recommendations, detailed methodology, full Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation tables, and expanded justifications are available in the full text report. This process showed that rigorous, transparent clinical practice guideline development is possible in the domain of pediatric deceased donation. Application of these recommendations will increase access to pediatric donation after circulatory determination of death across Canada and may serve as a model for future clinical practice guideline development in deceased donation.

Underuse of medication for circulatory disorders among unmarried women and men in Norway?

PubMed

Kravdal, Øystein; Grundy, Emily

2014-11-24

It is well established that unmarried people have higher mortality from circulatory diseases and higher all-cause mortality than the married, and these marital status differences seem to be increasing. However, much remains to be known about the underlying mechanisms. Our objective was to examine marital status differences in the purchase of medication for circulatory diseases, and risk factors for them, which may indicate underuse of such medication by some marital status groups. Using data from registers covering the entire Norwegian population, we analysed marital status differences in the purchase of medicine for eight circulatory disorders by people aged 50-79 in 2004-2008. These differences were compared with those in circulatory disease mortality during 2004-2007, considered as indicating probable differences in disease burden. The unmarried had 1.4-2.8 times higher mortality from the four types of circulatory diseases considered. However, the never-married in particular purchased less medicine for these diseases, or precursor risk factors of these diseases, primarily because of a low chance of making a first purchase. The picture was more mixed for the divorced and widowed. Both groups purchased less of some of these medicines than the married, but, especially in the case of the widowed, relatively more of other types of medicine. In contrast to the never-married, divorced and widowed people were as least as likely as the married to make a first purchase, but adherence rates thereafter, indicated by continuing purchases, were lower. The most plausible interpretation of the findings is that compared with married people, especially the never-married more often have circulatory disorders that are undiagnosed or for which they for other reasons underuse medication. Inadequate use of these potentially very efficient medicines in such a large population group is a serious public health challenge which needs further investigation. It is possible that marital status differences in use of medicines for circulatory disorders combined with an increasing importance of these medicines have contributed to the widening marital status gap in mortality observed in several countries. This also requires further investigation.

Placement of direct composite veneers utilizing a silicone buildup guide and intraoral mock-up.

PubMed

Behle, C

2000-04-01

The indications for direct composite resins have recently been expanded to include predictable and convenient application in the aesthetic zone. The availability of composite materials with improved physical and optical characteristics facilitates the development of enhanced aesthetics while maintaining vital function. This article presents a simplified technique that combines function with aesthetics by utilizing an intraoral composite mock-up for initial communication and a lingual/incisal silicone stent of the mock-up to transfer the information to the definitive restorative buildup.

Técnica de Construcción de Catálogos Sintéticos

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Díaz, M. E.; Muriel, H.; Merchán, M.

We present a mock catalogue construction technic which enable us to mimic simultaniously several observational properties, such as spectral types, angular positions, redshifts distribution, aparent and absolut magnitudes and gravitational evolution. We analyze some prescriptions for volume and flux limited samples. As an aplication, we present a mock catalogue of the 2dF redshift survey and the corresponding comparison between the observational properties of the real data and the corresponding to the mock catalogue constructed in this work.

Neurohormonal Imbalance: A Neglected Problem-And Potential Therapeutic Target-In Acute Heart Failure.

PubMed

Goldsmith, Steven R; Bart, Bradley A; Pin A, Ileana L

2017-12-16

Decompensated or acute heart failure (AHF) is characterized by increased ventricular and atrial pressures which may lead to and be caused by circulatory congestion. Unless due to a primary decrease in cardiac function, congestion arises from volume expansion or vasoconstriction. In turn, volume expansion and vasoconstriction are due to neurohormonal imbalance since both result from activation of the sympathetic nervous system, the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone axis and excess secretion of arginine vasopressin. Outcomes in AHF remain dismal. Loop diuretics are the mainstay of therapy for AHF and may themselves aggravate neurohormonal imbalance. No adjunctive pharmacotherapy has yielded improvement in outcomes in AHF despite many attempts with various vasodilators and inotropes. We, therefore, propose that insufficient attention has been paid to neurohormonal imbalance in AHF. As in chronic HF, rectifying the effects of neurohormonal imbalance may lead to better outcomes. The use of alternative decongestive strategies or adjunctive pharmacotherapy directed at neurohormonal activation could yield benefit. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

High-risk medical devices, children and the FDA: regulatory challenges facing pediatric mechanical circulatory support devices.

PubMed

Almond, Christopher S D; Chen, Eric A; Berman, Michael R; Less, Joanne R; Baldwin, J Timothy; Linde-Feucht, Sarah R; Hoke, Tracey R; Pearson, Gail D; Jenkins, Kathy; Duncan, Brian W; Zuckerman, Bram D

2007-01-01

Pediatric mechanical circulatory support is a critical unmet need in the United States. Infant- and child-sized ventricular assist devices are currently being developed largely through federal contracts and grants through the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI). Human testing and marketing of high-risk devices for children raises epidemiologic and regulatory issues that will need to be addressed. Leaders from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), NHLBI, academic pediatric community, and industry convened in January 2006 for the first FDA Workshop on the Regulatory Process for Pediatric Mechanical Circulatory Support Devices. The purpose was to provide the pediatric community with an overview of the federal regulatory process for high-risk medical devices and to review the challenges specific to the development and regulation of pediatric mechanical circulatory support devices. Pediatric mechanical circulatory support present significant epidemiologic, logistic, and financial challenges to industry, federal regulators, and the pediatric community. Early interactions with the FDA, shared appreciation of challenges, and careful planning will be critical to avoid unnecessary delays in making potentially life-saving devices available for children. Collaborative efforts to address these challenges are warranted.

Health care utilization and costs for diseases of the circulatory system in a corporate setting.

PubMed

Tsai, S P; Bernacki, E J; Reedy, S M; Miller, K E

1988-01-01

This article presents the health care utilization and costs for diseases of the circulatory system among 14,162 employees and their spouses based on medical insurance claims data analysis. Diseases of the circulatory system ranked first among insurance claims and costs accounting for 23% ($4.6 million) of the plan's total health care costs ($19.7 million) for the 1984 policy year. Overall, 57% of these expenditures were for hospital care, the proportion for hospital costs being as high as 64% for heart diseases and as low as 20% for hypertension. Male employees had higher utilization for both in-hospital and out-patient services than females. Utilization rates and costs dramatically increased for individuals 50 years or older. Costs for surgical and diagnostic procedures amounted to 8% of the total costs of circulatory system disorders. This article provides an example of the utility of claims analysis for morbidity surveillance. The analyses and parameters measured herein can be viewed as prerequisites to the development of health care management and health promotion strategies aimed at reducing health care cost for diseases of the circulatory system in a corporate setting.

A Comparative Study of Different Hypothermic Circulatory Arrest Strategies on Aortic Surgery.

ClinicalTrials.gov

2018-03-22

Morality; Hypothermic Circulatory Arrest Time; Aortic-cross Clamping Time; Cardiopulmonary Bypass Time; Operation Time; Re-Thoracotomy; ICU Stay; Mechanical Ventilation Time; Blood Transfusion; Neurological Disorder; Dialysis; Aneurysm; Endoleak; Hospital Stay

Director's Corner: Professional Development Workshop Helps Early Stage Investigators

Cancer.gov

The Professional Development and Mock Review Workshop is a seminal event organized each year for CURE scholars and trainees. The event includes informative presentations, interactive discussions, a mock review, and poster session.

Thermal Fatigue Study on the Divertor Plate Materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Ji-hong; Zhang, Fu; Xu, Zeng-yu; Yan, Jian-cheng

2002-10-01

Thermal fatigue property of the divertor plate is one of the key issues that governs the lifetime of the divertor plate. Taking tungsten as surface material, a small-mock-up divertor plate was made by hot isostatic press welding (HIP). A thermal cycling experiment for divertor mock-up was carried out in the vacuum, where a high-heat-flux electronic gun was used as the thermal source. A cyclic heat flux of 9 MW/m2 was loaded onto the mock-up, a heating duration of 20 s was selected, the cooling water flow rate was 80 ml/s. After 1000 cycles, the surface and the W/Cu joint of the mock-up did not show any damage. The SEM was used to analyze the microstructure of the welding joint, where no cracks were found also.

Can paediatric medical students devise a satisfactory standard of examination for their colleagues?

PubMed

Cunningham, S

1999-06-01

To determine what standard paediatric medical students would set for examining their peers and how that would compare with the university standard. Single blinded computer marked examination with questionnaire. University medical school. Medical students during their final paediatric attachment. Medical students asked to derive 10, five branch negatively marked multiple choice questions (MCQs) to a standard that would fail those without sufficient knowledge. Each 10 were then assessed by another student as to the degree of difficulty and the relevance to paediatrics. One year later student peers sat a mock MCQ examination derived from a random 40 questions (unaware that the mock MCQs had been derived by peers). Comparison of marks obtained in mock and final MCQ examinations; student perception of the standard in the two examinations assessed by questionnaire. 44 students derived 439 questions, of which 83% were considered an appropriate standard by a classmate. One year later 62 students sat the mock examination. Distribution of marks was better in the mock MCQ examination than the final MCQ examination. Students considered the mock questions to be a more appropriate standard (72% v 31%) and the topics more relevant (88% v 64%) to paediatric medical students. Questions were of a similar clarity in both examinations (73% v 78%). Students in this study were able to derive an examination of a satisfactory standard for their peers. Involvement of students in deriving examination standards may give them a better appreciation of how standards should be set and maintained.

Bayesian Approach to Spectral Function Reconstruction for Euclidean Quantum Field Theories

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Burnier, Yannis; Rothkopf, Alexander

2013-11-01

We present a novel approach to the inference of spectral functions from Euclidean time correlator data that makes close contact with modern Bayesian concepts. Our method differs significantly from the maximum entropy method (MEM). A new set of axioms is postulated for the prior probability, leading to an improved expression, which is devoid of the asymptotically flat directions present in the Shanon-Jaynes entropy. Hyperparameters are integrated out explicitly, liberating us from the Gaussian approximations underlying the evidence approach of the maximum entropy method. We present a realistic test of our method in the context of the nonperturbative extraction of the heavy quark potential. Based on hard-thermal-loop correlator mock data, we establish firm requirements in the number of data points and their accuracy for a successful extraction of the potential from lattice QCD. Finally we reinvestigate quenched lattice QCD correlators from a previous study and provide an improved potential estimation at T=2.33TC.

Bayesian approach to spectral function reconstruction for Euclidean quantum field theories.

PubMed

Burnier, Yannis; Rothkopf, Alexander

2013-11-01

We present a novel approach to the inference of spectral functions from Euclidean time correlator data that makes close contact with modern Bayesian concepts. Our method differs significantly from the maximum entropy method (MEM). A new set of axioms is postulated for the prior probability, leading to an improved expression, which is devoid of the asymptotically flat directions present in the Shanon-Jaynes entropy. Hyperparameters are integrated out explicitly, liberating us from the Gaussian approximations underlying the evidence approach of the maximum entropy method. We present a realistic test of our method in the context of the nonperturbative extraction of the heavy quark potential. Based on hard-thermal-loop correlator mock data, we establish firm requirements in the number of data points and their accuracy for a successful extraction of the potential from lattice QCD. Finally we reinvestigate quenched lattice QCD correlators from a previous study and provide an improved potential estimation at T=2.33T(C).

[Clinical value of ammonia determination in venous blood in chronic cor pulmonale].

PubMed

Szulc, E J; Sworzyńska, I

1978-01-01

The authors have examined 43 workers of the Warszawa works: 20 healthy persons and 23 with chronic pulmocardiac syndrome. An increased ammonia level in venous blood, above 48 gamma %, was found in those with chronic pulmocardiac syndrome with simultaneous circulatory insufficiency. Ammonia level in the blood of those with chronic pulmocardiac syndrome but without circulatory insufficiency was normal. These studies indicate that the increase of ammonia concentration in venous blood in chronic pulmocardiac syndrome results from disturbance in hepatic cell function, intensified during circulatory insufficiency.

Mechanical Characterization of the Iter Mock-Up Insulation after Reactor Irradiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Prokopec, R.; Humer, K.; Fillunger, H.; Maix, R. K.; Weber, H. W.

2010-04-01

The ITER mock-up project was launched in order to demonstrate the feasibility of an industrial impregnation process using the new cyanate ester/epoxy blend. The mock-up simulates the TF winding pack cross section by a stainless steel structure with the same dimensions as the TF winding pack at a length of 1 m. It consists of 7 plates simulating the double pancakes, each of them is wrapped with glass fiber/Kapton sandwich tapes. After stacking the 7 plates, additional insulation layers are wrapped to simulate the ground insulation. This paper presents the results of the mechanical quality tests on the mock-up pancake insulation. Tensile and short beam shear specimens were cut from the plates extracted from the mock-up and tested at 77 K using a servo-hydraulic material testing device. All tests were repeated after reactor irradiation to a fast neutron fluence of 1×1022 m-2 (E>0.1 MeV). In order to simulate the pulsed operation of ITER, tension-tension fatigue measurements were performed in the load controlled mode. Initial results show a high mechanical strength as expected from the high number of thin glass fiber layers, and an excellent homogeneity of the material.

Devices as destination therapy.

PubMed

Kukuy, Eugene L; Oz, Mehmet C; Rose, Eric A; Naka, Yoshifumi

2003-02-01

The use of circulatory support as destination therapy has been a goal for the treatment of endstage heart failure for several decades. Current investigations are evaluating several circulatory pumps with that particular objective. With continued modification of design, the current and future pumps will become more reliable and provide improved quality of life to patients in need of mechanical circulatory assistance. The new pumps on the horizon specifically address reliability, size, and cost, and are based on the centrifugal system. These devices use the Maglev (Magnetic Levitation) concept that allows for frictionless pumping, low thrombogenicity, minimal noise, and increased durability. Further research with this goal in mind and support from the federal government will be the key to the future use of circulatory assistance as destination therapy for heart failure patients. In addition, the cost-effectiveness of these devices will need to be maintained as the technology improves, as in any new technology that confronts a more intuitive option like the native heart.

Does the use of thiopental provide added cerebral protection during deep hypothermic circulatory arrest?

PubMed Central

Al-Hashimi, Sara; Zaman, Mahvash; Waterworth, Paul; Bilal, Haris

2013-01-01

A best evidence topic in cardiac surgery was written according to a structured protocol. The question addressed was: Does the use of thiopental provide added cerebral protection during deep hypothermic circulatory arrest (DHCA)? Altogether, more than 62 papers were found using the reported search, of which 7 represented the best evidence to answer the clinical question. The authors, journal, date and country of publication, patient group studied, study type, relevant outcomes and results of these papers are tabulated. Four of the seven papers used thiopental alongside other neuroprotective methods and agents. The methods included the use of ice packs to the head and core systemic hypothermia. Agents used alongside thiopental included nicardipine and mannitol. Thiopental was found to have the ability to lower oxygen consumption, where oxygen consumption was measured using the phosphocreatinine and adenosine triphosphate ratio. The neuroprotective effect of thiopental was evaluated by assessing the electrical activity of the brain during circulatory arrest, by which it was shown to be advantageous. However, other trials suggested that adding thiopental during circulatory arrest did not provide any extra protection to the brain. The timing of thiopental administration is of importance in order to gain positive outcomes, as it's ability to lower the cerebral energy state may result in unfavourable results if added before hypothermic circulatory arrest, where this may lead to an ischaemic event. We conclude that the use of thiopental during deep hypothermic circulatory arrest is beneficial, but if administered too early, it may replete the cerebral energy state before arrest and prove to be detrimental. PMID:23644730

Does the use of thiopental provide added cerebral protection during deep hypothermic circulatory arrest?

PubMed

Al-Hashimi, Sara; Zaman, Mahvash; Waterworth, Paul; Bilal, Haris

2013-08-01

A best evidence topic in cardiac surgery was written according to a structured protocol. The question addressed was: Does the use of thiopental provide added cerebral protection during deep hypothermic circulatory arrest (DHCA)? Altogether, more than 62 papers were found using the reported search, of which 7 represented the best evidence to answer the clinical question. The authors, journal, date and country of publication, patient group studied, study type, relevant outcomes and results of these papers are tabulated. Four of the seven papers used thiopental alongside other neuroprotective methods and agents. The methods included the use of ice packs to the head and core systemic hypothermia. Agents used alongside thiopental included nicardipine and mannitol. Thiopental was found to have the ability to lower oxygen consumption, where oxygen consumption was measured using the phosphocreatinine and adenosine triphosphate ratio. The neuroprotective effect of thiopental was evaluated by assessing the electrical activity of the brain during circulatory arrest, by which it was shown to be advantageous. However, other trials suggested that adding thiopental during circulatory arrest did not provide any extra protection to the brain. The timing of thiopental administration is of importance in order to gain positive outcomes, as it's ability to lower the cerebral energy state may result in unfavourable results if added before hypothermic circulatory arrest, where this may lead to an ischaemic event. We conclude that the use of thiopental during deep hypothermic circulatory arrest is beneficial, but if administered too early, it may replete the cerebral energy state before arrest and prove to be detrimental.

A Ghostly Symposium on the Value of the Arts.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Music Educators Journal, 1978

1978-01-01

In mock interviews with Mark Twain, Oscar Wilde, Plato, and George Santayana, the value of the arts in education is discussed. The author suggests this mock interview technique as a method for teaching other topics. (KC)

STS-133 crew during CCT II Flight Communications plan

NASA Image and Video Library

2010-02-04

JSC2010-E-023636 (4 Feb. 2010) --- NASA astronaut Tim Kopra, STS-133 mission specialist, participates in training session in a shuttle mock-up in the Space Vehicle Mock-up Facility at NASA's Johnson Space Center.

STS-133 crew during CCT II Flight Communications plan

NASA Image and Video Library

2010-02-04

JSC2010-E-023637 (4 Feb. 2010) --- NASA astronaut Alvin Drew, STS-133 mission specialist, participates in training session in a shuttle mock-up in the Space Vehicle Mock-up Facility at NASA's Johnson Space Center.

STS-133 crew during CCT II Flight Communications plan

NASA Image and Video Library

2010-02-04

JSC2010-E-023639 (4 Feb. 2010) --- NASA astronaut Steve Lindsey, STS-133 commander, participates in training session in a shuttle mock-up in the Space Vehicle Mock-up Facility at NASA's Johnson Space Center.

Canadian Guidelines for Controlled Pediatric Donation After Circulatory Determination of Death—Summary Report*

PubMed Central

Hornby, Laura; Rochwerg, Bram; van Manen, Michael; Dhanani, ; Sonny; Sivarajan, V. Ben; Appleby, Amber; Bennett, Mary; Buchman, Daniel; Farrell, Catherine; Goldberg, Aviva; Greenberg, Rebecca; Singh, Ram; Nakagawa, Thomas A.; Witteman, William; Barter, Jill; Beck, Allon; Coughlin, Kevin; Conradi, Alf; Cupido, Cynthia; Dawson, Rosanne; Dipchand, Anne; Freed, Darren; Hornby, Karen; Langlois, Valerie; Mack, Cheryl; Mahoney, Meagan; Manhas, Deepak; Tomlinson, Christopher; Zavalkoff, Samara; Shemie, Sam D.

2017-01-01

Objectives: Create trustworthy, rigorous, national clinical practice guidelines for the practice of pediatric donation after circulatory determination of death in Canada. Methods: We followed a process of clinical practice guideline development based on World Health Organization and Canadian Medical Association methods. This included application of Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation methodology. Questions requiring recommendations were generated based on 1) 2006 Canadian donation after circulatory determination of death guidelines (not pediatric specific), 2) a multidisciplinary symposium of national and international pediatric donation after circulatory determination of death leaders, and 3) a scoping review of the pediatric donation after circulatory determination of death literature. Input from these sources drove drafting of actionable questions and Good Practice Statements, as defined by the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation group. We performed additional literature reviews for all actionable questions. Evidence was assessed for quality using Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation and then formulated into evidence profiles that informed recommendations through the evidence-to-decision framework. Recommendations were revised through consensus among members of seven topic-specific working groups and finalized during meetings of working group leads and the planning committee. External review was provided by pediatric, critical care, and critical care nursing professional societies and patient partners. Results: We generated 63 Good Practice Statements and seven Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation recommendations covering 1) ethics, consent, and withdrawal of life-sustaining therapy, 2) eligibility, 3) withdrawal of life-sustaining therapy practices, 4) ante and postmortem interventions, 5) death determination, 6) neonatal pediatric donation after circulatory determination of death, 7) cardiac and innovative pediatric donation after circulatory determination of death, and 8) implementation. For brevity, 48 Good Practice Statement and truncated justification are included in this summary report. The remaining recommendations, detailed methodology, full Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation tables, and expanded justifications are available in the full text report. Conclusions: This process showed that rigorous, transparent clinical practice guideline development is possible in the domain of pediatric deceased donation. Application of these recommendations will increase access to pediatric donation after circulatory determination of death across Canada and may serve as a model for future clinical practice guideline development in deceased donation. PMID:28925929

Progress on performance assessment of ITER enhanced heat flux first wall technology after neutron irradiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hirai, T.; Bao, L.; Barabash, V.; Chappuis, Ph; Eaton, R.; Escourbiac, F.; Giqcuel, S.; Merola, M.; Mitteau, R.; Raffray, R.; Linke, J.; Loewenhoff, Th; Pintsuk, G.; Wirtz, M.; Boomstra, D.; Magielsen, A.; Chen, J.; Wang, P.; Gervash, A.; Safronov, V.

2016-02-01

ITER first wall (FW) panels are irradiated by energetic neutrons during the nuclear phase. Thus, an irradiation and high heat flux testing programme is undertaken by the ITER organization in order to evaluate the effects of neutron irradiation on the performance of enhanced heat flux (EHF) FW components. The test campaign includes neutron irradiation (up to 0.6-0.8 dpa at 200 °C-250 °C) of mock-ups that are representative of the final EHF FW panel design, followed by thermal fatigue tests (up to 4.7 MW m-2). Mock-ups were manufactured by the same manufacturing process as proposed for the series production. After a pre-irradiation thermal screening, eight mock-ups will be selected for the irradiation campaigns. This paper reports the preparatory work of HHF tests and neutron irradiation, assessment results as well as a brief description of mock-up manufacturing and inspection routes.

Development of inert density mock materials for HMX

DOE PAGES

Yeager, John D.; Higginbotham Duque, Amanda L.; Shorty, Marvin; ...

2017-09-22

Inert surrogates or mocks for high explosives are commonly used in place of the real material for complex experiments or in situations where safety is a concern. We tested several materials as potential mocks for HMX in terms of density, thermal stability, and processability. Selection criteria were developed and a literature search was conducted primarily using the Cambridge Structural Database. Moreover, out of over 200 potentially acceptable materials, six were chosen for crystallization experiments and a suite of analytical characterization. Of these six, 5-iodo-2'-deoxyuridine, N,N'-bis(2,3,4,5,6-pentafluorophenyl)oxamide, and 2,3,4,5,6-pentafluorobenzamide all were found to be thermally stable at 150°C, matched HMX density asmore » a pressed pellet, and could be crystallized to appropriate particle sizes. These three materials are considered suitable inert density mocks for HMX and will be the subject of future testing.« less

Modeling and control of a brushless DC axial flow ventricular assist device.

PubMed

Giridharan, Guruprasad A; Skliar, Mikhail; Olsen, Donald B; Pantalos, George M

2002-01-01

This article presents an integrated model of the human circulatory system that incorporates circulatory support by a brushless DC axial flow ventricular assist device (VAD), and a feedback VAD controller designed to maintain physiologically sufficient perfusion. The developed integrated model combines a network type model of the circulatory system with a nonlinear dynamic model of the brushless DC pump We show that maintaining a reference differential pressure between the left ventricle and aorta leads to adequate perfusion for different pathologic cases, ranging from normal heart to left heart asystole, and widely varying physical activity scenarios from rest to exercise.

Temporary Mechanical Circulatory Support: A Review of the Options, Indications, and Outcomes

PubMed Central

Gilotra, Nisha A; Stevens, Gerin R

2014-01-01

Cardiogenic shock remains a challenging disease entity and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Temporary mechanical circulatory support (MCS) can be implemented in an acute setting to stabilize acutely ill patients with cardiomyopathy in a variety of clinical situations. Currently, several options exist for temporary MCS. We review the indications, contraindications, clinical applications, and evidences for a variety of temporary circulatory support options, including the intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP), extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), CentriMag blood pump, and percutaneous ventricular assist devices (pVADs), specifically the TandemHeart and Impella. PMID:25674024

Program Spotlight: CURE Scholars Participate in Annual Mock Grant Review

Cancer.gov

As part of its 2015 Professional Development Workshop, CRCHD held a mock review session for CURE scholars, trainees, and investigators to enhance their understanding of the grant review process and provide insight on successful grant applications.

[Application of artificial neural networks in forecasting the number of circulatory system diseases death toll].

PubMed

Zhang, Ying; Shao, Yi; Shang, Kezheng; Wang, Shigong; Wang, Jinyan

2014-09-01

Set up the model of forecasting the number of circulatorys death toll based on back-propagation (BP) artificial neural networks discuss the relationship between the circulatory system diseases death toll meteorological factors and ambient air pollution. The data of tem deaths, meteorological factors, and ambient air pollution within the m 2004 to 2009 in Nanjing were collected. On the basis of analyzing the ficient between CSDDT meteorological factors and ambient air pollution, leutral network model of CSDDT was built for 2004 - 2008 based on factors and ambient air pollution within the same time, and the data of 2009 est the predictive power of the model. There was a closely system diseases relationship between meteorological factors, ambient air pollution and the circulatory system diseases death toll. The ANN model structure was 17 -16 -1, 17 input notes, 16 hidden notes and 1 output note. The training precision was 0. 005 and the final error was 0. 004 999 42 after 487 training steps. The results of forecast show that predict accuracy over 78. 62%. This method is easy to be finished with smaller error, and higher ability on circulatory system death toll on independent prediction, which can provide a new method for forecasting medical-meteorological forecast and have the value of further research.

European cardiovascular mortality over the last three decades: evaluation of time trends, forecasts for 2016.

PubMed

Gaeta, M; Campanella, F; Gentile, L; Schifino, G M; Capasso, L; Bandera, F; Banfi, G; Arpesella, M; Ricci, C

2017-01-01

The circulatory diseases, in particular ischemic heart diseases and stroke, represent the main causes of death worldwide both in high income and in middle and low income countries. Our aim is to provide a comprehensive report to depict the circulatory disease mortality in Europe over the last 30 years and to address the sources of heterogeneity among different countries. Our study was performed using the WHO statistical information system - mortality database - and was restricted to the 28 countries belonging to the European Union (EU-28). We evaluated gender and age time series of all circulatory disease mortality, ischemic heart diseases, cerebrovascular diseases, pulmonary and other circulatory diseases and than we performed forecast for 2016. Mortality heterogeneity was evaluated by countries using the Cochrane Q statistic and the I-squared index. Between 1985 and 2011 SDR for deaths attributable to all circulatory system diseases decreased from 440.9 to 212.0 x 100,000 in EU-28 and a clear uniform reduction was observed. Heterogeneity among countries was found to be consistent, therefore different analysis were carried out considering geographical area. We forecast a reduction in European cardiovascular mortality. Heterogeneity among countries could only in part be explained by both geographical and health expenditure factors.

A Simple Model of the Pulmonary Circulation for Hemodynamic Study and Examination.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gaar, Kermit A., Jr.

1983-01-01

Describes a computer program allowing students to study such circulatory variables as venus return, cardiac output, mean circulatory filling pressure, resistance to venous return, and equilibrium point. Documentation for this Applesoft program (or diskette) is available from author. (JM)

Early Identification of Circulatory Shock in Critical Care Transport

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-09-30

disclosure and community consultation. Early Identification of Circulatory Shock in Critical Care Transport 2 Community consultation for this...in two aircraft types (Eurocopter EC 135 and EC 145), in IFR weather conditions, and during both day and night operations. We calculated the

STS-133 crew during CCT II Flight Communications plan

NASA Image and Video Library

2010-02-04

JSC2010-E-023629 (4 Feb. 2010) --- NASA astronauts Michael Barratt and Nicole Stott, both STS-133 mission specialists, participate in training session in a shuttle mock-up in the Space Vehicle Mock-up Facility at NASA's Johnson Space Center.

High power millimeter wave experiment of ITER relevant electron cyclotron heating and current drive system.

PubMed

Takahashi, K; Kajiwara, K; Oda, Y; Kasugai, A; Kobayashi, N; Sakamoto, K; Doane, J; Olstad, R; Henderson, M

2011-06-01

High power, long pulse millimeter (mm) wave experiments of the RF test stand (RFTS) of Japan Atomic Energy Agency (JAEA) were performed. The system consists of a 1 MW/170 GHz gyrotron, a long and short distance transmission line (TL), and an equatorial launcher (EL) mock-up. The RFTS has an ITER-relevant configuration, i.e., consisted by a 1 MW-170 GHz gyrotron, a mm wave TL, and an EL mock-up. The TL is composed of a matching optics unit, evacuated circular corrugated waveguides, 6-miter bends, an in-line waveguide switch, and an isolation valve. The EL-mock-up is fabricated according to the current design of the ITER launcher. The Gaussian-like beam radiation with the steering capability of 20°-40° from the EL mock-up was also successfully proved. The high power, long pulse power transmission test was conducted with the metallic load replaced by the EL mock-up, and the transmission of 1 MW/800 s and 0.5 MW/1000 s was successfully demonstrated with no arcing and no damages. The transmission efficiency of the TL was 96%. The results prove the feasibility of the ITER electron cyclotron heating and current drive system. © 2011 American Institute of Physics

Expression Profiling and Proteomic Analysis of JIN Chinese Herbal Formula in Lung Carcinoma H460 Xenografts

PubMed Central

Zheng, Luyu; Zhang, Weiyi; Jiang, Miao; Zhang, Huarong; Xiong, Fei; Yu, Yang; Chen, Meijuan; Zhou, Jing; Dai, Xiaoming; Jiang, Ming; Wang, Mingyan; Cheng, Ge; Duan, Jinao; Yu, Wei; Lin, Biaoyang; Fu, Haian; Zhang, Xu

2013-01-01

Many traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formulae have been used in cancer therapy. The JIN formula is an ancient herbal formula recorded in the classic TCM book Jin Kui Yao Lue (Golden Chamber). The JIN formula significantly delayed the growth of subcutaneous human H460 xenografted tumors in vivo compared with the growth of mock controls. Gene array analysis of signal transduction in cancer showed that the JIN formula acted on multiple targets such as the mitogen-activated protein kinase, hedgehog, and Wnt signaling pathways. The coformula treatment of JIN and diamminedichloroplatinum (DDP) affected the stress/heat shock pathway. Proteomic analysis showed 36 and 84 differentially expressed proteins between the mock and DDP groups and between the mock and JIN groups, respectively. GoMiner analysis revealed that the differentially expressed proteins between the JIN and mock groups were enriched during cellular metabolic processes, and so forth. The ones between the DDP and mock groups were enriched during protein-DNA complex assembly, and so forth. Most downregulated proteins in the JIN group were heat shock proteins (HSPs) such as HSP90AA1 and HSPA1B, which could be used as markers to monitor responses to the JIN formula therapy. The mechanism of action of the JIN formula on HSP proteins warrants further investigation. PMID:24066008

Mock Pages Are a Valid Construct for Assessment of Clinical Decision Making and Interprofessional Communication.

PubMed

Boehler, Margaret L; Schwind, Cathy J; Markwell, Stephen J; Minter, Rebecca M

2017-01-01

Answering pages from nurses about patients in need of immediate attention is one of the most difficult challenges a resident faces during their first days as a physician. A Mock Page program has been developed and adopted into a national surgical resident preparatory curriculum to prepare senior medical students for this important skill. The purpose of this study is to assess standardized mock page cases as a valid construct to assess clinical decision making and interprofessional communication skills. Mock page cases (n = 16) were administered to 213 senior medical students from 12 medical schools participating in a national surgical resident preparatory curriculum in 2013 and 2014. Clinical decision making and interprofessional communication were measured by case-specific assessments evaluating these skills which have undergone rigorous standard-setting to determine pass/fail cut points. Students' performance improved in general for both communication and clinical decision making over the 4-week course. Cases have been identified that seem to be best suited for differentiating high- from low-performing students. Chest pain, pulmonary embolus, and mental status change cases posed the greatest difficulty for student learners. Simulated mock pages demonstrate an innovative technique for training students in both effective interprofessional communication and management of common postoperative conditions they will encounter as new surgical interns.

Visualization of the contact line during the water exit of flat plates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tassin, A.; Breton, T.; Forest, B.; Ohana, J.; Chalony, S.; Le Roux, D.; Tancray, A.

2017-08-01

We investigate experimentally the time evolution of the wetted surface during the lifting of a body initially floating at the water surface. This phenomenon is referred to as the water exit problem. The water exit experiments were conducted with transparent (PMMA) mock-ups of two different shapes: a circular disc and a square flat plate. Two different lighting systems were used to diffuse light in the mock-up material: a central high-power LED light normal to the surface and an edge-lighting system featuring an array of LED lights. These setups make it possible to illuminate the contact line, which delimits the surface of contact between the mock-up and the water. The characteristic size of the mock-ups is about 20 cm and the acceleration of the mock-up oscillates between 0 and 25 m/s^2. We show that the central light setup gives satisfactory results for the circular disc and that the edge lighting technique makes it possible to follow a contact line with a time-evolving complex shape (strong changes of convexity) up to 1000 fps. The observations presented in the paper support the possibility of extending this promising technique to more general three-dimensional bodies with arbitrary motion (e.g., including pitch motion).

Evaluation of NDE Round-Robin Exercises Using the NRC Steam Generator Mockup at Argonne National Laboratory

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

Muscara, Joseph; Kupperman, David S.; Bakhtiari, Sasab

2002-07-01

This paper discusses round-robin exercises using the NRC steam generator (SG) mock-up at Argonne National Laboratory to assess inspection reliability. The purpose of the round robins was to assess the current reliability of SG tubing inservice inspection, determine the probability of detection (POD) as function of flaw size or severity, and assess the capability for sizing of flaws. For the round robin and subsequent evaluation completed in 2001, eleven teams participated. Bobbin and rotating coil mock-up data collected by qualified industry personnel were evaluated. The mock-up contains hundreds of cracks and simulations of artifacts such as corrosion deposits and tubemore » support plates that make detection and characterization of cracks more difficult in operating steam generators than in most laboratory situations. An expert Task Group from industry, Argonne National Laboratory, and the NRC have reviewed the signals from the laboratory-grown cracks used in the mock-up to ensure that they provide reasonable simulations of those obtained in the field. The mock-up contains 400 tube openings. Each tube contains nine 22.2-mm (7/8-in.) diameter, 30.5-cm (1-ft) long, Alloy 600 test sections. The flaws are located in the tube sheet near the roll transition zone (RTZ), in the tube support plate (TSP), and in the free-span. The flaws are primarily intergranular stress corrosion cracks (axial and circumferential, ID and OD) though intergranular attack (IGA) wear and fatigue cracks are also present, as well as cracks in dents. In addition to the simulated tube sheet and TSP the mock-up has simulated sludge and magnetite deposits. A multiparameter eddy current algorithm, validated for mock-up flaws, provided a detailed isometric plot for every flaw and was used to establish the reference state of defects in the mock-up. The detection results for the 11 teams were used to develop POD curves as a function of maximum depth, voltage and the parameter m p, for the various types of flaws. The POD curves were represented as linear logistic curves, and the curve parameters were determined by the method of Maximum Likelihood. The effect of both statistical uncertainties inherent in sampling from distributions and the uncertainties due to errors in the estimates of maximum depth and m p was investigated. The 95% one-sided confidence limits (OSL), which include errors in maximum depth estimates, are presented along with the POD curves. For the second round robin a reconfigured mock-up is being used to evaluate the effectiveness of eddy current array probes. The primary emphasis is on the X-Probe. Progress with the X-Probe round robin is discussed in this paper. (authors)« less

Analysis of Dose Response for Circulatory Disease After Radiotherapy for Benign Disease

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

Little, Mark P., E-mail: mark.little@nih.gov; Kleinerman, Ruth A.; Stovall, Marilyn

Purpose: To assess the shape of the dose-response for various circulatory disease endpoints, and modifiers by age and time since exposure. Methods and Materials: This was an analysis of the US peptic ulcer data testing for heterogeneity of radiogenic risk by circulatory disease endpoint (ischemic heart, cerebrovascular, other circulatory disease). Results: There were significant excess risks for all circulatory disease, with an excess relative risk Gy{sup -1} of 0.082 (95% CI 0.031-0.140), and ischemic heart disease, with an excess relative risk Gy{sup -1} of 0.102 (95% CI 0.039-0.174) (both p = 0.01), and indications of excess risk for stroke. Theremore » were no statistically significant (p > 0.2) differences between risks by endpoint, and few indications of curvature in the dose-response. There were significant (p < 0.001) modifications of relative risk by time since exposure, the magnitude of which did not vary between endpoints (p > 0.2). Risk modifications were similar if analysis was restricted to patients receiving radiation, although the relative risks were slightly larger and the risk of stroke failed to be significant. The slopes of the dose-response were generally consistent with those observed in the Japanese atomic bomb survivors and in occupationally and medically exposed groups. Conclusions: There were excess risks for a variety of circulatory diseases in this dataset, with significant modification of risk by time since exposure. The consistency of the dose-response slopes with those observed in radiotherapeutically treated groups at much higher dose, as well as in lower dose-exposed cohorts such as the Japanese atomic bomb survivors and nuclear workers, implies that there may be little sparing effect of fractionation of dose or low-dose-rate exposure.« less

The European Registry for Patients with Mechanical Circulatory Support (EUROMACS): first annual report.

PubMed

de By, Theo M M H; Mohacsi, Paul; Gummert, Jan; Bushnaq, Hasan; Krabatsch, Thomas; Gustafsson, Finn; Leprince, Pascal; Martinelli, Luigi; Meyns, Bart; Morshuis, Michiel; Netuka, Ivan; Potapov, Evgenij; Zittermann, Armin; Delmo Walter, Eva Maria; Hetzer, Roland

2015-05-01

The European Registry for Patients with Mechanical Circulatory Support (EUROMACS) was founded on 10 December 2009 with the initiative of Roland Hetzer (Deutsches Herzzentrum Berlin, Berlin, Germany) and Jan Gummert (Herz- und Diabeteszentrum Nordrhein-Westfalen, Bad Oeynhausen, Germany) with 15 other founding international members. It aims to promote scientific research to improve care of end-stage heart failure patients with ventricular assist device or a total artificial heart as long-term mechanical circulatory support. Likewise, the organization aims to provide and maintain a registry of device implantation data and long-term follow-up of patients with mechanical circulatory support. Hence, EUROMACS affiliated itself with Dendrite Clinical Systems Ltd to offer its members a software tool that allows input and analysis of patient clinical data on a daily basis. EUROMACS facilitates further scientific studies by offering research groups access to any available data wherein patients and centres are anonymized. Furthermore, EUROMACS aims to stimulate cooperation with clinical and research institutions and with peer associations involved to further its aims. EUROMACS is the only European-based Registry for Patients with Mechanical Circulatory Support with rapid increase in institutional and individual membership. Because of the expeditious data input, the European Association for Cardiothoracic Surgeons saw the need to optimize the data availability and the significance of the registry to improve care of patients with mechanical circulatory support and its potential contribution to scientific intents; hence, the beginning of their alliance in 2012. This first annual report is designed to provide an overview of EUROMACS' structure, its activities, a first data collection and an insight to its scientific contributions. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. All rights reserved.

Mechanical Circulatory Support Devices for Acute Right Ventricular Failure.

PubMed

Kapur, Navin K; Esposito, Michele L; Bader, Yousef; Morine, Kevin J; Kiernan, Michael S; Pham, Duc Thinh; Burkhoff, Daniel

2017-07-18

Right ventricular (RV) failure remains a major cause of global morbidity and mortality for patients with advanced heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, or acute myocardial infarction and after major cardiac surgery. Over the past 2 decades, percutaneously delivered acute mechanical circulatory support pumps specifically designed to support RV failure have been introduced into clinical practice. RV acute mechanical circulatory support now represents an important step in the management of RV failure and provides an opportunity to rapidly stabilize patients with cardiogenic shock involving the RV. As experience with RV devices grows, their role as mechanical therapies for RV failure will depend less on the technical ability to place the device and more on improved algorithms for identifying RV failure, patient monitoring, and weaning protocols for both isolated RV failure and biventricular failure. In this review, we discuss the pathophysiology of acute RV failure and both the mechanism of action and clinical data exploring the utility of existing RV acute mechanical circulatory support devices. © 2017 American Heart Association, Inc.

Locomotive cab design development. volume 2 : operator's manual - Interim Report

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1976-10-01

Locomotive Cab 913 designed as a result of Contract DOT-TSC- 913 has been built as a hard mock-up. This Operator's Manual is to familiarize the user with the mock-up. Normal and emergency procedures and cab facilities are described.

STS-133 crew during SSMTF ISS EVA P/P training

NASA Image and Video Library

2010-03-29

JSC2010-E-044343 (29 March 2010) --- NASA astronaut Alvin Drew, STS-133 mission specialist, participates in a training session in an International Space Station mock-up/trainer in the Space Vehicle Mock-up Facility at NASA's Johnson Space Center.

Evacuation tests from an SST mock-up.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1970-12-01

A comparative study of passenger flow rates through Type I and Type A aircraft door exits was made with two 280-passenger groups from the full-scale Lockheed Supersonic Transport mock-up, mounted in a belly-landing attitude. : The first load of 280 p...

Leg ischaemia before circulatory arrest alters brain leucocyte count and respiratory chain redox state.

PubMed

Yannopoulos, Fredrik S; Arvola, Oiva; Haapanen, Henri; Herajärvi, Johanna; Miinalainen, Ilkka; Jensen, Hanna; Kiviluoma, Kai; Juvonen, Tatu

2014-03-01

Remote ischaemic preconditioning and its neuroprotective abilities are currently under investigation and the method has shown significant effects in several small and large animal studies. In our previous studies, leucocyte filtration during cardiopulmonary bypass reduced cerebrocortical adherent leucocyte count and mitigated cerebral damage after hypothermic circulatory arrest (HCA) in piglets. This study aimed to obtain and assess direct visual data of leucocyte behaviour in cerebral vessels after hypothermic circulatory arrest following remote ischaemic preconditioning. Twelve native stock piglets were randomized into a remote ischaemic preconditioning group (n = 6) and a control group (n = 6). The intervention group underwent hind-leg ischaemia, whereas the control group received a sham-treatment before a 60-min period of hypothermic circulatory arrest. An intravital microscope was used to obtain measurements from the cerebrocortical vessel in vivo. It included three sets of filters: a violet filter to visualize microvascular perfusion and vessel diameter, a green filter for visualization of rhodamine-labelled leucocytes and an ultraviolet filter for reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) analysis. The final magnification on the microscope was 400. After the experiment, cerebral and cerebellar biopsies were collected and analysed with transmission electron microscope by a blinded analyst. In the transmission electron microscope analysis, the entire intervention group had normal, unaffected rough endoplasmic reticulum's in their cerebellar tissue, whereas the control group had a mean score of 1.06 (standard deviation 0.41) (P = 0.026). The measured amount of adherent leucocytes was lower in the remote ischaemic preconditioning group. The difference was statistically significant at 5, 15 and 45 min after circulatory arrest. Statistically significant differences were seen also in the recovery phase at 90 and 120 min after reperfusion. Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide autofluorescence had statistically significant differences at 10 min after cooling and at 120 and 180 min after hypothermic circulatory arrest. Remote ischaemic preconditioning seems to provide better mitochondrial respiratory chain function as indicated by the higher NADH content. It simultaneously provides a reduction of adherent leucocytes in cerebral vessels after hypothermic circulatory arrest. Additionally, it might provide some degree of cellular organ preservation as implied by the electron microscopy results.

Mock ECHO: A Simulation-Based Medical Education Method.

PubMed

Fowler, Rebecca C; Katzman, Joanna G; Comerci, George D; Shelley, Brian M; Duhigg, Daniel; Olivas, Cynthia; Arnold, Thomas; Kalishman, Summers; Monnette, Rebecca; Arora, Sanjeev

2018-04-16

This study was designed to develop a deeper understanding of the learning and social processes that take place during the simulation-based medical education for practicing providers as part of the Project ECHO® model, known as Mock ECHO training. The ECHO model is utilized to expand access to care of common and complex diseases by supporting the education of primary care providers with an interprofessional team of specialists via videoconferencing networks. Mock ECHO trainings are conducted through a train the trainer model targeted at leaders replicating the ECHO model at their organizations. Trainers conduct simulated teleECHO clinics while participants gain skills to improve communication and self-efficacy. Three focus groups, conducted between May 2015 and January 2016 with a total of 26 participants, were deductively analyzed to identify common themes related to simulation-based medical education and interdisciplinary education. Principal themes generated from the analysis included (a) the role of empathy in community development, (b) the value of training tools as guides for learning, (c) Mock ECHO design components to optimize learning, (d) the role of interdisciplinary education to build community and improve care delivery, (e) improving care integration through collaboration, and (f) development of soft skills to facilitate learning. Mock ECHO trainings offer clinicians the freedom to learn in a noncritical environment while emphasizing real-time multidirectional feedback and encouraging knowledge and skill transfer. The success of the ECHO model depends on training interprofessional healthcare providers in behaviors needed to lead a teleECHO clinic and to collaborate in the educational process. While building a community of practice, Mock ECHO provides a safe opportunity for a diverse group of clinician experts to practice learned skills and receive feedback from coparticipants and facilitators.

"But He's a Star Football Player!": How Social Status Influences Mock Jurors' Perceptions in a Sexual Assault Case.

PubMed

Pica, Emily; Sheahan, Chelsea; Pozzulo, Joanna

2017-06-01

There have been several recent, high-profile cases in the media that have shed light on the perceived leniency in sentencing defendants in sexual assault cases. In a number of these cases, the defendant was well known within their community (e.g., Brock Turner; People v. Turner) or nationally (e.g., Ghomeshi; R v. Ghomeshi). The purpose of this study was to examine how the social status of the defendant (low vs. high), victim social status (low vs. high), victim gender (male vs. female), and the reason the victim was unconscious during the assault (consuming alcohol vs. consuming cold medicine) influenced mock jurors' decisions in a sexual assault case. Mock jurors ( N = 489) read a mock trial transcript depicting an alleged sexual assault. Mock jurors were asked to render a dichotomous verdict, continuous guilt rating, and rate their perceptions of the victim and defendant. There was no influence of the variables on mock jurors' dichotomous verdicts; however, social status influenced guilt ratings. There also was a combined influence of the defendant's social status and the reason the victim was unconscious such that when the defendant was described as low status, and the victim was unconscious due to alcohol consumption, the defendant received higher guilt ratings compared with when the victim was unconscious due to cold medicine. Moreover, the victim was perceived as having more control over the situation when the defendant was the star quarterback (i.e., high status), the victim was female, and she was unconscious due to alcohol consumption compared with cold medicine. These results suggest that victims may be blamed based on their perceived social status and other factors that may have influenced their control over the sexual assault, such as alcohol consumption.

The public mock oral: a useful tool for examinees and the audience in preparation for the American Board of Surgery Certifying Examination.

PubMed

Aboulian, Armen; Schwartz, Samuel; Kaji, Amy H; de Virgilio, Christian

2010-01-01

The objective of the study was to investigate the value of an educational program instituted in our general surgery residency training in preparation for the American Board of Surgery (ABS) Certifying Examination (CE). From 2006 to 2009, a series of public mock oral examinations were administered by the program director to PGY residents 4 through 6 on a variety of surgery topics in front of all residents, faculty, and medical students. Anonymous surveys (5-point Likert scale) were collected from both the examinees and the audience to determine the perceived utility of the mock oral. Performance on the ABS CE for residents who partook in the program was compared with the five previous years. The study was undertaken at Harbor-University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) Medical Center, a level I trauma center in Los Angeles County. Overall 201 surveys were collected, 170 from the audience and 31 from examinees. The surveys demonstrated a high and equal level of satisfaction for both examinees (4.8) and the audience (4.6, p = 0.12). First-time pass rates on the ABS CE increased from 88% (38/43) before the public mock oral to 100% (19/19) after the mock oral (p = 0.3). The mock oral examination, which is conducted in a conference format in front of an audience of faculty and trainees, is a valuable educational tool as it helps both the examinee and the audience in preparation for the ABS CE. In addition, it has an educational value for those who are not preparing for the CE as it is perceived to expand surgical knowledge. Copyright 2010 Association of Program Directors in Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The role of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation circulatory support in the 'crash and burn' patient: from implantation to weaning.

PubMed

Ghodsizad, Ali; Koerner, Michael M; Brehm, Christoph E; El-Banayosy, Aly

2014-05-01

In advanced cardiogenic shock, early mechanical circulatory support may prevent multiorgan failure and death. In this article, we are describing our experience with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) application. Venoarterial ECMO has been used successfully as a therapeutic option for patients with advanced cardiogenic shock and cardiac arrest. In this review, based on the daily routine of the Hershey group using ECMO for therapy of advanced cardiogenic shock, the application of ECMO is described. The aim is to share our hands-on experience during emergent implantation and to contribute to the knowledge within the field of mechanical circulatory support.

A fungal mock community control for amplicon sequencing experiments

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Microbial ecology has been profoundly advanced by the ability to profile complex microbial communities by sequencing of marker genes amplified from environmental samples. However, inclusion of appropriate controls is vital to revealing the limitations and biases of this technique. “Mock community” s...

Android Robot-Mediated Mock Job Interview Sessions for Young Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Pilot Study

PubMed Central

Kumazaki, Hirokazu; Warren, Zachary; Corbett, Blythe A.; Yoshikawa, Yuichiro; Matsumoto, Yoshio; Higashida, Haruhiro; Yuhi, Teruko; Ikeda, Takashi; Ishiguro, Hiroshi; Kikuchi, Mitsuru

2017-01-01

The feasibility and preliminary efficacy of an android robot-mediated mock job interview training in terms of both bolstering self-confidence and reducing biological levels of stress in comparison to a psycho-educational approach human interview was assessed in a randomized study. Young adults (ages 18–25 years) with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) were randomized to participate either in a mock job interview training with our android robot system (n = 7) or a self-paced review of materials about job-interviewing skills (n = 8). Baseline and outcome measurements of self-reported performance/efficacy and salivary cortisol were obtained after a mock job interview with a human interviewer. After training sessions, individuals with ASD participating in the android robot-mediated sessions reported marginally improved self-confidence and demonstrated significantly lower levels of salivary cortisol as compared to the control condition. These results provide preliminary support for the feasibility and efficacy of android robot-mediated learning. PMID:28955254

Android Robot-Mediated Mock Job Interview Sessions for Young Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Pilot Study.

PubMed

Kumazaki, Hirokazu; Warren, Zachary; Corbett, Blythe A; Yoshikawa, Yuichiro; Matsumoto, Yoshio; Higashida, Haruhiro; Yuhi, Teruko; Ikeda, Takashi; Ishiguro, Hiroshi; Kikuchi, Mitsuru

2017-01-01

The feasibility and preliminary efficacy of an android robot-mediated mock job interview training in terms of both bolstering self-confidence and reducing biological levels of stress in comparison to a psycho-educational approach human interview was assessed in a randomized study. Young adults (ages 18-25 years) with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) were randomized to participate either in a mock job interview training with our android robot system ( n  = 7) or a self-paced review of materials about job-interviewing skills ( n  = 8). Baseline and outcome measurements of self-reported performance/efficacy and salivary cortisol were obtained after a mock job interview with a human interviewer. After training sessions, individuals with ASD participating in the android robot-mediated sessions reported marginally improved self-confidence and demonstrated significantly lower levels of salivary cortisol as compared to the control condition. These results provide preliminary support for the feasibility and efficacy of android robot-mediated learning.

Mock climate summit: teaching and assessing learning

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schweizer, D.; Gautier, C.; Bazerman, C.

2003-04-01

This paper will demonstrate the effectiveness of a Mock Climate Summit as a pedagogical approach for teaching the science and policy aspects of global climate change. The Mock Climate Summit is a student-centered course simulating the Conference of the Parties (COP) where international environmental protocols are negotiated. Compared to traditional lecture-based methods common in the geoscience classroom, the Mock Climate Summit uses negotiations and arguments to teach the interactions between these two “spheres” and demonstrate the depth and breadth of these interactions. Through a detailed assessment of students’ dialogue transcribed from video and audio tapes, we found that the nature of the student dialogue matures rapidly as they are given multiple opportunities to present, negotiate and argue a specific topic. Students’ dialogue progress from hypothetical (what-if) scenarios to action-oriented scenarios and implementation plans. The progression of the students’ dialogue shows increased comfort with the communities’ discourse as they take ownership of the point-of-view associated with their assumed roles.

Mock Climate Summit: Teaching and Assessing Learning

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schweizer, D.; Gautier, C.; Bazerman, C.

2003-04-01

This paper will demonstrate the effectiveness of a Mock Climate Summit as a pedagogical for teaching the science and policy aspects of global climate change. The Mock Climate Summit is a student-centered course simulating the Conference of the Parties (COP) where international environmental protocols are negotiated. Compared to traditional lecture-based methods common in the geoscience classroom, the Mock Climate Summit uses negotiations and arguments to teach the interactions between these two "spheres" and demonstrate the depth and breadth of these interactions. Through a detailed assessment of students' dialogue transcribed from video and audio tapes, we found that the nature of the student dialogue matures rapidly as they are given multiple opportunities to present, negotiate and argue a specific topic. Students' dialogue progress from hypothetical (what-if) scenarios to action-oriented scenarios and implementation plans. The progression of the students' dialogue shows increased comfort with the communities' discourse as they take ownership of the point-of-view associated with their assumed roles.

The impact of prior knowledge from participant instructions in a mock crime P300 Concealed Information Test.

PubMed

Winograd, Michael R; Rosenfeld, J Peter

2014-12-01

In P300-Concealed Information Tests used with mock crime scenarios, the amount of detail revealed to a participant prior to the commission of the mock crime can have a serious impact on a study's validity. We predicted that exposure to crime details through instructions would bias detection rates toward enhanced sensitivity. In a 2 × 2 factorial design, participants were either informed (through mock crime instructions) or naïve as to the identity of a to-be-stolen item, and then either committed (guilty) or did not commit (innocent) the crime. Results showed that prior knowledge of the stolen item was sufficient to cause 69% of innocent-informed participants to be incorrectly classified as guilty. Further, we found a trend toward enhanced detection rate for guilty-informed participants over guilty-naïve participants. Results suggest that revealing details to participants through instructions biases detection rates in the P300-CIT toward enhanced sensitivity. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

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

Bautista, Julian E.; Busca, Nicolas G.; Bailey, Stephen

We describe mock data-sets generated to simulate the high-redshift quasar sample in Data Release 11 (DR11) of the SDSS-III Baryon Oscillation Spectroscopic Survey (BOSS). The mock spectra contain Lyα forest correlations useful for studying the 3D correlation function including Baryon Acoustic Oscillations (BAO). They also include astrophysical effects such as quasar continuum diversity and high-density absorbers, instrumental effects such as noise and spectral resolution, as well as imperfections introduced by the SDSS pipeline treatment of the raw data. The Lyα forest BAO analysis of the BOSS collaboration, described in Delubac et al. 2014, has used these mock data-sets to developmore » and cross-check analysis procedures prior to performing the BAO analysis on real data, and for continued systematic cross checks. Tests presented here show that the simulations reproduce sufficiently well important characteristics of real spectra. These mock data-sets will be made available together with the data at the time of the Data Release 11.« less

Electroencephalographic Recordings During Withdrawal of Life-Sustaining Therapy Until 30 Minutes After Declaration of Death.

PubMed

Norton, Loretta; Gibson, Raechelle M; Gofton, Teneille; Benson, Carolyn; Dhanani, Sonny; Shemie, Sam D; Hornby, Laura; Ward, Roxanne; Young, G Bryan

2017-03-01

The timing of the circulatory determination of death for organ donation presents a medical and ethical challenge. Concerns have been raised about the timing of electrocerebral inactivity in relation to the cessation of circulatory function in organ donation after cardio-circulatory death. Nonprocessed electroencephalographic (EEG) measures have not been characterized and may provide insight into neurological function during this process. We assessed electrocortical data in relation to cardiac function after withdrawal of life-sustaining therapy and in the postmortem period after cardiac arrest for four patients in a Canadian intensive care unit. Subhairline EEG and cardio-circulatory monitoring including electrocardiogram, arterial blood pressure (ABP), and oxygen saturation were captured. Electrocerebral inactivity preceded the cessation of the cardiac rhythm and ABP in three patients. In one patient, single delta wave bursts persisted following the cessation of both the cardiac rhythm and ABP. There was a significant difference in EEG amplitude between the 30-minute period before and the 5-minute period following ABP cessation for the group, but we did not observe any well-defined EEG states following the early cardiac arrest period. In a case series of four patients, EEG inactivity preceded electrocardiogram and ABP inactivity during the dying process in three patients. Further study of the electroencephalogram during the withdrawal of life sustaining therapies will add clarity to medical, ethical, and legal concerns for donation after circulatory determined death.

Representations of the Human Circulatory System

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lopez-Manjon, Asuncion; Angon, Yolanda Postigo

2009-01-01

There is no agreement about the robustness of intuitive representations of the circulatory system and their susceptibility to change by instruction. In this paper, we analyse to what extent students with varying degrees of biology instruction and different ages (High School Health Science and Social Science students and first and final year…

The Trial of Napoleon: A Case Study for Using Mock Trials.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

MacKay, Charles

2000-01-01

Describes a course entitled "The Trial of Napoleon Bonaparte" that focuses on a fictitious mock trial of Napoleon Bonaparte to answer the question: did Napoleon pervert or preserve the gain of the French Revolution? Discusses the strengths and weaknesses of the course. (CMK)

The Death's-Head Pin: Using a Mock Trial to Introduce the Cariboo Gold Rush.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hou, Charles

1983-01-01

The roles and procedures for holding a mock trial based on actual events that took place during the Canadian Cariboo gold rush are described. Intended for use with secondary history students, the trial can be conducted in one classroom period. (RM)

STS-133 crew during CCT II Flight Communications plan

NASA Image and Video Library

2010-02-04

JSC2010-E-023633 (4 Feb. 2010) --- NASA astronaut Nicole Stott (right), STS-133 mission specialist, participates in training session in a shuttle mock-up in the Space Vehicle Mock-up Facility at NASA's Johnson Space Center. Instructors Shanna Andrew and James Gaustad assisted Stott.

The Mock Research Paper

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Clark, Carlton

2008-01-01

The mock research paper combines creative writing with academic writing and, in the process, breaks down that binary. This article describes a writing assignment that offers an introduction to the college research paper genre. This assignment helps students focus on crafting an argument and learning genre conventions while postponing until the…

Program Spotlight: CRCHD Mock Grant Review

Cancer.gov

The NCI Center to Reduce Cancer Health Disparities (CRCHD) held a Professional Development Workshop for its Continuing Umbrella of Research Experience (CURE) scholars on June 23-24, 2014, in Rockville, Maryland. As part of the workshop, attendees had an opportunity to observe and participate in a Mock Grant Review.

A modified elastance model to control mock ventricles in real-time: numerical and experimental validation.

PubMed

Colacino, Francesco Maria; Moscato, Francesco; Piedimonte, Fabio; Danieli, Guido; Nicosia, Salvatore; Arabia, Maurizio

2008-01-01

This article describes an elastance-based mock ventricle able to reproduce the correct ventricular pressure-volume relationship and its correct interaction with the hydraulic circuit connected to it. A real-time control of the mock ventricle was obtained by a new left ventricular mathematical model including resistive and inductive terms added to the classical Suga-Sagawa elastance model throughout the whole cardiac cycle. A valved piston pump was used to mimic the left ventricle. The pressure measured into the pump chamber was fed back into the mathematical model and the calculated reference left ventricular volume was used to drive the piston. Results show that the classical model is very sensitive to pressure disturbances, especially during the filling phase, while the modified model is able to filter out the oscillations thus eliminating their detrimental effects. The presented model is thus suitable to control mock ventricles in real-time, where sudden pressure disturbances represent a key issue and are not negligible. This real-time controlled mock ventricle is able to reproduce the elastance mechanism of a natural ventricle by mimicking its preload (mean atrial pressure) and afterload (mean aortic pressure) sensitivity, i.e., the Starling law. Therefore, it can be used for designing and testing cardiovascular prostheses due to its capability to reproduce the correct ventricle-vascular system interaction.

Implementation and evaluation of a simulation curriculum for paediatric residency programs including just-in-time in situ mock codes.

PubMed

Sam, Jonathan; Pierse, Michael; Al-Qahtani, Abdullah; Cheng, Adam

2012-02-01

To develop, implement and evaluate a simulation-based acute care curriculum in a paediatric residency program using an integrated and longitudinal approach. Curriculum framework consisting of three modular, year-specific courses and longitudinal just-in-time, in situ mock codes. Paediatric residency program at BC Children's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia. The three year-specific courses focused on the critical first 5 min, complex medical management and crisis resource management, respectively. The just-in-time in situ mock codes simulated the acute deterioration of an existing ward patient, prepared the actual multidisciplinary code team, and primed the surrounding crisis support systems. Each curriculum component was evaluated with surveys using a five-point Likert scale. A total of 40 resident surveys were completed after each of the modular courses, and an additional 28 surveys were completed for the overall simulation curriculum. The highest Likert scores were for hands-on skill stations, immersive simulation environment and crisis resource management teaching. Survey results also suggested that just-in-time mock codes were realistic, reinforced learning, and prepared ward teams for patient deterioration. A simulation-based acute care curriculum was successfully integrated into a paediatric residency program. It provides a model for integrating simulation-based learning into other training programs, as well as a model for any hospital that wishes to improve paediatric resuscitation outcomes using just-in-time in situ mock codes.

A SCALE-UP Mock-Up: Comparison of Student Learning Gains in High- and Low-Tech Active-Learning Environments

PubMed Central

Soneral, Paula A. G.; Wyse, Sara A.

2017-01-01

Student-centered learning environments with upside-down pedagogies (SCALE-UP) are widely implemented at institutions across the country, and learning gains from these classrooms have been well documented. This study investigates the specific design feature(s) of the SCALE-UP classroom most conducive to teaching and learning. Using pilot survey data from instructors and students to prioritize the most salient SCALE-UP classroom features, we created a low-tech “Mock-up” version of this classroom and tested the impact of these features on student learning, attitudes, and satisfaction using a quasi-­experimental setup. The same instructor taught two sections of an introductory biology course in the SCALE-UP and Mock-up rooms. Although students in both sections were equivalent in terms of gender, grade point average, incoming ACT, and drop/fail/withdraw rate, the Mock-up classroom enrolled significantly more freshmen. Controlling for class standing, multiple regression modeling revealed no significant differences in exam, in-class, preclass, and Introduction to Molecular and Cellular Biology Concept Inventory scores between the SCALE-UP and Mock-up classrooms. Thematic analysis of student comments highlighted that collaboration and whiteboards enhanced the learning experience, but technology was not important. Student satisfaction and attitudes were comparable. These results suggest that the benefits of a SCALE-UP experience can be achieved at lower cost without technology features. PMID:28213582

Holomorphic projections and Ramanujan’s mock theta functions

PubMed Central

Imamoğlu, Özlem; Raum, Martin; Richter, Olav K.

2014-01-01

We use spectral methods of automorphic forms to establish a holomorphic projection operator for tensor products of vector-valued harmonic weak Maass forms and vector-valued modular forms. We apply this operator to discover simple recursions for Fourier series coefficients of Ramanujan’s mock theta functions. PMID:24591582

Incorporating Argumentation through Forensic Science

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wheeler, Lindsay B.; Maeng, Jennifer L.; Smetana, Lara K.

2014-01-01

This article outlines how to incorporate argumentation into a forensic science unit using a mock trial. Practical details of the mock trial include: (1) a method of scaffolding students' development of their argument for the trial, (2) a clearly outlined set of expectations for students during the planning and implementation of the mock…

Mock Trials: Scripts for Wisconsin Lawyers and Teachers.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wisconsin State Dept. of Public Instruction, Madison. Div. of Instructional Services.

The document presents scripts prepared by experienced lawyers for seven mock trials. Designed for high school or adult audiences as introductions to the American legal system, the scripts use community lawyers, judges, and law officers as well as actors. Script topics include cases concerning automobile accidents, drunken driving, homicide,…

A Learner-Centred Mock Conference Model for Undergraduate Teaching

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kumar, Kari

2011-01-01

This essay describes a mock conference model of instruction suitable for use in undergraduate teaching, and which adheres to principles of learner-centred instruction and universal design for learning. A staged process of learner preparation for the conference is outlined, and student and instructor roles during preconference, conference, and…

Best Practices in Preparing Students for Mock Interviews

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hansen, Katharine; Oliphant, Gary C.; Oliphant, Becky J.; Hansen, Randall S.

2009-01-01

Studies have shown the importance of employment interview preparation in boosting the confidence and performance of students and jobseekers when they interview. This article reviews several techniques for preparing students for mock job interviews and, hence, actual job interviews. For instructors who would like to enhance the learning value of…

Theological reflections on donation after circulatory death: the wisdom of Paul Ramsey and Moshe Feinstein.

PubMed

Jotkowitz, A

2008-10-01

Due to the worldwide shortage of organs for transplantation, there has been an increased use of organs obtained after circulatory death alone. A protocol for this procedure has recently been approved by a major transplant consortium. This development raises serious moral and ethical concerns. Two renowned theologians of the previous generation, Paul Ramsey and Moshe Feinstein, wrote extensively on the ethical issues relating to transplantation, and their work has much relevance to current moral dilemmas. Their writings relating to definition of death, organ transplantation and the care of the terminally ill are briefly presented, and their potential application to the moral problem of organ donation after circulatory death is discussed.

Evaluation of exercise-respiratory system modifications and preliminary respiratory-circulatory system integration scheme

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gallagher, R. R.

1974-01-01

The respiratory control system, functioning as an independent system, is presented with modifications of the exercise subroutine. These modifications illustrate an improved control of ventilation rates and arterial and compartmental gas tensions. A very elementary approach to describing the interactions of the respiratory and circulatory system is presented.

From Head to Toe: Respiratory, Circulatory, and Skeletal Systems. Book 3.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wiebe, Arthur, Ed.; And Others

Designed to supplement curricular programs dealing with the human body, this booklet offers an activity-based, student-oriented approach for middle school teachers and students. Twelve activities focus on principles and skills related to the respiratory, circulatory, and skeletal systems. Each activity consists of student sheets and a teacher's…

Donation after brain circulation determination of death.

PubMed

Dalle Ave, Anne L; Bernat, James L

2017-02-23

The fundamental determinant of death in donation after circulatory determination of death is the cessation of brain circulation and function. We therefore propose the term donation after brain circulation determination of death [DBCDD]. In DBCDD, death is determined when the cessation of circulatory function is permanent but before it is irreversible, consistent with medical standards of death determination outside the context of organ donation. Safeguards to prevent error include that: 1] the possibility of auto-resuscitation has elapsed; 2] no brain circulation may resume after the determination of death; 3] complete circulatory cessation is verified; and 4] the cessation of brain function is permanent and complete. Death should be determined by the confirmation of the cessation of systemic circulation; the use of brain death tests is invalid and unnecessary. Because this concept differs from current standards, consensus should be sought among stakeholders. The patient or surrogate should provide informed consent for organ donation by understanding the basis of the declaration of death. In cases of circulatory cessation, such as occurs in DBCDD, death can be defined as the permanent cessation of brain functions, determined by the permanent cessation of brain circulation.

Effect of Panpal pretreatment and antidotal treatment (HI-6 plus benactyzine) on respiratory and circulatory function in soman-poisoned rats.

PubMed

Kassa, J; Fusek, J

1997-10-01

1 The effect of pharmacological pretreatment (pyridostigmine, benactyzine and trihexyphenidyle), designated Panpal, and antidotal treatment (the oxime HI-6 plus benactyzine) in soman poisoning was investigated in a rat model with on-line monitoring of respiratory and circulatory parameters. 2 Soman poisoning caused a high decrease in respiratory rate as well as minute respiratory volume and an increase in mean arterial pressure from 30-120 min following soman challenge. Soman at sublethal dose also significantly inhibited acetylcholinesterase activity in diaphragm and various brain parts. 3 Panpal pretreatment as well as antidotal treatment were effective in improving the respiratory and circulatory function disturbed by soman without the ability to increase significantly soman-inhibited acetylcholinesterase activity in all brain parts studied. 4 The efficacy of combined Panpal pretreatment and antidotal treatment against sublethal soman poisoning was not different from the efficacy of Panpal pretreatment or antidotal treatment alone. 5 The results of this investigation suggest that Panpal pretreatment as well as antidotal treatment are able to restore respiratory and circulatory function in soman-poisoned rats without significant reactivation of brain acetylcholinesterase.

[Clinical exercise testing and the Fick equation: strategic thinking for optimizing diagnosis].

PubMed

Perrault, H; Richard, R

2012-04-01

This article examines the expected exercise-induced changes in the components of the oxygen transport system as described by the Fick equation with a view to enable a critical analysis of a standard incremental exercise test to identify normal and abnormal patterns of responses and generate hypotheses as to potential physiological and/or pathophysiological causes. The text reviews basic physiological principals and provides useful reminders of standard equations that serve to integrate circulatory, respiratory and skeletal muscle functions. More specifically, the article provides a conceptual and quantitative framework linking the exercise-induced increase in whole body oxygen uptake to central circulatory and peripheral circulatory factors with the view to establish the normalcy of response. Thus, the article reviews the exercise response to cardiac output determinants and provides qualitative and quantitative perspective bases for making assumptions on the peripheral circulatory factors and oxygen use. Finally, the article demonstrates the usefulness of exercise testing as an effective integrative physiological approach to develop clinical reasoning or verify pathophysiological outcomes. Copyright © 2012 SPLF. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Hyperhomocysteinemia impairs regional blood flow: involvements of endothelial and neuronal nitric oxide.

PubMed

Toda, Noboru; Okamura, Tomio

2016-09-01

Increasing evidence support the idea that hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) is responsible for pathogenesis underlying cerebral, coronary, renal, and other vascular circulatory disorders and for hypertension. Impaired synthesis of nitric oxide (NO) in the endothelium or increased production of asymmetric dimethylarginine and activated oxygen species are involved in the impairment of vasodilator effects of NO. Impaired circulation in the brain derived from reduced synthesis and actions of NO would be an important triggering factor to dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Reduced actions of NO and brain hypoperfusion trigger increased production of amyloid-β that inhibits endothelial function, thus establishing a vicious cycle for impairing brain circulation. HHcy is involved in the genesis of anginal attack and coronary myocardial infarction. HHcy is also involved in renal circulatory diseases. The homocysteine (Hcy)-induced circulatory failure is promoted by methionine and is prevented by increased folic acid and vitamin B6/B12. Eliminating poor life styles, such as smoking and being sedentary; keeping favorable dietary habits; and early treatment maintaining constitutive NOS functions healthy, reducing oxidative stresses would be beneficial in protecting HHcy-induced circulatory failures.

The big squeeze: scaling of constriction pressure in two of the world's largest snakes, Python reticulatus and Python molurus bivittatus.

PubMed

Penning, David A; Dartez, Schuyler F; Moon, Brad R

2015-11-01

Snakes are important predators that have radiated throughout many ecosystems, and constriction was important in their radiation. Constrictors immobilize and kill prey by using body loops to exert pressure on their prey. Despite its importance, little is known about constriction performance or its full effects on prey. We studied the scaling of constriction performance in two species of giant pythons (Python reticulatus and Python molurus bivittatus) and propose a new mechanism of prey death by constriction. In both species, peak constriction pressure increased significantly with snake diameter. These and other constrictors can exert pressures dramatically higher than their prey's blood pressure, suggesting that constriction can stop circulatory function and perhaps kill prey rapidly by over-pressurizing the brain and disrupting neural function. We propose the latter 'red-out effect' as another possible mechanism of prey death from constriction. These effects may be important to recognize and treat properly in rare cases when constrictors injure humans. © 2015. Published by The Company of Biologists Ltd.

Hydrodynamic endurance test of the prosthetic valve used in the various types of the ventricular assist device.

PubMed

Nitta, S; Yambe, T; Katahira, Y; Sonobe, T; Saijoh, Y; Naganuma, S; Akiho, H; Kakinuma, Y; Tanaka, M; Miura, M

1991-12-01

To evaluate the various basic designs of the pump chambers used in the ventricular assist devices (VADs), hydrodynamic endurance test was performed from the viewpoint of the durability of the prosthetic valves used in the VAD. For the hydrodynamic analysis, we designed three basic types of pump (sac type, diaphragm type, and pusher plate type) using the same material and having the same capacity and shape. Prosthetic valves in these VADs were tested from the standpoint of the water hammer effect, which affects the valve durability, to determine which pump design would be most durable as a prosthetic valve in the VAD. The water-hammer phenomenon was evaluated using the maximum pressure gradient (MPG) across the prosthetic valve in the moc circulatory loop. Maximum pump output was recorded when we used the diaphragm type model, and minimum MPG in the commonly used driving condition of the VAD were recorded when we used the sac type model. The results suggest that the sac type VAD model is the most durable design for the prosthetic value.

Absolute determination of power density in the VVER-1000 mock-up on the LR-0 research reactor.

PubMed

Košt'ál, Michal; Švadlenková, Marie; Milčák, Ján

2013-08-01

The work presents a detailed comparison of calculated and experimentally determined net peak areas of selected fission products gamma lines. The fission products were induced during a 2.5 h irradiation on the power level of 9.5 W in selected fuel pins of the VVER-1000 Mock-Up. The calculations were done with deterministic and stochastic (Monte Carlo) methods. The effects of different nuclear data libraries used for calculations are discussed as well. The Net Peak Area (NPA) may be used for the determination of fission density across the mock-up. This fission density is practically identical to power density. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Space station wardroom habitability and equipment study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nixon, David; Miller, Christopher; Fauquet, Regis

1989-01-01

Experimental designs in life-size mock-up form for the wardroom facility for the Space Station Habitability Module are explored and developed. In Phase 1, three preliminary concepts for the wardroom configuration are fabricated and evaluated. In Phase 2, the results of Phase 1 are combined with a specific range of program design requirements to provide the design criteria for the fabrication of an innovative medium-fidelity mock-up of a wardrobe configuration. The study also focuses on the design and preliminary prototyping of selected equipment items including crew exercise compartments, a meal/meeting table and a portable workstation. Design criteria and requirements are discussed and documented. Preliminary and final mock-ups and equipment prototypes are described and illustrated.

Belgian modified classification of Maastricht for donors after circulatory death.

PubMed

Evrard, P

2014-11-01

"Non-heart-beating donors," or, in a more recent and international definition, "donors after circulatory death," are a potential and additional group of deceased persons who are able to add organs to the pool. A new classification is proposed on the basis of the result of a consensus of experts issued from all Belgian transplant centers. The first level of definition is simple and based on whether the situation is uncontrolled (categories I and II) or controlled (categories III, IV, and V). In category I, the patient is declared "dead on arrival" and, in category II, there is an "unsuccessful resuscitation" whether it occurred out or in the hospital for both situations. Category III is the most usual situation in which the treating physician and family are "awaiting cardiac arrest" to declare the death of the patient. Category IV is always characterized by "cardiac arrest during brain death." The special situation of the Belgian law allowing the euthanasia is elaborated in category V, "euthanasia," and includes patients who grant access to medically assisted circulatory death. Organ donation after euthanasia is allowed under the scope of donation after circulatory death. This classification conserves the skeleton of the Maastricht one, as it is simple and clear, but classifies easily the different donors after circulatory death types by processes for ethical issues and for the non-medical or non-specialized reader interested in the field. This is also an argument for public consideration and trust in the difficult field of organ donation.

[Importance of mechanical assist devices in acute circulatory arrest].

PubMed

Ferrari, Markus Wolfgang

2016-03-01

Mechanical assist devices are indicated for hemodynamic stabilization in acute circulatory arrest if conventional means of cardiopulmonary resuscitation are unable to re-establish adequate organ perfusion. Their temporary use facilitates further diagnostic and therapeutic options in selected patients, e.g. coronary angiography followed by revascularization.External thorax compression devices allow sufficient cardiac massage in case of preclinical or in-hospital circulatory arrest, especially under complex transfer conditions. These devices perform standardized thorax compressions at a rate of 80-100 per minute. Invasive mechanical support devices are used in the catheter laboratory or in the intensive care unit. Axial turbine pumps, e.g. the Impella, continuously pump blood from the left ventricle into the aortic root. The Impella can also provide right ventricle support by pumping blood from the vena cava into the pulmonary artery. So-called emergency systems or ECMO devices consist of a centrifugal pump and a membrane oxygenator allowing complete takeover of cardiac and pulmonary functions. Withdrawing blood from the right atrium and vena cava, oxygenated blood is returned to the abdominal aorta. Isolated centrifugal pumps provide left heart support without an oxygenator after transseptal insertion of a venous cannula into the left atrium.Mechanical assist devices are indicated for acute organ protection and hemodynamic stabilization for diagnostic and therapeutic measures as well as bridge to myocardial recovery. Future technical developments and better insights into the pathophysiology of mechanical circulatory support will broaden the spectrum of indications of such devices in acute circulatory arrest.

Circulatory Insufficiency and Hypotension Related to the Ductus Arteriosus in Neonates

PubMed Central

Rios, Danielle R.; Bhattacharya, Soume; Levy, Philip T.; McNamara, Patrick J.

2018-01-01

The biological role of the ductus arteriosus (DA) in neonates varies from an innocent bystander role during normal postnatal transition, to a supportive role when there is compromise to either systemic or pulmonary blood flow, to a pathological state in the presence of hemodynamically significant systemic to pulmonary shunts, as occurs in low birth weight infants. Among a wide array of clinical manifestations arising due to the ductal entity, systemic circulatory insufficiency and hypotension are of significant concern as they are particularly challenging to manage. An understanding of the physiologic interplay between the DA and the circulatory system is the key to developing appropriate targeted therapeutic strategies. In this review, we discuss the relationship of systemic hypotension to the DA, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking and a precise individual approach to intensive care support. We particularly focus on the variable states of hypotension arising directly due to a hemodynamically significant DA or seen in the period following successful surgical ligation. In addition, we explore the mechanistic contributions of the ductus to circulatory insufficiency that may manifest during the transitional period, states of maladapted transition (such as acute pulmonary hypertension of the newborn), and congenital heart disease (both ductal dependent and non-ductal dependent lesions). Understanding the dynamic modulator role of the ductus according to the ambient physiology enables a more precise approach to management. We review the pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, monitoring, and therapeutic intervention for the spectrum of DA-related circulatory compromise. PMID:29600242

Integrated Immune and Cardiovascular Function in Pancrustacea: Lessons from the Insects.

PubMed

Hillyer, Julián F

2015-11-01

When pathogens invade the insect hemocoel (body cavity) they immediately confront two major forces: immune-responses and circulatory currents. The immune response is mediated by circulating and sessile hemocytes, the fat body, the midgut, and the salivary glands. These tissues drive cellular and humoral immune processes that kill pathogens via phagocytosis, melanization, lysis, encapsulation, and nodulation. Moreover, immune-responses take place within a three-dimensional and dynamic space that is governed by the forces of the circulatory system. The circulation of hemolymph (insect blood) is primarily controlled by the wave-like contraction of a dorsal vessel, which is a muscular tube that extends the length of the insect and is divided into a thoracic aorta and an abdominal heart. Distributed along the heart are valves, called ostia, that allow hemolymph to enter the vessel. Once inside the heart, hemolymph is sequentially propelled to the anterior and to the posterior of the body. During an infection, circulatory currents sweep small pathogens to all regions of the body. As they circulate, pathogens encounter immune factors of the insect that range from soluble cytotoxic peptides to phagocytic hemocytes. A prominent location for these encounters is the surface of the heart. Specifically, periostial hemocytes aggregate in the extracardiac regions that flank the heart's ostia (the periostial regions) and phagocytoze pathogens in areas of high flow of hemolymph. This review summarizes the biology of the immune and circulatory systems of insects, including how these two systems have co-adapted to fight infection. This review also compares the immune and circulatory systems of insects to that of crustaceans, and details how attachment of hemocytes to cardiac tissues and the biology of the lymphoid organ demonstrate that dynamic interactions between the immune and circulatory systems also occur in lineages of crustaceans. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Society for Integrative and Comparative Biology. All rights reserved. For permissions please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Concept for a new hydrodynamic blood bearing for miniature blood pumps.

PubMed

Kink, Thomas; Reul, Helmut

2004-10-01

The most crucial element of a long-term implantable rotary blood pump is the rotor bearing. Because of heat generation and power loss resulting from friction, seals within the devices have to be avoided. Actively controlled magnetic bearings, although maintenance-free, increase the degree of complexity. Hydrodynamic bearings for magnetically coupled rotors may offer an alternative solution to this problem. Additionally, for miniature pumps, the load capacity of hydrodynamic bearings scales slower than that of, for example, magnetic bearings because of the cube-square-law. A special kind of hydrodynamic bearing is a spiral groove bearing (SGB), which features an excellent load capacity. Mock-loop tests showed that SGBs do not influence the hydraulic performance of the tested pumps. Although, as of now, the power consumption of the SBG is higher than for a mechanical pivot bearing, it is absolutely contact-free and has an unlimited lifetime. The liftoff of the rotor occurs already at 10% of design speed. Further tests and flow visualization studies on scaled-up models must demonstrate its overall blood compatibility.

Modeling human-machine interactions for operations room layouts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hendy, Keith C.; Edwards, Jack L.; Beevis, David

2000-11-01

The LOCATE layout analysis tool was used to analyze three preliminary configurations for the Integrated Command Environment (ICE) of a future USN platform. LOCATE develops a cost function reflecting the quality of all human-human and human-machine communications within a workspace. This proof- of-concept study showed little difference between the efficacy of the preliminary designs selected for comparison. This was thought to be due to the limitations of the study, which included the assumption of similar size for each layout and a lack of accurate measurement data for various objects in the designs, due largely to their notional nature. Based on these results, the USN offered an opportunity to conduct a LOCATE analysis using more appropriate assumptions. A standard crew was assumed, and subject matter experts agreed on the communications patterns for the analysis. Eight layouts were evaluated with the concepts of coordination and command factored into the analysis. Clear differences between the layouts emerged. The most promising design was refined further by the USN, and a working mock-up built for human-in-the-loop evaluation. LOCATE was applied to this configuration for comparison with the earlier analyses.

Effects of Detail in Eyewitness Testimony on Decisions by Mock Jurors.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Heath, Wendy P.; Grannemann, Bruce D.; Sawa, Stephanie E.; Hodge, Kristine M.

1997-01-01

Investigated the effects of the presence and typicality of detail in a witness' testimony on mock juror judgments. Results indicate that the presence of detail affected the ratings of witnesses. Atypical or typical detail provided by one witness, with no detail provided by the opposing witness, enhanced assessments of the former. (RJM)

State of Oklahoma v. Tracy Smith. 1999-2000 Oklahoma High School Mock Trial Program.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stucky, Melanie; Eberle, April; Cale, Stephen

This mock trial curriculum is intended to help high school students learn about the law and the legal system. The curriculum is divided into the following sections: Statement of the Case, Stipulations, Legal Authorities, Witness Statements/Narrative Report (Prosecution Witnesses; Defense Witnesses), and Exhibits (Statement of Miranda Rights; Front…

The Implementation of Mock Negotiations in Teaching International Business Management.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Raffield, Barney T., III

Mock negotiations are used as part of an undergraduate course in international business management at Lebanon Valley College (Pennsylvania) in order to introduce students to the process of negotiating for advantage in foreign countries and to emphasize the importance of an individual nation's customs, culture, and ways of transacting business in…

Host-mediated effects of semipersistently transmitted Squash vein yellowing virus on sweetpotato whitefly (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) behavior and fitness

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Alighting, settling and oviposition behavioral assays were conducted on Squash vein yellowing virus- (SqVYV-) infected and mock-inoculated squash and watermelon plants. Developmental time of immature stages, adult longevity, and fecundity were measured on SqVYV-infected and mock-inoculated squash p...

Mock Elections in Civic Education: A Space for Critical Democratic Citizenship Development

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

De Groot, Isolde

2017-01-01

Purpose: Preparing citizens for participation in pluralist democracies also requires a type of citizenship education that fosters critical democratic citizenship (CDC). This study inquires into an educational activity with a long history in many EU-countries: mock elections. It explores the extent to which elements of CDC-literacy, competences and…

STS-133 crew during CCT II Flight Communications plan

NASA Image and Video Library

2010-02-04

JSC2010-E-023632 (4 Feb. 2010) --- NASA astronauts Michael Barratt (left) and Nicole Stott, both STS-133 mission specialists, participate in training session in a shuttle mock-up in the Space Vehicle Mock-up Facility at NASA's Johnson Space Center. United Space Alliance instructor James Gaustad assisted Barratt and Stott.

Mock Trial: A Window to Free Speech Rights and Abilities

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schwartz, Sherry

2010-01-01

This article provides some strategies to alleviate the current tensions between personal responsibility and freedom of speech rights in the public school classroom. The article advocates the necessity of making sure students understand the points and implications of the first amendment by providing a mock trial unit concerning free speech rights.…

Mock and National Examinations Correlations in a Health Information Associate Degree Program

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jenkins, Neisa R.

2013-01-01

Students enrolled in associate degree programs face social and personal challenges that can affect their learning and assessment skills. Social and personal challenges such as unemployment rates, race, age, and gender may affect their employability. The purpose of this quantitative correlational study was to examine the mock and national…

Re-analysis of HCPB/HCLL Blanket Mock-up Experiments Using Recent Nuclear Data Libraries

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

Kondo, K., E-mail: keitaro.kondo@kit.edu; Fischer, U.; Klix, A.

2014-06-15

We have re-analysed the two breeding blankets experiments performed previously in the frame of the European fusion program on two mock-ups of the European Helium-Cooled-Lithiium Lead (HCLL) and Helium-Cooled-Pebble-Bed (HCPB) test blanket modules for ITER. The tritium production rate and the neutron and photon spectra measured in these mock-ups were compared with calculations using FENDL-3 Starter Library, release 4 and state-of-the-art nuclear data evaluations, JEFF-3.1.2, JENDL-4.0 and ENDF/B-VII.0. The tritium production calculated for the HCPB mock-up underestimates the experimental result by about 10%. The result calculated with FENDL-3/SLIB4 gives slightly smaller tritium production by 2% than the one with FENDL-2.1.more » The difference attributes to the slight modification of the total and elastic scattering cross section of Be. For the HCLL experiment, all libraries reproduce the experimental results well. FENDL-3/SLIB4 gives better result both for the measured spectra and the tritium production compared to FENDL-2.1.« less

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

Bernyk, Maksym; Croton, Darren J.; Tonini, Chiara

We introduce the Theoretical Astrophysical Observatory (TAO), an online virtual laboratory that houses mock observations of galaxy survey data. Such mocks have become an integral part of the modern analysis pipeline. However, building them requires expert knowledge of galaxy modeling and simulation techniques, significant investment in software development, and access to high performance computing. These requirements make it difficult for a small research team or individual to quickly build a mock catalog suited to their needs. To address this TAO offers access to multiple cosmological simulations and semi-analytic galaxy formation models from an intuitive and clean web interface. Results canmore » be funnelled through science modules and sent to a dedicated supercomputer for further processing and manipulation. These modules include the ability to (1) construct custom observer light cones from the simulation data cubes; (2) generate the stellar emission from star formation histories, apply dust extinction, and compute absolute and/or apparent magnitudes; and (3) produce mock images of the sky. All of TAO’s features can be accessed without any programming requirements. The modular nature of TAO opens it up for further expansion in the future.« less

Combining Statistical Samples of Resolved-ISM Simulated Galaxies with Realistic Mock Observations to Fully Interpret HST and JWST Surveys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Faucher-Giguere, Claude-Andre

2016-10-01

HST has invested thousands of orbits to complete multi-wavelength surveys of high-redshift galaxies including the Deep Fields, COSMOS, 3D-HST and CANDELS. Over the next few years, JWST will undertake complementary, spatially-resolved infrared observations. Cosmological simulations are the most powerful tool to make detailed predictions for the properties of galaxy populations and to interpret these surveys. We will leverage recent major advances in the predictive power of cosmological hydrodynamic simulations to produce the first statistical sample of hundreds of galaxies simulated with 10 pc resolution and with explicit interstellar medium and stellar feedback physics proved to simultaneously reproduce the galaxy stellar mass function, the chemical enrichment of galaxies, and the neutral hydrogen content of galaxy halos. We will process our new set of full-volume cosmological simulations, called FIREBOX, with a mock imaging and spectral synthesis pipeline to produce realistic mock HST and JWST observations, including spatially-resolved photometry and spectroscopy. By comparing FIREBOX with recent high-redshift HST surveys, we will study the stellar build up of galaxies, the evolution massive star-forming clumps, their contribution to bulge growth, the connection of bulges to star formation quenching, and the triggering mechanisms of AGN activity. Our mock data products will also enable us to plan future JWST observing programs. We will publicly release all our mock data products to enable HST and JWST science beyond our own analysis, including with the Frontier Fields.

Evaluating lineup fairness: Variations across methods and measures.

PubMed

Mansour, Jamal K; Beaudry, Jennifer L; Kalmet, Natalie; Bertrand, Michelle I; Lindsay, R C L

2017-02-01

Triers of fact sometimes consider lineup fairness when determining the suggestiveness of an identification procedure. Likewise, researchers often consider lineup fairness when comparing results across studies. Despite their importance, lineup fairness measures have received scant empirical attention and researchers inconsistently conduct and report mock-witness tasks and lineup fairness measures. We conducted a large-scale, online experiment (N = 1,010) to examine how lineup fairness measures varied with mock-witness task methodologies as well as to explore the validity and reliability of the measures. In comparison to descriptions compiled from multiple witnesses, when individual descriptions were presented in the mock-witness task, lineup fairness measures indicated a higher number of plausible lineup members but more bias toward the suspect. Target-absent lineups were consistently estimated to be fairer than target-present lineups-which is problematic because it suggests that lineups containing innocent suspects are less likely to be challenged in court than lineups containing guilty suspects. Correlations within lineup size measures and within some lineup bias measures indicated convergent validity and the correlations across the lineup size and lineup bias measures demonstrated discriminant validity. The reliability of lineup fairness measures across different descriptions was low and reliability across different sets of mock witnesses was moderate to high, depending on the measure. Researchers reporting lineup fairness measures should specify the type of description presented, the amount of detail in the description, and whether the mock witnesses viewed target-present and/or -absent lineups. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved).

Implementation and evaluation of a simulation curriculum for paediatric residency programs including just-in-time in situ mock codes

PubMed Central

Sam, Jonathan; Pierse, Michael; Al-Qahtani, Abdullah; Cheng, Adam

2012-01-01

OBJECTIVE: To develop, implement and evaluate a simulation-based acute care curriculum in a paediatric residency program using an integrated and longitudinal approach. DESIGN: Curriculum framework consisting of three modular, year-specific courses and longitudinal just-in-time, in situ mock codes. SETTING: Paediatric residency program at BC Children’s Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia. INTERVENTIONS: The three year-specific courses focused on the critical first 5 min, complex medical management and crisis resource management, respectively. The just-in-time in situ mock codes simulated the acute deterioration of an existing ward patient, prepared the actual multidisciplinary code team, and primed the surrounding crisis support systems. Each curriculum component was evaluated with surveys using a five-point Likert scale. RESULTS: A total of 40 resident surveys were completed after each of the modular courses, and an additional 28 surveys were completed for the overall simulation curriculum. The highest Likert scores were for hands-on skill stations, immersive simulation environment and crisis resource management teaching. Survey results also suggested that just-in-time mock codes were realistic, reinforced learning, and prepared ward teams for patient deterioration. CONCLUSIONS: A simulation-based acute care curriculum was successfully integrated into a paediatric residency program. It provides a model for integrating simulation-based learning into other training programs, as well as a model for any hospital that wishes to improve paediatric resuscitation outcomes using just-in-time in situ mock codes. PMID:23372405

Simulation of in-hospital pediatric medical emergencies and cardiopulmonary arrests: highlighting the importance of the first 5 minutes.

PubMed

Hunt, Elizabeth A; Walker, Allen R; Shaffner, Donald H; Miller, Marlene R; Pronovost, Peter J

2008-01-01

Outcomes of in-hospital pediatric cardiopulmonary arrest are dismal. Recent data suggest that the quality of basic and advanced life support delivered to adults is low and contributes to poor outcomes, but few data regarding pediatric events have been reported. The objectives of this study were to (1) measure the median elapsed time to initiate important resuscitation maneuvers in simulated pediatric medical emergencies (ie, "mock codes") and (2) identify the types and frequency of errors committed during pediatric mock codes. A prospective, observational study was conducted of 34 consecutive hospital-based mock codes. A mannequin or computerized simulator was used to enact unannounced, simulated crisis situations involving children with respiratory distress or insufficiency, respiratory arrest, hemodynamic instability, and/or cardiopulmonary arrest. Assessment included time elapsed to initiation of specific resuscitation maneuvers and deviation from American Heart Association guidelines. Among the 34 mock codes, the median time to assessment of airway and breathing was 1.3 minutes, to administration of oxygen was 2.0 minutes, to assessment of circulation was 4.0 minutes, to arrival of any physician was 3.0 minutes, and to arrival of first member of code team was 6.0 minutes. Among cardiopulmonary arrest scenarios, elapsed time to initiation of compressions was 1.5 minutes and to request for defibrillator was 4.3 minutes. In 75% of mock codes, the team deviated from American Heart Association pediatric basic life support protocols, and in 100% of mock codes there was a communication error. Alarming delays and deviations occur in the major components of pediatric resuscitation. Future educational and organizational interventions should focus on improving the quality of care delivered during the first 5 minutes of resuscitation. Simulation of pediatric crises can identify targets for educational intervention to improve pediatric cardiopulmonary resuscitation and, ideally, outcomes.

Students' Visualization of Diagrams Representing the Human Circulatory System: The Use of Spatial Isomorphism and Representational Conventions

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cheng, Maurice M. W.; Gilbert, John K.

2015-01-01

This study investigated students' interpretation of diagrams representing the human circulatory system. We conducted an interview study with three students aged 14-15 (Year 10) who were studying biology in a Hong Kong school. During the interviews, students were asked to interpret diagrams and relationships between diagrams that represented…

9 CFR 309.4 - Livestock showing symptoms of certain metabolic, toxic, nervous, or circulatory disturbances...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... diseases. 309.4 Section 309.4 Animals and Animal Products FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF..., toxic, nervous, or circulatory disturbances, nutritional imbalances, or infectious or parasitic diseases... the animal is, in fact, infected with such disease. If it is found on such tests to be infected, the...

9 CFR 309.4 - Livestock showing symptoms of certain metabolic, toxic, nervous, or circulatory disturbances...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... diseases. 309.4 Section 309.4 Animals and Animal Products FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF..., toxic, nervous, or circulatory disturbances, nutritional imbalances, or infectious or parasitic diseases... the animal is, in fact, infected with such disease. If it is found on such tests to be infected, the...

9 CFR 309.4 - Livestock showing symptoms of certain metabolic, toxic, nervous, or circulatory disturbances...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... diseases. 309.4 Section 309.4 Animals and Animal Products FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF..., toxic, nervous, or circulatory disturbances, nutritional imbalances, or infectious or parasitic diseases... the animal is, in fact, infected with such disease. If it is found on such tests to be infected, the...

9 CFR 309.4 - Livestock showing symptoms of certain metabolic, toxic, nervous, or circulatory disturbances...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... diseases. 309.4 Section 309.4 Animals and Animal Products FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF..., toxic, nervous, or circulatory disturbances, nutritional imbalances, or infectious or parasitic diseases... the animal is, in fact, infected with such disease. If it is found on such tests to be infected, the...

9 CFR 309.4 - Livestock showing symptoms of certain metabolic, toxic, nervous, or circulatory disturbances...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... diseases. 309.4 Section 309.4 Animals and Animal Products FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF..., toxic, nervous, or circulatory disturbances, nutritional imbalances, or infectious or parasitic diseases... the animal is, in fact, infected with such disease. If it is found on such tests to be infected, the...

Relations of Cognitive and Motivational Variables with Students' Human Circulatory System Achievement in Traditional and Learning Cycle Classrooms

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sadi, Özlem; Çakiroglu, Jale

2014-01-01

This study is aimed at investigating the relationships among students' relevant prior knowledge, meaningful learning orientation, reasoning ability, self-efficacy, locus of control, attitudes toward biology and achievement with the human circulatory system (HCS) using the learning cycle (LC) and the traditional classroom setting. The study was…

Bilingual Skills Training Program. Barbering/Cosmetology. Module 10.0: Circulatory System.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Northern New Mexico Community Coll., El Rito.

This module on the circulatory or vascular system is the tenth of ten (CE 028 308-318) in the barbering/cosmetology course of a bilingual skills training program. (A Vocabulary Development Workbook for modules 6-10 is available as CE 028 313.) The course is designed to furnish theoretical and laboratory experience. Module objectives are for…

[Caffeine and adaptive changes in the circulatory system during pregnancy].

PubMed

Cendrowska-Pinkosz, Monika; Dworzański, Wojciech; Krauze, Magdalena; Burdan, Franciszek

2017-01-23

Adaptive physiological changes that occur in pregnant women can fluctuate with the intake of substances with proven, adverse biological effect on the body. Due to the fact that caffeine is one of the most chronically used xenobiotics, the impact of consuming caffeine on adaptive processes in the circulatory system of a pregnant women required a research. Many researchers emphasise its negative effect on the circulatory system of the mother and her offspring. However, in spite of years of observation, there is no clear answer to what extent dose or in what period of time the caffeine modulates the adaptive processes during pregnancy. Because of the potential risk the supply of caffeine during pregnancy should be subjected to considerable restrictions.

Mechanical circulatory support in pediatrics.

PubMed

Steffen, Robert J; Miletic, Kyle G; Schraufnagel, Dean P; Vargo, Patrick R; Fukamachi, Kiyotaka; Stewart, Robert D; Moazami, Nader

2016-05-01

End-stage heart failure affects thousands of children yearly and mechanical circulatory support is used at many points in their care. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation supports both the failing heart and lungs, which has led to its use as an adjunct to cardiopulmonary resuscitation as well as in post-operative cardiogenic shock. Continuous-flow ventricular assist devices (VAD) have replaced pulsatile-flow devices in adults and early studies have shown promising results in children. The Berlin paracorporeal pulsatile VAD recently gained U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval and remains the only VAD approved in pediatrics. Failing univentricular hearts and other congenitally corrected lesions are new areas for mechanical support. Finding novel uses, improving durability, and minimizing complications are areas of growth in pediatric mechanical circulatory support.

Using Mock Trials to Teach Students Forensic Core Competencies in Marriage and Family Therapy

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Miller, John K.; Linville, Deanna; Todahl, Jeff; Metcalfe, Joe

2009-01-01

This article provides a description of a university-based project that used mock trials to train both practicum-level marriage and family therapy and law students in forensic work, and a qualitative investigation of student experiences with the training. The content of the training focused on American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy…

Speaking with (Dis)respect: A Study of Reactions to Mock Spanish

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Callahan, Laura

2010-01-01

This paper reports on an investigation into the reactions of 147 participants of various ethnicities to a language practice in the USA that has been characterized as Mock Spanish, a special register in which Spanish words or phrases are used to evoke humor by indexing an often unflattering image of Spanish speakers. Research questions include…

The Mock Trial: A Dynamic Exercise for Thinking Critically about Management Theories, Topics, and Practices

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Farmer, Kevin; Meisel, Steven I.; Seltzer, Joe; Kane, Kathleen

2013-01-01

The Mock Trial is an experiential exercise adapted from a law school process that encourages students to think critically about theories, topics, and the practice of management in an innovative classroom experience. Playing the role of attorneys and witnesses, learners ask questions and challenge assumptions by playing roles in a trial with…

Order of Verdict Consideration and Decision Rule Effects on Mock Jury Decision Making.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Olaye, Imafidon M.

A study investigated the effects of order verdict consideration and decision rule on jury verdicts. After reading the summary of an actual trial, 240 mock jurors drawn from undergraduate communications classes were randomly assigned to six-member juries. Jury assignments were made under two verdict orders (ascending and descending order of…

Data-Based Active Learning in the Principles of Macroeconomics Course: A Mock FOMC Meeting

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Whiting, Cathleen

2006-01-01

The author presents an active-learning exercise for the introductory macroeconomics class in which students participate in a mock Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting. Preparation involves data gathering and writing both a research report and a policy recommendation. An FOMC meeting is simulated in which students give their policy…

STS-131 crew during SSMTF Ingress/Egress Timeline training

NASA Image and Video Library

2010-02-10

JSC2010-E-024620 (10 Feb. 2010) --- NASA astronaut Stephanie Wilson, STS-131 mission specialist, participates in an ingress/egress timeline training session in a shuttle mock-up in the Space Vehicle Mock-up Facility at NASA's Johnson Space Center. United Space Alliance (USA) instructors David L. Williams (left) and Gary W. Kilgo assisted Wilson.

Dark Energy Survey Year 1 Results: galaxy mock catalogues for BAO

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

Avila, S.; et al.

Mock catalogues are a crucial tool in the analysis of galaxy surveys data, both for the accurate computation of covariance matrices, and for the optimisation of analysis methodology and validation of data sets. In this paper, we present a set of 1800 galaxy mock catalogues designed to match the Dark Energy Survey Year-1 BAO sample (Crocce et al. 2017) in abundance, observational volume, redshift distribution and uncertainty, and redshift dependent clustering. The simulated samples were built upon HALOGEN (Avila et al. 2015) halo catalogues, based on a $2LPT$ density field with an exponential bias. For each of them, a lightconemore » is constructed by the superposition of snapshots in the redshift range $0.45« less

Latin American Consensus on the use of transcranial Doppler in the diagnosis of brain death

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Transcranial Doppler evaluates cerebral hemodynamics in patients with brain injury and is a useful technical tool in diagnosing cerebral circulatory arrest, usually present in the brain-dead patient. This Latin American Consensus was formed by a group of 26 physicians experienced in the use of transcranial Doppler in the context of brain death. The purpose of this agreement was to make recommendations regarding the indications, technique, and interpretation of the study of transcranial ultrasonography in patients with a clinical diagnosis of brain death or in the patient whose clinical diagnosis presents difficulties; a working group was formed to enable further knowledge and to strengthen ties between Latin American physicians working on the same topic. A review of the literature, concepts, and experiences were exchanged in two meetings and via the Internet. Questions about pathophysiology, equipment, techniques, findings, common problems, and the interpretation of transcranial Doppler in the context of brain death were answered. The basic consensus statements are the following: cerebral circulatory arrest is the final stage in the evolution of progressive intracranial hypertension, which is visualized with transcranial Doppler as a "pattern of cerebral circulatory arrest". The following are accepted as the standard of cerebral circulatory arrest: reverberant pattern, systolic spikes, and absence of previously demonstrated flow. Ultrasonography should be used - in acceptable hemodynamic conditions - in the anterior circulation bilaterally (middle cerebral artery) and in the posterior (basilar artery) territory. If no ultrasonographic images are found in any or all of these vessels, their proximal arteries are acceptable to be studied to look for a a pattern of cerebral circulatory arrest. PMID:25295818

Students' Visualization of Diagrams Representing the Human Circulatory System: The use of spatial isomorphism and representational conventions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cheng, Maurice M. W.; Gilbert, John K.

2015-01-01

This study investigated students' interpretation of diagrams representing the human circulatory system. We conducted an interview study with three students aged 14-15 (Year 10) who were studying biology in a Hong Kong school. During the interviews, students were asked to interpret diagrams and relationships between diagrams that represented aspects of the circulatory system. All diagrams used in the interviews had been used by their teacher when teaching the topic. Students' interpretations were expressed by their verbal response and their drawing. Dual coding theory was used to interpret students' responses. There was evidence that one student relied on verbal recall as a strategy in interpreting diagrams. It was found that students might have relied unduly on similarities in spatial features, rather than on deeper meanings represented by conventions, of diagrams when they associated diagrams that represented different aspects of the circulatory system. A pattern of students' understanding of structure-behaviour-function relationship of the biological system was observed. This study suggests the importance of a consistent diagrammatic and verbal representation in communicating scientific ideas. Implications for teaching practice that facilitates learning with diagrams and address students' undue focus on spatial features of diagrams are discussed.

Minimal alteration in the ratio of circulatory fetal DNA to fetal corticotropin-releasing hormone mRNA level in preeclampsia.

PubMed

Zhong, Xiao Yan; Holzgreve, Wolfgang; Gebhardt, Stefan; Hillermann, Renate; Tofa, Kashefa Carelse; Gupta, Anurag Kumar; Huppertz, Berthold; Hahn, Sinuhe

2006-01-01

We have recently observed that fetal DNA and fetal corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) mRNA are associated with in vitro generated syncytiotrophoblast-derived microparticles, and that the ratio of fetal DNA to mRNA (CRH) varied according to whether the particles were derived by predominantly apoptotic, apo-necrotic or necrotic pathways. Hence, we examined whether these ratios varied in maternal plasma samples taken from normotensive and preeclamptic pregnancies in vivo. Maternal plasma samples were collected from 18 cases with preeclampsia and 29 normotensive term controls. Circulatory fetal CRH mRNA and DNA levels were quantified by real-time PCR and RT-PCR. Circulatory fetal mRNA and fetal DNA levels were significantly elevated in the preeclampsia study group when compared to normotensive controls. Alterations in the fetal mRNA to DNA ratio between the study and control groups were minimal, even when stratified into early (<34 weeks of gestation) and late (>34 weeks of gestation) onset preeclampsia. Our data suggest that although circulatory fetal DNA and mRNA levels are significantly elevated in preeclampsia, the ratios in maternal plasma are not dramatically altered. Copyright 2006 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Using the brain criterion in organ donation after the circulatory determination of death.

PubMed

Dalle Ave, Anne L; Bernat, James L

2016-06-01

The UK, France, and Switzerland determine death using the brain criterion even in organ donation after the circulatory determination of death (DCDD), in which the United States and Canada use the circulatory-respiratory criterion. In our analysis of the scientific validity of the brain criterion in DCDD, we concluded that although it may be attractive in theory because it conceptualizes death as a unitary phenomenon, its use in practice is invalid. The preconditions (ie, the absence of reversible causes, such as toxic or metabolic disorders) for determining brain death cannot be met in DCDD. Thus, although brain death tests prove the cessation of tested brain functions, they do not prove that their cessation is irreversible. A stand-off period of 5 to 10 minutes is insufficient to achieve the irreversibility requirement of brain death. Because circulatory cessation inevitably leads to cessation of brain functions, first permanently and then irreversibly, the use of brain criterion is unnecessary to determine death in DCDD. Expanding brain death to permit it to be satisfied by permanent cessation of brain functions is controversial but has been considered as a possible means to declare death in uncontrolled DCDD. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Directed Retrograde Cerebral Protection during Moderate Hypothermic Circulatory Arrest

PubMed Central

Yacoubian, Vahe; Jyrala, Aarne; Kay, Gregory L.

2006-01-01

There are many choices for neurologic protection for aortic arch surgery. Although numerous investigators have challenged the efficacy of retrograde cerebral perfusion, we have had good results with our application of this technique. We performed a retrospective review of 8 consecutive patients who underwent surgery from 1 June 2001 through 31 March 2003; the age range was 33 to 97 years. All patients required circulatory arrest and underwent retrograde cerebral perfusion with use of a tourniquet on the patients' left and right arms above the elbow to direct retrograde flow to the brain. Moderate hypothermia (around 24 °C nasopharyngeal) was used; circulatory arrest time ranged from 27 to 63 minutes. There was 1 late hospital death due to multiple-organ system failure. There were no neurologic complications (stroke or temporary neurologic dysfunction). There was no substantive neurologic or renal dysfunction in this cohort, in which moderate hypothermia was used. These results are comparable to those reported in the literature for similar patients. We conclude that, for patients who require circulatory arrest, directed retrograde cerebral perfusion at moderate nasopharyngeal hypothermia gives results comparable to those reported with other techniques. PMID:17215968

Experimental and numeric investigation of Impella pumps as cavopulmonary assistance for a failing Fontan.

PubMed

Haggerty, Christopher M; Fynn-Thompson, Francis; McElhinney, Doff B; Valente, Anne Marie; Saikrishnan, Neelakantan; Del Nido, Pedro J; Yoganathan, Ajit P

2012-09-01

This study sought to evaluate the performance of microaxial ventricular assist devices for the purposes of supporting failing Fontan physiology by decreasing central venous pressure. Three Abiomed Impella pumps (Abiomed, Inc, Danvers, Mass) were evaluated in a mock circulatory system of the Fontan circuit. The local response of pressures and flows to pump function was assessed as a function of pump speed and pulmonary vascular resistance at a high baseline central venous pressure. For one device, subsequent modeling studies were conducted using a lumped parameter model of the single ventricle circuit. The left ventricular devices (Impella 2.5, 5.0) were shown to be suboptimal as single device solutions for cavopulmonary support. The small area of these devices relative to vessel diameter led to significant flow recirculation without an obstructive separator in place. Furthermore, downstream pressure augmentation adversely affected the pressure in the superior vena cava. The use of 2 devices would be mandatory for successful support. The right-sided device (Impella RP), whose outflow was positioned in the left pulmonary artery, demonstrated decreased flow recirculation and did not impede superior caval venous flow. Although static pressure is still required to drive flow through the opposite lung, numeric modeling demonstrated the potential for modest but significant improvements in lowering the central venous pressure (2-8 mm Hg). Left-sided microaxial pumps are not well suited for cavopulmonary support because of severe flow recirculation and the need for multiple devices. The right-ventricular Impella device provides improved performance by directing flow into the pulmonary artery, resulting in modest decreases in central venous pressure. Copyright © 2012 The American Association for Thoracic Surgery. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

Computational models of aortic coarctation in hypoplastic left heart syndrome: considerations on validation of a detailed 3D model.

PubMed

Biglino, Giovanni; Corsini, Chiara; Schievano, Silvia; Dubini, Gabriele; Giardini, Alessandro; Hsia, Tain-Yen; Pennati, Giancarlo; Taylor, Andrew M

2014-05-01

Reliability of computational models for cardiovascular investigations strongly depends on their validation against physical data. This study aims to experimentally validate a computational model of complex congenital heart disease (i.e., surgically palliated hypoplastic left heart syndrome with aortic coarctation) thus demonstrating that hemodynamic information can be reliably extrapolated from the model for clinically meaningful investigations. A patient-specific aortic arch model was tested in a mock circulatory system and the same flow conditions were re-created in silico, by setting an appropriate lumped parameter network (LPN) attached to the same three-dimensional (3D) aortic model (i.e., multi-scale approach). The model included a modified Blalock-Taussig shunt and coarctation of the aorta. Different flow regimes were tested as well as the impact of uncertainty in viscosity. Computational flow and pressure results were in good agreement with the experimental signals, both qualitatively, in terms of the shape of the waveforms, and quantitatively (mean aortic pressure 62.3 vs. 65.1 mmHg, 4.8% difference; mean aortic flow 28.0 vs. 28.4% inlet flow, 1.4% difference; coarctation pressure drop 30.0 vs. 33.5 mmHg, 10.4% difference), proving the reliability of the numerical approach. It was observed that substantial changes in fluid viscosity or using a turbulent model in the numerical simulations did not significantly affect flows and pressures of the investigated physiology. Results highlighted how the non-linear fluid dynamic phenomena occurring in vitro must be properly described to ensure satisfactory agreement. This study presents methodological considerations for using experimental data to preliminarily set up a computational model, and then simulate a complex congenital physiology using a multi-scale approach.

In Vitro Study of Flow Regulation for Pulmonary Insufficiency

PubMed Central

Camp, T. A.; Stewart, K. C.; Figliola, R. S.; McQuinn, T.

2007-01-01

Given the tolerance of the right heart circulation to mild regurgitation and gradient, we study the potential of using motionless devices to regulate the pulmonary circulation. In addition, we document the flow performance of two mechanical valves. A motionless diode, a nozzle, a mechanical bileaflet valve, and a tilting disk valve were tested in a pulmonary mock circulatory system over the normal human range of pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR). For the mechanical valves, regurgitant fractions (RFs) and transvalvular pressure gradients were found to be weak functions of PVR. On the low end of normal PVR, the bileaflet and tilting disk valves fluttered and would not fully close. Despite this anomaly, the regurgitant fraction of either valve did not change significantly. The values for RF and transvalvular gradient measured varied from 4 to 7% and 4 to 7 mm Hg, respectively, at 5 lpm for all tests. The diode valve was able to regulate flow with mild regurgitant fraction and trivial gradient but with values higher than either mechanical valve tested. Regurgitant fraction ranged from 2 to 17% in tests extending from PVR values of 1 to 4.5 mm Hg/lpm at 5 lpm and with concomitant increases in gradient up to 17 mm Hg. The regurgitant fraction for the nozzle increased from 2 to 23% over the range of PVR with gradients increasing to 18 mm Hg. The significant findings were: (1) the mechanical valves controlled regurgitation at normal physiological cardiac output and PVR even though they failed to close at some normal values of PVR and showed leaflet flutter; and (2) it may be possible to regulate the pulmonary circulation to tolerable levels using a motionless pulmonary valve device. PMID:17408334

Contribution of Circulatory Disturbances in Subchondral Bone to the Pathophysiology of Osteoarthritis.

PubMed

Aaron, Roy K; Racine, Jennifer; Dyke, Jonathan P

2017-08-01

This review describes the contributions of abnormal bone circulation to the pathophysiology of osteoarthritis. Combining dynamic imaging with MRI and PET with previous observations reveals that venous stasis and a venous outlet syndrome is most likely the key circulatory pathology associated with the initiation or progression of osteoarthritis. MRI and PET have revealed that venous outflow obstruction results in physicochemical changes in subchondral bone to which osteoblasts are responsive. The osteoblasts express an altered pattern of cytokines, many of which can serve as structural or signaling molecules contributing to both bone remodeling and cartilage degeneration. The patterns of circulatory changes are associated with alterations in the physicochemical environment of subchondral bone, including hypoxia. Osteoblast cytokines can transit the subchondral bone plate and calcified cartilage and communicate with chondrocytes.

Dark Energy Survey Year 1 Results: galaxy mock catalogues for BAO

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Avila, S.; Crocce, M.; Ross, A. J.; García-Bellido, J.; Percival, W. J.; Banik, N.; Camacho, H.; Kokron, N.; Chan, K. C.; Andrade-Oliveira, F.; Gomes, R.; Gomes, D.; Lima, M.; Rosenfeld, R.; Salvador, A. I.; Friedrich, O.; Abdalla, F. B.; Annis, J.; Benoit-Lévy, A.; Bertin, E.; Brooks, D.; Carrasco Kind, M.; Carretero, J.; Castander, F. J.; Cunha, C. E.; da Costa, L. N.; Davis, C.; De Vicente, J.; Doel, P.; Fosalba, P.; Frieman, J.; Gerdes, D. W.; Gruen, D.; Gruendl, R. A.; Gutierrez, G.; Hartley, W. G.; Hollowood, D.; Honscheid, K.; James, D. J.; Kuehn, K.; Kuropatkin, N.; Miquel, R.; Plazas, A. A.; Sanchez, E.; Scarpine, V.; Schindler, R.; Schubnell, M.; Sevilla-Noarbe, I.; Smith, M.; Sobreira, F.; Suchyta, E.; Swanson, M. E. C.; Tarle, G.; Thomas, D.; Walker, A. R.; Dark Energy Survey Collaboration

2018-05-01

Mock catalogues are a crucial tool in the analysis of galaxy surveys data, both for the accurate computation of covariance matrices, and for the optimisation of analysis methodology and validation of data sets. In this paper, we present a set of 1800 galaxy mock catalogues designed to match the Dark Energy Survey Year-1 BAO sample (Crocce et al. 2017) in abundance, observational volume, redshift distribution and uncertainty, and redshift dependent clustering. The simulated samples were built upon HALOGEN (Avila et al. 2015) halo catalogues, based on a 2LPT density field with an empirical halo bias. For each of them, a lightcone is constructed by the superposition of snapshots in the redshift range 0.45 < z < 1.4. Uncertainties introduced by so-called photometric redshifts estimators were modelled with a double-skewed-Gaussian curve fitted to the data. We populate halos with galaxies by introducing a hybrid Halo Occupation Distribution - Halo Abundance Matching model with two free parameters. These are adjusted to achieve a galaxy bias evolution b(zph) that matches the data at the 1-σ level in the range 0.6 < zph < 1.0. We further analyse the galaxy mock catalogues and compare their clustering to the data using the angular correlation function w(θ), the comoving transverse separation clustering ξμ < 0.8(s⊥) and the angular power spectrum Cℓ, finding them in agreement. This is the first large set of three-dimensional {ra,dec,z} galaxy mock catalogues able to simultaneously accurately reproduce the photometric redshift uncertainties and the galaxy clustering.

Soft tissue waxup and mock-up as key factors in a treatment plan: case presentation.

PubMed

Viana, Pedro Couto; Correia, André; Neves, Manuel; Kovacs, Zsolt; Neugbauer, Rudiger

2012-01-01

Rehabilitation of edentulous spaces in esthetic areas is a challenge to the clinician due to the loss of soft tissues. In these clinical situations, it would be desirable to evaluate and predict the gingival architecture to recover in the oral rehabilitation. To fulfill this need, the diagnostic wax should anticipate the final rehabilitation with the integration of hard and soft tissue. Thus, it is essential to produce a diagnostic waxup that integrates these two components that are simultaneously seeking to recreate the harmony of white and pink esthetic. This diagnostic waxup will be the basis for the creation of the provisional prosthesis and a soft tissue mock-up. After placing the provisional prosthesis in the mouth, the soft tissue mock-up can be applied to assess its esthetic impact at facial and intraoral level. Dentist and patient should objectively assess the appearance of the final result. After approval of this rehabilitation concept, the virtual surgical planning can be performed and the surgical guide can be designed, allowing the treatment to take place. This protocol allows the development of a rigorous treatment plan based on the integration of teeth and gingiva component. The waxup and the soft tissue mock-up play a significant role, since they allow an earlier evaluation of the esthetic result, better prosthetic and surgical planning, and it allows us to anticipate the need for gingiva-colored ceramics use. The authors present a clinical case report of the importance of the wax-up and soft tissue mock-up in the treatment plan.

Sex differences in cardiovascular and subjective stress reactions: prospective evidence in a realistic military setting.

PubMed

Taylor, Marcus K; Larson, Gerald E; Hiller Lauby, Melissa D; Padilla, Genieleah A; Wilson, Ingrid E; Schmied, Emily A; Highfill-McRoy, Robyn M; Morgan, Charles A

2014-01-01

Evidence points to heightened physiological arousal in response to acute stress exposure as both a prospective indicator and a core characteristic of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Because females may be at higher risk for PTSD development, it is important to evaluate sex differences in acute stress reactions. This study characterized sex differences in cardiovascular and subjective stress reactions among military survival trainees. One hundred and eighty-five military members (78% males) were studied before, during, and 24 h after stressful mock captivity. Cardiovascular (heart rate [HR], systolic blood pressure [SBP], diastolic blood pressure [DBP]) and dissociative states were measured at all three time points. Psychological impact of mock captivity was assessed during recovery. General linear modeling with repeated measures evaluated sex differences for each cardiovascular endpoint, and causal steps modeling was used to explore interrelationships among sex, cardiovascular reactions and psychological impact of mock captivity. Although females had lower SBP than males at all three time points, the difference was most pronounced at baseline and during stress. Accordingly, females showed greater residual elevation in SBP during recovery. Females had lower DBP at all three time points. In addition, females reported greater psychological impact of mock captivity than males. Exploratory causal steps modeling suggested that stress-induced HR may partially mediate the effect of sex on psychological impact of mock captivity. In conclusion, this study demonstrated sex-specific cardiovascular stress reactions in military personnel, along with greater psychological impact of stress exposure in females. This research may elucidate sex differences in PTSD development.

[The disease burden of cardiovascular and circulatory diseases in China, 1990 and 2010].

PubMed

Liu, Jiangmei; Liu, Yunning; Wang, Lijun; Yin, Peng; Liu, Shiwei; You, Jinling; Zeng, Xinying; Zhou, Maigeng

2015-04-01

To analyze the death status of disease burden of cardiovascular and circulatory diseases in 1990 and 2010 in China, and to provide the basic information for cardiovascular and circulatory disease prevention and control. Using the results of the Global Burden of Diseases Study 2010 (GBD 2010) to describe the cardiovascular and circulatory diseases deaths status and disease burden in China. The measurement index included the mortality, years of life lost due to premature mortality (YLL), years lived with disability (YLD), and disability-adjusted life years (DALY). At the same time, we used the population from 2010 national census as standard population to calculate the age-standardized mortality rate and DALY rate, YLL rate and YLD rates which will describe the mortality status and disease burden of total and different types of cardiovascular disease. We also calculated the change in 1990 and 2010 for all indexes, to describe the change of the burden of disease in the 20 years. In 2010, the total deaths of cardiovascular and circulatory diseases reached 3.136 2 million, the mortality rate reached 233.70 per 100 000 people and the age-standardized mortality rate was 256.90 per 100 000 people. The total DALYs, YLLs, and YLDs of cardiovascular and circulatory diseases reached 58.2055, 54.0488, and 4.1568 million person-years, respectively, and the age-standardized DALY rate, YLL rate and YLD rate were 4 639.04, 4 313.13, 325.91 per 100 000. In 1990, the deaths only 2.1675 million and the DALYs, YLLs and YLDs were 45.2679, 42.2922, and 2.9757 million person-years. The age-standardized mortality rate was 300.30 per 100 000 people. And the age-standardized DALY rate, YLL rate and YLD rate were 5 872.58, 5 523.42 and 349.16 per 100 000. Compared with the result in 1990, the total deaths, DALYs, YLLs, and YLDs were increased 44.72%, 28.58%, 27.80%, and 39.68%, respectively, while the age-standardized mortality rate, age-standardized DALY rate, age-standardized YLL rate, and age-standardized YLD rate were decreased 14.45%, 21.01%, 21.91%, and 6.66%, respectively. In 1990 and 2010, cerebrovascular disease caused the most DALYs (24.8768 and 30.1389 million person-years, respectively) compared with other types of cardiovascular and circulatory diseases, and followed by ischemic heart disease (10.1270 and 17.8858 million person-years). And the YLLs of cerebrovascular disease (24.3436 and 29.1726 million person-years) also the highest in different type of cardiovascular and circulatory diseases, ischemic heart disease (8.9919 and 16.0839 million person-years) was the second highest. The deaths of cerebrovascular disease and cerebrovascular disease increased from 1 340.6 and 450.3 thousands in 1990 to 1 726.7 and 948.7 thousands in 2010, respectively. The age-standardized mortality rate and DALY rate of cerebrovascular disease were decreased from 187.19 and 3 335.37 per 100 000 people in 1990 to 141.43 and 2 409.09 per 100 000 people. While in the ischemic heart disease, the age-standardized mortality rate, and DALY rate were increased form 62.53 and 1 318.38 per 100 000 people in 1990 to 77.89 and 1 428.31 per 100 000 people. Burden of cardiovascular and circulatory disease became more and more serious in China, of which the cerebrovascular disease and ischemic heart disease were most serious.

Statement of Facts for 1977 City-Wide Mock Trial Competitions. Walker Thomas v. Sam Nomad.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Inst. for Citizen Education in the Law, Washington, DC.

Prepared by the District of Columbia Street Law Project for its annual city-wide mock trial competition, this instructional handout provides material for a civil case over an automobile accident. Walker Thomas is suing Sam Nomad for damages that resulted from a collision, for which both parties blame the other. The handout clarifies the laws and…

Statement of Facts for 1976 City-Wide Mock Trial Competitions. United States v. Percy W. Snodgrass.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Inst. for Citizen Education in the Law, Washington, DC.

Prepared by the District of Columbia Street Law Project for its annual city-wide mock trial competition, this instructional handout provides material for a murder trial. The defendant shot the victim in the course of a violent dispute. The prosecution charges murder while the defendant claims to have acted in self-defense. The handout clarifies…

Competence Is in the Eye of the Beholder: Perceptions of Intellectually Disabled Child Witnesses

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brown, Deirdre A.; Lewis, Charlie N.

2013-01-01

This study examines mock jurors' perceptions of a young witness according to whether or not he was described as having an intellectual disability. Our study examined perceptions of a child witness younger (five or seven years) than previously studied. Mock jurors ("n" = 71) viewed a short video excerpt of a boy recalling a…

The Effect of Mock Tests on Iranian EFL Learners' Test Scores

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Khodabakhshzadeh, Hossein; Zardkanloo, Reza; Alipoor, Iman

2017-01-01

The effect of using tests in test preparation courses has been subject to debate. While some scholars such as Yang and Badger (2015) believe it is a cause of positive washback effect, others argue that this issue is tentative and context-bound (Green, 2007). Therefore, this study investigated the effect of using Mock tests in International English…

Bling My Research! A Mock Grant Panel Activity Illustrating the Importance of Basic Research

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Leander, Celeste A.; Whitton, Jeannette

2010-01-01

First-year university students have misconceptions about the source and dynamics of publicly funded research money. We designed an activity in which students take part in a mock grant panel. The results indicated a strong tendency toward student funding of applied medical research at the expense of basic research. Exposure to a few examples of…

Is it inherently prejudicial to try a juvenile as an adult?

PubMed

Levine, M; Williams, A; Sixt, A; Valenti, R

2001-01-01

Given only information that a youth who could have been tried as either an adult or as a juvenile was being tried as an adult for murder, 218 undergraduate mock jurors were able to form consistent impressions of the defendant. A very high percent of our mock jurors included a criminal or juvenile justice history as part of that impression. A very large majority of the mock jurors also said that knowledge of that criminal history would be relevant to their vote of guilty. Almost all mock jurors said they would be influenced toward voting guilty by knowledge of a previous criminal history. Few of the other components of the impression were so closely correlated with a judgment of relevance, or with a judgment that they would be influenced toward voting guilty by the knowledge of that component of the stereotype. The effect is relatively specific to knowledge of a previous criminal history. The study has limited ecological validity. Nonetheless, we raise questions about whether the fact that a youth is put on trial as an adult is inherently prejudicial, and violates the Sixth Amendment right to an impartial jury. Copyright 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Improving resident performance on standardized assessments of medical knowledge: a retrospective analysis of interventions correlated to American Board of Surgery In-Service Training Examination performance.

PubMed

Buckley, Elaine Jayne; Markwell, Stephen; Farr, Debb; Sanfey, Hilary; Mellinger, John

2015-10-01

American Board of Surgery In-Service Training Examination (ABSITE) scores are used to assess individual progress and predict board pass rates. We reviewed strategies to enhance ABSITE performance and their impact within a surgery residency. Several interventions were introduced from 2010 to 2014. A retrospective review was undertaken evaluating these and correlating them to ABSITE performance. Analyses of variance and linear trends were performed for ABSITE, United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLEs), mock oral, and mock ABSITE scores followed by post hoc analyses if significant. Results were correlated with core curricular changes. ABSITE mean percentile increased 34% in 4 years with significant performance improvement and increasing linear trends in postgraduate year (PGY)1 and PGY4 ABSITE scores. Mock ABSITE introduction correlated to significant improvement in ABSITE scores for PGY4 and PGY5. Mock oral introduction correlated with significant improvement in PGY1 and PGY3. Our study demonstrates an improvement in mean program ABSITE percentiles correlating with multiple interventions. Similar strategies may be useful for other programs. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Defendant remorse, need for affect, and juror sentencing decisions.

PubMed

Corwin, Emily P; Cramer, Robert J; Griffin, Desiree A; Brodsky, Stanley L

2012-01-01

Defendant remorse is generally accepted as a mitigating factor in capital murder sentencing in the legal system. The current study addressed whether verbal and nonverbal expressions of defendant remorse are perceived as remorseful by mock jurors. Moreover, this study investigated the associations of defendant behaviors and mock juror need for affect on sentencing decisions. Participants watched a video of a defendant depicting either high or low levels of verbal and nonverbal remorseful behavior. Results indicated that nonverbal behaviors were more important than verbal cues for perception of remorse. Incongruent verbal and nonverbal behavior, as well as mock juror willingness to approach emotional situations (i.e., high need for affect (NFA)) resulted in more lenient sentences for defendants. Implications for the remorse construct, for witness preparation, and for jury selection are discussed.

Teaching Integrative Physiology Using the Quantitative Circulatory Physiology Model and Case Discussion Method: Evaluation of the Learning Experience

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rodriguez-Barbero, A.; Lopez-Novoa, J. M.

2008-01-01

One of the problems that we have found when teaching human physiology in a Spanish medical school is that the degree of understanding by the students of the integration between organs and systems is rather poor. We attempted to remedy this problem by using a case discussion method together with the Quantitative Circulatory Physiology (QCP)…

Reduced carotid baroreceptor distensibility-induced baroreflex resetting contributes to impairment of sodium regulation in rats fed a high-fat diet.

PubMed

Abe, Chikara; Nagai, Yuko; Yamaguchi, Aoi; Aoki, Hitomi; Shimizu, Shuji; Akiyama, Tsuyoshi; Kawada, Toru; Sugimachi, Masaru; Morita, Hironobu

2015-04-15

Decreased carotid arterial compliance has been reported in obese subjects and animals. Carotid baroreceptors are located at the bifurcation of the common carotid artery, and respond to distension of the arterial wall, suggesting that higher pressure is required to obtain the same distension in obese subjects and animals. A hyperosmotic NaCl solution induces circulatory volume expansion and arterial pressure (AP) increase, which reflexively augment renal excretion. Thus, we hypothesized that sodium regulation via the baroreflex might be impaired in response to chronic hyperosmotic NaCl infusion in rats fed a high-fat diet. To examine this hypothesis, we used rats fed a high-fat (Fat) or normal (NFD) diet, and measured mean AP, water and sodium balance, and renal function in response to chronic infusion of hyperosmotic NaCl solution via a venous catheter. Furthermore, we examined arterial baroreflex characteristics with static open-loop analysis and distensibility of the common carotid artery. Significant positive water and sodium balance was observed on the 1st day of 9% NaCl infusion; however, this disappeared by the 2nd day in Fat rats. Mean AP was significantly higher during 9% NaCl infusion in Fat rats compared with NFD rats. In the open-loop analysis of carotid sinus baroreflex, a rightward shift of the neural arc was observed in Fat rats compared with NFD rats. Furthermore, distensibility of the common carotid artery was significantly reduced in Fat rats. These results indicate that a reduced baroreceptor distensibility-induced rightward shift of the neural arc might contribute to impairment of sodium regulation in Fat rats. Copyright © 2015 the American Physiological Society.

Model-based stability assessment of ventilatory control in overweight adolescents with obstructive sleep apnea during NREM sleep.

PubMed

Nava-Guerra, L; Tran, W H; Chalacheva, P; Loloyan, S; Joshi, B; Keens, T G; Nayak, K S; Davidson Ward, S L; Khoo, M C K

2016-07-01

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) involves the interplay of several different factors such as an unfavorable upper airway anatomy, deficiencies in pharyngeal muscle responsiveness, a low arousal threshold, and ventilatory control instability. Although the stability of ventilatory control has been extensively studied in adults, little is known about its characteristics in the pediatric population. In this study, we developed a novel experimental setup that allowed us to perturb the respiratory system during natural non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep conditions by manipulating the inspiratory pressure, provided by a bilevel pressure ventilator, to induce sighs after upper airway stabilization. Furthermore, we present a modeling framework that utilizes the noninvasively measured ventilatory responses to the induced sighs and spontaneous breathing data to obtain representations of the processes involved in the chemical regulation of respiration and extract their stability characteristics. After validation with simulated data, the modeling technique was applied to data collected experimentally from 11 OSA and 15 non-OSA overweight adolescents. Statistical analysis of the model-derived stability parameters revealed a significantly higher plant gain and lower controller gain in the OSA group (P = 0.046 and P = 0.007, respectively); however, no differences were found in loop gain (LG) and circulatory time delay between the groups. OSA severity and LG, within the 0.03-0.04-Hz frequency band, were significantly negatively associated (r = -0.434, P = 0.026). Contrary to what has been found in adults, our results suggest that in overweight adolescents, OSA is unlikely to be initiated through ventilatory instability resulting from elevated chemical loop gain. Copyright © 2016 the American Physiological Society.

A 12 year prospective study of circulatory disease among Danish shift workers.

PubMed

Tüchsen, F; Hannerz, H; Burr, H

2006-07-01

Previous studies of the risk of heart disease after shift work reached different estimates and review authors disagree about the validity of some of the studies. A cross sectional study showed that shift workers had a higher prevalence of nearly every unfavourable work environment factor investigated. Conflicts at work and low decision latitude were more frequent among shift workers, and all-day walking or standing work and part-time jobs were more often found among female shift workers. To estimate the risk of circulatory disease in a prospective follow up of a representative sample of gainfully employed Danes, considering known or suspected confounding factors. A cohort of 5517 people who were gainfully employed in 1990 were followed up for all hospital treatments due to circulatory diseases (390-458, ICD-8; I00-I99, ICD-10) from 1991 to 2002 inclusive. A log linear Poisson regression model was applied to control confounding factors and calculate the relative risk for 927 men and women working nights, evenings, or other non-day shifts compared to 4579 day workers. Non-day workers compared to day workers had a relative risk (RR) for all circulatory diseases of 1.31 (95% CI 1.06-1.63). Without control for BMI and smoking, the RR estimate was 1.33 (95% CI 1.07-1.65). For a subgroup of workers with at least three years' seniority, the RR was 1.40 (95% CI 1.09-1.81). The population based aetiological fraction of shift work was estimated to 5%. This study adds to a growing body of evidence suggesting that shift work carries an excess risk of circulatory diseases.

Mass Transport: Circulatory System with Emphasis on Nonendothermic Species.

PubMed

Crossley, Dane A; Burggren, Warren W; Reiber, Carl L; Altimiras, Jordi; Rodnick, Kenneth J

2016-12-06

Mass transport can be generally defined as movement of material matter. The circulatory system then is a biological example given its role in the movement in transporting gases, nutrients, wastes, and chemical signals. Comparative physiology has a long history of providing new insights and advancing our understanding of circulatory mass transport across a wide array of circulatory systems. Here we focus on circulatory function of nonmodel species. Invertebrates possess diverse convection systems; that at the most complex generate pressures and perform at a level comparable to vertebrates. Many invertebrates actively modulate cardiovascular function using neuronal, neurohormonal, and skeletal muscle activity. In vertebrates, our understanding of cardiac morphology, cardiomyocyte function, and contractile protein regulation by Ca2+ highlights a high degree of conservation, but differences between species exist and are coupled to variable environments and body temperatures. Key regulators of vertebrate cardiac function and systemic blood pressure include the autonomic nervous system, hormones, and ventricular filling. Further chemical factors regulating cardiovascular function include adenosine, natriuretic peptides, arginine vasotocin, endothelin 1, bradykinin, histamine, nitric oxide, and hydrogen sulfide, to name but a few. Diverse vascular morphologies and the regulation of blood flow in the coronary and cerebral circulations are also apparent in nonmammalian species. Dynamic adjustments of cardiovascular function are associated with exercise on land, flying at high altitude, prolonged dives by marine mammals, and unique morphology, such as the giraffe. Future studies should address limits of gas exchange and convective transport, the evolution of high arterial pressure across diverse taxa, and the importance of the cardiovascular system adaptations to extreme environments. © 2017 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 7:17-66, 2017. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Favorable Circulatory System Outcomes as Adjuvant Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Treatment for Cerebrovascular Diseases in Taiwan

PubMed Central

Chiu, Hsienhsueh Elley; Hong, Yu-Chiang; Chang, Ku-Chou; Shih, Chun-Chuan; Hung, Jen-Wen; Liu, Chia-Wei; Tan, Teng-Yeow; Huang, Chih-Cheng

2014-01-01

Abstract Background This study searches the National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD) used in a previous project, aiming for reconstructing possible cerebrovascular disease-related groups (DRG),and estimating the costs between cerebrovascular disease and related diseases. Methods and Materials We conducted a nationwide retrospective cohort study in stroke inpatients, we examined the overall costs in 3 municipalities in Taiwan, by evaluating the possible costs of the expecting diagnosis related group (DRG) by using the international classification of diseases version-9 (ICD-9) system, and the overall analysis of the re-admission population that received traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) treatment and those who did not. Results The trend demonstrated that the non-participant costs were consistent with the ICD-9 categories (430 to 437) because similarities existed between years 2006 to 2007. Among the TCM patients, a wide variation and additional costs were found compared to non-TCM patients during these 2 years. The average re-admission duration was significantly shorter for TCM patients, especially those initially diagnosed with ICD 434 during the first admission. In addition, TCM patients demonstrated more severe general symptoms, which incurred high conventional treatment costs, and could result in re-admission for numerous reasons. However, in Disease 7 of ICD-9 category, representing the circulatory system was most prevalent in non-TCM inpatients, which was the leading cause of re-admission. Conclusion We concluded that favorable circulatory system outcomes were in adjuvant TCM treatment inpatients, there were less re-admission for circulatory system events and a two-third reduction of re-admission within ICD-9 code 430 to 437, compared to non-TCM ones. However, there were shorter re-admission duration other than circulatory system events by means of unfavorable baseline condition. PMID:24475108

Relation of Total and Cardiovascular Death Rates to Climate System, Temperature, Barometric Pressure, and Respiratory Infection.

PubMed

Schwartz, Bryan G; Qualls, Clifford; Kloner, Robert A; Laskey, Warren K

2015-10-15

A distinct seasonal pattern in total and cardiovascular death rates has been reported. The factors contributing to this pattern have not been fully explored. Seven locations (average total population 71,354,000) were selected where data were available including relatively warm, cold, and moderate temperatures. Over the period 2004 to 2009, there were 2,526,123 all-cause deaths, 838,264 circulatory deaths, 255,273 coronary heart disease deaths, and 135,801 ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) deaths. We used time series and multivariate regression modeling to explore the association between death rates and climatic factors (temperature, dew point, precipitation, barometric pressure), influenza levels, air pollution levels, hours of daylight, and day of week. Average seasonal patterns for all-cause and cardiovascular deaths were very similar across the 7 locations despite differences in climate. After adjusting for multiple covariates and potential confounders, there was a 0.49% increase in all-cause death rate for every 1°C decrease. In general, all-cause, circulatory, coronary heart disease and STEMI death rates increased linearly with decreasing temperatures. The temperature effect varied by location, including temperature's linear slope, cubic fit, positional shift on the temperature axis, and the presence of circulatory death increases in locally hot temperatures. The variable effect of temperature by location suggests that people acclimatize to local temperature cycles. All-cause and circulatory death rates also demonstrated sizable associations with influenza levels, dew point temperature, and barometric pressure. A greater understanding of how climate, temperature, and barometric pressure influence cardiovascular responses would enhance our understanding of circulatory and STEMI deaths. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

77 FR 57085 - Mobility Fund Phase I Auction; Release of Files with Recalculated Road Miles for Auction 901...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-09-17

... FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION [AU Docket No. 12-25; DA 12-1446] Mobility Fund Phase I Auction... Mobility Fund Phase I support to be offered in Auction 901, which is to be held on September 27, 2012, and the change of the mock auction date from September 25, 2012 to September 21, 2012. DATES: The mock...

Computerized Biomechanical Man-Model

DTIC Science & Technology

1976-07-01

Force Systems Command Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio ABSTRACT The COMputerized BIomechanical MAN-Model (called COMBIMAN) is a computer interactive graphics...concept was to build a mock- The use of mock-ups for biomechanical evalua- up which permitted the designer to visualize the tion has long been a tool...of the can become an obstacle to design change. Aerospace Medical Research Laboratory, we are developing a computerized biomechanical man-model

Investigating the Variables in a Mock Exam Study Session Designed to Improve Student Exam Performance in an Undergraduate Behavior Modification and Therapy Course

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dotson, Wesley H.

2010-01-01

The purpose of the present study was to identify components of an optional mock exam review session (e.g. requiring students to write answers, providing students grading keys for questions) responsible for improvements in student performance on application-based short-essay exams in an undergraduate behavior modification course. Both…

Seeing is Believing: Video Mock-Ups to Evaluate and Demonstrate Multimedia Designs

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fadde, Peter J.

2007-01-01

A video mock-up is a "design story", described by Patrick Parrish in a recent "TechTrends" article as "imagining the journey of a learner's experience in engaging with a finished design". A design story allows designers to show their design vision to others and to observe features and benefits of the program as a learner would experience it. The…

STS-131 crew training during FFT CCTV Lighting 91019 ( Lights Out).

NASA Image and Video Library

2009-11-16

JSC2009-E-240951 (16 Nov. 2009) --- Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Naoko Yamazaki (foreground) and NASA astronaut Stephanie Wilson, both STS-131 mission specialists, participate in a Full Fuselage Trainer (FFT) mock-up training session in the Space Vehicle Mock-up Facility at NASA's Johnson Space Center. United Space Alliance (USA) instructor David L. Williams assisted the crew members.

Immunization with herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2) genes plus inactivated HSV-2 is highly protective against acute and recurrent HSV-2 disease.

PubMed

Morello, Christopher S; Levinson, Michael S; Kraynyak, Kimberly A; Spector, Deborah H

2011-04-01

To date, no vaccine that is safe and effective against herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2) disease has been licensed. In this study, we evaluated a DNA prime-formalin-inactivated-HSV-2 (FI-HSV2) boost vaccine approach in the guinea pig model of acute and recurrent HSV-2 genital disease. Five groups of guinea pigs were immunized and intravaginally challenged with HSV-2. Two groups were primed with plasmid DNAs encoding the secreted form of glycoprotein D2 (gD2t) together with two genes required for viral replication, either the helicase (UL5) and DNA polymerase (UL30) genes or the single-stranded DNA binding protein (UL29) and primase (UL52) genes. Both DNA-primed groups were boosted with FI-HSV2 formulated with monophosphoryl lipid A (MPL) and alum adjuvants. Two additional groups were primed with the empty backbone plasmid DNA (pVAX). These two groups were boosted with MPL and alum (MPL-alum) together with either formalin-inactivated mock HSV-2 (FI-Mock) or with FI-HSV2. The final group was immunized with gD2t protein in MPL-alum. After challenge, 0/9 animals in the group primed with UL5, UL30, and gD2t DNAs and all 10 animals in the mock-immunized control group (pVAX-FI-Mock) developed primary lesions. All mock controls developed recurrent lesions through day 100 postchallenge. Only 1 guinea pig in the group primed with pVAX DNA and boosted with FI-HSV2 (pVAX-FI-HSV2 group) and 2 guinea pigs in the group primed with UL5, UL30, and gD2t DNAs and boosted with FI-HSV2 (UL5, UL30, gD2t DNA-FI-HSV2 group) developed recurrent lesions. Strikingly, the UL5, UL30, gD2t DNA-FI-HSV2 group showed a 97% reduction in recurrent lesion days compared with the mock controls, had the highest reduction in days with recurrent disease, and contained the lowest mean HSV-2 DNA load in the dorsal root ganglia.

THE DEEP2 GALAXY REDSHIFT SURVEY: THE VORONOI-DELAUNAY METHOD CATALOG OF GALAXY GROUPS

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

Gerke, Brian F.; Newman, Jeffrey A.; Davis, Marc

2012-05-20

We present a public catalog of galaxy groups constructed from the spectroscopic sample of galaxies in the fourth data release from the Deep Extragalactic Evolutionary Probe 2 (DEEP2) Galaxy Redshift Survey, including the Extended Groth Strip (EGS). The catalog contains 1165 groups with two or more members in the EGS over the redshift range 0 < z < 1.5 and 1295 groups at z > 0.6 in the rest of DEEP2. Twenty-five percent of EGS galaxies and fourteen percent of high-z DEEP2 galaxies are assigned to galaxy groups. The groups were detected using the Voronoi-Delaunay method (VDM) after it hasmore » been optimized on mock DEEP2 catalogs following similar methods to those employed in Gerke et al. In the optimization effort, we have taken particular care to ensure that the mock catalogs resemble the data as closely as possible, and we have fine-tuned our methods separately on mocks constructed for the EGS and the rest of DEEP2. We have also probed the effect of the assumed cosmology on our inferred group-finding efficiency by performing our optimization on three different mock catalogs with different background cosmologies, finding large differences in the group-finding success we can achieve for these different mocks. Using the mock catalog whose background cosmology is most consistent with current data, we estimate that the DEEP2 group catalog is 72% complete and 61% pure (74% and 67% for the EGS) and that the group finder correctly classifies 70% of galaxies that truly belong to groups, with an additional 46% of interloper galaxies contaminating the catalog (66% and 43% for the EGS). We also confirm that the VDM catalog reconstructs the abundance of galaxy groups with velocity dispersions above {approx}300 km s{sup -1} to an accuracy better than the sample variance, and this successful reconstruction is not strongly dependent on cosmology. This makes the DEEP2 group catalog a promising probe of the growth of cosmic structure that can potentially be used for cosmological tests.« less

Modelling non-linear effects of dark energy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bose, Benjamin; Baldi, Marco; Pourtsidou, Alkistis

2018-04-01

We investigate the capabilities of perturbation theory in capturing non-linear effects of dark energy. We test constant and evolving w models, as well as models involving momentum exchange between dark energy and dark matter. Specifically, we compare perturbative predictions at 1-loop level against N-body results for four non-standard equations of state as well as varying degrees of momentum exchange between dark energy and dark matter. The interaction is modelled phenomenologically using a time dependent drag term in the Euler equation. We make comparisons at the level of the matter power spectrum and the redshift space monopole and quadrupole. The multipoles are modelled using the Taruya, Nishimichi and Saito (TNS) redshift space spectrum. We find perturbation theory does very well in capturing non-linear effects coming from dark sector interaction. We isolate and quantify the 1-loop contribution coming from the interaction and from the non-standard equation of state. We find the interaction parameter ξ amplifies scale dependent signatures in the range of scales considered. Non-standard equations of state also give scale dependent signatures within this same regime. In redshift space the match with N-body is improved at smaller scales by the addition of the TNS free parameter σv. To quantify the importance of modelling the interaction, we create mock data sets for varying values of ξ using perturbation theory. This data is given errors typical of Stage IV surveys. We then perform a likelihood analysis using the first two multipoles on these sets and a ξ=0 modelling, ignoring the interaction. We find the fiducial growth parameter f is generally recovered even for very large values of ξ both at z=0.5 and z=1. The ξ=0 modelling is most biased in its estimation of f for the phantom w=‑1.1 case.

Practical Considerations in Donation After Circulatory Determination of Death in Switzerland.

PubMed

Dalle Ave, Anne L; Shaw, David M; Elger, Bernice

2017-09-01

Faced with similar issues of organ scarcity to its neighbors, Switzerland has developed donation after circulatory determination of death (DCDD) as a way to expand the organ pool since 1985. Here, we analyze the history, practical considerations, and ethical issues relating to the Swiss donation after circulatory death programs. In Switzerland, determination of death for DCDD requires a stand-off period of 10 minutes. This time between cardiac arrest and the declaration of death is mandated in the guidelines of the Swiss Academy of Medical Sciences. As in other DCDD programs, safeguards are put to avoid physicians denying lifesaving treatment to savable patients because of being influenced by receivers' interest. An additional recommendation could be made: Recipients should be transparently informed of the worse graft outcomes with DCDD programs and given the possibility to refuse such organs.

A Detection of the Baryon Acoustic Oscillation Features in the SDSS BOSS DR12 Galaxy Bispectrum

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pearson, David W.; Samushia, Lado

2018-05-01

We present the first high significance detection (4.1σ) of the Baryon Acoustic Oscillations (BAO) feature in the galaxy bispectrum of the twelfth data release (DR12) of the Baryon Oscillation Spectroscopic Survey (BOSS) CMASS sample (0.43 ≤ z ≤ 0.7). We measured the scale dilation parameter, α, using the power spectrum, bispectrum, and both simultaneously for DR12, plus 2048 MultiDark-PATCHY mocks in the North and South Galactic Caps (NGC and SGC, respectively), and the volume weighted averages of those two samples (N+SGC). The fitting to the mocks validated our analysis pipeline, yielding values consistent with the mock cosmology. By fitting to the power spectrum and bispectrum separately, we tested the robustness of our results, finding consistent values from the NGC, SGC and N+SGC in all cases. We found DV = 2032 ± 24(stat.) ± 15(sys.) Mpc, DV = 2038 ± 55(stat.) ± 15(sys.) Mpc, and DV = 2031 ± 22(stat.) ± 10(sys.) Mpc from the N+SGC power spectrum, bispectrum and simultaneous fitting, respectively. Our bispectrum measurement precision was mainly limited by the size of the covariance matrix. Based on the fits to the mocks, we showed that if a less noisy estimator of the covariance were available, from either a theoretical computation or a larger suite of mocks, the constraints from the bispectrum and simultaneous fits would improve to 1.1 per cent (1.3 per cent with systematics) and 0.7 per cent (0.9 per cent with systematics), respectively, with the latter being slightly more precise than the power spectrum only constraints from the reconstructed field.

Enhanced clearance of herpes simplex virus type 1 and reduced herpetic eye disease in STAT6 knockout mice is associated with increased IL-2.

PubMed

Ghiasi, Homayon; Osorio, Yanira; Nesburn, Anthony B; Wechsler, Steven L

2002-10-25

STAT6 (signal transducers and activators of transcription 6)-deficient (STAT6-/-) mice have defects in IL-4- and IL-13-mediated functions and thus have a reduced T(H)2-mediated immune response. Conversely, they have elevated levels of IL-2 and thus an increased T(H)1-mediated immune response. To assess the relative impact of reduced T(H)2- and elevated T(H)1-dependent immune responses on HSV-1 infection, vaccinated and mock-vaccinated STAT6-/- mice were challenged ocularly with HSV-1. Mock-vaccinated STAT6-/- mice were as susceptible to lethal HSV-1 infection as parental BALB/c mice. Mock-vaccinated STAT6-/- mice had reduced HSV-1 titers in their eyes compared to BALB/c mice. Furthermore, mock-vaccinated STAT6-/- mice had significantly less corneal scarring than their BALB/c counterparts. Vaccination induced significantly higher serum-neutralizing antibody titers in STAT6-/- mice compared to BALB/c mice, while completely protecting both types of mice against HSV-1-induced death and corneal scarring. Vaccinated STAT6-/- mice had reduced HSV-1 titers in their eyes compared to BALB/c mice. Lymphocytes from both vaccinated and mock-vaccinated STAT6-/- mice secreted higher amounts of IL-2 than lymphocytes from BALB/c mice, in the presence or absence of stimulation with UV-inactivated HSV-1. Finally, depletion of IL-2 increased ocular virus replication in STAT6-/- mice to levels similar to that measured in BALB/c mice. Our results suggest that in the absence of the STAT6 pathway, IL-2-mediated immune responses are up-regulated. This, in turn, leads to faster viral clearance and, consequently, lower levels of eye disease.

A SCALE-UP Mock-Up: Comparison of Student Learning Gains in High- and Low-Tech Active-Learning Environments.

PubMed

Soneral, Paula A G; Wyse, Sara A

2017-01-01

Student-centered learning environments with upside-down pedagogies (SCALE-UP) are widely implemented at institutions across the country, and learning gains from these classrooms have been well documented. This study investigates the specific design feature(s) of the SCALE-UP classroom most conducive to teaching and learning. Using pilot survey data from instructors and students to prioritize the most salient SCALE-UP classroom features, we created a low-tech "Mock-up" version of this classroom and tested the impact of these features on student learning, attitudes, and satisfaction using a quasi--experimental setup. The same instructor taught two sections of an introductory biology course in the SCALE-UP and Mock-up rooms. Although students in both sections were equivalent in terms of gender, grade point average, incoming ACT, and drop/fail/withdraw rate, the Mock-up classroom enrolled significantly more freshmen. Controlling for class standing, multiple regression modeling revealed no significant differences in exam, in-class, preclass, and Introduction to Molecular and Cellular Biology Concept Inventory scores between the SCALE-UP and Mock-up classrooms. Thematic analysis of student comments highlighted that collaboration and whiteboards enhanced the learning experience, but technology was not important. Student satisfaction and attitudes were comparable. These results suggest that the benefits of a SCALE-UP experience can be achieved at lower cost without technology features. © 2017 P. A. G. Soneral and S. A. Wyse. CBE—Life Sciences Education © 2017 The American Society for Cell Biology. This article is distributed by The American Society for Cell Biology under license from the author(s). It is available to the public under an Attribution–Noncommercial–Share Alike 3.0 Unported Creative Commons License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/3.0).

Study report on modification of the long term circulatory model for the simulation of bed rest

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Leonard, J. I.; Grounds, D. J.

1977-01-01

Modifications were made of the circulatory, fluid, and electrolyte control model which was based on the model of Guyton. The modifications included separate leg compartments and the addition of gravity dependency. It was found that these modifications allowed for more accurate bed rest simulation by simulating changes in the orthostatic gradient and simulating the response to the fluid shifts associated with bed rest.

Effect of 5E Instructional Model in Student Success in Primary School 6th Year Circulatory System Topic

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cardak, Osman; Dikmenli, Musa; Saritas, Ozge

2008-01-01

The aim of this study is to research the effect of the 5E instructional model on primary (sixth grade) student success during the circulatory system unit. This study was conducted with 38 students in two different classes by the same researcher in 2006-2007. One of the classes was assigned as the control group and the other as the experimental…

Adult extracorporeal life support: a failed or forgotten concept?

PubMed

Colafranceschi, Alexandre Siciliano; Monteiro, Andrey José de Oliveira; Canale, Leonardo Secchin; Campos, Luiz Antonio de Almeida; Montera, Marcelo Westerlund; Silva, Paulo Roberto Dutra da; Fernandes, Marcelo Ramalho; Pinto, Alexandre de Araújo; Molas, Stelmar Moura; Mesquita, Evandro Tinoco

2008-07-01

The extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) has been used in the neonatal and childhood periods with excellent results. The adult experience has been modest with inferior immediate results. The intermediate survival, however, has been promising. We have been using the extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for temporary mechanical circulatory support of adults that present with acute refractory cardiogenic shock in our institution. There is no other published experience of the use of this system in this scenario in Brazil. To describe our experience with the use of the extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for circulatory support in adults. Retrospective analysis of the medical files of patients submitted to the implant of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation system for circulatory assistance in acute and refractory cardiogenic shock. Eleven patients (63,5 yo; 45,5% male) were considered for analysis from 2005 to 2007. Median support time was 77 hours (10-240 h) and 5 patients have survived 30 days (45,5%). Two patients were subsequently submitted to prolonged paracorporeal circulatory assistance. Mortality on ECMO (6 patients) was due to multiple organ failure (66,6%) and refractory bleeding (33,4%). ECMO system is an option to be used in acute refractory cardiogenic shock as a bridge to recovery or selecting patients that might benefit from prolonged paracorporeal assist devices (bridge to bridge).

Determination of death after circulatory arrest by intensive care physicians: A survey of current practice in the Netherlands.

PubMed

Wind, Jentina; van Mook, Walther N K A; Dhanani, Sonny; van Heurn, Ernest W L

2016-02-01

Determination of death is an essential part of donation after circulatory death (DCD). We studied the current practices of determination of death after circulatory arrest by intensive care physicians in the Netherlands, the availability of guidelines, and the occurrence of the phenomenon of autoresuscitation. The Determination of Cardiac Death Practices in Intensive Care Survey was sent to all intensive care physicians. Fifty-five percent of 568 Dutch intensive care physicians responded. Most respondents learned death determination from clinical practice. The most commonly used tests for death determination were flat arterial line tracing, flat electrocardiogram (standard 3-lead electrocardiogram), and fixed and dilated pupils. Rarely used tests were absence pulse by echo Doppler, absent blood pressure by noninvasive monitoring, and unresponsiveness to painful stimulus. No diagnostic test or procedure was uniformly performed, but 80% of respondents perceived a need for standardization of death determination. Autoresuscitation was witnessed by 37%, after withdrawal of treatment or after unsuccessful resuscitation. Extensive variability in the practice of determining death after circulatory arrest exists, and a need for guidelines and standardization, especially if organ donation follows death, is reported. Autoresuscitation is reported; this observation requires attention in further prospective observational studies. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Quantification of fetal and total circulatory DNA in maternal plasma samples before and after size fractionation by agarose gel electrophoresis.

PubMed

Hromadnikova, I; Zejskova, L; Doucha, J; Codl, D

2006-11-01

Fetal extracellular DNA is mainly derived from apoptotic bodies of trophoblast. Recent studies have shown size differences between fetal and maternal extracellular DNA. We have examined the quantification of fetal (SRY gene) and total (GLO gene) extracellular DNA in maternal plasma in different fractions (100-300, 300-500, 500-700, 700-900, and >900 bp) after size fractionation by agarose gel electrophoresis. DNA was extracted from maternal plasma samples from 11 pregnant women carrying male foetuses at the 16th week of gestation. Fetal circulatory DNA was mainly detected in the 100-300 bp fraction with the median concentration being 14.4 GE/ml. A lower median amount of 4.9 GE/ml was also found in the 300-500 bp fraction. Circulatory DNA extracted from the 100-300 bp fraction contained 4.2 times enriched fetal DNA when compared with unseparated DNA sample. Fetal DNA within the 300-500 bp fraction was 2.5 times enriched. Circulatory fetal DNA is predominantly present in a fraction with molecular size <500 bp, which can be used for the detection of paternally inherited alleles. However, the usage of size-separated DNA is not suitable for routine clinical applications because of risk of contamination.

Does Bohm's Quantum Force Have a Classical Origin?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lush, David C.

2016-08-01

In the de Broglie-Bohm formulation of quantum mechanics, the electron is stationary in the ground state of hydrogenic atoms, because the quantum force exactly cancels the Coulomb attraction of the electron to the nucleus. In this paper it is shown that classical electrodynamics similarly predicts the Coulomb force can be effectively canceled by part of the magnetic force that occurs between two similar particles each consisting of a point charge moving with circulatory motion at the speed of light. Supposition of such motion is the basis of the Zitterbewegung interpretation of quantum mechanics. The magnetic force between two luminally-circulating charges for separation large compared to their circulatory motions contains a radial inverse square law part with magnitude equal to the Coulomb force, sinusoidally modulated by the phase difference between the circulatory motions. When the particles have equal mass and their circulatory motions are aligned but out of phase, part of the magnetic force is equal but opposite the Coulomb force. This raises a possibility that the quantum force of Bohmian mechanics may be attributable to the magnetic force of classical electrodynamics. It is further shown that relative motion between the particles leads to modulation of the magnetic force with spatial period equal to the de Broglie wavelength.

Comparison of polygraph data obtained from individuals involved in mock crimes and actual criminal investigations.

PubMed

Pollina, Dean A; Dollins, Andrew B; Senter, Stuart M; Krapohl, Donald J; Ryan, Andrew H

2004-12-01

In a preliminary attempt to determine the generalizability of data from laboratory mock-crime studies, the authors examined the similarities and differences among the cardiovascular, electrodermal, and respiration responses of deceptive and nondeceptive individuals elicited to crime-relevant and crime-irrelevant questions. Participants in the laboratory group were randomly assigned to nondeceptive (n = 28) or deceptive (n = 27) treatment groups, and a mock-crime scenario was used. The field participants were confirmed nondeceptive (n = 28) or deceptive (n = 39) criminal suspects who underwent polygraph examinations between 1993 and 1997. The results indicated that there were salient differences between field and similarly obtained laboratory polygraph response measures. However, accuracy of laboratory participants' classifications using logistic regression analysis was not significantly different from field participants' classification accuracy. 2004 APA, all rights reserved

Stealing thunder as a courtroom tactic revisited: processes and boundaries.

PubMed

Dolnik, Lara; Case, Trevor I; Williams, Kipling D

2003-06-01

Stealing thunder refers to a dissuasion tactic in which an individual reveals potentially incriminating evidence first, for the purpose of reducing its negative impact on an evaluative audience. We examined whether it was necessary to frame the negative revelation in a manner that downplayed its importance, and found that stealing thunder successfully dissuaded mock jurors even without framing. We also sought to determine the mechanism by which stealing thunder operated, and found that stealing thunder led mock jurors to change the meaning of incriminating evidence to be less damaging to the individual. We also found that stealing thunder's effectiveness did not hinge on whether or not opposing counsel also mentioned the thunder evidence, and that the stealing thunder tactic was no longer effective when opposing counsel revealed to the mock jurors that the stealing thunder tactic had been used on them.

Autonomous identification of matrices in the APNea system

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

Hensley, D.

1995-12-31

The APNea System is a passive and active neutron assay device which features imaging to correct for nonuniform distributions of source material. Since the imaging procedure requires a detailed knowledge of both the detection efficiency and the thermal neutron flux for (sub)volumes of the drum of interest, it is necessary to identify which mocked-up matrix, to be used for detailed characterization studies, best matches the matrix of interest. A methodology referred to as the external matrix probe (EMP) has been established which links external measures of a drum matrix to those of mocked-up matrices. These measures by themselves are sufficientmore » to identify the appropriate mock matrix, from which the necessary characterization data are obtained. This independent matrix identification leads to an autonomous determination of the required system response parameters for the assay analysis.« less

Autonomous identification of matrices in the APNea System

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

Hensley, D.

1995-12-31

The APNea System is a passive and active neutron assay device which features imaging to correct for nonuniform distributions of source material. Since the imaging procedure requires a detailed knowledge of both the detection efficiency and the thermal neutron flux for (sub)volumes of the drum of interest, it is necessary to identify which mocked-up matrix, to be used for detailed characterization studies, best matches the matrix of interest. A methodology referred to as the external matrix probe (EMP) has been established which links external measures of a drum matrix to those of mocked-up matrices. These measures by themselves are sufficientmore » to identify the appropriate mock matrix, from which the necessary characterization data are obtained. This independent matrix identification leads to an autonomous determination of the required system response parameters for the assay analysis.« less

Statement of Facts for 1983 City-Wide Mock Trial Competitions. The Case of Vickers v. Hearst. No. MT-84.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Inst. for Citizen Education in the Law, Washington, DC.

Prepared by the District of Columbia Street Law Project for its annual city-wide mock trial competition, this instructional handout provides material for a civil case over an automobile accident. After drinking heavily at a party hosted by Sandy Hearst, Dana Ivy ran a stop sign and struck the car of Terry Vickers, causing him to sustain a broken…

powerbox: Arbitrarily structured, arbitrary-dimension boxes and log-normal mocks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Murray, Steven G.

2018-05-01

powerbox creates density grids (or boxes) with an arbitrary two-point distribution (i.e. power spectrum). The software works in any number of dimensions, creates Gaussian or Log-Normal fields, and measures power spectra of output fields to ensure consistency. The primary motivation for creating the code was the simple creation of log-normal mock galaxy distributions, but the methodology can be used for other applications.

Mock Code: A Code Blue Scenario Requested by and Developed for Registered Nurses

PubMed Central

Rideout, Janice; Pritchett-Kelly, Sherry; McDonald, Melissa; Mullins-Richards, Paula; Dubrowski, Adam

2016-01-01

The use of simulation in medical training is quickly becoming more common, with applications in emergency, surgical, and nursing education. Recently, registered nurses working in surgical inpatient units requested a mock code simulation to practice skills, improve knowledge, and build self-confidence in a safe and controlled environment. A simulation scenario using a high-fidelity mannequin was developed and will be discussed herein. PMID:28123919

People v. Rose: Issues of Poisoning, Assault with a Deadly Weapon and Search and Seizure. Official Materials for the California Mock Trial Program.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Constitutional Rights Foundation, Los Angeles, CA.

Each year the Constitutional Rights Foundation (CRF) seeks to create a mock trial that addresses serious matters facing young people today. In recent times, the actions and behaviors of student groups on high school and college campuses have become major stories in the national media. Incidents of hazing and peer pressure have raised questions…

STS_135_ SVMF

NASA Image and Video Library

2011-06-29

JSC2011-E-060135 (29 June 2011) --- The crew of STS-135, from left, Chris Ferguson, Rex Walheim, Doug Hurley and Sandy Magnus, review procedures on the middeck of the Crew Compartment Trainer (CCT) mock-up as they train at NASA?s Johnson Space Center in Houston on June 29, 2011. The training marked the crew's final scheduled session in the Space Vehicle Mock-up Facility. Photo credit: NASA photo/Houston Chronicle, Smiley N. Pool

A Coupled THMC model of FEBEX mock-up test

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

Zheng, Liange; Samper, Javier

2008-09-15

FEBEX (Full-scale Engineered Barrier EXperiment) is a demonstration and research project for the engineered barrier system (EBS) of a radioactive waste repository in granite. It includes two full-scale heating and hydration tests: the in situ test performed at Grimsel (Switzerland) and a mock-up test operating at CIEMAT facilities in Madrid (Spain). The mock-up test provides valuable insight on thermal, hydrodynamic, mechanical and chemical (THMC) behavior of EBS because its hydration is controlled better than that of in situ test in which the buffer is saturated with water from the surrounding granitic rock. Here we present a coupled THMC model ofmore » the mock-up test which accounts for thermal and chemical osmosis and bentonite swelling with a state-surface approach. The THMC model reproduces measured temperature and cumulative water inflow data. It fits also relative humidity data at the outer part of the buffer, but underestimates relative humidities near the heater. Dilution due to hydration and evaporation near the heater are the main processes controlling the concentration of conservative species while surface complexation, mineral dissolution/precipitation and cation exchanges affect significantly reactive species as well. Results of sensitivity analyses to chemical processes show that pH is mostly controlled by surface complexation while dissolved cations concentrations are controlled by cation exchange reactions.« less

Environmental Loss Characterization of an Advanced Stirling Convertor (ASC-E2) Insulation Package Using a Mock Heater Head

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schifer, Nicholas A.; Briggs, Maxwell H.

2012-01-01

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company (LMSSC) have been developing the Advanced Stirling Radioisotope Generator (ASRG) for use as a power system for space science missions. This generator would use two highefficiency Advanced Stirling Convertors (ASCs), developed by Sunpower Inc. and NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC). As part of ground testing of these ASCs, different operating conditions are used to simulate expected mission conditions. These conditions require achieving a specified electrical power output for a given net heat input. While electrical power output can be precisely quantified, thermal power input to the Stirling cycle cannot be directly measured. In an effort to improve net heat input predictions, the Mock Heater Head was developed with the same relative thermal paths as a convertor using a conducting rod to represent the Stirling cycle and tested to provide a direct comparison to numerical and empirical models used to predict convertor net heat input. The Mock Heater Head also served as the pathfinder for a higher fidelity version of validation test hardware, known as the Thermal Standard. This paper describes how the Mock Heater Head was tested and utilized to validate a process for the Thermal Standard.

Percutaneous transfemoral-transseptal implantation of a second-generation CardiAQ mitral valve bioprosthesis: first procedure description and 30-day follow-up.

PubMed

Ussia, Gian Paolo; Quadri, Arshad; Cammalleri, Valeria; De Vico, Pasquale; Muscoli, Saverio; Marchei, Massimo; Ruvolo, Giovanni; Sondergaard, Lars; Romeo, Francesco

2016-02-01

Transcatheter mitral valve implantation for mitral valve regurgitation is in the very early phase of development because of challenging anatomy and device dimensions. We describe the procedure of a transfemoral-transseptal implantation of the second-generation CardiAQ mitral valve bioprosthesis and 30-day follow-up. The procedure was performed percutaneously, without any left extracorporeal circulatory support. The patient had severe mitral regurgitation with severely depressed ventricular function and other comorbidities. The patient was deemed extreme high risk for conventional cardiac surgery by a multidisciplinary team. The main procedural steps were the creation of an arteriovenous loop with an exchange nitinol wire, and the use of a customised "steerable snare system" to facilitate the catheter delivery system into the mitral annulus. Transoesophageal echocardiography and fluoroscopy were utilised for device positioning and deployment. The mitral valve prosthesis was implanted with mild mitral regurgitation. The postoperative course was uneventful and at 30-day follow-up the patient is in NYHA Class I, with good function of the mitral valve bioprosthesis. This procedure shows that percutaneous transfemoral transcatheter mitral valve implantation is feasible, safe and successful. Further experience is needed to render this procedure clinically available.

Design analysis and performance assessment of hybrid magnetic bearings for a rotary centrifugal blood pump.

PubMed

Ren, Zhaohui; Jahanmir, Said; Heshmat, Hooshang; Hunsberger, Andrew Z; Walton, James F

2009-01-01

A hybrid magnetic bearing system was designed for a rotary centrifugal blood pump being developed to provide long-term circulatory support for heart failure patients. This design consists of two compact bearings to suspend the rotor in five degrees-of-freedom with single axis active control. Permanent magnets are used to provide passive radial support and electromagnets to maintain axial stability of the rotor. Characteristics of the passive radial and active thrust magnetic bearing system were evaluated by the electromagnetic finite element analysis. A proportional-integral-derivative controller with force balance algorithm was implemented for closed loop control of the magnetic thrust bearing. The control position is continuously adjusted based on the electrical energy in the bearing coils, and thus passive magnetic forces carry static thrust loads to minimize the bearing current. Performance of the magnetic bearing system with associated control algorithm was evaluated at different operating conditions. The bearing current was significantly reduced with the force balance control method and the power consumption was below 0.5 W under various thrust loads. The bearing parameters predicted by the analysis were validated by the experimental data.

Generation of Recombinant Human AChE OP-Scavengers with Extended Circulatory Longevity

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-11-01

PROGRAM ELEMENT NUMBER 6. AUTHOR(S) Avigdor Shafferman Ph.D. 5d. PROJECT NUMBER 5e. TASK NUMBER E-Mail: avigdor...glycans of rHuAChE, and in particular the distal termini of these glycan 8 projections , constitute a major factor in determining the circulatory...experiments funded by sources other than the USAMRMC contract, since they may have a major impact on the present project . Section III focuses on the

Is there an association of circulatory hospitalizations independent of mining employment in coal-mining and non-coal-mining counties in west virginia?

PubMed

Talbott, Evelyn O; Sharma, Ravi K; Buchanich, Jeanine; Stacy, Shaina L

2015-04-01

Exposures associated with coal mining activities, including diesel fuel exhaust, products used in coal processing, and heavy metals and other forms of particulate matter, may impact the health of nearby residents. We investigated the relationships between county-level circulatory hospitalization rates (CHRs) in coal and non-coal-mining communities of West Virginia, coal production, coal employment, and sociodemographic factors. Direct age-adjusted CHRs were calculated using West Virginia hospitalizations from 2005 to 2009. Spatial regressions were conducted to explore associations between CHR and total, underground, and surface coal production. After adjustment, neither total, nor surface, nor underground coal production was significantly related to rate of hospitalization for circulatory disease. Our findings underscore the significant role sociodemographic and behavioral factors play in the health and well-being of coal mining communities.

Is heart transplantation after circulatory death compatible with the dead donor rule?

PubMed

Nair-Collins, Michael; Miller, Franklin G

2016-05-01

Dalle Ave et al (2016) provide a valuable overview of several protocols for heart transplantation after circulatory death. However, their analysis of the compatibility of heart donation after circulatory death (DCD) with the dead donor rule (DDR) is flawed. Their permanence-based criteria for death, which depart substantially from established law and bioethics, are ad hoc and unfounded. Furthermore, their analysis is self-defeating, because it undercuts the central motivation for DDR as both a legal and a moral constraint, rendering the DDR vacuous and trivial. Rather than devise new and ad hoc criteria for death for the purpose of rendering DCD nominally consistent with DDR, we contend that the best approach is to explicitly abandon DDR. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/

Addressing Consent Issues in Donation After Circulatory Determination of Death.

PubMed

Overby, Kim J; Weinstein, Michael S; Fiester, Autumn

2015-01-01

Given the widening gap between the number of individuals on transplant waiting lists and the availability of donated organs, as well as the recent plateau in donations based on neurological criteria (i.e., brain death), there has been a growing interest in expanding donation after circulatory determination of death. While the prevalence of this form of organ donation continues to increase, many thorny ethical issues remain, often creating moral distress in both clinicians and families. In this article, we address one of these issues, namely, the challenges surrounding patient and surrogate informed consent for donation after circulatory determination of death. First we discuss several general concerns regarding consent related to this form of organ donation, and then we address additional issues that are unique to three different patient categories: adult patients with medical decision-making capacity or potential capacity, adult patients who lack capacity, and pediatric patients.

Development of Logistics for Building Radiation Storm Shelters and Their Operational Evaluation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cerro, Jeffrey A.

2015-01-01

Over the past three years NASA has been studying the operational effectiveness and astronaut protection efficacy of numerous radiation protection shelters for use in space exploration activities outside of earth's magnetosphere. The work presented was part of NASA's Advanced Exploration Systems (AES) RadWorks Storm Shelter project. This paper is a summary of the concept development activities of this third year. Fabricated items were integrated into mock up deep space habitat vehicle sections for operational evaluations. Two full scale human-in-loop simulations were designed, fabricated, and implemented through an Institutional Review Board approved solicited participant assessment process. Fabricated items are described, along with usage scenarios of two protection approaches. Existing ISS type logistics along with proposed variations of those logistics were used. Preliminary Discrete Event Simulation (DES) work is noted to be useful in quantifying and documenting operational performance measures for the two primary shelter methods, including some characterization of radiation dose accumulation over a mission timeline. The project also performed correlation analyses between effective radiation dose and the Risk of Exposure Induced Death (REID) to show that concept level work may be able to include such a performance metric in early stages of mission scenario habitat design trade space investigation.

Astronaut Gene Cernan poses in front of Gemini Mission Simulator

NASA Image and Video Library

1966-08-09

S66-32698 (17 June 1966) --- Astronaut Eugene A. Cernan discusses his Gemini-9A extravehicular activity before a gathering of news media representatives in the MSC auditorium. In the background is an Astronaut Maneuvering Unit (AMU) mock-up mounted in a mock-up of a Gemini spacecraft adapter equipment section. Astronauts Cernan and Thomas P. Stafford completed their three-day mission in space on June 6, 1966. Photo credit: NASA

ASTP crewmen in Soyuz orbital module mock-up during training session at JSC

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1975-01-01

An interior view of the Soyuz orbital module mock-up in bldg 35 during Apollo Soyuz Test Project (ASTP) joint crew training at JSC. The ASTP crewmen are Astronaut Vance D. Brand (on left), command module pilot of the American ASTP prime crew; and Cosmonaut Valeriy N. Kubasov, engineer on the Soviet ASTP first (prime) crew. The training session simulated activities on the second day in Earth orbit.

Mock Data Challenge for the MPD/NICA Experiment on the HybriLIT Cluster

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gertsenberger, Konstantin; Rogachevsky, Oleg

2018-02-01

Simulation of data processing before receiving first experimental data is an important issue in high-energy physics experiments. This article presents the current Event Data Model and the Mock Data Challenge for the MPD experiment at the NICA accelerator complex which uses ongoing simulation studies to exercise in a stress-testing the distributed computing infrastructure and experiment software in the full production environment from simulated data through the physical analysis.

Statement of Facts for 1986 City-Wide Mock Trial Competitions. United States Department of Justice Executive Office for Immigration Review in the Matter of Toni Radcliffe. No. MT-86.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Inst. for Citizen Education in the Law, Washington, DC.

Prepared by the District of Columbia Street Law Project for its 15th annual city-wide mock trial competition, this instructional handout provides the material for a deportation hearing. The Immigration and Naturalization Service denied political asylum to Toni Radcliffe and seeks authority to deport him. Radcliffe claims that the articles that he…

Statement of Facts for 1978 City-Wide Mock Trial Competitions. Martha Winstead v. Church of the New Family and Albert Smith.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Inst. for Citizen Education in the Law, Washington, DC.

Prepared by the District of Columbia Street Law Project for its annual city-wide mock trial competition, this instructional handout provides material for the hearing of a custody dispute. Martha Winstead petitions the court to order the Church of the New Family to turn over her 18-year-old son, Jeremiah, to her and to allow her custody. Jeremiah…

Comparison of active-learning strategies for motivational interviewing skills, knowledge, and confidence in first-year pharmacy students.

PubMed

Lupu, Ana M; Stewart, Autumn L; O'Neil, Christine

2012-03-12

To compare 3 strategies for pharmacy student learning of motivational interviewing skills, knowledge of motivational interviewing principles, and confidence in and attitudes toward their application. Following a motivational interviewing lecture, first-year students were randomized to perform practice activities (written dialogue, peer role-play, or mock-patient counseling activities). Motivational interviewing skills, knowledge, confidence, and attitudes were measured. All students demonstrated improvement in skills, knowledge, and confidence. Students in the mock-patient counseling group demonstrated significantly better motivational interviewing skills during practice and trended toward higher scores on the summative evaluation. They also demonstrated a significant improvement in knowledge compared with that of the written dialogue group during practice. Feedback at the end was generally positive, with students expressing recognition for the value of motivational interviewing. Students demonstrated their best performance of motivational interviewing during assessments using interactions with mock or standardized patients.

Advanced Spacesuit Portable Life Support System Packaging Concept Mock-Up Design & Development

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

O''Connell, Mary K.; Slade, Howard G.; Stinson, Richard G.

1998-01-01

A concentrated development effort was begun at NASA Johnson Space Center to create an advanced Portable Life Support System (PLSS) packaging concept. Ease of maintenance, technological flexibility, low weight, and minimal volume are targeted in the design of future micro-gravity and planetary PLSS configurations. Three main design concepts emerged from conceptual design techniques and were carried forth into detailed design, then full scale mock-up creation. "Foam", "Motherboard", and "LEGOtm" packaging design concepts are described in detail. Results of the evaluation process targeted maintenance, robustness, mass properties, and flexibility as key aspects to a new PLSS packaging configuration. The various design tools used to evolve concepts into high fidelity mock ups revealed that no single tool was all encompassing, several combinations were complimentary, the devil is in the details, and, despite efforts, many lessons were learned only after working with hardware.

Preparation of W/CuCrZr mono-block test mock-up using vacuum brazing technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Premjit Singh, K.; Khirwadkar, S.; Bhope, Kedar; Patel, Nikunj; Mokaria, Prakash

2017-04-01

Development of the joining for W/CuCrZr mono-block PFC test mock-up is an interesting area in Fusion R&D. W/Cu bimetallic material has been prepared using OFHC Copper casting approach on the radial surface of W mono-block tile surface. The W/Cu bimetallic material has been joined with CuCrZr tube (heat sink) material with the vacuum brazing route. Vacuum brazing of W/Cu-CuCrZr has been performed @ 970°C for 10 min using NiCuMn-37 filler material under deep vacuum environment (10-6 mbar). Graphite fixture was used for OFHC Copper casting and vacuum brazing experiments. The joint integrity of W/Cu-CuCrZr mono-block mock-up of W/Cu and Cu-CuCrZr interface has been checked using ultrasonic immersion technique. The result of the experimental work is presented in the paper.

Revisiting the NVSS number count dipole

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

Tiwari, Prabhakar; Nusser, Adi, E-mail: ptiwari@physics.technion.ac.il, E-mail: adi@physics.technion.ac.il

We present a realistic modeling of the dipole component of the projected sky distribution of NVSS radio galaxies. The modeling relies on mock catalogs generated within the context of ΛCDM cosmology, in the linear regime of structure formation. After removing the contribution from the solar motion, the mocks show that the remaining observed signal is mostly (70%) due to structures within z ∼< 0.1. The amplitude of the model signal depends on the bias factor b of the NVSS mock galaxies. For sources with flux density, S > 15 mJy, the bias recipe inferred from higher order moments is consistent with the observed dipole signalmore » at 2.12σ. Flux thresholds above 20 mJy yield a disagreement close to the 3σ level. A constant high bias, b = 3 is needed to mitigate the tension to the ∼ 2.3σ level.« less

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

Yeager, John D.; Higginbotham Duque, Amanda L.; Shorty, Marvin

Inert surrogates or mocks for high explosives are commonly used in place of the real material for complex experiments or in situations where safety is a concern. We tested several materials as potential mocks for HMX in terms of density, thermal stability, and processability. Selection criteria were developed and a literature search was conducted primarily using the Cambridge Structural Database. Moreover, out of over 200 potentially acceptable materials, six were chosen for crystallization experiments and a suite of analytical characterization. Of these six, 5-iodo-2'-deoxyuridine, N,N'-bis(2,3,4,5,6-pentafluorophenyl)oxamide, and 2,3,4,5,6-pentafluorobenzamide all were found to be thermally stable at 150°C, matched HMX density asmore » a pressed pellet, and could be crystallized to appropriate particle sizes. These three materials are considered suitable inert density mocks for HMX and will be the subject of future testing.« less

Is moderate hypothermic circulatory arrest with selective antegrade cerebral perfusion superior to deep hypothermic circulatory arrest in elective aortic arch surgery?

PubMed

Poon, Shi Sum; Estrera, Anthony; Oo, Aung; Field, Mark

2016-09-01

A best evidence topic in cardiac surgery was written according to a structured protocol. The question addressed was whether moderate hypothermia circulatory arrest with selective antegrade cerebral perfusion (SACP) is more beneficial than deep hypothermic circulatory arrest in elective aortic arch surgery. Altogether, 1028 papers were found using the reported search, of which 6 represented the best evidence to answer the clinical question. The authors, journal, date and country of publication, patient group studied, study type, relevant outcomes and results of these papers are tabulated. There were four retrospective observational studies, one prospective randomized controlled trial and one meta-analysis study. There were no local or neuromuscular complications related to axillary arterial cannulation reported. In the elective setting, four studies showed that the in-hospital mortality for moderate hypothermia is consistently low, ranging from 1.0 to 4.3%. In a large series of hemiarch replacement comparing 682 cases of deep hypothermia with 94 cases of moderate hypothermia with SACP, 20 cases (2.8%) of permanent neurological deficit were reported, compared to 3 cases (3.2%) in moderate hypothermia. Three observational studies and a meta-analysis study did not identify an increased risk of postoperative renal failure and dialysis following either deep or moderate hypothermia although a higher incidence of stroke was reported in the meta-analysis study with deep hypothermia (12.7 vs 7.3%). Longer cardiopulmonary bypass time and circulatory arrest time were reported in four studies for deep hypothermia, suggesting an increased time required for systemic cooling and rewarming in that group. Overall, these findings suggested that in elective aortic arch surgery, moderate hypothermia with selective antegrade cerebral perfusion adapted to the duration of circulatory arrest can be performed safely with acceptable mortality and morbidity outcomes. The risk of spinal cord and visceral organ complications is low with the use of this cerebral adjunct. Current studies did not identify an advantage in terms of postoperative bleeding when compared with deep hypothermia. The moderate hypothermia strategy reduced operative time without increasing the mortality and morbidity of surgery. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. All rights reserved.

Alkaline Phosphatase for the Prevention of Intestinal and Renal Injury in a Rat Model of Cardiopulmonary Bypass with Deep Hypothermic Circulatory Arrest

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-09-01

primary outcome), physiologic, and biomarker evidence of intestinal and kidney injury in this model with administration of escalating doses of bovine...these techniques is necessary for surgical repair, the associated ischemia-reperfusion injury to the intestines and kidneys can lead to substantial...prevention of intestinal and kidney injury after pediatric cardiopulmonary bypass with deep hypothermic circulatory arrest. In this model, we place 5-10kg

[Medicinal plants useful in the cure of circulatory problems in legs].

PubMed

Alonso, Maria José

2005-03-01

Once the fundamentals of phyto-therapy in its western use are understood, this article presents concrete a application of medicinal plants: circulatory problems in legs, a problem which affects a growing sector of the population. According to epidemiological studies, close to 80% of adults suffer problems such as tired legs, swellings, edemas, cramps, or varicose veins during their lifetimes; these appear due to an insufficiency when veins can not conveniently transport blood to the heart.

Getting home with artifical heart – what is the everyday life experience of people with mechanical circulatory Support. A qualitative study

PubMed

Braunsdorf, Sandy

2017-07-01

Background: The growing number of mechanical circulatory support systems implanted with successful results in terms of quality of life and physical resilience means that more and more people are being discharged from hospital to live at home with an artificial heart. This puts high requirements on affected persons’ disease and therapy management – a subject which has attracted very little qualitative research to date. Aim: This study therefore sought to shed light on how people with mechanical circulatory support experience their everyday lives. The aim was to document the subjective associations of those affected from an insider perspective. Methods: Following the interpretative phenomenological paradigm, narrative interviews were conducted with two female and eight male participants. For qualitative analysis, a multi-step process guided by the methodology of hermeneutic philosophy was used. Results: The qualitative data analysis revealed five main topic areas. These describe patients’ state of health after implantation and the various adjustments, constraints and pressures necessitated by their illness and therapeutic requirements. On this basis, coping and management strategies are identified. Other significant aspects of patients’ everyday lives are social interaction and environment and health care with an artificial heart. Conclusions: The findings add to our knowledge of the day-to-day lives of people with mechanical circulatory support systems, giving us a better understanding of their specific situation.

Pathophysiological roles of peroxynitrite in circulatory shock

PubMed Central

Szabó, Csaba; Módis, Katalin

2014-01-01

Summary Peroxynitrite is a reactive oxidant produced from nitric oxide (NO) and superoxide, which reacts with proteins, lipids and DNA and promotes cytotoxic and pro-inflammatory responses. Here we overview the role of peroxynitrite in various forms of circulatory shock. Immunohistochemical and biochemical evidence demonstrate the production of peroxynitrite in various experimental models of endotoxic and hemorrhagic shock, both in rodents and in large animals. In addition, biological markers of peroxynitrite have been identified in human tissues after circulatory shock. Peroxynitrite can initiate toxic oxidative reactions in vitro and in vivo. Initiation of lipid peroxidation, direct inhibition of mitochondrial respiratory chain enzymes, inactivation of glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase, inhibition of membrane Na+/K+ ATP-ase activity, inactivation of membrane sodium channels, and other oxidative protein modifications contribute to the cytotoxic effect of peroxynitrite. In addition, peroxynitrite is a potent trigger of DNA strand breakage, with subsequent activation of the nuclear enzyme poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP), which promotes cellular energetic collapse and cellular necrosis. Additional actions of peroxynitrite that contribute to the pathogenesis of shock include inactivation of catecholamines and catecholamine receptors (leading to vascular failure), endothelial and epithelial injury (leading to endothelial and epithelial hyper-permeability and barrier dysfunction) as well as myocyte injury (contributing to loss of cardiac contractile function). Neutralization of peroxynitrite with potent peroxynitrite decomposition catalysts provides cytoprotective and beneficial effects in rodent and large animal models of circulatory shock. PMID:20523270

Mechanical Circulatory Support of the Critically Ill Child Awaiting Heart Transplantation

PubMed Central

Gazit, Avihu Z; Gandhi, Sanjiv K; C Canter, Charles

2010-01-01

The majority of children awaiting heart transplantation require inotropic support, mechanical ventilation, and/or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support. Unfortunately, due to the limited pool of organs, many of these children do not survive to transplant. Mechanical circulatory support of the failing heart in pediatrics is a new and rapidly developing field world-wide. It is utilized in children with acute congestive heart failure associated with congenital heart disease, cardiomyopathy, and myocarditis, both as a bridge to transplantation and as a bridge to myocardial recovery. The current arsenal of mechanical assist devices available for children is limited to ECMO, intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation, centrifugal pump ventricular assist devices, the DeBakey ventricular assist device Child; the Thoratec ventricular assist device; and the Berlin Heart. In the spring of 2004, five contracts were awarded by the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute to support preclinical development for a range of pediatric ventricular assist devices and similar circulatory support systems. The support of early development efforts provided by this program is expected to yield several devices that will be ready for clinical trials within the next few years. Our work reviews the current international experience with mechanical circulatory support in children and summarizes our own experience since 2005 with the Berlin Heart, comparing the indications for use, length of support, and outcome between these modalities. PMID:21286278

Statement of Facts for 1982 City-Wide Mock Trial Competitions. Vincent Taylor, Plaintiff v. Lance Memorial Hospital for Women, Raymond Miller, M.D., and Dorothy Dillon, R.N., Defendants. No. MT-82.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Inst. for Citizen Education in the Law, Washington, DC.

Prepared by the District of Columbia Street Law Project for its 11th annual city-wide mock trial competition, this instructional handout provides material for a civil trial over a disputed discriminatory termination of employment. Vincent Taylor claims that the Lance Memorial Hospital for Women fired him on the basis of his sex. The hospital…

Determination of extra trajectory parameters of projectile layout motion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ishchenko, A.; Burkin, V.; Faraponov, V.; Korolkov, L.; Maslov, E.; Diachkovskiy, A.; Chupashev, A.; Zykova, A.

2017-11-01

The paper presents a brief description of the experimental track developed and implemented on the base of the RIAMM TSU for external trajectory investigations on determining the main aeroballistic parameters of various shapes projectiles, in the wide velocity range. There is comparison between the experimentally obtained dependence of the fin-stabilized projectile mock-up aerodynamic drag coefficient on the Mach number with the 1958 aerodynamic drag law and aerodynamic tests of the same mock-up

Mock-juror evaluations of traditional and ratings-based eyewitness identification evidence.

PubMed

Sauer, James D; Palmer, Matthew A; Brewer, Neil

2017-08-01

Compared to categorical identifications, culprit likelihood ratings (having the witness rate, for each lineup member, the likelihood that the individual is the culprit) provide a promising alternative for assessing a suspect's likely guilt. Four experiments addressed 2 broad questions about the use of culprit likelihood ratings evidence by mock-jurors. First, are mock-jurors receptive to noncategorical forms of identification evidence? Second, does the additional information provided by ratings (relating to discrimination) affect jurors' evaluations of the identification evidence? Experiments 1 and 1A manipulated confidence (90% vs. 50%) and discrimination (good, poor, no information) between participants. Evaluations were influenced by confidence, but not discrimination. However, a within-participant manipulation of discrimination (Experiment 2) demonstrated that evidence of good discrimination enhanced the persuasiveness of moderate levels of confidence, while poor discrimination reduced the persuasiveness of high levels of confidence. Thus, participants can interpret ratings-based evidence, but may not intuit the discrimination information when evaluating ratings for a single identification procedure. Providing detailed instructions about interpreting ratings produced clear discrimination effects when evaluating a single identification procedure (Experiment 3). Across 4 experiments, we found no evidence that mock-jurors perceived noncategorical identification evidence to be less informative than categorical evidence. However, jurors will likely benefit from instruction when interpreting ratings provided by a single witness. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved).

Robust covariance estimation of galaxy-galaxy weak lensing: validation and limitation of jackknife covariance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shirasaki, Masato; Takada, Masahiro; Miyatake, Hironao; Takahashi, Ryuichi; Hamana, Takashi; Nishimichi, Takahiro; Murata, Ryoma

2017-09-01

We develop a method to simulate galaxy-galaxy weak lensing by utilizing all-sky, light-cone simulations and their inherent halo catalogues. Using the mock catalogue to study the error covariance matrix of galaxy-galaxy weak lensing, we compare the full covariance with the 'jackknife' (JK) covariance, the method often used in the literature that estimates the covariance from the resamples of the data itself. We show that there exists the variation of JK covariance over realizations of mock lensing measurements, while the average JK covariance over mocks can give a reasonably accurate estimation of the true covariance up to separations comparable with the size of JK subregion. The scatter in JK covariances is found to be ∼10 per cent after we subtract the lensing measurement around random points. However, the JK method tends to underestimate the covariance at the larger separations, more increasingly for a survey with a higher number density of source galaxies. We apply our method to the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) data, and show that the 48 mock SDSS catalogues nicely reproduce the signals and the JK covariance measured from the real data. We then argue that the use of the accurate covariance, compared to the JK covariance, allows us to use the lensing signals at large scales beyond a size of the JK subregion, which contains cleaner cosmological information in the linear regime.

Similar cerebral protective effectiveness of antegrade and retrograde cerebral perfusion combined with deep hypothermia circulatory arrest in aortic arch surgery: a meta-analysis and systematic review of 5060 patients.

PubMed

Hu, Zhipeng; Wang, Zhiwei; Ren, Zongli; Wu, Hongbing; Zhang, Min; Zhang, Hao; Hu, Xiaoping

2014-08-01

Our objective was to determine if antegrade cerebral perfusion (ACP) and retrograde cerebral perfusion (RCP) combined with deep hypothermia circulatory arrest in aortic arch surgery results in different mortality and neurologic outcomes. The Cochrane Library, Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL, Web of Science, and the Chinese Biomedical Database were searched for studies reporting on postoperative strokes, permanent neurologic dysfunction, temporary neurologic dysfunction, and all causes mortality within 30 days postoperation in aortic arch surgery. Meta-analysis for effect size, t test, and I(2) for detecting heterogeneity and sensitivity analysis for assessing the relative influence of each study was performed. Fifteen included studies encompassed a total of 5060 patients of whom 2855 were treated with deep hypothermic circulatory arrest plus ACP and 1897 were treated with deep hypothermic circulatory arrest plus RCP. Pooled analysis showed no significant statistical difference (P > .01) of 30-day mortality, permanent neurologic dysfunction, and transient neurologic dysfunction in the 2 groups. Before sensitivity analysis, postoperative stroke incidence in the ACP group was higher than in the RCP group (7.2% vs 4.7%; P < .01). After a study that included a different percentage of patients with a history of central neurologic events in the 2 groups was ruled out, postoperative stroke incidence in the 2 groups also showed no significant statistical difference (P > .01). ACP and RCP provide similar cerebral protective effectiveness combined with deep hypothermia circulatory arrest and could be selected according to the actual condition in aortic arch surgery. A high-quality randomized controlled trial is urgently needed to confirm this conclusion, especially for stroke morbidity following ACP or RCP. Copyright © 2014 The American Association for Thoracic Surgery. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

Imbalance of arginine and asymmetric dimethylarginine is associated with markers of circulatory failure, organ failure and mortality in shock patients.

PubMed

Visser, Marlieke; Vermeulen, Mechteld A R; Richir, Milan C; Teerlink, Tom; Houdijk, Alexander P J; Kostense, Piet J; Wisselink, Willem; de Mol, Bas A J M; van Leeuwen, Paul A M; Oudemans-van Straaten, Heleen M

2012-05-01

In shock, organ perfusion is of vital importance because organ oxygenation is at risk. NO, the main endothelial-derived vasodilator, is crucial for organ perfusion and coronary patency. The availability of NO might depend on the balance between a substrate (arginine) and an inhibitor (asymmetric dimethylarginine; ADMA) of NO synthase. Therefore, we investigated the relationship of arginine, ADMA and their ratio with circulatory markers, disease severity, organ failure and mortality in shock patients. In forty-four patients with shock (cardiogenic n 17, septic n 27), we prospectively measured plasma arginine and ADMA at intensive care unit admission, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II-(predicted mortality) and Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score, and circulatory markers to investigate their relationship. Arginine concentration was decreased (34·6 (SD 17·9) μmol/l) while ADMA concentration was within the normal range (0·46 (SD 0·18) μmol/l), resulting in a decrease in the arginine:ADMA ratio. The ratio correlated with several circulatory markers (cardiac index, disseminated intravascular coagulation, bicarbonate, lactate and pH), APACHE II and SOFA score, creatine kinase and glucose. The arginine:ADMA ratio showed an association (OR 0·976, 95 % CI 0·963, 0·997, P = 0·025) and a diagnostic accuracy (area under the curve 0·721, 95 % CI 0·560, 0·882, P = 0·016) for hospital mortality, whereas the arginine or ADMA concentration alone or APACHE II-predicted mortality failed to do so. In conclusion, in shock patients, the imbalance of arginine and ADMA is related to circulatory failure, organ failure and disease severity, and predicts mortality. We propose a pathophysiological mechanism in shock: the imbalance of arginine and ADMA contributes to endothelial and cardiac dysfunction resulting in poor organ perfusion and organ failure, thereby increasing the risk of death.

[Cerebral oximetry in pulmonary thromboendarterectomy with circulatory arrest].

PubMed

Catalán Escudero, P; González Román, A; Serra Ruiz, C N; Barbero Mielgo, M; García Fernández, J

2014-02-01

Pulmonary thromboendarterectomy is an uncommon procedure and should be performed with circulatory arrest. One of the major concerns is the postoperative central neurological injuries. Perioperative brain oxygen monitoring is advisable in this surgical procedure for the early detection of brain hypoperfusion episodes and their intensity as well as any other postoperative episodes that can deteriorate the neurological outcome. Copyright © 2012 Sociedad Española de Anestesiología, Reanimación y Terapéutica del Dolor. Published by Elsevier España. All rights reserved.

Utilization of organs from donors after circulatory death for vascularized pancreas and islet of Langerhans transplantation: recommendations from an expert group.

PubMed

Berney, Thierry; Boffa, Catherine; Augustine, Titus; Badet, Lionel; de Koning, Eelco; Pratschke, Johann; Socci, Carlo; Friend, Peter

2016-07-01

Donation after circulatory death (DCD) donors are increasingly being used as a source of pancreas allografts for vascularized organ and islet transplantation. We provide practice guidelines aiming to increase DCD pancreas utilization. We review risk assessment and donor selection criteria. We report suggested factors in donor and recipient clinical management and provide an overview of the activities and outcomes of vascularized pancreas and islet transplantation. © 2015 Steunstichting ESOT.

Influence of the ambient acceleration field upon acute acceleration tolerance in chickens

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, A. H.; Spangler, W. L.; Rhode, E. A.; Burton, R. R.

1979-01-01

The paper measured the acceleration tolerance of domestic fowl (Rhode Island Red cocks), acutely exposed to a 6 Gz field, as the time over which a normal heart rate can be maintained. This period of circulatory adjustment ends abruptly with pronounced bradycardia. For chickens which previously have been physiologically adapted to 2.5 -G field, the acute acceleration tolerance is greatly increased. The influence of the ambient acceleration field on the adjustment of the circulatory system appears to be a general phenomenon.

Towards a Fast Dynamic Model of the Human Circulatory System

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-10-06

heart chambers, and the local time-varying pressure is not prescribed anywhere. The effects of muscle contraction and relaxation on the circulatory...0.5 < S < 2) area during skeletal muscle contraction . Contraction only applied on the venous end of the vascular tree (1.25 < S < 2). For the... contraction , occurring during time (tam < t < tbm), and ∆Am is the maximum contraction amplitude. A visualization of the muscle contraction model is shown in

[Antihypoxic and antioxidative properties of bemitil].

PubMed

Plotnikov, M B; Saratikov, A S; Plotnikova, T M; Khazanov, V A; Panina, O P

1989-05-01

The authors discovered antihypoxic properties of the bemitil (pretreatment injections 50 mg/kg intraperitoneally) in the experiments on rats with the circulatory or hypoxic hypoxia. There was limitation of pO decrease and diene conjugates and Schiff bases production increase with the drug in the circulatory hypoxia conditions. Bemitil restricted malondialdehyde accumulation in the rat brain homogenate under the activation of free radicals processes. In the mitochondrial suspension incubation similar effect of the medicine was accompanied with limitation of organelle degradation. Bemitil showed no antiradical activity.

Low-frequency dynamics of autonomic regulation of circulatory system in healthy subjects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Skazkina, V. V.; Borovkova, E. I.; Galushko, T. A.; Khorev, V. S.; Kiselev, A. R.

2018-04-01

The paper is devoted to the analysis of dynamic of interactions between signals of autonomic circulatory regulation. We investigated two-hour experimental records of 30 healthy people. Phase synchronization was studied using the signals of the electrocardiogram and the photoplethysmogram of vessels. We found the presence of long synchronous intervals in some subjects. For analysis of the dynamic we calculated autocorrelation functions. The analysis made it possible to reveal indirect signs of the influence of the humoral regulation system.

Novel Method for Exchange of Impella Circulatory Assist Catheter: The "Trojan Horse" Technique.

PubMed

Phillips, Colin T; Tamez, Hector; Tu, Thomas M; Yeh, Robert W; Pinto, Duane S

2017-07-01

Patients with an indwelling Impella may require escalation of hemodynamic support or exchange to another circulatory assistance platform. As such, preservation of vascular access is preferable in cases where anticoagulation cannot be discontinued or to facilitate exchange to an alternative catheter or closure device. Challenges exist in avoiding bleeding and loss of wire access in these situations. We describe a single-access "Trojan Horse" technique that minimizes bleeding while maintaining arterial access for rapid exchange of this percutaneous ventricular assist device.

Accelerated heart function recovery after therapeutic plasma exchange in patient treated with biventricular mechanical circulatory support for severe peripartum cardiomyopathy.

PubMed

Łasińska-Kowaraa, Magdalena; Lango, Romuald; Kowalik, Maciej; Jarmoszewicz, Krzysztof

2014-12-01

We describe a case of severe peripartum cardiomyopathy treated with biventricular mechanical circulatory support, where rapid haemodynamic recovery was observed after therapeutic plasma exchange, used as an adjunct to the inhibition of prolactin release. The patient recovered and after 2 months was discharged from the hospital without clinical symptoms of heart disease. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. All rights reserved.

ABO blood group antibody levels in infants exposed to mechanical circulatory support.

PubMed

Guynes, Anthony; Delaney, Meghan; McMullan, David M; Townsend-McCall, Dee; Kemna, Mariska; Boucek, Robert; Law, Yuk M

2014-01-01

ABO sensitization is a barrier to ABO-incompatible heart transplantation in infants. We investigate the development of ABO antibodies in infants with and without mechanical circulatory support (MCS) during their waiting period. Although the proportion of patients with antibodies was similar between the groups, the median age at antibody detection was only 9 days (6-198) for MCS vs. 223 days (28-367) for non-MCS patients (P = 0.028), suggesting MCS is associated with earlier ABO antibody detection.

Pediatric disaster triage education and skills assessment: a coalition approach.

PubMed

Kenningham, Katherine; Koelemay, Kathryn; King, Mary A

2014-01-01

This study aims to 1) demonstrate one method of pediatric disaster preparedness education using a regional disaster coalition organized workshop and 2) evaluate factors reflecting the greatest shortfall in pediatric mass casualty incident (MCI) triage skills in a varied population of medical providers in King County, WA. Educational intervention and cross-sectional survey. Pediatric disaster preparedness conference created de novo and offered by the King County Healthcare Coalition, with didactic sessions and workshops including a scored mock pediatric MCI triage. Ninety-eight providers from throughout the King County, WA, region selected by their own institutions following invitation to participate, with 88 completing exit surveys. Didactic lectures regarding pediatric MCI triage followed by scored exercises. Mock triage scores were analyzed and compared according to participant characteristics and workplace environment. A half-day regional pediatric disaster preparedness educational conference convened in September 2011 by the King County Healthcare Coalition in partnership with regional pediatric experts was so effective and well-received that it has been rescheduled yearly (2012 and 2013) and has expanded to three Washington State venues sponsored by the Washington State Department of Health. Emergency department (ED) or intensive care unit (ICU) employment and regular exposure to pediatric patients best predicted higher mock pediatric MCI triage scores (ED/ICU 80 percent vs non-ED/ICU 73 percent, p = 0.026; regular pediatric exposure 80 percent vs less exposure 77 percent, p = 0.038, respectively). Pediatric Advanced Life Support training was not found to be associated with improved triage performance, and mock patients whose injuries were not immediately life threatening tended to be over-triaged (observed trend). A regional coalition can effectively organize member hospitals and provide education for focused populations using specialty experts such as pediatricians. Providers working in higher acuity environments and those with regular pediatric patient exposure perform better mock pediatric MCI triage than their counterparts after just-in-time training. Pediatric MCI patients with less than life-threatening injuries tended to be over-triaged.

Who Is the Rotten Apple? Mock Jurors' Views of Teacher-Student Sexual Contact.

PubMed

Anderson, Alissa; Wingrove, Twila; Fox, Paul; McLean, Kyle; Styer, Erin

2018-05-01

The present study investigated mock jurors' ( N = 541) perceptions of a hypothetical case of teacher-student sexual contact. Mock jurors read a brief vignette describing an alleged sexual encounter where the gender and age of both the teacher and student were manipulated. Participants rendered legal decisions (i.e., verdict, degree of guilt, and sentence length), as well as culpability judgments pertaining to both the teacher and the student (i.e., blame, cause, and desire for the sexual contact). In addition, the effects of mock juror gender and attitudes regarding both rape myth acceptance and homophobia were investigated. Teacher gender and both teacher and student age predicted mock jurors' recommended sentences, with male teachers, older teachers, and younger students leading to greater sentences. Overall, student age was most consistently related to multiple culpability judgments, and the culpability judgments regarding the victim were the most consistently predicted by the independent variables. We did not find any evidence of homosexist attitudes, meaning that same-gender teacher-student contact was not judged any differently than opposite-gender contact. Worth noting, we found an interaction such that male students victimized by female teachers were judged to have wanted the contact more than any other gender combination, especially by male participants. The authors discuss these findings in the context of the child sexual abuse (CSA) literature concluding that many of the findings of more prototypical CSA cases extend to the teacher-student context. We also discuss the implications of these findings in terms of gendered judgments of adolescents who are victimized by teachers, possibly decided by legal professionals, school administrators, and jurors themselves. In particular, the three-way gender interaction can be interpreted in the context of stereotypes regarding sexual development marking sexual contact between adolescent males and older females as a "rite of passage" into adulthood.

ORNL Pre-test Analyses of A Large-scale Experiment in STYLE

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

Williams, Paul T; Yin, Shengjun; Klasky, Hilda B

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) is conducting a series of numerical analyses to simulate a large scale mock-up experiment planned within the European Network for Structural Integrity for Lifetime Management non-RPV Components (STYLE). STYLE is a European cooperative effort to assess the structural integrity of (non-reactor pressure vessel) reactor coolant pressure boundary components relevant to ageing and life-time management and to integrate the knowledge created in the project into mainstream nuclear industry assessment codes. ORNL contributes work-in-kind support to STYLE Work Package 2 (Numerical Analysis/Advanced Tools) and Work Package 3 (Engineering Assessment Methods/LBB Analyses). This paper summarizes the current statusmore » of ORNL analyses of the STYLE Mock-Up3 large-scale experiment to simulate and evaluate crack growth in a cladded ferritic pipe. The analyses are being performed in two parts. In the first part, advanced fracture mechanics models are being developed and performed to evaluate several experiment designs taking into account the capabilities of the test facility while satisfying the test objectives. Then these advanced fracture mechanics models will be utilized to simulate the crack growth in the large scale mock-up test. For the second part, the recently developed ORNL SIAM-PFM open-source, cross-platform, probabilistic computational tool will be used to generate an alternative assessment for comparison with the advanced fracture mechanics model results. The SIAM-PFM probabilistic analysis of the Mock-Up3 experiment will utilize fracture modules that are installed into a general probabilistic framework. The probabilistic results of the Mock-Up3 experiment obtained from SIAM-PFM will be compared to those results generated using the deterministic 3D nonlinear finite-element modeling approach. The objective of the probabilistic analysis is to provide uncertainty bounds that will assist in assessing the more detailed 3D finite-element solutions and to also assess the level of confidence that can be placed in the best-estimate finiteelement solutions.« less

Maass Forms and Quantum Modular Forms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rolen, Larry

This thesis describes several new results in the theory of harmonic Maass forms and related objects. Maass forms have recently led to a flood of applications throughout number theory and combinatorics in recent years, especially following their development by the work of Bruinier and Funke the modern understanding Ramanujan's mock theta functions due to Zwegers. The first of three main theorems discussed in this thesis concerns the integrality properties of singular moduli. These are well-known to be algebraic integers, and they play a beautiful role in complex multiplication and explicit class field theory for imaginary quadratic fields. One can also study "singular moduli" for special non-holomorphic functions, which are algebraic but are not necessarily algebraic integers. Here we will explain the phenomenon of integrality properties and provide a sharp bound on denominators of symmetric functions in singular moduli. The second main theme of the thesis concerns Zagier's recent definition of a quantum modular form. Since their definition in 2010 by Zagier, quantum modular forms have been connected to numerous different topics such as strongly unimodal sequences, ranks, cranks, and asymptotics for mock theta functions. Motivated by Zagier's example of the quantum modularity of Kontsevich's "strange" function F(q), we revisit work of Andrews, Jimenez-Urroz, and Ono to construct a natural vector-valued quantum modular form whose components. The final chapter of this thesis is devoted to a study of asymptotics of mock theta functions near roots of unity. In his famous deathbed letter, Ramanujan introduced the notion of a mock theta function, and he offered some alleged examples. The theory of mock theta functions has been brought to fruition using the framework of harmonic Maass forms, thanks to Zwegers. Despite this understanding, little attention has been given to Ramanujan's original definition. Here we prove that Ramanujan's examples do indeed satisfy his original definition.

Transmission of Squash vein yellowing virus to and From Cucurbit Weeds and Effects on Sweetpotato Whitefly (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) Behavior.

PubMed

Shrestha, D; McAuslane, H J; Adkins, S T; Smith, H A; Dufault, N; Webb, S E

2016-08-01

Since 2003, growers of Florida watermelon [Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) Matsum. and Nakai] have periodically suffered large losses from a disease caused by Squash vein yellowing virus (SqVYV), which is transmitted by the whitefly Middle East-Asia Minor 1 (MEAM1), formerly Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) biotype B. Common cucurbit weeds like balsam apple (Momordica charantia L.) and smellmelon [Cucumis melo var. dudaim (L.) Naud.] are natural hosts of SqVYV, and creeping cucumber (Melothria pendula L.) is an experimental host. Study objectives were to compare these weeds and 'Mickylee' watermelon as sources of inoculum for SqVYV via MEAM1 transmission, to determine weed susceptibility to SqVYV, and to evaluate whitefly settling and oviposition behaviors on infected vs. mock-inoculated (inoculated with buffer only) creeping cucumber leaves. We found that the lowest percentage of watermelon recipient plants was infected when balsam apple was used as a source of inoculum. Watermelon was more susceptible to infection than balsam apple or smellmelon. However, all weed species were equally susceptible to SqVYV when inoculated by whitefly. For the first 5 h after release, whiteflies had no preference to settle on infected vs. mock-inoculated creeping cucumber leaves. After 24 h, whiteflies preferred to settle on mock-inoculated leaves, and more eggs were laid on mock-inoculated creeping cucumber leaves than on SqVYV-infected leaves. The transmission experiments (source of inoculum and susceptibility) show these weed species as potential inoculum sources of the virus. The changing settling preference of whiteflies from infected to mock-inoculated plants could lead to rapid spread of virus in the agroecosystem. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Entomological Society of America 2016. This work is written by US Government employees and is in the public domain in the United States.

First steps in designing an all-in-one ICT-based device for persons with cognitive impairment: evaluation of the first mock-up.

PubMed

Boman, Inga-Lill; Persson, Ann-Christine; Bartfai, Aniko

2016-03-07

This project Smart Assisted Living involving Informal careGivers++ (SALIG) intends to develop an ICT-based device for persons with cognitive impairment combined with remote support possibilities for significant others and formal caregivers. This paper presents the identification of the target groups' needs and requirements of such device and the evaluation of the first mock-up, demonstrated in a tablet. The inclusive design method that includes end-users in the design process was chosen. First, a scoping review was conducted in order to examine the target group's need of an ICT-based device, and to gather recommendations regarding its design and functionalities. In order to capture the users' requirements of the design and functionalities of the device three targeted focus groups were conducted. Based on the findings from the publications and the focus groups a user requirement specification was developed. After that a design concept and a first mock-up was developed in an iterative process. The mock-up was evaluated through interviews with persons with cognitive impairment, health care professionals and significant others. Data were analysed using content analysis. Several useful recommendations of the design and functionalities of the SALIG device for persons with cognitive impairment were identified. The main benefit of the mock-up was that it was a single device with a set of functionalities installed on a tablet and designed for persons with cognitive impairment. An additional benefit was that it could be used remotely by significant others and formal caregivers. The SALIG device has the potentials to facilitate everyday life for persons with cognitive impairment, their significant others and the work situation for formal caregivers. The results may provide guidance in the development of different types of technologies for the target population and for people with diverse disabilities. Further work will focus on developing a prototype to be empirically tested by persons with cognitive impairment, their significant others and formal caregivers.

Statement of Facts for 1980 City-Wide Mock Trial Competitions. Albert Banks and Virginia Smallwood, for Herself and on Behalf of Her Minor Son, Dwayne Jones, Plaintiffs v. Potomac Properties, Inc., Thomas R. Baldwin, and Victoria Reese, Defendants. No. MT-80.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Inst. for Citizen Education in the Law, Washington, DC.

Prepared by the District of Columbia Street Law Project for its ninth annual city-wide mock trial competition, this instructional handout provides the material for a civil trial over housing discrimination. The plaintiffs are an unmarried couple with a disabled child whose application to live at Waterfront Gardens, a property owned by Potomac…

Mock Institutional Review Board: Promoting Analytical and Reasoning Skills in Research Ethics.

PubMed

Dols, Jean Dowling; Hoke, Mary M; Rauschhuber, Maureen L

Although it is critical that nurses possess ethical reasoning skills for research, there is limited information on effective strategies to develop these skills in graduate health care students. A research study analyzing educational interventions including the effect of online human subjects training followed by a mock institutional review board simulation demonstrated that knowledge acquisition is not enough to acquire the ethical reasoning skills needed to implement health care research. Situational context is also needed to envision the application of ethical principles.

A New Therapeutic Strategy for Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease: Activation of AMP Kinase by Metformin

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-07-01

control MDCK cells treated with IBMX and forskolin and then CFTR-Inh172 at the indicated times is shown. (c) A similar representative trace of mock...initiate CFTR-mediated secretion, CFTR-expressing and mock-transduced MDCK cells were treated with the cAMP agonists IBMX and forskolin , and the...2c. In CFTR-expressing cells there was generally an early peak in Isc within 1-2 min following forskolin /IBMX treatment, followed by a lower plateau

Statement of Facts for 1975 City-Wide Mock Trial Competitions. Georgia Floyd, Individually and as Parent and Next Friend of Minor, Nelson Floyd v. Fix-It Home Remodeling, Inc. and Sam Baldwin.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Inst. for Citizen Education in the Law, Washington, DC.

Prepared by the District of Columbia Street Law Project for its annual city-wide mock trial competition, this instructional handout provides material for a civil trial over a claim for damages. During an argument, a friend pushed Nelson Floyd against the railing of a porch. Falling onto the concrete below, Nelson was injured with a broken shin…

Investigation of the Flying Mock-Up of the Consolidated Vultee XP-92 Airplane in the Ames 40- by 80-Foot Wind Tunnel. Force and Moment Characteristics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wick, Bradford, H.; Graham, David

1948-01-01

This report contains the results of the investigation of the aerodynamic characteristics of the flying mock-up of the Consolidated Vultee XP-92 airplane as conducted in the Ames 40- by 80-foot wind tunnel, Data are presented for test conditions which would give information as to the limits of stability and controllability, and also, the effect of Reynolds number. No analysis of the data has been made.

Sandia/NM Available Mock Warhead Container Inventory

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

Brotz, Jay Kristoffer

The real H1514 Shipping and Storage Container is an environmentally sealed and desiccated aluminum drum-type container designed to transport the W88/Mk5 Reentry Body Assembly. The H1514 is cylindrical except for a portion of its base, which is 36" square and 3" high and contains the forklift openings. Our mock H1514 retains the dimensions and shape of the real H1514 in a lighter form that is not sealed and does not have ports for desiccation.

Training Materials and Data Requirements for Turret Organizational Maintenance Trainer (TOM-T) Training Test Support Plan

DTIC Science & Technology

1980-05-01

performed on the TOM-T Turret Mock- Up . Those marked with a number symbol (#) can be done on the TOM-T Programmable Maintenance Trainer. Tasks with both...an asterisk and a number symbol (*/#) are those which can be performed partially on the turret mock- up and partially on the programmable trainer...time, the tasks serve as prerequisites to troubleshooting. With the exception of setting- up , testing, and shutting-down the STE/XMI test set, and

Heart Transplant and Mechanical Circulatory Support in Patients With Advanced Heart Failure.

PubMed

Sánchez-Enrique, Cristina; Jorde, Ulrich P; González-Costello, José

2017-05-01

Patients with advanced heart failure have a poor prognosis and heart transplant is still the best treatment option. However, the scarcity of donors, long waiting times, and an increasing number of unstable patients have favored the development of mechanical circulatory support. This review summarizes the indications for heart transplant, candidate evaluation, current immunosuppression strategies, the evaluation and treatment of rejection, infectious prophylaxis, and short and long-term outcomes. Regarding mechanical circulatory support, we distinguish between short- and long-term support and the distinct strategies that can be used: bridge to decision, recovery, candidacy, transplant, and destination therapy. We then discuss indications, risk assessment, management of complications, especially with long-term support, and outcomes. Finally, we discuss future challenges and how the widespread use of long-term support for patients with advanced heart failure will only be viable if their complications and costs are reduced. Copyright © 2017 Sociedad Española de Cardiología. Published by Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Evolutionary morphology of the hemolymph vascular system of basal araneomorph spiders (Araneae: Araneomorphae).

PubMed

Huckstorf, Katarina; Michalik, Peter; Ramírez, Martín; Wirkner, Christian S

2015-11-01

The superfamily Austrochiloidea (Austrochilidae and Gradungulidae) take a pivotal position in araneomorph spider phylogeny. In this discussion crevice weaver spiders (Filistatidae) are of equal interest. Especially data from these phylogenetically uncertain yet basal off branching groups can enlighten our understanding on the evolution of organ systems. In the course of a survey on the evolutionary morphology of the circulatory system in spiders we therefore investigated the hemolymph vascular system in two austrochiloid and one filistatid species. Additionally some data on a hypochilid and a gradungulid species are included. Using up-to-date morphological methods, the vascular systems in these spiders are visualized three dimensionally. Ground pattern features of the circulatory systems in austrochiloid spiders are presented and the data discussed along recent lines of phylogenetic hypotheses. Special topics highlighted are the intraspecific variability of the origins of some prosomal arteries and the evolutionary correlation of respiratory and circulatory systems in spiders. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Recent advances in computational methodology for simulation of mechanical circulatory assist devices

PubMed Central

Marsden, Alison L.; Bazilevs, Yuri; Long, Christopher C.; Behr, Marek

2014-01-01

Ventricular assist devices (VADs) provide mechanical circulatory support to offload the work of one or both ventricles during heart failure. They are used in the clinical setting as destination therapy, as bridge to transplant, or more recently as bridge to recovery to allow for myocardial remodeling. Recent developments in computational simulation allow for detailed assessment of VAD hemodynamics for device design and optimization for both children and adults. Here, we provide a focused review of the recent literature on finite element methods and optimization for VAD simulations. As VAD designs typically fall into two categories, pulsatile and continuous flow devices, we separately address computational challenges of both types of designs, and the interaction with the circulatory system with three representative case studies. In particular, we focus on recent advancements in finite element methodology that has increased the fidelity of VAD simulations. We outline key challenges, which extend to the incorporation of biological response such as thrombosis and hemolysis, as well as shape optimization methods and challenges in computational methodology. PMID:24449607

The total artificial heart.

PubMed

Cook, Jason A; Shah, Keyur B; Quader, Mohammed A; Cooke, Richard H; Kasirajan, Vigneshwar; Rao, Kris K; Smallfield, Melissa C; Tchoukina, Inna; Tang, Daniel G

2015-12-01

The total artificial heart (TAH) is a form of mechanical circulatory support in which the patient's native ventricles and valves are explanted and replaced by a pneumatically powered artificial heart. Currently, the TAH is approved for use in end-stage biventricular heart failure as a bridge to heart transplantation. However, with an increasing global burden of cardiovascular disease and congestive heart failure, the number of patients with end-stage heart failure awaiting heart transplantation now far exceeds the number of available hearts. As a result, the use of mechanical circulatory support, including the TAH and left ventricular assist device (LVAD), is growing exponentially. The LVAD is already widely used as destination therapy, and destination therapy for the TAH is under investigation. While most patients requiring mechanical circulatory support are effectively treated with LVADs, there is a subset of patients with concurrent right ventricular failure or major structural barriers to LVAD placement in whom TAH may be more appropriate. The history, indications, surgical implantation, post device management, outcomes, complications, and future direction of the TAH are discussed in this review.

LONG-TERM MECHANICAL CIRCULATORY SUPPORT (DESTINATION THERAPY): ON TRACK TO COMPETE WITH HEART TRANSPLANTATIO?

PubMed Central

Kirklin, James K.; Naftel, David C.; Pagani, Francis D.; Kormos, Robert L.; Stevenson, Lynne; Miller, Marissa; Young, James B.

2012-01-01

Objective(s) Average two-year survival following cardiac transplantation is approximately 80%. The evolution and subsequent approval of larger pulsatile and, more recently, continuous flow mechanical circulatory support (MCS) technology for destination therapy (DT) offers the potential for triage of some patients awaiting cardiac transplantation to DT. Methods The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute Interagency Registry for Mechanically Assisted Circulatory Support (INTERMACS) is a national multi-institutional study of chronic mechanical circulatory support. Between June 2006 and December 2011, 127 pulsatile and 1160 continuous flow pumps (24% of total primary LVADs) carried an initial strategy of DT therapy. Results By multivariable analysis, risk factors (p<0.05) for mortality following DT included older age, larger body mass index, history of cancer, history of cardiac surgery, INTERMACS level I (cardiogenic shock), dialysis, increased BUN, use of a pulsatile flow device and use of a RVAD. Among continuous flow LVAD patients who were not in cardiogenic shock, a particularly favorable survival was associated with no cancer, patients not in cardiogenic shock, and BUN < 50, resulting in one and two year survival of 88 and 80%. Conclusions 1) Evolution from pulsatile to continuous flow technology has dramatically improved one and two year survival; 2) Destination Therapy is not appropriate for patients with rapid hemodynamic deterioration; or severe right ventricular failure 4) Important subsets of continuous flow DT patients now enjoy survival which is competitive with heart transplantation out to about two years. PMID:22795459

D-dimer as marker for microcirculatory failure: correlation with LOD and APACHE II scores.

PubMed

Angstwurm, Matthias W A; Reininger, Armin J; Spannagl, Michael

2004-01-01

The relevance of plasma d-dimer levels as marker for morbidity and organ dysfunction in severely ill patients is largely unknown. In a prospective study we determined d-dimer plasma levels of 800 unselected patients at admission to our intensive care unit. In 91% of the patients' samples d-dimer levels were elevated, in some patients up to several hundredfold as compared to normal values. The highest mean d-dimer values were present in the patient group with thromboembolic diseases, and particularly in non-survivors of pulmonary embolism. In patients with circulatory impairment (r=0.794) and in patients with infections (r=0.487) a statistically significant correlation was present between d-dimer levels and the APACHE II score (P<0.001). The logistic organ dysfunction score (LOD, P<0.001) correlated with d-dimer levels only in patients with circulatory impairment (r=0.474). On the contrary, patients without circulatory impairment demonstrated no correlation of d-dimer levels to the APACHE II or LOD score. Taking all patients together, no correlations of d-dimer levels with single organ failure or with indicators of infection could be detected. In conclusion, d-dimer plasma levels strongly correlated with the severity of the disease and organ dysfunction in patients with circulatory impairment or infections suggesting that elevated d-dimer levels may reflect the extent of microcirculatory failure. Thus, a therapeutic strategy to improve the microcirculation in such patients may be monitored using d-dimer plasma levels.

Comparison of outcomes of kidney transplantation from donation after brain death, donation after circulatory death, and donation after brain death followed by circulatory death donors.

PubMed

Chen, Guodong; Wang, Chang; Ko, Dicken Shiu-Chung; Qiu, Jiang; Yuan, Xiaopeng; Han, Ming; Wang, Changxi; He, Xiaoshun; Chen, Lizhong

2017-11-01

There are three categories of deceased donors of kidney transplantation in China, donation after brain death (DBD), donation after circulatory death (DCD), and donation after brain death followed by circulatory death (DBCD) donors. The aim of this study was to compare the outcomes of kidney transplantation from these three categories of deceased donors. We retrospectively reviewed 469 recipients who received deceased kidney transplantation in our hospital from February 2007 to June 2015. The recipients were divided into three groups according to the source of their donor kidneys: DBD, DCD, or DBCD. The primary endpoints were delayed graft function (DGF), graft loss, and patient death. The warm ischemia time was much longer in DCD group compared to DBCD group (18.4 minutes vs 12.9 minutes, P < .001). DGF rate was higher in DCD group than in DBD and DBCD groups (22.5% vs 10.2% and 13.8%, respectively, P = .021). Urinary leakage was much higher in DCD group (P = .049). Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that 1-, 2-, and 3-year patient survivals were all comparable among the three groups. DBCD kidney transplantation has lower incidences of DGF and urinary leakage than DCD kidney transplant. However, the overall patient and graft survival were comparable among DBD, DCD, and DBCD kidney transplantation. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Orbit-spin coupling and the interannual variability of global-scale dust storm occurrence on Mars

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shirley, James H.; Mischna, Michael A.

2017-05-01

A new physical hypothesis predicts that a weak coupling of the orbital and rotational motions of extended bodies may give rise to a modulation of circulatory flows within their atmospheres. Driven cycles of intensification and relaxation of large-scale circulatory flows are predicted, with the phasing of these changes linked directly to the rate of change of the orbital angular momentum, dL/dt, with respect to inertial frames. We test the hypothesis that global-scale dust storms (GDS) on Mars may occur when periods of circulatory intensification (associated with positive and negative extrema of the dL/dt waveform) coincide with the southern summer dust storm season on Mars. The orbit-spin coupling hypothesis additionally predicts that the intervening 'transitional' periods, which are characterized by the disappearance and subsequent sign change of dL/dt, may be unfavorable for the occurrence of GDS, when they occur during the southern summer dust storm season. These hypotheses are strongly supported by comparisons between calculated dynamical time series of dL/dt and historic observations. All of the nine known global-scale dust storms on Mars took place during Mars years when circulatory intensification during the dust storm season is 'retrodicted' under the orbit-spin coupling hypothesis. None of the historic global-scale dust storms of our catalog occurred during transitional intervals. Orbit-spin coupling appears to play an important role in the excitation of the interannual variability of the atmospheric circulation of Mars.

MicroRNAs as Peripheral Biomarkers in Aging and Age-Related Diseases.

PubMed

Kumar, S; Vijayan, M; Bhatti, J S; Reddy, P H

2017-01-01

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are found in the circulatory biofluids considering the important molecules for biomarker study in aging and age-related diseases. Blood or blood components (serum/plasma) are primary sources of circulatory miRNAs and can release these in cell-free form either bound with some protein components or encapsulated with microvesicle particles, called exosomes. miRNAs are quite stable in the peripheral circulation and can be detected by high-throughput techniques like qRT-PCR, microarray, and sequencing. Intracellular miRNAs could modulate mRNA activity through target-specific binding and play a crucial role in intercellular communications. At a pathological level, changes in cellular homeostasis lead to the modulation of molecular function of cells; as a result, miRNA expression is deregulated. Deregulated miRNAs came out from cells and frequently circulate in extracellular body fluids as part of various human diseases. Most common aging-associated diseases are cardiovascular disease, cancer, arthritis, dementia, cataract, osteoporosis, diabetes, hypertension, and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, Parkinson's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Variation in the miRNA signature in a diseased peripheral circulatory system opens up a new avenue in the field of biomarker discovery. Here, we measure the biomarker potential of circulatory miRNAs in aging and various aging-related pathologies. However, further more confirmatory researches are needed to elaborate these findings at the translation level. © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Development and evaluation of endurance test system for ventricular assist devices.

PubMed

Sumikura, Hirohito; Homma, Akihiko; Ohnuma, Kentaro; Taenaka, Yoshiyuki; Takewa, Yoshiaki; Mukaibayashi, Hiroshi; Katano, Kazuo; Tatsumi, Eisuke

2013-06-01

We developed a novel endurance test system that can arbitrarily set various circulatory conditions and has durability and stability for long-term continuous evaluation of ventricular assist devices (VADs), and we evaluated its fundamental performance and prolonged durability and stability. The circulation circuit of the present endurance test system consisted of a pulsatile pump with a small closed chamber (SCC), a closed chamber, a reservoir and an electromagnetic proportional valve. Two duckbill valves were mounted in the inlet and outlet of the pulsatile pump. The features of the circulation circuit are as follows: (1) the components of the circulation circuit consist of optimized industrial devices, giving durability; (2) the pulsatile pump can change the heart rate and stroke length (SL), as well as its compliance using the SCC. Therefore, the endurance test system can quantitatively reproduce various circulatory conditions. The range of reproducible circulatory conditions in the endurance test circuit was examined in terms of fundamental performance. Additionally, continuous operation for 6 months was performed in order to evaluate the durability and stability. The circulation circuit was able to set up a wide range of pressure and total flow conditions using the SCC and adjusting the pulsatile pump SL. The long-term continuous operation test demonstrated that stable, continuous operation for 6 months was possible without leakage or industrial device failure. The newly developed endurance test system demonstrated a wide range of reproducible circulatory conditions, durability and stability, and is a promising approach for evaluating the basic characteristics of VADs.

Superior cerebral protection with profound hypothermia during circulatory arrest.

PubMed

Gillinov, A M; Redmond, J M; Zehr, K J; Troncoso, J C; Arroyo, S; Lesser, R P; Lee, A W; Stuart, R S; Reitz, B A; Baumgartner, W A

1993-06-01

The optimal temperature for cerebral protection during hypothermic circulatory arrest is not known. This study was undertaken to test the hypothesis that deeper levels of cerebral hypothermia (< 10 degrees C) confer better protection against neurologic injury during prolonged hypothermic circulatory arrest ("colder is better"). Twelve male dogs (20 to 25 kg) were placed on closed-chest cardiopulmonary bypass via femoral artery and femoral/external jugular vein. Using surface and core cooling, tympanic membrane temperature was lowered to 18 degrees to 20 degrees C (deep hypothermia, n = 6) or 5 degrees to 7 degrees C (profound hypothermia, n = 6). After 2 hours of hypothermic circulatory arrest, animals were rewarmed to 35 degrees to 37 degrees C on cardiopulmonary bypass. All were mechanically ventilated and monitored in an intensive care unit setting for 20 hours. Neurologic assessment was performed every 12 hours using a species-specific behavior scale that yielded a neurodeficit score ranging from 0% to 100%, where 0 = normal and 100% = brain dead. After 72 hours, animals were sacrificed and examined histologically for neurologic injury. Histologic injury scores were assigned to each animal (range, 0 [normal] to 100 [severe injury]). At the end of the observation period, profoundly hypothermic animals had better neurologic function (neurodeficit score, 5.7% +/- 4.0%) compared with deeply hypothermic animals (neurodeficit score, 41% +/- 9.3%; p < 0.006). Every animal had histologic evidence of neurologic injury, but profoundly hypothermic animals had significantly less injury (histologic injury score, 19.2 +/- 1.2 versus 48.3 +/- 1.5; p < 0.0001).

Mock Target Window OTR and IR Design and Testing

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

Wass, Alexander Joseph

In order to fully verify temperature measurements made on the target window using infrared (IR) optical non-contact methods, actual comparative measurements are made with a real beam distribution as the heat source using Argonne National Laboratory’s (ANL) 35 MeV electron accelerator. Using Monte Carlo N-Particle (MCNP) simulations and thermal Finite Element Analysis (FEA), a cooled mock target window with thermocouple implants is designed to be used in such a test to achieve window temperatures up to 700°C. An uncoated and blackcoated mock window is designed to enhance the IR temperature measurements and verify optical transmitted radiation (OTR) imagery. This allowsmore » us to fully verify and characterize our temperature accuracy with our current IR camera method and any future method we may wish to explore using actual production conditions. This test also provides us with valuable conclusions/concerns regarding the calibration method we developed using our IR test stand at TA-53 in MPF-14.« less

Efficacy of bacteriophage therapy in a model of Burkholderia cenocepacia pulmonary infection

PubMed Central

Carmody, Lisa A.; Gill, Jason J.; Summer, Elizabeth J.; Sajjan, Uma S.; Gonzalez, Carlos F.; Young, Ryland F.; LiPuma, John J.

2009-01-01

The therapeutic potential of bacteriophage (phage) in a mouse model of acute B. cenocepacia pulmonary infection was assessed. Phage were administered by either intranasal (i.n.) inhalation or intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection. Bacterial density, macrophage inflammatory protein-2 (MIP-2), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα) levels were significantly reduced in lungs of mice treated with i.p. phage. No significant differences in lung bacterial density or MIP-2 levels were found between untreated mice and mice treated with i.n. phage, i.p. UV-inactivated phage, or i.p. λ phage controls. Mock-infected mice treated with phage showed no significant increase in lung MIP-2 or TNFα levels compared to mock-infected / mock-treated mice. We have demonstrated the efficacy of phage therapy in an acute B. cenocepacia lung infection model. Systemic administration of phage was more effective than inhalational administration, suggesting that circulating phage have better access to bacteria in lung compared to topical phage. PMID:20001604

A Gaia DR2 Mock Stellar Catalog

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rybizki, Jan; Demleitner, Markus; Fouesneau, Morgan; Bailer-Jones, Coryn; Rix, Hans-Walter; Andrae, René

2018-07-01

We present a mock catalog of Milky Way stars, matching in volume and depth the content of the Gaia data release 2 (GDR2). We generated our catalog using Galaxia, a tool to sample stars from a Besançon Galactic model, together with a realistic 3D dust extinction map. The catalog mimics the complete GDR2 data model and contains most of the entries in the Gaia source catalog: five-parameter astrometry, three-band photometry, radial velocities, stellar parameters, and associated scaled nominal uncertainty estimates. In addition, we supplemented the catalog with extinctions and photometry for non-Gaia bands. This catalog can be used to prepare GDR2 queries in a realistic runtime environment, and it can serve as a Galactic model against which to compare the actual GDR2 data in the space of observables. The catalog is hosted through the virtual observatory GAVO’s Heidelberg data center (http://dc.g-vo.org/tableinfo/gdr2mock.main) service, and thus can be queried using ADQL as for GDR2 data.

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

Kaurov, Alexander A., E-mail: kaurov@uchicago.edu

The methods for studying the epoch of cosmic reionization vary from full radiative transfer simulations to purely analytical models. While numerical approaches are computationally expensive and are not suitable for generating many mock catalogs, analytical methods are based on assumptions and approximations. We explore the interconnection between both methods. First, we ask how the analytical framework of excursion set formalism can be used for statistical analysis of numerical simulations and visual representation of the morphology of ionization fronts. Second, we explore the methods of training the analytical model on a given numerical simulation. We present a new code which emergedmore » from this study. Its main application is to match the analytical model with a numerical simulation. Then, it allows one to generate mock reionization catalogs with volumes exceeding the original simulation quickly and computationally inexpensively, meanwhile reproducing large-scale statistical properties. These mock catalogs are particularly useful for cosmic microwave background polarization and 21 cm experiments, where large volumes are required to simulate the observed signal.« less

Macrophage Transcriptional Responses following In Vitro Infection with a Highly Virulent African Swine Fever Virus Isolate

PubMed Central

Zhang, Fuquan; Hopwood, Paul; Abrams, Charles C.; Downing, Alison; Murray, Frazer; Talbot, Richard; Archibald, Alan; Lowden, Stewart; Dixon, Linda K.

2006-01-01

We used a porcine microarray containing 2,880 cDNAs to investigate the response of macrophages to infection by a virulent African swine fever virus (ASFV) isolate, Malawi LIL20/1. One hundred twenty-five targets were found to be significantly altered at either or both 4 h and 16 h postinfection compared with targets after mock infection. These targets were assigned into three groups according to their temporal expression profiles. Eighty-six targets showed increased expression levels at 4 h postinfection but returned to expression levels similar to those in mock-infected cells at 16 h postinfection. These encoded several proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines, surface proteins, and proteins involved in cell signaling and trafficking pathways. Thirty-four targets showed increased expression levels at 16 h postinfection compared to levels at 4 h postinfection and in mock-infected cells. One host gene showed increased expression levels at both 4 and 16 h postinfection compared to levels in mock-infected cells. The microarray results were validated for 12 selected genes by quantitative real-time PCR. Levels of protein expression and secretion were measured for two proinflammatory cytokines, interleukin 1β and tumor necrosis factor alpha, during a time course of infection with either the virulent Malawi LIL20/1 isolate or the OUR T88/3 nonpathogenic isolate. The results revealed differences between these two ASFV isolates in the amounts of these cytokines secreted from infected cells. PMID:17041222

Exploring employment readiness through mock job interview and workplace role-play exercises: comparing youth with physical disabilities to their typically developing peers.

PubMed

Lindsay, Sally; McDougall, Carolyn; Sanford, Robyn; Menna-Dack, Dolly; Kingsnorth, Shauna; Adams, Tracey

2015-01-01

To assess performance differences in a mock job interview and workplace role-play exercise for youth with disabilities compared to their typically developing peers. We evaluated a purposive sample of 31 youth (15 with a physical disability and 16 typically developing) on their performance (content and delivery) in employment readiness role-play exercises. Our findings show significant differences between youth with disabilities compared to typically developing peers in several areas of the mock interview content (i.e. responses to the questions: "tell me about yourself", "how would you provide feedback to someone not doing their share" and a problem-solving scenario question) and delivery (i.e. voice clarity and mean latency). We found no significant differences in the workplace role-play performances of youth with and without disabilities. Youth with physical disabilities performed poorer in some areas of a job interview compared to their typically developing peers. They could benefit from further targeted employment readiness training. Clinicians should: Coach youth with physical disability on how to "sell" their abilities to potential employers and encourage youth to get involved in volunteer activities and employment readiness training programs. Consider using mock job interviews and other employment role-play exercises as assessment and training tools for youth with physical disabilities. Involve speech pathologists in the development of employment readiness programs that address voice clarity as a potential delivery issue.

VizieR Online Data Catalog: A cosmic void catalog of SDSS DR12 BOSS galaxies (Mao+, 2017)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mao, Q.; Berlind, A. A.; Scherrer, R. J.; Neyrinck, M. C.; Scoccimarro, R.; Tinker, J. L.; McBride, C. K.; Schneider, D. P.; Pan, K.; Bizyaev, D.; Malanushenko, E.; Malanushenko, V.

2017-08-01

We present a cosmic void catalog using the large-scale structure galaxy catalog from the Baryon Oscillation Spectroscopic Survey (BOSS). This galaxy catalog is part of the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) Data Release 12 and is the final catalog of SDSS-III. We take into account the survey boundaries, masks, and angular and radial selection functions, and apply the ZOBOV (Neyrinck 2008MNRAS.386.2101N) void finding algorithm to the Galaxy catalog. We identify a total of 10643 voids. After making quality cuts to ensure that the voids represent real underdense regions, we obtain 1228 voids with effective radii spanning the range 20-100h-1Mpc and with central densities that are, on average, 30% of the mean sample density. We release versions of the catalogs both with and without quality cuts. We discuss the basic statistics of voids, such as their size and redshift distributions, and measure the radial density profile of the voids via a stacking technique. In addition, we construct mock void catalogs from 1000 mock galaxy catalogs, and find that the properties of BOSS voids are in good agreement with those in the mock catalogs. We compare the stellar mass distribution of galaxies living inside and outside of the voids, and find no large difference. These BOSS and mock void catalogs are useful for a number of cosmological and galaxy environment studies. (1 data file).

Hierarchical Bayesian inference of the initial mass function in composite stellar populations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dries, M.; Trager, S. C.; Koopmans, L. V. E.; Popping, G.; Somerville, R. S.

2018-03-01

The initial mass function (IMF) is a key ingredient in many studies of galaxy formation and evolution. Although the IMF is often assumed to be universal, there is continuing evidence that it is not universal. Spectroscopic studies that derive the IMF of the unresolved stellar populations of a galaxy often assume that this spectrum can be described by a single stellar population (SSP). To alleviate these limitations, in this paper we have developed a unique hierarchical Bayesian framework for modelling composite stellar populations (CSPs). Within this framework, we use a parametrized IMF prior to regulate a direct inference of the IMF. We use this new framework to determine the number of SSPs that is required to fit a set of realistic CSP mock spectra. The CSP mock spectra that we use are based on semi-analytic models and have an IMF that varies as a function of stellar velocity dispersion of the galaxy. Our results suggest that using a single SSP biases the determination of the IMF slope to a higher value than the true slope, although the trend with stellar velocity dispersion is overall recovered. If we include more SSPs in the fit, the Bayesian evidence increases significantly and the inferred IMF slopes of our mock spectra converge, within the errors, to their true values. Most of the bias is already removed by using two SSPs instead of one. We show that we can reconstruct the variable IMF of our mock spectra for signal-to-noise ratios exceeding ˜75.

A Mock UF6 Feed and Withdrawal System for Testing Safeguards Monitoring Systems and Strategies Intended for Nuclear Fuel Enrichment and Processing Plants

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

Krichinsky, Alan M; Bates, Bruce E; Chesser, Joel B

2009-12-01

This report describes an engineering-scale, mock UF6 feed and withdrawal (F&W) system, its operation, and its intended uses. This system has been assembled to provide a test bed for evaluating and demonstrating new methodologies that can be used in remote, unattended, continuous monitoring of nuclear material process operations. These measures are being investigated to provide independent inspectors improved assurance that operations are being conducted within declared parameters, and to increase the overall effectiveness of safeguarding nuclear material. Testing applicable technologies on a mock F&W system, which uses water as a surrogate for UF6, enables thorough and cost-effective investigation of hardware,more » software, and operational strategies before their direct installation in an industrial nuclear material processing environment. Electronic scales used for continuous load-cell monitoring also are described as part of the basic mock F&W system description. Continuous monitoring components on the mock F&W system are linked to a data aggregation computer by a local network, which also is depicted. Data collection and storage systems are described only briefly in this report. The mock UF{sub 6} F&W system is economical to operate. It uses a simple process involving only a surge tank between feed tanks and product and withdrawal (or waste) tanks. The system uses water as the transfer fluid, thereby avoiding the use of hazardous UF{sub 6}. The system is not tethered to an operating industrial process involving nuclear materials, thereby allowing scenarios (e.g., material diversion) that cannot be conducted otherwise. These features facilitate conducting experiments that yield meaningful results with a minimum of expenditure and quick turnaround time. Technologies demonstrated on the engineering-scale system lead to field trials (described briefly in this report) for determining implementation issues and performance of the monitoring technologies under plant operating conditions. The ultimate use of technologies tested on the engineering-scale test bed is to work with safeguards agencies to install them in operating plants (e.g., enrichment and fuel processing plants), thereby promoting new safeguards measures with minimal impact to operating plants. In addition, this system is useful in identifying features for new plants that can be incorporated as part of 'safeguards by design,' in which load cells and other monitoring technologies are specified to provide outputs for automated monitoring and inspector evaluation.« less

Mechanisms of inhibition of growth of human pancreatic carcinoma implanted in nude mice by somatostatin receptor subtype 2.

PubMed

Kumar, Manoj; Liu, Zheng-Ren; Thapa, Laxmi; Wang, Da-Yu; Tian, Rui; Qin, Ren-Yi

2004-08-01

Several studies reported that somatostatin receptor subtypes, especially subtype 2 (SSTR2), exerted their cytostatic and/or cytotoxic effects on various types of tumors. The aim of this study was to investigate the antitumor effect of SSTR2 gene transfer to the pancreatic cancer cell line PC-3 and the mechanisms involved in this effect. The full-length human SSTR2 cDNA was introduced into pancreatic cancer cell line PC-3 by lipofectamine-mediated transfection; positive clones were screened by G418, and stable expression of SSTR2 was detected by the immunohistochemical SABC method and RT-PCR. Athymic mice were separately xenografted with SSTR2-expressing cells (experimental group), vector control, and mock control cells. TUNEL assay was used to determine the apoptotic index (AI) in the tumors of these groups. The immunohistochemical SP method was used to determine expression of apoptosis-regulating genes Bcl-2 and Bax and re-expression of SSTR2 and to assess intratumoral microvessel density (MVD). Moreover, tumor volume and weight were compared among these 3 groups. Restoration of SSTR2 was observed in the experimental group both in vitro and in vivo. The AI was significantly higher in the experimental group (3.39 +/- 0.84%) compared with that in the vector control (0.69 +/- 0.08%) and mock control (0.68 +/- 0.09%) (P < 0.05). MVD was significantly lower in the experimental group (6.30 +/- 1.71) than that in the vector control (12.64 +/- 1.69) and mock control (13.50 +/- 1.86) (P < 0.05). Furthermore, a significant decrease in Bcl-2 and increase in Bax protein expression were detected in the experimental group compared with the vector control and mock control (P < 0.05). A significant negative correlation of protein expression between Bcl-2/Bax ratio and SSTR2 was observed in these tumors (P < 0.05). Tumor volume and weight were significantly decreased in the experimental group compared with the vector control and mock control (P < 0.05) groups. However, no significant differences were observed between the vector control and mock control (P > 0.05). Re-expression of the SSTR2 gene, the expression of which is frequently lost in human pancreatic adenocarcinoma, induces apoptosis, which may be mediated via down-regulation of Bcl-2 and up-regulation of Bax (alteration of Bcl-2/Bax ratio) and inhibits tumor angiogenesis in pancreatic carcinoma, resulting in inhibition of tumor growth.

Effect of three day bed-rest on circulatory and hormonal responses to active orthostatic test in endurance trained athletes and untrained subjects

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kubala, P.; Smorawinski, J.; Kaciuba-Uscilko, H.; Nazar, K.; Bicz, B.; Greenleaf, J. E.

1996-01-01

Circulatory and hormonal parameters were measured in endurance-trained athletes and control subjects during orthostatic tolerance tests conducted prior to and after three days of bed rest. Heart rate and blood pressure changes due to bed rest appeared to be the same in both groups. Hormonal changes, however, were different between the two groups, with the athletes having decreased sympathoadrenal activity and increased plasma renin activity. Untrained subjects had changes in cortisol secretion only.

Application of a PExSim for modeling a POLVAD artificial heart and the human circulatory system with left ventricle assistance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Siewnicka, Alicja; Fajdek, Bartlomiej; Janiszowski, Krzysztof

2010-01-01

This paper presents a model of the human circulatory system with the possible addition of a parallel assist device, which was developed for the purpose of artificial heart monitoring. Information about an identification experiment of an extracorporeal ventricle assist device POLVAD is included. The modelling methods applied and the corresponding functional blocks in a PExSim package are presented. The results of the simulation for physiological conditions, left ventricle failure and pathological conditions with parallel assistance are included.

[Prevention of circulatory system diseases in underground mining workers].

PubMed

Vlasova, E M; Alexeyev, M B; Shliapnikov, D M; Nosov, A E; Barannikov, V G

2015-01-01

The article covers results of preventive measures in workers engaged into underground mining. Those measures are aimed to prevent occupationally mediated health disorders resulting in circulatory diseases. The prophylaxis was proven effective on premorbid condition--that was demonstrated in reliable decrease of cause-effect relationship intensity for health disorders in workers subjected to prophylactic measures. Transitory disablement morbidity due to cicrulatory system diseases decreased. Situational modelling of risk changes for the studied group demonstrated changes of diseases risk under medical prophylactic measures. After the prophylaxis, the risk demonstrated 3.1 times decrease.

Limitations of using synthetic blood clots for measuring in vitro clot capture efficiency of inferior vena cava filters

PubMed Central

Robinson, Ronald A; Herbertson, Luke H; Das, Srilekha Sarkar; Malinauskas, Richard A; Pritchard, William F; Grossman, Laurence W

2013-01-01

The purpose of this study was first to evaluate the clot capture efficiency and capture location of six currently-marketed vena cava filters in a physiological venous flow loop, using synthetic polyacrylamide hydrogel clots, which were intended to simulate actual blood clots. After observing a measured anomaly for one of the test filters, we redirected the focus of the study to identify the cause of poor clot capture performance for large synthetic hydrogel clots. We hypothesized that the uncharacteristic low clot capture efficiency observed when testing the outlying filter can be attributed to the inadvertent use of dense, stiff synthetic hydrogel clots, and not as a result of the filter design or filter orientation. To study this issue, sheep blood clots and polyacrylamide (PA) synthetic clots were injected into a mock venous flow loop containing a clinical inferior vena cava (IVC) filter, and their captures were observed. Testing was performed with clots of various diameters (3.2, 4.8, and 6.4 mm), length-to-diameter ratios (1:1, 3:1, 10:1), and stiffness. By adjusting the chemical formulation, PA clots were fabricated to be soft, moderately stiff, or stiff with elastic moduli of 805 ± 2, 1696 ± 10 and 3295 ± 37 Pa, respectively. In comparison, the elastic moduli for freshly prepared sheep blood clots were 1690 ± 360 Pa. The outlying filter had a design that was characterized by peripheral gaps (up to 14 mm) between its wire struts. While a low clot capture rate was observed using large, stiff synthetic clots, the filter effectively captured similarly sized sheep blood clots and soft PA clots. Because the stiffer synthetic clots remained straight when approaching the filter in the IVC model flow loop, they were more likely to pass between the peripheral filter struts, while the softer, physiological clots tended to fold and were captured by the filter. These experiments demonstrated that if synthetic clots are used as a surrogate for animal or human blood clots for in vitro evaluation of vena cava filters, the material properties (eg, elastic modulus) and dynamic behavior of the surrogate should first be assessed to ensure that they accurately mimic an actual blood clot within the body. PMID:23690701

Limitations of using synthetic blood clots for measuring in vitro clot capture efficiency of inferior vena cava filters.

PubMed

Robinson, Ronald A; Herbertson, Luke H; Sarkar Das, Srilekha; Malinauskas, Richard A; Pritchard, William F; Grossman, Laurence W

2013-01-01

The purpose of this study was first to evaluate the clot capture efficiency and capture location of six currently-marketed vena cava filters in a physiological venous flow loop, using synthetic polyacrylamide hydrogel clots, which were intended to simulate actual blood clots. After observing a measured anomaly for one of the test filters, we redirected the focus of the study to identify the cause of poor clot capture performance for large synthetic hydrogel clots. We hypothesized that the uncharacteristic low clot capture efficiency observed when testing the outlying filter can be attributed to the inadvertent use of dense, stiff synthetic hydrogel clots, and not as a result of the filter design or filter orientation. To study this issue, sheep blood clots and polyacrylamide (PA) synthetic clots were injected into a mock venous flow loop containing a clinical inferior vena cava (IVC) filter, and their captures were observed. Testing was performed with clots of various diameters (3.2, 4.8, and 6.4 mm), length-to-diameter ratios (1:1, 3:1, 10:1), and stiffness. By adjusting the chemical formulation, PA clots were fabricated to be soft, moderately stiff, or stiff with elastic moduli of 805 ± 2, 1696 ± 10 and 3295 ± 37 Pa, respectively. In comparison, the elastic moduli for freshly prepared sheep blood clots were 1690 ± 360 Pa. The outlying filter had a design that was characterized by peripheral gaps (up to 14 mm) between its wire struts. While a low clot capture rate was observed using large, stiff synthetic clots, the filter effectively captured similarly sized sheep blood clots and soft PA clots. Because the stiffer synthetic clots remained straight when approaching the filter in the IVC model flow loop, they were more likely to pass between the peripheral filter struts, while the softer, physiological clots tended to fold and were captured by the filter. These experiments demonstrated that if synthetic clots are used as a surrogate for animal or human blood clots for in vitro evaluation of vena cava filters, the material properties (eg, elastic modulus) and dynamic behavior of the surrogate should first be assessed to ensure that they accurately mimic an actual blood clot within the body.

Investigation of the Flying Mock-Up of Consolidated Vultee XP-92 Airplane in the Ames 40- by 80-Foot Wind Tunnel: Pressure Distributions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Graham, David

1948-01-01

This report contains the results of the wind tunnel investigation of the pressure distribution on the flying mock-up of the Consolidated Vultee XP-92 airplane. Data are presented for the pressure distribution over the wing, vertical tail and the fuselage, and for the pressure loss and rate of flow through the ducted fuselage. Data are also presented for the calibration of two airspeed indicators, and for the calibration of angle-of-attack and sideslip-angle indicator vanes.

Small Sample Studies of Food Habits: I. The Relationship between Food Preference and Food Choice in Naval Enlisted Personnel at the Naval Construction Battalion Center, Davisville, Rhode Island

DTIC Science & Technology

1974-10-01

6-44 102. French onion soup 6-48 103. Strawberry milk shake 6-52 104. Sprite 6-56 105. Broccoli w/mock hollandaise sauce 6-60 106. Parmesan...Sandwich with Brown Gravy Grilled Cheeseburger on Toasted Roll Grilled Hamburger on Toasted Roll. • • < Broccoli with Mock Hollandaise Sauce ...MEAL APPENDIX B NAME/NUMBER ♦Beef Barley Soup _ Croutons > _ ♦Baked Virginia Ham with Pineapple Raisin Sauce _ Grilled Frankfurter on Toasted

Deep Hypothermic Circulatory Arrest vs. Antegrade Cerebral Perfusion in Cerebral Protection during the Surgical Treatment of Chronic Dissection of the Ascending and Arch Aorta

PubMed Central

Kamenskaya, Oksana Vasilyevna; Klinkova, Asya Stanislavovna; Chernyavsky, Alexander Mikhailovich; Lomivorotov, Vladimir Vladimirovich; Meshkov, Ivan Olegovich; Karaskov, Alexander Mikhailovich

2017-01-01

Abstract: Circulatory arrest during aortic surgery presents a risk of neurological complications. The present study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of deep hypothermic circulatory arrest (DHCA) vs. antegrade cerebral perfusion (ACP) in cerebral protection during the surgical treatment of chronic dissection of the ascending and arch aorta and to assess the quality-of-life (QoL) in the long-term postoperative period with respect to the used cerebral protection method. In a prospective, randomized study, 58 patients with chronic type I aortic dissection who underwent ascending aorta and aortic arch replacement surgery were included. Patients were allocated in two groups: 29 patients who underwent surgery under moderate hypothermia (24°C) combined with ACP and 29 patients who underwent surgery under DHCA (18°C) with craniocerebral hypothermia. The regional hemoglobin oxygen saturation (rSO2, %) were compared during surgery, neurological complications were analyzed during the early postoperative period, QoL was compared in the long-term postoperative period (1-year follow-up). During the early postoperative period, 37.9% of patients in the DHCA group exhibited neurological complications, compared with 13.8% of those in the ACP group (p < .05). The risk of neurological complications in the early postoperative period was dependent on the extent of rSO2 decrease during circulatory arrest. In the ACP group, rSO2 decreased by ≤17% from baseline during circulatory arrest. In the DHCA group, a more profound decrease in rSO2 (>30%) was recorded (p < .05). QoL in the long-term period after surgery improved, but it was not dependent on the cerebral protection method used during surgery. ACP during aortic replacement demonstrated the most advanced properties of cerebral protection that can be evidenced by a lesser degree of neurological complications, compared with patients who underwent surgery under conditions of DHCA. QoL after surgery was not dependent on the cerebral protection method used during surgery. PMID:28298661

Neighbouring green space and mortality in community-dwelling elderly Hong Kong Chinese: a cohort study.

PubMed

Wang, Dan; Lau, Kevin Ka-Lun; Yu, Ruby; Wong, Samuel Y S; Kwok, Timothy T Y; Woo, Jean

2017-08-01

Green space has been shown to be beneficial for human wellness through multiple pathways. This study aimed to explore the contributions of neighbouring green space to cause-specific mortality. Data from 3544 Chinese men and women (aged ≥65 years at baseline) in a community-based cohort study were analysed. Outcome measures, identified from the death registry, were death from all-cause, respiratory system disease, circulatory system disease. The quantity of green space (%) within a 300 m radius buffer was calculated for each subject from a map created based on the Normalised Difference Vegetation Index. Cox proportional hazard models adjusted for demographics, socioeconomics, lifestyle, health conditions and housing type were used to estimate the HRs and 95% CIs. During a mean of 10.3 years of follow-up, 795 deaths were identified. Our findings showed that a 10% increase in coverage of green space was significantly associated with a reduction in all-cause mortality (HR 0.963, 95% CI 0.930 to 0.998), circulatory system-caused mortality (HR 0.887, 95% CI 0.817 to 0.963) and stroke-caused mortality (HR 0.661, 95% CI 0.524 to 0.835), independent of age, sex, marital status, years lived in Hong Kong, education level, socioeconomic ladder, smoking, alcohol intake, diet quality, self-rated health and housing type. The inverse associations between coverage of green space with all-cause mortality (HR 0.964, 95% CI 0.931 to 0.999) and circulatory system disease-caused mortality (HR 0.888, 95% CI 0.817 to 0.964) were attenuated when the models were further adjusted for physical activity and cognitive function. The effects of green space on all-cause and circulatory system-caused mortality tended to be stronger in females than in males. Higher coverage of green space was associated with reduced risks of all-cause mortality, circulatory system-caused mortality and stroke-caused mortality in Chinese older people living in a highly urbanised city. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2017. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

Neighbouring green space and mortality in community-dwelling elderly Hong Kong Chinese: a cohort study

PubMed Central

Wang, Dan; Lau, Kevin Ka-Lun; Yu, Ruby; Wong, Samuel Y S; Kwok, Timothy T Y; Woo, Jean

2017-01-01

Objective Green space has been shown to be beneficial for human wellness through multiple pathways. This study aimed to explore the contributions of neighbouring green space to cause-specific mortality. Methods Data from 3544 Chinese men and women (aged ≥65 years at baseline) in a community-based cohort study were analysed. Outcome measures, identified from the death registry, were death from all-cause, respiratory system disease, circulatory system disease. The quantity of green space (%) within a 300 m radius buffer was calculated for each subject from a map created based on the Normalised Difference Vegetation Index. Cox proportional hazard models adjusted for demographics, socioeconomics, lifestyle, health conditions and housing type were used to estimate the HRs and 95% CIs. Results During a mean of 10.3 years of follow-up, 795 deaths were identified. Our findings showed that a 10% increase in coverage of green space was significantly associated with a reduction in all-cause mortality (HR 0.963, 95% CI 0.930 to 0.998), circulatory system-caused mortality (HR 0.887, 95% CI 0.817 to 0.963) and stroke-caused mortality (HR 0.661, 95% CI 0.524 to 0.835), independent of age, sex, marital status, years lived in Hong Kong, education level, socioeconomic ladder, smoking, alcohol intake, diet quality, self-rated health and housing type. The inverse associations between coverage of green space with all-cause mortality (HR 0.964, 95% CI 0.931 to 0.999) and circulatory system disease-caused mortality (HR 0.888, 95% CI 0.817 to 0.964) were attenuated when the models were further adjusted for physical activity and cognitive function. The effects of green space on all-cause and circulatory system-caused mortality tended to be stronger in females than in males. Conclusion Higher coverage of green space was associated with reduced risks of all-cause mortality, circulatory system-caused mortality and stroke-caused mortality in Chinese older people living in a highly urbanised city. PMID:28765127

Antithrombin III is associated with acute liver failure in patients with end-stage heart failure undergoing mechanical circulatory support.

PubMed

Hoefer, Judith; Ulmer, Hanno; Kilo, Juliane; Margreiter, Raimund; Grimm, Michael; Mair, Peter; Ruttmann, Elfriede

2017-06-01

There are few data on the role of liver dysfunction in patients with end-stage heart failure supported by mechanical circulatory support. The aim of our study was to investigate predictors for acute liver failure in patients with end-stage heart failure undergoing mechanical circulatory support. A consecutive 164 patients with heart failure with New York Heart Association class IV undergoing mechanical circulatory support were investigated for acute liver failure using the King's College criteria. Clinical characteristics of heart failure together with hemodynamic and laboratory values were analyzed by logistic regression. A total of 45 patients (27.4%) with heart failure developed subsequent acute liver failure with a hospital mortality of 88.9%. Duration of heart failure, cause, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, use of vasopressors, central venous pressure, pulmonary capillary wedge pressure, pulmonary pulsatility index, cardiac index, and transaminases were not significantly associated with acute liver failure. Repeated decompensation, atrial fibrillation (P < .001) and the use of inotropes (P = .007), mean arterial (P = .005) and pulmonary pressures (P = .042), cholinesterase, international normalized ratio, bilirubin, lactate, and pH (P < .001) were predictive of acute liver failure in univariate analysis only. In multivariable analysis, decreased antithrombin III was the strongest single measurement indicating acute liver failure (relative risk per %, 0.84; 95% confidence interval, 0.77-0.93; P = .001) and remained an independent predictor when adjustment for the Model for End-Stage Liver Disease score was performed (relative risk per %, 0.89; 95% confidence interval, 0.80-0.99; P = .031). Antithrombin III less than 59.5% was identified as a cutoff value to predict acute liver failure with a corresponding sensitivity of 81% and specificity of 87%. In addition to the Model for End-Stage Liver Disease score, decreased antithrombin III activity tends to be superior in predicting acute liver failure compared with traditionally thought predictors. Antithrombin III measurement may help to identify patients more precisely who are developing acute liver failure during mechanical circulatory support. Copyright © 2017 The American Association for Thoracic Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Characterization of microRNAs of Beta macrocarpa and their responses to Beet necrotic yellow vein virus infection.

PubMed

Liu, Jun-Ying; Fan, Hui-Yan; Wang, Ying; Zhang, Yong-Liang; Li, Da-Wei; Yu, Jia-Lin; Han, Cheng-Gui

2017-01-01

Plant microRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of non-coding RNAs that play important roles in plant development, defense, and symptom development. Here, 547 known miRNAs representing 129 miRNA families, and 282 potential novel miRNAs were identified in Beta macrocarpa using small RNA deep sequencing. A phylogenetic analysis was performed, and 8 Beta lineage-specific miRNAs were identified. Through a differential expression analysis, miRNAs associated with Beet necrotic yellow vein virus (BNYVV) infection were identified and confirmed using a microarray analysis and stem-loop RT-qPCR. In total, 103 known miRNAs representing 38 miRNA families, and 45 potential novel miRNAs were differentially regulated, with at least a two-fold change, in BNYVV-infected plants compared with that of the mock-inoculated control. Targets of these differentially expressed miRNAs were also predicted by degradome sequencing. These differentially expressed miRNAs were involved in hormone biosynthesis and signal transduction pathways, and enhanced axillary bud development and plant defenses. This work is the first to describe miRNAs of the plant genus Beta and may offer a reference for miRNA research in other species in the genus. It provides valuable information on the pathogenicity mechanisms of BNYVV.

Heuristic estimation of electromagnetically tracked catheter shape for image-guided vascular procedures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mefleh, Fuad N.; Baker, G. Hamilton; Kwartowitz, David M.

2014-03-01

In our previous work we presented a novel image-guided surgery (IGS) system, Kit for Navigation by Image Focused Exploration (KNIFE).1,2 KNIFE has been demonstrated to be effective in guiding mock clinical procedures with the tip of an electromagnetically tracked catheter overlaid onto a pre-captured bi-plane fluoroscopic loop. Representation of the catheter in KNIFE differs greatly from what is captured by the fluoroscope, due to distortions and other properties of fluoroscopic images. When imaged by a fluoroscope, catheters can be visualized due to the inclusion of radiopaque materials (i.e. Bi, Ba, W) in the polymer blend.3 However, in KNIFE catheter location is determined using a single tracking seed located in the catheter tip that is represented as a single point overlaid on pre-captured fluoroscopic images. To bridge the gap in catheter representation between KNIFE and traditional methods we constructed a catheter with five tracking seeds positioned along the distal 70 mm of the catheter. We have currently investigated the use of four spline interpolation methods for estimation of true catheter shape and have assesed the error in their estimation of true catheter shape. In this work we present a method for the evaluation of interpolation algorithms with respect to catheter shape determination.

In-vitro evaluation of limitations and possibilities for the future use of intracorporeal gas exchangers placed in the upper lobe position.

PubMed

Schumer, Erin; Höffler, Klaus; Kuehn, Christian; Slaughter, Mark; Haverich, Axel; Wiegmann, Bettina

2018-03-01

The lack of donor organs has led to the development of alternative "destination therapies", such as a bio-artificial lung (BA) for end-stage lung disease. Ultimately aiming at a fully implantable BA, general capabilities and limitations of different oxygenators were tested based on the model of BA positioning at the right upper lobe. Three different-sized oxygenators (neonatal, paediatric, and adult) were tested in a mock circulation loop regarding oxygenation and decarboxylation capacities for three respiratory pathologies. Blood flows were imitated by a roller pump, and respiration was imitated by a mechanical ventilator with different FiO 2 applications. Pressure drops across the oxygenators and the integrity of the gas-exchange hollow fibers were analyzed. The neonatal oxygenator proved to be insufficient regarding oxygenation and decarboxylation. Despite elevated pCO 2 levels, the paediatric and adult oxygenators delivered comparable sufficient oxygen levels, but sufficient decarboxylation across the oxygenators was ensured only at flow rates of 0.5 L min. Only the adult oxygenator indicated no significant pressure drops. For all tested conditions, gas-exchange hollow fibers remained intact. This is the first study showing the general feasibility of delivering sufficient levels of gas exchange to an intracorporeal BA via patient's breathing, without damaging gas-exchange hollow fiber membranes.

Prototype Development of an Implantable Compliance Chamber for a Total Artificial Heart.

PubMed

Schmitz, Stephanie; Unthan, Kristin; Sedlaczek, Marc; Wald, Felix; Finocchiaro, Thomas; Spiliopoulos, Sotirios; Koerfer, Reiner; Steinseifer, Ulrich

2017-02-01

At our institute a total artificial heart is being developed. It is directly actuated by a linear drive in between two ventricles, which comprise membranes to separate the drive and blood flow. A compliance chamber (CC) is needed to reduce pressure peaks in the ventricles and to increase the pump capacity. Therefore, the movement of the membrane is supported by applying a negative pressure to the air volume inside the drive unit. This study presents the development of the implantable CC which is connected to the drive unit of the total artificial hearts (TAH). The anatomical fit of the CC is optimized by analyzing CT data and adapting the outer shape to ensure a proper fit. The pressure peaks are reduced by the additional volume and the flexible membrane of the CC. The validation measurements of change in pressure peaks and flow are performed using the complete TAH system connected to a custom mock circulation loop. Using the CC, the pressure peaks could be damped below 5 mm Hg in the operational range. The flow output was increased by up to 14.8% on the systemic side and 18.2% on the pulmonary side. The described implantable device can be used for upcoming chronic animal trials. © 2016 International Center for Artificial Organs and Transplantation and Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Blood circulatory system for noninvasive diagnostics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fricke, D.; Kraitl, J.; Ewald, H.

2013-02-01

Based on the human circulatory system, an artificial blood circulatory system was developed to allow the controlled variation of the following blood parameters: total hemoglobin concentration (ctHb), oxyhemoglobin (O2Hb) methemoglobin (MetHb) and carboxyhemoglobin (COHb). The optical properties of the blood were observed by online spectrometer measurements. The purpose of this was to observe and quantify the absorption, transmission and scattering properties of human whole blood in the wavelength range of 400 to 1700 nm. All the non-invasive measurements of the whole blood transmission-spectra were compared with sample results obtained by a Blood Gas Analyzer (BGA) to validate the results. For all measurements, donor erythrocyte concentrates were used. The concentration of hemoglobin was changed by adding fixed amounts of blood plasma to the erythrocyte concentrate. Oxygen saturation and COHb were adjusted by a continuous flow of N2, N2-CO and compressed air through a hollow fibre membrane oxygenator. Different methemoglobin concentrations were adjusted by using natrium nitrite. The blood temperature was kept constant at 37 °C via a tube heating mechanism, with a separate circulation of water passing through the membrane Oxygenator. The Temperature and pressure of the system were automatically controlled and monitored. The model was also used to test new non-invasive measurement systems, and for this reason special cuvettes were designed to imitate human tissue and generate plethysmographical signals. In the future, the blood circulatory system has the potential to be used for testing, validating and also to calibrate newly developed optical prototype devices. It can also be used to further investigate blood components of interest.

Noninvasive optoacoustic system for rapid diagnosis and management of circulatory shock

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Petrov, Irene Y.; Kinsky, Michael; Petrov, Yuriy; Petrov, Andrey; Henkel, S. N.; Seeton, Roger; Esenaliev, Rinat O.; Prough, Donald S.

2013-03-01

Circulatory shock can lead to death or severe complications, if not promptly diagnosed and effectively treated. Typically, diagnosis and management of circulatory shock are guided by blood pressure and heart rate. However, these variables have poor specificity, sensitivity, and predictive value. Early goal-directed therapy in septic shock patients, using central venous catheterization (CVC), reduced mortality from 46.5% to 30%. However, CVC is invasive and complication-prone. We proposed to use an optoacoustic technique for noninvasive, rapid assessment of peripheral and central venous oxygenation. In this work we used a medical grade optoacoustic system for noninvasive, ultrasound image-guided measurement of central and peripheral venous oxygenation. Venous oxygenation during shock declines more rapidly in the periphery than centrally. Ultrasound imaging of the axillary [peripheral] and internal jugular vein [central] was performed using the Vivid e (GE Healthcare). We built an optoacoustic interface incorporating an optoacoustic transducer and a standard ultrasound imaging probe. Central and peripheral venous oxygenations were measured continuously in healthy volunteers. To simulate shock-induced changes in central and peripheral oxygenation, we induced peripheral vasoconstriction in the upper extremity by using a cooling blanket. Central and peripheral venous oxygenations were measured before (baseline) and after cooling and after rewarming. During the entire experiment, central venous oxygenation was relatively stable, while peripheral venous oxygenation decreased by 5-10% due to cooling and recovered after rewarming. The obtained data indicate that noninvasive, optoacoustic measurements of central and peripheral venous oxygenation may be used for diagnosis and management of circulatory shock with high sensitivity and specificity.

Impact of dynamic changes of elevated bilirubin on survival in patients on veno-arterial extracorporeal life support for acute circulatory failure.

PubMed

Freundt, Miriam; Lunz, Dirk; Philipp, Alois; Panholzer, Bernd; Lubnow, Matthias; Friedrich, Christine; Rupprecht, Leopold; Hirt, Stephan; Haneya, Assad

2017-01-01

Veno-arterial extracorporeal life support (ECLS) is an established method to stabilize acute circulatory failure. Parameters and data on when to ideally wean circulatory support are limited. Bilirubin is a marker of end-organ damage. Therefore, the purpose of this large study was to evaluate the impact of dynamic changes of elevated bilirubin levels on survival in patients on ECLS. We reviewed 502 consecutive cases of ECLS from 2007 to 2015. Bilirubin levels were recorded before implantation and until six days after explantation. Dynamic bilirubin changes, and hemodynamic and laboratory outcome parameters were compared in survivors and nonsurvivors. Reason for ECLS implantation was cardiac arrest with ongoing resuscitation in 230 (45.8%), low cardiac output in 174 (34.7%) and inability to wean off cardiopulmonary bypass in 98 (19.5%) patients. 307 (61.2%) patients were weaned off ECLS, however, 206 (41.0%) survived. Mean duration of ECLS was 3 (2-6) days, and survivors received significantly longer ECLS (5 vs 3 days, p < 0.001). Survivors had significantly lower baseline bilirubin levels (p = 0.003). Bilirubin started to rise from day 2 in all patients. In survivors, bilirubin levels had trended down on the day of ECLS explantation and stayed at an acceptable level. However, in weaned patients who did not survive and patients who died on ECLS bilirubin levels continued to rise during the recorded period. ECLS support improves survival in patients with acute circulatory failure. Down trending bilirubin levels on veno-arterial ECLS indicate improved chances of successful weaning and survival in hemodynamically stable patients.

Measurement of mean circulatory filling pressure and vascular compliance in domestic pigs.

PubMed

Ogilvie, R I; Zborowska-Sluis, D; Tenaschuk, B

1990-06-01

To measure mean circulatory filling pressure (Pmcf), a balloon was placed in the right atrium of seven pentobarbital sodium-anesthetized open-chest pigs for transient occlusion of flow combined with mechanical transfer of blood from the arterial to the venous circulation. Equilibration occurred within 6-8 s at a pressure at 12.3 +/- 0.3 (SE) mmHg after a 2.9 +/- 0.2 ml/kg transfer of blood. In another group of pentobarbital sodium-anesthetized closed-chest pigs, acetylcholine (ACh) was used to induce cardiac arrest. The Pmcf was 11.6 +/- 1.0 mmHg in the 7:17 pigs that arrested for 6-8 s. In four isoflurane-anesthetized closed-chest pigs, the Pmcf was 12.0 +/- 1.0 mmHg after terminal cardiac arrest induced by KCl. The pressure gradient for venous return [Pmcf--right atrial pressure (Pra)] averaged 5.9 +/- 0.2 mmHg. Total vascular compliance estimated from plots of Pmcf at base line, 5, and 10 ml/kg increases in circulating volume was 2.1 +/- 0.3 and 3.5 +/- 0.9 ml.kg-1.mmHg-1 in the balloon and ACh groups, respectively compared with 2.8 +/- 0.4 ml.kg-1.mmHg-1 using a volume infusion-withdrawal method without circulatory arrest. The use of ACh for the estimate of Pmcf in the pig is not recommended because of failure to consistently induce circulatory arrest and probable failure to achieve sufficient equilibrium of vascular pressures 6-8 s postarrest when it occurs.

Circadian variation in the circulatory responses to exercise: relevance to the morning peaks in strokes and cardiac events

PubMed Central

2009-01-01

Sudden cardiac and cerebral events are most common in the morning. A fundamental question is whether these events are triggered by the increase in physical activity after waking, and/or a result of circadian variation in the responses of circulatory function to exercise. Although signaling pathways from the master circadian clock in the suprachiasmatic nuclei to sites of circulatory control are not yet understood, it is known that cerebral blood flow, autoregulation and cerebrovascular reactivity to changes in CO2 are impaired in the morning and, therefore, could explain the increased risk of cerebrovascular events. Blood pressure (BP) and the rate pressure product (RPP) show marked ‘morning surges’ when people are studied in free-living conditions, making the rupture of a fragile atherosclerotic plaque and sudden cardiac event more likely. Since cerebral autoregulation is reduced in the morning, this surge in BP may also exacerbate the risk of hemorrhagic and ischemic strokes in the presence of other acute and chronic risk factors. Increased sympathetic activity, decreased endothelial function, and increased platelet aggregability could also be important in explaining the morning peak in cardiac and cerebral events but how these factors respond to exercise at different times of day is unclear. Evidence is emerging that the exercise-related responses of BP and RPP are increased in the morning when prior sleep is controlled. We recommend that such ‘semi-constant routine’ protocols are employed to examine the relative influence of the body clock and exogenous factors on the 24-h variation in other circulatory factors. PMID:19826832

Vasoactive mediators and splanchnic perfusion.

PubMed

Reilly, P M; Bulkley, G B

1993-02-01

To provide an overview of the splanchnic hemodynamic response to circulatory shock. Previous studies performed in our own laboratory, as well as a computer-assisted search of the English language literature (MEDLINE, 1966 to 1991), followed by a selective review of pertinent articles. Studies were selected that demonstrated relevance to the splanchnic hemodynamic response to circulatory shock, either by investigating the pathophysiology or documenting the sequelae. Article selection included clinical studies as well as studies in appropriate animal models. Pertinent data were abstracted from the cited articles. The splanchnic hemodynamic response to circulatory shock is characterized by a selective vasoconstriction of the mesenteric vasculature mediated largely by the renin-angiotensin axis. This vasospasm, while providing a natural selective advantage to the organism in mild-to-moderate shock (preserving relative perfusion of the heart, kidneys, and brain), may, in more severe shock, cause consequent loss of the gut epithelial barrier, or even hemorrhagic gastritis, ischemic colitis, or ischemic hepatitis. From a physiologic standpoint, nonpulsatile cardiopulmonary bypass, a controlled form of circulatory shock, has been found experimentally to significantly increase circulating levels of angiotensin II, the hormone responsible for this selective splanchnic vasoconstriction. While angiotensin II has been viewed primarily as the mediator responsible for the increased total vascular resistance seen during (and after) cardiopulmonary bypass, it may also cause the disproportionate decrease in mesenteric perfusion, as measured in human subjects by intraluminal gastric tonometry and galactose clearance by the liver, as well as the consequent development of the multiple organ failure syndrome seen in 1% to 5% of patients after cardiac surgery.

Fatty Acid-Mediated Inhibition of Metal Binding to the Multi-Metal Site on Serum Albumin: Implications for Cardiovascular Disease.

PubMed

Blindauer, Claudia A; Khazaipoul, Siavash; Yu, Ruitao; Stewart, Alan J

2016-01-01

Human serum albumin (HSA) is the major protein in blood plasma and is responsible for circulatory transport of a range of small molecules including fatty acids, metal ions and drugs. We previously identified the major plasma Zn2+ transport site on HSA and revealed that fatty-acid binding (at a distinct site called the FA2 site) and Zn2+ binding are interdependent via an allosteric mechanism. Since binding affinities of long-chain fatty acids exceed those of plasma Zn2+, this means that under certain circumstances the binding of fatty acid molecules to HSA is likely to diminish HSA Zn2+-binding, and hence affects the control of circulatory and cellular Zn2+ dynamics. This relationship between circulatory fatty acid and Zn2+ dynamics is likely to have important physiological and pathological implications, especially since it has been recognised that Zn2+ acts as a signalling agent in many cell types. Fatty acid levels in the blood are dynamic, but most importantly, chronic elevation of plasma fatty acid levels is associated with some metabolic disorders and disease states - including myocardial infarction and other cardiovascular diseases. In this article, we briefly review the metal-binding properties of albumin and highlight the importance of their interplay with fatty acid binding. We also consider the impact of this dynamic link upon levels and speciation of plasma Zn2+, its effect upon cellular Zn2+ homeostasis and its relevance to cardiovascular and circulatory processes in health and disease.

Revealing a new mode of sensitization induced by mechanical circulatory support devices: Impact of anti-AT1 R antibodies.

PubMed

Zhang, Xiaohai; Mirocha, James; Aintablian, Tamar; Dimbil, Sadia; Moriguchi, Jaime; Arabia, Francisco; Kobashigawa, Jon A; Reinsmoen, Nancy

2018-02-01

Increased levels of angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT 1 R) antibody have been shown to be associated with allograft rejection. This study aims to determine the rate of development of antibody to AT 1 R after mechanical circulatory support device (MCS) implantation, and if the development of strong binding AT 1 R antibodies is associated with survival. Eighty-eight patients who had one MCS implantation were accessed based on serum availability. Mechanical circulatory support devices in this cohort included pneumatic bilateral paracorporeal ventricular assist device, continuous flow left ventricular assist device, and total artificial heart. Of 88 patients, seven patients had AT 1 R antibodies ≥40 U/mL preimplantation. For 81 patients who had AT 1 R antibodies <40 U/mL, the median value was 8 U/mL. Of these 81 patients, AT 1 R antibody levels in 55 (68%) patients reached the saturated concentration (≥40 U/mL) postimplantation (P < .0001), with the highest percentage of patients with the saturated level of AT 1 R antibody observed in the pneumatic bilateral paracorporeal ventricular assist device group. Compared to patients without the saturated level of AT 1 R antibodies, patients with the saturated AT 1 R antibody level had lower 18-month survival (P = .040). Mechanical circulatory support devices implantation significantly increases AT 1 R antibody levels. The saturated level of AT 1 R antibodies is associated with lower patient survival postimplantation. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Sensitivity Analysis of Median Lifetime on Radiation Risks Estimates for Cancer and Circulatory Disease amongst Never-Smokers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chappell, Lori J.; Cucinotta, Francis A.

2011-01-01

Radiation risks are estimated in a competing risk formalism where age or time after exposure estimates of increased risks for cancer and circulatory diseases are folded with a probability to survive to a given age. The survival function, also called the life-table, changes with calendar year, gender, smoking status and other demographic variables. An outstanding problem in risk estimation is the method of risk transfer between exposed populations and a second population where risks are to be estimated. Approaches used to transfer risks are based on: 1) Multiplicative risk transfer models -proportional to background disease rates. 2) Additive risk transfer model -risks independent of background rates. In addition, a Mixture model is often considered where the multiplicative and additive transfer assumptions are given weighted contributions. We studied the influence of the survival probability on the risk of exposure induced cancer and circulatory disease morbidity and mortality in the Multiplicative transfer model and the Mixture model. Risks for never-smokers (NS) compared to the average U.S. population are estimated to be reduced between 30% and 60% dependent on model assumptions. Lung cancer is the major contributor to the reduction for NS, with additional contributions from circulatory diseases and cancers of the stomach, liver, bladder, oral cavity, esophagus, colon, a portion of the solid cancer remainder, and leukemia. Greater improvements in risk estimates for NS s are possible, and would be dependent on improved understanding of risk transfer models, and elucidating the role of space radiation on the various stages of disease formation (e.g. initiation, promotion, and progression).

Donation After Circulatory Death for Liver Transplantation: A Meta-Analysis on the Location of Life Support Withdrawal Affecting Outcomes.

PubMed

Cao, Yiming; Shahrestani, Sara; Chew, Hong Chee; Crawford, Michael; Macdonald, Peter Simon; Laurence, Jerome; Hawthorne, Wayne John; Dhital, Kumud; Pleass, Henry

2016-07-01

Liver transplantation using donation after circulatory death (DCD) donors is associated with inferior outcomes compared to donation after brain death (DBD). Prolonged donor warm ischemic time has been identified as the key factor responsible for this difference. Various aspects of the donor life support withdrawal procedure, including location of withdrawal and administration of antemortem heparin, are thought to play important roles in mitigating the effects of warm ischemia. However, a systematic exploration of these factors is important for more confident integration of these practices into a standard DCD protocol. Medline, EMBASE, and Cochrane libraries were systematically searched and 23 relevant studies identified for analysis. Donation after circulatory death recipients were stratified according to location of life support withdrawal (intensive care unit or operating theater) and use of antemortem heparin. Donation after circulatory death recipients had comparable 1-year patient survival to DBD recipients if the location of withdrawal of life support was the operating theater, but not if the location was the intensive care unit. Likewise, the inferior 1-year graft survival and higher incidence of ischemic cholangiopathy of DCD compared with DBD recipients were improved by withdrawal in operating theater, although higher rates of ischemic cholangiopathy and worse graft survival were still observed in DCD recipients. Furthermore, administering heparin before withdrawal of life support reduced the incidence of primary nonfunction of the allograft. Our evidence suggests that withdrawal in the operating theater and premortem heparin administration improve DCD liver transplant outcomes, thus allowing for the most effective usage of these valuable organs.

Atmospheric pressure fluctuations in the far infrasound range and emergency transport events coded as circulatory system diseases.

PubMed

Didyk, L A; Gorgo, Yu P; Dirckx, J J J; Bogdanov, V B; Buytaert, J A N; Lysenko, V A; Didyk, N P; Vershygora, A V; Erygina, V T

2008-09-01

This study examines whether a relation exists between rapid atmospheric pressure fluctuations, attributed to the far infrasound frequency range (APF), and a number of emergency transport events coded as circulatory system diseases (EEC). Over an entire year, the average integral amplitudes of APF in the range of periods from 3 s to 120 s over each hour (HA) were measured. Daily dynamics of HA averaged over the year revealed a wave shape with smooth increase from night to day followed by decrease from day to night. The total daily number of EEC within the city of Kiev, Ukraine, was related to the daily mean of HA (DHA) and to the ratio of HA averaged over the day time to HA averaged over the night time (Rdn), and was checked for confounding effects of classical meteorological variables through non-parametric regression algorithms. The number of EEC were significantly higher on days with high DHA (3.72-11.07 Pa, n = 87) compared to the low DHA (0.7-3.62 Pa, n = 260, p = 0.01), as well at days with low Rdn (0.21-1.64, n = 229) compared to the high Rdn (1.65-7.2, n = 118, p = 0.03). A difference between DHA and Rdn effects on the emergency events related to different categories of circulatory diseases points to a higher sensitivity of rheumatic and cerebro-vascular diseases to DHA, and ischaemic and hypertensive diseases to Rdn. Results suggest that APF could be considered as a meteorotropic factor capable of influencing circulatory system diseases.

Contrasting patterns of hospital admissions and mortality during heat waves: are deaths from circulatory disease a real excess or an artifact?

PubMed

Mastrangelo, Giuseppe; Hajat, Shakoor; Fadda, Emanuela; Buja, Alessandra; Fedeli, Ugo; Spolaore, Paolo

2006-01-01

In old subjects exposed to extreme high temperature during a heat wave, studies have consistently reported an excess of death from cardio- or cerebro-vascular disease. By contrast, dehydration, heat stroke, acute renal insufficiency, and respiratory disease were the main causes of hospital admission in the two studies carried out in elderly during short spells of hot weather. The excess of circulatory disease reported by mortality studies, but not by morbidity studies, could be explained by the hypothesis that deaths from circulatory disease occur rapidly in isolated people before they reach a hospital. Since the contrasting patterns of hospital admission and mortality during heat waves could also be due to chance (random variation over time and space in the spectrum of diseases induced by extreme heat), and bias (poor quality of diagnosis on death certificate and other artifacts), it should be confirmed by a concurrent study of mortality and morbidity. Many heat-related diseases may be preventable with adequate warning and an appropriate response to heat emergencies, but preventive efforts are complicated by the short time interval that may elapse between high temperatures and death. Therefore, prevention programs must be based around rapid identification of high-risk conditions and persons. The effectiveness of the intervention measures must be formally evaluated. If cardio- and cerebro-vascular diseases are rapidly fatal health outcomes with a short time interval between exposure to high temperature and death, deaths from circulatory disease might be an useful indicator in evaluating the effectiveness of a heat watch/warning system.

Atmospheric pressure fluctuations in the far infrasound range and emergency transport events coded as circulatory system diseases

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Didyk, L. A.; Gorgo, Yu. P.; Dirckx, J. J. J.; Bogdanov, V. B.; Buytaert, J. A. N.; Lysenko, V. A.; Didyk, N. P.; Vershygora, A. V.; Erygina, V. T.

2008-09-01

This study examines whether a relation exists between rapid atmospheric pressure fluctuations, attributed to the far infrasound frequency range (APF), and a number of emergency transport events coded as circulatory system diseases (EEC). Over an entire year, the average integral amplitudes of APF in the range of periods from 3 s to 120 s over each hour (HA) were measured. Daily dynamics of HA averaged over the year revealed a wave shape with smooth increase from night to day followed by decrease from day to night. The total daily number of EEC within the city of Kiev, Ukraine, was related to the daily mean of HA (DHA) and to the ratio of HA averaged over the day time to HA averaged over the night time (Rdn), and was checked for confounding effects of classical meteorological variables through non-parametric regression algorithms. The number of EEC were significantly higher on days with high DHA (3.72 11.07 Pa, n = 87) compared to the low DHA (0.7 3.62 Pa, n = 260, p = 0.01), as well at days with low Rdn (0.21 1.64, n = 229) compared to the high Rdn (1.65 7.2, n = 118, p = 0.03). A difference between DHA and Rdn effects on the emergency events related to different categories of circulatory diseases points to a higher sensitivity of rheumatic and cerebro-vascular diseases to DHA, and ischaemic and hypertensive diseases to Rdn. Results suggest that APF could be considered as a meteorotropic factor capable of influencing circulatory system diseases.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of the circulatory, erythrocellular and CSF selenium levels in Alzheimer's disease: A metal meta-analysis (AMMA study-I).

PubMed

Reddy, Varikasuvu Seshadri; Bukke, Suman; Dutt, Naveen; Rana, Puneet; Pandey, Arun Kumar

2017-07-01

Available studies in the literature on the selenium levels in Alzheimer's disease (AD) are inconsistent with some studies reporting its decrease in the circulation, while others reported an increase or no change as compared to controls. The objective of this study was to perform a meta-analysis of circulatory (plasma/serum and blood), erythrocyte and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) selenium levels in AD compared controls. We also performed a meta-analysis of the correlation coefficients (r) to demonstrate the associations between selenium and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) in AD patients. All major databases were searched for eligible studies. We included 12 case-control/observational studies reporting selenium concentrations in AD and controls. Pooled-overall effect size as standardized mean difference (SMD) and pooled r-values were generated using Review Manager 5.3 and MedCalc 15.8 software. Random-effects meta-analysis indicated a decrease in circulatory (SMD=-0.44), erythrocellular (SMD=-0.52) and CSF (SMD=-0.14) selenium levels in AD patients compared to controls. Stratified meta-analysis demonstrated that the selenium levels were decreased in both the subgroups with (SMD=-0.55) and without (SMD=-0.37) age matching between AD and controls. Our results also demonstrated a direct association between decreased selenium levels and GPx in AD. This meta-analysis suggests that circulatory selenium concentration is significantly lower in AD patients compared to controls and this decrease in selenium is directly correlated with an important antioxidant enzyme, the GPx, in AD. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

Ultrasound functional imaging in an ex vivo beating porcine heart platform

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Petterson, Niels J.; Fixsen, Louis S.; Rutten, Marcel C. M.; Pijls, Nico H. J.; van de Vosse, Frans N.; Lopata, Richard G. P.

2017-12-01

In recent years, novel ultrasound functional imaging (UFI) techniques have been introduced to assess cardiac function by measuring, e.g. cardiac output (CO) and/or myocardial strain. Verification and reproducibility assessment in a realistic setting remain major issues. Simulations and phantoms are often unrealistic, whereas in vivo measurements often lack crucial hemodynamic parameters or ground truth data, or suffer from the large physiological and clinical variation between patients when attempting clinical validation. Controlled validation in certain pathologies is cumbersome and often requires the use of lab animals. In this study, an isolated beating pig heart setup was adapted and used for performance assessment of UFI techniques such as volume assessment and ultrasound strain imaging. The potential of performing verification and reproducibility studies was demonstrated. For proof-of-principle, validation of UFI in pathological hearts was examined. Ex vivo porcine hearts (n  =  6, slaughterhouse waste) were resuscitated and attached to a mock circulatory system. Radio frequency ultrasound data of the left ventricle were acquired in five short axis views and one long axis view. Based on these slices, the CO was measured, where verification was performed using flow sensor measurements in the aorta. Strain imaging was performed providing radial, circumferential and longitudinal strain to assess reproducibility and inter-subject variability under steady conditions. Finally, strains in healthy hearts were compared to a heart with an implanted left ventricular assist device, simulating a failing, supported heart. Good agreement between ultrasound and flow sensor based CO measurements was found. Strains were highly reproducible (intraclass correlation coefficients  >0.8). Differences were found due to biological variation and condition of the hearts. Strain magnitude and patterns in the assisted heart were available for different pump action, revealing large changes compared to the normal condition. The setup provides a valuable benchmarking platform for UFI techniques. Future studies will include work on different pathologies and other means of measurement verification.

SiC-CMC-Zircaloy-4 Nuclear Fuel Cladding Performance during 4-Point Tubular Bend Testing

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

IJ van Rooyen; WR Lloyd; TL Trowbridge

2013-09-01

The U.S. Department of Energy Office of Nuclear Energy (DOE NE) established the Light Water Reactor Sustainability (LWRS) program to develop technologies and other solutions to improve the reliability, sustain the safety, and extend the life of current reactors. The Advanced LWR Nuclear Fuel Development Pathway in the LWRS program encompasses strategic research focused on improving reactor core economics and safety margins through the development of an advanced fuel cladding system. Recent investigations of potential options for “accident tolerant” nuclear fuel systems point to the potential benefits of silicon carbide (SiC) cladding. One of the proposed SiC-based fuel cladding designsmore » being investigated incorporates a SiC ceramic matrix composite (CMC) as a structural material supplementing an internal Zircaloy-4 (Zr-4) liner tube, referred to as the hybrid clad design. Characterization of the advanced cladding designs will include a number of out-of-pile (nonnuclear) tests, followed by in-pile irradiation testing of the most promising designs. One of the out-of-pile characterization tests provides measurement of the mechanical properties of the cladding tube using four point bend testing. Although the material properties of the different subsystems (materials) will be determined separately, in this paper we present results of 4-point bending tests performed on fully assembled hybrid cladding tube mock-ups, an assembled Zr-4 cladding tube mock-up as a standard and initial testing results on bare SiC-CMC sleeves to assist in defining design parameters. The hybrid mock-up samples incorporated SiC-CMC sleeves fabricated with 7 polymer impregnation and pyrolysis (PIP) cycles. To provide comparative information; both 1- and 2-ply braided SiC-CMC sleeves were used in this development study. Preliminary stress simulations were performed using the BISON nuclear fuel performance code to show the stress distribution differences for varying lengths between loading points and clad configurations. The 2-ply sleeve samples show a higher bend momentum compared to those of the 1-ply sleeve samples. This is applicable to both the hybrid mock-up and bare SiC-CMC sleeve samples. Comparatively both the 1- and 2-ply hybrid mock-up samples showed a higher bend stiffness and strength compared with the standard Zr-4 mock-up sample. The characterization of the hybrid mock-up samples showed signs of distress and preliminary signs of fraying at the protective Zr-4 sleeve areas for the 1-ply SiC-CMC sleeve. In addition, the microstructure of the SiC matrix near the cracks at the region of highest compressive bending strain shows significant cracking and flaking. The 2-ply SiC-CMC sleeve samples showed a more bonded, cohesive SiC matrix structure. This cracking and fraying causes concern for increased fretting during the actual use of the design. Tomography was proven as a successful tool to identify open porosity during pre-test characterization. Although there is currently insufficient data to make conclusive statements regarding the overall merit of the hybrid cladding design, preliminary characterization of this novel design has been demonstrated.« less

A single strain-based growth law predicts concentric and eccentric cardiac growth during pressure and volume overload

PubMed Central

Kerckhoffs, Roy C.P.; Omens, Jeffrey; McCulloch, Andrew D.

2011-01-01

Adult cardiac muscle adapts to mechanical changes in the environment by growth and remodeling (G&R) via a variety of mechanisms. Hypertrophy develops when the heart is subjected to chronic mechanical overload. In ventricular pressure overload (e.g. due to aortic stenosis) the heart typically reacts by concentric hypertrophic growth, characterized by wall thickening due to myocyte radial growth when sarcomeres are added in parallel. In ventricular volume overload, an increase in filling pressure (e.g. due to mitral regurgitation) leads to eccentric hypertrophy as myocytes grow axially by adding sarcomeres in series leading to ventricular cavity enlargement that is typically accompanied by some wall thickening. The specific biomechanical stimuli that stimulate different modes of ventricular hypertrophy are still poorly understood. In a recent study, based on in-vitro studies in micropatterned myocyte cell cultures subjected to stretch, we proposed that cardiac myocytes grow longer to maintain a preferred sarcomere length in response to increased fiber strain and grow thicker to maintain interfilament lattice spacing in response to increased cross-fiber strain. Here, we test whether this growth law is able to predict concentric and eccentric hypertrophy in response to aortic stenosis and mitral valve regurgitation, respectively, in a computational model of the adult canine heart coupled to a closed loop model of circulatory hemodynamics. A non-linear finite element model of the beating canine ventricles coupled to the circulation was used. After inducing valve alterations, the ventricles were allowed to adapt in shape in response to mechanical stimuli over time. The proposed growth law was able to reproduce major acute and chronic physiological responses (structural and functional) when integrated with comprehensive models of the pressure-overloaded and volume-overloaded canine heart, coupled to a closed-loop circulation. We conclude that strain-based biomechanical stimuli can drive cardiac growth, including wall thickening during pressure overload. PMID:22639476

Computational Hemodynamic Simulation of Human Circulatory System under Altered Gravity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kim. Chang Sung; Kiris, Cetin; Kwak, Dochan

2003-01-01

A computational hemodynamics approach is presented to simulate the blood flow through the human circulatory system under altered gravity conditions. Numerical techniques relevant to hemodynamics issues are introduced to non-Newtonian modeling for flow characteristics governed by red blood cells, distensible wall motion due to the heart pulse, and capillary bed modeling for outflow boundary conditions. Gravitational body force terms are added to the Navier-Stokes equations to study the effects of gravity on internal flows. Six-type gravity benchmark problems are originally presented to provide the fundamental understanding of gravitational effects on the human circulatory system. For code validation, computed results are compared with steady and unsteady experimental data for non-Newtonian flows in a carotid bifurcation model and a curved circular tube, respectively. This computational approach is then applied to the blood circulation in the human brain as a target problem. A three-dimensional, idealized Circle of Willis configuration is developed with minor arteries truncated based on anatomical data. Demonstrated is not only the mechanism of the collateral circulation but also the effects of gravity on the distensible wall motion and resultant flow patterns.

Colloids Versus Albumin in Large Volume Paracentesis to Prevent Circulatory Dysfunction: Evidence-based Case Report.

PubMed

Widjaja, Felix F; Khairan, Paramita; Kamelia, Telly; Hasan, Irsan

2016-04-01

Large volume paracentesis may cause paracentesis induced circulatory dysfunction (PICD). Albumin is recommended to prevent this abnormality. Meanwhile, the price of albumin is too expensive and there should be another alternative that may prevent PICD. This report aimed to compare albumin to colloids in preventing PICD. Search strategy was done using PubMed, Scopus, Proquest, dan Academic Health Complete from EBSCO with keywords of "ascites", "albumin", "colloid", "dextran", "hydroxyethyl starch", "gelatin", and "paracentesis induced circulatory dysfunction". Articles was limited to randomized clinical trial and meta-analysis with clinical question of "In hepatic cirrhotic patient undergone large volume paracentesis, whether colloids were similar to albumin to prevent PICD". We found one meta-analysis and four randomized clinical trials (RCT). A meta analysis showed that albumin was still superior of which odds ratio 0.34 (0.23-0.51). Three RCTs showed the same results and one RCT showed albumin was not superior than colloids. We conclude that colloids could not constitute albumin to prevent PICD, but colloids still have a role in patient who undergone paracentesis less than five liters.

Mean circulatory filling pressure: its meaning and measurement.

PubMed

Rothe, C F

1993-02-01

The volume-pressure relationship of the vasculature of the body as a whole, its vascular capacitance, requires a measurement of the mean circulatory filling pressure (Pmcf). A change in vascular capacitance induced by reflexes, hormones, or drugs has physiological consequences similar to a rapid change in blood volume and thus strongly influences cardiac output. The Pmcf is defined as the mean vascular pressure that exists after a stop in cardiac output and redistribution of blood, so that all pressures are the same throughout the system. The Pmcf is thus related to the fullness of the circulatory system. A change in Pmcf provides a uniquely useful index of a change in overall venous smooth muscle tone if the blood volume is not concomitantly changed. The Pmcf also provides an estimate of the distending pressure in the small veins and venules, which contain most of the blood in the body and comprise most of the vascular compliance. Thus the Pmcf, which is normally independent of the magnitude of the cardiac output, provides an estimate of the upstream pressure that determines the rate of flow returning to the heart.

Effect of task-related extracerebral circulation on diffuse optical tomography: experimental data and simulations on the forehead.

PubMed

Näsi, Tiina; Mäki, Hanna; Hiltunen, Petri; Heiskala, Juha; Nissilä, Ilkka; Kotilahti, Kalle; Ilmoniemi, Risto J

2013-03-01

The effect of task-related extracerebral circulatory changes on diffuse optical tomography (DOT) of brain activation was evaluated using experimental data from 14 healthy human subjects and computer simulations. Total hemoglobin responses to weekday-recitation, verbal-fluency, and hand-motor tasks were measured with a high-density optode grid placed on the forehead. The tasks caused varying levels of mental and physical stress, eliciting extracerebral circulatory changes that the reconstruction algorithm was unable to fully distinguish from cerebral hemodynamic changes, resulting in artifacts in the brain activation images. Crosstalk between intra- and extracranial layers was confirmed by the simulations. The extracerebral effects were attenuated by superficial signal regression and depended to some extent on the heart rate, thus allowing identification of hemodynamic changes related to brain activation during the verbal-fluency task. During the hand-motor task, the extracerebral component was stronger, making the separation less clear. DOT provides a tool for distinguishing extracerebral components from signals of cerebral origin. Especially in the case of strong task-related extracerebral circulatory changes, however, sophisticated reconstruction methods are needed to eliminate crosstalk artifacts.

Biventricular assist device for scombroid poisoning with refractory myocardial dysfunction: a bridge to recovery.

PubMed

Grinda, Jean-Michel; Bellenfant, Florence; Brivet, François Gilles; Carel, Yvan; Deloche, Alain

2004-09-01

We report the usefulness of biventricular mechanical circulatory support in a 36-yr-old woman with refractory myocardial dysfunction resulting from scombroid poisoning. Case report. Medical and surgical university care units. A previously healthy 36-yr-old woman with severe myocardial dysfunction unresponsive to epinephrine (1.3 microg/kg/min) and dobutamine (18 microg/kg/min) after the ingestion of cooked fresh tuna. Implantation at day 3 of a biventricular assist device consisting of two paracorporeal pneumatic pumps set at 70 beats/min to reach an output of 5.6 L/min during 8 days. The biventricular mechanical circulatory assist device allowed weaning of the inotropic drugs, maintenance of end-organ function, and support of the patient until myocardial recovery. The patient was successfully explanted 11 days after ingestion. Cardiac function had totally recovered, but a stroke was noted. At 3-yrs follow-up, there was no cardiac or neurologic sequela. This report describes severe myocardial dysfunction secondary to scombroid poisoning and demonstrates the usefulness of a mechanical circulatory assist device as a bridge to recovery.

Circulatory support for OPCAB procedures.

PubMed

Mueller, Xavier M; von Segesser, Ludwig K

2002-07-01

During off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (OPCAB) which allows complete revascularization through a median sternotomy, revascularization of the lateral and posterior walls requires the verticalization of the heart, which may cause haemodynamic disturbance. This concern has stimulated the development of circulatory support with mini-pumps. Initially, these pumps were designed for the right side of the heart, which was found to be the main contributor to haemodynamic instability under experimental conditions. The three types of mini-pumps that have been developed so far - two for the right side of the heart and one for both sides - are reviewed as well as a new concept of integrated cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) circuit with reduced surface and priming volume. However, with increasing experience and improved methods of exposition, OPCAB has become a procedure that can be performed without support in the majority of the cases. Nevertheless, the concept of miniaturization and the possibility to insert these devices through a peripheral access has opened the way to new indications, mainly short-term circulatory support for acute heart failure. This development is welcome in a field where available devices are invasive and plagued with a heavy morbidity.

The total artificial heart

PubMed Central

Cook, Jason A.; Shah, Keyur B.; Quader, Mohammed A.; Cooke, Richard H.; Kasirajan, Vigneshwar; Rao, Kris K.; Smallfield, Melissa C.; Tchoukina, Inna

2015-01-01

The total artificial heart (TAH) is a form of mechanical circulatory support in which the patient’s native ventricles and valves are explanted and replaced by a pneumatically powered artificial heart. Currently, the TAH is approved for use in end-stage biventricular heart failure as a bridge to heart transplantation. However, with an increasing global burden of cardiovascular disease and congestive heart failure, the number of patients with end-stage heart failure awaiting heart transplantation now far exceeds the number of available hearts. As a result, the use of mechanical circulatory support, including the TAH and left ventricular assist device (LVAD), is growing exponentially. The LVAD is already widely used as destination therapy, and destination therapy for the TAH is under investigation. While most patients requiring mechanical circulatory support are effectively treated with LVADs, there is a subset of patients with concurrent right ventricular failure or major structural barriers to LVAD placement in whom TAH may be more appropriate. The history, indications, surgical implantation, post device management, outcomes, complications, and future direction of the TAH are discussed in this review. PMID:26793338

Detection of circulatory microRNAs in prostate cancer.

PubMed

Srivastava, Anvesha; Goldberger, Helle; Afzal, Zainab; Suy, Simeng; Collins, Sean P; Kumar, Deepak

2015-01-01

Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most common cancer worldwide and accounts for 14.4 % of all new cancer cases. The clinical outcome and management of PCa can be significantly improved by use of biomarker assays for early detection, prognosis and also for prediction and monitoring of treatment response. MiRNAs are short, endogenous, single-stranded RNA molecules that play important role in regulation of gene expression and can modulate a number of cellular processes. Discovery of miRNAs in circulation has not only facilitated understanding their role in various diseases but also paved new avenues for biomarker discovery due to their ease of access and stability. The fact that a minimally invasive test based on miRNAs profiles can distinguish the presence or absence of disease illustrates immense potential of these molecules as predictive biomarkers.In this chapter, we have summarized the presumed mechanisms of miRNA release into the circulation and systematically summarized the studies of circulatory miRNAs in PCa. Also, we have mainly focused on the methodology of identification of circulatory miRNAs from biofluids.

BAO from Angular Clustering: Optimization and Mitigation of Theoretical Systematics

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

Crocce, M.; et al.

We study the theoretical systematics and optimize the methodology in Baryon Acoustic Oscillations (BAO) detections using the angular correlation function with tomographic bins. We calibrate and optimize the pipeline for the Dark Energy Survey Year 1 dataset using 1800 mocks. We compare the BAO fitting results obtained with three estimators: the Maximum Likelihood Estimator (MLE), Profile Likelihood, and Markov Chain Monte Carlo. The MLE method yields the least bias in the fit results (bias/spreadmore » $$\\sim 0.02$$) and the error bar derived is the closest to the Gaussian results (1% from 68% Gaussian expectation). When there is mismatch between the template and the data either due to incorrect fiducial cosmology or photo-$z$ error, the MLE again gives the least-biased results. The BAO angular shift that is estimated based on the sound horizon and the angular diameter distance agree with the numerical fit. Various analysis choices are further tested: the number of redshift bins, cross-correlations, and angular binning. We propose two methods to correct the mock covariance when the final sample properties are slightly different from those used to create the mock. We show that the sample changes can be accommodated with the help of the Gaussian covariance matrix or more effectively using the eigenmode expansion of the mock covariance. The eigenmode expansion is significantly less susceptible to statistical fluctuations relative to the direct measurements of the covariance matrix because the number of free parameters is substantially reduced [$p$ parameters versus $p(p+1)/2$ from direct measurement].« less

Programmable prostate palpation simulator using property-changing pneumatic bladder.

PubMed

Talhan, Aishwari; Jeon, Seokhee

2018-05-01

The currently available prostate palpation simulators are based on either a physical mock-up or pure virtual simulation. Both cases have their inherent limitations. The former lacks flexibility in presenting abnormalities and scenarios because of the static nature of the mock-up and has usability issues because the prostate model must be replaced in different scenarios. The latter has realism issues, particularly in haptic feedback, because of the very limited performance of haptic hardware and inaccurate haptic simulation. This paper presents a highly flexible and programmable simulator with high haptic fidelity. Our new approach is based on a pneumatic-driven, property-changing, silicone prostate mock-up that can be embedded in a human torso mannequin. The mock-up has seven pneumatically controlled, multi-layered bladder cells to mimic the stiffness, size, and location changes of nodules in the prostate. The size is controlled by inflating the bladder with positive pressure in the chamber, and a hard nodule can be generated using the particle jamming technique; the fine sand in the bladder becomes stiff when it is vacuumed. The programmable valves and system identification process enable us to precisely control the size and stiffness, which results in a simulator that can realistically generate many different diseases without replacing anything. The three most common abnormalities in a prostate are selected for demonstration, and multiple progressive stages of each abnormality are carefully designed based on medical data. A human perception experiment is performed by actual medical professionals and confirms that our simulator exhibits higher realism and usability than do the conventional simulators. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Introduction of OX40 ligand into lymphoma cells elicits anti-lymphoma immunity in vivo.

PubMed

Kaneko, Hitomi; Hori, Toshiyuki; Yanagita, Soshi; Kadowaki, Norimitsu; Uchiyama, Takashi

2005-03-01

OX40, a member of the TNF receptor superfamily, and its ligand (OX40L) play crucial roles in induction and maintenance of integrated T cell immune response. Engagement of OX40L delivers a costimulatory signal to T cells. In this study, we investigated whether inoculation of OX40L-transfected EL4, a murine T cell lymphoma cell line, could induce anti-lymphoma immunity in mice. Female C57BL/6 mice were inoculated with 1 x 10(5) cells of parental EL4, OX40L-transfected EL4 (EL4-OX40L), or mock control vector-transfected EL4 (EL4-mock), and then the tumor size, overall survival, CTL activity of spleen cells, and the immunohistochemistry were compared. While both parental EL4 and EL4-mock grew rapidly, EL4-OX40L was rejected or grew slower than parental EL4 or EL4-mock. Pretreatment of mice with either anti-CD4 or anti-CD8 mAb accelerated the growth of EL4-OX40L, suggesting that both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells were involved in anti-lymphoma immunity. The immunohistochemical study revealed the infiltration of CD8+ T cells into the tumor of EL4-OX40L. In vitro CTL assay demonstrated that spleen cells of mice that had rejected EL4-OX40L had significant cytotoxic activity against parental EL4. The gene transfer of OX40L into lymphoma cells is an eligible and efficient modality to induce anti-lymphoma immunity.

Flat Tile Armour Cooled by Hypervapotron Tube: a Possible Technology for ITER

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schlosser, J.; Escourbiac, F.; Merola, M.; Schedler, B.; Bayetti, P.; Missirlian, M.; Mitteau, R.; Robin-Vastra, I.

Carbon fibre composite (CFC) flat tile armours for actively cooled plasma facing components (PFC’s) are an important challenge for controlled fusion machines. Flat tile concepts, water cooled by tubes, were studied, developed, tested and finally operated with success in Tore Supra. The components were designed for 10 MW/m2 and mock-ups were successfully fatigue tested at 15 MW/m2, 1000 cycles. For ITER, a tube-in-tile concept was developed and mock-ups sustained up to 25 MW/m2 for 1000 cycles without failure. Recently flat tile armoured mock-ups cooled by a hypervapotron tube successfully sustained a cascade failure test under a mean heat flux of 10 MW/m2 but with a doubling of the heat flux on some tiles to simulate missing tiles (500 cycles). This encouraging results lead to reconsider the limits for flat tile concept when cooled by hypervapotron (HV) tube. New tests are now scheduled to investigate these limits in regard to the ITER requirements. Experimental evidence of the concept could be gained in Tore Supra by installing a new limiter into the machine.

Big girls don't cry: the effect of child witness demeanor on juror decisions in a child sexual abuse trial.

PubMed

Golding, Jonathan M; Fryman, Heather M; Marsil, Dorothy F; Yozwiak, John A

2003-11-01

This study investigated the effect of child witness demeanor (defined as crying) on mock jurors' decisions in a simulated First-Degree rape trial. One hundred and thirty-three undergraduates serving in the role of mock jurors read a trial summary in which the primary independent variable was the demeanor of the alleged child victim (i.e., calm, teary, hysterical crying). In addition to reading the summary, participants viewed pencil drawings of the witnesses that were presented as "courtroom drawings." The results showed that the teary condition led to more guilty verdicts and a greater belief in the alleged victim than the other demeanor conditions. Findings from this study indicate that demeanor can impact the perception of a child who is an alleged sexual assault victim in court. However, it is not simply the case that any display of demeanor will lead to a positive outcome for the alleged victim. Instead, it appears that too little or too much emotion from the alleged child victim negatively affected credibility in the eyes of the mock jurors.

Estimatining biases in the stellar dynamical black hole mass measurements in barred galaxies and prospects for measuring SMBH masses with JWST

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Valluri, Monica; Vasiliev, Eugene; Bentz, Misty; Shen, Juntai

2018-04-01

Although 60% of disk galaxies are barred, stellar dynamical measurements of the masses of supermassive black holes (SMBH) in barred galaxies have always been obtained under the assumption that the bulges are axisymmetric. We use N-body simulations with self-consistently grown SMBHs in barred and unbarred galaxies to create a suite of mock Integral Field Spectrographic (IFS) datasets for galaxies with various observed orientations. We then apply an axisymmetric orbit superposition code to these mock IFS datasets to assess the reliability with which SMBH masses can be recovered. We also assess which disk and bar orientations give rise to biases. We use these simulations to assess whether or not existing SMBH measurements in barred galaxies are likely to be biased. We also present a brief preview of our JWST Early Release Science proposal to study the nuclear dynamics of nearby Seyfert I galaxy NGC 4151 with the NIRSpec Integral Field Spectrograph and describe how simulations of disk galaxies will used to create mock NIRSpec data to prepare for the real data.

Aerospace industry representatives view actual and mock-up versions of 'X-Planes' intended to enhanc

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2000-01-01

Aerospace industry representatives view actual and mock-up versions of 'X-Planes' intended to enhance access to space during a technical exposition on June 22, 2000 at Dryden Flight Research Center, Edwards, California. From left to right: NASA's B-52 launch aircraft, in service with NASA since 1959; a neutral-buoyancy model of the Boeing's X-37; the Boeing X-40A behind the MicroCraft X-43 mock-up; Orbital Science's X-34 and the modified Lockheed L-1011 airliner that was to launch the X-34. These X-vehicles are part of NASA's Access to Space plan intended to bring new technologies to bear in an effort to dramatically lower the cost of putting payloads in space, and near-space environments. The June 22, 2000 NASA Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) Technology Exposition included presentations on the history, present, and future of NASA's RLV program. Special Sessions for industry representatives highlighted the X-37 project and its related technologies. The X-37 project is managed by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville, Alabama.

At NASA Dryden, Aerospace industry representatives view actual and mock-up versions of 'X-Planes' in

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2000-01-01

Aerospace industry representatives view actual and mock-up versions of 'X-Planes' intended to enhance access to space during a technical exposition on June 22, 2000 at Dryden Flight Research Center, Edwards, California. From left to right: NASA's B-52 launch aircraft, in service with NASA since 1959; a neutral-buoyancy model of the Boeing's X-37; the Boeing X-40A behind the MicroCraft X-43 mock-up; Orbital Science's X-34 and the modified Lockheed L-1011 airliner that was to launch the X-34. These X-vehicles are part of NASA's Access to Space plan intended to bring new technologies to bear in an effort to dramatically lower the cost of putting payloads in space, and near-space environments. The June 22, 2000 NASA Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) Technology Exposition included presentations on the history, present, and future of NASA's RLV program. Special Sessions for industry representatives highlighted the X-37 project and its related technologies. The X-37 project is managed by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville, Alabama.

Effects of Age and Exposure on the Health Status of U.S. Navy Divers.

DTIC Science & Technology

1984-01-01

Neuritis/Neuralgia/ Sciatica - 1.3 6.9 7.0 0 Facial Paralysis/Cerebral Paralysis 0 - - 0 - Diseases of the Circulatory System 15.6 18.3 24.9 38.3* 120.8...10.3 Otitts Externa/Other Ear Disorders 8.9 6.8 5.8 Deafness 3.5 3.4 2.6 Neuritis/Neuralgia/ Sciatica 2.6 2.6 - racial Paralysis/Cerebral Paralysis...20 18 10 9 Deafness 10 11 9 9 5 4 Neuritis/Neuralqia/ Sciatica 5 8 7 7 5 2 Facial Paralysis/Cerebral Paralysis 2 2 2 2 1 1 Diseases of the Circulatory

[Identifying children at risk for cardiorespiratory arrest].

PubMed

Carrillo Alvarez, A; Martínez Gutiérrez, A; Salvat Germán, F

2004-08-01

Cardiorespiratory arrest in children with severe disease does not usually present suddenly or unexpectedly but is often the result of a progressive deterioration of respiratory and/or circulatory function. Before failure of these functions occurs, there is a series of clinical signs that serve as a warning. Health professionals should not only evaluate clinical signs of respiratory and/or circulatory insufficiency but should also be able to identify these warning signs as early as possible, preferably in the compensation phase, given that the possibility that this process can be reversed by therapeutic measures decreases as the process progresses.

Circulatory Shock. Volume 34. Number 1. May 1991. International Conference on Shock (2nd), Meeting of European Shock Society (5th), Annual Meeting of the Shock Society (USA) (14th), Vienna Shock Form (3rd) Held in Vienna, Austria on 2-6 June 1991

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-06-06

OCTADECENOATE, AS A BURN TOXIN Takayuki Ozawa, Mika Hayakawa, Kazuhiro Kosaka, Satoru Sugiyama, Kazuhisa Yokoo, Hisashi Aoyama, and Yohei Izawa Department...shock. 41 CARDIOPULMONARY HEMODYNAMIC AND PERIPHERAL CIRCULATORY RESPONSES IN SHOCK T. Muteki, N. Kaku. T. Fukushige, I. Kohno and T. Hiraki Department...Tadashi, 242 Machleidt, Werner, 213 Ozawa, Takayuki , 11 Kawarada, Yoshifumi, 442 Mackie, D.P., 348 Ozawa, Kazue, 268 Keser, Claudia, 380 Maitra, Subir R

Changing mortality patterns in East and West Germany and Poland. II: Short-term trends during transition and in the 1990s

PubMed Central

Nolte, E.; Shkolnikov, V.; McKee, M.

2000-01-01

OBJECTIVES—To examine trends in life expectancy at birth and age and cause specific patterns of mortality in the former German Democratic Republic (GDR) and Poland during political transition and throughout the 1990s in both parts of Germany and in Poland.
METHODS—Decomposition of life expectancy by age and cause of death. Changes in life expectancy during transition by cause of death were examined using data for 1988/89 and 1990/91 for the former GDR and Poland; examination of life expectancy changes after transition were based on 1992-97 data for Germany and 1991-96 data for Poland.
RESULTS—In both the former GDR and Poland male life expectancy at birth declined by almost one year during transition, mainly attributable to rising death rates from external causes and circulatory diseases. Female life expectancy in Poland deteriorated by 0.3 years, largely attributable to increasing circulatory mortality among the old, while in East German female rising death rates in children and young adults were nearly outbalanced by declining circulatory mortality among those over 70. Between 1991/92 and 1996/97, male life expectancy at birth increased by 2.4 years in the former GDR, 1.2 years in old Federal Republic, and 2.0 years in Poland (women: 2.3, 0.9, and 1.2 years). In East Germany and Poland, the overall improvement was largely attributable to falling mortality among men aged 40-64, while those over 65 contributed the largest proportion to life expectancy gains in women. The change in deaths among men aged 15-39 accounted for 0.4 of a year to life expectancy at birth in East Germany and Poland, attributable largely to greater decreases from external causes. Among those over 40, absolute contributions to changing life expectancy were greater in the former GDR than in the other two entities in both sexes, largely attributable to circulatory diseases. A persisting East-west life expectancy gap in Germany of 2.1 years in men in 1997 was largely attributable to external causes, diseases of the digestive system and circulatory diseases. Higher death rates from circulatory diseases among the elderly largely explain the female life expectancy gap of approximately one year.
CONCLUSIONS—This study provides further insights into the health effects of political transition. Post-transition improvements in life expectancy and mortality have been much steeper in East Germany compared with Poland. Changes in dietary pattern and, in Germany, medical care may have been important factors in shaping post-transition mortality trends. 


Keywords: mortality trends; Germany; Poland; transition PMID:11076985

CONSTELLATION Images from other centers - February 2010

NASA Image and Video Library

2010-02-08

JSC2010-E-019461 (8 Feb. 2010) --- STS-131 crew members participate in a training session in an International Space Station mock-up/trainer in the Space Vehicle Mock-up Facility at NASA's Johnson Space Center. Pictured from the left (foreground) are NASA astronaut Stephanie Wilson, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Naoko Yamazaki and NASA astronaut Clayton Anderson, all mission specialists. Pictured from the left (background) are NASA astronauts Alan Poindexter, commander; along with Dorothy Metcalf-Lindenburger and Rick Mastracchio, both mission specialists. Instructor Jeremy Owen (right foreground) assisted the crew members. Not pictured is NASA astronaut James P. Dutton Jr., pilot.

Neutron spectrum from the little boy mock-up

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

Robba, A.A.

1986-01-01

Most of the human exposure data used for setting radiation protection guidelines have been obtained by following the survivors of the nuclear explosions at Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Proper evaluation of these data requires estimates of the radiation exposure received by those survivors. Until now neutron dose estimates have relied primarily on calculations as no measurements of the leakage neutron flux or neutron spectrum were available. We have measured the high-energy leakage neutron spectrum from a mock-up of the Little Boy device operating at delayed critical. The measurements are compared with Monte Carlo calculations of the leakage neutron spectrum.

Bilateral Complete and Incomplete Fusion of Incisors and its Management.

PubMed

Da Costa, Godwin Clovis; Chalakkal, Paul; De Souza, Neil; Gavhane, Sanket

2017-01-01

This case report highlights the management of a case of bilateral complete and incomplete fusion of maxillary incisors in a 10-year-old child. A mock-up was done on the diagnostic cast. Pretreatment esthetic evaluation was done using bis-acryl composite temporaries which were transferred intraorally from the diagnostic cast using a putty index. An incisal overlap veneer preparation was done, following which, an IPS e-max veneer was cemented. A digital mock-up was carried out using the Adobe Photoshop and Corel Draw softwares to aid in laboratorial fabrication of the veneer.

Flowpath evaluation and reconnaissance by remote field Eddy current testing (FERRET)

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

Smoak, A.E.; Zollinger, W.T.

1993-12-31

This document describes the design and development of FERRET (Flowpath Evaluation and Reconnaisance by Remote-field Eddy current Testing). FERRET is a system for inspecting the steel pipes which carry cooling water to underground nuclear waste storage tanks. The FERRET system has been tested in a small scale cooling pipe mock-up, an improved full scale mock-up, and in flaw detection experiments. Early prototype designs of FERRET and the FERRET launcher (a device which inserts, moves, and retrieves probes from a piping system) as well as the field-ready design are discussed.

Mock-up experiment at Birmingham University for BNCT project of Osaka University--Neutron flux measurement with gold foil.

PubMed

Tamaki, S; Sakai, M; Yoshihashi, S; Manabe, M; Zushi, N; Murata, I; Hoashi, E; Kato, I; Kuri, S; Oshiro, S; Nagasaki, M; Horiike, H

2015-12-01

Mock-up experiment for development of accelerator based neutron source for Osaka University BNCT project was carried out at Birmingham University, UK. In this paper, spatial distribution of neutron flux intensity was evaluated by foil activation method. Validity of the design code system was confirmed by comparing measured gold foil activities with calculations. As a result, it was found that the epi-thermal neutron beam was well collimated by our neutron moderator assembly. Also, the design accuracy was evaluated to have less than 20% error. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Activation of PI3K/Akt signaling in rostral ventrolateral medulla impairs brain stem cardiovascular regulation that underpins circulatory depression during mevinphos intoxication.

PubMed

Tsai, Ching-Yi; Chang, Alice Y W; Chan, Julie Y H; Chan, Samuel H H

2014-03-01

As the most widely used pesticides in the globe, the organophosphate compounds are understandably linked with the highest incidence of suicidal poisoning. Whereas the elicited toxicity is often associated with circulatory depression, the underlying mechanisms require further delineation. Employing the pesticide mevinphos as our experimental tool, we evaluated the hypothesis that transcriptional upregulation of nitric oxide synthase II (NOS II) by NF-κB on activation of the PI3K/Akt cascade in the rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVLM), the brain stem site that maintains blood pressure and sympathetic vasomotor tone, underpins the circulatory depressive effects of organophosphate poisons. Microinjection of mevinphos (10 nmol) bilaterally into the RVLM of anesthetized Sprague-Dawley rats induced a progressive hypotension that was accompanied sequentially by an increase (Phase I) and a decrease (Phase II) of an experimental index for the baroreflex-mediated sympathetic vasomotor tone. There were also progressive augmentations in PI3K or Akt enzyme activity and phosphorylation of p85 or Akt(Thr308) subunit in the RVLM that were causally related to an increase in NF-κB transcription activity and elevation in NOS II or peroxynitrite expression. Loss-of-function manipulations of PI3K or Akt in the RVLM significantly antagonized the reduced baroreflex-mediated sympathetic vasomotor tone and hypotension during Phase II mevinphos intoxication, and blunted the increase in NF-κB/NOS II/peroxynitrite signaling. We conclude that activation of the PI3K/Akt cascade, leading to upregulation of NF-κB/NOS II/peroxynitrite signaling in the RVLM, elicits impairment of brain stem cardiovascular regulation that underpins circulatory depression during mevinphos intoxication. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Social networks and mortality based on the Komo-Ise cohort study in Japan.

PubMed

Iwasaki, Motoki; Otani, Tetsuya; Sunaga, Rumiko; Miyazaki, Hiroko; Xiao, Liu; Wang, Naren; Yosiaki, Sasazawa; Suzuki, Shosuke

2002-12-01

No prospective studies have examined the association between social networks and all-cause and cause-specific mortality among middle-aged Japanese. The study of varied populations may contribute to clarifying the robustness of the observed effects of social networks and extend their generalizability. To clarify the association between social networks and mortality among middle-aged and elderly Japanese, a community-based prospective study, the Komo-Ise Study, was conducted in two areas of Gunma Prefecture, Japan. A total of 11 565 subjects aged 40-69 years at baseline in 1993 completed a self-administered questionnaire. During the 7-year follow-up period, 335 men and 155 women died and the relative risk (RR) of each social network item was estimated by the Cox proportional hazard model. Single women had significantly increased risks of all-cause (multivariate RR = 2.2), and all circulatory system disease (age-area adjusted RR = 2.6) mortality. Men who did not participate in hobbies, club activities, or community groups had significantly higher multivariate RR for all-cause (RR = 1.5), all circulatory system disease (RR = 1.6) and non-cancer and non-circulatory system disease (RR = 2.3) mortality. Urban women who rarely or never met close relatives had significantly elevated risks of all-cause (RR = 2.4), all cancer (RR = 2.6), and non-cancer and non-circulatory system disease (RR = 2.7) mortality after adjustment for established risk factors. This study provides evidence that social networks are an important predictor of mortality risk for middle-aged and elderly Japanese men and women. Lack of participation, for men, and being single and lack of meeting close relatives, for women, were independent risk factors for mortality.

[Mortality rates of circulatory system diseases and malignant neoplasms in Zagreb population younger than sixty-five--call for alarm].

PubMed

Vizintin, Marina Polić; Mrcela, Nada Tomasović; Kovacić, Luka

2012-12-01

The aim of this work was to analyze the public health indicators for circulatory heart diseases and malignant neoplasms in the population younger than 65 in the City of Zagreb, Croatia, and compare them with the European Union (EU) countries. The purpose was to evaluate the situation and propose the public health preventive measures. The study population were Zagreb citizens aged 0-64 according to the 2001 census. Total Zagreb population was 779145, making 17.6% of total Croatian population. Data from the Croatian Bureau of Statistics and Dr Andrija Stampar Institute of Public Health were used. The standardized 0-64 mortality rates of the selected diseases 2006-2010 were used in the analysis. In 2010, the standardized mortality rates of all analyzed diseases were significantly higher in Zagreb population aged 0-64 than the EU averages except for cervical cancer. In 2010, the mortality rates in Zagreb population aged 0-64 were as follows: circulatory system diseases 61.22, ischemic heart disease 28.99, cerebrovascular diseases 12.51, malignant neoplasms 94.69, tracheal and lung cancer 24.92, breast cancer 21.08 and cervical cancer 2.05. Standardized mortality rates in Zagreb population aged 0-64 for circulatory system were lower than for Croatia (61.22 vs. 63.25), but higher for malignant neoplasms (94.69 vs. 91.2), except for cervical cancer (2.05 vs. 3.14). High standardized mortality rates for the selected diseases in the City of Zagreb, Croatia, were observed. The rates were higher in Zagreb population compared to EU averages except for cervical cancer. This situation urges revision of the public health strategy and implementation of more intensive preventive and screening measures to reduce the risk factors.

Is gender policy related to the gender gap in external cause and circulatory disease mortality? A mixed effects model of 22 OECD countries 1973-2008.

PubMed

Backhans, Mona; Burström, Bo; de Leon, Antonio Ponce; Marklund, Staffan

2012-11-12

Gender differences in mortality vary widely between countries and over time, but few studies have examined predictors of these variations, apart from smoking. The aim of this study is to investigate the link between gender policy and the gender gap in cause-specific mortality, adjusted for economic factors and health behaviours. 22 OECD countries were followed 1973-2008 and the outcomes were gender gaps in external cause and circulatory disease mortality. A previously found country cluster solution was used, which includes indicators on taxes, parental leave, pensions, social insurances and social services in kind. Male breadwinner countries were made reference group and compared to earner-carer, compensatory breadwinner, and universal citizen countries. Specific policies were also analysed. Mixed effect models were used, where years were the level 1-units, and countries were the level 2-units. Both the earner-carer cluster (ns after adjustment for GDP) and policies characteristic of that cluster are associated with smaller gender differences in external causes, particularly due to an association with increased female mortality. Cluster differences in the gender gap in circulatory disease mortality are the result of a larger relative decrease of male mortality in the compensatory breadwinner cluster and the earner-carer cluster. Policies characteristic of those clusters were however generally related to increased mortality. Results for external cause mortality are in concordance with the hypothesis that women become more exposed to risks of accident and violence when they are economically more active. For circulatory disease mortality, results differ depending on approach--cluster or indicator. Whether cluster differences not explained by specific policies reflect other welfare policies or unrelated societal trends is an open question. Recommendations for further studies are made.

A comprehensive Guyton model analysis of physiologic responses to preadapting the blood volume as a countermeasure to fluid shifts

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Simanonok, K. E.; Srinivasan, R. S.; Myrick, E. E.; Blomkalns, A. L.; Charles, J. B.

1994-01-01

The Guyton model of fluid, electrolyte, and circulatory regulation is an extensive mathematical model capable of simulating a variety of experimental conditions. It has been modified for use at NASA to simulate head-down tilt, a frequently used analog of weightlessness. Weightlessness causes a headward shift of body fluids that is believed to expand central blood volume, triggering a series of physiologic responses resulting in large losses of body fluids. We used the modified Guyton model to test the hypothesis that preadaptation of the blood volume before weightless exposure could counteract the central volume expansion caused by fluid shifts, and thereby attenuate the circulatory and renal responses that result in body fluid losses. Simulation results show that circulatory preadaptation, by a procedure resembling blood donation immediately before head-down bedrest, is effective in damping the physiologic responses to fluid shifts and reducing body fluid losses. After 10 hours of head-down tilt, preadaptation also produces higher blood volume, extracellular volume, and total body water for 20 to 30 days of bedrest, compared with non-preadapted control. These results indicate that circulatory preadaptation before current Space Shuttle missions may be beneficial for the maintenance of reentry and postflight orthostatic tolerance in astronauts. This paper presents a comprehensive examination of the simulation results pertaining to changes in relevant physiologic variables produced by blood volume reduction before a prolonged head-down tilt. The objectives were to study and develop the countermeasure theoretically, to aid in planning experimental studies of the countermeasure, and to identify potentially disadvantageous physiologic responses that may be caused by the countermeasure.

[THE CHARACTERISTIC OF SOMATOTYPE AND FUNCTIONAL STATE OF CIRCULATORY SYSTEM OF STUDENT YOUTH OF THE NORTHEAST OF RUSSIA].

PubMed

Timofeieva, A V; Klimova, T M; Mikhailova, A E; Zakharova, R N; Vinokurova, S P; Timofeiev, L F

2015-01-01

The article considers results of single-step study in random sampling of female students of the M.K. Ammosov north-east federal university (n=456). The study was carried out to investigate somatotype and functional state of circulatory system. The standard technique was applied to measure height, body mass, chest circumference, level of arterial pressure and rate of heart beats. The type of somatotype was established using Pignet index. The tone of vegetative system was determined using Kérdö index. The adaptation potential of circulatory system was determined using functional changes index. The results of study established that in 61% of examined female students the type of constitution corresponds to normosthenic one. The percentage of persons with asthenic and hypersthenic type of constitution amounted to 27% and 12% correspondingly. The signs of increasing oftone ofsympathetic nervous system are observed in 89% of girls. The functional condition of circulatory system is evaluated as "tension of adaptation mechanisms" that is apparently related to period of adaptation to new conditions. The prolonged preservation of such states results in exhaustion offunctional resources of organism and can promote development of diseases. In conditions of impacting of unfavorable ecological factors the deconditionning disorders can significantly contribute to health disturbances and decreasing of life quality. To preserve youth's health during period of education the comprehensive strategy is to be implemented such components as dynamic monitoring of health, organization of adequate diet, explanation of necessity of observance of sleep and rest pattern, development of conditions for active aerobic physical exertion and activities on correction of risk factors of development of diseases are to be included.

Effect of decreased gravity on circulation in the rat

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Popovic, Vojin P.

1987-01-01

It has been reported that hypokinesia and bed rest induce cardiovascular changes similar to those observed in space flights. Using an animal model that was developed in our laboratory and that was extensively studied and characterized in our laboratory and other laboratories in this country and abroad, we have studied circulatory mechanisms that occur during exposure to hypokinesia (with or without negative tilt) as well as during readaptation to control conditions (free activity). We believe that this study contributes to better understanding of mammalian circulatory mechanisms that operate under 1-g force and will serve to provide control data to be compared with cardiovascular data obtained in conditions of a Space lab. Because survey and anesthesia drastically decrease cardiac output and other circulatory parameters in rats, only unanesthetized rats were used in experiments. Aorta and right atrium of the animals were permanently cannulated fifteen to twenty days before experiments. Arterial and right ventricular blood pressures, cardiac output, cerebral and other regional blood flow, ECG, other cardiovascular parameters, and oxygen consumption were measured with techniques routinely used in our laboratory. Specifically, we undertook the following investigations during the period of three years: (1) A study of circulatory changes (right ventricular pressure, arterial blood pressure, heart rate, cardiac output) during exposure of rats to hypokinetic conditions. Used the head down tilted Holton-Musacchia system in order to compare the results with the results already obtained on unrestrained rats, (2) Humoral changes were investigated in animals exposed to hypokinesia; also, lymphocyte and neutrophil levels in hypokinetic animals (with or without tilt) were determined to ascertain the level of induced stress and possible changes observed in weightless animals, and (3) circulating blood volume was determined during and after hypokinesia.

Causes and Consequences of Missing Health-Related Quality of Life Assessments in Patients Who Undergo Mechanical Circulatory Support Implantation: Insights From INTERMACS (Interagency Registry for Mechanically Assisted Circulatory Support).

PubMed

Grady, Kathleen L; Jones, Philip G; Cristian-Andrei, Adin; Naftel, David C; Myers, Susan; Dew, Mary Amanda; Idrissi, Katharine; Weidner, Gerdi; Wissman, Sherri A; Kirklin, James K; Spertus, John A

2017-12-01

Missing health-related quality of life (HRQOL) data in longitudinal studies can reduce precision and power and bias results. Using INTERMACS (Interagency Registry for Mechanically Assisted Circulatory Support), we sought to identify factors associated with missing HRQOL data, examine the impact of these factors on estimated HRQOL assuming missing at random missingness, and perform sensitivity analyses to examine missing not at random (MNAR) missingness because of illness severity. INTERMACS patients (n=3248) with a preimplantation profile of 1 (critical cardiogenic shock) or 2 (progressive decline) were assessed with the EQ-5D-3L visual analog scale and Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire-12 summary scores pre-implantation and 3 months postoperatively. Mean and median observed and missing at random-imputed HRQOL scores were calculated, followed by sensitivity analyses. Independent factors associated with HRQOL scores and missing HRQOL assessments were determined using multivariable regression. Independent factors associated with preimplantation and 3-month HRQOL scores, and with the likelihood of missing HRQOL assessments, revealed few correlates of HRQOL and missing assessments ( R 2 range, 4.7%-11.9%). For patients with INTERMACS profiles 1 and 2 and INTERMACS profile 1 alone, missing at random-imputed mean and median HRQOL scores were similar to observed scores, before and 3 months after implantation, whereas MNAR-imputed mean scores were lower (≥5 points) at baseline but not at 3 months. We recommend use of sensitivity analyses using an MNAR imputation strategy for longitudinal studies when missingness is attributable to illness severity. Conduct of MNAR sensitivity analyses may be less critical after mechanical circulatory support implant, when there are likely fewer MNAR data. © 2017 American Heart Association, Inc.

On the Mechanism of Human Red Blood Cell Longevity: Roles of Calcium, the Sodium Pump, PIEZO1, and Gardos Channels.

PubMed

Lew, Virgilio L; Tiffert, Teresa

2017-01-01

In a healthy adult, the transport of O 2 and CO 2 between lungs and tissues is performed by about 2 · 10 13 red blood cells, of which around 1.7 · 10 11 are renewed every day, a turnover resulting from an average circulatory lifespan of about 120 days. Cellular lifespan is the result of an evolutionary balance between the energy costs of maintaining cells in a fit functional state versus cell renewal. In this Review we examine how the set of passive and active membrane transporters of the mature red blood cells interact to maximize their circulatory longevity thus minimizing costs on expensive cell turnover. Red blood cell deformability is critical for optimal rheology and gas exchange functionality during capillary flow, best fulfilled when the volume of each human red blood cell is kept at a fraction of about 0.55-0.60 of the maximal spherical volume allowed by its membrane area, the optimal-volume-ratio range. The extent to which red blood cell volumes can be preserved within or near these narrow optimal-volume-ratio margins determines the potential for circulatory longevity. We show that the low cation permeability of red blood cells allows volume stability to be achieved with extraordinary cost-efficiency, favouring cell longevity over cell turnover. We suggest a mechanism by which the interplay of a declining sodium pump and two passive membrane transporters, the mechanosensitive PIEZO1 channel, a candidate mediator of P sickle in sickle cells, and the Ca 2+ -sensitive, K + -selective Gardos channel, can implement red blood cell volume stability around the optimal-volume-ratio range, as required for extended circulatory longevity.

Delayed Referral Results in Missed Opportunities for Organ Donation After Circulatory Death.

PubMed

Krmpotic, Kristina; Payne, Clare; Isenor, Cynthia; Dhanani, Sonny

2017-06-01

Rates of organ donation and transplantation have steadily increased in the United States and Canada over the past decade, largely attributable to a notable increase in donation after circulatory death. However, the number of patients awaiting solid organ transplantation continues to remain much higher than the number of organs transplanted each year. The objective of this study was to determine the potential to increase donation rates further by identifying gaps in the well-established donation after circulatory death process in Ontario. Retrospective cohort study. Provincial organ procurement organization. Patients who died in designated donation hospitals within the province of Ontario, Canada between April 1, 2013, and March 31, 2015. None. Of 1,407 patient deaths following planned withdrawal of life-sustaining therapy, 54.0% (n = 760) were medically suitable for donation after circulatory death. In 438 cases where next of kin was approached, consent rates reached 47.5%. A total of 119 patients became actual organ donors. Only 66.2% (n = 503) of suitable patients were appropriately referred, resulting in 251 missed potential donors whose next of kin could not be approached regarding organ donation because referral occurred after initiation of withdrawal of life-sustaining therapy or not at all. The number of medically suitable patients who die within 2 hours of planned withdrawal of life-sustaining therapy is nearly six times higher than the number of actual organ donors, with the greatest loss of potential due to delayed referral until at the time of or after planned withdrawal of life-sustaining therapy. Intensive care teams are not meeting their ethical responsibility to recognize impending death and appropriately refer potential organ donors to the local organ procurement organization. In cases where patients had previously registered their consent decision, they were denied a healthcare right.

On the Mechanism of Human Red Blood Cell Longevity: Roles of Calcium, the Sodium Pump, PIEZO1, and Gardos Channels

PubMed Central

Lew, Virgilio L.; Tiffert, Teresa

2017-01-01

In a healthy adult, the transport of O2 and CO2 between lungs and tissues is performed by about 2 · 1013 red blood cells, of which around 1.7 · 1011 are renewed every day, a turnover resulting from an average circulatory lifespan of about 120 days. Cellular lifespan is the result of an evolutionary balance between the energy costs of maintaining cells in a fit functional state versus cell renewal. In this Review we examine how the set of passive and active membrane transporters of the mature red blood cells interact to maximize their circulatory longevity thus minimizing costs on expensive cell turnover. Red blood cell deformability is critical for optimal rheology and gas exchange functionality during capillary flow, best fulfilled when the volume of each human red blood cell is kept at a fraction of about 0.55–0.60 of the maximal spherical volume allowed by its membrane area, the optimal-volume-ratio range. The extent to which red blood cell volumes can be preserved within or near these narrow optimal-volume-ratio margins determines the potential for circulatory longevity. We show that the low cation permeability of red blood cells allows volume stability to be achieved with extraordinary cost-efficiency, favouring cell longevity over cell turnover. We suggest a mechanism by which the interplay of a declining sodium pump and two passive membrane transporters, the mechanosensitive PIEZO1 channel, a candidate mediator of Psickle in sickle cells, and the Ca2+-sensitive, K+-selective Gardos channel, can implement red blood cell volume stability around the optimal-volume-ratio range, as required for extended circulatory longevity. PMID:29311949

End-of-life practices in patients with devastating brain injury in Spain: implications for organ donation.

PubMed

Domínguez-Gil, B; Coll, E; Pont, T; Lebrón, M; Miñambres, E; Coronil, A; Quindós, B; Herrero, J E; Liébanas, C; Marcelo, B; Sanmartín, A M; Matesanz, R

2017-04-01

To describe end-of-life care practices relevant to organ donation in patients with devastating brain injury in Spain. A multicenter prospective study of a retrospective cohort. 1 November 2014 to 30 April 2015. Sixty-eight hospitals authorized for organ procurement. Patients dying from devastating brain injury (possible donors). Age: 1 month-85 years. Type of care, donation after brain death, donation after circulatory death, intubation/ventilation, referral to the donor coordinator. A total of 1,970 possible donors were identified, of which half received active treatment in an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) until brain death (27%), cardiac arrest (5%) or the withdrawal of life-sustaining therapy (19%). Of the rest, 10% were admitted to the ICU to facilitate organ donation, while 39% were not admitted to the ICU. Of those patients who evolved to a brain death condition (n=695), most transitioned to actual donation (n=446; 64%). Of those who died following the withdrawal of life-sustaining therapy (n=537), 45 (8%) were converted into actual donation after circulatory death donors. The lack of a dedicated donation after circulatory death program was the main reason for non-donation. Thirty-seven percent of the possible donors were not intubated/ventilated at death, mainly because the professional in charge did not consider donation alter discarding therapeutic intubation. Thirty-six percent of the possible donors were never referred to the donor coordinator. Although deceased donation is optimized in Spain, there are still opportunities for improvement in the identification of possible donors outside the ICU and in the consideration of donation after circulatory death in patients who die following the withdrawal of life-sustaining therapy. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier España, S.L.U. y SEMICYUC. All rights reserved.

Does the arterial cannulation site for circulatory arrest influence stroke risk?

PubMed

Svensson, Lars G; Blackstone, Eugene H; Rajeswaran, Jeevanantham; Sabik, Joseph F; Lytle, Bruce W; Gonzalez-Stawinski, Gonzalo; Varvitsiotis, Poseidon; Banbury, Michael K; McCarthy, Patrick M; Pettersson, Gösta B; Cosgrove, Delos M

2004-10-01

We investigated whether axillary/subclavian artery inflow with a side graft decreases the risk of stroke versus cannulation at other sites during hypothermic circulatory arrest. Between January 1993 and May 2003, 1,352 operations with circulatory arrest were performed for complex adult cardiac problems. A single arterial inflow cannulation site was used in 1,336 operations, and these formed the basis for comparative analyses. Cannulation sites were axillary plus graft in 299 operations, direct cannulation of the aorta in 471, femoral in 375, innominate in 24, and axillary or subclavian without a side graft in 167. Retrograde brain perfusion was used in 933 (69%). A total of 272 (20%) were for emergencies, 432 (32%) were reoperations, and 439 (32%) were for dissections. A total of 617 (46%) had aortic valve replacement and 1,160 (87%) ascending, 415 arch (31%), and 248 descending (18%) aortic replacements. Indications also included arteriosclerosis (n = 301) and calcified aorta (n = 278). Primary comparisons were made by using propensity matching, and, secondarily, risk factors for stroke or hospital mortality were identified by multivariable logistic regression. Stroke occurred in 6.1% of patients (81/1,336): 4.0% (12/299) of those had axillary plus graft and 6.7% who had direct cannulation (69/1,037; p = 0.09; p = 0.05 among propensity-matched pairs). Operative variables associated with stroke included direct aortic cannulation, aortic arteriosclerosis, descending aorta repair, and mitral valve replacement. The risk of hospital mortality was higher (11%; 42/375) for patients who had femoral cannulation than axillary plus graft (7.0%; 21/299; p = 0.06; p = 0.02 among propensity-matched pairs). Axillary inflow plus graft reduces stroke and is our method of choice for complex cardiac and cardioaortic operations that necessitate circulatory arrest. Retrograde or antegrade perfusion is used selectively.

Life expectancy and death by diseases of the circulatory system in patients with bipolar disorder or schizophrenia in the Nordic countries.

PubMed

Laursen, Thomas Munk; Wahlbeck, Kristian; Hällgren, Jonas; Westman, Jeanette; Ösby, Urban; Alinaghizadeh, Hassan; Gissler, Mika; Nordentoft, Merete

2013-01-01

Excess mortality from diseases and medical conditions (natural death) in persons with psychiatric disorders has been extensively reported. Even in the Nordic countries with well-developed welfare systems, register based studies find evidence of an excess mortality. In recent years, cardiac mortality and death by diseases of the circulatory system has seen a decline in all the Nordic countries, but a recent paper indicates that women and men in Denmark, Finland, and Sweden, who had been hospitalised for a psychotic disorder, had a two to three-fold increased risk of dying from a cardiovascular disease. The aim of this study was to compare the mortality by diseases of the circulatory system among patients with bipolar disorder or schizophrenia in the three Nordic countries Denmark, Sweden, and Finland. Furthermore, the aim was to examine and compare life expectancy among these patients. Cause specific Standardized Mortality Rates (SMRs) were calculated for each specific subgroup of mortality. Life expectancy was calculated using Wiesler's method. The SMR for bipolar disorder for diseases of the circulatory system was approximately 2 in all countries and both sexes. SMR was slightly higher for people with schizophrenia for both genders and in all countries, except for men in Denmark. Overall life expectancy was much lower among persons with bipolar disorder or schizophrenia, with life expectancy being from 11 to 20 years shorter. Our data show that persons in the Nordic countries with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder have a substantially reduced life expectancy. An evaluation of the reasons for these increased mortality rates should be prioritized when planning healthcare in the coming years.

Life Expectancy and Death by Diseases of the Circulatory System in Patients with Bipolar Disorder or Schizophrenia in the Nordic Countries

PubMed Central

Laursen, Thomas Munk; Wahlbeck, Kristian; Hällgren, Jonas; Westman, Jeanette; Ösby, Urban; Alinaghizadeh, Hassan; Gissler, Mika; Nordentoft, Merete

2013-01-01

Objective Excess mortality from diseases and medical conditions (natural death) in persons with psychiatric disorders has been extensively reported. Even in the Nordic countries with well-developed welfare systems, register based studies find evidence of an excess mortality. In recent years, cardiac mortality and death by diseases of the circulatory system has seen a decline in all the Nordic countries, but a recent paper indicates that women and men in Denmark, Finland, and Sweden, who had been hospitalised for a psychotic disorder, had a two to three-fold increased risk of dying from a cardiovascular disease. The aim of this study was to compare the mortality by diseases of the circulatory system among patients with bipolar disorder or schizophrenia in the three Nordic countries Denmark, Sweden, and Finland. Furthermore, the aim was to examine and compare life expectancy among these patients. Cause specific Standardized Mortality Rates (SMRs) were calculated for each specific subgroup of mortality. Life expectancy was calculated using Wiesler’s method. Results The SMR for bipolar disorder for diseases of the circulatory system was approximately 2 in all countries and both sexes. SMR was slightly higher for people with schizophrenia for both genders and in all countries, except for men in Denmark. Overall life expectancy was much lower among persons with bipolar disorder or schizophrenia, with life expectancy being from 11 to 20 years shorter. Conclusion Our data show that persons in the Nordic countries with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder have a substantially reduced life expectancy. An evaluation of the reasons for these increased mortality rates should be prioritized when planning healthcare in the coming years. PMID:23826212

Drosophila increase exploration after visually detecting predators.

PubMed

de la Flor, Miguel; Chen, Lijian; Manson-Bishop, Claire; Chu, Tzu-Chun; Zamora, Kathya; Robbins, Danielle; Gunaratne, Gemunu; Roman, Gregg

2017-01-01

Novel stimuli elicit behaviors that are collectively known as specific exploration. These behaviors allow the animal to become more familiar with the novel objects within its environment. Specific exploration is frequently suppressed by defensive reactions to predator cues. Herein, we examine if this suppression occurs in Drosophila melanogaster by measuring the response of these flies to wild harvested predators. The flies used in our experiments have been cultured and had not lived under predator threat for multiple decades. In a circular arena with centrally-caged predators, wild type Drosophila actively avoided the pantropical jumping spider, Plexippus paykulli, and the Texas unicorn mantis, Phyllovates chlorophaena, indicating an innate defensive reaction to these predators. Interestingly, wild type Drosophila males also avoided a centrally-caged mock spider, and the avoidance of the mock spider became exaggerated when it was made to move within the cage. Visually impaired Drosophila failed to detect and avoid the Plexippus paykulli and the moving mock spider, while the broadly anosmic orco2 mutants were fully capable of detecting and avoiding Plexippus paykulli, indicating that these flies principally relied upon vison to perceive the predator stimuli. During early exploration of the arena, exploratory activity increased in the presence of Plexippus paykulli and the moving mock spider. The elevated activity induced by Plexippus paykulli disappeared after the fly had finished exploring, suggesting the flies were capable of habituating the predator cues. Taken together, these results indicate that despite being isolated from predators for decades Drosophila will visually detect these predators, retain innate defensive behaviors, respond by increasing exploratory activity in the arena rather than suppressing activity, and may habituate to normal predator cues.

Drosophila increase exploration after visually detecting predators

PubMed Central

Manson-Bishop, Claire; Chu, Tzu-Chun; Zamora, Kathya; Robbins, Danielle; Gunaratne, Gemunu

2017-01-01

Novel stimuli elicit behaviors that are collectively known as specific exploration. These behaviors allow the animal to become more familiar with the novel objects within its environment. Specific exploration is frequently suppressed by defensive reactions to predator cues. Herein, we examine if this suppression occurs in Drosophila melanogaster by measuring the response of these flies to wild harvested predators. The flies used in our experiments have been cultured and had not lived under predator threat for multiple decades. In a circular arena with centrally-caged predators, wild type Drosophila actively avoided the pantropical jumping spider, Plexippus paykulli, and the Texas unicorn mantis, Phyllovates chlorophaena, indicating an innate defensive reaction to these predators. Interestingly, wild type Drosophila males also avoided a centrally-caged mock spider, and the avoidance of the mock spider became exaggerated when it was made to move within the cage. Visually impaired Drosophila failed to detect and avoid the Plexippus paykulli and the moving mock spider, while the broadly anosmic orco2 mutants were fully capable of detecting and avoiding Plexippus paykulli, indicating that these flies principally relied upon vison to perceive the predator stimuli. During early exploration of the arena, exploratory activity increased in the presence of Plexippus paykulli and the moving mock spider. The elevated activity induced by Plexippus paykulli disappeared after the fly had finished exploring, suggesting the flies were capable of habituating the predator cues. Taken together, these results indicate that despite being isolated from predators for decades Drosophila will visually detect these predators, retain innate defensive behaviors, respond by increasing exploratory activity in the arena rather than suppressing activity, and may habituate to normal predator cues. PMID:28746346

Systematics in lensing reconstruction: dark matter rings in the sky?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ponente, P. P.; Diego, J. M.

2011-11-01

Context. Non-parametric lensing methods are a useful way of reconstructing the lensing mass of a cluster without making assumptions about the way the mass is distributed in the cluster. These methods are particularly powerful in the case of galaxy clusters with a large number of constraints. The advantage of not assuming implicitly that the luminous matter follows the dark matter is particularly interesting in those cases where the cluster is in a non-relaxed dynamical state. On the other hand, non-parametric methods have several limitations that should be taken into account carefully. Aims: We explore some of these limitations and focus on their implications for the possible ring of dark matter around the galaxy cluster CL0024+17. Methods: We project three background galaxies through a mock cluster of known radial profile density and obtain a map for the arcs (θ map). We also calculate the shear field associated with the mock cluster across the whole field of view (3.3 arcmin). Combining the positions of the arcs and the two-direction shear, we perform an inversion of the lens equation using two separate methods, the biconjugate gradient, and the quadratic programming (QADP) to reconstruct the convergence map of the mock cluster. Results: We explore the space of the solutions of the convergence map and compare the radial density profiles to the density profile of the mock cluster. When the inversion matrix algorithms are forced to find the exact solution, we encounter systematic effects resembling ring structures, that clearly depart from the original convergence map. Conclusions: Overfitting lensing data with a non-parametric method can produce ring-like structures similar to the alleged one in CL0024.

Percolation galaxy groups and clusters in the sdss redshift survey: identification, catalogs, and the multiplicity function

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

Berlind, Andreas A.; Frieman, Joshua A.; Weinberg, David H.

2006-01-01

We identify galaxy groups and clusters in volume-limited samples of the SDSS redshift survey, using a redshift-space friends-of-friends algorithm. We optimize the friends-of-friends linking lengths to recover galaxy systems that occupy the same dark matter halos, using a set of mock catalogs created by populating halos of N-body simulations with galaxies. Extensive tests with these mock catalogs show that no combination of perpendicular and line-of-sight linking lengths is able to yield groups and clusters that simultaneously recover the true halo multiplicity function, projected size distribution, and velocity dispersion. We adopt a linking length combination that yields, for galaxy groups withmore » ten or more members: a group multiplicity function that is unbiased with respect to the true halo multiplicity function; an unbiased median relation between the multiplicities of groups and their associated halos; a spurious group fraction of less than {approx}1%; a halo completeness of more than {approx}97%; the correct projected size distribution as a function of multiplicity; and a velocity dispersion distribution that is {approx}20% too low at all multiplicities. These results hold over a range of mock catalogs that use different input recipes of populating halos with galaxies. We apply our group-finding algorithm to the SDSS data and obtain three group and cluster catalogs for three volume-limited samples that cover 3495.1 square degrees on the sky. We correct for incompleteness caused by fiber collisions and survey edges, and obtain measurements of the group multiplicity function, with errors calculated from realistic mock catalogs. These multiplicity function measurements provide a key constraint on the relation between galaxy populations and dark matter halos.« less

Galaxy and Mass Assembly (GAMA): the GAMA galaxy group catalogue (G3Cv1)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Robotham, A. S. G.; Norberg, P.; Driver, S. P.; Baldry, I. K.; Bamford, S. P.; Hopkins, A. M.; Liske, J.; Loveday, J.; Merson, A.; Peacock, J. A.; Brough, S.; Cameron, E.; Conselice, C. J.; Croom, S. M.; Frenk, C. S.; Gunawardhana, M.; Hill, D. T.; Jones, D. H.; Kelvin, L. S.; Kuijken, K.; Nichol, R. C.; Parkinson, H. R.; Pimbblet, K. A.; Phillipps, S.; Popescu, C. C.; Prescott, M.; Sharp, R. G.; Sutherland, W. J.; Taylor, E. N.; Thomas, D.; Tuffs, R. J.; van Kampen, E.; Wijesinghe, D.

2011-10-01

Using the complete Galaxy and Mass Assembly I (GAMA-I) survey covering ˜142 deg2 to rAB= 19.4, of which ˜47 deg2 is to rAB= 19.8, we create the GAMA-I galaxy group catalogue (G3Cv1), generated using a friends-of-friends (FoF) based grouping algorithm. Our algorithm has been tested extensively on one family of mock GAMA lightcones, constructed from Λ cold dark matter N-body simulations populated with semi-analytic galaxies. Recovered group properties are robust to the effects of interlopers and are median unbiased in the most important respects. G3Cv1 contains 14 388 galaxy groups (with multiplicity ≥2), including 44 186 galaxies out of a possible 110 192 galaxies, implying ˜40 per cent of all galaxies are assigned to a group. The similarities of the mock group catalogues and G3Cv1 are multiple: global characteristics are in general well recovered. However, we do find a noticeable deficit in the number of high multiplicity groups in GAMA compared to the mocks. Additionally, despite exceptionally good local spatial completeness, G3Cv1 contains significantly fewer compact groups with five or more members, this effect becoming most evident for high multiplicity systems. These two differences are most likely due to limitations in the physics included of the current GAMA lightcone mock. Further studies using a variety of galaxy formation models are required to confirm their exact origin. The G3Cv1 catalogue will be made publicly available as and when the relevant GAMA redshifts are made available at .

Non-circulatory fluid forces on porous bodies with application to panel flutter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hajian, Rozhin; Jaworski, Justin W.

2017-11-01

The non-circulatory fluid forces acting on an oscillating porous panel or airfoil in uniform incompressible flow are derived from linearized potential theory. The fundamental integral equation for Holder-continuous porosity distributions is formulated and solved numerically for the special cases of non-porous and uniformly-porous panels with prescribed structural deformations. The new unsteady aerodynamic forces are then applied to aeroelastic stability predictions for porous panels or liners. Results from this analysis aim to form the basis of a complete unsteady aerodynamic theory for porous airfoils and their acoustic emissions based upon the unique attributes of natural fliers and swimmers.