A Comparison of Web-Based Standard Setting and Monitored Standard Setting.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Harvey, Anne L.; Way, Walter D.

Standard setting, when carefully done, can be an expensive and time-consuming process. The modified Angoff method and the benchmark method, as utilized in this study, employ representative panels of judges to provide recommended passing scores to standard setting decision-makers. It has been considered preferable to have the judges meet in a…

A Comparison of Four Linear Equating Methods for the Common-Item Nonequivalent Groups Design Using Simulation Methods. ACT Research Report Series, 2013 (2)

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Topczewski, Anna; Cui, Zhongmin; Woodruff, David; Chen, Hanwei; Fang, Yu

2013-01-01

This paper investigates four methods of linear equating under the common item nonequivalent groups design. Three of the methods are well known: Tucker, Angoff-Levine, and Congeneric-Levine. A fourth method is presented as a variant of the Congeneric-Levine method. Using simulation data generated from the three-parameter logistic IRT model we…

A Comparison of Cut Scores Using Multiple Standard Setting Methods.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Impara, James C.; Plake, Barbara S.

This paper reports the results of using several alternative methods of setting cut scores. The methods used were: (1) a variation of the Angoff method (1971); (2) a variation of the borderline group method; and (3) an advanced impact method (G. Dillon, 1996). The results discussed are from studies undertaken to set the cut scores for fourth grade…

Estimating the Minimum Number of Judges Required for Test-Centred Standard Setting on Written Assessments. Do Discussion and Iteration Have an Influence?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fowell, S. L.; Fewtrell, R.; McLaughlin, P. J.

2008-01-01

Absolute standard setting procedures are recommended for assessment in medical education. Absolute, test-centred standard setting procedures were introduced for written assessments in the Liverpool MBChB in 2001. The modified Angoff and Ebel methods have been used for short answer question-based and extended matching question-based papers,…

A Preliminary Investigation of the Direct Standard Setting Method.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jones, J. Patrick; And Others

Three studies assessed the psychometric characteristics of the Direct Standard Setting Method (DSSM). The Angoff technique was also used in each study. The DSSM requires judges to consider an examination 10 items at a time and determine the minimum items in that set a candidate should answer correctly to receive the credential. Nine judges set a…

The Bookmark Procedure for Setting Cut-Scores and Finalizing Performance Standards: Strengths and Weaknesses

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lin, Jie

2006-01-01

The Bookmark standard-setting procedure was developed to address the perceived problems with the most popular method for setting cut-scores: the Angoff procedure (Angoff, 1971). The purposes of this article are to review the Bookmark procedure and evaluate it in terms of Berk's (1986) criteria for evaluating cut-score setting methods. The…

Determination of Passing Scores on Certification Examinations: An Unresolved Issue.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Karni, Karen R.; Lofsness, Karen G.

1985-01-01

This study examined the results obtained from certification applicants and practitioners on a national certification examination for clinical laboratory scientists (medical technologists), using a modified Angoff procedure to establish the cut-off score. The major question of the investigation concerned whether the cut-off score was appropriate.…

Multicriteria Personnel Selection by the Modified Fuzzy VIKOR Method

PubMed Central

Alguliyev, Rasim M.; Aliguliyev, Ramiz M.; Mahmudova, Rasmiyya S.

2015-01-01

Personnel evaluation is an important process in human resource management. The multicriteria nature and the presence of both qualitative and quantitative factors make it considerably more complex. In this study, a fuzzy hybrid multicriteria decision-making (MCDM) model is proposed to personnel evaluation. This model solves personnel evaluation problem in a fuzzy environment where both criteria and weights could be fuzzy sets. The triangular fuzzy numbers are used to evaluate the suitability of personnel and the approximate reasoning of linguistic values. For evaluation, we have selected five information culture criteria. The weights of the criteria were calculated using worst-case method. After that, modified fuzzy VIKOR is proposed to rank the alternatives. The outcome of this research is ranking and selecting best alternative with the help of fuzzy VIKOR and modified fuzzy VIKOR techniques. A comparative analysis of results by fuzzy VIKOR and modified fuzzy VIKOR methods is presented. Experiments showed that the proposed modified fuzzy VIKOR method has some advantages over fuzzy VIKOR method. Firstly, from a computational complexity point of view, the presented model is effective. Secondly, compared to fuzzy VIKOR method, it has high acceptable advantage compared to fuzzy VIKOR method. PMID:26516634

Parallel high-precision orbit propagation using the modified Picard-Chebyshev method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koblick, Darin C.

2012-03-01

The modified Picard-Chebyshev method, when run in parallel, is thought to be more accurate and faster than the most efficient sequential numerical integration techniques when applied to orbit propagation problems. Previous experiments have shown that the modified Picard-Chebyshev method can have up to a one order magnitude speedup over the 12th order Runge-Kutta-Nystrom method. For this study, the evaluation of the accuracy and computational time of the modified Picard-Chebyshev method, using the Java Astrodynamics Toolkit high-precision force model, is conducted to assess its runtime performance. Simulation results of the modified Picard-Chebyshev method, implemented in MATLAB and the MATLAB Parallel Computing Toolbox, are compared against the most efficient first and second order Ordinary Differential Equation (ODE) solvers. A total of six processors were used to assess the runtime performance of the modified Picard-Chebyshev method. It was found that for all orbit propagation test cases, where the gravity model was simulated to be of higher degree and order (above 225 to increase computational overhead), the modified Picard-Chebyshev method was faster, by as much as a factor of two, than the other ODE solvers which were tested.

Modified Misgav Ladach method for cesarean section: clinical experience.

PubMed

Kulas, Tomislav; Habek, Dubravko; Karsa, Matija; Bobić-Vuković, Mirna

2008-01-01

To determine the advantages of modified a Misgav Ladach method over conventional (Pfannenstiel-Dorffler) cesarean section. From October 2002 to March 2005, 217 cesarean sections performed according to a modified Misgav Ladach method (without routine preoperative urinary catheterization, blunt separation of the fascia after a small incision, and unprepared plica vesicouterina) were prospectively compared with 153 randomly selected conventional cesarean sections. Maternal age, parity, gestational age, neonatal birth weight, procedure duration, operative complications and postoperative course were analyzed. The incidence of postoperative fever was 2.30 and 4.57% (p = 0.001), wound seroma 0.46 and 1.96% (p = 0.01), local wound infection 0.92 and 1.96% (p = 0.01), wound dehiscence 0 and 0.65% (NS), anemia 3.68 and 7.84% (p = 0.001), and need of blood transfusion 1.38 and 1.96% (NS) in the modified Misgav Ladach and conventional group, respectively. The mean duration of the operation was 26.24 min with the Misgav Ladach versus 39.41 min with the conventional operation (p < 0.001). The postoperative use of antibiotics and analgesics/antipyretics was significantly lower in the modified Misgav Ladach group (p = 0.001). Study results demonstrated that the modified Misgav Ladach method of cesarean section is associated with faster postoperative recovery, lower morbidity and blood loss, shorter length of operative procedure, lower incidence of operative complications, lesser postoperative use of antibiotics and analgesics/antipyretics, and lower utilization of surgical material. The modified Misgav Ladach method of cesarean section is suitable for emergency and elective procedures, justifying its use in daily routine. (c) 2008 S. Karger AG, Basel

Standard Setting Methods for Pass/Fail Decisions on High-Stakes Objective Structured Clinical Examinations: A Validity Study.

PubMed

Yousuf, Naveed; Violato, Claudio; Zuberi, Rukhsana W

2015-01-01

CONSTRUCT: Authentic standard setting methods will demonstrate high convergent validity evidence of their outcomes, that is, cutoff scores and pass/fail decisions, with most other methods when compared with each other. The objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) was established for valid, reliable, and objective assessment of clinical skills in health professions education. Various standard setting methods have been proposed to identify objective, reliable, and valid cutoff scores on OSCEs. These methods may identify different cutoff scores for the same examinations. Identification of valid and reliable cutoff scores for OSCEs remains an important issue and a challenge. Thirty OSCE stations administered at least twice in the years 2010-2012 to 393 medical students in Years 2 and 3 at Aga Khan University are included. Psychometric properties of the scores are determined. Cutoff scores and pass/fail decisions of Wijnen, Cohen, Mean-1.5SD, Mean-1SD, Angoff, borderline group and borderline regression (BL-R) methods are compared with each other and with three variants of cluster analysis using repeated measures analysis of variance and Cohen's kappa. The mean psychometric indices on the 30 OSCE stations are reliability coefficient = 0.76 (SD = 0.12); standard error of measurement = 5.66 (SD = 1.38); coefficient of determination = 0.47 (SD = 0.19), and intergrade discrimination = 7.19 (SD = 1.89). BL-R and Wijnen methods show the highest convergent validity evidence among other methods on the defined criteria. Angoff and Mean-1.5SD demonstrated least convergent validity evidence. The three cluster variants showed substantial convergent validity with borderline methods. Although there was a high level of convergent validity of Wijnen method, it lacks the theoretical strength to be used for competency-based assessments. The BL-R method is found to show the highest convergent validity evidences for OSCEs with other standard setting methods used in the present study

40 CFR Appendix B to Part 425 - Modified Monier-Williams Method

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 30 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Modified Monier-Williams Method B... Part 425—Modified Monier-Williams Method Outline of Method Hydrogen sulfide is liberated from an.... Quality Control 1. Each laboratory that uses this method is required to operate a formal quality control...

40 CFR Appendix B to Part 425 - Modified Monier-Williams Method

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 29 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Modified Monier-Williams Method B... Part 425—Modified Monier-Williams Method Outline of Method Hydrogen sulfide is liberated from an.... Quality Control 1. Each laboratory that uses this method is required to operate a formal quality control...

A Modified Jaeger's Method for Measuring Surface Tension.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ntibi, J. Effiom-Edem

1991-01-01

A static method of measuring the surface tension of a liquid is presented. Jaeger's method is modified by replacing the pressure source with a variable pressure head. By using this method, stationary air bubbles are obtained thus resulting in controllable external parameters. (Author/KR)

40 CFR Appendix B to Part 425 - Modified Monier-Williams Method

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 31 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Modified Monier-Williams Method B... Appendix B to Part 425—Modified Monier-Williams Method Outline of Method Hydrogen sulfide is liberated from.... Quality Control 1. Each laboratory that uses this method is required to operate a formal quality control...

[Comparison of the quick Gram stain method to the B&M modified and favor methods].

PubMed

Osawa, Kayo; Kataoka, Nobumasa; Maruo, Toshio

2011-01-01

The Gram stain is an established method for bacterial identification, but the time needed to carry out this stain is 2-3 min. We attempted to shorten this time and stained a total of 70 clinical specimens isolated from using the Bartholomew & Mittwer (B&M) modified or Favor methods with a 3 s duration for washing and staining steps. Results were plotted and analyzed using a Hue Saturation Intensity (HSI) model. The range based on a plot of the two methods with the HSI model was presented as a reference interval. Our results indicated that 100% (35/35) of strains were Gram positive and 97.1% (34/35) were Gram negative for the quick B&M modified method. In the quick Favor method, 80.0% (28/35) were Gram positive and 68.6% (24/35) of strains were Gram negative. We propose that the quick B&M modified method is equivalent to the standard Gram staining method and is superior to the quick Favor method.

A new technique to expose the hypopharyngeal space: The modified Killian's method.

PubMed

Sakai, Akihiro; Okami, Kenji; Sugimoto, Ryousuke; Ebisumoto, Koji; Yamamoto, Hikaru; Maki, Daisuke; Saito, Kosuke; Iida, Masahiro

2014-04-01

Recent remarkable progress in endoscopic technology has enabled the detection of superficial cancers that were undetectable in the past. However, even though advanced endoscopic technology can detect early lesions, it is useless unless it can provide wide exposure of an area. By modifying the Killian position, it is possible to observe a wider range of the hypopharyngeal space than is possible with conventional head positions. We report a revolutionary method that uses a new head position to widely open the hypopharynx. The technique is named "the Modified Killian's method." The patient is initially placed in the Killian position and then bent further forward from the original position (i.e., the modified Killian position). While in this position, the patient's head is turned and the Valsalva maneuver is applied. These additional maneuvers constitute the Modified Killian's method and widely expands the hypopharyngeal space. The conventional head position cannot open the hypopharyngeal space sufficiently; however, the Modified Killian's method opens the hypopharyngeal space very widely. The Modified Killian's method enables observation of the entire circumference of the hypopharyngeal space and the cervical esophageal entry. The Modified Killian's method may become an indispensable technique for observing the hypopharynx and detecting hypopharyngeal cancers. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Will the "Real" Proficiency Standard Please Stand Up?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Baron, Joan Boykoff; And Others

Connecticut's experience with four different standard-setting methods regarding multiple choice proficiency tests is described. The methods include Angoff, Nedelsky, Borderline Group, and Contrasting Groups Methods. All Connecticut ninth graders were administered proficiency tests in reading, language arts, and mathematics. As soon as final test…

A Comparison of Standard-Setting Procedures for an OSCE in Undergraduate Medical Education.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kaufman, David M.; Mann, Karen V.; Muijtjens, Arno M. M.; van der Vleuten, Cees P. M.

2000-01-01

Compared four standard-setting procedures for an objective structure clinical examination (OSCE) in medical education. Applied Angoff, borderline, relative, and holistic procedures to the data used to establish a cutoff score for a pass/fail decision. The Angoff and borderline procedures gave similar results; however, the relative and holistic…

Setting Standards for Minimum Competency Tests.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mehrens, William A.

Some general questions about minimum competency tests are discussed, and various methods of setting standards are reviewed with major attention devoted to those methods used for dichotomizing a continuum. Methods reviewed under the heading of Absolute Judgments of Test Content include Nedelsky's, Angoff's, Ebel's, and Jaeger's. These methods are…

Method of modifying a volume mesh using sheet extraction

DOEpatents

Borden, Michael J [Albuquerque, NM; Shepherd, Jason F [Albuquerque, NM

2007-02-20

A method and machine-readable medium provide a technique to modify a hexahedral finite element volume mesh using dual generation and sheet extraction. After generating a dual of a volume stack (mesh), a predetermined algorithm may be followed to modify the volume mesh of hexahedral elements. The predetermined algorithm may include the steps of determining a sheet of hexahedral mesh elements, generating nodes for merging, and merging the nodes to delete the sheet of hexahedral mesh elements and modify the volume mesh.

Method of modifying a volume mesh using sheet insertion

DOEpatents

Borden, Michael J [Albuquerque, NM; Shepherd, Jason F [Albuquerque, NM

2006-08-29

A method and machine-readable medium provide a technique to modify a hexahedral finite element volume mesh using dual generation and sheet insertion. After generating a dual of a volume stack (mesh), a predetermined algorithm may be followed to modify (refine) the volume mesh of hexahedral elements. The predetermined algorithm may include the steps of locating a sheet of hexahedral mesh elements, determining a plurality of hexahedral elements within the sheet to refine, shrinking the plurality of elements, and inserting a new sheet of hexahedral elements adjacently to modify the volume mesh. Additionally, another predetermined algorithm using mesh cutting may be followed to modify a volume mesh.

Modified carbohydrate-chitosan compounds, methods of making the same and methods of using the same

DOEpatents

Venditti, Richard A; Pawlak, Joel J; Salam, Abdus; El-Tahlawy, Khaled Fathy

2015-03-10

Compositions of matter are provided that include chitosan and a modified carbohydrate. The modified carbohydrate includes a carbohydrate component and a cross linking agent. The modified carbohydrate has increased carboxyl content as compared to an unmodified counterpart carbohydrate. A carboxyl group of the modified carbohydrate is covalently bonded with an amino group of chitosan. The compositions of matter provided herein may include cross linked starch citrate-chitosan and cross linked hemicellulose citrate-chitosan, including foams thereof. These compositions yield excellent absorbency and metal chelation properties. Methods of making cross linked modified carbohydrate-chitosan compounds are also provided.

Numeric Modified Adomian Decomposition Method for Power System Simulations

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

Dimitrovski, Aleksandar D; Simunovic, Srdjan; Pannala, Sreekanth

This paper investigates the applicability of numeric Wazwaz El Sayed modified Adomian Decomposition Method (WES-ADM) for time domain simulation of power systems. WESADM is a numerical method based on a modified Adomian decomposition (ADM) technique. WES-ADM is a numerical approximation method for the solution of nonlinear ordinary differential equations. The non-linear terms in the differential equations are approximated using Adomian polynomials. In this paper WES-ADM is applied to time domain simulations of multimachine power systems. WECC 3-generator, 9-bus system and IEEE 10-generator, 39-bus system have been used to test the applicability of the approach. Several fault scenarios have been tested.more » It has been found that the proposed approach is faster than the trapezoidal method with comparable accuracy.« less

Method for modifying trigger level for adsorber regeneration

DOEpatents

Ruth, Michael J.; Cunningham, Michael J.

2010-05-25

A method for modifying a NO.sub.x adsorber regeneration triggering variable. Engine operating conditions are monitored until the regeneration triggering variable is met. The adsorber is regenerated and the adsorbtion efficiency of the adsorber is subsequently determined. The regeneration triggering variable is modified to correspond with the decline in adsorber efficiency. The adsorber efficiency may be determined using an empirically predetermined set of values or by using a pair of oxygen sensors to determine the oxygen response delay across the sensors.

Modified Peritoneal Dialysis Catheter Insertion: Comparison with a Conventional Method.

PubMed

Lee, Yong Kyu; Yang, Pil-Sung; Park, Kyoung Sook; Choi, Kyu Hun; Kim, Beom Seok

2015-07-01

The conventional trocar and cannula method in peritoneal dialysis (PD) catheter insertion has its limitation in clinical setting. The aim of this study was to compare a modified method for percutaneous PD catheter insertion with the conventional method, and demonstrate advantages of the modified method. Patients at a single center who had percutaneous PD catheters inserted by nephrologists from January 2006 until September 2012, using either a modified method (group M) or the conventional trocar and cannula method (group C), were retrospectively analyzed, in terms of baseline characteristics, complications experienced up to 3 months after the procedure, and the suitability of the procedure for patients. Group M included 82 subjects, while group C included 66 cases. The overall early complication rate in group M (1.2%) was significantly lower than that in group C (19.7%) (p<0.001). The catheter revision rate during timeframe for early complications was significantly lower in group M (0%) than in group C (6.1%) (p=0.024). When comparing Procedure time (1 h 3 min±16 min vs. 1 h 36 min±19 min, p<0.01), immediate post-procedural pain (2.43±1.80 vs. 3.14±2.07, p<0.05), and post-procedure days until ambulation (3.95±1.13 days vs. 6.17±1.34 days, p<0.01), group M was significantly lower than group C. There was no significant difference in total hospitalization period (14.71±7.05 days vs. 13.86±3.7 days). Our modified PD catheter insertion method shows its advantages in early complication rate, early complications revision rate, and the patients' conveniences.

Designing stellarator coils by a modified Newton method using FOCUS

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

Zhu, Caoxiang; Hudson, Stuart R.; Song, Yuntao

To find the optimal coils for stellarators, nonlinear optimization algorithms are applied in existing coil design codes. However, none of these codes have used the information from the second-order derivatives. In this paper, we present a modified Newton method in the recently developed code FOCUS. The Hessian matrix is calculated with analytically derived equations. Its inverse is approximated by a modified Cholesky factorization and applied in the iterative scheme of a classical Newton method. Using this method, FOCUS is able to recover the W7-X modular coils starting from a simple initial guess. Results demonstrate significant advantages.

Designing stellarator coils by a modified Newton method using FOCUS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Caoxiang; Hudson, Stuart R.; Song, Yuntao; Wan, Yuanxi

2018-06-01

To find the optimal coils for stellarators, nonlinear optimization algorithms are applied in existing coil design codes. However, none of these codes have used the information from the second-order derivatives. In this paper, we present a modified Newton method in the recently developed code FOCUS. The Hessian matrix is calculated with analytically derived equations. Its inverse is approximated by a modified Cholesky factorization and applied in the iterative scheme of a classical Newton method. Using this method, FOCUS is able to recover the W7-X modular coils starting from a simple initial guess. Results demonstrate significant advantages.

Designing stellarator coils by a modified Newton method using FOCUS

DOE PAGES

Zhu, Caoxiang; Hudson, Stuart R.; Song, Yuntao; ...

2018-03-22

To find the optimal coils for stellarators, nonlinear optimization algorithms are applied in existing coil design codes. However, none of these codes have used the information from the second-order derivatives. In this paper, we present a modified Newton method in the recently developed code FOCUS. The Hessian matrix is calculated with analytically derived equations. Its inverse is approximated by a modified Cholesky factorization and applied in the iterative scheme of a classical Newton method. Using this method, FOCUS is able to recover the W7-X modular coils starting from a simple initial guess. Results demonstrate significant advantages.

Modified Peritoneal Dialysis Catheter Insertion: Comparison with a Conventional Method

PubMed Central

Lee, Yong Kyu; Yang, Pil-Sung; Park, Kyoung Sook; Choi, Kyu Hun

2015-01-01

Purpose The conventional trocar and cannula method in peritoneal dialysis (PD) catheter insertion has its limitation in clinical setting. The aim of this study was to compare a modified method for percutaneous PD catheter insertion with the conventional method, and demonstrate advantages of the modified method. Materials and Methods Patients at a single center who had percutaneous PD catheters inserted by nephrologists from January 2006 until September 2012, using either a modified method (group M) or the conventional trocar and cannula method (group C), were retrospectively analyzed, in terms of baseline characteristics, complications experienced up to 3 months after the procedure, and the suitability of the procedure for patients. Results Group M included 82 subjects, while group C included 66 cases. The overall early complication rate in group M (1.2%) was significantly lower than that in group C (19.7%) (p<0.001). The catheter revision rate during timeframe for early complications was significantly lower in group M (0%) than in group C (6.1%) (p=0.024). When comparing Procedure time (1 h 3 min±16 min vs. 1 h 36 min±19 min, p<0.01), immediate post-procedural pain (2.43±1.80 vs. 3.14±2.07, p<0.05), and post-procedure days until ambulation (3.95±1.13 days vs. 6.17±1.34 days, p<0.01), group M was significantly lower than group C. There was no significant difference in total hospitalization period (14.71±7.05 days vs. 13.86±3.7 days). Conclusion Our modified PD catheter insertion method shows its advantages in early complication rate, early complications revision rate, and the patients' conveniences. PMID:26069120

A modified ion-selective electrode method for measurement of chloride in sweat.

PubMed

Finley, P R; Dye, J A; Lichti, D A; Byers, J M; Williams, R J

1978-06-01

A modified method of analysis of sweat chloride concentration with an ion-selective electrode is presented. The original method of sweat chloride analysis proposed by the Orion Research Corporation (Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139) is inadequate because it produces erratic and misleading results. The modified method was compared with the reference quantitative method of Gibson and Cooke. In the modified method, individual electrode pads are cut and placed in the electrodes rather than using the pads supplied by the company; pilocarpine nitrate (2,000 mg/l) is used in place of pilocarpine HCl (640 mg/l); sodium bicarbonate as the weak electrolyte is used instead of K2SO4. A 10-minute period for sweat accumulation is employed rather than a zero-time collection as in the original Orion method. The modification has been studied for reproducibility in individuals, reproducibility between right and left arm in individuals; it has been compared extensively with the quantitative method of Gibson and Cooke, both in normal individuals and in patients with cystic fibrosis. There is excellent agreement between the modified method and the quantitative reference method. There appears to be a slight bias toward higher concentrations of chloride from the right arm compared with the left arm, but this difference is not medically significant.

Two-stage repair for severe proximal hypospadias using oral mucosal grafts: combination of a modified Bracka method and a modified Byars flap method.

PubMed

Mitsukawa, Nobuyuki; Saiga, Atsuomi; Akita, Shinsuke; Kubota, Yoshitaka; Kuriyama, Motone; Satoh, Kaneshige

2015-02-01

One-stage repair is a conventional treatment of hypospadias. If hypospadias is severe as in the scrotal type and perineal type, penile curvature sometimes cannot be corrected by dorsal midline plication alone. In addition to resection of the urethral plate, ventral grafting becomes necessary for insufficient skin and subcutaneous tissue. In recent years, there has been renewed interest in 2-stage repair for such severe cases and salvage of failed cases with scarring. In the present study, novel 2-stage urethroplasty was performed in 6 cases to repair severe proximal hypospadias which required resection of the urethral plate. This novel method consisted of a combination of a modified Bracka method using oral mucosal grafts and a modified Byars flap of the dorsal foreskin. Good results were obtained using this novel method.

Dental extrusion with orthodontic miniscrew anchorage: a case report describing a modified method.

PubMed

Horliana, Ricardo Fidos; Horliana, Anna Carolina Ratto Tempestini; Wuo, Alexandre do Vale; Perez, Flávio Eduardo Guillin; Abrão, Jorge

2015-01-01

In recent years, the skeletal anchorage through miniscrews has expanded the treatment options in orthodontics (Yamaguchi et al., 2012). We hereby present a modified method for tooth extrusion for cases where crown-lengthening surgery is contraindicated for aesthetic reasons. This modified method uses three orthodontic appliances: a mini-implant, an orthodontic wire, and a bracket. The aim of this case report was to increase the length of the clinical crown of a fractured tooth (tooth 23) by means of an orthodontic extrusion with the modified method of Roth and Diedrich.

Judgmental Standard Setting Using a Cognitive Components Model.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McGinty, Dixie; Neel, John H.

A new standard setting approach is introduced, called the cognitive components approach. Like the Angoff method, the cognitive components method generates minimum pass levels (MPLs) for each item. In both approaches, the item MPLs are summed for each judge, then averaged across judges to yield the standard. In the cognitive components approach,…

Modified Interior Distance Functions (Theory and Methods)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Polyak, Roman A.

1995-01-01

In this paper we introduced and developed the theory of Modified Interior Distance Functions (MIDF's). The MIDF is a Classical Lagrangian (CL) for a constrained optimization problem which is equivalent to the initial one and can be obtained from the latter by monotone transformation both the objective function and constraints. In contrast to the Interior Distance Functions (IDF's), which played a fundamental role in Interior Point Methods (IPM's), the MIDF's are defined on an extended feasible set and along with center, have two extra tools, which control the computational process: the barrier parameter and the vector of Lagrange multipliers. The extra tools allow to attach to the MEDF's very important properties of Augmented Lagrangeans. One can consider the MIDFs as Interior Augmented Lagrangeans. It makes MIDF's similar in spirit to Modified Barrier Functions (MBF's), although there is a fundamental difference between them both in theory and methods. Based on MIDF's theory, Modified Center Methods (MCM's) have been developed and analyzed. The MCM's find an unconstrained minimizer in primal space and update the Lagrange multipliers, while both the center and the barrier parameter can be fixed or updated at each step. The MCM's convergence was investigated, and their rate of convergence was estimated. The extension of the feasible set and the special role of the Lagrange multipliers allow to develop MCM's, which produce, in case of nondegenerate constrained optimization, a primal and dual sequences that converge to the primal-dual solutions with linear rate, even when both the center and the barrier parameter are fixed. Moreover, every Lagrange multipliers update shrinks the distance to the primal dual solution by a factor 0 less than gamma less than 1 which can be made as small as one wants by choosing a fixed interior point as a 'center' and a fixed but large enough barrier parameter. The numericai realization of MCM leads to the Newton MCM (NMCM). The

Effectiveness of modified seminars as a teaching-learning method in pharmacology

PubMed Central

Palappallil, Dhanya Sasidharan; Sushama, Jitha; Ramnath, Sai Nathan

2016-01-01

Context: Student-led seminars (SLS) are adopted as a teaching-learning (T-L) method in pharmacology. Previous studies assessing the feedback on T-L methods in pharmacology points out that the traditional seminars consistently received poor feedbacks as they were not favorite among the students. Aims: This study aimed to obtain feedback on traditional SLS, introduce modified SLS and compare the modified seminars with the traditional ones. Settings and Design: This was a prospective interventional study done for 2 months in medical undergraduates of fifth semester attending Pharmacology seminars at a Government Medical College in South India. Subjects and Methods: Structured questionnaire was used to elicit feedback from participants. The responses were coded on 5-point Likert scale. Modifications in seminar sessions such as role plays, quiz, tests, group discussion, and patient-oriented problem-solving exercises were introduced along with SLS. Statistical Analysis Used: The data were analyzed using SPSS version 16. The descriptive data were expressed using frequencies and percentages. Wilcoxon signed rank test, and Friedman tests were used to compare traditional with modified seminars. Results: The participants identified interaction as the most important component of a seminar. Majority opined that the teacher should summarize at the end of SLS. Student feedback shows that modified seminars created more interest, enthusiasm, and inspiration to learn the topic when compared to traditional SLS. They also increased peer coordination and group dynamics. Students opined that communication skills and teacher-student interactions were not improved with modified seminars. Conclusions: Interventions in the form of modified SLS may be adopted to break the monotony of traditional seminars through active participation, peer interaction, and teamwork. PMID:27563587

A new technique for mixed-type pectus carinatum: modified Onen method.

PubMed

Akkas, Yucel; Kocer, Bulent; Peri, Neslihan Gulay

2016-02-01

We modified the Onen method for pectus carinatum repair and used a vertical incision instead of a transverse incision. The most important advantage gained by the vertical incision is that we can switch to the Ravitch method without needing an additional incision, by elongating the existing incision in patients in whom a pectus bar cannot be placed. We successfully performed the modified Onen technique in a 16-year-old boy with a mixed-type pectus carinatum deformity. © The Author(s) 2016.

A Modified Magnetic Gradient Contraction Based Method for Ferromagnetic Target Localization

PubMed Central

Wang, Chen; Zhang, Xiaojuan; Qu, Xiaodong; Pan, Xiao; Fang, Guangyou; Chen, Luzhao

2016-01-01

The Scalar Triangulation and Ranging (STAR) method, which is based upon the unique properties of magnetic gradient contraction, is a high real-time ferromagnetic target localization method. Only one measurement point is required in the STAR method and it is not sensitive to changes in sensing platform orientation. However, the localization accuracy of the method is limited by the asphericity errors and the inaccurate value of position leads to larger errors in the estimation of magnetic moment. To improve the localization accuracy, a modified STAR method is proposed. In the proposed method, the asphericity errors of the traditional STAR method are compensated with an iterative algorithm. The proposed method has a fast convergence rate which meets the requirement of high real-time localization. Simulations and field experiments have been done to evaluate the performance of the proposed method. The results indicate that target parameters estimated by the modified STAR method are more accurate than the traditional STAR method. PMID:27999322

Implementing statistical equating for MRCP(UK) Parts 1 and 2.

PubMed

McManus, I C; Chis, Liliana; Fox, Ray; Waller, Derek; Tang, Peter

2014-09-26

The MRCP(UK) exam, in 2008 and 2010, changed the standard-setting of its Part 1 and Part 2 examinations from a hybrid Angoff/Hofstee method to statistical equating using Item Response Theory, the reference group being UK graduates. The present paper considers the implementation of the change, the question of whether the pass rate increased amongst non-UK candidates, any possible role of Differential Item Functioning (DIF), and changes in examination predictive validity after the change. Analysis of data of MRCP(UK) Part 1 exam from 2003 to 2013 and Part 2 exam from 2005 to 2013. Inspection suggested that Part 1 pass rates were stable after the introduction of statistical equating, but showed greater annual variation probably due to stronger candidates taking the examination earlier. Pass rates seemed to have increased in non-UK graduates after equating was introduced, but was not associated with any changes in DIF after statistical equating. Statistical modelling of the pass rates for non-UK graduates found that pass rates, in both Part 1 and Part 2, were increasing year on year, with the changes probably beginning before the introduction of equating. The predictive validity of Part 1 for Part 2 was higher with statistical equating than with the previous hybrid Angoff/Hofstee method, confirming the utility of IRT-based statistical equating. Statistical equating was successfully introduced into the MRCP(UK) Part 1 and Part 2 written examinations, resulting in higher predictive validity than the previous Angoff/Hofstee standard setting. Concerns about an artefactual increase in pass rates for non-UK candidates after equating were shown not to be well-founded. Most likely the changes resulted from a genuine increase in candidate ability, albeit for reasons which remain unclear, coupled with a cognitive illusion giving the impression of a step-change immediately after equating began. Statistical equating provides a robust standard-setting method, with a better

Modified Gas Chromatographic Method to Determine Monoacylglycerol and Diacylglycerol Contents in Edible Fats and Oils.

PubMed

Satou, Chiemi; Goto, Hirofumi; Yamazaki, Yuya; Saitou, Katsuyoshi; Matsumoto, Shoji; Takahashi, Ou; Miyazaki, Yosuke; Ikuta, Keiichi; Yajima, Yosuke

2017-06-01

Monoacylglycerol (MAG) and diacylglycerol (DAG) are minor components of edible fats and oils, and they relate to the quality of these foods. The AOCS official method Cd 11b-91 has been used to determine MAG and DAG contents in fats and oils. There are, however, difficulties in the determination of MAG and DAG using this analytical procedure. Therefore, we improved this method by modifying the trimethylsilyl derivatization procedure and replacing the internal standard (IS) material. In our modified method, TMS-HT (mixture of hexamethyldisilazane and trimethylchlorosilane) was used for derivatization of MAG and DAG, which was followed by liquid-liquid extraction with water and n-hexane solution containing the IS, tricaprin. Using the modified method, we demonstrated superior repeatability in comparison with that of the AOCS method by reducing procedural difficulties. The relative standard deviation of distearin peak areas was 1.8% or 2.9% in the modified method, while it was 5.6% in the AOCS method. In addition, capillary columns, such as DB-1ht and DB-5ht could be used in this method.

The Effect of Various Factors on Standard Setting.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Norcini, John J.; And Others

1988-01-01

Two studies of medical certification examinations were undertaken to assess standard setting using Angoff's Method. Results indicate that (1) specialization within broad content areas does not affect an expert's estimates of the performance of the borderline group; and (2) performance data should be provided during the standard-setting process.…

Modified Fully Utilized Design (MFUD) Method for Stress and Displacement Constraints

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Patnaik, Surya; Gendy, Atef; Berke, Laszlo; Hopkins, Dale

1997-01-01

The traditional fully stressed method performs satisfactorily for stress-limited structural design. When this method is extended to include displacement limitations in addition to stress constraints, it is known as the fully utilized design (FUD). Typically, the FUD produces an overdesign, which is the primary limitation of this otherwise elegant method. We have modified FUD in an attempt to alleviate the limitation. This new method, called the modified fully utilized design (MFUD) method, has been tested successfully on a number of designs that were subjected to multiple loads and had both stress and displacement constraints. The solutions obtained with MFUD compare favorably with the optimum results that can be generated by using nonlinear mathematical programming techniques. The MFUD method appears to have alleviated the overdesign condition and offers the simplicity of a direct, fully stressed type of design method that is distinctly different from optimization and optimality criteria formulations. The MFUD method is being developed for practicing engineers who favor traditional design methods rather than methods based on advanced calculus and nonlinear mathematical programming techniques. The Integrated Force Method (IFM) was found to be the appropriate analysis tool in the development of the MFUD method. In this paper, the MFUD method and its optimality are presented along with a number of illustrative examples.

Modified Finite Particle Methods for Stokes problems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Montanino, A.; Asprone, D.; Reali, A.; Auricchio, F.

2018-04-01

The Modified Finite Particle Method (MFPM) is a numerical method belonging to the class of meshless methods, nowadays widely investigated due to their characteristic of being capable to easily model large deformation and fluid-dynamic problems. Here we use the MFPM to approximate the Stokes problem. Since the classical formulation of the Stokes problem may lead to pressure spurious oscillations, we investigate alternative formulations and focus on how MFPM discretization behaves in those situations. Some of the investigated formulations, in fact, do not enforce strongly the incompressibility constraint, and therefore an important issue of the present work is to verify if the MFPM is able to correctly reproduce the incompressibility in those cases. The numerical results show that for the formulations in which the incompressibility constraint is properly satisfied from a numerical point of view, the expected second-order is achieved, both in static and in dynamic problems.

Modified homotopy perturbation method for solving hypersingular integral equations of the first kind.

PubMed

Eshkuvatov, Z K; Zulkarnain, F S; Nik Long, N M A; Muminov, Z

2016-01-01

Modified homotopy perturbation method (HPM) was used to solve the hypersingular integral equations (HSIEs) of the first kind on the interval [-1,1] with the assumption that the kernel of the hypersingular integral is constant on the diagonal of the domain. Existence of inverse of hypersingular integral operator leads to the convergence of HPM in certain cases. Modified HPM and its norm convergence are obtained in Hilbert space. Comparisons between modified HPM, standard HPM, Bernstein polynomials approach Mandal and Bhattacharya (Appl Math Comput 190:1707-1716, 2007), Chebyshev expansion method Mahiub et al. (Int J Pure Appl Math 69(3):265-274, 2011) and reproducing kernel Chen and Zhou (Appl Math Lett 24:636-641, 2011) are made by solving five examples. Theoretical and practical examples revealed that the modified HPM dominates the standard HPM and others. Finally, it is found that the modified HPM is exact, if the solution of the problem is a product of weights and polynomial functions. For rational solution the absolute error decreases very fast by increasing the number of collocation points.

A Modified Cooling Method and Its Application in "Drosophila" Experiments

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Qu, Wen-hui; Zhu, Tong-bo; Yang, Da-Xiang

2015-01-01

Chilling is a cost-effective and safe method of immobilising flies in "Drosophila" experiments. However, should condensation form on the plate, it would be fatal to the flies. Here we describe a modified cooling method using reusable commercial ice pack(s) (ca. 400 ml, 2-3 cm tall) rather than crushed ice. The ice pack is covered with a…

Sensitivity of Equated Aggregate Scores to the Treatment of Misbehaving Common Items

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Michaelides, Michalis P.

2010-01-01

The delta-plot method (Angoff, 1972) is a graphical technique used in the context of test equating for identifying common items with aberrant changes in their item difficulties across administrations or alternate forms. This brief research report explores the effects on equated aggregate scores when delta-plot outliers are either retained in or…

Two new modified Gauss-Seidel methods for linear system with M-matrices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zheng, Bing; Miao, Shu-Xin

2009-12-01

In 2002, H. Kotakemori et al. proposed the modified Gauss-Seidel (MGS) method for solving the linear system with the preconditioner [H. Kotakemori, K. Harada, M. Morimoto, H. Niki, A comparison theorem for the iterative method with the preconditioner () J. Comput. Appl. Math. 145 (2002) 373-378]. Since this preconditioner is constructed by only the largest element on each row of the upper triangular part of the coefficient matrix, the preconditioning effect is not observed on the nth row. In the present paper, to deal with this drawback, we propose two new preconditioners. The convergence and comparison theorems of the modified Gauss-Seidel methods with these two preconditioners for solving the linear system are established. The convergence rates of the new proposed preconditioned methods are compared. In addition, numerical experiments are used to show the effectiveness of the new MGS methods.

A general solution strategy of modified power method for higher mode solutions

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

Zhang, Peng; Lee, Hyunsuk; Lee, Deokjung, E-mail: deokjung@unist.ac.kr

2016-01-15

A general solution strategy of the modified power iteration method for calculating higher eigenmodes has been developed and applied in continuous energy Monte Carlo simulation. The new approach adopts four features: 1) the eigen decomposition of transfer matrix, 2) weight cancellation for higher modes, 3) population control with higher mode weights, and 4) stabilization technique of statistical fluctuations using multi-cycle accumulations. The numerical tests of neutron transport eigenvalue problems successfully demonstrate that the new strategy can significantly accelerate the fission source convergence with stable convergence behavior while obtaining multiple higher eigenmodes at the same time. The advantages of the newmore » strategy can be summarized as 1) the replacement of the cumbersome solution step of high order polynomial equations required by Booth's original method with the simple matrix eigen decomposition, 2) faster fission source convergence in inactive cycles, 3) more stable behaviors in both inactive and active cycles, and 4) smaller variances in active cycles. Advantages 3 and 4 can be attributed to the lower sensitivity of the new strategy to statistical fluctuations due to the multi-cycle accumulations. The application of the modified power method to continuous energy Monte Carlo simulation and the higher eigenmodes up to 4th order are reported for the first time in this paper. -- Graphical abstract: -- Highlights: •Modified power method is applied to continuous energy Monte Carlo simulation. •Transfer matrix is introduced to generalize the modified power method. •All mode based population control is applied to get the higher eigenmodes. •Statistic fluctuation can be greatly reduced using accumulated tally results. •Fission source convergence is accelerated with higher mode solutions.« less

Moving force identification based on modified preconditioned conjugate gradient method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Zhen; Chan, Tommy H. T.; Nguyen, Andy

2018-06-01

This paper develops a modified preconditioned conjugate gradient (M-PCG) method for moving force identification (MFI) by improving the conjugate gradient (CG) and preconditioned conjugate gradient (PCG) methods with a modified Gram-Schmidt algorithm. The method aims to obtain more accurate and more efficient identification results from the responses of bridge deck caused by vehicles passing by, which are known to be sensitive to ill-posed problems that exist in the inverse problem. A simply supported beam model with biaxial time-varying forces is used to generate numerical simulations with various analysis scenarios to assess the effectiveness of the method. Evaluation results show that regularization matrix L and number of iterations j are very important influence factors to identification accuracy and noise immunity of M-PCG. Compared with the conventional counterpart SVD embedded in the time domain method (TDM) and the standard form of CG, the M-PCG with proper regularization matrix has many advantages such as better adaptability and more robust to ill-posed problems. More importantly, it is shown that the average optimal numbers of iterations of M-PCG can be reduced by more than 70% compared with PCG and this apparently makes M-PCG a preferred choice for field MFI applications.

Postoperative evaluation of palatoplasty using the modified Kaplan method.

PubMed

Isago, Tsukasa; Nozaki, Motohiro; Honda, Takashi; Kikuchi, Yuji

2005-01-01

Bilateral buccal mucosal flaps were used for a pushback operation of the nasal mucosa as well as the oral mucosa. Two flaps from the buccal mucosal areas were inserted into the nasal mucosal raw surface at the hard and soft palatal border to achieve nasal mucosal pushback. Forty-four children with cleft palates were retrospectively studied to investigate the velopharyngeal function, articulation, and craniofacial morphology following primary palatoplasty using the modified Kaplan method. 72.7% showed good velopharyngeal function. Articulation disorders were found in 26 of the 44 subjects (59.1%). A craniofacial morphological analysis revealed no major changes in the SNA (sella-nasion point A angle) and SNB (sella-nasion point B angle) and no cases of a marked loss of maxillary mandibular balance. In addition, no significant differences were observed in the maxillary length and width. The results of these palatoplasties by the modified Kaplan method indicated that the use of bilateral buccal mucosal flaps for the pushback of the nasal mucosa was effective in preventing the contraction of the maxillary and mandibular corpal lengths.

A facile method to modify bentonite nanoclay with silane

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abeywardena, Sujani B. Y.; Perera, Srimala; Nalin de Silva, K. M.; Tissera, Nadeeka P.

2017-07-01

Immobilization of smectite clay onto a desirable surface has received much attention, since its nanospace can be utilized for many applications in material science. Here, we present an efficient method to functionalize surface of bentonite nanoclay (BNC) through the grafting of 3-aminotriethoxysilane (APTES). Infrared spectroscopy and elemental analysis confirmed the presence of organic chains and amine groups in modified nanoclay. XRD analysis confirmed grafting of APTES on the surface of bentonite nanoclay without intercalation. The accomplishment of the surface modification was quantitatively proved by TGA analysis. Modified BNC can covalently couple with different material surfaces, allowing its nanospace to be utilized for intercalation of cations, bio-molecules, and polymeric materials, to be used in advanced military aerospace, pharmaceuticals, and many other commercial applications.

Coherent spectroscopic methods for monitoring pathogens, genetically modified products and nanostructured materials in colloidal solution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moguilnaya, T.; Suminov, Y.; Botikov, A.; Ignatov, S.; Kononenko, A.; Agibalov, A.

2017-01-01

We developed the new automatic method that combines the method of forced luminescence and stimulated Brillouin scattering. This method is used for monitoring pathogens, genetically modified products and nanostructured materials in colloidal solution. We carried out the statistical spectral analysis of pathogens, genetically modified soy and nano-particles of silver in water from different regions in order to determine the statistical errors of the method. We studied spectral characteristics of these objects in water to perform the initial identification with 95% probability. These results were used for creation of the model of the device for monitor of pathogenic organisms and working model of the device to determine the genetically modified soy in meat.

Modified coaxial wire method for measurement of transfer impedance of beam position monitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kumar, Mukesh; Babbar, L. K.; Deo, R. K.; Puntambekar, T. A.; Senecha, V. K.

2018-05-01

The transfer impedance is a very important parameter of a beam position monitor (BPM) which relates its output signal with the beam current. The coaxial wire method is a standard technique to measure transfer impedance of the BPM. The conventional coaxial wire method requires impedance matching between coaxial wire and external circuits (vector network analyzer and associated cables). This paper presents a modified coaxial wire method for bench measurement of the transfer impedance of capacitive pickups like button electrodes and shoe box BPMs. Unlike the conventional coaxial wire method, in the modified coaxial wire method no impedance matching elements have been used between the device under test and the external circuit. The effect of impedance mismatch has been solved mathematically and a new expression of transfer impedance has been derived. The proposed method is verified through simulation of a button electrode BPM using cst studio suite. The new method is also applied to measure transfer impedance of a button electrode BPM developed for insertion devices of Indus-2 and the results are also compared with its simulations. Close agreement between measured and simulation results suggests that the modified coaxial wire setup can be exploited for the measurement of transfer impedance of capacitive BPMs like button electrodes and shoe box BPM.

Method of detecting luminescent target ions with modified magnetic microspheres

DOEpatents

Shkrob, Ilya A; Kaminski, Michael D

2014-05-13

This invention provides methods of using modified magnetic microspheres to extract target ions from a sample in order to detect their presence in a microfluidic environment. In one or more embodiments, the microspheres are modified with molecules on the surface that allow the target ions in the sample to form complexes with specific ligand molecules on the microsphere surface. In one or more embodiments, the microspheres are modified with molecules that sequester the target ions from the sample, but specific ligand molecules in solution subsequently re-extract the target ions from the microspheres into the solution, where the complexes form independent of the microsphere surface. Once the complexes form, they are exposed to an excitation wavelength light source suitable for exciting the target ion to emit a luminescent signal pattern. Detection of the luminescent signal pattern allows for determination of the presence of the target ions in the sample.

Adopting Cut Scores: Post-Standard-Setting Panel Considerations for Decision Makers

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Geisinger, Kurt F.; McCormick, Carina M.

2010-01-01

Standard-setting studies utilizing procedures such as the Bookmark or Angoff methods are just one component of the complete standard-setting process. Decision makers ultimately must determine what they believe to be the most appropriate standard or cut score to use, employing the input of the standard-setting panelists as one piece of information…

A Standards-Based Approach for Reporting Assessment Results in South Africa

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kanjee, Anil; Moloi, Qetelo

2016-01-01

This article proposes the use of a standards-based approach to reporting results from large-scale assessment surveys in South Africa. The use of this approach is intended to address the key shortcomings observed in the current reporting framework prescribed in the national curriculum documents. Using the Angoff method and data from the Annual…

Modified microplate method for rapid and efficient estimation of siderophore produced by bacteria.

PubMed

Arora, Naveen Kumar; Verma, Maya

2017-12-01

In this study, siderophore production by various bacteria amongst the plant-growth-promoting rhizobacteria was quantified by a rapid and efficient method. In total, 23 siderophore-producing bacterial isolates/strains were taken to estimate their siderophore-producing ability by the standard method (chrome azurol sulphonate assay) as well as 96 well microplate method. Production of siderophore was estimated in percent siderophore unit by both the methods. It was observed that data obtained by both methods correlated positively with each other proving the correctness of microplate method. By the modified microplate method, siderophore production by several bacterial strains can be estimated both qualitatively and quantitatively at one go, saving time, chemicals, making it very less tedious, and also being cheaper in comparison with the method currently in use. The modified microtiter plate method as proposed here makes it far easier to screen the plant-growth-promoting character of plant-associated bacteria.

Feasibility study of shell buckling analysis using the modified structure method

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cohen, G. A.; Haftka, R. T.

1972-01-01

The modified structure method, which is based on Koiter's theory of imperfections, was used to calculate approximate buckling loads of several shells of revolution. The method does not appear to be practical for shells because, in many cases, the prebuckling nonlinearity may be too large to be treated accurately as a small imperfection.

Current perspectives on genetically modified crops and detection methods.

PubMed

Kamle, Madhu; Kumar, Pradeep; Patra, Jayanta Kumar; Bajpai, Vivek K

2017-07-01

Genetically modified (GM) crops are the fastest adopted commodities in the agribiotech industry. This market penetration should provide a sustainable basis for ensuring food supply for growing global populations. The successful completion of two decades of commercial GM crop production (1996-2015) is underscored by the increasing rate of adoption of genetic engineering technology by farmers worldwide. With the advent of introduction of multiple traits stacked together in GM crops for combined herbicide tolerance, insect resistance, drought tolerance or disease resistance, the requirement of reliable and sensitive detection methods for tracing and labeling genetically modified organisms in the food/feed chain has become increasingly important. In addition, several countries have established threshold levels for GM content which trigger legally binding labeling schemes. The labeling of GM crops is mandatory in many countries (such as China, EU, Russia, Australia, New Zealand, Brazil, Israel, Saudi Arabia, Korea, Chile, Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand), whereas in Canada, Hong Kong, USA, South Africa, and Argentina voluntary labeling schemes operate. The rapid adoption of GM crops has increased controversies, and mitigating these issues pertaining to the implementation of effective regulatory measures for the detection of GM crops is essential. DNA-based detection methods have been successfully employed, while the whole genome sequencing using next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies provides an advanced means for detecting genetically modified organisms and foods/feeds in GM crops. This review article describes the current status of GM crop commercialization and discusses the benefits and shortcomings of common and advanced detection systems for GMs in foods and animal feeds.

Thermal Property Measurement of Semiconductor Melt using Modified Laser Flash Method

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lin, Bochuan; Zhu, Shen; Ban, Heng; Li, Chao; Scripa, Rosalla N.; Su, Ching-Hua; Lehoczky, Sandor L.

2003-01-01

This study further developed standard laser flash method to measure multiple thermal properties of semiconductor melts. The modified method can determine thermal diffusivity, thermal conductivity, and specific heat capacity of the melt simultaneously. The transient heat transfer process in the melt and its quartz container was numerically studied in detail. A fitting procedure based on numerical simulation results and the least root-mean-square error fitting to the experimental data was used to extract the values of specific heat capacity, thermal conductivity and thermal diffusivity. This modified method is a step forward from the standard laser flash method, which is usually used to measure thermal diffusivity of solids. The result for tellurium (Te) at 873 K: specific heat capacity 300.2 Joules per kilogram K, thermal conductivity 3.50 Watts per meter K, thermal diffusivity 2.04 x 10(exp -6) square meters per second, are within the range reported in literature. The uncertainty analysis showed the quantitative effect of sample geometry, transient temperature measured, and the energy of the laser pulse.

A simple method to prepare magnetic modified beer yeast and its application for cationic dye adsorption.

PubMed

Yu, Jun-Xia; Wang, Li-Yan; Chi, Ru-An; Zhang, Yue-Fei; Xu, Zhi-Gao; Guo, Jia

2013-01-01

The purpose of this research is to use a simple method to prepare magnetic modified biomass with good adsorption performances for cationic ions. The magnetic modified biomass was prepared by two steps: (1) preparation of pyromellitic dianhydride (PMDA) modified biomass in N, N-dimethylacetamide solution and (2) preparation of magnetic PMDA modified biomass by a situ co-precipitation method under the assistance of ultrasound irradiation in ammonia water. The adsorption potential of the as-prepared magnetic modified biomass was analyzed by using cationic dyes: methylene blue and basic magenta as model dyes. Optical micrograph and x-ray diffraction analyses showed that Fe(3)O(4) particles were precipitated on the modified biomass surface. The as-prepared biosorbent could be recycled easily by using an applied magnetic field. Titration analysis showed that the total concentration of the functional groups on the magnetic PMDA modified biomass was calculated to be 0.75 mmol g(-1) by using the first derivative method. The adsorption capacities (q(m)) of the magnetic PMDA modified biomass for methylene blue and basic magenta were 609.0 and 520.9 mg g(-1), respectively, according to the Langmuir equation. Kinetics experiment showed that adsorption could be completed within 150 min for both dyes. The desorption experiment showed that the magnetic sorbent could be used repeatedly after regeneration. The as-prepared magnetic modified sorbent had a potential in the dyeing industry wastewater treatment.

Modified harmonic balance method for the solution of nonlinear jerk equations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rahman, M. Saifur; Hasan, A. S. M. Z.

2018-03-01

In this paper, a second approximate solution of nonlinear jerk equations (third order differential equation) can be obtained by using modified harmonic balance method. The method is simpler and easier to carry out the solution of nonlinear differential equations due to less number of nonlinear equations are required to solve than the classical harmonic balance method. The results obtained from this method are compared with those obtained from the other existing analytical methods that are available in the literature and the numerical method. The solution shows a good agreement with the numerical solution as well as the analytical methods of the available literature.

Extension of modified power method to two-dimensional problems

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

Zhang, Peng; Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology, 50 UNIST-gil, Ulsan 44919; Lee, Hyunsuk

2016-09-01

In this study, the generalized modified power method was extended to two-dimensional problems. A direct application of the method to two-dimensional problems was shown to be unstable when the number of requested eigenmodes is larger than a certain problem dependent number. The root cause of this instability has been identified as the degeneracy of the transfer matrix. In order to resolve this instability, the number of sub-regions for the transfer matrix was increased to be larger than the number of requested eigenmodes; and a new transfer matrix was introduced accordingly which can be calculated by the least square method. Themore » stability of the new method has been successfully demonstrated with a neutron diffusion eigenvalue problem and the 2D C5G7 benchmark problem. - Graphical abstract:.« less

Studies on Aspirin Crystals Generated by a Modified Vapor Diffusion Method.

PubMed

Mittal, Amit; Malhotra, Deepak; Jain, Preeti; Kalia, Anupama; Shunmugaperumal, Tamilvanan

2016-08-01

The objectives of the current investigation were (1) to study the influence of selected two different non-solvents (diethylether and dichloromethane) on the drug crystal formation of a model drug, aspirin (ASP-I) by the modified vapor diffusion method and (2) to characterize and compare the generated crystals (ASP-II and ASP-III) using different analytical techniques with that of unprocessed ASP-I. When compared to the classical vapor diffusion method which consumes about 15 days to generate drug crystals, the modified method needs only 12 h to get the same. Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) reveals that the internal structures of ASP-II and ASP-III crystals were identical when compared with ASP-I. Although the drug crystals showed a close similarity in X-ray diffraction patterns, the difference in the relative intensities of some of the diffraction peaks (especially at 2θ values of around 7.7 and 15.5) could be attributed to the crystal habit or crystal size modification. Similarly, the differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) study speculates that only the crystal habit modifications might occur but without involving any change in internal structure of the generated drug polymorphic form I. This is further substantiated from the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) pictures that indicated the formation of platy shape for the ASP-II crystals and needle shape for the ASP-III crystals. In addition, the observed slow dissolution of ASP crystals should indicate polymorph form I formation. Thus, the modified vapor diffusion method could routinely be used to screen and legally secure all possible forms of other drug entities too.

Carbon aerogel-based supercapacitors modified by hummers oxidation method.

PubMed

Xu, Yuelong; Ren, Bin; Wang, Shasha; Zhang, Lihui; Liu, Zhenfa

2018-05-14

Carbon aerogels of an inter-connected three-dimensional (3D) structure are a potential carbon material for supercapacitors. We report a new oxidation modification method to prepare a series of modified carbon aerogels (OM-CA) by Hummers oxidation method. Oxidation-modified carbon aerogels (OM-CA) are obtained from carbon aerogel powders oxidized by Hummers method. Sulfuric acid stoichiometry is studied in order to investigate the effect of the surface oxygen group on surface area and electrochemical performance. Additionally, heteroatoms are doped into carbon aerogels in the oxidation process. The effect of heteroatom doping on electrochemical performance as a supercapacitor electrode material is investigated. When the amount of sulfuric acid is 40 wt%, the dopping manganese content is 0.9 mol%, the specific surface area of OM-CA is 450 m 2 /g, and its specific capacitance is 151 F g -1 at 0.5 A g -1 , which is achieved by heteroatom doping and texture properties. In addition, OM-CA composite supercapacitors exhibit a stable cycle life at a current density of 0.5 A g -1 and retain 98.0% of initial capacitance over 500 cycles, and OM-CA-40% still presents a higher capacity, up to 148 F g -1 at 0.5 A g -1 . The high specific surface area and specific capacitance suggest the porous carbon material has potential applications in supercapacitors. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A Modified Kirchhoff plate theory for Free Vibration analysis of functionally graded material plates using meshfree method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nguyen Van Do, Vuong

2018-04-01

In this paper, a modified Kirchhoff theory is presented for free vibration analyses of functionally graded material (FGM) plate based on modified radial point interpolation method (RPIM). The shear deformation effects are taken account into modified theory to ignore the locking phenomenon of thin plates. Due to the proposed refined plate theory, the number of independent unknowns reduces one variable and exists with four degrees of freedom per node. The simulated free vibration results employed by the modified RPIM are compared with the other analytical solutions to verify the effectiveness and the accuracy of the developed mesh-free method. Detail parametric studies of the proposed method are then conducted including the effectiveness of thickness ratio, boundary condition and material inhomogeneity on the sample problems of square plates. Results illustrated that the modified mesh-free RPIM can effectively predict the numerical calculation as compared to the exact solutions. The obtained numerical results are indicated that the proposed method are stable and well accurate prediction to evaluate with other published analyses.

Modified slanted-edge method for camera modulation transfer function measurement using nonuniform fast Fourier transform technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Duan, Yaxuan; Xu, Songbo; Yuan, Suochao; Chen, Yongquan; Li, Hongguang; Da, Zhengshang; Gao, Limin

2018-01-01

ISO 12233 slanted-edge method experiences errors using fast Fourier transform (FFT) in the camera modulation transfer function (MTF) measurement due to tilt angle errors in the knife-edge resulting in nonuniform sampling of the edge spread function (ESF). In order to resolve this problem, a modified slanted-edge method using nonuniform fast Fourier transform (NUFFT) for camera MTF measurement is proposed. Theoretical simulations for images with noise at a different nonuniform sampling rate of ESF are performed using the proposed modified slanted-edge method. It is shown that the proposed method successfully eliminates the error due to the nonuniform sampling of the ESF. An experimental setup for camera MTF measurement is established to verify the accuracy of the proposed method. The experiment results show that under different nonuniform sampling rates of ESF, the proposed modified slanted-edge method has improved accuracy for the camera MTF measurement compared to the ISO 12233 slanted-edge method.

Two modified symplectic partitioned Runge-Kutta methods for solving the elastic wave equation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Su, Bo; Tuo, Xianguo; Xu, Ling

2017-08-01

Based on a modified strategy, two modified symplectic partitioned Runge-Kutta (PRK) methods are proposed for the temporal discretization of the elastic wave equation. The two symplectic schemes are similar in form but are different in nature. After the spatial discretization of the elastic wave equation, the ordinary Hamiltonian formulation for the elastic wave equation is presented. The PRK scheme is then applied for time integration. An additional term associated with spatial discretization is inserted into the different stages of the PRK scheme. Theoretical analyses are conducted to evaluate the numerical dispersion and stability of the two novel PRK methods. A finite difference method is used to approximate the spatial derivatives since the two schemes are independent of the spatial discretization technique used. The numerical solutions computed by the two new schemes are compared with those computed by a conventional symplectic PRK. The numerical results, which verify the new method, are superior to those generated by traditional conventional methods in seismic wave modeling.

A modified sparse reconstruction method for three-dimensional synthetic aperture radar image

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Ziqiang; Ji, Kefeng; Song, Haibo; Zou, Huanxin

2018-03-01

There is an increasing interest in three-dimensional Synthetic Aperture Radar (3-D SAR) imaging from observed sparse scattering data. However, the existing 3-D sparse imaging method requires large computing times and storage capacity. In this paper, we propose a modified method for the sparse 3-D SAR imaging. The method processes the collection of noisy SAR measurements, usually collected over nonlinear flight paths, and outputs 3-D SAR imagery. Firstly, the 3-D sparse reconstruction problem is transformed into a series of 2-D slices reconstruction problem by range compression. Then the slices are reconstructed by the modified SL0 (smoothed l0 norm) reconstruction algorithm. The improved algorithm uses hyperbolic tangent function instead of the Gaussian function to approximate the l0 norm and uses the Newton direction instead of the steepest descent direction, which can speed up the convergence rate of the SL0 algorithm. Finally, numerical simulation results are given to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm. It is shown that our method, compared with existing 3-D sparse imaging method, performs better in reconstruction quality and the reconstruction time.

On the validity of the modified equation approach to the stability analysis of finite-difference methods

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chang, Sin-Chung

1987-01-01

The validity of the modified equation stability analysis introduced by Warming and Hyett was investigated. It is shown that the procedure used in the derivation of the modified equation is flawed and generally leads to invalid results. Moreover, the interpretation of the modified equation as the exact partial differential equation solved by a finite-difference method generally cannot be justified even if spatial periodicity is assumed. For a two-level scheme, due to a series of mathematical quirks, the connection between the modified equation approach and the von Neuman method established by Warming and Hyett turns out to be correct despite its questionable original derivation. However, this connection is only partially valid for a scheme involving more than two time levels. In the von Neumann analysis, the complex error multiplication factor associated with a wave number generally has (L-1) roots for an L-level scheme. It is shown that the modified equation provides information about only one of these roots.

A Modified Sparse Representation Method for Facial Expression Recognition.

PubMed

Wang, Wei; Xu, LiHong

2016-01-01

In this paper, we carry on research on a facial expression recognition method, which is based on modified sparse representation recognition (MSRR) method. On the first stage, we use Haar-like+LPP to extract feature and reduce dimension. On the second stage, we adopt LC-K-SVD (Label Consistent K-SVD) method to train the dictionary, instead of adopting directly the dictionary from samples, and add block dictionary training into the training process. On the third stage, stOMP (stagewise orthogonal matching pursuit) method is used to speed up the convergence of OMP (orthogonal matching pursuit). Besides, a dynamic regularization factor is added to iteration process to suppress noises and enhance accuracy. We verify the proposed method from the aspect of training samples, dimension, feature extraction and dimension reduction methods and noises in self-built database and Japan's JAFFE and CMU's CK database. Further, we compare this sparse method with classic SVM and RVM and analyze the recognition effect and time efficiency. The result of simulation experiment has shown that the coefficient of MSRR method contains classifying information, which is capable of improving the computing speed and achieving a satisfying recognition result.

A Modified Sparse Representation Method for Facial Expression Recognition

PubMed Central

Wang, Wei; Xu, LiHong

2016-01-01

In this paper, we carry on research on a facial expression recognition method, which is based on modified sparse representation recognition (MSRR) method. On the first stage, we use Haar-like+LPP to extract feature and reduce dimension. On the second stage, we adopt LC-K-SVD (Label Consistent K-SVD) method to train the dictionary, instead of adopting directly the dictionary from samples, and add block dictionary training into the training process. On the third stage, stOMP (stagewise orthogonal matching pursuit) method is used to speed up the convergence of OMP (orthogonal matching pursuit). Besides, a dynamic regularization factor is added to iteration process to suppress noises and enhance accuracy. We verify the proposed method from the aspect of training samples, dimension, feature extraction and dimension reduction methods and noises in self-built database and Japan's JAFFE and CMU's CK database. Further, we compare this sparse method with classic SVM and RVM and analyze the recognition effect and time efficiency. The result of simulation experiment has shown that the coefficient of MSRR method contains classifying information, which is capable of improving the computing speed and achieving a satisfying recognition result. PMID:26880878

A modified and cost-effective method for hair cortisol analysis.

PubMed

Xiang, Lianbin; Sunesara, Imran; Rehm, Kristina E; Marshall, Gailen D

2016-01-01

Hair cortisol may hold potential as a biomarker for assessment of chronic psychological stress. We report a modified and cost-effective method to prepare hair samples for cortisol assay. Hair samples were ground using an inexpensive ball grinder - ULTRA-TURRAX tube drive. Cortisol was extracted from the powder under various defined conditions. The data showed that the optimal conditions for this method include cortisol extraction at room temperature and evaporation using a stream of room air. These findings should allow more widespread research using economical technology to validate the utility of hair cortisol as a biomarker for assessing chronic stress status.

Direct runoff assessment using modified SME method in catchments in the Upper Vistula River Basin

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wałęga, A.; Rutkowska, A.; Grzebinoga, M.

2017-04-01

Correct determination of direct runoff is crucial for proper and safe dimensioning of hydroengineering structures. It is commonly assessed using SCS-CN method developed in the United States. However, due to deficiencies of this method, many improvements and modifications have been proposed. In this paper, a modified Sahu-Mishra-Eldo (SME) method was introduced and tested for three catchments located in the upper Vistula basin. Modification of SME method involved a determination of maximum potential retention S based on CN parameter derived from SCS-CN method. The modified SME method yielded direct runoff values very similar to those observed in the investigated catchments. Moreover, it generated significantly smaller errors in the direct runoff estimation as compared with SCS-CN and SME methods in the analyzed catchments. This approach may be used for estimating the runoff in uncontrolled catchments.

Competence in the musculoskeletal system: assessing the progression of knowledge through an undergraduate medical course.

PubMed

Basu, Subhashis; Roberts, Chris; Newble, David I; Snaith, Michael

2004-12-01

Professional bodies have expressed concerns that medical students lack appropriate knowledge in musculoskeletal medicine despite its high prevalence of use within the community. Changes in curriculum and teaching strategies may be contributing factors to this. There is little evidence to evaluate the degree to which these concerns are justified. To design and evaluate an assessment procedure that tests the progress of medical students in achieving a core level of knowledge in musculoskeletal medicine during the course. A stratified sample of 136 volunteer students from all 5 years of the medical course at Sheffield University. The progress test concept was adapted to provide a cross-sectional view of student knowledge gain during each year of the course. A test was devised which aimed to provide an assessment of competence set at the standard required of the newly qualified doctor in understanding basic and clinical sciences relevant to musculoskeletal medicine. The test was blueprinted against internal and external guidelines. It comprised 40 multiple-choice and extended matching questions administered by computer. Six musculoskeletal practitioners set the standard using a modified Angoff procedure. Test reliability was 0.6 (Cronbach's alpha). Mean scores of students increased from 41% in Year 1 to 84% by the final year. Data suggest that, from a baseline score in Year 1, there is a disparate experience of learning in Year 2 that evens out in Year 3, with knowledge progression becoming more consistent thereafter. All final year participants scored above the standard predicted by the Angoff procedure. This short computer-based test was a feasible method of estimating student knowledge acquisition in musculoskeletal medicine across the undergraduate curriculum. Tested students appear to have acquired a satisfactory knowledge base by the end of the course. Knowledge gain seemed relatively independent of specialty-specific clinical training. Proposals from specialty

Age estimation by modified Demirjian's method (2004) and its applicability in Tibetan young adults: A digital panoramic study.

PubMed

Bijjaragi, Shobha C; Sangle, Varsha A; Saraswathi, F K; Patil, Veerendra S; Ashwini Rani, S R; Bapure, Sunil K

2015-01-01

Estimation of the age is a procedure adopted by anthropologists, archeologists and forensic scientists. Different methods have been undertaken. However none of them meet the standards as Demirjian's method since 1973. Various researchers have applied this method, in both original and modified form (Chaillet and Demirjian in 2004) in different ethnic groups and the results obtained were not satisfactory. To determine the applicability and accuracy of modified Demirjian's method of dental age estimation (AE) in 8-18 year old Tibetan young adults to evaluate the interrelationship between dental and chronological age and the reliability between intra- and inter observer relationship. Clinical setting and computerized design. A total of 300 Tibetan young adults with an age range from 8 to 18 years were recruited in the study. Digital panoramic radiographs (DPRs) were evaluated as per the modified Demirjian's method (2004). Pearson correlation, paired t-test, linear regression analysis. Inter -and intraobserver reliability revealed a strong agreement. A positive and strong association was found between chronological age and estimated dental age (r = 0.839) with P < 0.01. Modified Demirjian method (2004) overestimated the age by 0.04 years (2.04 months)in Tibetan young adults. Results suggest that, the modified Demirjian method of AE is not suitable for Tibetan young adults. Further studies: With larger sample size and comparision with different methods of AE in a given population would be an interesting area for future research.

A modified cluster-sampling method for post-disaster rapid assessment of needs.

PubMed Central

Malilay, J.; Flanders, W. D.; Brogan, D.

1996-01-01

The cluster-sampling method can be used to conduct rapid assessment of health and other needs in communities affected by natural disasters. It is modelled on WHO's Expanded Programme on Immunization method of estimating immunization coverage, but has been modified to provide (1) estimates of the population remaining in an area, and (2) estimates of the number of people in the post-disaster area with specific needs. This approach differs from that used previously in other disasters where rapid needs assessments only estimated the proportion of the population with specific needs. We propose a modified n x k survey design to estimate the remaining population, severity of damage, the proportion and number of people with specific needs, the number of damaged or destroyed and remaining housing units, and the changes in these estimates over a period of time as part of the survey. PMID:8823962

Modified Right Heart Contrast Echocardiography Versus Traditional Method in Diagnosis of Right-to-Left Shunt: A Comparative Study.

PubMed

Wang, Yi; Zeng, Jie; Yin, Lixue; Zhang, Mei; Hou, Dailun

2016-01-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the reliability, effectiveness, and safety of modified right heart contrast transthoracic echocardiography (cTTE) in comparison with the traditional method. We performed a modified right heart cTTE using saline mixed with a small sample of patient's own blood. Samples were agitated with varying intensity. This study protocol involved microscopic analysis and patient evaluation. 1. Microscopic analysis: After two contrast samples had been agitated 10 or 20 times, they underwent a comparison of bubble size, bubble number, and red blood cell morphology. 2. Patient analysis: 40 patients with suspected RLS (right- to-left shunt) were enrolled. All patients underwent right heart contrast echocardiography. Oxygen saturation, transit time and duration, presence of RLS, change in indirect bilirubin and urobilinogen concentrations were compared afterward. Modified method generated more bubbles (P<0.05), but the differences in bubble size were not significant (P>0.05). Twenty-four patients were diagnosed with RLS (60%) using the modified method compared to 16 patients (40%) with the traditional method. The transit time of ASb20 group was the shortest (P<0.05). However, the duration time in this group was much longer (P<0.05). Also, in semi-quantitative analysis mean rank of RLS was higher after injecting the modified contrast agent agitated 20 times (P<0.05). Modified right heart contrast echocardiography is a reliable, effective and safe method of detecting cardiovascular RLS.

A Strontium-Modified Titanium Surface Produced by a New Method and Its Biocompatibility In Vitro

PubMed Central

Liu, Chundong; Zhang, Yanli; Wang, Lichao; Zhang, Xinhua; Chen, Qiuyue; Wu, Buling

2015-01-01

Objective To present a new and effective method of producing titanium surfaces modified with strontium and to investigate the surface characteristics and in vitro biocompatibility of titanium (Ti) surfaces modified with strontium (Sr) for bone implant applications. Materials and Methods Sr-modified Ti surfaces were produced by sequential treatments with NaOH, strontium acetate, heat and water. The surface characteristics and the concentration of the Sr ions released from the samples were examined. Cell adhesion, morphology and growth were investigated using osteoblasts isolated from the calvaria of neonatal Sprague-Dawley rats. Expression of osteogenesis-related genes and proteins was examined to assess the effect of the Sr-modified Ti surfaces on osteoblasts. Results The modified titanium surface had a mesh structure with significantly greater porosity, and approximately5.37±0.35at.% of Sr was incorporated into the surface. The hydrophilicity was enhanced by the incorporation of Sr ions and water treatment. The average amounts of Sr released from the Sr-modified plates subjected to water treatment were slight higher than the plates without water treatment. Sr promoted cellular adhesion, spreading and growth compared with untreated Ti surfaces. The Sr-modified Ti plates also promoted expression of osteogenesis-related genes,and expression of OPN and COL-І by osteoblasts. Ti plates heat treated at 700°C showed increased bioactivity in comparison with those treated at 600°C. Water treatment upregulated the expression of osteogenesis-related genes. Conclusions These results show that Sr-modification of Ti surfaces may improve bioactivity in vitro. Water treatment has enhanced the response of osteoblasts. The Sr-modified Ti heat-treated at 700°C exhibited better bioactivity compared with that heated at 600°C. PMID:26529234

A new smoothing modified three-term conjugate gradient method for [Formula: see text]-norm minimization problem.

PubMed

Du, Shouqiang; Chen, Miao

2018-01-01

We consider a kind of nonsmooth optimization problems with [Formula: see text]-norm minimization, which has many applications in compressed sensing, signal reconstruction, and the related engineering problems. Using smoothing approximate techniques, this kind of nonsmooth optimization problem can be transformed into a general unconstrained optimization problem, which can be solved by the proposed smoothing modified three-term conjugate gradient method. The smoothing modified three-term conjugate gradient method is based on Polak-Ribière-Polyak conjugate gradient method. For the Polak-Ribière-Polyak conjugate gradient method has good numerical properties, the proposed method possesses the sufficient descent property without any line searches, and it is also proved to be globally convergent. Finally, the numerical experiments show the efficiency of the proposed method.

Methods for producing partially digested restriction DNA fragments and for producing a partially modified PCR product

DOEpatents

Wong, Kwong-Kwok

2000-01-01

The present invention is an improved method of making a partially modified PCR product from a DNA fragment with a polymerase chain reaction (PCR). In a standard PCR process, the DNA fragment is combined with starting deoxynucleoside triphosphates, a primer, a buffer and a DNA polymerase in a PCR mixture. The PCR mixture is then reacted in the PCR producing copies of the DNA fragment. The improvement of the present invention is adding an amount of a modifier at any step prior to completion of the PCR process thereby randomly and partially modifying the copies of the DNA fragment as a partially modified PCR product. The partially modified PCR product may then be digested with an enzyme that cuts the partially modified PCR product at unmodified sites thereby producing an array of DNA restriction fragments.

Detection methods and performance criteria for genetically modified organisms.

PubMed

Bertheau, Yves; Diolez, Annick; Kobilinsky, André; Magin, Kimberly

2002-01-01

Detection methods for genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are necessary for many applications, from seed purity assessment to compliance of food labeling in several countries. Numerous analytical methods are currently used or under development to support these needs. The currently used methods are bioassays and protein- and DNA-based detection protocols. To avoid discrepancy of results between such largely different methods and, for instance, the potential resulting legal actions, compatibility of the methods is urgently needed. Performance criteria of methods allow evaluation against a common standard. The more-common performance criteria for detection methods are precision, accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity, which together specifically address other terms used to describe the performance of a method, such as applicability, selectivity, calibration, trueness, precision, recovery, operating range, limit of quantitation, limit of detection, and ruggedness. Performance criteria should provide objective tools to accept or reject specific methods, to validate them, to ensure compatibility between validated methods, and be used on a routine basis to reject data outside an acceptable range of variability. When selecting a method of detection, it is also important to consider its applicability, its field of applications, and its limitations, by including factors such as its ability to detect the target analyte in a given matrix, the duration of the analyses, its cost effectiveness, and the necessary sample sizes for testing. Thus, the current GMO detection methods should be evaluated against a common set of performance criteria.

New modified multi-level residue harmonic balance method for solving nonlinearly vibrating double-beam problem

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rahman, Md. Saifur; Lee, Yiu-Yin

2017-10-01

In this study, a new modified multi-level residue harmonic balance method is presented and adopted to investigate the forced nonlinear vibrations of axially loaded double beams. Although numerous nonlinear beam or linear double-beam problems have been tackled and solved, there have been few studies of this nonlinear double-beam problem. The geometric nonlinear formulations for a double-beam model are developed. The main advantage of the proposed method is that a set of decoupled nonlinear algebraic equations is generated at each solution level. This heavily reduces the computational effort compared with solving the coupled nonlinear algebraic equations generated in the classical harmonic balance method. The proposed method can generate the higher-level nonlinear solutions that are neglected by the previous modified harmonic balance method. The results from the proposed method agree reasonably well with those from the classical harmonic balance method. The effects of damping, axial force, and excitation magnitude on the nonlinear vibrational behaviour are examined.

Modified Goel’s Methods for Basilar Impression: A Case Report with Literature

PubMed Central

Asamoto, Shunji; Fukui, Yasuyuki; Nishiyama, Makoto; Ishikawa, Masayuki; Nakamura, Satoshi; Nagashima, Masaki; Muto, Jun; Jimbo, Hiroyuki

2016-01-01

We report the case of a 57-year-old woman who had basilar impression manifesting as severe myelopathy and occipital neuralgia and was treated by distraction and fixation performed using a modification of Goel’s method. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) scans showed severe myelocompression by the dens of the axis from the ventral side and occipitalization of the atlas. After traction using a Halo vest, C1–2 facet distraction and fixation was performed in one stage using a modified Goel’s method. Although Goel et al. used a custom-made spacer to distract the facet joints, we used a threaded titanium cylindrical cage that was inserted into the joint to fix the C1–2 facet joint with posterior fixation from occipital bone to C5. Postoperatively, gradual symptomatic and neurological amelioration were observed. The atlantoaxial joints were bone-fused at 3 years post-operation. Distraction and fixation performed using this modified version of Goel’s method was effective for treating basilar invagination. The threaded titanium cylindrical cage provided adequate C1–2 space and strong initial fixation. PMID:28663991

Safety assessment and detection methods of genetically modified organisms.

PubMed

Xu, Rong; Zheng, Zhe; Jiao, Guanglian

2014-01-01

Genetically modified organisms (GMOs), are gaining importance in agriculture as well as the production of food and feed. Along with the development of GMOs, health and food safety concerns have been raised. These concerns for these new GMOs make it necessary to set up strict system on food safety assessment of GMOs. The food safety assessment of GMOs, current development status of safety and precise transgenic technologies and GMOs detection have been discussed in this review. The recent patents about GMOs and their detection methods are also reviewed. This review can provide elementary introduction on how to assess and detect GMOs.

48 CFR 215.404-72 - Modified weighted guidelines method for nonprofit organizations other than FFRDCs.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... guidelines method for nonprofit organizations other than FFRDCs. 215.404-72 Section 215.404-72 Federal... METHODS AND CONTRACT TYPES CONTRACTING BY NEGOTIATION Contract Pricing 215.404-72 Modified weighted guidelines method for nonprofit organizations other than FFRDCs. (a) Definition. As used in this subpart, a...

48 CFR 215.404-72 - Modified weighted guidelines method for nonprofit organizations other than FFRDCs.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... guidelines method for nonprofit organizations other than FFRDCs. 215.404-72 Section 215.404-72 Federal... METHODS AND CONTRACT TYPES CONTRACTING BY NEGOTIATION Contract Pricing 215.404-72 Modified weighted guidelines method for nonprofit organizations other than FFRDCs. (a) Definition. As used in this subpart, a...

48 CFR 215.404-72 - Modified weighted guidelines method for nonprofit organizations other than FFRDCs.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... guidelines method for nonprofit organizations other than FFRDCs. 215.404-72 Section 215.404-72 Federal... METHODS AND CONTRACT TYPES CONTRACTING BY NEGOTIATION Contract Pricing 215.404-72 Modified weighted guidelines method for nonprofit organizations other than FFRDCs. (a) Definition. As used in this subpart, a...

48 CFR 215.404-72 - Modified weighted guidelines method for nonprofit organizations other than FFRDCs.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... guidelines method for nonprofit organizations other than FFRDCs. 215.404-72 Section 215.404-72 Federal... METHODS AND CONTRACT TYPES CONTRACTING BY NEGOTIATION Contract Pricing 215.404-72 Modified weighted guidelines method for nonprofit organizations other than FFRDCs. (a) Definition. As used in this subpart, a...

Connotations of pixel-based scale effect in remote sensing and the modified fractal-based analysis method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Feng, Guixiang; Ming, Dongping; Wang, Min; Yang, Jianyu

2017-06-01

Scale problems are a major source of concern in the field of remote sensing. Since the remote sensing is a complex technology system, there is a lack of enough cognition on the connotation of scale and scale effect in remote sensing. Thus, this paper first introduces the connotations of pixel-based scale and summarizes the general understanding of pixel-based scale effect. Pixel-based scale effect analysis is essentially important for choosing the appropriate remote sensing data and the proper processing parameters. Fractal dimension is a useful measurement to analysis pixel-based scale. However in traditional fractal dimension calculation, the impact of spatial resolution is not considered, which leads that the scale effect change with spatial resolution can't be clearly reflected. Therefore, this paper proposes to use spatial resolution as the modified scale parameter of two fractal methods to further analyze the pixel-based scale effect. To verify the results of two modified methods (MFBM (Modified Windowed Fractal Brownian Motion Based on the Surface Area) and MDBM (Modified Windowed Double Blanket Method)); the existing scale effect analysis method (information entropy method) is used to evaluate. And six sub-regions of building areas and farmland areas were cut out from QuickBird images to be used as the experimental data. The results of the experiment show that both the fractal dimension and information entropy present the same trend with the decrease of spatial resolution, and some inflection points appear at the same feature scales. Further analysis shows that these feature scales (corresponding to the inflection points) are related to the actual sizes of the geo-object, which results in fewer mixed pixels in the image, and these inflection points are significantly indicative of the observed features. Therefore, the experiment results indicate that the modified fractal methods are effective to reflect the pixel-based scale effect existing in remote sensing

A modified JPEG-LS lossless compression method for remote sensing images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Deng, Lihua; Huang, Zhenghua

2015-12-01

As many variable length source coders, JPEG-LS is highly vulnerable to channel errors which occur in the transmission of remote sensing images. The error diffusion is one of the important factors which infect its robustness. The common method of improving the error resilience of JPEG-LS is dividing the image into many strips or blocks, and then coding each of them independently, but this method reduces the coding efficiency. In this paper, a block based JPEP-LS lossless compression method with an adaptive parameter is proposed. In the modified scheme, the threshold parameter RESET is adapted to an image and the compression efficiency is close to that of the conventional JPEG-LS.

DNA degradation in genetically modified rice with Cry1Ab by food processing methods: implications for the quantification of genetically modified organisms.

PubMed

Xing, Fuguo; Zhang, Wei; Selvaraj, Jonathan Nimal; Liu, Yang

2015-05-01

Food processing methods contribute to DNA degradation, thereby affecting genetically modified organism detection and quantification. This study evaluated the effect of food processing methods on the relative transgenic content of genetically modified rice with Cry1Ab. In steamed rice and rice noodles, the levels of Cry1Ab were ⩾ 100% and <83%, respectively. Frying and baking in rice crackers contributed to a reduction in Pubi and Cry1Ab, while microwaving caused a decrease in Pubi and an increase in Cry1Ab. The processing methods of sweet rice wine had the most severe degradation effects on Pubi and Cry1Ab. In steamed rice and rice noodles, Cry1Ab was the most stable, followed by SPS and Pubi. However, in rice crackers and sweet rice wine, SPS was the most stable, followed by Cry1Ab and Pubi. Therefore, Cry1Ab is a better representative of transgenic components than is Pubi because the levels of Cry1Ab were less affected compared to Pubi. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Modified Spectral Fatigue Methods for S-N Curves With MIL-HDBK-5J Coefficients

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Irvine, Tom; Larsen, Curtis

2016-01-01

The rainflow method is used for counting fatigue cycles from a stress response time history, where the fatigue cycles are stress-reversals. The rainflow method allows the application of Palmgren-Miner's rule in order to assess the fatigue life of a structure subject to complex loading. The fatigue damage may also be calculated from a stress response power spectral density (PSD) using the semi-empirical Dirlik, Single Moment, Zhao-Baker and other spectral methods. These methods effectively assume that the PSD has a corresponding time history which is stationary with a normal distribution. This paper shows how the probability density function for rainflow stress cycles can be extracted from each of the spectral methods. This extraction allows for the application of the MIL-HDBK-5J fatigue coefficients in the cumulative damage summation. A numerical example is given in this paper for the stress response of a beam undergoing random base excitation, where the excitation is applied separately by a time history and by its corresponding PSD. The fatigue calculation is performed in the time domain, as well as in the frequency domain via the modified spectral methods. The result comparison shows that the modified spectral methods give comparable results to the time domain rainflow counting method.

A Novel Method to Generate and Expand Clinical-Grade, Genetically Modified, Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocytes

PubMed Central

Forget, Marie-Andrée; Tavera, René J.; Haymaker, Cara; Ramachandran, Renjith; Malu, Shuti; Zhang, Minying; Wardell, Seth; Fulbright, Orenthial J.; Toth, Chistopher Leroy; Gonzalez, Audrey M.; Thorsen, Shawne T.; Flores, Esteban; Wahl, Arely; Peng, Weiyi; Amaria, Rodabe N.; Hwu, Patrick; Bernatchez, Chantale

2017-01-01

Following the clinical success achieved with the first generation of adoptive cell therapy (ACT) utilizing in vitro expanded tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), the second and third generations of TIL ACT are evolving toward the use of genetically modified TIL. TIL therapy generally involves the transfer of a high number of TIL, ranging from 109 to 1011 cells. One of the technical difficulties in genetically modifying TIL, using a retroviral vector, is the ability to achieve large expansion of transduced TIL, while keeping the technique suitable to a Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) environment. Consequently, we developed and optimized a novel method for the efficient production of large numbers of GMP-grade, gene-modified TIL for the treatment of patients with ACT. The chemokine receptor CXCR2 was used as the gene of interest for methodology development. The optimized procedure is currently used in the production of gene-modified TIL for two clinical trials for the treatment of metastatic melanoma at MD Anderson Cancer Center. PMID:28824634

Infrared video based gas leak detection method using modified FAST features

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Min; Hong, Hanyu; Huang, Likun

2018-03-01

In order to detect the invisible leaking gas that is usually dangerous and easily leads to fire or explosion in time, many new technologies have arisen in the recent years, among which the infrared video based gas leak detection is widely recognized as a viable tool. However, all the moving regions of a video frame can be detected as leaking gas regions by the existing infrared video based gas leak detection methods, without discriminating the property of each detected region, e.g., a walking person in a video frame may be also detected as gas by the current gas leak detection methods.To solve this problem, we propose a novel infrared video based gas leak detection method in this paper, which is able to effectively suppress strong motion disturbances.Firstly, the Gaussian mixture model(GMM) is used to establish the background model.Then due to the observation that the shapes of gas regions are different from most rigid moving objects, we modify the Features From Accelerated Segment Test (FAST) algorithm and use the modified FAST (mFAST) features to describe each connected component. In view of the fact that the statistical property of the mFAST features extracted from gas regions is different from that of other motion regions, we propose the Pixel-Per-Points (PPP) condition to further select candidate connected components.Experimental results show that the algorithm is able to effectively suppress most strong motion disturbances and achieve real-time leaking gas detection.

Detection of Genetically Modified Food: Has Your Food Been Genetically Modified?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brandner, Diana L.

2002-01-01

Explains the benefits and risks of genetically-modified foods and describes methods for genetically modifying food. Presents a laboratory experiment using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test to detect foreign DNA in genetically-modified food. (Contains 18 references.) (YDS)

Inquiry Based Learning: A Modified Moore Method Approach To Encourage Student Research

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McLoughlin, M. Padraig M. M.

2008-01-01

The author of this paper submits that a mathematics student needs to learn to conjecture and prove or disprove said conjecture. Ergo, the purpose of the paper is to submit the thesis that learning requires doing; only through inquiry is learning achieved, and hence this paper proposes a programme of use of a modified Moore method (MMM) across the…

Deformation analysis of MEMS structures by modified digital moiré methods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Zhanwei; Lou, Xinhao; Gao, Jianxin

2010-11-01

Quantitative deformation analysis of micro-fabricated electromechanical systems is of importance for the design and functional control of microsystems. In this paper, two modified digital moiré processing methods, Gaussian blurring algorithm combined with digital phase shifting and geometrical phase analysis (GPA) technique based on digital moiré method, are developed to quantitatively analyse the deformation behaviour of micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) structures. Measuring principles and experimental procedures of the two methods are described in detail. A digital moiré fringe pattern is generated by superimposing a specimen grating etched directly on a microstructure surface with a digital reference grating (DRG). Most of the grating noise is removed from the digital moiré fringes, which enables the phase distribution of the moiré fringes to be obtained directly. Strain measurement result of a MEMS structure demonstrates the feasibility of the two methods.

A modified low-temperature wafer bonding method using spot pressing bonding technique and water glass adhesive layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Yang; Wang, Shengkai; Wang, Yinghui; Chen, Dapeng

2018-02-01

A modified low-temperature wafer bonding method using a spot pressing bonding technique and a water glass adhesive layer is proposed. The electrical properties of the water glass layer has been studied by capacitance-voltage (C-V) and electric current-voltage (I-V) measurements. It is found that the adhesive layer can be regarded as a good insulator in terms of leakage current density. The bonding mechanism and the motion of bubbles during the thermal treatment are investigated. The dominant factor for the bubble motion in the modified bonding process is the gradient of pressure introduced by the spot pressing force. It is proved that the modified method achieves low-temperature adhesive bonding, minimizes the effect of water desorption, and provides good bonding performance.

Development and Evaluation of Event-Specific Quantitative PCR Method for Genetically Modified Soybean MON87701.

PubMed

Tsukahara, Keita; Takabatake, Reona; Masubuchi, Tomoko; Futo, Satoshi; Minegishi, Yasutaka; Noguchi, Akio; Kondo, Kazunari; Nishimaki-Mogami, Tomoko; Kurashima, Takeyo; Mano, Junichi; Kitta, Kazumi

2016-01-01

A real-time PCR-based analytical method was developed for the event-specific quantification of a genetically modified (GM) soybean event, MON87701. First, a standard plasmid for MON87701 quantification was constructed. The conversion factor (C f ) required to calculate the amount of genetically modified organism (GMO) was experimentally determined for a real-time PCR instrument. The determined C f for the real-time PCR instrument was 1.24. For the evaluation of the developed method, a blind test was carried out in an inter-laboratory trial. The trueness and precision were evaluated as the bias and reproducibility of relative standard deviation (RSDr), respectively. The determined biases and the RSDr values were less than 30 and 13%, respectively, at all evaluated concentrations. The limit of quantitation of the method was 0.5%, and the developed method would thus be applicable for practical analyses for the detection and quantification of MON87701.

Vibrational properties of TaW alloy using modified embedded atom method potential

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

Chand, Manesh, E-mail: maneshchand@gmail.com; Uniyal, Shweta; Joshi, Subodh

2016-05-06

Force-constants up to second neighbours of pure transition metal Ta and TaW alloy are determined using the modified embedded atom method (MEAM) potential. The obtained force-constants are used to calculate the phonon dispersion of pure Ta and TaW alloy. As a further application of MEAM potential, the force-constants are used to calculate the local vibrational density of states and mean square thermal displacements of pure Ta and W impurity atoms with Green’s function method. The calculated results are found to be in agreement with the experimental measurements.

[Modified Delphi method in the constitution of school sanitation standard].

PubMed

Yin, Xunqiang; Liang, Ying; Tan, Hongzhuan; Gong, Wenjie; Deng, Jing; Luo, Jiayou; Di, Xiaokang; Wu, Yue

2012-11-01

To constitute school sanitation standard using modified Delphi method, and to explore the feasibility and the predominance of Delphi method in the constitution of school sanitation standard. Two rounds of expert consultations were adopted in this study. The data were analyzed with SPSS15.0 to screen indices of school sanitation standard. Thirty-two experts accomplished the 2 rounds of consultations. The average length of expert service was (24.69 ±8.53) years. The authority coefficient was 0.729 ±0.172. The expert positive coefficient was 94.12% (32/34) in the first round and 100% (32/32) in the second round. The harmonious coefficients of importance, feasibility and rationality in the second round were 0.493 (P<0.05), 0.527 (P<0.01), and 0.535 (P<0.01), respectively, suggesting unanimous expert opinions. According to the second round of consultation, 38 indices were included in the framework. Theoretical analysis, literature review, investigation and so on are generally used in health standard constitution currently. Delphi method is a rapid, effective and feasible method in this field.

Modified independent modal space control method for active control of flexible systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Baz, A.; Poh, S.

1987-01-01

A modified independent modal space control (MIMSC) method is developed for designing active vibration control systems for large flexible structures. The method accounts for the interaction between the controlled and residual modes. It incorporates also optimal placement procedures for selecting the optimal locations of the actuators in the structure in order to minimize the structural vibrations as well as the actuation energy. The MIMSC method relies on an important feature which is based on time sharing of a small number of actuators, in the modal space, to control effectively a large number of modes. Numerical examples are presented to illustrate the application of the method to generic flexible systems. The results obtained suggest the potential of the devised method in designing efficient active control systems for large flexible structures.

Modified Levenberg-Marquardt Method for RÖSSLER Chaotic System Fuzzy Modeling Training

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Yu-Hui; Wu, Qing-Xian; Jiang, Chang-Sheng; Xue, Ya-Li; Fang, Wei

Generally, fuzzy approximation models require some human knowledge and experience. Operator's experience is involved in the mathematics of fuzzy theory as a collection of heuristic rules. The main goal of this paper is to present a new method for identifying unknown nonlinear dynamics such as Rössler system without any human knowledge. Instead of heuristic rules, the presented method uses the input-output data pairs to identify the Rössler chaotic system. The training algorithm is a modified Levenberg-Marquardt (L-M) method, which can adjust the parameters of each linear polynomial and fuzzy membership functions on line, and do not rely on experts' experience excessively. Finally, it is applied to training Rössler chaotic system fuzzy identification. Comparing this method with the standard L-M method, the convergence speed is accelerated. The simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.

Characteristics of Chemical and Functional Properties of Modified Cassava Flour (Manihot esculenta) by Autoclaving-Cooling Cycles Method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cecep Erwan Andriansyah, Raden; Rahman, Taufik; Herminiati, Ainia; Rahman, Nurhaidar; Luthfiyanti, Rohmah

2017-12-01

The modified cassava flour can be made using the method of the autoclaving cooling cycle (AAC). The stability of the warming can be seen from the decreasing value of breakdown viscosity, while the stability of the stirring process can be seen by the decreasing value of setback viscosity. The stages of research include: (1) the making of cassava flour, (2) the making of modified cassava flour by the method of treatment of ACC with a variety of flour concentration and autoclaving time, (3) chemical analysis of the moisture, ash, fat, protein, carbohydrate; The functional properties of the pasting characteristics to the initial temperature of the pasting, peak viscosity, hot paste viscosity, breakdown viscosity, cold paste viscosity and setback viscosity. The result shows that cassava flour modified by treatment of flour concentration 16% and autoclaving time 41 minutes having pasting code and pasting viscosity which is resistant to high temperature. Flour with this character is flour that is expected to maintain the texture of processed products with a paste form that remains stable. Utilization of modified cassava flour by the ACC method can be applied to the pasting product such as noodle and spaghetti, hoping to support for food diversification program to reduce dependence on wheat flour in Indonesia.

Comparison of the Modified-Hodge test, Carba NP test, and carbapenem inactivation method as screening methods for carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae.

PubMed

Yamada, Kageto; Kashiwa, Machiko; Arai, Katsumi; Nagano, Noriyuki; Saito, Ryoichi

2016-09-01

We compared three screening methods for carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae. While the Modified-Hodge test and Carba NP test produced false-negative results for OXA-48-like and mucoid NDM producers, the carbapenem inactivation method (CIM) showed positive results for these isolates. Although the CIM required cultivation time, it is well suited for general clinical laboratories. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) method for detection of genetically modified maize T25.

PubMed

Xu, Junyi; Zheng, Qiuyue; Yu, Ling; Liu, Ran; Zhao, Xin; Wang, Gang; Wang, Qinghua; Cao, Jijuan

2013-11-01

The loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assay indicates a potential and valuable means for genetically modified organism (GMO) detection especially for its rapidity, simplicity, and low cost. We developed and evaluated the specificity and sensitivity of the LAMP method for rapid detection of the genetically modified (GM) maize T25. A set of six specific primers was successfully designed to recognize six distinct sequences on the target gene, including a pair of inner primers, a pair of outer primers, and a pair of loop primers. The optimum reaction temperature and time were verified to be 65°C and 45 min, respectively. The detection limit of this LAMP assay was 5 g kg(-1) GMO component. Comparative experiments showed that the LAMP assay was a simple, rapid, accurate, and specific method for detecting the GM maize T25.

Image quality enhancement in low-light-level ghost imaging using modified compressive sensing method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shi, Xiaohui; Huang, Xianwei; Nan, Suqin; Li, Hengxing; Bai, Yanfeng; Fu, Xiquan

2018-04-01

Detector noise has a significantly negative impact on ghost imaging at low light levels, especially for existing recovery algorithm. Based on the characteristics of the additive detector noise, a method named modified compressive sensing ghost imaging is proposed to reduce the background imposed by the randomly distributed detector noise at signal path. Experimental results show that, with an appropriate choice of threshold value, modified compressive sensing ghost imaging algorithm can dramatically enhance the contrast-to-noise ratio of the object reconstruction significantly compared with traditional ghost imaging and compressive sensing ghost imaging methods. The relationship between the contrast-to-noise ratio of the reconstruction image and the intensity ratio (namely, the average signal intensity to average noise intensity ratio) for the three reconstruction algorithms are also discussed. This noise suppression imaging technique will have great applications in remote-sensing and security areas.

Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) method for detection of genetically modified maize T25

PubMed Central

Xu, Junyi; Zheng, Qiuyue; Yu, Ling; Liu, Ran; Zhao, Xin; Wang, Gang; Wang, Qinghua; Cao, Jijuan

2013-01-01

The loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assay indicates a potential and valuable means for genetically modified organism (GMO) detection especially for its rapidity, simplicity, and low cost. We developed and evaluated the specificity and sensitivity of the LAMP method for rapid detection of the genetically modified (GM) maize T25. A set of six specific primers was successfully designed to recognize six distinct sequences on the target gene, including a pair of inner primers, a pair of outer primers, and a pair of loop primers. The optimum reaction temperature and time were verified to be 65°C and 45 min, respectively. The detection limit of this LAMP assay was 5 g kg−1 GMO component. Comparative experiments showed that the LAMP assay was a simple, rapid, accurate, and specific method for detecting the GM maize T25. PMID:24804053

Determination of small quantities of fluoride in water: A modified zirconium-alizarin method

USGS Publications Warehouse

Lamar, W.L.; Seegmiller, C.G.

1941-01-01

The zirconium-alizarin method has been modified to facilitate the convenient and accurate determination of small amounts of fluoride in a large number of water samples. Sulfuric acid is used to acidify the samples to reduce the interference of sulfate. The pH is accurately controlled to give the most sensitive comparisons. Most natural waters can be analyzed by the modified procedure without resorting to correction curves. The fluoride content of waters containing less than 500 parts per million of sulfate, 500 parts per million of bicarbonate, and 1000 parts per million of chloride may be determined within a limit of about 0.1 part per million when a 100-ml. sample is used.

A modified priority list-based MILP method for solving large-scale unit commitment problems

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

Ke, Xinda; Lu, Ning; Wu, Di

This paper studies the typical pattern of unit commitment (UC) results in terms of generator’s cost and capacity. A method is then proposed to combine a modified priority list technique with mixed integer linear programming (MILP) for UC problem. The proposed method consists of two steps. At the first step, a portion of generators are predetermined to be online or offline within a look-ahead period (e.g., a week), based on the demand curve and generator priority order. For the generators whose on/off status is predetermined, at the second step, the corresponding binary variables are removed from the UC MILP problemmore » over the operational planning horizon (e.g., 24 hours). With a number of binary variables removed, the resulted problem can be solved much faster using the off-the-shelf MILP solvers, based on the branch-and-bound algorithm. In the modified priority list method, scale factors are designed to adjust the tradeoff between solution speed and level of optimality. It is found that the proposed method can significantly speed up the UC problem with minor compromise in optimality by selecting appropriate scale factors.« less

The Impact of a Modified Moore Method on Efficacy and Performance in Precalculus

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cooper, Thomas E.; Bailey, Brad; Briggs, Karen

2012-01-01

In this study, one section of undergraduate Precalculus was taught using a modified Moore method, a student centered inquiry-based approach, and two control sections were taught in a traditional lecture format. A survey of attitudes, beliefs, and efficacy toward mathematics and Precalculus was administered at the beginning and end of the semester…

Direct detection of metal-insulator phase transitions using the modified Backus-Gilbert method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ulybyshev, Maksim; Winterowd, Christopher; Zafeiropoulos, Savvas

2018-03-01

The detection of the (semi)metal-insulator phase transition can be extremely difficult if the local order parameter which characterizes the ordered phase is unknown. In some cases, it is even impossible to define a local order parameter: the most prominent example of such system is the spin liquid state. This state was proposed to exist in the Hubbard model on the hexagonal lattice in a region between the semimetal phase and the antiferromagnetic insulator phase. The existence of this phase has been the subject of a long debate. In order to detect these exotic phases we must use alternative methods to those used for more familiar examples of spontaneous symmetry breaking. We have modified the Backus-Gilbert method of analytic continuation which was previously used in the calculation of the pion quasiparticle mass in lattice QCD. The modification of the method consists of the introduction of the Tikhonov regularization scheme which was used to treat the ill-conditioned kernel. This modified Backus-Gilbert method is applied to the Euclidean propagators in momentum space calculated using the hybrid Monte Carlo algorithm. In this way, it is possible to reconstruct the full dispersion relation and to estimate the mass gap, which is a direct signal of the transition to the insulating state. We demonstrate the utility of this method in our calculations for the Hubbard model on the hexagonal lattice. We also apply the method to the metal-insulator phase transition in the Hubbard-Coulomb model on the square lattice.

Multiple Testing with Modified Bonferroni Methods.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Li, Jianmin; And Others

This paper discusses the issue of multiple testing and overall Type I error rates in contexts other than multiple comparisons of means. It demonstrates, using a 5 x 5 correlation matrix, the application of 5 recently developed modified Bonferroni procedures developed by the following authors: (1) Y. Hochberg (1988); (2) B. S. Holland and M. D.…

Establishing pass/fail criteria for bronchoscopy performance.

PubMed

Konge, Lars; Clementsen, Paul; Larsen, Klaus Richter; Arendrup, Henrik; Buchwald, Christian; Ringsted, Charlotte

2012-01-01

Several tools have been created to assess competence in bronchoscopy. However, educational guidelines still use an arbitrary number of performed procedures to decide when basic competency is acquired. The purpose of this study was to define pass/fail scores for two bronchoscopy assessment tools, and investigate how these scores relate to physicians' experience regarding the number of bronchoscopy procedures performed. We studied two assessment tools and used two standard setting methods to create cut scores: the contrasting-groups method and the extended Angoff method. In the first we compared bronchoscopy performance scores of 14 novices with the scores of 14 experienced consultants to find the score that best discriminated between the two groups. In the second we asked an expert group of 7 experienced bronchoscopists to judge how a borderline trainee would perform on each item of the test. Using the contrasting-groups method we found a standard that would fail all novices and pass all consultants. A clear pass related to prior experience of 75 procedures. The consequences of using the extended Angoff method were also acceptable: all trainees who had performed less than 50 bronchoscopies failed the test and all consultants passed. A clear pass related to 80 procedures. Our proposed pass/fail scores for these two methods seem appropriate in terms of consequences. Prior experience with the performance of 75 and 80 bronchoscopies, respectively, seemed to ensure basic competency. In the future objective assessment tools could become an important aid in the certification of physicians performing bronchoscopies. Copyright © 2011 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Development of a qualitative real-time PCR method to detect 19 targets for identification of genetically modified organisms.

PubMed

Peng, Cheng; Wang, Pengfei; Xu, Xiaoli; Wang, Xiaofu; Wei, Wei; Chen, Xiaoyun; Xu, Junfeng

2016-01-01

As the amount of commercially available genetically modified organisms (GMOs) grows recent years, the diversity of target sequences for molecular detection techniques are eagerly needed. Considered as the gold standard for GMO analysis, the real-time PCR technology was optimized to produce a high-throughput GMO screening method. With this method we can detect 19 transgenic targets. The specificity of the assays was demonstrated to be 100 % by the specific amplification of DNA derived from reference material from 20 genetically modified crops and 4 non modified crops. Furthermore, most assays showed a very sensitive detection, reaching the limit of ten copies. The 19 assays are the most frequently used genetic elements present in GM crops and theoretically enable the screening of the known GMO described in Chinese markets. Easy to use, fast and cost efficient, this method approach fits the purpose of GMO testing laboratories.

A novel star extraction method based on modified water flow model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Hao; Niu, Yanxiong; Lu, Jiazhen; Ouyang, Zibiao; Yang, Yanqiang

2017-11-01

Star extraction is the essential procedure for attitude measurement of star sensor. The great challenge for star extraction is to segment star area exactly from various noise and background. In this paper, a novel star extraction method based on Modified Water Flow Model(MWFM) is proposed. The star image is regarded as a 3D terrain. The morphology is adopted for noise elimination and Tentative Star Area(TSA) selection. Star area can be extracted through adaptive water flowing within TSAs. This method can achieve accurate star extraction with improved efficiency under complex conditions such as loud noise and uneven backgrounds. Several groups of different types of star images are processed using proposed method. Comparisons with existing methods are conducted. Experimental results show that MWFM performs excellently under different imaging conditions. The star extraction rate is better than 95%. The star centroid accuracy is better than 0.075 pixels. The time-consumption is also significantly reduced.

The Effect of a Modified Moore Method on Attitudes and Beliefs in Precalculus

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bailey, Brad; Cooper, Thomas E.; Briggs, Karen S.

2012-01-01

As part of a study on the effects of teaching with a Modified Moore Method (MMM), a survey containing 20 items from Schoenfeld's (1989) investigation of attitudes and beliefs about mathematics was administered to students in undergraduate precalculus classes. The study included one section of precalculus taught with an MMM, a student-centered and…

Groundwater Evapotranspiration from Diurnal Water Table Fluctuation: a Modified White Based Method Using Drainable and Fillable Porosity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Acharya, S.; Mylavarapu, R.; Jawitz, J. W.

2012-12-01

In shallow unconfined aquifers, the water table usually shows a distinct diurnal fluctuation pattern corresponding to the twenty-four hour solar radiation cycle. This diurnal water table fluctuation (DWTF) signal can be used to estimate the groundwater evapotranspiration (ETg) by vegetation, a method known as the White [1932] method. Water table fluctuations in shallow phreatic aquifers is controlled by two distinct storage parameters, drainable porosity (or specific yield) and the fillable porosity. Yet, it is implicitly assumed in most studies that these two parameters are equal, unless hysteresis effect is considered. The White based method available in the literature is also based on a single drainable porosity parameter to estimate the ETg. In this study, we present a modification of the White based method to estimate ETg from DWTF using separate drainable (λd) and fillable porosity (λf) parameters. Separate analytical expressions based on successive steady state moisture profiles are used to estimate λd and λf, instead of the commonly employed hydrostatic moisture profile approach. The modified method is then applied to estimate ETg using the DWTF data observed in a field in northeast Florida and the results are compared with ET estimations from the standard Penman-Monteith equation. It is found that the modified method resulted in significantly better estimates of ETg than the previously available method that used only a single, hydrostatic-moisture-profile based λd. Furthermore, the modified method is also used to estimate ETg even during rainfall events which produced significantly better estimates of ETg as compared to the single λd parameter method.

A Strontium-Modified Titanium Surface Produced by a New Method and Its Biocompatibility In Vitro.

PubMed

Liu, Chundong; Zhang, Yanli; Wang, Lichao; Zhang, Xinhua; Chen, Qiuyue; Wu, Buling

2015-01-01

To present a new and effective method of producing titanium surfaces modified with strontium and to investigate the surface characteristics and in vitro biocompatibility of titanium (Ti) surfaces modified with strontium (Sr) for bone implant applications. Sr-modified Ti surfaces were produced by sequential treatments with NaOH, strontium acetate, heat and water. The surface characteristics and the concentration of the Sr ions released from the samples were examined. Cell adhesion, morphology and growth were investigated using osteoblasts isolated from the calvaria of neonatal Sprague-Dawley rats. Expression of osteogenesis-related genes and proteins was examined to assess the effect of the Sr-modified Ti surfaces on osteoblasts. The modified titanium surface had a mesh structure with significantly greater porosity, and approximately5.37±0.35at.% of Sr was incorporated into the surface. The hydrophilicity was enhanced by the incorporation of Sr ions and water treatment. The average amounts of Sr released from the Sr-modified plates subjected to water treatment were slight higher than the plates without water treatment. Sr promoted cellular adhesion, spreading and growth compared with untreated Ti surfaces. The Sr-modified Ti plates also promoted expression of osteogenesis-related genes,and expression of OPN and COL-І by osteoblasts. Ti plates heat treated at 700°C showed increased bioactivity in comparison with those treated at 600°C. Water treatment upregulated the expression of osteogenesis-related genes. These results show that Sr-modification of Ti surfaces may improve bioactivity in vitro. Water treatment has enhanced the response of osteoblasts. The Sr-modified Ti heat-treated at 700°C exhibited better bioactivity compared with that heated at 600°C.

A Numerical Comparison of Barrier and Modified Barrier Methods for Large-Scale Bound-Constrained Optimization

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nash, Stephen G.; Polyak, R.; Sofer, Ariela

1994-01-01

When a classical barrier method is applied to the solution of a nonlinear programming problem with inequality constraints, the Hessian matrix of the barrier function becomes increasingly ill-conditioned as the solution is approached. As a result, it may be desirable to consider alternative numerical algorithms. We compare the performance of two methods motivated by barrier functions. The first is a stabilized form of the classical barrier method, where a numerically stable approximation to the Newton direction is used when the barrier parameter is small. The second is a modified barrier method where a barrier function is applied to a shifted form of the problem, and the resulting barrier terms are scaled by estimates of the optimal Lagrange multipliers. The condition number of the Hessian matrix of the resulting modified barrier function remains bounded as the solution to the constrained optimization problem is approached. Both of these techniques can be used in the context of a truncated-Newton method, and hence can be applied to large problems, as well as on parallel computers. In this paper, both techniques are applied to problems with bound constraints and we compare their practical behavior.

Implementing standard setting into the Conjoint MAFP/FRACGP Part 1 examination - Process and issues.

PubMed

Chan, S C; Mohd Amin, S; Lee, T W

2016-01-01

The College of General Practitioners of Malaysia and the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners held the first Conjoint Member of the College of General Practitioners (MCGP)/Fellow of Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (FRACGP) examination in 1982, later renamed the Conjoint MAFP/FRACGP examinations. The examination assesses competency for safe independent general practice and as family medicine specialists in Malaysia. Therefore, a defensible standard set pass mark is imperative to separate the competent from the incompetent. This paper discusses the process and issues encountered in implementing standard setting to the Conjoint Part 1 examination. Critical to success in standard setting were judges' understanding of the process of the modified Angoff method, defining the borderline candidate's characteristics and the composition of judges. These were overcome by repeated hands-on training, provision of detailed guidelines and careful selection of judges. In December 2013, 16 judges successfully standard set the Part 1 Conjoint examinations, with high inter-rater reliability: Cronbach's alpha coefficient 0.926 (Applied Knowledge Test), 0.921 (Key Feature Problems).

Methods for modifying monofilaments, bundles of monofilaments, and fibrous structural material

DOEpatents

Allen, Charles A.; Argyle, Mark D.; Fox, Robert V.; Ginosar, Daniel M.; Janikowski, Stuart K.; Miller, David L.; Propp, W. Alan; Toth, William J.

2002-12-17

The present invention is related to the modifying of substrates such as monofilaments, bundles of monofilaments, and fibrous structural material with a modifying agent. The modifying agent is suspended or dissolved in a supercritical fluid, near-critical fluid, superheated fluid, superheated liquid, or a liquified gas and is deposited by rapidly altering the pressure in a chamber to deposit the modifying material onto the substrate.

[The modified method registration of kinesthetic evoked potentials and its application for research of proprioceptive sensitivity disorders at spondylogenic cervical myelopathy].

PubMed

Gordeev, S A; Voronin, S G

2016-01-01

To analyze the efficacy of modified (passive radiocarpal articulation flexion/extension) and «standard» (passive radiocarpal articulation flexion) methods of kinesthetic evoked potentials for proprioceptive sensitivity assessment in healthy subjects and patients with spondylotic cervical myelopathy. The study included 14 healthy subjects (4 women and 10 men, mean age 54.1±10.5 years) and 8 patients (2 women and 6 men, mean age 55.8±10.9 years) with spondylotic cervical myelopathy. Muscle-joint sensation was examined during the clinical study. A modified method of kinesthetic evoked potentials was developed. This method differed from the "standard" one by the organization of a cycle including several passive movements,where each new movement differed from the preceding one by the direction. The modified method of kinesthetic evoked potentials ensures more reliable kinesthetic sensitivity assessment due to movement variability. Asignificant increaseof the latent periods of the early components of the response was found in patients compared to healthy subjects. The modified method of kinesthetic evoked potentials can be used for objective diagnosis of proprioceptive sensitivity disorders in patients with spondylotic cervical myelopathy.

Development and validation of an event-specific quantitative PCR method for genetically modified maize MIR162.

PubMed

Takabatake, Reona; Masubuchi, Tomoko; Futo, Satoshi; Minegishi, Yasutaka; Noguchi, Akio; Kondo, Kazunari; Teshima, Reiko; Kurashima, Takeyo; Mano, Junichi; Kitta, Kazumi

2014-01-01

A novel real-time PCR-based analytical method was developed for the event-specific quantification of a genetically modified (GM) maize event, MIR162. We first prepared a standard plasmid for MIR162 quantification. The conversion factor (Cf) required to calculate the genetically modified organism (GMO) amount was empirically determined for two real-time PCR instruments, the Applied Biosystems 7900HT (ABI7900) and the Applied Biosystems 7500 (ABI7500) for which the determined Cf values were 0.697 and 0.635, respectively. To validate the developed method, a blind test was carried out in an interlaboratory study. The trueness and precision were evaluated as the bias and reproducibility of relative standard deviation (RSDr). The determined biases were less than 25% and the RSDr values were less than 20% at all evaluated concentrations. These results suggested that the limit of quantitation of the method was 0.5%, and that the developed method would thus be suitable for practical analyses for the detection and quantification of MIR162.

MMOC- MODIFIED METHOD OF CHARACTERISTICS SONIC BOOM EXTRAPOLATION

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Darden, C. M.

1994-01-01

The Modified Method of Characteristics Sonic Boom Extrapolation program (MMOC) is a sonic boom propagation method which includes shock coalescence and incorporates the effects of asymmetry due to volume and lift. MMOC numerically integrates nonlinear equations from data at a finite distance from an airplane configuration at flight altitude to yield the sonic boom pressure signature at ground level. MMOC accounts for variations in entropy, enthalpy, and gravity for nonlinear effects near the aircraft, allowing extrapolation to begin nearer the body than in previous methods. This feature permits wind tunnel sonic boom models of up to three feet in length, enabling more detailed, realistic models than the previous six-inch sizes. It has been shown that elongated airplanes flying at high altitude and high Mach numbers can produce an acceptably low sonic boom. Shock coalescence in MMOC includes three-dimensional effects. The method is based on an axisymmetric solution with asymmetric effects determined by circumferential derivatives of the standard shock equations. Bow shocks and embedded shocks can be included in the near-field. The method of characteristics approach in MMOC allows large computational steps in the radial direction without loss of accuracy. MMOC is a propagation method rather than a predictive program. Thus input data (the flow field on a cylindrical surface at approximately one body length from the axis) must be supplied from calculations or experimental results. The MMOC package contains a uniform atmosphere pressure field program and interpolation routines for computing the required flow field data. Other user supplied input to MMOC includes Mach number, flow angles, and temperature. MMOC output tabulates locations of bow shocks and embedded shocks. When the calculations reach ground level, the overpressure and distance are printed, allowing the user to plot the pressure signature. MMOC is written in FORTRAN IV for batch execution and has been

Semantic text relatedness on Al-Qur’an translation using modified path based method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Irwanto, Yudi; Arif Bijaksana, Moch; Adiwijaya

2018-03-01

Abdul Baquee Muhammad [1] have built Corpus that contained AlQur’an domain, WordNet and dictionary. He has did initialisation in the development of knowledges about AlQur’an and the knowledges about relatedness between texts in AlQur’an. The Path based measurement method that proposed by Liu, Zhou and Zheng [3] has never been used in the AlQur’an domain. By using AlQur’an translation dataset in this research, the path based measurement method proposed by Liu, Zhou and Zheng [3] will be used to test this method in AlQur’an domain to obtain similarity values and to measure its correlation value. In this study the degree value is proposed to be used in modifying the path based method that proposed in previous research. Degree Value is the number of links that owned by a lcs (lowest common subsumer) node on a taxonomy. The links owned by a node on the taxonomy represent the semantic relationship that a node has in the taxonomy. By using degree value to modify the path-based method that proposed in previous research is expected that the correlation value obtained will increase. After running some experiment by using proposed method, the correlation measurement value can obtain fairly good correlation ties with 200 Word Pairs derive from Noun POS SimLex-999. The correlation value that be obtained is 93.3% which means their bonds are strong and they have very strong correlation. Whereas for the POS other than Noun POS vocabulary that owned by WordNet is incomplete therefore many pairs of words that the value of its similarity is zero so the correlation value is low.

An efficient sensitivity analysis method for modified geometry of Macpherson suspension based on Pearson correlation coefficient

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shojaeefard, Mohammad Hasan; Khalkhali, Abolfazl; Yarmohammadisatri, Sadegh

2017-06-01

The main purpose of this paper is to propose a new method for designing Macpherson suspension, based on the Sobol indices in terms of Pearson correlation which determines the importance of each member on the behaviour of vehicle suspension. The formulation of dynamic analysis of Macpherson suspension system is developed using the suspension members as the modified links in order to achieve the desired kinematic behaviour. The mechanical system is replaced with an equivalent constrained links and then kinematic laws are utilised to obtain a new modified geometry of Macpherson suspension. The equivalent mechanism of Macpherson suspension increased the speed of analysis and reduced its complexity. The ADAMS/CAR software is utilised to simulate a full vehicle, Renault Logan car, in order to analyse the accuracy of modified geometry model. An experimental 4-poster test rig is considered for validating both ADAMS/CAR simulation and analytical geometry model. Pearson correlation coefficient is applied to analyse the sensitivity of each suspension member according to vehicle objective functions such as sprung mass acceleration, etc. Besides this matter, the estimation of Pearson correlation coefficient between variables is analysed in this method. It is understood that the Pearson correlation coefficient is an efficient method for analysing the vehicle suspension which leads to a better design of Macpherson suspension system.

A modified homotopy perturbation method and the axial secular frequencies of a non-linear ion trap.

PubMed

Doroudi, Alireza

2012-01-01

In this paper, a modified version of the homotopy perturbation method, which has been applied to non-linear oscillations by V. Marinca, is used for calculation of axial secular frequencies of a non-linear ion trap with hexapole and octopole superpositions. The axial equation of ion motion in a rapidly oscillating field of an ion trap can be transformed to a Duffing-like equation. With only octopole superposition the resulted non-linear equation is symmetric; however, in the presence of hexapole and octopole superpositions, it is asymmetric. This modified homotopy perturbation method is used for solving the resulting non-linear equations. As a result, the ion secular frequencies as a function of non-linear field parameters are obtained. The calculated secular frequencies are compared with the results of the homotopy perturbation method and the exact results. With only hexapole superposition, the results of this paper and the homotopy perturbation method are the same and with hexapole and octopole superpositions, the results of this paper are much more closer to the exact results compared with the results of the homotopy perturbation method.

Sustainability of three modified soil conservation methods in agriculture area

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Setiawan, M. A.; Sara, F. H.; Christanto, N.; Sartohadi, J.; Samodra, G.; Widicahyono, A.; Ardiana, N.; Widiyati, C. N.; Astuti, E. M.; Martha, G. K.; Malik, R. F.; Sambodo, A. P.; Rokhmaningtyas, R. P.; Swastanto, G. A.; Gomez, C.

2018-04-01

Recent innovations in soil conservation methods do not present any breakthrough. Providing more attractive soil conservation methods from the farmer’s perspective is however still of critical importance. Contributing to this soil research gap we attempt to evaluate the sustainable use of three modified conservation methods, namely JALAPA (Jala Sabut Kelapa - geotextile made of coconut fibres), wood sediment trap, and polybag system compared to traditional tillage without conservation method. This research provides both qualitative and quantitative analysis on the performance of each conservation measures. Therefore, in addition to the total sediment yield value and investment cost – as quantitative analysis, we also evaluate qualitatively the indicator of soil loss, installation, maintenance, and the durability of conservation medium. Those criteria define the sustainability use of each conservation method. The results show that JALAPA is the most effective method for controlling soil loss, but it also requires the most expensive cost for installation. However, our finding confirms that geotextile is sensitive to sun heating by which the coconut fibre can become dry and shrink. Wood sediment trap is the cheapest and easiest to install; however it is easily damaged by termite. Polybag method results in the highest productivity, but requires more time during the first installation. In terms of the farmer’s perspective, soil conservation using polybag system was the most accepted technique due to its high benefits; even if it is less effective at reducing soil loss compared to JALAPA.

Standard Setting in a Small Scale OSCE: A Comparison of the Modified Borderline-Group Method and the Borderline Regression Method

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wood, Timothy J.; Humphrey-Murto, Susan M.; Norman, Geoffrey R.

2006-01-01

When setting standards, administrators of small-scale OSCEs often face several challenges, including a lack of resources, a lack of available expertise in statistics, and difficulty in recruiting judges. The Modified Borderline-Group Method is a standard setting procedure that compensates for these challenges by using physician examiners and is…

Simplified methods for computing total sediment discharge with the modified Einstein procedure

USGS Publications Warehouse

Colby, Bruce R.; Hubbell, David Wellington

1961-01-01

A procedure was presented in 1950 by H. A. Einstein for computing the total discharge of sediment particles of sizes that are in appreciable quantities in the stream bed. This procedure was modified by the U.S. Geological Survey and adapted to computing the total sediment discharge of a stream on the basis of samples of bed sediment, depth-integrated samples of suspended sediment, streamflow measurements, and water temperature. This paper gives simplified methods for computing total sediment discharge by the modified Einstein procedure. Each of four homographs appreciably simplifies a major step in the computations. Within the stated limitations, use of the homographs introduces much less error than is present in either the basic data or the theories on which the computations of total sediment discharge are based. The results are nearly as accurate mathematically as those that could be obtained from the longer and more complex arithmetic and algebraic computations of the Einstein procedure.

Preparation and characterization of copper telluride thin films by modified chemical bath deposition (M-CBD) method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pathan, H. M.; Lokhande, C. D.; Amalnerkar, D. P.; Seth, T.

2003-09-01

Copper telluride thin films were deposited using modified chemical method using copper(II) sulphate; pentahydrate [CuSO 4·5H 2O] and sodium tellurite [Na 2TeO 3] as cationic and anionic sources, respectively. Modified chemical method is based on the immersion of the substrate into separately placed cationic and anionic precursors. The preparative conditions such as concentration, pH, immersion time, immersion cycles, etc. were optimized to get good quality copper telluride thin films at room temperature. The films have been characterized for structural, compositional, optical and electrical transport properties by means of X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDAX), Rutherford back scattering (RBS), optical absorption/transmission, electrical resistivity and thermoemf measurement techniques.

Evaluation of a modified team based learning method for teaching general embryology to 1st year medical graduate students.

PubMed

Shankar, Nachiket; Roopa, R

2009-01-01

To encourage student participation in the learning process, the authors introduced a modified team based learning (TBL) method to cover two general embryology topics in the 1st year MBBS curriculum. The aim of this study was to evaluate students' perception of this method vis-à-vis the lecture method of teaching. A questionnaire was used to survey and evaluate the perceptions of 1st year MBBS students at the Department of Anatomy at our medical college in India. A total of eight classes were allotted to cover General Embryology. Six of these classes were conducted using the traditional didactic lecture method. Two topics were covered using the modified TBL method. Five teams of students were constituted, and each team was given handouts which contained basic factual material, four clinical case histories, and previous university exam questions from the topic. On the day of the session, these were discussed in the presence of the faculty facilitator. Students evaluated these sessions through a questionnaire. A majority of students felt that the modified TBL sessions were better at fulfilling learning objectives (46 students, 85%), enabled better understanding (43 students, 79%), were more interesting (43 students, 81%), ensured greater student participation (51 students, 94%) and involved greater effort on the part of students (53 students, 98%), as compared to traditional teaching methods. Most of the students (43 students, 79%) opined that more such sessions should be organized in the future. Responses from students show that the modified TBL classes could be utilized judiciously along with the traditional didactic lectures for teaching embryology.

Development and interlaboratory validation of quantitative polymerase chain reaction method for screening analysis of genetically modified soybeans.

PubMed

Takabatake, Reona; Onishi, Mari; Koiwa, Tomohiro; Futo, Satoshi; Minegishi, Yasutaka; Akiyama, Hiroshi; Teshima, Reiko; Kurashima, Takeyo; Mano, Junichi; Furui, Satoshi; Kitta, Kazumi

2013-01-01

A novel real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based quantitative screening method was developed for three genetically modified soybeans: RRS, A2704-12, and MON89788. The 35S promoter (P35S) of cauliflower mosaic virus is introduced into RRS and A2704-12 but not MON89788. We then designed a screening method comprised of the combination of the quantification of P35S and the event-specific quantification of MON89788. The conversion factor (Cf) required to convert the amount of a genetically modified organism (GMO) from a copy number ratio to a weight ratio was determined experimentally. The trueness and precision were evaluated as the bias and reproducibility of relative standard deviation (RSDR), respectively. The determined RSDR values for the method were less than 25% for both targets. We consider that the developed method would be suitable for the simple detection and approximate quantification of GMO.

Modified Method of Simplest Equation Applied to the Nonlinear Schrödinger Equation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vitanov, Nikolay K.; Dimitrova, Zlatinka I.

2018-03-01

We consider an extension of the methodology of the modified method of simplest equation to the case of use of two simplest equations. The extended methodology is applied for obtaining exact solutions of model nonlinear partial differential equations for deep water waves: the nonlinear Schrödinger equation. It is shown that the methodology works also for other equations of the nonlinear Schrödinger kind.

Preparation and Characterization of Hydrophilically Modified PVDF Membranes by a Novel Nonsolvent Thermally Induced Phase Separation Method.

PubMed

Hu, Ningen; Xiao, Tonghu; Cai, Xinhai; Ding, Lining; Fu, Yuhua; Yang, Xing

2016-11-18

In this study, a nonsolvent thermally-induced phase separation (NTIPS) method was first proposed to fabricate hydrophilically-modified poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) membranes to overcome the drawbacks of conventional thermally-induced phase separation (TIPS) and nonsolvent-induced phase separation (NIPS) methods. Hydrophilically-modified PVDF membranes were successfully prepared by blending in hydrophilic polymer polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) at 140 °C. A series of PVDF/PVA blend membranes was prepared at different total polymer concentrations and blend ratios. The morphological analysis via SEM indicated that the formation mechanism of these hydrophilically-modified membranes was a combined NIPS and TIPS process. As the total polymer concentration increased, the tensile strength of the membranes increased; meanwhile, the membrane pore size, porosity and water flux decreased. With the PVDF/PVA blend ratio increased from 10:0 to 8:2, the membrane pore size and water flux increased. The dynamic water contact angle of these membranes showed that the hydrophilic properties of PVDF/PVA blend membranes were prominently improved. The higher hydrophilicity of the membranes resulted in reduced membrane resistance and, hence, higher permeability. The total resistance R t of the modified PVDF membranes decreased significantly as the hydrophilicity increased. The irreversible fouling related to pore blocking and adsorption fouling onto the membrane surface was minimal, indicating good antifouling properties.

Effectiveness of the Modified Intensive Toilet Training Method on Teaching Toilet Skills to Children with Autism

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ardiç, Avsar; Cavkaytar, Atilla

2014-01-01

The purpose of this study was to determine effectiveness of a modified version of Azrin and Foxx's (1971) intensive toilet training method on teaching of toilet skills to children with autism. This method consists of administering extra fluids and a time schedule, but does not use overcorrection procedures. Implementation requires a study of six…

Effectiveness of a modified tutorless problem-based learning method in dermatology - a pilot study.

PubMed

Kaliyadan, F; Amri, M; Dhufiri, M; Amin, T T; Khan, M A

2012-01-01

Problem-Based Learning (PBL) is a student-centred instructional strategy in which students learn in a collaborative manner, the learning process being guided by a facilitator. One of the limitations of conventional PBL in medical education is the need for adequate resources in terms of faculty and time. Our study aimed to compare conventional PBL in dermatology with a modified tutorless PBL in which pre-listed cues and the use of digital media help direct the learning process. Thirty-one-fifth year medical students were divided into two groups: the study group comprising 16 students were exposed to the modified PBL, whereas the control group comprising 15 students were given the same scenarios and triggers, but in a conventional tutor-facilitated PBL. Knowledge acquisition and student feedback were assessed using a post-test and a Likert scale-based questionnaire, respectively. The post-test marks showed no significant statistical differences between the two groups. The general feedback regarding the modified PBL was positive and the students felt comfortable with the module. The learning objectives were met satisfactorily in both groups. Modified tutorless PBL modules might be an effective method to incorporate student-centred learning in dermatology without constraints in terms of faculty resources or time. © 2011 The Authors. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology © 2011 European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology.

Development and validation of a 48-target analytical method for high-throughput monitoring of genetically modified organisms.

PubMed

Li, Xiaofei; Wu, Yuhua; Li, Jun; Li, Yunjing; Long, Likun; Li, Feiwu; Wu, Gang

2015-01-05

The rapid increase in the number of genetically modified (GM) varieties has led to a demand for high-throughput methods to detect genetically modified organisms (GMOs). We describe a new dynamic array-based high throughput method to simultaneously detect 48 targets in 48 samples on a Fludigm system. The test targets included species-specific genes, common screening elements, most of the Chinese-approved GM events, and several unapproved events. The 48 TaqMan assays successfully amplified products from both single-event samples and complex samples with a GMO DNA amount of 0.05 ng, and displayed high specificity. To improve the sensitivity of detection, a preamplification step for 48 pooled targets was added to enrich the amount of template before performing dynamic chip assays. This dynamic chip-based method allowed the synchronous high-throughput detection of multiple targets in multiple samples. Thus, it represents an efficient, qualitative method for GMO multi-detection.

Development and Validation of A 48-Target Analytical Method for High-throughput Monitoring of Genetically Modified Organisms

PubMed Central

Li, Xiaofei; Wu, Yuhua; Li, Jun; Li, Yunjing; Long, Likun; Li, Feiwu; Wu, Gang

2015-01-01

The rapid increase in the number of genetically modified (GM) varieties has led to a demand for high-throughput methods to detect genetically modified organisms (GMOs). We describe a new dynamic array-based high throughput method to simultaneously detect 48 targets in 48 samples on a Fludigm system. The test targets included species-specific genes, common screening elements, most of the Chinese-approved GM events, and several unapproved events. The 48 TaqMan assays successfully amplified products from both single-event samples and complex samples with a GMO DNA amount of 0.05 ng, and displayed high specificity. To improve the sensitivity of detection, a preamplification step for 48 pooled targets was added to enrich the amount of template before performing dynamic chip assays. This dynamic chip-based method allowed the synchronous high-throughput detection of multiple targets in multiple samples. Thus, it represents an efficient, qualitative method for GMO multi-detection. PMID:25556930

Dispersive traveling wave solutions of the Equal-Width and Modified Equal-Width equations via mathematical methods and its applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lu, Dianchen; Seadawy, Aly R.; Ali, Asghar

2018-06-01

The Equal-Width and Modified Equal-Width equations are used as a model in partial differential equations for the simulation of one-dimensional wave transmission in nonlinear media with dispersion processes. In this article we have employed extend simple equation method and the exp(-varphi(ξ)) expansion method to construct the exact traveling wave solutions of equal width and modified equal width equations. The obtained results are novel and have numerous applications in current areas of research in mathematical physics. It is exposed that our method, with the help of symbolic computation, provides a effective and powerful mathematical tool for solving different kind nonlinear wave problems.

Numerical modelling of effective thermal conductivity for modified geomaterial using lattice element method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rizvi, Zarghaam Haider; Shrestha, Dinesh; Sattari, Amir S.; Wuttke, Frank

2018-02-01

Macroscopic parameters such as effective thermal conductivity (ETC) is an important parameter which is affected by micro and meso level behaviour of particulate materials, and has been extensively examined in the past decades. In this paper, a new lattice based numerical model is developed to predict the ETC of sand and modified high thermal backfill material for energy transportation used for underground power cables. 2D and 3D simulations are performed to analyse and detect differences resulting from model simplification. The thermal conductivity of the granular mixture is determined numerically considering the volume and the shape of the each constituting portion. The new numerical method is validated with transient needle measurements and the existing theoretical and semi empirical models for thermal conductivity prediction sand and the modified backfill material for dry condition. The numerical prediction and the measured values are in agreement to a large extent.

Phonon dispersion on Ag (100) surface: A modified analytic embedded atom method study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xiao-Jun, Zhang; Chang-Le, Chen

2016-01-01

Within the harmonic approximation, the analytic expression of the dynamical matrix is derived based on the modified analytic embedded atom method (MAEAM) and the dynamics theory of surface lattice. The surface phonon dispersions along three major symmetry directions , and X¯M¯ are calculated for the clean Ag (100) surface by using our derived formulas. We then discuss the polarization and localization of surface modes at points X¯ and M¯ by plotting the squared polarization vectors as a function of the layer index. The phonon frequencies of the surface modes calculated by MAEAM are compared with the available experimental and other theoretical data. It is found that the present results are generally in agreement with the referenced experimental or theoretical results, with a maximum deviation of 10.4%. The agreement shows that the modified analytic embedded atom method is a reasonable many-body potential model to quickly describe the surface lattice vibration. It also lays a significant foundation for studying the surface lattice vibration in other metals. Project supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant Nos. 61471301 and 61078057), the Scientific Research Program Funded by Shaanxi Provincial Education Department, China (Grant No. 14JK1301), and the Specialized Research Fund for the Doctoral Program of Higher Education, China (Grant No. 20126102110045).

A modified micrometeorological gradient method for estimating O3 dry depositions over a forest canopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Z. Y.; Zhang, L.; Wang, X. M.; Munger, J. W.

2015-07-01

Small pollutant concentration gradients between levels above a plant canopy result in large uncertainties in estimated air-surface exchange fluxes when using existing micrometeorological gradient methods, including the aerodynamic gradient method (AGM) and the modified Bowen ratio method (MBR). A modified micrometeorological gradient method (MGM) is proposed in this study for estimating O3 dry deposition fluxes over a forest canopy using concentration gradients between a level above and a level below the canopy top, taking advantage of relatively large gradients between these levels due to significant pollutant uptake in the top layers of the canopy. The new method is compared with the AGM and MBR methods and is also evaluated using eddy-covariance (EC) flux measurements collected at the Harvard Forest Environmental Measurement Site, Massachusetts, during 1993-2000. All three gradient methods (AGM, MBR, and MGM) produced similar diurnal cycles of O3 dry deposition velocity (Vd(O3)) to the EC measurements, with the MGM method being the closest in magnitude to the EC measurements. The multi-year average Vd(O3) differed significantly between these methods, with the AGM, MBR, and MGM method being 2.28, 1.45, and 1.18 times that of the EC, respectively. Sensitivity experiments identified several input parameters for the MGM method as first-order parameters that affect the estimated Vd(O3). A 10% uncertainty in the wind speed attenuation coefficient or canopy displacement height can cause about 10% uncertainty in the estimated Vd(O3). An unrealistic leaf area density vertical profile can cause an uncertainty of a factor of 2.0 in the estimated Vd(O3). Other input parameters or formulas for stability functions only caused an uncertainly of a few percent. The new method provides an alternative approach to monitoring/estimating long-term deposition fluxes of similar pollutants over tall canopies.

Preparation and Characterization of Hydrophilically Modified PVDF Membranes by a Novel Nonsolvent Thermally Induced Phase Separation Method

PubMed Central

Hu, Ningen; Xiao, Tonghu; Cai, Xinhai; Ding, Lining; Fu, Yuhua; Yang, Xing

2016-01-01

In this study, a nonsolvent thermally-induced phase separation (NTIPS) method was first proposed to fabricate hydrophilically-modified poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) membranes to overcome the drawbacks of conventional thermally-induced phase separation (TIPS) and nonsolvent-induced phase separation (NIPS) methods. Hydrophilically-modified PVDF membranes were successfully prepared by blending in hydrophilic polymer polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) at 140 °C. A series of PVDF/PVA blend membranes was prepared at different total polymer concentrations and blend ratios. The morphological analysis via SEM indicated that the formation mechanism of these hydrophilically-modified membranes was a combined NIPS and TIPS process. As the total polymer concentration increased, the tensile strength of the membranes increased; meanwhile, the membrane pore size, porosity and water flux decreased. With the PVDF/PVA blend ratio increased from 10:0 to 8:2, the membrane pore size and water flux increased. The dynamic water contact angle of these membranes showed that the hydrophilic properties of PVDF/PVA blend membranes were prominently improved. The higher hydrophilicity of the membranes resulted in reduced membrane resistance and, hence, higher permeability. The total resistance Rt of the modified PVDF membranes decreased significantly as the hydrophilicity increased. The irreversible fouling related to pore blocking and adsorption fouling onto the membrane surface was minimal, indicating good antifouling properties. PMID:27869711

The development and standardization of testing methods for genetically modified organisms and their derived products.

PubMed

Zhang, Dabing; Guo, Jinchao

2011-07-01

As the worldwide commercialization of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) increases and consumers concern the safety of GMOs, many countries and regions are issuing labeling regulations on GMOs and their products. Analytical methods and their standardization for GM ingredients in foods and feed are essential for the implementation of labeling regulations. To date, the GMO testing methods are mainly based on the inserted DNA sequences and newly produced proteins in GMOs. This paper presents an overview of GMO testing methods as well as their standardization. © 2011 Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences.

New wideband radar target classification method based on neural learning and modified Euclidean metric

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jiang, Yicheng; Cheng, Ping; Ou, Yangkui

2001-09-01

A new method for target classification of high-range resolution radar is proposed. It tries to use neural learning to obtain invariant subclass features of training range profiles. A modified Euclidean metric based on the Box-Cox transformation technique is investigated for Nearest Neighbor target classification improvement. The classification experiments using real radar data of three different aircraft have demonstrated that classification error can reduce 8% if this method proposed in this paper is chosen instead of the conventional method. The results of this paper have shown that by choosing an optimized metric, it is indeed possible to reduce the classification error without increasing the number of samples.

[Methods of identification and assessment of safety of genetically modified microorganisms in manufacture food production].

PubMed

Khovaev, A A; Nesterenko, L N; Naroditskiĭ, B S

2011-01-01

Methods of identification of genetically modified microorganisms (GMM), used in manufacture food on control probes are presented. Results of microbiological and molecular and genetic analyses of food products and their components important in microbiological and genetic expert examination of GMM in foods are considered. Examination of biosafety of GMM are indicated.

Quantitative Evaluation of Heavy Duty Machine Tools Remanufacturing Based on Modified Catastrophe Progression Method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

shunhe, Li; jianhua, Rao; lin, Gui; weimin, Zhang; degang, Liu

2017-11-01

The result of remanufacturing evaluation is the basis for judging whether the heavy duty machine tool can remanufacture in the EOL stage of the machine tool lifecycle management.The objectivity and accuracy of evaluation is the key to the evaluation method.In this paper, the catastrophe progression method is introduced into the quantitative evaluation of heavy duty machine tools’ remanufacturing,and the results are modified by the comprehensive adjustment method,which makes the evaluation results accord with the standard of human conventional thinking.Using the catastrophe progression method to establish the heavy duty machine tools’ quantitative evaluation model,to evaluate the retired TK6916 type CNC floor milling-boring machine’s remanufacturing.The evaluation process is simple,high quantification,the result is objective.

The modified Ottawa method to establish the update need of a systematic review: glass-ionomer versus resin sealants for caries prevention

PubMed Central

MICKENAUTSCH, Steffen; YENGOPAL, Veerasamy

2013-01-01

Objective To demonstrate the application of the modified Ottawa method by establishing the update need of a systematic review with focus on the caries preventive effect of GIC versus resin pit and fissure sealants; to answer the question as to whether the existing conclusions of this systematic review are still current; to establish whether a new update of this systematic review was needed. Methods: Application of the Modified Ottawa method. Application date: April/May 2012. Results Four signals aligned with the criteria of the modified Ottawa method were identified. The content of these signals suggest that higher precision of the current systematic review results might be achieved if an update of the current review were conducted at this point in time. However, these signals further indicate that such systematic review update, despite its higher precision, would only confirm the existing review conclusion that no statistically significant difference exists in the caries-preventive effect of GIC and resin-based fissure sealants. Conclusion In conclusion, this study demonstrated the modified Ottawa method as an effective tool in establishing the update need of the systematic review. In addition, it was established that the conclusions of the systematic review in relation to the caries preventive effect of GIC versus resin based fissure sealants are still current, and that no update of this systematic review was warranted at date of application. PMID:24212996

[Electronic spectra of triphenodioxazines dyes by modified PPP-MO method].

PubMed

Wang, Xue-jie

2002-02-01

The triphenodioxazines dyes have good colour and luster, excellent colour fastness to light, and strong painted. They are used as the dyes and pigment extensively, and also be used as the photoelectronic transformation, laser dyes and far-infrared anti-radiation material. The colour and constitution of triphenodioxazines dyes were evaluated by means of the modified PPP-SCF-MO method with variable R, beta approximation. The calculated wavelengths of maximum absorption are in good agreement with experimental results. It was found that there exists a good correlated relationship between the wavenumber of fluorescence maximum nu fl and the calculated fluorescence emission energy delta Efl, as nu fl = 11.6837 delta Efl + 3.3485(k.cm-1), r = 0.9547. The relationship between structure of molecular and properties of electronic spectra has been discussed.

[A study for testing the antifungal susceptibility of yeast by the Japanese Society for Medical Mycology (JSMM) method. The proposal of the modified JSMM method 2009].

PubMed

Nishiyama, Yayoi; Abe, Michiko; Ikeda, Reiko; Uno, Jun; Oguri, Toyoko; Shibuya, Kazutoshi; Maesaki, Shigefumi; Mohri, Shinobu; Yamada, Tsuyoshi; Ishibashi, Hiroko; Hasumi, Yayoi; Abe, Shigeru

2010-01-01

The Japanese Society for Medical Mycology (JSMM) method used for testing the antifungal susceptibility of yeast, the MIC end point for azole antifungal agents, is currently set at IC(80). It was recently shown, however that there is an inconsistency in the MIC value between the JSMM method and the CLSI M27-A2 (CLSI) method, in which the end- point was to read as IC(50). To resolve this discrepancy and reassess the JSMM method, the MIC for three azoles, fluconazole, itraconazole and voriconazole were compared to 5 strains of each of the following Candida species: C. albicans, C. glabrata, C. tropicalis, C. parapsilosis and C. krusei, for a total of 25 comparisons, using the JSMM method, a modified JSMM method, and the CLSI method. The results showed that when the MIC end- point criterion of the JSMM method was changed from IC(80) to IC(50) (the modified JSMM method) , the MIC value was consistent and compatible with the CLSI method. Finally, it should be emphasized that the JSMM method, using a spectrophotometer for MIC measurement, was superior in both stability and reproducibility, as compared to the CLSI method in which growth was assessed by visual observation.

Coordinate alignment of combined measurement systems using a modified common points method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, G.; Zhang, P.; Xiao, W.

2018-03-01

The co-ordinate metrology has been extensively researched for its outstanding advantages in measurement range and accuracy. The alignment of different measurement systems is usually achieved by integrating local coordinates via common points before measurement. The alignment errors would accumulate and significantly reduce the global accuracy, thus need to be minimized. In this thesis, a modified common points method (MCPM) is proposed to combine different traceable system errors of the cooperating machines, and optimize the global accuracy by introducing mutual geometric constraints. The geometric constraints, obtained by measuring the common points in individual local coordinate systems, provide the possibility to reduce the local measuring uncertainty whereby enhance the global measuring certainty. A simulation system is developed in Matlab to analyze the feature of MCPM using the Monto-Carlo method. An exemplary setup is constructed to verify the feasibility and efficiency of the proposed method associated with laser tracker and indoor iGPS systems. Experimental results show that MCPM could significantly improve the alignment accuracy.

Development of a screening method for genetically modified soybean by plasmid-based quantitative competitive polymerase chain reaction.

PubMed

Shimizu, Eri; Kato, Hisashi; Nakagawa, Yuki; Kodama, Takashi; Futo, Satoshi; Minegishi, Yasutaka; Watanabe, Takahiro; Akiyama, Hiroshi; Teshima, Reiko; Furui, Satoshi; Hino, Akihiro; Kitta, Kazumi

2008-07-23

A novel type of quantitative competitive polymerase chain reaction (QC-PCR) system for the detection and quantification of the Roundup Ready soybean (RRS) was developed. This system was designed based on the advantage of a fully validated real-time PCR method used for the quantification of RRS in Japan. A plasmid was constructed as a competitor plasmid for the detection and quantification of genetically modified soy, RRS. The plasmid contained the construct-specific sequence of RRS and the taxon-specific sequence of lectin1 (Le1), and both had 21 bp oligonucleotide insertion in the sequences. The plasmid DNA was used as a reference molecule instead of ground seeds, which enabled us to precisely and stably adjust the copy number of targets. The present study demonstrated that the novel plasmid-based QC-PCR method could be a simple and feasible alternative to the real-time PCR method used for the quantification of genetically modified organism contents.

A modified method for determining the focal ratio degradation and length properties of optical fibres in astronomy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yan, Yunxiang; Wang, Gang; Sun, Weimin; Luo, A.-Li; Ma, Zhenyu; Li, Jian; Wang, Shuqing

2017-04-01

Focal ratio degradation (FRD) is a major contributor to throughput and light loss in a fibre spectroscopic telescope system. We combine the guided mode theory in geometric optics and a well-known model, the power distribution model (PDM), to predict and explain the FRD dependence properties. We present a robust method by modifying the energy distribution method with f-intercept to control the input condition. This method provides a way to determine the proper position of the fibre end on the focal plane to improve energy utilization and FRD performance, which lifts the relative throughput up to 95 per cent with variation of output focal ratio less than 2 per cent. This method can also help to optimize the arrangement of the position of focal-plane plate to enhance the coupling efficiency in a telescope. To investigate length properties, we modified the PDM by introducing a new parameter, the focal distance f, into the original model to make it available for a multiposition measurement system. The results show that the modified model is robust and feasible for measuring the key parameter d0 to simulate the transmission characteristics. The output focal ratio in the experiment does not follow the prediction trend but shows an interesting phenomenon: the output focal ratio increases first to the peak, then decreases and remains stable finally with increasing fibre length longer than 15 m. This provides a reference for choosing the appropriate length of fibre to improve the FRD performance for the design of the fibre system in a telescope.

Application of modified Rosenbrock's method for optimization of nutrient media used in microorganism culturing.

PubMed

Votruba, J; Pilát, P; Prokop, A

1975-12-01

The Rosenbrock's procedure has been modified for optimization of nutrient medium composition and has been found to be less tedious than the Box-Wilson method, especially for larger numbers of optimized parameters. Its merits are particularly obvious with multiparameter optimization where the gradient method, so far the only one employed in microbiology from a variety of optimization methods (e.g., refs, 9 and 10), becomes impractical because of the excessive number of experiments required. The method suggested is also more stable during optimization than the gradient methods which are very sensitive to the selection of steps in the direction of the gradient and may thus easily shoot out of the optimized region. It is also anticipated that other direct search methods, particularly simplex design, may be easily adapted for optimization of medium composition. It is obvious that direct search methods may find an application in process improvement in antibiotic and related industries.

Wettability measurement apparatus for porous material using the modified Washburn method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thakker, Manish; Karde, Vikram; Shah, Dinesh O.; Shukla, Premal; Ghoroi, Chinmay

2013-12-01

In this work a cost-effective instrument for measuring the wettability of powder materials was designed and developed, which works on the modified Washburn method. The instrument measures the mass gain against time due to penetration of the liquid into the powder materials using a microbalance and LabVIEW-based data acquisition system. The wettability characteristic of different powders was determined from the contact angle using the modified Washburn equation. To demonstrate the performance of the developed instrument, the wettability of as-received corn starch and nano-coated corn starch powders was estimated with water as a test liquid. The corn starch powders coated with hydrophilic grade (Aerosil 200P) and hydrophobic grade (Aerosil R972) nanoparticles at different coating levels showed expected changes in their contact angle. Some of the results were also verified against the available standard instrument for wettability measurement and found to be consistent. The present configuration of the instrument costs about 500 US which is 15 to 20 times less than the available advanced models. The developed instrument is thus a cost-effective solution for wettability measurement which can be used for materials in food processing, pharmaceuticals, horticulture, textile manufacturing, civil engineering etc. The developed instrument is expected to help many small scale industries or research labs who cannot afford an expensive instrument for wettability studies.

Automated DNA extraction from genetically modified maize using aminosilane-modified bacterial magnetic particles.

PubMed

Ota, Hiroyuki; Lim, Tae-Kyu; Tanaka, Tsuyoshi; Yoshino, Tomoko; Harada, Manabu; Matsunaga, Tadashi

2006-09-18

A novel, automated system, PNE-1080, equipped with eight automated pestle units and a spectrophotometer was developed for genomic DNA extraction from maize using aminosilane-modified bacterial magnetic particles (BMPs). The use of aminosilane-modified BMPs allowed highly accurate DNA recovery. The (A(260)-A(320)):(A(280)-A(320)) ratio of the extracted DNA was 1.9+/-0.1. The DNA quality was sufficiently pure for PCR analysis. The PNE-1080 offered rapid assay completion (30 min) with high accuracy. Furthermore, the results of real-time PCR confirmed that our proposed method permitted the accurate determination of genetically modified DNA composition and correlated well with results obtained by conventional cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB)-based methods.

Development of a modified straw method for vitrification of in vitro-produced bovine blastocysts and various genes expression in between the methods.

PubMed

Ha, A-Na; Lee, Sang-Ryeul; Jeon, Jeong-Seon; Park, Han-Seul; Lee, Sang-Ho; Jin, Jong-In; Sessions, Benjamin R; Wang, Zhongde; White, Kenneth L; Kong, Il-Keun

2014-02-01

This study evaluated a modified plastic straw loading method for vitrification of in vitro-produced bovine blastocysts. A modified straw was used with a depressed area on its inner surface to which embryos attach. In vitro-produced blastocysts were randomly assigned into three groups: (i) blastocysts attached to the inner surface of a plastic straw (aV), (ii) blastocysts attached to the inner surface of a modified plastic straw (maV), and (iii) non-vitrified blastocysts (control). The recovery rates were not significantly different between aV and maV groups (95.8% vs. 94.3%). The post-thaw survival rate did not significantly differ between aV and maV groups (86.4% vs. 88.2%). The total cell numbers of blastocyst was higher in control than in aV and maV groups (142 ± 21.8 vs. 117 ± 29.7 and 120 ± 25.2; P < 0.05), but not significantly differ between aV and maV groups. The mRNA levels of pro-apoptosis related genes Bax and Caspase-3 were higher in aV and maV than in control (P < 0.05). By contrast, the mRNA levels of anti-apoptotic genes Bcl-2 and Mcl-1 and of antioxidant-related genes MnSOD and Prdx5 were lower in aV and maV than in control (P < 0.05). Confocal microscopy analysis of Golgi apparatus and mitochondria showed that the fluorescence intensity of Golgi apparatus and mitochondria was higher in control than in aV and maV groups. In conclusion, both aV and maV methods can be used to successfully vitrify IVP blastocysts, with maV method to be preferable because of its easiness in embryo loading. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Three-Dimensional Navier-Stokes Calculations Using the Modified Space-Time CESE Method

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chang, Chau-lyan

2007-01-01

The space-time conservation element solution element (CESE) method is modified to address the robustness issues of high-aspect-ratio, viscous, near-wall meshes. In this new approach, the dependent variable gradients are evaluated using element edges and the corresponding neighboring solution elements while keeping the original flux integration procedure intact. As such, the excellent flux conservation property is retained and the new edge-based gradients evaluation significantly improves the robustness for high-aspect ratio meshes frequently encountered in three-dimensional, Navier-Stokes calculations. The order of accuracy of the proposed method is demonstrated for oblique acoustic wave propagation, shock-wave interaction, and hypersonic flows over a blunt body. The confirmed second-order convergence along with the enhanced robustness in handling hypersonic blunt body flow calculations makes the proposed approach a very competitive CFD framework for 3D Navier-Stokes simulations.

Comparison among T1-Weighted Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Modified Dixon Method, and Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy in Measuring Bone Marrow Fat

PubMed Central

Shen, Wei; Gong, Xiuqun; Weiss, Jessica; Jin, Ye

2013-01-01

Introduction. An increasing number of studies are utilizing different magnetic resonance (MR) methods to quantify bone marrow fat due to its potential role in osteoporosis. Our aim is to compare the measurements of bone marrow fat among T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), modified Dixon method (also called fat fraction MRI (FFMRI)), and magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS). Methods. Contiguous MRI scans were acquired in 27 Caucasian postmenopausal women with a modified Dixon method (i.e., FFMRI). Bone marrow adipose tissue (BMAT) of T1-weighted MRI and bone marrow fat fraction of the L3 vertebra and femoral necks were quantified using SliceOmatic and Matlab. MRS was also acquired at the L3 vertebra. Results. Correlation among the three MR methods measured bone marrow fat fraction and BMAT ranges from 0.78 to 0.88 (P < 0.001) in the L3 vertebra. Correlation between BMAT measured by T1-weighted MRI and bone marrow fat fraction measured by modified FFMRI is 0.86 (P < 0.001) in femoral necks. Conclusion. There are good correlations among T1-weighted MRI, FFMRI, and MRS for bone marrow fat quantification. The inhomogeneous distribution of bone marrow fat, the threshold segmentation of the T1-weighted MRI, and the ambiguity of the FFMRI may partially explain the difference among the three methods. PMID:23606951

Automatic detection method for mura defects on display film surface using modified Weber's law

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Myung-Muk; Lee, Seung-Ho

2014-07-01

We propose a method that automatically detects mura defects on display film surfaces using a modified version of Weber's law. The proposed method detects mura defects regardless of their properties and shapes by identifying regions perceived by human vision as mura using the brightness of pixel and image distribution ratio of mura in an image histogram. The proposed detection method comprises five stages. In the first stage, the display film surface image is acquired and a gray-level shift performed. In the second and third stages, the image histogram is acquired and analyzed, respectively. In the fourth stage, the mura range is acquired. This is followed by postprocessing in the fifth stage. Evaluations of the proposed method conducted using 200 display film mura image samples indicate a maximum detection rate of ˜95.5%. Further, the results of application of the Semu index for luminance mura in flat panel display (FPD) image quality inspection indicate that the proposed method is more reliable than a popular conventional method.

Quantification of Aconitum alkaloids in aconite roots by a modified RP-HPLC method.

PubMed

Jiang, Zhi-Hong; Xie, Ying; Zhou, Hua; Wang, Jing-Rong; Liu, Zhong-Qiu; Wong, Yuen-Fan; Cai, Xiong; Xu, Hong-Xi; Liu, Liang

2005-01-01

The three Aconitum alkaloids, aconitine (1), mesaconitine (2) and hypaconitine (3), are pharmacologically active but also highly toxic. A standardised method is needed for assessing the levels of these alkaloids in aconite roots in order to ensure the safe use of these plant materials as medicinal herbs. By optimising extraction, separation and measurement conditions, a reliable, reproducible and accurate method for the quantitative determination of all three Aconitum alkaloids in unprocessed and processed aconite roots has been developed. This method should be appropriate for use in the quality control of Aconitum products. The three Aconitum alkaloids were separated by a modified HPLC method employing a C18 column gradient eluted with acetonitrile and ammonium bicarbonate buffer. Quantification of Aconitum alkaloids, detected at 240 nm, in different batches of samples showed that the content of 1, 2 and 3 varied significantly. In general, the alkaloid content of unprocessed roots was higher than that of processed roots. These variations were considered to be the result of differences in species, processing methods and places of origin of the samples.

Validated method for quantification of genetically modified organisms in samples of maize flour.

PubMed

Kunert, Renate; Gach, Johannes S; Vorauer-Uhl, Karola; Engel, Edwin; Katinger, Hermann

2006-02-08

Sensitive and accurate testing for trace amounts of biotechnology-derived DNA from plant material is the prerequisite for detection of 1% or 0.5% genetically modified ingredients in food products or raw materials thereof. Compared to ELISA detection of expressed proteins, real-time PCR (RT-PCR) amplification has easier sample preparation and detection limits are lower. Of the different methods of DNA preparation CTAB method with high flexibility in starting material and generation of sufficient DNA with relevant quality was chosen. Previous RT-PCR data generated with the SYBR green detection method showed that the method is highly sensitive to sample matrices and genomic DNA content influencing the interpretation of results. Therefore, this paper describes a real-time DNA quantification based on the TaqMan probe method, indicating high accuracy and sensitivity with detection limits of lower than 18 copies per sample applicable and comparable to highly purified plasmid standards as well as complex matrices of genomic DNA samples. The results were evaluated with ValiData for homology of variance, linearity, accuracy of the standard curve, and standard deviation.

Modified surface testing method for large convex aspheric surfaces based on diffraction optics.

PubMed

Zhang, Haidong; Wang, Xiaokun; Xue, Donglin; Zhang, Xuejun

2017-12-01

Large convex aspheric optical elements have been widely applied in advanced optical systems, which have presented a challenging metrology problem. Conventional testing methods cannot satisfy the demand gradually with the change of definition of "large." A modified method is proposed in this paper, which utilizes a relatively small computer-generated hologram and an illumination lens with certain feasibility to measure the large convex aspherics. Two example systems are designed to demonstrate the applicability, and also, the sensitivity of this configuration is analyzed, which proves the accuracy of the configuration can be better than 6 nm with careful alignment and calibration of the illumination lens in advance. Design examples and analysis show that this configuration is applicable to measure the large convex aspheric surfaces.

Modified Acyl-ACP desaturase

DOEpatents

Cahoon, Edgar B.; Shanklin, John; Lindqvist, Ylva; Schneider, Gunter

1999-03-30

Disclosed is a method for modifying the chain length and double bond positional specificities of a soluble plant fatty acid desaturase. More specifically, the method involves modifying amino acid contact residues in the substrate binding channel of the soluble fatty acid desaturase which contact the fatty acid. Specifically disclosed is the modification of an acyl-ACP desaturase. Amino acid contact residues which lie within the substrate binding channel are identified, and subsequently replaced with different residues to effect the modification of activity.

Modified acyl-ACP desaturase

DOEpatents

Cahoon, Edgar B.; Shanklin, John; Lindgvist, Ylva; Schneider, Gunter

1998-01-06

Disclosed is a methods for modifying the chain length and double bond positional specificities of a soluble plant fatty acid desaturase. More specifically, the method involves modifying amino acid contact residues in the substrate binding channel of the soluble fatty acid desaturase which contact the fatty acid. Specifically disclosed is the modification of an acyl-ACP desaturase. Amino acid contact residues which lie within the substrate binding channel are identified, and subsequently replaced with different residues to effect the modification of activity.

Sulfur-modified rice husk biochar: A green method for the remediation of mercury contaminated soil.

PubMed

O'Connor, David; Peng, Tianyue; Li, Guanghe; Wang, Shuxiao; Duan, Lei; Mulder, Jan; Cornelissen, Gerard; Cheng, Zhenglin; Yang, Shengmao; Hou, Deyi

2018-04-15

Mercury (Hg) contamination of surface soils has increased by ~86Giga grams due to anthropogenic activities. There is an urgent need to find new, effective and preferably 'green' remediation technologies to protect human health and the environment. Sulfur-modification of sorbents can greatly enhance Hg sorption capacity - by forming low solubility HgS (cinnabar). However, S-modified sorbents are not considered suitable for soil remediation due to the economic cost and secondary environmental impacts of sorbents such as granulated activated carbon (GAC), and the toxicity of S-modifiers such as thiol compounds. It was previously found that if biochar is used as an alternative to GAC then the overall environmental impact can be significantly reduced. However, due to a lack of experimental evidence, the practicality of S-modified biochar remains uncertain. The present study was undertaken to provide a proof-of-concept for the 'green' remediation of Hg contaminated soils with rice husk biochar modified with non-toxic elemental S. It was found that the S modification process increased the biochar S content from 0.2% to 13.04% via surface deposition or volume pore filling. This increased the biochar's Hg 2+ adsorptive capacity (Q max ) by ~73%, to 67.11mg/g. To assess the performance of S-modified rice husk biochar for soil remediation it was applied to a high 1000mg/kg Hg 2+ contaminated soil. Treatment dosages of 1%, 2% and 5% (dry wt.) were found to reduce freely available Hg in TCLP (toxicity characterization leaching procedure) leachates by 95.4%, 97.4% and 99.3%, respectively, compared to untreated soil. In comparison, unmodified rice husk biochar reduced Hg concentrations by 94.9%, 94.9% and 95.2% when applied at the same treatment dosage rates, respectively. This study has revealed that S-modified rice husk biochar has potential to stabilize Hg as a 'green' method for the remediation of contaminated soils. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Immobilization of glucoamylase on ceramic membrane surfaces modified with a new method of treatment utilizing SPCP-CVD.

PubMed

Ida; Matsuyama; Yamamoto

2000-07-01

Glucoamylase, as a model enzyme, was immobilized on a ceramic membrane modified by surface corona discharge induced plasma chemical process-chemical vapor deposition (SPCP-CVD). Characterizations of the immobilized enzyme were then discussed. Three kinds of ceramic membranes with different amounts of amino groups on the surface were prepared utilizing the SPCP-CVD method. Each with 1-time, 3-times and 5-times surface modification treatments and used for supports in glucoamylase immobilization. The amount of immobilized glucoamylase increased with the increase in the number of surface modification treatments and saturated to a certain maximum value estimated by a two-dimensional random packing. The operational stability of the immobilized glucoamylase also increased with the increase in the number of the surface treatment. It was almost the same as the conventional method, while the activity of immobilized enzyme was higher. The results indicated the possibility of designing the performance of the immobilized enzyme by controlling the amount of amino groups. The above results showed that the completely new surface modification method using SPCP was effective in modifying ceramic membranes for enzyme immobilization.

On the modified grain-size-distribution method to evaluate the dynamic recrystallisation fraction in AISI 304 stainless steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hong, D. H.; Park, J. K.

2018-04-01

The purpose of the present work was to verify the grain size distribution (GSD) method, which was recently proposed by one of the present authors as a method for evaluating the fraction of dynamic recrystallisation (DRX) in a microalloyed medium carbon steel. To verify the GSD-method, we have selected a 304 stainless steel as a model system and have measured the evolution of the overall grain size distribution (including both the recrystallised and unrecrystallised grains) during hot compression at 1,000 °C in a Gleeble machine; the DRX fraction estimated using the GSD method is compared with the experimentally measured value via EBSD. The results show that the previous GSD method tends to overestimate the DRX fraction due to the utilisation of a plain lognormal distribution function (LDF). To overcome this shortcoming, we propose a modified GSD-method wherein an area-weighted LDF, in place of a plain LDF, is employed to model the evolution of GSD during hot deformation. Direct measurement of the DRX fraction using EBSD confirms that the modified GSD-method provides a reliable method for evaluating the DRX fraction from the experimentally measured GSDs. Reasonable agreement between the DRX fraction and softening fraction suggests that the Kocks-Mecking method utilising the Voce equation can be satisfactorily used to model the work hardening and dynamic recovery behaviour of steels during hot deformation.

Ethanol production from horticultural waste treated by a modified organosolv method.

PubMed

Geng, Anli; Xin, Fengxue; Ip, Jun-yu

2012-01-01

In this study, we investigated the use of horticultural waste (HW) collected in Singapore as a renewable raw material for bioethanol production. A modified organosolv method using ethanol cooking under mild conditions followed by H(2)O(2) post-treatment was investigated for HW pretreatment. It was found that the addition of acid catalysts in the pretreatment process was not critical and post-treatment using H(2)O(2) was essential for the enhancement of HW digestibility. Enzymatic hydrolysis of the organosolv pretreated HW with 17.5% solid content, enzyme loading of 20 FPU/g HW of filter paper cellulase, and 80 CBU/g HW of β-glucosidase resulted in a HW hydrolysate containing 26.9 g/L reducing sugar after 72 h. Fermentation of the above hydrolysate medium produced 11.69 g/L ethanol at 8h using Saccharomyces cerevisiae. It proved that horticultural waste was a potential feedstock for fuel ethanol production and organosolv pretreatment method developed in this study was effective. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Comparison among T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging, modified dixon method, and magnetic resonance spectroscopy in measuring bone marrow fat.

PubMed

Shen, Wei; Gong, Xiuqun; Weiss, Jessica; Jin, Ye

2013-01-01

An increasing number of studies are utilizing different magnetic resonance (MR) methods to quantify bone marrow fat due to its potential role in osteoporosis. Our aim is to compare the measurements of bone marrow fat among T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), modified Dixon method (also called fat fraction MRI (FFMRI)), and magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS). Contiguous MRI scans were acquired in 27 Caucasian postmenopausal women with a modified Dixon method (i.e., FFMRI). Bone marrow adipose tissue (BMAT) of T1-weighted MRI and bone marrow fat fraction of the L3 vertebra and femoral necks were quantified using SliceOmatic and Matlab. MRS was also acquired at the L3 vertebra. Correlation among the three MR methods measured bone marrow fat fraction and BMAT ranges from 0.78 to 0.88 (P < 0.001) in the L3 vertebra. Correlation between BMAT measured by T1-weighted MRI and bone marrow fat fraction measured by modified FFMRI is 0.86 (P < 0.001) in femoral necks. There are good correlations among T1-weighted MRI, FFMRI, and MRS for bone marrow fat quantification. The inhomogeneous distribution of bone marrow fat, the threshold segmentation of the T1-weighted MRI, and the ambiguity of the FFMRI may partially explain the difference among the three methods.

Comparison of chest compression quality between the modified chest compression method with the use of smartphone application and the standardized traditional chest compression method during CPR.

PubMed

Park, Sang-Sub

2014-01-01

The purpose of this study is to grasp difference in quality of chest compression accuracy between the modified chest compression method with the use of smartphone application and the standardized traditional chest compression method. Participants were progressed 64 people except 6 absentees among 70 people who agreed to participation with completing the CPR curriculum. In the classification of group in participants, the modified chest compression method was called as smartphone group (33 people). The standardized chest compression method was called as traditional group (31 people). The common equipments in both groups were used Manikin for practice and Manikin for evaluation. In the meantime, the smartphone group for application was utilized Android and iOS Operating System (OS) of 2 smartphone products (G, i). The measurement period was conducted from September 25th to 26th, 2012. Data analysis was used SPSS WIN 12.0 program. As a result of research, the proper compression depth (mm) was shown the proper compression depth (p< 0.01) in traditional group (53.77 mm) compared to smartphone group (48.35 mm). Even the proper chest compression (%) was formed suitably (p< 0.05) in traditional group (73.96%) more than smartphone group (60.51%). As for the awareness of chest compression accuracy, the traditional group (3.83 points) had the higher awareness of chest compression accuracy (p< 0.001) than the smartphone group (2.32 points). In the questionnaire that was additionally carried out 1 question only in smartphone group, the modified chest compression method with the use of smartphone had the high negative reason in rescuer for occurrence of hand back pain (48.5%) and unstable posture (21.2%).

An international survey and modified Delphi approach revealed numerous rapid review methods.

PubMed

Tricco, Andrea C; Zarin, Wasifa; Antony, Jesmin; Hutton, Brian; Moher, David; Sherifali, Diana; Straus, Sharon E

2016-02-01

To solicit experiences with and perceptions of rapid reviews from stakeholders, including researchers, policy makers, industry, journal editors, and health care providers. An international survey of rapid review producers and modified Delphi. Forty rapid review producers responded on our survey (63% response rate). Eighty-eight rapid reviews with 31 different names were reported. Rapid review commissioning organizations were predominantly government (78%) and health care (58%) organizations. Several rapid review approaches were identified, including updating the literature search of previous reviews (92%); limiting the search strategy by date of publication (88%); and having only one reviewer screen (85%), abstract data (84%), and assess the quality of studies (86%). The modified Delphi included input from 113 stakeholders on the rapid review approaches from the survey. Approach 1 (search limited by date and language; study selection by one reviewer only, and data abstraction and quality appraisal conducted by one reviewer and one verifier) was ranked the most feasible (72%, 81/113 responses), with the lowest perceived risk of bias (12%, 12/103); it also ranked second in timeliness (37%, 38/102) and fifth in comprehensiveness (5%, 5/100). Rapid reviews have many names and approaches, and some methods might be more desirable than others. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Modified acyl-ACP desaturase

DOEpatents

Cahoon, E.B.; Shanklin, J.; Lindgvist, Y.; Schneider, G.

1998-01-06

Disclosed is a method for modifying the chain length and double bond positional specificities of a soluble plant fatty acid desaturase. More specifically, the method involves modifying amino acid contact residues in the substrate binding channel of the soluble fatty acid desaturase which contact the fatty acid. Specifically disclosed is the modification of an acyl-ACP desaturase. Amino acid contact residues which lie within the substrate binding channel are identified, and subsequently replaced with different residues to effect the modification of activity. 1 fig.

Modified Acyl-ACP desaturase

DOEpatents

Cahoon, E.B.; Shanklin, J.; Lindqvist, Y.; Schneider, G.

1999-03-30

Disclosed is a method for modifying the chain length and double bond positional specificities of a soluble plant fatty acid desaturase. More specifically, the method involves modifying amino acid contact residues in the substrate binding channel of the soluble fatty acid desaturase which contact the fatty acid. Specifically disclosed is the modification of an acyl-ACP desaturase. Amino acid contact residues which lie within the substrate binding channel are identified, and subsequently replaced with different residues to effect the modification of activity. 2 figs.

An efficient genotyping method for genome-modified animals and human cells generated with CRISPR/Cas9 system.

PubMed

Zhu, Xiaoxiao; Xu, Yajie; Yu, Shanshan; Lu, Lu; Ding, Mingqin; Cheng, Jing; Song, Guoxu; Gao, Xing; Yao, Liangming; Fan, Dongdong; Meng, Shu; Zhang, Xuewen; Hu, Shengdi; Tian, Yong

2014-09-19

The rapid generation of various species and strains of laboratory animals using CRISPR/Cas9 technology has dramatically accelerated the interrogation of gene function in vivo. So far, the dominant approach for genotyping of genome-modified animals has been the T7E1 endonuclease cleavage assay. Here, we present a polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis-based (PAGE) method to genotype mice harboring different types of indel mutations. We developed 6 strains of genome-modified mice using CRISPR/Cas9 system, and utilized this approach to genotype mice from F0 to F2 generation, which included single and multiplexed genome-modified mice. We also determined the maximal detection sensitivity for detecting mosaic DNA using PAGE-based assay as 0.5%. We further applied PAGE-based genotyping approach to detect CRISPR/Cas9-mediated on- and off-target effect in human 293T and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). Thus, PAGE-based genotyping approach meets the rapidly increasing demand for genotyping of the fast-growing number of genome-modified animals and human cell lines created using CRISPR/Cas9 system or other nuclease systems such as TALEN or ZFN.

An Efficient Genotyping Method for Genome-modified Animals and Human Cells Generated with CRISPR/Cas9 System

PubMed Central

Zhu, Xiaoxiao; Xu, Yajie; Yu, Shanshan; Lu, Lu; Ding, Mingqin; Cheng, Jing; Song, Guoxu; Gao, Xing; Yao, Liangming; Fan, Dongdong; Meng, Shu; Zhang, Xuewen; Hu, Shengdi; Tian, Yong

2014-01-01

The rapid generation of various species and strains of laboratory animals using CRISPR/Cas9 technology has dramatically accelerated the interrogation of gene function in vivo. So far, the dominant approach for genotyping of genome-modified animals has been the T7E1 endonuclease cleavage assay. Here, we present a polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis-based (PAGE) method to genotype mice harboring different types of indel mutations. We developed 6 strains of genome-modified mice using CRISPR/Cas9 system, and utilized this approach to genotype mice from F0 to F2 generation, which included single and multiplexed genome-modified mice. We also determined the maximal detection sensitivity for detecting mosaic DNA using PAGE-based assay as 0.5%. We further applied PAGE-based genotyping approach to detect CRISPR/Cas9-mediated on- and off-target effect in human 293T and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). Thus, PAGE-based genotyping approach meets the rapidly increasing demand for genotyping of the fast-growing number of genome-modified animals and human cell lines created using CRISPR/Cas9 system or other nuclease systems such as TALEN or ZFN. PMID:25236476

Modified flotation method with the use of Percoll for the detection of Isospora suis oocysts in suckling piglet faeces.

PubMed

Karamon, Jacek; Ziomko, Irena; Cencek, Tomasz; Sroka, Jacek

2008-10-01

The modification of flotation method for the examination of diarrhoeic piglet faeces for the detection of Isospora suis oocysts was elaborated. The method was based on removing fractions of fat from the sample of faeces by centrifugation with a 25% Percoll solution. The investigations were carried out in comparison to the McMaster method. From five variants of the Percoll flotation method, the best results were obtained when 2ml of flotation liquid per 1g of faeces were used. The limit of detection in the Percoll flotation method was 160 oocysts per 1g, and was better than with the McMaster method. The efficacy of the modified method was confirmed by results obtained in the examination of the I. suis infected piglets. From all faecal samples, positive samples in the Percoll flotation method were double the results than that of the routine method. Oocysts were first detected by the Percoll flotation method on day 4 post-invasion, i.e. one-day earlier than with the McMaster method. During the experiment (except for 3 days), the extensity of I. suis invasion in the litter examined by the Percoll flotation method was higher than that with the McMaster method. The obtained results show that the modified flotation method with the use of Percoll could be applied in the diagnostics of suckling piglet isosporosis.

Field test method to determine presence and quantity of modifiers in liquid asphalt.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2015-05-01

Asphalt modified with styrene butadiene styrene (SBS) polymer and/or ground tire rubber (GTR) is widely used in the U.S. : to enhance its performance. However, there are very few field tests developed to verify the content of modifier(s) in asphalt :...

Perturbed dark and singular optical solitons in polarization preserving fibers by modified simple equation method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yaşar, Emrullah; Yıldırım, Yakup; Zhou, Qin; Moshokoa, Seithuti P.; Ullah, Malik Zaka; Triki, Houria; Biswas, Anjan; Belic, Milivoj

2017-11-01

This paper obtains optical soliton solution to perturbed nonlinear Schrödinger's equation by modified simple equation method. There are four types of nonlinear fibers studied in this paper. They are Anti-cubic law, Quadratic-cubic law, Cubic-quintic-septic law and Triple-power law. Dark and singular soliton solutions are derived. Additional solutions such as singular periodic solutions also fall out of the integration scheme.

DNA extraction methods for detecting genetically modified foods: A comparative study.

PubMed

Elsanhoty, Rafaat M; Ramadan, Mohamed Fawzy; Jany, Klaus Dieter

2011-06-15

The work presented in this manuscript was achieved to compare six different methods for extracting DNA from raw maize and its derived products. The methods that gave higher yield and quality of DNA were chosen to detect the genetic modification in the samples collected from the Egyptian market. The different methods used were evaluated for extracting DNA from maize kernels (without treatment), maize flour (mechanical treatment), canned maize (sweet corn), frozen maize (sweet corn), maize starch, extruded maize, popcorn, corn flacks, maize snacks, and bread made from corn flour (mechanical and thermal treatments). The quality and quantity of the DNA extracted from the standards, containing known percentages of GMO material and from the different food products were evaluated. For qualitative detection of the GMO varieties in foods, the GMOScreen 35S/NOS test kit was used, to screen the genetic modification in the samples. The positive samples for the 35S promoter and/or the NOS terminator were identified by the standard methods adopted by EU. All of the used methods extracted yielded good DNA quality. However, we noted that the purest DNA extract were obtained using the DNA extraction kit (Roche) and this generally was the best method for extracting DNA from most of the maize-derived foods. We have noted that the yield of DNA extracted from maize-derived foods was generally lower in the processed products. The results indicated that 17 samples were positive for the presence of 35S promoter, while 34% from the samples were positive for the genetically modified maize line Bt-176. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Bound-preserving modified exponential Runge-Kutta discontinuous Galerkin methods for scalar hyperbolic equations with stiff source terms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Juntao; Shu, Chi-Wang

2018-05-01

In this paper, we develop bound-preserving modified exponential Runge-Kutta (RK) discontinuous Galerkin (DG) schemes to solve scalar hyperbolic equations with stiff source terms by extending the idea in Zhang and Shu [43]. Exponential strong stability preserving (SSP) high order time discretizations are constructed and then modified to overcome the stiffness and preserve the bound of the numerical solutions. It is also straightforward to extend the method to two dimensions on rectangular and triangular meshes. Even though we only discuss the bound-preserving limiter for DG schemes, it can also be applied to high order finite volume schemes, such as weighted essentially non-oscillatory (WENO) finite volume schemes as well.

Method of storing radioactive wastes using modified tobermorite

DOEpatents

Komarneni, Sridhar; Roy, Della M.

1985-01-01

A new cation exchanger is a modified tobermorite containing aluminum isomorphously substituted for silicon and containing sodium or potassium. The exchanger is selective for lead, rubidium, cobalt and cadmium and is selective for cesium over calcium or sodium. The tobermorites are compatable with cement and are useful for the long-term fixation and storage of radioactive nuclear wastes.

Automatic segmentation of Leishmania parasite in microscopic images using a modified CV level set method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Farahi, Maria; Rabbani, Hossein; Talebi, Ardeshir; Sarrafzadeh, Omid; Ensafi, Shahab

2015-12-01

Visceral Leishmaniasis is a parasitic disease that affects liver, spleen and bone marrow. According to World Health Organization report, definitive diagnosis is possible just by direct observation of the Leishman body in the microscopic image taken from bone marrow samples. We utilize morphological and CV level set method to segment Leishman bodies in digital color microscopic images captured from bone marrow samples. Linear contrast stretching method is used for image enhancement and morphological method is applied to determine the parasite regions and wipe up unwanted objects. Modified global and local CV level set methods are proposed for segmentation and a shape based stopping factor is used to hasten the algorithm. Manual segmentation is considered as ground truth to evaluate the proposed method. This method is tested on 28 samples and achieved 10.90% mean of segmentation error for global model and 9.76% for local model.

Modeling covalent-modifier drugs.

PubMed

Awoonor-Williams, Ernest; Walsh, Andrew G; Rowley, Christopher N

2017-11-01

In this review, we present a summary of how computer modeling has been used in the development of covalent-modifier drugs. Covalent-modifier drugs bind by forming a chemical bond with their target. This covalent binding can improve the selectivity of the drug for a target with complementary reactivity and result in increased binding affinities due to the strength of the covalent bond formed. In some cases, this results in irreversible inhibition of the target, but some targeted covalent inhibitor (TCI) drugs bind covalently but reversibly. Computer modeling is widely used in drug discovery, but different computational methods must be used to model covalent modifiers because of the chemical bonds formed. Structural and bioinformatic analysis has identified sites of modification that could yield selectivity for a chosen target. Docking methods, which are used to rank binding poses of large sets of inhibitors, have been augmented to support the formation of protein-ligand bonds and are now capable of predicting the binding pose of covalent modifiers accurately. The pK a 's of amino acids can be calculated in order to assess their reactivity towards electrophiles. QM/MM methods have been used to model the reaction mechanisms of covalent modification. The continued development of these tools will allow computation to aid in the development of new covalent-modifier drugs. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Biophysics in Canada, edited by Lewis Kay, John Baenziger, Albert Berghuis and Peter Tieleman. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Feasibility and safety of modified inverted T-shaped method using linear stapler with movable cartridge fork for esophagojejunostomy following laparoscopic total gastrectomy

PubMed Central

Ohuchida, Kenoki; Moriyama, Taiki; Shindo, Koji; Manabe, Tatsuya; Ohtsuka, Takao; Shimizu, Shuji; Nakamura, Masafumi

2017-01-01

Background We previously reported the use of an inverted T-shaped method to obtain a suitable view for hand sewing to close the common entry hole when the linear stapler was fired for esophagojejunostomy after laparoscopic total gastrectomy (LTG). This conventional method involved insertion of the fixed cartridge fork to the Roux limb and the fine movable anvil fork to the esophagus to avoid perforation of the jejunum. However, insertion of the movable anvil fork to the esophagus during this procedure often requires us to strongly push down the main body of the stapler with the fixed cartridge fork to bring the direction of the anvil fork in line with the direction of the long axis of the esophagus while controlling the opening of the movable anvil fork. We therefore modified this complicated inverted T-shaped method using a linear stapler with a movable cartridge fork. This modified method involved insertion of the movable cartridge fork into the Roux limb followed by natural, easy insertion of the fixed anvil fork into the esophagus without controlling the opening of the movable cartridge fork. Methods We performed LTG in a total of 155 consecutive patients with gastric cancer from November 2007 to December 2015 in Kyushu University Hospital. After LTG, we performed the conventional inverted T-shaped method using a linear stapler with a fixed cartridge fork in 61 patients from November 2007 to July 2011 (fixed cartridge group). From August 2011, we used a linear stapler with a movable cartridge fork and performed the modified inverted T-shaped method in 94 patients (movable cartridge group). We herein compare the short-term outcomes in 94 cases of LTG using the modified method (movable cartridge fork) with those in 61 cases using the conventional method (fixed cartridge fork). Results We found no significant differences in the perioperative or postoperative events between the movable and fixed cartridge groups. One case of anastomotic leakage occurred in the

Systems identification using a modified Newton-Raphson method: A FORTRAN program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Taylor, L. W., Jr.; Iliff, K. W.

1972-01-01

A FORTRAN program is offered which computes a maximum likelihood estimate of the parameters of any linear, constant coefficient, state space model. For the case considered, the maximum likelihood estimate can be identical to that which minimizes simultaneously the weighted mean square difference between the computed and measured response of a system and the weighted square of the difference between the estimated and a priori parameter values. A modified Newton-Raphson or quasilinearization method is used to perform the minimization which typically requires several iterations. A starting technique is used which insures convergence for any initial values of the unknown parameters. The program and its operation are described in sufficient detail to enable the user to apply the program to his particular problem with a minimum of difficulty.

Modified Pechini's method to prepare LaAlO3:RE thermoluminescent materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rivera-Montalvo, T.; Morales-Hernandez, A.; Barrera-Angeles, A. A.; Alvarez-Romero, R.; Falcony, C.; Zarate-Medina, J.

2017-11-01

This work presents an alternative method to prepare rare-earth doped lanthanum aluminates materials for thermoluminescent (TL) dosimetry applications. Modified Pechini´s method was using to prepare praseodymium doped LaAlO3 powders. LaAlO3:Pr3+ powders were prepared using La(NO3)3·6H2O, Al(NO3)3·6H2O, Pr(NO3)3·6H2O, citric acid, and ethylene glycol. The solution was heated to 80 °C for its polyesterification reaction. The obtained powders were submitted at different thermal treatment from 700 up to 1600 °C. The structural and morphological characterizations were carried out using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy techniques. TL glow curves of the X-ray irradiated samples showed one peak for europium and praseodymium dopants, meanwhile for powders doped with dysprosium ion showed two peaks. The technique is low cost, faster and it produces homogeneous particles can be used as thermoluminescent phosphors.

A modified Embedded-Atom Method interatomic potential for uranium-silicide

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Beeler, Benjamin; Baskes, Michael; Andersson, David; Cooper, Michael W. D.; Zhang, Yongfeng

2017-11-01

Uranium-silicide (U-Si) fuels are being pursued as a possible accident tolerant fuel (ATF). This uranium alloy fuel benefits from higher thermal conductivity and higher fissile density compared to uranium dioxide (UO2). In order to perform engineering scale nuclear fuel performance simulations, the material properties of the fuel must be known. Currently, the experimental data available for U-Si fuels is rather limited. Thus, multiscale modeling efforts are underway to address this gap in knowledge. In this study, a semi-empirical modified Embedded-Atom Method (MEAM) potential is presented for the description of the U-Si system. The potential is fitted to the formation energy, defect energies and structural properties of U3Si2. The primary phase of interest (U3Si2) is accurately described over a wide temperature range and displays good behavior under irradiation and with free surfaces. The potential can also describe a variety of U-Si phases across the composition spectrum.

21 CFR 184.1063 - Enzyme-modified lecithin.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Enzyme-modified lecithin. 184.1063 Section 184... Listing of Specific Substances Affirmed as GRAS § 184.1063 Enzyme-modified lecithin. (a) Enzyme-modified... Lysolecithin Content of Enzyme-Modified Lecithin: Method I,” dated 1985, which is incorporated by reference in...

21 CFR 184.1063 - Enzyme-modified lecithin.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2010-04-01 2009-04-01 true Enzyme-modified lecithin. 184.1063 Section 184.1063... Listing of Specific Substances Affirmed as GRAS § 184.1063 Enzyme-modified lecithin. (a) Enzyme-modified... Lysolecithin Content of Enzyme-Modified Lecithin: Method I,” dated 1985, which is incorporated by reference in...

Development and evaluation of event-specific quantitative PCR method for genetically modified soybean A2704-12.

PubMed

Takabatake, Reona; Akiyama, Hiroshi; Sakata, Kozue; Onishi, Mari; Koiwa, Tomohiro; Futo, Satoshi; Minegishi, Yasutaka; Teshima, Reiko; Mano, Junichi; Furui, Satoshi; Kitta, Kazumi

2011-01-01

A novel real-time PCR-based analytical method was developed for the event-specific quantification of a genetically modified (GM) soybean event; A2704-12. During the plant transformation, DNA fragments derived from pUC19 plasmid were integrated in A2704-12, and the region was found to be A2704-12 specific. The pUC19-derived DNA sequences were used as primers for the specific detection of A2704-12. We first tried to construct a standard plasmid for A2704-12 quantification using pUC19. However, non-specific signals appeared with both qualitative and quantitative PCR analyses using the specific primers with pUC19 as a template, and we then constructed a plasmid using pBR322. The conversion factor (C(f)), which is required to calculate the amount of the genetically modified organism (GMO), was experimentally determined with two real-time PCR instruments, the Applied Biosystems 7900HT and the Applied Biosystems 7500. The determined C(f) values were both 0.98. The quantitative method was evaluated by means of blind tests in multi-laboratory trials using the two real-time PCR instruments. The limit of quantitation for the method was estimated to be 0.1%. The trueness and precision were evaluated as the bias and reproducibility of relative standard deviation (RSD(R)), and the determined bias and RSD(R) values for the method were each less than 20%. These results suggest that the developed method would be suitable for practical analyses for the detection and quantification of A2704-12.

Feasibility and safety of modified inverted T-shaped method using linear stapler with movable cartridge fork for esophagojejunostomy following laparoscopic total gastrectomy.

PubMed

Ohuchida, Kenoki; Nagai, Eishi; Moriyama, Taiki; Shindo, Koji; Manabe, Tatsuya; Ohtsuka, Takao; Shimizu, Shuji; Nakamura, Masafumi

2017-01-01

We previously reported the use of an inverted T-shaped method to obtain a suitable view for hand sewing to close the common entry hole when the linear stapler was fired for esophagojejunostomy after laparoscopic total gastrectomy (LTG). This conventional method involved insertion of the fixed cartridge fork to the Roux limb and the fine movable anvil fork to the esophagus to avoid perforation of the jejunum. However, insertion of the movable anvil fork to the esophagus during this procedure often requires us to strongly push down the main body of the stapler with the fixed cartridge fork to bring the direction of the anvil fork in line with the direction of the long axis of the esophagus while controlling the opening of the movable anvil fork. We therefore modified this complicated inverted T-shaped method using a linear stapler with a movable cartridge fork. This modified method involved insertion of the movable cartridge fork into the Roux limb followed by natural, easy insertion of the fixed anvil fork into the esophagus without controlling the opening of the movable cartridge fork. We performed LTG in a total of 155 consecutive patients with gastric cancer from November 2007 to December 2015 in Kyushu University Hospital. After LTG, we performed the conventional inverted T-shaped method using a linear stapler with a fixed cartridge fork in 61 patients from November 2007 to July 2011 (fixed cartridge group). From August 2011, we used a linear stapler with a movable cartridge fork and performed the modified inverted T-shaped method in 94 patients (movable cartridge group). We herein compare the short-term outcomes in 94 cases of LTG using the modified method (movable cartridge fork) with those in 61 cases using the conventional method (fixed cartridge fork). We found no significant differences in the perioperative or postoperative events between the movable and fixed cartridge groups. One case of anastomotic leakage occurred in the fixed cartridge group, but no

A Decision-Based Modified Total Variation Diffusion Method for Impulse Noise Removal

PubMed Central

Zhu, Qingxin; Song, Xiuli; Tao, Jinsong

2017-01-01

Impulsive noise removal usually employs median filtering, switching median filtering, the total variation L1 method, and variants. These approaches however often introduce excessive smoothing and can result in extensive visual feature blurring and thus are suitable only for images with low density noise. A new method to remove noise is proposed in this paper to overcome this limitation, which divides pixels into different categories based on different noise characteristics. If an image is corrupted by salt-and-pepper noise, the pixels are divided into corrupted and noise-free; if the image is corrupted by random valued impulses, the pixels are divided into corrupted, noise-free, and possibly corrupted. Pixels falling into different categories are processed differently. If a pixel is corrupted, modified total variation diffusion is applied; if the pixel is possibly corrupted, weighted total variation diffusion is applied; otherwise, the pixel is left unchanged. Experimental results show that the proposed method is robust to different noise strengths and suitable for different images, with strong noise removal capability as shown by PSNR/SSIM results as well as the visual quality of restored images. PMID:28536602

Selection of Suitable DNA Extraction Methods for Genetically Modified Maize 3272, and Development and Evaluation of an Event-Specific Quantitative PCR Method for 3272.

PubMed

Takabatake, Reona; Masubuchi, Tomoko; Futo, Satoshi; Minegishi, Yasutaka; Noguchi, Akio; Kondo, Kazunari; Teshima, Reiko; Kurashima, Takeyo; Mano, Junichi; Kitta, Kazumi

2016-01-01

A novel real-time PCR-based analytical method was developed for the event-specific quantification of a genetically modified (GM) maize, 3272. We first attempted to obtain genome DNA from this maize using a DNeasy Plant Maxi kit and a DNeasy Plant Mini kit, which have been widely utilized in our previous studies, but DNA extraction yields from 3272 were markedly lower than those from non-GM maize seeds. However, lowering of DNA extraction yields was not observed with GM quicker or Genomic-tip 20/G. We chose GM quicker for evaluation of the quantitative method. We prepared a standard plasmid for 3272 quantification. The conversion factor (Cf), which is required to calculate the amount of a genetically modified organism (GMO), was experimentally determined for two real-time PCR instruments, the Applied Biosystems 7900HT (the ABI 7900) and the Applied Biosystems 7500 (the ABI7500). The determined Cf values were 0.60 and 0.59 for the ABI 7900 and the ABI 7500, respectively. To evaluate the developed method, a blind test was conducted as part of an interlaboratory study. The trueness and precision were evaluated as the bias and reproducibility of the relative standard deviation (RSDr). The determined values were similar to those in our previous validation studies. The limit of quantitation for the method was estimated to be 0.5% or less, and we concluded that the developed method would be suitable and practical for detection and quantification of 3272.

Validation of PCR methods for quantitation of genetically modified plants in food.

PubMed

Hübner, P; Waiblinger, H U; Pietsch, K; Brodmann, P

2001-01-01

For enforcement of the recently introduced labeling threshold for genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food ingredients, quantitative detection methods such as quantitative competitive (QC-PCR) and real-time PCR are applied by official food control laboratories. The experiences of 3 European food control laboratories in validating such methods were compared to describe realistic performance characteristics of quantitative PCR detection methods. The limit of quantitation (LOQ) of GMO-specific, real-time PCR was experimentally determined to reach 30-50 target molecules, which is close to theoretical prediction. Starting PCR with 200 ng genomic plant DNA, the LOQ depends primarily on the genome size of the target plant and ranges from 0.02% for rice to 0.7% for wheat. The precision of quantitative PCR detection methods, expressed as relative standard deviation (RSD), varied from 10 to 30%. Using Bt176 corn containing test samples and applying Bt176 specific QC-PCR, mean values deviated from true values by -7to 18%, with an average of 2+/-10%. Ruggedness of real-time PCR detection methods was assessed in an interlaboratory study analyzing commercial, homogeneous food samples. Roundup Ready soybean DNA contents were determined in the range of 0.3 to 36%, relative to soybean DNA, with RSDs of about 25%. Taking the precision of quantitative PCR detection methods into account, suitable sample plans and sample sizes for GMO analysis are suggested. Because quantitative GMO detection methods measure GMO contents of samples in relation to reference material (calibrants), high priority must be given to international agreements and standardization on certified reference materials.

Characterization of various two-phase materials based on thermal conductivity using modified transient plane source method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jayachandran, S.; Prithiviraajan, R. N.; Reddy, K. S.

2017-07-01

This paper presents the thermal conductivity of various two-phase materials using modified transient plane source (MTPS) technique. The values are determined by using commercially available C-Therm TCi apparatus. It is specially designed for testing of low to high thermal conductivity materials in the range of 0.02 to 100 Wm-1K-1 within a temperature range of 223-473 K. The results obtained for the two-phase materials (solids, powders and liquids) are having an accuracy better than 5%. The transient method is one of the easiest and less time consuming method to determine the thermal conductivity of the materials compared to steady state methods.

Tourism forecasting using modified empirical mode decomposition and group method of data handling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yahya, N. A.; Samsudin, R.; Shabri, A.

2017-09-01

In this study, a hybrid model using modified Empirical Mode Decomposition (EMD) and Group Method of Data Handling (GMDH) model is proposed for tourism forecasting. This approach reconstructs intrinsic mode functions (IMFs) produced by EMD using trial and error method. The new component and the remaining IMFs is then predicted respectively using GMDH model. Finally, the forecasted results for each component are aggregated to construct an ensemble forecast. The data used in this experiment are monthly time series data of tourist arrivals from China, Thailand and India to Malaysia from year 2000 to 2016. The performance of the model is evaluated using Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) and Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) where conventional GMDH model and EMD-GMDH model are used as benchmark models. Empirical results proved that the proposed model performed better forecasts than the benchmarked models.

Application of modified extended method in CREAM for safety inspector in coal mines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Jinhe; Zhang, Xiaohong; Zeng, Jianchao

2018-01-01

Safety inspector often performs duties in circumstances contributes to the oc currence of human failures. Therefore, the paper aims at quantifying human failure pro bability (HFP) of safety inspector during the coal mine operation with cognitive reliabi lity and error analysis method (CREAM). Whereas, some shortcomings of this approa ch that lacking considering the applicability of the common performance condition (C PC), and the subjective of evaluating CPC level which weaken the accuracy of the qua ntitative prediction results. A modified extended method in CREAM which is able to a ddress these difficulties with a CPC framework table is proposed, and the proposed me thodology is demonstrated by the virtue of a coal-mine accident example. The results a re expected to be useful in predicting HFP of safety inspector and contribute to the enh ancement of coal mine safety.

Development of a nationwide consensus syllabus of palliative medicine for undergraduate medical education in Japan: a modified Delphi method.

PubMed

Kizawa, Yoshiyuki; Tsuneto, Satoru; Tamba, Kaichiro; Takamiya, Yusuke; Morita, Tatsuya; Bito, Seiji; Otaki, Junji

2012-07-01

There is currently no consensus syllabus of palliative medicine for undergraduate medical education in Japan, although the Cancer Control Act proposed in 2007 covers the dissemination of palliative care. To develop a nationwide consensus syllabus of palliative medicine for undergraduate medical education in Japan using a modified Delphi method. We adopted the following three-step method: (1) a workshop to produce the draft syllabus; (2) a survey-based provisional syllabus; (3) Delphi rounds and a panel meeting (modified Delphi method) to produce the working syllabus. Educators in charge of palliative medicine from 63% of the medical schools in Japan collaborated to develop a survey-based provisional syllabus before the Delphi rounds. A panel of 32 people was then formed for the modified Delphi rounds comprising 28 educators and experts in palliative medicine, one cancer survivor, one bereaved family member, and two medical students. The final consensus syllabus consists of 115 learning objectives across seven sections as follows: basic principles; disease process and comprehensive assessment; symptom management; psychosocial care; cultural, religious, and spiritual issues; ethical issues; and legal frameworks. Learning objectives were categorized as essential or desirable (essential: 66; desirable: 49). A consensus syllabus of palliative medicine for undergraduate medical education was developed using a clear and innovative methodology. The final consensus syllabus will be made available for further dissemination of palliative care education throughout the country.

Development, evaluation and application of a modified micrometeorological gradient method for long-term estimation of gaseous dry deposition over forest canopies.

EPA Science Inventory

Small pollutant concentration gradients between levels above a plant canopy result in large uncertainties in estimated air–surface exchange fluxes when using existing micrometeorological gradient methods, including the aerodynamic gradient method (AGM) and the modified Bowen rati...

Comparative study of (Asp)7-CHOL-modified liposome prepared using pre-insertion and post-insertion methods for bone targeting in vivo.

PubMed

Zhang, Lijing; Cao, Hua; Zhang, Jiaxin; Yang, Chengli; Hu, Tingting; Li, Huili; Yang, Wu; He, Gu; Song, Xiangrong; Tong, Aiping; Guo, Gang; Li, Rui; Jiang, Yu; Liu, Jiyan; Cai, Lulu; Zheng, Yu

2017-02-01

Specific delivery of drugs to bone tissue is very challenging due to the architecture and structure of bone tissue. A seven-repeat sequence of aspartate, a representative bone-targeting oligopeptide, is preferentially used for targeted therapy for bone diseases. In this study, Asp7-cholesterol((Asp)7-CHOL) was synthesized and (Asp)7-CHOL-modified liposome loaded with doxorubicin (DOX) was successfully prepared using both pre-insertion (pre-L) and post-insertion (post-L) methods. The formulation was optimized according to particle size, zeta potential and the drug-loading efficiency of the liposome. In addition, the bone affinity of the (Asp)7-CHOL-modified liposome was evaluated using a hydroxyapatite (HA) absorption method. The results suggested that (Asp)7-CHOL-modified liposome show excellent HA absorption; pre-L showed slightly higher HA binding than post-L. However, post-L had a higher DOX entrapment efficiency than pre-L. In vivo imaging further demonstrated that pre-L showed a higher bone-targeting efficiency than post-L, which was consistent with in vitro results. In all, (Asp)7-CHOL-modified liposome showed excellent bone-targeting activity, suggesting their potential for use as a drug delivery system for bone disease-targeted therapies.

A modified method for MRF segmentation and bias correction of MR image with intensity inhomogeneity.

PubMed

Xie, Mei; Gao, Jingjing; Zhu, Chongjin; Zhou, Yan

2015-01-01

Markov random field (MRF) model is an effective method for brain tissue classification, which has been applied in MR image segmentation for decades. However, it falls short of the expected classification in MR images with intensity inhomogeneity for the bias field is not considered in the formulation. In this paper, we propose an interleaved method joining a modified MRF classification and bias field estimation in an energy minimization framework, whose initial estimation is based on k-means algorithm in view of prior information on MRI. The proposed method has a salient advantage of overcoming the misclassifications from the non-interleaved MRF classification for the MR image with intensity inhomogeneity. In contrast to other baseline methods, experimental results also have demonstrated the effectiveness and advantages of our algorithm via its applications in the real and the synthetic MR images.

A modified HPLC method improves the simultaneous determination of plasma kynurenine and tryptophan concentrations in patients following maintenance hemodialysis

PubMed Central

XIAO, CHENGGEN; CHEN, YUANHAN; LIANG, XINLING; XIE, ZHEN; ZHANG, MIN; LI, RUIZHAO; LI, ZHILIAN; FU, XIA; YU, XIYONG; SHI, WEI

2014-01-01

The ratio between plasma kynurenine (Kyn) and tryptophan (Trp) serves as a marker of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase, a critical immunomodulatory molecule. Simultaneous detection of the two markers may be performed using high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC). However, for uremic patients, the conventional detection method may be affected by a range of accumulated toxins. The current study aimed to establish a method for the simultaneous measurement of Kyn and Trp in patients following maintenance hemodialysis via HPLC-ultraviolet detection. The procedure involved the use of a SinoChrom ODS-BP C18 column (4.6×150 mm; inner diameter, 4.5 μm) and a mobile phase of 15 mmol/l sodium acetate acetic acid solution (containing 5% acetonitrile, pH 4.8). The modified method was verified using plasma samples from 10 healthy controls and 91 maintenance hemodialysis patients. The results demonstrated that the modified method was successful in simultaneously detecting the concentrations of Trp and Kyn in the healthy controls and maintenance hemodialysis patients. The method is simple, fast, accurate and suitable for clinical and research purposes in maintenance hemodialysis patients. PMID:24669249

Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction methods for four genetically modified maize varieties and maize DNA content in food.

PubMed

Brodmann, Peter D; Ilg, Evelyn C; Berthoud, Hélène; Herrmann, Andre

2002-01-01

Quantitative detection methods are needed for enforcement of the recently introduced labeling threshold for genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food ingredients. This labeling threshold, which is set to 1% in the European Union and Switzerland, must be applied to all approved GMOs. Four different varieties of maize are approved in the European Union: the insect-resistant Bt176 maize (Maximizer), Btl 1 maize, Mon810 (YieldGard) maize, and the herbicide-tolerant T25 (Liberty Link) maize. Because the labeling must be considered individually for each ingredient, a quantitation system for the endogenous maize content is needed in addition to the GMO-specific detection systems. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction detection methods were developed for the 4 approved genetically modified maize varieties and for an endogenous maize (invertase) gene system.

A modified precise integration method for transient dynamic analysis in structural systems with multiple damping models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ding, Zhe; Li, Li; Hu, Yujin

2018-01-01

Sophisticated engineering systems are usually assembled by subcomponents with significantly different levels of energy dissipation. Therefore, these damping systems often contain multiple damping models and lead to great difficulties in analyzing. This paper aims at developing a time integration method for structural systems with multiple damping models. The dynamical system is first represented by a generally damped model. Based on this, a new extended state-space method for the damped system is derived. A modified precise integration method with Gauss-Legendre quadrature is then proposed. The numerical stability and accuracy of the proposed integration method are discussed in detail. It is verified that the method is conditionally stable and has inherent algorithmic damping, period error and amplitude decay. Numerical examples are provided to assess the performance of the proposed method compared with other methods. It is demonstrated that the method is more accurate than other methods with rather good efficiency and the stable condition is easy to be satisfied in practice.

The methods of receiving coal water suspension and its use as the modifying additive in concrete

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Buyantuyev, S. L.; Urkhanova, L. A.; Lkhasaranov, S. A.; Stebenkova, Y. Y.; Khmelev, A. B.; Kondratenko, A. S.

2017-01-01

Results of research of the coal water suspension (CWS) from a cake received in the electrodigit ways in the fluid environment and gas are given in article and also the possibilities of its use as the modifying additive in concrete are considered. Use of a coal cake is perspective as it is a withdrawal of the coal and concentrating enterprises and has extremely low cost. Methods of receiving CWS and possibility of formation of carbon nanomaterials (CNM) are given in their structure. Research and the analysis of a microstructure of a surface of exemplars before electrodigit processing, their element structure, dependence of durability of a cement stone on a look and quantity of an additive of CWS is conducted. For modification of cement the carbon nanomaterials received from the following exemplars of water coal suspensions were used: foams from a cake from a scrubber of the plasma modular reactor, coal water suspension from a cake from electrodigit installation. The product which can find further application for a power engineering as fuel for combustion, and also in structural materials science, in particular, as the modifying additive in concrete allows to receive these methods.

A modified adjoint-based grid adaptation and error correction method for unstructured grid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cui, Pengcheng; Li, Bin; Tang, Jing; Chen, Jiangtao; Deng, Youqi

2018-05-01

Grid adaptation is an important strategy to improve the accuracy of output functions (e.g. drag, lift, etc.) in computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis and design applications. This paper presents a modified robust grid adaptation and error correction method for reducing simulation errors in integral outputs. The procedure is based on discrete adjoint optimization theory in which the estimated global error of output functions can be directly related to the local residual error. According to this relationship, local residual error contribution can be used as an indicator in a grid adaptation strategy designed to generate refined grids for accurately estimating the output functions. This grid adaptation and error correction method is applied to subsonic and supersonic simulations around three-dimensional configurations. Numerical results demonstrate that the sensitive grids to output functions are detected and refined after grid adaptation, and the accuracy of output functions is obviously improved after error correction. The proposed grid adaptation and error correction method is shown to compare very favorably in terms of output accuracy and computational efficiency relative to the traditional featured-based grid adaptation.

Electrochemical Cathodic Polarization, a Simplified Method That Can Modified and Increase the Biological Activity of Titanium Surfaces: A Systematic Review

PubMed Central

2016-01-01

Background The cathodic polarization seems to be an electrochemical method capable of modifying and coat biomolecules on titanium surfaces, improving the surface activity and promoting better biological responses. Objective The aim of the systematic review is to assess the scientific literature to evaluate the cellular response produced by treatment of titanium surfaces by applying the cathodic polarization technique. Data, Sources, and Selection The literature search was performed in several databases including PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Science Direct, Scielo and EBSCO Host, until June 2016, with no limits used. Eligibility criteria were used and quality assessment was performed following slightly modified ARRIVE and SYRCLE guidelines for cellular studies and animal research. Results Thirteen studies accomplished the inclusion criteria and were considered in the review. The quality of reporting studies in animal models was low and for the in vitro studies it was high. The in vitro and in vivo results reported that the use of cathodic polarization promoted hydride surfaces, effective deposition, and adhesion of the coated biomolecules. In the experimental groups that used the electrochemical method, cellular viability, proliferation, adhesion, differentiation, or bone growth were better or comparable with the control groups. Conclusions The use of the cathodic polarization method to modify titanium surfaces seems to be an interesting method that could produce active layers and consequently enhance cellular response, in vitro and in vivo animal model studies. PMID:27441840

A modified cross-correlation method for white-light optical fiber extrinsic Fabry-Perot interferometric hydrogen sensors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Zhen; Zhang, Min; Liao, Yanbiao; Lai, Shurong; Tian, Qian; Li, Qisheng; Zhang, Yi; Zhuang, Zhi

2009-11-01

An extrinsic Fabry-Perot interferometric (EFPI) optical fiber hydrogen sensor based on palladium silver (Pd-Ag) film is designed for hydrogen leakage detection. A modified cross correlation signal processing method for an optical fiber EFPI hydrogen sensor is presented. As the applying of a special correlating factor which advises the effect on the fringe visibility of the gap length and wavelength, the cross correlation method has a high accuracy which is insensitive to light source power drift or changes in attenuation in the fiber, and the segment search method is employed to reduce computation and demodulating speed is fast. The Fabry-Perot gap length resolution of better than 0.2nm is achieved in a certain concentration of hydrogen.

Multidimensional scaling analysis of financial time series based on modified cross-sample entropy methods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

He, Jiayi; Shang, Pengjian; Xiong, Hui

2018-06-01

Stocks, as the concrete manifestation of financial time series with plenty of potential information, are often used in the study of financial time series. In this paper, we utilize the stock data to recognize their patterns through out the dissimilarity matrix based on modified cross-sample entropy, then three-dimensional perceptual maps of the results are provided through multidimensional scaling method. Two modified multidimensional scaling methods are proposed in this paper, that is, multidimensional scaling based on Kronecker-delta cross-sample entropy (MDS-KCSE) and multidimensional scaling based on permutation cross-sample entropy (MDS-PCSE). These two methods use Kronecker-delta based cross-sample entropy and permutation based cross-sample entropy to replace the distance or dissimilarity measurement in classical multidimensional scaling (MDS). Multidimensional scaling based on Chebyshev distance (MDSC) is employed to provide a reference for comparisons. Our analysis reveals a clear clustering both in synthetic data and 18 indices from diverse stock markets. It implies that time series generated by the same model are easier to have similar irregularity than others, and the difference in the stock index, which is caused by the country or region and the different financial policies, can reflect the irregularity in the data. In the synthetic data experiments, not only the time series generated by different models can be distinguished, the one generated under different parameters of the same model can also be detected. In the financial data experiment, the stock indices are clearly divided into five groups. Through analysis, we find that they correspond to five regions, respectively, that is, Europe, North America, South America, Asian-Pacific (with the exception of mainland China), mainland China and Russia. The results also demonstrate that MDS-KCSE and MDS-PCSE provide more effective divisions in experiments than MDSC.

Room-temperature wafer bonding of LiNbO3 and SiO2 using a modified surface activated bonding method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takigawa, Ryo; Higurashi, Eiji; Asano, Tanemasa

2018-06-01

In this paper, we report room-temperature bonding of LiNbO3 (LN) and SiO2/Si for the realization of a LN on insulator (LNOI)/Si hybrid wafer. We investigate the applicability of a modified surface activated bonding (SAB) method for the direct bonding of LN and a thermally grown SiO2 layer. The modified SAB method using ion beam bombardment demonstrates the room-temperature wafer bonding of LN and SiO2. The bonded wafer was successfully cut into 0.5 × 0.5 mm2 dies without interfacial debonding owing to the applied stress during dicing. In addition, the surface energy of the bonded wafer was estimated to be approximately 1.8 J/m2 using the crack opening method. These results indicate that a strong bond strength can be achieved, which may be sufficient for device applications.

R Peak Detection Method Using Wavelet Transform and Modified Shannon Energy Envelope

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

Rapid automatic detection of the fiducial points—namely, the P wave, QRS complex, and T wave—is necessary for early detection of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). In this paper, we present an R peak detection method using the wavelet transform (WT) and a modified Shannon energy envelope (SEE) for rapid ECG analysis. The proposed WTSEE algorithm performs a wavelet transform to reduce the size and noise of ECG signals and creates SEE after first-order differentiation and amplitude normalization. Subsequently, the peak energy envelope (PEE) is extracted from the SEE. Then, R peaks are estimated from the PEE, and the estimated peaks are adjusted from the input ECG. Finally, the algorithm generates the final R features by validating R-R intervals and updating the extracted R peaks. The proposed R peak detection method was validated using 48 first-channel ECG records of the MIT-BIH arrhythmia database with a sensitivity of 99.93%, positive predictability of 99.91%, detection error rate of 0.16%, and accuracy of 99.84%. Considering the high detection accuracy and fast processing speed due to the wavelet transform applied before calculating SEE, the proposed method is highly effective for real-time applications in early detection of CVDs. PMID:29065613

R Peak Detection Method Using Wavelet Transform and Modified Shannon Energy Envelope.

PubMed

Park, Jeong-Seon; Lee, Sang-Woong; Park, Unsang

2017-01-01

Rapid automatic detection of the fiducial points-namely, the P wave, QRS complex, and T wave-is necessary for early detection of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). In this paper, we present an R peak detection method using the wavelet transform (WT) and a modified Shannon energy envelope (SEE) for rapid ECG analysis. The proposed WTSEE algorithm performs a wavelet transform to reduce the size and noise of ECG signals and creates SEE after first-order differentiation and amplitude normalization. Subsequently, the peak energy envelope (PEE) is extracted from the SEE. Then, R peaks are estimated from the PEE, and the estimated peaks are adjusted from the input ECG. Finally, the algorithm generates the final R features by validating R-R intervals and updating the extracted R peaks. The proposed R peak detection method was validated using 48 first-channel ECG records of the MIT-BIH arrhythmia database with a sensitivity of 99.93%, positive predictability of 99.91%, detection error rate of 0.16%, and accuracy of 99.84%. Considering the high detection accuracy and fast processing speed due to the wavelet transform applied before calculating SEE, the proposed method is highly effective for real-time applications in early detection of CVDs.

PCR-free quantitative detection of genetically modified organism from raw materials. An electrochemiluminescence-based bio bar code method.

PubMed

Zhu, Debin; Tang, Yabing; Xing, Da; Chen, Wei R

2008-05-15

A bio bar code assay based on oligonucleotide-modified gold nanoparticles (Au-NPs) provides a PCR-free method for quantitative detection of nucleic acid targets. However, the current bio bar code assay requires lengthy experimental procedures including the preparation and release of bar code DNA probes from the target-nanoparticle complex and immobilization and hybridization of the probes for quantification. Herein, we report a novel PCR-free electrochemiluminescence (ECL)-based bio bar code assay for the quantitative detection of genetically modified organism (GMO) from raw materials. It consists of tris-(2,2'-bipyridyl) ruthenium (TBR)-labeled bar code DNA, nucleic acid hybridization using Au-NPs and biotin-labeled probes, and selective capture of the hybridization complex by streptavidin-coated paramagnetic beads. The detection of target DNA is realized by direct measurement of ECL emission of TBR. It can quantitatively detect target nucleic acids with high speed and sensitivity. This method can be used to quantitatively detect GMO fragments from real GMO products.

Development of melting temperature-based SYBR Green I polymerase chain reaction methods for multiplex genetically modified organism detection.

PubMed

Hernández, Marta; Rodríguez-Lázaro, David; Esteve, Teresa; Prat, Salomé; Pla, Maria

2003-12-15

Commercialization of several genetically modified crops has been approved worldwide to date. Uniplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based methods to identify these different insertion events have been developed, but their use in the analysis of all commercially available genetically modified organisms (GMOs) is becoming progressively insufficient. These methods require a large number of assays to detect all possible GMOs present in the sample and thereby the development of multiplex PCR systems using combined probes and primers targeted to sequences specific to various GMOs is needed for detection of this increasing number of GMOs. Here we report on the development of a multiplex real-time PCR suitable for multiple GMO identification, based on the intercalating dye SYBR Green I and the analysis of the melting curves of the amplified products. Using this method, different amplification products specific for Maximizer 176, Bt11, MON810, and GA21 maize and for GTS 40-3-2 soybean were obtained and identified by their specific Tm. We have combined amplification of these products in a number of multiplex reactions and show the suitability of the methods for identification of GMOs with a sensitivity of 0.1% in duplex reactions. The described methods offer an economic and simple alternative to real-time PCR systems based on sequence-specific probes (i.e., TaqMan chemistry). These methods can be used as selection tests and further optimized for uniplex GMO quantification.

A Modified Gibson Assembly Method for Cloning Large DNA Fragments with High GC Contents.

PubMed

Li, Lei; Jiang, Weihong; Lu, Yinhua

2018-01-01

Gibson one-step, isothermal assembly method (Gibson assembly) can be used to efficiently assemble large DNA molecules by in vitro recombination involving a 5'-exonuclease, a DNA polymerase and a DNA ligase. In the past few years, this robust DNA assembly method has been widely applied to seamlessly construct genes, genetic pathways and even entire genomes. Here, we expand this method to clone large DNA fragments with high GC contents, such as antibiotic biosynthetic gene clusters from Streptomyces . Due to the low isothermal condition (50 °C) in the Gibson reaction system, the complementary overlaps with high GC contents are proposed to easily form mismatched linker pairings, which leads to low assembly efficiencies mainly due to vector self-ligation. So, we modified this classic method by the following two steps. First, a pair of universal terminal single-stranded DNA overhangs with high AT contents are added to the ends of the BAC vector. Second, two restriction enzyme sites are introduced into the respective sides of the designed overlaps to achieve the hierarchical assembly of large DNA molecules. The optimized Gibson assembly method facilitates fast acquisition of large DNA fragments with high GC contents from Streptomyces.

Comparison of Web-Based and Face-to-Face Standard Setting Using the Angoff Method

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Katz, Irvin R.; Tannenbaum, Richard J.

2014-01-01

Web-based standard setting holds promise for reducing the travel and logistical inconveniences of traditional, face-to-face standard setting meetings. However, because there are few published reports of setting standards via remote meeting technology, little is known about the practical potential of the approach, including technical feasibility of…

Nanoparticles modified with multiple organic acids

DOEpatents

Cook, Ronald Lee [Lakewood, CO; Luebben, Silvia DeVito [Golden, CO; Myers, Andrew William [Arvada, CO; Smith, Bryan Matthew [Boulder, CO; Elliott, Brian John [Superior, CO; Kreutzer, Cory [Brighton, CO; Wilson, Carolina [Arvada, CO; Meiser, Manfred [Aurora, CO

2007-07-17

Surface-modified nanoparticles of boehmite, and methods for preparing the same. Aluminum oxyhydroxide nanoparticles are surface modified by reaction with selected amounts of organic acids. In particular, the nanoparticle surface is modified by reactions with two or more different carboxylic acids, at least one of which is an organic carboxylic acid. The product is a surface modified boehmite nanoparticle that has an inorganic aluminum oxyhydroxide core, or part aluminum oxyhydroxide core and a surface-bonded organic shell. Organic carboxylic acids of this invention contain at least one carboxylic acid group and one carbon-hydrogen bond. One embodiment of this invention provides boehmite nanoparticles that have been surface modified with two or more acids one of which additional carries at least one reactive functional group. Another embodiment of this invention provides boehmite nanoparticles that have been surface modified with multiple acids one of which has molecular weight or average molecular weight greater than or equal to 500 Daltons. Yet, another embodiment of this invention provides boehmite nanoparticles that are surface modified with two or more acids one of which is hydrophobic in nature and has solubility in water of less than 15 by weight. The products of the methods of this invention have specific useful properties when used in mixture with liquids, as filler in solids, or as stand-alone entities.

Nanoparticles modified with multiple organic acids

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Luebben, Silvia DeVito (Inventor); Cook, Ronald Lee (Inventor); Wilson, Carolina (Inventor); Meiser, Manfred (Inventor); Myers, Andrew William (Inventor); Smith, Bryan Matthew (Inventor); Elliott, Brian John (Inventor); Kreutzer, Cory (Inventor)

2007-01-01

Surface-modified nanoparticles of boehmite, and methods for preparing the same. Aluminum oxyhydroxide nanoparticles are surface modified by reaction with selected amounts of organic acids. In particular, the nanoparticle surface is modified by reactions with two or more different carboxylic acids, at least one of which is an organic carboxylic acid. The product is a surface modified boehmite nanoparticle that has an inorganic aluminum oxyhydroxide core, or part aluminum oxyhydroxide core and a surface-bonded organic shell. Organic carboxylic acids of this invention contain at least one carboxylic acid group and one carbon-hydrogen bond. One embodiment of this invention provides boehmite nanoparticles that have been surface modified with two or more acids one of which additional carries at least one reactive functional group. Another embodiment of this invention provides boehmite nanoparticles that have been surface modified with multiple acids one of which has molecular weight or average molecular weight greater than or equal to 500 Daltons. Yet, another embodiment of this invention provides boehmite nanoparticles that are surface modified with two or more acids one of which is hydrophobic in nature and has solubility in water of less than 15 by weight. The products of the methods of this invention have specific useful properties when used in mixture with liquids, as filler in solids, or as stand-alone entities.

The modified alternative (G'/G)-expansion method to nonlinear evolution equation: application to the (1+1)-dimensional Drinfel'd-Sokolov-Wilson equation.

PubMed

Akbar, M Ali; Mohd Ali, Norhashidah Hj; Mohyud-Din, Syed Tauseef

2013-01-01

Over the years, (G'/G)-expansion method is employed to generate traveling wave solutions to various wave equations in mathematical physics. In the present paper, the alternative (G'/G)-expansion method has been further modified by introducing the generalized Riccati equation to construct new exact solutions. In order to illustrate the novelty and advantages of this approach, the (1+1)-dimensional Drinfel'd-Sokolov-Wilson (DSW) equation is considered and abundant new exact traveling wave solutions are obtained in a uniform way. These solutions may be imperative and significant for the explanation of some practical physical phenomena. It is shown that the modified alternative (G'/G)-expansion method an efficient and advance mathematical tool for solving nonlinear partial differential equations in mathematical physics.

Laboratory study of test methods for polymer modified asphalt in hot mix pavement.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1989-11-01

Increasing use of asphalt binders modified with elastomeric or plastic modifiers makes the specification of binders a difficult task. Ideally, a generic specification would allow various suppliers and additives to compete based on expected performanc...

A new separation and preconcentration method for selenium in some foods using modified silica gel with 2,6-diamino-4-phenil-1,3,5-triazine.

PubMed

Mendil, Durali; Demirci, Zafer; Uluozlu, Ozgur Dogan; Tuzen, Mustafa; Soylak, Mustafa

2017-04-15

A novel and simple solid phase extraction method was improved and recommended for selenium. Silica gel was modified with 2,6-diamino-4-phenil-1,3,5-triazine and characterized by FTIR, SEM and elemental analysis and used adsorbent for column solid phase extraction of selenium ions. The experimental parameters (pH, flow rates, amounts of the modified silica gel, concentration and type of eluent, volume of sample, etc.) on the recoveries of selenium were optimized. Standard reference materials were analyzed for validation of method. The present method was successfully applied to the detection of total selenium in water and microwave digested some food samples with quantitative recoveries (> 95%). The relative standard deviations were<8%. Matrix influences were not observed. The adsorption capacity of modified silica gel was 5.90mgg -1 . The LOD was 0.015μgL -1 . Enrichment factor was obtained as 50 for the introduced method. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Modified multiple time scale method for solving strongly nonlinear damped forced vibration systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Razzak, M. A.; Alam, M. Z.; Sharif, M. N.

2018-03-01

In this paper, modified multiple time scale (MTS) method is employed to solve strongly nonlinear forced vibration systems. The first-order approximation is only considered in order to avoid complexicity. The formulations and the determination of the solution procedure are very easy and straightforward. The classical multiple time scale (MS) and multiple scales Lindstedt-Poincare method (MSLP) do not give desire result for the strongly damped forced vibration systems with strong damping effects. The main aim of this paper is to remove these limitations. Two examples are considered to illustrate the effectiveness and convenience of the present procedure. The approximate external frequencies and the corresponding approximate solutions are determined by the present method. The results give good coincidence with corresponding numerical solution (considered to be exact) and also provide better result than other existing results. For weak nonlinearities with weak damping effect, the absolute relative error measures (first-order approximate external frequency) in this paper is only 0.07% when amplitude A = 1.5 , while the relative error gives MSLP method is surprisingly 28.81%. Furthermore, for strong nonlinearities with strong damping effect, the absolute relative error found in this article is only 0.02%, whereas the relative error obtained by MSLP method is 24.18%. Therefore, the present method is not only valid for weakly nonlinear damped forced systems, but also gives better result for strongly nonlinear systems with both small and strong damping effect.

Modified Lipid Extraction Methods for Deep Subsurface Shale

PubMed Central

Akondi, Rawlings N.; Trexler, Ryan V.; Pfiffner, Susan M.; Mouser, Paula J.; Sharma, Shikha

2017-01-01

Growing interest in the utilization of black shales for hydrocarbon development and environmental applications has spurred investigations of microbial functional diversity in the deep subsurface shale ecosystem. Lipid biomarker analyses including phospholipid fatty acids (PLFAs) and diglyceride fatty acids (DGFAs) represent sensitive tools for estimating biomass and characterizing the diversity of microbial communities. However, complex shale matrix properties create immense challenges for microbial lipid extraction procedures. Here, we test three different lipid extraction methods: modified Bligh and Dyer (mBD), Folch (FOL), and microwave assisted extraction (MAE), to examine their ability in the recovery and reproducibility of lipid biomarkers in deeply buried shales. The lipid biomarkers were analyzed as fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) with the GC-MS, and the average PL-FAME yield ranged from 67 to 400 pmol/g, while the average DG-FAME yield ranged from 600 to 3,000 pmol/g. The biomarker yields in the intact phospholipid Bligh and Dyer treatment (mBD + Phos + POPC), the Folch, the Bligh and Dyer citrate buffer (mBD-Cit), and the MAE treatments were all relatively higher and statistically similar compared to the other extraction treatments for both PLFAs and DGFAs. The biomarker yields were however highly variable within replicates for most extraction treatments, although the mBD + Phos + POPC treatment had relatively better reproducibility in the consistent fatty acid profiles. This variability across treatments which is associated with the highly complex nature of deeply buried shale matrix, further necessitates customized methodological developments for the improvement of lipid biomarker recovery. PMID:28790998

Investigation of Ag-TiO2 nanostructures photocatalytic properties prepared by modified dip coating method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

AlArfaj, Esam

2016-05-01

In this article, titanium dioxide and silver nanostructures were deposited on glass substrates using modified sol-gel methods and dip-coating technique. The films were characterised chemically and physically using different techniques (TLC, UV-Vis and XRD) and tested for environmental applications regarding degradation of aromatic hydrocarbons. The photocatalytic activity of the TiO2 nanostructures is tested with different small concentrations of phenol in water and reaction mechanisms discussed. Considerable enhancement is observed in the photodegradation activity of Ag-modified (3 wt.%) TiO2 compared to unmodified TiO2 nanostructures for phenol concentrations within the pseudo-first-order Langmuir-Hinshelwood (LH) model for reaction kinetics. The pseudo-first-order global degradation rate constant increased from <0.005 min-1 for TiO2 to 0.013 min-1 for 3 mol% Ag-modified TiO2. The enhancement is attributed to the incorporation of Ag which promotes the generation of reactive oxygen species and increases the carrier recombination life-time. In addition, Ag has been observed to extend the absorption to the visible region by its surface plasmon resonances and to suppress the anatase-rutile phase transformation. Moreover, TiO2 grain size prepared was found to be 10 nm which maximises the active surface area. For phenol initial concentrations as low as 0.0002 M, saturation trend in the degradation process occurred at 0.00014 M and the reaction rate can be fitted with half-order LH kinetics.

Chemically modified carbonic anhydrases useful in carbon capture systems

DOEpatents

Novick, Scott; Alvizo, Oscar

2013-01-15

The present disclosure relates to chemically modified carbonic anhydrase polypeptides and soluble compositions, homogenous liquid formulations comprising them. The chemically modified carbonic anhydrase polypeptides have improved properties relative to the same carbonic anhydrase polypeptide that is not chemically modified including the improved properties of increased activity and/or stability in the presence of amine compounds, ammonia, or carbonate ion. The present disclosure also provides methods of preparing the chemically modified polypeptides and methods of using the chemically modified polypeptides for accelerating the absorption of carbon dioxide from a gas stream into a solution as well as for the release of the absorbed carbon dioxide for further treatment and/or sequestering.

Chemically modified carbonic anhydrases useful in carbon capture systems

DOEpatents

Novick, Scott J; Alvizo, Oscar

2013-10-29

The present disclosure relates to chemically modified carbonic anhydrase polypeptides and soluble compositions, homogenous liquid formulations comprising them. The chemically modified carbonic anhydrase polypeptides have improved properties relative to the same carbonic anhydrase polypeptide that is not chemically modified including the improved properties of increased activity and/or stability in the presence of amine compounds, ammonia, or carbonate ion. The present disclosure also provides methods of preparing the chemically modified polypeptides and methods of using the chemically modified polypeptides for accelerating the absorption of carbon dioxide from a gas stream into a solution as well as for the release of the absorbed carbon dioxide for further treatment and/or sequestering.

Use of the bioactive resorbable plate system for zygoma and zygomatic arch replacement and fixation with modified Crockett's method for maxillectomy: A technical note.

PubMed

Sukegawa, Shintaro; Kanno, Takahiro; Shibata, Akane; Matsumoto, Kenichi; Sukegawa-Takahashi, Yuka; Sakaida, Kyousuke; Furuki, Yoshihiko

2017-07-01

As a surgical approach targeting the pterygopalatine fossa following maxillary cancer due to tumor invasion, Crockett's method is conventional and useful. However, if the tumor is confined to the area between the maxilla and pterygopalatine fossa, it is not necessary to include the zygomatico-orbital in the access osteotomy, and the orbital floor may be preserved. Depending on the range of tumor invasion, the current study reports a more minimally invasive, modified Crockett's surgery that may be considered, which includes resection with modified osteotomy lines and repositioning with fixation of the zygoma and zygomatic arch following maxillary cancer ablation. In addition, the majority of patients with advanced maxillary cancer may require postoperative radiotherapy or chemoradiotherapy following maxillectomy according to several guidelines. Therefore, using a low-profile bioactive resorbable plate system as a method of repositioning and fixing the resected and preserved zygoma and zygomatic arch may be more effective in this modified Crockett's method for maxillectomy.

Modified prepubic TVT-obturator tape procedure versus the conventional method: a preliminary study.

PubMed

Long, Cheng-Yu; Wu, Ming-Ping; Wang, Chiu-Lin; Lin, Kun-Ling; Liu, Cheng-Min; Wu, Shu-Hui; Juan, Yung-Shun

2013-12-01

To compare the efficacy and safety of the modified prepubic tension-free vaginal tape-obturator (PTVT-O) system procedure with the original TVT-O methods. One hundred and ninety women with urodynamic stress incontinence (USI) were included in this study (93 cases in the TVT-O group and 97 in the PTVT-O group). Clinical assessments before and one year after surgery included urinalyses, 1-h pad tests, urodynamic studies, and a personal interview with the overactive bladder symptom score (OABSS) questionnaire. There were no differences between the two groups in mean age, parity, menopausal status, mean operative time and subjective cure rates (P>0.05), but the efficacy of surgery (cure and improvement) in the PTVT-O group was significantly higher than that in the TVT-O group (P=0.038). Complication rates and visual analog scale (VAS) scores were found to be similar (P>0.05). OABSS decreased significantly after surgery in both groups (P<0.05) although all urodynamic parameters revealed no significant difference after both procedures (P>0.05). Our modified procedure is a safe and effective treatment for female USI. It has an advantage over the original TVT-O with better surgical efficacy and comparable postoperative pain, although the follow-up times in this study are different. Copyright © 2013. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd.

A Method for Precision Closed-Loop Irrigation Using a Modified PID Control Algorithm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Goodchild, Martin; Kühn, Karl; Jenkins, Malcolm; Burek, Kazimierz; Dutton, Andrew

2016-04-01

The benefits of closed-loop irrigation control have been demonstrated in grower trials which show the potential for improved crop yields and resource usage. Managing water use by controlling irrigation in response to soil moisture changes to meet crop water demands is a popular approach but requires knowledge of closed-loop control practice. In theory, to obtain precise closed-loop control of a system it is necessary to characterise every component in the control loop to derive the appropriate controller parameters, i.e. proportional, integral & derivative (PID) parameters in a classic PID controller. In practice this is often difficult to achieve. Empirical methods are employed to estimate the PID parameters by observing how the system performs under open-loop conditions. In this paper we present a modified PID controller, with a constrained integral function, that delivers excellent regulation of soil moisture by supplying the appropriate amount of water to meet the needs of the plant during the diurnal cycle. Furthermore, the modified PID controller responds quickly to changes in environmental conditions, including rainfall events which can result in: controller windup, under-watering and plant stress conditions. The experimental work successfully demonstrates the functionality of a constrained integral PID controller that delivers robust and precise irrigation control. Coir substrate strawberry growing trial data is also presented illustrating soil moisture control and the ability to match water deliver to solar radiation.

A modified electronegativity equalization method for fast and accurate calculation of atomic charges in large biological molecules.

PubMed

Ouyang, Yongzhong; Ye, Fei; Liang, Yizeng

2009-08-07

To further extend the EEM approach to improve its accuracy, a new approach, in which the different connectivities and hybridized states are introduced to represent the different chemical environments, has been developed. The C, O and N atoms are distinguished between different hybridized states. Different states of hydrogen atoms are defined according to their different connectivities. Furthermore, the sp(2) carbons in the aromatic rings are also separated from the other sp(2) carbons. Geometries and NPA charges are calculated at the B3LYP/6-31G* level, and the effective electronegativity and hardness values could be calibrated with the help of a training set of 141 organic molecules using the Differential Evolution (DE) algorithm. The quality of the modified EEM charges is evaluated by comparison with the B3LYP/6-31G* charges calculated for a series of polypeptides, not contained in the training set. For further comparison, the atomic parameters of the original EEM without including chemical environments are recalibrated under the same conditions. It is found that the accuracy of the modified EEM method improves significantly as compared to that of the original EEM method.

A modified variational method for nonlinear vibration analysis of rotating beams including Coriolis effects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tian, Jiajin; Su, Jinpeng; Zhou, Kai; Hua, Hongxing

2018-07-01

This paper presents a general formulation for nonlinear vibration analysis of rotating beams. A modified variational method combined with a multi-segment partitioning technique is employed to derive the free and transient vibration behaviors of the rotating beams. The strain energy and kinetic energy functional are formulated based on the order truncation principle of the fully geometrically nonlinear beam theory. The Coriolis effects as well as nonlinear effects due to the coupling of bending-stretching, bending-twist and twist-stretching are taken into account. The present method relaxes the need to explicitly meet the requirements of the boundary conditions for the admissible functions, and allows the use of any linearly independent, complete basis functions as admissible functions for rotating beams. Moreover, the method is readily used to deal with the nonlinear transient vibration problems for rotating beams subjected to dynamic loads. The accuracy, convergence and efficiency of the proposed method are examined by numerical examples. The influences of Coriolis and centrifugal forces on the vibration behaviors of the beams with various hub radiuses and slenderness ratios and rotating at different angular velocities are also investigated.

Modified method to improve the design of Petlyuk distillation columns.

PubMed

Zapiain-Salinas, Javier G; Barajas-Fernández, Juan; González-García, Raúl

2014-01-01

A response surface analysis was performed to study the effect of the composition and feeding thermal conditions of ternary mixtures on the number of theoretical stages and the energy consumption of Petlyuk columns. A modification of the pre-design algorithm was necessary for this purpose. The modified algorithm provided feasible results in 100% of the studied cases, compared with only 8.89% for the current algorithm. The proposed algorithm allowed us to attain the desired separations, despite the type of mixture and the operating conditions in the feed stream, something that was not possible with the traditional pre-design method. The results showed that the type of mixture had great influence on the number of stages and on energy consumption. A higher number of stages and a lower consumption of energy were attained with mixtures rich in the light component, while higher energy consumption occurred when the mixture was rich in the heavy component. The proposed strategy expands the search of an optimal design of Petlyuk columns within a feasible region, which allow us to find a feasible design that meets output specifications and low thermal loads.

Modified method to improve the design of Petlyuk distillation columns

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background A response surface analysis was performed to study the effect of the composition and feeding thermal conditions of ternary mixtures on the number of theoretical stages and the energy consumption of Petlyuk columns. A modification of the pre-design algorithm was necessary for this purpose. Results The modified algorithm provided feasible results in 100% of the studied cases, compared with only 8.89% for the current algorithm. The proposed algorithm allowed us to attain the desired separations, despite the type of mixture and the operating conditions in the feed stream, something that was not possible with the traditional pre-design method. The results showed that the type of mixture had great influence on the number of stages and on energy consumption. A higher number of stages and a lower consumption of energy were attained with mixtures rich in the light component, while higher energy consumption occurred when the mixture was rich in the heavy component. Conclusions The proposed strategy expands the search of an optimal design of Petlyuk columns within a feasible region, which allow us to find a feasible design that meets output specifications and low thermal loads. PMID:25061476

Synthesis and characterization of graphene oxide using modified Hummer's method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kaur, Manpreet; Kaur, Harsimran; Kukkar, Deepak

2018-05-01

In the present study, a simple approach has been followed for the synthesis of graphene oxide (GO) using modified Hummers method in which graphite powder was oxidized in the presence of concentrated H2SO4 and KMnO4. The amount of NaNO3 and KMnO4 was varied to produce sheet like structure. The varied concentrations of NaNO3 and KMnO4 resulted in yielding large amount of the product. Structural, morphological and physicochemical features of the product were studied using UV-Visible spectrophotometer, Fourier Transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and crystal structure was determined using X-ray powder diffraction (XRD). UV-Vis spectra of GO was observed at a maximum absorption of 230 nm due to (π-π*) transition of atomic carbon-carbon bonds. FTIR spectra revealed the presence of oxygen containing functional groups which ensures the complete exfoliation of graphite into graphene oxide X-ray powder diffraction pattern of the product showed the diffraction peak at (2θ = 26.7°) with an interlayer spacing of 0.334 nm. All the above characterizations successfully confirmed the formation of GO.

A modified conjugate gradient method based on the Tikhonov system for computerized tomography (CT).

PubMed

Wang, Qi; Wang, Huaxiang

2011-04-01

During the past few decades, computerized tomography (CT) was widely used for non-destructive testing (NDT) and non-destructive examination (NDE) in the industrial area because of its characteristics of non-invasiveness and visibility. Recently, CT technology has been applied to multi-phase flow measurement. Using the principle of radiation attenuation measurements along different directions through the investigated object with a special reconstruction algorithm, cross-sectional information of the scanned object can be worked out. It is a typical inverse problem and has always been a challenge for its nonlinearity and ill-conditions. The Tikhonov regulation method is widely used for similar ill-posed problems. However, the conventional Tikhonov method does not provide reconstructions with qualities good enough, the relative errors between the reconstructed images and the real distribution should be further reduced. In this paper, a modified conjugate gradient (CG) method is applied to a Tikhonov system (MCGT method) for reconstructing CT images. The computational load is dominated by the number of independent measurements m, and a preconditioner is imported to lower the condition number of the Tikhonov system. Both simulation and experiment results indicate that the proposed method can reduce the computational time and improve the quality of image reconstruction. Copyright © 2010 ISA. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Modified Cheeger and Ratio Cut Methods Using the Ginzburg-Landau Functional for Classification of High-Dimensional Data

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-02-01

Modified Cheeger and Ratio Cut Methods Using the Ginzburg-Landau Functional for Classification of High-Dimensional Data Ekaterina Merkurjev*, Andrea...bertozzi@math.ucla.edu, xiaoran@isi.edu, lerman@isi.edu. Abstract Recent advances in clustering have included continuous relaxations of the Cheeger cut ...fully nonlinear Cheeger cut problem, as well as the ratio cut optimization task. Both problems are connected to total variation minimization, and the

Real-Time PCR-Based Quantitation Method for the Genetically Modified Soybean Line GTS 40-3-2.

PubMed

Kitta, Kazumi; Takabatake, Reona; Mano, Junichi

2016-01-01

This chapter describes a real-time PCR-based method for quantitation of the relative amount of genetically modified (GM) soybean line GTS 40-3-2 [Roundup Ready(®) soybean (RRS)] contained in a batch. The method targets a taxon-specific soybean gene (lectin gene, Le1) and the specific DNA construct junction region between the Petunia hybrida chloroplast transit peptide sequence and the Agrobacterium 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase gene (epsps) sequence present in GTS 40-3-2. The method employs plasmid pMulSL2 as a reference material in order to quantify the relative amount of GTS 40-3-2 in soybean samples using a conversion factor (Cf) equal to the ratio of the RRS-specific DNA to the taxon-specific DNA in representative genuine GTS 40-3-2 seeds.

A Stabilized Finite Element Method for Modified Poisson-Nernst-Planck Equations to Determine Ion Flow Through a Nanopore

PubMed Central

Chaudhry, Jehanzeb Hameed; Comer, Jeffrey; Aksimentiev, Aleksei; Olson, Luke N.

2013-01-01

The conventional Poisson-Nernst-Planck equations do not account for the finite size of ions explicitly. This leads to solutions featuring unrealistically high ionic concentrations in the regions subject to external potentials, in particular, near highly charged surfaces. A modified form of the Poisson-Nernst-Planck equations accounts for steric effects and results in solutions with finite ion concentrations. Here, we evaluate numerical methods for solving the modified Poisson-Nernst-Planck equations by modeling electric field-driven transport of ions through a nanopore. We describe a novel, robust finite element solver that combines the applications of the Newton's method to the nonlinear Galerkin form of the equations, augmented with stabilization terms to appropriately handle the drift-diffusion processes. To make direct comparison with particle-based simulations possible, our method is specifically designed to produce solutions under periodic boundary conditions and to conserve the number of ions in the solution domain. We test our finite element solver on a set of challenging numerical experiments that include calculations of the ion distribution in a volume confined between two charged plates, calculations of the ionic current though a nanopore subject to an external electric field, and modeling the effect of a DNA molecule on the ion concentration and nanopore current. PMID:24363784

Charge-transfer modified embedded atom method dynamic charge potential for Li-Co-O system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kong, Fantai; Longo, Roberto C.; Liang, Chaoping; Nie, Yifan; Zheng, Yongping; Zhang, Chenxi; Cho, Kyeongjae

2017-11-01

To overcome the limitation of conventional fixed charge potential methods for the study of Li-ion battery cathode materials, a dynamic charge potential method, charge-transfer modified embedded atom method (CT-MEAM), has been developed and applied to the Li-Co-O ternary system. The accuracy of the potential has been tested and validated by reproducing a variety of structural and electrochemical properties of LiCoO2. A detailed analysis on the local charge distribution confirmed the capability of this potential for dynamic charge modeling. The transferability of the potential is also demonstrated by its reliability in describing Li-rich Li2CoO2 and Li-deficient LiCo2O4 compounds, including their phase stability, equilibrium volume, charge states and cathode voltages. These results demonstrate that the CT-MEAM dynamic charge potential could help to overcome the challenge of modeling complex ternary transition metal oxides. This work can promote molecular dynamics studies of Li ion cathode materials and other important transition metal oxides systems that involve complex electrochemical and catalytic reactions.

Charge-transfer modified embedded atom method dynamic charge potential for Li-Co-O system.

PubMed

Kong, Fantai; Longo, Roberto C; Liang, Chaoping; Nie, Yifan; Zheng, Yongping; Zhang, Chenxi; Cho, Kyeongjae

2017-11-29

To overcome the limitation of conventional fixed charge potential methods for the study of Li-ion battery cathode materials, a dynamic charge potential method, charge-transfer modified embedded atom method (CT-MEAM), has been developed and applied to the Li-Co-O ternary system. The accuracy of the potential has been tested and validated by reproducing a variety of structural and electrochemical properties of LiCoO 2 . A detailed analysis on the local charge distribution confirmed the capability of this potential for dynamic charge modeling. The transferability of the potential is also demonstrated by its reliability in describing Li-rich Li 2 CoO 2 and Li-deficient LiCo 2 O 4 compounds, including their phase stability, equilibrium volume, charge states and cathode voltages. These results demonstrate that the CT-MEAM dynamic charge potential could help to overcome the challenge of modeling complex ternary transition metal oxides. This work can promote molecular dynamics studies of Li ion cathode materials and other important transition metal oxides systems that involve complex electrochemical and catalytic reactions.

PCR-free quantitative detection of genetically modified organism from raw materials – A novel electrochemiluminescence-based bio-barcode method

PubMed Central

Zhu, Debin; Tang, Yabing; Xing, Da; Chen, Wei R.

2018-01-01

Bio-barcode assay based on oligonucleotide-modified gold nanoparticles (Au-NPs) provides a PCR-free method for quantitative detection of nucleic acid targets. However, the current bio-barcode assay requires lengthy experimental procedures including the preparation and release of barcode DNA probes from the target-nanoparticle complex, and immobilization and hybridization of the probes for quantification. Herein, we report a novel PCR-free electrochemiluminescence (ECL)-based bio-barcode assay for the quantitative detection of genetically modified organism (GMO) from raw materials. It consists of tris-(2’2’-bipyridyl) ruthenium (TBR)-labele barcode DNA, nucleic acid hybridization using Au-NPs and biotin-labeled probes, and selective capture of the hybridization complex by streptavidin-coated paramagnetic beads. The detection of target DNA is realized by direct measurement of ECL emission of TBR. It can quantitatively detect target nucleic acids with high speed and sensitivity. This method can be used to quantitatively detect GMO fragments from real GMO products. PMID:18386909

Distribution network connection pricing framework and methodology: identification of areas of improvement for Sarawak Energy Berhad Connection Charges Guidelines through modified delphi method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tan, J. K.; Abas, N.

2017-07-01

Complaints on issues and matters related to connection charges have been very common for electricity supply utility companies around the world including Sarawak Energy Berhad. In order to identify the areas that can be improved, a mixed method of exploratory research involving qualitative and quantitative methods have been designed and undertaken rather than a single method of survey. This will ensure a more comprehensive and detailed understanding of the issues from various target groups. The method is designed under three phases, employing Modified Delphi Technique for phase 1 through a series of stake holder engagements, online and offline survey questionnaires to be filled by internal wiring contractors for phase 2 whilst under phase 3, case studies shall be carried out on the issues identified from phase 1 and phase 2 of the study. This paper presented the findings from the Modified Delphi Technique. The findings revealed that there are areas of improvement for Sarawak Energy Berhad connection guidelines in term of differentiation of dedicated and shared assets which leads to unfairness to the connecting customers, inconsistency and non-transparent in charging. The findings of Modified Delphi Technique shall be used for implementation of phase 2 and phase 3 of the study.

Modified Method for Detection of Benzoylecgonine in Human Urine by GC-MS: Derivatization Using Pentafluoropropanol/Acetic Anhydride.

PubMed

Serafin, Michelle C; Paulemon, Kasandra M; Fuller, Zachary J; Bronner, William E

2017-05-01

An existing GC-MS method for detecting benzoylecgonine (BZE) in urine was modified by changing derivatizing reagents. This method modification presents a cost-effective alternative derivatization procedure for the detection of BZE in urine by GC-MS. The combination of pentafluoropropanol and acetic anhydride was found to produce the same reaction product for BZE as pentafluoropropanol with pentafluoropropionic anhydride, while reducing reagent cost. With no anhydride present, derivatization of BZE by pentafluoropropanol did not occur. Published by Oxford University Press 2017. This work is written by (a) US Government employee(s) and is in the public domain in the US.

Effect of two prophylaxis methods on marginal gap of Cl Vresin-modified glass-ionomer restorations.

PubMed

Kimyai, Soodabeh; Pournaghi-Azar, Fatemeh; Daneshpooy, Mehdi; Abed Kahnamoii, Mehdi; Davoodi, Farnaz

2016-01-01

Background. This study evaluated the effect of two prophylaxis techniques on the marginal gap of CI V resin-modified glass-ionomer restorations. Methods. Standard Cl V cavities were prepared on the buccal surfaces of 48 sound bovine mandibular incisors in this in vitro study. After restoration of the cavities with GC Fuji II LC resin-modified glass-ionomer, the samples were randomly assigned to 3 groups of 16. In group 1, the prophylactic procedures were carried out with rubber cup and pumice powder and in group 2 with air-powder polishing device (APD). In group 3 (control), the samples did not undergo any prophylactic procedures. Then the marginal gaps were measured. Two-way ANOVA was used to compare marginal gaps at the occlusal and gingival margins between the groups. Post hoc Tukey test was used for two-by-two comparisons. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05. Results. There were significant differences in the means of marginal gaps in terms of prophylactic techniques (P < 0.001), with significantly larger marginal gaps in the APD group compared to the pumice and rubber cup group, which in turn exhibited significantly larger marginal gaps compared to the control group (P < 0.0005). In addition, the means of marginal gaps were significant in terms of the margin type (P < 0.001), with significantly larger gaps at gingival margins compared to the occlusal margins (P < 0.0005). Conclusion. The prophylactic techniques used in this study had a negative effect on the marginal gaps of Cl V resin-modified glass-ionomer restorations.

Synthesis and characterization of ZnO–CuO nanocomposites powder by modified perfume spray pyrolysis method and its antimicrobial investigation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saravanakkumar, D.; Sivaranjani, S.; Kaviyarasu, K.; Ayeshamariam, A.; Ravikumar, B.; Pandiarajan, S.; Veeralakshmi, C.; Jayachandran, M.; Maaza, M.

2018-03-01

Pure ZnO, ZnO–CuO nanocomposites can be synthesized by using a modified perfume spray pyrolysis method (MSP). The crystallite size of the nanoparticles (NPs) has been observed by X-ray diffraction pattern and is nearly 36 nm. Morphological studies have been analyzed by using Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) and its elemental analysis was reported by Elemental X-ray Analysis (EDX); these studies confirmed that ZnO and CuO have hexagonal structure and monoclinic structure respectively. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectra revealed that the presence of functional frequencies of ZnO and CuO were observed at 443 and 616 cm‑1. The average bandgap value at 3.25 eV using UV–vis spectra for the entitled composite has described a blue shift that has been observed here. The antibacterial study against both gram positive and negative bacteria has been studied by the disc diffusion method. To the best of our knowledge, it is the first report on ZnO–CuO nanocomposite synthesized by a modified perfume spray pyrolysis method.

A Comparison of the OSHA Modified NIOSH Physical and Chemical Analytical Method (P and CAM) 304 and the Dust Trak Photometric Aerosol Sampler for 0-Chlorobenzylidine Malonitrile

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-04-02

photometric particle counting instrument, DustTrak, to the established OSHA modified NIOSH P&CAM 304 method to determine correlation between the two...study compared the non-specific, rapid photometric particle counting instrument, DustTrak, to the established OSHA modified NIOSH P&CAM 304 method...mask confidence training (27) . This study will compare a direct reading, non-specific photometric particle count instrument (DustTrak TSI Model

Modified blank ammunition injuries.

PubMed

Ogunc, Gokhan I; Ozer, M Tahir; Coskun, Kagan; Uzar, Ali Ihsan

2009-12-15

Blank firing weapons are designed only for discharging blank ammunition cartridges. Because they are cost-effective, are easily accessible and can be modified to live firearms plus their unclear legal situation in Turkish Law makes them very popular in Turkey. 2004 through 2008, a total of 1115 modified blank weapons were seized in Turkey. Blank firing weapons are easily modified by owners, making them suitable for discharging live firearm ammunition or modified blank ammunitions. Two common methods are used for modification of blank weapons. After the modification, these weapons can discharge the live ammunition. However, due to compositional durability problems with these types of weapons; the main trend is to use the modified blank ammunitions rather than live firearm ammunition fired from modified blank firing weapons. In this study, two types of modified blank weapons and two types of modified blank cartridges were tested on three different target models. Each of the models' shooting side was coated with 1.3+/-2 mm thickness chrome tanned cowhide as a skin simulant. The first model was only coated with skin simulant. The second model was coated with skin simulant and 100% cotton police shirt. The third model was coated with skin simulant and jean denim. After the literature evaluation four high risky anatomic locations (the neck area; the eyes; the thorax area and inguinal area) were pointed out for the steel and lead projectiles are discharged from the modified blank weapons especially in close range (0-50 cm). The target models were designed for these anatomic locations. For the target models six Transparent Ballistic Candle blocks (TCB) were prepared and divided into two test groups. The first group tests were performed with lead projectiles and second group with steel projectile. The shortest penetration depth (lead projectile: 4.358 cm; steel projectile 8.032 cm) was recorded in the skin simulant and jean denim coated block for both groups. In both groups

A MODIFIED LOW COST COLOURIMETRIC METHOD FOR PARACETAMOL (ACETAMINOPHEN) MEASUREMENT IN PLASMA

PubMed Central

Shihana, Fathima; Dissanayake, Dhammika Menike; Dargan, Paul Ivor; Dawson, Andrew Hamilton

2011-01-01

Background Despite a significant increase in the number of patients with paracetamol poisoning in the developing world, plasma paracetamol assays are not widely available. The purpose of this study was to assess a low cost modified colorimetric paracetamol assay that has the potential to be performed in small laboratories with restricted resources. Methods The paracetamol assay used in this study was based on the Glynn and Kendal colorimetric method with a few modifications in order to decrease the production of nitrous gas and thereby reduce infrastructure costs. Preliminary validation studies were performed using spiked aqueous samples with known concentrations of paracetamol. Subsequently, the results from the colorimetric method for 114 stored clinical samples from patients with paracetamol poisoning were compared with those from the current gold-standard high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method. A prospective survey, assessing the clinical use of the paracetamol assay, was performed on all patients with paracetamol poisoning attending the Peradeniya General Hospital, Sri Lanka over a ten-month period. Results The recovery study showed an excellent correlation (r2 >0.998) for paracetamol concentrations from 25- 400 mg/l. The final yellow colour was stable for at least 10 minutes at room temperature. There was also excellent correlation with the HPLC method (r2=0.9758). In the clinical cohort study, use of the antidote N-acetylcysteine was avoided in over a third of patients who had a plasma paracetamol concentration measured. The cost of consumables used per assay was $0.50 (US). Conclusions This colorimetric paracetamol assay is reliable and accurate and can be performed rapidly, easily and economically. Use of this assay in resource poor clinical settings has the potential to have a significant clinical and economic impact on the management of paracetamol poisoning. PMID:20095813

Method of precisely modifying predetermined surface layers of a workpiece by cluster ion impact therewith

DOEpatents

Friedman, L.; Beuhler, R.J.; Matthew, M.W.; Ledbetter, M.

1984-06-25

A method of precisely modifying a selected area of a workpiece by producing a beam of charged cluster ions that is narrowly mass selected to a predetermined mean size of cluster ions within a range of 25 to 10/sup 6/ atoms per cluster ion, and accelerated in a beam to a critical velocity. The accelerated beam is used to impact a selected area of an outer surface of the workpiece at a preselected rate of impacts of cluster ions/cm/sup 2//sec in order to effect a precise modification in that selected area of the workpiece.

Method of precisely modifying predetermined surface layers of a workpiece by cluster ion impact therewith

DOEpatents

Friedman, Lewis; Buehler, Robert J.; Matthew, Michael W.; Ledbetter, Myron

1985-01-01

A method of precisely modifying a selected area of a workpiece by producing a beam of charged cluster ions that is narrowly mass selected to a predetermined mean size of cluster ions within a range of 25 to 10.sup.6 atoms per cluster ion, and accelerated in a beam to a critical velocity. The accelerated beam is used to impact a selected area of an outer surface of the workpiece at a preselected rate of impacts of cluster ions/cm.sup.2 /sec. in order to effect a precise modification in that selected area of the workpiece.

9 CFR 77.11 - Modified accredited States or zones.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... TUBERCULOSIS Cattle and Bison § 77.11 Modified accredited States or zones. (a) The following are modified... herd test requirements contained in the “Uniform Methods and Rules—Bovine Tuberculosis Eradication... reclassified as accreditation preparatory. (d) If tuberculosis is diagnosed within a modified accredited State...

Phonon dispersion and local density of states in NiPd alloy using modified embedded atom method potential

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

Joshi, Subodh, E-mail: subodhssgk@gmail.com; Chand, Manesh, E-mail: maneshchand@gmail.com; Dabral, Krishna, E-mail: kmkrishna.dabral@gmail.com

2016-05-06

A modified embedded atom method (MEAM) potential model up to second neighbours has been used to calculate the phonon dispersions for Ni{sub 0.55}Pd{sub 0.45} alloy in which Pd is introduced as substitutional impurity. Using the force-constants obtained from MEAM potential, the local vibrational density of states in host Ni and substitutional Pd atoms using Green’s function method has been calculated. The calculation of phonon dispersions of NiPd alloy shows a good agreement with the experimental results. Condition of resonance mode has also been investigated and resonance mode in the frequency spectrum of impurity atom at low frequency is observed.

Modified HPLC-ESI-MS Method for Glycated Hemoglobin Quantification Based on the IFCC Reference Measurement Procedure and Its Application for Quantitative Analyses in Clinical Laboratories of China.

PubMed

Song, Zhixin; Xie, Baoyuan; Ma, Huaian; Zhang, Rui; Li, Pengfei; Liu, Lihong; Yue, Yuhong; Zhang, Jianping; Tong, Qing; Wang, Qingtao

2016-09-01

The level of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c ) has been recognized as an important indicator of long-term glycemic control. However, the HbA1c measurement is not currently included as a diagnostic determinant in China. Current study aims to assess a candidate modified International Federation of Clinical Chemistry reference method for the forthcoming standardization of HbA1c measurements in China. The HbA1c concentration was measured using a modified high-performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry (HPLC-ESI-MS) method. The modified method replaces the propylcyanide column with a C18 reversed-phase column, which has a lower cost and is more commonly used in China, and uses 0.1% (26.5 mmol/l) formic acid instead of trifluoroacetic acid. Moreover, in order to minimize matrix interference and reduce the running time, a solid-phase extraction was employed. The discrepancies between HbA1c measurements using conventional methods and the HPLC-ESI-MS method were clarified in clinical samples from healthy people and diabetic patients. Corresponding samples were distributed to 89 hospitals in Beijing for external quality assessment. The linearity, reliability, and accuracy of the modified HPLC-ESI-MS method with a shortened running time of 6 min were successfully validated. Out of 89 hospitals evaluated, the relative biases of HbA1c concentrations were < 8% for 74 hospitals and < 5% for 60 hospitals. Compared with other conventional methods, HbA1c concentrations determined by HPLC methods were similar to the values obtained from the current HPLC-ESI-MS method. The HPLC-ESI-MS method represents an improvement over existing methods and provides a simple, stable, and rapid HbA1c measurement with strong signal intensities and reduced ion suppression. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Discovering body site and severity modifiers in clinical texts

PubMed Central

Dligach, Dmitriy; Bethard, Steven; Becker, Lee; Miller, Timothy; Savova, Guergana K

2014-01-01

Objective To research computational methods for discovering body site and severity modifiers in clinical texts. Methods We cast the task of discovering body site and severity modifiers as a relation extraction problem in the context of a supervised machine learning framework. We utilize rich linguistic features to represent the pairs of relation arguments and delegate the decision about the nature of the relationship between them to a support vector machine model. We evaluate our models using two corpora that annotate body site and severity modifiers. We also compare the model performance to a number of rule-based baselines. We conduct cross-domain portability experiments. In addition, we carry out feature ablation experiments to determine the contribution of various feature groups. Finally, we perform error analysis and report the sources of errors. Results The performance of our method for discovering body site modifiers achieves F1 of 0.740–0.908 and our method for discovering severity modifiers achieves F1 of 0.905–0.929. Discussion Results indicate that both methods perform well on both in-domain and out-domain data, approaching the performance of human annotators. The most salient features are token and named entity features, although syntactic dependency features also contribute to the overall performance. The dominant sources of errors are infrequent patterns in the data and inability of the system to discern deeper semantic structures. Conclusions We investigated computational methods for discovering body site and severity modifiers in clinical texts. Our best system is released open source as part of the clinical Text Analysis and Knowledge Extraction System (cTAKES). PMID:24091648

Discovering body site and severity modifiers in clinical texts.

PubMed

Dligach, Dmitriy; Bethard, Steven; Becker, Lee; Miller, Timothy; Savova, Guergana K

2014-01-01

To research computational methods for discovering body site and severity modifiers in clinical texts. We cast the task of discovering body site and severity modifiers as a relation extraction problem in the context of a supervised machine learning framework. We utilize rich linguistic features to represent the pairs of relation arguments and delegate the decision about the nature of the relationship between them to a support vector machine model. We evaluate our models using two corpora that annotate body site and severity modifiers. We also compare the model performance to a number of rule-based baselines. We conduct cross-domain portability experiments. In addition, we carry out feature ablation experiments to determine the contribution of various feature groups. Finally, we perform error analysis and report the sources of errors. The performance of our method for discovering body site modifiers achieves F1 of 0.740-0.908 and our method for discovering severity modifiers achieves F1 of 0.905-0.929. Results indicate that both methods perform well on both in-domain and out-domain data, approaching the performance of human annotators. The most salient features are token and named entity features, although syntactic dependency features also contribute to the overall performance. The dominant sources of errors are infrequent patterns in the data and inability of the system to discern deeper semantic structures. We investigated computational methods for discovering body site and severity modifiers in clinical texts. Our best system is released open source as part of the clinical Text Analysis and Knowledge Extraction System (cTAKES).

Modified pseudomonas oleovorans phaC1 nucleic acids encoding bispecific polyhydroxyalkanoate polymerase

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

Srienc, Friedrich; Jackson, John K.; Somers, David A.

A genetically engineered Pseudomonas oleovorans phaC1 polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) polymerase having tailored substrate specificity is provided. The modified PHA polymerase is preferably a "bispecific" PHA polymerase capable of copolymerizing a short chain length monomer and a medium chain length monomer is provided. Methods for making the modified PHA polymerase and for making nucleic acids encoding the modified PHA polymerase are also disclosed, as are methods of producing PHA using the modified PHA polymerase. The invention further includes methods to assay for altered substrate specificity.

Modified Taylor series method for solving nonlinear differential equations with mixed boundary conditions defined on finite intervals.

PubMed

Vazquez-Leal, Hector; Benhammouda, Brahim; Filobello-Nino, Uriel Antonio; Sarmiento-Reyes, Arturo; Jimenez-Fernandez, Victor Manuel; Marin-Hernandez, Antonio; Herrera-May, Agustin Leobardo; Diaz-Sanchez, Alejandro; Huerta-Chua, Jesus

2014-01-01

In this article, we propose the application of a modified Taylor series method (MTSM) for the approximation of nonlinear problems described on finite intervals. The issue of Taylor series method with mixed boundary conditions is circumvented using shooting constants and extra derivatives of the problem. In order to show the benefits of this proposal, three different kinds of problems are solved: three-point boundary valued problem (BVP) of third-order with a hyperbolic sine nonlinearity, two-point BVP for a second-order nonlinear differential equation with an exponential nonlinearity, and a two-point BVP for a third-order nonlinear differential equation with a radical nonlinearity. The result shows that the MTSM method is capable to generate easily computable and highly accurate approximations for nonlinear equations. 34L30.

9 CFR 77.11 - Modified accredited States or zones.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... TUBERCULOSIS Cattle and Bison § 77.11 Modified accredited States or zones. (a) The following are modified... the “Uniform Methods and Rules—Bovine Tuberculosis Eradication” (January 22, 1999, edition), which is...) If tuberculosis is diagnosed within a modified accredited State or zone in an animal not specifically...

Testing an Adapted Modified Delphi Method: Synthesizing Multiple Stakeholder Ratings of Health Care Service Effectiveness.

PubMed

Escaron, Anne L; Chang Weir, Rosy; Stanton, Petra; Vangala, Sitaram; Grogan, Tristan R; Clarke, Robin M

2016-03-01

The Affordable Care Act incentivizes health systems for better meeting patient needs, but often guidance about patient preferences for particular health services is limited. All too often vulnerable patient populations are excluded from these decision-making settings. A community-based participatory approach harnesses the in-depth knowledge of those experiencing barriers to health care. We made three modifications to the RAND-UCLA appropriateness method, a modified Delphi approach, involving patients, adding an advisory council group to characterize existing knowledge in this little studied area, and using effectiveness rather than "appropriateness" as the basis for rating. As a proof of concept, we tested this method by examining the broadly delivered but understudied nonmedical services that community health centers provide. This method created discrete, new knowledge about these services by defining 6 categories and 112 unique services and by prioritizing among these services based on effectiveness using a 9-point scale. Consistent with the appropriateness method, we found statistical convergence of ratings among the panelists. Challenges include time commitment and adherence to a clear definition of effectiveness of services. This diverse stakeholder engagement method efficiently addresses gaps in knowledge about the effectiveness of health care services to inform population health management. © 2015 Society for Public Health Education.

Preparation of graphene foam with high performance by modified self-assembly method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Wenhui; Sun, Youyi; Liu, Tantan; Li, Diansen; Hou, Chunlin; Gao, Li; Liu, Yaqing

2016-03-01

Recently, self-assembly method was applied for preparation of graphene foam. However, it is still a great challenge to obtain a three-dimensional graphene network with high performance (e.g., low density, high mechanical strength and high conductivity together) for the self-assembly method. Herein, a modified self-assembly method applied for preparation of graphene foam was investigated, in which, L-ascorbic acid and HI were firstly chosen as the reducing agent, and further reduced by hydrazine hydrate. The results demonstrated that the graphene foam showed high compressive strength (ca. 320 kPa), high electrical conductivity (20.6 S/m) and low density (14.7 mg/cm-1). Especially, the obtained compressive strength (ca. 320 kPa) is the highest value compared to the data of graphene foam reported in previous works. This phenomenon may be due to following three reasons: (1) the reaction between hydrazine hydrate and graphene brought some covalent bonds among graphene sheets; (2) graphene foam was achieved by high hydrophobicity and electrostatic repulsion which inhibit the restacking of graphene sheets; (3) the removal of the oxygen groups by hydrazine hydrate efficiently restores conjugation of sp2 regions and the π-π interaction in the cross-linking sites, which tightly bonds the sheets together. The obtained graphene foam not only had good porous structure and mechanical strength, but also showed excellent satisfactory double-layer capacitive behavior with good electrochemical cyclic stability and high specific capacitance of 171.0 F/g for application in electrode of supercapacitors and absorption capacities for the removal of various oils and dyes from water.

Applications of Graphene-Modified Electrodes in Microbial Fuel Cells

PubMed Central

Yu, Fei; Wang, Chengxian; Ma, Jie

2016-01-01

Graphene-modified materials have captured increasing attention for energy applications due to their superior physical and chemical properties, which can significantly enhance the electricity generation performance of microbial fuel cells (MFC). In this review, several typical synthesis methods of graphene-modified electrodes, such as graphite oxide reduction methods, self-assembly methods, and chemical vapor deposition, are summarized. According to the different functions of the graphene-modified materials in the MFC anode and cathode chambers, a series of design concepts for MFC electrodes are assembled, e.g., enhancing the biocompatibility and improving the extracellular electron transfer efficiency for anode electrodes and increasing the active sites and strengthening the reduction pathway for cathode electrodes. In spite of the challenges of MFC electrodes, graphene-modified electrodes are promising for MFC development to address the reduction in efficiency brought about by organic waste by converting it into electrical energy. PMID:28773929

Capacitar: Building Mental Health Capacity in Rural Guatemala

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Angoff, Liz

2013-01-01

By the end of last school year, Liz Angoff was frustrated, defeated, and ready to quit. She had been working as a school psychologist in a large urban public school district for 12 years and the gravity of the issues, coupled with the scarcity of resources, had taken its toll. She decided to flee the country in search of perspective, and applied…

Dual-tracer method to estimate coral reef response to a plume of chemically modified seawater

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maclaren, J. K.; Caldeira, K.

2013-12-01

We present a new method, based on measurement of seawater samples, to estimate the response of a reef ecosystem to a plume of an additive (for example, a nutrient or other chemical). In the natural environment, where there may be natural variability in concentrations, it can be difficult to distinguish between changes in concentrations that would occur naturally and changes in concentrations that result from a chemical addition. Furthermore, in the unconfined natural environment, chemically modified water can mix with waters that have not been modified, making it difficult to distinguish between effects of dilution and effects of chemical fluxes or transformations. We present a dual-tracer method that extracts signals from observations that may be affected by both natural variability and dilution. In this dual-tracer method, a substance (in our example case, alkalinity) is added to the water in known proportion to a passive conservative tracer (in our example case, Rhodamine WT dye). The resulting plume of seawater is allowed to flow over the study site. Two transects are drawn across the plume at the front and back of the study site. If, in our example, alkalinity is plotted as a function of dye concentration for the front transect, the slope of the resulting mixing line is the ratio of alkalinity to dye in the added fluid. If a similar mixing line is measured and calculated for the back transect, the slope of this mixing line will indicate the amount of added alkalinity that remains in the water flowing out of the study site per unit of added dye. The ratio of the front and back slopes indicates the fraction of added alkalinity that was taken up by the reef. The method is demonstrated in an experiment performed on One Tree Reef (Queensland, Australia) aimed at showing that ocean acidification is already affecting coral reef growth. In an effort to chemically reverse some of the changes to seawater chemistry that have occurred over the past 200 years, we added

Modified Carbapenem Inactivation Method for Phenotypic Detection of Carbapenemase Production among Enterobacteriaceae

PubMed Central

Simner, Patricia J.; Lonsway, David R.; Roe-Carpenter, Darcie E.; Johnson, J. Kristie; Brasso, William B.; Bobenchik, April M.; Lockett, Zabrina C.; Charnot-Katsikas, Angella; Ferraro, Mary Jane; Thomson, Richard B.; Jenkins, Stephen G.; Limbago, Brandi M.; Das, Sanchita

2017-01-01

ABSTRACT The ability of clinical microbiology laboratories to reliably detect carbapenemase-producing carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CP-CRE) is an important element of the effort to prevent and contain the spread of these pathogens and an integral part of antimicrobial stewardship. All existing methods have limitations. A new, straightforward, inexpensive, and specific phenotypic method for the detection of carbapenemase production, the carbapenem inactivation method (CIM), was recently described. Here we describe a two-stage evaluation of a modified carbapenem inactivation method (mCIM), in which tryptic soy broth was substituted for water during the inactivation step and the length of this incubation was extended. A validation study was performed in a single clinical laboratory to determine the accuracy of the mCIM, followed by a nine-laboratory study to verify the reproducibility of these results and define the zone size cutoff that best discriminated between CP-CRE and members of the family Enterobacteriaceae that do not produce carbapenemases. Bacterial isolates previously characterized through whole-genome sequencing or targeted PCR as to the presence or absence of carbapenemase genes were tested for carbapenemase production using the mCIM; isolates with Ambler class A, B, and D carbapenemases, non-CP-CRE isolates, and carbapenem-susceptible isolates were included. The sensitivity of the mCIM observed in the validation study was 99% (95% confidence interval [95% CI], 93% to 100%), and the specificity was 100% (95% CI, 82% to 100%). In the second stage of the study, the range of sensitivities observed across nine laboratories was 93% to 100%, with a mean of 97%; the range of specificities was 97% to 100%, with a mean of 99%. The mCIM was easy to perform and interpret for Enterobacteriaceae, with results in less than 24 h and excellent reproducibility across laboratories. PMID:28381609

Carbon Dioxide Adsorption Behavior of Modified HKUST-1

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma, Lan; Tang, Huamin; Zhou, Chaohua; Zhang, Hongpeng; Yan, Chunxiao; Hu, Xiaochun; Yang, Yang; Yang, Weiwei; Li, Yuming; He, Dehua

2014-12-01

A kind of typical metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) material, HKUST-1 was prepared by hydrothermal method and characterized by XRD and SEM. The results of characterizations manifested that HKUST-1 showed a regular octahedral crystal structure. The as-prepared HKUST-1 was modified by several kinds of organic base materials and the CO2 adsorption behaviors of modified HKUST-1 materials were evaluated. The CO2 adsorption capacities of different base modified HKUST-1 varied with the base intensity of modified organic base materials.

Monodisperse magnetite (Fe3O4) nanoparticles modified with water soluble polymers for the diagnosis of breast cancer by MRI method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rezayan, Ali Hossein; Mousavi, Majid; Kheirjou, Somayyeh; Amoabediny, Ghasem; Ardestani, Mehdi Shafiee; Mohammadnejad, Javad

2016-12-01

In this study, magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) were synthesized via co-precipitation method. To enhance the biocompatibility and colloidal stability of the synthesized nanoparticles, they were modified with carboxyl functionalized PEG via dopamine (DPA) linker. Both modified and unmodified Fe3O4 nanoparticles exhibited super paramagnetic behavior (particle size below 20 nm). The saturation magnetization (Ms) of PEGdiacid-modified Fe3O4 was 45 emu/g, which was less than the unmodified Fe3O4 nanoparticles (70 emu/g). This difference indicated that PEGdiacid polymer was immobilized on the surface of Fe3O4 nanoparticles successfully. To evaluate the efficiency of the resulting nanoparticles as contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), different concentration of MNPs and different value of echo time TE were investigated. The results showed that by increasing the concentration of the nanoparticles, transverse relaxation time (T2) decreased, which subsequently resulted in MR signal enhancement. T2-weighted MR images of the different concentration of MNPs in different value of echo time TE indicated that MR signal intensity increased with increase in TE value up to 66 and then remained constant. The cytotoxicity effect of the modified and unmodified nanoparticles was evaluated in three different concentrations (12, 60 and 312 mg l-1) on MDA-MB-231 cancer cells for 24 and 48 h. In both tested time (24 and 48 h) for all three samples, the modified nanoparticles had long life time than unmodified nanoparticles. Cellular uptake of modified MNPs was 80% and reduced to 9% by the unmodified MNPs.

Validated modified Lycopodium spore method development for standardisation of ingredients of an ayurvedic powdered formulation Shatavaryadi churna.

PubMed

Kumar, Puspendra; Jha, Shivesh; Naved, Tanveer

2013-01-01

Validated modified lycopodium spore method has been developed for simple and rapid quantification of herbal powdered drugs. Lycopodium spore method was performed on ingredients of Shatavaryadi churna, an ayurvedic formulation used as immunomodulator, galactagogue, aphrodisiac and rejuvenator. Estimation of diagnostic characters of each ingredient of Shatavaryadi churna individually was carried out. Microscopic determination, counting of identifying number, measurement of area, length and breadth of identifying characters were performed using Leica DMLS-2 microscope. The method was validated for intraday precision, linearity, specificity, repeatability, accuracy and system suitability, respectively. The method is simple, precise, sensitive, and accurate, and can be used for routine standardisation of raw materials of herbal drugs. This method gives the ratio of individual ingredients in the powdered drug so that any adulteration of genuine drug with its adulterant can be found out. The method shows very good linearity value between 0.988-0.999 for number of identifying character and area of identifying character. Percentage purity of the sample drug can be determined by using the linear equation of standard genuine drug.

An optimal implicit staggered-grid finite-difference scheme based on the modified Taylor-series expansion with minimax approximation method for elastic modeling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Lei; Yan, Hongyong; Liu, Hong

2017-03-01

Implicit staggered-grid finite-difference (ISFD) scheme is competitive for its great accuracy and stability, whereas its coefficients are conventionally determined by the Taylor-series expansion (TE) method, leading to a loss in numerical precision. In this paper, we modify the TE method using the minimax approximation (MA), and propose a new optimal ISFD scheme based on the modified TE (MTE) with MA method. The new ISFD scheme takes the advantage of the TE method that guarantees great accuracy at small wavenumbers, and keeps the property of the MA method that keeps the numerical errors within a limited bound at the same time. Thus, it leads to great accuracy for numerical solution of the wave equations. We derive the optimal ISFD coefficients by applying the new method to the construction of the objective function, and using a Remez algorithm to minimize its maximum. Numerical analysis is made in comparison with the conventional TE-based ISFD scheme, indicating that the MTE-based ISFD scheme with appropriate parameters can widen the wavenumber range with high accuracy, and achieve greater precision than the conventional ISFD scheme. The numerical modeling results also demonstrate that the MTE-based ISFD scheme performs well in elastic wave simulation, and is more efficient than the conventional ISFD scheme for elastic modeling.

The low chamber pancreatic cancer cells had stem-like characteristics in modified transwell system: is it a novel method to identify and enrich cancer stem-like cells?

PubMed

Wang, Dongqing; Zhu, Haitao; Liu, Yanfang; Liu, Qing; Xie, Xiaodong; Zhou, Yuepeng; Zhang, Lirong; Zhu, Yan; Zhang, Zhijian; Su, Zhaoliang

2014-01-01

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) or cancer-initiating cells (CICs) play an important role in tumor initiation, progression, metastasis, chemoresistance, and recurrence. It is important to construct an effective method to identify and isolate CSCs for biotherapy of cancer. During the past years, many researchers had paid more attention to it; however, this method was still on seeking. Therefore, compared to the former methods that were used to isolate the cancer stem cell, in the present study, we tried to use modified transwell system to isolate and enrich CSCs from human pancreatic cancer cell lines (Panc-1). Our results clearly showed that the lower chamber cells in modified transwell system were easily forming spheres; furthermore, these spheres expressed high levels of stem cell markers (CD133/CD44/CD24/Oct-4/ESA) and exhibited chemoresistance, underwent epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and possessed the properties of self-renewal in vitro and tumorigenicity in vivo. Therefore, we speculated that modified transwell assay system, as a rapid and effective method, can be used to isolate and enrich CSCs.

LASER APPLICATIONS AND OTHER TOPICS IN QUANTUM ELECTRONICS: Study of photoinduced absorption by the method of modified laser photothermal radiometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Skvortsov, L. A.; Maksimov, E. M.; Tuchkov, A. A.

2008-10-01

The application of the method of modified laser photothermal radiometry for studying the photoinduced absorption in thin films is considered. The sensitivity of the method is estimated. The mechanism of induced near-IR absorption in titanium dioxide films is proposed and the nature of surface defects responsible for this process is explained. It is shown that kinetic equations describing monomolecular recombination are consistent with the experimental dependences for the thermal activation energy of defects equal to 0.17±0.04 eV.

9 CFR 77.9 - Modified accredited advanced States or zones.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... TUBERCULOSIS Cattle and Bison § 77.9 Modified accredited advanced States or zones. (a) The following are... herd test requirements contained in the “Uniform Methods and Rules—Bovine Tuberculosis Eradication... reclassified as modified accredited. (d) If tuberculosis is diagnosed within a modified accredited advanced...

A modified two-point titration method for the determination of volatile fatty acids in anaerobic systems.

PubMed

Mu, Zhe-Xuan; He, Chuan-Shu; Jiang, Jian-Kai; Zhang, Jie; Yang, Hou-Yun; Mu, Yang

2018-08-01

The volatile fatty acids (VFA) concentration plays important roles in the rapid start-up and stable operation of anaerobic reactors. It's essential to develop a simple and accurate method to monitor the VFA concentration in the anaerobic systems. In present work, a modified two-point titration method was developed to determine the VFA concentration. The results show that VFA concentration in standard solutions estimated by the titration method coincided well with that measured by gas chromatograph, where all relative errors were lower than 5.5%. Compared with the phosphate, ammonium and sulfide subsystems, the effect of bicarbonate on the accuracy of the developed method was relatively significant. When the bicarbonate concentration varied from 0 to 8 mmol/L, the relative errors increased from 1.2% to 30% for VFA concentration at 1 mmol/L, but were within 2.0% for that at 5 mmol/L. In addition, the VFA composition affected the accuracy of the titration method to some extent. This developed titration method was further proved to be effective with practical effluents from a lab-scale anaerobic reactor under organic shock loadings and an unstable full-scale anaerobic reactor. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Digital radiographic evaluation of mandibular third molar for age estimation in young adults and adolescents of South Indian population using modified Demirjian's method

PubMed Central

Mohammed, Rezwana Begum; Koganti, Ravichandra; Kalyan, Siva V.; Tircouveluri, Saritha; Singh, Johar Rajvinder; Srinivasulu, Enganti

2014-01-01

In recent years, it has become increasingly important to determine the age of living people for a variety of reasons, including identifying criminal and legal responsibility and for many other social events such as birth certificate, marriage, beginning a job, joining the army and retirement Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the developmental stages of mandibular third molar for estimation of dental age (DA) in different age groups and to evaluate the possible correlation between DA and chronological age (CA) in South Indian population. Materials and Methods: Digital orthopantomography of 330 subjects (165 males, 165 females) who fit the study and the criteria were obtained. Assessment of mandibular third molar development was performed using Demirjian et al., modified method and DA was assessed using tooth specific stages. Results and Discussion: The present study showed a significant correlation between DA and CA in both males and females. Third molar development commenced around 9 years and root completion takes place around 18.9 years in males and in females 9 years and 18.6 years respectively. Demirjian modified method underestimated the mean age of males by 0.8 years and females by 0.5 years and also showed that females mature earlier than males in selected population. Conclusion: Digital radiographic assessment of mandibular third molar development can be used to generate mean DA using Demirjian modified method and also the estimated age range for an individual of unknown CA. Since the Demirjian method is based on French-Canadian population, to enhance the accuracy of forensic age estimates based on third molar development, the use of population-specific standards is recommended. PMID:25177143

Modified T-history method for measuring thermophysical properties of phase change materials at high temperature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Omaraa, Ehsan; Saman, Wasim; Bruno, Frank; Liu, Ming

2017-06-01

Latent heat storage using phase change materials (PCMs) can be used to store large amounts of energy in a narrow temperature difference during phase transition. The thermophysical properties of PCMs such as latent heat, specific heat and melting and solidification temperature need to be defined at high precision for the design and estimating the cost of latent heat storage systems. The existing laboratory standard methods, such as differential thermal analysis (DTA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), use a small sample size (1-10 mg) to measure thermophysical properties, which makes these methods suitable for homogeneous elements. In addition, this small amount of sample has different thermophysical properties when compared with the bulk sample and may have limitations for evaluating the properties of mixtures. To avoid the drawbacks in existing methods, the temperature - history (T-history) method can be used with bulk quantities of PCM salt mixtures to characterize PCMs. This paper presents a modified T-history setup, which was designed and built at the University of South Australia to measure the melting point, heat of fusion, specific heat, degree of supercooling and phase separation of salt mixtures for a temperature range between 200 °C and 400 °C. Sodium Nitrate (NaNO3) was used to verify the accuracy of the new setup.

9 CFR 77.24 - Modified accredited advanced States or zones.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... TUBERCULOSIS Captive Cervids § 77.24 Modified accredited advanced States or zones. (a) The following are... contained in the “Uniform Methods and Rules—Bovine Tuberculosis Eradication” (January 22, 1999 edition... modified accredited. (d) If tuberculosis is diagnosed within a modified accredited advanced State or zone...

9 CFR 77.24 - Modified accredited advanced States or zones.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... TUBERCULOSIS Captive Cervids § 77.24 Modified accredited advanced States or zones. (a) The following are... contained in the “Uniform Methods and Rules—Bovine Tuberculosis Eradication” (January 22, 1999 edition... modified accredited. (d) If tuberculosis is diagnosed within a modified accredited advanced State or zone...

9 CFR 77.24 - Modified accredited advanced States or zones.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... TUBERCULOSIS Captive Cervids § 77.24 Modified accredited advanced States or zones. (a) The following are... contained in the “Uniform Methods and Rules—Bovine Tuberculosis Eradication” (January 22, 1999 edition... modified accredited. (d) If tuberculosis is diagnosed within a modified accredited advanced State or zone...

9 CFR 77.9 - Modified accredited advanced States or zones.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... TUBERCULOSIS Cattle and Bison § 77.9 Modified accredited advanced States or zones. (a) The following are... apply the herd test requirements contained in the “Uniform Methods and Rules—Bovine Tuberculosis... being reclassified as modified accredited. (d) If tuberculosis is diagnosed within a modified accredited...

9 CFR 77.9 - Modified accredited advanced States or zones.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... TUBERCULOSIS Cattle and Bison § 77.9 Modified accredited advanced States or zones. (a) The following are... apply the herd test requirements contained in the “Uniform Methods and Rules—Bovine Tuberculosis... being reclassified as modified accredited. (d) If tuberculosis is diagnosed within a modified accredited...

9 CFR 77.24 - Modified accredited advanced States or zones.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... TUBERCULOSIS Captive Cervids § 77.24 Modified accredited advanced States or zones. (a) The following are... contained in the “Uniform Methods and Rules—Bovine Tuberculosis Eradication” (January 22, 1999 edition... modified accredited. (d) If tuberculosis is diagnosed within a modified accredited advanced State or zone...

9 CFR 77.24 - Modified accredited advanced States or zones.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... TUBERCULOSIS Captive Cervids § 77.24 Modified accredited advanced States or zones. (a) The following are... contained in the “Uniform Methods and Rules—Bovine Tuberculosis Eradication” (January 22, 1999 edition... modified accredited. (d) If tuberculosis is diagnosed within a modified accredited advanced State or zone...

9 CFR 77.9 - Modified accredited advanced States or zones.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... TUBERCULOSIS Cattle and Bison § 77.9 Modified accredited advanced States or zones. (a) The following are... requirements contained in the “Uniform Methods and Rules—Bovine Tuberculosis Eradication” (January 22, 1999... modified accredited. (d) If tuberculosis is diagnosed within a modified accredited advanced State or zone...

Acid-degradable and bioerodible modified polyhydroxylated materials

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

Frechet, Jean M. J.; Bachelder, Eric M.; Beaudette, Tristan T.

Compositions and methods of making a modified polyhydroxylated polymer comprising a polyhydroxylated polymer having reversibly modified hydroxyl groups, whereby the hydroxyl groups are modified by an acid-catalyzed reaction between a polydroxylated polymer and a reagent such as acetals, aldehydes, vinyl ethers and ketones such that the modified polyhydroxylated polymers become insoluble in water but freely soluble in common organic solvents allowing for the facile preparation of acid-sensitive materials. Materials made from these polymers can be made to degrade in a pH-dependent manner. Both hydrophobic and hydrophilic cargoes were successfully loaded into particles made from the present polymers using single andmore » double emulsion techniques, respectively. Due to its ease of preparation, processability, pH-sensitivity, and biocompatibility, of the present modified polyhydroxylated polymers should find use in numerous drug delivery applications.« less

Whole genome sequence analysis of unidentified genetically modified papaya for development of a specific detection method.

PubMed

Nakamura, Kosuke; Kondo, Kazunari; Akiyama, Hiroshi; Ishigaki, Takumi; Noguchi, Akio; Katsumata, Hiroshi; Takasaki, Kazuto; Futo, Satoshi; Sakata, Kozue; Fukuda, Nozomi; Mano, Junichi; Kitta, Kazumi; Tanaka, Hidenori; Akashi, Ryo; Nishimaki-Mogami, Tomoko

2016-08-15

Identification of transgenic sequences in an unknown genetically modified (GM) papaya (Carica papaya L.) by whole genome sequence analysis was demonstrated. Whole genome sequence data were generated for a GM-positive fresh papaya fruit commodity detected in monitoring using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The sequences obtained were mapped against an open database for papaya genome sequence. Transgenic construct- and event-specific sequences were identified as a GM papaya developed to resist infection from a Papaya ringspot virus. Based on the transgenic sequences, a specific real-time PCR detection method for GM papaya applicable to various food commodities was developed. Whole genome sequence analysis enabled identifying unknown transgenic construct- and event-specific sequences in GM papaya and development of a reliable method for detecting them in papaya food commodities. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Doxycycline delivery from PLGA microspheres prepared by a modified solvent removal method.

PubMed

Patel, Roshni S; Cho, Daniel Y; Tian, Cheng; Chang, Amy; Estrellas, Kenneth M; Lavin, Danya; Furtado, Stacia; Mathiowitz, Edith

2012-01-01

We report on the development of a modified solvent removal method for the encapsulation of hydrophilic drugs within poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA). Using a water/oil/oil double emulsion, hydrophilic doxycycline was encapsulated within PLGA spheres with particle diameters ranging from approximately 600 nm to 19 µm. Encapsulation efficiencies of up to 74% were achieved for theoretical loadings from 1% to 10% (w/w), with biphasic release over 85 days with nearly complete release at the end of this time course. About 1% salt was added to the formulations to examine its effects on doxycycline release; salt modulated release only by increasing the magnitude of initial release without altering kinetics. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy indicated no characteristic differences between doxycycline-loaded and control spheres. Differential scanning calorimetry and X-ray diffraction suggest that there may be a molecular dispersion of the doxycycline within the spheres and the doxycycline may be in an amorphous state, which could explain the slow, prolonged release of the drug.

Digital radiographic evaluation of mandibular third molar for age estimation in young adults and adolescents of South Indian population using modified Demirjian's method.

PubMed

Mohammed, Rezwana Begum; Koganti, Ravichandra; Kalyan, Siva V; Tircouveluri, Saritha; Singh, Johar Rajvinder; Srinivasulu, Enganti

2014-09-01

In recent years, it has become increasingly important to determine the age of living people for a variety of reasons, including identifying criminal and legal responsibility and for many other social events such as birth certificate, marriage, beginning a job, joining the army and retirement. The aim of this study was to assess the developmental stages of mandibular third molar for estimation of dental age (DA) in different age groups and to evaluate the possible correlation between DA and chronological age (CA) in South Indian population. Digital orthopantomography of 330 subjects (165 males, 165 females) who fit the study and the criteria were obtained. Assessment of mandibular third molar development was performed using Demirjian et al., modified method and DA was assessed using tooth specific stages. The present study showed a significant correlation between DA and CA in both males and females. Third molar development commenced around 9 years and root completion takes place around 18.9 years in males and in females 9 years and 18.6 years respectively. Demirjian modified method underestimated the mean age of males by 0.8 years and females by 0.5 years and also showed that females mature earlier than males in selected population. Digital radiographic assessment of mandibular third molar development can be used to generate mean DA using Demirjian modified method and also the estimated age range for an individual of unknown CA. Since the Demirjian method is based on French-Canadian population, to enhance the accuracy of forensic age estimates based on third molar development, the use of population-specific standards is recommended.

Improved modified energy ratio method using a multi-window approach for accurate arrival picking

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Minho; Byun, Joongmoo; Kim, Dowan; Choi, Jihun; Kim, Myungsun

2017-04-01

To identify accurately the location of microseismic events generated during hydraulic fracture stimulation, it is necessary to detect the first break of the P- and S-wave arrival times recorded at multiple receivers. These microseismic data often contain high-amplitude noise, which makes it difficult to identify the P- and S-wave arrival times. The short-term-average to long-term-average (STA/LTA) and modified energy ratio (MER) methods are based on the differences in the energy densities of the noise and signal, and are widely used to identify the P-wave arrival times. The MER method yields more consistent results than the STA/LTA method for data with a low signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio. However, although the MER method shows good results regardless of the delay of the signal wavelet for signals with a high S/N ratio, it may yield poor results if the signal is contaminated by high-amplitude noise and does not have the minimum delay. Here we describe an improved MER (IMER) method, whereby we apply a multiple-windowing approach to overcome the limitations of the MER method. The IMER method contains calculations of an additional MER value using a third window (in addition to the original MER window), as well as the application of a moving average filter to each MER data point to eliminate high-frequency fluctuations in the original MER distributions. The resulting distribution makes it easier to apply thresholding. The proposed IMER method was applied to synthetic and real datasets with various S/N ratios and mixed-delay wavelets. The results show that the IMER method yields a high accuracy rate of around 80% within five sample errors for the synthetic datasets. Likewise, in the case of real datasets, 94.56% of the P-wave picking results obtained by the IMER method had a deviation of less than 0.5 ms (corresponding to 2 samples) from the manual picks.

Is This the Carbapenemase Test We've Been Waiting for? A Multicenter Evaluation of the Modified Carbapenem Inactivation Method.

PubMed

Butler-Wu, Susan M; Abbott, April N

2017-08-01

A plethora of phenotypic methods exist for the detection of carbapenemases; however, clinical laboratories have struggled for years with accurate, objective phenotypic detection of carbapenemase activity in Enterobacteriaceae In this issue of the Journal of Clinical Microbiology , V. M. Pierce et al. (J Clin Microbiol 55:2321-2333, 2017, https://doi.org/10.1128/JCM.00193-17) report on a multicenter evaluation of the modified carbapenem inactivation method (mCIM). The high sensitivity, specificity, reproducibility, and ease of interpretation associated with the mCIM for Enterobacteriaceae will likely lead to its adoption by clinical laboratories. Copyright © 2017 American Society for Microbiology.

Material and detector properties of cadmium manganese telluride (Cd 1-xMn xTe) crystals grown by the modified floating-zone method

DOE PAGES

Hossain, A.; Gu, G. D.; Bolotnikov, A. E.; ...

2014-12-24

We demonstrated the material- and radiation-detection properties of cadmium manganese telluride (Cd 1-xMn xTe; x=0.06), a wide-band-gap semiconductor crystal grown by the modified floating-zone method. We investigated the presence of various bulk defects, such as Te inclusions, twins, and dislocations of several as-grown indium-doped Cd 1-xMn xTe crystals using different techniques, viz., IR transmission microscopy, and chemical etching. We then fabricated four planar detectors from selected CdMnTe crystals, characterized their electrical properties, and tested their performance as room-temperature X- and gamma-ray detectors. Thus, our experimental results show that CMT crystals grown by the modified floating zone method apparently are freemore » from Te inclusions. However, we still need to optimize our growth parameters to attain high-resistivity, large-volume single-crystal CdMnTe.« less

Atomistic modeling of metallic thin films by modified embedded atom method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hao, Huali; Lau, Denvid

2017-11-01

Molecular dynamics simulation is applied to investigate the deposition process of metallic thin films. Eight metals, titanium, vanadium, iron, cobalt, nickel, copper, tungsten, and gold, are chosen to be deposited on the aluminum substrate. The second nearest-neighbor modified embedded atom method potential is adopted to predict their thermal and mechanical properties. When quantifying the screening parameters of the potential, the error for Young's modulus and coefficient of thermal expansion between the simulated results and the experimental measurements is less than 15%, demonstrating the reliability of the potential to predict metallic behaviors related to thermal and mechanical properties. A set of potential parameters which governs the interactions between aluminum and other metals in a binary system is also generated from ab initio calculation. The details of interfacial structures between the chosen films and substrate are successfully simulated with the help of these parameters. Our results indicate that the preferred orientation of film growth depends on the film crystal structure, and the inter-diffusion at the interface is correlated the cohesive energy parameter of potential for the binary system. Such finding provides an important basis to further understand the interfacial science, which contributes to the improvement of the mechanical properties, reliability and durability of films.

Analysis of modified SMI method for adaptive array weight control

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dilsavor, R. L.; Moses, R. L.

1989-01-01

An adaptive array is applied to the problem of receiving a desired signal in the presence of weak interference signals which need to be suppressed. A modification, suggested by Gupta, of the sample matrix inversion (SMI) algorithm controls the array weights. In the modified SMI algorithm, interference suppression is increased by subtracting a fraction F of the noise power from the diagonal elements of the estimated covariance matrix. Given the true covariance matrix and the desired signal direction, the modified algorithm is shown to maximize a well-defined, intuitive output power ratio criterion. Expressions are derived for the expected value and variance of the array weights and output powers as a function of the fraction F and the number of snapshots used in the covariance matrix estimate. These expressions are compared with computer simulation and good agreement is found. A trade-off is found to exist between the desired level of interference suppression and the number of snapshots required in order to achieve that level with some certainty. The removal of noise eigenvectors from the covariance matrix inverse is also discussed with respect to this application. Finally, the type and severity of errors which occur in the covariance matrix estimate are characterized through simulation.

Interlaboratory validation of quantitative duplex real-time PCR method for screening analysis of genetically modified maize.

PubMed

Takabatake, Reona; Koiwa, Tomohiro; Kasahara, Masaki; Takashima, Kaori; Futo, Satoshi; Minegishi, Yasutaka; Akiyama, Hiroshi; Teshima, Reiko; Oguchi, Taichi; Mano, Junichi; Furui, Satoshi; Kitta, Kazumi

2011-01-01

To reduce the cost and time required to routinely perform the genetically modified organism (GMO) test, we developed a duplex quantitative real-time PCR method for a screening analysis simultaneously targeting an event-specific segment for GA21 and Cauliflower Mosaic Virus 35S promoter (P35S) segment [Oguchi et al., J. Food Hyg. Soc. Japan, 50, 117-125 (2009)]. To confirm the validity of the method, an interlaboratory collaborative study was conducted. In the collaborative study, conversion factors (Cfs), which are required to calculate the GMO amount (%), were first determined for two real-time PCR instruments, the ABI PRISM 7900HT and the ABI PRISM 7500. A blind test was then conducted. The limit of quantitation for both GA21 and P35S was estimated to be 0.5% or less. The trueness and precision were evaluated as the bias and reproducibility of the relative standard deviation (RSD(R)). The determined bias and RSD(R) were each less than 25%. We believe the developed method would be useful for the practical screening analysis of GM maize.

Analogous modified DNA probe and immune competition method-based electrochemical biosensor for RNA modification.

PubMed

Dai, Tao; Pu, Qinli; Guo, Yongcan; Zuo, Chen; Bai, Shulian; Yang, Yujun; Yin, Dan; Li, Yi; Sheng, Shangchun; Tao, Yiyi; Fang, Jie; Yu, Wen; Xie, Guoming

2018-08-30

N6-methyladenosine (m6A), one of the most abundant RNA methylation which is ubiquitous in eukaryotic RNA, plays vital roles in many biological progresses. Therefore, the rapid and accurate quantitative detection of m6A is particularly important for its functional research. Herein, a label-free and highly selective electrochemical immunosensor was developed for the detection of m6A. The method is established on that the anti-m6A-Ab can recognize both m6A-RNA and m6A-DNA. An analogous modified DNA probe (L1) serves as a signal molecule, by competing with m6A-RNA for binding to Abs to broaden the linear range. The detection of m6A-RNA by this method is unaffected by the lengths and base sequences of RNA. Under optimal conditions, the proposed immunosensor presented a wide linear range from 0.05 to 200 nM with a detection limit as low as 0.016 nM (S/N = 3). The specificity and reproducibility of the method are satisfactory. Furthermore, the developed immunosensor was validated for m6A determination in human cell lines. Thus, the immunosensor provides a promising platform for m6A-RNA detection with simplicity, high specificity and sensitivity. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A modified Delphi method toward multidisciplinary consensus on functional convalescence recommendations after abdominal surgery.

PubMed

van Vliet, Daphne C R; van der Meij, Eva; Bouwsma, Esther V A; Vonk Noordegraaf, Antonie; van den Heuvel, Baukje; Meijerink, Wilhelmus J H J; van Baal, W Marchien; Huirne, Judith A F; Anema, Johannes R

2016-12-01

Evidence-based information on the resumption of daily activities following uncomplicated abdominal surgery is scarce and not yet standardized in medical guidelines. As a consequence, convalescence recommendations are generally not provided after surgery, leading to patients' insecurity, needlessly delayed recovery and prolonged sick leave. The aim of this study was to generate consensus-based multidisciplinary convalescence recommendations, including advice on return to work, applicable for both patients and physicians. Using a modified Delphi method among a multidisciplinary panel of 13 experts consisting of surgeons, occupational physicians and general practitioners, detailed recommendations were developed for graded resumption of 34 activities after uncomplicated laparoscopic cholecystectomy, laparoscopic and open appendectomy, laparoscopic and open colectomy and laparoscopic and open inguinal hernia repair. A sample of occupational physicians, general practitioners and surgeons assessed the recommendations on feasibility in daily practice. The response of this group of care providers was discussed with the experts in the final Delphi questionnaire round. Out of initially 56 activities, the expert panel selected 34 relevant activities for which convalescence recommendations were developed. After four Delphi rounds, consensus was reached for all of the 34 activities for all the surgical procedures. A sample of occupational physicians, general practitioners and surgeons regarded the recommendations as feasible in daily practice. Multidisciplinary convalescence recommendations regarding uncomplicated laparoscopic cholecystectomy, appendectomy (laparoscopic, open), colectomy (laparoscopic, open) and inguinal hernia repair (laparoscopic, open) were developed by a modified Delphi procedure. Further research is required to evaluate whether these recommendations are realistic and effective in daily practice.

Growth and characterization of AgGa0.5In0.5Se2 single crystals by modified vertical Bridgman method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vijayakumar, P.; Ramasamy, P.

2016-05-01

AgGa0.5In0.5Se2 single crystal was grown using a double wall quartz ampoule with accelerated crucible rotation technique by modified vertical Bridgman method. The structural perfection was measured using HRXRD. The grown single crystal composition was measured using ICP-OES analysis and compositional uniformities were measured using Raman spectroscopy analysis. Photoconductivity measurements confirm the positive photoconducting nature.

A highly oriented hybrid microarray modified electrode fabricated by a template-free method for ultrasensitive electrochemical DNA recognition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shi, Lei; Chu, Zhenyu; Dong, Xueliang; Jin, Wanqin; Dempsey, Eithne

2013-10-01

Highly oriented growth of a hybrid microarray was realized by a facile template-free method on gold substrates for the first time. The proposed formation mechanism involves an interfacial structure-directing force arising from self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) between gold substrates and hybrid crystals. Different SAMs and variable surface coverage of the assembled molecules play a critical role in the interfacial directing forces and influence the morphologies of hybrid films. A highly oriented hybrid microarray was formed on the highly aligned and vertical SAMs of 1,4-benzenedithiol molecules with rigid backbones, which afforded an intense structure-directing power for the oriented growth of hybrid crystals. Additionally, the density of the microarray could be adjusted by controlling the surface coverage of assembled molecules. Based on the hybrid microarray modified electrode with a large specific area (ca. 10 times its geometrical area), a label-free electrochemical DNA biosensor was constructed for the detection of an oligonucleotide fragment of the avian flu virus H5N1. The DNA biosensor displayed a significantly low detection limit of 5 pM (S/N = 3), a wide linear response from 10 pM to 10 nM, as well as excellent selectivity, good regeneration and high stability. We expect that the proposed template-free method can provide a new reference for the fabrication of a highly oriented hybrid array and the as-prepared microarray modified electrode will be a promising paradigm in constructing highly sensitive and selective biosensors.Highly oriented growth of a hybrid microarray was realized by a facile template-free method on gold substrates for the first time. The proposed formation mechanism involves an interfacial structure-directing force arising from self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) between gold substrates and hybrid crystals. Different SAMs and variable surface coverage of the assembled molecules play a critical role in the interfacial directing forces and

Modified Laser Flash Method for Thermal Properties Measurements and the Influence of Heat Convection

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lin, Bochuan; Zhu, Shen; Ban, Heng; Li, Chao; Scripa, Rosalia N.; Su, Ching-Hua; Lehoczky, Sandor L.

2003-01-01

The study examined the effect of natural convection in applying the modified laser flash method to measure thermal properties of semiconductor melts. Common laser flash method uses a laser pulse to heat one side of a thin circular sample and measures the temperature response of the other side. Thermal diffusivity can be calculations based on a heat conduction analysis. For semiconductor melt, the sample is contained in a specially designed quartz cell with optical windows on both sides. When laser heats the vertical melt surface, the resulting natural convection can introduce errors in calculation based on heat conduction model alone. The effect of natural convection was studied by CFD simulations with experimental verification by temperature measurement. The CFD results indicated that natural convection would decrease the time needed for the rear side to reach its peak temperature, and also decrease the peak temperature slightly in our experimental configuration. Using the experimental data, the calculation using only heat conduction model resulted in a thermal diffusivity value is about 7.7% lower than that from the model with natural convection. Specific heat capacity was about the same, and the difference is within 1.6%, regardless of heat transfer models.

Conventional, Bayesian, and Modified Prony's methods for characterizing fast and slow waves in equine cancellous bone

PubMed Central

Groopman, Amber M.; Katz, Jonathan I.; Holland, Mark R.; Fujita, Fuminori; Matsukawa, Mami; Mizuno, Katsunori; Wear, Keith A.; Miller, James G.

2015-01-01

Conventional, Bayesian, and the modified least-squares Prony's plus curve-fitting (MLSP + CF) methods were applied to data acquired using 1 MHz center frequency, broadband transducers on a single equine cancellous bone specimen that was systematically shortened from 11.8 mm down to 0.5 mm for a total of 24 sample thicknesses. Due to overlapping fast and slow waves, conventional analysis methods were restricted to data from sample thicknesses ranging from 11.8 mm to 6.0 mm. In contrast, Bayesian and MLSP + CF methods successfully separated fast and slow waves and provided reliable estimates of the ultrasonic properties of fast and slow waves for sample thicknesses ranging from 11.8 mm down to 3.5 mm. Comparisons of the three methods were carried out for phase velocity at the center frequency and the slope of the attenuation coefficient for the fast and slow waves. Good agreement among the three methods was also observed for average signal loss at the center frequency. The Bayesian and MLSP + CF approaches were able to separate the fast and slow waves and provide good estimates of the fast and slow wave properties even when the two wave modes overlapped in both time and frequency domains making conventional analysis methods unreliable. PMID:26328678

Electroanalytical method for determination of lead(II) in orange and apple using kaolin modified platinum electrode.

PubMed

El Mhammedi, M A; Achak, M; Bakasse, M; Chtaini, A

2009-08-01

This paper reports on the use of platinum electrode modified with kaolin (K/Pt) and square wave voltammetry for analytical detection of trace lead(II) in pure water, orange and apple samples. The electroanalytical procedure for determination of the Pb(II) comprises two steps: the chemical accumulation of the analyte under open-circuit conditions followed by the electrochemical detection of the preconcentrated species using square wave voltammetry. The analytical performances of the extraction method has been explored by studying the incubating time, and effect of interferences due to other ions. During the preconcentration step, Pb(II) was accumulated on the surface of the kaolin. The observed detection and quantification limits in pure water were 3.6x10(-9)molL(-1) and 1.2x10(-8)molL(-1), respectively. The precision of the method was also determined; the results was 2.35% (n=5).

Modified APHA closed-tube reflux colorimetric method for TOC determination in water and wastewater.

PubMed

Salihu, Simon Olonkwoh; Bakar, Nor Kartini Abu

2018-05-30

The analysis of total organic carbon (TOC) by the American Public Health Association (APHA) closed-tube reflux colorimetric method requires potassium dichromate (K 2 Cr 2 O 7 ), silver sulfate (AgSO 4 ), and mercury (HgSO 4 ) sulfate in addition to large volumes of both reagents and samples. The method relies on the release of oxygen from dichromate on heating which is consumed by carbon associated with organic compounds. The method risks environmental pollution by discharging large amounts of chromium (VI) and silver and mercury sulfates. The present method used potassium monochromate (K 2 CrO 4 ) to generate the K 2 Cr 2 O 7 on demand in the first phase. In addition, miniaturizing the procedure to semi microanalysis decreased the consumption of reagents and samples. In the second phase, mercury sulfate was eliminated as part of the digestion mixture through the introduction of sodium bismuthate (NaBiO 3 ) for the removal of chlorides from the sample. The modified method, the potassium monochromate closed-tube colorimetry with sodium bismuthate chloride removal (KMCC-Bi), generates the potassium dichromate on demand and eliminates mercury sulfate. The semi microanalysis procedure leads to a 60% reduction in sample volume and ≈ 33.33 and 60% reduction in monochromate and silver sulfate consumption respectively. The LOD and LOQ were 10.17 and 33.90 mg L -1 for APHA, and 4.95 and 16.95 mg L -1 for KMCC-Bi. Recovery was between 83 to 98% APHA and 92 to 104% KMCC-Bi, while the RSD (%) ranged between 0.8 to 5.0% APHA and 0.00 to 0.62% KMCC-Bi. The method was applied for the UV-Vis spectrometry determination of COD in water and wastewater. Statistics was done by MINITAB 17 or MS Excel 2016. ᅟ Graphical abstract.

Detection of polymer modifiers in asphalt binder.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2006-01-01

This study addressed the evaluation of alternative test methods to identify the presence of polymer modifiers in performance-graded binders for the purpose of quality assurance. A method of identification is presented in AASHTO T302, Polymer Content ...

Development of an Electronic Pediatric All-Cause Harm Measurement Tool Using a Modified Delphi Method.

PubMed

Stockwell, David Christopher; Bisarya, Hema; Classen, David C; Kirkendall, Eric S; Lachman, Peter I; Matlow, Anne G; Tham, Eric; Hyman, Dan; Lehman, Samuel M; Searles, Elizabeth; Muething, Stephen E; Sharek, Paul J

2016-12-01

To have impact on reducing harm in pediatric inpatients, an efficient and reliable process for harm detection is needed. This work describes the first step toward the development of a pediatric all-cause harm measurement tool by recognized experts in the field. An international group of leaders in pediatric patient safety and informatics were charged with developing a comprehensive pediatric inpatient all-cause harm measurement tool using a modified Delphi technique. The process was conducted in 5 distinct steps: (1) literature review of triggers (elements from a medical record that assist in identifying patient harm) for inclusion; (2) translation of triggers to likely associated harm, improving the ability for expert prioritization; (3) 2 applications of a modified Delphi selection approach with consensus criteria using severity and frequency of harm as well as detectability of the associated trigger as criteria to rate each trigger and associated harm; (4) developing specific trigger logic and relevant values when applicable; and (5) final vetting of the entire trigger list for pilot testing. Literature and expert panel review identified 108 triggers and associated harms suitable for consideration (steps 1 and 2). This list was pared to 64 triggers and their associated harms after the first of the 2 independent expert reviews. The second independent expert review led to further refinement of the trigger package, resulting in 46 items for inclusion (step 3). Adding in specific trigger logic expanded the list. Final review and voting resulted in a list of 51 triggers (steps 4 and 5). Application of a modified Delphi method on an expert-constructed list of 108 triggers, focusing on severity and frequency of harms as well as detectability of triggers in an electronic medical record, resulted in a final list of 51 pediatric triggers. Pilot testing this list of pediatric triggers to identify all-cause harm for pediatric inpatients is the next step to establish the

Modified symplectic schemes with nearly-analytic discrete operators for acoustic wave simulations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Shaolin; Yang, Dinghui; Lang, Chao; Wang, Wenshuai; Pan, Zhide

2017-04-01

Using a structure-preserving algorithm significantly increases the computational efficiency of solving wave equations. However, only a few explicit symplectic schemes are available in the literature, and the capabilities of these symplectic schemes have not been sufficiently exploited. Here, we propose a modified strategy to construct explicit symplectic schemes for time advance. The acoustic wave equation is transformed into a Hamiltonian system. The classical symplectic partitioned Runge-Kutta (PRK) method is used for the temporal discretization. Additional spatial differential terms are added to the PRK schemes to form the modified symplectic methods and then two modified time-advancing symplectic methods with all of positive symplectic coefficients are then constructed. The spatial differential operators are approximated by nearly-analytic discrete (NAD) operators, and we call the fully discretized scheme modified symplectic nearly analytic discrete (MSNAD) method. Theoretical analyses show that the MSNAD methods exhibit less numerical dispersion and higher stability limits than conventional methods. Three numerical experiments are conducted to verify the advantages of the MSNAD methods, such as their numerical accuracy, computational cost, stability, and long-term calculation capability.

Modified filter-aided sample preparation (FASP) method increases peptide and protein identifications for shotgun proteomics.

PubMed

Ni, Mao-Wei; Wang, Lu; Chen, Wei; Mou, Han-Zhou; Zhou, Jie; Zheng, Zhi-Guo

2017-01-30

Mass spectrometry (MS)-based protein identification depends mainly on protein extraction and digestion. Although sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) can preclude enzymatic digestion and interfere with MS analysis, it is still the most widely used surfactant in these steps. To overcome these disadvantages, a SDS-compatible proteomic technique for SDS removal prior to MS-based analyses was developed, namely filter-aided sample preparation (FASP). Herein, based on the effectiveness of sodium deoxycholate and a detergent removal spin column, we developed a modified FASP (mFASP) method and compared its overall performance, total number of peptides and proteins identified for shotgun proteomic experiments with that of the FASP method. Identification of 4570 ± 392 and 9139 ± 317 peptides and description of 862 ± 46 and 1377 ± 33 protein groups with two or more peptides from the ovarian cancer cell line A2780 was accomplished by FASP and mFASP methods, respectively. The mFASP method (21.2 ± 0.2%) had higher average peptide to protein coverage than FASP method (13.2 ± 0.5%). More hydrophobic peptides were identified by mFASP than by FASP, as indicated by the GRAVY score distribution. The reported method enables reliable and efficient identification of proteins and peptides in whole-cell extracts containing SDS. The new approach allows for higher throughput (the simultaneous identification of more proteins), a more comprehensive investigation of proteins, and potentially the discovery of new biomarkers. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Intein-modified enzymes, their production and industrial applications

DOEpatents

Apgar, James; Lessard, Philip; Raab, Michael R.; Shen, Binzhang; Lazar, Gabor; de la Vega, Humberto

2016-10-11

A method of predicting an intein insertion site in a protein that will lead to a switching phenotype is provided. The method includes identifying a plurality of C/T/S sites within the protein; selecting from the plurality of C/T/S/ sites those that are ranked 0.75 or higher by a support vector machine, within ten angstroms of the active site of the protein, and at or near a loop-.beta.-sheet junction or a loop-.alpha.-helix junction. A method of controlling protein activity and hosts including proteins with controlled activity are also provided. Also, intein modified proteins and plants containing intein modified proteins are provided.

Speech Compensation for Time-Scale-Modified Auditory Feedback

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ogane, Rintaro; Honda, Masaaki

2014-01-01

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine speech compensation in response to time-scale-modified auditory feedback during the transition of the semivowel for a target utterance of /ija/. Method: Each utterance session consisted of 10 control trials in the normal feedback condition followed by 20 perturbed trials in the modified auditory…

Interfacial Modifiers

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

Martin, Ina; French, Roger H.

Our project objective in the first and only Budget Period was to demonstrate the potential of nm-scale organofunctional silane coatings as a method of extending the lifetime of PV materials and devices. Specifically, the target was to double the lifetime performance of a laminated Cu(In,Ga)Se2 (CIGS) cell under real-world and accelerated aging exposure conditions. Key findings are that modification of aluminum-doped zinc oxide (AZO) films (materials used as transparent conductive oxide (TCO) top contacts) resulted in decreased degradation of optical and electrical properties under damp heat (DH) exposure compared to un-modified AZO. The most significant finding is that modification ofmore » the AZO top contact of full CIGS devices resulted in significantly improved properties under DH exposure compared to un-modified devices, by a factor of 4 after 1000 h. Results of this one-year project have demonstrated that surface functionalization is a viable pathway for extending the lifetime of state-of-the-art CIGS devices.« less

A modified culture method significantly improves the development of mouse somatic cell nuclear transfer embryos.

PubMed

Dai, Xiangpeng; Hao, Jie; Zhou, Qi

2009-08-01

Many strategies have been established to improve the efficiency of somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT), but relatively few focused on improving culture conditions. The effect of different culture media on preimplantation development of mouse nuclear transfer embryos was investigated. A modified sequential media method, named D media (M16/KSOM and CZB-EG/KSOM), was successfully established that significantly improves SCNT embryo development. Our result demonstrated that while lacking any adverse effect on in vivo fertilized embryos, the D media dramatically improves the blastocyst development of SCNT embryos compared with other commonly used media, including KSOM, M16, CZB, and alphaMEM. Specifically, the rate of blastocyst formation was 62.3% for D1 (M16/KSOM) versus 10-30% for the other media. An analysis of media components indicated that removing EDTA and glutamine from the media can be beneficial for early SCNT embryo development. Our results suggest that in vitro culture environment plays an important role in somatic cell reprogramming, and D media represent the most efficient culture method reported to date to support mouse SCNT early embryo development in vitro.

Modified method for external attachment of transmitters to birds using two subcutaneous anchors

USGS Publications Warehouse

Lewis, T.L.; Flint, Paul L.

2008-01-01

Of the transmitter attachment techniques for birds, the subcutaneous anchor provides a secure attachment that yields relatively few secondary effects. However, the use of subcutaneous anchors has been limited by transmitter size and retention time. Using a modified method of attachment that utilized two subcutaneous anchors, we deployed 69 GPS transmitters, plus 13 VHF transmitters that were similar in size and weight to GPS models, on Pacific Black Brant (Branta bernicla nigricans). Prior to our study, only harnesses were used for attaching GPS transmitters on birds, mainly because GPS transmitters are too large for other external attachment techniques and implantation in the body cavity attenuates the GPS signal. Thus, to increase the size capacity of anchor attachment and to avoid the well-documented negative effects of harnesses on behavior and survival, we added a second anchor at the transmitter's posterior end. The double-anchor attachment technique was quickly and easily accomplished in the field, requiring bird handling times of <10 min. Incidental recoveries of tagged Brant indicate a high degree of transmitter retention. Five recaptured birds (4-6 weeks after deployment) and eight killed by hunters (3-6 mo after deployment) retained their GPS transmitters. For studies involving the use of relatively large transmitters, the double-anchor method appears to provide a viable alternative for external attachment. ?? 2008 Association of Field Ornithologists.

New multiplex PCR methods for rapid screening of genetically modified organisms in foods

PubMed Central

Datukishvili, Nelly; Kutateladze, Tamara; Gabriadze, Inga; Bitskinashvili, Kakha; Vishnepolsky, Boris

2015-01-01

We present novel multiplex PCR methods for rapid and reliable screening of genetically modified organisms (GMOs). New designed PCR primers targeting four frequently used GMO specific sequences permitted identification of new DNA markers, in particular 141 bp fragment of cauliflower mosaic virus (CaMV) 35S promoter, 224 bp fragment of Agrobacterium tumefaciens nopaline synthase (NOS) terminator, 256 bp fragment of 5-enolppyruvylshikimate-phosphate synthase (epsps) gene and 258 bp fragment of Cry1Ab delta-endotoxin (cry1Ab) gene for GMO screening. The certified reference materials containing Roundup Ready soybean (RRS) and maize MON 810 were applied for the development and optimization of uniplex and multiplex PCR systems. Evaluation of amplification products by agarose gel electrophoresis using negative and positive controls confirmed high specificity and sensitivity at 0.1% GMO for both RRS and MON 810. The fourplex PCR was developed and optimized that allows simultaneous detection of three common transgenic elements, such as: CaMV 35S promoter, NOS terminator, epsps gene together with soybean-specific lectin gene. The triplex PCR developed enables simultaneous identification of transgenic elements, such as: 35S promoter and cry1Ab gene together with maize zein gene. The analysis of different processed foods demonstrated that multiplex PCR methods developed in this study are useful for accurate and fast screening of GM food products. PMID:26257724

New multiplex PCR methods for rapid screening of genetically modified organisms in foods.

PubMed

Datukishvili, Nelly; Kutateladze, Tamara; Gabriadze, Inga; Bitskinashvili, Kakha; Vishnepolsky, Boris

2015-01-01

We present novel multiplex PCR methods for rapid and reliable screening of genetically modified organisms (GMOs). New designed PCR primers targeting four frequently used GMO specific sequences permitted identification of new DNA markers, in particular 141 bp fragment of cauliflower mosaic virus (CaMV) 35S promoter, 224 bp fragment of Agrobacterium tumefaciens nopaline synthase (NOS) terminator, 256 bp fragment of 5-enolppyruvylshikimate-phosphate synthase (epsps) gene and 258 bp fragment of Cry1Ab delta-endotoxin (cry1Ab) gene for GMO screening. The certified reference materials containing Roundup Ready soybean (RRS) and maize MON 810 were applied for the development and optimization of uniplex and multiplex PCR systems. Evaluation of amplification products by agarose gel electrophoresis using negative and positive controls confirmed high specificity and sensitivity at 0.1% GMO for both RRS and MON 810. The fourplex PCR was developed and optimized that allows simultaneous detection of three common transgenic elements, such as: CaMV 35S promoter, NOS terminator, epsps gene together with soybean-specific lectin gene. The triplex PCR developed enables simultaneous identification of transgenic elements, such as: 35S promoter and cry1Ab gene together with maize zein gene. The analysis of different processed foods demonstrated that multiplex PCR methods developed in this study are useful for accurate and fast screening of GM food products.

Biofouling-resistant ceragenin-modified materials and structures for water treatment

DOEpatents

Hibbs, Michael; Altman, Susan J.; Jones, Howland D. T.; Savage, Paul B.

2013-09-10

This invention relates to methods for chemically grafting and attaching ceragenin molecules to polymer substrates; methods for synthesizing ceragenin-containing copolymers; methods for making ceragenin-modified water treatment membranes and spacers; and methods of treating contaminated water using ceragenin-modified treatment membranes and spacers. Ceragenins are synthetically produced antimicrobial peptide mimics that display broad-spectrum bactericidal activity. Alkene-functionalized ceragenins (e.g., acrylamide-functionalized ceragenins) can be attached to polyamide reverse osmosis membranes using amine-linking, amide-linking, UV-grafting, or silane-coating methods. In addition, silane-functionalized ceragenins can be directly attached to polymer surfaces that have free hydroxyls.

Optimising a modified free-space permittivity characterisation method for civil engineering applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Muller, Wayne; Scheuermann, Alexander

2016-04-01

Measuring the electrical permittivity of civil engineering materials is important for a range of ground penetrating radar (GPR) and pavement moisture measurement applications. Compacted unbound granular (UBG) pavement materials present a number of preparation and measurement challenges using conventional characterisation techniques. As an alternative to these methods, a modified free-space (MFS) characterisation approach has previously been investigated. This paper describes recent work to optimise and validate the MFS technique. The research included finite difference time domain (FDTD) modelling to better understand the nature of wave propagation within material samples and the test apparatus. This research led to improvements in the test approach and optimisation of sample sizes. The influence of antenna spacing and sample thickness on the permittivity results was investigated by a series of experiments separating antennas and measuring samples of nylon and water. Permittivity measurements of samples of nylon and water approximately 100 mm and 170 mm thick were also compared, showing consistent results. These measurements also agreed well with surface probe measurements of the nylon sample and literature values for water. The results indicate permittivity estimates of acceptable accuracy can be obtained using the proposed approach, apparatus and sample sizes.

Effect of Resin-modified Glass Ionomer Cement Dispensing/Mixing Methods on Mechanical Properties.

PubMed

Sulaiman, T A; Abdulmajeed, A A; Altitinchi, A; Ahmed, S N; Donovan, T E

2018-03-23

Resin-modified glass ionomer cements (RMGIs) are often used for luting indirect restorations. Hand-mixing traditional cements demands significant time and may be technique sensitive. Efforts have been made by manufacturers to introduce the same cement using different dispensing/mixing methods. It is not known what effects these changes may have on the mechanical properties of the dental cement. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the mechanical properties (diametral tensile strength [DTS], compressive strength [CS], and fracture toughness [FT]) of RMGIs with different dispensing/mixing systems. The RMGI specimens (n=14)-RelyX Luting (hand mix), RelyX Luting Plus (clicker-hand mix), RelyX Luting Plus (automix) (3M ESPE), GC Fuji PLUS (capsule-automix), and GC FujiCEM 2 (automix) (GC)-were prepared for each mechanical test and examined after thermocycling (n=7/subgroup) for 20,000 cycles to the following: DTS, CS (ISO 9917-1) and FT (ISO standard 6872; Single-edge V-notched beam method). Specimens were mounted and loaded with a universal testing machine until failure occurred. Two-/one-way analysis of variance followed by Tukey honestly significantly different post hoc test was used to analyze data for statistical significance ( p<0.05). The interaction effect of both dispensing/mixing method and thermocycling was significant only for the CS test of the GC group ( p<0.05). The different dispensing/mixing methods had no effect on the DTS of the tested cements. The CS of GC Fuji PLUS was significantly higher than that of the automix version ( p<0.05). The FT decreased significantly when switching from RelyX (hand mix) to RelyX Luting Plus (clicker-hand mix) and to RelyX Luting Plus (automix) ( p<0.05). Except in the case of the DTS of the GC group and the CS of GC Fuji PLUS, thermocycling had a significant effect reducing the mechanical properties of the RMGI cements ( p<0.05). Introducing alternative dispensing/mixing methods for mixing RMGIs to reduce time and

Visual and light scattering spectrometric method for the detection of melamine using uracil 5‧-triphosphate sodium modified gold nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liang, Lijiao; Zhen, Shujun; Huang, Chengzhi

2017-02-01

A highly selective method was presented for colorimetric determination of melamine using uracil 5‧-triphosphate sodium modified gold nanoparticles (UTP-Au NPs) in this paper. Specific hydrogen-bonding interaction between uracil base (U) and melamine resulted in the aggregation of AuNPs, displaying variations of localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) features such as color change from red to blue and enhanced localized surface plasmon resonance light scattering (LSPR-LS) signals. Accordingly, the concentration of melamine could be quantified based on naked eye or a spectrometric method. This method was simple, inexpensive, environmental friendly and highly selective, which has been successfully used for the detection of melamine in pretreated liquid milk products with high recoveries.

Practical estimates of field-saturated hydraulic conductivity of bedrock outcrops using a modified bottomless bucket method

USGS Publications Warehouse

Mirus, Benjamin B.; Perkins, Kim S.

2012-01-01

The bottomless bucket (BB) approach (Nimmo et al., 2009a) is a cost-effective method for rapidly characterizing field-saturated hydraulic conductivity Kfs of soils and alluvial deposits. This practical approach is of particular value for quantifying infiltration rates in remote areas with limited accessibility. A similar approach for bedrock outcrops is also of great value for improving quantitative understanding of infiltration and recharge in rugged terrain. We develop a simple modification to the BB method for application to bedrock outcrops, which uses a non-toxic, quick-drying silicone gel to seal the BB to the bedrock. These modifications to the field method require only minor changes to the analytical solution for calculating Kfs on soils. We investigate the reproducibility of the method with laboratory experiments on a previously studied calcarenite rock and conduct a sensitivity analysis to quantify uncertainty in our predictions. We apply the BB method on both bedrock and soil for sites on Pahute Mesa, which is located in a remote area of the Nevada National Security Site. The bedrock BB tests may require monitoring over several hours to days, depending on infiltration rates, which necessitates a cover to prevent evaporative losses. Our field and laboratory results compare well to Kfs values inferred from independent reports, which suggests the modified BB method can provide useful estimates and facilitate simple hypothesis testing. The ease with which the bedrock BB method can be deployed should facilitate more rapid in-situ data collection than is possible with alternative methods for quantitative characterization of infiltration into bedrock.

Identification and quantification of genetically modified Moonshade carnation lines using conventional and TaqMan real-time polymerase chain reaction methods.

PubMed

Li, Peng; Jia, Junwei; Bai, Lan; Pan, Aihu; Tang, Xueming

2013-07-01

Genetically modified carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus L.) Moonshade was approved for planting and commercialization in several countries from 2004. Developing methods for analyzing Moonshade is necessary for implementing genetically modified organism labeling regulations. In this study, the 5'-transgene integration sequence was isolated using thermal asymmetric interlaced (TAIL)-PCR. Based upon the 5'-transgene integration sequence, conventional and TaqMan real-time PCR assays were established. The relative limit of detection for the conventional PCR assay was 0.05 % for Moonshade using 100 ng total carnation genomic DNA, corresponding to approximately 79 copies of the carnation haploid genome, and the limits of detection and quantification of the TaqMan real-time PCR assay were estimated to be 51 and 254 copies of haploid carnation genomic DNA, respectively. These results are useful for identifying and quantifying Moonshade and its derivatives.

Modified cleaning method for biomineralized components

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tsutsui, Hideto; Jordan, Richard W.

2018-02-01

The extraction and concentration of biomineralized components from sediment or living materials is time consuming and laborious and often involves steps that remove either the calcareous or siliceous part, in addition to organic matter. However, a relatively quick and easy method using a commercial cleaning fluid for kitchen drains, sometimes combined with a kerosene soaking step, can produce remarkable results. In this study, the method is applied to sediments and living materials bearing calcareous (e.g., coccoliths, foraminiferal tests, holothurian ossicles, ichthyoliths, and fish otoliths) and siliceous (e.g., diatom valves, silicoflagellate skeletons, and sponge spicules) components. The method preserves both components in the same sample, without etching or partial dissolution, but is not applicable to unmineralized components such as dinoflagellate thecae, tintinnid loricae, pollen, or plant fragments.

Surface-modified bacterial nanofibrillar PHB scaffolds for bladder tissue repair.

PubMed

Karahaliloğlu, Zeynep; Demirbilek, Murat; Şam, Mesut; Sağlam, Necdet; Mızrak, Alpay Koray; Denkbaş, Emir Baki

2016-01-01

The aim of the study is in vitro investigation of the feasibility of surface-modified bacterial nanofibrous poly [(R)-3-hydroxybutyrate] (PHB) graft for bladder reconstruction. In this study, the surface of electrospun bacterial PHB was modified with PEG- or EDA via radio frequency glow discharge method. After plasma modification, contact angle of EDA-modified PHB scaffolds decreased from 110 ± 1.50 to 23 ± 0.5 degree. Interestingly, less calcium oxalate stone deposition was observed on modified PHB scaffolds compared to that of non-modified group. Results of this study show that surface-modified scaffolds not only inhibited calcium oxalate growth but also enhanced the uroepithelial cell viability and proliferation.

Catalytic decolorization of azo-stuff with electro-coagulation method assisted by cobalt phosphomolybdate modified kaolin.

PubMed

Zhuo, Qiongfang; Ma, Hongzhu; Wang, Bo; Gu, Lin

2007-04-02

The new catalytic decoloration of C.I. Acid Red 3R with electro-coagulation (EC) method assisted by cobalt phosphomolybdate modified kaolin has been studied. The result showed that this process could effectively remove the C.I. Acid Red 3R contained in wastewater and its color removal efficiency could reach up to 98.3% in 7 min. The kinetics of the catalytic decolorization of Acid Red 3R was also studied. The decolorization reaction order was dependent on the initial concentration [R](0) with respect to the concentration of C.I. Acid Red 3R. At lower [R](0) the order was first, which then decreases with increasing [R](0). The operating parameters such as initial pH, current density and temperature were also investigated. A possible reaction mechanism was proposed.

Generation of Envelope-Modified Baculoviruses for Gene Delivery into Mammalian Cells.

PubMed

Hofmann, Christian

2016-01-01

Genetically modified baculoviruses can efficiently deliver and express genes in mammalian cells. The major prerequisite for the expression of a gene transferred by baculovirus is its control by a promoter that is active in mammalian cells. This chapter describes methods for producing second generation baculovirus vectors through modification of their envelope. Envelope modified baculoviruses offer additional new applications of the system, such as their use in in vivo gene delivery, targeting, and vaccination. Methods of generating a recombinant baculovirus vector with a modified envelope and its amplification and purification, including technical scale production, are discussed. A variety of notes give clues regarding specific technical procedures. Finally, methods to analyze the virus and transduction procedures are presented.

Analysis of Modified SMI Method for Adaptive Array Weight Control. M.S. Thesis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dilsavor, Ronald Louis

1989-01-01

An adaptive array is used to receive a desired signal in the presence of weak interference signals which need to be suppressed. A modified sample matrix inversion (SMI) algorithm controls the array weights. The modification leads to increased interference suppression by subtracting a fraction of the noise power from the diagonal elements of the covariance matrix. The modified algorithm maximizes an intuitive power ratio criterion. The expected values and variances of the array weights, output powers, and power ratios as functions of the fraction and the number of snapshots are found and compared to computer simulation and real experimental array performance. Reduced-rank covariance approximations and errors in the estimated covariance are also described.

Modified Mixed Lagrangian-Eulerian Method Based on Numerical Framework of MT3DMS on Cauchy Boundary.

PubMed

Suk, Heejun

2016-07-01

MT3DMS, a modular three-dimensional multispecies transport model, has long been a popular model in the groundwater field for simulating solute transport in the saturated zone. However, the method of characteristics (MOC), modified MOC (MMOC), and hybrid MOC (HMOC) included in MT3DMS did not treat Cauchy boundary conditions in a straightforward or rigorous manner, from a mathematical point of view. The MOC, MMOC, and HMOC regard the Cauchy boundary as a source condition. For the source, MOC, MMOC, and HMOC calculate the Lagrangian concentration by setting it equal to the cell concentration at an old time level. However, the above calculation is an approximate method because it does not involve backward tracking in MMOC and HMOC or allow performing forward tracking at the source cell in MOC. To circumvent this problem, a new scheme is proposed that avoids direct calculation of the Lagrangian concentration on the Cauchy boundary. The proposed method combines the numerical formulations of two different schemes, the finite element method (FEM) and the Eulerian-Lagrangian method (ELM), into one global matrix equation. This study demonstrates the limitation of all MT3DMS schemes, including MOC, MMOC, HMOC, and a third-order total-variation-diminishing (TVD) scheme under Cauchy boundary conditions. By contrast, the proposed method always shows good agreement with the exact solution, regardless of the flow conditions. Finally, the successful application of the proposed method sheds light on the possible flexibility and capability of the MT3DMS to deal with the mass transport problems of all flow regimes. © 2016, National Ground Water Association.

Resolution of overlapped spectra for the determination of ternary mixture using different and modified spectrophotometric methods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moussa, Bahia Abbas; El-Zaher, Asmaa Ahmed; Mahrouse, Marianne Alphonse; Ahmed, Maha Said

2016-08-01

Four new spectrophotometric methods were developed, applied to resolve the overlapped spectra of a ternary mixture of [aliskiren hemifumarate (ALS)-amlodipine besylate (AM)-hydrochlorothiazide (HCT)] and to determine the three drugs in pure form and in combined dosage form. Method A depends on simultaneous determination of ALS, AM and HCT using principal component regression and partial least squares chemometric methods. In Method B, a modified isosbestic spectrophotometric method was applied for the determination of the total concentration of ALS and HCT by measuring the absorbance at 274.5 nm (isosbestic point, Aiso). On the other hand, the concentration of HCT in ternary mixture with ALS and AM could be calculated without interference using first derivative spectrophotometric method by measuring the amplitude at 279 nm (zero crossing of ALS and zero value of AM). Thus, the content of ALS was calculated by subtraction. Method C, double divisor first derivative ratio spectrophotometry (double divisor 1DD method), was based on that for the determination of one drug, the ratio spectra were obtained by dividing the absorption spectra of its different concentrations by the sum of the absorption spectra of the other two drugs as a double divisor. The first derivative of the obtained ratio spectra were then recorded using the appropriate smoothing factor. The amplitudes at 291 nm, 380 nm and 274.5 nm were selected for the determination of ALS, AM and HCT in their ternary mixture, respectively. Method D was based on mean centering of ratio spectra. The mean centered values at 287, 295.5 and 269 nm were recorded and used for the determination of ALS, AM and HCT, respectively. The developed methods were validated according to ICH guidelines and proved to be accurate, precise and selective. Satisfactory results were obtained by applying the proposed methods to the analysis of pharmaceutical dosage form.

Modified rapid immunohistochemical staining for intraoperative diagnosis of malignant brain tumors.

PubMed

Suzuki, Akane; Maruyama, Takashi; Nitta, Masayuki; Komori, Takashi; Ikuta, Soko; Kawamata, Takakazu; Muragaki, Yoshihiro

2017-10-01

Rapid immunohistochemistry (R-IHC) has been developing mainly as a support technique in the rapid diagnosis of central nervous system tumors; however, there have been problems regarding instability in specimen preparation and immunostaining. To overcome the weakness of this technology, the instability of immunostaining, we developed a modified R-IHC. This was achieved by switching to 4% paraformaldehyde as the fixative solution and utilizing a commercially available Polymer Refine Detection Kit, as a high-sensitivity kit, in place of the secondary antibodies. In this study, we tested the modified R-IHC by evaluating rapid immunostaining on new staining items in 94 brain tumor removal cases, which took place at Tokyo Women's Medical University from 2014 to 2015. The results showed that, based on GFAP and p53 markers, the modified method obtained a higher stability in specimens than the standard rapid immunostaining method. It also achieved stainability on the same level as that of a permanent specimen. The modified method tested 86.6% (46/53) and 82.8% (24/29) in pHH3 and ATRX, respectively, in the percentage of correct classification (PCC) against the permanent specimens, and 100% (7/7) in the PCC against malignant lymphomas and gliomas that used CD20/CD3 for discrimination. We concluded that the modified R-IHC method indicated a higher stainability and PCC against the permanent specimens in comparison to the standard method in GFAP, p53, CD20/CD3, pHH3, and ATRX.

9 CFR 77.26 - Modified accredited States or zones.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... TUBERCULOSIS Captive Cervids § 77.26 Modified accredited States or zones. (a) States listed in paragraph (b) of... contained in the “Uniform Methods and Rules—Bovine Tuberculosis Eradication” (January 22, 1999, edition... preparatory. (e) If tuberculosis is diagnosed within a modified accredited State or zone in an animal not...

9 CFR 77.26 - Modified accredited States or zones.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... TUBERCULOSIS Captive Cervids § 77.26 Modified accredited States or zones. (a) States listed in paragraph (b) of... contained in the “Uniform Methods and Rules—Bovine Tuberculosis Eradication” (January 22, 1999, edition... preparatory. (e) If tuberculosis is diagnosed within a modified accredited State or zone in an animal not...

9 CFR 77.26 - Modified accredited States or zones.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... TUBERCULOSIS Captive Cervids § 77.26 Modified accredited States or zones. (a) States listed in paragraph (b) of... contained in the “Uniform Methods and Rules—Bovine Tuberculosis Eradication” (January 22, 1999, edition... preparatory. (e) If tuberculosis is diagnosed within a modified accredited State or zone in an animal not...

9 CFR 77.26 - Modified accredited States or zones.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... TUBERCULOSIS Captive Cervids § 77.26 Modified accredited States or zones. (a) States listed in paragraph (b) of... contained in the “Uniform Methods and Rules—Bovine Tuberculosis Eradication” (January 22, 1999, edition... preparatory. (e) If tuberculosis is diagnosed within a modified accredited State or zone in an animal not...

9 CFR 77.26 - Modified accredited States or zones.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... TUBERCULOSIS Captive Cervids § 77.26 Modified accredited States or zones. (a) States listed in paragraph (b) of... contained in the “Uniform Methods and Rules—Bovine Tuberculosis Eradication” (January 22, 1999, edition... preparatory. (e) If tuberculosis is diagnosed within a modified accredited State or zone in an animal not...

Synthesis of 3'-, or 5'-, or internal methacrylamido-modified oligonucleotides

DOEpatents

Golova, Julia B.; Chernov, Boris K.

2010-04-27

New modifiers were synthesized for incorporation of a methacrylic function in 3'-, 5'- and internal positions of oligonucleotides during solid phase synthesis. A modifier was used for synthesis of 5'-methacrylated oligonucleotides for preparation of microarrays by a co-polymerization method.

Modified Folin-Ciocalteu antioxidant capacity assay for measuring lipophilic antioxidants.

PubMed

Berker, Kadriye Isil; Ozdemir Olgun, F Ayca; Ozyurt, Dilek; Demirata, Birsen; Apak, Resat

2013-05-22

The Folin-Ciocalteu (FC) method of performing a total phenolics assay, originally developed for protein determination, has recently evolved as a total antioxidant capacity assay but was found to be incapable of measuring lipophilic antioxidants due to the high affinity of the FC chromophore, that is, multivalent-charged phospho-tungsto-molybdate(V), toward water. Thus, the FC method was modified and standardized so as to enable simultaneous measurement of lipophilic and hydrophilic antioxidants in NaOH-added isobutanol-water medium. Optimal conditions were as follows: dilution ratio of aqueous FC reagent with iso-BuOH (1:2, v/v), final NaOH concentration of 3.5 × 10(-2) M, reaction time of 20 min, and maximum absorption wavelength of 665 nm. The modified procedure was successfully applied to the total antioxidant capacity assay of trolox, quercetin, ascorbic acid, gallic acid, catechin, caffeic acid, ferulic acid, rosmarinic acid, glutathione, and cysteine, as well as of lipophilic antioxidants such as α-tocopherol (vitamin E), butylated hydroxyanisole, butylated hydroxytoluene, tertiary butylhydroquinone, lauryl gallate, and β-carotene. The modified FC method reliably quantified ascorbic acid, whereas the conventional method could not. The modified method was reproducible and additive in terms of total antioxidant capacity values of constituents of complex mixtures such as olive oil extract and herbal tea infusion. The trolox equivalent antioxidant capacities of the tested antioxidant compounds correlated well with those found by the Cupric Reducing Antioxidant Capacity reference method.

A modified anomaly detection method for capsule endoscopy images using non-linear color conversion and Higher-order Local Auto-Correlation (HLAC).

PubMed

Hu, Erzhong; Nosato, Hirokazu; Sakanashi, Hidenori; Murakawa, Masahiro

2013-01-01

Capsule endoscopy is a patient-friendly endoscopy broadly utilized in gastrointestinal examination. However, the efficacy of diagnosis is restricted by the large quantity of images. This paper presents a modified anomaly detection method, by which both known and unknown anomalies in capsule endoscopy images of small intestine are expected to be detected. To achieve this goal, this paper introduces feature extraction using a non-linear color conversion and Higher-order Local Auto Correlation (HLAC) Features, and makes use of image partition and subspace method for anomaly detection. Experiments are implemented among several major anomalies with combinations of proposed techniques. As the result, the proposed method achieved 91.7% and 100% detection accuracy for swelling and bleeding respectively, so that the effectiveness of proposed method is demonstrated.

Modified signal-to-noise: a new simple and practical gene filtering approach based on the concept of projective adaptive resonance theory (PART) filtering method.

PubMed

Takahashi, Hiro; Honda, Hiroyuki

2006-07-01

Considering the recent advances in and the benefits of DNA microarray technologies, many gene filtering approaches have been employed for the diagnosis and prognosis of diseases. In our previous study, we developed a new filtering method, namely, the projective adaptive resonance theory (PART) filtering method. This method was effective in subclass discrimination. In the PART algorithm, the genes with a low variance in gene expression in either class, not both classes, were selected as important genes for modeling. Based on this concept, we developed novel simple filtering methods such as modified signal-to-noise (S2N') in the present study. The discrimination model constructed using these methods showed higher accuracy with higher reproducibility as compared with many conventional filtering methods, including the t-test, S2N, NSC and SAM. The reproducibility of prediction was evaluated based on the correlation between the sets of U-test p-values on randomly divided datasets. With respect to leukemia, lymphoma and breast cancer, the correlation was high; a difference of >0.13 was obtained by the constructed model by using <50 genes selected by S2N'. Improvement was higher in the smaller genes and such higher correlation was observed when t-test, NSC and SAM were used. These results suggest that these modified methods, such as S2N', have high potential to function as new methods for marker gene selection in cancer diagnosis using DNA microarray data. Software is available upon request.

Drag reduction obtained by modifying a standard truck

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sheridan, A. E.; Grier, S. J.

1978-01-01

A standard two-axle truck with a box-shaped cargo compartment was tested to determine whether significant reductions in aerodynamic drag could be obtained by modifying the front of the cargo compartment. The coastdown method was used to determine the total drag of the baseline vehicle, which had a square-cornered cargo box, and of several modified configurations. Test velocities ranged from 56.3 to 94.6 kilometers per hour (35 to 60 miles per hour). At 88.5 kilometers per hour (55 miles per hour), the aerodynamic drag reductions obtained with the modified configurations ranged from 8 to 30 percent.

Nanocomposite fibers and film containing polyolefin and surface-modified carbon nanotubes

DOEpatents

Chu,Benjamin; Hsiao, Benjamin S.

2010-01-26

Methods for modifying carbon nanotubes with organic compounds are disclosed. The modified carbon nanotubes have enhanced compatibility with polyolefins. Nanocomposites of the organo-modified carbon nanotubes and polyolefins can be used to produce both fibers and films having enhanced mechanical and electrical properties, especially the elongation-to-break ratio and the toughness of the fibers and/or films.

Mid and long-term optimize scheduling of cascade hydro-power stations based on modified GA-POA method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Jiqing; Yang, Xiong

2018-06-01

In this paper, to explore the efficiency and rationality of the cascade combined generation, a cascade combined optimal model with the maximum generating capacity is established, and solving the model by the modified GA-POA method. It provides a useful reference for the joint development of cascade hydro-power stations in large river basins. The typical annual runoff data are selected to calculate the difference between the calculated results under different representative years. The results show that the cascade operation of cascaded hydro-power stations can significantly increase the overall power generation of cascade and ease the flood risk caused by concentration of flood season.

Improved selenium recovery from tissue with modified sample decomposition

USGS Publications Warehouse

Brumbaugh, W. G.; Walther, M.J.

1991-01-01

The present paper describes a simple modification of a recently reported decomposition method for determination of selenium in biological tissue by hydride generation atomic absorption. The modified method yielded slightly higher selenium recoveries (3-4%) for selected reference tissues and fish tissue spiked with selenomethionine. Radiotracer experiments indicated that the addition of a small volume of hydrochloric acid to the wet digestate mixture reduced slight losses of selenium as the sample initially went to dryness before ashing. With the modified method, selenium spiked as selenomethionine behaved more like the selenium in reference tissues than did the inorganic spike forms when this digestion modification was used.

Comparison of several von Willebrand factor (VWF) activity assays for monitoring patients undergoing treatment with VWF/FVIII concentrates: improved performance with a new modified automated method.

PubMed

Hillarp, A; Friedman, K D; Adcock-Funk, D; Tiefenbacher, S; Nichols, W L; Chen, D; Stadler, M; Schwartz, B A

2015-11-01

The ability of von Willebrand factor (VWF) to bind platelet GP Ib and promote platelet plug formation is measured in vitro using the ristocetin cofactor (VWF:RCo) assay. Automated assay systems make testing more accessible for diagnosis, but do not necessarily improve sensitivity and accuracy. We assessed the performance of a modified automated VWF:RCo assay protocol for the Behring Coagulation System (BCS(®) ) compared to other available assay methods. Results from different VWF:RCo assays in a number of specialized commercial and research testing laboratories were compared using plasma samples with varying VWF:RCo activities (0-1.2 IU mL(-1) ). Samples were prepared by mixing VWF concentrate or plasma standard into VWF-depleted plasma. Commercially available lyophilized standard human plasma was also studied. Emphasis was put on the low measuring range. VWF:RCo accuracy was calculated based on the expected values, whereas precision was obtained from repeated measurements. In the physiological concentration range, most of the automated tests resulted in acceptable accuracy, with varying reproducibility dependent on the method. However, several assays were inaccurate in the low measuring range. Only the modified BCS protocol showed acceptable accuracy over the entire measuring range with improved reproducibility. A modified BCS(®) VWF:RCo method can improve sensitivity and thus enhances the measuring range. Furthermore, the modified BCS(®) assay displayed good precision. This study indicates that the specific modifications - namely the combination of increased ristocetin concentration, reduced platelet content, VWF-depleted plasma as on-board diluent and a two-curve calculation mode - reduces the issues seen with current VWF:RCo activity assays. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Determination of drug lipophilicity by phosphatidylcholine-modified microemulsion high-performance liquid chromatography.

PubMed

Xuan, Xueyi; Xu, Liyuan; Li, Liangxing; Gao, Chongkai; Li, Ning

2015-07-25

A new biomembrane-mimetic liquid chromatographic method using a C8 stationary phase and phosphatidylcholine-modified (PC-modified) microemulsion mobile phase was used to estimate unionized and ionized drugs lipophilicity expressed as an n-octanol/water partition coefficient (logP and logD). The introduction of PC into sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) microemulsion yielded a good correlation between logk and logD (R(2)=0.8). The optimal composition of the PC-modified microemulsion liquid chromatography (PC-modified MELC) mobile phase was 0.2% PC-3.0% SDS-6.0% n-butanol-0.8% ethyl acetate-90.0% water (pH 7.0) for neutral and ionized molecules. The interactions between the analytes and system described by this chromatographic method is more similar to biological membrane than the n-octanol/water partition system. The result in this paper suggests that PC-modified MELC can serve as a possible alternative to the shake-flask method for high-throughput unionized and ionized drugs lipophilicity determination and simulation of biological processes. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

SU-F-T-274: Modified Dose Calibration Methods for IMRT QA

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

Luo, W; Westlund, S

2016-06-15

Purpose: To investigate IMRT QA uncertainties caused by dose calibration and modify widely used dose calibration procedures to improve IMRT QA accuracy and passing rate. Methods: IMRT QA dose measurement is calibrated using a calibration factor (CF) that is the ratio between measured value and expected value corresponding to the reference fields delivered on a phantom. Two IMRT QA phantoms were used for this study: a 30×30×30 cm3 solid water cube phantom (Cube), and the PTW Octavius phantom. CF was obtained by delivering 100 MUs to the phantoms with different reference fields ranging from 3×3 cm2 to 20×20 cm{sup 2}.more » For Cube, CFs were obtained using the following beam arrangements: 2-AP Field - chamber at dmax, 2-AP Field - chamber at isocenter, 4-beam box - chamber at isocenter, and 8 equally spaced fields and chamber at isocenter. The same plans were delivered on Octavius and CFs were derived for the dose at the isocenter using the above beam arrangements. The Octavius plans were evaluated with PTW-VeriSoft (Gamma criteria of 3%/3mm). Results: Four head and neck IMRT plans were included in this study. For point dose measurement with Cube, the CFs with 4-Field gave the best agreement between measurement and calculation within 4% for large field plans. All the measurement results agreed within 2% for a small field plan. Compared with calibration field sizes, 5×5 to 15×15 were more accurate than other field sizes. For Octavius, 4-Field calibration increased passing rate by up to 10% compared to AP calibration. Passing rate also increased by up to 4% with the increase of field size from 3×3 to 20×20. Conclusion: IMRT QA results are correlated with calibration methods used. The dose calibration using 4-beam box with field sizes from 5×5 to 20×20 can improve IMRT QA accuracy and passing rate.« less

Integrated analysis on static/dynamic aeroelasticity of curved panels based on a modified local piston theory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Zhichun; Zhou, Jian; Gu, Yingsong

2014-10-01

A flow field modified local piston theory, which is applied to the integrated analysis on static/dynamic aeroelastic behaviors of curved panels, is proposed in this paper. The local flow field parameters used in the modification are obtained by CFD technique which has the advantage to simulate the steady flow field accurately. This flow field modified local piston theory for aerodynamic loading is applied to the analysis of static aeroelastic deformation and flutter stabilities of curved panels in hypersonic flow. In addition, comparisons are made between results obtained by using the present method and curvature modified method. It shows that when the curvature of the curved panel is relatively small, the static aeroelastic deformations and flutter stability boundaries obtained by these two methods have little difference, while for curved panels with larger curvatures, the static aeroelastic deformation obtained by the present method is larger and the flutter stability boundary is smaller compared with those obtained by the curvature modified method, and the discrepancy increases with the increasing of curvature of panels. Therefore, the existing curvature modified method is non-conservative compared to the proposed flow field modified method based on the consideration of hypersonic flight vehicle safety, and the proposed flow field modified local piston theory for curved panels enlarges the application range of piston theory.

Pressure-induced magneto-structural transition in iron via a modified solid-state nudged elastic band method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zarkevich, Nikolai A.; Johnson, Duane D.

2015-03-01

Materials under pressure may exhibit critical electronic and structural transitions that affect equation of states, as known for superconductors and the magneto-structural transformations of iron with both geophysical and planetary implications. While experiments often use constant-pressure (diamond-anvil cell, DAC) measurements, many theoretical results address a constant-volume transitions, which avoid issues with magnetic collapse but cannot be directly compared to experiment. We establish a modified solid-state nudge elastic band (MSS-NEB) method to handle magnetic systems that may exhibit moment (and volume) collapse during transformation. We apply it to the pressure-induced transformation in iron between the low-pressure body-centered cubic (bcc) and the high-pressure hexagonal close-packed (hcp) phases, find the bcc-hcp equilibrium coexistence pressure and a transitional pathway, and compare to shock and DAC experiments. We use methods developed with support by the U.S. Department of Energy (DE-FG02-03ER46026 and DE-AC02-07CH11358). Ames Laboratory is operated for the DOE by Iowa State University under contract DE-AC02-07CH11358.

Getting super-excited with modified dispersion relations

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

Ashoorioon, Amjad; Casadio, Roberto; Geshnizjani, Ghazal

We demonstrate that in some regions of parameter space, modified dispersion relations can lead to highly populated excited states, which we dub as 'super-excited' states. In order to prepare such super-excited states, we invoke dispersion relations that have negative slope in an interim sub-horizon phase at high momenta. This behaviour of quantum fluctuations can lead to large corrections relative to the Bunch-Davies power spectrum, which mimics highly excited initial conditions. We identify the Bogolyubov coefficients that can yield these power spectra. In the course of this computation, we also point out the shortcomings of the gluing method for evaluating themore » power spectrum and the Bogolyubov coefficients. As we discuss, there are other regions of parameter space, where the power spectrum does not get modified. Therefore, modified dispersion relations can also lead to so-called 'calm excited states'. We conclude by commenting on the possibility of obtaining these modified dispersion relations within the Effective Field Theory of Inflation.« less

Modified cyanobacteria

DOEpatents

Vermaas, Willem F J.

2014-06-17

Disclosed is a modified photoautotrophic bacterium comprising genes of interest that are modified in terms of their expression and/or coding region sequence, wherein modification of the genes of interest increases production of a desired product in the bacterium relative to the amount of the desired product production in a photoautotrophic bacterium that is not modified with respect to the genes of interest.

Comparison of Three Surgical Methods in Treatment of Patients with Pilonidal Sinus: Modified Excision and Repair/Wide Excision/Wide Excision and Flap in RASOUL, OMID and SADR Hospitals( 2004-2007).

PubMed

Hosseini, Mostafa; Heidari, Afshin; Jafarnejad, Babak

2013-10-01

This study is a comparison between three methods that are frequently used for the surgical treatment of pilonidal disease all over the world: modified excision and repair, wide excision and secondary repair, and wide excision and flap. The first technique is done by our group for the first time, and has not been described previously in the literature. This is an interventional study performed at Omid, Sadr, and Rasoul Akram hospitals on patients who had undergone operation because of pilonidal sinus disease and met the inclusion criteria between 2004 and 2007. Exclusion criteria were (1) acute pilonidal sinus diseases, (2) history of pilonidal sinus surgery, (3) history of systemic diseases (DM, malignancy, etc.), and (4) pilonidal abscess. Essential information was extracted from complete medical archives. Any data not available in files or during follow-up visits (all patients supposed to be followed at least for 1 year) were gathered by a telephone interview. A total of 194 patients met the criteria and had complete archived files. Longer duration of hospital stay was found in the "wide excision and closing with flap" method comparing with two other methods (P < 0.05). Length of incapacity for work was not different between the "wide excision and modified repair" and "wide excision" (P > 0.5) methods, but longer for "wide excision and flap" in comparison with two others (P < 0.05). Healing time was significantly longer in the "wide excision" method in comparison with two other methods (P < 0.05). However, "wide excision and modified repair" method had the least healing time between all above techniques, except for length of leaving the office. All the three recurrences (1.5 %) occurred in the wide excision and flap method (P < 0.05). The frequency of postoperative complications was 2 (3.3 %) in wide excision and modified repair, 15 (18.5 %) in wide excision, and 17 (32.7 %) in wide excision and flap closure; these differences in

Polymeric mercaptosilane-modified platinum electrodes for elimination of interferants in glucose biosensors.

PubMed

Jung, S K; Wilson, G S

1996-02-15

An oxidase-based glucose sensor has been developed that uses a mercaptosilane-modified platinum electrode to achieve selectivity of electrochemical interferants. A platinum-iridium (9:1) wire (0.178 mm o.d., sensing area of 1.12 mm2) is modified with (3-mercaptopropyl)trimethoxysilane. The modified sensors show excellent operational stability for more than 5 days. Glucose oxidase is immobilized on the modified surface (i) by using 3-maleimidopropionic acid as a linker or (ii) by cross-liking with bovine serum albumin using glutaraldehyde. Sensitivities in the range of 9.97 nA/mM glucose are observed when the enzyme is immobilized by method ii. Lower sensitivities (1.13 x 10(-1) nA/mM glucose) are observed when immobilization method i is employed. In terms of linear response range, the sensor enzyme-immobilized by method i is superior to that immobilized by method ii. The linearity is improved upon coating the enzyme layer with polyurethane. The sensor immobilized by method ii and coated with polyurethane exhibits a linear range to 15 mM glucose and excellent selectivity to glucose (0.47 nA/mM) against interferants such as ascorbic acid, uric acid, and acetaminophen.

Cancellous bone analysis with modified least squares Prony's method and chirp filter: phantom experiments and simulation.

PubMed

Wear, Keith A

2010-10-01

The presence of two longitudinal waves in porous media is predicted by Biot's theory and has been confirmed experimentally in cancellous bone. When cancellous bone samples are interrogated in through-transmission, these two waves can overlap in time. Previously, the Modified Least-Squares Prony's (MLSP) method was validated for estimation of amplitudes, attenuation coefficients, and phase velocities of fast and slow waves, but tended to overestimate phase velocities by up to about 5%. In the present paper, a pre-processing chirp filter to mitigate the phase velocity bias is derived. The MLSP/chirp filter (MLSPCF) method was tested for decomposition of a 500 kHz-center-frequency signal containing two overlapping components: one passing through a low-density-polyethylene plate (fast wave) and another passing through a cancellous-bone-mimicking phantom material (slow wave). The chirp filter reduced phase velocity bias from 100 m/s (5.1%) to 69 m/s (3.5%) (fast wave) and from 29 m/s (1.9%) to 10 m/s (0.7%) (slow wave). Similar improvements were found for 1) measurements in polycarbonate (fast wave) and a cancellous-bone-mimicking phantom (slow wave), and 2) a simulation based on parameters mimicking bovine cancellous bone. The MLSPCF method did not offer consistent improvement in estimates of attenuation coefficient or amplitude.

Determining the Transference Number of H[superscript +](aq) by a Modified Moving Boundary Method: A Directed Study for the Undergraduate Physical Chemistry Laboratory

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dabke, Rajeev B.; Gebeyehu, Zewdu; Padelford, Jonathan

2012-01-01

A directed study for the undergraduate physical chemistry laboratory for determining the transference number of H[superscript +](aq) using a modified moving boundary method is presented. The laboratory study combines Faraday's laws of electrolysis with mole ratios and the perfect gas equation. The volume of hydrogen gas produced at the cathode is…

A comparison of 2 cesarean section methods, modified Misgav-Ladach and Pfannenstiel-Kerr: A randomized controlled study.

PubMed

Şahin, Nur; Genc, Mine; Turan, Gülüzar Arzu; Kasap, Esin; Güçlü, Serkan

2018-03-13

The modified Misgav-Ladach method (MML) is a minimally invasive cesarean section procedure compared with the classic Pfannenstiel-Kerr (PK) method. The aim of the study was to compare the MML method and the PK method in terms of intraoperative and short-term postoperative outcomes. This prospective, randomized controlled trial involved 252 pregnant women scheduled for primary emergency or elective cesarean section between October, 2014 and July, 2015. The primary outcome measures were the duration of surgery, extraction time, Apgar score, blood loss, wound complications, and number of sutures used. Secondary outcome measures were the wound infection, time of bowel restitution, visual analogue scale (VAS) scores at 6 h and 24 h after the operation, limitations in movement, and analgesic requirements. At 6 weeks after surgery, the patients were evaluated regarding late complications. There was a significant reduction in total operating and extraction time in the MML group (p < 0.001). Limitations in movement were lower at 24 h after the MML operation, and less analgesic was required in the MML group. There was no difference between the 2 groups in terms of febrile morbidity or the duration of hospitalization. At 6 weeks after the operation, no complaints and no additional complications from the surgery were noted. The MML method is a minimally invasive cesarean section. In the future, as surgeons' experience increases, MML will likely be chosen more often than the classic PK method.

9 CFR 77.9 - Modified accredited advanced States or zones.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... TUBERCULOSIS Cattle and Bison § 77.9 Modified accredited advanced States or zones. (a) The following are... “Uniform Methods and Rules—Bovine Tuberculosis Eradication” (January 22, 1999), which is incorporated by... accredited advanced States or zones and its being reclassified as modified accredited. (d) If tuberculosis is...

How the modified method of orbit quality assessment works for Oort spike comets?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Królikowska, Małgorzata; Dybczyński, Piotr A.

2018-06-01

We present a brief overview of the effectiveness of the modified method of a quality of orbit estimation proposed by us a few years ago. Having now a complete sample of 100 Oort spike comets with large perihelion distances, we show that it was justified to introduce more restricted conditions separating the individual quality classes as well as introducing a new quality class containing orbits of the excellent quality, marked by us as 1a+. To enrich the perception, we provided a complete collection of visual time distributions of positional data sets used by us for an orbit determination (see the Appendix). We show that modern positional measurements of large-perihelion Oort spike comets should be carried out for at least 3 yr around perihelion (three-four oppositions) to be almost certain that the derived orbit will be of the highest quality (1a+ class). Our results strongly support an expectation that in near future it will be possible to study the shape of 1/aori-distribution of the Oort spike comets in great detail basing only on the highest quality orbits, having 1/aori-uncertainties well below 5 × 10-6 au-1.

Resolution of overlapped spectra for the determination of ternary mixture using different and modified spectrophotometric methods.

PubMed

Moussa, Bahia Abbas; El-Zaher, Asmaa Ahmed; Mahrouse, Marianne Alphonse; Ahmed, Maha Said

2016-08-05

Four new spectrophotometric methods were developed, applied to resolve the overlapped spectra of a ternary mixture of [aliskiren hemifumarate (ALS)-amlodipine besylate (AM)-hydrochlorothiazide (HCT)] and to determine the three drugs in pure form and in combined dosage form. Method A depends on simultaneous determination of ALS, AM and HCT using principal component regression and partial least squares chemometric methods. In Method B, a modified isosbestic spectrophotometric method was applied for the determination of the total concentration of ALS and HCT by measuring the absorbance at 274.5nm (isosbestic point, Aiso). On the other hand, the concentration of HCT in ternary mixture with ALS and AM could be calculated without interference using first derivative spectrophotometric method by measuring the amplitude at 279nm (zero crossing of ALS and zero value of AM). Thus, the content of ALS was calculated by subtraction. Method C, double divisor first derivative ratio spectrophotometry (double divisor (1)DD method), was based on that for the determination of one drug, the ratio spectra were obtained by dividing the absorption spectra of its different concentrations by the sum of the absorption spectra of the other two drugs as a double divisor. The first derivative of the obtained ratio spectra were then recorded using the appropriate smoothing factor. The amplitudes at 291nm, 380nm and 274.5nm were selected for the determination of ALS, AM and HCT in their ternary mixture, respectively. Method D was based on mean centering of ratio spectra. The mean centered values at 287, 295.5 and 269nm were recorded and used for the determination of ALS, AM and HCT, respectively. The developed methods were validated according to ICH guidelines and proved to be accurate, precise and selective. Satisfactory results were obtained by applying the proposed methods to the analysis of pharmaceutical dosage form. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Application of Modified Particle Swarm Optimization Method for Parameter Extraction of 2-D TEC Mapping

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Toker, C.; Gokdag, Y. E.; Arikan, F.; Arikan, O.

2012-04-01

Ionosphere is a very important part of Space Weather. Modeling and monitoring of ionospheric variability is a major part of satellite communication, navigation and positioning systems. Total Electron Content (TEC), which is defined as the line integral of the electron density along a ray path, is one of the parameters to investigate the ionospheric variability. Dual-frequency GPS receivers, with their world wide availability and efficiency in TEC estimation, have become a major source of global and regional TEC modeling. When Global Ionospheric Maps (GIM) of International GPS Service (IGS) centers (http://iono.jpl.nasa.gov/gim.html) are investigated, it can be observed that regional ionosphere along the midlatitude regions can be modeled as a constant, linear or a quadratic surface. Globally, especially around the magnetic equator, the TEC surfaces resemble twisted and dispersed single centered or double centered Gaussian functions. Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) proved itself as a fast converging and an effective optimization tool in various diverse fields. Yet, in order to apply this optimization technique into TEC modeling, the method has to be modified for higher efficiency and accuracy in extraction of geophysical parameters such as model parameters of TEC surfaces. In this study, a modified PSO (mPSO) method is applied to regional and global synthetic TEC surfaces. The synthetic surfaces that represent the trend and small scale variability of various ionospheric states are necessary to compare the performance of mPSO over number of iterations, accuracy in parameter estimation and overall surface reconstruction. The Cramer-Rao bounds for each surface type and model are also investigated and performance of mPSO are tested with respect to these bounds. For global models, the sample points that are used in optimization are obtained using IGS receiver network. For regional TEC models, regional networks such as Turkish National Permanent GPS Network (TNPGN

Characterization and stability studies of a novel liposomal cyclosporin A prepared using the supercritical fluid method: comparison with the modified conventional Bangham method

PubMed Central

Karn, Pankaj Ranjan; Cho, Wonkyung; Park, Hee-Jun; Park, Jeong-Sook; Hwang, Sung-Joo

2013-01-01

A novel method to prepare cyclosporin A encapsulated liposomes was introduced using supercritical fluid of carbon dioxide (SCF-CO2) as an antisolvent. To investigate the strength of the newly developed SCF-CO2 method compared with the modified conventional Bangham method, particle size, zeta potential, and polydispersity index (PDI) of both liposomal formulations were characterized and compared. In addition, entrapment efficiency (EE) and drug loading (DL) characteristics were analyzed by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. Significantly larger particle size and PDI were revealed from the conventional method, while EE (%) and DL (%) did not exhibit any significant differences. The SCF-CO2 liposomes were found to be relatively smaller, multilamellar, and spherical with a smoother surface as determined by transmission electron microscopy. SCF-CO2 liposomes showed no significant differences in their particle size and PDI after more than 3 months, whereas conventional liposomes exhibited significant changes in their particle size. The initial yield (%), EE (%), and DL (%) of SCF-CO2 liposomes and conventional liposomes were 90.98 ± 2.94, 92.20 ± 1.36, 20.99 ± 0.84 and 90.72 ± 2.83, 90.24 ± 1.37, 20.47 ± 0.94, respectively, which changed after 14 weeks to 86.65 ± 0.30, 87.63 ± 0.72, 18.98 ± 0.22 and 75.04 ± 8.80, 84.59 ± 5.13, 15.94 ± 2.80, respectively. Therefore, the newly developed SCF-CO2 method could be a better alternative compared with the conventional method and may provide a promising approach for large-scale production of liposomes. PMID:23378759

Modified screening and ranking algorithm for copy number variation detection.

PubMed

Xiao, Feifei; Min, Xiaoyi; Zhang, Heping

2015-05-01

Copy number variation (CNV) is a type of structural variation, usually defined as genomic segments that are 1 kb or larger, which present variable copy numbers when compared with a reference genome. The screening and ranking algorithm (SaRa) was recently proposed as an efficient approach for multiple change-points detection, which can be applied to CNV detection. However, some practical issues arise from application of SaRa to single nucleotide polymorphism data. In this study, we propose a modified SaRa on CNV detection to address these issues. First, we use the quantile normalization on the original intensities to guarantee that the normal mean model-based SaRa is a robust method. Second, a novel normal mixture model coupled with a modified Bayesian information criterion is proposed for candidate change-point selection and further clustering the potential CNV segments to copy number states. Simulations revealed that the modified SaRa became a robust method for identifying change-points and achieved better performance than the circular binary segmentation (CBS) method. By applying the modified SaRa to real data from the HapMap project, we illustrated its performance on detecting CNV segments. In conclusion, our modified SaRa method improves SaRa theoretically and numerically, for identifying CNVs with high-throughput genotyping data. The modSaRa package is implemented in R program and freely available at http://c2s2.yale.edu/software/modSaRa. Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Thermoelectric properties of CuS/Ag{sub 2}S nanocomposites synthesed by modified polyol method

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

Tarachand,, E-mail: tarachand@csr.res.in; Sharma, Vikash; Ganesan, V.

This is the report on successful synthesis of Ag doped CuS nanostructures by modified polyol method. The resulting samples were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), atomic force microscopy (AFM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS). Particle size of pure CuS nanoparticles (NPs) was 17 nm, 38 nm and 97 nm as determined from Scherrer formula, AFM and DLS, respectively. Introduction of Ag led to formation of CuS/Ag{sub 2}S composites. A transition at 55 K in thermopower is ascribed to structural transformation from hexagonal to orthorhombic structure. Further, their thermoelectric properties exhibit remarkable change owing to Agmore » doping in CuS nanostructures. The power factor improves with increasing Ag content. They reveal that CuS/Ag{sub 2}S nanocomposites are some of the potential candidates for generation of thermoelectricity in future.« less

Modified femtosecond laser inscription method for tailored grating sensors in encapsulated silica and low-loss polymer optical fibres

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kalli, Kyriacos; Lacraz, Amedee; Theodosiou, Andreas; Kofinas, Marios

2016-05-01

There is great interest in the development of flexible wavelength filters and optical fibre sensors, such as Bragg and superstructure gratings, grating arrays and chirped gratings in glass and polymer optical fibres. A major hurdle is the development of an inscription method that should offer flexibility and reliability and be generally applicable to all optical fibre types. With this in mind we have developed a novel femtosecond laser inscription method; plane-by-plane inscription, whereby a 3D-index change of controlled length across the fibre core, width along the fibre axis and depth is written into the optical fibre. We apply this method for the inscription of various grating types in coated silica and low- loss CYTOP polymer optical fibres. The plane-by-plane method allows for multiple and overlapping gratings in the fibre core. Moreover, we demonstrate that this novel fibre Bragg grating inscription technique can be used to modify and add versatility to an existing, encapsulated optical fibre pressure sensor. The femtosecond laser is operated in the green or the near infra-red, based on the material properties under laser modification.

Habitat relationships of reptiles in pine beetle disturbed forests of Alabama, U.S.A., with guidelines for a modified drift-fence sampling method

Treesearch

William B. Sutton; Yong Wang; Callie J. Schweitzer

2010-01-01

Understanding vertebrate habitat relationships is important to promote management strategies for the longterm conservation of many species. Using a modified drift fence method, we sampled reptiles and compared habitat variables within the William B. Bankhead National Forest (BNF) in Alabama, U.S.A from April 2005 to June 2006. We captured 226 individual reptiles...

46 CFR 52.20-25 - Setting (modifies PFT-46).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Setting (modifies PFT-46). 52.20-25 Section 52.20-25 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING POWER BOILERS Requirements for Firetube Boilers § 52.20-25 Setting (modifies PFT-46). (a) The method of supporting firetube boilers shall be as indicated in PFT-46 of...

46 CFR 52.20-25 - Setting (modifies PFT-46).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Setting (modifies PFT-46). 52.20-25 Section 52.20-25 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING POWER BOILERS Requirements for Firetube Boilers § 52.20-25 Setting (modifies PFT-46). (a) The method of supporting firetube boilers shall be as indicated in PFT-46 of...

46 CFR 52.20-25 - Setting (modifies PFT-46).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Setting (modifies PFT-46). 52.20-25 Section 52.20-25 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING POWER BOILERS Requirements for Firetube Boilers § 52.20-25 Setting (modifies PFT-46). (a) The method of supporting firetube boilers shall be as indicated in PFT-46 of...

46 CFR 52.20-25 - Setting (modifies PFT-46).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Setting (modifies PFT-46). 52.20-25 Section 52.20-25 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING POWER BOILERS Requirements for Firetube Boilers § 52.20-25 Setting (modifies PFT-46). (a) The method of supporting firetube boilers shall be as indicated in PFT-46 of...

46 CFR 52.20-25 - Setting (modifies PFT-46).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 46 Shipping 2 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Setting (modifies PFT-46). 52.20-25 Section 52.20-25 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) MARINE ENGINEERING POWER BOILERS Requirements for Firetube Boilers § 52.20-25 Setting (modifies PFT-46). (a) The method of supporting firetube boilers shall be as indicated in PFT-46 of...

Evaluation of Modified Risk Claim Advertising Formats for Camel Snus

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fix, Brian V.; Adkison, Sarah E.; O'Connor, Richard J.; Bansal-Travers, Maansi; Cummings, K. Michael; Rees, Vaughan W.; Hatsukami, Dorothy K.

2017-01-01

Objectives: The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has regulatory authority for modified risk tobacco product advertising claims. To guide future regulatory efforts, we investigated how variations in modified risk claim advertisements influence consumer perceptions of product risk claims for Camel Snus. Methods: Young people and adults (15-65),…

A novel method of naturally contouring the reconstructed ear: modified antihelix complex affixed to grooved base frame.

PubMed

Li, Datao; Zhang, Ruhong; Zhang, Qun; Xu, Zhicheng; Xu, Feng; Li, Yiyuan; Sun, Nan; Wang, Cheng

2014-05-01

Prior reports of ear reconstruction have cited favorable results. Although greater attention has been devoted to fabricating a more refined cartilaginous framework, many patients still complain that the contours are unnatural. The authors' aim was to offer a new technique that resolves some lingering issues. To fabricate the antihelix complex optimally, the authors modified an existing method. Rather than chiseling a sharp, Y-shaped graft of cartilage for structural prominence, the superior crus is broadened, and a gentle slope is sculpted on both aspects. Simultaneously, a groove in the base frame is carved for smooth attachment. The width of the inferior crus is limited to roughly one-third that of the superior crus, and the inferior crus is maintained in high relief. A gentle slope is shaped on the antihelix, and a groove for placement of the antihelix is carved into the base frame. Between 2011 and 2013, a total of 162 patients underwent reconstruction using this modified technique. Three such subjects have been selected to highlight the favorable results achieved. Given modifications confer natural contours to superior and inferior crura, antihelix, and surrounding structures, providing a cohesive framework for the integrity of a reconstructed ear. The antihelix complex is critical for creating a natural auricle. Harmonious integration of superior and inferior crura and antihelix enhances the overall aesthetics, increasing procedural satisfaction for patient and surgeon alike. Therapeutic, IV.

Magnetically modified bioсells in constant magnetic field

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abramov, E. G.; Panina, L. K.; Kolikov, V. A.; Bogomolova, E. V.; Snetov, V. N.; Cherepkova, I. A.; Kiselev, A. A.

2017-02-01

Paper addresses the inverse problem in determining the area, where the external constant magnetic field captures the biological cells modified by the magnetic nanoparticles. Zero velocity isolines, in area where the modified cells are captured by the magnetic field were determined by numerical method for two locations of the magnet. The problem was solved taking into account the gravitational field, magnetic induction, density of medium, concentration and size of cells, and size and magnetization of nanoparticles attached to the cell. Increase in the number of the nanoparticles attached to the cell and decrease in the cell' size, enlarges the area, where the modified cells are captured and concentrated by the magnet. Solution is confirmed by the visible pattern formation of the modified cells Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

Inadequacy, Impurity and Infidelity; Modifying the Modified Brendel Alpha-Cellulose Extraction Method for Resinous Woods in Stable Isotope Dendroclimatology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brookman, T. H.; Whittaker, T. E.; King, P. L.; Horton, T. W.

2011-12-01

Stable isotope dendroclimatology is a burgeoning field in palaeoclimate science due to its unique potential to contribute (sub)annually resolved climate records, over millennial timescales, to the terrestrial palaeoclimate record. Until recently the time intensive methods precluded long-term climate reconstructions. Advances in continuous-flow mass spectrometry and isolation methods for α-cellulose (ideal for palaeoclimate studies as, unlike other wood components, it retains its initial isotopic composition) have made long-term, calendar dated palaeoclimate reconstructions a viable proposition. The Modified Brendel (mBrendel) α-cellulose extraction method is a fast, cost-effective way of preparing whole-wood samples for stable oxygen and carbon isotope analysis. However, resinous woods often yield incompletely processed α-cellulose using the standard mBrendel approach. As climate signals may be recorded by small (<1%) isotopic shifts it is important to investigate if incomplete processing affects the accuracy and precision of tree-ring isotopic records. In an effort to address this methodological issue, we investigated three highly resinous woods: kauri (Agathis australis), ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa) and huon pine (Lagarastrobus franklinii). Samples of each species were treated with 16 iterations of the mBrendel, varying reaction temperature, time and reagent volumes. Products were investigated using microscopic and bulk transmission Fourier Transform infrared spectroscopy (FITR) to reveal variations in the level of processing; poorly-digested fibres display a peak at 1520cm-1 suggesting residual lignin and a peak at ~1600cm-1 in some samples suggests retained resin. Despite the different levels of purity, replicate analyses of samples processed by high temperature digestion yielded consistent δ18O within and between experiments. All α-cellulose samples were 5-7% enriched compared to the whole-wood, suggesting that even incomplete processing at high

Modified tension band wiring of medial malleolar ankle fractures.

PubMed

Georgiadis, G M; White, D B

1995-02-01

Twenty-two displaced medial malleolar ankle fractures that were treated surgically using the modified tension band method of Cleak and Dawson were retrospectively reviewed at an average follow-up of 25 months. The technique involves the use of a screw to anchor a figure-of-eight wire. There were no malreductions and all fractures healed. Problems with the technique included technical errors with hardware placement, medial ankle pain, and asymptomatic wire migration. Despite this, modified tension band wiring remains an acceptable method for fixation of selected displaced medial malleolar fractures. It is especially suited for small fracture fragments and osteoporotic bone.

The Modified Hartmann Potential Effects on γ-rigid Bohr Hamiltonian

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suparmi, A.; Cari, C.; Nur Pratiwi, Beta

2018-04-01

In this paper, we present the solution of Bohr Hamiltonian in the case of γ-rigid for the modified Hartmann potential. The modified Hartmann potential was formed from the original Hartmann potential, consists of β function and θ function. By using the separation method, the three-dimensional Bohr Hamiltonian equation was reduced into three one-dimensional Schrodinger-like equation which was solved analytically. The results for the wavefunction were shown in mathematically, while for the binding energy was solved numerically. The numerical binding energy for the presence of the modified Hartmann potential is lower than the binding energy value in the absence of modified Hartmann potential effect.

Numerical solution of modified differential equations based on symmetry preservation.

PubMed

Ozbenli, Ersin; Vedula, Prakash

2017-12-01

In this paper, we propose a method to construct invariant finite-difference schemes for solution of partial differential equations (PDEs) via consideration of modified forms of the underlying PDEs. The invariant schemes, which preserve Lie symmetries, are obtained based on the method of equivariant moving frames. While it is often difficult to construct invariant numerical schemes for PDEs due to complicated symmetry groups associated with cumbersome discrete variable transformations, we note that symmetries associated with more convenient transformations can often be obtained by appropriately modifying the original PDEs. In some cases, modifications to the original PDEs are also found to be useful in order to avoid trivial solutions that might arise from particular selections of moving frames. In our proposed method, modified forms of PDEs can be obtained either by addition of perturbation terms to the original PDEs or through defect correction procedures. These additional terms, whose primary purpose is to enable symmetries with more convenient transformations, are then removed from the system by considering moving frames for which these specific terms go to zero. Further, we explore selection of appropriate moving frames that result in improvement in accuracy of invariant numerical schemes based on modified PDEs. The proposed method is tested using the linear advection equation (in one- and two-dimensions) and the inviscid Burgers' equation. Results obtained for these tests cases indicate that numerical schemes derived from the proposed method perform significantly better than existing schemes not only by virtue of improvement in numerical accuracy but also due to preservation of qualitative properties or symmetries of the underlying differential equations.

Modified Ponseti method of treatment for correction of neglected clubfoot in older children and adolescents--a preliminary report.

PubMed

Bashi, Ramin Haj Zargar; Baghdadi, Taghi; Shirazi, Mehdi Ramezan; Abdi, Reza; Aslani, Hossein

2016-03-01

Congenital talipes equinovarus may be the most common congenital orthopedic condition requiring treatment. Nonoperative treatment including different methods is generally accepted as the first step in the deformity correction. Ignacio Ponseti introduced his nonsurgical approach to the treatment of clubfoot in the early 1940s. The method is reportedly successful in treating clubfoot in patients up to 9 years of age. However, whether age at the beginning of treatment affects the rate of effective correction and relapse is unknown. We have applied the Ponseti method successfully with some modifications for 11 patients with a mean age of 11.2 years (range, 6 to 19 years) with neglected and untreated clubbed feet. The mean follow-up was 15 months (12 to 36 months). Correction was achieved with a mean of nine casts (six to 13). Clinically, 17 out of 18 feet (94.4%) were considered to achieve a good result with no need for further surgery. The application of this method of treatment is very simple and also cheap in developing countries with limited financial and social resources for health service. To the best of the authors' knowledge, such a modified method as a correction method for clubfoot in older children and adolescents has not been applied previously for neglected clubfeet in older children in the literature.

Modified RNA-seq method for microbial community and diversity analysis using rRNA in different types of environmental samples

PubMed Central

Yan, Yong-Wei; Zou, Bin; Zhu, Ting; Hozzein, Wael N.

2017-01-01

RNA-seq-based SSU (small subunit) rRNA (ribosomal RNA) analysis has provided a better understanding of potentially active microbial community within environments. However, for RNA-seq library construction, high quantities of purified RNA are typically required. We propose a modified RNA-seq method for SSU rRNA-based microbial community analysis that depends on the direct ligation of a 5’ adaptor to RNA before reverse-transcription. The method requires only a low-input quantity of RNA (10–100 ng) and does not require a DNA removal step. The method was initially tested on three mock communities synthesized with enriched SSU rRNA of archaeal, bacterial and fungal isolates at different ratios, and was subsequently used for environmental samples of high or low biomass. For high-biomass salt-marsh sediments, enriched SSU rRNA and total nucleic acid-derived RNA-seq datasets revealed highly consistent community compositions for all of the SSU rRNA sequences, and as much as 46.4%-59.5% of 16S rRNA sequences were suitable for OTU (operational taxonomic unit)-based community and diversity analyses with complete coverage of V1-V2 regions. OTU-based community structures for the two datasets were also highly consistent with those determined by all of the 16S rRNA reads. For low-biomass samples, total nucleic acid-derived RNA-seq datasets were analyzed, and highly active bacterial taxa were also identified by the OTU-based method, notably including members of the previously underestimated genus Nitrospira and phylum Acidobacteria in tap water, members of the phylum Actinobacteria on a shower curtain, and members of the phylum Cyanobacteria on leaf surfaces. More than half of the bacterial 16S rRNA sequences covered the complete region of primer 8F, and non-coverage rates as high as 38.7% were obtained for phylum-unclassified sequences, providing many opportunities to identify novel bacterial taxa. This modified RNA-seq method will provide a better snapshot of diverse

Characterization of silica particles modified with γ-methacryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jiang, Jun; Wang, Wang; Shen, Haiying; Wang, Jiamin; Cao, Jinzhen

2017-03-01

The surface of hydrophilic silica particles was modified with different concentrations (2, 4, 6, 8 and 10%) of γ-methacryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane (MPTS). The hydrophobicity and hygroscopicity of unmodified and modified silica were investigated through water contact angle (WCA) tests and dynamic vapor sorption (DVS) method, respectively. The results showed that the surface properties of silica were closely related with the MPTS concentration. Within the range of MPTS concentration applied, 8% MPTS modified silica showed the least aggregation. With the increasing MPTS concentration, the WCAs on modified silica film increased correspondingly, and finally exceeded 90° at 6% and 8% concentrations. The equilibrium moisture contents (EMCs) of modified silica also decreased with the increasing MPTS concentration. The improvement on hydrophobicity can be correlated with the reduction of residual hydroxyl groups (-OH) on modified silica. The self-condensation of MPTS began to occur at concentrations higher than 4%, especially at 8%. Owing to this effect, the modified silica with 8% MPTS showed a slightly higher EMC than 6% MPTS within low relative humidity (RH) range up to 40%. At a higher RH ranging from 40 to 90%, 8% group showed the lowest EMCs because of its highest hydrophobicity and low specific surface area. A mechanism concerning the MPTS modification of silica was also proposed in this study based on the research results.

COLA with scale-dependent growth: applications to screened modified gravity models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Winther, Hans A.; Koyama, Kazuya; Manera, Marc; Wright, Bill S.; Zhao, Gong-Bo

2017-08-01

We present a general parallelized and easy-to-use code to perform numerical simulations of structure formation using the COLA (COmoving Lagrangian Acceleration) method for cosmological models that exhibit scale-dependent growth at the level of first and second order Lagrangian perturbation theory. For modified gravity theories we also include screening using a fast approximate method that covers all the main examples of screening mechanisms in the literature. We test the code by comparing it to full simulations of two popular modified gravity models, namely f(R) gravity and nDGP, and find good agreement in the modified gravity boost-factors relative to ΛCDM even when using a fairly small number of COLA time steps.

Development of a simple one-pot extraction method for various drugs and metabolites of forensic interest in blood by modifying the QuEChERS method.

PubMed

Matsuta, Shuntaro; Nakanishi, Keiko; Miki, Akihiro; Zaitsu, Kei; Shima, Noriaki; Kamata, Tooru; Nishioka, Hiroshi; Katagi, Munehiro; Tatsuno, Michiaki; Tsuboi, Kento; Tsuchihashi, Hitoshi; Suzuki, Koichi

2013-10-10

A rapid and convenient extraction method has been developed for the determination of various drugs and metabolites of forensic interest in blood by modifying the dispersive solid-phase extraction method "QuEChERS". The following 13 analytes with various chemical properties were used for the method development and its validation: amphetamine, methamphetamine, zolpidem, the carboxylate-form major metabolite of zolpidem M-1, flunitrazepam, 7-aminoflunitrazepam, phenobarbital, triazolam, α-hydroxytriazolam, brotizolam, α-hydroxybrotizolam, chlorpromazine, and promethazine. The modification of the QuEChERS method includes the use of relatively large amounts of inorganic salts in order to coagulate blood, which allows easy isolation of the organic extract phase. A combination of 100 mg anhydrous magnesium sulfate as a dehydrating agent, 50mg sodium chloride as a salting-out agent, and 500 μL acetonitrile containing 0.2% acetic acid as the organic solvent provided the optimum conditions for processing a 100 μL whole blood sample. The recoveries of the analytes spiked into whole blood at 0.5 μg/mL ranged between 59% and 93%. Although the addition of the graphitized carbon Envi-carb for cleanup decreased the recoveries of zolpidem and its carboxylate-form metabolite M-1, it was very effective in avoiding interferences by cholesterol. The present method can provide a rapid, effective, user-friendly, and relatively hygienic method for the simultaneous extraction of a wide range of drugs and metabolites in whole blood specimens. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

High surface area neodymium phosphate nano particles by modified aqueous sol-gel method

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

Sankar, Sasidharan; Warrier, Krishna Gopakumar, E-mail: wwarrierkgk@yahoo.co.in; Komban, Rajesh

2011-12-15

Graphical abstract: Synthesis of nano rod shaped neodymium phosphate particles with specific surface area as high as 107 m{sup 2} g{sup -1} and particles could be compacted and sintered at as low as 1300 Degree-Sign C to a density of 98.5% (theoretical) with an average grain size of {approx}1 {mu}m. Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Nano size neodymium phosphate is synthesized and characterized using a novel modified aqueous sol gel process. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Specific surface area above 100 m{sup 2} g{sup -1} achieved without the addition of any complexing agents. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer High sintered density reported than the density obtained for powder synthesized through conventionalmore » solid state reaction. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The particles are nano sized and have rod shape morphology and are retained at higher temperatures. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer An average grain size of {approx}1 {mu}m obtained for sintered NdPO{sub 4} after thermal etching at 1400 Degree-Sign C. -- Abstract: Synthesis of nano rod shaped neodymium phosphate (NdPO{sub 4}) particles with specific surface area as high as 107 m{sup 2}g{sup -1} and an average length of 50 nm with aspect ratio 5 was achieved using modified sol gel method. Crystallite size calculated from the X-ray diffraction data by applying Scherer equation was 5 nm for the precursor gel after calcination at 400 Degree-Sign C. NdPO{sub 4} was first precipitated from neodymium nitrate solution using phosphoric acid followed by peptization using dilute nitric acid and further gelation in ammonia atmosphere. The calcined gel powders were further characterized by surface area (Brunauer-Emmet-Teller nitrogen adsorption analysis), Transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, UV-vis and FT-IR analysis. Transmission electron microscopy confirms the formation of rod like morphology from the sol, gel and the calcined particles in nano size range. These particles could be

Determination of caffeic acid in wine using PEDOT film modified electrode.

PubMed

Bianchini, C; Curulli, A; Pasquali, M; Zane, D

2014-08-01

A novel method using PEDOT (poly(3,4-ethylenedioxy) thiophene) modified electrode was developed for the determination of caffeic acid (CA) in wine. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) with the additions standard method was used to quantify the analyte at PEDOT modified electrodes. PEDOT films were electrodeposited on Platinum electrode (Pt) in aqueous medium by galvanostatic method using sodium poly(styrene-4-sulfonate) (PSS) as electrolyte and surfactant. CV allows detecting the analyte over a wide concentration range (10.0nmoll(-1)-6.5mmoll(-1)). The electrochemical method proposed showed good statistical and analytical parameters as linearity range, LOD, LOQ and sensitivity. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Detection and traceability of genetically modified organisms in the food production chain.

PubMed

Miraglia, M; Berdal, K G; Brera, C; Corbisier, P; Holst-Jensen, A; Kok, E J; Marvin, H J P; Schimmel, H; Rentsch, J; van Rie, J P P F; Zagon, J

2004-07-01

Both labelling and traceability of genetically modified organisms are current issues that are considered in trade and regulation. Currently, labelling of genetically modified foods containing detectable transgenic material is required by EU legislation. A proposed package of legislation would extend this labelling to foods without any traces of transgenics. These new legislations would also impose labelling and a traceability system based on documentation throughout the food and feed manufacture system. The regulatory issues of risk analysis and labelling are currently harmonised by Codex Alimentarius. The implementation and maintenance of the regulations necessitates sampling protocols and analytical methodologies that allow for accurate determination of the content of genetically modified organisms within a food and feed sample. Current methodologies for the analysis of genetically modified organisms are focused on either one of two targets, the transgenic DNA inserted- or the novel protein(s) expressed- in a genetically modified product. For most DNA-based detection methods, the polymerase chain reaction is employed. Items that need consideration in the use of DNA-based detection methods include the specificity, sensitivity, matrix effects, internal reference DNA, availability of external reference materials, hemizygosity versus homozygosity, extrachromosomal DNA, and international harmonisation. For most protein-based methods, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays with antibodies binding the novel protein are employed. Consideration should be given to the selection of the antigen bound by the antibody, accuracy, validation, and matrix effects. Currently, validation of detection methods for analysis of genetically modified organisms is taking place. In addition, new methodologies are developed, including the use of microarrays, mass spectrometry, and surface plasmon resonance. Challenges for GMO detection include the detection of transgenic material in materials

Calculation of the Local Free Energy Landscape in the Restricted Region by the Modified Tomographic Method.

PubMed

Chen, Changjun

2016-03-31

The free energy landscape is the most important information in the study of the reaction mechanisms of the molecules. However, it is difficult to calculate. In a large collective variable space, a molecule must take a long time to obtain the sufficient sampling during the simulation. To save the calculation quantity, decreasing the sampling region and constructing the local free energy landscape is required in practice. However, the restricted region in the collective variable space may have an irregular shape. Simply restricting one or more collective variables of the molecule cannot satisfy the requirement. In this paper, we propose a modified tomographic method to perform the simulation. First, it divides the restricted region by some hyperplanes and connects the centers of hyperplanes together by a curve. Second, it forces the molecule to sample on the curve and the hyperplanes in the simulation and calculates the free energy data on them. Finally, all the free energy data are combined together to form the local free energy landscape. Without consideration of the area outside the restricted region, this free energy calculation can be more efficient. By this method, one can further optimize the path quickly in the collective variable space.

Synthesis of base-modified 2'-deoxyribonucleoside triphosphates and their use in enzymatic synthesis of modified DNA for applications in bioanalysis and chemical biology.

PubMed

Hocek, Michal

2014-11-07

The synthesis of 2'-deoxyribonucleoside triphosphates (dNTPs) either by classical triphosphorylation of nucleosides or by aqueous cross-coupling reactions of halogenated dNTPs is discussed. Different enzymatic methods for synthesis of modified oligonucleotides and DNA by polymerase incorporation of modified nucleotides are summarized, and the applications in redox or fluorescent labeling, as well as in bioconjugations and modulation of interactions of DNA with proteins, are outlined.

A modified method for locating parapharyngeal space neoplasms on magnetic resonance images: implications for differential diagnosis

PubMed Central

Liu, Xue-Wen; Wang, Ling; Li, Hui; Zhang, Rong; Geng, Zhi-Jun; Wang, De-Ling; Xie, Chuan-Miao

2014-01-01

The parapharyngeal space (PPS) is an inverted pyramid-shaped deep space in the head and neck region, and a variety of tumors, such as salivary gland tumors, neurogenic tumors, nasopharyngeal carcinomas with parapharyngeal invasion, and lymphomas, can be found in this space. The differential diagnosis of PPS tumors remains challenging for radiologists. This study aimed to develop and test a modified method for locating PPS tumors on magnetic resonance (MR) images to improve preoperative differential diagnosis. The new protocol divided the PPS into three compartments: a prestyloid compartment, the carotid sheath, and the areas outside the carotid sheath. PPS tumors were located in these compartments according to the displacements of the tensor veli palatini muscle and the styloid process, with or without blood vessel separations and medial pterygoid invasion. This protocol, as well as a more conventional protocol that is based on displacements of the internal carotid artery (ICA), was used to assess MR images captured from a series of 58 PPS tumors. The consequent distributions of PPS tumor locations determined by both methods were compared. Of all 58 tumors, our new method determined that 57 could be assigned to precise PPS compartments. Nearly all (13/14; 93%) tumors that were located in the pre-styloid compartment were salivary gland tumors. All 15 tumors within the carotid sheath were neurogenic tumors. The vast majority (18/20; 90%) of trans-spatial lesions were malignancies. However, according to the ICA-based method, 28 tumors were located in the pre-styloid compartment, and 24 were located in the post-styloid compartment, leaving 6 tumors that were difficult to locate. Lesions located in both the pre-styloid and the post-styloid compartments comprised various types of tumors. Compared with the conventional ICA-based method, our new method can help radiologists to narrow the differential diagnosis of PPS tumors to specific compartments. PMID:25104280

Initial results from the NASA Lewis Bumpy Torus experiment. [of steady-state ion heating method based on modified Penning discharge

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Roth, J. R.; Richardson, R. W.; Gerdin, G. A.

1973-01-01

Initial results were obtained from low power operation of the NASA Lewis Bumpy Torus experiment, in which a steady-state ion heating method based on the modified Penning discharge is applied in a bumpy torus confinement geometry. The magnet facility consists of 12 superconducting coils, each 19 cm i.d. and capable of 3.0 T, equally spaced in a toroidal array 1.52 m in major diameter. A 18 cm i.d. anode ring is located at each of the 12 midplanes and is maintained at high positive potentials by a dc power supply. Initial observations indicate electron temperatures from 10 to 150 eV, and ion kinetic temperatures from 200 eV to 1200 eV. Two modes of operation were observed, which depend on background pressure, and have different radial density profiles. Steady state neutron production was observed. The ion heating process in the bumpy torus appears to parallel closely the mechanism observed when the modified Penning discharge was operated in a simple magnetic mirror field.

Uranium and Calcium Isotope Ratio Measurements using the Modified Total Evaporation Method in TIMS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Richter, S.; Kuehn, H.; Berglund, M.; Hennessy, C.

2010-12-01

A new version of the "modified total evaporation" (MTE) method for isotopic analysis by multi-collector thermal ionization mass spectrometry (TIMS), with high analytical performance and designed in a more user-friendly and routinely applicable way, is described in detail. It is mainly being used for nuclear safeguards measurements of U and Pu and nuclear metrology, but can readily be applied to other scientific tasks in geochemistry, e.g. for Sr, Nd and Ca, as well. The development of the MTE method was organized in collaboration of several "key nuclear mass spectrometry laboratories", namely the New Brunswick Laboratory (NBL), the Institute for Transuranium Elements (ITU), the Safeguards Analytical Laboratory (now Safeguards Analytical Services, SGAS) of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the Institute for Reference Materials and Measurements (IRMM), with IRMM taking the leading role. The manufacturer of the TRITON TIMS instrument, Thermo Fisher Scientific, integrated this method into the software of the instrument. The development has now reached its goal to become a user-friendly and routinely useable method for uranium isotope ratio measurements with high precision and accuracy. Due to the use of the “total evaporation” (TE) method the measurement of the "major" uranium isotope ratio 235U/238U is routinely being performed with a precision of 0.01% to 0.02%. The use of a (certified) reference material measured under comparable conditions is emphasized to achieve an accuracy at a level of 0.02% - depending on the stated uncertainty of the certified value of the reference material. In contrast to the total evaporation method (TE), in the MTE method the total evaporation sequence is interrupted on a regular basis to allow for correction for background from peak tailing, internal calibration of a secondary electron multiplier (SEM) detector versus the Faraday cups, and ion source re-focusing. Therefore, the most significant improvement using the

Gout: a review of non-modifiable and modifiable risk factors

PubMed Central

MacFarlane, Lindsey A.; Kim, Seoyoung C.

2014-01-01

Gout is a common inflammatory arthritis triggered by the crystallization of uric acid within the joints. Gout affects millions worldwide and has an increasing prevalence. Recent research has been carried out to better qualify and quantify the risk factors predisposing individuals to gout. These can largely be broken into non-modifiable risk factors such as sex, age, race, and genetics, and modifiable risk factors such as diet and lifestyle. Increasing knowledge of factors predisposing certain individuals to gout could potentially lead to improved preventive practices. This review summarizes the non-modifiable and modifiable risk factors associated with development of gout. PMID:25437279

Effects of Manufacturing Methods on Dissolution and Absorption of Ketoconazole in the Presence of Organic Acid as a pH Modifier.

PubMed

Adachi, Masashi; Hinatsu, Yuta; Kusamori, Kosuke; Katsumi, Hidemasa; Sakane, Toshiyasu; Nakatani, Manabu; Wada, Koichi; Yamamoto, Akira

2017-05-01

Poorly water-soluble compounds have a potential risk of low and variable bioavailability caused by incomplete dissolution. Incorporation of organic acids as pH modifiers is effective method for solubility enhancement of basic compounds and requires no special technique and equipment. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of manufacturing method on the extent of drug solubility enhancement. We successfully prepared the granules and tablets containing ketoconazole (KZ), which is weakly basic, as a model compound and citric acid as a pH modifier using conventional wet and dry granulations. KZ solubility under non-sink condition was enhanced with supersaturation using both wet and dry granulations. High-shear granulation was the most effective method in terms of KZ dissolution enhancement, because both an intimate contact and strong bonding between KZ and incorporated acid were achieved. KZ dissolved amount from the granules prepared by high-shear granulation was about eight times higher than that from the granules without the acid. The granulation involved to suppress a diffusion of acid dissolved, leading to the effectively maintained supersaturation state. The bioavailability of KZ after oral administration to rats was improved by applying high-shear granulation with citric acid independent of gastrointestinal pH. The granules prepared by high-shear granulation showed the bioavailability about 1.7-fold higher than that of the physical mixture in rats with and without neutralization of stomach. As a result, both the dissolution and absorption rates of KZ after oral administration were enhanced using conventional manufacturing technology.

Detection of Genetically Modified Sugarcane by Using Terahertz Spectroscopy and Chemometrics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, J.; Xie, H.; Zha, B.; Ding, W.; Luo, J.; Hu, C.

2018-03-01

A methodology is proposed to identify genetically modified sugarcane from non-genetically modified sugarcane by using terahertz spectroscopy and chemometrics techniques, including linear discriminant analysis (LDA), support vector machine-discriminant analysis (SVM-DA), and partial least squares-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA). The classification rate of the above mentioned methods is compared, and different types of preprocessing are considered. According to the experimental results, the best option is PLS-DA, with an identification rate of 98%. The results indicated that THz spectroscopy and chemometrics techniques are a powerful tool to identify genetically modified and non-genetically modified sugarcane.

Breast Cancer Risk From Modifiable and Non-Modifiable Risk Factors among Women in Southeast Asia: A Meta-Analysis

PubMed

Nindrea, Ricvan Dana; Aryandono, Teguh; Lazuardi, Lutfan

2017-12-28

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine breast cancer risk from modifiable and non-modifiable factors among women in Southeast Asia. Methods: This meta-analysis was performed on research articles on breast cancer risk factors in PubMed, ProQuest and EBSCO databases published between 1997 and October 2017. Pooled odds ratios (OR) are calculated using fixed and random-effect models. Data were processed using Review Manager 5.3 (RevMan 5.3). Results: From a total of 1,211 articles, 15 studies (1 cohort and 14 case control studies) met the criteria for systematic review. Meta-analysis results showed that of the known modifiable risk factors for breast cancer, parity (nulipara) had the highest odd ratio (OR = 1.85 [95% CI 1.47-2.32]) followed by body mass index (overweight) (OR = 1.61 [95% CI 1.43-1.80]) and use of oral contraceptives (OR = 1.27 [95% CI 1.07-1.51]). Of non-modifiable risk factors, family history of breast cancer had the highest odd ratio (OR = 2.53 [95% CI 1.25-5.09]), followed by age (≥ 40 years) (OR = 1.53 [95% CI 1.34-1.76]) and menopausal status (OR = 1.44 [95% CI 1.26-1.65]). Conclusion: This analysis confirmed associations between both modifiable risk factors (parity, body mass index and use of oral contraceptives) and non-modifiable risk factors (family history of breast cancer, age and menopausal status) with breast cancer. Creative Commons Attribution License

CHROMIUM ELECTROANALYSIS AT SCREEN PRINTED ELECTRODE MODIFIED BY THIN FILMS OF NICKEL

EPA Science Inventory

A rapid and potentially cost-effective electrochemical method is reported for analysis of chromium (VI) and Chromium(III) using a nickel modified screen printed carbon ink electrode. Electrochemical characteristics of nickel modified electrode as well voltammetric behavior f...

Optical and structural properties of Mo-doped NiTiO3 materials synthesized via modified Pechini methods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pham, Thanh-Truc; Kang, Sung Gu; Shin, Eun Woo

2017-07-01

In this study, molybdenum (Mo)-doped nickel titanate (NiTiO3) materials were successfully synthesized as a function of Mo content through a modified Pechini method followed by a solvothermal treatment process. Various characterization methods were employed to investigate the optical and structural properties of the materials. XRD patterns clearly showed that the NiTiO3 structure maintained a single phase with no observed crystalline structure transformations, even after the addition of 10 wt.% Mo. In the Raman spectra and XRD patterns, peak positions shifted with a change in Mo content, confirming that the NiTiO3 lattice was doped with Mo. On the other hand, Mo doping of NiTiO3 materials changed their optical properties. DRS-UV demonstrated that the addition of Mo increased photon absorption within the UV region. Relaxation processes were inhibited by Mo doping, which was evident in the PL spectra. Structural properties of the prepared materials were studied via FE-SEM and HR-TEM. The measured surface area increased proportionally with Mo content due to a reduction in grain size of the materials.

Modified cross sample entropy and surrogate data analysis method for financial time series

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yin, Yi; Shang, Pengjian

2015-09-01

For researching multiscale behaviors from the angle of entropy, we propose a modified cross sample entropy (MCSE) and combine surrogate data analysis with it in order to compute entropy differences between original dynamics and surrogate series (MCSDiff). MCSDiff is applied to simulated signals to show accuracy and then employed to US and Chinese stock markets. We illustrate the presence of multiscale behavior in the MCSDiff results and reveal that there are synchrony containing in the original financial time series and they have some intrinsic relations, which are destroyed by surrogate data analysis. Furthermore, the multifractal behaviors of cross-correlations between these financial time series are investigated by multifractal detrended cross-correlation analysis (MF-DCCA) method, since multifractal analysis is a multiscale analysis. We explore the multifractal properties of cross-correlation between these US and Chinese markets and show the distinctiveness of NQCI and HSI among the markets in their own region. It can be concluded that the weaker cross-correlation between US markets gives the evidence for the better inner mechanism in the US stock markets than that of Chinese stock markets. To study the multiscale features and properties of financial time series can provide valuable information for understanding the inner mechanism of financial markets.

Scattering from a cylindrical reflector: modified theory of physical optics solution.

PubMed

Yalçin, Ugur

2007-02-01

The problem of scattering from a perfectly conducting cylindrical reflector is examined with the method of the modified theory of physical optics. In this technique the physical optics currents are modified by using a variable unit vector on the scatterer's surface. These current components are obtained for the reflector, which is fed by an offset electric line source. The scattering integral is expressed by using these currents and evaluated asymptotically with the stationary phase method. The results are compared numerically by using physical optics theory, geometrical optics diffraction theory, and the exact solution of the Helmholtz equation. It is found that the modified theory of physical optics scattering field equations agrees with the geometrical optics diffraction theory and the exact solution of the Helmholtz equation.

A comparison of two prospective risk analysis methods: Traditional FMEA and a modified healthcare FMEA.

PubMed

Rah, Jeong-Eun; Manger, Ryan P; Yock, Adam D; Kim, Gwe-Ya

2016-12-01

To examine the abilities of a traditional failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA) and modified healthcare FMEA (m-HFMEA) scoring methods by comparing the degree of congruence in identifying high risk failures. The authors applied two prospective methods of the quality management to surface image guided, linac-based radiosurgery (SIG-RS). For the traditional FMEA, decisions on how to improve an operation were based on the risk priority number (RPN). The RPN is a product of three indices: occurrence, severity, and detectability. The m-HFMEA approach utilized two indices, severity and frequency. A risk inventory matrix was divided into four categories: very low, low, high, and very high. For high risk events, an additional evaluation was performed. Based upon the criticality of the process, it was decided if additional safety measures were needed and what they comprise. The two methods were independently compared to determine if the results and rated risks matched. The authors' results showed an agreement of 85% between FMEA and m-HFMEA approaches for top 20 risks of SIG-RS-specific failure modes. The main differences between the two approaches were the distribution of the values and the observation that failure modes (52, 54, 154) with high m-HFMEA scores do not necessarily have high FMEA-RPN scores. In the m-HFMEA analysis, when the risk score is determined, the basis of the established HFMEA Decision Tree™ or the failure mode should be more thoroughly investigated. m-HFMEA is inductive because it requires the identification of the consequences from causes, and semi-quantitative since it allows the prioritization of high risks and mitigation measures. It is therefore a useful tool for the prospective risk analysis method to radiotherapy.

Evaluation of a new modified QuEChERS method for the monitoring of carbamate residues in high-fat cheeses by using UHPLC-MS/MS.

PubMed

Hamed, Ahmed M; Moreno-González, David; Gámiz-Gracia, Laura; García-Campaña, Ana M

2017-01-01

A simple and efficient method for the determination of 28 carbamates in high-fat cheeses is proposed. The methodology is based on a modified quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe procedure as sample treatment using a new sorbent (Z-Sep + ) followed by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry determination. The method has been validated in different kinds of cheese (Gorgonzola, Roquefort, and Camembert), achieving recoveries of 70-115%, relative standard deviations lower than 13% and limits of quantification lower than 5.4 μg/kg, below the maximum residue levels tolerated for these compounds by the European legislation. The matrix effect was lower than ±30% for all the studied pesticides. The combination of ultra-high performance liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry with this modified quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe procedure using Z-Sep + allowed a high sample throughput and an efficient cleaning of extracts for the control of these residues in cheeses with a high fat content. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Depth to the bottom of magnetic sources (DBMS) from aeromagnetic data of Central India using modified centroid method for fractal distribution of sources

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bansal, A. R.; Anand, S.; Rajaram, M.; Rao, V.; Dimri, V. P.

2012-12-01

The depth to the bottom of the magnetic sources (DBMS) may be used as an estimate of the Curie - point depth. The DBMSs can also be interpreted in term of thermal structure of the crust. The thermal structure of the crust is a sensitive parameter and depends on the many properties of crust e.g. modes of deformation, depths of brittle and ductile deformation zones, regional heat flow variations, seismicity, subsidence/uplift patterns and maturity of organic matter in sedimentary basins. The conventional centroid method of DBMS estimation assumes random uniform uncorrelated distribution of sources and to overcome this limitation a modified centroid method based on fractal distribution has been proposed. We applied this modified centroid method to the aeromagnetic data of the central Indian region and selected 29 half overlapping blocks of dimension 200 km x 200 km covering different parts of the central India. Shallower values of the DBMS are found for the western and southern portion of Indian shield. The DBMSs values are found as low as close to middle crust in the south west Deccan trap and probably deeper than Moho in the Chhatisgarh basin. In few places DBMS are close to the Moho depth found from the seismic study and others places shallower than the Moho. The DBMS indicate complex nature of the Indian crust.

Pesticide Multiresidue Analysis in Cereal Grains Using Modified QuEChERS Method Combined with Automated Direct Sample Introduction GC-TOFMS and UPLC-MS/MS Techniques

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The QuEChERS (quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe) sample preparation method was modified to accommodate various cereal grain matrices (corn, oat, rice and wheat) and provide good analytical results (recoveries in the range of 70-120% and RSDs <20%) for the majority of the target pestici...

Full coverage of perovskite layer onto ZnO nanorods via a modified sequential two-step deposition method for efficiency enhancement in perovskite solar cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ruankham, Pipat; Wongratanaphisan, Duangmanee; Gardchareon, Atcharawon; Phadungdhitidhada, Surachet; Choopun, Supab; Sagawa, Takashi

2017-07-01

Full coverage of perovskite layer onto ZnO nanorod substrates with less pinholes is crucial for achieving high-efficiency perovskite solar cells. In this work, a two-step sequential deposition method is modified to achieve an appropriate property of perovskite (MAPbI3) film. Surface treatment of perovskite layer and its precursor have been systematically performed and their morphologies have been investigated. By pre-wetting of lead iodide (PbI2) and letting it dry before reacting with methylammonium iodide (MAI) provide better coverage of perovskite film onto ZnO nanorod substrate than one without any treatment. An additional MAI deposition followed with toluene drop-casting technique on the perovskite film is also found to increase the coverage and enhance the transformation of PbI2 to MAPbI3. These lead to longer charge carrier lifetime, resulting in an enhanced power conversion efficiency (PCE) from 1.21% to 3.05%. The modified method could been applied to a complex ZnO nanorods/TiO2 nanoparticles substrate. The enhancement in PCE to 3.41% is observed. These imply that our introduced method provides a simple way to obtain the full coverage and better transformation to MAPbI3 phase for enhancement in performances of perovskite solar cells.

Generated effect modifiers (GEM's) in randomized clinical trials.

PubMed

Petkova, Eva; Tarpey, Thaddeus; Su, Zhe; Ogden, R Todd

2017-01-01

In a randomized clinical trial (RCT), it is often of interest not only to estimate the effect of various treatments on the outcome, but also to determine whether any patient characteristic has a different relationship with the outcome, depending on treatment. In regression models for the outcome, if there is a non-zero interaction between treatment and a predictor, that predictor is called an "effect modifier". Identification of such effect modifiers is crucial as we move towards precision medicine, that is, optimizing individual treatment assignment based on patient measurements assessed when presenting for treatment. In most settings, there will be several baseline predictor variables that could potentially modify the treatment effects. This article proposes optimal methods of constructing a composite variable (defined as a linear combination of pre-treatment patient characteristics) in order to generate an effect modifier in an RCT setting. Several criteria are considered for generating effect modifiers and their performance is studied via simulations. An example from a RCT is provided for illustration. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Estimating ice particle scattering properties using a modified Rayleigh-Gans approximation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lu, Yinghui; Clothiaux, Eugene E.; Aydin, Kültegin; Verlinde, Johannes

2014-09-01

A modification to the Rayleigh-Gans approximation is made that includes self-interactions between different parts of an ice crystal, which both improves the accuracy of the Rayleigh-Gans approximation and extends its applicability to polarization-dependent parameters. This modified Rayleigh-Gans approximation is both efficient and reasonably accurate for particles with at least one dimension much smaller than the wavelength (e.g., dendrites at millimeter or longer wavelengths) or particles with sparse structures (e.g., low-density aggregates). Relative to the Generalized Multiparticle Mie method, backscattering reflectivities at horizontal transmit and receive polarization (HH) (ZHH) computed with this modified Rayleigh-Gans approach are about 3 dB more accurate than with the traditional Rayleigh-Gans approximation. For realistic particle size distributions and pristine ice crystals the modified Rayleigh-Gans approach agrees with the Generalized Multiparticle Mie method to within 0.5 dB for ZHH whereas for the polarimetric radar observables differential reflectivity (ZDR) and specific differential phase (KDP) agreement is generally within 0.7 dB and 13%, respectively. Compared to the A-DDA code, the modified Rayleigh-Gans approximation is several to tens of times faster if scattering properties for different incident angles and particle orientations are calculated. These accuracies and computational efficiencies are sufficient to make this modified Rayleigh-Gans approach a viable alternative to the Rayleigh-Gans approximation in some applications such as millimeter to centimeter wavelength radars and to other methods that assume simpler, less accurate shapes for ice crystals. This method should not be used on materials with dielectric properties much different from ice and on compact particles much larger than the wavelength.

Geobacteraceae strains and methods

DOEpatents

Lovley, Derek R.; Nevin, Kelly P.; Yi, Hana

2015-07-07

Embodiments of the present invention provide a method of producing genetically modified strains of electricigenic microbes that are specifically adapted for the production of electrical current in microbial fuel cells, as well as strains produced by such methods and fuel cells using such strains. In preferred embodiments, the present invention provides genetically modified strains of Geobacter sulfurreducens and methods of using such strains.

Modified-Fibonacci-Dual-Lucas method for earthquake prediction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boucouvalas, A. C.; Gkasios, M.; Tselikas, N. T.; Drakatos, G.

2015-06-01

The FDL method makes use of Fibonacci, Dual and Lucas numbers and has shown considerable success in predicting earthquake events locally as well as globally. Predicting the location of the epicenter of an earthquake is one difficult challenge the other being the timing and magnitude. One technique for predicting the onset of earthquakes is the use of cycles, and the discovery of periodicity. Part of this category is the reported FDL method. The basis of the reported FDL method is the creation of FDL future dates based on the onset date of significant earthquakes. The assumption being that each occurred earthquake discontinuity can be thought of as a generating source of FDL time series The connection between past earthquakes and future earthquakes based on FDL numbers has also been reported with sample earthquakes since 1900. Using clustering methods it has been shown that significant earthquakes (<6.5R) can be predicted with very good accuracy window (+-1 day). In this contribution we present an improvement modification to the FDL method, the MFDL method, which performs better than the FDL. We use the FDL numbers to develop possible earthquakes dates but with the important difference that the starting seed date is a trigger planetary aspect prior to the earthquake. Typical planetary aspects are Moon conjunct Sun, Moon opposite Sun, Moon conjunct or opposite North or South Modes. In order to test improvement of the method we used all +8R earthquakes recorded since 1900, (86 earthquakes from USGS data). We have developed the FDL numbers for each of those seeds, and examined the earthquake hit rates (for a window of 3, i.e. +-1 day of target date) and for <6.5R. The successes are counted for each one of the 86 earthquake seeds and we compare the MFDL method with the FDL method. In every case we find improvement when the starting seed date is on the planetary trigger date prior to the earthquake. We observe no improvement only when a planetary trigger coincided with

Fabrication of one-dimensional alumina photonic crystals by anodization using a modified pulse-voltage method

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

Li, Shou-Yi; Wang, Jian, E-mail: wangjian@nwnu.edu.cn; Wang, Gang

2015-08-15

Highlights: • The alumina multilayer structure with alternating high and low refractive index is fabricated. • This multilayer shows a strong photonic band gap (PBG) and vivid film colors. • The first PBG could be modulated easily by varying the duration time of constant high or low voltages. • Fabrication of the photonic crystal is obtained by directly electrochemical anodization. • The formation mechanism of multilayer is also discussed. - Abstract: The alumina nanolayer structure with alternating high and low porosities is conveniently fabricated by applying a modified pulse voltage waveform with constant high and low voltage. This structure showsmore » the well-defined layer in a long-range structural periodicity leads to a strong photonic band gap (PBG) from visible to near infrared and brilliant film colors. Compared with the previous reported tuning method, this method is more simple and flexible in tuning the PBG of photonic crystals (PCs). The effect of duration time of high, low and 0 V voltages on PBG is discussed. The first PBG could be modulated easily from the visible to near infrared region by varying the duration time of constant high or low voltages. It is also found that the 0 V lasting for appropriate time is helpful to improve the quality of the PCs. The formation mechanism of multilayer is also discussed.« less

Legal protection of public health through control over genetically modified food.

PubMed

Gutorova, Nataliya; Batyhina, Olena; Trotska, Maryna

2018-01-01

Introduction: Science is constantly being developed which leads to both positive and negative changes in public health and the environment. One of the results of scientific progress is introduction of food based on genetically modified organisms whose effects on human health, to date, remain scantily studied and are ambiguous. The aim: to determine how human health can be influenced by food production based on genetically modified organisms. Materials and methods: international acts, data of international organizations and conclusions of scientists have been examined and used in the study. The article also summarizes information from scientific journals and monographs from a medical and legal point of view with scientific methods. This article is based on dialectical, comparative, analytic, synthetic and comprehensive research methods. Conclusions: Genetically modified organisms are specific human-made organisms being a result of using modern biotechnology techniques. They have both positive and negative effects on human health and the environment. The main disadvantage is not sufficient study of them in various spheres of public life.

A modified method for determining tannin-protein precipitation capacity using accelerated solvent extraction (ASE) and microplate gel filtration.

PubMed

McArt, Scott H; Spalinger, Donald E; Kennish, John M; Collins, William B

2006-06-01

The protein precipitation assay used by Robbins et al., (1987) Ecology 68:98-107 has been shown to predict successfully the reduction in protein availability to some ruminants due to tannins. The procedure, however, is expensive and laborious, which limits its utility, especially for quantitative ecological or nutritional applications where large numbers of assays may be required. We have modified the method to decrease its cost and increase laboratory efficiency by: (1) automating the extraction by using Accelerated Solvent Extraction (ASE); and (2) by scaling and automating the precipitation reaction, chromatography, and spectrometry with microplate gel filtration and an automated UV-VIS microplate spectrometer. ASE extraction is shown to be as effective at extracting tannins as the hot methanol technique. Additionally, the microplate assay is sensitive and precise. We show that the results from the new technique correspond in a nearly 1:1 relationship to the results of the previous technique. Hence, this method could reliably replace the older method with no loss in relevance to herbivore protein digestion. Moreover, the ASE extraction technique should be applicable to other tannin-protein precipitation assays and possibly other phenolic assays.

Modified magnetic nanoparticles in an electrochemical method for the ochratoxin A determination in Vitis vinifera red grapes tissues.

PubMed

Fernández-Baldo, Martín A; Bertolino, Franco A; Messina, Germán A; Sanz, Maria I; Raba, Julio

2010-12-15

This work described the development and characterization of an electrochemical method using square wave voltammetry (SWV) combined with the use of modified magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs), which had shown a rapid and sensitive determination of ochratoxin A (OTA) in wine grapes (Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Syrah) post-harvest tissues. The wine grapes were inoculated with Aspergillus ochraceus to obtain OTA in artificially infected samples. The OTA was directly determined using square-wave voltammetry. The current obtained is directly proportional to the concentration of OTA present in the samples. This method has been used for OTA determination in wine grapes and it was validated against a commercial ELISA test kit. The limits of detection calculated for electrochemical detection and the ELISA were 0.02 and 1.9 μg kg(-1), respectively and the coefficients of variation for accuracy and precision dates were below 5.5%. This method promises to be suitable for the detection and quantification of OTA in apparently healthy fruits post-harvest for assuring safety and quality of food as well as consumer's health. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Improving Student Learning of Calculus Topics via Modified Just-in-Time Teaching Methods

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Natarajan, Rekha; Bennett, Andrew

2014-01-01

Although the use of traditional just-in-time teaching techniques has long been viewed positively by students and instructors in undergraduate calculus courses, past studies in this area have not addressed gains in student achievement with respect to specific calculus topics. This paper investigates the latter by administering modified just-in-time…

The Semiconductor Industry and Emerging Technologies: A Study Using a Modified Delphi Method

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jordan, Edgar A.

2010-01-01

The purpose of this qualitative descriptive study was to determine what leaders in the semiconductor industry thought the future of computing would look like and what emerging materials showed the most promise to overcome the current theoretical limit of 10 nanometers for silicon dioxide. The researcher used a modified Delphi technique in two…

Modifiable and non-modifiable factors associated with employment outcomes following spinal cord injury: A systematic review

PubMed Central

Trenaman, Logan; Miller, William C; Querée, Matthew; Escorpizo, Reuben

2015-01-01

Context Employment rates in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) are approximately 35%, which is considerably lower than that of the general population. In order to improve employment outcomes a clear understanding of what factors influence employment outcomes is needed. Objective To systematically review factors that are consistently and independently associated with employment outcomes in individuals with SCI, and to understand the magnitude of their influence. Methods Through an electronic search of MEDLINE/PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Social Science Abstracts and Social Work databases, we identified studies published between 1952–2014 that investigated factors associated with employment outcomes following SCI. Exclusion criteria included: (1) reviews (2) studies not published in English (3) studies not controlling for potential confounders through a regression analysis, or (4) studies not providing an effect measure in the form of OR, RR, or HR. Data were categorized based on the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health framework, with each domain sub-categorized by modifiability. First author, year of publication, sample size, explanatory and outcome variables, and effect measures were extracted. Results Thirty-nine studies met the inclusion criteria. Twenty modifiable and twelve non-modifiable factors have been investigated in the context of employment following SCI. Education, vocational rehabilitation, functional independence, social support, and financial disincentives were modifiable factors that have been consistently and independently associated with employment outcomes. Conclusion A number of key modifiable factors have been identified and can inform interventions aimed at improving employment outcomes for individuals with SCI. Future research should focus on determining which factors have the greatest effect on employment outcomes, in addition to developing and evaluating interventions targeted at these factors

Using the modified Delphi method to establish a new Chinese clinical consensus of the treatments for cervical radiculopathy.

PubMed

Zang, Lei; Fan, Ning; Hai, Yong; Lu, S B; Su, Q J; Yang, J C; Du, Peng; Gao, Y J

2015-06-01

Although cervical radiculopathy is very common, there is no standard treatment for this condition, with little high-level evidence available to guide the treatment choice. Thus, this study aimed to review the current data on the management of cervical radiculopathy; and, further, to establish a new Chinese clinical consensus of the treatments for cervical radiculopathy using the Delphi method. First, a systematic review of the previously established treatment guidelines and of articles related to cervical radiculopathy was conducted to establish a protocol for the clinical consensus of the treatment for cervical radiculopathy. Second, from February 2012 to June 2014, we performed a modified Delphi survey in which the current professional opinions from 30 experienced experts, representing almost all of the Chinese provinces, were gathered. Three rounds were performed, and consensus was defined as ≥70% agreement. Consensus of the treatments for cervical radiculopathy was reached on seven aspects, including the proportion of patients requiring only non-surgical therapies; the effectiveness of neck immobilization, physiotherapy, pharmacologic treatment; surgical indications; contraindications; surgery. The modified Delphi study conducted herein reached a consensus concerning several treatment issues for cervical radiculopathy. In the absence of high-level evidence, at present, these expert opinion findings will help guide health care providers to define the appropriate treatment in their regions. Items with no consensus provide excellent areas for future research.

A modified weighted function method for parameter estimation of Pearson type three distribution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liang, Zhongmin; Hu, Yiming; Li, Binquan; Yu, Zhongbo

2014-04-01

In this paper, an unconventional method called Modified Weighted Function (MWF) is presented for the conventional moment estimation of a probability distribution function. The aim of MWF is to estimate the coefficient of variation (CV) and coefficient of skewness (CS) from the original higher moment computations to the first-order moment calculations. The estimators for CV and CS of Pearson type three distribution function (PE3) were derived by weighting the moments of the distribution with two weight functions, which were constructed by combining two negative exponential-type functions. The selection of these weight functions was based on two considerations: (1) to relate weight functions to sample size in order to reflect the relationship between the quantity of sample information and the role of weight function and (2) to allocate more weights to data close to medium-tail positions in a sample series ranked in an ascending order. A Monte-Carlo experiment was conducted to simulate a large number of samples upon which statistical properties of MWF were investigated. For the PE3 parent distribution, results of MWF were compared to those of the original Weighted Function (WF) and Linear Moments (L-M). The results indicate that MWF was superior to WF and slightly better than L-M, in terms of statistical unbiasness and effectiveness. In addition, the robustness of MWF, WF, and L-M were compared by designing the Monte-Carlo experiment that samples are obtained from Log-Pearson type three distribution (LPE3), three parameter Log-Normal distribution (LN3), and Generalized Extreme Value distribution (GEV), respectively, but all used as samples from the PE3 distribution. The results show that in terms of statistical unbiasness, no one method possesses the absolutely overwhelming advantage among MWF, WF, and L-M, while in terms of statistical effectiveness, the MWF is superior to WF and L-M.

Modified conjugate gradient method for diagonalizing large matrices.

PubMed

Jie, Quanlin; Liu, Dunhuan

2003-11-01

We present an iterative method to diagonalize large matrices. The basic idea is the same as the conjugate gradient (CG) method, i.e, minimizing the Rayleigh quotient via its gradient and avoiding reintroducing errors to the directions of previous gradients. Each iteration step is to find lowest eigenvector of the matrix in a subspace spanned by the current trial vector and the corresponding gradient of the Rayleigh quotient, as well as some previous trial vectors. The gradient, together with the previous trial vectors, play a similar role as the conjugate gradient of the original CG algorithm. Our numeric tests indicate that this method converges significantly faster than the original CG method. And the computational cost of one iteration step is about the same as the original CG method. It is suitable for first principle calculations.

Item Purification Does Not Always Improve DIF Detection: A Counterexample with Angoff's Delta Plot

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Magis, David; Facon, Bruno

2013-01-01

Item purification is an iterative process that is often advocated as improving the identification of items affected by differential item functioning (DIF). With test-score-based DIF detection methods, item purification iteratively removes the items currently flagged as DIF from the test scores to get purified sets of items, unaffected by DIF. The…

Field test method to determine presence and quantity of modifiers in liquid asphalt : [summary].

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2015-05-01

Approximately five million tons of asphalt mix are produced each year for the Florida : Department of Transportation (FDOT), of which 60% is modified with styrene butadiene : styrene (SBS) polymer and/or ground tire rubber (GTR). Asphalt binders are ...

Nuclear reactor target assemblies, nuclear reactor configurations, and methods for producing isotopes, modifying materials within target material, and/or characterizing material within a target material

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

Toth, James J.; Wall, Donald; Wittman, Richard S.

Target assemblies are provided that can include a uranium-comprising annulus. The assemblies can include target material consisting essentially of non-uranium material within the volume of the annulus. Reactors are disclosed that can include one or more discrete zones configured to receive target material. At least one uranium-comprising annulus can be within one or more of the zones. Methods for producing isotopes within target material are also disclosed, with the methods including providing neutrons to target material within a uranium-comprising annulus. Methods for modifying materials within target material are disclosed as well as are methods for characterizing material within a targetmore » material.« less

The modified polymethyl methacrylate-silicone keratoprosthesis in rabbit model.

PubMed

Sun, Heng; Hu, Zhu-Lin

2018-05-01

To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of a modified polymethyl methacrylate-silicone keratoprosthesis and its operation method in alkali-burned rabbit model. The polymethyl methacrylate-silicone keratoprostheses were implanted into seven alkali-burned rabbit corneas by a special operation method using autologous graft as the keratoprosthesis (Kpro) carrier. The long-term postoperative outcomes were evaluated. During a postoperative study period of 16 months, except for one Kpro extruded at 3 months, all Kpros were in good position and were kept transparent without Kpro extrusion, keratolysis, infection, endophthalmitis, or retinal detachment. The postoperative complications included elevated intraocular pressure in two cases and temporary retroprosthetic membrane formation in two cases. The modified polymethyl methacrylate-silicone Kpro and its operation method is a relatively safe and effective choice for alkali-burned rabbit eyes. Elevated intraocular pressure is the main complication needing to be resolved.

Performance of the modified Poisson regression approach for estimating relative risks from clustered prospective data.

PubMed

Yelland, Lisa N; Salter, Amy B; Ryan, Philip

2011-10-15

Modified Poisson regression, which combines a log Poisson regression model with robust variance estimation, is a useful alternative to log binomial regression for estimating relative risks. Previous studies have shown both analytically and by simulation that modified Poisson regression is appropriate for independent prospective data. This method is often applied to clustered prospective data, despite a lack of evidence to support its use in this setting. The purpose of this article is to evaluate the performance of the modified Poisson regression approach for estimating relative risks from clustered prospective data, by using generalized estimating equations to account for clustering. A simulation study is conducted to compare log binomial regression and modified Poisson regression for analyzing clustered data from intervention and observational studies. Both methods generally perform well in terms of bias, type I error, and coverage. Unlike log binomial regression, modified Poisson regression is not prone to convergence problems. The methods are contrasted by using example data sets from 2 large studies. The results presented in this article support the use of modified Poisson regression as an alternative to log binomial regression for analyzing clustered prospective data when clustering is taken into account by using generalized estimating equations.

Synthesis and immobilization of Ag(0) nanoparticles on diazonium modified electrodes: SECM and cyclic voltammetry studies of the modified interfaces.

PubMed

Noël, Jean-Marc; Zigah, Dodzi; Simonet, Jacques; Hapiot, Philippe

2010-05-18

A versatile method was used to prepare modified surfaces on which metallic silver nanoparticles are immobilized on an organic layer. The preparation method takes advantage, on one hand, of the activated reactivity of some alkyl halides with Ag-Pd alloys to produce metallic silver nanoparticles and, on the other hand, of the facile production of an anchoring polyphenyl acetate layer by the electrografting of substituted diazonium salts on carbon surfaces. Transport properties inside such modified layers were investigated by cyclic voltammetry, scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) in feedback mode, and conducting AFM imaging for characterizing the presence and nature of the conducting pathways. The modification of the blocking properties of the surface (or its conductivity) was found to vary to a large extent on the solvents used for surface examination (H(2)O, CH(2)Cl(2), and DMF).