STS-109 Crew Interviews - Linnehan

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2002-01-01

STS-109 Mission Specialist 3 (MS3) Richard M. Linnehan is seen during a prelaunch interview. He answers questions about his lifelong desire to become an astronaut and his career path, which included becoming a zoo veterinarian. He gives details on the Columbia Orbiter mission, which has as its main purpose the maintenance and augmentation of the Hubble Space Telescope (HST). As MS3, his primary role in the mission pertains to EVAs (Extravehicular Activities) 1, 3, and 5. During EVA 1, Linnehan and another crewmember will replace one of two flexible solar arrays on the HST with a smaller, more efficient rigid solar array. The second solar array will be replaced on EVA 2 by other crewmembers. EVA 3 will involve the replacement of the Power Control Unit (PCU), and will require the first complete powering down of HST since its deployment. The possibility of a serious problem occurring is greatest during this portion of the mission because the original PCU was not built to be replaced. In EVA 5, Linnehan and another crewmember will install a replacement cooling system on NICMOS (Near Infrared Camera Multi-Object Spectrometer), which has not been operational. Linnehan discusses his role during the mission as well as that of his crewmates, and provides an abbreviated timeline, including possible contingencies.

Power Plant Replacement Study

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

Reed, Gary

2010-09-30

This report represents the final report for the Eastern Illinois University power plant replacement study. It contains all related documentation from consideration of possible solutions to the final recommended option. Included are the economic justifications associated with the chosen solution along with application for environmental permitting for the selected project for construction. This final report will summarize the results of execution of an EPC (energy performance contract) investment grade audit (IGA) which lead to an energy services agreement (ESA). The project includes scope of work to design and install energy conservation measures which are guaranteed by the contractor to bemore » self-funding over its twenty year contract duration. The cost recovery is derived from systems performance improvements leading to energy savings. The prime focus of this EPC effort is to provide a replacement solution for Eastern Illinois University’s aging and failing circa 1925 central steam production plant. Twenty-three ECMs were considered viable whose net impact will provide sufficient savings to successfully support the overall project objectives.« less

The Clouds distributed operating system - Functional description, implementation details and related work

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dasgupta, Partha; Leblanc, Richard J., Jr.; Appelbe, William F.

1988-01-01

Clouds is an operating system in a novel class of distributed operating systems providing the integration, reliability, and structure that makes a distributed system usable. Clouds is designed to run on a set of general purpose computers that are connected via a medium-of-high speed local area network. The system structuring paradigm chosen for the Clouds operating system, after substantial research, is an object/thread model. All instances of services, programs and data in Clouds are encapsulated in objects. The concept of persistent objects does away with the need for file systems, and replaces it with a more powerful concept, namely the object system. The facilities in Clouds include integration of resources through location transparency; support for various types of atomic operations, including conventional transactions; advanced support for achieving fault tolerance; and provisions for dynamic reconfiguration.

Replacement of harmful animal use in life science education: the approach and activities of InterNICHE.

PubMed

Jukes, Nick

2004-06-01

Harmful animal use in undergraduate education is increasingly being replaced by alternatives, such as computer software, manikins and simulators, ethically sourced animal cadavers, apprentice work with animal patients, and student self-experimentation. Combinations of such alternatives can better meet teaching objectives, reduce costs and avoid the negative pedagogical and social impact of animal experimentation. Since 1988, the International Network for Humane Education (InterNICHE, formerly EuroNICHE) has been working with teachers to replace harmful animal use and has been supporting students' right to conscientious objection. This paper presents the approach, history and current activities of InterNICHE. With a vision of 100% replacement, the network aims for empowerment by networking information and providing support. It works with the belief that most teachers want investment in the best quality and most humane education possible. The forthcoming second edition of the InterNICHE book, from Guinea Pig to Computer Mouse,1 includes practical details of progressive teaching aids and approaches, as well as case studies from teachers who employ such alternatives. In 1999, InterNICHE produced the film Alternatives in Education, now available in 20 languages. Such resources are complemented by outreach trips and conferences and an Alternatives Loan System, which offers products for familiarisation and assessment. The InterNICHE website (www.interniche.org) was launched in 2001.

Space Shuttle Mission STS-61: Hubble Space Telescope servicing mission-01

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1993-01-01

This press kit for the December 1993 flight of Endeavour on Space Shuttle Mission STS-61 includes a general release, cargo bay payloads and activities, in-cabin payloads, and STS-61 crew biographies. This flight will see the first in a series of planned visits to the orbiting Hubble Space Telescope (HST). The first HST servicing mission has three primary objectives: restoring the planned scientific capabilities, restoring reliability of HST systems and validating the HST on-orbit servicing concept. These objectives will be accomplished in a variety of tasks performed by the astronauts in Endeavour's cargo bay. The primary servicing task list is topped by the replacement of the spacecraft's solar arrays. The spherical aberration of the primary mirror will be compensated by the installation of the Wide Field/Planetary Camera-II and the Corrective Optics Space Telescope Axial Replacement. New gyroscopes will also be installed along with fuse plugs and electronic units.

STS-109 Crew Interviews: Michael J. Massimino

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2002-01-01

STS-109 Mission Specialist Michael J. Massimino is seen during a prelaunch interview. He answers questions about his inspiration to become an astronaut, his career path, and his most memorable experiences. He gives details on the mission's goals and objectives, which focus on the refurbishing of the Hubble Space Telescope, and his role in the mission. He explains the plans for the rendezvous of the Columbia Orbiter with the Hubble Space Telescope. He provides details and timelines for each of the planned Extravehicular Activities (EVAs), which include replacing the solar arrays, changing the Power Control Unit, installing the Advanced Camera for Surveys (ACS), and installing a new Cryocooler for the Near Infrared Camera and Multi-Object Spectrometer (NICMOS). He also describes the break-out plan in place for these spacewalks. The interview ends with Massimino explaining the details of a late addition to the mission's tasks, which is to replace a reaction wheel on the Hubble Space Telescope.

KSC-01pp1760

NASA Image and Video Library

2001-11-29

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- Fully unwrapped, the Advanced Camera for Surveys, which is suspended by an overhead crane, is checked over by workers. Part of the payload on the Hubble Space Telescope Servicing Mission, STS-109, the ACS will increase the discovery efficiency of the HST by a factor of ten. It consists of three electronic cameras and a complement of filters and dispersers that detect light from the ultraviolet to the near infrared (1200 - 10,000 angstroms). The ACS was built through a collaborative effort between Johns Hopkins University, Goddard Space Flight Center, Ball Aerospace Corporation and Space Telescope Science Institute. Tasks for the mission include replacing Solar Array 2 with Solar Array 3, replacing the Power Control Unit, removing the Faint Object Camera and installing the ACS, installing the Near Infrared Camera and Multi-Object Spectrometer (NICMOS) Cooling System, and installing New Outer Blanket Layer insulation on bays 5 through 8. Mission STS-109 is scheduled for launch Feb. 14, 2002

Incidence and Patient Outcomes in Renal Replacement Therapy After Orthotopic Liver Transplant.

PubMed

Ayhan, Asude; Ersoy, Zeynep; Ulas, Aydin; Zeyneloglu, Pinar; Pirat, Arash; Haberal, Mehmet

2017-02-01

Our objective was to evaluate the incidence of renal replacement therapy after orthotopic liver transplant and to evaluate and analyze patient outcomes. We performed a retrospective analysis of 177 consecutive patients at a tertiary care unit who underwent orthotopic liver transplant between January 2010 and June 2016. Patients who were admitted to the intensive care unit after orthotopic liver transplant and who required renal replacement therapy were included. A total of 177 (79 adult, 98 pediatric) orthotopic liver transplants were performed during the study period. Of these, 35 patients (19%) required renal replacement therapy during the early posttransplantation period. After excluding 5 patients with previous chronic renal failure, 30 patients (17%; 20 adult [25% ], 10 pediatric [10% ]) with acute kidney injury required renal replacement therapy. The mean patient age was 31.1 ± 20.0 years, with a mean Model for End-stage Liver Disease score of 16.7 ± 12.3. Of the patients with acute kidney injury who underwent renal replacement therapy, in-hospital mortality was 23.3% (7 of 30 patients), and 40% remained on dialysis. No significant difference was seen in mortality between early versus delayed initiation of renal replacement therapy in patients with stage 3 acute kidney injury (P = .17). Of liver transplant recipients who present with acute kidney injury, 19% require renal replacement therapy, and in-hospital mortality is 20% in the early postoperative period.

Translation of an Engineered Nanofibrous Disc-like Angle Ply Structure for Intervertebral Disc Replacement in a Small Animal Model

PubMed Central

Martin, John T.; Milby, Andrew H.; Chiaro, Joseph A.; Kim, Dong Hwa; Hebela, Nader M.; Smith, Lachlan J.; Elliott, Dawn M.; Mauck, Robert L.

2015-01-01

Intervertebral disc degeneration has been implicated in the etiology of low back pain; however the current surgical strategies for treating symptomatic disc disease are limited. A variety of materials have been developed to replace disc components, including the nucleus pulposus (NP), the annulus fibrosus (AF), and their combination into disc-like engineered constructs. We have previously shown that layers of electrospun poly(ε-caprolactone) scaffold, mimicking the hierarchical organization of the native AF, have functional parity with native tissue. Likewise, we have combined these structures with cell-seeded hydrogels (as an NP replacement) to form disc-like angle ply structures (DAPS). The objective of this study was to develop a model for the evaluation of DAPS in vivo. Through a series of studies, we developed a surgical approach to replace the rat caudal disc with an acellular DAPS and then stabilize the motion segment by external fixation. We then optimized cell infiltration into DAPS by including sacrificial poly(ethylene oxide) layers interspersed throughout the angle-ply structure. Our findings illustrate that DAPS are stable in the caudal spine, are infiltrated by cells from the peri-implant space, and that infiltration is expedited by providing additional routes for cell migration. These findings establish a new in vivo platform in which to evaluate and optimize the design of functional disc replacements. PMID:24560621

Feasibility of flywheel energy storage systems for applications in future space missions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Santo, G. Espiritu; Gill, S. P.; Kotas, J. F.; Paschall, R.

1995-01-01

The objective of this study was to examine the overall feasibility of deploying electromechanical flywheel systems in space used for excess energy storage. Results of previous Rocketdyne studies have shown that the flywheel concept has a number of advantages over the NiH2 battery, including higher specific energy, longer life and high roundtrip efficiency. Based on this prior work, this current study was broken into four subtasks. The first subtask investigated the feasibility of replacing the NiH2 battery orbital replacement unit (ORU) on the international space station (ISSA) with a flywheel ORU. In addition, a conceptual design of a generic flywheel demonstrator experiment implemented on the ISSA was completed. An assessment of the life cycle cost benefits of replacing the station battery energy storage ORU's with flywheel ORU's was performed. A fourth task generated a top-level development plan for critical flywheel technologies, the flywheel demonstrator experiments and its evolution into the production unit flywheel replacement ORU.

Space Shuttle Projects

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-03-03

The Hubble Space Telescope (HST), with its normal routine temporarily interrupted, is about to be captured by the Space Shuttle Columbia prior to a week of servicing and upgrading by the STS-109 crew. The telescope was captured by the shuttle's Remote Manipulator System (RMS) robotic arm and secured on a work stand in Columbia's payload bay where 4 of the 7-member crew performed 5 space walks completing system upgrades to the HST. Included in those upgrades were: The replacement of the solar array panels; replacement of the power control unit (PCU); replacement of the Faint Object Camera (FOC) with a new advanced camera for Surveys (ACS); and installation of the experimental cooling system for the Hubble's Near-Infrared Camera and Multi-object Spectrometer (NICMOS), which had been dormant since January 1999 when its original coolant ran out. The Marshall Space Flight Center had the responsibility for the design, development, and construction of the the HST, which is the most complex and sensitive optical telescope ever made, to study the cosmos from a low-Earth orbit. Launched March 1, 2002, the STS-109 HST servicing mission lasted 10 days, 22 hours, and 11 minutes. It was the 108th flight overall in NASA's Space Shuttle Program.

Space Shuttle Projects

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-03-05

STS-109 Astronauts Michael J. Massimino and James H. Newman were making their second extravehicular activity (EVA) of their mission when astronaut Massimino, mission specialist, peered into Columbia's crew cabin during a brief break from work on the Hubble Space Telescope (HST). The HST is latched down just a few feet behind him in Columbia's cargo bay. The Space Shuttle Columbia STS-109 mission lifted off March 1, 2002 with goals of repairing and upgrading the Hubble Space Telescope (HST). STS-109 upgrades to the HST included: replacement of the solar array panels; replacement of the power control unit (PCU); replacement of the Faint Object Camera (FOC) with a new advanced camera for Surveys (ACS); and installation of the experimental cooling system for the Hubble's Near-Infrared Camera and Multi-object Spectrometer (NICMOS), which had been dormant since January 1999 when its original coolant ran out. The Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama had the responsibility for the design, development, and construction of the HST, which is the most powerful and sophisticated telescope ever built. Lasting 10 days, 22 hours, and 11 minutes, the STS-109 mission was the 108th flight overall in NASA's Space Shuttle Program.

STS-109 Astronaut Michael J. Massimino Peers Into Window of Shuttle During EVA

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2002-01-01

STS-109 Astronauts Michael J. Massimino and James H. Newman were making their second extravehicular activity (EVA) of their mission when astronaut Massimino, mission specialist, peered into Columbia's crew cabin during a brief break from work on the Hubble Space Telescope (HST). The HST is latched down just a few feet behind him in Columbia's cargo bay. The Space Shuttle Columbia STS-109 mission lifted off March 1, 2002 with goals of repairing and upgrading the Hubble Space Telescope (HST). STS-109 upgrades to the HST included: replacement of the solar array panels; replacement of the power control unit (PCU); replacement of the Faint Object Camera (FOC) with a new advanced camera for Surveys (ACS); and installation of the experimental cooling system for the Hubble's Near-Infrared Camera and Multi-object Spectrometer (NICMOS), which had been dormant since January 1999 when its original coolant ran out. The Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama had the responsibility for the design, development, and construction of the HST, which is the most powerful and sophisticated telescope ever built. Lasting 10 days, 22 hours, and 11 minutes, the STS-109 mission was the 108th flight overall in NASA's Space Shuttle Program.

Space Shuttle Projects

NASA Image and Video Library

2001-08-01

This is the insignia of the STS-109 Space Shuttle mission. Carrying a crew of seven, the Space Shuttle Orbiter Columbia was launched with goals of maintenance and upgrades to the Hubble Space Telescope (HST). The Marshall Space Flight Center had the responsibility for the design, development, and construction of the HST, which is the most complex and sensitive optical telescope ever made, to study the cosmos from a low-Earth orbit. The HST detects objects 25 times fainter than the dimmest objects seen from Earth and provides astronomers with an observable universe 250 times larger than is visible from ground-based telescopes, perhaps as far away as 14 billion light-years. The HST views galaxies, stars, planets, comets, possibly other solar systems, and even unusual phenomena such as quasars, with 10 times the clarity of ground-based telescopes. During the STS-109 mission, the telescope was captured and secured on a work stand in Columbia's payload bay using Columbia's robotic arm where four members of the crew performed five spacewalks completing system upgrades to the HST. Included in those upgrades were: The replacement of the solar array panels; replacement of the power control unit (PCU); replacement of the Faint Object Camera (FOC) with a new advanced camera for Surveys (ACS); and installation of the experimental cooling system for the Hubble's Near-Infrared Camera and Multi-object Spectrometer (NICMOS), which had been dormant since January 1999 when it original coolant ran out. Lasting 10 days, 22 hours, and 11 minutes, the STS-109 mission was the 27th flight of the Orbiter Columbia and the 108th flight overall in NASA's Space Shuttle Program.

Space Shuttle Projects

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-03-03

This is a photo of the Hubble Space Telescope (HST),in its origianl configuration, berthed in the cargo bay of the Space Shuttle Columbia during the STS-109 mission silhouetted against the airglow of the Earth's horizon. The telescope was captured and secured on a work stand in Columbia's payload bay using Columbia's robotic arm, where 4 of the 7-member crew performed 5 spacewalks completing system upgrades to the HST. Included in those upgrades were: replacement of the solar array panels; replacement of the power control unit (PCU); replacement of the Faint Object Camera (FOC) with a new advanced camera for Surveys (ACS); and installation of the experimental cooling system for the Hubble's Near-Infrared Camera and Multi-object Spectrometer (NICMOS), which had been dormant since January 1999 when its original coolant ran out. The Marshall Space Flight Center had the responsibility for the design, development, and construction of the the HST, which is the most complex and sensitive optical telescope ever made, to study the cosmos from a low-Earth orbit. The HST detects objects 25 times fainter than the dimmest objects seen from Earth and provides astronomers with an observable universe 250 times larger than is visible from ground-based telescopes, perhaps as far away as 14 billion light-years. The HST views galaxies, stars, planets, comets, possibly other solar systems, and even unusual phenomena such as quasars, with 10 times the clarity of ground-based telescopes. Launched March 1, 2002 the STS-109 HST servicing mission lasted 10 days, 22 hours, and 11 minutes. It was the 108th flight overall in NASA's Space Shuttle Program.

An opposite view data replacement approach for reducing artifacts due to metallic dental objects

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

Yazdi, Mehran; Lari, Meghdad Asadi; Bernier, Gaston

Purpose: To present a conceptually new method for metal artifact reduction (MAR) that can be used on patients with multiple objects within the scan plane that are also of small sized along the longitudinal (scanning) direction, such as dental fillings. Methods: The proposed algorithm, named opposite view replacement, achieves MAR by first detecting the projection data affected by metal objects and then replacing the affected projections by the corresponding opposite view projections, which are not affected by metal objects. The authors also applied a fading process to avoid producing any discontinuities in the boundary of the affected projection areas inmore » the sinogram. A skull phantom with and without a variety of dental metal inserts was made to extract the performance metric of the algorithm. A head and neck case, typical of IMRT planning, was also tested. Results: The reconstructed CT images based on this new replacement scheme show a significant improvement in image quality for patients with metallic dental objects compared to the MAR algorithms based on the interpolation scheme. For the phantom, the authors showed that the artifact reduction algorithm can efficiently recover the CT numbers in the area next to the metallic objects. Conclusions: The authors presented a new and efficient method for artifact reduction due to multiple small metallic objects. The obtained results from phantoms and clinical cases fully validate the proposed approach.« less

Clinical and Radiographic Mid-Term Outcomes After Total Shoulder Replacement: A Retrospective Study Protocol Including 400 Anatomical and Reverse Prosthetic Implants

PubMed Central

Merolla, Giovanni; Tartarone, Antonio; Porcellini, Giuseppe

2016-01-01

Objectives: To obtain outcomes data on anatomical and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty by analysis of clinical scores and standard radiographs. Subject selection and enrollment: 400 consecutive series of patients replaced with anatomical and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (minimum 3 years follow-up). Study Design: retrospective monocenter. Preoperative assessment: Demographics, clinical scores (Constant-Murley) as available, shoulder X-ray (AP, outlet and axillary views) . Last follow-up: Postoperative radiographhs and clinical scores. Adverse events and complications to be reported as occurred since implantation. Statistical analysis: Data collected will be summarized and analyzed for statistical significance. PMID:27326389

Bottom ash as aggregate replacement in concrete.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-06-01

The objective of the proposed study is to evaluate bottom ash as a partial or total replacement of the fine and coarse aggregate in : concrete. This program will characterize and evaluate available bottom ash sources as potential replacement of both ...

Precedent approach to the formation of programs for cyclic objects control

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kulakov, S. M.; Trofimov, V. B.; Dobrynin, A. S.; Taraborina, E. N.

2018-05-01

The idea and procedure for formalizing the precedent method of formation of complex control solutions (complex control programs) is discussed with respect to technological or organizational objects, the operation of which is organized cyclically. A typical functional structure of the system of precedent control by complex technological unit is developed, including a subsystem of retrospective optimization of actually implemented control programs. As an example, the problem of constructing replaceable planograms for the operation of the link of a heading-and-winning machine on the basis of precedents is considered.

Translation of an engineered nanofibrous disc-like angle-ply structure for intervertebral disc replacement in a small animal model.

PubMed

Martin, John T; Milby, Andrew H; Chiaro, Joseph A; Kim, Dong Hwa; Hebela, Nader M; Smith, Lachlan J; Elliott, Dawn M; Mauck, Robert L

2014-06-01

Intervertebral disc degeneration has been implicated in the etiology of low back pain; however, the current surgical strategies for treating symptomatic disc disease are limited. A variety of materials have been developed to replace disc components, including the nucleus pulposus (NP), the annulus fibrosus (AF) and their combination into disc-like engineered constructs. We have previously shown that layers of electrospun poly(ε-caprolactone) scaffold, mimicking the hierarchical organization of the native AF, can achieve functional parity with native tissue. Likewise, we have combined these structures with cell-seeded hydrogels (as an NP replacement) to form disc-like angle-ply structures (DAPS). The objective of this study was to develop a model for the evaluation of DAPS in vivo. Through a series of studies, we developed a surgical approach to replace the rat caudal disc with an acellular DAPS and then stabilized the motion segment via external fixation. We then optimized cell infiltration into DAPS by including sacrificial poly(ethylene oxide) layers interspersed throughout the angle-ply structure. Our findings illustrate that DAPS are stable in the caudal spine, are infiltrated by cells from the peri-implant space and that infiltration is expedited by providing additional routes for cell migration. These findings establish a new in vivo platform in which to evaluate and optimize the design of functional disc replacements. Copyright © 2014 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Space Shuttle Projects

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-03-01

Carrying a crew of seven, the Space Shuttle Orbiter Columbia soared through some pre-dawn clouds into the sky as it began its 27th flight, STS-109. Launched March 1, 2002, the goal of the mission was the maintenance and upgrade of the Hubble Space Telescope (HST). The Marshall Space Flight Center had the responsibility for the design, development, and construction of the HST, which is the most complex and sensitive optical telescope ever made, to study the cosmos from a low-Earth orbit. The HST detects objects 25 times fainter than the dimmest objects seen from Earth and provides astronomers with an observable universe 250 times larger than is visible from ground-based telescopes, perhaps as far away as 14 billion light-years. The HST views galaxies, stars, planets, comets, possibly other solar systems, and even unusual phenomena such as quasars, with 10 times the clarity of ground-based telescopes. During the STS-109 mission, the telescope was captured and secured on a work stand in Columbia's payload bay using Columbia's robotic arm. Here four members of the crew performed five spacewalks completing system upgrades to the HST. Included in those upgrades were: replacement of the solar array panels; replacement of the power control unit (PCU); replacement of the Faint Object Camera (FOC) with a new advanced camera for Surveys (ACS); and installation of the experimental cooling system for the Hubble's Near-Infrared Camera and Multi-object Spectrometer (NICMOS), which had been dormant since January 1999 when it original coolant ran out. Lasting 10 days, 22 hours, and 11 minutes, the STS-109 mission was the 108th flight overall in NASA's Space Shuttle Program.

KSC-01pp1758

NASA Image and Video Library

2001-11-29

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- In Hangar A&E, workers watch as an overhead crane lifts the Advanced Camera for Surveys out of its transportation container. Part of the payload on the Hubble Space Telescope Servicing Mission, STS-109, the ACS will increase the discovery efficiency of the HST by a factor of ten. It consists of three electronic cameras and a complement of filters and dispersers that detect light from the ultraviolet to the near infrared (1200 - 10,000 angstroms). The ACS was built through a collaborative effort between Johns Hopkins University, Goddard Space Flight Center, Ball Aerospace Corporation and Space Telescope Science Institute. Tasks for the mission include replacing Solar Array 2 with Solar Array 3, replacing the Power Control Unit, removing the Faint Object Camera and installing the ACS, installing the Near Infrared Camera and Multi-Object Spectrometer (NICMOS) Cooling System, and installing New Outer Blanket Layer insulation on bays 5 through 8. Mission STS-109 is scheduled for launch Feb. 14, 2002

Integrated Immune Experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Crucian, Brian

2009-01-01

This viewgraph presentation reviews NASA's Integrated Immune Experiment. The objectives include: 1) Address significant lack of data regarding immune status during flight; 2) Replace several recent immune studies with one comprehensive study that will include in-flight sampling; 3) Determine the in-flight status of immunity, physiological stress, viral immunity/reactivation; 4) Determine the clinical risk related to immune dysregulation for exploration class spaceflight; and 5) Determine the appropriate monitoring strategy for spaceflight-associated immune dysfunction, that could be used for the evaluation of countermeasures.

Objective Measures of Visual Function in Papilledema

PubMed Central

Moss, Heather E.

2016-01-01

Synopsis Visual function is an important parameter to consider when managing patients with papilledema. Though the current standard of care uses standard automated perimetry (SAP) to obtain this information, this test is inherently subjective and prone to patient errors. Objective visual function tests including the visual evoked potential, pattern electroretinogram, photopic negative response of the full field electroretinogram, and pupillary light response have the potential to replace or supplement subjective visual function tests in papilledema management. This article reviews the evidence for use of objective visual function tests to assess visual function in papilledema and discusses future investigations needed to develop them as clinically practical and useful measures for this purpose. PMID:28451649

A bi-objective model for optimizing replacement time of age and block policies with consideration of spare parts’ availability

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alsyouf, Imad

2018-05-01

Reliability and availability of critical systems play an important role in achieving the stated objectives of engineering assets. Preventive replacement time affects the reliability of the components, thus the number of system failures encountered and its downtime expenses. On the other hand, spare parts inventory level is a very critical factor that affects the availability of the system. Usually, the decision maker has many conflicting objectives that should be considered simultaneously for the selection of the optimal maintenance policy. The purpose of this research was to develop a bi-objective model that will be used to determine the preventive replacement time for three maintenance policies (age, block good as new, block bad as old) with consideration of spare parts’ availability. It was suggested to use a weighted comprehensive criterion method with two objectives, i.e. cost and availability. The model was tested with a typical numerical example. The results of the model demonstrated its effectiveness in enabling the decision maker to select the optimal maintenance policy under different scenarios and taking into account preferences with respect to contradicting objectives such as cost and availability.

Slab replacement maturity guidelines.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2014-04-01

This study investigated the use of maturity method to determine early age strength of concrete in slab : replacement application. Specific objectives were (1) to evaluate effects of various factors on the compressive : maturity-strength relationship ...

The effectiveness of inpatient physical therapy compared to outpatient physical therapy in older adults after total hip replacement in the post-discharge period: a systematic review.

PubMed

Klugarova, Jitka; Klugar, Miloslav; Mareckova, Jana; Gallo, Jiri; Kelnarova, Zuzana

2016-01-01

Total hip replacement is the most effective and safest method for treating severe degenerative, traumatic and other diseases of the hip joint. Total hip replacement can reliably relieve pain and improve function in the majority of patients for a period of 15 to 20 years or more postoperatively. Physical therapy follows each total hip replacement surgery. Physical therapy protocols after total hip replacement in the post-discharge period vary widely in terms of setting (inpatient, outpatient), content (the particular set of exercises used), and frequency (e.g. daily versus twice a week). In current literature, there is no systematic review which has compared the effectiveness of inpatient and outpatient physical therapy in patients after total hip replacement in the post-discharge period. The objective of this systematic review was to compare the effectiveness of inpatient physical therapy with outpatient physical therapy on the quality of life and gait measures in older adults after total hip replacement in the post-discharge period. This review considered studies that include older adults (over 65 years) who have had total hip replacement and are in the post-discharge period. Adults with bilateral or multiple simultaneous surgeries and also patients who have had hemiarthroplasty of the hip joint were excluded.This review considered studies that included any type of physical therapy delivered in inpatient settings provided by professionals with education in physical therapy. Inpatient physical therapy delivered at any frequency and over any duration was included.This review considered studies that included as a comparator any type of physical therapy delivered in outpatient settings provided by professionals with education in physical therapy or no physical therapy.This review considered studies that included the following primary and secondary outcomes. The primary outcome was quality of life, assessed by any validated assessment tool. The secondary outcome was measures of gait assessed by any valid methods.This review considered both experimental and observational study designs including randomized controlled trials, non-randomized controlled trials, quasi-experimental, before and after studies, prospective and retrospective cohort studies, case control studies and analytical cross sectional studies for inclusion. The search strategy aimed to find both published and unpublished studies. A three-step search strategy was utilized in 12 databases. Studies published in all languages and any date were considered for inclusion in this review. Assessment of methodological quality was not conducted as no studies were identified that met the inclusion criteria. Data extraction and synthesis was not performed because no studies were included in this systematic review. During to the three-step search strategy 4330 papers were identified. The primary and secondary reviewer independently retrieved 42 potentially relevant papers according to the inclusion criteria by title and abstract screening. Following assessment of full text all of the retrieved papers were excluded based on the inclusion criteria. There is no scientific evidence comparing the effectiveness of inpatient physical therapy with outpatient physical therapy in older patients after total hip replacement in the post-discharge period. This systematic review has identified gaps in the literature for comparing the effectiveness of inpatient physical therapy with and outpatient physical therapy on the quality of life and gait measures in older adults after total hip replacement in the post-discharge period. Prospective randomized double blind multicenter controlled trials are needed to answer this important clinical question.

Expedition 18 Station Development Test Objectives (STDO) Session 1

NASA Image and Video Library

2009-02-19

ISS018-E-033816 (19 Feb. 2009) --- Astronaut Michael Fincke, Expedition 18 commander, removes, cleans and replaces electronic test components on a single test card using Component Repair Equipment (CRE-1) hardware in a portable glovebox facility in the Harmony node of the International Space Station. Fincke unsoldered 1 1/2 components from an integrated circuit board and re-soldered new components including an integrated circuit chip.

Expedition 18 Station Development Test Objectives (STDO) Session 1

NASA Image and Video Library

2009-02-19

ISS018-E-033818 (19 Feb. 2009) --- Astronaut Michael Fincke, Expedition 18 commander, removes, cleans and replaces electronic test components on a single test card using Component Repair Equipment (CRE-1) hardware in a portable glovebox facility in the Harmony node of the International Space Station. Fincke unsoldered 1 1/2 components from an integrated circuit board and re-soldered new components including an integrated circuit chip.

Management of mitral regurgitation in Marfan syndrome: Outcomes of valve repair versus replacement and comparison with myxomatous mitral valve disease.

PubMed

Helder, Meghana R K; Schaff, Hartzell V; Dearani, Joseph A; Li, Zhuo; Stulak, John M; Suri, Rakesh M; Connolly, Heidi M

2014-09-01

The study objective was to evaluate patients with Marfan syndrome and mitral valve regurgitation undergoing valve repair or replacement and to compare them with patients undergoing repair for myxomatous mitral valve disease. We reviewed the medical records of consecutive patients with Marfan syndrome treated surgically between March 17, 1960, and September 12, 2011, for mitral regurgitation and performed a subanalysis of those with repairs compared with case-matched patients with myxomatous mitral valve disease who had repairs (March 14, 1995, to July 5, 2013). Of 61 consecutive patients, 40 underwent mitral repair and 21 underwent mitral replacement (mean [standard deviation] age, 40 [18] vs 31 [19] years; P = .09). Concomitant aortic surgery was performed to a similar extent (repair, 45% [18/40] vs replacement, 43% [9/21]; P = .87). Ten-year survival was significantly better in patients with Marfan syndrome with mitral repair than in those with replacement (80% vs 41%; P = .01). Mitral reintervention did not differ between mitral repair and replacement (cumulative risk of reoperation, 27% vs 15%; P = .64). In the matched cohort, 10-year survival after repair was similar for patients with Marfan syndrome and myxomatous mitral disease (84% vs 78%; P = .63), as was cumulative risk of reoperation (17% vs 12%; P = .61). Patients with Marfan syndrome and mitral regurgitation have better survival with repair than with replacement. Survival and risk of reoperation for patients with Marfan syndrome were similar to those for patients with myxomatous mitral disease. These results support the use of mitral valve repair in patients with Marfan syndrome and moderate or more mitral regurgitation, including those having composite replacement of the aortic root. Copyright © 2014 The American Association for Thoracic Surgery. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

Testing of milk replacers for Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis by PCR and bacterial culture as a possible source for Johne's disease (paratuberculosis) in calves.

PubMed

Khol, Johannes Lorenz; Braun, Anna Lena; Slana, Iva; Kralik, Petr; Wittek, Thomas

2017-09-01

Johne's disease (paratuberculosis) is caused by Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP) and can lead to severe economic losses in the affected cattle herds. The transmission of the disease occurs mainly orally, by the ingestion of MAP, which is shed in the feces and milk of infected animals. Calves show a high susceptibility for the infection compared to adult animals. The use of milk replacers can, therefore, contribute to the prevention of the transmission of the disease to calves in MAP-positive herds by preventing the ingestion of the bacterium with milk from infected animals. The objective of this study was to test milk replacers for calves for the presence of MAP by bacteriological culture and PCR. Therefore, commercially available milk replacers for calves were purchased from 15 different companies. All of the products were tested for MAP by solid culture and real time quantitative PCR (qPCR) targeting IS900 and F57. During the present study, MAP could not be detected by qPCR or solid culture in commercially available milk replacers for calf rearing. The results of the present study underpins that the use of milk replacers for calf rearing might contribute to the reduction of MAP intake by calves in JD positive herds. Additional studies, including more products with a higher diversity, are needed to further elucidate the presence or absence of MAP in milk replacers for calves. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Space Shuttle Projects

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-03-05

Astronaut James H. Newman, mission specialist, floats about in the Space Shuttle Columbia's cargo bay while working in tandem with astronaut Michael J. Massimino (out of frame),mission specialist, during the STS-109 mission's second day of extravehicular activity (EVA). Inside Columbia's cabin, astronaut Nancy J. Currie, mission specialist, controlled the Remote Manipulator System (RMS) to assist the two in their work on the Hubble Space Telescope (HST). The RMS was used to capture the telescope and secure it into Columbia's cargo bay.Part of the giant telescope's base, latched down in the payload bay, can be seen behind Newman. The Space Shuttle Columbia STS-109 mission lifted off March 1, 2002 with goals of repairing and upgrading the HST. The Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama had responsibility for the design, development, and contruction of the HST, which is the most powerful and sophisticated telescope ever built. STS-109 upgrades to the HST included: replacement of the solar array panels; replacement of the power control unit (PCU); replacement of the Faint Object Camera (FOC) with a new advanced camera for Surveys (ACS); and installation of the experimental cooling system for the Hubble's Near-Infrared Camera and Multi-object Spectrometer (NICMOS), which had been dormant since January 1999 when its original coolant ran out. Lasting 10 days, 22 hours, and 11 minutes, the STS-109 mission was the 108th flight overall in NASA's Space Shuttle Program.

Angle restriction enhances synchronization of self-propelled objects.

PubMed

Gao, Jianxi; Havlin, Shlomo; Xu, Xiaoming; Stanley, H Eugene

2011-10-01

Understanding the synchronization process of self-propelled objects is of great interest in science and technology. We propose a synchronization model for a self-propelled objects system in which we restrict the maximal angle change of each object to θ(R). At each time step, each object moves and changes its direction according to the average direction of all of its neighbors (including itself). If the angle change is greater than a cutoff angle θ(R), the change is replaced by θ(R). We find that (i) counterintuitively, the synchronization improves significantly when θ(R) decreases, (ii) there exists a critical restricted angle θ(Rc) at which the synchronization order parameter changes from a large value to a small value, and (iii) for each noise amplitude η, the synchronization as a function of θ(R) shows a maximum value, indicating the existence of an optimal θ(R) that yields the best synchronization for every η.

Efficacy of a Home-Based Exercise Program After Thyroidectomy for Thyroid Cancer Patients.

PubMed

Kim, Kyunghee; Gu, Mee Ock; Jung, Jung Hwa; Hahm, Jong Ryeal; Kim, Soo Kyoung; Kim, Jin Hyun; Woo, Seung Hoon

2018-02-01

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of a home-based exercise program on fatigue, anxiety, quality of life (QoL), and immune function of thyroid cancer patients taking thyroid hormone replacement after thyroidectomy. This quasi-experimental study with a non-equivalent control group included 43 outpatients taking thyroid hormone replacement after thyroidectomy (22 in the experimental group and 21 in the control group). After education about the home-based exercise program, subjects in the experimental group underwent 12 weeks of aerobic, resistance, and flexibility exercise. A comparative analysis was conducted between the two groups. Patients in the experimental group were significantly less fatigued or anxious (p < 0.01). They reported significantly improved QoL (p < 0.05) compared to those in the control group. Natural killer cell activity was significantly higher in the exercise group compared to that in the control group (p < 0.05). A home-based exercise program is effective in reducing fatigue and anxiety, improving QoL, and increasing immune function in patients taking thyroid hormone replacement after thyroidectomy. Therefore, such a home-based exercise program can be used as an intervention for patients who are taking thyroid hormone replacement after thyroidectomy.

SYNERGISTIC WOOD PRESERVATIVES FOR REPLACEMENT OF CCA

EPA Science Inventory

The objective of this project was to evaluate the potential synergistic combinations of environmentally-safe biocides as wood preservatives. These wood preservatives could be potential replacements for the heavy-metal based CCA.

Didecyldimethylammonium chloride [DDAC] was...

Development of an approach to facilitate optimal equipment replacement.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1999-10-01

The principle objective of this study was to develop a procedure using available departmental data on operation, maintenance and replacement costs to provide the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development with guidelines for the identific...

Meniscus tear surgery and meniscus replacement

PubMed Central

Vaquero, Javier; Forriol, Francisco

2016-01-01

Summary Objective the menisci are easily injured and difficult to repair. The aim of this study was to analyze the current state of meniscal surgery aimed at preserving morphology and conserving the biomechanics of the knee to prevent joint degeneration. Methodology a search of the electronic medical literature database Medline was conducted, from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed. The search was not limited by language. Candidate articles were identified by searching for those that included the keywords meniscus, surgery, suture, implant, allograft. The limits were included for clinical research and clinical trials. Basic research was not included. The studies selected were evaluated and classified in three different categories: basic science, reconstruction (suture and meniscectomy) and implants (scaffolds and allograft). Results the consequences of meniscectomy performed at a young age can lead to a joint cartilage degeneration twenty years later. There are few surgical options for the repair of meniscal injuries in order both to preserve the meniscus and to ensure the long term survival of the knee joint, meniscectomy, repair, suturing the tear, or reconstruction, when a meniscal allograft or synthetic substitute is used to replace the meniscus, but the biomechanical properties of the native meniscus are not reproduced entirely by the scaffolds that exist today. Conclusion therapies that successfully repair or replace the meniscus are therefore likely to prevent or delay osteoarthritis progression. PMID:27331034

STS-109 Crew Interviews: James H. Newman

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2002-01-01

STS-109 Mission Specialist James H. Newman is seen during a prelaunch interview. He answers questions about his inspiration to become an astronaut, his career path, and his most memorable experiences. He gives details on the mission's goals and objectives, which focus on the refurbishing of the Hubble Space Telescope, and his role in the mission. He provides a brief background on the Hubble Space Telescope, and explains the plans for the rendezvous of the Columbia Orbiter with the Hubble Space Telescope. He provides details and timelines for each of the planned Extravehicular Activities (EVAs), which include replacing the solar arrays, changing the Power Control Unit, installing the Advanced Camera for Surveys (ACS), and installing a new Cryocooler for the Near Infrared Camera and Multi-Object Spectrometer (NICMOS). He gives further explanation of each of these pieces of equipment. He also describes the break-out plan in place for these spacewalks. The interview ends with Newman explaining the details of a late addition to the mission's tasks, which is to replace a reaction wheel on the Hubble Space Telescope.

STS-61 Space Shuttle mission report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fricke, Robert W., Jr.

1994-01-01

The STS-61 Space Shuttle Program Mission Report summarizes the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) servicing mission as well as the Orbiter, External Tank (ET), Solid Rocket Booster (SRB), Redesigned Solid Rocket Motor (RSRM), and the Space Shuttle main engine (SSME) systems performance during the fifty-ninth flight of the Space Shuttle Program and fifth flight of the Orbiter vehicle Endeavour (OV-105). In addition to the Orbiter, the flight vehicle consisted of an ET designated as ET-60; three SSME's which were designated as serial numbers 2019, 2033, and 2017 in positions 1, 2, and 3, respectively; and two SRB's which were designated BI-063. The RSRM's that were installed in each SRB were designated as 360L023A (lightweight) for the left SRB, and 360L023B (lightweight) for the right SRB. This STS-61 Space Shuttle Program Mission Report fulfills the Space Shuttle Program requirement as documented in NSTS 07700, Volume 8, Appendix E. That document requires that each major organizational element supporting the Program report the results of its hardware evaluation and mission performance plus identify all related in-flight anomalies. The primary objective of the STS-61 mission was to perform the first on-orbit servicing of the Hubble Space Telescope. The servicing tasks included the installation of new solar arrays, replacement of the Wide Field/Planetary Camera I (WF/PC I) with WF/PC II, replacement of the High Speed Photometer (HSP) with the Corrective Optics Space Telescope Axial Replacement (COSTAR), replacement of rate sensing units (RSU's) and electronic control units (ECU's), installation of new magnetic sensing systems and fuse plugs, and the repair of the Goddard High Resolution Spectrometer (GHRS). Secondary objectives were to perform the requirements of the IMAX Cargo Bay Camera (ICBC), the IMAX Camera, and the Air Force Maui Optical Site (AMOS) Calibration Test.

Assessment and validation of CT scanogram to compare per-operative and post-operative mechanical axis after navigated total knee replacement

PubMed Central

Jain, Sunil

2008-01-01

Our objective was to assess and validate low-dose computed tomography (CT) scanogram as a post-operative imaging modality to measure the mechanical axis after navigated total knee replacement. A prospective study was performed to compare intra-operative and post-operative mechanical axis after navigated total knee replacements. All consecutive patients who underwent navigated total knee replacement between May and December 2006 were included. The intra-operative final axis was recorded, and post-operatively a CT scanogram of lower limbs was performed. The mechanical axis was measured and compared against the intra-operative measurement. There were 15 patients ranging in age from 57 to 80 (average 70) years. The average final intra-operative axis was 0.56° varus (4° varus to 1.5° valgus) and post-operative CT scanogram axis was 0.52° varus (3.1° varus to 1.8° valgus). The average deviation from final axes to CT scanogram axes was 0.12° valgus with a correlation coefficient of 0.9. Our study suggests that CT scanogram is an imaging modality with reasonable accuracy for measuring mechanical axis despite significantly low radiation. It also confirms a high level of correlation between intra-operative and post-operative mechanical axis after navigated total knee replacement. PMID:18696064

The feasibility of replacing or upgrading utility distribution transformers during routine maintenance

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

Barnes, P.R.; Van Dyke, J.W.; McConnell, B.W.

It is estimated that electric utilities use about 40 million distribution transformers in supplying electricity to customers in the United States. Although utility distribution transformers collectively have a high average efficiency, they account for approximately 61 billion kWh of the 229 billion kWh of energy lost annually in the delivery of electricity. Distribution transformers are being replaced over time by new, more efficient, lower-loss units during routine utility maintenance of power distribution systems. Maintenance is typically not performed on units in service. However, units removed from service with appreciable remaining life are often refurbished and returned to stock. Distribution transformersmore » may be removed from service for many reasons, including failure, over- or underloading, or line upgrades such as voltage changes or rerouting. When distribution transformers are removed from service, a decision must be made whether to dispose of the transformer and purchase a lower-loss replacement or to refurbish the transformer and return it to stock for future use. This report contains findings and recommendations on replacing utility distribution transformers during routine maintenance, which is required by section 124(c) of the Energy Policy Act of 1992. The objectives of the study are to evaluate the practicability, cost-effectiveness, and potential energy savings of replacing or upgrading existing transformers during routine utility maintenance and to develop recommendations on was to achieve the potential energy savings.« less

Vehicle Systems Engineering and Integration Activities - Phase 5

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-08-31

and Engineering. Its objective is to fundamentally change the capabilities for the design, adaptation, and manufacture of defense systems. Recent...package. The standard RISE package includes an upgraded propulsion system ( turbocharged engine and new transmission), greatly improved driver...original M113A3 and M730A2 vehicles is the turbocharged 275 hp 6V53T engine from Detroit Diesel Corporation. Replacing the earlier 212 hp M113A2

Analysis of Household Electricity Consumption Patterns and Economy of Water Heating Shifting and Saving Bulbs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rosin, Argo; Moller, Taavi; Lehtla, Madis; Hoimoja, Hardi

2010-01-01

This article analyses household electricity consumption based on an object in Estonia. Energy consumption of workday and holiday by loads (including high and low tariff energy consumption) is discussed. The final part describes the evaluation of profitability of common investments of consumption shifting and replacing inefficient devices with more efficient ones. Additionally it describes shifting problems and shifting equipment profitability in real-time tariff system.

Replacing 100% fruit juice with whole fruit results in a trade off of nutrient in the diets of children

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The effect of replacing 100% fruit juice (FJ) with whole fruit (WF) on nutrient intake and adequacy in children's diets is unclear. The objective of this study was to model the effect of replacing FJ with WF in children's diets. Data from children 2-18 years of age (n=6,090) participating in the Na...

Regional analgesia for improvement of long-term functional outcome after elective large joint replacement

PubMed Central

Atchabahian, Arthur; Schwartz, Gary; Hall, Charles B; Lajam, Claudette M; Andreae, Michael H

2015-01-01

Background Regional analgesia is more effective than conventional analgesia for controlling pain and may facilitate rehabilitation after large joint replacement in the short term. It remains unclear if regional anaesthesia improves functional outcomes after joint replacement beyond three months after surgery. Objectives To assess the effects of regional anaesthesia and analgesia on long-term functional outcomes 3, 6 and 12 months after elective major joint (knee, shoulder and hip) replacement surgery. Search methods We performed an electronic search of several databases (CENTRAL, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL), and handsearched reference lists and conference abstracts. We updated our search in June 2015. Selection criteria We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing regional analgesia versus conventional analgesia in patients undergoing total shoulder, hip or knee replacement. We included studies that reported a functional outcome with a follow-up of at least three months after surgery. Data collection and analysis We used standard methodological procedures expected by Cochrane. We contacted study authors for additional information. Main results We included six studies with 350 participants followed for at least three months. All of these studies enrolled participants undergoing total knee replacement. Studies were at least partially blinded. Three studies had a high risk of performance bias and one a high risk of attrition bias, but the risk of bias was otherwise unclear or low. Only one study assessed joint function using a global score. Due to heterogeneity in outcome and reporting, we could only pool three out of six RCTs, with range of motion assessed at three months after surgery used as a surrogate for joint function. All studies had a high risk of detection bias. Using the random-effects model, there was no statistically significant difference between the experimental and control groups (mean difference 3.99 degrees, 95% confidence interval (CI) − 2.23 to 10.21; P value = 0.21, 3 studies, 140 participants, very low quality evidence). We did not perform further analyses because immediate adverse effects were not part of the explicit outcomes of any of these typically small studies, and long-term adverse events after regional anaesthesia are rare. None of the included studies elicited or reported long-term adverse effects like persistent nerve damage. Authors’ conclusions More high-quality studies are needed to establish the effects of regional analgesia on function after major joint replacement, as well as on the risk of adverse events (falls). PMID:26269416

Radiological/biological/aerosol removal system

DOEpatents

Haslam, Jeffery J

2015-03-17

An air filter replacement system for existing buildings, vehicles, arenas, and other enclosed airspaces includes a replacement air filter for replacing a standard air filter. The replacement air filter has dimensions and air flow specifications that allow it to replace the standard air filter. The replacement air filter includes a filter material that removes radiological or biological or aerosol particles.

The value of genetic information in selecting dairy replacements.

PubMed

Radke, Brian R; Lloyd, James W; Black, J Roy; Harsh, Stephen

2005-09-30

The objective of this study was to empirically determine the economic value of genetic information in the selection of dairy replacements, and assess whether this value was sufficient to prompt producers to select replacements on this basis. The data set consisted of 1982 Michigan Holstein replacements in 115 herds. Each herd had a minimum of 10 replacements that were born in the last 6 months of 1992 and calved within the last 6 months of 1994. The data for each replacement included the estimated breeding value (EBV) for milk at the beginning and end of the rearing period, and the estimated lifetime profit corrected for the opportunity cost of postponed replacement (ELPCOC). The replacement selection decision for a profit-maximizing dairy producer selecting 70 or 80% of the replacements was modeled. We modeled three methods of selection: genetic, random and ex poste. Genetic selection was evaluated using the EBV milk available at the beginning or end of the rearing period. For each herd, the profit associated with each of the three methods of selection was simulated. The value of the genetic information and perfect information were the differences in herd profits of genetic selection and ex poste selection relative to random selection, respectively. The difference in value of the genetic information between the end of the rearing period and the beginning of the rearing period was the increase in value of the genetic information due to updating. The value of information was calculated as the average herd profit per replacement. The value of the genetic information ranged from 22 dollars/replacement to 30 dollars/replacement and was statistically greater than zero at a 95% confidence level. It is unclear whether this value is sufficient to prompt producers to select replacements on the basis of EBV milk as has been recommended. The negative value of EBV milk (from the end of the rearing period when selecting 80% of the replacements) for 32 herds was consistent with the noisiness of the genetic estimates as messages of ELPCOC. The increased value of the genetic information due to updating was approximately 5 dollars/replacement. This increased value is likely insufficient to warrant delaying replacement selection decisions solely to obtain the updated information. The value of EBV milk was approximately 4 dollars/replacement higher when selecting 70% of the replacements versus 80%. The genetic information captured between 15% (selecting 70% at the beginning of the rearing period) and 20% (selecting 80% at the end of the rearing period) of the value of perfect information.

STK/Lifetime as a Replacement for Heritage Orbital Lifetime Software

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dove, Edwin

2004-01-01

The Flight Dynamics Analysis Branch (FDAB) of NASNGSFC is tasked with determining the orbital lifetime of several developmental and operational satellites, which include the Hubble Space Telescope. A DOS based program developed by the FDAB many years ago, called PC Lifetime, is used to determine a satellite s lifetime and could soon be in need of a replacement. STK s Lifetime Object Tool is a possible candidate. Due to the reduced support of the PC Lifetime program, and the growing incompatibility of older programs with new operating systems, a comparative analysis was done to determine if STWLifetime could meet the stringent requirements that were laid before it. The use of highly accurate numerical propagators such as STK s High Precision Orbit Propagator ( OP) and the Goddard Trajectory Determination System (GTDS) provided a basis on which to compare STWLifetime s results. Several test cases were run, but the main four test cases would determine whether or not STWLifetime could be PC- Lifetime s replacement. These four cases include a geotransfer orbit, two circular LEOS, and a Poiar LEO. Following rigorous testmg procedures, a conclusion will be determined. STK has proved to be a versatile program on many satellite missions and the FDAB has high hopes that it can pass FDAB s requirements for orbital lifetime prediction.

Integration of task level planning and diagnosis for an intelligent robot

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chan, Amy W.

1992-01-01

A satellite floating space is diagnosed with a telerobot attached performing maintenance or replacement tasks. This research included three objectives. The first objective was to generate intelligent path planning for a robot to move around a satellite. The second objective was to diagnose possible faulty scenarios in the satellite. The third objective included two tasks. The first task was to combine intelligent path planning with diagnosis. The second task was to build an interface between the combined intelligent system with Robosim. The ability of a robot to deal with unexpected scenarios is particularly important in space since the situation could be different from time to time so that the telerobot must be capable of detecting that the situation has changed and the necessity may exist to alter its behavior based on the new situation. The feature of allowing human-in-the-loop is also very important in space. In some extreme cases, the situation is beyond the capability of a robot so our research project allows the human to override the decision of a robot.

The feasibility of replacing or upgrading utility distribution transformers during routine maintenance

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

Barnes, P.R.; Van Dyke, J.W; McConnell, B.W.

It is estimated that electric utilities use about 40 million distribution transformers in supplying electricity to customers in the United States. Although utility distribution transformers collectively have a high average efficiency, they account for approximately 61 billion kWh of the 229 billion kWh of energy lost annually in the delivery of electricity. Distribution transformers are being replaced over time by new, more efficient, lower-loss units during routine utility maintenance of power distribution systems. Maintenance is typically not performed on units in service. However, units removed from service with appreciable remaining life are often refurbished and returned to stock. Distribution transformersmore » may be removed from service for many reasons, including failure, over- or underloading, or line upgrades such as voltage changes or rerouting. When distribution transformers are removed from service, a decision must be made whether to dispose of the transformer and purchase a lower-loss replacement or to refurbish the transformer and return it to stock for future use. This report contains findings and recommendations on replacing utility distribution transformers during routine maintenance, which is required by section 124 of the Energy Policy Act of 1992. The objectives of the study are to evaluate the practicability, cost-effectiveness, and potential energy savings of replacing or upgrading existing transformers during routine utility maintenance and to develop recommendations on ways to achieve the potential energy savings. Using survey data obtained from utilities and analyses of the economics of refurbishment versus replacement of distribution transformers that are removed from service, it is found that on average utilities are implementing reasonable decisions on refurbishment versus replacement.« less

Development of a guide for prioritization of railway bridges for repair and replacement.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-09-01

The objective of this study was to develop evaluation bases for the repair, rehabilitation, and replacement of existing : railway bridges. Considering the importance of bridges to the railway network, the research involved the review and : analysis o...

STS-103 Mission Highlights Resource Tape (1 of 2)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2000-01-01

The STS-103 flight crew, Commander Curtis L. Brown, Pilot Scott J. Kelly, Mission Specialists Steven L. Smith, C. Michael Foale, John M. Grunsfeld, Claude Nicollier, and Jean-Francois Clervoy, are seen performing pre-launch activities such as crew suit-up, and ride out to the launch pad for a night launch. Also, included are various panoramic views of the shuttle on the pad. The crew is readied in the White Room for their mission. After the closing of the hatch and arm retraction, launch activities are shown including countdown, engine ignition, launch, and the separation of the Solid Rocket Boosters. Once on-orbit the primary objective is to capture and service the Hubble Space Telescope. Included are various live shots of the payload bay showing the flight support system, the orbiter replacement unit carrier and the forward fixture that house the new Fine Guidance System (FGS). Smith and Grunsfeld replaces and changes the sensor units during the first space walk of this mission. The second space walk by Nicollier and Foale includes the changing of the computer and installation of the FGS. This is tape 1 of 2, tape 2 has a report number of NONP-NASA-VT-2000036031.

Special Inspector General for Iraq Reconstruction (SIGIR): The Year of Transition Enters the Fourth Quarter

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-10-30

including the workover of 30 wells in the Rumaila fields and completion and replace- ment of tubing in 30 wells in West Qurna. The objective is...governance, trade, bank lending, capital markets, and microfinance . • There are more than 200 independent media sources in Iraq, but only $3...development. USAID also manages the microfinance program, under Izdihar, that was started by the CPA.195 The IRMO Office of Private Sector Develop- ment

Mortality rates at 10 years after metal-on-metal hip resurfacing compared with total hip replacement in England: retrospective cohort analysis of hospital episode statistics

PubMed Central

Kendal, Adrian R; Prieto-Alhambra, Daniel; Arden, Nigel K; Judge, Andrew

2013-01-01

Objectives To compare 10 year mortality rates among patients undergoing metal-on-metal hip resurfacing and total hip replacement in England. Design Retrospective cohort study. Setting English hospital episode statistics database linked to mortality records from the Office for National Statistics. Population All adults who underwent primary elective hip replacement for osteoarthritis from April 1999 to March 2012. The exposure of interest was prosthesis type: cemented total hip replacement, uncemented total hip replacement, and metal-on-metal hip resurfacing. Confounding variables included age, sex, Charlson comorbidity index, rurality, area deprivation, surgical volume, and year of operation. Main outcome measures All cause mortality. Propensity score matching was used to minimise confounding by indication. Kaplan-Meier plots estimated the probability of survival up to 10 years after surgery. Multilevel Cox regression modelling, stratified on matched sets, described the association between prosthesis type and time to death, accounting for variation across hospital trusts. Results 7437 patients undergoing metal-on-metal hip resurfacing were matched to 22 311 undergoing cemented total hip replacement; 8101 patients undergoing metal-on-metal hip resurfacing were matched to 24 303 undergoing uncemented total hip replacement. 10 year rates of cumulative mortality were 271 (3.6%) for metal-on-metal hip resurfacing versus 1363 (6.1%) for cemented total hip replacement, and 239 (3.0%) for metal-on-metal hip resurfacing versus 999 (4.1%) for uncemented total hip replacement. Patients undergoing metal-on-metal hip resurfacing had an increased survival probability (hazard ratio 0.51 (95% confidence interval 0.45 to 0.59) for cemented hip replacement; 0.55 (0.47 to 0.65) for uncemented hip replacement). There was no evidence for an interaction with age or sex. Conclusions Patients with hip osteoarthritis undergoing metal-on-metal hip resurfacing have reduced mortality in the long term compared with those undergoing cemented or uncemented total hip replacement. This difference persisted after extensive adjustment for confounding factors available in our data. The study results can be applied to matched populations, which exclude patients who are very old and have had complex total hip replacements. Although residual confounding is possible, the observed effect size is large. These findings require validation in external cohorts and randomised clinical trials. PMID:24284336

Impact reactivity of materials at very high oxygen pressure

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Connor, H. W.; Minchey, J. G.; Crowder, R.; Davidson, R.

1983-01-01

The requirements for impact testing of materials in an oxygen atmosphere at pressures from 82.7 MPa (12,000 psi) to 172 MPa (25,000 psi) were evaluated. The impact tester system was evaluated for potential pressure increases from 69 MPa (10,000 psi) to 82.7 MPa (12,000 psi). The low pressure oxygen and nitrogen systems, the impact tower, the impact test cell, and the high pressure oxygen system were evaluated individually. Although the structural integrity of the impact test cell and the compressor were sufficient for operation at 82.7 MPa (12,000 psi), studies revealed possible material incompatibility at that pressure and above. It was recommended that if a component should be replaced for 82.7 MPa (12,000 psi) operation the replacement should meet the final objectives of 172 MPa (25,000 psi). Recommended changes in the system include; use of Monel 400 for pressures above 82.7 MPa (12,000 psi), use of bellows to replace the seal in the impact tester, use of a sapphire window attached to a fiber optic for event sensing, and use of a three diaphragm compressor.

Neandertals made the first specialized bone tools in Europe

PubMed Central

Soressi, Marie; McPherron, Shannon P.; Lenoir, Michel; Dogandžić, Tamara; Goldberg, Paul; Jacobs, Zenobia; Maigrot, Yolaine; Martisius, Naomi L.; Miller, Christopher E.; Rendu, William; Richards, Michael; Skinner, Matthew M.; Steele, Teresa E.; Talamo, Sahra; Texier, Jean-Pierre

2013-01-01

Modern humans replaced Neandertals ∼40,000 y ago. Close to the time of replacement, Neandertals show behaviors similar to those of the modern humans arriving into Europe, including the use of specialized bone tools, body ornaments, and small blades. It is highly debated whether these modern behaviors developed before or as a result of contact with modern humans. Here we report the identification of a type of specialized bone tool, lissoir, previously only associated with modern humans. The microwear preserved on one of these lissoir is consistent with the use of lissoir in modern times to obtain supple, lustrous, and more impermeable hides. These tools are from a Neandertal context proceeding the replacement period and are the oldest specialized bone tools in Europe. As such, they are either a demonstration of independent invention by Neandertals or an indication that modern humans started influencing European Neandertals much earlier than previously believed. Because these finds clearly predate the oldest known age for the use of similar objects in Europe by anatomically modern humans, they could also be evidence for cultural diffusion from Neandertals to modern humans. PMID:23940333

NextGen Weather Processor Architecture Study

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-03-09

achieved in a staged fashion , ideally with new components coming on-line in time to replace existing capabilities prior to their end-of-life dates... fashion , ideally with new components coming on-line in time to replace existing capabilities prior to their end-of-life dates. As part of NWP Segment...weather capabilities. These objectives are to be achieved in a staged fashion , ideally with new components coming on-line in time to replace existing

[The professionalized transformation of medical witchcraft in the Qin-Han Dynasties].

PubMed

Liu, Yang; Liu, Changhua

2014-03-01

By witchcraft, it refers to the activities of imagining and intending to affect or control the object through"supernatural power". Ancient witchcraft was applied extensively in which those applied for medical purpose included sorcery, praying, superstitious art of anti-disaster, and tabooing, were collectively called"medical witchcraft". During the Qin-Han periods, witchcraft was transformed by the theory of Yin-Yang and Five-Phases as a part of technical profession. Among them, the system of demon-ghost witchcraft was replaced by the necromantic ghost system; exorcism and taboo system were infiltrated with the conception of the art of mathematics and technical system; whereas the superstitious art of anti-disaster was replaced by incantation. The remnants of medical witchcraft not yet totally transformed were also applied by the technical professionals of the Qin-Han Dynasties.

KSC-97pc655

NASA Image and Video Library

1997-04-16

An oxygen generator destined to replace a malfunctioning unit on the Russian Mir Space Station is the object of much curiosity during preflight preparations in the SPACEHAB Payload Processing Facility. A SPACEHAB Double Module on the Space Shuttle Atlantis will carry the oxygen generator to Mir during STS-84, the sixth Shuttle-Mir docking. The nearly 300-pound generator, manufactured by RSC Energia in Russia, will replace one of two Mir units that have been malfunctioning recently. The generator functions by electrolysis, which separates water into its oxygen and hydrogen components. The hydrogen is vented and the oxygen is used for breathing by the Mir crew. The generator is 4.2 feet in length and 1.4 feet in diameter. STS-84, which is planned to include a Mir crew exchange of astronaut C. Michael Foale for Jerry M. Linenger, is targeted for a May 15 liftoff

Mission Specialist Smith is suited and ready for launch

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1999-01-01

In the Operations and Checkout Building, STS-103 Mission Specialist Steven L. Smith signals he is suited up and ready for launch. Other crew members are Commander Curtis L. Brown Jr., Pilot Scott J. Kelly and Mission Specialists C. Michel Foale (Ph.D.), John M. Grunsfeld (Ph.D.), Jean-Frangois Clervoy of France and Claude Nicollier of Switzerland. Clervoy and Nicollier are with the European Space Agency. The STS-103 mission, to service the Hubble Space Telescope, is scheduled for launch Dec. 17 at 8:47 p.m. EST from Launch Pad 39B. Mission objectives include replacing gyroscopes and an old computer, installing another solid state recorder, and replacing damaged insulation in the telescope. After the 8-day, 21-hour mission, Discovery is expected to land at KSC Sunday, Dec. 26, at about 6:30 p.m. EST.

Door and window image-based measurement using a mobile device

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma, Guangyao; Janakaraj, Manishankar; Agam, Gady

2015-03-01

We present a system for door and window image-based measurement using an Android mobile device. In this system a user takes an image of a door or window that needs to be measured and using interaction measures specific dimensions of the object. The existing object is removed from the image and a 3D model of a replacement is rendered onto the image. The visualization provides a 3D model with which the user can interact. When tested on a mobile Android platform with an 8MP camera we obtain an average measurement error of roughly 0.5%. This error rate is stable across a range of view angles, distances from the object, and image resolutions. The main advantages of our mobile device application for image measurement include measuring objects for which physical access is not readily available, documenting in a precise manner the locations in the scene where the measurements were taken, and visualizing a new object with custom selections inside the original view.

Medical technology management: from planning to application.

PubMed

David, Y; Jahnke, E

2005-01-01

Appropriate deployment of technological innovation contributes to improvement in the quality of healthcare delivered, the containment of cost, and access to the healthcare system. Hospitals have been allocating a significant portion of their resources to procuring and managing capital assets; they are continuously faced with demands for new medical equipment and are asked to manage existing inventory for which they are not well prepared. To objectively manage their investment, hospitals are developing medical technology management programs that need pertinent information and planning methodology for integrating new equipment into existing operations as well as for optimizing costs of ownership of all equipment. Clinical engineers can identify technological solutions based on the matching of new medical equipment with hospital's objectives. They can review their institution's overall technological position, determine strengths and weaknesses, develop equipment-selection criteria, supervise installations, train users and monitor post procurement performance to assure meeting of goals. This program, together with cost accounting analysis, will objectively guide the capital assets decision-making process. Cost accounting analysis is a multivariate function that includes determining the amount, based upon a strategic plan and financial resources, of funding to be allocated annually for medical equipment acquisition and replacement. Often this function works closely with clinical engineering to establish equipment useful life and prioritization of acquisition, upgrade, and replacement of inventory within budget confines and without conducting time consuming, individual financial capital project evaluations.

Potentiality Prediction of Electric Power Replacement Based on Power Market Development Strategy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miao, Bo; Yang, Shuo; Liu, Qiang; Lin, Jingyi; Zhao, Le; Liu, Chang; Li, Bin

2017-05-01

The application of electric power replacement plays an important role in promoting the development of energy conservation and emission reduction in our country. To exploit the potentiality of regional electric power replacement, the regional GDP (gross domestic product) and energy consumption are taken as potentiality evaluation indicators. The principal component factors are extracted with PCA (principal component analysis), and the integral potentiality analysis is made to the potentiality of electric power replacement in the national various regions; a region is taken as a research object, and the potentiality of electric power replacement is defined and quantified. The analytical model for the potentiality of multi-scenario electric power replacement is developed, and prediction is made to the energy consumption with the grey prediction model. The relevant theoretical research is utilized to realize prediction analysis on the potentiality amount of multi-scenario electric power replacement.

Wittgenstein on Köhler and Gestalt psychology: a critique.

PubMed

Pastore, N

1991-10-01

Wittgenstein's objections to Köhler and gestalt psychology are critically examined. Principal features of Köhler's Gestalt Psychology are discussed that are relevant to Wittgenstein's views. They include Köhler's concepts of "subjective" and "objective" experiences, "sensory organization," and "empiristic theory." Wittgenstein's objections, which focus on the concept of sensory organization, are examined. Wittgenstein employs the term "aspect," which is derived from the findings of gestalt psychology, as a replacement for Köhler's term "sensory organization." After tracing his uses of aspect, it is shown that aspect is a superordinate entity distinct from 'sensory content' (colors and shapes). This dualism of aspect and sensory content is of the same kind that prevailed in the empiristic theory of visual perception. Wittgenstein's adherence to the empiristic theory is discussed. Finally, the difference between Wittgenstein's aspect and Köhler's sensory organization is examined.

"Replacing" Problem Behavior: An Analysis of Tactical Alternatives

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Johnston, J. M.

2006-01-01

A number of textbooks and professional volumes in applied behavior analysis suggest that interventions designed primarily to decrease a problem behavior should routinely be accompanied by efforts to increase the frequency of at least one appropriate behavior. Some sources describe the objective of this tactic as "replacing" the problem behavior.…

Development of an approach to facilitate optimal equipment replacement : technical summary.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1999-10-01

The objective of the study was to determine a way or ways to assign an urgency rating to equipment that was currently in service but in need of replacement. This urgency rating must in some manner took into account the various costs associated with r...

Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) Roofs for Sustainability and Energy Efficiency

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-09-10

roofs that utilize a-Si PV modules, like the ones in this study , experienced a significantly lower price reduction, which makes them less cost...facility did not matter, a roof in need of replacement was a better use of the funds. As for Site III, since one of the objectives was to study the...at Site II (NAS Patuxent River) and Site III (MCAS Yuma). Equipment regarding the study of the load on the HVAC system, including measuring the

A measure of the denseness of a phylogenetic network. [by sequenced proteins from extant species

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Holmquist, R.

1978-01-01

An objective measure of phylogenetic denseness is developed to examine various phylogenetic criteria: alpha- and beta-hemoglobin, myoglobin, cytochrome c, and the parvalbumin family. Attention is given to the number of nucleotide replacements separating homologous sequences, and to the topology of the network (in other words, to the qualitative nature of the network as defined by how closely the studied species are related). Applications include quantitative comparisons of species origin, relation, and rates of evolution.

To remove or to replace traditional electronic games? A crossover randomised controlled trial on the impact of removing or replacing home access to electronic games on physical activity and sedentary behaviour in children aged 10–12 years

PubMed Central

Straker, Leon M; Abbott, Rebecca A; Smith, Anne J

2013-01-01

Objective To evaluate the impact of (1) the removal of home access to traditional electronic games or (2) their replacement with active input electronic games, on daily physical activity and sedentary behaviour in children aged 10–12 years. Design Crossover randomised controlled trial, over 6 months. Setting Family homes in metropolitan Perth, Australia from 2007 to 2010. Participants 10-year-old to 12-year-old children were recruited through school and community media. From 210 children who were eligible, 74 met inclusion criteria, 8 withdrew and 10 had insufficient primary outcome measures, leaving 56 children (29 female) for analysis. Intervention A counterbalanced randomised order of three conditions sustained for 8 weeks each: no home access to electronic games, home access to traditional electronic games and home access to active input electronic games. Main outcome measures Primary outcome was accelerometer assessed moderate/vigorous physical activity (MVPA). Secondary outcomes included sedentary time and diary assessed physical activity and sedentary behaviours. Results Daily MVPA across the whole week was not significantly different between conditions. However, compared with home access to traditional electronic games, removal of all electronic games resulted in a significant increase in MVPA (mean 3.8 min/day, 95% CI 1.5 to 6.1) and a decrease in sedentary time (4.7 min/day, 0.0 to 9.5) in the after-school period. Similarly, replacing traditional games with active input games resulted in a significant increase in MVPA (3.2 min/day, 0.9 to 5.5) and a decrease in sedentary time (6.2 min/day, 1.4 to 11.4) in the after-school period. Diary reports supported an increase in physical activity and a decrease in screen-based sedentary behaviours with both interventions. Conclusions Removal of sedentary electronic games from the child's home and replacing these with active electronic games both resulted in small, objectively measured improvements in after-school activity and sedentary time. Parents can be advised that replacing sedentary electronic games with active electronic games is likely to have the same effect as removing all electronic games. Trial Registration Australia and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN 12609000279224) PMID:23818650

Potential Population-Level Nutritional Impact of Replacing Whole and Reduced-Fat Milk With Low-Fat and Skim Milk Among US Children Aged 2–19 Years

PubMed Central

Rehm, Colin D.; Drewnowski, Adam; Monsivais, Pablo

2015-01-01

Objective Dietary guidance emphasizes plain low-fat and skim milk over whole, reduced-fat, and flavored milk (milk eligible for replacement [MER]). The objective of this study was to evaluate the population-level impact of such a change on energy, macronutrient and nutrient intakes, and diet cost. Design Cross-sectional modeling study. Setting Data from the 2001–2002 and 2003–2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Participants A total of 8,112 children aged 2–19 years. Main Outcome Measures Energy, macronutrient, and micronutrient intake before and after replacement of MER with low-fat or skim milk. Analysis Survey-weighted linear regression models. Results Milk eligible for replacement accounted for 46% of dairy servings. Among MER consumers, replacement with skim or low-fat milk would lead to a projected reduction in energy of 113 (95% confidence interval [CI], 107–119) and 77 (95% CI, 73–82) kcal/d and percent energy from saturated fat by an absolute value of 2.5% of total energy (95% CI, 2.4–2.6) and 1.4% (95% CI, 1.3–1.5), respectively. Replacement of MER does not change diet costs or calcium and potassium intake. Conclusions Substitution of MER has the potential to reduce energy and total and saturated fat intake with no impact on diet costs or micronutrient density. The feasibility of such replacement has not been examined and there may be negative consequences if replacement is done with non-nutrient–rich beverages. PMID:25528079

Gastric Transposition for Esophageal Replacement in Children

PubMed Central

Hirschl, Ronald B.; Yardeni, Dani; Oldham, Keith; Sherman, Neil; Siplovich, Leo; Gross, Eitan; Udassin, Raphael; Cohen, Zehavi; Nagar, Hagith; Geiger, James D.; Coran, Arnold G.

2002-01-01

Objective To evaluate the authors’ experience with gastric transposition as a method of esophageal replacement in children with congenital or acquired abnormalities of the esophagus. Summary Background Data Esophageal replacement in children is almost always done for benign disease and thus requires a conduit that will last more than 70 years. The organ most commonly used in the past has been colon; however, most series have been fraught with major complications and conduit loss. For these reasons, in 1985 the authors switched from using colon interpositions to gastric transpositions for esophageal replacement in infants and children. Methods The authors retrospectively reviewed the records of 41 patients with the diagnoses of esophageal atresia (n = 26), corrosive injury (n = 8), leiomyomatosis (n = 5), and refractory gastroesophageal reflux (n = 2) who underwent gastric transposition for esophageal replacement. Results Mean ± SE age at the time of gastric transposition was 3.3 ± 0.6 years. All but two transpositions were performed through the posterior mediastinum without mortality or loss of the gastric conduit despite previous surgery on the gastric fundus in 8 (20%), previous esophageal operations in 15 (37%), and previous esophageal perforations in 6 (15%) patients. Complications included esophagogastric anastomotic leak (n = 15, 36%), which uniformly resolved without intervention; stricture formation (n = 20, 49%), all of which no longer require dilation; and feeding intolerance necessitating jejunal feeding (n = 8, 20%) due to delayed gastric emptying (n = 3), feeding aversion related to the underlying anomaly (n = 1), or severe neurological impairment (n = 4). No redo anastomoses were required. Conclusions Gastric transposition reestablishes effective gastrointestinal continuity with few complications. Oral feeding and appropriate weight gain are achieved in most children. Therefore, gastric transposition is an appropriate alternative for esophageal replacement in infants and children. PMID:12368682

Incorporating Objective Function Information Into the Feasibility Rule for Constrained Evolutionary Optimization.

PubMed

Wang, Yong; Wang, Bing-Chuan; Li, Han-Xiong; Yen, Gary G

2016-12-01

When solving constrained optimization problems by evolutionary algorithms, an important issue is how to balance constraints and objective function. This paper presents a new method to address the above issue. In our method, after generating an offspring for each parent in the population by making use of differential evolution (DE), the well-known feasibility rule is used to compare the offspring and its parent. Since the feasibility rule prefers constraints to objective function, the objective function information has been exploited as follows: if the offspring cannot survive into the next generation and if the objective function value of the offspring is better than that of the parent, then the offspring is stored into a predefined archive. Subsequently, the individuals in the archive are used to replace some individuals in the population according to a replacement mechanism. Moreover, a mutation strategy is proposed to help the population jump out of a local optimum in the infeasible region. Note that, in the replacement mechanism and the mutation strategy, the comparison of individuals is based on objective function. In addition, the information of objective function has also been utilized to generate offspring in DE. By the above processes, this paper achieves an effective balance between constraints and objective function in constrained evolutionary optimization. The performance of our method has been tested on two sets of benchmark test functions, namely, 24 test functions at IEEE CEC2006 and 18 test functions with 10-D and 30-D at IEEE CEC2010. The experimental results have demonstrated that our method shows better or at least competitive performance against other state-of-the-art methods. Furthermore, the advantage of our method increases with the increase of the number of decision variables.

Object Trimming: When Masking Dots Alter Rather than Replace Target Representations

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kahan, Todd A.; Enns, James T.

2010-01-01

Five experiments demonstrate that when dots appear beside a briefly presented target object, and persist on view longer than the target, the flanked object is perceptually altered by the dots. Three methods are used to explore this "object trimming effect". Experiments 1-3 assess participants' conscious reports of trimmed digits, Experiment 4 uses…

A new multi-objective optimization model for preventive maintenance and replacement scheduling of multi-component systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moghaddam, Kamran S.; Usher, John S.

2011-07-01

In this article, a new multi-objective optimization model is developed to determine the optimal preventive maintenance and replacement schedules in a repairable and maintainable multi-component system. In this model, the planning horizon is divided into discrete and equally-sized periods in which three possible actions must be planned for each component, namely maintenance, replacement, or do nothing. The objective is to determine a plan of actions for each component in the system while minimizing the total cost and maximizing overall system reliability simultaneously over the planning horizon. Because of the complexity, combinatorial and highly nonlinear structure of the mathematical model, two metaheuristic solution methods, generational genetic algorithm, and a simulated annealing are applied to tackle the problem. The Pareto optimal solutions that provide good tradeoffs between the total cost and the overall reliability of the system can be obtained by the solution approach. Such a modeling approach should be useful for maintenance planners and engineers tasked with the problem of developing recommended maintenance plans for complex systems of components.

Mixed Integer PDE Constrained Optimization for the Control of a Wildfire Hazard

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-01-01

are nodes suitable for extinguishing the fire. We introduce a discretization of the time horizon [0, T] by the set of time T := {0, At,..., ntZ\\t = T...of the constraints and objective with a discrete counterpart. The PDE is replaced by a linear system obtained from a convergent finite difference...method [5] and the integral is replaced by a quadrature formula. The domain is discretized by replacing 17 with an equidistant grid of length Ax

Evaluating the Effects of Culvert Designs on Ecosystem Processes in Northern Wisconsin Streams

Treesearch

J. C. Olson; A. M. Marcarelli; A.L. Timm; S.L. Eggert; R.K. Kolka

2017-01-01

Culvert replacements are commonly undertaken to restore aquatic organism passage and stream hydrologic and geomorphic conditions, but their effects on ecosystem processes are rarely quantified. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of two culvert replacement designs on stream ecosystem processes. The stream simulation design, where culverts...

Success of smoking cessation interventions during pregnancy.

PubMed

Bérard, Anick; Zhao, Jin-Ping; Sheehy, Odile

2016-11-01

Smoking during pregnancy is a modifiable risk factor associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. Smoking during pregnancy has been shown to increase the risk of spontaneous abortion, prematurity, low birthweight, congenital malformations, and sudden infant death syndrome. Despite the fact that it is well known that smoking can lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes, 13-25% of pregnant women overall continue to smoke during this critical period. The objective of the study was to evaluate the effect of gestational use of bupropion and nicotine patch replacement therapy on the risk of the following: (1) smoking cessation, (2) prematurity, and (3) small for gestational age. Women included in the Quebec Pregnancy Cohort who filled the annual autoadministered questionnaire between Jan. 1, 1998, and June 30, 2009, were studied. Smokers before gestation with a pregnancy resulting in a live birth comprised the study population. Three mutually exclusive study groups were formed among those who smoked at the beginning of pregnancy: gestational users of nicotine patch replacement therapy, bupropion, and smokers who did not use nicotine patch replacement therapy or bupropion. Rate of smoking cessation during pregnancy as well as the risk of prematurity and small for gestational age were studied. Of the 1288 women who met inclusion criteria, 900 were smokers, 72 were bupropion users, and 316 were nicotine patch replacement therapy users. Bupropion and nicotine patch replacement therapy use during pregnancy were associated with higher rates of smoking cessation: 81% in the bupropion group; 79% for nicotine patch replacement therapy; and 0% in those not using buproprion or nicotine patch replacement therapy. After discontinuing smoking cessation medications, 60% of bupropion users and 68% of nicotine patch replacement therapy users did not smoke again during and after pregnancy. Adjusting for potential confounders, nicotine patch replacement therapy use was associated with a lower risk of prematurity (adjusted odds ratio, 0.21, 95% confidence interval, 0.13-0.34), and small-for-gestational-age (adjusted odds ratio, 0.61, 95% confidence interval, 0.41-0.90) compared to smoking. Bupropion was associated with a lower risk of prematurity only (adjusted odds ratio, 0.12, 95% confidence interval, 0.03-0.50). Bupropion and nicotine patch replacement therapy have an impact on smoking cessation during and after pregnancy. Nicotine patch replacement therapy also decreased the risk of prematurity and small for gestational age. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Home-Based versus Hospital-Based Rehabilitation Program after Total Knee Replacement

PubMed Central

López-Liria, Remedios; Padilla-Góngora, David; Catalan-Matamoros, Daniel; Rocamora-Pérez, Patricia; Pérez-de la Cruz, Sagrario; Fernández-Sánchez, Manuel

2015-01-01

Objectives. To compare home-based rehabilitation with the standard hospital rehabilitation in terms of improving knee joint mobility and recovery of muscle strength and function in patients after a total knee replacement. Materials and Methods. A non-randomised controlled trial was conducted. Seventy-eight patients with a prosthetic knee were included in the study and allocated to either a home-based or hospital-based rehabilitation programme. Treatment included various exercises to restore strength and joint mobility and to improve patients' functional capacity. The primary outcome of the trial was the treatment effectiveness measured by the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC). Results. The groups did not significantly differ in the leg side (right/left) or clinical characteristics (P > 0.05). After the intervention, both groups showed significant improvements (P < 0.001) from the baseline values in the level of pain (visual analogue scale), the range of flexion-extension motion and muscle strength, disability (Barthel and WOMAC indices), balance, and walking. Conclusions. This study reveals that the rehabilitation treatments offered either at home or in hospital settings are equally effective. PMID:25961017

Applying energy-conservation retrofits to standard army buildings: project design and initial energy data. Final report

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

Westervelt, E.T.; Northrup, G.R.; Allen, E.O.

1988-07-01

This report describes the initial and continuing efforts in a project demonstrating the energy performance of theoretically-based retrofit packages on as-found, standard-design Army buildings. Four standard building designs are being investigated: a motor-vehicle repair shop, the Type 64 (L-shaped) barracks, an enlisted-personnel mess hall, and a two-company, rolling-pin-shaped barracks for enlisted personnel. The Army has over 840 of these particular buildings. The objective of the project is to test the energy and cost performance of the retrofit packages, which include such measures as installing wall or ceiling insulation, replacing and/or blocking windows, partitioning areas of differing temperature, modifying air-handling equipment,more » modifying boiler controls, replacing lights, etc. To this end, energy data has been gathered from retrofitted and identical but nonretrofitted buildings for a test/reference comparison.« less

KSC-99pp1439

NASA Image and Video Library

1999-12-17

An olivaceous cormorant soars in the cloud-streaked sky near the Space Shuttle Discovery as it waits for liftoff on mission STS-103. To the left of Discovery is the Rotating Service Structure, rolled back on Dec. 16 in preparation for launch. At right is a 290-foot-high water tank with a capacity of 300,000 gallons. The tank is part of the sound suppression water system used during launch. The STS-103 mission, to service the Hubble Space Telescope, is scheduled for launch Dec. 17 at 8:47 p.m. EST from Launch Pad 39B. Mission objectives include replacing gyroscopes and an old computer, installing another solid state recorder, and replacing damaged insulation in the telescope. The mission is expected to last about 8 days and 21 hours. Discovery is expected to land at KSC Sunday, Dec. 26, at about 6:25 p.m. EST

STS-109 Crew Interviews - Currie

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2002-01-01

STS-109 Mission Specialist 2 Nancy Jane Currie is seen during a prelaunch interview. She answers questions about her inspiration to become an astronaut and her career path. She gives details on the Columbia Orbiter mission which has as its main tasks the maintenance and augmentation of the Hubble Space Telescope (HST). While she will do many things during the mission, the most important will be her role as the primary operator of the robotic arm, which is responsible for grappling the HST, bringing it to the Orbiter bay, and providing support for the astronauts during their EVAs (Extravehicular Activities). Additionally, the robotic arm will be responsible for transferring new and replacement equipment from the Orbiter to the HST. This equipment includes: two solar arrays, a Power Control Unit (PCU), the Advanced Camera for Surveys, and a replacement cooling system for NICMOS (Near Infrared Camera Multi-Object Spectrometer).

The STS-103 crew address family and friends at Pad 39B

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1999-01-01

The STS-103 crew address family and friends at Launch Pad 39B. From left to right are Pilot Scott J. Kelly, Commander Curtis L. Brown Jr., and Mission Specialists C. Michael Foale (Ph.D.), John M. Grunsfeld (Ph.D.), Jean-Frangois Clervoy of France , Claude Nicollier of Switzerland and Steven L. Smith. Nicollier and Clervoy are with the European Space Agency. In the background is Space Shuttle Discovery, alongside the lighted Fixed Service Structure. The STS-103 mission, to service the Hubble Space Telescope, is scheduled for launch Dec. 17 at 8:47 p.m. EST from Launch Pad 39B. Mission objectives include replacing gyroscopes and an old computer, installing another solid state recorder, and replacing damaged insulation in the telescope. The mission is expected to last about 8 days and 21 hours. Discovery is expected to land at KSC Sunday, Dec. 26, at about 6:25 p.m. EST.

STS-103 MS Smith prepares to enter orbiter from White Room

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1999-01-01

STS-103 Mission Specialist Steven L. Smith, in his orange launch and entry suit, waits for assistance from closeout crew members in the White Room before entering the orbiter. From left, they are NASA Quality Assurance Specialist Danny Wyatt, United Space Alliance (USA) Mechanical Technician Vinny Defranzo and USA Orbiter Vehicle Closeout Chief Travis Thompson. The White Room is an environmental chamber at the end of the orbiter access arm on the fixed service structure. It provides entry to the orbiter crew compartment. The mission, to service the Hubble Space Telescope, is scheduled to lift off at 7:50 p.m. EST Dec. 19 on mission STS-103, servicing the Hubble Space Telescope. Objectives for the nearly eight-day mission include replacing gyroscopes and an old computer, installing another solid state recorder, and replacing damaged insulation in the telescope. Discovery is expected to land at KSC Monday, Dec. 27, at about 5:24 p.m. EST.

STS-103 Mission Specialist Smith suits up before launch

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1999-01-01

After donning his launch and entry suit, sts-103 Mission Specialist Steven L. Smith shows a positive attitude over the second launch attempt for Space Shuttle Discovery. The previous launch attempt on Dec. 17 was scrubbed about 8:52 p.m. due to numerous violations of weather launch commit criteria at KSC. Smith and other crew members Commander Curtis L. Brown Jr., Pilot Scott J. Kelly and Mission Specialists C. Michael Foale (Ph.D.), John M. Grunsfeld (Ph.D.), Claude Nicollier of Switzerland and Jean-Francois Clervoy of France are scheduled to lift off at 7:50 p.m. EST Dec. 19 on mission STS-103, servicing the Hubble Space Telescope. Objectives for the nearly eight-day mission include replacing gyroscopes and an old computer, installing another solid state recorder, and replacing damaged insulation in the telescope. Discovery is expected to land at KSC Monday, Dec. 27, at about 5:24 p.m. EST.

KSC-99pp1480

NASA Image and Video Library

1999-12-19

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-103 Commander Curtis L. Brown Jr., in his orange launch and entry suit, enjoys a laugh with closeout crew members in the White Room before entering the orbiter. From left are United Space Alliance (USA) Mechanical Technician Rene Arriens, USA Orbiter Vehicle Closeout Chief Travis Thompson, and NASA Quality Assurance Specialist Danny Wyatt. The white room is an environmental chamber at the end of the orbiter access arm on the fixed service structure. It provides entry to the orbiter crew compartment. The mission, to service the Hubble Space Telescope, is scheduled to lift off at 7:50 p.m. EST Dec. 19 on mission STS-103, servicing the Hubble Space Telescope. Objectives for the nearly eight-day mission include replacing gyroscopes and an old computer, installing another solid state recorder, and replacing damaged insulation in the telescope. Discovery is expected to land at KSC Monday, Dec. 27, at about 5:24 p.m. EST

STS-84 oxygen generator for Mir on display at SPACEHAB

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1997-01-01

An oxygen generator destined to replace a malfunctioning unit on the Russian Mir Space Station is the object of much curiosity during preflight preparations in the SPACEHAB Payload Processing Facility. A SPACEHAB Double Module on the Space Shuttle Atlantis will carry the oxygen generator to Mir during STS-84, the sixth Shuttle-Mir docking. The nearly 300-pound generator, manufactured by RSC Energia in Russia, will replace one of two Mir units that have been malfunctioning recently. The generator functions by electrolysis, which separates water into its oxygen and hydrogen components. The hydrogen is vented and the oxygen is used for breathing by the Mir crew. The generator is 4.2 feet in length and 1.4 feet in diameter. STS-84, which is planned to include a Mir crew exchange of astronaut C. Michael Foale for Jerry M. Linenger, is targeted for a May 15 liftoff.

The cost of clinical mastitis in the first 30 days of lactation: An economic modeling tool.

PubMed

Rollin, E; Dhuyvetter, K C; Overton, M W

2015-12-01

Clinical mastitis results in considerable economic losses for dairy producers and is most commonly diagnosed in early lactation. The objective of this research was to estimate the economic impact of clinical mastitis occurring during the first 30 days of lactation for a representative US dairy. A deterministic partial budget model was created to estimate direct and indirect costs per case of clinical mastitis occurring during the first 30 days of lactation. Model inputs were selected from the available literature, or when none were available, from herd data. The average case of clinical mastitis resulted in a total economic cost of $444, including $128 in direct costs and $316 in indirect costs. Direct costs included diagnostics ($10), therapeutics ($36), non-saleable milk ($25), veterinary service ($4), labor ($21), and death loss ($32). Indirect costs included future milk production loss ($125), premature culling and replacement loss ($182), and future reproductive loss ($9). Accurate decision making regarding mastitis control relies on understanding the economic impacts of clinical mastitis, especially the longer term indirect costs that represent 71% of the total cost per case of mastitis. Future milk production loss represents 28% of total cost, and future culling and replacement loss represents 41% of the total cost of a case of clinical mastitis. In contrast to older estimates, these values represent the current dairy economic climate, including milk price ($0.461/kg), feed price ($0.279/kg DM (dry matter)), and replacement costs ($2,094/head), along with the latest published estimates on the production and culling effects of clinical mastitis. This economic model is designed to be customized for specific dairy producers and their herd characteristics to better aid them in developing mastitis control strategies. Copyright © 2015 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Marfan syndrome associated aortic disease in neonates and children: a clinical-morphologic review.

PubMed

Ware, Adam L; Miller, Dylan V; Erickson, Lance K; Menon, Shaji C

2016-01-01

Marfan syndrome (MFS) is a multisystem connective tissue disorder that can lead to aortic dilation requiring aortic root replacement. Neonatal MFS (nMFS) is a rare and severe form of MFS compared to classic MFS (cMFS). Aortic root histology in MFS is thought to demonstrate predominantly medial degeneration (MD) of a translamellar mucoid extracellular matrix accumulation (MEMA-T) vs. the intralamellar mucoid extracellular matrix accumulation (MEMA-I) seen in other aortopathies. The objective of this study was to describe the clinical and histopathologic features of nMFS and cMFS patients undergoing aortic root replacement. Children with MFS who underwent aortic root replacement between 2000 and 2012 at a single institution were included. Medical records including clinical details, aortic dimensions (Z scores), and histology including MD type were obtained. Statistics were descriptive with univariate analysis of age at surgery and type of MD. Eleven patients, 3 (27%) with nMFS, were included. Root dilation at time of surgery was greater in nMFS compared to cMFS (Z=12.8 vs. 7.6, P=.005), and nMFS patients were younger at time of surgery (7.3 vs. 18.8 years, P=.002). Histology in the nMFS group demonstrated MEMA-I in one and no MD in two. In the cMFS group, there were three with MEMA-T, four with MEMA-I, and one with both types. In summary, nMFS has earlier root dilation often in the absence of MD. Both forms of MD were present in our cohort, and there was no correlation between age at surgery and type of MD. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Space Telescope maintenance and refurbishment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Trucks, H. F.

1983-01-01

The Space Telescope (ST) represents a new concept regarding spaceborne astronomical observatories. Maintenance crews will be brought to the orbital worksite to make repairs and replace scientific instruments. For major overhauls the telescope can be temporarily returned to earth with the aid of the Shuttle. It will, thus, be possible to conduct astronomical studies with the ST for two decades or more. The five first-generation scientific instruments used with the ST include a wide field/planetary camera, a faint object camera, a faint object spectrograph, a high resolution spectrograph, and a high speed photometer. Attention is given to the optical telescope assembly, the support systems module, aspects of mission and science operations, unscheduled maintenance, contingency orbital maintenance, planned on-orbit maintenance, ground maintenance, ground refurbishment, and ground logistics.

Traversing psychological distance.

PubMed

Liberman, Nira; Trope, Yaacov

2014-07-01

Traversing psychological distance involves going beyond direct experience, and includes planning, perspective taking, and contemplating counterfactuals. Consistent with this view, temporal, spatial, and social distances as well as hypotheticality are associated, affect each other, and are inferred from one another. Moreover, traversing all distances involves the use of abstraction, which we define as forming a belief about the substitutability for a specific purpose of subjectively distinct objects. Indeed, across many instances of both abstraction and psychological distancing, more abstract constructs are used for more distal objects. Here, we describe the implications of this relation for prediction, choice, communication, negotiation, and self-control. We ask whether traversing distance is a general mental ability and whether distance should replace expectancy in expected-utility theories. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The Impact of the Medicaid Health Care-Associated Condition Program on Mediastinitis Following Coronary Artery Bypass Graft

PubMed Central

Hsu, Heather; Kawai, Alison Tse; Wang, Rui; Jentzsch, Maximilian S.; Rhee, Chanu; Horan, Kelly; Jin, Robert; Goldmann, Donald; Lee, Grace M.

2018-01-01

Objective In 2012, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services expanded a 2008 program that eliminated additional Medicare payment for mediastinitis following coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) to include Medicaid. We aimed to evaluate the impact of this Medicaid program on mediastinitis rates reported by the National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) compared with rates of a condition not targeted by the program (deep space surgical site infection [SSI] after knee replacement). Design interrupted time series with comparison group. Methods We included surveillance data from non-federal acute care hospitals participating in NHSN and reporting CABG or knee replacement outcomes from 1/2009–6/2017. We examined the Medicaid program’s impact on NHSN-reported infection rates, adjusting for secular trends. Data analysis used generalized estimating equations with robust sandwich variance estimators. Results During the study period, 196 study hospitals reported 273,984 CABGs to NHSN, resulting in 970 mediastinitis cases (0.35%); 294 hospitals reported 555,395 knee replacements, with 1,751 resultant deep space SSIs (0.32%). There were no significant changes in incidence of either condition during the study. Mediastinitis models showed no effect of the 2012 Medicaid program on either secular trend during the post- vs. pre-program time periods (p-value=0.70) or immediate program effect (p-value=0.83). Results were similar in sensitivity analyses when adjusting for hospital characteristics, restricting to hospitals with consistent NHSN reporting, or incorporating a program implementation roll-in period. Knee replacement models also showed no program effect. Conclusions The 2012 Medicaid program to eliminate additional payments for mediastinitis following CABG had no impact on reported mediastinitis rates. PMID:29669607

Physical and mechanical properties of self-compacting concrete containing superplasticizer and metakaolin

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shahidan, Shahiron; Tayeh, Bassam A.; Jamaludin, A. A.; Bahari, N. A. A. S.; Mohd, S. S.; Zuki Ali, N.; Khalid, F. S.

2017-11-01

The development of concrete technology shows a variety of admixtures in concrete to produce special concrete. This includes the production of self-compacting concrete which is able to fill up all spaces, take formwork shapes and pass through congested reinforcement bars without vibrating or needing any external energy. In this study, the main objective is to compare the physical and mechanical properties of self-compacting concrete containing metakaolin with normal concrete. Four types of samples were produced to study the effect of metakaolin towards the physical and mechanical properties of self-compacting concrete where 0%, 5%, 10% and 15% of metakaolin were used as cement replacement. The physical properties were investigated using slump test for normal concrete and slump flow test for self-compacting concrete. The mechanical properties were tested for compressive strength and tensile strength. The findings of this study show that the inclusion of metakaolin as cement replacement can increase both compressive and tensile strength compared to normal concrete. The highest compressive strength was found in self-compacting concrete with 15% metakaolin replacement at 53.3 MPa while self-compacting concrete with 10% metakaolin replacement showed the highest tensile strength at 3.6 MPa. On top of that, the finishing or concrete surface of both cube and cylinder samples made of self-compacting concrete produced a smooth surface with the appearance of less honeycombs compared to normal concrete.

Citing geospatial feature inventories with XML manifests

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bose, R.; McGarva, G.

2006-12-01

Today published scientific papers include a growing number of citations for online information sources that either complement or replace printed journals and books. We anticipate this same trend for cartographic citations used in the geosciences, following advances in web mapping and geographic feature-based services. Instead of using traditional libraries to resolve citations for print material, the geospatial citation life cycle will include requesting inventories of objects or geographic features from distributed geospatial data repositories. Using a case study from the UK Ordnance Survey MasterMap database, which is illustrative of geographic object-based products in general, we propose citing inventories of geographic objects using XML feature manifests. These manifests: (1) serve as a portable listing of sets of versioned features; (2) could be used as citations within the identification portion of an international geospatial metadata standard; (3) could be incorporated into geospatial data transfer formats such as GML; but (4) can be resolved only with comprehensive, curated repositories of current and historic data. This work has implications for any researcher who foresees the need to make or resolve references to online geospatial databases.

Objective structured practical examination (OSPE) in Forensic Medicine: students' point of view.

PubMed

Menezes, Ritesh G; Nayak, Vinod C; Binu, V S; Kanchan, Tanuj; Rao, P P Jagadish; Baral, Prakash; Lobo, Stany W

2011-11-01

The purpose of this study was to assess the attitudes of undergraduate medical students towards the objective structured practical examination (OSPE) in Forensic Medicine, in a medical college in Nepal. Participants included 59 undergraduate medical students of the 7th semester. Findings indicated that the OSPE was an acceptable tool considering the conduct of practical examination in Forensic Medicine at the undergraduate level. The overall mean attitude score was towards the favourable side. Students strongly agreed that the OSPE tested a wide range of skills. They also strongly agreed that it was a good form of examination as well as a learning experience. The introduction of the OSPE replacing the conventional method of practical examination in Forensic Medicine is a step in the right direction taken to objectively assess undergraduate medical students. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd and Faculty of Forensic and Legal Medicine. All rights reserved.

Patient outcomes using Wii-enhanced rehabilitation after total knee replacement - the TKR-POWER study.

PubMed

Negus, J J; Cawthorne, D P; Chen, J S; Scholes, C J; Parker, D A; March, L M

2015-01-01

Home-based rehabilitation following total knee replacement surgery can be as effective as clinic-based or in-patient rehabilitation. The use of the Nintendo Wii has been postulated as a novel rehabilitation tool that adds an additional focus on balance and proprioception into the recovery protocol. The aim of the proposed clinical trial is to investigate the effectiveness of this novel rehabilitation tool, used at home for three months after total knee replacement surgery and to assess any lasting improvements in functional outcome at one year. This will be a randomised controlled trial of 128 patients undergoing primary total knee replacement. The participants will be recruited preoperatively from three surgeons at a single centre. There will be no change to the usual care provided until 6 weeks after the operation. Then participants will be randomised to either the Wii-Fit group or usual rehabilitative care group. Outcomes will be assessed preoperatively, a 6-week post surgery baseline and then at 18 weeks, 6 months and 1 year. The primary outcome is the change in self-reported WOMAC total score from week 6 to 18 weeks. Secondary outcomes include objective measures of strength, function and satisfaction scores. The results of this clinical trial will be directly relevant for implementation into clinical practice. If beneficial, this affordable technology could be used by many patients to rehabilitate at home. Not only could it optimize the outcomes from their total knee replacement surgery but decrease the need for clinic-based or outpatient therapy for the majority. (ACTRN12611000291987). Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Wheat products as acceptable substitutes for rice.

PubMed

Yu, B H; Kies, C

1993-07-01

The objective of the study was to compare the acceptability to semi-trained US American and Asian palatability panelist, of four wheat products processed to be possible replacers of rice in human diets. Products evaluated using rice as the control standard of excellence were steamed whole wheat, couscous (steamed, extracted wheat flour semolina), rosamarina (rice shaped, extracted wheat flour pasta), and bulgar (steamed, pre-cooked partly debranned, cracked wheat). Using a ten point hedonic rating scale, both groups of panelists gave rosamarina closely followed by couscous, most favorable ratings although these ratings were somewhat lower than that of the positive control, steamed polished rice. Bulgar wheat was given the lowest evaluation and was, in general, found to be an unacceptable replacement for rice by both American and Asian judges because of its dark, 'greasy' color and distinctive flavor. In their personal dietaries, judges included rice from 0.25 to 18 times per week with the Asian judges consuming rice significantly more times per week than did the American judges (10.8 +/- 4.71 vs 1.75 +/- 1.65, p < 0.01). However, rice consumption patterns, nationality, race, or sex of the judges was not demonstrated to affect scoring of the wheat products as rice replacers.

KSC-99pp1473

NASA Image and Video Library

1999-12-19

Space Shuttle Discovery hurtles through clouds of smoke and steam in its successful launch on mission STS-103. Liftoff occurred at 7:50 p.m. EST from Launch Pad 39B. On board are Commander Curtis L. Brown Jr., Pilot Scott J. Kelly and Mission Specialists Steven L. Smith, C. Michael Foale (Ph.D.), John M. Grunsfeld (Ph.D.), Claude Nicollier of Switzerland and Jean-François Clervoy of France. Nicollier and Clervoy are with the European Space Agency. STS-103 is a Hubble Servicing Mission, with three planned space walks designed to install new equipment and replace old. The primary objective is to replace the gyroscopes that make up the three Rate Sensor Units. Extravehicular activities include installing a new computer, changing out one of the Fine Guidance Sensors, replacing a tape recorder with a new solid state recorder, and installing a voltage/temperature improvement kit, and begin repairing the insulation on the telescope's outer surface. After the 7-day, 21-hour mission, Discovery is targeted to land at KSC Monday, Dec. 27, at about 5:24 p.m. EST. This is the 27th flight of Discovery and the 96th mission in the Space Shuttle Program. It is the third launch at Kennedy Space Center in 1999

Accelerating Large Data Analysis By Exploiting Regularities

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moran, Patrick J.; Ellsworth, David

2003-01-01

We present techniques for discovering and exploiting regularity in large curvilinear data sets. The data can be based on a single mesh or a mesh composed of multiple submeshes (also known as zones). Multi-zone data are typical to Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations. Regularities include axis-aligned rectilinear and cylindrical meshes as well as cases where one zone is equivalent to a rigid-body transformation of another. Our algorithms can also discover rigid-body motion of meshes in time-series data. Next, we describe a data model where we can utilize the results from the discovery process in order to accelerate large data visualizations. Where possible, we replace general curvilinear zones with rectilinear or cylindrical zones. In rigid-body motion cases we replace a time-series of meshes with a transformed mesh object where a reference mesh is dynamically transformed based on a given time value in order to satisfy geometry requests, on demand. The data model enables us to make these substitutions and dynamic transformations transparently with respect to the visualization algorithms. We present results with large data sets where we combine our mesh replacement and transformation techniques with out-of-core paging in order to achieve significant speed-ups in analysis.

Water Management Planning: A Case Study at Blue Grass Army Depot

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

Solana, Amy E.; Mcmordie, Katherine

2006-04-03

Executive Order 13123, Greening the Government Through Efficient Energy Management, mandates an aggressive policy for reducing potable water consumption at federal facilities. Implementation guid¬ance from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) set a requirement for each federal agency to “reduce potable water usage by implementing life cycle, cost-effective water efficiency programs that include a water management plan, and not less than four Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP) Best Manage¬ment Practices (BMPs).” The objective of this plan is to gain full compliance with Executive Order 13123 and associated DOE implementation guidance on behalf of Blue Grass Army Depot (BGAD), Richmond, Kentucky.more » In accordance with this plan, BGAD must: • Incorporate the plan as a component of the Installation energy conservation plan • Investigate the water savings potential and life-cycle cost effectiveness of the Operations and Maintenance (O&M) and retrofit/replacement options associated with the ten FEMP BMPs • Put into practice all applicable O&M options • Identify retrofit/replacement options appropriate for implementation (based upon calculation of the simple payback periods) • Establish a schedule for implementation of applicable and cost-effective retrofit/replacement options.« less

Flight Hour Reductions in Fleet Replacement Pilot Training through Simulation.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Smode, Alfred F.

A project was undertaken to integrate the 2F87F operational flight trainer into the program for training replacement patrol plane pilots. The objectives were to determine the potential of the simulator as a substitute environment for learning aircraft tasks and to effectively utilize the simulator in pilot training. The students involved in the…

45 CFR 2522.640 - Under what circumstances may I change my performance measures?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... Corporation or, for formula programs, the State commission, approves your request to do so based on your need... are more realistic and manageable; (2) Replace a measure related to one issue area with one related to... need to replace an objective related to health with one related to the environment; (3) Redefine the...

15 CFR 740.10 - Servicing and replacement of parts and equipment (RPL).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... supporting acts of international terrorism) if the commodity to be repaired is an “aircraft” (as defined in... equipment controlled under ECCN 2A983 or related software controlled under ECCN 2D983. (vi) No replacement... object detection equipment controlled under ECCN 2A984 or related software controlled under ECCN 2D984...

15 CFR 740.10 - Servicing and replacement of parts and equipment (RPL).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... supporting acts of international terrorism) if the commodity to be repaired is an “aircraft” (as defined in... equipment controlled under ECCN 2A983 or related software controlled under ECCN 2D983. (vi) No replacement... object detection equipment controlled under ECCN 2A984 or related software controlled under ECCN 2D984...

15 CFR 740.10 - Servicing and replacement of parts and equipment (RPL).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... supporting acts of international terrorism) if the commodity to be repaired is an “aircraft” (as defined in... equipment controlled under ECCN 2A983 or related software controlled under ECCN 2D983. (vi) No replacement... object detection equipment controlled under ECCN 2A984 or related software controlled under ECCN 2D984...

Evaluation of skate meal and sablefish viscera meal as fish meal replacement in diets for Pacific threadfin (Polydactylus saxfilis)

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The objectives of this study were to investigate the nutritional value of skate meal (SM) and black cod viscera meal (BCVM) from Alaska and to ascertain their suitability as replacements for commercial pollock fishmeal in diets for Pacific threadfin (Polydactylus sexfilis). Test diets were made by r...

Chronic fructose substitution for glucose or sucrose in food or beverages has little effect on fasting blood glucose, insulin, or triglycerides: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

Evans, Rebecca A; Frese, Michael; Romero, Julio; Cunningham, Judy H; Mills, Kerry E

2017-08-01

Background: Conflicting evidence exists on the role of long-term fructose consumption on health. No systematic review has addressed the effect of isoenergetic fructose replacement of other sugars and its effect on glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), fasting blood glucose, insulin, and triglycerides. Objective: The objective of this study was to review the evidence for a reduction in fasting glycemic and insulinemic markers after chronic, isoenergetic replacement of glucose or sucrose in foods or beverages by fructose. The target populations were persons without diabetes, those with impaired glucose tolerance, and those with type 2 diabetes. Design: We searched the Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, EMBASE, the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform Search Portal, and clinicaltrials.gov The date of the last search was 26 April 2016. We included randomized controlled trials of isoenergetic replacement of glucose, sucrose, or both by fructose in adults or children with or without diabetes of ≥2 wk duration that measured fasting blood glucose. The main outcomes analyzed were fasting blood glucose and insulin as well as fasting triglycerides, blood lipoproteins, HbA1c, and body weight. Results: We included 14 comparison arms from 11 trials, including 277 patients. The studies varied in length from 2 to 10 wk (mean: 28 d) and included doses of fructose between 40 and 150 g/d (mean: 68 g/d). Fructose substitution in some subgroups resulted in significantly but only slightly lowered fasting blood glucose (-0.14 mmol/L; 95% CI: -0.24, -0.036 mmol/L), HbA1c [-10 g/L (95% CI: -12.90, -7.10 g/L; impaired glucose tolerance) and -6 g/L (95% CI: -8.47, -3.53 g/L; normoglycemia)], triglycerides (-0.08 mmol/L; 95% CI: -0.14, -0.02 mmol/L), and body weight (-1.40 kg; 95% CI: -2.07, -0.74 kg). There was no effect on fasting blood insulin or blood lipids. Conclusions: The evidence suggests that the substitution of fructose for glucose or sucrose in food or beverages may be of benefit to individuals, particularly those with impaired glucose tolerance or type 2 diabetes. However, additional high-quality studies in these populations are required. © 2017 American Society for Nutrition.

Objective speech quality assessment and the RPE-LTP coding algorithm in different noise and language conditions.

PubMed

Hansen, J H; Nandkumar, S

1995-01-01

The formulation of reliable signal processing algorithms for speech coding and synthesis require the selection of a prior criterion of performance. Though coding efficiency (bits/second) or computational requirements can be used, a final performance measure must always include speech quality. In this paper, three objective speech quality measures are considered with respect to quality assessment for American English, noisy American English, and noise-free versions of seven languages. The purpose is to determine whether objective quality measures can be used to quantify changes in quality for a given voice coding method, with a known subjective performance level, as background noise or language conditions are changed. The speech coding algorithm chosen is regular-pulse excitation with long-term prediction (RPE-LTP), which has been chosen as the standard voice compression algorithm for the European Digital Mobile Radio system. Three areas are considered for objective quality assessment which include: (i) vocoder performance for American English in a noise-free environment, (ii) speech quality variation for three additive background noise sources, and (iii) noise-free performance for seven languages which include English, Japanese, Finnish, German, Hindi, Spanish, and French. It is suggested that although existing objective quality measures will never replace subjective testing, they can be a useful means of assessing changes in performance, identifying areas for improvement in algorithm design, and augmenting subjective quality tests for voice coding/compression algorithms in noise-free, noisy, and/or non-English applications.

Population dynamics of minimally cognitive individuals. Part I: Introducing knowledge into the dynamics

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

Schmieder, R.W.

The author presents a new approach for modeling the dynamics of collections of objects with internal structure. Based on the fact that the behavior of an individual in a population is modified by its knowledge of other individuals, a procedure for accounting for knowledge in a population of interacting objects is presented. It is assumed that each object has partial (or complete) knowledge of some (or all) other objects in the population. The dynamical equations for the objects are then modified to include the effects of this pairwise knowledge. This procedure has the effect of projecting out what the populationmore » will do from the much larger space of what it could do, i.e., filtering or smoothing the dynamics by replacing the complex detailed physical model with an effective model that produces the behavior of interest. The procedure therefore provides a minimalist approach for obtaining emergent collective behavior. The use of knowledge as a dynamical quantity, and its relationship to statistical mechanics, thermodynamics, information theory, and cognition microstructure are discussed.« less

What is the evidence behind the evidence-base? The premature death of block-replace antithyroid drug regimens for Graves' disease.

PubMed

Razvi, Salman; Vaidya, Bijay; Perros, Petros; Pearce, Simon H S

2006-06-01

Block-replace and titration antithyroid drug regimens both give similar rates of medium- to long-term remission of hyperthyroid Graves' disease. Recent meta-analysis, however, has suggested that titration regimens may be preferable owing to a higher rate of adverse events seen in the block-replace arms of published comparative studies. This article critically re-evaluates the evidence upon which these meta-analyses were based. We suggest that there is little objective evidence that is pertinent to current clinical practice to separate block-replace from titration antithyroid drug regimens and that both remain satisfactory approaches to the medical management of hyperthyroid Graves' disease.

National Athletic Trainers' Association Position Statement: Fluid Replacement for Athletes

PubMed Central

Casa, Douglas J.; Armstrong, Lawrence E.; Hillman, Susan K.; Montain, Scott J.; Reiff, Ralph V.; Rich, Brent S. E.; Roberts, William O.; Stone, Jennifer A.

2000-01-01

Objective: To present recommendations to optimize the fluid-replacement practices of athletes. Background: Dehydration can compromise athletic performance and increase the risk of exertional heat injury. Athletes do not voluntarily drink sufficient water to prevent dehydration during physical activity. Drinking behavior can be modified by education, increasing accessibility, and optimizing palatability. However, excessive overdrinking should be avoided because it can also compromise physical performance and health. We provide practical recommendations regarding fluid replacement for athletes. Recommendations: Educate athletes regarding the risks of dehydration and overhydration on health and physical performance. Work with individual athletes to develop fluid-replacement practices that optimize hydration status before, during, and after competition. Imagesp224-a PMID:16558633

First annual report SHRP C103 task 4 : rapid repair techniques.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1989-01-01

The objective of task four is to develop technically and economically feasible methods of concrete bridge deck protection, rehabilitation, and replacement. The objective of the task will be accomplished through a progression of six subtasks. The subt...

Strategic rehabilitation planning of piped water networks using multi-criteria decision analysis.

PubMed

Scholten, Lisa; Scheidegger, Andreas; Reichert, Peter; Maurer, Max; Mauer, Max; Lienert, Judit

2014-02-01

To overcome the difficulties of strategic asset management of water distribution networks, a pipe failure and a rehabilitation model are combined to predict the long-term performance of rehabilitation strategies. Bayesian parameter estimation is performed to calibrate the failure and replacement model based on a prior distribution inferred from three large water utilities in Switzerland. Multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) and scenario planning build the framework for evaluating 18 strategic rehabilitation alternatives under future uncertainty. Outcomes for three fundamental objectives (low costs, high reliability, and high intergenerational equity) are assessed. Exploitation of stochastic dominance concepts helps to identify twelve non-dominated alternatives and local sensitivity analysis of stakeholder preferences is used to rank them under four scenarios. Strategies with annual replacement of 1.5-2% of the network perform reasonably well under all scenarios. In contrast, the commonly used reactive replacement is not recommendable unless cost is the only relevant objective. Exemplified for a small Swiss water utility, this approach can readily be adapted to support strategic asset management for any utility size and based on objectives and preferences that matter to the respective decision makers. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Accurate Memory for Object Location by Individuals with Intellectual Disability: Absolute Spatial Tagging Instead of Configural Processing?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Giuliani, Fabienne; Favrod, Jerome; Grasset, Francois; Schenk, Francoise

2011-01-01

Using head-mounted eye tracker material, we assessed spatial recognition abilities (e.g., reaction to object permutation, removal or replacement with a new object) in participants with intellectual disabilities. The "Intellectual Disabilities (ID)" group (n = 40) obtained a score totalling a 93.7% success rate, whereas the "Normal Control" group…

Lectures Replaced by Prescribed Reading with Frequent Assessment: Enhanced Student Performance in Animal Physiology

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chevins, Peter F. D.

2005-01-01

This article describes a study of the effects of partial replacement of lectures with a system of prescribed reading, supported by weekly objective testing in a second year animal physiology module. Formative tests with feedback within 24 hours were followed a week later with summative tests on the same material, utilising a proportion of the same…

Replacing conventional or brown-mid rib corn silage with brown-mid rib sudangrass silage in the diets of lactating dairy cows

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Forages that use less water, but are high in digestibility, are sought as alternatives to traditional forages such as corn silage. Brown mid-rib (BMR) sudangrass is a possible alternative that can provide high-quality forage as a replacement for corn silage. The objective of this study was to evalua...

23 CFR 660.503 - Objectives.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... (DIRECT FEDERAL) Defense Access Roads § 660.503 Objectives. The defense access roads program provides a... needed for adequate highway service to defense and defense related installations; (b) New highways to replace those which must be closed to permit establishment or expansion of defense installations; (c...

23 CFR 660.503 - Objectives.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... (DIRECT FEDERAL) Defense Access Roads § 660.503 Objectives. The defense access roads program provides a... needed for adequate highway service to defense and defense related installations; (b) New highways to replace those which must be closed to permit establishment or expansion of defense installations; (c...

23 CFR 660.503 - Objectives.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... (DIRECT FEDERAL) Defense Access Roads § 660.503 Objectives. The defense access roads program provides a... needed for adequate highway service to defense and defense related installations; (b) New highways to replace those which must be closed to permit establishment or expansion of defense installations; (c...

23 CFR 660.503 - Objectives.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... (DIRECT FEDERAL) Defense Access Roads § 660.503 Objectives. The defense access roads program provides a... needed for adequate highway service to defense and defense related installations; (b) New highways to replace those which must be closed to permit establishment or expansion of defense installations; (c...

23 CFR 660.503 - Objectives.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... (DIRECT FEDERAL) Defense Access Roads § 660.503 Objectives. The defense access roads program provides a... needed for adequate highway service to defense and defense related installations; (b) New highways to replace those which must be closed to permit establishment or expansion of defense installations; (c...

[Late reoperations after repaired Stanford type A aortic dissection].

PubMed

Huang, F H; Li, L P; Su, C H; Qin, W; Xu, M; Wang, L M; Jiang, Y S; Qiu, Z B; Xiao, L Q; Zhang, C; Shi, H W; Chen, X

2017-04-01

Objective: To summarize the experience of reoperations on patients who had late complications related to previous aortic surgery for Stanford type A dissection. Methods: From August 2008 to October 2016, 14 patients (10 male and 4 female patients) who underwent previous cardiac surgery for Stanford type A aortic dissection accepted reoperations on the late complications at Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Nanjing Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University. The range of age was from 41 to 76 years, the mean age was (57±12) years. In these patients, first time operations were ascending aorta replacement procedure in 3 patients, ascending aorta combined with partial aortic arch replacement in 4 patients, aortic root replacement (Bentall) associated with Marfan syndrome in 3 patients, aortic valve combined with ascending aorta replacement (Wheat) in 1 patient, ascending aorta combined with Sun's procedure in 1 patient, Wheat combined with Sun's procedure in 1 patient, Bentall combined with Sun's procedure in 1 patient. The interval between two operations averaged 0.3 to 10.0 years with a mean of (4.8±3.1) years. The reasons for reoperations included part anastomotic split, aortic valve insufficiency, false aneurysm formation, enlargement of remant aortal and false cavity. The selection of reoperation included anastomotic repair, aortic valve replacement, total arch replacement and Sun's procedure. Results: Of the 14 patients, the cardiopulmonary bypass times were 107 to 409 minutes with a mean of (204±51) minutes, cross clamp times were 60 to 212 minutes with a mean of (108±35) minutes, selective cerebral perfusion times were 16 to 38 minutes with a mean of (21±11) minutes. All patients survived from the operation, one patient died from severe pulmonary infection 50 days after operation. Three patients had postoperative complications, including acute renal failure of 2 patients and pulmonary infection of 1 patient, and these patients were recovered after treatment. Thirteen patients were finally recovered from hospital. The patients were followed up for 16 to 45 months, and no aortic rupture, paraplegia and death were observed in the follow-up. Conclusions: Patients for residual aortic dissection after initial operations on Stanford type A aortic dissection should be attached great importance and always need emergency surgery, but the technique is demanding and risk is great for surgeons and patients, which need enough specification and accurate on aortic operation. More importantly, the Sun's procedure also should be performed on the treatment of residual aortic dissection or distal arch expansion, and obtains the short- and long-term results in the future.

Groups of adjacent contour segments for object detection.

PubMed

Ferrari, V; Fevrier, L; Jurie, F; Schmid, C

2008-01-01

We present a family of scale-invariant local shape features formed by chains of k connected, roughly straight contour segments (kAS), and their use for object class detection. kAS are able to cleanly encode pure fragments of an object boundary, without including nearby clutter. Moreover, they offer an attractive compromise between information content and repeatability, and encompass a wide variety of local shape structures. We also define a translation and scale invariant descriptor encoding the geometric configuration of the segments within a kAS, making kAS easy to reuse in other frameworks, for example as a replacement or addition to interest points. Software for detecting and describing kAS is released on lear.inrialpes.fr/software. We demonstrate the high performance of kAS within a simple but powerful sliding-window object detection scheme. Through extensive evaluations, involving eight diverse object classes and more than 1400 images, we 1) study the evolution of performance as the degree of feature complexity k varies and determine the best degree; 2) show that kAS substantially outperform interest points for detecting shape-based classes; 3) compare our object detector to the recent, state-of-the-art system by Dalal and Triggs [4].

Embedded piezoelectrics for sensing and energy harvesting in total knee replacement units

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wilson, Brooke E.; Meneghini, Michael; Anton, Steven R.

2015-04-01

The knee replacement is the second most common orthopedic surgical intervention in the United States, but currently only 1 in 5 knee replacement patients are satisfied with their level of pain reduction one year after surgery. It is imperative to make the process of knee replacement surgery more objective by developing a data driven approach to ligamentous balance, which increases implant life. In this work, piezoelectric materials are considered for both sensing and energy harvesting applications in total knee replacement implants. This work aims to embed piezoelectric material in the polyethylene bearing of a knee replacement unit to act as self-powered sensors that will aid in the alignment and balance of the knee replacement by providing intraoperative feedback to the surgeon. Postoperatively, the piezoelectric sensors can monitor the structural health of the implant in order to perceive potential problems before they become bothersome to the patient. Specifically, this work will present on the use of finite element modeling coupled with uniaxial compression testing to prove that piezoelectric stacks can be utilized to harvest sufficient energy to power sensors needed for this application.

Successful Pregnancies After Adequate Hormonal Replacement in Patients With Combined Pituitary Hormone Deficiencies

PubMed Central

Bianchi, Paulo H. M.; Franca, Marcela M.; Otto, Aline P.; Rodrigues, Rodrigo J. M.; Ejzenberg, Dani; Serafini, Paulo C.; Baracat, Edmundo Chada; Francisco, Rossana P. V.; Brito, Vinicius N.; Arnhold, Ivo J. P.; Mendonca, Berenice B.

2017-01-01

Context: Women with hypopituitarism have lower pregnancy rates after ovulation induction. Associated pituitary hormone deficiencies might play a role in this poorer outcome. Objective: We evaluated fertility treatment and pregnancy outcomes in five women with childhood-onset combined pituitary hormone deficiencies (CPHD). Patients and Methods: Five women with CPHD were referred for fertility treatment after adequacy of hormone replacement was determined. Patients were subjected to controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) for timed intercourse, intrauterine insemination, or in vitro fertilization, according to the presence or absence of other infertility factors (male or tubal). Results: All women became pregnant. The number of COS attempts until pregnancy was achieved varied between 1 and 5. The duration of COS resulting in at least one dominant follicle varied between 9 and 28 days, and total gonadotropin consumed varied between 1200 and 3450 IU. Two patients with severely suppressed basal gonadotropin levels since an early age had a cancelled COS cycle. All pregnancies were singleton except one (monochorionic twin gestation). The gestational ages at birth ranged from 35 weeks to 39 weeks and 4 days; three patients underwent cesarean section, and two had vaginal deliveries. Only one newborn was small for gestational age (delivered at 35 weeks). Conclusion: Adequate hormonal replacement prior to ovarian stimulation resulted in successful pregnancies in patients with childhood-onset CPHD, indicating that hormone replacement, including growth hormone, is an important step prior to fertility treatments in these patients. PMID:29264457

Vegetarian diet, food substitution, and nonalcoholic fatty liver

PubMed Central

Chiu, Tina H.; Lin, Ming-Nan; Pan, Wen-Harn; Chen, Yen-Ching; Lin, Chin-Lon

2018-01-01

Objectives: Vegetarian diets have been shown to improve insulin resistance and reduce body weight, but the effects on nonalcoholic fatty liver require further confirmation. We aim to investigate the association between vegetarian diets, major food groups, and nonalcoholic fatty liver, and to compare the degree of liver fibrosis between vegetarians and nonvegetarians in those with fatty liver. Materials and Methods: We analyzed cross-sectional data from the Tzu Chi Health Study which included 2127 nonvegetarians and 1273 vegetarians who did not smoke or habitually drink alcohol and had no hepatitis B or hepatitis C. Fatty liver and liver fibrosis were determined using ultrasonography and the nonalcoholic fatty liver disease fibrosis score, respectively. Diet was assessed through a validated food frequency questionnaire. Results: Vegetarian diets were associated with lower odds of fatty liver (odds ratio = 0.79, 95% confidence interval: 0.68–0.91) after adjusting for age, gender, education, history of smoking and alcohol drinking. Adjustment for body mass index (BMI) attenuated the protective association. Vegetarians had less severe fibrosis than nonvegetarians. Replacing a serving of soy with a serving of meat or fish was associated with 12%–13% increased risk, and replacing a serving of whole grains with a serving of refined grains, fruits, and fruit juice was associated with 3%–12% increased the risk of fatty liver. Conclusion: Vegetarian diets, replacing meat and fish with soy, and replacing refined carbohydrates with whole grains, may be inversely associated with nonalcoholic fatty liver related to BMI. PMID:29875591

Defining age- and lactocrine-sensitive elements of the neonatal porcine uterine microRNA–mRNA interactome†,‡

PubMed Central

George, Ashley F.; Rahman, Kathleen M.; Camp, Meredith E.; Prasad, Nripesh; Bartol, Frank F.; Bagnell, Carol A.

2017-01-01

Abstract Factors delivered to offspring in colostrum within 2 days of birth support neonatal porcine uterine development. The uterine mRNA transcriptome is affected by age and nursing during this period. Whether uterine microRNA (miRNA) expression is affected similarly is unknown. Objectives were to (1) determine effects of age and nursing on porcine uterine miRNA expression between birth and postnatal day (PND) 2 using miRNA sequencing (miRNAseq) and; (2) define affected miRNA–mRNA interactions and associated biological processes using integrated target prediction analysis. At birth (PND 0), gilts were euthanized, nursed ad libitum, or gavage-fed milk replacer for 48 h. Uteri were collected at birth or 50 h postnatal. MicroRNAseq data were validated using quantitative real-time PCR. Targets were predicted using an established mRNA database generated from the same tissues. For PND 2 versus PND 0 comparisons, 31 differentially expressed (DE) miRNAs were identified for nursed, and 42 DE miRNAs were identified for replacer-fed gilts. Six DE miRNAs were identified for nursed versus replacer-fed gilts on PND 2. Target prediction for inversely correlated DE miRNA–mRNA pairings indicated 20 miRNAs targeting 251 mRNAs in nursed, versus 29 miRNAs targeting 585 mRNAs in replacer-fed gilts for PND 2 versus PND 0 comparisons, and 5 miRNAs targeting 81 mRNAs for nursed versus replacer-fed gilts on PND 2. Biological processes predicted to be affected by age and nursing included cell-to-cell signaling, cell morphology, and tissue morphology. Results indicate novel age- and lactocrine-sensitive miRNA–mRNA relationships associated with porcine neonatal uterine development between birth and PND 2. PMID:28203709

Object/Context-Specific Memory Deficits Associated with Loss of Hippocampal Granule Cells after Adrenalectomy in Rats

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Spanswick, Simon C.; Sutherland, Robert J.

2010-01-01

Chronic adrenalectomy (ADX) causes a gradual and selective loss of granule cells in the dentate gyrus (DG) of the rat. Here, we administered replacement corticosterone to rats beginning 10 wk after ADX. We then tested them in three discrimination tasks based on object novelty, location, or object/context association. Only during testing of the…

Effects of replacing soybean meal with canola meal or treated canola meal on ruminal digestion, fermentation pattern, omasal nutrient flow, and performance in lactating dairy cows

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Extrusion-treated canola meal (TCM) was produced in an attempt to increase the rumen undegradable protein (RUP) fraction of canola meal (CM). The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of replacing soybean meal (SBM) with CM or TCM on ruminal digestion, fermentation pattern, omasal nutr...

Space Shuttle Projects

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-03-01

Carrying the STS-109 crew of seven, the Space Shuttle Orbiter Columbia blasted from its launch pad as it began its 27th flight and 108th flight overall in NASA's Space Shuttle Program. Launched March 1, 2002, the goal of the mission was the maintenance and upgrade of the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) which was developed, designed, and constructed by the Marshall Space Flight Center. Captured and secured on a work stand in Columbia's payload bay using Columbia's robotic arm, the HST received the following upgrades: replacement of the solar array panels; replacement of the power control unit (PCU); replacement of the Faint Object Camera (FOC) with a new advanced camera for Surveys (ACS); and installation of the experimental cooling system for the Hubble's Near-Infrared Camera and Multi-object Spectrometer (NICMOS), which had been dormant since January 1999 when it original coolant ran out. Four of the crewmembers performed 5 space walks in the 10 days, 22 hours, and 11 minutes of the the STS-109 mission.

Supersonic gas-liquid cleaning system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Caimi, Raoul E. B.; Thaxton, Eric A.

1994-01-01

A system to perform cleaning and cleanliness verification is being developed to replace solvent flush methods using CFC 113 for fluid system components. The system is designed for two purposes: internal and external cleaning and verification. External cleaning is performed with the nozzle mounted at the end of a wand similar to a conventional pressure washer. Internal cleaning is performed with a variety of fixtures designed for specific applications. Internal cleaning includes tubes, pipes, flex hoses, and active fluid components such as valves and regulators. The system uses gas-liquid supersonic nozzles to generate high impingement velocities at the surface of the object to be cleaned. Compressed air or any inert gas may be used to provide the conveying medium for the liquid. The converging-diverging nozzles accelerate the gas-liquid mixture to supersonic velocities. The liquid being accelerated may be any solvent including water. This system may be used commercially to replace CFC and other solvent cleaning methods widely used to remove dust, dirt, flux, and lubricants. In addition, cleanliness verification can be performed without the solvents which are typically involved. This paper will present the technical details of the system, the results achieved during testing at KSC, and future applications for this system.

Supersonic gas-liquid cleaning system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Caimi, Raoul E. B.; Thaxton, Eric A.

1994-02-01

A system to perform cleaning and cleanliness verification is being developed to replace solvent flush methods using CFC 113 for fluid system components. The system is designed for two purposes: internal and external cleaning and verification. External cleaning is performed with the nozzle mounted at the end of a wand similar to a conventional pressure washer. Internal cleaning is performed with a variety of fixtures designed for specific applications. Internal cleaning includes tubes, pipes, flex hoses, and active fluid components such as valves and regulators. The system uses gas-liquid supersonic nozzles to generate high impingement velocities at the surface of the object to be cleaned. Compressed air or any inert gas may be used to provide the conveying medium for the liquid. The converging-diverging nozzles accelerate the gas-liquid mixture to supersonic velocities. The liquid being accelerated may be any solvent including water. This system may be used commercially to replace CFC and other solvent cleaning methods widely used to remove dust, dirt, flux, and lubricants. In addition, cleanliness verification can be performed without the solvents which are typically involved. This paper will present the technical details of the system, the results achieved during testing at KSC, and future applications for this system.

Relationships between early-life growth, intake, and birth season with first-lactation performance of Holstein dairy cows.

PubMed

Chester-Jones, H; Heins, B J; Ziegler, D; Schimek, D; Schuling, S; Ziegler, B; de Ondarza, M B; Sniffen, C J; Broadwater, N

2017-05-01

The objective was to determine the relationships between early-life parameters [including average daily gain (ADG), body weight (BW), milk replacer intake, starter intake, and birth season] and the first-lactation performance of Holstein cows. We collected data from birth years 2004 to 2012 for 2,880 Holstein animals. Calves were received from 3 commercial dairy farms and enrolled in 37 different calf research trials at the University of Minnesota Southern Research and Outreach Center from 3 to 195 d. Upon trial completion, calves were returned to their respective farms. Milk replacer options included varying protein levels and amounts fed, but in the majority of studies, calves were fed a milk replacer containing 20% crude protein and 20% fat at 0.57 kg/calf daily. Most calves (93%) were weaned at 6 wk. Milk replacer dry matter intake, starter intake, ADG, and BW at 6 wk were 21.5 ± 2.2 kg, 17.3 ± 7.3 kg, 0.53 ± 0.13 kg/d, and 62.4 ± 6.8 kg, respectively. Average age at first calving and first-lactation 305-d milk yield were 715 ± 46.5 d and 10,959 ± 1,527 kg, respectively. We conducted separate mixed-model analyses using the REML model-fitting protocol of JMP (SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC) to determine the effect of early-life BW or ADG, milk replacer and starter intake, and birth season on first-lactation 305-d milk, fat, and true protein yield. Greater BW and ADG at 6 wk resulted in increased first-lactation milk and milk component yields. Intake of calf starter at 8 wk had a significant positive relationship with first-lactation 305-d yield of milk and milk components. Milk replacer intake, which varied very little in this data set, had no effect on first-lactation 305-d yield of milk and milk components. Calves born in the fall and winter had greater starter intake, BW, and ADG at 8 wk. However, calves born in the summer had a higher 305-d milk yield during their first lactation than those born in the fall and winter. Improvements were modest, and variation was high, suggesting that additional factors not accounted for in these analyses affected first-lactation performance. Copyright © 2017 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

STS-109 Flight Day 3 Highlights

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2002-01-01

This footage from the third day of the STS-109 mission to service the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) begins with the grappling of the HST by the robotic arm of the Columbia Orbiter, operated by Mission Specialist Nancy Currie. During the grappling, numerous angles deliver close-up images of the telescope which appears to be in good shape despite many years in orbit around the Earth. Following the positioning of the HST on its berthing platform in the Shuttle bay, the robotic arm is used to perform an external survey of the telescope. Some cursory details are given about different equipment which will be installed on the HST including a replacement cooling system for the Near Infrared Camera Multi-Object Spectrometer (NICMOS) and the Advanced Camera for Surveys. Following the survey, there is footage of the retraction of both of the telescope's two flexible solar arrays, which was successful. These arrays will be replaced by rigid solar arrays with decreased surface area and increased performance.

Orthodontic movement of a maxillary incisor through the midpalatal suture: a case report.

PubMed

Garib, Daniela Gamba; Janson, Guilherme; dos Santos, Patrícia Bittencourt Dutra; de Oliveira Baldo, Taiana; de Oliveira, Gabriela Ulian; Ishikiriama, Sérgio Kiyoshi

2012-03-01

Orthodontic space closure is a treatment alternative when a maxillary central incisor is missing. The objective of this report was to present an unusual treatment in which a right maxillary central incisor was moved through the midpalatal suture to replace the absent contralateral tooth. The biologic aspects and clinical appearance of the recontoured lateral and central incisors were analyzed. The position of the examined teeth and the appearance of the surrounding soft tissues were satisfactory; however, the upper midline frenulum deviated to the left. The incisor was successfully moved with no obvious detrimental effects as observed on the final radiographs. In the radiographic and tomographic examinations, the midline suture seemed to have followed the tooth movement. The patient expressed satisfaction with the results. It was concluded that orthodontic movement of the central incisor to replace a missing contralateral tooth is a valid treatment option, and the achievement of an esthetic result requires an interdisciplinary approach, including restorative dentistry and periodontics.

STS-103 MS Smith and MS Clervoy prepare to enter orbiter from White Room

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1999-01-01

In the White Room, STS-103 Mission Specialists Steven L. Smith and Jean-Francois Clervoy, in their orange launch and entry suits, are getting ready to enter Space Shuttle Discovery. Assisting them are closeout crew members (from left) United Space Alliance (USA) Mechanical Technician Rene Arriens, NASA Quality Assurance Specialist Danny Wyatt, USA Orbiter Vehicle Closeout Chief Travis Thompson and USA Mechanical Technician Vinny Defranzo. The White Room is an environmental chamber at the end of the orbiter access arm on the fixed service structure. It provides entry to the orbiter crew compartment. The mission, to service the Hubble Space Telescope, is scheduled to lift off at 7:50 p.m. EST Dec. 19 on mission STS-103, servicing the Hubble Space Telescope. Objectives for the nearly eight-day mission include replacing gyroscopes and an old computer, installing another solid state recorder, and replacing damaged insulation in the telescope. Discovery is expected to land at KSC Monday, Dec. 27, at about 5:24 p.m. EST.

Insights from the design and implementation of a single-entry model of referral for total joint replacement surgery: Critical success factors and unanticipated consequences.

PubMed

Damani, Zaheed; MacKean, Gail; Bohm, Eric; Noseworthy, Tom; Wang, Jenney Meng Han; DeMone, Brie; Wright, Brock; Marshall, Deborah A

2018-02-01

Single-entry models (SEMs) in healthcare allow patients to see the next-available provider and have been shown to improve waiting times, access and patient flow for preference-sensitive, scheduled services. The Winnipeg Central Intake Service (WCIS) for hip and knee replacement surgery was implemented to improve access in the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority. This paper describes the system's design/implementation; successes, challenges, and unanticipated consequences. On two occasions, during and following implementation, we interviewed all members of the WCIS project team, including processing engineers, waiting list coordinators, administrators and policy-makers regarding their experiences. We used semi-structured telephone interviews to collect data and qualitative thematic analysis to analyze and interpret the findings. Respondents indicated that the overarching objectives of the WCIS were being met. Benefits included streamlined processes, greater patient access, improved measurement and monitoring of outcomes. Challenges included low awareness, change readiness, and initial participation among stakeholders. Unanticipated consequences included workload increases, confusion around stakeholder expectations and under-reporting of data by surgeons' offices. Critical success factors for implementation included a requirement for clear communication, robust data collection, physician leadership and patience by all, especially implementation teams. Although successfully implemented, key lessons and critical success factors were learned related to change management, which if considered and applied, can reduce unanticipated consequences, improve uptake and benefit new models of care. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

KSC-99pp1474

NASA Image and Video Library

1999-12-19

Turning night into day for a few moments while belching clouds of smoke and steam, Space Shuttle Discovery hurtles into the black sky on mission STS-103. The successful liftoff occurred at 7:50 p.m. EST from Launch Pad 39B. On board are Commander Curtis L. Brown Jr., Pilot Scott J. Kelly and Mission Specialists Steven L. Smith, C. Michael Foale (Ph.D.), John M. Grunsfeld (Ph.D.), Claude Nicollier of Switzerland and Jean-François Clervoy of France. Nicollier and Clervoy are with the European Space Agency. STS-103 is a Hubble Servicing Mission, with three planned space walks designed to install new equipment and replace old. The primary objective is to replace the gyroscopes that make up the three Rate Sensor Units. Extravehicular activities include installing a new computer, changing out one of the Fine Guidance Sensors, replacing a tape recorder with a new solid state recorder, and installing a voltage/temperature improvement kit, and begin repairing the insulation on the telescope's outer surface. After the 7-day, 21-hour mission, Discovery is targeted to land at KSC Monday, Dec. 27, at about 5:24 p.m. EST. This is the 27th flight of Discovery and the 96th mission in the Space Shuttle Program. It is the third launch at Kennedy Space Center in 1999

Teaching and training acute renal replacement therapy in children.

PubMed

López-Herce, Jesús; Ferrero, Luis; Mencía, Santiago; Antón, Montserrat; Rodríguez-Núñez, Antonio; Rey, Corsino; Rodríguez, Luis

2012-05-01

The objective of this study is to describe and analyse the initial experience in paediatric acute renal replacement therapy (ARRT) education by means of specific courses. Three paediatric ARRT courses were run. The course programme included initial and final multiple-choice question (MCQ) exams, short lectures, practical workshops [in vitro peritoneal dialysis (PD) and continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) machines skill stations, real-time PD and CRRT in paediatric animal models and paediatric CRRT advanced simulation scenarios based on real cases) and an anonymous survey on the perceived value of the course (score from 0: very bad to 10: perfect). Number of students per workshop was six to eight. Continuous assessment of participants' performance was done. In the initial MCQ, only 11% of students answered correctly at least 70% of questions, while in the final test, 90.5% hit this target (P < 0.001). In the performance assessments, all of the students demonstrated sufficient acquisition of practical skills. In the perceived value survey, the course methodology was rated at 9.3, organization 9.9, teaching staff 9.6, lectures 9 and practical sessions 9.1. Specifically designed CRRT and PD courses are adequate for teaching the theoretical aspects and training these procedures. The combination of laboratory, training with animals and advanced simulation scenarios might have a synergistic effect on learning.

Are WHO/UNAIDS/UNICEF-recommended replacement milks for infants of HIV-infected mothers appropriate in the South African context?

PubMed Central

Papathakis, P. C.; Rollins, N. C.

2004-01-01

OBJECTIVE: Little is known about the nutritional adequacy and feasibility of breastmilk replacement options recommended by WHO/UNAIDS/UNICEF. The study aim was to explore suitability of the 2001 feeding recommendations for infants of HIV-infected mothers for a rural region in KwaZulu Natal, South Africa specifically with respect to adequacy of micronutrients and essential fatty acids, cost, and preparation times of replacement milks. METHODS: Nutritional adequacy, cost, and preparation time of home-prepared replacement milks containing powdered full cream milk (PM) and fresh full cream milk (FM) and different micronutrient supplements (2 g UNICEF micronutrient sachet, government supplement routinely available in district public health clinics, and best available liquid paediatric supplement found in local pharmacies) were compared. Costs of locally available ingredients for replacement milk were used to calculate monthly costs for infants aged one, three, and six months. Total monthly costs of ingredients of commercial and home-prepared replacement milks were compared with each other and the average monthly income of domestic or shop workers. Time needed to prepare one feed of replacement milk was simulated. FINDINGS: When mixed with water, sugar, and each micronutrient supplement, PM and FM provided <50% of estimated required amounts for vitamins E and C, folic acid, iodine, and selenium and <75% for zinc and pantothenic acid. PM and FM made with UNICEF micronutrient sachets provided 30% adequate intake for niacin. FM prepared with any micronutrient supplement provided no more than 32% vitamin D. All PMs provided more than adequate amounts of vitamin D. Compared with the commercial formula, PM and FM provided 8-60% of vitamins A, E, and C, folic acid, manganese, zinc, and iodine. Preparations of PM and FM provided 11% minimum recommended linoleic acid and 67% minimum recommended alpha-linolenic acid per 450 ml mixture. It took 21-25 minutes to optimally prepare 120 ml of replacement feed from PM or commercial infant formula and 30-35 minutes for the fresh milk preparation. PM or FM cost approximately 20% of monthly income averaged over the first six months of life; commercial formula cost approximately 32%. CONCLUSION: No home-prepared replacement milks in South Africa meet all estimated micronutrient and essential fatty acid requirements of infants aged <6 months. Commercial infant formula is the only replacement milk that meets all nutritional needs. Revisions of WHO/UNAIDS/UNICEF HIV and infant feeding course replacement milk options are needed. If replacement milks are to provide total nutrition, preparations should include vegetable oils, such as soybean oil, as a source of linoleic and alpha-linolenic acids, and additional vitamins and minerals. PMID:15112004

STS-109 Onboard Photo of Extra-Vehicular Activity (EVA)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2002-01-01

This is an onboard photo of the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) power control unit (PCU), the heart of the HST's power system. STS-109 payload commander John M. Grunsfeld, joined by Astronaut Richard M. Lirnehan, turned off the telescope in order to replace its PCU while participating in the third of five spacewalks dedicated to servicing and upgrading the HST. Other upgrades performed were: replacement of the solar array panels; replacement of the Faint Object Camera (FOC) with a new advanced camera for Surveys (ACS); and installation of the experimental cooling system for the Hubble's Near-Infrared Camera and Multi-Object Spectrometer (NICMOS), which had been dormant since January 1999 when its original coolant ran out. The telescope was captured and secured on a work stand in Columbia's payload bay using Columbia's robotic arm, where crew members completed the system upgrades. The Marshall Space Flight Center had the responsibility for the design, development, and construction of the HST, which is the most complex and sensitive optical telescope ever made, to study the cosmos from a low-Earth orbit. The HST detects objects 25 times fainter than the dimmest objects seen from Earth and provides astronomers with an observable universe 250 times larger than is visible from ground-based telescopes, perhaps as far away as 14 billion light-years. Launched March 1, 2002 the STS-109 HST servicing mission lasted 10 days, 22 hours, and 11 minutes. It was the 108th flight overall in NASA's Space Shuttle Program.

Space Shuttle Projects

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-03-01

This is an onboard photo of the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) power control unit (PCU), the heart of the HST's power system. STS-109 payload commander John M. Grunsfeld, joined by Astronaut Richard M. Lirnehan, turned off the telescope in order to replace its PCU while participating in the third of five spacewalks dedicated to servicing and upgrading the HST. Other upgrades performed were: replacement of the solar array panels; replacement of the Faint Object Camera (FOC) with a new advanced camera for Surveys (ACS); and installation of the experimental cooling system for the Hubble's Near-Infrared Camera and Multi-Object Spectrometer (NICMOS), which had been dormant since January 1999 when its original coolant ran out. The telescope was captured and secured on a work stand in Columbia's payload bay using Columbia's robotic arm, where crew members completed the system upgrades. The Marshall Space Flight Center had the responsibility for the design, development, and construction of the HST, which is the most complex and sensitive optical telescope ever made, to study the cosmos from a low-Earth orbit. The HST detects objects 25 times fainter than the dimmest objects seen from Earth and provides astronomers with an observable universe 250 times larger than is visible from ground-based telescopes, perhaps as far away as 14 billion light-years. Launched March 1, 2002 the STS-109 HST servicing mission lasted 10 days, 22 hours, and 11 minutes. It was the 108th flight overall in NASA's Space Shuttle Program.

Facade renovation - replacement and restoration of the panels in a monument protected object

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Novotný, Michal

2017-12-01

The article deals with problems of reconstruction of the facade and the associated problem of replacement or repair of the panels. In conventional buildings it is a smooth operation, but it is problematic in monument-protected objects. In the case of a common building, it is possible to choose any modern panels and simply replace them, but for historical objects we have to follow the claims and the rules of monument protection. In practice, it usually means the impossibility of use of modern panels, but at least a combination of old and modern technologies. Another possible solution to the problem is renovation, or repairs to the original state of the existing panels, of course with respect to the functionality of such panels. The implementation of such repairs must always be based on the technical and historical survey of the condition of the object and the repairs must be professionally designed. Subsequently, corrections are made, during which it is necessary to pay particular attention to observance of the technological procedures, rules and instructions particularly in terms of monument protection. However, the functionality of the works or elements made with regard to the quality of the environment within the building is not negligible. A common problem is the lack of control of technical requirements and functional requirements. Underestimation of the problems then leads to difficult repairs. The article points to the mistakes and problems of one such construction project on a historically protected chateau building.

25 CFR 543.7 - What are the minimum internal control standards for bingo?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... software upgrades, data storage media replacement, etc.). The information recorded must be used when...., draw objects and back-up draw objects); and (ii) Random number generator software. (Additional information technology security standards can be found in § 543.16 of this part.) (2) The game software...

25 CFR 543.7 - What are the minimum internal control standards for bingo?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... software upgrades, data storage media replacement, etc.). The information recorded must be used when...., draw objects and back-up draw objects); and (ii) Random number generator software. (Additional information technology security standards can be found in § 543.16 of this part.) (2) The game software...

Hierarchical object-based classification of ultra-high-resolution digital mapping camera (DMC) imagery for rangeland mapping and assessment

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Ultra high resolution digital aerial photography has great potential to complement or replace ground measurements of vegetation cover for rangeland monitoring and assessment. We investigated object-based image analysis (OBIA) techniques for classifying vegetation in southwestern U.S. arid rangelands...

The OSCE Has Landed: One Small Step for British Psychiatry?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sauer, Justin; Hodges, Brian; Santhouse, Alastair; Blackwood, Nigel

2005-01-01

Objective: In the United Kingdom (UK), an objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) has replaced the individual patient assessment (IPA) for part 1 of the membership examination of the Royal College of Psychiatrists (MRCPsych). The authors' assessment of the OSCE was conducted. Method: Residents completed and evaluated an OSCE designed…

Conference on asbestos control and replacement for electric utilities: Proceedings

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

Not Available

An EPRI conference on Asbestos Control and Replacement for Electric Utilities was held April 9, 1992 in conjunction with the National Asbestos Council's Environmental Management 192 Conference and Exposition. The high cost and potential liabilities of asbestos removal projects, compounded by concerns over the health effects of asbestos replacement materials, was the main motivation for the conference. The objective of the conference was to assemble guidance and information that will help utilities manage asbestos and to effectively prioritize EPRI research in this area. Ten papers covered such topics as computer-aided asbestos management, utility experience with asbestos management, asbestos monitoring andmore » disposal, and asbestos replacement materials. Utility feedback received at the conference indicates that present and planned EPRI research activities in this area will effectively meet industry needs.« less

Replacement Attack: A New Zero Text Watermarking Attack

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bashardoost, Morteza; Mohd Rahim, Mohd Shafry; Saba, Tanzila; Rehman, Amjad

2017-03-01

The main objective of zero watermarking methods that are suggested for the authentication of textual properties is to increase the fragility of produced watermarks against tampering attacks. On the other hand, zero watermarking attacks intend to alter the contents of document without changing the watermark. In this paper, the Replacement attack is proposed, which focuses on maintaining the location of the words in the document. The proposed text watermarking attack is specifically effective on watermarking approaches that exploit words' transition in the document. The evaluation outcomes prove that tested word-based method are unable to detect the existence of replacement attack in the document. Moreover, the comparison results show that the size of Replacement attack is estimated less accurate than other common types of zero text watermarking attacks.

A multiobjective ? control strategy for energy harvesting in regenerative vehicle suspension systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Casavola, Alessandro; Di Iorio, Fabio; Tedesco, Francesco

2018-04-01

A significant amount of energy induced by road unevenness and vehicle roll and pitch motions is usually dissipated by conventional shock-absorbers. In this paper, a novel active multiobjective ? control design methodology is proposed which explicitly includes, besides the usual control objectives on ride comfort, road handling and suspension stroke, the amount of energy to be harvested as an additional, though conflicting, control objective and allows the designer to directly trade-off among them depending on the application. An electromechanical regenerative suspension system is considered where the viscous damper is replaced by a linear electrical motor which is actively governed. It is shown that the proposed control law is able to achieve remarkable improvements on the amount of the harvested energy with respect to passive or semi-active control strategies while maintaining the other objectives at acceptable levels. Simulative studies undertaken via CarSim are also reported that confirm the potentiality and flexibility of the proposed control design strategy.

Visual task performance in the blind with the BrainPort V100 Vision Aid.

PubMed

Stronks, H Christiaan; Mitchell, Ellen B; Nau, Amy C; Barnes, Nick

2016-10-01

The BrainPort® V100 Vision Aid is a non-invasive assistive device for the blind based on sensory substitution. The device translates camera images into electrotactile stimuli delivered to the tongue. The BrainPort has recently received the CE mark and FDA approval and it is currently marketed to augment, rather than replace, the traditional assistive technologies such as the white cane or guide dog. Areas covered: In this work, we will review the functional studies performed to date with the BrainPort and we will highlight the critical factors that determine device performance, including the technology behind the BrainPort, the impediments to assessing device performance, and the impact of device training and rehabilitation. Expert commentary: The BrainPort enables blind people to perceive light, identify simple objects, recognize short words, localize simple objects, and detect motion and orientation of objects. To achieve this, proper rehabilitation and training regimes are crucial.

Determination of Flow Direction with Pressure Probes.

DTIC Science & Technology

1979-07-01

SECTION NUMBER I INTRODUCTION .......... .. ...................... 1 II A MATHEMATICAL MODEL OF PROBE AERODYNAMIC BEHAVIOR . . 4 2.1 Objectives...also postulated. 3 SECTION II A MATHEMATICAL MODEL OF PROBE AERODYNAMIC BEHAVIOR 2. 1 Objectives The objective of an aerodynamic probe - in the present...characLerizaLion of prode behavior , they are not capable of replacing individual probe caiibrarions. Tis is due to the limitations of the derivation itself, i.e

Prevention of Contrast-Induced Acute Kidney Injury by Furosemide With Matched Hydration in Patients Undergoing Interventional Procedures: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Trials.

PubMed

Putzu, Alessandro; Boscolo Berto, Martina; Belletti, Alessandro; Pasotti, Elena; Cassina, Tiziano; Moccetti, Tiziano; Pedrazzini, Giovanni

2017-02-27

The objective of this meta-analysis of randomized trials was to evaluate if the administration of furosemide with matched hydration using the RenalGuard System reduces contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CI-AKI) in patients undergoing interventional procedures. CI-AKI is a serious complication following angiographic procedures and a powerful predictor of unfavorable early and long-term outcomes. Online databases were searched up to October 1, 2016, for randomized controlled trials. The primary outcome was the incidence of CI-AKI, and the secondary outcomes were need for renal replacement therapy, mortality, stroke, and adverse events. A total of four trials (n = 698) published between 2011 and 2016 were included in the analysis and included patients undergoing percutaneous coronary procedures and transcatheter aortic valve replacement. RenalGuard therapy was associated with a lower incidence of CI-AKI compared with control treatment (27 of 348 [7.76%] patients vs. 75 of 350 [21.43%] patients; odds ratio [OR]: 0.31; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.19 to 0.50; I 2  = 4%; p < 0.00001) and with a lower need for renal replacement therapy (2 of 346 [0.58%] patients vs. 12 of 348 [3.45%] patients; OR: 0.19; 95% CI: 0.05 to 0.76; I 2  = 0%; p = 0.02). No major adverse events occurred in patients undergoing RenalGuard therapy. The main finding of this meta-analysis is that furosemide with matched hydration by the RenalGuard System may reduce the incidence of CI-AKI in high-risk patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention or transcatheter aortic valve replacement. However, further independent high-quality randomized trials should elucidate the effectiveness and safety of this prophylactic intervention in interventional cardiology. Copyright © 2017 American College of Cardiology Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement using a self-expanding bioprosthesis in patients with severe aortic stenosis at extreme risk for surgery.

PubMed

Popma, Jeffrey J; Adams, David H; Reardon, Michael J; Yakubov, Steven J; Kleiman, Neal S; Heimansohn, David; Hermiller, James; Hughes, G Chad; Harrison, J Kevin; Coselli, Joseph; Diez, Jose; Kafi, Ali; Schreiber, Theodore; Gleason, Thomas G; Conte, John; Buchbinder, Maurice; Deeb, G Michael; Carabello, Blasé; Serruys, Patrick W; Chenoweth, Sharla; Oh, Jae K

2014-05-20

This study sought to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the CoreValve transcatheter heart valve (THV) for the treatment of severe aortic stenosis in patients at extreme risk for surgery. Untreated severe aortic stenosis is a progressive disease with a poor prognosis. Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) with a self-expanding bioprosthesis is a potentially effective therapy. We performed a prospective, multicenter, nonrandomized investigation evaluating the safety and efficacy of self-expanding TAVR in patients with symptomatic severe aortic stenosis with prohibitive risks for surgery. The primary endpoint was a composite of all-cause mortality or major stroke at 12 months, which was compared with a pre-specified objective performance goal (OPG). A total of 41 sites in the United States recruited 506 patients, of whom 489 underwent attempted treatment with the CoreValve THV. The rate of all-cause mortality or major stroke at 12 months was 26.0% (upper 2-sided 95% confidence bound: 29.9%) versus 43.0% with the OPG (p < 0.0001). Individual 30-day and 12-month events included all-cause mortality (8.4% and 24.3%, respectively) and major stroke (2.3% and 4.3%, respectively). Procedural events at 30 days included life-threatening/disabling bleeding (12.7%), major vascular complications (8.2%), and need for permanent pacemaker placement (21.6%). The frequency of moderate or severe paravalvular aortic regurgitation was lower 12 months after self-expanding TAVR (4.2%) than at discharge (10.7%; p = 0.004 for paired analysis). TAVR with a self-expanding bioprosthesis was safe and effective in patients with symptomatic severe aortic stenosis at prohibitive risk for surgical valve replacement. (Safety and Efficacy Study of the Medtronic CoreValve System in the Treatment of Symptomatic Severe Aortic Stenosis in High Risk and Very High Risk Subjects Who Need Aortic Valve Replacement; NCT01240902). Copyright © 2014 American College of Cardiology Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Estimation of the influence of tool wear on force signals: A finite element approach in AISI 1045 orthogonal cutting

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Equeter, Lucas; Ducobu, François; Rivière-Lorphèvre, Edouard; Abouridouane, Mustapha; Klocke, Fritz; Dehombreux, Pierre

2018-05-01

Industrial concerns arise regarding the significant cost of cutting tools in machining process. In particular, their improper replacement policy can lead either to scraps, or to early tool replacements, which would waste fine tools. ISO 3685 provides the flank wear end-of-life criterion. Flank wear is also the nominal type of wear for longest tool lifetimes in optimal cutting conditions. Its consequences include bad surface roughness and dimensional discrepancies. In order to aid the replacement decision process, several tool condition monitoring techniques are suggested. Force signals were shown in the literature to be strongly linked with tools flank wear. It can therefore be assumed that force signals are highly relevant for monitoring the condition of cutting tools and providing decision-aid information in the framework of their maintenance and replacement. The objective of this work is to correlate tools flank wear with numerically computed force signals. The present work uses a Finite Element Model with a Coupled Eulerian-Lagrangian approach. The geometry of the tool is changed for different runs of the model, in order to obtain results that are specific to a certain level of wear. The model is assessed by comparison with experimental data gathered earlier on fresh tools. Using the model at constant cutting parameters, force signals under different tool wear states are computed and provide force signals for each studied tool geometry. These signals are qualitatively compared with relevant data from the literature. At this point, no quantitative comparison could be performed on worn tools because the reviewed literature failed to provide similar studies in this material, either numerical or experimental. Therefore, further development of this work should include experimental campaigns aiming at collecting cutting forces signals and assessing the numerical results that were achieved through this work.

Effect on Smoking Cessation of Switching Nicotine Replacement Therapy to Over-the-Counter Status

PubMed Central

Thorndike, Anne N.; Biener, Lois; Rigotti, Nancy A.

2002-01-01

Objectives. This study examined whether the change in nicotine replacement therapy sales from prescription to over the counter (OTC) status affected smoking cessation. Methods. We used the 1993–1999 Massachusetts Tobacco Surveys to compare data from adult current smokers and recent quitters before and after the OTC switch. Results. No significant change over time occurred in the proportion of smokers who used nicotine replacement therapy at a quit attempt in the past year (20.1% pre-OTC vs 21.4% post-OTC), made a quit attempt in the past year (48.1% vs 45.2%), or quit smoking in the past year (8.1% vs 11.1%). Fewer non-Whites used nicotine replacement therapy after the switch (20.7% pre-OTC vs 3.2% post-OTC, P = .002), but the proportion of Whites using nicotine replacement therapy did not change significantly (20.6% vs 24.0%). Conclusions. We observed no increase in Massachusetts smokers' rates of using nicotine replacement therapy, making a quit attempt, or stopping smoking after nicotine replacement therapy became available for OTC sale. There appear to be other barriers to the use of nicotine replacement therapy besides visiting a physician, especially among minority smokers. (Am J Public Health. 2002;92:437–442) PMID:11867326

77 FR 59852 - Fisheries of the Exclusive Economic Zone Off Alaska; Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands Management...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-10-01

...NMFS publishes regulations to implement Amendment 97 to the Fishery Management Plan for Groundfish of the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands Management Area (FMP). Amendment 97 allows the owner of a trawl catcher/processor vessel authorized to participate in the Amendment 80 catch share program to replace that vessel with a vessel that meets certain requirements. This action establishes the regulatory process for replacement of vessels in the Amendment 80 fleet and the requirements for Amendment 80 replacement vessels, such as a limit on the overall length of a replacement vessel, a prohibition on the use of an AFA vessel as a replacement vessel, measures to prevent a replaced vessel from participating in Federal groundfish fisheries off Alaska that are not Amendment 80 fisheries, and measures that extend specific catch limits (known as Amendment 80 sideboards) to a replacement vessel. This action is necessary to promote safety-at-sea by allowing Amendment 80 vessel owners to replace their vessels for any reason at any time and by requiring replacement vessels to meet certain U.S. Coast Guard vessel safety standards, and to improve the retention and utilization of groundfish catch by these vessels by facilitating an increase in the processing capabilities of the fleet. This action is intended to promote the goals and objectives of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, the FMP, and other applicable laws.

Hubble Space Telescope: The Telescope, the Observations & the Servicing Mission

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

1999-11-01

Today the HST Archives contain more than 260 000 astronomical observations. More than 13 000 astronomical objects have been observed by hundreds of different groups of scientists. Direct proof of the scientific significance of this project is the record-breaking number of papers published : over 2400 to date. Some of HST's most memorable achievements are: * the discovery of myriads of very faint galaxies in the early Universe, * unprecedented, accurate measurements of distances to the farthest galaxies, * significant improvement in the determination of the Hubble constant and thus the age of the Universe, * confirmation of the existence of blacks holes, * a far better understanding of the birth, life and death of stars, * a very detailed look at the secrets of the process by which planets are created. Europe and HST ESA's contribution to HST represents a nominal investment of 15%. ESA provided one of the two imaging instruments - the Faint Object Camera (FOC) - and the solar panels. It also has 15 scientists and computer staff working at the Space Telescope Science Institute in Baltimore (Maryland). In Europe the astronomical community receives observational assistance from the Space Telescope European Coordinating Facility (ST-ECF) located in Garching, Munich. In return for ESA's investment, European astronomers have access to approximately 15% of the observing time. In reality the actual observing time competitively allocated to European astronomers is closer to 20%. Looking back at almost ten years of operation, the head of ST-ECF, European HST Project Scientist Piero Benvenuti states: "Hubble has been of paramount importance to European astronomy, much more than the mere 20% of observing time. It has given the opportunity for European scientists to use a top class instrument that Europe alone would not be able to build and operate. In specific areas of research they have now, mainly due to HST, achieved international leadership." One of the major reasons for Hubble's success is the advantage of being in orbit, beyond the Earth's atmosphere. From there it enjoys a crystal-clear view of the universe - without clouds and atmospheric disturbances to blur its vision. European astronomer Guido De Marchi from ESO in Munich has been using Hubble since the early days of the project. He explains: "HST can see the faintest and smallest details and lets us study the stars with great accuracy, even where they are packed together - just as with those in the centre of our Galaxy". Dieter Reimers from Hamburg Observatory adds: "HST has capabilities to see ultraviolet light, which is not possible from the ground due to the blocking effect of the atmosphere. And this is really vital to our work, the main aim of which is to discover the chemical composition of the Universe." The Servicing Missions In the early plans for telescope operations, maintenance visits were to have been made every 2.5 years. And every five years HST should have been transported back to the ground for thorough overhaul. This plan has changed somewhat over time and a servicing scheme, which includes Space Shuttle Servicing Missions every three years, was decided upon. The two first Servicing Missions, in December 1993 (STS-61) and February 1997 (STS-82) respectively, were very successful. In the first three years of operations HST did not meet expectations because its primary mirror was 2 microns too flat at the edge. The first Servicing Mission in 1993 (on which the European astronaut Claude Nicollier flew) dealt with this problem by installing a new instrument with corrective optics (COSTAR - Corrective Optics Space Telescope Axial Replacement). With this pair of "glasses" HST's golden age began. The images were as sharp as originally hoped and astonishing new results started to emerge on a regular basis. The first Servicing Mission also replaced the solar panels and installed a new camera (Wide Field and Planetary Camera 2 - WFPC2). The High-Speed Photometer (HSP) was replaced by COSTAR. During the second Servicing Mission instruments and other equipment were repaired and updated. The Space Telescope Imaging Spectrograph (STIS) replaced the Goddard High Resolution Spectrograph (GHRS) and the Near-Infrared Camera and Multi-Object Spectrometer (NICMOS) replaced the Faint Object Spectrograph (FOS). Servicing mission 3A The original Servicing Mission 3 (initially planned for June 2000) has been split into two missions - SM3A and SM3B - due in part to its complexity, and in part to the urgent need to replace the failed gyroscopes on board. Three gyroscopes must function to meet the telescope's very precise pointing requirements. With only two new operational, observations have had to be suspended, but the telescope will remain safely in orbit until the servicing crew arrives. During this servicing mission * all six gyroscopes will be replaced, * a Fine Guidance Sensor will be replaced, * the spacecraft's computer will be replaced by a new one which will reduce the burden of flight software maintenance and significantly lower costs, * six voltage/temperature kits will be installed to protect spacecraft batteries from overcharging and overheating if the spacecraft enters safe mode, * a new S-Band Single Access Transmitter will replace a failed spare currently aboard the spacecraft, * a solid-state recorder will be installed to replace the tape recorder, * degraded telescope thermal insulation will be replaced if time allows; this insulation is necessary to control the internal temperature on HST. For the mission to be fully successful the gyroscopes, the Fine Guidance Sensor, the computer and the voltage/temperature kits must be installed. The minimum mission success criterion is that HST will have 5 operational gyros after the mission, 4 of them newly installed. The Future During SM3B (presently scheduled for 2001) the astronauts will replace the Faint Object Camera with the Advanced Camera for Surveys (ACS), install a cooling system for NICMOS enabling it to resume operation, and install a new set of solar panels. Replacement of the thermal insulation will continue and the telescope will be reboosted to a higher orbit. The plans for the fourth Servicing Mission are preliminary at this time, but two new science instruments are being developed for that mission: Cosmic Origins Spectrograph (COS), which will replace COSTAR, and Wide Field Camera 3 (WFC3), which will replace WFPC2. It is planned to retrieve Hubble at the end of its life (around 2010) and bring it back to Earth. In the future ESA may have the opportunity to continue its collaboration with NASA on the Next Generation Space Telescope (NGST), which in many ways can be seen as Hubble's successor. The plan is to launch NGST in 2008, and ESA is currently considering a possible role in the project. Piero Benvenuti concludes: "The European Space Agency, in deciding to join NASA on the HST Project, made a very successful investment on behalf of European science. Today, NASA would not consider proceeding alone on the continued operation of HST or on the design of NGST. Not just because of the benefit of shared cost, but mainly because of the intellectual contribution by the European astronomers, who have made such effective scientific use of HST." Hubble Space Telescope - Fact sheet Description The Hubble Space Telescope (HST) is a co-operation between ESA and NASA. It is a long-term space-based observatory. Its observations are carried out in visible, infrared and ultraviolet light. HST has in many ways revolutionised modern astronomy, being a highly efficient tool for making new discoveries, but also by driving astronomical research in general. Objective HST was designed to take advantage of being above the Earth's disturbing atmosphere, and thereby providing astronomers with observations of very high resolution - opening new windows on planets, stars and galaxies. HST was designed as a flagship mission of the highest standard, and has served to pave the way for other space-based observatories. How the mission was named Hubble Space Telescope is named after Edwin Powell Hubble (1889-1953), who was one of the great pioneers of modern astronomy. Industrial Involvement The ESA contribution to HST included the Solar Panels and the Faint Object Camera (FOC). Prime contractors for the FOC were Dornier (now DaimlerChrysler Aerospace, Germany), and Matra (France); for the Solar Panels British Aerospace (UK). Launch date: April 25, 1990 Launcher: Space Shuttle Discovery (STS-31) Launch mass: 11 110 kg Dimensions Length: 15.9 m, diameter: 4.2 m. In addition two solar panels each 2.4 x 12.1 m. Payload (current) A 2.4 m f/24 Ritchey-Chretien telescope with four main instruments, currently WFPC2, STIS, NICMOS and FOC. In addition the three fine-guidance sensors are used for astrometric observations (positional astronomy). WFPC2 - Wide Field/Planetary Camera 2 is an electronic camera working at two magnifications. It has four CCD detectors with 800 x 800 pixels. One of these (called Planetary Camera) has a higher resolution (<0.1 arcsecond). STIS - Space Telescope Imaging Spectrograph uses so-called MAMAs and CCDs to provide images and spectra. It is sensitive to a wide range of light from UV to Infrared. NICMOS - Near-Infrared Camera and Multi-Object Spectrometer provides images and spectra in the infrared. NICMOS uses cooled HgCdTe detectors. Currently NICMOS is dormant and awaits a new cooler to be provided during Servicing Mission 3B. FOC - Faint Object Camera - a very high resolution camera built by ESA. FOC is no longer in use and will be replaced by the new Advanced Camera for Surveys (ACS) during Servicing Mission 3B. Orbit Circular, 593 km with a 28.5 degree inclination. Operations Science operations are co-ordinated and conducted by the Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) in Baltimore. Overall management of daily on-orbit operations is carried out by NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) in Greenbelt. Ground stations The data from HST are transmitted to the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System (TDRSS). From TDRSS they are sent to the TDRSS ground stations and on to Goddard Space Flight Center, from where the science data are sent to STScI. Foreseen operational lifetime : 20 years Costs ESA's financial contribution to the Hubble Space Telescope amounts to EUR 593m at 1999 economic conditions (including development of the Faint Object Camera and the Solar Arrays, participation in operations and in servicing missions).

Evaluating the behavior, growth performance, immune parameters, and intestinal morphology of weaned piglets after simulated transport and heat stress when antibiotics are eliminated from the diet or replaced with L-glutamine

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Study objectives were to evaluate the effects of post-weaning transport during heat stress (HS) and thermoneutral (TN) conditions when dietary antibiotics are removed or replaced with a nutraceutical. Sixty mixed sex piglets from 10 sows (n = 6 piglets/sow) were weaned (18.8 ± 0.8 d of age) and then...

When the Penny Drops: Reframing Under Stress and Ambiguity

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-01-01

phenomenon of "penny dropping," i.e., replacing one conceptual frame that informs understanding and guides action by another by investigating how...phenomenon of "penny dropping," i.e., replacing one conceptual frame that informs understanding and guides action by another by investigating how officers... action which proved to be inaccurate to a more valid Frame B. Consistent with this objective, the three concepts that drove the inductive analysis

The digestive system of 1-week old Jersey calves is well suited to digest, absorb, and incorporate protein and energy into tissue growth even when fed a high plane of milk replacer.

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The objectives of the current study were to determine the digestibilities of nutrients as well as investigate the nitrogen retention of calves fed different planes of milk replacer nutrition during the first week of life. Twelve Jersey calves were blocked by body weight at birth and randomly assigne...

Replacement solvents for use in chemical synthesis

DOEpatents

Molnar, Linda K.; Hatton, T. Alan; Buchwald, Stephen L.

2001-05-15

Replacement solvents for use in chemical synthesis include polymer-immobilized solvents having a flexible polymer backbone and a plurality of pendant groups attached onto the polymer backbone, the pendant groups comprising a flexible linking unit bound to the polymer backbone and to a terminal solvating moiety. The polymer-immobilized solvent may be dissolved in a benign medium. Replacement solvents for chemical reactions for which tetrahydrofuran or diethyl may be a solvent include substituted tetrahydrofurfuryl ethers and substituted tetrahydro-3-furan ethers. The replacement solvents may be readily recovered from the reaction train using conventional methods.

A Documentation System for Teacher Improvement or Termination

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Frels, Kelly; Horton, Janet L.

2007-01-01

The primary objective of a school district's teacher evaluation system is to improve teachers' performance so they can become successful and contribute to the objectives of the district. If the evaluation does not produce this positive result, the teacher must be replaced, either by resignation or termination. The district's evaluation system thus…

Conference on asbestos control and replacement for electric utilities: Proceedings

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

Not Available

An EPRI conference on Asbestos Control and Replacement for Electric Utilities was held April 9, 1992 in conjunction with the National Asbestos Council`s Environmental Management 192 Conference and Exposition. The high cost and potential liabilities of asbestos removal projects, compounded by concerns over the health effects of asbestos replacement materials, was the main motivation for the conference. The objective of the conference was to assemble guidance and information that will help utilities manage asbestos and to effectively prioritize EPRI research in this area. Ten papers covered such topics as computer-aided asbestos management, utility experience with asbestos management, asbestos monitoring andmore » disposal, and asbestos replacement materials. Utility feedback received at the conference indicates that present and planned EPRI research activities in this area will effectively meet industry needs.« less

Adaptation of the U.S. Food Security Survey Module for Low-Income Pregnant Latinas: Qualitative Phase.

PubMed

Hromi-Fiedler, Amber; Bermúdez-Millán, Angela; Segura-Pérez, Sofia; Damio, Grace; Pérez-Escamilla, Rafael

2009-01-01

The objectives of this study were to: 1) assessed the face validity of the 18-items US Household Food Security Scale Module (US HFSSM) among low-income pregnant Latinas and 2) adapt the US HFSSM to the target population. This study was conducted in the United States in Hartford, Connecticut where 40% of residents are of Latina descent. Three focus groups (N=14(total)) were held with pregnant and postpartum Latinas from April - June 2004 to assess the understanding and applicability (face validity) of the US HFSSM as well as adapt the US HFSSM based on their recommendations. This was followed by pre-testing (N=7) to make final adaptations to the US HFSSM. Overall, the items in the US HFSSM were clear and understandable to participants, but some questions sounded repetitive to them. Participants felt the questions were applicable to other pregnant Latinas in their community and shared food security related experiences and strategies. Participants recommendations led to key adaptations to the US HFSSM including reducing the scale to 15-items, wording statements as questions, including two time periods, replacing the term "balanced meals" with "healthy and varied", replacing the term "low cost foods" with "cheap foods" and including a definition of the term, and including a coping mechanism of avoiding running out of food. The adapted US HFSSM was found to have good face validity among pregnant Latinas and can be used to assess food insecurity among this vulnerable population.

Testing and Comparative Evaluation of Space Shuttle Main Engine Flowmeter Bearings

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hissam, Andy; Leberman, Mike; McLeroy, Rick

2005-01-01

This paper provides a summary of testing of Space Shuttle Main Engine (SSME) flowmeter bearings and cage material. These tests were con&cM over a several month period in 2004 at the Marshall Space Flight Center. The test program's primary objective was to compare the performance of bearings using the existing cage material and bearings using a proposed replacement cage material. In order to meet the test objectives for this program, a flowmeter test rig was designed and fabricated to measure both breakaway and running torque for a flowmeter assembly. Other test parameters,,such as motor current and shaft speed, were also recorded and provide a means of comparing bearing performance. The flowmeter and bearings were tested in liquid hydrogen to simulate the flowmeter's operating environment as closely as possible. Based on the results from this testing, the bearings with the existing cage material are equivalent to the bearings with the proposed replacement cage material. No major differences exist between the old and new cage materials. Therefore, the new cage material is a suitable replacement for the existing cage material.

35-45 Giga Hertz Transceiver System for Phase and Magnitude Detection

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Beni, Aman Aflaki

2007-01-01

Nondestructive evaluation (NDE) is the science and practice of examining an object in a way that the object's usefulness is not adversely affected. Different types of NDE methods exist but this thesis is based on microwave and millimeter wave NDE using imaging techniques. Microwave NDE is based on illuminating the object under test with a microwave signal and studying the various properties of the reflected signal from the object. This reflected signal contains some information about the inner structure of the object under test. This information may be contained in several parameters including the phase and magnitude of the reflected signal. The goal of this project is to design and build a Q-band coherent transceiver that is capable of measuring the reflected signal's phase and magnitude so that an image of the object under test may be reconstructed. From the several techniques that can be used to construct an image of the object under test, techniques of interest to this work include synthetic aperture focusing technique (SAFT) and microwave holography. The transceiver system should have the ability to sweep a large portion of Q-band frequency range in small frequency steps as quick as possible while the detected phase and magnitude of the reflected signal is very accurate. Several different designs were studied and the final schematic diagram of the transceiver system was determined. One of the most important modules that was designed, implemented and tested in the laboratory was an accurate phase/magnitude detector circuit. The compared results of the scans using the transceiver system and vector network analyzer (VNA) showed that this transceiver system has a great potential to replace a VNA for the purpose of microwave and millimeter wave imaging.

On-line upgrade of program modules using AdaPT

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Waldrop, Raymond S.; Volz, Richard A.; Smith, Gary W.; Goldsack, Stephen J.; Holzbach-Valero, A. A.

1993-01-01

One purpose of our research is the investigation of the effectiveness and expressiveness of AdaPT, a set of language extensions to Ada 83, for distributed systems. As a part of that effort, we are now investigating the subject of replacing, e.g. upgrading, software modules while the software system remains in operation. The AdaPT language extensions provide a good basis for this investigation for several reasons: they include the concept of specific, self-contained program modules which can be manipulated; support for program configuration is included in the language; and although the discussion will be in terms of the AdaPT language, the AdaPT to Ada 83 conversion methodology being developed as another part of this project will provide a basis for the application of our findings to Ada 83 and Ada 9X systems. The purpose of this investigation is to explore the basic mechanisms of the replacement process. With this purpose in mind, we will avoid including issues whose presence would obscure these basic mechanisms by introducing additional, unrelated concerns. Thus, while replacement in the presence of real-time deadlines, heterogeneous systems, and unreliable networks is certainly a topic of interest, we will first gain an understanding of the basic processes in the absence of such concerns. The extension of the replacement process to more complex situations can be made later. A previous report established an overview of the module replacement problem, a taxonomy of the various aspects of the replacement process, and a solution to one case in the replacement taxonomy. This report provides solutions to additional cases in the replacement process taxonomy: replacement of partitions with state and replacement of nodes. The solutions presented here establish the basic principles for module replacement. Extension of these solutions to other more complicated cases in the replacement taxonomy is direct, though requiring substantial work beyond the available funding.

Optical Measurement Center Status

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rodriguez, H.; Abercromby, K.; Mulrooney, M.; Barker, E.

2007-01-01

Beginning in 2005, an optical measurement center (OMC) was created to measure the photometric signatures of debris pieces. Initially, the OMC was equipped with a 300 W xenon arc lamp, a SBIG 512 x 512 ST8X MEI CCD camera with standard Johnson filters, and a Lynx 6 robotic arm with five degrees of freedom. As research progressed, modifications were made to the equipment. A customized rotary table was built to overcome the robot s limitation of 180 degree wrist rotation and provide complete 360 degree rotation with little human interaction. This change allowed an initial phase angle (source-object-camera angle) of roughly 5 degrees to be adjusted to 7, 10, 15, 18, 20, 25, or 28 degrees. Additionally, the Johnson R and I CCD filters were replaced with the standard astronomical filters suite (Bessell R,I). In an effort to reduce object saturation, the two generic aperture stops were replaced with neutral density filters. Initially data were taken with aluminum debris pieces from the European Space Operations Centre ESOC2 ground test and more recently with samples from a thermal multi-layered insulation (MLI) commonly used on rocket bodies and satellites. The ESOC2 data provided light curve analysis for one type of material but many different shapes, including flat, bent, curled, folded, and torn. The MLI samples are roughly the same size and shape, but have different surfaces that give rise to interesting photometric light curves. In addition, filter photometry was conducted on the MLI pieces, a process that also will be used on the ESOC2 samples. While obtaining light curve data an anomalous drop in intensity was observed when the table revolved through the second 180 degree rotation. Investigation revealed that the robot s wrist rotation is not reliable past 80 degrees, thus the object may be at slightly different angles at the 180 degree transition. To limit this effect, the initial rotation position begins with the object s minimal surface area facing the camera.

Changing of the guard: reducing infection when replacing neural pacemakers.

PubMed

Pepper, Joshua; Meliak, Lara; Akram, Harith; Hyam, Jonathan; Milabo, Catherine; Candelario, Joseph; Foltynie, Thomas; Limousin, Patricia; Curtis, Carmel; Hariz, Marwan; Zrinzo, Ludvic

2017-04-01

OBJECTIVE Infection of deep brain stimulation (DBS) hardware has a significant impact on patient morbidity. Previous experience suggests that infection rates appear to be higher after implantable pulse generator (IPG) replacement surgery than after the de novo DBS procedure. In this study the authors examine the effect of a change in practice during DBS IPG replacements at their institution. METHODS Starting in January 2012, patient screening for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and, and where necessary, eradication was performed prior to elective DBS IPG change. Moreover, topical vancomycin was placed in the IPG pocket during surgery. The authors then prospectively examined the infection rate in patients undergoing DBS IPG replacement at their center over a 3-year period with at least 9 months of follow-up. RESULTS The total incidence of infection in this prospective consecutive series of 101 IPG replacement procedures was 0%, with a mean follow-up duration of 24 ± 11 months. This was significantly lower than the authors' previously published historical control group, prior to implementing the change in practice, where the infection rate for IPG replacement was 8.5% (8/94 procedures; p = 0.003). CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that a change in clinical practice can significantly lower infection rates in patients undergoing DBS IPG replacement. These simple measures can minimize unnecessary surgery, loss of benefit from chronic stimulation, and costly hardware replacement, further improving the cost efficacy of DBS therapies.

Short range, ultra-wideband radar with high resolution swept range gate

DOEpatents

McEwan, T.E.

1998-05-26

A radar range finder and hidden object locator is based on ultra-wide band radar with a high resolution swept range gate. The device generates an equivalent time amplitude scan with a typical range of 4 inches to 20 feet, and an analog range resolution as limited by a jitter of on the order of 0.01 inches. A differential sampling receiver is employed to effectively eliminate ringing and other aberrations induced in the receiver by the near proximity of the transmit antenna, so a background subtraction is not needed, simplifying the circuitry while improving performance. Uses of the invention include a replacement of ultrasound devices for fluid level sensing, automotive radar, such as cruise control and parking assistance, hidden object location, such as stud and rebar finding. Also, this technology can be used when positioned over a highway lane to collect vehicle count and speed data for traffic control. 14 figs.

Short range, ultra-wideband radar with high resolution swept range gate

DOEpatents

McEwan, Thomas E.

1998-05-26

A radar range finder and hidden object locator is based on ultra-wide band radar with a high resolution swept range gate. The device generates an equivalent time amplitude scan with a typical range of 4 inches to 20 feet, and an analog range resolution as limited by a jitter of on the order of 0.01 inches. A differential sampling receiver is employed to effectively eliminate ringing and other aberrations induced in the receiver by the near proximity of the transmit antenna, so a background subtraction is not needed, simplifying the circuitry while improving performance. Uses of the invention include a replacement of ultrasound devices for fluid level sensing, automotive radar, such as cruise control and parking assistance, hidden object location, such as stud and rebar finding. Also, this technology can be used when positioned over a highway lane to collect vehicle count and speed data for traffic control.

Esophageal replacement in children: Challenges and long-term outcomes.

PubMed

Soccorso, Giampiero; Parikh, Dakshesh H

2016-01-01

Replacement of a nonexistent or damaged esophagus continues to pose a significant challenge to pediatric surgeons. Various esophageal replacement grafts and techniques have not produced consistently good outcomes to emulate normal esophagus. Therefore, many techniques are still being practiced and recommended with no clear consensus. We present a concise literature review of the currently used techniques and with discussions on the advantages and anticipated morbidity. There are no randomized controlled pediatric studies to compare different types of esophageal replacements. Management and graft choice are based on geographical and personal predilections rather than on any discernible objective data. The biggest series with long-term outcome are reported for gastric transposition and colonic replacement. Comparison of different studies shows no significant difference in early (graft necrosis and anastomotic leaks) or late complications (strictures, poor feeding, gastro-esophageal reflux, tortuosity of the graft, and Barrett's esophagus). The biggest series seem to have lower complications than small series reflecting the decennials experience in their respective centers. Long-term follow-up is recommended following esophageal replacement for the development of late strictures, excessive tortuosity, and Barrett's changes within the graft. Once child overcomes initial morbidity and establishes oral feeding, long-term consequences and complications of pediatric esophageal replacement should be monitored and managed in adult life.

Esophageal replacement in children: Challenges and long-term outcomes

PubMed Central

Soccorso, Giampiero; Parikh, Dakshesh H.

2016-01-01

Replacement of a nonexistent or damaged esophagus continues to pose a significant challenge to pediatric surgeons. Various esophageal replacement grafts and techniques have not produced consistently good outcomes to emulate normal esophagus. Therefore, many techniques are still being practiced and recommended with no clear consensus. We present a concise literature review of the currently used techniques and with discussions on the advantages and anticipated morbidity. There are no randomized controlled pediatric studies to compare different types of esophageal replacements. Management and graft choice are based on geographical and personal predilections rather than on any discernible objective data. The biggest series with long-term outcome are reported for gastric transposition and colonic replacement. Comparison of different studies shows no significant difference in early (graft necrosis and anastomotic leaks) or late complications (strictures, poor feeding, gastro-esophageal reflux, tortuosity of the graft, and Barrett's esophagus). The biggest series seem to have lower complications than small series reflecting the decennials experience in their respective centers. Long-term follow-up is recommended following esophageal replacement for the development of late strictures, excessive tortuosity, and Barrett's changes within the graft. Once child overcomes initial morbidity and establishes oral feeding, long-term consequences and complications of pediatric esophageal replacement should be monitored and managed in adult life. PMID:27365900

Comparison of the nutrient composition of commercial dog milk replacers with that of dog milk

PubMed Central

Heinze, Cailin R.; Freeman, Lisa M.; Martin, Camilia R.; Power, Michael L.; Fascetti, Andrea J.

2015-01-01

Objective To compare the nutrient composition of commercially available dog milk replacers with that of dog milk. Design Prospective, cross-sectional study. Sample 5 dog milk samples and 15 samples of commercial dog milk replacers. Procedures Dog milk and milk replacers were analyzed for concentrations of total protein, essential amino acids, sugars, total fat, essential fatty acids, calcium, and phosphorus. Energy density was calculated. Results from milk replacers were compared with the range of the concentration of each nutrient in milk samples from mature dogs as well as the National Research Council (NRC) recommendations for puppy growth. Results Milk replacers varied widely in caloric density and concentration of nutrients such as calcium, protein, and fat. Calcium concentration was lower in 14 of 15 milk replacers than in the dog milk samples. Docosahexaenoic acid was undetectable in 12 of 15 milk replacers but present in all dog milk samples. All milk replacers had numerous essential nutrients outside of the range of the dog milk samples, and many had concentrations of amino acids, essential fatty acids, calcium, and phosphorus less than the NRC minimal requirement or recommended allowance. Compared with NRC recommendations, some dog milk samples had concentrations of total protein, linoleic acid, calcium, or phosphorus less than the recommended allowance. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance Results suggested that there was substantial variation in nutrient composition of 15 dog milk replacers and that some products were closer approximations of dog milk than others. Nearly all products would benefit from more appropriate calcium, amino acids, and essential fatty acids concentrations and better feeding directions. PMID:24871064

Restyling the Humanities Curriculum of Higher Education for Posthuman Times

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Siddiqui, Jamila R.

2016-01-01

The future viability of the humanities in higher education has been broadly debated. Yet, most of these debates are missing an important consideration. The humanities' object of study is the human, an object that some would argue has been replaced in our onto-epistemological systems by the posthuman. In her 2013 book, "The Posthuman,"…

Buber from the Cartesian Perspective? A Critical Review of Reading Buber's Pedagogy

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Woo, Jeong-Gil

2012-01-01

The positive reception of Buber's philosophy does not fully match Buber's intention in terms of overcoming the problem of the subject-object binary. In other words, a number of authors have remained within the traditional way of thinking by merely replacing the subject and object with Buber's I and You, establishing a more dogmatic normative…

Optimized post-operative surveillance of permanent pacemakers by home monitoring: the OEDIPE trial.

PubMed

Halimi, Franck; Clémenty, Jacques; Attuel, Patrick; Dessenne, Xavier; Amara, Walid

2008-12-01

The OEDIPE trial examined the safety and efficacy of an abbreviated hospitalization after implantation or replacement of dual-chamber pacemakers (PM) using a telecardiology-based ambulatory surveillance programme. Patients were randomly assigned to (i) an active group, discharged from the hospital 24 h after a first PM implant or 4-6 h after replacement, and followed for 4 weeks with Home-Monitoring (HM), or (ii) a control group followed for 4 weeks according to usual medical practices. The primary objective was to confirm that the proportion of patients who experienced one or more major adverse events (MAE) was not higher in the active than in the control group. The study included 379 patients. At least one treatment-related MAE was observed in 9.2% of patients (n = 17) assigned to the active group vs. 13.3% of patients (n = 26) in the control group (P = 0.21), a 4.1% absolute risk reduction (95% CI -2.2 to 10.4; P = 0.98). By study design, the mean hospitalization duration was 34% shorter in the active than in the control group (P < 0.001), and HM facilitated the early detection of technical issues and detectable clinical anomalies. Early discharge with HM after PM implantation or replacement was safe and facilitated the monitoring of patients in the month following the procedure.

Optimized post-operative surveillance of permanent pacemakers by home monitoring: the OEDIPE trial

PubMed Central

Halimi, Franck; Clémenty, Jacques; Attuel, Patrick; Dessenne, Xavier; Amara, Walid

2008-01-01

Aims The ŒDIPE trial examined the safety and efficacy of an abbreviated hospitalization after implantation or replacement of dual-chamber pacemakers (PM) using a telecardiology-based ambulatory surveillance programme. Methods and results Patients were randomly assigned to (i) an active group, discharged from the hospital 24 h after a first PM implant or 4–6 h after replacement, and followed for 4 weeks with Home-Monitoring (HM), or (ii) a control group followed for 4 weeks according to usual medical practices. The primary objective was to confirm that the proportion of patients who experienced one or more major adverse events (MAE) was not higher in the active than in the control group. The study included 379 patients. At least one treatment-related MAE was observed in 9.2% of patients (n = 17) assigned to the active group vs. 13.3% of patients (n = 26) in the control group (P = 0.21), a 4.1% absolute risk reduction (95% CI −2.2 to 10.4; P = 0.98). By study design, the mean hospitalization duration was 34% shorter in the active than in the control group (P < 0.001), and HM facilitated the early detection of technical issues and detectable clinical anomalies. Conclusion Early discharge with HM after PM implantation or replacement was safe and facilitated the monitoring of patients in the month following the procedure. PMID:18775878

KSC-99pp1477

NASA Image and Video Library

1999-12-19

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- As if spawned by the clouds of smoke and steam below, the Space Shuttle Discovery shoots into the night sky on mission STS-103. The brilliant light creates a reflection of the launch in the water nearby. Liftoff occurred at 7:50 p.m. EST from Launch Pad 39B. On board are Commander Curtis L. Brown Jr., Pilot Scott J. Kelly and Mission Specialists Steven L. Smith, C. Michael Foale (Ph.D.), John M. Grunsfeld (Ph.D.), Claude Nicollier of Switzerland and Jean-François Clervoy of France. Nicollier and Clervoy are with the European Space Agency. STS-103 is a Hubble Servicing Mission, with three planned space walks designed to install new equipment and replace old. The primary objective is to replace the gyroscopes that make up the three Rate Sensor Units. Extravehicular activities include installing a new computer, changing out one of the Fine Guidance Sensors, replacing a tape recorder with a new solid state recorder, and installing a voltage/temperature improvement kit, and begin repairing the insulation on the telescope's outer surface. After the 7-day, 21-hour mission, Discovery is expected to land at KSC Monday, Dec. 27, at about 5:24 p.m. EST. This is the 27th flight of Discovery and the 96th mission in the Space Shuttle Program. It is the third launch at Kennedy Space Center in 1999

New Developments in Scintillators for Security Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Glodo, Jarek; Wang, Yimin; Shawgo, Ryan; Brecher, Charles; Hawrami, Rastgo H.; Tower, Joshua; Shah, Kanai S.

Radiation is an important part of security space: It is detected either passively in search of special nuclear materials or actively to monitor or interrogate objects of interest. Systems relying on radiation require adequate detectors. The most common radiation detectors are based on scintillating materials that convert hard (gamma, x-ray or neutron) radiation into visible light registered by a photodetector. The last decade has seen development of new materials driven by various security applications. This included the search for He-3 replacement technologies, which resulted in development of neutron sensing scintillators such as Ce-doped Cs2LiYCl6 (CLYC) or more recently Cs2LiLa(Br,Cl)6 (CLLBC). Since they are also good gamma-ray scintillators, they have also penetrated the detection market for passive dual-mode (gamma and neutron) detection systems, replacing scintillators such as NaI(Tl) or CsI(Tl) and competing with LaBr3(Ce). High-energy Non-Intrusive Inspection is another area where active research is being pursued in order to replace existing scintillator choices such as CdWO4, which is commonly used in simple radiography, and PbWO4, which is being studied for spectroscopic alternatives to radiography. For radiography, in particular, new ceramic scintillators such as Ce-doped GLuGAG (garnet) are considered, and for spectroscopy, Yb doped Lu2O3. In this paper we provide a short overview of these technologies.

Advanced age and incidence of atrial fibrillation in the postoperative period of aortic valve replacement

PubMed Central

Pivatto Júnior, Fernando; Teixeira Filho, Guaracy Fernandes; Sant'anna, João Ricardo Michelin; Py, Pablo Mondim; Prates, Paulo Roberto; Nesralla, Ivo Abrahão; Kalil, Renato Abdala Karam

2014-01-01

Objective This study aims to describe the correlation between age and occurrence of atrial fibrillation after aortic stenosis surgery in the elderly as well as evaluate the influence of atrial fibrillation on the incidence of strokes, hospital length of stay, and hospital mortality. Methods Cross-sectional retrospective study of > 70 year-old patients who underwent isolated aortic valve replacement. Results 348 patients were included in the study (mean age 76.8±4.6 years). Overall, post-operative atrial fibrillation was 32.8% (n=114), but it was higher in patients aged 80 years and older (42.9% versus 28.8% in patients aged 70-79 years, P=0.017). There was borderline significance for linear correlation between age and atrial fibrillation (P=0.055). Intensive Care Unit and hospital lengths of stay were significantly increased in atrial fibrillation (P<0.001), but there was no increase in mortality or stroke associated with atrial fibrillation. Conclusion Post-operative atrial fibrillation incidence in aortic valve replacement is high and correlates with age in patients aged 70 years and older and significantly more pronounced in patients aged 80 years. There was increased length of stay at Intensive Care Unit and hospital, but there was no increase in mortality or stroke. These data are important for planning prophylaxis and early treatment for this subgroup. PMID:24896162

Space Shuttle Projects

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-03-07

STS-109 Astronaut Michael J. Massimino, mission specialist, perched on the Shuttle's robotic arm, is preparing to install the Electronic Support Module (ESM) in the aft shroud of the Hubble Space telescope (HST), with the assistance of astronaut James H. Newman (out of frame). The module will support a new experimental cooling system to be installed during the next day's fifth and final space walk of the mission. That cooling system is designed to bring the telescope's Near-Infrared Camera and Multi Spectrometer (NICMOS) back to life the which had been dormant since January 1999 when its original coolant ran out. The Space Shuttle Columbia STS-109 mission lifted off March 1, 2002 with goals of repairing and upgrading the Hubble Space Telescope (HST). The Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama had the responsibility for the design, development, and construction of the HST, which is the most powerful and sophisticated telescope ever built. In addition to the installation of the experimental cooling system for the Hubble's Near-Infrared Camera and NICMOS, STS-109 upgrades to the HST included replacement of the solar array panels, replacement of the power control unit (PCU), and replacement of the Faint Object Camera (FOC) with a new advanced camera for Surveys (ACS). Lasting 10 days, 22 hours, and 11 minutes, the STS-109 mission was the 108th flight overall in NASA's Space Shuttle Program.

KSC-01pp1730

NASA Image and Video Library

2001-11-27

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- In the Vertical Processing Facility, members of the STS-109 crew look over the Solar Array 3 panels that will be replacing Solar Array 2 panels on the Hubble Space Telescope (HST). Trainers, at left, point to the panels while Mission Specialist Nancy Currie (second from right) and Commander Scott Altman (far right) look on. Other crew members are Pilot Duane Carey, Payload Commander John Grunsfeld and Mission Specialists James Newman, Richard Linnehan and Michael Massimino. The other goals of the mission are replacing the Power Control Unit, removing the Faint Object Camera and installing the Advanced Camera for Surveys, installing the Near Infrared Camera and Multi-Object Spectrometer (NICMOS) Cooling System, and installing New Outer Blanket Layer insulation on bays 5 through 8. Mission STS-109 is scheduled for launch Feb. 14, 2002

STS-114 Flight Day 5 Highlights

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2005-01-01

Highlights of Day 5 of the STS-114 Return to Flight mission (Commander Eileen Collins, Pilot James Kelly, Mission Specialists Soichi Noguchi, Stephen Robinson, Andrew Thomas, Wendy Lawrence, and Charles Camarda) include video coverage of an extravehiclular activity (EVA) by Noguchi and Robinson. The other crew members of Discovery are seen on the flight deck and mid-deck helping the astronauts to suit-up. The objectives of the EVA are to test repair techniques on sample tiles in the shuttle's payload bay, to repair electrical equipment for a gyroscope on the International Space Station (ISS), and to install a replacement GPS antenna on the ISS. Noguchi and Robinson use a caulk gun and a putty knife to repair the sample tiles. The video contains several Earth views, including one of Baja California.

Contemporary experience with surgical treatment of aortic valve disease in children.

PubMed

Khan, Muhammad S; Samayoa, Andres X; Chen, Diane W; Petit, Christopher J; Fraser, Charles D

2013-09-01

Surgical treatment of aortic valve (AoV) disease in childhood involves complex decisions particularly in very small patients. There is no consensus regarding the optimum surgical option. The objective of this review was to analyze a contemporary experience of AoV surgery in a large children's hospital. A retrospective review of children (aged ≤ 18 years) undergoing AoV repair or replacement from June 1995 to December 2011 was carried out. A total of 285 AoV operations (97 repairs, 188 replacements) were performed on 241 patients. Hospital survival for repair was 98% and for replacements was 97%. At follow-up of repairs, there were 16 (17%) reoperations and 3 (3%) late deaths. Follow-up of AoV replacements demonstrated 31 (16%) reoperations (homograft 27, autograft 3, mechanical 1) and 8 (4%) late deaths (homograft 5, autograft 2, mechanical 1). Freedom from reintervention or death (FRD) was found to be lower in repairs for infants (P = .048) and truncal valves (P < .05). For AoV replacements, infants and patients who had concomitant CHD or homografts (P < .0001) had lower FRD. Cox regression analysis for AoV replacements identified infants and homograft root replacements at a higher risk for death/reoperation. AoV repairs and replacements were generally found to be associated with low death and reoperation rates at long-term follow-up. Infants had a lower freedom from reintervention or death after either an AoV repair or replacement, although truncal valve repairs and AoV replacement in patients with concomitant CHD were associated with lower valve survival. Among the valve options, homograft root replacement had a higher risk of death/reoperation and lowest freedom from reintervention or death. Copyright © 2013 The American Association for Thoracic Surgery. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

Prevalence of Total Hip and Knee Replacement in the United States.

PubMed

Maradit Kremers, Hilal; Larson, Dirk R; Crowson, Cynthia S; Kremers, Walter K; Washington, Raynard E; Steiner, Claudia A; Jiranek, William A; Berry, Daniel J

2015-09-02

Descriptive epidemiology of total joint replacement procedures is limited to annual procedure volumes (incidence). The prevalence of the growing number of individuals living with a total hip or total knee replacement is currently unknown. Our objective was to estimate the prevalence of total hip and total knee replacement in the United States. Prevalence was estimated using the counting method by combining historical incidence data from the National Hospital Discharge Survey and the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project (HCUP) State Inpatient Databases from 1969 to 2010 with general population census and mortality counts. We accounted for relative differences in mortality rates between those who have had total hip or knee replacement and the general population. The 2010 prevalence of total hip and total knee replacement in the total U.S. population was 0.83% and 1.52%, respectively. Prevalence was higher among women than among men and increased with age, reaching 5.26% for total hip replacement and 10.38% for total knee replacement at eighty years. These estimates corresponded to 2.5 million individuals (1.4 million women and 1.1 million men) with total hip replacement and 4.7 million individuals (3.0 million women and 1.7 million men) with total knee replacement in 2010. Secular trends indicated a substantial rise in prevalence over time and a shift to younger ages. Around 7 million Americans are living with a hip or knee replacement, and consequently, in most cases, are mobile, despite advanced arthritis. These numbers underscore the substantial public health impact of total hip and knee arthroplasties. Copyright © 2015 by The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, Incorporated.

Total ankle replacement systems available in the United States.

PubMed

Coetzee, J Chris; Deorio, James K

2010-01-01

Ankle replacement continues to be a viable option for treating patients with ankle arthritis. Over the past 10 years, there has been a significant increase in the number of ankle replacement systems available for use. Current controversy centers on whether fixed- or mobile-bearing devices are most advantageous. Most total ankle systems used outside the United States are mobile-bearing devices, whereas ankle replacement systems used in the United States are all essentially fixed-bearing devices. Not all ankles with degenerative changes are amenable to replacement surgery, and several exclusion criteria are well documented. Ankle replacement is especially complicated because of the ankle's proximity to the foot and the important role that the balance and alignment of the foot play in the success of the ankle replacement. Foot deformities should be treated before or at the time of ankle replacement surgery. Ignoring foot deformities can lead to failure of the ankle replacement. It is also of paramount importance to consider the stability of the ankle ligaments. An unstable ankle with a varus or valgus deformity of more than 20 degrees is probably not amenable to ankle replacement. There are currently no reliable options to predictably reconstruct the lateral or medial ligaments in these severe deformities. It is important to be aware of the ankle replacement systems currently available in the United States and understand the key features of each design. Devices approved by the US Food and Drug Administration, a device that is awaiting approval, and a device that is being evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration in a prospective randomized clinical trial are discussed, along with an objective comparison of fixed- and mobile-bearing devices.

Appraisal of evidence base for introduction of new implants in hip and knee replacement: a systematic review of five widely used device technologies

PubMed Central

Nieuwenhuijse, Marc J; Nelissen, R G H H; Schoones, J W

2014-01-01

Objective To determine the evidence of effectiveness and safety for introduction of five recent and ostensibly high value implantable devices in major joint replacement to illustrate the need for change and inform guidance on evidence based introduction of new implants into healthcare. Design Systematic review of clinical trials, comparative observational studies, and registries for comparative effectiveness and safety of five implantable device innovations. Data sources PubMed (Medline), Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane, CINAHL, reference lists of articles, annual reports of major registries, summaries of safety and effectiveness for pre-market application and mandated post-market studies at the US Food and Drug Administration. Study selection The five selected innovations comprised three in total hip replacement (ceramic-on-ceramic bearings, modular femoral necks, and uncemented monoblock cups) and two in total knee replacement (high flexion knee replacement and gender specific knee replacement). All clinical studies of primary total hip or knee replacement for symptomatic osteoarthritis in adults that compared at least one of the clinical outcomes of interest (patient centred outcomes or complications, or both) in the new implant group and control implant group were considered. Data searching, abstraction, and analysis were independently performed and confirmed by at least two authors. Quantitative data syntheses were performed when feasible. Results After assessment of 10 557 search hits, 118 studies (94 unique study cohorts) met the inclusion criteria and reported data related to 15 384 implants in 13 164 patients. Comparative evidence per device innovation varied from four low to moderate quality retrospective studies (modular femoral necks) to 56 studies of varying quality including seven high quality (randomised) studies (high flexion knee replacement). None of the five device innovations was found to improve functional or patient reported outcomes. National registries reported two to 12 year follow-up for revision occurrence related to more than 200 000 of these implants. Reported comparative data with well established alternative devices (over 1 200 000 implants) did not show improved device survival. Moreover, we found higher revision occurrence associated with modular femoral necks (hazard ratio 1.9) and ceramic-on-ceramic bearings (hazard ratio 1.0-1.6) in hip replacement and with high flexion knee implants (hazard ratio 1.0-1.8). Conclusion We did not find convincing high quality evidence supporting the use of five substantial, well known, and already implemented device innovations in orthopaedics. Moreover, existing devices may be safer to use in total hip or knee replacement. Improved regulation and professional society oversight are necessary to prevent patients from being further exposed to these and future innovations introduced without proper evidence of improved clinical efficacy and safety. PMID:25208953

Modeling Common-Sense Decisions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zak, Michail

This paper presents a methodology for efficient synthesis of dynamical model simulating a common-sense decision making process. The approach is based upon the extension of the physics' First Principles that includes behavior of living systems. The new architecture consists of motor dynamics simulating actual behavior of the object, and mental dynamics representing evolution of the corresponding knowledge-base and incorporating it in the form of information flows into the motor dynamics. The autonomy of the decision making process is achieved by a feedback from mental to motor dynamics. This feedback replaces unavailable external information by an internal knowledgebase stored in the mental model in the form of probability distributions.

Application of Bayesian Networks to hindcast barrier island morphodynamics

USGS Publications Warehouse

Wilson, Kathleen E.; Adams, Peter N.; Hapke, Cheryl J.; Lentz, Erika E.; Brenner, Owen T.

2015-01-01

We refine a preliminary Bayesian Network by 1) increasing model experience through additional observations, 2) including anthropogenic modification history, and 3) replacing parameterized wave impact values with maximum run-up elevation. Further, we develop and train a pair of generalized models with an additional dataset encompassing a different storm event, which expands the observations beyond our hindcast objective. We compare the skill of the generalized models against the Nor'Ida specific model formulation, balancing the reduced skill with an expectation of increased transferability. Results of Nor'Ida hindcasts ranged in skill from 0.37 to 0.51 and accuracy of 65.0 to 81.9%.

Proceedings: Conference on asbestos control and replacement for electric utilities

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

Not Available

An EPRI conference on Asbestos Control and Replacement for Electric Utilities was held April 6--7, 1993 in conjunction with the Environmental Information Association`s (formerly National Asbestos Council) Environmental Management `93 Conference and Exposition. The high cost and potential liabilities of asbestos removal projects, compounded by concerns over the health effects of asbestos replacement materials, was the main motivation for the conference. The objective of the conference was to assemble guidance and information that will help utilities manage asbestos and to effectively prioritize EPRI research in this area. Eleven papers covered such topics as changes in the Environmental Protection Agency`s (EPA)more » ban on asbestos, utility experience with asbestos management and abatement, asbestos monitoring and disposal, and asbestos replacement materials. Utility feedback received at the conference indicates that present and planned EPRI research activities in this area will effectively meet industry needs.« less

Reducing saturated fat with oleogel/shortening blends in a baked product.

PubMed

Mert, Behic; Demirkesen, Ilkem

2016-05-15

Short dough cookie structure, characterized by its aerated and tender texture, depends on the presence of solid fat during kneading. The objective of this study was to investigate the potential application of Candelilla wax (CDW) containing oleogels for partial replacement of the shortening in cookies. Oleogels were prepared with different amounts of CDW and blended with a commercial bakery shortening. After crystallizing the oleogel/shortening blends by using a pilot scale crystallization unit, the blends were evaluated in a cookie formulations. When the shortening was completely replaced with oleogel softer products were obtained compared to liquid oil, but they were harder than the shortening containing products. On the other hand, partial replacement of shortening with oleogels provided much more acceptable dough and cookie characteristics. Results suggest that gradual replacement of shortening with oleogels may be a suitable approach for reduction of saturated fat in short dough products. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.) as a net producer of long-chain marine ω-3 fatty acids.

PubMed

Sanden, Monica; Stubhaug, Ingunn; Berntssen, Marc H G; Lie, Øyvind; Torstensen, Bente E

2011-12-14

The objective of the present study was to investigate the effects of replacing high levels of marine ingredients with vegetable raw materials and with emphasis on lipid metabolism and net production of long-chain polyunsaturated ω-3 fatty acids (EPA + DHA). Atlantic salmon were fed three different replacement vegetable diets and one control marine diet before sensory attributes, β-oxidation capacity, and fatty acid productive value (FAPV) of ingested fatty acids (FAs) were evaluated. Fish fed the high replacement diet had a net production of 0.8 g of DHA and a FAPV of 142%. Fish fed the marine diet had a net loss of DHA. The present work shows that Atlantic salmon can be a net producer of marine DHA when dietary fish oil is replaced by vegetable oil with minor effects on sensory attributes and lipid metabolism.

Interrupted object-based updating of reach program leads to a negative compatibility effect.

PubMed

Vainio, Lari

2009-07-01

The author investigated how the motor program elicited by an object's orientation is updated by object-based information while a participant reaches for the object. Participants selected the hand of response according to the thickness of the graspable object and then reached toward the location in which the object appeared. Reach initiation times decreased when the handle of the object was oriented toward the responding hand. This positive compatibility effect turned into a negative compatibility effect (NCE) during reach execution when the object was removed from the display 300 ms after object onset or replaced with a mask at movement onset. The results demonstrate that interrupted object-based updating of an ongoing reach movement triggers the NCE.

Oral Vitamin B12 Replacement for the Treatment of Pernicious Anemia

PubMed Central

Chan, Catherine Qiu Hua; Low, Lian Leng; Lee, Kheng Hock

2016-01-01

Many patients with pernicious anemia are treated with lifelong intramuscular (IM) vitamin B12 replacement. As early as the 1950s, there were studies suggesting that oral vitamin B12 replacement may provide adequate absorption. Nevertheless, oral vitamin B12 replacement in patients with pernicious anemia remains uncommon in clinical practice. The objective of this review is to provide an update on the effectiveness of oral vitamin B12 for the treatment of pernicious anemia, the recommended dosage, and the required frequency of laboratory test and clinical monitoring. Relevant articles were identified by PubMed search from January 1, 1980 to March 31, 2016 and through hand search of relevant reference articles. Two randomized controlled trials, three prospective papers, one systematic review, and three clinical reviews fulfilled our inclusion criteria. We found that oral vitamin B12 replacement at 1000 μg daily was adequate to replace vitamin B12 levels in patients with pernicious anemia. We conclude that oral vitamin B12 is an effective alternative to vitamin B12 IM injections. Patients should be offered this alternative after an informed discussion on the advantages and disadvantages of both treatment options. PMID:27602354

Weight Change After Smoking Cessation Using Variable Doses of Transdermal Nicotine Replacement

PubMed Central

Dale, Lowell C; Schroeder, Darrell R; Wolter, Troy D; Croghan, Ivana T; Hurt, Richard D; Offord, Kenneth P

1998-01-01

OBJECTIVE Examine weight change in subjects receiving variable doses of transdermal nicotine replacement for smoking cessation. DESIGN Randomized, double-blind clinical trial. SETTING One-week inpatient treatment with outpatient follow-up through 1 year. INTERVENTION This report examines weight change after smoking cessation for 70 subjects randomized to placebo or to 11, 22, or 44 mg/d doses of transdermal nicotine. The study included 1 week of intensive inpatient treatment for nicotine dependence with active patch therapy continuing for another 7 weeks. Counseling sessions were provided weekly for the 8 weeks of patch therapy and with long-term follow-up visits at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Forty-two subjects were confirmed biochemically (i.e., by expired carbon monoxide) to be nonsmokers at all weekly visits during patch therapy. Their 8-week weight change from baseline was 3.0 ±2.0 kg. For these subjects, 8-week weight change was found to be negatively correlated with percentage of cotinine replacement (r=−.38, p=.012) and positively correlated with baseline weight (r=.48, p=.001), and age (r=.35, p=.025). Men had higher (p=.003) 8-week weight gain (4.0 ±1.8 kg) than women (2.1 ±1.7 kg). Of the 21 subjects who abstained continuously for the entire year, 20 had their weight measured at 1-year follow-up. Among these 20 subjects, 1-year weight change was not found to be associated with gender, baseline weight, baseline smoking rate, total dose of transdermal nicotine, or average percentage of cotinine replacement during the 8 weeks of patch therapy. CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that higher replacement levels of nicotine may delay postcessation weight gain. This effect is consistent for both men and women. We could not identify any factors that predict weight change with long-term abstinence from smoking. PMID:9462489

Social support and actual versus expected length of stay in inpatient rehabilitation facilities

PubMed Central

Lewis, Zakkoyya H.; Hay, Catherine Cooper; Graham, James E.; Lin, Yu-Li; Karmarkar, Amol M.; Ottenbacher, Kenneth J.

2016-01-01

Objectives Describe impairment-specific patterns in shorter- and longer-than-expected lengths of stay in inpatient rehabilitation and examine the independent effects of social support on deviations from expected lengths of stay. Design Retrospective cohort study. Setting Inpatient rehabilitation facilities across the United States. Participants Medicare fee-for-service beneficiaries (N=119,437) who were discharged from inpatient rehabilitation facilities in 2012 following stroke, lower extremity fracture, or lower extremity joint replacement. Intervention Not applicable. Main Outcome Measure Relative length of stay (actual – expected). The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services posts annual expected lengths of stay based on patients’ clinical profiles at admission. We created a 3-category outcome variable: short, expected, long. Our primary independent variable (social support) also included 3 categories: family/friends, paid/other, none. Results Mean (SD) actual lengths of stay for joint replacement, fracture, and stroke were 9.8 (3.6), 13.8 (4.5), and 15.8 (7.3) days, respectively; relative lengths of stay were −1.2 (3.1), −1.6 (3.7), and −1.7 (5.2) days. Nearly half of patients (47–48%) were discharged more than 1 day earlier than expected in all 3 groups, whereas 14% of joint replacement, 15% of fracture, and 20% of stroke patients were discharged more than 1 day later than expected. In multinomial regression analysis, using family/friends as the reference group, paid/other support was associated (p<.05) with higher odds of long stays in joint replacement. No social support was associated with lower odds of short stays in all 3 impairment groups and higher odds of long stays in fracture and joint replacement. Conclusion Inpatient rehabilitation experiences and outcomes can be substantially impacted by a patient’s level of social support. More research is needed to better understand these relationships and possible unintended consequences in terms of patient access issues and provider-level quality measures. PMID:27373747

Effect of a Bluetooth-implemented hearing aid on speech recognition performance: subjective and objective measurement.

PubMed

Kim, Min-Beom; Chung, Won-Ho; Choi, Jeesun; Hong, Sung Hwa; Cho, Yang-Sun; Park, Gyuseok; Lee, Sangmin

2014-06-01

The object was to evaluate speech perception improvement through Bluetooth-implemented hearing aids in hearing-impaired adults. Thirty subjects with bilateral symmetric moderate sensorineural hearing loss participated in this study. A Bluetooth-implemented hearing aid was fitted unilaterally in all study subjects. Objective speech recognition score and subjective satisfaction were measured with a Bluetooth-implemented hearing aid to replace the acoustic connection from either a cellular phone or a loudspeaker system. In each system, participants were assigned to 4 conditions: wireless speech signal transmission into hearing aid (wireless mode) in quiet or noisy environment and conventional speech signal transmission using external microphone of hearing aid (conventional mode) in quiet or noisy environment. Also, participants completed questionnaires to investigate subjective satisfaction. Both cellular phone and loudspeaker system situation, participants showed improvements in sentence and word recognition scores with wireless mode compared to conventional mode in both quiet and noise conditions (P < .001). Participants also reported subjective improvements, including better sound quality, less noise interference, and better accuracy naturalness, when using the wireless mode (P < .001). Bluetooth-implemented hearing aids helped to improve subjective and objective speech recognition performances in quiet and noisy environments during the use of electronic audio devices.

Real-time optical multiple object recognition and tracking system and method

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chao, Tien-Hsin (Inventor); Liu, Hua Kuang (Inventor)

1987-01-01

The invention relates to an apparatus and associated methods for the optical recognition and tracking of multiple objects in real time. Multiple point spatial filters are employed that pre-define the objects to be recognized at run-time. The system takes the basic technology of a Vander Lugt filter and adds a hololens. The technique replaces time, space and cost-intensive digital techniques. In place of multiple objects, the system can also recognize multiple orientations of a single object. This later capability has potential for space applications where space and weight are at a premium.

The STS-103 crew with loved ones at Pad 39B

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1999-01-01

The STS-103 crew pose for photographers with their loved ones at Launch Pad 39B. Space Shuttle Discovery is in the background, next to the Fixed Service Structure lit up like a Christmas tree. Viewed left to right are Mission Specialist Steven L. Smith and his wife, Peggy; Pilot Scott J. Kelly and his wife, Leslie; Commander Curtis L. Brown Jr. and his fiancee, Ann Brickert; Mission Specialist C. Michael Foale; Laurence Clervoy and her husband, Mission Specialist Jean-Frangois Clervoy; Mission Specialist John M. Grunsfeld and his wife, Carol; Mission Specialist Claude Nicollier and his wife, Susana. Nicollier and Clervoy are with the European Space Agency. The mission, to service the Hubble Space Telescope, is scheduled for launch Dec. 17 at 8:47 p.m. EST from Launch Pad 39B. Mission objectives include replacing gyroscopes and an old computer, installing another solid state recorder, and replacing damaged insulation in the telescope. The mission is expected to last about 8 days and 21 hours. Discovery is expected to land at KSC Sunday, Dec. 26, at about 6:25 p.m. EST.

Discrimination of tooth layers and dental restorative materials using cutting sounds.

PubMed

Zakeri, Vahid; Arzanpour, Siamak; Chehroudi, Babak

2015-03-01

Dental restoration begins with removing carries and affected tissues with air-turbine rotary cutting handpieces, and later restoring the lost tissues with appropriate restorative materials to retain the functionality. Most restoration materials eventually fail as they age and need to be replaced. One of the difficulties in replacing failing restorations is discerning the boundary of restorative materials, which causes inadvertent removal of healthy tooth layers. Developing an objective and sensor-based method is a promising approach to monitor dental restorative operations and to prevent excessive tooth losses. This paper has analyzed cutting sounds of an air-turbine handpiece to discriminate between tooth layers and two commonly used restorative materials, amalgam and composite. Support vector machines were employed for classification, and the averaged short-time Fourier transform coefficients were selected as the features. The classifier performance was evaluated from different aspects such as the number of features, feature scaling methods, classification schemes, and utilized kernels. The total classification accuracies were 89% and 92% for cases included composite and amalgam materials, respectively. The obtained results indicated the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method.

KSC-99padig047

NASA Image and Video Library

1999-12-17

After sunup, which is obscured by a cloud-filled sky, Space Shuttle Discovery waits atop the mobile launcher platform for launch of mission STS-103. At the top is seen the external tank gaseous oxygen vent arm system with the vent hood (commonly called the "beanie cap") poised above the external tank. The retractable arm and the beanie cap are designed to vent gaseous oxygen vapors away from the Space Shuttle. The arm truss section is 65 feet long and the diameter of the vent hood is 13 feet. Extending toward the cabin of the orbiter below is the orbiter access arm, with the environmental chamber (called the White Room) at the end. Through this chamber the crew enters the orbiter. The STS-103 mission, to service the Hubble Space Telescope, is scheduled for launch Dec. 17 at 8:47 p.m. EST. Mission objectives include replacing gyroscopes and an old computer, installing another solid state recorder, and replacing damaged insulation in the telescope. The mission is expected to last about 8 days and 21 hours. Discovery is expected to land at KSC Sunday, Dec. 26, at about 6:25 p.m. EST

Singular-value decomposition of a tomosynthesis system

PubMed Central

Burvall, Anna; Barrett, Harrison H.; Myers, Kyle J.; Dainty, Christopher

2010-01-01

Tomosynthesis is an emerging technique with potential to replace mammography, since it gives 3D information at a relatively small increase in dose and cost. We present an analytical singular-value decomposition of a tomosynthesis system, which provides the measurement component of any given object. The method is demonstrated on an example object. The measurement component can be used as a reconstruction of the object, and can also be utilized in future observer studies of tomosynthesis image quality. PMID:20940966

Astronauts Hoffman and Musgrave replace Solar Array Drive Electronics

NASA Image and Video Library

1993-12-09

STS061-102-010 (9 Dec 1993) --- Astronauts Jeffrey A. Hoffman (left) and F. Story Musgrave team to replace one of two Solar Array Drive Electronics (SADE) units on the Hubble Space Telescope (HST). Musgrave is standing on a foot restraint mounted on the end of the Space Shuttle Endeavour's Remote Manipulator System (RMS) arm. The black object, in upper left corner, is part of the window frame, through which this 70mm frame was exposed, inside Endeavour's cabin.

Grammatical verb aspect and event roles in sentence processing.

PubMed

Madden-Lombardi, Carol; Dominey, Peter Ford; Ventre-Dominey, Jocelyne

2017-01-01

Two experiments examine how grammatical verb aspect constrains our understanding of events. According to linguistic theory, an event described in the perfect aspect (John had opened the bottle) should evoke a mental representation of a finished event with focus on the resulting object, whereas an event described in the imperfective aspect (John was opening the bottle) should evoke a representation of the event as ongoing, including all stages of the event, and focusing all entities relevant to the ongoing action (instruments, objects, agents, locations, etc.). To test this idea, participants saw rebus sentences in the perfect and imperfective aspect, presented one word at a time, self-paced. In each sentence, the instrument and the recipient of the action were replaced by pictures (John was using/had used a *corkscrew* to open the *bottle* at the restaurant). Time to process the two images as well as speed and accuracy on sensibility judgments were measured. Although experimental sentences always made sense, half of the object and instrument pictures did not match the temporal constraints of the verb. For instance, in perfect sentences aspect-congruent trials presented an image of the corkscrew closed (no longer in-use) and the wine bottle fully open. The aspect-incongruent yet still sensible versions either replaced the corkscrew with an in-use corkscrew (open, in-hand) or the bottle image with a half-opened bottle. In this case, the participant would still respond "yes", but with longer expected response times. A three-way interaction among Verb Aspect, Sentence Role, and Temporal Match on image processing times showed that participants were faster to process images that matched rather than mismatched the aspect of the verb, especially for resulting objects in perfect sentences. A second experiment replicated and extended the results to confirm that this was not due to the placement of the object in the sentence. These two experiments extend previous research, showing how verb aspect drives not only the temporal structure of event representation, but also the focus on specific roles of the event. More generally, the findings of visual match during online sentence-picture processing are consistent with theories of perceptual simulation.

Grammatical verb aspect and event roles in sentence processing

PubMed Central

Madden-Lombardi, Carol; Dominey, Peter Ford; Ventre-Dominey, Jocelyne

2017-01-01

Two experiments examine how grammatical verb aspect constrains our understanding of events. According to linguistic theory, an event described in the perfect aspect (John had opened the bottle) should evoke a mental representation of a finished event with focus on the resulting object, whereas an event described in the imperfective aspect (John was opening the bottle) should evoke a representation of the event as ongoing, including all stages of the event, and focusing all entities relevant to the ongoing action (instruments, objects, agents, locations, etc.). To test this idea, participants saw rebus sentences in the perfect and imperfective aspect, presented one word at a time, self-paced. In each sentence, the instrument and the recipient of the action were replaced by pictures (John was using/had used a *corkscrew* to open the *bottle* at the restaurant). Time to process the two images as well as speed and accuracy on sensibility judgments were measured. Although experimental sentences always made sense, half of the object and instrument pictures did not match the temporal constraints of the verb. For instance, in perfect sentences aspect-congruent trials presented an image of the corkscrew closed (no longer in-use) and the wine bottle fully open. The aspect-incongruent yet still sensible versions either replaced the corkscrew with an in-use corkscrew (open, in-hand) or the bottle image with a half-opened bottle. In this case, the participant would still respond “yes”, but with longer expected response times. A three-way interaction among Verb Aspect, Sentence Role, and Temporal Match on image processing times showed that participants were faster to process images that matched rather than mismatched the aspect of the verb, especially for resulting objects in perfect sentences. A second experiment replicated and extended the results to confirm that this was not due to the placement of the object in the sentence. These two experiments extend previous research, showing how verb aspect drives not only the temporal structure of event representation, but also the focus on specific roles of the event. More generally, the findings of visual match during online sentence-picture processing are consistent with theories of perceptual simulation. PMID:29287091

Effects of Physiologic Testosterone Replacement on Quality of Life, Self-Esteem, and Mood in Women with Primary Ovarian Insufficiency

PubMed Central

Guerrieri, Gioia M.; Martinez, Pedro E.; Klug, Summer P.; Haq, Nazli A.; Vanderhoof, Vien H.; Koziol, Deloris E.; Popat, Vaishali B.; Kalantaridou, Sophia N.; Calis, Karim A.; Rubinow, David R.; Schmidt, Peter J.; Nelson, Lawrence M.

2014-01-01

Objective Low androgen levels occur in women with primary ovarian insufficiency(POI) and could contribute to mood and behavioral symptoms in this condition. We examined the effects of physiologic testosterone (T) replacement therapy added to standard estrogen/progestin replacement therapy (EPT) on quality of life, self-esteem, and mood in women with POI. Methods 128 women with 46XX spontaneous POI participated in a 12 month randomized, placebo-controlled, parallel-design investigation of the efficacy of T augmentation of EPT. Quality of life, self-esteem, and mood symptoms were evaluated with standardized rating scales and a structured clinical interview. Differences in outcome measures between the T and placebo treatments were analyzed by Wilcoxon rank-sum tests. Results No differences were found in baseline characteristics including serum hormone levels(P >0.05). Baseline mean(SD) CES-D scores were 10.7(8.6)(T) and 9.2(7.8)(placebo) (P = 0.35). After 12 months of treatment, measures of quality of life, self-esteem, and the presence of mood symptoms did not differ between treatment groups. Serum T levels achieved physiologic levels in the T group and were significantly higher compared to placebo (P < 0.001). Baseline T levels were not associated with either adverse or beneficial clinical effects. Conclusions The 150 microgram T patch achieves physiologic hormone levels in women with POI. Our findings suggest that augmentation of standard EPT with physiologic testosterone replacement in young women with POI neither aggravates nor improves baseline reports of quality of life, or self-esteem and had minimal effect on mood. Other mechanisms might play a role in the altered mood that accompanies this disorder. PMID:24473536

Optimal dietary energy and amino acids for gilt development: Growth, body composition, feed intake, and carcass composition traits

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The objective of this study was to manipulate the lean to fat ratio by feeding diets differing in lysine and metabolizable energy (ME) content to replacement gilts from 100 d to 260 d of age. A secondary objective was to evaluate lysine and caloric efficiency between dietary treatments fed to develo...

Performance Of The IEEE 802.15.4 Protocol As The Marker Of Augmented Reality In Museum

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kurniawan Saputro, Adi; Sumpeno, Surya; Hariadi, Mochamad

2018-04-01

Museum is a place to keep the historic objects and historical education center to introduce the nation’s culture. Utilizing technology in a museum to become a smart city is a challenge. Internet of thing (IOT) is a technological advance in Information and communication (ICT) that can be applied in the museum The current ICT development is not only a transmission medium, but Augmented Reality technology is also being developed. Currently, Augmented Reality technology creates virtual objects into the real world using markers or images. In this study, researcher used signals to make virtual objects appear in the real world using the IEEE 802.14.5 protocol replacing the Augmented Reality marker. RSSI and triangulation are used as a substitute microlocation for AR objects. The result is the performance of Wireless Sensor Network could be used for data transmission in the museum. LOS research at a distance of 15 meters with 1000 ms delay found 1.4% error rate and NLOS with 2.3% error rate. So it can be concluded that utilization technology (IOT) using signal wireless sensor network as a replace for marker augmented reality can be used in museum

Switching Attention Within Working Memory is Reflected in the P3a Component of the Human Event-Related Brain Potential

PubMed Central

Berti, Stefan

2016-01-01

The flexible access to information in working memory is crucial for adaptive behavior. It is assumed that this is realized by switching the focus of attention within working memory. Switching of attention is mirrored in the P3a component of the human event-related brain potential (ERP) and it has been argued that the processes reflected by the P3a are also relevant for selecting information within working memory. The aim of the present study was to further evaluate whether the P3a mirrors genuine switching of attention within working memory by applying an object switching task: Participants updated a memory list of four digits either by replacing one item with another digit or by processing the stored digit. ERPs were computed separately for two types of trials: (1) trials in which an object was repeated and (2) trials in which a switch to a new object was required in order to perform the task. Object-switch trials showed increased response times compared with repetition trials in both task conditions. In addition, switching costs were increased in the processing compared with the replacement condition. Pronounced P3a’s were obtained in switching trials but there were no difference between the two updating tasks (replacement or processing). These results were qualified by the finding that the magnitude of the visual location shift also affects the ERPs in the P3a time window. Taken together, the present pattern of results suggest that the P3a reflects an initial process of selecting information in working memory but not the memory updating itself. PMID:26779009

Investigation of alternative curb mixes.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1975-01-01

The objective was to design and test mixes that might satisfactorily be used to replace the asbestos curb mix. Tentatively, it was recommended that a Gilsonite mix be used where high stability was required.

Incidence of revision after primary implantation of the Agility™ total ankle replacement system: a systematic review.

PubMed

Roukis, Thomas S

2012-01-01

Revision of failed total ankle replacement remains a challenge with limited information available to guide treatment options. I undertook a systematic review of electronic databases and other relevant sources to identify material relating to the incidence of revision after primary implantation of the Agility™ Total Ankle Replacement System. In an effort to procure the highest quality studies available, studies were eligible for inclusion only if they involved patients undergoing primary Agility™ Total Ankle Replacement; had evaluated patients at a mean follow-up of 12 months or longer; included details of the revision performed; and included revision etiologies of aseptic loosening, ballooning osteolysis, cystic changes, malalignment, or instability. A total of 14 studies involving 2312 ankles, with a weighted mean follow-up of 22.8 months, were included. Of the 2312 ankles, 224 (9.7%) underwent revision, of which 182 (81.3%) underwent implant component replacement, 34 (15.2%) underwent arthrodesis, and 8 (3.6%) underwent below-knee amputation. No significant effect from the surgeon's learning curve on the incidence of revision or the type of revision surgery performed was identified. However, excluding the inventor increased the incidence of revision twofold, from 6.6% to 12.2%, and skewed the type of revision away from arthrodesis and toward implant component replacement or below-knee amputation. Regardless, the incidence of revision after primary implantation of the Agility™ Total Ankle Replacement System was less than historically reported and amenable to implant component revision more than 80% of the time. However, methodologically sound cohort studies are needed that include the outcomes after revision surgery, specifically focusing on what implant component replacement techniques are effective in enhancing survivorship of these revised implants and the role of custom-stemmed talar and tibial components have in revision of the Agility™ Total Ankle Replacement System. A direct comparison of the incidence of revision between the various contemporary total ankle replacement systems in common use is also warranted. Copyright © 2012 American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Replacing The Engine In Your Car While You Are Still Driving It [PowerPoint

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

Bjorklund, Eric A.

The scope of the project included the following: install new network backbone, replace 201 MHz rf tubes, replace low-level rf system, replace timing system, replace industrial I/O system, replace beam synchronous data acquisition system, replace fast protect reporting system, new wire scanner hardware, and new beam position/phase monitor hardware--all of this to be done while continuing to deliver beam to users. Lessons learned, for anyone contemplating a similarly ambitious upgrade: You can’t replace the whole system at once. Some compatibility must be maintained between the old and new systems. Always have a way to fall back. Have sympathy for themore » operations staff. You will be surprised.« less

Development of Live-working Robot for Power Transmission Lines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yan, Yu; Liu, Xiaqing; Ren, Chengxian; Li, Jinliang; Li, Hui

2017-07-01

Dream-I, the first reconfigurable live-working robot for power transmission lines successfully developed in China, has the functions of autonomous walking on lines and accurately positioning. This paper firstly described operation task and object of the robot; then designed a general platform, an insulator replacement end and a drainage plate bolt fastening end of the robot, presented a control system of the robot, and performed simulation analysis on operation plan of the robot; and finally completed electrical field withstand voltage tests in a high voltage hall as well as online test and trial on actual lines. Experimental results show that by replacing ends of manipulators, the robot can fulfill operation tasks of live replacement of suspension insulators and live drainage plate bolt fastening.

Electronics reliability fracture mechanics. Volume 1: Causes of failures of shop replaceable units and hybrid microcircuits

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kallis, J.; Buechler, D.; Erickson, J.; Westerhuyzen, D. V.; Strokes, R.

1992-05-01

This is the first of two volumes. The other volume (WL-TR-91-3119) is 'Fracture Mechanics'. The objective of the Electronics Reliability Fracture Mechanics (ERFM) program was to develop and demonstrate a life prediction technique for electronic assemblies, when subjected to environmental stress of vibration and thermal cycling, based upon the mechanical properties of the materials and packaging configurations which make up an electronic system. A detailed investigation was performed of the following two shop replaceable units (SRUs): Timing and Control Module (P/N 3562102) and Linear Regulator Module (P/N 3569800). The SRUs are in the Programmable Signal Processor (3137042) Line Replaceable Unit (LRU) of the Hughes AN/APG-63 Radar for the F-15 Aircraft.

Differences in the stress distribution in the distal femur between patellofemoral joint replacement and total knee replacement: a finite element study

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background Patellofemoral joint replacement is a successful treatment option for isolated patellofemoral osteoarthritis. However, results of later conversion to total knee replacement may be compromised by periprosthetic bone loss. Previous clinical studies have demonstrated a decrease in distal femoral bone mineral density after patellofemoral joint replacement. It is unclear whether this is due to periprosthetic stress shielding. The main objective of the current study was to evaluate the stress shielding effect of prosthetic replacement with 2 different patellofemoral prosthetic designs and with a total knee prosthesis. Methods We developed a finite element model of an intact patellofemoral joint, and finite element models of patellofemoral joint replacement with a Journey PFJ prosthesis, a Richards II prosthesis, and a Genesis II total knee prosthesis. For each of these 4 finite element models, the average Von Mises stress in 2 clinically relevant regions of interest were evaluated during a simulated squatting movement until 120 degrees of flexion. Results During deep knee flexion, in the anterior region of interest, the average Von Mises stress with the Journey PFJ design was comparable to the physiological knee, while reduced by almost 25% for both the Richards II design and the Genesis II total knee joint replacement design. The average Von Mises stress in the supracondylar region of interest was similar for both patellofemoral prosthetic designs and the physiological model, with slightly lower stress for the Genesis II design. Conclusions Patellofemoral joint replacement results in periprosthetic stress-shielding, although to a smaller degree than in total knee replacement. Specific patellofemoral prosthetic design properties may result in differences in femoral stress shielding. PMID:22704638

Hypoparathyroidism: clinical features, skeletal microstructure and parathyroid hormone replacement

PubMed Central

Rubin, Mishaela R.; Bilezikian, John P.

2013-01-01

Objective Hypoparathyroidism is a disorder in which parathyroid hormone is deficient in the circulation due most often to immunological destruction of the parathyroids or to their surgical removal. The objective of this work was to define the abnormalities in skeletal microstructure as well as to establish the potential efficacy of PTH(1-84) replacement in this disorder. Subjects and methods Standard histomorphometric and μCT analyses were performed on iliac crest bone biopsies obtained from patients with hypoparathyroidism. Participants were treated with PTH(1-84) for two years. Results Bone density was increased and skeletal features reflected the low turnover state with greater BV/TV, Tb. Wi and Ct. Wi as well as suppressed MS and BFR/BS as compared to controls. With PTH(1-84), bone turnover and bone mineral density increased in the lumbar spine. Requirements for calcium and vitamin D fell while serum and urinary calcium concentrations did not change. Conclusion Abnormal microstructure of the skeleton in hypoparathyroidism reflects the absence of PTH. Replacement therapy with PTH has the potential to correct these abnormalities as well as to reduce the requirements for calcium and vitamin D. PMID:20485912

[Objectives and limits of test standards].

PubMed

Kaddick, C; Blömer, W

2014-06-01

Test standards are developed worldwide by extremely committed expert groups working mostly in an honorary capacity and have substantially contributed to the currently achieved safety standards in reconstructive orthopedics. Independent of the distribution and quality of a test specification, the specialist knowledge of the user cannot replace a well founded risk analysis and if used unthinkingly can lead to a false estimation of safety. The limits of standardization are reached where new indications or highly innovative products are concerned. In this case the manufacturer must undertake the time and cost-intensive route of a self-developed testing procedure which in the ideal case leads to a further testing standard. Test standards make a substantial contribution to implant safety but cannot replace the expert knowledge of the user. Tests as an end to themselves take the actual objectives of standardization to absurdity.

Effects of anti-obesity drugs, diet, and exercise on weight-loss maintenance after a very-low-calorie diet or low-calorie diet: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials123

PubMed Central

Neovius, Martin; Hemmingsson, Erik

2014-01-01

Background: Weight-loss maintenance remains a major challenge in obesity treatment. Objective: The objective was to evaluate the effects of anti-obesity drugs, diet, or exercise on weight-loss maintenance after an initial very-low-calorie diet (VLCD)/low-calorie diet (LCD) period (<1000 kcal/d). Design: We conducted a systematic review by using MEDLINE, the Cochrane Controlled Trial Register, and EMBASE from January 1981 to February 2013. We included randomized controlled trials that evaluated weight-loss maintenance strategies after a VLCD/LCD period. Two authors performed independent data extraction by using a predefined data template. All pooled analyses were based on random-effects models. Results: Twenty studies with a total of 27 intervention arms and 3017 participants were included with the following treatment categories: anti-obesity drugs (3 arms; n = 658), meal replacements (4 arms; n = 322), high-protein diets (6 arms; n = 865), dietary supplements (6 arms; n = 261), other diets (3 arms; n = 564), and exercise (5 arms; n = 347). During the VLCD/LCD period, the pooled mean weight change was −12.3 kg (median duration: 8 wk; range 3–16 wk). Compared with controls, anti-obesity drugs improved weight-loss maintenance by 3.5 kg [95% CI: 1.5, 5.5 kg; median duration: 18 mo (12–36 mo)], meal replacements by 3.9 kg [95% CI: 2.8, 5.0 kg; median duration: 12 mo (10–26 mo)], and high-protein diets by 1.5 kg [95% CI: 0.8, 2.1 kg; median duration: 5 mo (3–12 mo)]. Exercise [0.8 kg; 95% CI: −1.2, 2.8 kg; median duration: 10 mo (6–12 mo)] and dietary supplements [0.0 kg; 95% CI: −1.4, 1.4 kg; median duration: 3 mo (3–14 mo)] did not significantly improve weight-loss maintenance compared with control. Conclusion: Anti-obesity drugs, meal replacements, and high-protein diets were associated with improved weight-loss maintenance after a VLCD/LCD period, whereas no significant improvements were seen for dietary supplements and exercise. PMID:24172297

Physical properties and consumer liking of cookies prepared by replacing sucrose with tagatose.

PubMed

Taylor, T P; Fasina, O; Bell, L N

2008-04-01

The objective of this study was to investigate the suitability of tagatose, a minimally absorbed prebiotic monosaccharide, as a replacement for sucrose in cookies. A sucrose-containing cookie recipe was prepared as the control. Sucrose was replaced with tagatose at various levels ranging from 25% to 100%. Cookies containing fructose were also prepared for comparison due to the structural similarities between tagatose and fructose. The rheological properties of the dough were measured using texture profile analysis. The baked cookies were evaluated for spread, color, and hardness. For tagatose-containing cookies, the extent of likeness was evaluated by 53 untrained panelists using a 9-point hedonic scale. When sucrose was replaced by tagatose, doughs with similar rheological properties to the control resulted. The tagatose-containing cookies were harder and darker with a lower spread than the control. Sensory data indicated that panelists liked the brown color of the 100% tagatose cookies better than the control, but disliked their sweetness. Overall likeness scores of the control and cookies made by replacing half of the sucrose with tagatose were the same. Tagatose appears to be suitable as a partial replacer for sucrose in cookies based on similar dough properties, cookie properties, and likeness scores. Using tagatose to replace sucrose in foods would reduce the amount of metabolizeable sugars in the diet as well as provide the desirable prebiotic effect.

Effect of sugar beet tubers as a partial replacer to green fodder on production performance and economics of lactating Surti buffaloes in lean period.

PubMed

Sorathiya, L M; Patel, M D; Tyagi, K K; Fulsoundar, A B; Raval, A P

2015-01-01

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of sugar beet tubers as a replacer to green fodder on production performance and economics of lactating Surti buffaloes. This trial was conducted at the Livestock Research Station, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari. Twenty lactating Surti buffaloes in a changeover experimental design were selected to assess the effects of replacing green fodder with sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) tubers on production performance, economics of feeding sugar beet and blood biochemical profile. Half (50%) of the hybrid Napier was replaced with sliced sugar beet tubers in the ration of experimental animals. Partial replacement of hybrid Napier with that of sugar beet tubers numerically improved dry matter intake, milk yield, 4% fat corrected milk and milk composition parameters such as fat, solid non-fat, protein and lactose, but not significantly. The blood parameters were in normal range and non-significant except that of glucose and triglycerides, which were increased in the sugar beet group. Replacing sugar beet tubers also proved to be cost-effective with improved net profit around Rs. 6.63/day. It can be concluded that 50% hybrid Napier fodder can be replaced with sugar beet tubers without any adverse effect on animal production performance, milk composition blood biochemical profile and economics of feeding.

Effect of sugar beet tubers as a partial replacer to green fodder on production performance and economics of lactating Surti buffaloes in lean period

PubMed Central

Sorathiya, L. M.; Patel, M. D.; Tyagi, K. K.; Fulsoundar, A. B.; Raval, A. P.

2015-01-01

Aim: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of sugar beet tubers as a replacer to green fodder on production performance and economics of lactating Surti buffaloes. Materials and Methods: This trial was conducted at the Livestock Research Station, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari. Twenty lactating Surti buffaloes in a changeover experimental design were selected to assess the effects of replacing green fodder with sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) tubers on production performance, economics of feeding sugar beet and blood biochemical profile. Half (50%) of the hybrid Napier was replaced with sliced sugar beet tubers in the ration of experimental animals. Results: Partial replacement of hybrid Napier with that of sugar beet tubers numerically improved dry matter intake, milk yield, 4% fat corrected milk and milk composition parameters such as fat, solid non-fat, protein and lactose, but not significantly. The blood parameters were in normal range and non-significant except that of glucose and triglycerides, which were increased in the sugar beet group. Replacing sugar beet tubers also proved to be cost-effective with improved net profit around Rs. 6.63/day. Conclusion: It can be concluded that 50% hybrid Napier fodder can be replaced with sugar beet tubers without any adverse effect on animal production performance, milk composition blood biochemical profile and economics of feeding. PMID:27046988

Circadian variation in serum cortisol during hydrocortisone replacement is not attributable to changes in cortisol-binding globulin concentrations.

PubMed

Chung, T T; Gunganah, K; Monson, J P; Drake, W M

2016-04-01

Patients taking hydrocortisone (HC) replacement for primary or secondary adrenal failure require individual adjustment of their dose. In addition to modifying the administered doses of HC for each patient, physicians are increasingly interested in variations in the bioavailability of glucocorticoid replacement. One potential determinant of the bioavailability of replaced HC is a variation in serum cortisol-binding globulin (CBG) concentration, which may, in turn, affect interpretation of cortisol profiles and individual dose selection for patients on hydrocortisone replacement therapy. To investigate the hypothesis that there is a circadian variation in CBG levels. A total of 34 male patients divided into 3 groups (10 patients with non-somatotroph structural pituitary disease on HC replacement, 11 patients with treated acromegaly on HC replacement and 13 patients with treated acromegaly not on HC replacement) and 10 healthy volunteers were included. Cortisol and CBG levels were measured at 6 time points (0800, 1100, 1300, 1500, 1700 and 1900). No significant circadian variation in CBG concentration was found in any of the 4 groups. Circadian variation in serum cortisol during hydrocortisone replacement is not attributable to changes in cortisol-binding globulin concentration. Changes in serum cortisol levels may thus be explained by other factors including 11 β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 activity or circadian changes in the binding properties of CBG. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Energy Efficiency Upgrades

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

Roby Williams

2012-03-29

The energy efficiency upgrades project at Hardin County General Hospital did not include research nor was it a demonstration project. The project enabled the hospital to replace outdated systems with modern efficient models. Hardin County General Hospital is a 501c3, nonprofit hospital and the sole community provider for Hardin and Pope Counties of Illinois. This project provided much needed equipment and facility upgrades that would not have been possible through locally generated funding. Task 1 was a reroofing of the hospital. The hospital architect designed the replacement to increase the energy efficiency of the hospital roof/ceiling structure. Task 2 wasmore » replacement and installation of a new more efficient CT scanner for the hospital. Included in the project was replacement of HVAC equipment for the entire radiological suite. Task 5 was a replacement and installation of a new higher capacity diesel-fueled emergency generator for the hospital replacing a 50+ year old gas-fired generator. Task 7 was the replacement of 50+ year-old walk-in cooler/freezer with a newer, energy efficient model. Task 8 was the replacement of 10+ year-old washing machines in the hospital laundry with higher capacity, energy efficient models. Task 9 was replacement of 50-year old single pane curtain window system with double-pane insulated windows. Additionally, insulation was added around ventilation systems and the curtain wall system.« less

Long-term outcome of enzyme-replacement therapy in advanced Fabry disease: evidence for disease progression towards serious complications

PubMed Central

Weidemann, F; Niemann, M; Störk, S; Breunig, F; Beer, M; Sommer, C; Herrmann, S; Ertl, G; Wanner, C

2013-01-01

Objective The long-term effects of enzyme-replacement therapy (ERT) in Fabry disease are unknown. Thus, the aim of this study was to determine whether ERT in patients with advanced Fabry disease affects progression towards ‘hard’ clinical end-points in comparison with the natural course of the disease. Methods A total of 40 patients with genetically proven Fabry disease (mean age 40 ± 9 years; n = 9 women) were treated prospectively with ERT for 6 years. In addition, 40 subjects from the Fabry Registry, matched for age, sex, chronic kidney disease stage and previous transient ischaemic attack (TIA), served as a comparison group. The main outcome was a composite of stroke, end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and death. Secondary outcomes included changes in myocardial left ventricular (LV) wall thickness and replacement fibrosis, change in glomerular filtration rate (GFR), new TIA and change in neuropathic pain. Results During a median follow-up of 6.0 years (bottom and top quartiles: 5.1, 7.2), 15 events occurred in 13 patients (n = 7 deaths, n = 4 cases of ESRD and n = 4 strokes). Sudden death occurred (n = 6) only in patients with documented ventricular tachycardia and myocardial replacement fibrosis. The annual progression of myocardial LV fibrosis in the entire cohort was 0.6 ± 0.7%. As a result, posterior end-diastolic wall thinning was observed (baseline, 13.2 ± 2.0 mm; follow-up, 11.4 ± 2.1 mm; P < 0.01). GFR decreased by 2.3 ± 4.6 mL min−1 per year. Three patients experienced a TIA. The major clinical symptom was neuropathic pain (n = 37), and this symptom improved in 25 patients. The event rate was not different between the ERT group and the untreated (natural history) group of the Fabry Registry. Conclusion Despite ERT, clinically meaningful events including sudden cardiac death continue to develop in patients with advanced Fabry disease. PMID:23586858

Development of an occupational advice intervention for patients undergoing lower limb arthroplasty (the OPAL study).

PubMed

Baker, Paul; Coole, Carol; Drummond, Avril; McDaid, Catriona; Khan, Sayeed; Thomson, Louise; Hewitt, Catherine; McNamara, Iain; McDonald, David; Fitch, Judith; Rangan, Amar

2018-06-28

There are an increasing number of patients of working age undergoing hip and knee replacements. Currently there is variation in the advice and support given about sickness absence, recovery to usual activities and return to work after these procedures. Earlier, sustainable, return to work improves the health of patients and benefits their employers and society. An intervention that encourages and supports early recovery to usual activities, including work, has the potential to reduce the health and socioeconomic burden of hip and knee replacements. A two-phase research programme delivered over 27 months will be used to develop and subsequently test the feasibility of an occupational advice intervention to facilitate return to work and usual activities in patients undergoing lower limb arthroplasty. The 2 phases will incorporate a six-stage intervention mapping process: Phase 1: Intervention mapping stages 1-3: 1 Needs assessment (including rapid evidence synthesis, prospective cohort analysis and structured stakeholder interviews) 2 Identification of intended outcomes and performance objectives 3 Selection of theory-based methods and practical strategies Phase 2: Intervention mapping stages 4-6: 4 Development of components and materials for the occupational advice intervention using a modified Delphi process 5 Adoption and implementation of the intervention 6 Evaluation and feasibility testing The study will be undertaken in four National Health Service (NHS) hospitals in the United Kingdom and two Higher Education Institutions. OPAL (Occupational advice for Patients undergoing Arthroplasty of the Lower limb) aims to develop an occupational advice intervention to support early recovery to usual activities including work, which is tailored to the requirements of patients undergoing hip and knee replacements. The developed intervention will then be assessed with a specific focus on evaluating its feasibility as a potential trial intervention to improve speed of recovery to usual activities including work. The study was registered retrospectively with the International Standard Randomised Controlled Trials Number (ISRCTN): 27426982 (Date 20/12/2016) and the International prospective register of systematic reviews (PROSPERO): CRD42016045235 (Date 04/08/2016).

Examining the Association Between Comorbidity Indexes and Functional Status in Hospitalized Medicare Fee-for-Service Beneficiaries

PubMed Central

Graham, James E.; Resnik, Linda; Karmarkar, Amol M.; Deutsch, Anne; Tan, Alai; Al Snih, Soham; Ottenbacher, Kenneth J.

2016-01-01

Background Medicare data from acute hospitals do not contain information on functional status. This lack of information limits the ability to conduct rehabilitation-related health services research. Objective The purpose of this study was to examine the associations between 5 comorbidity indexes derived from acute care claims data and functional status assessed at admission to an inpatient rehabilitation facility (IRF). Comorbidity indexes included tier comorbidity, Functional Comorbidity Index (FCI), Charlson Comorbidity Index, Elixhauser Comorbidity Index, and Hierarchical Condition Category (HCC). Design This was a retrospective cohort study. Methods Medicare beneficiaries with stroke, lower extremity joint replacement, and lower extremity fracture discharged to an IRF in 2011 were studied (N=105,441). Data from the beneficiary summary file, Medicare Provider Analysis and Review (MedPAR) file, and Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility–Patient Assessment Instrument (IRF-PAI) file were linked. Inpatient rehabilitation facility admission functional status was used as a proxy for acute hospital discharge functional status. Separate linear regression models for each impairment group were developed to assess the relationships between the comorbidity indexes and functional status. Base models included age, sex, race/ethnicity, disability, dual eligibility, and length of stay. Subsequent models included individual comorbidity indexes. Values of variance explained (R2) with each comorbidity index were compared. Results Base models explained 7.7% of the variance in motor function ratings for stroke, 3.8% for joint replacement, and 7.3% for fracture. The R2 increased marginally when comorbidity indexes were added to base models for stroke, joint replacement, and fracture: Charlson Comorbidity Index (0.4%, 0.5%, 0.3%), tier comorbidity (0.2%, 0.6%, 0.5%), FCI (0.4%, 1.2%, 1.6%), Elixhauser Comorbidity Index (1.2%, 1.9%, 3.5%), and HCC (2.2%, 2.1%, 2.8%). Limitation Patients from 3 impairment categories were included in the sample. Conclusions The 5 comorbidity indexes contributed little to predicting functional status. The indexes examined were not useful as proxies for functional status in the acute settings studied. PMID:26564253

Universal robotic gripper based on the jamming of granular material

PubMed Central

Brown, Eric; Rodenberg, Nicholas; Amend, John; Mozeika, Annan; Steltz, Erik; Zakin, Mitchell R.; Lipson, Hod; Jaeger, Heinrich M.

2010-01-01

Gripping and holding of objects are key tasks for robotic manipulators. The development of universal grippers able to pick up unfamiliar objects of widely varying shape and surface properties remains, however, challenging. Most current designs are based on the multifingered hand, but this approach introduces hardware and software complexities. These include large numbers of controllable joints, the need for force sensing if objects are to be handled securely without crushing them, and the computational overhead to decide how much stress each finger should apply and where. Here we demonstrate a completely different approach to a universal gripper. Individual fingers are replaced by a single mass of granular material that, when pressed onto a target object, flows around it and conforms to its shape. Upon application of a vacuum the granular material contracts and hardens quickly to pinch and hold the object without requiring sensory feedback. We find that volume changes of less than 0.5% suffice to grip objects reliably and hold them with forces exceeding many times their weight. We show that the operating principle is the ability of granular materials to transition between an unjammed, deformable state and a jammed state with solid-like rigidity. We delineate three separate mechanisms, friction, suction, and interlocking, that contribute to the gripping force. Using a simple model we relate each of them to the mechanical strength of the jammed state. This advance opens up new possibilities for the design of simple, yet highly adaptive systems that excel at fast gripping of complex objects.

Integrated communications and optical navigation system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mueller, J.; Pajer, G.; Paluszek, M.

2013-12-01

The Integrated Communications and Optical Navigation System (ICONS) is a flexible navigation system for spacecraft that does not require global positioning system (GPS) measurements. The navigation solution is computed using an Unscented Kalman Filter (UKF) that can accept any combination of range, range-rate, planet chord width, landmark, and angle measurements using any celestial object. Both absolute and relative orbit determination is supported. The UKF employs a full nonlinear dynamical model of the orbit including gravity models and disturbance models. The ICONS package also includes attitude determination algorithms using the UKF algorithm with the Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU). The IMU is used as the dynamical base for the attitude determination algorithms. This makes the sensor a more capable plug-in replacement for a star tracker, thus reducing the integration and test cost of adding this sensor to a spacecraft. Recent additions include an integrated optical communications system which adds communications, and integrated range and range rate measurement and timing. The paper includes test results from trajectories based on the NASA New Horizons spacecraft.

Electronic Cigarette Use among Current Smokers: A Pilot Qualitative Study

PubMed Central

Majeed, Ban A.; Stanton, Cassandra A.; Dube, Shanta R.; Sterling, Kymberle L.; Burns, Joy D.; Eriksen, Michael P.

2016-01-01

Objective This pilot study explored psychosocial influences of e-cigarette use among dual users. Methods Two focus groups among adult current smokers who had ever used e-cigarettes were conducted in Georgia. Discussions were audio-recorded. Principles of grounded theory and thematic analysis were employed. Results Reasons for initial use included curiosity and social influence. Themes related to regular use included enjoyment of sensory experiences and perception of reduced harm. Nicotine craving, social image, and convenience were reasons for initial and regular dual use. Two patterns of use emerged – (1) using e-cigarettes to supplement combustible cigarettes; and (2) to replace combustible cigarettes. Conclusions Reasons for dual use were related to nicotine dependence, social influence, product appeal, and perception of reduced harm. Understanding contextual nuances of dual use can inform policy and communication. PMID:28393082

77 FR 50504 - Clean Air Act Operating Permit Program; Action on Petition for Objection to State Operating...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-08-21

...) requirements because WDNR erroneously exempted as ``routine maintenance, repair, and replacement'' projects... were triggered through non-exempt fuel switching and WDNR improperly deferred addressing this issue...

Structure-property relationships in low-temperature adhesives. [for inflatable structures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schoff, C. K.; Udipi, K.; Gillham, J. K.

1977-01-01

Adhesive materials of aliphatic polyester, linear hydroxyl end-capped polybutadienes, or SBS block copolymers are studied with the objective to replace conventional partially aromatic end-reactive polyester-isocyanate adhesives that have shown embrittlement

30 CFR 823.14 - Soil replacement.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 3 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Soil replacement. 823.14 Section 823.14 Mineral... Soil replacement. (a) Soil reconstruction specifications established by the U.S. Soil Conservation Service shall be based upon the standards of the National Cooperative Soil Survey and shall include, as a...

30 CFR 823.14 - Soil replacement.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Soil replacement. 823.14 Section 823.14 Mineral... Soil replacement. (a) Soil reconstruction specifications established by the U.S. Soil Conservation Service shall be based upon the standards of the National Cooperative Soil Survey and shall include, as a...

30 CFR 823.14 - Soil replacement.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 3 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Soil replacement. 823.14 Section 823.14 Mineral... Soil replacement. (a) Soil reconstruction specifications established by the U.S. Soil Conservation Service shall be based upon the standards of the National Cooperative Soil Survey and shall include, as a...

30 CFR 823.14 - Soil replacement.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 3 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Soil replacement. 823.14 Section 823.14 Mineral... Soil replacement. (a) Soil reconstruction specifications established by the U.S. Soil Conservation Service shall be based upon the standards of the National Cooperative Soil Survey and shall include, as a...

30 CFR 823.14 - Soil replacement.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 3 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Soil replacement. 823.14 Section 823.14 Mineral... Soil replacement. (a) Soil reconstruction specifications established by the U.S. Soil Conservation Service shall be based upon the standards of the National Cooperative Soil Survey and shall include, as a...

Mechanical valve replacement in congenital heart disease.

PubMed

Fiane, A E; Lindberg, H L; Saatvedt, K; Svennevig, J L

1996-05-01

Mechanical valves are the prosthesis of choice in valve replacement in children. However, the problem of somatic growth leading to patient-valve mismatch remains present, and the appropriate anticoagulation regimen remains controversial. We present our experience of valve replacement in a young population over 20 years. Between 1972 and 1992, 48 patients (34 males and 14 females), mean age 11.2 years (range 0.4-27.4 years), underwent mechanical valve replacement at our institution. Aortic valve replacement was performed in 28 patients (58.3%), mitral valve replacement in 13 (27.1%), tricuspid valve replacement in six (12.5%) and pulmonary valve replacement in one patient (2.1%). The prostheses used were: St. Jude Medical (n = 2), Björk-Shiley (n = 14), Medtronic Hall (n = 16), Duromedics (n = 2) and CarboMedics (n = 14). Early mortality was 14.3%, 10.7% for aortic valve replacement and 30.8% for mitral valve replacement. Mean follow up for all patients was 8.3 years (range 0-22 years), with a total of 398 patient-years. Seven patients died during the follow up (17.1%). Survival after 10 years, including operative mortality, was 81% for aortic valve replacement, 33% for mitral valve replacement, 83% for tricuspid valve replacement and 100% for pulmonary valve replacement. All patients were anticoagulated with warfarin. In eight patients (16.7%) an antiplatelet drug (aspirin or dipyridamole) was added. Major events included paravalvular leak in six patients (1.5%/pty), valve thrombosis in five (mitral position in two, tricuspid in three) (1.3%/pty) and endocarditis in one patient (0.3%/pty). Minor thromboembolic events occurred in three patients (0.8%/pty) and minor hemorrhagic events in three (0.8%/pty). No patients developed hemolytic anemia and there was no case of structural failure. In our experience, mechanical prostheses in congenital heart disease were associated with significant morbidity and mortality, however long term survival after aortic valve replacement was good (81% at 10 years). Thromboembolic and hemorrhagic events were of minor significance. Atrio-ventricular valve replacement carried the highest risk of valve thrombosis and we now give warfarin and an antiplatelet drug to children undergoing mechanical valve implantation in this position.

Lipopolysaccharide affects exploratory behaviors toward novel objects by impairing cognition and/or motivation in mice: Possible role of activation of the central amygdala.

PubMed

Haba, Ryota; Shintani, Norihito; Onaka, Yusuke; Wang, Hyper; Takenaga, Risa; Hayata, Atsuko; Baba, Akemichi; Hashimoto, Hitoshi

2012-03-17

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) produces a series of systemic and psychiatric changes called sickness behavior. In the present study, we characterized the LPS-induced decrease in novel object exploratory behaviors in BALB/c mice. As already reported, LPS (0.3-5 μg/mouse) induced dose- and time-dependent decreases in locomotor activity, food intake, social interaction, and exploration for novel objects, and an increase in immobility in the forced-swim test. Although the decrease in locomotor activity was ameliorated by 10h postinjection, novel object exploratory behaviors remained decreased at 24h and were observed even with the lowest dose of LPS. In an object exploration test, LPS shortened object exploration time but did not affect moving time or the frequency of object exploration. Although pre-exposure to the same object markedly decreased the duration of exploration and LPS did not change this reduction, LPS significantly impaired the exploration of a novel object that replaced the familiar one. LPS did not affect anxiety-like behaviors in open-field and elevated plus-maze tests. An LPS-induced increase in the number of c-Fos-immunoreactive cells was observed in several brain regions within 6h of LPS administration, but the number of cells quickly returned to control levels, except in the central amygdala where the increase continued for 24h. These results suggest that LPS most prominently affects object exploratory behaviors by impairing cognition and/or motivation including continuous attention and curiosity toward objects, and that this may be associated with activation of brain nuclei such as the central amygdala. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Immune System Dysregulation, Viral Reactivation and Stress During Short-Duration Space Flight

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Crucian, Brian; Mehta, Satish; Stowe, Raymond; Uchakin, Peter; Quiriarte, Heather; Pierson, Duane; Sams, Clarence

2010-01-01

This slide presentation reviews a study that was conducted to ascertain if the immune system dysregulation, viral reactivation and stress from short duration space flight were a result of the stress of landing and readjustment to gravity. The objectives of the study were to replace several recent immune studies with one comprehensive study that will include in-flight sampling; address lack of in-flight data: (i.e., determine the in-flight status of immunity, physiological stress, viral immunity/reactivation); determine the clinical risk related to immune dysregulation for exploration class spaceflight; and determine the appropriate monitoring strategy for spaceflight-associated immune dysfunction, that could be used for the evaluation of countermeasures.

Analyzing qualitative data with computer software.

PubMed Central

Weitzman, E A

1999-01-01

OBJECTIVE: To provide health services researchers with an overview of the qualitative data analysis process and the role of software within it; to provide a principled approach to choosing among software packages to support qualitative data analysis; to alert researchers to the potential benefits and limitations of such software; and to provide an overview of the developments to be expected in the field in the near future. DATA SOURCES, STUDY DESIGN, METHODS: This article does not include reports of empirical research. CONCLUSIONS: Software for qualitative data analysis can benefit the researcher in terms of speed, consistency, rigor, and access to analytic methods not available by hand. Software, however, is not a replacement for methodological training. PMID:10591282

Continuous renal replacement therapies: a brief primer for the neurointensivist.

PubMed

Patel, Pritesh; Nandwani, Veena; McCarthy, Paul J; Conrad, Steven A; Keith Scott, L

2010-10-01

Continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) is a renal replacement modality that is often used in the ICU setting, including the neuro-ICU. This form of renal replacement therapy has been used classically for acute renal failure in patients with hemodynamic compromise, but is gaining acceptance as a method to control vascular and extra-vascular volume and mediate cytokines in non-renal diseases. Although these uses are briefly discussed, this review concentrates on the different forms of continuous renal replacement, mainly focusing on the technology of convective versus diffusive modalities and briefly on filter technology. There is also discussion on the various anticoagulation regimes used in CRRT including data on performing CRRT without anticoagulation. This review is not meant to be a discussion on the pros and cons of CRRT versus intermittent dialysis, but rather a primer on the technology of CRRT and how this therapy may affect general care of the ICU patient.

The management of failed ankle replacement.

PubMed

Kotnis, R; Pasapula, C; Anwar, F; Cooke, P H; Sharp, R J

2006-08-01

Advances in the design of the components for total ankle replacement have led to a resurgence of interest in this procedure. Between January 1999 and December 2004, 16 patients with a failed total ankle replacement were referred to our unit. In the presence of infection, a two-stage salvage procedure was planned. The first involved the removal of the components and the insertion of a cement spacer. Definitive treatment options included hindfoot fusion with a circular frame or amputation. When there was no infection, a one-stage salvage procedure was planned. Options included hindfoot fusion with an intramedullary nail or revision total ankle replacement. When there was suspicion of infection, a percutaneous biopsy was performed. The patients were followed up for a minimum of 12 months. Of the 16 patients, 14 had aseptic loosening, five of whom underwent a revision total ankle replacement and nine a hindfoot fusion. Of the two with infection, one underwent fusion and the other a below-knee amputation. There were no cases of wound breakdown, nonunion or malunion. Management of the failed total ankle replacement should be performed by experienced surgeons and ideally in units where multidisciplinary support is available. Currently, a hindfoot fusion appears to be preferable to a revision total ankle replacement.

Boron-Coated Straw Collar for Uranium Neutron Coincidence Collar Replacement

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

Hu, Jianwei; Croft, Stephen; McElroy, Robert Dennis

The objective of this project was to design and optimize, in simulation space, an active neutron coincidence counter (or collar) using boron-coated straws (BCSs) as a non- 3He replacement to the Uranium Neutron Coincidence Collar (UNCL). UNCL has been used by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and European Atomic Energy Community (Euratom) since the 1980s to verify the 235U content in fresh light water reactor fuel assemblies for safeguards purposes. This report documents the design and optimization of the BCS collar.

Brush seals for turbine engine fuel conservation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sousa, Mike

1994-07-01

The program objective is to demonstrate brush seals for replacing labyrinth seals in turboprop engines. The approach taken was to design and procure brush seals with assistance from Sealol, modify and instrument an existing T407 low pressure turbine test rig, replace inner balance piston and outer balance piston labyrinth seals with brush seals, conduct cyclic tests to evaluate seal leakage at operating pressures and temperatures, and evaluate effect of seal pack width and rotor eccentricity. Results are presented in viewgraph format and show that brush seals offer performance advantages over labyrinth seals.

The effect of preheated tendon as a lean meat replacement on the properties of fine emulsion sausages.

PubMed

Sadler, D H; Young, O A

1993-01-01

Tendon from beef hind leg muscles was used to replace some of the lean in a conventional emulsion formulation. The tendon was homogenized and either used raw or preheated for 2·5 h at a range of temperatures (50, 60, 70, 80°C) before use. Texture analysis and sensory evaluation were performed on cylinders of cooked sausage. Texture analysis was carried out on formulations which had 20% of meat protein replaced by 20% tendons which were raw or had been preheated to 50, 60, 70, or 80°C. Fracturability decreased by about 40% with raw tendon, but was restored to within 20% of the no-replacement control if the tendon had been preheated. Hardness was approximately doubled by replacement with raw tendon or tendon heated at 50°C. At temperatures higher than that, hardness returned to approximately no-replacement levels. For sensory evaluation (0-25% replacement; preheating at 70°C), sausages were assessed by a 12-member panel for texture, flavour and overall acceptability. All attributes decreased with increasing collagen content, the decrease being less marked with preheated tendon. Thus more connective tissue could be added for the same panel score if the tissue was preheated. Comparison of the texture profile and the panel scores for texture at the same lean replacement level suggested that reduced fracturability was the texture parameter that panellists objected to when heated tendon replaced some of the lean. Other researchers have shown that connective tissue preheated to 100°C before addition in emulsion sausages results in improved yields and better sensory attributes, but the present results show that temperatures as low as 60°C can be effective for beef tendon. Copyright © 1993. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Ross procedure for ascending aortic replacement.

PubMed

Elkins, R C; Lane, M M; McCue, C

1999-06-01

Patients with aortic valve disease and aneurysm or dilatation of the ascending aorta require both aortic valve replacement and treatment of their ascending aortic disease. In children and young adults, the Ross operation is preferred when the aortic valve requires replacement, but the efficacy of extending this operation to include replacement of the ascending aorta or reduction of the dilated aorta has not been tested. We reviewed the medical records of 18 (5.9%) patients with aortic valve disease and an ascending aortic aneurysm and 26 (8.5%) patients with dilation of the ascending aorta, subgroups of 307 patients who had a Ross operation between August 1986 and February 1998. We examined operative and midterm results, including recent echocardiographic assessment of autograft valve function and ability of the autograft root and ascending aortic repair or replacement to maintain normal structural integrity. There was one operative death (2%) related to a perioperative stroke. Forty-two of 43 survivors have normal autograft valve function, with trace to mild autograft valve insufficiency, and one patient has moderate insufficiency at the most recent echocardiographic evaluation. None of the patients has dilatation of the autograft root or of the replaced or reduced ascending aorta. Early results with extension of the Ross operation to include replacement of an ascending aortic aneurysm or vertical aortoplasty for reduction of a dilated ascending aorta are excellent, with autograft valve function equal to that seen in similar patients without ascending aortic disease.

Potential population-level nutritional impact of replacing whole and reduced-fat milk with low-fat and skim milk among US children aged 2-19 years.

PubMed

Rehm, Colin D; Drewnowski, Adam; Monsivais, Pablo

2015-01-01

Dietary guidance emphasizes plain low-fat and skim milk over whole, reduced-fat, and flavored milk (milk eligible for replacement [MER]). The objective of this study was to evaluate the population-level impact of such a change on energy, macronutrient and nutrient intakes, and diet cost. Cross-sectional modeling study. Data from the 2001-2002 and 2003-2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. A total of 8,112 children aged 2-19 years. Energy, macronutrient, and micronutrient intake before and after replacement of MER with low-fat or skim milk. Survey-weighted linear regression models. Milk eligible for replacement accounted for 46% of dairy servings. Among MER consumers, replacement with skim or low-fat milk would lead to a projected reduction in energy of 113 (95% confidence interval [CI], 107-119) and 77 (95% CI, 73-82) kcal/d and percent energy from saturated fat by an absolute value of 2.5% of total energy (95% CI, 2.4-2.6) and 1.4% (95% CI, 1.3-1.5), respectively. Replacement of MER does not change diet costs or calcium and potassium intake. Substitution of MER has the potential to reduce energy and total and saturated fat intake with no impact on diet costs or micronutrient density. The feasibility of such replacement has not been examined and there may be negative consequences if replacement is done with non-nutrient-rich beverages. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier Inc.

High-volume fly ash concrete.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-06-01

The objective of the proposed study is to design, test, and evaluate high-volume fly ash concrete mixtures. Traditional specifications : limit the amount of fly ash to 40% or less cement replacement. This program attempts to increase the ash content ...

Computer-Based Training: Will it Replace You?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hudson, William J.

1982-01-01

Examines myths and fears about computer-based training (displaces trainers, dehumanizes learners), lists what computers cannot do (analyze needs, formulate objectives, act as subject experts), and what they can do effectively (handle knowledge transfer, provide simulation). (SK)

Quick test for percent of deleterious material.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2009-08-28

The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) is considering the replacement of its deleterious : materials test method (TM-71) with test methods that are more objective. MoDOT contracted with the Missouri : University of Science and Technology (...

Menopausal Symptom Relief and Side Effects Experienced by Women Using Compounded Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy and Synthetic Conjugated Equine Estrogen and/or Progestin Hormone Replacement Therapy, Part 2.

PubMed

Deleruyelle, Laura J

2016-01-01

The use of compounded bioidentical hormone replacement therapy by menopausal women has become a popular alternative to traditional synthetic conjugated equine estrogen and progestin hormone replacement therapy due to safety concerns raised by recent studies. However, due to the lack of randomized, large-scale trials to evaluate the efficacy and side-effect profile of compounded bioidentical hormone replacement therapy many healthcare providers are reluctant to prescribe such therapy. The purpose of this study was to compare women's menopausal symptom relief and side effects experienced when using compounded bioidentical hormone replacement therapy and traditional hormone replacement therapy. A descriptive comparative design was used. Inferential and descriptive statistical procedures including a paired difference t-test, two-sample t-test, and f-tests (percentage, mean, standard deviation, frequency) were run on the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences. The framework used to guide this study was Lenz and Pugh's Theory of Unpleasant Symptoms. Surveys were distributed once to a convenient sample of women aged 35 and older when they dropped off or picked up their prescriptions at a pharmacy. Of the 216 surveys distributed, 70 were returned from those women taking compounded bioidentical hormone replacement therapy and 53 from traditional hormone replacement therapy. The survey contained 15 questions pertaining to age, duration of hormone replacement therapy, type and formulation of hormone replacement therapy, reasons for initiating hormone replacement therapy, symptoms before and one month after hormone replacement therapy, and side effects related to hormone replacement therapy. Included in part 1 of this series of articles was the introduction to the study conducted and the results of the literature review that was conducted for the purpose of examining the current data related to the topic of hormone replacement therapy. Part 2 provides a brief discussion on the significance of this study to nursing and provides the methods used in this study. The results of this study will be summarized in forthcoming articles in this series. Copyright© by International Journal of Pharmaceutical Compounding, Inc.

Menopausal Symptom Relief and Side Effects Experienced by Women Using Compounded Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy and Synthetic Conjugated Equine Estrogen and/or Progestin Hormone Replacement Therapy, Part 3.

PubMed

Deleruyelle, Laura J

2017-01-01

The use of compounded bioidentical hormone replacement therapy by menopausal women has become a popular alternative to traditional synthetic conjugated equine estrogen and progestin hormone replacement therapy due to safety concerns raised by recent studies. However, due to the lack of randomized, large-scale trials to evaluate the efficacy and side-effect profile of compounded bioidentical hormone replacement therapy many healthcare providers are reluctant to prescribe such therapy. The purpose of this study was to compare women's menopausal symptom relief and side effects experienced when using compounded bioidentical hormone replacement therapy and traditional hormone replacement therapy. A descriptive comparative design was used. Inferential and descriptive statistical procedures including a paired difference t-test, two-sample t-test, and f-tests (percentage, mean, standard deviation, frequency) were run on the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences. The framework used to guide this study was Lenz and Pugh's Theory of Unpleasant Symptoms. Surveys were distributed once to a convenient sample of women aged 35 and older when they dropped off or picked up their prescriptions at a pharmacy. Of the 216 surveys distributed, 70 were returned from those women taking compounded bioidentical hormone replacement therapy and 53 from traditional hormone replacement therapy. The survey contained 15 questions pertaining to age, duration of hormone replacement therapy, type and formulation of hormone replacement therapy, reasons for initiating hormone replacement therapy, symptoms before and one month after hormone replacement therapy, and side effects related to hormone replacement therapy. Included in part 1 of this series of articles was the introduction to the study conducted and the results of the literature review that was conducted for the purpose of examining the current data related to the topic of hormone replacement therapy. Part 2 provided a brief discussion on the significance of this study to nursing and provided the methods used in this study. The results and conclusion of this study are provided within this article. Copyright© by International Journal of Pharmaceutical Compounding, Inc.

Development of an Experiment High Performance Nozzle Research Program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2004-01-01

As proposed in the above OAI/NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC) Co-Operative Agreement the objective of the work was to provide consultation and assistance to the NASA GRC GTX Rocket Based Combined Cycle (RBCC) Program Team in planning and developing requirements, scale model concepts, and plans for an experimental nozzle research program. The GTX was one of the launch vehicle concepts being studied as a possible future replacement for the aging NASA Space Shuttle, and was one RBCC element in the ongoing NASA Access to Space R&D Program (Reference 1). The ultimate program objective was the development of an appropriate experimental research program to evaluate and validate proposed nozzle concepts, and thereby result in the optimization of a high performance nozzle for the GTX launch vehicle. Included in this task were the identification of appropriate existing test facilities, development of requirements for new non-existent test rigs and fixtures, develop scale nozzle model concepts, and propose corresponding test plans. Also included were the evaluation of originally proposed and alternate nozzle designs (in-house and contractor), evaluation of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) study results, and make recommendations for geometric changes to result in improved nozzle thrust coefficient performance (Cfg).

Solid-State Thyratron Replacement. Final Report

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

Roth, Ian

2017-12-12

Under this SBIR, DTI developed a solid-state switch as an alternative to legacy thyratron equipment. Our Phase II objective was to make a solid-state thyratron replacement that would provide equivalent or better performance, much higher reliability (at least a 20 year lifetime, compared to a thyratron’s two-year lifetime) and would sell for ~3x the cost of a thyratron, or less than $40k. We were successful in building a solid-state switch which could reliably function as a thyratron replacement. The unit was designed to directly replace the thyratrons currently being used at SLAC’s Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS), and was builtmore » in a tank that was small enough to fit into the existing thyratron cabinet, providing a true form-fit-function replacement path. We tested the switch at the full operating specifications: 48 kV, 6.3 kA, and 1 µs risetime. We also demonstrated a peak-to-peak pulse jitter of 1.5 ns, which is five times shorter than is typical for thyratrons. This lower jitter would improve the performance of the LCLS beam. The predicted reliability is more than 80 years, which is 40 times greater than a thyratron.« less

Oyster Culinary-Medicinal Mushroom, Pleurotus ostreatus (Higher Basidiomycetes), Growth in Grain-Based Diet Improves Broiler Chicken Production.

PubMed

Santos, Mateus P; Marcante, Rafael C; Santana, Thiago T; Tanaka, Henrique S; Funari, Pascoal; Alberton, Luiz R; Faria, Eliete V; Valle, Juliana S; Colauto, Nelson B; Linde, Giani A

2015-01-01

Many alternative compounds have been tested to improve poultry performance but few of them have previously used mycelial-colonized substrate to partially replace standard diet in broiler chickens. The objective of this study was to evaluate broiler chicken production, health, and meat sensory characteristics, with partial replacement of the standard diet by Pleurotus ostreatus-colonized substrate. One hundred fifty 1-day-old male Cobb chicks were given standard diet partially replaced by 0, 5, 10, 100, or 200 g·kg⁻¹ of P. ostreatus-colonized substrate and randomly distributed into five treatments. Each treatment had three replicates, with 10 birds per replicate, totaling 30 birds. The replacement of the standard diet by 10 g·kg⁻¹ of colonized substrate increased (P≤0.05) chicken body mass up to 57% at 21 days, and up to 28% at 42 days. In general, partial replacement of standard diet by colonized substrate increased hematocrits and typical lymphocytes, and reduced low density lipoproteins. Also, it reduced chicken production period up to 21% and there is no meat taste alteration. The use of P. ostreatus-colonized substrate in chicken feeding is an alternative method to improve broiler chicken production.

42 CFR 422.2274 - Broker and agent requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... plan type means one of the following: (1) PDP replaced with an MA-PD or an MA-PD replaced with a PDP... plan or a cost plan replaced with an MA-PD. Plan year means the year beginning January 1 and ending... this section, the following definitions are applicable: Compensation (1) Includes monetary or non...

Androgen replacement for women.

PubMed Central

Basson, R.

1999-01-01

OBJECTIVES: To determine whether a postmenopausal syndrome comprising specific changes in sexual desire and response associated with low free testosterone exists. To determine whether this syndrome is ameliorated by testosterone replacement. QUALITY OF EVIDENCE: Literature documenting that replacement of physiological levels of testosterone is beneficial and safe is scant. Only one randomized prospective blinded study examines sexual outcome in detail. MAIN MESSAGE: Testosterone is an important metabolic and sex hormone produced by the ovary throughout life. The variable reduction in ovarian testosterone production coincident with menopause is sometimes associated with a syndrome of specific changes in sexual desire and sexual response. Estrogen deficiency also impairs sexual response, but its replacement will not improve and might exacerbate sexual symptoms from androgen loss. Diagnosis of androgen deficiency is clinical, based on accurate assessment of a woman's sexual status before and after menopause and only confirmed (rather than diagnosed) by a low level of free testosterone. Partial androgen replacement restores much of the sexual response and facilitates sexual desire that is triggered by external cues. Avoiding supraphysiological levels of testosterone lessens risk of masculinization. Avoiding alkylated testosterone lessens hepatic or lipid impairment. CONCLUSION: Further prospective randomized studies of replacement of physiological levels of testosterone in women with androgen deficiency syndrome are needed, using formulations of testosterone available in Canada. The consistency of sexual changes, the associated personal and relationship distress, together with our clinical experience of the gratifying response to physiological replacement, make further studies urgently needed. PMID:10509222

Space Shuttle Status News Conference

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2005-01-01

Richard Gilbech, External Tank "Tiger Team" Lead, begins this space shuttle news conference with detailing the two major objectives of the team. The objectives include: 1) Finding the root cause of the foam loss on STS-114; and 2) Near and long term improvements for the external tank. Wayne Hale, Space Shuttle Program Manager, presents a chart to explain the external tank foam loss during STS-114. He gives a possible launch date for STS-121 after there has been a repair to the foam on the External Tank. He further discusses the changes that need to be made to the surrounding areas of the plant in New Orleans, due to Hurricane Katrina. Bill Gerstemaier, NASA Associate Administrator for Space Operations, elaborates on the testing of the external tank foam loss. The discussion ends with questions from the news media about a fix for the foam, replacement of the tiles, foam loss avoidance, the root cause of foam loss and a possible date for a new external tank to be shipped to NASA Kennedy Space Center.

Space shuttle main engine: Interactive design challenges

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mccarty, J. P.; Wood, B. K.

1985-01-01

The operating requirements established by NASA for the SSME were considerably more demanding than those for earlier rocket engines used in the military launch vehicles or Apollo program. The SSME, in order to achieve the high performance, low weight, long life, reusable objectives, embodied technical demands far in excess of its predecessor rocket engines. The requirements dictated the use of high combustion pressure and the staged combustion cycle which maximizes performance through total use of all propellants in the main combustion process. This approach presented a myriad of technical challenges for maximization of performance within attainable state of the art capabilities for operating pressures, operating temperatures and rotating machinery efficiencies. Controlling uniformity of the high pressure turbomachinery turbine temperature environment was a key challenge for thrust level and life capability demanding innovative engineering. New approaches in the design of the components were necessary to accommodate the multiple use, minimum maintenance objectives. Included were the use of line replaceable units to facilitate field maintenance automatic checkout and internal inspection capabilities.

Framework for Development of Object-Oriented Software

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Perez-Poveda, Gus; Ciavarella, Tony; Nieten, Dan

2004-01-01

The Real-Time Control (RTC) Application Framework is a high-level software framework written in C++ that supports the rapid design and implementation of object-oriented application programs. This framework provides built-in functionality that solves common software development problems within distributed client-server, multi-threaded, and embedded programming environments. When using the RTC Framework to develop software for a specific domain, designers and implementers can focus entirely on the details of the domain-specific software rather than on creating custom solutions, utilities, and frameworks for the complexities of the programming environment. The RTC Framework was originally developed as part of a Space Shuttle Launch Processing System (LPS) replacement project called Checkout and Launch Control System (CLCS). As a result of the framework s development, CLCS software development time was reduced by 66 percent. The framework is generic enough for developing applications outside of the launch-processing system domain. Other applicable high-level domains include command and control systems and simulation/ training systems.

Decomposing trends in attitudes toward gay marriage, 1988–2006.

PubMed

Baunach, Dawn Michelle

2011-01-01

Objective. The objective of this article is to examine the trend in attitudes toward gay marriage through the analysis of data from the General Social Survey. Methods. Using linear decomposition techniques, I explain the change in attitudes toward gay marriage from 1988 to 2006. Results. Attitudes significantly liberalized over time; 71 percent opposed gay marriage in 1988, but by 2006, this figure dropped to 52 percent. Approximately two-thirds of this change was due to an intracohort change effect, or individuals' modifying their views over time, and one-third was due to a cohort succession effect, or later cohorts replacing earlier ones. This pattern was replicated across many subgroups of the U.S. public, including age, sex, residential, educational, and religious groups. Conclusion. The results suggest that the use of the “equality/tolerance” framing of gay marriage by its supporters and other societal events or “moments” may have convinced some people who used to disapprove of gay marriage in 1988 to approve of it by 2006.

Guide for optimizing the effectiveness and the efficiency of roadway lighting.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2012-06-01

The objective of the present project was to develop a simple guide for roadway lighting replacement : approaches using new light source technologies to maintain visibility for safety, while reducing energy use. : Several roadway types were evaluated:...

Program Enhances Drawings Of Three-Dimensional Objects

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hedgley, David R., Jr.

1992-01-01

SILHOUETTE is program for line drawings rendering any subset of polygons as silhouette. Program is improvement on, and replacement for, HIDDEN LINE COMPUTER CODE (ARC-11446). Offers combinations of silhouette and nonsilhouette specifications for arbitrary solid. Written in FORTRAN 77.

Technology Applications Report

DTIC Science & Technology

1995-01-01

The HFA technology also has some important transportation applications, replacing camshafts and associated valve train components to open and close...illicit drug factories in the clutter of trees to searching through mug shot data banks at the police station, object identification systems have many

Field evaluation of timber preservation treatments for highway applications.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2007-12-01

Timber material repair and replacement cost for timber bridges is a considerable expense to highway agencies in Iowa, especially to : county road departments. To address these needs, the objectives of this investigation was to study the field effecti...

Evaluation of total alloplastic temporo-mandibular joint replacement with two different types of prostheses: A three-year prospective study

PubMed Central

Gonzalez-Perez-Somarriba, Borja; Centeno, Gabriel; Vallellano, Carpóforo; Montes-Carmona, Jose-Francisco

2016-01-01

Background Temporo-Mandibular Joint (TMJ) replacement has been used clinically for years. The objective of this study was to evaluate outcomes achieved in patients with two different categories of TMJ prostheses. Material and Methods All patients who had a TMJ replacement (TMJR) implanted during the study period from 2006 through 2012 were included in this 3-year prospective study. All procedures were performed using the Biomet Microfixation TMJ Replacement System, and all involved replacing both the skull base component (glenoid fossa) and the mandibular condyle. Results Fifty-seven patients (38 females and 19 males), involving 75 TMJs with severe disease requiring reconstruction (39 unilateral, 18 bilateral) were operated on consecutively, and 68 stock prostheses and 7 custom-made prostheses were implanted. The mean age at surgery was 52.6±11.5 years in the stock group and 51.8±11.7 years in the custom-made group. In the stock group, after three years of TMJR, results showed a reduction in pain intensity from 6.4±1.4 to 1.6±1.2 (p<0.001), and an improvement in jaw opening from 2.7±0.9 cm to 4.2±0.7 cm (p<0.001). In the custom-made group, after three years of TMJR, results showed a reduction in pain intensity from 6.0±1.6 to 2.2±0.4 (p<0.001), and an improvement in jaw opening from 1.5±0.5 cm to 4.3±0.6 cm (p<0.001). No statistically significant differences between two groups were detected. Conclusions The results of this three-year prospective study support the surgical placement of TMJ prostheses (stock prosthetic, and custom-made systems), and show that the approach is efficacious and safe, reduces pain, and improves maximum mouth opening movement, with few complications. As such, TMJR represents a viable technique and a stable long-term solution for cranio-mandibular reconstruction in patients with irreversible end-stage TMJ disease. Comparing stock and custom-made groups, no statistically significant differences were detected with respect to pain intensity reduction and maximum mouth opening improvement. Key words:Temporo-mandibular joint, temporo-mandibular joint replacement, prosthesis, biomaterials, biomedical engineering, computer-aided design and manufacturing. PMID:27475697

Healthcare Utilization and Costs of Knee or Hip Replacements versus Pain-Relief Injections

PubMed Central

Pasquale, Margaret K.; Louder, Anthony M.; Cheung, Raymond Y.; Reiners, Andrew T.; Mardekian, Jack; Sanchez, Robert J.; Goli, Veerainder

2015-01-01

Background Given the dramatic increase in total knee and hip replacement procedures among the US population aged 45 years and older, there is a need to compare the downstream healthcare utilization and costs between patients who undergo joint replacement and those who receive intraarticular injections as a low-cost alternative. Objective To compare changes in osteoarthritis (OA)-related healthcare utilization and costs for Medicare members with OA who underwent knee or hip replacement versus those receiving steroid or viscosupplementation injections. Methods Medicare members aged ≥45 years diagnosed with OA were identified for this retrospective longitudinal study. Data were compared for patients who underwent primary knee or hip replacement surgery between July 1, 2007, and June 30, 2012, and those receiving injection of pain-relief medication during the same period. The date of joint replacement surgery was considered the index date. For the comparison cohort, the index date was 180 days postinjection of the first intraarticular injection. Medical and pharmacy claims were examined longitudinally in 90-day increments, from 180 days preindex until 360 days postindex. Difference-in-difference analyses were conducted to compare the change in OA-related healthcare costs, postindex versus preindex, between the study cohorts. Time-to-event analyses were used to measure rates of readmissions and venous thromboembolism (VTE). Results The mean age was 70.7 years for patients with knee replacement, 71.7 years for those with hip replacement, and 71.1 years for those receiving pain-relief injection (P <.0001). The RxRisk-V comorbidity index scores were 4.7, 4.4, and 4.8, respectively (P <.0001). Difference-in-difference analyses indicated that decreases in OA-related costs were greater for the joint replacement cohorts (coefficient for knee replacement*time: −0.603; hip replacement*time: −0.438; P <.001 for both) than for the comparison cohort. The VTE rates were 5.6% (knee) and 5.1% (hip) postsurgery versus 1.4% (knee) and 1.3% (hip) presurgery. Conclusion The overall difference-in-difference results showed a greater decrease in healthcare utilization and costs for the members with joint replacement than for those receiving injection. PMID:26557232

Progesterone

MedlinePlus

... is used as a part of hormone replacement therapy in women who have passed menopause (the change ... hysterectomy (surgery to remove the uterus). Hormone replacement therapy usually includes estrogen, which is used to treat ...

Self-management interventions for adults with chronic kidney disease: a scoping review

PubMed Central

Donald, Maoliosa; Kahlon, Bhavneet Kaur; Beanlands, Heather; Straus, Sharon; Ronksley, Paul; Herrington, Gwen; Tong, Allison; Grill, Allan; Waldvogel, Blair; Large, Chantel A; Large, Claire L; Harwood, Lori; Novak, Marta; James, Matthew T; Elliott, Meghan; Fernandez, Nicolas; Brimble, Scott; Samuel, Susan; Hemmelgarn, Brenda R

2018-01-01

Objective To systematically identify and describe self-management interventions for adult patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Setting Community-based. Participants Adults with CKD stages 1–5 (not requiring kidney replacement therapy). Interventions Self-management strategies for adults with CKD. Primary and secondary outcome measures Using a scoping review, electronic databases and grey literature were searched in October 2016 to identify self-management interventions for adults with CKD stages 1–5 (not requiring kidney replacement therapy). Randomised controlled trials (RCTs), non-RCTs, qualitative and mixed method studies were included and study selection and data extraction were independently performed by two reviewers. Outcomes included behaviours, cognitions, physiological measures, symptoms, health status and healthcare. Results Fifty studies (19 RCTs, 7 quasi-experimental, 5 observational, 13 pre-post intervention, 1 mixed method and 5 qualitative) reporting 45 interventions were included. The most common intervention topic was diet/nutrition and interventions were regularly delivered face to face. Interventions were administered by a variety of providers, with nursing professionals the most common health professional group. Cognitions (ie, changes in general CKD knowledge, perceived self-management and motivation) were the most frequently reported outcome domain that showed improvement. Less than 1% of the interventions were co-developed with patients and 20% were based on a theory or framework. Conclusions There was a wide range of self-management interventions with considerable variability in outcomes for adults with CKD. Major gaps in the literature include lack of patient engagement in the design of the interventions, with the majority of interventions not applying a behavioural change theory to inform their development. This work highlights the need to involve patients to co-developed and evaluate a self-management intervention based on sound theories and clinical evidence. PMID:29567848

Dilatation of the initially non-aneurysmal ascending aorta after replacement of a bicuspid versus tricuspid aortic valve.

PubMed

Zhang, Jing; Fan, Guangpu; Zhao, Hui; Wang, Xu; Wang, Zhiwei; Zhang, Peide; Wang, Wei

2016-12-01

Objective To compare the aortic diameter after isolated aortic valve replacement (AVR) in patients with a bicuspid (BAV) or tricuspid aortic valve (TAV) and an initially normal ascending aorta. Methods Patients with an ascending aortic diameter of < 45 mm who had undergone isolated AVR were studied. Ultrasonic cardiographic measurements of the ascending aortic diameter made pre- and postoperatively and follow-up data concerning adverse aortic events and death were analyzed. Results A total of 613 patients were included in this retrospective study; of these, 211 had a BAV and 402 had a TAV. In both groups, the ascending aorta significantly expanded but was non-aneurysmal during follow-up; however, the difference between the two groups was not significant. Cox regression analysis showed no significant effect associated with the presence of a BAV on adverse aortic events or death. Conclusion Dilatation of the ascending aorta was observed after AVR in both groups, but was not more pronounced in patients with a BAV. Long-term follow-up for ascending aortic aneurysm is necessary after AVR in both patients with a BAV and those with a TAV.

Dilatation of the initially non-aneurysmal ascending aorta after replacement of a bicuspid versus tricuspid aortic valve

PubMed Central

Zhang, Jing; Fan, Guangpu; Zhao, Hui; Wang, Xu; Wang, Zhiwei; Zhang, Peide

2016-01-01

Objective To compare the aortic diameter after isolated aortic valve replacement (AVR) in patients with a bicuspid (BAV) or tricuspid aortic valve (TAV) and an initially normal ascending aorta. Methods Patients with an ascending aortic diameter of < 45 mm who had undergone isolated AVR were studied. Ultrasonic cardiographic measurements of the ascending aortic diameter made pre- and postoperatively and follow-up data concerning adverse aortic events and death were analyzed. Results A total of 613 patients were included in this retrospective study; of these, 211 had a BAV and 402 had a TAV. In both groups, the ascending aorta significantly expanded but was non-aneurysmal during follow-up; however, the difference between the two groups was not significant. Cox regression analysis showed no significant effect associated with the presence of a BAV on adverse aortic events or death. Conclusion Dilatation of the ascending aorta was observed after AVR in both groups, but was not more pronounced in patients with a BAV. Long-term follow-up for ascending aortic aneurysm is necessary after AVR in both patients with a BAV and those with a TAV. PMID:27484890

Russia: update on animal experiments and alternatives in education.

PubMed

Jukes, Nick

2008-01-01

Progress continues in Russia with growing awareness and implementation of alternatives in education. Further outreach visits and negotiations for replacement have been made by InterNICHE campaigners. Russian language information resources have been complemented by the distribution of translated freeware physiology and pharmacology alternatives; and the InterNICHE Alternatives Loan Systems continue to provide valuable hands-on access to a range of learning tools. Donations of computers and alternatives have established exemplary multimedia laboratories, with software having directly replaced the annual use of several thousand animals. New agreements have been made with institutes to abandon animal experiments for teaching purposes. Work to consolidate the successes is being done, and Russian teachers have begun to present at conferences to share their experiences of implementation. Further development and implementation of alternatives is being achieved through grant funding from the InterNICHE Humane Education Award. Using a different approach, cases of determined conscientious objection have included a campaign against the use of stolen companion animals for surgery practice in the Russian Far East, and a continuing legal challenge to experiments at Moscow State University. This multi-pronged, decentralised and culturally appropriate campaigning strategy has proved to be an effective approach to achieving sustainable change in Russia.

ReHypar: A Recursive Hybrid Chunk Partitioning Method Using NAND-Flash Memory SSD

PubMed Central

Park, Sung-Soon; Lim, Cheol-Su

2014-01-01

Due to the rapid development of flash memory, SSD is considered to be the replacement of HDD in the storage market. Although SSD retains several promising characteristics, such as high random I/O performance and nonvolatility, its high expense per capacity is the main obstacle in replacing HDD in all storage solutions. An alternative is to provide a hybrid structure where a small portion of SSD address space is combined with the much larger HDD address space. In such a structure, maximizing the space utilization of SSD in a cost-effective way is extremely important to generate high I/O performance. We developed ReHypar (recursive hybrid chunk partitioning) that enables improving the space utilization of SSD in the hybrid structure. The first objective of ReHypar is to mitigate the fragmentation overhead of SSD address space, by reusing the remaining free space of I/O units as much as possible. Furthermore, ReHypar allows defining several, logical data sections in SSD address space, with each of those sections being configured with the different I/O unit. We integrated ReHypar with ext2 and ext4 and evaluated it using two public benchmarks including IOzone and Postmark. PMID:24987741

STS-109 Mission Highlights Resource Tape

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

2002-05-01

This video, Part 3 of 4, shows the activities of the STS-109 crew (Scott Altman, Commander; Duane Carey, Pilot; John Grunsfeld, Payload Commander; Nancy Currie, James Newman, Richard Linnehan, Michael Massimino, Mission Specialists) during flight days 6 and 7. The activities from other flight days can be seen on 'STS-109 Mission Highlights Resource Tape' Part 1 of 4 (internal ID 2002139471), 'STS-109 Mission Highlights Resource Tape' Part 2 of 4 (internal ID 2002137664), and 'STS-109 Mission Highlights Resource Tape' Part 4 of 4 (internal ID 2002137577). Flight day 6 features a very complicated EVA (extravehicular activity) to service the HST (Hubble Space Telescope). Astronauts Grunsfeld and Linnehan replace the HST's power control unit, disconnecting and reconnecting 36 tiny connectors. The procedure includes the HST's first ever power down. The cleanup of spilled water from the coollant system in Grunsfeld's suit is shown. The pistol grip tool, and two other space tools are also shown. On flight day 7, Newman and Massimino conduct an EVA. They replace the HST's FOC (Faint Object Camera) with the ACS (Advanced Camera for Surveys). The video ends with crew members playing in the shuttle's cabin with a model of the HST.

42 CFR 423.2274 - Broker and agent requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... plan type means one of the following: (1) PDP replaced with an MA-PD or an MA-PD replaced with a PDP... plan or a cost plan replaced with an MA-PD. Plan year means the year beginning January 1 and ending... of this section, the following definitions are applicable: Compensation—(1) Includes monetary or non...

Effects of Beef Fat Replacement with Gelled Emulsion Prepared with Olive Oil on Quality Parameters of Chicken Patties.

PubMed

Serdaroğlu, Meltem; Nacak, Berker; Karabıyıkoğlu, Merve

2017-01-01

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of using gelled emulsion (olive oil 46%, inulin 9%, gelatin 3%) as fat replacer on some quality parameters of chicken patties. For this purpose GE, prepared with olive oil, gelatin and inulin was replaced with beef fat at a level of 0%, 25%, 50%, 100% (C, G25, G50, G100). In this study syneresis, thermal stability, centrifuge and creaming stability of gelled emulsion were analyzed. Chemical composition, technological paramerers (cooking yield, water holding capacity, diameter reduction, fat and moisture retention) and textural and sensory properites were evaluated in comparision to control patties. High thermal stability was recorded in GE (93%), also creaming stability results showed that GE protected its stability without any turbidity and separation of the layer. The complete replacement of beef fat with GE showed detrimental effect on all investigated cooking characteristics except fat retention. Replacement of beef fat with GE at a level of 50% resulted similar cooking characteristics with C samples. Color parameters of samples were affected by GE addition, higher CIE b* values observed with respect to GE concentration. The presence of GE significantly affected textural behaviors of samples ( p <0.05). Our results showed that GE prepared with inulin and olive oil is a viable fat replacer for the manufacture of chicken patty.

Effects of Beef Fat Replacement with Gelled Emulsion Prepared with Olive Oil on Quality Parameters of Chicken Patties

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of using gelled emulsion (olive oil 46%, inulin 9%, gelatin 3%) as fat replacer on some quality parameters of chicken patties. For this purpose GE, prepared with olive oil, gelatin and inulin was replaced with beef fat at a level of 0%, 25%, 50%, 100% (C, G25, G50, G100). In this study syneresis, thermal stability, centrifuge and creaming stability of gelled emulsion were analyzed. Chemical composition, technological paramerers (cooking yield, water holding capacity, diameter reduction, fat and moisture retention) and textural and sensory properites were evaluated in comparision to control patties. High thermal stability was recorded in GE (93%), also creaming stability results showed that GE protected its stability without any turbidity and separation of the layer. The complete replacement of beef fat with GE showed detrimental effect on all investigated cooking characteristics except fat retention. Replacement of beef fat with GE at a level of 50% resulted similar cooking characteristics with C samples. Color parameters of samples were affected by GE addition, higher CIE b* values observed with respect to GE concentration. The presence of GE significantly affected textural behaviors of samples (p<0.05). Our results showed that GE prepared with inulin and olive oil is a viable fat replacer for the manufacture of chicken patty. PMID:28747823

State of the Art Systematic Review of Bone Disease in Anorexia Nervosa

PubMed Central

Misra, Madhusmita; Golden, Neville H.; Katzman, Debra K.

2016-01-01

Objective Low bone mineral density (BMD) is a known consequence of anorexia nervosa (AN) and is particularly concerning during adolescence, a critical time for bone accrual. A comprehensive synthesis of available data regarding impaired bone health, its determinants, and associated management strategies in AN is currently lacking. This systematic review aims to synthesize information from key physiologic and prospective studies and trials, and provide a thorough understanding of impaired bone health in AN and its management. Method Search terms included “anorexia nervosa” AND “bone density” for the period 1995–2015, limited to articles in English. Papers were screened manually based on journal impact factor, sample size, age of participants, and inclusion of a control group. When necessary, we included seminal papers published before 1995. Results AN leads to low BMD, impaired bone quality and increased fracture risk. Important determinants are low lean mass, hypogonadism, IGF-1 deficiency, and alterations in other hormones that impact bone health. Weight gain and menses restoration are critical for improving bone outcomes in AN. Physiologic estrogen replacement as the transdermal patch was shown to increase bone accrual in one study in adolescent females with AN; however, residual deficits persist. Bisphosphonates are potentially useful in adults with AN. Discussion To date, evidence suggests that the safest and most effective strategy to improve bone health in AN is normalization of weight with restoration of menses. Pharmacotherapies that show promise include physiologic estradiol replacement (as the transdermal estradiol patch), and in adults, bisphosphonates. Further studies are necessary to determine the best strategies to normalize BMD in AN. PMID:26311400

Responsiveness to a Physiological Regimen of GnRH Therapy and Relation to Genotype in Women With Isolated Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism

PubMed Central

Abel, Brent S.; Shaw, Natalie D.; Brown, Jenifer M.; Adams, Judith M.; Alati, Teresa; Martin, Kathryn A.; Pitteloud, Nelly; Seminara, Stephanie B.; Plummer, Lacey; Pignatelli, Duarte; Crowley, William F.; Welt, Corrine K.

2013-01-01

Context: Isolated hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH) is caused by defective GnRH secretion or action resulting in absent or incomplete pubertal development and infertility. Most women with IHH ovulate with physiological GnRH replacement, implicating GnRH deficiency as the etiology. However, a subset does not respond normally, suggesting the presence of defects at the pituitary or ovary. Objectives: The objective of the study was to unmask pituitary or ovarian defects in IHH women using a physiological regimen of GnRH replacement, relating these responses to genes known to cause IHH. Design, Setting, and Subjects: This study is a retrospective analysis of 37 IHH women treated with iv pulsatile GnRH (75 ng/kg per bolus). Main Outcome Measures: Serum gonadotropin and sex steroid levels were measured, and 14 genes implicated in IHH were sequenced. Results: During their first cycle of GnRH replacement, normal cycles were recreated in 60% (22 of 37) of IHH women. Thirty percent of women (12 of 37) demonstrated an attenuated gonadotropin response, indicating pituitary resistance, and 10% (3 of 37) exhibited an exaggerated FSH response, consistent with ovarian resistance. Mutations in CHD7, FGFR1, KAL1, TAC3, and TACR3 were documented in IHH women with normal cycles, whereas mutations were identified in GNRHR, PROKR2, and FGFR1 in those with pituitary resistance. Women with ovarian resistance were mutation negative. Conclusions: Although physiological replacement with GnRH recreates normal menstrual cycle dynamics in most IHH women, hypogonadotropic responses in the first week of treatment identify a subset of women with pituitary dysfunction, only some of whom have mutations in GNRHR. IHH women with hypergonadotropic responses to GnRH replacement, consistent with an additional ovarian defect, did not have mutations in genes known to cause IHH, similar to our findings in a subset of IHH men with evidence of an additional testicular defect. PMID:23341491

Management of the patient with a total joint replacement: the primary care practitioner's role.

PubMed

Palmer, L M

1999-01-01

The primary care practitioner assumes chief responsibility for patients with arthritis. More than 40 million Americans experience some form of arthritis. Management of the patient with arthritis may include a referral to an orthopedic surgeon for surgical intervention. As estimated, up to 500,000 total joint replacement procedures are performed by orthopedic surgeons each year in the United States. Presurgical evaluation for a total joint replacement is imperative to ensure that the patient can safely undergo this surgical procedure. Postsurgical care of a patient with total joint replacement involves coordinating care with the physical therapist and orthopedic surgeon to ensure adequate follow-through with the recommended rehabilitation program, prophylactic antibiotic coverage, and observation for any complications including infection, deep-vein thrombosis, or loosening of the total-joint prosthesis.

Wear in ceramic on ceramic type lumbar total disc replacement: effect of radial clearance.

PubMed

Shankar, S; Kesavan, D

2015-01-01

The wear of the bearing surfaces of total disc replacement (TDR) is a key problem leads to reduction in the lifetime of the prosthesis and it mainly occurs due to the range of clearances of the articulating surface between the superior plate and core. The objective of this paper is to estimate the wear using finite element concepts considering the different radial clearances between the articulating surfaces of ceramic on ceramic type Lumbar Total Disc Replacement (LTDR). The finite element (FE) model was subjected to wear testing protocols according to loading profile of International Standards Organization (ISO) 18192 standards through 10 million cycles. The radial clearance value of 0.05 mm showed less volumetric wear when compared with other radial clearance values. Hence, low radial clearance values are suitable for LTDR to minimize the wear.

Evaluation of total alloplastic temporo-mandibular joint replacement with two different types of prostheses: A three-year prospective study.

PubMed

Gonzalez-Perez, L-M; Gonzalez-Perez-Somarriba, B; Centeno, G; Vallellano, C; Montes-Carmona, J-F

2016-11-01

Temporo-Mandibular Joint (TMJ) replacement has been used clinically for years. The objective of this study was to evaluate outcomes achieved in patients with two different categories of TMJ prostheses. All patients who had a TMJ replacement (TMJR) implanted during the study period from 2006 through 2012 were included in this 3-year prospective study. All procedures were performed using the Biomet Microfixation TMJ Replacement System, and all involved replacing both the skull base component (glenoid fossa) and the mandibular condyle. Fifty-seven patients (38 females and 19 males), involving 75 TMJs with severe disease requiring reconstruction (39 unilateral, 18 bilateral) were operated on consecutively, and 68 stock prostheses and 7 custom-made prostheses were implanted. The mean age at surgery was 52.6±11.5 years in the stock group and 51.8±11.7 years in the custom-made group. In the stock group, after three years of TMJR, results showed a reduction in pain intensity from 6.4±1.4 to 1.6±1.2 (p<0.001), and an improvement in jaw opening from 2.7±0.9 cm to 4.2±0.7 cm (p<0.001). In the custom-made group, after three years of TMJR, results showed a reduction in pain intensity from 6.0±1.6 to 2.2±0.4 (p<0.001), and an improvement in jaw opening from 1.5±0.5 cm to 4.3±0.6 cm (p<0.001). No statistically significant differences between two groups were detected. The results of this three-year prospective study support the surgical placement of TMJ prostheses (stock prosthetic, and custom-made systems), and show that the approach is efficacious and safe, reduces pain, and improves maximum mouth opening movement, with few complications. As such, TMJR represents a viable technique and a stable long-term solution for cranio-mandibular reconstruction in patients with irreversible end-stage TMJ disease. Comparing stock and custom-made groups, no statistically significant differences were detected with respect to pain intensity reduction and maximum mouth opening improvement.

Drug-Induced Hematologic Syndromes

PubMed Central

Mintzer, David M.; Billet, Shira N.; Chmielewski, Lauren

2009-01-01

Objective. Drugs can induce almost the entire spectrum of hematologic disorders, affecting white cells, red cells, platelets, and the coagulation system. This paper aims to emphasize the broad range of drug-induced hematological syndromes and to highlight some of the newer drugs and syndromes. Methods. Medline literature on drug-induced hematologic syndromes was reviewed. Most reports and reviews focus on individual drugs or cytopenias. Results. Drug-induced syndromes include hemolytic anemias, methemoglobinemia, red cell aplasia, sideroblastic anemia, megaloblastic anemia, polycythemia, aplastic anemia, leukocytosis, neutropenia, eosinophilia, immune thrombocytopenia, microangiopathic syndromes, hypercoagulability, hypoprothrombinemia, circulating anticoagulants, myelodysplasia, and acute leukemia. Some of the classic drugs known to cause hematologic abnormalities have been replaced by newer drugs, including biologics, accompanied by their own syndromes and unintended side effects. Conclusions. Drugs can induce toxicities spanning many hematologic syndromes, mediated by a variety of mechanisms. Physicians need to be alert to the potential for iatrogenic drug-induced hematologic complications. PMID:19960059

Fast and objective detection and analysis of structures in downhole images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wedge, Daniel; Holden, Eun-Jung; Dentith, Mike; Spadaccini, Nick

2017-09-01

Downhole acoustic and optical televiewer images, and formation microimager (FMI) logs are important datasets for structural and geotechnical analyses for the mineral and petroleum industries. Within these data, dipping planar structures appear as sinusoids, often in incomplete form and in abundance. Their detection is a labour intensive and hence expensive task and as such is a significant bottleneck in data processing as companies may have hundreds of kilometres of logs to process each year. We present an image analysis system that harnesses the power of automated image analysis and provides an interactive user interface to support the analysis of televiewer images by users with different objectives. Our algorithm rapidly produces repeatable, objective results. We have embedded it in an interactive workflow to complement geologists' intuition and experience in interpreting data to improve efficiency and assist, rather than replace the geologist. The main contributions include a new image quality assessment technique for highlighting image areas most suited to automated structure detection and for detecting boundaries of geological zones, and a novel sinusoid detection algorithm for detecting and selecting sinusoids with given confidence levels. Further tools are provided to perform rapid analysis of and further detection of structures e.g. as limited to specific orientations.

A technique for setting analytical thresholds in massively parallel sequencing-based forensic DNA analysis

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

Amplicon (targeted) sequencing by massively parallel sequencing (PCR-MPS) is a potential method for use in forensic DNA analyses. In this application, PCR-MPS may supplement or replace other instrumental analysis methods such as capillary electrophoresis and Sanger sequencing for STR and mitochondrial DNA typing, respectively. PCR-MPS also may enable the expansion of forensic DNA analysis methods to include new marker systems such as single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and insertion/deletions (indels) that currently are assayable using various instrumental analysis methods including microarray and quantitative PCR. Acceptance of PCR-MPS as a forensic method will depend in part upon developing protocols and criteria that define the limitations of a method, including a defensible analytical threshold or method detection limit. This paper describes an approach to establish objective analytical thresholds suitable for multiplexed PCR-MPS methods. A definition is proposed for PCR-MPS method background noise, and an analytical threshold based on background noise is described. PMID:28542338

A technique for setting analytical thresholds in massively parallel sequencing-based forensic DNA analysis.

PubMed

Young, Brian; King, Jonathan L; Budowle, Bruce; Armogida, Luigi

2017-01-01

Amplicon (targeted) sequencing by massively parallel sequencing (PCR-MPS) is a potential method for use in forensic DNA analyses. In this application, PCR-MPS may supplement or replace other instrumental analysis methods such as capillary electrophoresis and Sanger sequencing for STR and mitochondrial DNA typing, respectively. PCR-MPS also may enable the expansion of forensic DNA analysis methods to include new marker systems such as single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and insertion/deletions (indels) that currently are assayable using various instrumental analysis methods including microarray and quantitative PCR. Acceptance of PCR-MPS as a forensic method will depend in part upon developing protocols and criteria that define the limitations of a method, including a defensible analytical threshold or method detection limit. This paper describes an approach to establish objective analytical thresholds suitable for multiplexed PCR-MPS methods. A definition is proposed for PCR-MPS method background noise, and an analytical threshold based on background noise is described.

Is physiological glucocorticoid replacement important in children?

PubMed Central

Porter, John; Blair, Joanne; Ross, Richard J

2017-01-01

Cortisol has a distinct circadian rhythm with low concentrations at night, rising in the early hours of the morning, peaking on waking and declining over the day to low concentrations in the evening. Loss of this circadian rhythm, as seen in jetlag and shift work, is associated with fatigue in the short term and diabetes and obesity in the medium to long term. Patients with adrenal insufficiency on current glucocorticoid replacement with hydrocortisone have unphysiological cortisol concentrations being low on waking and high after each dose of hydrocortisone. Patients with adrenal insufficiency complain of fatigue, a poor quality of life and there is evidence of poor health outcomes including obesity potentially related to glucocorticoid replacement. New technologies are being developed that deliver more physiological glucocorticoid replacement including hydrocortisone by subcutaneous pump, Plenadren, a once-daily modified-release hydrocortisone and Chronocort, a delayed and sustained absorption hydrocortisone formulation that replicates the overnight profile of cortisol. In this review, we summarise the evidence regarding physiological glucocorticoid replacement with a focus on relevance to paediatrics. PMID:27582458

Interventions for the prediction and management of chronic postsurgical pain after total knee replacement: systematic review of randomised controlled trials

PubMed Central

Beswick, Andrew D; Wylde, Vikki; Gooberman-Hill, Rachael

2015-01-01

Objectives Total knee replacement can be a successful operation for pain relief. However, 10–34% of patients experience chronic postsurgical pain. Our aim was to synthesise evidence on the effectiveness of applying predictive models to guide preventive treatment, and for interventions in the management of chronic pain after total knee replacement. Setting We conducted a systematic review of randomised controlled trials using appropriate search strategies in the Cochrane Library, MEDLINE and EMBASE from inception to October 2014. No language restrictions were applied. Participants Adult patients receiving total knee replacement. Interventions Predictive models to guide treatment for prevention of chronic pain. Interventions for management of chronic pain. Primary and secondary outcome measures Reporting of specific outcomes was not an eligibility criterion but we sought outcomes relating to pain severity. Results No studies evaluated the effectiveness of predictive models in guiding treatment and improving outcomes after total knee replacement. One study evaluated an intervention for the management of chronic pain. The trial evaluated the use of a botulinum toxin A injection with antinociceptive and anticholinergic activity in 49 patients with chronic postsurgical pain after knee replacement. A single injection provided meaningful pain relief for about 40 days and the authors acknowledged the need for a large trial with repeated injections. No trials of multidisciplinary interventions or individualised treatments were identified. Conclusions Our systematic review highlights a lack of evidence about the effectiveness of prediction and management strategies for chronic postsurgical pain after total knee replacement. As a large number of people are affected by chronic pain after total knee replacement, development of an evidence base about care for these patients should be a research priority. PMID:25967998

Tools for Specification Validation and Understanding.

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-12-01

MICROCOP RESOUTIO 1.8CAR NATIONA _________ JilSTADARDS 1963 , :;,- .-..... ...... , .. ... .-.... . . .. .....-. -.-.. . . ... . . .. .. .. . ..11...that Change the World 20 2.2.5 Changing a Relation 20 2.2.6 Changing the Type of an Object 21 2.2.7 Creating and Destroying Objects 22 2.2.8 Compound ...verb, or it is a compound name (e.g. MoveShip or ReplaceLine) where the first element of the compound corresponds to the verb. If a name is not a

Attention in natural scenes: Affective-motivational factors guide gaze independently of visual salience.

PubMed

Schomaker, Judith; Walper, Daniel; Wittmann, Bianca C; Einhäuser, Wolfgang

2017-04-01

In addition to low-level stimulus characteristics and current goals, our previous experience with stimuli can also guide attentional deployment. It remains unclear, however, if such effects act independently or whether they interact in guiding attention. In the current study, we presented natural scenes including every-day objects that differed in affective-motivational impact. In the first free-viewing experiment, we presented visually-matched triads of scenes in which one critical object was replaced that varied mainly in terms of motivational value, but also in terms of valence and arousal, as confirmed by ratings by a large set of observers. Treating motivation as a categorical factor, we found that it affected gaze. A linear-effect model showed that arousal, valence, and motivation predicted fixations above and beyond visual characteristics, like object size, eccentricity, or visual salience. In a second experiment, we experimentally investigated whether the effects of emotion and motivation could be modulated by visual salience. In a medium-salience condition, we presented the same unmodified scenes as in the first experiment. In a high-salience condition, we retained the saturation of the critical object in the scene, and decreased the saturation of the background, and in a low-salience condition, we desaturated the critical object while retaining the original saturation of the background. We found that highly salient objects guided gaze, but still found additional additive effects of arousal, valence and motivation, confirming that higher-level factors can also guide attention, as measured by fixations towards objects in natural scenes. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Polyurethane foam infill for fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) bridge deck panels.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2014-05-01

The objective of the proposed research is to develop, test, and evaluate fiber-reinforced, polyurethane foams to replace the costly : honeycomb construction currently used to manufacture FRP bridge deck panels. The effort will focus on developing an ...

Treatments to reduce the frequency of freeway exit sign hits.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2011-06-01

Exit gore signs present a significant maintenance challenge for TxDOT. There is concern regarding the safety : of personnel working in gore areas to replace these signs, and the resources necessary for continual : maintenance. The objective of this p...

High-volume recycled materials for sustainable pavement construction.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2017-05-01

The main objective of this research is to evaluate the feasibility of using high-volume recycled materials for concrete production in rigid pavement. The goal was to replace 50% of the solids with recycled materials and industrial by-products. The pe...

Interacting hands: the role of attention for the joint Simon effect

PubMed Central

Liepelt, Roman

2014-01-01

Recent research in monkeys and humans has shown that the presence of the hands near an object enhances spatial processing for objects presented near the hand. This study aimed to test the effect of hand position on the joint Simon effect. In Experiment 1, two human co-actors shared a Simon task while placing their response hands either near the objects appearing on the monitor or away from the monitor. Experiment 2 varied each co-actor’s hand position independently. Experiment 3 tested whether enhanced spatial processing for objects presented near the hand is obtained when replacing one of the two co-actors by a non-human event-producing rubber hand. Experiment 1 provided evidence for a Simon effect. Hand position significantly modulated the size of the Simon effect in the joint Simon task showing an increased Simon effect when the hands of both actors were located near the objects on the monitor, than when they were located away from the monitor. Experiment 2 replicated this finding showing an increased Simon effect when the actor’s hand was located near the objects on the monitor, but only when the co-actor also produced action events in spatial reference. A similar hand position effect was observed in Experiment 3 when a non-human rubber hand replaced the human co-actor. These findings suggest that external action events that are produced in spatial reference bias the distribution of attention to the area near the hand. This strengthens the weight of the spatial response codes (referential coding) and hence increases the joint Simon effect. PMID:25566140

The donor organ as an 'object a': a Lacanian perspective on organ donation and transplantation medicine.

PubMed

Zwart, Hub

2014-11-01

Bioethical discourse on organ donation covers a wide range of topics, from informed consent procedures and scarcity issues up to 'transplant tourism' and 'organ trade'. This paper presents a 'depth ethics' approach, notably focussing on the tensions, conflicts and ambiguities concerning the status of the human body (as something which constitutes a whole, while at the same time being a set of replaceable elements or parts). These will be addressed from a psychoanalytical (Lacanian) angle. First, I will outline Lacan's view on embodiment as such. Subsequently, I will argue that, for organ recipients, the donor organ becomes what Lacan refers to as an object a, the 'partial object' of desire, the elusive thing we are deprived of, apparently beyond our grasp. Within the recipient's body an empty space emerges, a kind of 'vacuole', once occupied by a faltering organ (now removed). This space can only be filled by a 'gift' from the other, by an object a. Once implanted, however, this implant becomes an 'extimate' object: something both 'external' and 'intimate', both 'embedded' and 'foreign', and which is bound to remain an object of concern for quite some time, if not for life. A Lacanian analysis allows us, first of all, to address the question what organ transplantation has in common with other bodily practices involving bodily parts procured from others, such as cannibalism. But it also reveals the basic difference between the two, as well as the distance between the 'fragmented body' of Frankenstein's 'monster'--as an aggregate of replaceable parts--and the multiple organ recipients (the 'puzzle people') of today.

Management of Osseous and Soft-Tissue Ankle Equinus During Total Ankle Replacement.

PubMed

Roukis, Thomas S; Simonson, Devin C

2015-10-01

Obtaining functional alignment of a total ankle replacement, including physiologic sagittal plane range of motion, is paramount for a successful outcome. This article reviews the literature on techniques available for correction of osseous and soft-tissue equinus at the time of index total ankle replacement. These techniques include anterior tibiotalar joint cheilectomy, posterior superficial muscle compartment lengthening, posterior ankle capsule release, and release of the posterior portions of the medial and lateral collateral ligament complexes. The rationale for these procedures and the operative sequence of events for these procedures are presented. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

77 FR 12448 - Airworthiness Directives; Pratt & Whitney Division Turbofan Engines

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-03-01

... Delta Airlines, Inc. requested that we specify replacing affected FMUs with FMU P/N 53U044, or later FAA... actual cost of the AD; not other costs. We did not change the AD. Request To Replace FMUs On-Wing United Parcel Service Co. requested that we include in the AD the option to perform on-wing replacements of...

Long-term Outcomes of Mitral Valve Repair Versus Replacement for Degenerative Disease: A Systematic Review

PubMed Central

McNeely, Christian A; Vassileva, Christina M

2015-01-01

The short-term advantage of mitral valve repair versus replacement for degenerative disease has been extensively documented. These advantages include lower operative mortality, improved survival, better preservation of left-ventricular function, shorter post-operative hospital stay, lower total costs, and fewer valve-related complications, including thromboembolism, anticoagulation-related bleeding events and late prosthetic dysfunction. More recent written data are available indicating the long-term advantage of repair versus replacement. While at some institutions, the repair rate for degenerative disease may exceed 90%, the national average in 2007 was only 69%. Making direct comparisons between mitral valve repair and replacement using the available studies does present some challenges however, as there are often differences in baseline characteristics between patient groups as well as other dissimilarities between studies. The purpose of this review is to systematically summarize the long-term survival and reoperation data of mitral valve repair versus replacement for degenerative disease. A PubMed search was done and resulted in 12 studies that met our study criteria for comparing mitral valve repair versus replacement for degenerative disease. A systematic review was then conducted abstracting survival and reoperation data. PMID:25158683

Implementation of an Antenna Array Signal Processing Breadboard for the Deep Space Network

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Navarro, Robert

2006-01-01

The Deep Space Network Large Array will replace/augment 34 and 70 meter antenna assets. The array will mainly be used to support NASA's deep space telemetry, radio science, and navigation requirements. The array project will deploy three complexes in the western U.S., Australia, and European longitude each with 400 12m downlink antennas and a DSN central facility at JPL. THis facility will remotely conduct all real-time monitor and control for the network. Signal processing objectives include: provide a means to evaluate the performance of the Breadboard Array's antenna subsystem; design and build prototype hardware; demonstrate and evaluate proposed signal processing techniques; and gain experience with various technologies that may be used in the Large Array. Results are summarized..

Computational structural mechanics for engine structures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chamis, C. C.

1989-01-01

The computational structural mechanics (CSM) program at Lewis encompasses: (1) fundamental aspects for formulating and solving structural mechanics problems, and (2) development of integrated software systems to computationally simulate the performance/durability/life of engine structures. It is structured to mainly supplement, complement, and whenever possible replace, costly experimental efforts which are unavoidable during engineering research and development programs. Specific objectives include: investigate unique advantages of parallel and multiprocesses for: reformulating/solving structural mechanics and formulating/solving multidisciplinary mechanics and develop integrated structural system computational simulators for: predicting structural performances, evaluating newly developed methods, and for identifying and prioritizing improved/missing methods needed. Herein the CSM program is summarized with emphasis on the Engine Structures Computational Simulator (ESCS). Typical results obtained using ESCS are described to illustrate its versatility.

Association of nicotine metabolism and sex with relapse following varenicline and nicotine replacement therapy.

PubMed

Glatard, Anaïs; Dobrinas, Maria; Gholamrezaee, Mehdi; Lubomirov, Rubin; Cornuz, Jacques; Csajka, Chantal; Eap, Chin B

2017-10-01

Nicotine is metabolized into cotinine and then into trans-3'-hydroxycotinine, mainly by cytochrome P450 2A6. Recent studies reported better effectiveness of varenicline in women and in nicotine normal metabolizers phenotypically determined by nicotine-metabolite ratio. Our objective was to study the influence of nicotine-metabolite ratio, CYP2A6 genotype and sex on the response to nicotine replacement therapy and varenicline. Data were extracted from a longitudinal study which included smokers participating in a smoking cessation program. Response to treatment was defined by the absence of relapse when a set threshold of reduction in cigarettes per day relative to the week before the study was no more reached. The analysis considered total and partial reduction defined by a diminution of 100% and of 90% in cigarettes per day, respectively. The hazard ratio of relapsing was estimated in multivariate Cox regression models including the sex and the nicotine metabolism determined by the phenotype or by CYP2A6 genotyping (rs1801272 and rs28399433). In the normal metabolizers determined by phenotyping and in women, the hazard ratio for relapsing was significantly lower with varenicline for a partial decrease (HR = 0.33, 95% CI [0.12, 0.89] and HR = 0.20, 95% CI [0.04, 0.91], respectively) and nonsignificantly lower for a total cessation (HR = 0.45, 95% CI [0.20, 1.0] and HR = 0.38, 95% CI [0.14, 1.0]). When compared with the normal metabolizers determined by phenotyping, the hazard ratio for a partial decrease was similar in the normal metabolizers determined by genotyping (HR = 0.42, 95% CI [0.18, 0.94]) while it was significantly lower with varenicline for a total cessation (HR = 0.50, 95% CI [0.26, 0.98]). Women and normal nicotine metabolizers may benefit more from varenicline over nicotine replacement therapy. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved).

Impact of total knee replacement practice: cost effectiveness analysis of data from the Osteoarthritis Initiative.

PubMed

Ferket, Bart S; Feldman, Zachary; Zhou, Jing; Oei, Edwin H; Bierma-Zeinstra, Sita M A; Mazumdar, Madhu

2017-03-28

Objectives  To evaluate the impact of total knee replacement on quality of life in people with knee osteoarthritis and to estimate associated differences in lifetime costs and quality adjusted life years (QALYs) according to use by level of symptoms. Design  Marginal structural modeling and cost effectiveness analysis based on lifetime predictions for total knee replacement and death from population based cohort data. Setting  Data from two studies-Osteoarthritis Initiative (OAI) and the Multicenter Osteoarthritis Study (MOST)-within the US health system. Participants  4498 participants with or at high risk for knee osteoarthritis aged 45-79 from the OAI with no previous knee replacement (confirmed by baseline radiography) followed up for nine years. Validation cohort comprised 2907 patients from MOST with two year follow-up. Intervention  Scenarios ranging from current practice, defined as total knee replacement practice as performed in the OAI (with procedural rates estimated by a prediction model), to practice limited to patients with severe symptoms to no surgery. Main outcome measures  Generic (SF-12) and osteoarthritis specific quality of life measured over 96 months, model based QALYs, costs, and incremental cost effectiveness ratios over a lifetime horizon. Results  In the OAI, total knee replacement showed improvements in quality of life with small absolute changes when averaged across levels of confounding variables: 1.70 (95% uncertainty interval 0.26 to 3.57) for SF-12 physical component summary (PCS); -10.69 (-13.39 to -8.01) for Western Ontario and McMaster Universities arthritis index (WOMAC); and 9.16 (6.35 to 12.49) for knee injury and osteoarthritis outcome score (KOOS) quality of life subscale. These improvements became larger with decreasing functional status at baseline. Provision of total knee replacement to patients with SF-12 PCS scores <35 was the optimal scenario given a cost effectiveness threshold of $200 000/QALY, with cost savings of $6974 ($5789 to $8269) and a minimal loss of 0.008 (-0.056 to 0.043) QALYs compared with current practice. These findings were reproduced among patients with knee osteoarthritis from the MOST cohort and were robust against various scenarios including increased rates of total knee replacement and mortality and inclusion of non-healthcare costs but were sensitive to increased deterioration in quality of life without surgery. In a threshold analysis, total knee replacement would become cost effective in patients with SF-12 PCS scores ≤40 if the associated hospital admission costs fell below $14 000 given a cost effectiveness threshold of $200 000/QALY. Conclusion  Current practice of total knee replacement as performed in a recent US cohort of patients with knee osteoarthritis had minimal effects on quality of life and QALYs at the group level. If the procedure were restricted to more severely affected patients, its effectiveness would rise, with practice becoming economically more attractive than its current use. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://group.bmj.com/group/rights-licensing/permissions.

Effects of Partial Beef Fat Replacement with Gelled Emulsion on Functional and Quality Properties of Model System Meat Emulsions

PubMed Central

2016-01-01

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of partial beef fat replacement (0, 30, 50, 100%) with gelled emulsion (GE) prepared with olive oil on functional and quality properties of model system meat emulsion (MSME). GE consisted of inulin and gelatin as gelling agent and characteristics of gelled and model system meat emulsions were investigated. GE showed good initial stability against centrifugation forces and thermal stability at different temperatures. GE addition decreased the pH with respect to increase in GE concentration. Addition of GE increased lightness and yellowness but reduced redness compared to control samples. The results of the study showed that partial replacement of beef fat with GE could be used for improving cooking yield without negative effects on water holding capacity and emulsion stability compared to C samples when replacement level is up to 50%. The presence of GE significantly affected textural behaviors of samples (p<0.05). In conclusion, our study showed that GE have promising impacts on developing healthier meat product formulations besides improving technological characteristics. PMID:28115885

Effects of Partial Beef Fat Replacement with Gelled Emulsion on Functional and Quality Properties of Model System Meat Emulsions.

PubMed

Serdaroğlu, Meltem; Nacak, Berker; Karabıyıkoğlu, Merve; Keser, Gökçen

2016-01-01

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of partial beef fat replacement (0, 30, 50, 100%) with gelled emulsion (GE) prepared with olive oil on functional and quality properties of model system meat emulsion (MSME). GE consisted of inulin and gelatin as gelling agent and characteristics of gelled and model system meat emulsions were investigated. GE showed good initial stability against centrifugation forces and thermal stability at different temperatures. GE addition decreased the pH with respect to increase in GE concentration. Addition of GE increased lightness and yellowness but reduced redness compared to control samples. The results of the study showed that partial replacement of beef fat with GE could be used for improving cooking yield without negative effects on water holding capacity and emulsion stability compared to C samples when replacement level is up to 50%. The presence of GE significantly affected textural behaviors of samples ( p <0.05). In conclusion, our study showed that GE have promising impacts on developing healthier meat product formulations besides improving technological characteristics.

Experimental studies on effect of Date Seed Ash (DSA) on strength properties of cement sand mortar

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gunarani, G. I.; Chakkravarthy, S. P.

2017-07-01

The need for alternative material for the cement is arising and being compromised by many engineering researchers. However, the growing demand and surging prices of raw materials challenges the constructional field. India, being one of the largest agricultural economy, produces a quantitative volume of agro-waste that is being dumped. In the conventional concrete production, coarse aggregate (CA) plays an important filler material. The initial study on date seed as a replacement for CA was not successful. This study primarily focuses on Date seed ash as a replacement material for ordinary Portland cement. OPC was replaced by Date Palm Seed Ash (DPSA) in the ratio up to 10% in terms of 2% interval. The main objective of this paper was to study the variation of strength properties of mortar by DPSA in specified ratio along with curing period of 3,7,14 and 28 days. The stress strain behavior has indicated a significant improvement. The overall results indicated the increase in replacing ratio, decreases the strength properties. However the physical, chemical and mechanical properties increased gradually in strength in minimal ratio.

Historical perspectives on biofuels

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

This chapter summarizes the history through about the 1940’s of biomass-derived fuels, particularly ethanol as replacement for gasoline and vegetable oil-derived diesel fuels, including biodiesel, as replacement for petroleum-derived diesel fuels....

Options for Heart Valve Replacement

MedlinePlus

... which may include human or animal donor tissue) Ross Procedure — “Borrowing” your healthy valve and moving it ... Considerations for Surgery Medications Valve Repair Valve Replacement - Ross Procedure - Newer Surgery Options - What is TAVR? - Types ...

MASH test 3-37 of the TxDOT 31-inch W-beam downstream anchor terminal.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2011-12-01

The objective of this study was to develop a suitable replacement for the downstream turndown : guardrail anchor system. The turndown guardrail anchor system does not meet mandated test requirements : under MASH for upstream anchor applic...

DO POST-MINING CONSTRUCTED CHANNELS REPLACE FUNCTIONAL ATTRIBUTES OF HEADWATER STREAMS?

EPA Science Inventory

Mountaintop removal and valley filling is a method for mining coal in the Appalachians. Surface coal mining regulations currently recognize constructed drainage ditches associated with valley fills as compensatory mitigation. Our objective was to determine if these constructed ch...

NC roadway lighting needs assessment, maintenance prioritization tool and performance measures.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-05-01

The objectives of this project are to 1) develop an assessment report and summary of accumulated modernization / replacement needs, 2) assess current lighting needs and develop a method to allocate funds at NCDOT Division level, 3) research and docum...

Alternative and cost-effective bridge approach slabs.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2010-10-01

The primary objectives of the proposed project are to investigate the causes for any bumps at the end of the bridge approach slab : and to develop remedial measures or alternative designs for a replacement. It is clear that the problem stems from geo...

Field performance evaluations of Illinois aggregates for subgrade replacement and subbase : phase II.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-04-01

The project objective was to validate the results from ICT Project R27-1, which characterized in the : laboratory the strength, stiffness, and deformation behaviors of three different aggregate types : commonly used in Illinois for subgrade replaceme...

Evaluation of bridge replacement alternatives for the county bridge system.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1994-08-01

Recent reports have indicated that 23.5 percent of the nation's highway bridges are : structurally deficient and 17.7 percent are functionally obsolete. A significant number of these bridges : are on the Iowa county road system. The objective of the ...

Bridge approach slabs for Missouri DOT looking at alternative and cost efficient approaches.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2010-12-01

The objective of this project is to develop innovative and cost effective structural solutions for the construction of : both new and replacement deteriorated Bridge Approach Slabs (BAS). A cost study and email survey was performed to identify : stat...

Using recycled concrete as aggregate in concrete pavements to reduce materials cost.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-08-01

The main objective of this project was to evaluate the effects of using aggregate produced from crushed concrete pavement as a replacement for natural (virgin) coarse aggregate in pavement mixtures. A total of ten different concrete mixtures containi...

[Longterm results of mitral valve replacement (author's transl)].

PubMed

Erhard, W; Reichmann, M; Delius, W; Sebening, H; Herrmann, G

1977-04-22

210 patients were followed up by the actuary method for over 5 years after isolated mitral valve replacement or a double valve replacement. After isolated valve replacement the one month survival including the operative mortality was 92+/-2%. The survival after one year was 83+/-3% and after 5 years 66+/-7%. The five year survival of patients in preoperative class III (according to the NYHA) was 73+/-8% and of class IV 57+/-8% (P less than or equal to 0.1). A comparison of valve replacements for pure mitral stenosis or mitral insufficiency showed no statistically significant differences. In the 37 patients who had a double valve replacement the survival risk was not increased in comparison with those patients who had had a single valve replacement. Age above 45 years and a preoperative markedly raised pulmonary arteriolar resistance reduced the chances of survival.

Verification of Pharmacogenetics-Based Warfarin Dosing Algorithms in Han-Chinese Patients Undertaking Mechanic Heart Valve Replacement

PubMed Central

Zhao, Li; Chen, Chunxia; Li, Bei; Dong, Li; Guo, Yingqiang; Xiao, Xijun; Zhang, Eryong; Qin, Li

2014-01-01

Objective To study the performance of pharmacogenetics-based warfarin dosing algorithms in the initial and the stable warfarin treatment phases in a cohort of Han-Chinese patients undertaking mechanic heart valve replacement. Methods We searched PubMed, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure and Wanfang databases for selecting pharmacogenetics-based warfarin dosing models. Patients with mechanic heart valve replacement were consecutively recruited between March 2012 and July 2012. The predicted warfarin dose of each patient was calculated and compared with the observed initial and stable warfarin doses. The percentage of patients whose predicted dose fell within 20% of their actual therapeutic dose (percentage within 20%), and the mean absolute error (MAE) were utilized to evaluate the predictive accuracy of all the selected algorithms. Results A total of 8 algorithms including Du, Huang, Miao, Wei, Zhang, Lou, Gage, and International Warfarin Pharmacogenetics Consortium (IWPC) model, were tested in 181 patients. The MAE of the Gage, IWPC and 6 Han-Chinese pharmacogenetics-based warfarin dosing algorithms was less than 0.6 mg/day in accuracy and the percentage within 20% exceeded 45% in all of the selected models in both the initial and the stable treatment stages. When patients were stratified according to the warfarin dose range, all of the equations demonstrated better performance in the ideal-dose range (1.88–4.38 mg/day) than the low-dose range (<1.88 mg/day). Among the 8 algorithms compared, the algorithms of Wei, Huang, and Miao showed a lower MAE and higher percentage within 20% in both the initial and the stable warfarin dose prediction and in the low-dose and the ideal-dose ranges. Conclusions All of the selected pharmacogenetics-based warfarin dosing regimens performed similarly in our cohort. However, the algorithms of Wei, Huang, and Miao showed a better potential for warfarin prediction in the initial and the stable treatment phases in Han-Chinese patients undertaking mechanic heart valve replacement. PMID:24728385

Can a single isotropic 3D fast spin echo sequence replace three-plane standard proton density fat-saturated knee MRI at 1.5 T?

PubMed Central

Robinson, P; Hodgson, R; Grainger, A J

2015-01-01

Objective: To assess whether a single isotropic three-dimensional (3D) fast spin echo (FSE) proton density fat-saturated (PD FS) sequence reconstructed in three planes could replace the three PD (FS) sequences in our standard protocol at 1.5 T (Siemens Avanto, Erlangen, Germany). Methods: A 3D FSE PD water excitation sequence was included in the protocol for 95 consecutive patients referred for routine knee MRI. This was used to produce offline reconstructions in axial, sagittal and coronal planes. Two radiologists independently assessed each case twice, once using the standard MRI protocol and once replacing the standard PD (FS) sequences with reconstructions from the 3D data set. Following scoring, the observer reviewed the 3D data set and performed multiplanar reformats to see if this altered confidence. The menisci, ligaments and cartilage were assessed, and statistical analysis was performed using the standard sequence as the reference standard. Results: The reporting accuracy was as follows: medial meniscus (MM) = 90.9%, lateral meniscus (LM) = 93.7%, anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) = 98.9% and cartilage surfaces = 85.8%. Agreement among the readers was for the standard protocol: MM kappa = 0.91, LM = 0.89, ACL = 0.98 and cartilage = 0.84; and for the 3D protocol: MM = 0.86, LM = 0.77, ACL = 0.94 and cartilage = 0.64. Conclusion: A 3D PD FSE sequence reconstructed in three planes gives reduced accuracy and decreased concordance among readers compared with conventional sequences when evaluating the menisci and cartilage with a 1.5-T MRI scanner. Advances in knowledge: Using the existing 1.5-T MR systems, a 3D FSE sequence should not replace two-dimensional sequences. PMID:26067920

Estrogen Replacement Improves Verbal Memory and Executive Control in Oligomenorrheic/Amenorrheic Athletes in a Randomized Controlled Trial.

PubMed

Baskaran, Charumathi; Cunningham, Brooke; Plessow, Franziska; Singhal, Vibha; Woolley, Ryan; Ackerman, Kathryn E; Slattery, Meghan; Lee, Hang; Lawson, Elizabeth A; Eddy, Kamryn; Misra, Madhusmita

2017-05-01

Both estrogen and exercise may have cognition enhancing benefits; however, young oligomenorrheic/amenorrheic athletes (OA) with estrogen deficiency have not been evaluated for cognitive deficits. Our objective was to determine whether 6 months of estrogen replacement will impact cognitive domains in OA. We hypothesized that estrogen replacement would improve verbal memory and executive control in OA. We performed cognitive assessments at baseline and after 6 months in 48 OA (14-25 years) randomized to estrogen (EST+) (oral 30 µg ethinyl estradiol [n = 16] or transdermal 100 µg 17-β-estradiol patch [n = 13]) or no estrogen (EST-) (n = 19) in an ongoing clinical trial. Neurocognitive testing included California Verbal Learning Test-Second Edition (CVLT-II) (for verbal memory) and Delis-Kaplan Executive Function System Color-Word Interference Test (D-KEFS-CWIT) (executive control). On average, subjects (mean ± SEM age: 19.9 ± 3.1 years, body mass index: 20.6 ± 2.3 kg/m²) participated in 10.3 ± 5.9 hours per week of weight-bearing activities of their lower limbs. The EST+ group performed better for CVLT-II verbal memory scores for immediate recall over 6 months of therapy compared to EST- (P < .05) even after controlling for baseline scores and age. Changes in D-KEFS-CWIT scores over 6 months did not differ between the groups. However, the EST+ group had greater improvements in inhibition-switching completion time over 6 months compared with the EST- group after controlling for baseline scores and age (P = .01). OA show improvements in verbal memory and executive control following 6 months of estrogen replacement. These findings in athletes, who are in their prime of neurocognitive development, underscore the need for future studies exploring cognition in OA. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT00946192. © Copyright 2017 Physicians Postgraduate Press, Inc.

Total Ossicular Replacement Prosthesis: A New Fat Interposition Technique

PubMed Central

Saliba, Issam; Sabbah, Valérie; Poirier, Jackie Bibeau

2018-01-01

Objective: To compare audiometric results between the standard total ossicular replacement prosthesis (TORP-S) and a new fat interposition total ossicular replacement prosthesis (TORP-F) in pediatric and adult patients and to assess the complication and the undesirable outcome. Study design: This is a retrospective study. Methods: This study included 104 patients who had undergone titanium implants with TORP-F and 54 patients who had undergone the procedure with TORP-S between 2008 and 2013 in our tertiary care centers. The new technique consists of interposing a fat graft between the 4 legs of the universal titanium prosthesis (Medtronic Xomed Inc, Jacksonville, FL, USA) to provide a more stable TORP in the ovale window niche. Normally, this prosthesis is designed to fit on the stapes’ head as a partial ossicular replacement prosthesis. Results: The postoperative air-bone gap less than 25 dB for the combined cohort was 69.2% and 41.7% for the TORP-F and the TORP-S groups, respectively. The mean follow-up was 17 months postoperatively. By stratifying data, the pediatric cohort shows 56.5% in the TORP-F group (n = 52) compared with 40% in the TORP-S group (n = 29). However, the adult cohort shows 79.3% in the TORP-F group (n = 52) compared with 43.75% in the TORP-S group (n = 25). These improvements in hearing were statistically significant. There were no statistically significant differences in the speech discrimination scores. The only undesirable outcome that was statistically different between the 2 groups was the prosthesis displacement: 7% in the TORP-F group compared with 19% in the TORP-S group (P = .03). Conclusions: The interposition of a fat graft between the legs of the titanium implants (TORP-F) provides superior hearing results compared with a standard procedure (TORP-S) in pediatric and adult populations because of its better stability in the oval window niche. PMID:29326537

Male-female differences and survival in patients undergoing isolated mitral valve surgery: a nationwide cohort study in the Netherlands.

PubMed

Mokhles, Mostafa M; Siregar, Sabrina; Versteegh, Michel I M; Noyez, Luc; van Putte, Bart; Vonk, Alexander B A; Roos-Hesselink, Jolien W; Bogers, Ad J J C; Takkenberg, Johanna J M

2016-09-01

The objective of this study was to compare male-female differences with respect to baseline characteristics and short-term outcome in a contemporary nationwide cohort of patients who underwent isolated mitral valve (MV) surgery. All patients [N = 3411; 58% males (N = 1977)] who underwent isolated MV surgery (replacement: N = 1048, 31%; reconstruction: N = 2364, 69%) in the Netherlands between January 2007 and December 2011 were included in this study. Differences in patient and procedural characteristics and in-hospital outcome were compared between male and female patients. Female patients were generally older (mean age, 64 vs 61 years, P < 0.001), presented more often with pulmonary hypertension (P = 0.03) and had higher logistic European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation (EuroSCORE) I (P < 0.001). Male patients presented more often with prior coronary artery bypass graft surgery (P < 0.001) and active endocarditis (P = 0.002). Female patients underwent MV replacement more often (P < 0.001) and, in case of replacement, received stented bioprostheses more often (P < 0.001). In-hospital mortality rates after MV replacement were 7% (n = 33) and 7% (n = 40) in male and female patients, respectively (OR 1.08, 95% CI 0.67-1.75; P = 0.75). In-hospital mortality rates after MV reconstruction were 1.4% (n = 21) and 1.3% (n = 11) in male and female patients, respectively (OR 0.88, 95% CI 0.42-1.84; P = 0.74). There are substantial male-female differences in patient presentation and procedural aspects in isolated MV surgery in the Netherlands. Female patients are older, have more severe disease at the time of surgery and undergo valve repair less often. Future studies are needed to identify potentially modifiable patient factors to improve the outcome of female patients with MV disease. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. All rights reserved.

Digital I and C system upgrade integration technique

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

Huang, H. W.; Shih, C.; Wang, J. R.

2012-07-01

This work developed an integration technique for digital I and C system upgrade, the utility can replace the I and C systems step by step systematically by this method. Inst. of Nuclear Energy Research (INER) developed a digital Instrumentation and Control (I and C) replacement integration technique on the basis of requirement of the three existing nuclear power plants (NPPs), which are Chin-Shan (CS) NPP, Kuo-Sheng (KS) NPP, and Maanshan (MS) NPP, in Taiwan, and also developed the related Critical Digital Review (CDR) Procedure. The digital I and C replacement integration technique includes: (I) Establishment of Nuclear Power Plant Digitalmore » Replacement Integration Guideline, (2) Preliminary Investigation on I and C System Digitalization, (3) Evaluation on I and C System Digitalization, and (4) Establishment of I and C System Digitalization Architectures. These works can be a reference for performing I and C system digital replacement integration of the three existing NPPs of Taiwan Power Company (TPC). A CDR is the review for a critical system digital I and C replacement. The major reference of this procedure is EPRI TR- 1011710 (2005) 'Handbook for Evaluating Critical Digital Equipment and Systems' which was published by the Electric Power Research Inst. (EPRI). With this document, INER developed a TPC-specific CDR procedure. Currently, CDR becomes one of the policies for digital I and C replacement in TPC. The contents of this CDR procedure include: Scope, Responsibility, Operation Procedure, Operation Flow Chart, CDR review items. The CDR review items include the comparison of the design change, Software Verification and Validation (SVandV), Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA), Evaluation of Diversity and Defense-in-depth (D3), Evaluation of Watchdog Timer, Evaluation of Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC), Evaluation of Grounding for System/Component, Seismic Evaluation, Witness and Inspection, Lessons Learnt from the Digital I and C Failure Events. A solid review can assure the quality of the digital I and C system replacement. (authors)« less

Stand Replacing Disturbance History from Object-Based Image Analysis (OBIA) of LiDAR Data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sanchez Lopez, N.; Hudak, A. T.; Boschetti, L.

2016-12-01

Spatially explicit information on the location, the extent, and the time since a stand replacing forest disturbance occured all have the potential to improve the accuracy of carbon cycle models, and ultimately to reduce the uncertainties in the global carbon budget (Frolking et al., 2009). Earth observation optical satellite data offers a unique opportunity for systematic monitoring of stand-replacing disturbances (Hansen et al., 2013) by detecting the abrupt spectral changes induced by the disturbance, but discriminates poorly between stands of different age, as spectral response of optical data saturates on closed canopy forests. Thus, the potential of optical satellite data to reconstruct the disturbance history of a forest is limited by the short time series of suitable data (starting with the launch of Landsat-1 in 1972). In contrast, LIDAR data directly reflects stand characteristics such as height and density that can be correlated to the time since disturbance. In this study we focus on Object Based Image Analysis (OBIA) of LiDAR data to identify forest stands (objects) based on the age since the last disturbance, to test whether it is possible to extend the disturbance history of a forest beyond what is possible with Landsat data. The study area was located in the Clear Creek watershed and the Selway River & Elk Creek ( 54,000 ha) inside the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests (Idaho), using airborne LiDAR data collected in 2009 (Clear Creek watershed) and 2012 (Selway River & Elk Creek). Extensive datasets of disturbances are available over the study area: decadal maps of stand-replacing fires compiled from historical photographs are available from 1870 to 1940, and yearly clearcut maps compiled from timber harvest records are available from 1950 as part of the US Forest Service FACTS (Forest ACtivity Tracking System) dataset. Additionally, a field campaign was conducted in the summer of 2016 to collect additional measurements on plots of known disturbance age, in order to better understand regrowth patterns following a disturbance and to estimate the actual age of the regeneration. This paper will present the initial results of the comparison between LIDAR-estimated disturbance maps, and historical and field data.

Hubble Space Telescope: Servicing Mission 3A. Media Reference Guide

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1999-01-01

Since its launch in April 1990, the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) has provided scientific data and images of unprecedented resolution from which many new and exciting discoveries have been made. The Telescope's purpose is to spend 20 years probing the farthest and faintest reaches of the cosmos. Crucial to fulfilling this objective is a series of on-orbit manned servicing missions. The First Servicing Mission (SM1) took place in December 1993 and the Second Servicing Mission (SM2) was flown in February 1997. During these missions, astronauts perform planned repairs and maintenance activities to restore and upgrade the observatory s capabilities. To facilitate this process, the Telescope s designers configured science instruments and several vital engineering subsystems as Orbital Replacement Units (ORU) -- modular packages with standardized fittings accessible to astronauts in pressurized suits. Hubble's Third Servicing Mission has been separated into two parts: Servicing Mission 3A (SM3A) will fly in Fall of 1999 and Servicing Mission 3B (SM3B) is planned for 2001. The principal objective of SM3A is to replace all six gyroscopes that compose the three Rate Sensor Units (RSU). In addition, space-walking astronauts will install a new Advanced Computer that will dramatically increase the computing power, speed, and storage capability of HST. They will change out one of the Fine Guidance Sensors (FGS) and replace a tape recorder with a new Solid State Recorder (SSR). The Extravehicular Activity (EVA) crew also will install a new S-band Single-Access Transmitter (SSAT), and Voltage/Temperature Improvement Kits (VIK) for the Telescope s nickel-hydrogen batteries. Finally, they will begin repair of the multilayer insulation on Hubble s outer surface. During SM3B astronauts will install a new science instrument, the Advanced Camera for Surveys (ACS), and an Aft Shroud Cooling System (ASCS) for the other axial science instruments. They will attach a new cryogenic cooler to the Near-Infrared Camera and Multi-Object Spectrometer (NICMOS). They also will replace the HST flexible Solar Arrays with new high-performance rigid arrays.

3D Stereo Data Visualization and Representation

DTIC Science & Technology

1994-09-01

will see a stereo image" (29:219). See (28) and (32) for more detail. "• Lenticular Display - The idea is stimulated by the limitation of parallax...barriers to replace the slits with a cylindrical lenses. According to Bruce Lane, "a particularly valuable feature of lenticular is the multiple viewing...the object close to the optical axis and place the object close to the spherical mirror’s focus length. 48 " Astigmatism - Astigmatism is the

Partial budget of the discounted annual benefit of mastitis control strategies.

PubMed

Allore, H G; Erb, H N

1998-08-01

The objective of this study was to rank the benefits associated with various mastitis control strategies in simulated herds with intramammary infections caused by Streptococcus agalactiae, Streptococcus spp. other than Strep. agalactiae, Staphylococcus aureus, coagulase-negative staphylococci, and Escherichia coli. The control strategies tested were prevention, vaccination for E. coli, lactation therapy, and dry cow antibiotic therapy. Partial budgets were based on changes caused by mastitis control strategies from the mean values for milk, fat, and protein yields of the control herd and the number of cows that were culled under a fixed mastitis culling criterion. Each annual benefit (dollars per cow per year) of a mastitis control strategy was compared with the revenue for the control herd and was calculated under two different milk pricing plans (3.5% milk fat and multiple-component pricing), three net replacement costs, and three prevalences of pathogen-specific intramammary infection. Twenty replicates of each control strategy were run with SIMMAST (a dynamic discrete event stochastic simulation model) for 5 simulated yr. Rankings of discounted annual benefits differed only slightly according to milk pricing plans within a pathogen group but differed among the pathogen groups. Differences in net replacement costs for cows culled because of mastitis did not change the ranking of control strategies within a pathogen group. Both prevention and dry cow therapy were important mastitis control strategies. For herds primarily infected with environmental pathogens, strategies that included vaccination for mastitis caused by E. coli dominated strategies that did not include vaccination against this microorganism.

Change in lean body mass is a major determinant of change in areal bone mineral density of the proximal femur: a 12-year observational study.

PubMed

Liu-Ambrose, T; Kravetsky, L; Bailey, D; Sherar, L; Mundt, C; Baxter-Jones, A; Khan, K M; McKay, H A

2006-09-01

Our objective was to assess the contribution of lean body mass (LBM) and fat body mass (FBM) to areal bone mineral density (aBMD) in women during the years surrounding menopause. We used a 12-year observational design. Participants included 75 Caucasian women who were premenopausal, 53 of whom were available for follow-up. There were two measurement periods: baseline and 12-year follow-up. At both measurement periods, bone mineral content and aBMD of the proximal femur, posterior-anterior lumbar spine, and total body was assessed using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). LBM and FBM were derived from the total-body scans. General health, including current menopausal status, hormone replace therapy use, medication use, and physical activity, was assessed by questionnaires. At the end of the study, 44% of the women were postmenopausal. After controlling for baseline aBMD, current menopausal status, and current hormone replacement therapy, we found that change in LBM was independently associated with change in aBMD of the proximal femur (P = 0.001). The cross-sectional analyses also indicated that LBM was a significant determinant of aBMD of all three DXA-scanned sites at both baseline and follow-up. These novel longitudinal data highlight the important contribution of LBM to the maintenance of proximal femur bone mass at a key time in women's life span, the years surrounding menopause.

Hereditary hemochromatosis as a risk factor for joint replacement surgery.

PubMed

Sahinbegovic, Enijad; Dallos, Tomás; Aigner, Elmar; Axmann, Roland; Engelbrecht, Matthias; Schöniger-Hekele, Maximilian; Karonitsch, Thomas; Farkas, Martin; Karger, Thomas; Willeit, Johann; Stölzel, Ulrich; Keysser, Gernot; Datz, Christian; Kiechl, Stefan; Schett, Georg; Zwerina, Jochen

2010-07-01

Hemochromatosis is an inherited disease with iron overload and joint involvement resembling osteoarthritis. To determine the rate of joint replacement surgery in patients with hemochromatosis, we performed a cross-sectional cohort study. A total of 199 individuals with hereditary hemochromatosis were included. The prevalence of joint replacement surgery in hip, knee, and ankle joints because of secondary osteoarthritis was assessed. Data were compared with 917 healthy subjects from the population-based Bruneck study. A total of 32 of 199 individuals with hemochromatosis received joint replacement surgery with a total number of 52 joints replaced. Compared with expected rates in healthy individuals, patients with hemochromatosis had a significantly higher risk for joint replacement surgery (odds ratio 9.0; confidence interval, 4.6-17.4). Joint replacement occurred significantly earlier in life in patients with hemochromatosis; 21.9% of the patients with hemochromatosis and 1.7% of healthy individuals required joint replacement before the age of 50 years (P=.0027). Moreover, patients with hemochromatosis were more likely to require multiple joint replacements (8.5%) than the control group (expected rate 0.3%; P=.0001). Hemochromatosis is a risk factor for joint replacement surgery because of severe secondary osteoarthritis. Copyright 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Risk factors for renal dysfunction after total knee joint replacement.

PubMed

Hassan, Basim K; Sahlström, Arne; Dessau, Ram B

2015-12-01

Renal injury and dysfunction are serious complications after major surgery, which may lead to increased morbidity and mortality. The objective of our study was to identify the possible risk factors for renal dysfunction after total knee joint replacement. A retrospective study was conducted among 702 consecutive primary knee joint replacements performed between January 2009 and December 2012 in our department. Increased postoperative serum creatinine was considered indicative of postoperative renal injury according to RIFLE criteria. Sixty three patients (9.7%) had significant moderate or severe postoperative renal dysfunction in which 8 patients (1.2%) ended with severe and permanent renal impairment. Advanced age, low intraoperative blood pressure, hypertension, general anaesthesia, and prophylactic dicloxacillin were identified as significant risk factors. Male gender and BMI were independent risk factors for postoperative increase in serum creatinine. Smoking, female gender, diabetes mellitus and duration of surgery were not identified as significant risk factors.

An aftereffect of adaptation to mean size

PubMed Central

Corbett, Jennifer E.; Wurnitsch, Nicole; Schwartz, Alex; Whitney, David

2013-01-01

The visual system rapidly represents the mean size of sets of objects. Here, we investigated whether mean size is explicitly encoded by the visual system, along a single dimension like texture, numerosity, and other visual dimensions susceptible to adaptation. Observers adapted to two sets of dots with different mean sizes, presented simultaneously in opposite visual fields. After adaptation, two test patches replaced the adapting dot sets, and participants judged which test appeared to have the larger average dot diameter. They generally perceived the test that replaced the smaller mean size adapting set as being larger than the test that replaced the larger adapting set. This differential aftereffect held for single test dots (Experiment 2) and high-pass filtered displays (Experiment 3), and changed systematically as a function of the variance of the adapting dot sets (Experiment 4), providing additional support that mean size is adaptable, and therefore explicitly encoded dimension of visual scenes. PMID:24348083

Development of Replacements for Phoscoating Used in Forging, Extrusion and Metal Forming Processes

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

Kerry Barnett

2003-03-01

Many forging, extrusion, heading and other metal forming processes use graphite-based lubricants, phosphate coatings, and other potentially hazardous or harmful substances to improve the tribology of the metal forming process. The application of phosphate-based coatings has long been studied to determine if other synthetic ''clean'' lubricants could provide the same degree of protection afforded by phoscoatings and its formulations. So far, none meets the cost and performance objectives provided by phoscoatings as a general aid to the metal forming industry. In as much as phoscoatings and graphite have replaced lead-based lubricants, the metal forming industry has had previous experience withmore » a legislated requirement to change processes. However, without a proactive approach to phoscoating replacement, many metal forming processes could find themselves without a cost effective tribology material necessary for the metal forming process« less

Clinically Significant Weight Gain One Year After Occupational Back Injury

PubMed Central

Keeney, Benjamin J.; Fulton-Kehoe, Deborah; Wickizer, Thomas M.; Turner, Judith A.; Chan, Kwun Chuen Gary; Franklin, Gary M.

2014-01-01

Objective To examine the incidence of clinically significant weight gain one year after occupational back injury, and risk factors for that gain. Methods A cohort of Washington State workers with wage-replacement benefits for back injuries completed baseline and 1-year follow-up telephone interviews. We obtained additional measures from claims and medical records. Results Among 1,263 workers, 174 (13.8%) reported clinically significant weight gain (≥7%) 1 year after occupational back injury. Women and workers who had >180 days on wage replacement at 1 year were twice as likely (adjusted OR=2.17, 95% CI=1.54–3.07; adjusted OR=2.40, 95% CI=1.63–3.53, respectively; both P<0.001) to have clinically significant weight gain. Conclusions Women and workers on wage replacement >180 days may be susceptible to clinically significant weight gain following occupational back injury. PMID:23247606

41 CFR 302-9.175 - When I am authorized to transport a POV, including a replacement POV, to my post of duty...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... transport a POV, including a replacement POV, to my post of duty subsequent to the time of my assignment to... and Property Management Federal Travel Regulation System RELOCATION ALLOWANCES TRANSPORTATION AND... OWNED VEHICLE Transportation Pov Transportation Subsequent to the Time of Assignment § 302-9.175 When I...

41 CFR 302-9.175 - When I am authorized to transport a POV, including a replacement POV, to my post of duty...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... transport a POV, including a replacement POV, to my post of duty subsequent to the time of my assignment to... and Property Management Federal Travel Regulation System RELOCATION ALLOWANCES TRANSPORTATION AND... Transportation Pov Transportation Subsequent to the Time of Assignment § 302-9.175 When I am authorized to...

41 CFR 302-9.175 - When I am authorized to transport a POV, including a replacement POV, to my post of duty...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... transport a POV, including a replacement POV, to my post of duty subsequent to the time of my assignment to... and Property Management Federal Travel Regulation System RELOCATION ALLOWANCES TRANSPORTATION AND... OWNED VEHICLE Transportation Pov Transportation Subsequent to the Time of Assignment § 302-9.175 When I...

41 CFR 302-9.175 - When I am authorized to transport a POV, including a replacement POV, to my post of duty...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... transport a POV, including a replacement POV, to my post of duty subsequent to the time of my assignment to... and Property Management Federal Travel Regulation System RELOCATION ALLOWANCES TRANSPORTATION AND... OWNED VEHICLE Transportation Pov Transportation Subsequent to the Time of Assignment § 302-9.175 When I...

41 CFR 302-9.175 - When I am authorized to transport a POV, including a replacement POV, to my post of duty...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... transport a POV, including a replacement POV, to my post of duty subsequent to the time of my assignment to... and Property Management Federal Travel Regulation System RELOCATION ALLOWANCES TRANSPORTATION AND... Transportation Pov Transportation Subsequent to the Time of Assignment § 302-9.175 When I am authorized to...

Hormone replacement therapy: short-term versus long-term use.

PubMed

Rousseau, Mary Ellen

2002-01-01

Midwives manage health care of women throughout the life cycle including prescribing hormone replacement therapy (HRT). This article presents a history of research on the use of HRT, as well as risks and benefits. Older research on the effects of HRT on heart disease, osteoporosis, and breast cancer is included. The results and recommendations of the Women's Health Initiative are examined.

49 CFR 24.304 - Reestablishment expenses-nonresidential moves.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... determined by the Agency. They include, but are not limited to, the following: (1) Repairs or improvements to... advertise the business. (4) Redecoration or replacement of soiled or worn surfaces at the replacement site...

49 CFR 24.304 - Reestablishment expenses-nonresidential moves.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... determined by the Agency. They include, but are not limited to, the following: (1) Repairs or improvements to... advertise the business. (4) Redecoration or replacement of soiled or worn surfaces at the replacement site...

77 FR 46767 - Plantings Associated with Eligible Facilities (RP9524.5)

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-08-06

... for replacement of grass and sod associated with facilities eligible for repair and restoration. Limited instances when plantings are eligible include grass and sod replacement if it is an integral part...

A Study on Suitability of EAF Oxidizing Slag in Concrete: An Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Replacement for Natural Coarse Aggregate

PubMed Central

Sekaran, Alan; Palaniswamy, Murthi; Balaraju, Sivagnanaprakash

2015-01-01

Environmental and economic factors increasingly encourage higher utility of industrial by-products. The basic objective of this study was to identify alternative source for good quality aggregates which is depleting very fast due to fast pace of construction activities in India. EAF oxidizing slag as a by-product obtained during the process in steel making industry provides great opportunity to utilize it as an alternative to normally available coarse aggregates. The primary aim of this research was to evaluate the physical, mechanical, and durability properties of concrete made with EAF oxidizing slag in addition to supplementary cementing material fly ash. This study presents the experimental investigations carried out on concrete grades of M20 and M30 with three mixes: (i) Mix A, conventional concrete mix with no material substitution, (ii) Mix B, 30% replacement of cement with fly ash, and (iii) Mix C, 30% replacement of cement with fly ash and 50% replacement of coarse aggregate with EAF oxidizing slag. Tests were conducted to determine mechanical and durability properties up to the age of 90 days. The test results concluded that concrete made with EAF oxidizing slag and fly ash (Mix C) had greater strength and durability characteristics when compared to Mix A and Mix B. Based on the overall observations, it could be recommended that EAF oxidizing slag and fly ash could be effectively utilized as coarse aggregate replacement and cement replacement in all concrete applications. PMID:26421315

A Study on Suitability of EAF Oxidizing Slag in Concrete: An Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Replacement for Natural Coarse Aggregate.

PubMed

Sekaran, Alan; Palaniswamy, Murthi; Balaraju, Sivagnanaprakash

2015-01-01

Environmental and economic factors increasingly encourage higher utility of industrial by-products. The basic objective of this study was to identify alternative source for good quality aggregates which is depleting very fast due to fast pace of construction activities in India. EAF oxidizing slag as a by-product obtained during the process in steel making industry provides great opportunity to utilize it as an alternative to normally available coarse aggregates. The primary aim of this research was to evaluate the physical, mechanical, and durability properties of concrete made with EAF oxidizing slag in addition to supplementary cementing material fly ash. This study presents the experimental investigations carried out on concrete grades of M20 and M30 with three mixes: (i) Mix A, conventional concrete mix with no material substitution, (ii) Mix B, 30% replacement of cement with fly ash, and (iii) Mix C, 30% replacement of cement with fly ash and 50% replacement of coarse aggregate with EAF oxidizing slag. Tests were conducted to determine mechanical and durability properties up to the age of 90 days. The test results concluded that concrete made with EAF oxidizing slag and fly ash (Mix C) had greater strength and durability characteristics when compared to Mix A and Mix B. Based on the overall observations, it could be recommended that EAF oxidizing slag and fly ash could be effectively utilized as coarse aggregate replacement and cement replacement in all concrete applications.

Seasonality of service provision in hip and knee surgery: a possible contributor to waiting times? A time series analysis.

PubMed

Upshur, Ross E G; Moineddin, Rahim; Crighton, Eric J; Mamdani, Muhammad

2006-03-01

The question of how best to reduce waiting times for health care, particularly surgical procedures such as hip and knee replacements is among the most pressing concern of the Canadian health care system. The objective of this study was to test the hypothesis that significant seasonal variation exists in the performance of hip and knee replacement surgery in the province of Ontario. We performed a retrospective, cross-sectional time series analysis examining all hip and knee replacement surgeries in people over the age of 65 in the province of Ontario, Canada between 1992 and 2002. The main outcome measure was monthly hospitalization rates per 100,000 population for all hip and knee replacements. There was a marked increase in the rate of hip and knee replacement surgery over the 10-year period as well as an increasing seasonal variation in surgeries. Highly significant (Fisher Kappa = 16.05, p < 0.01; Bartlett-Kolmogorov-Smirnov Test = 0.31, p < 0.01) and strong (R2Autoreg = 0.85) seasonality was identified in the data. Holidays and utilization caps appear to exert a significant influence on the rate of service provision. It is expected that waiting times for hip and knee replacement could be reduced by reducing seasonal fluctuations in service provision and benchmarking services to peak delivery. The results highlight the importance of system behaviour in seasonal fluctuation of service delivery.

Seasonality of service provision in hip and knee surgery: A possible contributor to waiting times? A time series analysis

PubMed Central

Upshur, Ross EG; Moineddin, Rahim; Crighton, Eric J; Mamdani, Muhammad

2006-01-01

Background The question of how best to reduce waiting times for health care, particularly surgical procedures such as hip and knee replacements is among the most pressing concern of the Canadian health care system. The objective of this study was to test the hypothesis that significant seasonal variation exists in the performance of hip and knee replacement surgery in the province of Ontario. Methods We performed a retrospective, cross-sectional time series analysis examining all hip and knee replacement surgeries in people over the age of 65 in the province of Ontario, Canada between 1992 and 2002. The main outcome measure was monthly hospitalization rates per 100 000 population for all hip and knee replacements. Results There was a marked increase in the rate of hip and knee replacement surgery over the 10-year period as well as an increasing seasonal variation in surgeries. Highly significant (Fisher Kappa = 16.05, p < 0.01; Bartlett-Kolmogorov-Smirnov Test = 0.31, p < 0.01) and strong (R2Autoreg = 0.85) seasonality was identified in the data. Conclusion Holidays and utilization caps appear to exert a significant influence on the rate of service provision. It is expected that waiting times for hip and knee replacement could be reduced by reducing seasonal fluctuations in service provision and benchmarking services to peak delivery. The results highlight the importance of system behaviour in seasonal fluctuation of service delivery. PMID:16509992

Identification of breeding objectives for Begait goat in western Tigray, North Ethiopia.

PubMed

Abraham, Hagos; Gizaw, Solomon; Urge, Mengistu

2018-06-21

A sound breeding objective is the basis for genetic improvement in overall economic merit of farm animals. Begait goat is one of the identified breeds in Ethiopia, which is a multipurpose breed as it serves as source of cash income and source of food (meat and milk). Despite its importance, no formal breeding objectives exist for Begait goat. The objective of the present study was to identify breeding objectives for the breed through two approaches: using own-flock ranking experiment and developing deterministic bio-economic models as a preliminary step towards designing sustainable breeding programs for the breed. In the own-flock ranking experiment, a total of 45 households were visited at their homesteads and were asked to select, with reasons, the first best, second best, third best, and the most inferior does from their own flock. Age, previous reproduction, and production information of the identified animals were inquired; live body weight and some linear body measurements were taken. The bio-economic model included performance traits (weights, daily weight gain, kidding interval, litter size, milk yield, kid mortality, pregnancy, and replacement rates) and economic (revenue and costs) parameters. It was observed that there was close agreement between the farmers' ranking and bio-economic model results. In general, the results of the present study indicated that Begait goat owners could improve performance of their goats and profitability of their farms by selecting for 6-month weight, litter size, pre-weaning kid survival rate, and milk yield.

Resource Allocation--The Case of the Australian National University.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jackson, G. W.

1982-01-01

A historical, incremental method for allocating resources in the Institute for Advanced Studies in recent years is being replaced by a new approach involving the identification of purposes and pursuits and evaluation of their importance. Greater responsiveness to unit needs is the objective. (MSE)

The Future of USMC Amphibious Doctrine

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-05-01

project power ashore. They are designed to functionally replace more than 41 ships (the LPD 4, LSD 36, LKA 113 and LST 1179 classes of amphibious...the Interwar Period. Cambridge University Press 1996. Shaw , Scott E. An Objective Oriented Ship to Shore Movement Analysis Model. Naval Post

Decision Support for Renewal of Wastewater Collection and Water Distribution Systems

EPA Science Inventory

The objective of this study was to identify the current decision support methodologies, models and approaches being used for determining how to rehabilitate or replace underground utilities; identify the critical gaps of these current models through comparison with case history d...

Carbon offsets from improved swine manure management using aerobic treatment technology

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Aerobic treatment of manure is an accepted manure management system under protocols adopted through the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). Our objectives were to determine greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reductions from replacement of anaerobic lagoons with aerobic treatme...

Current state of micro-robots/devices as substitutes for screening colonoscopy: assessment based on technology readiness levels.

PubMed

Tapia-Siles, Silvia C; Coleman, Stuart; Cuschieri, Alfred

2016-02-01

Previous reports have described several candidates, which have the potential to replace colonoscopy, but to date, there is still no device capable of fully replacing flexible colonoscopy in the management of colonic disorders and for mass adult population screening for asymptomatic colorectal cancer. NASA developed the TRL methodology to describe and define the stages of development before use and marketing of any device. The definitions of the TRLS used in the present review are those formulated by "The US Department of Defense Technology Readiness Assessment Guidance" but adapted to micro-robots for colonoscopy. All the devices included are reported in scientific literature. They were identified by a systematic search in Web of Science, PubMed and IEEE Xplore amongst other sources. Devices that clearly lack the potential for full replacement of flexible colonoscopy were excluded. The technological salient features of all the devices included for assessment are described briefly, with particular focus on device propulsion. The devices are classified according to the TRL criteria based on the reported information. An analysis is next undertaken of the characteristics and salient features of the devices included in the review: wireless/tethered devices, data storage-transmission and navigation, additional functionality, residual technology challenges and clinical and socio-economical needs. Few devices currently possess the required functionality and performance to replace the conventional colonoscopy. The requirements, including functionalities which favour the development of a micro-robot platform to replace colonoscopy, are highlighted.

KSC01pd1736

NASA Image and Video Library

2001-11-26

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- A piece of equipment for Hubble Space Telescope Servicing mission is moved inside Hangar AE, Cape Canaveral. In the canister is the Advanced Camera for Surveys (ACS). The ACS will increase the discovery efficiency of the HST by a factor of ten. It consists of three electronic cameras and a complement of filters and dispersers that detect light from the ultraviolet to the near infrared (1200 - 10,000 angstroms). The ACS was built through a collaborative effort between Johns Hopkins University, Goddard Space Flight Center, Ball Aerospace Corporation and Space Telescope Science Institute. The goal of the mission, STS-109, is to service the HST, replacing Solar Array 2 with Solar Array 3, replacing the Power Control Unit, removing the Faint Object Camera and installing the ACS, installing the Near Infrared Camera and Multi-Object Spectrometer (NICMOS) Cooling System, and installing New Outer Blanket Layer insulation on bays 5 through 8. Mission STS-109 is scheduled for launch Feb. 14, 2002

KSC01pd1735

NASA Image and Video Library

2001-11-26

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. - A piece of equipment for Hubble Space Telescope Servicing mission arrives at Hangar AE, Cape Canaveral. Inside the canister is the Advanced Camera for Surveys (ACS). The ACS will increase the discovery efficiency of the HST by a factor of ten. It consists of three electronic cameras and a complement of filters and dispersers that detect light from the ultraviolet to the near infrared (1200 - 10,000 angstroms). The ACS was built through a collaborative effort between Johns Hopkins University, Goddard Space Flight Center, Ball Aerospace Corporation and Space Telescope Science Institute. The goal of the mission, STS-109, is to service the HST, replacing Solar Array 2 with Solar Array 3, replacing the Power Control Unit, removing the Faint Object Camera and installing the ACS, installing the Near Infrared Camera and Multi-Object Spectrometer (NICMOS) Cooling System, and installing New Outer Blanket Layer insulation on bays 5 through 8. Mission STS-109 is scheduled for launch Feb. 14, 2002

An Overview of data science uses in bioimage informatics.

PubMed

Chessel, Anatole

2017-02-15

This review aims at providing a practical overview of the use of statistical features and associated data science methods in bioimage informatics. To achieve a quantitative link between images and biological concepts, one typically replaces an object coming from an image (a segmented cell or intracellular object, a pattern of expression or localisation, even a whole image) by a vector of numbers. They range from carefully crafted biologically relevant measurements to features learnt through deep neural networks. This replacement allows for the use of practical algorithms for visualisation, comparison and inference, such as the ones from machine learning or multivariate statistics. While originating mainly, for biology, in high content screening, those methods are integral to the use of data science for the quantitative analysis of microscopy images to gain biological insight, and they are sure to gather more interest as the need to make sense of the increasing amount of acquired imaging data grows more pressing. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Clinical Validation of Therapeutic Drug Monitoring of Imipenem in Spent Effluent in Critically Ill Patients Receiving Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy: A Pilot Study

PubMed Central

Wen, Aiping; Li, Zhe; Yu, Junxian; Li, Ren; Cheng, Sheng; Duan, Meili; Bai, Jing

2016-01-01

Objectives The primary objective of this pilot study was to investigate whether the therapeutic drug monitoring of imipenem could be performed with spent effluent instead of blood sampling collected from critically ill patients under continuous renal replacement therapy. Methods A prospective open-label study was conducted in a real clinical setting. Both blood and effluent samples were collected pairwise before imipenem administration and 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 3, 4, 6, and 8 h after imipenem administration. Plasma and effluent imipenem concentrations were determined by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detection. Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic parameters of blood and effluent samples were calculated. Results Eighty-three paired plasma and effluent samples were obtained from 10 patients. The Pearson correlation coefficient of the imipenem concentrations in plasma and effluent was 0.950 (P<0.0001). The average plasma-to-effluent imipenem concentration ratio was 1.044 (95% confidence interval, 0.975 to 1.114) with Bland-Altman analysis. No statistically significant difference was found in the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic parameters tested in paired plasma and effluent samples with Wilcoxon test. Conclusion Spent effluent of continuous renal replacement therapy could be used for therapeutic drug monitoring of imipenem instead of blood sampling in critically ill patients. PMID:27093294

Description of the rates, trends and surgical burden associated with revision for prosthetic joint infection following primary and revision knee replacements in England and Wales: an analysis of the National Joint Registry for England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man

PubMed Central

Lenguerrand, Erik; Whitehouse, Michael R; Beswick, Andrew D; Toms, Andrew D; Porter, Martyn L; Blom, Ashley W

2017-01-01

Objectives To describe the prevalence rates of revision surgery for the treatment of prosthetic joint infection (PJI) for patients undergoing knee replacement, their time trends, the cumulative incidence function of revision for PJI and estimate the burden of PJI at health service level. Design We analysed revision knee replacements performed due to a diagnosis of PJI and the linked index procedures recorded in the National Joint Registry from 2003 to 2014 for England and Wales. The cohort analysed consisted of 679 010 index primary knee replacements, 33 920 index revision knee replacements and 8247 revision total knee replacements performed due to a diagnosis of PJI. The prevalence rates, their time trends investigated by time from index surgery to revision for PJI, cumulative incidence functions and the burden of PJI (total procedures) were calculated. Overall linear trends were investigated with log-linear regression. Results The incidence of revision total knee replacement due to PJI at 2 years was 3.2/1000 following primary and 14.4/1000 following revision knee replacement, respectively. The prevalence of revision due to PJI in the 3 months following primary knee replacement has risen by 2.5-fold (95% CI 1.2 to 5.3) from 2005 to 2013 and 7.5-fold (95% CI 1.0 to 56.1) following revision knee replacement. Over 1000 procedures per year are performed as a consequence of knee PJI, an increase of 2.8 from 2005 to 2013. Overall, 75% of revisions were two-stage with an increase in use of single-stage from 7.9% in 2005 to 18.8% in 2014. Conclusions Although the risk of revision due to PJI following knee replacement is low, it is rising, and coupled with the established and further predicted increased incidence of both primary and revision knee replacements, this represents an increasing and substantial treatment burden for orthopaedic service delivery in England and Wales. This has implications for future service design and the funding of individual and specialist centres. PMID:28698316

75 FR 7411 - Schedule of Water Charges

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-02-19

... sale revenues, while the costs of reservoir maintenance and operations, contractual services and..., ``including debt service, operation, maintenance, replacement, reserves, and associated administrative costs... holds funds dedicated to pay the costs of project construction, operation, maintenance, and replacement...

Implementation of cost-effective diffuse light source mechanism to reduce specular reflection and halo effects for resistor-image processing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Yung-Sheng; Wang, Jeng-Yau

2015-09-01

Light source plays a significant role to acquire a qualified image from objects for facilitating the image processing and pattern recognition. For objects possessing specular surface, the phenomena of reflection and halo appearing in the acquired image will increase the difficulty of information processing. Such a situation may be improved by the assistance of valuable diffuse light source. Consider reading resistor via computer vision, due to the resistor's specular reflective surface it will face with a severe non-uniform luminous intensity on image yielding a higher error rate in recognition without a well-controlled light source. A measurement system including mainly a digital microscope embedded in a replaceable diffuse cover, a ring-type LED embedded onto a small pad carrying a resistor for evaluation, and Arduino microcontrollers connected with PC, is presented in this paper. Several replaceable cost-effective diffuse covers made by paper bowl, cup and box inside pasted with white paper are presented for reducing specular reflection and halo effects and compared with a commercial diffuse some. The ring-type LED can be flexibly configured to be a full or partial lighting based on the application. For each self-made diffuse cover, a set of resistors with 4 or 5 color bands are captured via digital microscope for experiments. The signal-to-noise ratio from the segmented resistor-image is used for performance evaluation. The detected principal axis of resistor body is used for the partial LED configuration to further improve the lighting condition. Experimental results confirm that the proposed mechanism can not only evaluate the cost-effective diffuse light source but also be extended as an automatic recognition system for resistor reading.

Safety in the operating room during orthopedic trauma surgery-incidence of adverse events related to technical equipment and logistics.

PubMed

van Delft, E A K; Schepers, T; Bonjer, H J; Kerkhoffs, G M M J; Goslings, J C; Schep, N W L

2018-04-01

Safety in the operating room is widely debated. Adverse events during surgery are potentially dangerous for the patient and staff. The incidence of adverse events during orthopedic trauma surgery is unknown. Therefore, we performed a study to quantify the incidence of these adverse events. Primary objective was to determine the incidence of adverse events related to technical equipment and logistics. The secondary objective was to evaluate the consequences of these adverse events. We completed a cross-sectional observational study to assess the incidence, consequences and preventability of adverse events related to technical equipment and logistics during orthopedic trauma surgery. During a 10 week period, all orthopedic trauma operations were evaluated by an observer. Six types of procedures were differentiated: osteosynthesis; arthroscopy; removal of hardware; joint replacement; bone grafting and other. Adverse events were divided in six categories: staff dependent factors; patient dependent factors; anaesthesia; imaging equipment; operation room equipment and instruments and implants. Adverse events were defined as any factor affecting the surgical procedure in a negative way. Hundred-fifty operative procedures were included. In 54% of the procedures, at least one adverse event occurred. In total, 147 adverse events occurred, with a range of 1-5 per procedure. Most adverse events occurred during joint replacement procedures. Thirty-seven percent of the incidents concerned defect, incorrect connected or absent instruments. In 36% of the procedures adverse events resulted in a prolonged operation time with a median prolongation of 10.0 min. In more than half of orthopedic trauma surgical procedures adverse events related to technical equipment and logistics occurred, most of them could easily be prevented. These adverse events could endanger the safety of the patient and staff and should therefore be reduced. 4.

Redesigning a joint replacement program using Lean Six Sigma in a Veterans Affairs hospital.

PubMed

Gayed, Benjamin; Black, Stephen; Daggy, Joanne; Munshi, Imtiaz A

2013-11-01

In April 2009, an analysis of joint replacement surgical procedures at the Richard L. Roudebush Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Indianapolis, Indiana, revealed that total hip and knee replacements incurred $1.4 million in non-Veterans Affairs (VA) care costs with an average length of stay of 6.1 days during fiscal year 2008. The Joint Replacement Program system redesign project was initiated following the Vision-Analysis-Team-Aim-Map-Measure-Change-Sustain (VA-TAMMCS) model to increase efficiency, decrease length of stay, and reduce non-VA care costs. To determine the effectiveness of Lean Six Sigma process improvement methods applied in a VA hospital. Perioperative processes for patients undergoing total joint replacement were redesigned following the VA-TAMMCS model--the VA's official, branded method of Lean Six Sigma process improvement. A multidisciplinary team including the orthopedic surgeons, frontline staff, and executive management identified waste in the current processes and initiated changes to reduce waste and increase efficiency. Data collection included a 1-year baseline period and a 20-month sustainment period. The primary endpoint was length of stay; a secondary analysis considered non-VA care cost reductions. Length of stay decreased 36% overall, decreasing from 5.3 days during the preproject period to 3.4 days during the 20-month sustainment period (P < .001). Non-VA care was completely eliminated for patients undergoing total hip and knee replacement at the Richard L. Roudebush Veterans Affairs Medical Center, producing an estimated return on investment of $1 million annually when compared with baseline cost and volumes. In addition, the volume of total joint replacements at this center increased during the data collection period. The success of the Joint Replacement Program demonstrates that VA-TAMMCS is an effective tool for Lean and Six Sigma process improvement initiatives in a surgical practice, producing a 36% sustained reduction in length of stay and completely eliminating non-VA care for total hip and knee replacements while increasing total joint replacement volume at this medical center.

Hormone replacement therapy in young women with primary ovarian insufficiency and early menopause

PubMed Central

Sullivan, Shannon D.; Sarrel, Philip M.; Nelson, Lawrence M.

2016-01-01

Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) is a rare but important cause of ovarian hormone deficiency and infertility in women. In addition to causing infertility, POI is associated with multiple health risks, including bothersome menopausal symptoms, decreased bone density and increased risk of fractures, early progression of cardiovascular disease, psychological impact that may include depression, anxiety, and decreased perceived psychosocial support, potential early decline in cognition, and dry eye syndrome. Appropriate hormone replacement therapy to replace premenopausal levels of ovarian sex steroids is paramount to increasing quality of life for women with POI and ameliorating associated health risks. In this review, we discuss POI and complications associated with this disorder, as well as safe and effective hormone replacement therapy options. To decrease morbidity associated with POI, we recommend using HRT formulations that most closely mimic normal ovarian hormone production and continuing HRT until the normal age of natural menopause, ~50 years. We address special populations of women with POI, including women with Turner Syndrome, women with increased risk of breast or ovarian cancer, women approaching the age of natural menopause, and breastfeeding women. PMID:27912889

The ambiguous and bewitching power of knowledge, skills and attitudes leads to confusing statements of learning objectives.

PubMed

Guilbert, J-J

2002-01-01

The words "knowledge", "skills" and "attitudes" are given different meanings by health personnel when discussing educational issues. Ambiguity is known as a handicap to efficient communication. In the design of a curriculum the quality of the definition of learning objectives plays a fundamental role. If learning objectives lack clarity, learners and teachers will face operational difficulties. As Robert Mager said, "If you are not certain of where you are going you may very well end up somewhere else and not even know it". Knowledge is not only memory of facts but what you do with it. The complexity of human behaviour should not be underestimated. This is why educational objectives need active non-ambiguous verbs in order to achieve better communication between teachers and learners and to assess that complexity. This is why I suggest using the expression intellectual skill (or competence) as meaning "a rational decision or act". Sensomotor skill (or competence) would replace "skills" as presently used and cover only "acts which require a neuromuscular coordination". Interpersonal communication skill (or competence) would replace "attitude(s)" and be limited to "verbal and non-verbal relation between persons". As the level of validity of assessment of learners' competencies is linked to the clarity of learning objectives, it is hoped that the above suggestions will raise the overall level of validity of the evaluation system. This is why it is important that everybody understands, in the same manner, the meaning of a learning objective. It will help learners to focus their learning efforts on the right target. It will help teachers to ensure the relevance to health needs of their teaching and the validity of assessment instruments. In both cases it will be beneficial to the health of the population.

Japan Society of Gynecologic Oncology guidelines 2013 for the treatment of uterine body neoplasms.

PubMed

Ebina, Yasuhiko; Katabuchi, Hidetaka; Mikami, Mikio; Nagase, Satoru; Yaegashi, Nobuo; Udagawa, Yasuhiro; Kato, Hidenori; Kubushiro, Kaneyuki; Takamatsu, Kiyoshi; Ino, Kazuhiko; Yoshikawa, Hiroyuki

2016-06-01

The third version of the Japan Society of Gynecologic Oncology guidelines for the treatment of uterine body neoplasms was published in 2013. The guidelines comprise nine chapters and nine algorithms. Each chapter includes a clinical question, recommendations, background, objectives, explanations, and references. This revision was intended to collect up-to-date international evidence. The highlights of this revision are to (1) newly specify costs and conflicts of interest; (2) describe the clinical significance of pelvic lymph node dissection and para-aortic lymphadenectomy, including variant histologic types; (3) describe more clearly the indications for laparoscopic surgery as the standard treatment; (4) provide guidelines for post-treatment hormone replacement therapy; (5) clearly differentiate treatment of advanced or recurrent cancer between the initial treatment and the treatment carried out after the primary operation; (6) collectively describe fertility-sparing therapy for both atypical endometrial hyperplasia and endometrioid adenocarcinoma (corresponding to G1) and newly describe relapse therapy after fertility-preserving treatment; and (7) newly describe the treatment of trophoblastic disease. Overall, the objective of these guidelines is to clearly delineate the standard of care for uterine body neoplasms in Japan with the goal of ensuring a high standard of care for all Japanese women diagnosed with uterine body neoplasms.

Application of response surface techniques to helicopter rotor blade optimization procedure

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Henderson, Joseph Lynn; Walsh, Joanne L.; Young, Katherine C.

1995-01-01

In multidisciplinary optimization problems, response surface techniques can be used to replace the complex analyses that define the objective function and/or constraints with simple functions, typically polynomials. In this work a response surface is applied to the design optimization of a helicopter rotor blade. In previous work, this problem has been formulated with a multilevel approach. Here, the response surface takes advantage of this decomposition and is used to replace the lower level, a structural optimization of the blade. Problems that were encountered and important considerations in applying the response surface are discussed. Preliminary results are also presented that illustrate the benefits of using the response surface.

A PSO-Based Hybrid Metaheuristic for Permutation Flowshop Scheduling Problems

PubMed Central

Zhang, Le; Wu, Jinnan

2014-01-01

This paper investigates the permutation flowshop scheduling problem (PFSP) with the objectives of minimizing the makespan and the total flowtime and proposes a hybrid metaheuristic based on the particle swarm optimization (PSO). To enhance the exploration ability of the hybrid metaheuristic, a simulated annealing hybrid with a stochastic variable neighborhood search is incorporated. To improve the search diversification of the hybrid metaheuristic, a solution replacement strategy based on the pathrelinking is presented to replace the particles that have been trapped in local optimum. Computational results on benchmark instances show that the proposed PSO-based hybrid metaheuristic is competitive with other powerful metaheuristics in the literature. PMID:24672389

A PSO-based hybrid metaheuristic for permutation flowshop scheduling problems.

PubMed

Zhang, Le; Wu, Jinnan

2014-01-01

This paper investigates the permutation flowshop scheduling problem (PFSP) with the objectives of minimizing the makespan and the total flowtime and proposes a hybrid metaheuristic based on the particle swarm optimization (PSO). To enhance the exploration ability of the hybrid metaheuristic, a simulated annealing hybrid with a stochastic variable neighborhood search is incorporated. To improve the search diversification of the hybrid metaheuristic, a solution replacement strategy based on the pathrelinking is presented to replace the particles that have been trapped in local optimum. Computational results on benchmark instances show that the proposed PSO-based hybrid metaheuristic is competitive with other powerful metaheuristics in the literature.

Influence of Waste Tyre Crumb Rubber on Compressive Strength, Static Modulus of Elasticity and Flexural Strength of Concrete

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Haridharan, M. K.; Bharathi Murugan, R.; Natarajan, C.; Muthukannan, M.

2017-07-01

In this paper, the experimental investigations was carried out to find the compressive strength, static modulus of elasticity and flexural strength of concrete mixtures, in which natural sand was partially replaced with Waste Tyre Crumb Rubber (WTCR). River sand was replaced with five different percentages (5%, 10%, 15%, 20% and 25%) of WTCR by volume. The main objective of the experimental investigation is to find the relationship between static modulus of elasticity and flexural strength with compressive strength of concrete with WTCR. The experimentally obtainedstatic modulus of elasticity and flexural strength results comparing with the theoretical values (various country codes recommendations).

A study of the use of linear programming techniques to improve the performance in design optimization problems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Young, Katherine C.; Sobieszczanski-Sobieski, Jaroslaw

1988-01-01

This project has two objectives. The first is to determine whether linear programming techniques can improve performance when handling design optimization problems with a large number of design variables and constraints relative to the feasible directions algorithm. The second purpose is to determine whether using the Kreisselmeier-Steinhauser (KS) function to replace the constraints with one constraint will reduce the cost of total optimization. Comparisons are made using solutions obtained with linear and non-linear methods. The results indicate that there is no cost saving using the linear method or in using the KS function to replace constraints.

Replacement of the Project Manager Reflected Through Activity Theory and Work-System Theory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vartiainen, Tero; Aramo-Immonen, Heli; Jussila, Jari; Pirhonen, Maritta; Liikamaa, Kirsi

Replacement of the project manager (RPM) is a known phenomenon in information systems (IS) projects, but scant attention is given to it in the project management or IS literature. Given its critical effects on the project business, the organization, the project team, and the project manager, it should be studied in more depth. We identified factors which make RPM occurrences inherently different and we show that work-system theory and activity theory give comprehensive lenses to advance research on RPM. For the future research on RPM we identified three objectives: experiences on RPM, process model for RPM, and organizational culture's influence on RPM occurrences.

Gene replacements and insertions in rice by intron targeting using CRISPR-Cas9.

PubMed

Li, Jun; Meng, Xiangbing; Zong, Yuan; Chen, Kunling; Zhang, Huawei; Liu, Jinxing; Li, Jiayang; Gao, Caixia

2016-09-12

Sequence-specific nucleases have been exploited to create targeted gene knockouts in various plants(1), but replacing a fragment and even obtaining gene insertions at specific loci in plant genomes remain a serious challenge. Here, we report efficient intron-mediated site-specific gene replacement and insertion approaches that generate mutations using the non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) pathway using the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-CRISPR-associated protein 9 (Cas9) system. Using a pair of single guide RNAs (sgRNAs) targeting adjacent introns and a donor DNA template including the same pair of sgRNA sites, we achieved gene replacements in the rice endogenous gene 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase (EPSPS) at a frequency of 2.0%. We also obtained targeted gene insertions at a frequency of 2.2% using a sgRNA targeting one intron and a donor DNA template including the same sgRNA site. Rice plants harbouring the OsEPSPS gene with the intended substitutions were glyphosate-resistant. Furthermore, the site-specific gene replacements and insertions were faithfully transmitted to the next generation. These newly developed approaches can be generally used to replace targeted gene fragments and to insert exogenous DNA sequences into specific genomic sites in rice and other plants.

Burbank performs the WHC Yearly Maintenance in the Node 3

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-01-11

ISS030-E-032750 (11 Jan. 2012) --- NASA astronaut Dan Burbank, Expedition 30 flight commander, performs the Waste and Hygiene Compartment (WHC) yearly maintenance in the Tranquility node of the International Space Station. The maintenance included removing and replacing the urine hydraulic components which include urine lines, urine valve block and urine pressure sensors, and removing and replacing the Flush Water Tank Pressure Sensor.

An evaluation of information on the Internet of a new device: the lumbar artificial disc replacement.

PubMed

Garcia, Ryan M; Messerschmitt, Patrick J; Ahn, Nicholas U

2009-02-01

An analysis of websites, accessible to the public, was conducted pertaining to the lumbar artificial disc replacement. The objective was to investigate the content of information available on the Internet pertaining to the lumbar artificial disc replacement. The Internet is widely used by patients as an educational tool for health care information. Additionally, the Internet is used as a medium for direct-to-consumer marketing. Recent approval of the lumbar artificial disc replacement has led to the emergence of numerous websites offering information about this procedure. It is thought that patients can be influenced by information found on the Internet; therefore, it is imperative that this information be accurate and as complete as possible. Three commonly used search engines were used to locate 105 (35/search engine) websites providing information about the lumbar artificial disc replacement. Each website was evaluated with regard to authorship and content. Fifty-nine percent of the websites reviewed were authorized by a private physician group, 9% by an academic physician group, 6% by industry, 11% were news reports, and 15% were not otherwise categorized. Seventy-two percent offered a mechanism for direct contact and 30% provided clear patient selection criteria. Benefits were expressed in 87% of websites, whereas associated risks were described in 28% or less. European experiences were noted in 53%, whereas only 22% of websites detailed the current US experience. The results of this study demonstrate that much of the content of Internet-derived information pertaining to the lumbar artificial disc replacement is potentially misleading. Until long-term data are available, patients should be cautioned when using the Internet as a source for health care information, particularly with regard to the lumbar artificial disc replacement.

Estimating Whether Replacing Time in Active Outdoor Play and Sedentary Video Games With Active Video Games Influences Youth's Mental Health.

PubMed

Janssen, Ian

2016-11-01

The primary objective was to use isotemporal substitution models to estimate whether replacing time spent in sedentary video games (SVGs) and active outdoor play (AOP) with active video games (AVGs) would be associated with changes in youth's mental health. A representative sample of 20,122 Canadian youth in Grades 6-10 was studied. The exposure variables were average hours/day spent playing AVGs, SVGs, and AOP. The outcomes consisted of a negative and internalizing mental health indicator (emotional problems), a positive and internalizing mental health indicator (life satisfaction), and a positive and externalizing mental health indicator (prosocial behavior). Isotemporal substitution models estimated the extent to which replacing time spent in SVGs and AOP with an equivalent amount of time in AVGs had on the mental health indicators. Replacing 1 hour/day of SVGs with 1 hour/day of AVGs was associated with a 6% (95% confidence interval: 3%-9%) reduced probability of high emotional problems, a 4% (2%-7%) increased probability of high life satisfaction, and a 13% (9%-16%) increased probability of high prosocial behavior. Replacing 1 hour/day of AOP with 1 hour/day of AVGs was associated with a 7% (3%-11%) increased probability of high emotional problems, a 3% (1%-5%) reduced probability of high life satisfaction, and a 6% (2%-9%) reduced probability of high prosocial behavior. Replacing SVGs with AVGs was associated with more preferable mental health indicators. Conversely, replacing AOP with AVGs was associated with more deleterious mental health indicators. Copyright © 2016 Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Cost-effectiveness of homograft heart valve replacement surgery: an introductory study.

PubMed

Yaghoubi, Mohsen; Aghayan, Hamid Reza; Arjmand, Babak; Emami-Razavi, Seyed Hassan

2011-05-01

The clinical effectiveness of heart valve replacement surgery has been well documented. Mechanical and homograft valves are used routinely for replacement of damaged heart valves. Homograft valves are produced in our country but we import the mechanical valves. To our knowledge the cost-effectiveness of homograft valve has not been assessed. The objective of the present study was to compare the cost-effectiveness of homograft valve replacement with mechanical valve replacement surgery. Our samples were selected from 200 patients that underwent homograft and mechanical heart valve replacement surgery in Imam-Khomeini hospital (2000-2005). In each group we enrolled 30 patients. Quality of life was measured using the SF-36 questionnaire and utility was measured in quality-adjusted life years (QALYs). For each group we calculated the price of heart valve and hospitalization charges. Finally the cost-effectiveness of each treatment modalities were summarized as costs per QALYs gained. Forty male and twenty female participated in the study. The mean score of quality of life was 66.06 (SD = 9.22) in homograft group and 57.85 (SD = 11.30) in mechanical group (P < 0.05). The mean QALYs gained in homograft group was 0.67 more than mechanical group. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) revealed a cost savings of 1,067 US$ for each QALY gained in homograft group. Despite limitation of this introductory study, we concluded that homograft valve replacement was more effective and less expensive than mechanical valve. These findings can encourage healthcare managers and policy makers to support the production of homograft valves and allocate more recourse for developing such activities.

Awareness, attitudes, need and demand on replacement of missing teeth among a group of partially dentate patients attending a University Dental Hospital.

PubMed

Jayasinghe, Rasika Manori; Perera, Janana; Jayasinghe, Vajira; Thilakumara, Indika P; Rasnayaka, Sumudu; Shiraz, Muhammad Hanafi Muhammad; Ranabahu, Indra; Kularatna, Sanjeewa

2017-07-27

Our objective was to assess awareness, attitudes, need and demand on replacement of missing teeth according to edentulous space, age, gender, ethnicity, educational level and socio-economical status of the patient. 76.2% of the study group was opined that the missing teeth should be replaced by prosthetic means. Majority were keen in getting them replaced mainly for the comfort in mastication. Although 77.9 and 32.9% were aware of the removable prostheses and implants respectively, only 25.2% knew about tooth supported bridges as an option of replacement of missing teeth. Participants' awareness on tooth and implant supported prostheses is at a higher level. Participants' opinion on need of regular dental visit was statistically significant when gender, ethnicity and education level were considered. The highest demand for replacement of missing teeth was observed in Kennedy class I and II situations in both upper and lower arches. Demand for fixed prostheses was significantly highest in Kennedy class II in upper and lower arches. In conclusion, although removable prosthodontic options are known to most of the patients, their awareness on tooth and implant supported prostheses is also at a higher level. The highest demand for replacement of missing teeth is by patients with Kennedy class I and II situations whereas Kennedy class II being the category with highest demand for fixed prostheses. We recommend that the location of missing teeth to be considered as a priority when educating patients on the most appropriate prosthetic treatment options. Dentists' involvement in educating patients on prosthetic options needs to be improved.

Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Piperacillin-Tazobactam in 42 Patients Treated with Concomitant CRRT

PubMed Central

Bauer, Seth R.; Salem, Charbel; Connor, Michael J.; Groszek, Joseph; Taylor, Maria E.; Wei, Peilin; Tolwani, Ashita J.

2012-01-01

Summary Background and objectives Current recommendations for piperacillin-tazobactam dosing in patients receiving continuous renal replacement therapy originate from studies with relatively few patients and lower continuous renal replacement therapy doses than commonly used today. This study measured the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic characteristics of piperacillin-tazobactam in patients treated with continuous renal replacement therapy using contemporary equipment and prescriptions. Design, setting, participants, & measurements A multicenter prospective observational study in the intensive care units of two academic medical centers was performed, enrolling patients with AKI or ESRD receiving piperacillin-tazobactam while being treated with continuous renal replacement therapy. Pregnant women, children, and patients with end stage liver disease were excluded from enrollment. Plasma and continuous renal replacement therapy effluent samples were analyzed for piperacillin and tazobactam levels using HPLC. Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic parameters were calculated using standard equations. Multivariate analyses were used to examine the association of patient and continuous renal replacement therapy characteristics with piperacillin pharmacokinetic parameters. Results Forty-two of fifty-five subjects enrolled had complete sampling. Volume of distribution (median=0.38 L/kg, intraquartile range=0.20 L/kg) and elimination rate constants (median=0.104 h−1, intraquartile range=0.052 h−1) were highly variable, and clinical parameters could explain only a small fraction of the large variability in pharmacokinetic parameters. Probability of target attainment for piperacillin was 83% for total drug but only 77% when the unbound fraction was considered. Conclusions There is significant patient to patient variability in pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic parameters in patients receiving continuous renal replacement therapy. Many patients did not achieve pharmacodynamic targets, suggesting that therapeutic drug monitoring might optimize therapy. PMID:22282479

Central administration of angiotensin IV rapidly enhances novel object recognition among mice.

PubMed

Paris, Jason J; Eans, Shainnel O; Mizrachi, Elisa; Reilley, Kate J; Ganno, Michelle L; McLaughlin, Jay P

2013-07-01

Angiotensin IV (Val(1)-Tyr(2)-Ile(3)-His(4)-Pro(5)-Phe(6)) has demonstrated potential cognitive-enhancing effects. The present investigation assessed and characterized: (1) dose-dependency of angiotensin IV's cognitive enhancement in a C57BL/6J mouse model of novel object recognition, (2) the time-course for these effects, (3) the identity of residues in the hexapeptide important to these effects and (4) the necessity of actions at angiotensin IV receptors for procognitive activity. Assessment of C57BL/6J mice in a novel object recognition task demonstrated that prior administration of angiotensin IV (0.1, 1.0, or 10.0, but not 0.01 nmol, i.c.v.) significantly enhanced novel object recognition in a dose-dependent manner. These effects were time dependent, with improved novel object recognition observed when angiotensin IV (0.1 nmol, i.c.v.) was administered 10 or 20, but not 30 min prior to the onset of the novel object recognition testing. An alanine scan of the angiotensin IV peptide revealed that replacement of the Val(1), Ile(3), His(4), or Phe(6) residues with Ala attenuated peptide-induced improvements in novel object recognition, whereas Tyr(2) or Pro(5) replacement did not significantly affect performance. Administration of the angiotensin IV receptor antagonist, divalinal-Ang IV (20 nmol, i.c.v.), reduced (but did not abolish) novel object recognition; however, this antagonist completely blocked the procognitive effects of angiotensin IV (0.1 nmol, i.c.v.) in this task. Rotorod testing demonstrated no locomotor effects with any angiotensin IV or divalinal-Ang IV dose tested. These data demonstrate that angiotensin IV produces a rapid enhancement of associative learning and memory performance in a mouse model that was dependent on the angiotensin IV receptor. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Central administration of angiotensin IV rapidly enhances novel object recognition among mice

PubMed Central

Paris, Jason J.; Eans, Shainnel O.; Mizrachi, Elisa; Reilley, Kate J.; Ganno, Michelle L.; McLaughlin, Jay P.

2013-01-01

Angiotensin IV (Val1-Tyr2-Ile3-His4-Pro5-Phe6) has demonstrated potential cognitive-enhancing effects. The present investigation assessed and characterized: (1) dose-dependency of angiotensin IV's cognitive enhancement in a C57BL/6J mouse model of novel object recognition, (2) the time-course for these effects, (3) the identity of residues in the hexapeptide important to these effects and (4) the necessity of actions at angiotensin IV receptors for pro-cognitive activity. Assessment of C57BL/6J mice in a novel object recognition task demonstrated that prior administration of angiotensin IV (0.1, 1.0, or 10.0, but not 0.01, nmol, i.c.v.) significantly enhanced novel object recognition in a dose-dependent manner. These effects were time dependent, with improved novel object recognition observed when angiotensin IV (0.1 nmol, i.c.v.) was administered 10 or 20, but not 30, min prior to the onset of the novel object recognition testing. An alanine scan of the angiotensin IV peptide revealed that replacement of the Val1, Ile3, His4, or Phe6 residues with Ala attenuated peptide-induced improvements in novel object recognition, whereas Tyr2 or Pro5 replacement did not significantly affect performance. Administration of the angiotensin IV receptor antagonist, divalinal-Ang IV (20 nmol, i.c.v.), reduced (but did not abolish) novel object recognition; however, this antagonist completely blocked the pro-cognitive effects of angiotensin IV (0.1 nmol, i.c.v.) in this task. Rotorod testing demonstrated no locomotor effects for any angiotensin IV or divalinal-Ang IV dose tested. These data demonstrate that angiotensin IV produces a rapid enhancement of associative learning and memory performance in a mouse model that was dependent on the angiotensin IV receptor. PMID:23416700

Monetary benefits of preventing childhood lead poisoning with lead-safe window replacement.

PubMed

Nevin, Rick; Jacobs, David E; Berg, Michael; Cohen, Jonathan

2008-03-01

Previous estimates of childhood lead poisoning prevention benefits have quantified the present value of some health benefits, but not the costs of lead paint hazard control or the benefits associated with housing and energy markets. Because older housing with lead paint constitutes the main exposure source today in the US, we quantify health benefits, costs, market value benefits, energy savings, and net economic benefits of lead-safe window replacement (which includes paint stabilization and other measures). The benefit per resident child from improved lifetime earnings alone is $21,195 in pre-1940 housing and $8685 in 1940-59 housing (in 2005 dollars). Annual energy savings are $130-486 per housing unit, with or without young resident children, with an associated increase in housing market value of $5900-14,300 per housing unit, depending on home size and number of windows replaced. Net benefits are $4490-5,629 for each housing unit built before 1940, and $491-1629 for each unit built from 1940-1959, depending on home size and number of windows replaced. Lead-safe window replacement in all pre-1960 US housing would yield net benefits of at least $67 billion, which does not include many other benefits. These other benefits, which are shown in this paper, include avoided Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, other medical costs of childhood lead exposure, avoided special education, and reduced crime and juvenile delinquency in later life. In addition, such a window replacement effort would reduce peak demand for electricity, carbon emissions from power plants, and associated long-term costs of climate change.

Dual-Hierarchy Graph Method for Object Indexing and Recognition

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-07-01

from examples would be too late for the prey. Mythical monsters in movies or cartoons can look quite scary even though we have never seen their...uniform, at 25 blocks per parent, but depends on the number of SIFT features in the parent blocks. If we have more features we create more children for...method mentioned above to these descriptors to derive the 3D structure and pose of the object. In effect , we replace the previous “spatial verification

Department of the Army Justification of Estimates for Fiscal Year 1983 Submitted to Congress February 1982. Part 2 (Missiles).

DTIC Science & Technology

1982-02-01

STINGER missiles and ground support equipment. The program for FY 1983 represents the sixth year of a planned eleven-year procurement effort designed ...planned eleven year procurement effort designed t., fill the Army’s inventory objective. The STINER, scheduled to replace the obsolete RED-YI, has greater...equipment. This is the fifth year of procurement designed to fill the Army inventory objective. MIRES is a self-propelled, fast- reacting, multiple rocket

The "Curriculum for Excellence": A Major Change for Scottish Science Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brown, Sally

2014-01-01

The Curriculum for Excellence and new National Qualifications offer innovative reform, based on widely supported ideas and aims, for Scottish preschool, primary and secondary education levels. "Objectives and syllabuses" for science are replaced by "experiences and outcomes". Most strikingly, central prescription makes way for…

Evaporation and transpiration

Treesearch

Robert R. Ziemer

1979-01-01

For years, the principal objective of evapotranspiration research has been to calculate the loss of water under varying conditions of climate, soil, and vegetation. The early simple empirical methods have generally been replaced by more detailed models which more closely represent the physical and biological processes involved. Monteith's modification of the...

Effect of battery longevity on costs and health outcomes associated with cardiac implantable electronic devices: a Markov model-based Monte Carlo simulation.

PubMed

Schmier, Jordana K; Lau, Edmund C; Patel, Jasmine D; Klenk, Juergen A; Greenspon, Arnold J

2017-11-01

The effects of device and patient characteristics on health and economic outcomes in patients with cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) are unclear. Modeling can estimate costs and outcomes for patients with CIEDs under a variety of scenarios, varying battery longevity, comorbidities, and care settings. The objective of this analysis was to compare changes in patient outcomes and payer costs attributable to increases in battery life of implantable cardiac defibrillators (ICDs) and cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillators (CRT-D). We developed a Monte Carlo Markov model simulation to follow patients through primary implant, postoperative maintenance, generator replacement, and revision states. Patients were simulated in 3-month increments for 15 years or until death. Key variables included Charlson Comorbidity Index, CIED type, legacy versus extended battery longevity, mortality rates (procedure and all-cause), infection and non-infectious complication rates, and care settings. Costs included procedure-related (facility and professional), maintenance, and infections and non-infectious complications, all derived from Medicare data (2004-2014, 5% sample). Outcomes included counts of battery replacements, revisions, infections and non-infectious complications, and discounted (3%) costs and life years. An increase in battery longevity in ICDs yielded reductions in numbers of revisions (by 23%), battery changes (by 44%), infections (by 23%), non-infectious complications (by 10%), and total costs per patient (by 9%). Analogous reductions for CRT-Ds were 23% (revisions), 32% (battery changes), 22% (infections), 8% (complications), and 10% (costs). Based on modeling results, as battery longevity increases, patients experience fewer adverse outcomes and healthcare costs are reduced. Understanding the magnitude of the cost benefit of extended battery life can inform budgeting and planning decisions by healthcare providers and insurers.

Integrating Capital Studies within Physical Plant Operations.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Christensen, Douglas K.

1986-01-01

Brigham Young University's program integrating ongoing campus capital replacement and renewal into overall physical plant administration is described, including the initial capital needs study, planning for replacement cycles and one-time expenditures, and management of the information gathered. (MSE)

10 CFR 830 Major Modification Determination for the ATR Diesel Bus (E-3) and Switchgear Replacement

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

Noel Duckwtiz

2011-05-01

Near term replacement of aging and obsolescent original ATR equipment has become important to ensure ATR capability in support of NE’s long term national missions. To that end, a mission needs statement has been prepared for a non-major system acquisition which is comprised of three interdependent subprojects. The first project, subject of this determination, will replace the existent diesel-electrical bus (E-3) and associated switchgear. More specifically, INL proposes transitioning ATR to 100% commercial power with appropriate emergency backup to include: • Provide commercial power as the normal source of power to the ATR loads currently supplied by diesel-electric power. •more » Provide backup power to the critical ATR loads in the event of a loss of commercial power. • Replace obsolescent critical ATR power distribution equipment, e.g., switchgear, transformers, motor control centers, distribution panels. Completion of this and two other age-related projects (primary coolant pump and motor replacement and emergency firewater injection system replacement) will resolve major age related operational issues plus make a significant contribution in sustaining the ATR safety and reliability profile. The major modification criteria evaluation of the project pre-conceptual design identified several issues make the project a major modification: 1. Evaluation Criteria #2 (Footprint change). The addition of a new PC-4 structure to the ATR Facility to house safety-related SSCs requires careful attention to maintaining adherence to applicable engineering and nuclear safety design criteria (e.g., structural qualification, fire suppression) to ensure no adverse impacts to the safety-related functions of the housed equipment. 2. Evaluation Criteria #3 (Change of existing process). The change to the strategy for providing continuous reliable power to the safety-related emergency coolant pumps requires careful attention and analysis to ensure it meets a project primary object to maintain or reduce CDF and does not negatively affect the efficacy of the currently approved strategy. 3. Evaluation Criteria #5 (Create the need for new or revised safety SSCs). The change to the strategy for providing continuous reliable power to the safety-related emergency coolant pumps, based on the pre-conceptual design, will require the addition of two quick start diesel generators, their associated power coordination/distribution controls, and a UPS to the list of safety-related SSCs. Similarly to item 1 above, the addition of these active SSCs to the list of safety-related SSCs and replacement of the E-3 bus requires careful attention to maintaining adherence to applicable engineering and nuclear safety design criteria (e.g., seismic qualification, isolation of redundant trains from common fault failures) to ensure no adverse impacts to the safety-related functions.« less

Medicare Program; Comprehensive Care for Joint Replacement Payment Model for Acute Care Hospitals Furnishing Lower Extremity Joint Replacement Services. Final rule.

PubMed

2015-11-24

This final rule implements a new Medicare Part A and B payment model under section 1115A of the Social Security Act, called the Comprehensive Care for Joint Replacement (CJR) model, in which acute care hospitals in certain selected geographic areas will receive retrospective bundled payments for episodes of care for lower extremity joint replacement (LEJR) or reattachment of a lower extremity. All related care within 90 days of hospital discharge from the joint replacement procedure will be included in the episode of care. We believe this model will further our goals in improving the efficiency and quality of care for Medicare beneficiaries with these common medical procedures.

Management of the failed biaxial wrist replacement.

PubMed

Talwalkar, S C; Hayton, M J; Trail, I A; Stanley, J K

2005-06-01

Nine cases of failed biaxial wrist replacement underwent revision surgery and subsequent clinical and radiographic assessment at a mean follow-up of 28 months. Clinical assessment included the hospital for special surgery (HSS) and activities of daily living scoring systems. Five patients had a revision biaxial wrist replacement, three had wrist fusions and two underwent an excision arthroplasty. The mean HSS score was 73 for the revision biaxial replacements, 63 for the wrist fusions and 92 for the excision arthroplasties. The mean activities for daily living score was 16 for the revision biaxial replacements, 14 for the wrist fusion and 20 for the excision arthroplasties. Despite the experience of implant failure, six patients would still choose a primary wrist replacement again. All patients in this small series appear to have had good clinical outcomes. Revision to another wrist replacement appears no worse than a wrist fusion in the short term and patients value the preservation of movement that an implant offers.

Chapter 1: Creating Opportunities for Success through Replacement Services. Chapter 1 Replacement Class Collaborative Teaming and Intensive Teaching Time. A Model for Student Success in Newark City Schools.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stout, Kathleen

This collection of documents describes the Chapter 1 programs of the Newark (Ohio) City Schools and presents a model for programs to increase student success. Newark is a midsized city district with 1 high school, 3 middle schools, and 12 elementary schools, 7 of which receive Chapter 1 services. Collaborative efforts include replacement classes.…

New Product Marketing Blurs the Line Between Nicotine Replacement Therapy and Smokeless Tobacco Products.

PubMed

Kostygina, Ganna; England, Lucinda; Ling, Pamela

2016-07-01

Tobacco companies have begun to acquire pharmaceutical subsidiaries and recently started to market nicotine replacement therapies, such as Zonnic nicotine gum, in convenience stores. Conversely, tobacco companies are producing tobacco products such as tobacco chewing gum and lozenges that resemble pharmaceutical nicotine replacement products, including a nicotine pouch product that resembles snus pouches. This convergence of nicotine and tobacco product marketing has implications for regulation and tobacco cessation.

The Tolerability and Efficacy of Oral Isotonic Solution versus Plain Water in Dengue Patients: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

PubMed

Nainggolan, Leonard; Bardosono, Saptawati; Ibrahim Ilyas, Ermita I

2018-01-01

Plasma leakage plays an important role in dengue infection, and this condition can lead to hemoconcentration, hypovolemia, and shock. Fluid replacement is the main treatment for dengue. There is a lack of evidence to support certain oral fluid therapy as a treatment for dengue patients. The objective of this study is to evaluate tolerability and efficacy of oral isotonic solution (OIS) compared to plain water as a fluid replacement in dengue patients. A randomized, clinical trial with single-blinded groups was conducted to compare tolerability and efficacy of OIS and plain water in dengue patients. We evaluated gastrointestinal disturbances (nausea, vomiting, and bloating), body temperature, mean arterial pressure (MAP), fluid balance, hematocrit, Na + , and K + levels. Data were analyzed with SPSS 20.0, and figures were made with GraphPad Prism version 5.01. Twenty four subjects were included and divided equally into two groups. Our results showed that there are no significant differences but indicate several noteworthy trends. The intervention group (OIS) experienced less nausea, less vomiting, had positive fluid balance and higher MAP, and became afebrile faster compared to the control group (plain water). Although not statistically significant, this study shows the trend that OIS is well-tolerated and effective for dengue patients compared to plain water.

KSC-99pp1440

NASA Image and Video Library

1999-12-17

A cloud-streaked sky provides backdrop for Space Shuttle Discovery as it waits for liftoff on mission STS-103 from Launch Pad 39B. The tower at its left is the Fixed Service Structure, topped by the 80-foot-tall fiberglass mast that helps provide protection from lightning strikes. Below it, extending outward, is the external tank gaseous oxygen vent arm system with the vent hood (commonly called the "beanie cap") poised above the external tank. The retractable arm and the beanie cap are designed to vent gaseous oxygen vapors away from the Space Shuttle. The arm truss section is 65 feet long and the diameter of the vent hood is 13 feet. Extending toward the cabin of the orbiter below is the orbiter access arm, with the environmental chamber (called the White Room) at the end. Through this chamber the crew enters the orbiter. The STS-103 mission, to service the Hubble Space Telescope, is scheduled for launch Dec. 17 at 8:47 p.m. EST. Mission objectives include replacing gyroscopes and an old computer, installing another solid state recorder, and replacing damaged insulation in the telescope. The mission is expected to last about 8 days and 21 hours. Discovery is expected to land at KSC Sunday, Dec. 26, at about 6:25 p.m. EST

STS-103 perfect night-time landing for Space Shuttle Discovery

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1999-01-01

The orbiter Discovery looks like a blue ghost as it drops from the darkness onto lighted runway 33 at KSC's Shuttle Landing Facility. After traveling more than 3,267,000 miles on a successful eight-day mission to service the Hubble Space Telescope, the orbiter touches down at 7:00:47 p.m. EST. Aboard are Commander Curtis L. Brown Jr., Pilot Scott J. Kelly, and Mission Specialists Steven L. Smith, C. Michael Foale (Ph.D.), John M. Grunsfeld (Ph.D.), Claude Nicollier of Switzerland and Jean-Frangois Clervoy of France, who spent the Christmas holiday in space in order to accomplish their mission before the end of 1999. During the mission, Discovery's four space-walking astronauts, Smith, Foale, Grunsfeld and Nicollier, spent 24 hours and 33 minutes upgrading and refurbishing Hubble, making it more capable than ever to renew its observations of the universe. Mission objectives included replacing gyroscopes and an old computer, installing another solid state recorder, and replacing damaged insulation in the telescope. Hubble was released from the end of Discovery's robot arm on Christmas Day. This was the 96th flight in the Space Shuttle program and the 27th for the orbiter Discovery. The landing was the 20th consecutive Shuttle landing in Florida and the 13th night landing in Shuttle program history.

KSC-99pp1511

NASA Image and Video Library

1999-12-27

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- The orbiter Discovery looks like a blue ghost as it drops from the darkness onto lighted runway 33 at KSC's Shuttle Landing Facility. After traveling more than 3,267,000 miles on a successful eight-day mission to service the Hubble Space Telescope, the orbiter touches down at 7:00:47 p.m. EST. Aboard are Commander Curtis L. Brown Jr., Pilot Scott J. Kelly, and Mission Specialists Steven L. Smith, C. Michael Foale (Ph.D.), John M. Grunsfeld (Ph.D.), Claude Nicollier of Switzerland and Jean-François Clervoy of France, who spent the Christmas holiday in space in order to accomplish their mission before the end of 1999. During the mission, Discovery's four space-walking astronauts, Smith, Foale, Grunsfeld and Nicollier, spent 24 hours and 33 minutes upgrading and refurbishing Hubble, making it more capable than ever to renew its observations of the universe. Mission objectives included replacing gyroscopes and an old computer, installing another solid state recorder, and replacing damaged insulation in the telescope. Hubble was released from the end of Discovery's robot arm on Christmas Day. This was the 96th flight in the Space Shuttle program and the 27th for the orbiter Discovery. The landing was the 20th consecutive Shuttle landing in Florida and the 13th night landing in Shuttle program history

Object, spatial and social recognition testing in a single test paradigm.

PubMed

Lian, Bin; Gao, Jun; Sui, Nan; Feng, Tingyong; Li, Ming

2018-07-01

Animals have the ability to process information about an object or a conspecific's physical features and location, and alter its behavior when such information is updated. In the laboratory, the object, spatial and social recognition are often studied in separate tasks, making them unsuitable to study the potential dissociations and interactions among various types of recognition memories. The present study introduced a single paradigm to detect the object and spatial recognition, and social recognition of a familiar and novel conspecific. Specifically, male and female Sprague-Dawley adult (>75 days old) or preadolescent (25-28 days old) rats were tested with two objects and one social partner in an open-field arena for four 10-min sessions with a 20-min inter-session interval. After the first sample session, a new object replaced one of the sampled objects in the second session, and the location of one of the old objects was changed in the third session. Finally, a new social partner was introduced in the fourth session and replaced the familiar one. Exploration time with each stimulus was recorded and measures for the three recognitions were calculated based on the discrimination ratio. Overall results show that adult and preadolescent male and female rats spent more time exploring the social partner than the objects, showing a clear preference for social stimulus over nonsocial one. They also did not differ in their abilities to discriminate a new object, a new location and a new social partner from a familiar one, and to recognize a familiar conspecific. Acute administration of MK-801 (a NMDA receptor antagonist, 0.025 and 0.10 mg/kg, i.p.) after the sample session dose-dependently reduced the total time spent on exploring the social partner and objects in the adult rats, and had a significantly larger effect in the females than in the males. MK-801 also dose-dependently increased motor activity. However, it did not alter the object, spatial and social recognitions. These findings indicate that the new triple recognition paradigm is capable of recording the object, spatial location and social recognition together and revealing potential sex and age differences. This paradigm is also useful for the study of object and social exploration concurrently and can be used to evaluate cognition-altering drugs in various stages of recognition memories. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Management of aspen in a changing environment

USGS Publications Warehouse

Shinneman, Douglas; Halford, Anne S.; Howell, Cheri; Krasnow, Kevin D.; Strand, Eva K.; Chambers, Jeanne

2015-01-01

Aspen communities are biologically rich and ecologically valuable, yet they face myriad threats, including changing climate, altered fire regimes, and excessive browsing by domestic and wild ungulates. Recognizing the different types of aspen communities that occur in the Great Basin, and being able to distinguish between seral and stable aspen stands, can help managers better identify restoration needs and objectives. Identifying key threats to aspen regeneration and persistence in a given stand or landscape is important to designing restoration plans, and to selecting appropriate treatment types. Although some aspen stands will need intensive treatment (e.g., use of fire) to persist or remain healthy, other stands may only require the modification of current management practices (e.g., reducing livestock browsing) or may not require any action at all (e.g., self-replacing stable aspen communities).

The AC-120: The advanced commercial transport

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Duran, David; Griffin, Ernest; Mendoza, Saul; Nguyen, Son; Pickett, Tim; Noernberg, Clemm

1993-01-01

The main objective of this design was to fulfill a need for a new airplane to replace the aging 100 to 150 passenger, 1500 nautical mile range aircraft such as the Douglas DC9 and Boeing 737-100 airplanes. After researching the future aircraft market, conducting extensive trade studies, and analysis on different configurations, the AC-120 Advanced Commercial Transport final design was achieved. The AC-120's main design features include the incorporation of a three lifting surface configuration which is powered by two turboprop engines. The AC-120 is an economically sensitive aircraft which meets the new FM Stage Three noise requirements, and has lower NO(x) emissions than current turbofan powered airplanes. The AC-120 also improves on its contemporaries in passenger comfort, manufacturing, and operating cost.

Thrust imbalance of solid rocket motor pairs on Space Shuttle flights

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Foster, W. A., Jr.; Shu, P. H.; Sforzini, R. H.

1986-01-01

This analysis extends the investigation presented at the 17th Joint Propulsion Conference in 1981 to include fifteen sets of Space Shuttle flight data. The previous report dealt only with static test data and the first flight pair. The objective is to compare the authors' previous theoretical analysis of thrust imbalance with actual Space Shuttle performance. The theoretical prediction method, which involves a Monte Carlo technique, is reviewed briefly as are salient features of the flight instrumentation system and the statistical analysis. A scheme for smoothing flight data is discussed. The effects of changes in design parameters are discussed with special emphasis on the filament wound motor case being developed to replace the steel case. Good agreement between the predictions and the flight data is demonstrated.

Management of pemphigus vulgaris: challenges and solutions

PubMed Central

Gregoriou, Stamatis; Efthymiou, Ourania; Stefanaki, Christina; Rigopoulos, Dimitris

2015-01-01

The main objective in the treatment of pemphigus vulgaris is to control the disease, prevent relapses, and avoid adverse events associated with the prolonged use of steroids and immunosuppressive agents. Systemic corticosteroids remain the gold standard treatment for pemphigus vulgaris. Azathioprine and mycophenolate mofetil are the first line of steroid-sparing treatment. Rituximab is extremely effective in recalcitrant pemphigus, when other treatments fail to control the disease. The European Dermatology Forum recommends tapering prednisolone by 25% every 2 weeks after the consolidation phase, and a 5 mg reduction every 4 weeks when the dose is reduced to <20 mg. If the patient relapses, options include increasing steroids back to the previous dose, adding an immunosuppressant if using steroid monotherapy, or replacing a first-line immunosuppressant by another if already on combination therapy. PMID:26543381

Improved Knowledge Retention Among Clinical Pharmacy Students Using an Anthropology Classroom Assessment Technique

PubMed Central

Parton, Jason M.

2014-01-01

Objective. To adapt a classroom assessment technique (CAT) from an anthropology course to a diabetes module in a clinical pharmacy skills laboratory and to determine student knowledge retention from baseline. Design. Diabetes item stems, focused on module objectives, replaced anthropology terms. Answer choices, coded to Bloom’s Taxonomy, were expanded to include higher-order thinking. Students completed the online 5-item probe 4 times: prelaboratory lecture, postlaboratory, and at 6 months and 12 months after laboratory. Statistical analyses utilized a single factor, repeated measures design using rank transformations of means with a Mann-Whitney-Wilcoxon test. Assessment. The CAT revealed a significant increase in knowledge from prelaboratory compared to all postlaboratory measurements (p<0.0001). Significant knowledge retention was maintained with basic terms, but declined with complex terms between 6 and 12 months. Conclusion. The anthropology assessment tool was effectively adapted using Bloom’s Taxonomy as a guide and, when used repeatedly, demonstrated knowledge retention. Minimal time was devoted to application of the probe making it an easily adaptable CAT. PMID:25258445

Federal Great Lakes fishery research objectives, priorities, and projects

USGS Publications Warehouse

Tait, Howard D.

1973-01-01

Fishery productivity of the Great Lakes has declined drastically since settlement of the area. Premium quality fishes of the Great Lakes such as whitefish, lake trout, and walleyes have been replaced by less desired species. This change is attributed to selective overfishing, pollution, and the extreme instability of fish populations. Sea lamprey predation is still a vexing problem but progress is being made in controlling this parasite. The federal fishery research program with headquarters in Ann Arbor, Michigan, has the objective of providing baseline information, needed in resource use decisions, about the fishes of the Great Lakes. Studies of the habitat requirements of fish are high priority. The program includes fish population assessments, studies of the effects of mercury and other contaminants on fish, thermal effects studies, and general investigation of the impact of engineering projects on Great Lakes fisheries. The work is closely coordinated with state and Canadian agencies through the Great Lakes Fishery Commission. Four small research vessels and four field stations are utilized with a staff of 90 and an annual budget of about $1.5 million.

44 CFR 62.20 - Claims appeals.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... (includes contractors' estimates), detailing unit cost and quantities for the items needing repair or replacement; replacement cost proofs of loss; Preliminary Report; Final Report; detailed damaged personal... wind policies and any claim information submitted to the other companies; Waiver, Letter of Map...

44 CFR 62.20 - Claims appeals.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... (includes contractors' estimates), detailing unit cost and quantities for the items needing repair or replacement; replacement cost proofs of loss; Preliminary Report; Final Report; detailed damaged personal... wind policies and any claim information submitted to the other companies; Waiver, Letter of Map...

Urban chaos and replacement dynamics in nature and society

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Yanguang

2014-11-01

Replacements resulting from competition are ubiquitous phenomena in both nature and society. The evolution of a self-organized system is always a physical process substituting one type of components for another type of components. A logistic model of replacement dynamics has been proposed in terms of technical innovation and urbanization, but it fails to arouse widespread attention in the academia. This paper is devoted to laying the foundations of general replacement principle by using analogy and induction. The empirical base of this study is urban replacement, including urbanization and urban growth. The sigmoid functions can be employed to model various processes of replacement. Many mathematical methods such as allometric scaling and head/tail breaks can be applied to analyzing the processes and patterns of replacement. Among varied sigmoid functions, the logistic function is the basic and the simplest model of replacement dynamics. A new finding is that replacement can be associated with chaos in a nonlinear system, e.g., urban chaos is just a part of replacement dynamics. The aim of developing replacement theory is at understanding complex interaction and conversion. This theory provides a new way of looking at urbanization, technological innovation and diffusion, Volterra-Lotka’s predator-prey interaction, man-land relation, and dynastic changes resulting from peasant uprising, and all that. Especially, the periodic oscillations and chaos of replacement dynamics can be used to explain and predict the catastrophic occurrences in the physical and human systems.

Modifications in the Consumption of Energy, Sugar, and Saturated Fat among the Mexican Adult Population: Simulation of the Effect When Replacing Processed Foods that Comply with a Front of Package Labeling System.

PubMed

Mendoza, Rosario; Tolentino-Mayo, Lizbeth; Hernández-Barrera, Lucia; Nieto, Claudia; Monterrubio-Flores, Eric A; Barquera, Simón

2018-01-19

A Mexican Committee of Nutrition Experts (MCNE) from the National Institute of Public Health (INSP), free from conflict of interest, established food content standards to place the front-of-package (FOP) logo on foods that meet these nutrition criteria. The objectives were to simulate the effect on nutrient intake in the Mexican adult population (20-59 years old) after replacing commonly consumed processed foods with those that meet the FOP nutrition-labeling criteria. Twenty-four hour dietary recalls were collected from the 2012 Mexican National Health and Nutrition Survey ( n = 2164 adults). A food database from the INSP was used. Weighted medians and 25-75 inter-quartile ranges (IQR) of energy and nutrient intake were calculated for all subjects by sociodemographic characteristics before and after replacing foods. Significant decreases were observed in energy (-5.4%), saturated fatty acids (-18.9%), trans-fatty acids (-20%), total sugar (-36.8%) and sodium (-10.7%) intake and a significant increase in fiber intake (+15.5%) after replacing foods, using the MCNE nutrition criteria. Replacing commonly consumed processed foods in the diet with foods that meet the FOP nutrition-labeling criteria set by the MCNE can lead to improvements in energy and nutrient intake in the Mexican adult population.

Modifications in the Consumption of Energy, Sugar, and Saturated Fat among the Mexican Adult Population: Simulation of the Effect When Replacing Processed Foods that Comply with a Front of Package Labeling System

PubMed Central

Mendoza, Rosario; Tolentino-Mayo, Lizbeth; Hernández-Barrera, Lucia; Monterrubio-Flores, Eric A.; Barquera, Simón

2018-01-01

A Mexican Committee of Nutrition Experts (MCNE) from the National Institute of Public Health (INSP), free from conflict of interest, established food content standards to place the front-of-package (FOP) logo on foods that meet these nutrition criteria. The objectives were to simulate the effect on nutrient intake in the Mexican adult population (20–59 years old) after replacing commonly consumed processed foods with those that meet the FOP nutrition-labeling criteria. Twenty-four hour dietary recalls were collected from the 2012 Mexican National Health and Nutrition Survey (n = 2164 adults). A food database from the INSP was used. Weighted medians and 25–75 inter-quartile ranges (IQR) of energy and nutrient intake were calculated for all subjects by sociodemographic characteristics before and after replacing foods. Significant decreases were observed in energy (−5.4%), saturated fatty acids (−18.9%), trans-fatty acids (−20%), total sugar (−36.8%) and sodium (−10.7%) intake and a significant increase in fiber intake (+15.5%) after replacing foods, using the MCNE nutrition criteria. Replacing commonly consumed processed foods in the diet with foods that meet the FOP nutrition-labeling criteria set by the MCNE can lead to improvements in energy and nutrient intake in the Mexican adult population. PMID:29351257

Investigation on Suitability of Natural Fibre as Replacement Material for Table Tennis Blade

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arifin, A. M. T.; Fahrul Hassan, M.; Ismail, A. E.; Zulafif Rahim, M.; Rasidi Ibrahim, M.; Haq, R. H. Abdul; Rahman, M. N. A.; Yunos, M. Z.; Amin, M. H. M.

2017-08-01

This paper presents an investigation of suitability natural fibre as replacement material for table tennis blade, due to low cost, lightweight and apparently environmentally. Nowadays, natural fibre are one of the materials often used in replaced the main material on manufacturing sector, such as automotive, and construction. The objective of this study is to investigate and evaluate the suitability natural fiber materials to replace wood as a structure on table tennis blade. The mechanical properties of the different natural fibre material were examined, and correlated with characteristic of table tennis blade. The natural fibre selected for the study are kenaf (Hibiscus Cannabinus), jute, hemp, sisal (Agave Sisalana) and ramie. A further comparison was made with the corresponding properties of each type of natural fiber using Quality Function Deployment (QFD) and Theory of Inventive Problem Solving (TRIZ). TRIZ has been used to determine the most appropriate solution in producing table tennis blade. The results showed the most appropriate solution in producing table tennis blade using natural fibre is kenaf natural fibre. The selected on suitability natural fibre used as main structure on table tennis blade are based on the characteristics need for good performance of table tennis blade, such as energy absorption, lightweight, strength and hardness. Therefore, it shows an opportunity for replacing existing materials with a higher strength, lower cost alternative that is environmentally friendly.

Earlier Pulmonary Valve Replacement in Down Syndrome Patients Following Tetralogy of Fallot Repair.

PubMed

Sullivan, Rachel T; Frommelt, Peter C; Hill, Garick D

2017-08-01

The association between Down syndrome and pulmonary hypertension could contribute to more severe pulmonary regurgitation after tetralogy of Fallot repair and possibly earlier pulmonary valve replacement. We compared cardiac magnetic resonance measures of pulmonary regurgitation and right ventricular dilation as well as timing of pulmonary valve replacement between those with and without Down syndrome after tetralogy of Fallot repair. Review of our surgical database from 2000 to 2015 identified patients with tetralogy of Fallot with pulmonary stenosis. Those with Down syndrome were compared to those without. The primary outcome of interest was time from repair to pulmonary valve replacement. Secondary outcomes included pulmonary regurgitation and indexed right ventricular volume on cardiac magnetic resonance imaging. The cohort of 284 patients included 35 (12%) with Down syndrome. Transannular patch repair was performed in 210 (74%). Down syndrome showed greater degree of pulmonary regurgitation (55 ± 14 vs. 37 ± 16%, p = 0.01) without a significantly greater rate of right ventricular dilation (p = 0.09). In multivariable analysis, Down syndrome (HR 2.3, 95% CI 1.2-4.5, p = 0.02) and transannular patch repair (HR 5.5, 95% CI 1.7-17.6, p = 0.004) were significant risk factors for valve replacement. Those with Down syndrome had significantly lower freedom from valve replacement (p = 0.03). Down syndrome is associated with an increased degree of pulmonary regurgitation and earlier pulmonary valve replacement after tetralogy of Fallot repair. These patients require earlier assessment by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging to determine timing of pulmonary valve replacement and evaluation for and treatment of preventable causes of pulmonary hypertension.

Estimating the Cost of Standardized Student Testing in the United States.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Phelps, Richard P.

2000-01-01

Describes and contrasts different methods of estimating costs of standardized testing. Using a cost-accounting approach, compares gross and marginal costs and considers testing objects (test materials and services, personnel and student time, and administrative/building overhead). Social marginal costs of replacing existing tests with a national…

Effectiveness of fly ash replacement in the reduction of damage due to alkali-aggregate reaction in concrete.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1986-05-01

The concrete industry is faced with the urgent need of improving its knowledge : about the mechanism by which fly ash helps in the reduction of damage due to : alkali-aggregate reaction in concrete to acceptable levels. : The main objective of this r...

Effectiveness of Medifast supplements combined with obesity pharmacotherapy: A clinical program evaluation

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Our objective was to evaluate the long-term impact of Medifast meal-replacement supplements (MMRS) combined with appetite suppressant medication (ASM) among participants who received 52 weeks of treatment. We conducted a systematic program evaluation of weight loss data from a medically supervised w...

Investigation of Use of Slag Aggregates and Slag Cements in Concrete Pavements to Reduce the Maintenance Cost

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2017-12-01

The objective of this research was to evaluate the influence of using the ACBFS aggregate (slag aggregate) as a replacement for natural aggregates on the properties of pavement concrete designed to meet the standard specifications of the Indiana Depa...

Monitoring Antitobacco Sentiment among Community Leaders

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bechtel, Gordon G.; Lyons-Lepke, Elaine M.

2003-01-01

Two public health objectives, one methodological and the other substantive, are realized in the present study. First, average survey ratings are replaced by negated mean cumulative logits (MCLs), which have the advantage of interitem commensuration. Second, these negated MCLs improve the analysis of two Florida tobacco control surveys of community…

Effects of overstocking at the feedbunk on the growth performance of replacement holstein dairy heifers

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Various forms of overcrowding are common in heifer-rearing operations. Our objectives were to evaluate the effects of overstocking at the feedbunk (100, 133, 160, or 200% of capacity) on the voluntary intake, growth performance, feedbunk-sorting behaviors, displacements from the feedbunk, and hygien...

Self and External Monitoring of Reading Comprehension

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Shiu, Ling-po; Chen, Qishan

2013-01-01

The present study compared the effectiveness of 2 approaches to remedy the inaccuracy of self-monitoring of reading comprehension. The first approach attempts to enhance self-monitoring by strengthening the cues utilized in monitoring. The second approach replaces self-monitoring with external regulation based on objective evaluative information.…

Adapting My Weather Impacts Decision Aid (MyWIDA) to Additional Web Application Server Technologies

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-08-01

Oracle. Further, some datatypes that are used with HSQLDB are not compatible with Oracle. Most notably, the VARBINARY datatype is not compatible...with Oracle, and instead was replaced with the Binary Large Object (BLOB) datatype . Oracle additionally has a different implementation of primary keys

Replacement-ready? Succession planning tops health care administrators' priorities.

PubMed

Husting, P M; Alderman, M

2001-09-01

Nurses' increasing age coupled with health care's rapidly changing environment moves succession planning, originally only a business sector tool, to a top administrative priority. Through active support of your facility's executive leadership and a clear linkage to long range organization objectives, you can implement this progressive procedure.

Multiprotocol MR image segmentation in multiple sclerosis: experience with over 1000 studies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Udupa, Jayaram K.; Nyul, Laszlo G.; Ge, Yulin; Grossman, Robert I.

2000-06-01

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an acquired disease of the central nervous system. Subjective cognitive and ambulatory test scores on a scale called EDSS are currently utilized to assess the disease severity. Various MRI protocols are being investigated to study the disease based on how it manifests itself in the images. In an attempt to eventually replace EDSS by an objective measure to assess the natural course of the disease and its response to therapy, we have developed image segmentation methods based on fuzzy connectedness to quantify various objects in multiprotocol MRI. These include the macroscopic objects such as lesions, the gray matter (GM), white matter (WM), cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and brain parenchyma as well as the microscopic aspects of the diseased WM. Over 1000 studies have been processed to date. By far the strongest correlations with the clinical measures were demonstrated by the Magnetization Transfer Ratio (MTR) histogram parameters obtained for the various segmented tissue regions emphasizing the importance of considering the microscopic/diffused nature of the disease in the individual tissue regions. Brain parenchymal volume also demonstrated a strong correlation with the clinical measures indicating that brain atrophy is an important indicator of the disease. Fuzzy connectedness is a viable segmentation method for studying MS.

Verification of the change blindness phenomenon while managing critical events on a combat information display.

PubMed

DiVita, Joseph; Obermayer, Richard; Nugent, William; Linville, James M

2004-01-01

Change blindness occurs when humans are unable to detect significant changes in objects and scenes after their attention is momentarily diverted. Because change blindness is relevant in many applied settings, the current study investigated the phenomenon in the context of tasks performed by naval command and control system personnel. Operators of such systems are often heavily loaded with concurrent visual search, situation assessment, voice communications, and control-display manipulation tasks at large, physically dispersed tactical situation displays. As the operators' attention shifts from one display to another, it creates an opportunity for changes to occur on unattended screens with potentially negative consequences. Our results show that on a display containing 8 objects of interest, considerable change blindness was demonstrated in that participants required 2 or more selections to correctly identify a changed object on nearly 1/3 of the test trials. Further, operator performance on 15% of the trials was equivalent to randomly guessing with replacement after making 3 incorrect selections. This research underscores the need for developing effective countermeasures to the change blindness phenomenon. Actual or potential uses of this research include interface design of computer workstations for military, nuclear power industry, air traffic control, crisis response center, and hospital emergency room applications.

Physiotherapy rehabilitation after total knee or hip replacement: an evidence-based analysis.

PubMed

2005-01-01

The objective of this health technology policy analysis was to determine, where, how, and when physiotherapy services are best delivered to optimize functional outcomes for patients after they undergo primary (first-time) total hip replacement or total knee replacement, and to determine the Ontario-specific economic impact of the best delivery strategy. The objectives of the systematic review were as follows: To determine the effectiveness of inpatient physiotherapy after discharge from an acute care hospital compared with outpatient physiotherapy delivered in either a clinic-based or home-based setting for primary total joint replacement patientsTo determine the effectiveness of outpatient physiotherapy delivered by a physiotherapist in either a clinic-based or home-based setting in addition to a home exercise program compared with a home exercise program alone for primary total joint replacement patientsTo determine the effectiveness of preoperative exercise for people who are scheduled to receive primary total knee or hip replacement surgery Total hip replacements and total knee replacements are among the most commonly performed surgical procedures in Ontario. Physiotherapy rehabilitation after first-time total hip or knee replacement surgery is accepted as the standard and essential treatment. The aim is to maximize a person's functionality and independence and minimize complications such as hip dislocation (for hip replacements), wound infection, deep vein thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism. THE THERAPY: The physiotherapy rehabilitation routine has 4 components: therapeutic exercise, transfer training, gait training, and instruction in the activities of daily living. Physiotherapy rehabilitation for people who have had total joint replacement surgery varies in where, how, and when it is delivered. In Ontario, after discharge from an acute care hospital, people who have had a primary total knee or hip replacement may receive inpatient or outpatient physiotherapy. Inpatient physiotherapy is delivered in a rehabilitation hospital or specialized hospital unit. Outpatient physiotherapy is done either in an outpatient clinic (clinic-based) or in the person's home (home-based). Home-based physiotherapy may include practising an exercise program at home with or without supplemental support from a physiotherapist. Finally, physiotherapy rehabilitation may be administered at several points after surgery, including immediately postoperatively (within the first 5 days) and in the early recovery period (within the first 3 months) after discharge. There is a growing interest in whether physiotherapy should start before surgery. A variety of practises exist, and evidence regarding the optimal pre- and post-acute course of rehabilitation to obtain the best outcomes is needed. The Medical Advisory Secretariat used its standard search strategy, which included searching the databases of Ovid MEDLINE, CINHAL, EMBASE, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and PEDro from 1995 to 2005. English-language articles including systematic reviews, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), non-RCTs, and studies with a sample size of greater than 10 patients were included. Studies had to include patients undergoing primary total hip or total knee replacement, aged 18 years of age or older, and they had to have investigated one of the following comparisons: inpatient rehabilitation versus outpatient (clinic- or home-based therapy) rehabilitation, land-based post-acute care physiotherapy delivered by a physiotherapist compared with patient self-administered exercise and a land-based exercise program before surgery. The primary outcome was postoperative physical functioning. Secondary outcomes included the patient's assessment of therapeutic effect (overall improvement), perceived pain intensity, health services utilization, treatment side effects, and adverse events The quality of the methods of the included studies was assessed using the criteria outlined in the Cochrane Musculoskeletal Injuries Group Quality Assessment Tool. After this, a summary of the biases threatening study validity was determined. Four methodological biases were considered: selection bias, performance bias, attrition bias, and detection bias. A meta-analysis was conducted when adequate data were available from 2 or more studies and where there was no statistical or clinical heterogeneity among studies. The GRADE system was used to summarize the overall quality of evidence. The search yielded 422 citations; of these, 12 were included in the review including 10 primary studies (9 RCTs, 1 non-RCT) and 2 systematic reviews. The Medical Advisory Secretariat review included 2 primary studies (N = 334) that examined the effectiveness of an inpatient physiotherapy rehabilitation program compared with an outpatient home-based physiotherapy program on functional outcomes after total knee or hip replacement surgery. One study, available only as an abstract, found no difference in functional outcome at 1 year after surgery (TKR or THR) between the treatments. The other study was an observational study that found that patients who are younger than 71 years of age on average, who do not live alone, and who do not have comorbid illnesses recover adequate function with outpatient home-based physiotherapy. However results were only measured up to 3 months after surgery, and the outcome measure they used is not considered the best one for physical functioning. Three primary studies (N = 360) were reviewed that tested the effectiveness of outpatient home-based or clinic-based physiotherapy in addition to a self-administered home exercise program, compared with a self-administered exercise program only or in addition to using another therapy (phone calls or continuous passive movement), on postoperative physical functioning after primary TKR surgery. Two of the studies reported no difference in change from baseline in flexion range of motion between those patients receiving outpatient or home-based physiotherapy and doing a home exercise program compared with patients who did a home exercise program only with or without continuous passive movement. The other study reported no difference in the Western Ontario and McMaster Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) scores between patients receiving clinic-based physiotherapy and practising a home exercise program and those who received monitoring phone calls and did a home exercise program after TKR surgery. The Medical Advisory Secretariat reviewed two systematic reviews evaluating the effects of preoperative exercise on postoperative physical functioning. One concluded that preoperative exercise is not effective in improving functional recovery or pain after TKR and any effects after THR could not be adequately determined. The other concluded that there was inconclusive evidence to determine the benefits of preoperative exercise on functional recovery after TKR. Because 2 primary studies were added to the published literature since the publication of these systematic reviews the Medical Advisory Secretariat revisited the question of effectiveness of a preoperative exercise program for patients scheduled for TKR ad THR surgery. The Medical Advisory Secretariat also reviewed 3 primary studies (N = 184) that tested the effectiveness of preoperative exercise beginning 4-6 weeks before surgery on postoperative outcomes after primary TKR surgery. All 3 studies reported negative findings with regard to the effectiveness of preoperative exercise to improve physical functioning after TKR surgery. However, 2 failed to show an effect of the preoperative exercise program before surgery in those patients receiving preoperative exercise. The third study did not measure functional outcome immediately before surgery in the preoperative exercise treatment group; therefore the study's authors could not document an effect of the preoperative exercise program before surgery. Regarding health services utilization, 2 of the studies did not find significant differences in either the length of the acute care hospital stay or the inpatient rehabilitation care setting between patients treated with a preoperative exercise program and those not treated. The third study did not measure health services utilization. These results must be interpreted within the limitations and the biases of each study. Negative results do not necessarily support a lack of treatment effect but may be attributed to a type II statistical error. Finally, the Medical Advisory Secretariat reviewed 2 primary studies (N = 136) that examined the effectiveness of preoperative exercise on postoperative functional outcomes after primary THR surgery. One study did not support the effectiveness of an exercise program beginning 8 weeks before surgery. However, results from the other did support the effectiveness of an exercise program 8 weeks before primary THR surgery on pain and functional outcomes 1 week before and 3 weeks after surgery. Based on the evidence, the Medical Advisory Secretariat reached the following conclusions with respect to physiotherapy rehabilitation and physical functioning 1 year after primary TKR or THR surgery: There is high-quality evidence from 1 large RCT to support the use of home-based physiotherapy instead of inpatient physiotherapy after primary THR or TKR surgery.There is low-to-moderate quality evidence from 1 large RCT to support the conclusion that receiving a monitoring phone call from a physiotherapist and practising home exercises is comparable to receiving clinic-based physiotherapy and practising home exercises for people who have had primary TKR surgery. However, results may not be generalizable to those who have had THR surgery.There is moderate evidence to suggest that an exercise program beginning 4 to 6 weeks before primary TKR surgery is not effective. (ABSTRACT TRUNCATED)

The frequency of replacement of dental restorations may vary based on a number of variables, including type of material, size of the restoration, and caries risk of the patient.

PubMed

Roumanas, Eleni D

2010-03-01

The authors analyzed the dental records of 2780 Navy (cohort 1 = 1078 entered the Navy in 1997) and US Marine Corps recruits (cohort 2 =1053 entered the USMC in 1999-2000; cohort 3 = 649 entered the USMC in 2002-2005). The records were reviewed at 16 US Navy dental treatment facilities at the following time periods: cohort 1, 2001; cohort 2, 2002-2003; and cohort 3, 2005-2006. The mean age of the subjects was 20 years, and 85% were men. Only posterior teeth (not third molars) with amalgam or resin-based composite (including glass ionomer restorations) were evaluated. Teeth that had been restored with more than one material and restorations that did not involve the occlusal surface were excluded. The minimum follow-up time was 2 years with at least 2 periodic exams following the initial exam. The primary factor of interest was the type of restorative material (amalgam versus resin-based composite). Secondary factors included tooth number, number of restored surfaces (single or multiple), and caries risk of the patient. Caries risk status was defined using the Navy Dental Corps Oral Disease Risk Management protocol. The primary outcome measure of interest was the determination of the relative risk of replacement of an initially intact restoration during the subject's first years of military service. Restorations were classified as clinically acceptable or requiring replacement either as a result of new primary caries, secondary caries, defective restorations, or endodontic therapy. At the initial exam, 964 (15.2%) of the amalgam restorations and 199 (17.4%) of the resin-based composites required replacement and were excluded from further analysis. Of the remaining restorations, an additional 14.2% of the amalgam and 16.7% of the composite restorations required replacement during the observation period. The mean follow-up time was 3.0 years (cohort 1, 3.4 years; cohort 2, 3.1 years; cohort 3, 2.3 years). Replacement rates for resin-based composite restorations compared with amalgam were significantly higher owing to all causes (adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 1.28; P < .05) and for replacement owing to restoration failure (adjusted HR, 1.64; P < .01). Multiple surface restorations demonstrated higher rates of replacement than single surface restorations from all causes (adjusted HR, 1.39; P < .01) and for replacement of existing restorations (adjusted HR, 1.82; P < .01). High-caries-risk subjects experienced more than twice the risk of retreatment than did low-caries-risk subjects when considering all replacements (adjusted HR, 2.04; P < .01) and 50% higher risk of replacement of previously restored surfaces (adjusted HR, 1.48; P<.01) Approximately 30% of all posterior restorations required replacement either at the initial or subsequent exams during the observation period. The number of resin-based composite restorations requiring replacement was significantly higher than amalgam restorations. The authors concluded that because of the extra cost, time, and potential for increased frequency of replacement, posterior composite restorations should be limited to restorations of appropriate size and placed under meticulous restorative technique with strict adherence to manufacturer's instructions.

Cost-effectiveness of enhanced recovery in hip and knee replacement: a systematic review protocol.

PubMed

Murphy, Jacqueline; Pritchard, Mark G; Cheng, Lok Yin; Janarthanan, Roshni; Leal, José

2018-03-14

Hip and knee replacement represents a significant burden to the UK healthcare system. 'Enhanced recovery' pathways have been introduced in the National Health Service (NHS) for patients undergoing hip and knee replacement, with the aim of improving outcomes and timely recovery after surgery. To support policymaking, there is a need to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of enhanced recovery pathways across jurisdictions. Our aim is to systematically summarise the published cost-effectiveness evidence on enhanced recovery in hip and knee replacement, both as a whole and for each of the various components of enhanced recovery pathways. A systematic review will be conducted using MEDLINE, EMBASE, Econlit and the National Health Service Economic Evaluations Database. Separate search strategies were developed for each database including terms relating to hip and knee replacement/arthroplasty, economic evaluations, decision modelling and quality of life measures.We will extract peer-reviewed studies published between 2000 and 2017 reporting economic evaluations of preoperative, perioperative or postoperative enhanced recovery interventions within hip or knee replacement. Economic evaluations alongside cohort studies or based on decision models will be included. Only studies with patients undergoing elective replacement surgery of the hip or knee will be included. Data will be extracted using a predefined pro forma following best practice guidelines for economic evaluation, decision modelling and model validation.Our primary outcome will be the cost-effectiveness of enhanced recovery (entire pathway and individual components) in terms of incremental cost per quality-adjusted life year. A narrative synthesis of all studies will be presented, focussing on cost-effectiveness results, study design, quality and validation status. This systematic review is exempted from ethics approval because the work is carried out on published documents. The results of the review will be disseminated in a peer-reviewed academic journal and at conferences. CRD42017059473. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2018. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

Cost-effectiveness of enhanced recovery in hip and knee replacement: a systematic review protocol

PubMed Central

Pritchard, Mark G; Cheng, Lok Yin; Janarthanan, Roshni

2018-01-01

Introduction Hip and knee replacement represents a significant burden to the UK healthcare system. ‘Enhanced recovery’ pathways have been introduced in the National Health Service (NHS) for patients undergoing hip and knee replacement, with the aim of improving outcomes and timely recovery after surgery. To support policymaking, there is a need to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of enhanced recovery pathways across jurisdictions. Our aim is to systematically summarise the published cost-effectiveness evidence on enhanced recovery in hip and knee replacement, both as a whole and for each of the various components of enhanced recovery pathways. Methods and analysis A systematic review will be conducted using MEDLINE, EMBASE, Econlit and the National Health Service Economic Evaluations Database. Separate search strategies were developed for each database including terms relating to hip and knee replacement/arthroplasty, economic evaluations, decision modelling and quality of life measures. We will extract peer-reviewed studies published between 2000 and 2017 reporting economic evaluations of preoperative, perioperative or postoperative enhanced recovery interventions within hip or knee replacement. Economic evaluations alongside cohort studies or based on decision models will be included. Only studies with patients undergoing elective replacement surgery of the hip or knee will be included. Data will be extracted using a predefined pro forma following best practice guidelines for economic evaluation, decision modelling and model validation. Our primary outcome will be the cost-effectiveness of enhanced recovery (entire pathway and individual components) in terms of incremental cost per quality-adjusted life year. A narrative synthesis of all studies will be presented, focussing on cost-effectiveness results, study design, quality and validation status. Ethics and dissemination This systematic review is exempted from ethics approval because the work is carried out on published documents. The results of the review will be disseminated in a peer-reviewed academic journal and at conferences. PROSPERO registration number CRD42017059473. PMID:29540418

Implementation of a timed, electronic, assessment-driven potassium-replacement protocol.

PubMed

Zielenski, Christopher; Crabtree, Adam; Le, Tien; Marlatt, Alyse; Ng, Dana; Tran, Alan

2017-06-15

The adherence to and effectiveness and safety of a timed, electronic, assessment-driven potassium-replacement protocol (TARP) were compared with an electronic nurse-driven replacement protocol (NRP) are reported. A retrospective observational study was conducted in a community hospital evaluating protocol adherence, effectiveness, and safety for 2 potassium-replacement protocols. All adults on medical units with an order for potassium replacement per protocol during the 3-month trial periods were reviewed. All patients requiring potassium replacement per protocol were included in the analysis. Adherence to the protocol was assessed by evaluating the dose of potassium administered and performance of reassessments. Effectiveness of the protocol was assessed by evaluating the time to achieve target potassium levels. Safety was assessed by evaluating the route of administration and occurrence of hyperkalemia. A total of 300 patients treated using potassium-replacement protocols required potassium replacement during the study period, with 148 patients in the NRP group requiring 491 instances of potassium replacement. In the TARP group a total of 564 instances requiring potassium replacement corresponded to 152 patients. Of the 491 instances requiring replacement in the NRP group, the correct dose was administered and reassessment performed 117 times (23.8%). Overall adherence ( p < 0.05), correct dose given ( p < 0.05), average time from blood draw to potassium replacement ( p < 0.0001), use of oral replacement ( p < 0.05), and time to achieve target potassium level within 12 hours ( p < 0.05) were significantly improved in the TARP group. The TARP improved the effectiveness and safety of potassium-replacement therapy over the traditional NRP without negatively affecting timeliness of care. Copyright © 2017 by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. All rights reserved.

Menopausal Symptom Relief and Side Effects Experienced by Women Using Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy and Synthetic Conjugated Equine Estrogen and/or Progestin Hormone Replacement Therapy, Part 1.

PubMed

Deleruyelle, Laura J

2016-01-01

The use of compounded bioidentical hormone replacement therapy by menopausal women has become a popular alternative to traditional synthetic conjugated equine estrogen and progestin hormone replacement therapy due to safety concerns raised by recent studies. However, due to the lack of randomized, large-scale trials to evaluate the efficacy and side-effect profile of compounded bioidentical hormone replacement therapy many healthcare providers are reluctant to prescribe such therapy. The purpose of this study was to compare women's menopausal symptom relief and side effects experienced when using compounded bioidentical hormone replacement therapy and traditional hormone replacement therapy. A descriptive comparative design was used. Inferential and descriptive statistical procedures including a paired difference t -test, two-sample t -test, and f tests (percentage, mean, standard deviation, frequency) were run on the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences. The framework used to guide this study was Lenz and Pugh's Theory of Unpleasant Symptoms. Surveys were distributed once to a convenient sample of women aged 35 and older when they dropped off or picked up their prescriptions at a pharmacy. Of the 216 surveys distributed, 70 were returned from those women taking compounded bioidentical hormone replacement therapy and 53 from traditional hormone replacement therapy. The survey contained 15 questions pertaining to age, duration of hormone replacement therapy, type and formulation of hormone replacement therapy, reasons for initiating hormone replacement therapy, symptoms before and one month after hormone replacement therapy, and side effects related to hormone replacement therapy. The results of this study will be summarized in forthcoming articles in this series. Copyright© by International Journal of Pharmaceutical Compounding, Inc.

[Total and unicompartmental knee replacement. Patient-specific Instrumentation].

PubMed

Köster, G; Biró, C

2016-04-01

The objective of patient-specific instrumentation (PSI Zimmer®) technology is to optimize positioning and selection of components as well as surgical procedure in uni- and bicompartimental knee replacement. The article contains a description of the planning and surgical technique and evaluates the method based on own results and literature. Using MRI or CT scans a virtual 3D model of the joint is created in order to simulate and plan the implant positioning. According to these data, pin placement and/or cutting guides are produced, which enable the surgeon to transfer the planning to the surgical procedure. In a prospective comparative study 88 patients (44 per each of the two techniques) were operated by one surgeon receiving the same TKA using either MRI-based PSI or a conventional technique. The number of surgical trays, operating time, intraoperative changes and frontal alignment using a full leg x‑ray (70 cases) were compared. In 17 patients the method was applied with unicondylar knee replacement. Anatomical abnormalities could be detected preoperatively and considered during the operation. With PSI the number of trays could be reduced and predictability of the component size was more precise. Intraoperative changes became necessary only for distal femoral (25 %) and proximal tibial (36 %) resection and tibial rotation (40 %). Alignment was more precise in the PSI cases PSI using the applied technique proved to be practicable and reliable. The advantages of precise planning became obvious. Results concerning alignment are inconsistent in the literature. Soft tissue balancing has only been included in the technique to a limited degree so far. PSI is still in an early stage of development and further development opportunities should be exploited before final assessment.

A Cross-Sectional Cohort Study of Cerebrovascular Disease and Late Effects After Radiation Therapy for Craniopharyngioma.

PubMed

Lo, Andrea C; Howard, A Fuchsia; Nichol, Alan; Hasan, Haroon; Martin, Monty; Heran, Manraj; Goddard, Karen

2016-05-01

The study objective was to describe radiation-induced vascular abnormalities, stroke prevalence, and stroke risk factors in survivors of childhood craniopharyngioma. Twenty survivors of childhood craniopharyngioma who received radiotherapy (RT) were included in the study. A clinical history, quality of life assessment, cognitive functioning assessment, magnetic resonance angiogram or computed tomography angiogram, fasting lipid profile, and fasting glucose or hemoglobin A1c test were obtained. Median age at diagnosis was 10.3 years and median age at time of study was 29.0 years. Vascular abnormalities were detected in six (32%) of 19 patients' angiograms (vascular stenosis, decreased artery size, aneurysm, cavernoma, and small vessel disease). Five (25%) of 20 patients experienced a stroke after RT. Median time since RT was 27.8 versus 9.1 years in patients with versus without vascular abnormalities (P = 0.02). A low level of high-density lipoproteiin (HDL) was present in 100% (5/5) of patients who had a post-RT stroke as compared with 13% (2/15) of patients who did not have any post-RT stroke (P = 0.02). Previous stroke had occurred in 0% (0/5) of patients receiving growth hormone (GH) replacement at the time of study, compared to 40% (6/15) of patients who were not receiving GH replacement (P = 0.09). Patients with craniopharyngioma treated with RT have a high prevalence of stroke and vascular abnormalities, particularly those with low HDL and longer duration of time since RT. There is a trend to suggest that continual GH replacement may reduce the risk of stroke. These patients should undergo careful monitoring and aggressive modification of stroke risk factors. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Five-day recorder seismic system

USGS Publications Warehouse

Criley, Ed; Eaton, Jerry P.; Ellis, Jim

1978-01-01

The 10-day recorder seismic system used by the USGS since 1965 has been modified substantially to improve its dynamic range and frequency response, to decrease its power consumption and physical complexity, and to make its recordings more compatible with other NCER systems to facilitate data processing. The principal changes include: 1. increasing tape speed from 15/160 ips to 15/80 ips (reducing running time from 10 days to 5 days with a 14' reel of 1 mil tape), 2. increasing the FM center frequency by a factor of 4, from 84.4 Hz to 337.6 Hz, 3. replacing the original amplifiers and FM modulators with new low-power units, 4. replacing the chronometer with a higher quality time code generator (with IRIG-C) to permit automation of data retrieval, 5. eliminating the amplifier/WWVB radio field case by incorporating these elements, along with the new TCG, in the weatherproof tape-recorder box, 6. reducing the power consumption of the motor-drive circuit by removal of a redundant component. In the new system, the tape-recorder case houses all components except the seismometers, the WWVB antenna, the 70-amp-hour 12-VDC battery (which powers the system for 5 days), and the cables to connect these external elements to the recorder box. The objectives of this report are: 1. to describe the new 5-day-recorder seismic system in terms of its constituent parts and their functions, 2. to describe modifications to parts of the original system that were retained and to document new or replacement components with appropriate circuit diagrams and constructional details, 3. to provide detailed instructions for the correct adjustment or alignment of the system in the laboratory, and 4. to provide detailed instructions for installing and operating the system in the field.

Development and application of biomimetic electrospun nanofibers in total joint replacement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Song, Wei

Failure of osseointegration (direct anchorage of an implant by bone formation at the bone-implant surface) and implant infection (such as that caused by Staphylococcus aureus, S. aureus) are the two main causes of implant failure and loosening. There is a critical need for orthopedic implants that promote rapid osseointegration and prevent bacterial colonization, particularly when placed in bone compromised by disease or physiology of the patients. A better understanding of the key factors that influence cell fate decisions at the bone-implant interface is required. Our study is to develop a class of "bone-like" nanofibers (NFs) that promote osseointegration while preventing bacterial colonization and subsequent infections. This research goal is supported by our preliminary data on the preparation of coaxial electrospun NFs composed of polycaprolactone (PCL) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) polymers arranged in a core-sheath shape. The PCL/PVA NFs are biocompatible and biodegradable with appropriate fiber diameter, pore size and mechanical strength, leading to enhanced cell adhesion, proliferation and differentiation of osteoblast precursor cells. The objective is to develop functionalized "bone-like" PCL/PVA NFs matrix embedded with antibiotics (doxycycline (Doxy), bactericidal and anti-osteoclastic) on prosthesis surface. Through a rat tibia implantation model, the Doxy incorporated coaxial NFs has demonstrated excellent in promoting osseointegration and bacteria inhibitory efficacy. NFs coatings significantly enhanced the bonding between implant and bone remodeling within 8 weeks. The SA-induced osteomyelitis was prevented by the sustained release of Doxy from NFs. The capability of embedding numerous bio-components including proteins, growth factors, drugs, etc. enables NFs an effective solution to overcome the current challenged issue in Total joint replacement. In summary, we proposed PCL/PVA electrospun nanofibers as promising biomaterials that can be applied on joint replacement prosthesis to improve osseointegration and prevent osteomyelitis.

Blood Pressure and Arterial Load After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement for Aortic Stenosis.

PubMed

Lindman, Brian R; Otto, Catherine M; Douglas, Pamela S; Hahn, Rebecca T; Elmariah, Sammy; Weissman, Neil J; Stewart, William J; Ayele, Girma M; Zhang, Feifan; Zajarias, Alan; Maniar, Hersh S; Jilaihawi, Hasan; Blackstone, Eugene; Chinnakondepalli, Khaja M; Tuzcu, E Murat; Leon, Martin B; Pibarot, Philippe

2017-07-01

After aortic valve replacement, left ventricular afterload is often characterized by the residual valve obstruction. Our objective was to determine whether higher systemic arterial afterload-as reflected in blood pressure, pulsatile and resistive load-is associated with adverse clinical outcomes after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Total, pulsatile, and resistive arterial load were measured in 2141 patients with severe aortic stenosis treated with TAVR in the PARTNER I trial (Placement of Aortic Transcatheter Valve) who had systolic blood pressure (SBP) and an echocardiogram obtained 30 days after TAVR. The primary end point was 30-day to 1-year all-cause mortality. Lower SBP at 30 days after TAVR was associated with higher mortality (20.0% for SBP 100-129 mm Hg versus 12.0% for SBP 130-170 mm Hg; P <0.001). This association remained significant after adjustment, was consistent across subgroups, and confirmed in sensitivity analyses. In adjusted models that included SBP, higher total and pulsatile arterial load were associated with increased mortality ( P <0.001 for all), but resistive load was not. Patients with low 30-day SBP and high pulsatile load had a 3-fold higher mortality than those with high 30-day SBP and low pulsatile load (26.1% versus 8.1%; hazard ratio, 3.62; 95% confidence interval, 2.36-5.55). Even after relief of valve obstruction in patients with aortic stenosis, there is an independent association between post-TAVR blood pressure, systemic arterial load, and mortality. Blood pressure goals in patients with a history of aortic stenosis may need to be redefined. Increased pulsatile arterial load, rather than blood pressure, may be a target for adjunctive medical therapy to improve outcomes after TAVR. URL: http://www.clinicaltrials.gov. Unique identifier: NCT00530894. © 2017 American Heart Association, Inc.

Hypothyroidism and Mortality among Dialysis Patients

PubMed Central

Rhee, Connie M.; Alexander, Erik K.; Bhan, Ishir

2013-01-01

Summary Background and objectives Hypothyroidism is highly prevalent among ESRD patients, but its clinical significance and the benefits of thyroid hormone replacement in this context remain unclear. Design, setting, participants, & measurements This study examined the association between hypothyroidism and all-cause mortality among 2715 adult dialysis patients with baseline thyrotropin levels measured between April of 2005 and April of 2011. Mortality was ascertained from Social Security Death Master Index and local registration systems. The association between hypothyroidism (thyrotropin greater than assay upper limit normal) and mortality was estimated using Cox proportional hazards models. To reduce the risk of observing reverse-causal associations, models included a 30-day lag between thyrotropin measurement and at-risk time. Results Among 350 (12.9%) hypothyroid and 2365 (87.1%) euthyroid (assay within referent range) patients, 917 deaths were observed during 5352 patient-years of at-risk time. Hypothyroidism was associated with higher mortality. Compared with thyrotropin in the low-normal range (0.4–2.9 mIU/L), subclinical hypothyroidism (thyrotropin >upper limit normal and ≤10.0 mIU/L) was associated with higher mortality; high-normal thyrotropin (≥3.0 mIU/L and ≤upper limit normal) and overt hypothyroidism (thyrotropin >10.0 mIU/L) were associated with numerically greater risk, but estimates were not statistically significant. Compared with spontaneously euthyroid controls, patients who were euthyroid while on exogenous thyroid replacement were not at higher mortality risk, whereas patients who were hypothyroid were at higher mortality risk. Sensitivity analyses indicated that effects on cardiovascular risk factors may mediate the observed association between hypothyroidism and death. Conclusions These data suggest that hypothyroidism is associated with higher mortality in dialysis patients, which may be ameliorated by thyroid hormone replacement therapy. PMID:23258793

Protection of total body water content and absence of hyperthermia despite 2% body mass loss ('voluntary dehydration') in soldiers drinking ad libitum during prolonged exercise in cool environmental conditions.

PubMed

Nolte, Heinrich W; Noakes, Timothy D; van Vuuren, Bernard

2011-11-01

The extent to which humans need to replace fluid losses during exercise remains contentious despite years of focused research. The primary objective was to evaluate ad libitum drinking on hydration status to determine whether body mass loss can be used as an accurate surrogate for changes in total body water (TBW) during exercise. Data were collected during a 14.6-km route march (wet bulb globe temperature of 14.1°C ). 18 subjects with an average age of 26 ± 2.5 (SD) years participated. Their mean ad libitum total fluid intake was 2.1 ± 1.4 litres during the exercise. Predicted sweat rate was 1.289 ± 0.530 l/h. There were no significant changes (p>0.05) in TBW, urine specific gravity or urine osmolality despite an average body mass loss (p<0.05) of 1.3 ± 0.45 kg during the march. Core temperature rose as a function of marching speed and was unrelated to the % change in body mass. This suggests that changes in mass do not accurately predict changes in TBW (r=-0.16) because either the body mass loss during exercise includes losses other than water or there is an endogenous body water source that is released during exercise not requiring replacement during exercise, or both. Ad libitum water replacement between 65% and 70% of sweat losses maintained safe levels of hydration during the experiment. The finding that TBW was protected by ad libitum drinking despite approximately 2% body mass loss suggests that the concept of 'voluntary dehydration' may require revision.

Supportability Technologies for Future Exploration Missions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Watson, Kevin; Thompson, Karen

2007-01-01

Future long-duration human exploration missions will be challenged by resupply limitations and mass and volume constraints. Consequently, it will be essential that the logistics footprint required to support these missions be minimized and that capabilities be provided to make them highly autonomous from a logistics perspective. Strategies to achieve these objectives include broad implementation of commonality and standardization at all hardware levels and across all systems, repair of failed hardware at the lowest possible hardware level, and manufacture of structural and mechanical replacement components as needed. Repair at the lowest hardware levels will require the availability of compact, portable systems for diagnosis of failures in electronic systems and verification of system functionality following repair. Rework systems will be required that enable the removal and replacement of microelectronic components with minimal human intervention to minimize skill requirements and training demand for crews. Materials used in the assembly of electronic systems (e.g. solders, fluxes, conformal coatings) must be compatible with the available repair methods and the spacecraft environment. Manufacturing of replacement parts for structural and mechanical applications will require additive manufacturing systems that can generate near-net-shape parts from the range of engineering alloys employed in the spacecraft structure and in the parts utilized in other surface systems. These additive manufacturing processes will need to be supported by real-time non-destructive evaluation during layer-additive processing for on-the-fly quality control. This will provide capabilities for quality control and may serve as an input for closed-loop process control. Additionally, non-destructive methods should be available for material property determination. These nondestructive evaluation processes should be incorporated with the additive manufacturing process - providing an in-process capability to ensure that material deposited during layer-additive processing meets required material property criteria.

Improved preoperative iron status assessment by soluble transferrin receptor in elderly patients undergoing knee and hip replacement.

PubMed

Basora, M; Deulofeu, R; Salazar, F; Quinto, L; Gomar, C

2006-12-01

A poor preoperative haemoglobin (Hb) status is frequently encountered among adult patients scheduled for corrective surgery of the locomotive system, representing the main risk factor for blood transfusion. The soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR) has become a highly specific parameter for the detection of iron deficits as it can differentiate between iron deficiency anaemia and anaemia of chronic disease, because of the lack of effect by associated inflammation, unlike ferritin. The objectives of this study were to evaluate patients with the prevalence of risk for transfusion, the effect of inflammation on ferritin (F) values and functional iron deficiency in elderly patients with advanced degenerative arthropathy scheduled for hip or knee replacement. This observational, prospective study included patients over 50 years, operated for hip or knee replacements between April and June 2004. Of 218 patients studied, 87 (39%) presented with Hb levels between 10 and 13 g/dl. The prevalence of functional iron deficit was 27% (sTfR > 1.76 mg/l), while only 8.6% of patients displayed F levels below normal. As expected, C-reactive protein levels were elevated in 24.8% of patients and erythrocyte sedimentation rate was elevated in 50%. These inflammatory markers did not correlate with levels of either F or sTfR. Multiple factors can affect F levels, such as the inflammatory status of osteoarthritis in the elderly, obesity, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs therapy and low physical performance. As sTfR is not affected by inflammation, it has emerged as a primary parameter for the evaluation of iron status during preoperative assessment among patients scheduled for arthroplasty surgery. Our data strongly suggest that sTfR measurement contributes to improve patient management.

Antegrade versus retrograde cerebral perfusion for hemiarch replacement with deep hypothermic circulatory arrest: Does it matter? A propensity-matched analysis

PubMed Central

Ganapathi, Asvin M.; Hanna, Jennifer M.; Schechter, Matthew A.; Englum, Brian R.; Castleberry, Anthony W.; Gaca, Jeffrey G.; Hughes, G. Chad

2015-01-01

Objective The choice of cerebral perfusion strategy for aortic arch surgery has been debated, and the superiority of antegrade (ACP) or retrograde (RCP) cerebral perfusion has not been shown. We examined the early and late outcomes for ACP versus RCP in proximal (hemi-) arch replacement using deep hypothermic circulatory arrest (DHCA). Methods A retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained database was performed for all patients undergoing elective and nonelective hemiarch replacement at a single referral institution from June 2005 to February 2013. Total arch cases were excluded to limit the analysis to shorter DHCA times and a more uniform patient population for whom clinical equipoise regarding ACP versus RCP exists. A total of 440 procedures were identified, with 360 (82%) using ACP and 80 (18%) using RCP. The endpoints included 30-day/in-hospital and late outcomes. A propensity score with 1:1 matching of 40 pre- and intraoperative variables was used to adjust for differences between the 2 groups. Results All 80 RCP patients were propensity matched to a cohort of 80 similar ACP patients. The pre- and intra-operative characteristics were not significantly different between the 2 groups after matching. No differences were found in 30-day/in-hospital mortality or morbidity outcomes. The only significant difference between the 2 groups was a shorter mean operative time in the RCP cohort (P = .01). No significant differences were noted in late survival (P = .90). Conclusions In proximal arch operations using DHCA, equivalent early and late outcomes can be achieved with RCP and ACP, although the mean operative time is significantly less with RCP, likely owing to avoidance of axillary cannulation. Questions remain regarding comparative outcomes with straight DHCA and lesser degrees of hypothermia. PMID:24908350

Occupational exposure to complex mixtures of volatile organic compounds in ambient air: desorption from activated charcoal using accelerated solvent extraction can replace carbon disulfide?

PubMed

Fabrizi, Giovanni; Fioretti, Marzia; Rocca, Lucia Mainero

2013-01-01

A desorption study of 57 volatile organic compounds (VOCs) has been conducted by use of accelerated solvent extraction (ASE) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Different solvents were tested to extract activated charcoal tubes with the objective of replacing carbon disulfide, used in official methods, because of its highly toxic health and environmental effects. Extraction conditions, for example temperature and number of cycles, were investigated and optimized. The definitive extraction procedure selected was use of acetone at 150 °C and two consecutive extraction cycles at a pressure of 1,500 psi. Considering a sample volume of 0.005 Nm(3), corresponding to a sampling time of 8 h at a flow rate of 0.01 L min(-1), the method was validated over the concentration range 65-26,300 μg Nm(-3). The lowest limit of quantification was 6 μg Nm(-3), and recovery for the 93 % of analytes ranged from 65 to 102 %. For most of the compounds, relative standard deviations were less than 15 % for inter and intra-day precision. Uncertainty of measurement was also determined: the relative expanded uncertainty was always below 29.6 %, except for dichlorodifluoromethane. This work shows that use of friendlier solvent, for example acetone, coupled with use of ASE, can replace use of CS(2) for chemical removal of VOCs from activated charcoal. ASE has several advantages over traditional solvent-extraction methods, including shorter extraction time, minimum sample manipulation, high reproducibility, and less extraction discrimination. No loss of sensitivity occurs and there is also a salutary effect on bench workers' health and on the smell of laboratory air.

Rapid replacement of Tangier Island bridges including lightweight and durable fiber-reinforced polymer deck systems.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2009-01-01

Fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composite cellular deck systems were used as new bridge decks on two replacement bridges on Tangier Island, Virginia. The most important characteristics of this application were reduced self-weight and increased durabil...

38 CFR 59.50 - Priority list.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... priority group does not include applications for the addition or replacement of building utility systems, such as heating and air conditioning systems or building features, such as roof replacements. Projects... Americans with Disabilities Act; building systems and utilities (e.g., electrical; heating, ventilation, and...

Evaluation of external biosecurity practices on southern Ontario sow farms.

PubMed

Bottoms, Kate; Poljak, Zvonimir; Dewey, Cate; Deardon, Rob; Holtkamp, Derald; Friendship, Robert

2013-04-01

External biosecurity protocols, aimed at preventing the introduction of new pathogens to the farm environment, are becoming increasingly important in the swine industry. Although assessments at the individual farm level occur regularly, efforts to cluster swine herds into meaningful biosecurity groups and to summarize this information at the regional level are relatively infrequent. The objectives of this study were: (i) to summarize external biosecurity practices on sow farms in southern Ontario; (ii) to cluster these farms into discrete biosecurity groups and to describe their characteristics, the variables of importance in differentiating between these groups, and their geographic distribution; and (iii) to identify significant predictors of biosecurity group membership. Data were collected using the Production Animal Disease Risk Assessment Program's Survey for the Breeding Herd. A subset of variables pertaining to external biosecurity practices was selected for two-step cluster analysis, which resulted in 3 discrete biosecurity groups. These groups were named by the authors as: (i) high biosecurity herds that were open with respect to replacement animals, (ii) high biosecurity herds that were closed with respect to replacement animals, and (iii) low biosecurity herds. Variables pertaining to trucking practices and the source of replacement animals were the most important in differentiating between these groups. Multinomial logistic regression provided insight into which demographic and neighborhood variables serve as significant predictors of biosecurity group membership (p<0.05). Variables in the final regression model include: herd density within a 4.8 km radius, number of sows on the premises, and site production type. The odds of belonging to the high biosecurity group that was open with respect to replacement animals, relative to the low biosecurity group, increased 1.001 times for each additional sow (p=0.001). The odds of belonging to the high biosecurity group that was open with respect to replacement animals, relative to the low biosecurity group, were 6.5 times greater for farms that produced genetic animals than for farms that produced commercial animals (p=0.003). The information obtained through this work allows a better understanding of biosecurity in sow herds at the regional level, and the implementation of biosecurity protocols in North American swine herds in general. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Extensive Surgical Wound Lavage Reduces the Incidence and Severity of Heterotopic Ossification in Primary Total Hip Replacement: A Study of 175 Hip Replacements.

PubMed

Kantak, Avadhoot P; Shah, Nirav N

2017-12-01

One of the local factors contributing to the formation of heterotopic ossification includes bone debris generated during the surgery. This risk can be partially nullified by use of saline wash. Our research aim was to ascertain if extensive intraoperative lavage can reduce the incidence and severity of heterotopic ossification in primary total hip arthroplasty. A retrospective case control radiological study of 145 patients (175 hip replacements). The control group received minimal intra-operative lavage (<1,000 mL); consisted of 90 primary hip replacements. The index group received extensive saline lavage (>3,000 mL), and included 85 primary hip replacements. Brooker classification was used to grade radiographs at one year for development of heterotopic ossification. Sixty-six patients in control group had heterotopic ossification, with six showing a significant grade (grade 3 or 4). Thirty-five patients in the index group had heterotopic ossification with no incidence of severe grade. Majority patients in the index group showed a predominantly grade 1 heterotopic ossification; 28 out of 35, as compared to 37 out of 66 in control group. There was a statistically significant difference in the incidence ( P <0.05) as well as severity of heterotopic ossification between the groups ( P <0.05). We conclude that use of extensive lavage during total hip replacement reduces the incidence as well as severity of heterotopic ossification.

Dynamics and control of robot for capturing objects in space

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Panfeng

Space robots are expected to perform intricate tasks in future space services, such as satellite maintenance, refueling, and replacing the orbital replacement unit (ORU). To realize these missions, the capturing operation may not be avoided. Such operations will encounter some challenges because space robots have some unique characteristics unfound on ground-based robots, such as, dynamic singularities, dynamic coupling between manipulator and space base, limited energy supply and working without a fixed base, and so on. In addition, since contacts and impacts may not be avoided during capturing operation. Therefore, dynamics and control problems of space robot for capturing objects are significant research topics if the robots are to be deployed for the space services. A typical servicing operation mainly includes three phases: capturing the object, berthing and docking the object, then repairing the target. Therefore, this thesis will focus on resolving some challenging problems during capturing the object, berthing and docking, and so on. In this thesis, I study and analyze the dynamics and control problems of space robot for capturing objects. This work has potential impact in space robotic applications. I first study the contact and impact dynamics of space robot and objects. I specifically focus on analyzing the impact dynamics and mapping the relationship of influence and speed. Then, I develop the fundamental theory for planning the minimum-collision based trajectory of space robot and designing the configuration of space robot at the moment of capture. To compensate for the attitude of the space base during the capturing approach operation, a new balance control concept which can effectively balance the attitude of the space base using the dynamic couplings is developed. The developed balance control concept helps to understand of the nature of space dynamic coupling, and can be readily applied to compensate or minimize the disturbance to the space base. After capturing the object, the space robot must complete the following two tasks: one is to berth the object, and the other is to re-orientate the attitude of the whole robot system for communication and power supply. Therefore, I propose a method to accomplish these two tasks simultaneously using manipulator motion only. The ultimate goal of space services is to realize the capture and manipulation autonomously. Therefore, I propose an affective approach based on learning human skill to track and capture the objects automatically in space. With human-teaching demonstration, the space robot is able to learn and abstract human tracking and capturing skill using an efficient neural-network learning architecture that combines flexible Cascade Neural Networks with Node Decoupled Extended Kalman Filtering (CNN-NDEKF). The simulation results attest that this approach is useful and feasible in tracking trajectory planning and capturing of space robot. Finally I propose a novel approach based on Genetic Algorithms (GAs) to optimize the approach trajectory of space robots in order to realize effective and stable operations. I complete the minimum-torque path planning in order to save the limited energy in space, and design the minimum jerk trajectory for the stabilization of the space manipulator and its space base. These optimal algorithms are very important and useful for the application of space robot.

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement: a Kidney’s Perspective

PubMed Central

Cheungpasitporn, Wisit; Thongprayoon, Charat; Kashani, Kianoush

2016-01-01

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has now emerged as a viable treatment option for high-risk patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS) who are not suitable candidates for surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR). Despite encouraging published outcomes, acute kidney injury (AKI) is common and lowers the survival of patients after TAVR. The pathogenesis of AKI after TAVR is multifactorial including TAVR specific factors such as the use of contrast agents, hypotension during rapid pacing, and embolization; preventive measures may include pre-procedural hydration, limitation of contrast dye exposure, and avoidance of intraprocedural hypotension. In recent years, the number of TAVR performed worldwide has been increasing, as well as published data on renal perspectives of TAVR including AKI, chronic kidney disease, end-stage kidney disease, and kidney transplantation. This review aims to present the current literature on the nephrology aspects of TAVR, ultimately to improve the patients’ quality of care and outcomes. PMID:27069960

Fastener starter tool

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chandler, Faith T. (Inventor); Arnett, Michael C. (Inventor); Garton, Harry L. (Inventor); Valentino, William D. (Inventor)

2003-01-01

A fastener starter tool includes a number of spring retention fingers for retaining a small part, or combination of parts. The tool has an inner housing, which holds the spring retention fingers, a hand grip, and an outer housing configured to slide over the inner housing and the spring retention fingers toward and away from the hand grip, exposing and opening, or respectively, covering and closing, the spring retention fingers. By sliding the outer housing toward (away from) the hand grip, a part can be released from (retained by) the tool. The tool may include replaceable inserts, for retaining parts, such as screws, and configured to limit the torque applied to the part, to prevent cross threading. The inner housing has means to transfer torque from the hand grip to the insert. The tool may include replaceable bits, the inner housing having means for transferring torque to the replaceable bit.

Non-conventional solvents in liquid phase microextraction and aqueous biphasic systems.

PubMed

An, Jiwoo; Trujillo-Rodríguez, María J; Pino, Verónica; Anderson, Jared L

2017-06-02

The development of rapid, convenient, and high throughput sample preparation approaches such as liquid phase microextraction techniques have been continuously developed over the last decade. More recently, significant attention has been given to the replacement of conventional organic solvents used in liquid phase microextraction techniques in order to reduce toxic waste and to improve selectivity and/or extraction efficiency. With these objectives, non-conventional solvents have been explored in liquid phase microextraction and aqueous biphasic systems. The utilized non-conventional solvents include ionic liquids, magnetic ionic liquids, and deep eutectic solvents. They have been widely used as extraction solvents or additives in various liquid phase microextraction modes including dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction, single-drop microextraction, hollow fiber-liquid phase microextraction, as well as in aqueous biphasic systems. This review provides an overview into the use of non-conventional solvents in these microextraction techniques in the past 5 years (2012-2016). Analytical applications of the techniques are also discussed. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Aortic Root Replacement for Children With Loeys-Dietz Syndrome.

PubMed

Patel, Nishant D; Alejo, Diane; Crawford, Todd; Hibino, Narutoshi; Dietz, Harry C; Cameron, Duke E; Vricella, Luca A

2017-05-01

Loeys-Dietz syndrome (LDS) is an aggressive aortopathy with a proclivity for aortic aneurysm rupture and dissection at smaller diameters than other connective tissue disorders. We reviewed our surgical experience of children with LDS to validate our guidelines for prophylactic aortic root replacement (ARR). We reviewed all children (younger than 18 years) with a diagnosis of LDS who underwent ARR at our institution. The primary endpoint was mortality, and secondary endpoints included complications and the need for further interventions. Thirty-four children with LDS underwent ARR. Mean age at operation was 10 years, and 15 (44%) were female. Mean preoperative root diameter was 4 cm. Three children (9%) had composite ARR with a mechanical prosthesis, and 31 (91%) underwent valve-sparing ARR. Concomitant procedures included arch replacement in 2 (6%), aortic valve repair in 1 (3%), and patent foramen ovale closure in 16 (47%). There was no operative mortality. Two children (6%) required late replacement of the ascending aorta, 5 (15%) required arch replacement, 1 (3%) required mitral valve replacement, and 2 (6%) had coronary button aneurysms/pseudoaneurysms requiring repair. Three children required redo valve-sparing ARR after a Florida sleeve procedure, and 2 had progressive aortic insufficiency requiring aortic valve replacement after a valve-sparing procedure. There were 2 late deaths (6%). These data confirm the aggressive aortopathy of LDS. Valve-sparing ARR should be performed when feasible to avoid the risks of prostheses. Serial imaging of the arterial tree is critical, given the rate of subsequent intervention. Copyright © 2017 The Society of Thoracic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The Photogrammetry Cube

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2008-01-01

We can determine distances between objects and points of interest in 3-D space to a useful degree of accuracy from a set of camera images by using multiple camera views and reference targets in the camera s field of view (FOV). The core of the software processing is based on the previously developed foreign-object debris vision trajectory software (see KSC Research and Technology 2004 Annual Report, pp. 2 5). The current version of this photogrammetry software includes the ability to calculate distances between any specified point pairs, the ability to process any number of reference targets and any number of camera images, user-friendly editing features, including zoom in/out, translate, and load/unload, routines to help mark reference points with a Find function, while comparing them with the reference point database file, and a comprehensive output report in HTML format. In this system, scene reference targets are replaced by a photogrammetry cube whose exterior surface contains multiple predetermined precision 2-D targets. Precise measurement of the cube s 2-D targets during the fabrication phase eliminates the need for measuring 3-D coordinates of reference target positions in the camera's FOV, using for example a survey theodolite or a Faroarm. Placing the 2-D targets on the cube s surface required the development of precise machining methods. In response, 2-D targets were embedded into the surface of the cube and then painted black for high contrast. A 12-inch collapsible cube was developed for room-size scenes. A 3-inch, solid, stainless-steel photogrammetry cube was also fabricated for photogrammetry analysis of small objects.

Measuring subjective well-being for policy purposes: The example of well-being indicators in the WHO "Health 2020" framework.

PubMed

Vik, Mari Hagtvedt; Carlquist, Erik

2018-03-01

This article discusses the rationale for measuring national well-being, and examines the use of subjectively oriented well-being measures in the context of public policy. Recent years have witnessed growing attention towards the concept and measurement of well-being, both within academic disciplines, intergovernmental organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) as well as in many governments across Europe, including the Nordic countries. Economic indicators have commonly been regarded as proxies of societal progress of nations, but indicators of well-being have increasingly been applied in order to complement or replace these measures. Well-being indicators of the WHO "Health 2020" framework are critically examined with particular attention given to the subjective aspects of well-being. Literature discussing the rationale for subjective indicators is reviewed. As a background, central theoretical and measurement perspectives on well-being are outlined, including hedonic, eudaimonic and objective list approaches. The WHO refers to well-being in definitions of health and mental health, but has primarily reported on disease. The "Health 2020" framework marked a shift in this concern. One of the main targets of "Health 2020" concerns well-being, involving six core indicators. Only one indicator refers to well-being as subjective experience. Literature supports more extensive use of subjective indicators in combination with objective measures. Although consensus on definitions and instruments is lacking, subjective and objective measures of national well-being may jointly contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of societal progress, as well as a broader conception of health. Further research is required, particularly with regard to eudaimonic indicators.

Rehabilitation of Wastewater Collection and Water Distribution Systems

EPA Science Inventory

The nation’s 54,000 drinking water systems and 16,000 wastewater systems are nearing the end of their useful life and need to be replaced/repaired to comply with federal regulations. Rehabilitation includes a broad spectrum of approaches, from repair to replacement that attempt ...

Dietary Interventions and Blood Pressure in Latin America - Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

PubMed Central

Mazzaro, Caroline Cantalejo; Klostermann, Flávia Caroline; Erbano, Bruna Olandoski; Schio, Nicolle Amboni; Guarita-Souza, Luiz César; Olandoski, Marcia; Faria-Neto, José Rocha; Baena, Cristina Pellegrino

2014-01-01

Background High blood pressure is the major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Low blood pressure control rates in Latin American populations emphasize the need for gathering evidence on effective therapies. Objective To evaluate the effects of dietary interventions on blood pressure in Latin American populations. Methods Systematic review. Electronic databases (MEDLINE/PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, Web of Science, Scopus, SciELO, LILACS and VHL) were searched and manual search for studies published up to April 2013 was performed. Parallel studies about dietary interventions in Latin American adult populations assessing arterial blood pressure (mm Hg) before and after intervention were included. Results Of the 405 studies identified, 10 randomized controlled trials were included and divided into 3 subgroups according to the proposed dietary intervention. There was a non-significant reduction in systolic blood pressure in the subgroups of mineral replacement (-4.82; 95% CI: -11.36 to 1.73) and complex pattern diets (-3.17; 95% CI: -7.62 to 1.28). Regarding diastolic blood pressure, except for the hyperproteic diet subgroup, all subgroups showed a significant reduction in blood pressure: -4.66 mmHg (95% CI: -9.21 to -0.12) and -4.55 mmHg (95% CI: -7.04 to -2.06) for mineral replacement and complex pattern diets, respectively. Conclusion Available evidence on the effects of dietary changes on blood pressure in Latin American populations indicates a homogeneous effect of those interventions, although not significant for systolic blood pressure. Samples were small and the quality of the studies was generally low. Larger studies are required to build robust evidence. PMID:24676220

An efficient and accurate solution methodology for bilevel multi-objective programming problems using a hybrid evolutionary-local-search algorithm.

PubMed

Deb, Kalyanmoy; Sinha, Ankur

2010-01-01

Bilevel optimization problems involve two optimization tasks (upper and lower level), in which every feasible upper level solution must correspond to an optimal solution to a lower level optimization problem. These problems commonly appear in many practical problem solving tasks including optimal control, process optimization, game-playing strategy developments, transportation problems, and others. However, they are commonly converted into a single level optimization problem by using an approximate solution procedure to replace the lower level optimization task. Although there exist a number of theoretical, numerical, and evolutionary optimization studies involving single-objective bilevel programming problems, not many studies look at the context of multiple conflicting objectives in each level of a bilevel programming problem. In this paper, we address certain intricate issues related to solving multi-objective bilevel programming problems, present challenging test problems, and propose a viable and hybrid evolutionary-cum-local-search based algorithm as a solution methodology. The hybrid approach performs better than a number of existing methodologies and scales well up to 40-variable difficult test problems used in this study. The population sizing and termination criteria are made self-adaptive, so that no additional parameters need to be supplied by the user. The study indicates a clear niche of evolutionary algorithms in solving such difficult problems of practical importance compared to their usual solution by a computationally expensive nested procedure. The study opens up many issues related to multi-objective bilevel programming and hopefully this study will motivate EMO and other researchers to pay more attention to this important and difficult problem solving activity.

Cost effectiveness analysis of screening for sight threatening diabetic eye disease

PubMed Central

James, Marilyn; Turner, David A; Broadbent, Deborah M; Vora, Jiten; Harding, Simon P

2000-01-01

Objective To measure the cost effectiveness of systematic photographic screening for sight threatening diabetic eye disease compared with existing practice. Design Cost effectiveness analysis Setting Liverpool. Subjects A target population of 5000 diabetic patients invited for screening. Main outcome measures Cost effectiveness (cost per true positive) of systematic and opportunistic programmes; incremental cost effectiveness of replacing opportunistic with systematic screening. Results Baseline prevalence of sight threatening eye disease was 14.1%. The cost effectiveness of the systematic programme was £209 (sensitivity 89%, specificity 86%, compliance 80%, annual cost £104 996) and of the opportunistic programme was £289 (combined sensitivity 63%, specificity 92%, compliance 78%, annual cost £99 981). The incremental cost effectiveness of completely replacing the opportunistic programme was £32. Absolute values of cost effectiveness were highly sensitive to varying prevalence, sensitivity and specificity, compliance, and programme size. Conclusion Replacing existing programmes with systematic screening for diabetic eye disease is justified. PMID:10856062

Pricing and inventory policies for Hi-tech products under replacement warranty

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tsao, Yu-Chung; Teng, Wei-Guang; Chen, Ruey-Shii; Chou, Wang-Ying

2014-06-01

Companies, especially in the Hi-tech (high-technology) industry (such as computer, communication and consumer electronic products), often provide a replacement warranty period for purchased items. In reality, simultaneously determining the price and inventory decisions under warranty policy is an important issue. The objective of this paper is to develop a joint pricing and inventory model for Hi-tech products under replacement warranty policy. In the first model, we consider a Hi-tech product feature in which the selling price is declining in a trend. We determine the optimal inventory level for each period and retail price for the first period while maximising the total profit. In the second model, we further determine the optimal retail price and inventory level for each period in the dynamic demand market. This study develops solution approaches to solve the problems described above. Numerical analysis discusses the influence of system parameters on the company's decisions and behaviours. The results of this study could serve as a reference for business managers or administrators.

Compliant mechanism road bicycle brake: a rigid-body replacement case study

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

Olsen, Brian M; Howell, Larry L; Magleby, Spencer P

2011-01-19

The design of high-performance bicycle brakes is complicated by the competing design objectives of increased performance and low weight. But this challenge also provides a good case study to demonstrate the design of compliant mechanisms to replace current rigid-link mechanisms. This paper briefly reviews current road brake designs, demonstrates the use of rigid-body replacement synthesis to design a compliant mechanism, and illustrates the combination of compliant mechanism design tools. The resulting concept was generated from the modified dual-pivot brake design and is a partially compliant mechanism where one pin has the dual role of a joint and a mounting pin.more » The pseudo-rigid-body model, finite element analysis, and optimization algorithms are used to generate design dimensions, and designs are considered for both titanium and E-glass flexures. The resulting design has the potential of reducing the part count and overall weight while maintaining a performance similar to the benchmark.« less

Development and quality assessment of carrageenan incorporated low fat chevon patties.

PubMed

Nayak, N K; Pathak, V

2016-09-01

The present study was conducted to develop and assess the quality of carrageenan incorporated chevon patties with the objective of reducing fat content. Efficacy of carrageenan as fat replacers (0.3, 0.6 & 0.9 %) was assessed for development of low fat chevon patties. Emulsion stability and cooking yield increased with the increase in levels of carrageenan. Significantly ( P  < 0.05) lower fat and cholesterol contents and higher moisture and fat retention were observed in formulation with carrageenan. No significant difference in the mineral content in either of the treatment was recorded. Incorporation of fat replacer in chevon patties demonstrated significant effect on all the textural parameters except adhesiveness. Results of color value illustrated that lightness (L*) value differ significantly. Sensory scores were higher or comparable for patties containing 0.6 % carrageenan as compared to control. Hence, carrageenan was observed to be suitable as fat replacer for producing low fat chevon meat patties.

All the things I have - handling one's material room in old age.

PubMed

Larsson Ranada, Asa; Hagberg, Jan-Erik

2014-12-01

The article explores how old people who live in their ordinary home, reason and act regarding their 'material room' (technical objects, such as household appliances, communication tools and things, such as furniture, personal belongings, gadgets, books, paintings, and memorabilia). The interest is in how they, as a consequence of their aging, look at acquiring new objects and phasing out older objects from the home. This is a broader approach than in most other studies of how old people relate to materiality in which attention is mostly paid either to adjustments to the physical environment or to the importance of personal possessions. In the latter cases, the focus is on downsizing processes (e.g. household disbandment or casser maison) in connection with a move to smaller accommodation or to a nursing home. The article is based on a study in which thirteen older people (median age 87), living in a Swedish town of medium size were interviewed (2012) for a third time. The questions concerned the need and desire for new objects, replacement of broken objects, sorting out the home or elsewhere, most cherished possessions, and the role of family members such as children and grandchildren. The results reveal the complexity of how one handles the material room. Most evident is the participants' reluctance to acquire new objects or even to replace broken things. Nearly all of them had considered, but few had started, a process of sorting out objects. These standpoints in combination resulted in a relatively intact material room, which was motivated by an ambition to simplify daily life or to facilitate the approaching dissolution of the home. Some objects of special value and other cherished objects materialized the connections between generations within a family. Some participants wanted to spare their children the burden of having to decide on what to do with their possessions. Others (mostly men), on the contrary, relied on their children to do the sorting out after they had died. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Optimizing model: insemination, replacement, seasonal production, and cash flow.

PubMed

DeLorenzo, M A; Spreen, T H; Bryan, G R; Beede, D K; Van Arendonk, J A

1992-03-01

Dynamic programming to solve the Markov decision process problem of optimal insemination and replacement decisions was adapted to address large dairy herd management decision problems in the US. Expected net present values of cow states (151,200) were used to determine the optimal policy. States were specified by class of parity (n = 12), production level (n = 15), month of calving (n = 12), month of lactation (n = 16), and days open (n = 7). Methodology optimized decisions based on net present value of an individual cow and all replacements over a 20-yr decision horizon. Length of decision horizon was chosen to ensure that optimal policies were determined for an infinite planning horizon. Optimization took 286 s of central processing unit time. The final probability transition matrix was determined, in part, by the optimal policy. It was estimated iteratively to determine post-optimization steady state herd structure, milk production, replacement, feed inputs and costs, and resulting cash flow on a calendar month and annual basis if optimal policies were implemented. Implementation of the model included seasonal effects on lactation curve shapes, estrus detection rates, pregnancy rates, milk prices, replacement costs, cull prices, and genetic progress. Other inputs included calf values, values of dietary TDN and CP per kilogram, and discount rate. Stochastic elements included conception (and, thus, subsequent freshening), cow milk production level within herd, and survival. Validation of optimized solutions was by separate simulation model, which implemented policies on a simulated herd and also described herd dynamics during transition to optimized structure.

Embedding Task-Based Neural Models into a Connectome-Based Model of the Cerebral Cortex.

PubMed

Ulloa, Antonio; Horwitz, Barry

2016-01-01

A number of recent efforts have used large-scale, biologically realistic, neural models to help understand the neural basis for the patterns of activity observed in both resting state and task-related functional neural imaging data. An example of the former is The Virtual Brain (TVB) software platform, which allows one to apply large-scale neural modeling in a whole brain framework. TVB provides a set of structural connectomes of the human cerebral cortex, a collection of neural processing units for each connectome node, and various forward models that can convert simulated neural activity into a variety of functional brain imaging signals. In this paper, we demonstrate how to embed a previously or newly constructed task-based large-scale neural model into the TVB platform. We tested our method on a previously constructed large-scale neural model (LSNM) of visual object processing that consisted of interconnected neural populations that represent, primary and secondary visual, inferotemporal, and prefrontal cortex. Some neural elements in the original model were "non-task-specific" (NS) neurons that served as noise generators to "task-specific" neurons that processed shapes during a delayed match-to-sample (DMS) task. We replaced the NS neurons with an anatomical TVB connectome model of the cerebral cortex comprising 998 regions of interest interconnected by white matter fiber tract weights. We embedded our LSNM of visual object processing into corresponding nodes within the TVB connectome. Reciprocal connections between TVB nodes and our task-based modules were included in this framework. We ran visual object processing simulations and showed that the TVB simulator successfully replaced the noise generation originally provided by NS neurons; i.e., the DMS tasks performed with the hybrid LSNM/TVB simulator generated equivalent neural and fMRI activity to that of the original task-based models. Additionally, we found partial agreement between the functional connectivities using the hybrid LSNM/TVB model and the original LSNM. Our framework thus presents a way to embed task-based neural models into the TVB platform, enabling a better comparison between empirical and computational data, which in turn can lead to a better understanding of how interacting neural populations give rise to human cognitive behaviors.

77 FR 62308 - Self-Regulatory Organizations; The Options Clearing Corporation; Notice of Filing of Advance...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-10-12

... Organizations; The Options Clearing Corporation; Notice of Filing of Advance Notice and Notice of No Objection To Replace The Options Clearing Corporation's Credit Facility October 5, 2012. Pursuant to Section 19...\\ notice is hereby given that on September 26, 2012, The Options Clearing Corporation (``OCC'') filed with...

Tobacco Cessation through Community Pharmacies: Knowledge, Attitudes, Practices and Perceived Barriers among Pharmacists in Penang

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Taha, Nur Akmar; Tee, Ooi Guat

2015-01-01

Objectives: Tobacco cessation is the primary goal of tobacco control measures. Community pharmacists are possible providers of tobacco cessation counselling due to their close contact with the public and the availability of non-prescription nicotine replacement therapies in pharmacies. However, community pharmacists often do not provide tobacco…

Training of Fishermen for the Tuna Industry.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Juhl, Rolf

The report concerns a failure to train fishermen for the Puerto Rico tuna industry. The objectives were to train fishermen for the purpose of replacing foreign crews aboard tuna vessels and create a cadre of local fishermen with experience in high seas commercial fisheries. The failure appears to be associated with the lack of adequate berthing…

Preparation and application of new fluorescein-labeled fumonisins B1 in fluorescence polarization analysis technique

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Objective: To prepare a new fluorescent tracer against common mycotoxins such as fumonisin B1 in order to replace 6-(4,6-Dichlorotriazinyl) aminofluorescein (6-DTAF), an expensive marker, and to develop a technique for quick detection of fumonisin B1 based on the principle of fluorescence polarizati...

20 CFR 416.110 - Purpose of program.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 20 Employees' Benefits 2 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Purpose of program. 416.110 Section 416.110... income program replaces the financial assistance programs for the aged, blind, and disabled in the 50... the program: (a) Objective tests. The law provides that payments are to be made to aged, blind, and...

The Role of "Only" in Contrasts in and out of Context

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Carlson, Katy

2013-01-01

Three self-paced reading experiments explored the processing of "only" and its interaction with context. In isolated sentences, the focus particle "only" predicts an upcoming contrast. Ambiguous replacive sentences (e.g., "The curator embarrassed the gallery owner in public, not the artist") with "only" on the subject or object showed faster…

45 CFR 2522.640 - Under what circumstances may I change my performance measures?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... tutoring (increased attendance at school) with another (percentage of students who are promoted to the next... need to replace an objective related to health with one related to the environment; (3) Redefine the... tutoring adults in English, as opposed to operating an after-school program for third-graders; (4...

76 FR 47243 - Training and Employment Guidance (TEGL) Letter No. 15-06, Change 1, Special Procedures: Labor...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-08-04

... procedures, updated to reflect regulatory and organizational changes in the H-2A Program, for employers who... (the 2008 Final Rule). The 2008 Final Rule implemented an attestation-based application process and... reflect organizational changes, in addition to new regulatory and policy objectives. It replaces previous...

The "Tutorless" Design Studio: A Radical Experiment in Blended Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hill, Glen Andrew

2017-01-01

This paper describes a pedagogical experiment in which a suite of novel blended learning strategies was used to replace the traditional role of design tutors in a first year architectural design studio. The pedagogical objectives, blended learning strategies and outcomes of the course are detailed. While the quality of the student design work…

The American Indian: A Freshman Investigative Seminar.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fullman, Christopher E.

As a recent curriculum innovation replacing Freshman English, the Freshman Investigative Seminar consists of 12 or 13 students meeting for one semester of five weekly class hours, directed by faculty from different disciplines. Its objectives are to lead the student to learn how to gather information from various sources, how to keep accurate…

Development of a Tissue Engineered Scaffold for Meniscus Replacement

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-12-01

include loss of manpower, rehabilitation costs, waste of training time/ money , cost to retrain members as replacements, hospitalization costs, disability...injuries in the United States Armed Forces. Mil Med, 1999. 164(8 Suppl): p. 633 pages. Lauder , T.D., et al., Sports and physical training injury

PERMANENT PRIMER/REPLACEABLE TOPCOAT AIRCRAFT COATING SYSTEM WITH MINIMUM VOC AND CHROMIUM EXPOSURE - PHASE I

EPA Science Inventory

In Phase I, Foster-Miller, Inc., will develop the permanent primer replacement topcoat (PPRT), produce coated test panels, and analyze test panels for key performance properties. Topcoat stripping also will be demonstrated. The team includes coating experts and an aircraft ...

What's in a Name?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tasse, Marc J.

2013-01-01

The World Health Organization (WHO) is in the process of developing the 11th edition of the "International Classification of Diseases" ("ICD-11"). Part of this process includes replacing "mental retardation" with a more acceptable term to identify the condition. The current international consensus appears to be replacing "mental retardation" with…

The impact of changes in LVEF and renal function on the prognosis of ICD patients after elective device replacement.

PubMed

Vandenberk, Bert; Robyns, Tomas; Garweg, Christophe; Floré, Vincent; Foulon, Stefaan; Voros, Gabor; Ector, Joris; Willems, Rik

2017-10-01

A proportion of patients with an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) in prevention of sudden cardiac death will only receive their first appropriate ICD therapy (AT) after device replacement. Clinical reassessment at the time of replacement could be helpful to guide the decision to replace or not in the future. All patients with an ICD for primary or secondary prevention in ischemic (ICM) or nonischemic cardiomyopathy were included in a single-center retrospective registry. The association of changes in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF; cut-off at 35%), worsening renal function (decrease in estimated glomerular filtration rate > 15 mL/min), and worsening New York Heart Association class at elective device replacement with mortality and AT was analyzed using adjusted Cox regression analysis. A total of 238 (33%) out of 727 patients received elective device replacement (86.1% male, 74.4% ICM, 42.9% primary prevention). During this replacement 20.2% received a device upgrade. The mean time to replacement was 6.4 ± 2.0 years and mean follow-up after replacement was 3.4 ± 3.0 years. Of patients who did not receive AT before replacement 23.1% received their first AT after replacement. Worsening renal function (hazard ratio [HR] 2.79, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.50-5.18) and a consistently LVEF ≤35% compared to a consistently LVEF >35% (HR 2.15, 95% CI 1.10-4.19) at the time of replacement were independent predictors of mortality. Independent predictors of first AT after replacement could not be identified. Although reassessment of LVEF and renal function at replacement can be helpful in predicting total mortality, the clinical utility to guide reimplantation seemed limited. Our experience indicates that approximately 25% of patients received their first AT only after replacement. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Surface gloss and color perception of 3D objects.

PubMed

Xiao, Bei; Brainard, David H

2008-01-01

Two experiments explore the color perception of objects in complex scenes. The first experiment examines the color perception of objects across variation in surface gloss. Observers adjusted the color appearance of a matte sphere to match that of a test sphere. Across conditions we varied the body color and glossiness of the test sphere. The data indicate that observers do not simply match the average light reflected from the test. Indeed, the visual system compensates for the physical effect of varying the gloss, so that appearance is stabilized relative to what is predicted by the spatial average. The second experiment examines how people perceive color across locations on an object. We replaced the test sphere with a soccer ball that had one of its hexagonal faces colored. Observers were asked to adjust the match sphere have the same color appearance as this test patch. The test patch could be located at either an upper or lower location on the soccer ball. In addition, we varied the surface gloss of the entire soccer ball (including the test patch). The data show that there is an effect of test patch location on observers' color matching, but this effect is small compared to the physical change in the average light reflected from the test patch across the two locations. In addition, the effect of glossy highlights on the color appearance of the test patch was consistent with the results from Experiment 1.

The Biostack Experiments I and II aboard Apollo 16 and 17.

PubMed

Bucker, H

1974-01-01

The concept of the Biostack experiment has become practicable through European scientific collaboration and with help of NASA. The objectives of this experiment flown aboard Apollo 16 and 17 are to study the biological effects of individual heavy cosmic particles of high-energy loss (HZE) not available on earth; to study the influence of additional spaceflight factors; to get some knowledge on the mechanism by which HZE particles damage biological materials; to get information on the spectrum of charge and energy of the cosmic ions in the spacecraft; to estimate the radiation hazards for man in space. For this purpose the Biostack experiment comprises a widespread spectrum of biological objects, and various radiobiological end-points are under investigation. Bacterial spores, protozoa cysts, plant seeds, shrimp eggs, and insect eggs were included in the Biostack experiment packages together with different physical radiation detectors (nuclear emulsions, plastics, AgCl crystals, and LiF thermoluminescence dosimeters). By using special arrangements of biological objects and physical track detectors, individual evaluation of tracks was obtained allowing the identification of each penetrating particle in relation to the possible biological effects on its path. The response of the different biological objects to space flight and HZE ions bombardment was of different degree, presumably depending on the ability of the organism to replace the cells damaged by a hit. The results help to estimate the radiation hazard for astronauts during space missions of long duration.

Surface gloss and color perception of 3D objects

PubMed Central

Xiao, Bei; Brainard, David H.

2008-01-01

Two experiments explore the color perception of objects in complex scenes. The first experiment examines the color perception of objects across variation in surface gloss. Observers adjusted the color appearance of a matte sphere to match that of a test sphere. Across conditions we varied the body color and glossiness of the test sphere. The data indicate that observers do not simply match the average light reflected from the test. Indeed, the visual system compensates for the physical effect of varying the gloss, so that appearance is stabilized relative to what is predicted by the spatial average. The second experiment examines how people perceive color across locations on an object. We replaced the test sphere with a soccer ball that had one of its hexagonal faces colored. Observers were asked to adjust the match sphere have the same color appearance as this test patch. The test patch could be located at either an upper or lower location on the soccer ball. In addition, we varied the surface gloss of the entire soccer ball (including the test patch). The data show that there is an effect of test patch location on observers’ color matching, but this effect is small compared to the physical change in the average light reflected from the test patch across the two locations. In addition, the effect of glossy highlights on the color appearance of the test patch was consistent with the results from Experiment 1. PMID:18598406

Modeling of the Orbital Debris Population of RORSAT Sodium-Potassium Droplets

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Xu, Y.-L.; Krisko, P. H.; Matney, Mark; Stansbery, E. G.

2010-01-01

A large population resident in the orbital debris environment is composed of eutectic sodium-potassium (NaK) droplets, released during the reactor core ejection of 16 nuclear-powered Radar Ocean Reconnaissance Satellites (RORSATs) launched in the 1980s by the former Soviet Union. These electrically conducting RORSAT debris objects are spherical in shape, generating highly polarized radar returns. Their diameters are mostly in the centimeter and millimeter size regimes. Since the Space Surveillance Network catalog is limited to objects greater than 5 cm in low Earth orbit, our current knowledge about this special class of orbital debris relies largely on the analysis of Haystack radar data. This paper elaborates the simulation of the RORSAT debris populations in the new NASA Orbital Debris Engineering Model ORDEM2010, which replaces ORDEM2000. The estimation of the NaK populations uses the NASA NaK-module as a benchmark. It follows the general statistical approach to developing all other ORDEM2010-required LEO populations (for various types of debris and across a wide range of object sizes). This paper describes, in detail, each major step in the NaK-population derivation, including a specific discussion on the conversion between Haystack-measured radar-cross-sections and object-size distribution for the NaK droplets. Modeling results show that the RORSAT debris population is stable for the time period under study and that Haystack data sets are fairly consistent over the observations of multiple years.

Electronic Repair Concepts for Long-Duration Spaceflight

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Easton, John; Pettegrew, Richard D.; Struk, Peter M.

2007-01-01

Constraints on the mass and volume that can be allocated for electronics spares and repair equipment on long-duration space missions mean that NASA must look at repair strategies beyond the traditional approach, which has been to replace faulty subsystems in a modular form, termed Orbital Replacement Units or Line Replacement Units. Other possible strategies include component and board-level replacement, modular designs that allow reprogramming of less-critical systems to take the place of more critical failed systems, and a blended approach which uses elements of each of these approaches, along with a limited number of Line Replacement Units. This paper presents some of the constraints and considerations that affect the decision on how to approach electronics repair for long duration space missions, and discusses the benefits and limitations of each of the previously mentioned strategies.

Is there a necessity for multiple doses of surfactant for respiratory distress syndrome of premature infants?

PubMed

Tsakalidis, Christos; Giougki, Evangelia; Karagianni, Paraskevi; Dokos, Charalampos; Rallis, Dimitrios; Nikolaidis, Nikolaos

2012-01-01

Both prophylactic and early surfactant (SF) replacement therapy reduce pulmonary complications and mortality in ventilated infants with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). The effectiveness of one or more doses and the impact on morbidity and mortality of premature neonates with RDS need to be further clarified. The objective of this study was to investigate the necessity of repeated surfactant replacement therapy in premature infants ≤32 weeks of gestational age and the possibility of an underlying pathology. This study included 126 premature neonates of 24-32 weeks of gestation. We used 200 mg/kg per dose of porcine surfactant (Curosurf®) as primary treatment and 100 mg/kg in cases that required retreatment. The subjects were classified into two groups: the first group (Group 1) received a single dose of surfactant (n=98) and the second group (Group 2) included infants who required more than one dose (n=28). The 1st dose was administered in the first 20 minutes after birth while the second was given six hours later. In four cases, a 3rd dose was required, that was provided 12 hours after birth. Recorded data included: clinical and radiological classification of RDS, extubation time, oxygenation estimation indexes (OI: oxygenation index, A-aDO2: alveolar-arterial oxygen difference, a/APO2: arterial-alveolar ratio of partial oxygen pressure), requirement and duration of oxygen administration, total duration of mechanical ventilation, and survival rate. Patient Group 1 did not present any radiological findings of RDS of grade 3 or 4 six hours after SF administration, whereas such findings were recorded in three neonates of Group 2. Therefore, we assumed that failure of a single-dosing treatment indicates a more severe RDS and might reflect an underlying pathology. The impact of maternal chorioamnionitis in the neonates that necessitated further replacement therapy was statistically significant (p=0.045); moreover, infection markers were positive in the majority of the patient population of the second group. Twenty-two neonates (22%) of the first group needed intubation in the delivery room compared to 16 (57%) of the second group (p=0.0001). In conclusion, premature infants treated with a single dose of surfactant can usually be successfully extubated. Requirement of retreatment could be attributed to other pathogenetic mechanisms. A positive history of maternal chorioamnionitis was the commonest reason.

Mathematical models and photogrammetric exploitation of image sensing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Puatanachokchai, Chokchai

Mathematical models of image sensing are generally categorized into physical/geometrical sensor models and replacement sensor models. While the former is determined from image sensing geometry, the latter is based on knowledge of the physical/geometric sensor models and on using such models for its implementation. The main thrust of this research is in replacement sensor models which have three important characteristics: (1) Highly accurate ground-to-image functions; (2) Rigorous error propagation that is essentially of the same accuracy as the physical model; and, (3) Adjustability, or the ability to upgrade the replacement sensor model parameters when additional control information becomes available after the replacement sensor model has replaced the physical model. In this research, such replacement sensor models are considered as True Replacement Models or TRMs. TRMs provide a significant advantage of universality, particularly for image exploitation functions. There have been several writings about replacement sensor models, and except for the so called RSM (Replacement Sensor Model as a product described in the Manual of Photogrammetry), almost all of them pay very little or no attention to errors and their propagation. This is because, it is suspected, the few physical sensor parameters are usually replaced by many more parameters, thus presenting a potential error estimation difficulty. The third characteristic, adjustability, is perhaps the most demanding. It provides an equivalent flexibility to that of triangulation using the physical model. Primary contributions of this thesis include not only "the eigen-approach", a novel means of replacing the original sensor parameter covariance matrices at the time of estimating the TRM, but also the implementation of the hybrid approach that combines the eigen-approach with the added parameters approach used in the RSM. Using either the eigen-approach or the hybrid approach, rigorous error propagation can be performed during image exploitation. Further, adjustability can be performed when additional control information becomes available after the TRM has been implemented. The TRM is shown to apply to imagery from sensors having different geometries, including an aerial frame camera, a spaceborne linear array sensor, an airborne pushbroom sensor, and an airborne whiskbroom sensor. TRM results show essentially negligible differences as compared to those from rigorous physical sensor models, both for geopositioning from single and overlapping images. Simulated as well as real image data are used to address all three characteristics of the TRM.

Effects of additional milk replacer feeding on calf health, growth, and selected blood metabolites in calves.

PubMed

Quigley, J D; Wolfe, T A; Elsasser, T H

2006-01-01

The objective of the experiment was to evaluate effects of increased milk replacer feeding on growth, intake, feed efficiency, and health parameters in stressed calves. Holstein bull calves (n = 120; approximately 3 to 8 d of age) were purchased from sale barns and dairy farms and housed in fiberglass hutches. In addition, wood shavings contaminated with coronavirus were mixed with clean shavings and added to each hutch before the start of the experiment. Calves were fed either a fixed amount (454 g/d) of a 20% crude protein (CP), 20% fat milk replacer to weaning at 28 d or a variable amount (454, 681, 908, and 454 g/d on d 0 to 7, 8 to 14, 15 to 31, and 32 to 41, respectively) of a milk replacer containing 28% CP and 17% fat without or with added dietary supplement containing bovine serum. Calves were also fed commercial calf starter and water ad libitum. Plasma IgG concentration in most calves on arrival at the facility was < 10 g/L. Intake, change in body weight, feed efficiency, morbidity and mortality, and selected plasma metabolites were determined. Body weight at 28 d, 56 d, daily body weight gain, intake of milk replacer, fecal scores, days with diarrhea, and days treated with antibiotics were increased with feeding variable amount of milk replacer over the 56-d study. Starter intake from d 1 to 56 was reduced from 919 to 717 g/d in calves fed fixed and variable amounts of milk replacer, respectively. Morbidity, measured as the number of days that calves had diarrhea, was increased by 53% when a variable amount of milk replacer was fed. Calves fed variable milk replacer were treated with antibiotics for 3.1 d compared with 1.9 d for calves fed 454 g of milk replacer/d. Concentrations of plasma glucose, urea N, and insulin-like growth factor-I were increased when calves were fed variable amount of milk replacer. Dietary supplement containing bovine serum had no effect on any parameter measured. There was no effect of milk replacer feeding on concentrations of nonesterified fatty acids, total protein, or growth hormone concentrations. Plasma tumor necrosis factor-alpha was highest in calves with the highest plasma IgG concentrations on the day of arrival and might be related to the calf's ability to identify pathogens in the environment. Under conditions of this study, calves fed variable amount of milk replacer and exposed to immunological challenge before weaning had greater BW gain, but also increased incidence of diarrhea that required added veterinary treatments.