Beyond harmonic sounds in a simple model for birdsong production.

PubMed

Amador, Ana; Mindlin, Gabriel B

2008-12-01

In this work we present an analysis of the dynamics displayed by a simple bidimensional model of labial oscillations during birdsong production. We show that the same model capable of generating tonal sounds can present, for a wide range of parameters, solutions which are spectrally rich. The role of physiologically sensible parameters is discussed in each oscillatory regime, allowing us to interpret previously reported data.

Thermodynamic characterization of tandem mismatches found in naturally occurring RNA

PubMed Central

Christiansen, Martha E.; Znosko, Brent M.

2009-01-01

Although all sequence symmetric tandem mismatches and some sequence asymmetric tandem mismatches have been thermodynamically characterized and a model has been proposed to predict the stability of previously unmeasured sequence asymmetric tandem mismatches [Christiansen,M.E. and Znosko,B.M. (2008) Biochemistry, 47, 4329–4336], experimental thermodynamic data for frequently occurring tandem mismatches is lacking. Since experimental data is preferred over a predictive model, the thermodynamic parameters for 25 frequently occurring tandem mismatches were determined. These new experimental values, on average, are 1.0 kcal/mol different from the values predicted for these mismatches using the previous model. The data for the sequence asymmetric tandem mismatches reported here were then combined with the data for 72 sequence asymmetric tandem mismatches that were published previously, and the parameters used to predict the thermodynamics of previously unmeasured sequence asymmetric tandem mismatches were updated. The average absolute difference between the measured values and the values predicted using these updated parameters is 0.5 kcal/mol. This updated model improves the prediction for tandem mismatches that were predicted rather poorly by the previous model. This new experimental data and updated predictive model allow for more accurate calculations of the free energy of RNA duplexes containing tandem mismatches, and, furthermore, should allow for improved prediction of secondary structure from sequence. PMID:19509311

Evaluation of extracranial blood flow in Parkinson disease.

PubMed

Haktanir, Alpay; Yaman, Mehmet; Acar, Murat; Gecici, Omer; Demirel, Reha; Albayrak, Ramazan; Demirkirkan, Kemal

2006-01-02

Decreased cerebral flow velocities in Parkinsonian patients were reported previously. Because of the limited data on vascular changes in Parkinson disease (PD), which may have a vascular etiology, we aimed to disclose any possible cerebral hemodynamic alteration in Parkinsonian patients. We prospectively evaluated 28 non-demented, idiopathic parkinsonian patients and 19 age and sex matched controls with Doppler sonography. Flow volumes, peak systolic flow velocities, and cross-sectional areas of vertebral and internal carotid arteries (ICA) were measured and compared between patients and controls. Correlation of patient age and disease duration with Doppler parameters was observed; and each Doppler parameter of patients within each Hoehn-Yahr scale was compared. There was no significant difference of measured parameters between groups. No correlation was found between disease duration and age with flow volume, cross-sectional area or peak systolic velocity. Hoehn-Yahr scale was not found having significant relation with Doppler parameters. Values of vertebral, internal carotid and cerebral blood flow volumes (CBF), peak systolic velocities, and cross-sectional areas were not significantly different between Parkinsonian patients and age and sex matched controls. Although regional blood flow decreases may be seen as reported previously, Parkinson disease is not associated with a flow volume or velocity alteration of extracranial cerebral arteries.

Goddard Geophysical and Astronomical Observatory

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Redmond, Jay; Kodak, Charles

2004-01-01

This report summarizes the technical parameters and the technical staff of the VLBI system at the fundamental station GGAO. It also gives an overview about the VLBI activities during the previous year. The outlook lists the outstanding tasks to improve the performance of GGAO.

Gaucher's disease in a black child in South Africa. A case report.

PubMed

Patel, R; MacDougall, L G

1984-09-01

A 7-year-old Black boy presented with massive splenomegaly and a tendency to haemorrhage due to type 1 Gaucher's disease. After splenectomy he became asymptomatic and the haematological parameters returned to normal. Although type 1 Gaucher's disease has been described in adult Blacks, it has not been reported previously in a Black child in southern Africa.

Bulk modulus of two-dimensional liquid dusty plasmas and its application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Wei; Lin, Wei; Feng, Yan

2017-04-01

From the recently obtained equation of state [Feng et al., J. Phys. D: Appl. Phys. 49, 235203 (2016) and Feng et al., Phys. Plasmas 23, 093705 (2016); Erratum 23, 119904 (2016)], the bulk modulus of elasticity K of 2D liquid dusty plasmas is analytically derived as the expression of the temperature and the screening parameter. Exact values of the obtained bulk modulus of elasticity K are reported and also plotted in the 2D plane of the temperature and the screening parameter. As the temperature and the screening parameter change, the variation trend of K is reported and the corresponding interpretation is suggested. It has been demonstrated that the obtained bulk modulus of elasticity K can be used to predict the longitudinal sound speed, which agrees well with previous studies.

[Optimization of the parameters of microcirculatory structural adaptation model based on improved quantum-behaved particle swarm optimization algorithm].

PubMed

Pan, Qing; Yao, Jialiang; Wang, Ruofan; Cao, Ping; Ning, Gangmin; Fang, Luping

2017-08-01

The vessels in the microcirculation keep adjusting their structure to meet the functional requirements of the different tissues. A previously developed theoretical model can reproduce the process of vascular structural adaptation to help the study of the microcirculatory physiology. However, until now, such model lacks the appropriate methods for its parameter settings with subsequent limitation of further applications. This study proposed an improved quantum-behaved particle swarm optimization (QPSO) algorithm for setting the parameter values in this model. The optimization was performed on a real mesenteric microvascular network of rat. The results showed that the improved QPSO was superior to the standard particle swarm optimization, the standard QPSO and the previously reported Downhill algorithm. We conclude that the improved QPSO leads to a better agreement between mathematical simulation and animal experiment, rendering the model more reliable in future physiological studies.

Physiological spacecraft environment data documentation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1977-01-01

The physiological limits of exposure to environmental parameters encountered during space flight was documented. The environmental limits which have been previously established were described in terms of acceptable physiological changes. The process of coordinating data and assembling the completed data book is described in this report.

Improved parameters of seven Kepler giant companions characterized with SOPHIE and HARPS-N

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bonomo, A. S.; Sozzetti, A.; Santerne, A.; Deleuil, M.; Almenara, J.-M.; Bruno, G.; Díaz, R. F.; Hébrard, G.; Moutou, C.

2015-03-01

Radial-velocity observations of Kepler candidates obtained with the SOPHIE and HARPS-N spectrographs have permitted unveiling the nature of the five giant planets Kepler-41b, Kepler-43b, Kepler-44b, Kepler-74b, and Kepler-75b, the massive companion Kepler-39b, and the brown dwarf KOI-205b. These companions were previously characterized with long-cadence (LC) Kepler data. Here we aim at refining the parameters of these transiting systems by i) modelling the published radial velocities and Kepler short-cadence (SC) data that provide a much better sampling of the transits; ii) performing new spectral analyses of the SOPHIE and ESPaDOnS spectra, after improving our procedure for selecting and co-adding the SOPHIE spectra of faint stars (Kp ≳ 14); and iii) improving stellar rotation periods hence stellar age estimates through gyrochronology, when possible, by using all the available LC data up to quarter Q17. Posterior distributions of the system parameters were derived with a differential evolution Markov chain Monte Carlo approach. Our main results are as follows: a) Kepler-41b is significantly larger and less dense than previously found because a lower orbital inclination is favoured by SC data. This also affects the determination of the geometric albedo that is lower than previously derived: Ag< 0.135; b) Kepler-44b is moderately smaller and denser than reported in the discovery paper, as a consequence of the slightly shorter transit duration found with SC data; c) good agreement was achieved with published Kepler-43, Kepler-75, and KOI-205 system parameters, although the host stars Kepler-75 and KOI-205 were found to be slightly richer in metals and hotter, respectively; d) the previously reported non-zero eccentricities of Kepler-39b and Kepler-74b might be spurious. If their orbits were circular, the two companions would be smaller and denser than in the eccentric case. The radius of Kepler-39b is still larger than predicted by theoretical isochrones. Its parent star is hotter and richer in metals than previously determined. Tables 2-8 are available in electronic form at http://www.aanda.org

The joint effect of mesoscale and microscale roughness on perceived gloss.

PubMed

Qi, Lin; Chantler, Mike J; Siebert, J Paul; Dong, Junyu

2015-10-01

Computer simulated stimuli can provide a flexible method for creating artificial scenes in the study of visual perception of material surface properties. Previous work based on this approach reported that the properties of surface roughness and glossiness are mutually interdependent and therefore, perception of one affects the perception of the other. In this case roughness was limited to a surface property termed bumpiness. This paper reports a study into how perceived gloss varies with two model parameters related to surface roughness in computer simulations: the mesoscale roughness parameter in a surface geometry model and the microscale roughness parameter in a surface reflectance model. We used a real-world environment map to provide complex illumination and a physically-based path tracer for rendering the stimuli. Eight observers took part in a 2AFC experiment, and the results were tested against conjoint measurement models. We found that although both of the above roughness parameters significantly affect perceived gloss, the additive model does not adequately describe their mutually interactive and nonlinear influence, which is at variance with previous findings. We investigated five image properties used to quantify specular highlights, and found that perceived gloss is well predicted using a linear model. Our findings provide computational support to the 'statistical appearance models' proposed recently for material perception. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Hematology, Serum Chemistry, and Early Hematologic Changes in Free-Ranging South American Fur Seals ( Arctocephalus australis ) at Guafo Island, Chilean Patagonia.

PubMed

Seguel, Mauricio; Muñoz, Francisco; Keenan, Alessandra; Perez-Venegas, Diego J; DeRango, Eugene; Paves, Hector; Gottdenker, Nicole; Müller, Ananda

2016-07-01

The establishment of clinical pathology baseline data is critical to evaluate temporal and spatial changes in marine mammal groups. Despite increased availability of studies on hematology and biochemistry of marine mammals, reference ranges are lacking for many populations, especially among fur seal species. During the austral summers of 2014 and 2015, we evaluated basic hematologic and biochemical parameters in clinically healthy, physically restrained South American fur seal ( Arctocephalus australis ) lactating females and 2-mo-old pups. We also assessed the temporal variation of hematology parameters on the pups during their first 2 mo of life. Reference ranges of lactating females were similar to those previously reported in other fur seal species. In the case of pups, reference ranges are similar to values previously reported in sea lion species. As expected, most biochemical and hematologic values differ significantly between adult females and pups. As in other otariids, South American fur seals pups are born with higher values of total red blood cells, hemoglobin, and packed cell volume, and lower numbers of total leukocytes, neutrophils, lymphocytes, and eosinophils. To the best of our knowledge, data on hematology reference values for South American fur seals has not been previously reported and is useful for continued health monitoring of this species, as well as for comparisons with other otariid groups.

Life table parameters for tarnished plant bug models

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The tarnished plant bug, Lygus lineolaris (Palisot De Beauvois) is a highly polyphagous insect that feeds on numerous wild and cultivated host plants. Previous papers have reported the survival and developmental times of immature stages of TPB and the fecundity and longevity of adults on various ho...

Reported Energy and Cost Savings from the DOE ESPC Program: FY 2015

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

Slattery, Bob S.

2017-01-01

The objective of this work was to determine the realization rate of energy and cost savings from the Department of Energy’s Energy Savings Performance Contract (ESPC) program based on information reported by the energy services companies (ESCOs) that are carrying out ESPC projects at federal sites. Information was extracted from 151 Measurement and Verification (M&V) reports to determine reported, estimated, and guaranteed cost savings and reported and estimated energy savings for the previous contract year. Because the quality of the reports varied, it was not possible to determine all of these parameters for each project.

Analysis of the LSC microbunching instability in MaRIE linac reference design

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

Yampolsky, Nikolai

In this report we estimate the effect of the microbunching instability in the MaRIE XFEL linac. The reference design for the linac is described in a separate report. The parameters of the L1, L2, and L3 linacs as well as BC1 and BC2 bunch compressors were the same as in the referenced report. The beam dynamics was assumed to be linear along the accelerator (which is a reasonable assumption for estimating the effect of the microbunching instability). The parameters of the bunch also match the parameters described in the referenced report. Additionally, it was assumed that the beam radius ismore » equal to R = 100 m and does not change along linac. This assumption needs to be revisited at later studies. The beam dynamics during acceleration was accounted in the matrix formalism using a Matlab code. The input parameters for the linacs are: RF peak gradient, RF frequency, RF phase, linac length, and initial beam energy. The energy gain and the imposed chirp are calculated based on the RF parameters self-consistently. The bunch compressors are accounted in the matrix formalism as well. Each chicane is characterized by the beam energy and the R56 matrix element. It was confirmed that the linac and beam parameters described previously provide two-stage bunch compression with compression ratios of 10 and 20 resulting in the bunch of 3kA peak current.« less

Space Shuttle propulsion parameter estimation using optimal estimation techniques

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1983-01-01

This fourth monthly progress report again contains corrections and additions to the previously submitted reports. The additions include a simplified SRB model that is directly incorporated into the estimation algorithm and provides the required partial derivatives. The resulting partial derivatives are analytical rather than numerical as would be the case using the SOBER routines. The filter and smoother routine developments have continued. These routines are being checked out.

Parameter identification for nonlinear aerodynamic systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pearson, Allan E.

1993-01-01

This final technical report covers a three and one-half year period preceding February 28, 1993 during which support was provided under NASA Grant NAG-1-1065. Following a general description of the system identification problem and a brief survey of methods to attack it, the basic ideas behind the approach taken in this research effort are presented. The results obtained are described with reference to the published work, including the five semiannual progress reports previously submitted and two interim technical reports.

Parameter optimization of electrochemical machining process using black hole algorithm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Singh, Dinesh; Shukla, Rajkamal

2017-12-01

Advanced machining processes are significant as higher accuracy in machined component is required in the manufacturing industries. Parameter optimization of machining processes gives optimum control to achieve the desired goals. In this paper, electrochemical machining (ECM) process is considered to evaluate the performance of the considered process using black hole algorithm (BHA). BHA considers the fundamental idea of a black hole theory and it has less operating parameters to tune. The two performance parameters, material removal rate (MRR) and overcut (OC) are considered separately to get optimum machining parameter settings using BHA. The variations of process parameters with respect to the performance parameters are reported for better and effective understanding of the considered process using single objective at a time. The results obtained using BHA are found better while compared with results of other metaheuristic algorithms, such as, genetic algorithm (GA), artificial bee colony (ABC) and bio-geography based optimization (BBO) attempted by previous researchers.

Hydrogen Pathways: Updated Cost, Well-to-Wheels Energy Use, and Emissions for the Current Technology Status of Ten Hydrogen Production, Delivery, and Distribution Scenarios

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

Ramsden, T.; Ruth, M.; Diakov, V.

2013-03-01

This report describes a life-cycle assessment conducted by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) of 10 hydrogen production, delivery, dispensing, and use pathways that were evaluated for cost, energy use, and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This evaluation updates and expands on a previous assessment of seven pathways conducted in 2009. This study summarizes key results, parameters, and sensitivities to those parameters for the 10 hydrogen pathways, reporting on the levelized cost of hydrogen in 2007 U.S. dollars as well as life-cycle well-to-wheels energy use and GHG emissions associated with the pathways.

Type I and Type II Pyrethroid alterations in Spontaneous Bursting Parameters in Rat Cortical Networks measured Using Multielectrode Array Recordings

EPA Science Inventory

Pyrethroids are widely used in agricultural, industrial and residential settings to control insect pests. Pyrethroids prolong sodium channel inactivation, although their complete mode of action is not fully understood. We previously reported that permethrin (a Type I pyrethroid) ...

Cost Sensitivity Analysis for Consolidated Interim Storage of Spent Fuel: Evaluating the Effect of Economic Environment Parameters

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

Cumberland, Riley M.; Williams, Kent Alan; Jarrell, Joshua J.

This report evaluates how the economic environment (i.e., discount rate, inflation rate, escalation rate) can impact previously estimated differences in lifecycle costs between an integrated waste management system with an interim storage facility (ISF) and a similar system without an ISF.

Goddard Geophysical and Astronomical Observatory

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Redmond, Jay; Kodak, Charles

2001-01-01

This report summarizes the technical parameters and the technical staff of the Very Long Base Interferometry (VLBI) system at the fundamental station Goddard Geophysical and Astronomical Observatory (GGAO). It also gives an overview about the VLBI activities during the previous year. The outlook lists the outstanding tasks to improve the performance of GGAO.

Correlation of process parameters and properties of TiO2 films grown by ion beam sputter deposition from a ceramic target

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bundesmann, Carsten; Lautenschläge, Thomas; Spemann, Daniel; Finzel, Annemarie; Mensing, Michael; Frost, Frank

2017-10-01

The correlation between process parameters and properties of TiO2 films grown by ion beam sputter deposition from a ceramic target was investigated. TiO2 films were grown under systematic variation of ion beam parameters (ion species, ion energy) and geometrical parameters (ion incidence angle, polar emission angle) and characterized with respect to film thickness, growth rate, structural properties, surface topography, composition, optical properties, and mass density. Systematic variations of film properties with the scattering geometry, namely the scattering angle, have been revealed. There are also considerable differences in film properties when changing the process gas from Ar to Xe. Similar systematics were reported for TiO2 films grown by reactive ion beam sputter deposition from a metal target [C. Bundesmann et al., Appl. Surf. Sci. 421, 331 (2017)]. However, there are some deviations from the previously reported data, for instance, in growth rate, mass density and optical properties.

Design of experiments for identification of complex biochemical systems with applications to mitochondrial bioenergetics.

PubMed

Vinnakota, Kalyan C; Beard, Daniel A; Dash, Ranjan K

2009-01-01

Identification of a complex biochemical system model requires appropriate experimental data. Models constructed on the basis of data from the literature often contain parameters that are not identifiable with high sensitivity and therefore require additional experimental data to identify those parameters. Here we report the application of a local sensitivity analysis to design experiments that will improve the identifiability of previously unidentifiable model parameters in a model of mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation and tricaboxylic acid cycle. Experiments were designed based on measurable biochemical reactants in a dilute suspension of purified cardiac mitochondria with experimentally feasible perturbations to this system. Experimental perturbations and variables yielding the most number of parameters above a 5% sensitivity level are presented and discussed.

Laboratory Studies on Surface Sampling of Bacillus anthracis Contamination: Summary, Gaps, and Recommendations

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

Piepel, Gregory F.; Amidan, Brett G.; Hu, Rebecca

2011-11-28

This report summarizes previous laboratory studies to characterize the performance of methods for collecting, storing/transporting, processing, and analyzing samples from surfaces contaminated by Bacillus anthracis or related surrogates. The focus is on plate culture and count estimates of surface contamination for swab, wipe, and vacuum samples of porous and nonporous surfaces. Summaries of the previous studies and their results were assessed to identify gaps in information needed as inputs to calculate key parameters critical to risk management in biothreat incidents. One key parameter is the number of samples needed to make characterization or clearance decisions with specified statistical confidence. Othermore » key parameters include the ability to calculate, following contamination incidents, the (1) estimates of Bacillus anthracis contamination, as well as the bias and uncertainties in the estimates, and (2) confidence in characterization and clearance decisions for contaminated or decontaminated buildings. Gaps in knowledge and understanding identified during the summary of the studies are discussed and recommendations are given for future studies.« less

Waste streams in a typical crewed space habitat: An update

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Golub, M. A.; Wydeven, T.

1992-01-01

A compilation of generation rates and chemical compositions of potential waste streams in a typical crewed space habitat, reported in a prior NASA Technical Memorandum and a related journal article, was updated. This report augments that compilation by the inclusion of the following new data: those data uncovered since completion of the prior report; those obtained from Soviet literature relevant to life support issues; and those for various minor human body wastes not presented previously (saliva, flatus, hair, finger- and toenails, dried skin and skin secretions, tears, and semen), but included here for purposes of completeness. These waste streams complement those discussed previously: toilet waste (urine, feces, etc.), hygiene water (laundry, shower/handwash, dishwasher water and cleansing agents), trash, humidity condensate, perspiration and respiration water, trace contaminants, and dust generation. This report also reproduces the latest information on the environmental control and life support system design parameters for Space Station Freedom.

Comparative autecological characteristics of northwestern tree species—a literature review.

Treesearch

Don Minore

1979-01-01

This report is a compilation of autecological information previously scattered about in several hundred publications. It includes a comparison of the tolerances, traits, and attributes of native northwestern tree species. The species are ranked with respect to 69 environmental factors, phenotypic characteristics, and physical parameters. These rankings, with the...

Feathering instability of spiral arms. II. Parameter study

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

Lee, Wing-Kit, E-mail: wklee@asiaa.sinica.edu.tw; Institute of Astronomy and Astrophysics, Academia Sinica, Taipei 115, Taiwan

2014-09-10

We report the results of a parameter study of the feathering stability in the galactic spiral arms. A two-dimensional, razor-thin magnetized self-gravitating gas disk with an imposed two-armed stellar spiral structure is considered. Using the formulation developed previously by Lee and Shu, a linear stability analysis of the spiral shock is performed in a localized Cartesian geometry. Results of the parameter study of the base state with a spiral shock are also presented. The single-mode feathering instability that leads to growing perturbations may explain the feathering phenomenon found in nearby spiral galaxies. The self-gravity of the gas, characterized by itsmore » average surface density, is an important parameter that (1) shifts the spiral shock farther downstream and (2) increases the growth rate and decreases the characteristic spacing of the feathering structure due to the instability. On the other hand, while the magnetic field suppresses the velocity fluctuation associated with the feathers, it does not strongly affect their growth rate. Using a set of typical parameters of the grand-design spiral galaxy M51 at 2 kpc from the center, the spacing of the feathers with the maximum growth rate is found to be 530 pc, which agrees with the previous observational studies.« less

Parameterization of annealing kinetics in pharmaceutical glasses.

PubMed

Hodge, Ian M

2013-07-01

Numerical simulations indicate that neglecting the canonical nonlinearity of glassy-state annealing kinetics in pharmaceutical (and other) glasses leads to good KWW fits to the dependence of enthalpy on annealing time, but with spurious KWW parameters that are affected by nonlinearity. A simplified treatment of nonlinearity that uses the Struik shift factor is found to be a useful approximation for these analyses, and can account for previously reported differences between linear and nonlinear KWW parameters (Kawakami K, Pikal MJ. 2005. J Pharm Sci 94:948-965). Copyright © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

A descriptive study on selected growth parameters and growth hormone receptor gene in healthy young adults from the American Midwest.

PubMed

Hartin, Samantha N; Hossain, Waheeda A; Manzardo, Ann M; Brown, Shaquanna; Fite, Paula J; Bortolato, Marco; Butler, Merlin G

2018-02-12

The first study of growth hormone receptor (GHR) genotypes in healthy young adults in the United States attending a Midwestern university and impact on selected growth parameters. To describe the frequency of GHR genotypes in a sample of healthy young adults from the United States attending a university in the Midwest and analyze the relationship between GHR genotypes and selected growth parameters. Saliva was collected from 459 healthy young adults (237 females, 222 males; age range = 18-25 y) and DNA isolated for genotyping of GHR alleles (fl/fl, fl/d3, or d3/d3). Selected growth parameters were collected and GHR genotype data examined for previously reported associations (e.g., height, weight or bone mass density) or novel findings (e.g., % body water and index finger length). We found 219 participants (48%) homozygous for fl/fl, 203 (44%), heterozygous fl/d3 and 37 (8%) homozygous d3/d3. The distribution of GHR genotypes in our participants was consistent with previous reports of non-US populations. Several anthropometric measures differed by sex. The distribution of GHR genotypes did not significantly differ by sex, weight, or other anthropometric measures. However, the fl/d3 genotype was more common among African-Americans. Our study of growth and anthropometric parameters in relationship to GHR genotypes found no association with height, weight, right index finger length, BMI, bone mass density, % body fat or % body water in healthy young adults. We did identify sex differences with increased body fat, decreased bone density, body water and index finger length in females. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Associations Between Night Work and Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia, Sleepiness and Fatigue in a Sample of Norwegian Nurses

PubMed Central

Øyane, Nicolas M. F.; Pallesen, Ståle; Moen, Bente Elisabeth; Åkerstedt, Torbjörn; Bjorvatn, Bjørn

2013-01-01

Background Night work has been reported to be associated with various mental disorders and complaints. We investigated relationships between night work and anxiety, depression, insomnia, sleepiness and fatigue among Norwegian nurses. Methods The study design was cross-sectional, based on validated self-assessment questionnaires. A total of 5400 nurses were invited to participate in a health survey through the Norwegian Nurses' Organization, whereof 2059 agreed to participate (response rate 38.1%). Nurses completed a questionnaire containing items on demographic variables (gender, age, years of experience as a nurse, marital status and children living at home), work schedule, anxiety/depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale), insomnia (Bergen Insomnia Scale), sleepiness (Epworth Sleepiness Scale) and fatigue (Fatigue Questionnaire). They were also asked to report number of night shifts in the last 12 months (NNL). First, the parameters were compared between nurses i) never working nights, ii) currently working nights, and iii) previously working nights, using binary logistic regression analyses. Subsequently, a cumulative approach was used investigating associations between NNL with the continuous scores on the same dependent variables in hierarchical multiple regression analyses. Results Nurses with current night work were more often categorized with insomnia (OR = 1.48, 95% CI = 1.10–1.99) and chronic fatigue (OR = 1.78, 95% CI = 1.02–3.11) than nurses with no night work experience. Previous night work experience was also associated with insomnia (OR = 1.45, 95% CI = 1.04–2.02). NNL was not associated with any parameters in the regression analyses. Conclusion Nurses with current or previous night work reported more insomnia than nurses without any night work experience, and current night work was also associated with chronic fatigue. Anxiety, depression and sleepiness were not associated with night work, and no cumulative effect of night shifts during the last 12 months was found on any parameters. PMID:23950914

Parameters and Scales Used to Assess and Report Findings From Stroboscopy: A Systematic Review.

PubMed

Bonilha, Heather Shaw; Desjardins, Maude; Garand, Kendrea L; Martin-Harris, Bonnie

2017-11-02

Laryngeal endoscopy with stroboscopy, a critical component of the assessment of voice disorders, is rarely used as a treatment outcome measure in the scientific literature. We hypothesized that this is because of the lack of a widely used standardized, validated, and reliable method to assess and report laryngeal anatomy and physiology, and undertook a systematic literature review to determine the extent of the inconsistencies of the parameters and scales used in voice treatment outcome studies. Systematic literature review. We searched PubMed, Ovid, and Cochrane for studies where laryngeal endoscopy with stroboscopy was used as a treatment outcome measure with search terms representing "stroboscopy" and "treatment" guided by Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement standards. In the 62 included articles, we identified 141 terms representing 49 different parameters, which were further classified into 20 broad categories. The six most common parameters were magnitude of glottal gap, mucosal wave amplitude, location or shape of glottal gap, regularity of vibration, phase symmetry, and presence and size of specific lesions. Parameters were assessed on scales ranging from binary to 100 points. The number of scales used for each parameter varied from 1 to 24, with an average of four different scales per parameter. There is a lack of agreement in the scientific literature regarding which parameters should be assessed to measure voice treatment outcomes and which terms and scales should be used for each parameter. This greatly diminishes comparison and clinical implementation of the results of treatment outcomes research in voice disorders. We highlight a previously published tool and recommend it for future use in research and clinical settings. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Dimensionless number is central to stress relaxation and expansive growth of the cell wall.

PubMed

Ortega, Joseph K E

2017-06-07

Experiments demonstrate that both plastic and elastic deformation of the cell wall are necessary for wall stress relaxation and expansive growth of walled cells. A biophysical equation (Augmented Growth Equation) was previously shown to accurately model the experimentally observed wall stress relaxation and expansive growth rate. Here, dimensional analysis is used to obtain a dimensionless Augmented Growth Equation with dimensionless coefficients (groups of variables, or Π parameters). It is shown that a single Π parameter controls the wall stress relaxation rate. The Π parameter represents the ratio of plastic and elastic deformation rates, and provides an explicit relationship between expansive growth rate and the wall's mechanical properties. Values for Π are calculated for plant, algal, and fungal cells from previously reported experimental results. It is found that the Π values for each cell species are large and very different from each other. Expansive growth rates are calculated using the calculated Π values and are compared to those measured for plant and fungal cells during different growth conditions, after treatment with IAA, and in different developmental stages. The comparison shows good agreement and supports the claim that the Π parameter is central to expansive growth rate of walled cells.

pH matters: The influence of the catalyst ink on the oxygen reduction activity determined in thin film rotating disk electrode measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Inaba, Masanori; Quinson, Jonathan; Arenz, Matthias

2017-06-01

We investigated the influence of the ink properties of proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) catalysts on the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activity determined in thin film rotating disk electrode (TF-RDE) measurements. It was found that the adaption of a previously reported ink recipe to home-made catalysts does not lead to satisfying results, although reported work could be reproduced using commercial catalyst samples. It is demonstrated that the pH of the catalyst ink, which has not been addressed in previous TF-RDE studies, is an important parameter that needs to be carefully controlled to determine the intrinsic ORR activity of high surface area catalysts.

Syndromes of Self-Reported Psychopathology for Ages 18-59 in 29 Societies.

PubMed

Ivanova, Masha Y; Achenbach, Thomas M; Rescorla, Leslie A; Tumer, Lori V; Ahmeti-Pronaj, Adelina; Au, Alma; Maese, Carmen Avila; Bellina, Monica; Caldas, J Carlos; Chen, Yi-Chuen; Csemy, Ladislav; da Rocha, Marina M; Decoster, Jeroen; Dobrean, Anca; Ezpeleta, Lourdes; Fontaine, Johnny R J; Funabiki, Yasuko; Guðmundsson, Halldór S; Harder, Valerie S; de la Cabada, Marie Leiner; Leung, Patrick; Liu, Jianghong; Mahr, Safia; Malykh, Sergey; Maras, Jelena Srdanovic; Markovic, Jasminka; Ndetei, David M; Oh, Kyung Ja; Petot, Jean-Michel; Riad, Geylan; Sakarya, Direnc; Samaniego, Virginia C; Sebre, Sandra; Shahini, Mimoza; Silvares, Edwiges; Simulioniene, Roma; Sokoli, Elvisa; Talcott, Joel B; Vazquez, Natalia; Zasepa, Ewa

2015-06-01

This study tested the multi-society generalizability of an eight-syndrome assessment model derived from factor analyses of American adults' self-ratings of 120 behavioral, emotional, and social problems. The Adult Self-Report (ASR; Achenbach and Rescorla 2003) was completed by 17,152 18-59-year-olds in 29 societies. Confirmatory factor analyses tested the fit of self-ratings in each sample to the eight-syndrome model. The primary model fit index (Root Mean Square Error of Approximation) showed good model fit for all samples, while secondary indices showed acceptable to good fit. Only 5 (0.06%) of the 8,598 estimated parameters were outside the admissible parameter space. Confidence intervals indicated that sampling fluctuations could account for the deviant parameters. Results thus supported the tested model in societies differing widely in social, political, and economic systems, languages, ethnicities, religions, and geographical regions. Although other items, societies, and analytic methods might yield different results, the findings indicate that adults in very diverse societies were willing and able to rate themselves on the same standardized set of 120 problem items. Moreover, their self-ratings fit an eight-syndrome model previously derived from self-ratings by American adults. The support for the statistically derived syndrome model is consistent with previous findings for parent, teacher, and self-ratings of 1½-18-year-olds in many societies. The ASR and its parallel collateral-report instrument, the Adult Behavior Checklist (ABCL), may offer mental health professionals practical tools for the multi-informant assessment of clinical constructs of adult psychopathology that appear to be meaningful across diverse societies.

On the vibrational spectra and structural parameters of methyl, silyl, and germyl azide from theoretical predictions and experimental data.

PubMed

Durig, Douglas T; Durig, M S; Durig, James R

2005-05-01

The infrared and Raman spectra of methyl, silyl, and germyl azide (XN3 where X=CH3, SiH3 and GeH3) have been predicted from ab initio calculations with full electron correlation by second order perturbation theory (MP2) and hybrid density function theory (DFT) by the B3LYP method with a variety of basis sets. These predicted data are compared to previously reported experimental data and complete vibrational assignments are provided for all three molecules. It is shown that several of the assignments recently proposed [J. Mol. Struct. (Theochem.) 434 (1998) 1] for methyl azide are not correct. Structural parameters for CH3N3 and GeH3N3 have been obtained by combining the previously reported microwave rotational constants with the ab initio MP2/6-311+G(d,p) predicted values. These "adjusted r0" parameters have very small uncertainties of +/-0.003 A for the XH distances and a maximum of +/-0.005 A for the heavy atom distances and +/-0.5 degrees for the angles. The predicted distance for the terminal NN bond which is nearly a triple bond is much better predicted by the B3LYP calculations, whereas the fundamental frequencies are better predicted by the scaled ab initio calculations. The results are discussed and compared to those obtained for some similar molecules.

Fabrication of large area woodpile structure in polymer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gupta, Jaya Prakash; Dutta, Neilanjan; Yao, Peng; Sharkawy, Ahmed S.; Prather, Dennis W.

2009-02-01

A fabrication process of three-dimensional Woodpile photonic crystals based on multilayer photolithography from commercially available photo resist SU8 have been demonstrated. A 6-layer, 2 mm × 2mm woodpile has been fabricated. Different factors that influence the spin thickness on multiple resist application have been studied. The fabrication method used removes, the problem of intermixing, and is more repeatable and robust than the multilayer fabrication techniques for three dimensional photonic crystal structures that have been previously reported. Each layer is developed before next layer photo resist spin, instead of developing the whole structure in the final step as used in multilayer process. The desired thickness for each layer is achieved by the calibration of spin speed and use of different photo resist compositions. Deep UV exposure confinement has been the defining parameter in this process. Layer uniformity for every layer is independent of the previous developed layers and depends on the photo resist planarizing capability, spin parameters and baking conditions. The intermixing problem, which results from the previous layers left uncrossed linked photo resist, is completely removed in this process as the previous layers are fully developed, avoiding any intermixing between the newly spun and previous layers. Also this process gives the freedom to redo every spin any number of times without affecting the previously made structure, which is not possible in other multilayer process where intermediate developing is not performed.

Subthreshold parallel pumping experiments on the quasi one-dimensional S = {1}/{2} ferromagnets [C 6H 11NH 3]CuBr 3 and [C 6H 11NH 3]CuCl 3

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hoogerbeets, R.; Wiegers, S. A. J.; Van Duyneveldt, A. J.

1985-04-01

Subthreshold parallel pumping experiments on [C 6H 11NH 3]CuBr 3 (abbreviated as CHAB) and [C 6H 11NH 3]CuCl 3 (CHAC) at 9.6 and 18.3 GHz are reported. It is shown that the experimental results can be explained using the values of the parameters as have been obtained from previously reported FMR measurements.

Mining telemonitored physiological data and patient-reported outcomes of congestive heart failure patients

PubMed Central

Puddu, Paolo Emilio; Somrak, Maja; Bonfiglio, Silvio; Luštrek, Mitja

2018-01-01

This paper addresses patient-reported outcomes (PROs) and telemonitoring in congestive heart failure (CHF), both increasingly important topics. The interest in CHF trials is shifting from hard end-points such as hospitalization and mortality, to softer end-points such health-related quality of life. However, the relation of these softer end-points to objective parameters is not well studied. Telemonitoring is suitable for collecting both patient-reported outcomes and objective parameters. Most telemonitoring studies, however, do not take full advantage of the available sensor technology and intelligent data analysis. The Chiron clinical observational study was performed among 24 CHF patients (17 men and 7 women, age 62.9 ± 9.4 years, 15 NYHA class II and 9 class III, 10 of ishaemic, aetiology, 6 dilated, 2 valvular, and 6 of multiple aetiologies or cardiomyopathy) in Italy and UK. A large number of physiological and ambient parameters were collected by wearable and other devices, together with PROs describing how well the patients felt, over 1,086 days of observation. The resulting data were mined for relations between the objective parameters and the PROs. The objective parameters (humidity, ambient temperature, blood pressure, SpO2, and sweeting intensity) could predict the PROs with accuracies up to 86% and AUC up to 0.83, making this the first report providing evidence for ambient and physiological parameters to be objectively related to PROs in CHF patients. We also analyzed the relations in the predictive models, gaining some insights into what affects the feeling of health, which was also generally not attempted in previous investigations. The paper strongly points to the possibility of using PROs as primary end-points in future trials. PMID:29494601

Mining telemonitored physiological data and patient-reported outcomes of congestive heart failure patients.

PubMed

Mlakar, Miha; Puddu, Paolo Emilio; Somrak, Maja; Bonfiglio, Silvio; Luštrek, Mitja

2018-01-01

This paper addresses patient-reported outcomes (PROs) and telemonitoring in congestive heart failure (CHF), both increasingly important topics. The interest in CHF trials is shifting from hard end-points such as hospitalization and mortality, to softer end-points such health-related quality of life. However, the relation of these softer end-points to objective parameters is not well studied. Telemonitoring is suitable for collecting both patient-reported outcomes and objective parameters. Most telemonitoring studies, however, do not take full advantage of the available sensor technology and intelligent data analysis. The Chiron clinical observational study was performed among 24 CHF patients (17 men and 7 women, age 62.9 ± 9.4 years, 15 NYHA class II and 9 class III, 10 of ishaemic, aetiology, 6 dilated, 2 valvular, and 6 of multiple aetiologies or cardiomyopathy) in Italy and UK. A large number of physiological and ambient parameters were collected by wearable and other devices, together with PROs describing how well the patients felt, over 1,086 days of observation. The resulting data were mined for relations between the objective parameters and the PROs. The objective parameters (humidity, ambient temperature, blood pressure, SpO2, and sweeting intensity) could predict the PROs with accuracies up to 86% and AUC up to 0.83, making this the first report providing evidence for ambient and physiological parameters to be objectively related to PROs in CHF patients. We also analyzed the relations in the predictive models, gaining some insights into what affects the feeling of health, which was also generally not attempted in previous investigations. The paper strongly points to the possibility of using PROs as primary end-points in future trials.

Atomic layer deposition for fabrication of HfO2/Al2O3 thin films with high laser-induced damage thresholds.

PubMed

Wei, Yaowei; Pan, Feng; Zhang, Qinghua; Ma, Ping

2015-01-01

Previous research on the laser damage resistance of thin films deposited by atomic layer deposition (ALD) is rare. In this work, the ALD process for thin film generation was investigated using different process parameters such as various precursor types and pulse duration. The laser-induced damage threshold (LIDT) was measured as a key property for thin films used as laser system components. Reasons for film damaged were also investigated. The LIDTs for thin films deposited by improved process parameters reached a higher level than previously measured. Specifically, the LIDT of the Al2O3 thin film reached 40 J/cm(2). The LIDT of the HfO2/Al2O3 anti-reflector film reached 18 J/cm(2), the highest value reported for ALD single and anti-reflect films. In addition, it was shown that the LIDT could be improved by further altering the process parameters. All results show that ALD is an effective film deposition technique for fabrication of thin film components for high-power laser systems.

Rate Constant and Reaction Coordinate of Trp-Cage Folding in Explicit Water

PubMed Central

Juraszek, Jarek; Bolhuis, Peter G.

2008-01-01

We report rate constant calculations and a reaction coordinate analysis of the rate-limiting folding and unfolding process of the Trp-cage mini-protein in explicit solvent using transition interface sampling. Previous transition path sampling simulations revealed that in this (un)folding process the protein maintains its compact configuration, while a (de)increase of secondary structure is observed. The calculated folding rate agrees reasonably with experiment, while the unfolding rate is 10 times higher. We discuss possible origins for this mismatch. We recomputed the rates with the forward flux sampling method, and found a discrepancy of four orders of magnitude, probably caused by the method's higher sensitivity to the choice of order parameter with respect to transition interface sampling. Finally, we used the previously computed transition path-sampling ensemble to screen combinations of many order parameters for the best model of the reaction coordinate by employing likelihood maximization. We found that a combination of the root mean-square deviation of the helix and of the entire protein was, of the set of tried order parameters, the one that best describes the reaction coordination. PMID:18676648

Beam Output Audit results within the EORTC Radiation Oncology Group network.

PubMed

Hurkmans, Coen W; Christiaens, Melissa; Collette, Sandra; Weber, Damien Charles

2016-12-15

Beam Output Auditing (BOA) is one key process of the EORTC radiation therapy quality assurance program. Here the results obtained between 2005 and 2014 are presented and compared to previous results.For all BOA reports the following parameters were scored: centre, country, date of audit, beam energies and treatment machines audited, auditing organisation, percentage of agreement between stated and measured dose.Four-hundred and sixty-one BOA reports were analyzed containing the results of 1790 photon and 1366 electron beams, delivered by 755 different treatment machines. The majority of beams (91.1%) were within the optimal limit of ≤ 3%. Only 13 beams (0.4%; n = 9 electrons; n = 4 photons), were out of the range of acceptance of ≤ 5%. Previous reviews reported a much higher percentage of 2.5% or more of the BOAs with >5% deviation.The majority of EORTC centres present beam output variations within the 3% tolerance cutoff value and only 0.4% of audited beams presented with variations of more than 5%. This is an important improvement compared to previous BOA results.

Elevated temperature dependence of the anisotropic visible-to-ultraviolet dielectric function of monoclinic β-Ga2O3

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mock, A.; VanDerslice, J.; Korlacki, R.; Woollam, J. A.; Schubert, M.

2018-01-01

We report on the temperature dependence of the dielectric tensor elements of n-type conductive β-Ga2O3 from 22 °C to 550 °C in the spectral range of 1.5 eV-6.4 eV. We present the temperature dependence of the excitonic and band-to-band transition energy parameters using a previously described eigendielectric summation approach [A. Mock et al., Phys. Rev. B 96, 245205 (2017)]. We utilize a Bose-Einstein analysis of the temperature dependence of the observed transition energies and reveal electron coupling with average phonon temperature in excellent agreement with the average over all longitudinal phonon plasmon coupled modes reported previously [M. Schubert et al., Phys. Rev. B 93, 125209 (2016)]. We also report a linear temperature dependence of the wavelength independent Cauchy expansion coefficient for the anisotropic below-band-gap monoclinic dielectric tensor elements.

Elastic properties of sulphur and selenium doped ternary PbTe alloys by first principles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bali, Ashoka; Chetty, Raju; Mallik, Ramesh Chandra

2014-04-01

Lead telluride (PbTe) is an established thermoelectric material which can be alloyed with sulphur and selenium to further enhance the thermoelectric properties. Here, a first principles study of ternary alloys PbSxTe(1-x) and PbSexTe(1-x) (0≤x≤1) based on the Virtual Crystal Approximation (VCA) is presented for different ratios of the isoelectronic atoms in each series. Equilibrium lattice parameters and elastic constants have been calculated and compared with the reported data. Anisotropy parameter calculated from the stiffness constants showed a slight improvement in anisotropy of elastic properties of the alloys over undoped PbTe. Furthermore, the alloys satisfied the predicted stability criteria from the elastic constants, showing stable structures, which agreed with the previously reported experimental results.

Large magnetic entropy change in multiferroic HoFeO3 single crystal

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Das, Moumita; Mandal, Prabhat

2018-04-01

In this article magnetic and magnetocaloric properties of HoFeO3 single crystal have been investigated by magnetization measurement in the temperature range 6-30K and near spin reorientation transition (TSR) region 45-61K. Remarkably large and reversible magnetic entropy change (-ΔSm) = 27J/kg K, has been observed for a field change of 0-6T near 9.5K due to metamagnetic transition. The value of ΔSm is 6J/kg K at 6T near TSR. This magnetocaloric parameter is larger than previously reported value along [100] crystallographic axis due to its anisotropic nature along different axis. This value is larger than some of the potential magnetic refrigerants in the same temperature range which is not reported previously. The ΔSm is also quite large for a small and moderate field change. For an example the values of ΔSmax are 7 and 12 J/kg K for field change of 2 and 3T. The large value of this magnetocaloric parameter suggests that HoFeO3 could be considered as a potential refrigerant material for low-temperature magnetic refrigeration technology to liquefaction the hydrogen and helium in fuel industry.

Water adsorption constrained Frenkel-Halsey-Hill adsorption activation theory: Montmorillonite and illite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hatch, Courtney D.; Greenaway, Ann L.; Christie, Matthew J.; Baltrusaitis, Jonas

2014-04-01

Fresh mineral aerosol has recently been found to be effective cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) and contribute to the number of cloud droplets in the atmosphere due to the effect of water adsorption on CCN activation. The work described here uses experimental water adsorption measurements on Na-montmorillonite and illite clay to determine empirical adsorption parameters that can be used in a recently derived theoretical framework (Frenkel-Halsey-Hill Activation Theory, FHH-AT) that accounts for the effect of water adsorption on CCN activation. Upon fitting the Frenkel-Halsey-Hill (FHH) adsorption model to water adsorption measurements, we find FHH adsorption parameters, AFHH and BFHH, to be 98 ± 22 and 1.79 ± 0.11 for montmorillonite and 75 ± 17 and 1.77 ± 0.11 for illite, respectively. The AFHH and BFHH values obtained from water adsorption measurements differ from values reported previously determined by applying FHH-AT to CCN activation measurements. Differences in FHH adsorption parameters were attributed to different methods used to obtain them and the hydratable nature of the clays. FHH adsorption parameters determined from water adsorption measurements were then used to calculate the critical super-saturation (sc) for CCN activation using FHH-AT. The relationship between sc and the dry particle diameter (Ddry) gave CCN activation curve exponents (xFHH) of -0.61 and -0.64 for montmorillonite and illite, respectively. The xFHH values were slightly lower than reported previously for mineral aerosol. The lower exponent suggests that the CCN activity of hydratable clays is less sensitive to changes in Ddry and the hygroscopicity parameter exhibits a broader variability with Ddry compared to more soluble aerosols. Despite the differences in AFHH, BFHH and xFHH, the FHH-AT derived CCN activities of montmorillonite and illite are quite similar to each other and in excellent agreement with experimental CCN measurements resulting from wet-generated clay aerosol. This study illustrates that FHH-AT using adsorption parameters constrained by water adsorption is a simple, valid method for predicting CCN activation of fresh clay minerals and provides parameters that can be used in atmospheric models to study the effect of mineral dust aerosol on cloud formation and climate.

Syndromes of Self-Reported Psychopathology for Ages 18–59 in 29 Societies

PubMed Central

Achenbach, Thomas M.; Rescorla, Leslie A.; Tumer, Lori V.; Ahmeti-Pronaj, Adelina; Au, Alma; Maese, Carmen Avila; Bellina, Monica; Caldas, J. Carlos; Chen, Yi-Chuen; Csemy, Ladislav; da Rocha, Marina M.; Decoster, Jeroen; Dobrean, Anca; Ezpeleta, Lourdes; Fontaine, Johnny R. J.; Funabiki, Yasuko; Guðmundsson, Halldór S.; Harder, Valerie s; de la Cabada, Marie Leiner; Leung, Patrick; Liu, Jianghong; Mahr, Safia; Malykh, Sergey; Maras, Jelena Srdanovic; Markovic, Jasminka; Ndetei, David M.; Oh, Kyung Ja; Petot, Jean-Michel; Riad, Geylan; Sakarya, Direnc; Samaniego, Virginia C.; Sebre, Sandra; Shahini, Mimoza; Silvares, Edwiges; Simulioniene, Roma; Sokoli, Elvisa; Talcott, Joel B.; Vazquez, Natalia; Zasepa, Ewa

2017-01-01

This study tested the multi-society generalizability of an eight-syndrome assessment model derived from factor analyses of American adults’ self-ratings of 120 behavioral, emotional, and social problems. The Adult Self-Report (ASR; Achenbach and Rescorla 2003) was completed by 17,152 18–59-year-olds in 29 societies. Confirmatory factor analyses tested the fit of self-ratings in each sample to the eight-syndrome model. The primary model fit index (Root Mean Square Error of Approximation) showed good model fit for all samples, while secondary indices showed acceptable to good fit. Only 5 (0.06%) of the 8,598 estimated parameters were outside the admissible parameter space. Confidence intervals indicated that sampling fluctuations could account for the deviant parameters. Results thus supported the tested model in societies differing widely in social, political, and economic systems, languages, ethnicities, religions, and geographical regions. Although other items, societies, and analytic methods might yield different results, the findings indicate that adults in very diverse societies were willing and able to rate themselves on the same standardized set of 120 problem items. Moreover, their self-ratings fit an eight-syndrome model previously derived from self-ratings by American adults. The support for the statistically derived syndrome model is consistent with previous findings for parent, teacher, and self-ratings of 1½–18-year-olds in many societies. The ASR and its parallel collateral-report instrument, the Adult Behavior Checklist (ABCL), may offer mental health professionals practical tools for the multi-informant assessment of clinical constructs of adult psychopathology that appear to be meaningful across diverse societies. PMID:29805197

Kinetics of Chronic Oxidation of NBG-17 Nuclear Graphite by Water Vapor

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

Contescu, Cristian I; Burchell, Timothy D; Mee, Robert

2015-05-01

This report presents the results of kinetic measurements during accelerated oxidation tests of NBG-17 nuclear graphite by low concentration of water vapor and hydrogen in ultra-high purity helium. The objective is to determine the parameters in the Langmuir-Hinshelwood (L-H) equation describing the oxidation kinetics of nuclear graphite in the helium coolant of high temperature gas-cooled reactors (HTGR). Although the helium coolant chemistry is strictly controlled during normal operating conditions, trace amounts of moisture (predictably < 0.2 ppm) cannot be avoided. Prolonged exposure of graphite components to water vapor at high temperature will cause very slow (chronic) oxidation over the lifetimemore » of graphite components. This behavior must be understood and predicted for the design and safe operation of gas-cooled nuclear reactors. The results reported here show that, in general, oxidation by water of graphite NBG-17 obeys the L-H mechanism, previously documented for other graphite grades. However, the characteristic kinetic parameters that best describe oxidation rates measured for graphite NBG-17 are different than those reported previously for grades H-451 (General Atomics, 1978) and PCEA (ORNL, 2013). In some specific conditions, certain deviations from the generally accepted L-H model were observed for graphite NBG-17. This graphite is manufactured in Germany by SGL Carbon Group and is a possible candidate for the fuel elements and reflector blocks of HTGR.« less

On the relationship between NMR-derived amide order parameters and protein backbone entropy changes

PubMed Central

Sharp, Kim A.; O’Brien, Evan; Kasinath, Vignesh; Wand, A. Joshua

2015-01-01

Molecular dynamics simulations are used to analyze the relationship between NMR-derived squared generalized order parameters of amide NH groups and backbone entropy. Amide order parameters (O2NH) are largely determined by the secondary structure and average values appear unrelated to the overall flexibility of the protein. However, analysis of the more flexible subset (O2NH < 0.8) shows that these report both on the local flexibility of the protein and on a different component of the conformational entropy than that reported by the side chain methyl axis order parameters, O2axis. A calibration curve for backbone entropy vs. O2NH is developed which accounts for both correlations between amide group motions of different residues, and correlations between backbone and side chain motions. This calibration curve can be used with experimental values of O2NH changes obtained by NMR relaxation measurements to extract backbone entropy changes, e.g. upon ligand binding. In conjunction with our previous calibration for side chain entropy derived from measured O2axis values this provides a prescription for determination of the total protein conformational entropy changes from NMR relaxation measurements. PMID:25739366

On the relationship between NMR-derived amide order parameters and protein backbone entropy changes.

PubMed

Sharp, Kim A; O'Brien, Evan; Kasinath, Vignesh; Wand, A Joshua

2015-05-01

Molecular dynamics simulations are used to analyze the relationship between NMR-derived squared generalized order parameters of amide NH groups and backbone entropy. Amide order parameters (O(2) NH ) are largely determined by the secondary structure and average values appear unrelated to the overall flexibility of the protein. However, analysis of the more flexible subset (O(2) NH  < 0.8) shows that these report both on the local flexibility of the protein and on a different component of the conformational entropy than that reported by the side chain methyl axis order parameters, O(2) axis . A calibration curve for backbone entropy vs. O(2) NH is developed, which accounts for both correlations between amide group motions of different residues, and correlations between backbone and side chain motions. This calibration curve can be used with experimental values of O(2) NH changes obtained by NMR relaxation measurements to extract backbone entropy changes, for example, upon ligand binding. In conjunction with our previous calibration for side chain entropy derived from measured O(2) axis values this provides a prescription for determination of the total protein conformational entropy changes from NMR relaxation measurements. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Correlation Between the Magnetic Field and Plasma Parameters at 1 AU

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Zicai; Shen, Fang; Zhang, Jie; Yang, Yi; Feng, Xueshang; Richardson, Ian G.

2018-02-01

The physical parameters of the solar wind observed in-situ near 1 AU have been studied for several decades, and relationships between them, such as the positive correlation between the solar wind plasma temperature, T, and velocity, V, and the negative correlation between density, N, and velocity, V, are well known. However, the magnetic field intensity, B, does not appear to be well correlated with any individual plasma parameter. In this article, we discuss previously under-reported correlations between B and the combined plasma parameters √{N V2} as well as between B and √{NT}. These two correlations are strong during periods of corotating interaction regions and high-speed streams, and moderate during intervals of slow solar wind. The results indicate that the magnetic pressure in the solar wind is well correlated both with the plasma dynamic pressure and the thermal pressure.

Parameter estimation and characterization of a single-chamber microbial fuel cell for dairy wastewater treatment.

PubMed

Sedaqatvand, Ramin; Nasr Esfahany, Mohsen; Behzad, Tayebeh; Mohseni, Madjid; Mardanpour, Mohammad Mahdi

2013-10-01

In this study, for the first time, the conduction-based model is extended, and then combined with Genetic Algorithm to estimate the design parameters of a MFC treating dairy wastewater. The optimized parameters are, then, validated. The estimated half-saturation potential of -0.13 V (vs. SHE) is in good agreement while the biofilm conductivity of 8.76×10(-4) mS cm(-1) is three orders of magnitude lower than that previously-reported for pure-culture biofilm. Simulations show that the ohmic and concentration overpotentials contribute almost equally in dropping cell voltage in which the concentration film and biofilm conductivity comprise the main resistances, respectively. Thus, polarization analysis and determining the controlling steps will be possible through that developed extension. This study introduces a reliable method to estimate the design parameters of a particular MFC and to characterize it. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Rovibrational line-shape parameters for H2 in He and new H2-He potential energy surface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thibault, Franck; Patkowski, Konrad; Żuchowski, Piotr S.; Jóźwiak, Hubert; Ciuryło, Roman; Wcisło, Piotr

2017-11-01

We report a new H2-He potential energy surface that, with respect to the previous one [Bakr et al.(2013)], covers much larger range of H2 stretching and exhibits more accurate asymptotic behavior for large separations between H2 and He. Close-coupling calculations performed on this improved potential energy surface allow us to provide line shape parameters for H2 between 5 and 2000 K for Raman isotropic Q lines and anisotropic Q lines (or electric quadrupole lines) and for vibrational bands from the ground up to v = 5 and rotational quantum numbers up to j = 5 . The parameters provided include the usual pressure -broadening and -shifting coefficients as well as the real and imaginary part of Dicke contribution to the Hess profile. The latter parameters can be readily implemented in other line-shape profiles like the most recent one of Hartmann and Tran.

User-customized brain computer interfaces using Bayesian optimization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bashashati, Hossein; Ward, Rabab K.; Bashashati, Ali

2016-04-01

Objective. The brain characteristics of different people are not the same. Brain computer interfaces (BCIs) should thus be customized for each individual person. In motor-imagery based synchronous BCIs, a number of parameters (referred to as hyper-parameters) including the EEG frequency bands, the channels and the time intervals from which the features are extracted should be pre-determined based on each subject’s brain characteristics. Approach. To determine the hyper-parameter values, previous work has relied on manual or semi-automatic methods that are not applicable to high-dimensional search spaces. In this paper, we propose a fully automatic, scalable and computationally inexpensive algorithm that uses Bayesian optimization to tune these hyper-parameters. We then build different classifiers trained on the sets of hyper-parameter values proposed by the Bayesian optimization. A final classifier aggregates the results of the different classifiers. Main Results. We have applied our method to 21 subjects from three BCI competition datasets. We have conducted rigorous statistical tests, and have shown the positive impact of hyper-parameter optimization in improving the accuracy of BCIs. Furthermore, We have compared our results to those reported in the literature. Significance. Unlike the best reported results in the literature, which are based on more sophisticated feature extraction and classification methods, and rely on prestudies to determine the hyper-parameter values, our method has the advantage of being fully automated, uses less sophisticated feature extraction and classification methods, and yields similar or superior results compared to the best performing designs in the literature.

The functional significance of EEG microstates--Associations with modalities of thinking.

PubMed

Milz, P; Faber, P L; Lehmann, D; Koenig, T; Kochi, K; Pascual-Marqui, R D

2016-01-15

The momentary, global functional state of the brain is reflected by its electric field configuration. Cluster analytical approaches consistently extracted four head-surface brain electric field configurations that optimally explain the variance of their changes across time in spontaneous EEG recordings. These four configurations are referred to as EEG microstate classes A, B, C, and D and have been associated with verbal/phonological, visual, subjective interoceptive-autonomic processing, and attention reorientation, respectively. The present study tested these associations via an intra-individual and inter-individual analysis approach. The intra-individual approach tested the effect of task-induced increased modality-specific processing on EEG microstate parameters. The inter-individual approach tested the effect of personal modality-specific parameters on EEG microstate parameters. We obtained multichannel EEG from 61 healthy, right-handed, male students during four eyes-closed conditions: object-visualization, spatial-visualization, verbalization (6 runs each), and resting (7 runs). After each run, we assessed participants' degrees of object-visual, spatial-visual, and verbal thinking using subjective reports. Before and after the recording, we assessed modality-specific cognitive abilities and styles using nine cognitive tests and two questionnaires. The EEG of all participants, conditions, and runs was clustered into four classes of EEG microstates (A, B, C, and D). RMANOVAs, ANOVAs and post-hoc paired t-tests compared microstate parameters between conditions. TANOVAs compared microstate class topographies between conditions. Differences were localized using eLORETA. Pearson correlations assessed interrelationships between personal modality-specific parameters and EEG microstate parameters during no-task resting. As hypothesized, verbal as opposed to visual conditions consistently affected the duration, occurrence, and coverage of microstate classes A and B. Contrary to associations suggested by previous reports, parameters were increased for class A during visualization, and class B during verbalization. In line with previous reports, microstate D parameters were increased during no-task resting compared to the three internal, goal-directed tasks. Topographic differences between conditions included particular sub-regions of components of the metabolic default mode network. Modality-specific personal parameters did not consistently correlate with microstate parameters except verbal cognitive style which correlated negatively with microstate class A duration and positively with class C occurrence. This is the first study that aimed to induce EEG microstate class parameter changes based on their hypothesized functional significance. Beyond the associations of microstate classes A and B with visual and verbal processing, respectively, our results suggest that a finely-tuned interplay between all four EEG microstate classes is necessary for the continuous formation of visual and verbal thoughts. Our results point to the possibility that the EEG microstate classes may represent the head-surface measured activity of intra-cortical sources primarily exhibiting inhibitory functions. However, additional studies are needed to verify and elaborate on this hypothesis. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Refractometry of melanocyte cell nuclei using optical scatter images recorded by digital Fourier microscopy.

PubMed

Seet, Katrina Y T; Nieminen, Timo A; Zvyagin, Andrei V

2009-01-01

The cell nucleus is the dominant optical scatterer in the cell. Neoplastic cells are characterized by cell nucleus polymorphism and polychromism-i.e., the nuclei exhibits an increase in the distribution of both size and refractive index. The relative size parameter, and its distribution, is proportional to the product of the nucleus size and its relative refractive index and is a useful discriminant between normal and abnormal (cancerous) cells. We demonstrate a recently introduced holographic technique, digital Fourier microscopy (DFM), to provide a sensitive measure of this relative size parameter. Fourier holograms were recorded and optical scatter of individual scatterers were extracted and modeled with Mie theory to determine the relative size parameter. The relative size parameter of individual melanocyte cell nuclei were found to be 16.5+/-0.2, which gives a cell nucleus refractive index of 1.38+/-0.01 and is in good agreement with previously reported data. The relative size parameters of individual malignant melanocyte cell nuclei are expected to be greater than 16.5.

CLASSIFYING MEDICAL IMAGES USING MORPHOLOGICAL APPEARANCE MANIFOLDS.

PubMed

Varol, Erdem; Gaonkar, Bilwaj; Davatzikos, Christos

2013-12-31

Input features for medical image classification algorithms are extracted from raw images using a series of pre processing steps. One common preprocessing step in computational neuroanatomy and functional brain mapping is the nonlinear registration of raw images to a common template space. Typically, the registration methods used are parametric and their output varies greatly with changes in parameters. Most results reported previously perform registration using a fixed parameter setting and use the results as input to the subsequent classification step. The variation in registration results due to choice of parameters thus translates to variation of performance of the classifiers that depend on the registration step for input. Analogous issues have been investigated in the computer vision literature, where image appearance varies with pose and illumination, thereby making classification vulnerable to these confounding parameters. The proposed methodology addresses this issue by sampling image appearances as registration parameters vary, and shows that better classification accuracies can be obtained this way, compared to the conventional approach.

Note: Characteristic beam parameter for the line electron gun

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

Iqbal, M.; Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049; Islam, G. U.

We have optimized the beam parameters of line source electron gun using Stanford Linear Accelerator Centre electron beam trajectory program (EGUN), utilizing electrostatic focusing only. We measured minimum beam diameter as 0.5 mm that corresponds to power density of 68.9 kW/cm{sup 2} at 13.5 mm in the post-anode region which is more than two-fold (33 kW/cm{sup 2}), of the previously reported results. The gun was operated for the validation of the theoretical results and found in good agreement. The gun is now without any magnetic and electrostatic focusing thus much simpler and more powerful.

Note: Characteristic beam parameter for the line electron gun.

PubMed

Iqbal, M; Islam, G U; Zhou, Z; Chi, Y

2013-11-01

We have optimized the beam parameters of line source electron gun using Stanford Linear Accelerator Centre electron beam trajectory program (EGUN), utilizing electrostatic focusing only. We measured minimum beam diameter as 0.5 mm that corresponds to power density of 68.9 kW/cm(2) at 13.5 mm in the post-anode region which is more than two-fold (33 kW/cm(2)), of the previously reported results. The gun was operated for the validation of the theoretical results and found in good agreement. The gun is now without any magnetic and electrostatic focusing thus much simpler and more powerful.

Note: Characteristic beam parameter for the line electron gun

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Iqbal, M.; Islam, G. U.; Zhou, Z.; Chi, Y.

2013-11-01

We have optimized the beam parameters of line source electron gun using Stanford Linear Accelerator Centre electron beam trajectory program (EGUN), utilizing electrostatic focusing only. We measured minimum beam diameter as 0.5 mm that corresponds to power density of 68.9 kW/cm2 at 13.5 mm in the post-anode region which is more than two-fold (33 kW/cm2), of the previously reported results. The gun was operated for the validation of the theoretical results and found in good agreement. The gun is now without any magnetic and electrostatic focusing thus much simpler and more powerful.

Guidelines and standard procedures for continuous water-quality monitors: Station operation, record computation, and data reporting

USGS Publications Warehouse

Wagner, Richard J.; Boulger, Robert W.; Oblinger, Carolyn J.; Smith, Brett A.

2006-01-01

The U.S. Geological Survey uses continuous water-quality monitors to assess the quality of the Nation's surface water. A common monitoring-system configuration for water-quality data collection is the four-parameter monitoring system, which collects temperature, specific conductance, dissolved oxygen, and pH data. Such systems also can be configured to measure other properties, such as turbidity or fluorescence. Data from sensors can be used in conjunction with chemical analyses of samples to estimate chemical loads. The sensors that are used to measure water-quality field parameters require careful field observation, cleaning, and calibration procedures, as well as thorough procedures for the computation and publication of final records. This report provides guidelines for site- and monitor-selection considerations; sensor inspection and calibration methods; field procedures; data evaluation, correction, and computation; and record-review and data-reporting processes, which supersede the guidelines presented previously in U.S. Geological Survey Water-Resources Investigations Report WRIR 00-4252. These procedures have evolved over the past three decades, and the process continues to evolve with newer technologies.

On the c-Si/SiO2 interface recombination parameters from photo-conductance decay measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bonilla, Ruy S.; Wilshaw, Peter R.

2017-04-01

The recombination of electric charge carriers at semiconductor surfaces continues to be a limiting factor in achieving high performance optoelectronic devices, including solar cells, laser diodes, and photodetectors. The theoretical model and a solution algorithm for surface recombination have been previously reported. However, their successful application to experimental data for a wide range of both minority excess carrier concentrations and dielectric fixed charge densities has not previously been shown. Here, a parametrisation for the semiconductor-dielectric interface charge Q i t is used in a Shockley-Read-Hall extended formalism to describe recombination at the c-Si/SiO2 interface, and estimate the physical parameters relating to the interface trap density D i t , and the electron and hole capture cross-sections σ n and σ p . This approach gives an excellent description of the experimental data without the need to invoke a surface damage region in the c-Si/SiO2 system. Band-gap tail states have been observed to limit strongly the effectiveness of field effect passivation. This approach provides a methodology to determine interface recombination parameters in any semiconductor-insulator system using macro scale measuring techniques.

Perceiving while producing: Modeling the dynamics of phonological planning

PubMed Central

Roon, Kevin D.; Gafos, Adamantios I.

2016-01-01

We offer a dynamical model of phonological planning that provides a formal instantiation of how the speech production and perception systems interact during online processing. The model is developed on the basis of evidence from an experimental task that requires concurrent use of both systems, the so-called response-distractor task in which speakers hear distractor syllables while they are preparing to produce required responses. The model formalizes how ongoing response planning is affected by perception and accounts for a range of results reported across previous studies. It does so by explicitly addressing the setting of parameter values in representations. The key unit of the model is that of the dynamic field, a distribution of activation over the range of values associated with each representational parameter. The setting of parameter values takes place by the attainment of a stable distribution of activation over the entire field, stable in the sense that it persists even after the response cue in the above experiments has been removed. This and other properties of representations that have been taken as axiomatic in previous work are derived by the dynamics of the proposed model. PMID:27440947

Physical, Hydraulic, and Transport Properties of Sediments and Engineered Materials Associated with Hanford Immobilized Low-Activity Waste

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

Rockhold, Mark L.; Zhang, Z. F.; Meyer, Philip D.

2015-02-28

Current plans for treatment and disposal of immobilized low-activity waste (ILAW) from Hanford’s underground waste storage tanks include vitrification and storage of the glass waste form in a nearsurface disposal facility. This Integrated Disposal Facility (IDF) is located in the 200 East Area of the Hanford Central Plateau. Performance assessment (PA) of the IDF requires numerical modeling of subsurface flow and reactive transport processes over very long periods (thousands of years). The models used to predict facility performance require parameters describing various physical, hydraulic, and transport properties. This report provides updated estimates of physical, hydraulic, and transport properties and parametersmore » for both near- and far-field materials, intended for use in future IDF PA modeling efforts. Previous work on physical and hydraulic property characterization for earlier IDF PA analyses is reviewed and summarized. For near-field materials, portions of this document and parameter estimates are taken from an earlier data package. For far-field materials, a critical review is provided of methodologies used in previous data packages. Alternative methods are described and associated parameters are provided.« less

GPI Spectra of HR8799 C, D, and E in H-K Bands with KLIP Forward Modeling

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Greenbaum, Alexandra Z.; Pueyo, Laurent; Ruffio, Jean-Baptiste; Wang, Jason J.; De Rosa, Robert J.; Aguilar, Jonathan; Rameau, Julien; Barman, Travis; Marois, Christian; Marley, Mark S.;

Small Molecule Activation by Intermolecular Zr(IV)-Phosphine Frustrated Lewis Pairs.

PubMed

Metters, Owen J; Forrest, Sebastian J K; Sparkes, Hazel A; Manners, Ian; Wass, Duncan F

2016-02-17

We report intermolecular transition metal frustrated Lewis pairs (FLPs) based on zirconocene aryloxide and phosphine moieties that exhibit a broad range of small molecule activation chemistry that has previously been the preserve of only intramolecular pairs. Reactions with D2, CO2, THF, and PhCCH are reported. By contrast with previous intramolecular examples, these systems allow facile access to a variety of steric and electronic characteristics at the Lewis acidic and Lewis basic components, with the three-step syntheses of 10 new intermolecular transition metal FLPs being reported. Systematic variation to the phosphine Lewis base is used to unravel steric considerations, with the surprising conclusion that phosphines with relatively small Tolman steric parameters not only give highly reactive FLPs but are often seen to have the highest selectivity for the desired product. DOSY NMR spectroscopic studies on these systems reveal for the first time the nature of the Lewis acid/Lewis base interactions in transition metal FLPs of this type.

Maximal isometric muscle strength values obtained By hand-held dynamometry in children between 6 and 15 years of age.

PubMed

Escobar, Raul G; Munoz, Karin T; Dominguez, Angelica; Banados, Pamela; Bravo, Maria J

2017-01-01

In this study we aimed to determine the maximal isometric muscle strength of a healthy, normal-weight, pediatric population between 6 and 15 years of age using hand-held dynamometry to establish strength reference values. The secondary objective was determining the relationship between strength and anthropometric parameters. Four hundred normal-weight Chilean children, split into 10 age groups, separated by 1-year intervals, were evaluated. Each age group included between 35 and 55 children. The strength values increased with increasing age and weight, with a correlation of 0.83 for age and 0.82 for weight. The results were similar to those reported in previous studies regarding the relationships among strength, age, and anthropometric parameters, but the reported strength differed. These results provide normal strength parameters for healthy and normal-weight Chilean children between 6 and 15 years of age and highlight the relevance of ethnicity in defining reference values for muscle strength in a pediatric population. Muscle Nerve 55: 16-22, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Effective intermolecular potential and critical point for C60 molecule

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ramos, J. Eloy

2017-07-01

The approximate nonconformal (ANC) theory is applied to the C60 molecule. A new binary potential function is developed for C60, which has three parameters only and is obtained by averaging the site-site carbon interactions on the surface of two C60 molecules. It is shown that the C60 molecule follows, to a good approximation, the corresponding states principle with n-C8H18, n-C4F10 and n-C5F12. The critical point of C60 is estimated in two ways: first by applying the corresponding states principle under the framework of the ANC theory, and then by using previous computer simulations. The critical parameters obtained by applying the corresponding states principle, although very different from those reported in the literature, are consistent with the previous results of the ANC theory. It is shown that the Girifalco potential does not correspond to an average of the site-site carbon-carbon interaction.

Growth and laccase production kinetics of Trametes versicolor in a stirred tank reactor.

PubMed

Thiruchelvam, A T; Ramsay, Juliana A

2007-03-01

White rot fungi are a promising option to treat recalcitrant organic molecules, such as lignin, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and textile dyes, because of the lignin-modifying enzymes (LMEs) they secrete. Because knowledge of the kinetic parameters is important to better design and operate bioreactors to cultivate these fungi for degradation and/or to produce LME(s), these parameters were determined using Trametes versicolor ATCC 20869 (ATCC, American Type Culture Collection) in a magnetic stir bar reactor. A complete set of kinetic data has not been previously published for this culture. Higher than previously reported growth rates with high laccase production of up to 1,385 U l(-1) occurred during growth without [Formula: see text] or glucose limitation. The maximum specific growth rate averaged 0.94 +/- 0.23 day(-1), whereas the maximum specific substrate consumption rates for glucose and ammonium were 3.37 +/- 1.16 and 0.15 +/- 0.04 day(-1), respectively. The maximum specific oxygen consumption rate was 1.63 +/- 0.36 day(-1).

Very high resolution far infrared synchrotron radiation spectrum of methanol-D1 (CH2DOH) in the first three torsional-vibrational modes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mukhopadhyay, Indra; Billinghurst, B. E.

2016-11-01

In our effort to systematically study the far infrared (FIR) spectra of asymmetrically mono deuterated methanol (CH2DOH) and thereby obtain the transition wavenumbers with better and better accuracy (Mukhopadhyay, 2016a,b), the complete Fourier transform (FT) spectra from FIR to infrared (IR) vibrational bands (in the range 50-1190 cm-1) have been re-recorded using the Synchrotron Radiation Source at the Canadian Light Sources in Saskatchewan, Canada. The resolution of the spectrum is unprecedented, reaching beyond the Doppler limited resolution as low as about 0.0008 cm-1 with a signal to noise (S/N) ratio is many fold better than that can be obtained by commercially available FT spectrometer using thermal sources (e.g., Globar). Spectra were also recorded beyond 1190 cm-1 to about 5000 cm-1 at a somewhat lower resolution of 0.002-0.004 cm-1. In this report the analysis of the b-type and c-type torsional - rotational spectra in the ground vibrational state corresponding to gauche- (e1/o1) to gauche- (e1/o1) and gauche- (e1/o1) to trans- (e0) states in the ground vibrational state are reported and an atlas of the wavenumber for about 2500 FIR assigned absorption lines has been prepared. The transitions within a given sub-band are analyzed using state dependent expansion parameters and the Q-branch origins. The data from previous results (Mukhopadhyay, 2016a,b) along with the present work allowed a global analysis yielding a complete set of molecular parameters. The state dependent molecular parameters reproduce the experimental wavenumbers within experimental uncertainty. In addition, the sensitivity of the spectrum allowed observation of forbidden transitions previously unobserved and helped reassignment of rotational angular momentum quantum numbers of some ΔK = ±1, Q-branch transitions in highly excited states recently reported in the literature. To our knowledge the wavenumbers reported in the present work are the most accurate so far reported in the literature and represent the highest resolution spectra for this molecular species.

Transit Timing Variation Measurements of WASP-12b and Qatar-1b: No Evidence Of Additional Planets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Collins, Karen A.; Kielkopf, John F.; Stassun, Keivan G.

2017-02-01

WASP-12b and Qatar-1b are transiting hot Jupiters for which previous works have suggested the presence of transit timing variations (TTVs) indicative of additional bodies in these systems—an Earth-mass planet in WASP-12 and a brown-dwarf mass object in Qatar-1. Here, we present 23 new WASP-12b and 18 new Qatar-1b complete (or nearly complete) transit observations. We perform global system fits to all of our light curves for each system, as well as RV and stellar spectroscopic parameters from the literature. The global fits provide refined system parameters and uncertainties for each system, including precise transit center times for each transit. The transit model residuals of the combined and five minute binned light curves have an rms of 183 and 255 parts per million (ppm) for WASP-12b and Qatar-1b, respectively. Most of the WASP-12b system parameter values from this work are consistent with values from previous studies, but have ˜40%-50% smaller uncertainties. Most of the Qatar-1b system parameter values and uncertainties from this work are consistent with values recently reported in the literature. We find no convincing evidence for sinusoidal TTVs with a semi-amplitude of more than ˜35 and ˜25 s in the WASP-12b and Qatar-1b systems, respectively.

30-100-GHz inductors and transformers for millimeter-wave (Bi)CMOS integrated circuits

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dickson, T. O.; Lacroix, M.-A.; Boret, S.; Gloria, D.; Beerkens, R.; Voinigescu, S. P.

2005-01-01

Silicon planar and three-dimensional inductors and transformers were designed and characterized on-wafer up to 100 GHz. Self-resonance frequencies (SRFs) beyond 100 GHz were obtained, demonstrating for the first time that spiral structures are suitable for applications such as 60-GHz wireless local area network and 77-GHz automotive RADAR. Minimizing area over substrate is critical to achieving high SRF. A stacked transformer is reported with S21 of -2.5 dB at 50 GHz, and which offers improved performance and less area (30 μm × 30 μm) than planar transformers or microstrip couplers. A compact inductor model is described, along with a methodology for extracting model parameters from simulated or measured y-parameters. Millimeter-wave SiGe BiCMOS mixer and voltage-controlled-oscillator circuits employing spiral inductors are presented with better or comparable performance to previously reported transmission-line-based circuits.

Elastic properties of sulphur and selenium doped ternary PbTe alloys by first principles

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

Bali, Ashoka, E-mail: rcmallik@physics.iisc.ernet.in; Chetty, Raju, E-mail: rcmallik@physics.iisc.ernet.in; Mallik, Ramesh Chandra, E-mail: rcmallik@physics.iisc.ernet.in

2014-04-24

Lead telluride (PbTe) is an established thermoelectric material which can be alloyed with sulphur and selenium to further enhance the thermoelectric properties. Here, a first principles study of ternary alloys PbS{sub x}Te{sub (1−x)} and PbSe{sub x}Te{sub (1−x)} (0≤x≤1) based on the Virtual Crystal Approximation (VCA) is presented for different ratios of the isoelectronic atoms in each series. Equilibrium lattice parameters and elastic constants have been calculated and compared with the reported data. Anisotropy parameter calculated from the stiffness constants showed a slight improvement in anisotropy of elastic properties of the alloys over undoped PbTe. Furthermore, the alloys satisfied the predictedmore » stability criteria from the elastic constants, showing stable structures, which agreed with the previously reported experimental results.« less

Assessment of hemoglobin responsiveness to epoetin alfa in patients on hemodialysis using a population pharmacokinetic pharmacodynamic model.

PubMed

Wu, Liviawati; Mould, Diane R; Perez Ruixo, Juan Jose; Doshi, Sameer

2015-10-01

A population pharmacokinetic pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) model describing the effect of epoetin alfa on hemoglobin (Hb) response in hemodialysis patients was developed. Epoetin alfa pharmacokinetics was described using a linear 2-compartment model. PK parameter estimates were similar to previously reported values. A maturation-structured cytokinetic model consisting of 5 compartments linked in a catenary fashion by first-order cell transfer rates following a zero-order input process described the Hb time course. The PD model described 2 subpopulations, one whose Hb response reflected epoetin alfa dosing and a second whose response was unrelated to epoetin alfa dosing. Parameter estimates from the PK/PD model were physiologically reasonable and consistent with published reports. Numerical and visual predictive checks using data from 2 studies were performed. The PK and PD of epoetin alfa were well described by the model. © 2015, The American College of Clinical Pharmacology.

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

Guo, D.; Akis, R.; Brinkman, D.

An improved model of copper p-type doping in CdTe absorbers is proposed that accounts for the mechanisms related to tightly bound Cu(i)-Cu(Cd) and Cd(i)-Cu(Cd) complexes that both limit diffusion and cause self-compensation of Cu species. The new model explains apparent discrepancy between DFT-calculated and fitted diffusion parameters of Cu reported in our previous work, and allows for better understanding of performance and metastabilities in CdTe PV devices.

Exact solutions for Hele-Shaw flows with surface tension: The Schwarz-function approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vasconcelos, Giovani L.

1993-08-01

An alternative derivation of the two-parameter family of solutions for a Hele-Shaw flow with surface tension reported previously by Vasconcelos and Kadanoff [Phys. Rev. A 44, 6490 (1991)] is presented. The method of solution given here is based on the formalism of the Schwarz function: an ordinary differential equation for the Schwarz function of the moving interface is obtained and then solved.

Improved Characterization of Healthy and Malignant Tissue by NMR Line-Shape Relaxation Correlations

PubMed Central

Peemoeller, H.; Shenoy, R.K.; Pintar, M.M.; Kydon, D.W.; Inch, W.R.

1982-01-01

We performed a relaxation-line-shape correlation NMR experiment on muscle, liver, kidney, and spleen tissues of healthy mice and of mouse tumor tissue. In each tissue studied, five spin groups were resolved and characterized by their relaxation parameters. We report a previously uncharacterized semi-solid spin group and discuss briefly the value of this method for the identification of malignant tissues. PMID:7104438

Report for Full-Scale Mulch Wall Treatment of Chlorinated Hydrocarbon-Impacted Groundwater

DTIC Science & Technology

2004-04-13

7.1 Direction of Groundwater Flow Through the Test Area Static water level measurements were taken every quarter after the installation of the...volatile organic compounds, alternate electron acceptors/byproducts and water quality parameters. Potentiometric surface maps showed the groundwater ... groundwater and surface water restrictions 10 Established clear zone (3000 ft by 3000 ft) Building 301 CEA Previously installed soil boring MW-19I 19

Thiol Redox and pKa Properties of Mycothiol, the Predominant Low-Molecular-Weight Thiol Cofactor in the Actinomycetes.

PubMed

Sharma, Sunil V; Van Laer, Koen; Messens, Joris; Hamilton, Chris J

2016-09-15

The thiol pKa and standard redox potential of mycothiol, the major low-molecular-weight thiol cofactor in the actinomycetes, are reported. The measured standard redox potential reveals substantial discrepancies in one or more of the other previously measured intracellular parameters that are relevant to mycothiol redox biochemistry. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

High-pressure structural parameters and equation of state of osmium to 207 GPa

DOE PAGES

Perreault, Christopher S.; Velisavljevic, Nenad; Vohra, Yogesh K.; ...

2017-09-08

We studied the most incompressible transition metal osmium (Os) under high pressure. There is significant interest in Os because of the structural anomalies attributed to topological transitions in the Fermi surface for valence electrons in the hexagonal close-packed phase. We report on measurements of structural parameters and equation of state on Os metal to a pressure of 207 GPa at ambient temperature using platinum as a pressure standard. We also obtained angle-dispersive X-ray diffraction data at a synchrotron source with closely spaced pressure intervals to observe any discontinuities or anomalies in the axial c/a ratio at high pressures. Rietveld refinementsmore » of X-ray diffraction data show a slowly varying axial ratio (c/a) with a broad minimum at 75 GPa. Our data do not provide any evidence of anomalous behavior in the c/a ratio in Os at 25 or 150 GPa as have been reported in previous studies. These experimental results are in agreement with theoretical calculations that do not predict any anomalous behavior in c/a ratio in Os under extreme conditions. We present an equation of state for Os to 207 GPa (V/V 0 = 0.761) at ambient temperature and compare our results with the previously published data.« less

High-pressure structural parameters and equation of state of osmium to 207 GPa

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

Perreault, Christopher S.; Velisavljevic, Nenad; Vohra, Yogesh K.

We studied the most incompressible transition metal osmium (Os) under high pressure. There is significant interest in Os because of the structural anomalies attributed to topological transitions in the Fermi surface for valence electrons in the hexagonal close-packed phase. We report on measurements of structural parameters and equation of state on Os metal to a pressure of 207 GPa at ambient temperature using platinum as a pressure standard. We also obtained angle-dispersive X-ray diffraction data at a synchrotron source with closely spaced pressure intervals to observe any discontinuities or anomalies in the axial c/a ratio at high pressures. Rietveld refinementsmore » of X-ray diffraction data show a slowly varying axial ratio (c/a) with a broad minimum at 75 GPa. Our data do not provide any evidence of anomalous behavior in the c/a ratio in Os at 25 or 150 GPa as have been reported in previous studies. These experimental results are in agreement with theoretical calculations that do not predict any anomalous behavior in c/a ratio in Os under extreme conditions. We present an equation of state for Os to 207 GPa (V/V 0 = 0.761) at ambient temperature and compare our results with the previously published data.« less

The ugrizYJHK luminosity distributions and densities from the combined MGC, SDSS and UKIDSS LAS data sets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hill, David T.; Driver, Simon P.; Cameron, Ewan; Cross, Nicholas; Liske, Jochen; Robotham, Aaron

2010-05-01

We combine data from the Millennium Galaxy Catalogue, Sloan Digital Sky Survey and UKIRT Infrared Deep Sky Survey Large Area Survey to produce ugrizYJHK luminosity functions and densities from within a common, low-redshift volume (z < 0.1, ~ 71000h-31 Mpc3 for L* systems) with 100 per cent spectroscopic completeness. In the optical the fitted Schechter functions are comparable in shape to those previously reported values but with higher normalizations (typically 0, 30, 20, 15, 5 per cent higher φ* values in u, g, r, i, z, respectively, over those reported by the SDSS team). We attribute these to differences in the redshift ranges probed, incompleteness and adopted normalization methods. In the near-IR (NIR) we find significantly different Schechter function parameters (mainly in the M* values) to those previously reported and attribute this to the improvement in the quality of the imaging data over previous studies. This is the first homogeneous measurement of the extragalactic luminosity density which fully samples both the optical and NIR regimes. Unlike previous compilations that have noted a discontinuity between the optical and NIR regimes our homogeneous data set shows a smooth cosmic spectral energy distribution (CSED). After correcting for dust attenuation we compare our CSED to the expected values based on recent constraints on the cosmic star formation history and the initial mass function.

Sensitivity of finite helical axis parameters to temporally varying realistic motion utilizing an idealized knee model.

PubMed

Johnson, T S; Andriacchi, T P; Erdman, A G

2004-01-01

Various uses of the screw or helical axis have previously been reported in the literature in an attempt to quantify the complex displacements and coupled rotations of in vivo human knee kinematics. Multiple methods have been used by previous authors to calculate the axis parameters, and it has been theorized that the mathematical stability and accuracy of the finite helical axis (FHA) is highly dependent on experimental variability and rotation increment spacing between axis calculations. Previous research has not addressed the sensitivity of the FHA for true in vivo data collection, as required for gait laboratory analysis. This research presents a controlled series of experiments simulating continuous data collection as utilized in gait analysis to investigate the sensitivity of the three-dimensional finite screw axis parameters of rotation, displacement, orientation and location with regard to time step increment spacing, utilizing two different methods for spatial location. Six-degree-of-freedom motion parameters are measured for an idealized rigid body knee model that is constrained to a planar motion profile for the purposes of error analysis. The kinematic data are collected using a multicamera optoelectronic system combined with an error minimization algorithm known as the point cluster method. Rotation about the screw axis is seen to be repeatable, accurate and time step increment insensitive. Displacement along the axis is highly dependent on time step increment sizing, with smaller rotation angles between calculations producing more accuracy. Orientation of the axis in space is accurate with only a slight filtering effect noticed during motion reversal. Locating the screw axis by a projected point onto the screw axis from the mid-point of the finite displacement is found to be less sensitive to motion reversal than finding the intersection of the axis with a reference plane. A filtering effect of the spatial location parameters was noted for larger time step increments during periods of little or no rotation.

Owner perceptions of their cat's quality of life when treated with a modified University of Wisconsin-Madison protocol for lymphoma.

PubMed

Thornton, Laura A; Cave, Nicholas; Bridges, Janis P; Stell, Anneliese J

2018-04-01

Objectives The objectives of this study were to assess owner perceptions of their cat's quality of life during treatment for lymphoma with a doxorubicin-containing multi-agent chemotherapy protocol, whether various health-related parameters correlated with quality of life scores, and to assess owner satisfaction with the protocol. Methods A postal questionnaire was sent to the owners of 33 treated cats. Owners retrospectively assessed their cat's quality of life using a Likert scale (1-10) before lymphoma was diagnosed, at diagnosis and during chemotherapy. Owners assigned scores to various health-related parameters previously reported to affect quality of life at the three time points, and correlations with quality of life scores were sought. Owners were asked to rate the importance of these health-related parameters. Satisfaction with the protocol was investigated. Results Twenty questionnaires were completed (61% response rate). The median quality of life score before diagnosis (10, range 5-10) was higher than at diagnosis (3, range 1-9) ( P <0.05). The median quality of life score during chemotherapy (7, range 3-9) was lower than before diagnosis ( P <0.05) and higher than at diagnosis, but this was not statistically significant. Quality of life scores did not correlate with individual health-related parameter scores consistently; however, quality of life scores did correlate with appetite scores during chemotherapy. Appetite, vomiting and diarrhoea were parameters perceived as important in affecting quality of life. Most owners (75%) were happy they had treated their cat. Conclusions and relevance The quality of life scores observed were comparable to a previous study using cyclophosphamide, vincristine and prednisolone, employing the same scoring system. Although quality of life scores during chemotherapy were not significantly improved at diagnosis, owner satisfaction with the protocol was high. The factors perceived by owners to determine quality of life in their pets may be different to those previously conjectured, but appetite during chemotherapy remains important.

IMPACT OF INTERNAL LIMITING MEMBRANE PEELING ON MACULAR HOLE REOPENING: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

PubMed

Rahimy, Ehsan; McCannel, Colin A

2016-04-01

To assess the literature regarding macular hole reopening rates stratified by whether the internal limiting membrane (ILM) was peeled during vitrectomy surgery. Systematic review and meta-analysis of studies reporting on macular hole reopenings among previously surgically closed idiopathic macular holes. A comprehensive literature search using the National Library of Medicine PubMed interface was used to identify potentially eligible publications in English. The minimum mean follow-up period for reports to be included in this study was 12 months. Analysis was divided into eyes that underwent vitrectomy with and without ILM peeling. The primary outcome parameter was the proportion of macular hole reopenings among previously closed holes between the two groups. Secondary outcome parameters included duration from initial surgery to hole reopening and preoperative and postoperative best-corrected correct visual acuities among the non-ILM peeling and ILM peeling groups. A total of 50 publications reporting on 5,480 eyes met inclusion criteria and were assessed in this meta-analysis. The reopening rate without ILM peeling was 7.12% (125 of 1,756 eyes), compared with 1.18% (44 of 3,724 eyes) with ILM peeling (odds ratio: 0.16; 95% confidence interval: 0.11-0.22; Fisher's exact test: P < 0.0001). There were no other identifiable associations or risk factors for reopening. The results of this meta-analysis support the concept that ILM peeling during macular hole surgery reduces the likelihood of macular hole reopening.

The application of moment methods to the analysis of fluid electrical conductivity logs in boreholes

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

Loew, S.; Tsang, Chin-Fu; Hale, F.V.

1990-08-01

This report is one of a series documenting the results of the Nagra-DOE Cooperative (NDC-I) research program in which the cooperating scientists explore the geological, geophysical, hydrological, geochemical, and structural effects anticipated from the use of a rock mass as a geologic repository for nuclear waste. Previous reports have presented a procedure for analyzing a time sequence of wellbore electric conductivity logs in order to obtain outflow parameters of fractures intercepted by the borehole, and a code, called BORE, used to simulate borehole fluid conductivity profiles given these parameters. The present report describes three new direct (not iterative) methods formore » analyzing a short time series of electric conductivity logs based on moment quantities of the individual outflow peaks and applies them to synthetic as well as to field data. The results of the methods discussed show promising results and are discussed in terms of their respective advantages and limitations. In particular it is shown that one of these methods, the so-called Partial Moment Method,'' is capable of reproducing packer test results from field experiments in the Leuggern deep well within a factor of three, which is below the range of what is recognized as the precision of packer tests themselves. Furthermore the new method is much quicker than the previously used iterative fitting procedure and is even capable of handling transient fracture outflow conditions. 20 refs., 11 figs., 10 tabs.« less

Are LOD and LOQ Reliable Parameters for Sensitivity Evaluation of Spectroscopic Methods?

PubMed

Ershadi, Saba; Shayanfar, Ali

2018-03-22

The limit of detection (LOD) and the limit of quantification (LOQ) are common parameters to assess the sensitivity of analytical methods. In this study, the LOD and LOQ of previously reported terbium sensitized analysis methods were calculated by different methods, and the results were compared with sensitivity parameters [lower limit of quantification (LLOQ)] of U.S. Food and Drug Administration guidelines. The details of the calibration curve and standard deviation of blank samples of three different terbium-sensitized luminescence methods for the quantification of mycophenolic acid, enrofloxacin, and silibinin were used for the calculation of LOD and LOQ. A comparison of LOD and LOQ values calculated by various methods and LLOQ shows a considerable difference. The significant difference of the calculated LOD and LOQ with various methods and LLOQ should be considered in the sensitivity evaluation of spectroscopic methods.

Adaptive control for a class of nonlinear complex dynamical systems with uncertain complex parameters and perturbations

PubMed Central

Liu, Jian; Liu, Kexin; Liu, Shutang

2017-01-01

In this paper, adaptive control is extended from real space to complex space, resulting in a new control scheme for a class of n-dimensional time-dependent strict-feedback complex-variable chaotic (hyperchaotic) systems (CVCSs) in the presence of uncertain complex parameters and perturbations, which has not been previously reported in the literature. In detail, we have developed a unified framework for designing the adaptive complex scalar controller to ensure this type of CVCSs asymptotically stable and for selecting complex update laws to estimate unknown complex parameters. In particular, combining Lyapunov functions dependent on complex-valued vectors and back-stepping technique, sufficient criteria on stabilization of CVCSs are derived in the sense of Wirtinger calculus in complex space. Finally, numerical simulation is presented to validate our theoretical results. PMID:28467431

Adaptive control for a class of nonlinear complex dynamical systems with uncertain complex parameters and perturbations.

PubMed

Liu, Jian; Liu, Kexin; Liu, Shutang

2017-01-01

In this paper, adaptive control is extended from real space to complex space, resulting in a new control scheme for a class of n-dimensional time-dependent strict-feedback complex-variable chaotic (hyperchaotic) systems (CVCSs) in the presence of uncertain complex parameters and perturbations, which has not been previously reported in the literature. In detail, we have developed a unified framework for designing the adaptive complex scalar controller to ensure this type of CVCSs asymptotically stable and for selecting complex update laws to estimate unknown complex parameters. In particular, combining Lyapunov functions dependent on complex-valued vectors and back-stepping technique, sufficient criteria on stabilization of CVCSs are derived in the sense of Wirtinger calculus in complex space. Finally, numerical simulation is presented to validate our theoretical results.

Disentangling the adult attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder endophenotype: parametric measurement of attention.

PubMed

Finke, Kathrin; Schwarzkopf, Wolfgang; Müller, Ulrich; Frodl, Thomas; Müller, Hermann J; Schneider, Werner X; Engel, Rolf R; Riedel, Michael; Möller, Hans-Jürgen; Hennig-Fast, Kristina

2011-11-01

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) persists frequently into adulthood. The decomposition of endophenotypes by means of experimental neuro-cognitive assessment has the potential to improve diagnostic assessment, evaluation of treatment response, and disentanglement of genetic and environmental influences. We assessed four parameters of attentional capacity and selectivity derived from simple psychophysical tasks (verbal report of briefly presented letter displays) and based on a "theory of visual attention." These parameters are mathematically independent, quantitative measures, and previous studies have shown that they are highly sensitive for subtle attention deficits. Potential reductions of attentional capacity, that is, of perceptual processing speed and working memory storage capacity, were assessed with a whole report paradigm. Furthermore, possible pathologies of attentional selectivity, that is, selection of task-relevant information and bias in the spatial distribution of attention, were measured with a partial report paradigm. A group of 30 unmedicated adult ADHD patients and a group of 30 demographically matched healthy controls were tested. ADHD patients showed significant reductions of working memory storage capacity of a moderate to large effect size. Perceptual processing speed, task-based, and spatial selection were unaffected. The results imply a working memory deficit as an important source of behavioral impairments. The theory of visual attention parameter working memory storage capacity might constitute a quantifiable and testable endophenotype of ADHD.

Sensitivity of NTCP parameter values against a change of dose calculation algorithm.

PubMed

Brink, Carsten; Berg, Martin; Nielsen, Morten

2007-09-01

Optimization of radiation treatment planning requires estimations of the normal tissue complication probability (NTCP). A number of models exist that estimate NTCP from a calculated dose distribution. Since different dose calculation algorithms use different approximations the dose distributions predicted for a given treatment will in general depend on the algorithm. The purpose of this work is to test whether the optimal NTCP parameter values change significantly when the dose calculation algorithm is changed. The treatment plans for 17 breast cancer patients have retrospectively been recalculated with a collapsed cone algorithm (CC) to compare the NTCP estimates for radiation pneumonitis with those obtained from the clinically used pencil beam algorithm (PB). For the PB calculations the NTCP parameters were taken from previously published values for three different models. For the CC calculations the parameters were fitted to give the same NTCP as for the PB calculations. This paper demonstrates that significant shifts of the NTCP parameter values are observed for three models, comparable in magnitude to the uncertainties of the published parameter values. Thus, it is important to quote the applied dose calculation algorithm when reporting estimates of NTCP parameters in order to ensure correct use of the models.

Sensitivity of NTCP parameter values against a change of dose calculation algorithm

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

Brink, Carsten; Berg, Martin; Nielsen, Morten

2007-09-15

Optimization of radiation treatment planning requires estimations of the normal tissue complication probability (NTCP). A number of models exist that estimate NTCP from a calculated dose distribution. Since different dose calculation algorithms use different approximations the dose distributions predicted for a given treatment will in general depend on the algorithm. The purpose of this work is to test whether the optimal NTCP parameter values change significantly when the dose calculation algorithm is changed. The treatment plans for 17 breast cancer patients have retrospectively been recalculated with a collapsed cone algorithm (CC) to compare the NTCP estimates for radiation pneumonitis withmore » those obtained from the clinically used pencil beam algorithm (PB). For the PB calculations the NTCP parameters were taken from previously published values for three different models. For the CC calculations the parameters were fitted to give the same NTCP as for the PB calculations. This paper demonstrates that significant shifts of the NTCP parameter values are observed for three models, comparable in magnitude to the uncertainties of the published parameter values. Thus, it is important to quote the applied dose calculation algorithm when reporting estimates of NTCP parameters in order to ensure correct use of the models.« less

A facile single-step synthesis of ternary multicore magneto-plasmonic nanoparticles.

PubMed

Benelmekki, Maria; Bohra, Murtaza; Kim, Jeong-Hwan; Diaz, Rosa E; Vernieres, Jerome; Grammatikopoulos, Panagiotis; Sowwan, Mukhles

2014-04-07

We report a facile single-step synthesis of ternary hybrid nanoparticles (NPs) composed of multiple dumbbell-like iron-silver (FeAg) cores encapsulated by a silicon (Si) shell using a versatile co-sputter gas-condensation technique. In comparison to previously reported binary magneto-plasmonic NPs, the advantage conferred by a Si shell is to bind the multiple magneto-plasmonic (FeAg) cores together and prevent them from aggregation at the same time. Further, we demonstrate that the size of the NPs and number of cores in each NP can be modulated over a wide range by tuning the experimental parameters.

UK audit of analysis of quantitative parameters from renography data generated using a physical phantom.

PubMed

Nijran, Kuldip S; Houston, Alex S; Fleming, John S; Jarritt, Peter H; Heikkinen, Jari O; Skrypniuk, John V

2014-07-01

In this second UK audit of quantitative parameters obtained from renography, phantom simulations were used in cases in which the 'true' values could be estimated, allowing the accuracy of the parameters measured to be assessed. A renal physical phantom was used to generate a set of three phantom simulations (six kidney functions) acquired on three different gamma camera systems. A total of nine phantom simulations and three real patient studies were distributed to UK hospitals participating in the audit. Centres were asked to provide results for the following parameters: relative function and time-to-peak (whole kidney and cortical region). As with previous audits, a questionnaire collated information on methodology. Errors were assessed as the root mean square deviation from the true value. Sixty-one centres responded to the audit, with some hospitals providing multiple sets of results. Twenty-one centres provided a complete set of parameter measurements. Relative function and time-to-peak showed a reasonable degree of accuracy and precision in most UK centres. The overall average root mean squared deviation of the results for (i) the time-to-peak measurement for the whole kidney and (ii) the relative function measurement from the true value was 7.7 and 4.5%, respectively. These results showed a measure of consistency in the relative function and time-to-peak that was similar to the results reported in a previous renogram audit by our group. Analysis of audit data suggests a reasonable degree of accuracy in the quantification of renography function using relative function and time-to-peak measurements. However, it is reasonable to conclude that the objectives of the audit could not be fully realized because of the limitations of the mechanical phantom in providing true values for renal parameters.

Determination of optimal parameters for dual-layer cathode of polymer electrolyte fuel cell using computational intelligence-aided design.

PubMed

Chen, Yi; Huang, Weina; Peng, Bei

2014-01-01

Because of the demands for sustainable and renewable energy, fuel cells have become increasingly popular, particularly the polymer electrolyte fuel cell (PEFC). Among the various components, the cathode plays a key role in the operation of a PEFC. In this study, a quantitative dual-layer cathode model was proposed for determining the optimal parameters that minimize the over-potential difference η and improve the efficiency using a newly developed bat swarm algorithm with a variable population embedded in the computational intelligence-aided design. The simulation results were in agreement with previously reported results, suggesting that the proposed technique has potential applications for automating and optimizing the design of PEFCs.

Orbital Parameters and Spectroscopy of the Transient X-Ray Pulsar 4U 0115+63

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mueller, Sebastian; Obst,Maria; Kreykenbohm, Ingo; Fuerst, Felix; Kuehnel, Matthias; Wilms, Joern; Klochkov, Dmitry; Staubert, Ruediger; Santangelo, Andrea; Pottschmidt, Katja;

Interpretation of ESR results for some semimagnetic semiconductor alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Woolley, J. C.; Chehab, S. F.; Donofrio, T.; Manhas, S.; Manoogian, A.; Lamarche, G.

1987-03-01

Previously reported values of the ESR linewidth variation with temperature for the alloys (i) Cd xZn yMn zSe (ii) Cd xZn yMn zTe and (iii) Cd 1- zMn zTe 1- ySe y have been analyzed in terms of the relation, δ H = Γ exp (- T/ T0) + B{1 - exp(- T/ T0)}(1-θ/ T), where the first term is attributed to spatial inhomogeneity effects and the second to paramagnetic behaviour. Values of the parameters, Γ, T0 and B have been determined as a function of composition in each alloy system. The parameter T0, which measures the potential barrier separating two neighbouring ground states of the disordered spin system, is found to satisfy the relation T0 = (α + β f) z, where f = y/( x + y) for (i) and (ii) and f = y for (iii). β is positive for (i) and (ii) and negative for (iii), consistent with previous suggestions of Kremer and Furdyna, and may be correlated with the exchange constants Jsp-d discussed by Hass et al. The parameter Γ, which measures the width of the distribution of the local field seen by manganese ions in the lattice, is found to satisfy the relation Γ = Dz2(1 - z), where D appears to be characteristic of the crystal structure. The parameter B which measures the linewidth δ H at high temperatures due to paramagnetic effects is found to vary as B = B0 + γ z and the values of the coefficient γ appear to be related to the exchange parameters of the materials.

Mixing effects on apparent reaction rates and isotope fractionation during denitrification in a heterogeneous aquifer

USGS Publications Warehouse

Green, Christopher T.; Böhlke, John Karl; Bekins, Barbara A.; Phillips, Steven P.

2010-01-01

Gradients in contaminant concentrations and isotopic compositions commonly are used to derive reaction parameters for natural attenuation in aquifers. Differences between field‐scale (apparent) estimated reaction rates and isotopic fractionations and local‐scale (intrinsic) effects are poorly understood for complex natural systems. For a heterogeneous alluvial fan aquifer, numerical models and field observations were used to study the effects of physical heterogeneity on reaction parameter estimates. Field measurements included major ions, age tracers, stable isotopes, and dissolved gases. Parameters were estimated for the O2 reduction rate, denitrification rate, O2 threshold for denitrification, and stable N isotope fractionation during denitrification. For multiple geostatistical realizations of the aquifer, inverse modeling was used to establish reactive transport simulations that were consistent with field observations and served as a basis for numerical experiments to compare sample‐based estimates of “apparent” parameters with “true“ (intrinsic) values. For this aquifer, non‐Gaussian dispersion reduced the magnitudes of apparent reaction rates and isotope fractionations to a greater extent than Gaussian mixing alone. Apparent and true rate constants and fractionation parameters can differ by an order of magnitude or more, especially for samples subject to slow transport, long travel times, or rapid reactions. The effect of mixing on apparent N isotope fractionation potentially explains differences between previous laboratory and field estimates. Similarly, predicted effects on apparent O2threshold values for denitrification are consistent with previous reports of higher values in aquifers than in the laboratory. These results show that hydrogeological complexity substantially influences the interpretation and prediction of reactive transport.

Non-destructive evaluation of composite materials using ultrasound

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Miller, J. G.

1984-01-01

Investigation of the nondestructive evaluation of advanced composite-laminates is summarized. Indices derived from the measurement of fundamental acoustic parameters are used in order to quantitatively estimate the local material properties of the laminate. The following sections describe ongoing studies of phase insensitive attenuation measurements, and discuss several phenomena which influences the previously reported technique of polar backscatter. A simple and effective programmable gate circuit designed for use in estimating attenuation from backscatter is described.

Impingement of Water Droplets on a Sphere

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dorsch, Robert G.; Saper, Paul G.; Kadow, Charles F.

1955-01-01

Droplet trajectories about a sphere in ideal fluid flow were calculated. From the calculated droplet trajectories the droplet impingement characteristics of the sphere were determined. Impingement data and equations for determining the collection efficiency, the area, and the distribution of impingement are presented in terms of dimensionless parameters. The range of flight and atmospheric conditions covered in the calculations was extended considerably beyond the range covered by previously reported calculations for the sphere.

Numerical investigation of velocity slip and temperature jump effects on unsteady flow over a stretching permeable surface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hosseini, E.; Loghmani, G. B.; Heydari, M.; Rashidi, M. M.

2017-02-01

In this paper, the boundary layer flow and heat transfer of unsteady flow over a porous accelerating stretching surface in the presence of the velocity slip and temperature jump effects are investigated numerically. A new effective collocation method based on rational Bernstein functions is applied to solve the governing system of nonlinear ordinary differential equations. This method solves the problem on the semi-infinite domain without truncating or transforming it to a finite domain. In addition, the presented method reduces the solution of the problem to the solution of a system of algebraic equations. Graphical and tabular results are presented to investigate the influence of the unsteadiness parameter A , Prandtl number Pr, suction parameter fw, velocity slip parameter γ and thermal slip parameter φ on the velocity and temperature profiles of the fluid. The numerical experiments are reported to show the accuracy and efficiency of the novel proposed computational procedure. Comparisons of present results are made with those obtained by previous works and show excellent agreement.

Spin-dependent post-Newtonian parameters from EMRI computation in Kerr background

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Friedman, John; Le Tiec, Alexandre; Shah, Abhay

2013-04-01

Because the extreme mass-ratio inspiral (EMRI) approximation is accurate to all orders in v/c, it can be used to find high order post-Newtonian parameters that are not yet analytically accessible. We report here on progress in computing spin-dependent, conservative, post-Newtonian parameters from a radiation-gauge computation for a particle in circular orbit in a family of Kerr geometries. For a particle with 4-velocity u^α= U k^α, with k^α the helical Killing vector of the perturbed spacetime, the renormalized perturbation δU, when written as a function of the particle's angular velocity, is invariant under gauge transformations generated by helically symmetric vectors. The EMRI computations are done in a modified radiation gauge. Extracted parameters are compared to previously known and newly computed spin-dependent post-Newtonian terms. This work is modeled on earlier computations by Blanchet, Detweiler, Le Tiec and Whiting of spin-independent terms for a particle in circular orbit in a Schwarzschild geometry.

Improved Peptide and Protein Torsional Energetics with the OPLSAA Force Field.

PubMed

Robertson, Michael J; Tirado-Rives, Julian; Jorgensen, William L

2015-07-14

The development and validation of new peptide dihedral parameters are reported for the OPLS-AA force field. High accuracy quantum chemical methods were used to scan φ, ψ, χ1, and χ2 potential energy surfaces for blocked dipeptides. New Fourier coefficients for the dihedral angle terms of the OPLS-AA force field were fit to these surfaces, utilizing a Boltzmann-weighted error function and systematically examining the effects of weighting temperature. To prevent overfitting to the available data, a minimal number of new residue-specific and peptide-specific torsion terms were developed. Extensive experimental solution-phase and quantum chemical gas-phase benchmarks were used to assess the quality of the new parameters, named OPLS-AA/M, demonstrating significant improvement over previous OPLS-AA force fields. A Boltzmann weighting temperature of 2000 K was determined to be optimal for fitting the new Fourier coefficients for dihedral angle parameters. Conclusions are drawn from the results for best practices for developing new torsion parameters for protein force fields.

Novel design of interactive multimodal biofeedback system for neurorehabilitation.

PubMed

Huang, He; Chen, Y; Xu, W; Sundaram, H; Olson, L; Ingalls, T; Rikakis, T; He, Jiping

2006-01-01

A previous design of a biofeedback system for Neurorehabilitation in an interactive multimodal environment has demonstrated the potential of engaging stroke patients in task-oriented neuromotor rehabilitation. This report explores the new concept and alternative designs of multimedia based biofeedback systems. In this system, the new interactive multimodal environment was constructed with abstract presentation of movement parameters. Scenery images or pictures and their clarity and orientation are used to reflect the arm movement and relative position to the target instead of the animated arm. The multiple biofeedback parameters were classified into different hierarchical levels w.r.t. importance of each movement parameter to performance. A new quantified measurement for these parameters were developed to assess the patient's performance both real-time and offline. These parameters were represented by combined visual and auditory presentations with various distinct music instruments. Overall, the objective of newly designed system is to explore what information and how to feedback information in interactive virtual environment could enhance the sensorimotor integration that may facilitate the efficient design and application of virtual environment based therapeutic intervention.

Normal hematology and serum chemistry of northern fur seals (Callorhinus ursinus) in captivity.

PubMed

Kohyama, Kaoru; Inoshima, Yasuo

2017-09-01

Northern fur seals (Callorhinus ursinus) are endemic to the North Pacific Ocean. They were hunted for their fur and became endangered in the late 1800s, but their populations recovered following the introduction of protection laws. Recently, populations have been decreasing again, although the reasons are unclear. For individuals that are bred and reared in captivity as part of ex situ conservation projects, details of blood characteristics are essential to ensure good health. However, the normal ranges of hematology and serum chemistry of captive northern fur seals have not been defined. This study determined the normal ranges of hematology and serum chemistry of captive fur seals. Blood samples were collected every month for 2 years from four captive northern fur seals in Japan (three born in an aquarium and one kept in the same aquarium following rescue). Fifteen blood characteristics and 29 serum chemistry properties were compared with those previously reported for wild northern fur seals in the USA. Several parameters were not within the normal ranges reported previously in wild northern fur seals. In particular, levels of alkaline phosphatase was outside of the normal ranges previously reported. The hematological and serum chemistry ranges in this study can help provide a guideline for understanding the health of northern fur seals in captivity. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Does weather affect daily pain intensity levels in patients with acute low back pain? A prospective cohort study.

PubMed

Duong, Vicky; Maher, Chris G; Steffens, Daniel; Li, Qiang; Hancock, Mark J

2016-05-01

The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of various weather parameters on pain intensity levels in patients with acute low back pain (LBP). We performed a secondary analysis using data from the PACE trial that evaluated paracetamol (acetaminophen) in the treatment of acute LBP. Data on 1604 patients with LBP were included in the analysis. Weather parameters (precipitation, temperature, relative humidity, and air pressure) were obtained from the Australian Bureau of Meteorology. Pain intensity was assessed daily on a 0-10 numerical pain rating scale over a 2-week period. A generalised estimating equation analysis was used to examine the relationship between daily pain intensity levels and weather in three different time epochs (current day, previous day, and change between previous and current days). A second model was adjusted for important back pain prognostic factors. The analysis did not show any association between weather and pain intensity levels in patients with acute LBP in each of the time epochs. There was no change in strength of association after the model was adjusted for prognostic factors. Contrary to common belief, the results demonstrated that the weather parameters of precipitation, temperature, relative humidity, and air pressure did not influence the intensity of pain reported by patients during an episode of acute LBP.

Theoretical results for fully flooded, elliptical hydrodynamic contacts

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hamrock, B. J.; Dowson, D.

1982-01-01

The influence of the ellipticity parameter and the dimensionless speed, load, and materials parameters on minimum film thickness was investigated. The ellipticity parameter was varied from 1 (a ball-on-plate configuration) to 8 (a configuration approaching a line contact). The dimensionless speed parameter was varied over a range of nearly two orders of magnitude. Conditions corresponding to the use of solid materials of bronze, steel, and silicon nitride and lubricants of praffinic and naphthemic mineral oils were considered in obtaining the exponent in the dimensionless materials parameter. Thirty-four different cases were used in obtaining the minimum film thickness formula H min = 3.63U to the 0.68 power G to the 0.49 power W to the -0.073 power 1-e to the 0.68K power). A simplified expression for the ellipticity parameter was found where k = 1.03 (r(y)/r(x)) to the 0.64 power. Contour plots were also shown which indicate in detail the pressure spike and two side lobes in which the minimum film thickness occurs. These theoretical solutions of film thickness have all the essential features of the previously reported experimental observations based upon optical interferometry.

Changes in Chinese hair growth along a full year.

PubMed

Liu, C; Yang, J; Qu, L; Gu, M; Liu, Y; Gao, J; Collaudin, C; Loussouarn, G

2014-12-01

To confirm the existence of seasonal hair growth cycle among Chinese subjects and objectivize the seasonal effect of hair loss; the hair growth parameters of Chinese volunteers were followed monthly for an entire year on the same area of vertex. The hair growth parameters of 41 Chinese volunteers (women and men), free from alopecia, were recorded monthly along an entire year using the phototrichogram technique. Results show an increased rate of telogen hairs (growing arrest) around August-September in the study group, as previously reported in European subjects albeit of a lower extent and remaining within the normal range of healthy head hair parameters. The possible effects of latitude and daylight duration are discussed. Data confirm that Chinese hairs present characteristics of the most developed and fast growing terminal fibres, as compared to other non-Asian ethnics. © 2014 Society of Cosmetic Scientists and the Société Française de Cosmétologie.

Preparation and X-Ray diffraction studies of curium hydrides

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

Gibson, J.K.; Maire, R.G.

Curium hydrides were prepared by reaction of curium-248 metal with hydrogen and characterized by X-ray powder diffraction. Several of the syntheses resulted in a hexagonal compound with average lattice parameters of a/sub 0/ = 0.3769(8) nm and c/sub 0/ = 0.6732(12) nm. These products are considere to be CmH/sub 3//sup -//sub 8/ by analogy with the behavior of lanthanide-hydrogen and lighter actinide-hydrogen systems. Face-centered cubic products with an average lattice parameter of a/sub 0/ = 0.5322(4) nm were obtained from other curium hydride preparations. This parameter is slightly smaller than that reported previously for cubic curium dihydride, CmH /SUB 2-x/more » (B.M. Bansal and D. Damien. Inorg. Nucl. Chem. Lett. 6 603, 1970). The present results established a continuation of typical heavy trivalent lanthanidelike behavior of the transuranium actinide-hydrogen systems through curium.« less

Preparation and X-ray diffraction studies of curium hydrides

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gibson, J. K.; Haire, R. G.

1985-10-01

Curium hydrides were prepared by reaction of curium-248 metal with hydrogen and characterized by X-ray powder diffraction. Several of the syntheses resulted in a hexagonal compound with average lattice parameters of a0 = 0.3769(8) nm and c0 = 0.6732(12) nm. These products are considered to be CmH 3-δ by analogy with the behavior of lanthanide-hydrogen and lighter actinide-hydrogen systems. Face-centered cubic products with an average lattice parameter of a0 = 0.5322(4) nm were obtained from other curium hydride preparations. This parameter is slightly smaller than that reported previously for cubic curium dihydride, CmH 2+ x (B. M. Bansal and D. Damien, Inorg. Nucl. Chem. Lett., 6, 603, 1970). The present results established a continuation of typical heavy trivalent lanthanide-like behavior of the transuranium actinide-hydrogen systems through curium.

TRANSIT TIMING VARIATION MEASUREMENTS OF WASP-12b AND QATAR-1b: NO EVIDENCE OF ADDITIONAL PLANETS

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

Collins, Karen A.; Stassun, Keivan G.; Kielkopf, John F.

WASP-12b and Qatar-1b are transiting hot Jupiters for which previous works have suggested the presence of transit timing variations (TTVs) indicative of additional bodies in these systems—an Earth-mass planet in WASP-12 and a brown-dwarf mass object in Qatar-1. Here, we present 23 new WASP-12b and 18 new Qatar-1b complete (or nearly complete) transit observations. We perform global system fits to all of our light curves for each system, as well as RV and stellar spectroscopic parameters from the literature. The global fits provide refined system parameters and uncertainties for each system, including precise transit center times for each transit. Themore » transit model residuals of the combined and five minute binned light curves have an rms of 183 and 255 parts per million (ppm) for WASP-12b and Qatar-1b, respectively. Most of the WASP-12b system parameter values from this work are consistent with values from previous studies, but have ∼40%–50% smaller uncertainties. Most of the Qatar-1b system parameter values and uncertainties from this work are consistent with values recently reported in the literature. We find no convincing evidence for sinusoidal TTVs with a semi-amplitude of more than ∼35 and ∼25 s in the WASP-12b and Qatar-1b systems, respectively.« less

Re-analysis of previous laboratory phase curves: 1. Variations of the opposition effect morphology with the textural properties, and an application to planetary surfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Déau, Estelle; Flandes, Alberto; Spilker, Linda J.; Petazzoni, Jérôme

2013-11-01

Typical variations in the opposition effect morphology of laboratory samples at optical wavelengths are investigated to probe the role of the textural properties of the surface (roughness, porosity and grain size). A previously published dataset of 34 laboratory phase curves is re-analyzed and fit with several morphological models. The retrieved morphological parameters that characterize the opposition surge, amplitude, width and slope (A, HWHM and S respectively) are correlated to the single scattering albedo, the roughness, the porosity and the grain size of the samples. To test the universality of the laboratory samples’ trends, we use previously published phase curves of planetary surfaces, including the Moon, satellites and rings of the giant planets. The morphological parameters of the surge (A and HWHM) for planetary surfaces are found to have a non-monotonic variation with the single scattering albedo, similar to that observed in asteroids (Belskaya, I.N., Shevchenko, V.G. [2000]. Icarus 147, 94-105), which is unexplained so far. The morphological parameters of the surge (A and HWHM) for laboratory samples seem to exhibit the same non-monotonic variation with single scattering albedo. While the non-monotonic variation with albedo was already observed by Nelson et al. (Nelson, R.M., Hapke, B.W., Smythe, W.D., Hale, A.S., Piatek, J.L. [2004]. Planetary regolith microstructure: An unexpected opposition effect result. In: Mackwell, S., Stansbery, E. (Eds.), Proc. Lunar Sci. Conf. 35, p. 1089), we report here the same variation for the angular width.

Neutron diffraction measurements and micromechanical modelling of temperature-dependent variations in TATB lattice parameters

DOE PAGES

Yeager, John D.; Luscher, Darby J.; Vogel, Sven C.; ...

2016-02-02

Triaminotrinitrobenzene (TATB) is a highly anisotropic molecular crystal used in several plastic-bonded explosive (PBX) formulations. TATB-based explosives exhibit irreversible volume expansion (“ratchet growth”) when thermally cycled. A theoretical understanding of the relationship between anisotropy of the crystal, crystal orientation distribution (texture) of polycrystalline aggregates, and the intergranular interactions leading to this irreversible growth is necessary to accurately develop physics-based predictive models for TATB-based PBXs under various thermal environments. In this work, TATB lattice parameters were measured using neutron diffraction during thermal cycling of loose powder and a pressed pellet. The measured lattice parameters help clarify conflicting reports in the literaturemore » as these new results are more consistent with one set of previous results than another. The lattice parameters of pressed TATB were also measured as a function of temperature, showing some differences from the powder. This data is used along with anisotropic single-crystal stiffness moduli reported in the literature to model the nominal stresses associated with intergranular constraints during thermal expansion. The texture of both specimens were characterized and the pressed pellet exhibits preferential orientation of (001) poles along the pressing direction, whereas no preferred orientation was found for the loose powder. Lastly, thermal strains for single-crystal TATB computed from lattice parameter data for the powder is input to a self-consistent micromechanical model, which predicts the lattice parameters of the constrained TATB crystals within the pellet. The agreement of these model results with the diffraction data obtained from the pellet is discussed along with future directions of research.« less

The Prandtl Plus Scaling Parameters and Velocity Profile Similarity: Part 2

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-12-01

a collection of information if it does not display a currently valid OMB control number. PLEASE DO NOT RETURN YOUR FORM TO THE ABOVE ADDRESS. 1...ABSTRACT In a previous report (Weyburne, AFRL-RY-WP-TR-2012-0227) it was pointed out that the momentum balance type approach to velocity profile...were NOT similar. It was concluded that the scaling variables discovered by the momentum balance type approach as presently constituted are a

B-1 Systems Approach to Training. Simulation Technology Assessment Report (STAR)

DTIC Science & Technology

1975-07-01

Psychology in the Air Force, 1974. Creelman , J.A., Evaluation of Approach Training Procedures, U.S. Naval School of Aviation Med., Proj. No. NM001-109-107...training. 3.2 PHYSICAL VERSUS PSYCHOLOGICAL SIMULATION In the previous section, the term "physical simulation" was used to represent the case where... psychology that there is no "step function" threshold. Rather, detection capability plotted against phys- ical parameter strength results in an ogival

NMR studies of multiphase flows II

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

Altobelli, S.A.; Caprihan, A.; Fukushima, E.

NMR techniques for measurements of spatial distribution of material phase, velocity and velocity fluctuation are being developed and refined. Versions of these techniques which provide time average liquid fraction and fluid phase velocity have been applied to several concentrated suspension systems which will not be discussed extensively here. Technical developments required to further extend the use of NMR to the multi-phase flow arena and to provide measurements of previously unobtainable parameters are the focus of this report.

Task inhibition, conflict, and the n-2 repetition cost: A combined computational and empirical approach.

PubMed

Sexton, Nicholas J; Cooper, Richard P

2017-05-01

Task inhibition (also known as backward inhibition) is an hypothesised form of cognitive inhibition evident in multi-task situations, with the role of facilitating switching between multiple, competing tasks. This article presents a novel cognitive computational model of a backward inhibition mechanism. By combining aspects of previous cognitive models in task switching and conflict monitoring, the model instantiates the theoretical proposal that backward inhibition is the direct result of conflict between multiple task representations. In a first simulation, we demonstrate that the model produces two effects widely observed in the empirical literature, specifically, reaction time costs for both (n-1) task switches and n-2 task repeats. Through a systematic search of parameter space, we demonstrate that these effects are a general property of the model's theoretical content, and not specific parameter settings. We further demonstrate that the model captures previously reported empirical effects of inter-trial interval on n-2 switch costs. A final simulation extends the paradigm of switching between tasks of asymmetric difficulty to three tasks, and generates novel predictions for n-2 repetition costs. Specifically, the model predicts that n-2 repetition costs associated with hard-easy-hard alternations are greater than for easy-hard-easy alternations. Finally, we report two behavioural experiments testing this hypothesis, with results consistent with the model predictions. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

AC electrified jets in a flow-focusing device: Jet length scaling

PubMed Central

García-Sánchez, Pablo; Alzaga-Gimeno, Javier; Baret, Jean-Christophe

2016-01-01

We use a microfluidic flow-focusing device with integrated electrodes for controlling the production of water-in-oil drops. In a previous work, we reported that very long jets can be formed upon application of AC fields. We now study in detail the appearance of the long jets as a function of the electrical parameters, i.e., water conductivity, signal frequency, and voltage amplitude. For intermediate frequencies, we find a threshold voltage above which the jet length rapidly increases. Interestingly, this abrupt transition vanishes for high frequencies of the signal and the jet length grows smoothly with voltage. For frequencies below a threshold value, we previously reported a transition from a well-behaved uniform jet to highly unstable liquid structures in which axisymmetry is lost rather abruptly. These liquid filaments eventually break into droplets of different sizes. In this work, we characterize this transition with a diagram as a function of voltage and liquid conductivity. The electrical response of the long jets was studied via a distributed element circuit model. The model allows us to estimate the electric potential at the tip of the jet revealing that, for any combination of the electrical parameters, the breakup of the jet occurs at a critical value of this potential. We show that this voltage is around 550 V for our device geometry and choice of flow rates. PMID:27375826

AC electrified jets in a flow-focusing device: Jet length scaling.

PubMed

Castro-Hernández, Elena; García-Sánchez, Pablo; Alzaga-Gimeno, Javier; Tan, Say Hwa; Baret, Jean-Christophe; Ramos, Antonio

2016-07-01

We use a microfluidic flow-focusing device with integrated electrodes for controlling the production of water-in-oil drops. In a previous work, we reported that very long jets can be formed upon application of AC fields. We now study in detail the appearance of the long jets as a function of the electrical parameters, i.e., water conductivity, signal frequency, and voltage amplitude. For intermediate frequencies, we find a threshold voltage above which the jet length rapidly increases. Interestingly, this abrupt transition vanishes for high frequencies of the signal and the jet length grows smoothly with voltage. For frequencies below a threshold value, we previously reported a transition from a well-behaved uniform jet to highly unstable liquid structures in which axisymmetry is lost rather abruptly. These liquid filaments eventually break into droplets of different sizes. In this work, we characterize this transition with a diagram as a function of voltage and liquid conductivity. The electrical response of the long jets was studied via a distributed element circuit model. The model allows us to estimate the electric potential at the tip of the jet revealing that, for any combination of the electrical parameters, the breakup of the jet occurs at a critical value of this potential. We show that this voltage is around 550 V for our device geometry and choice of flow rates.

Quarterly report of RCRA groundwater monitoring data for period January 1, 1993 through March 31, 1993

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

Not Available

1993-07-01

Hanford Site interim-status groundwater monitoring projects are conducted as either background, indicator parameter evaluation, or groundwater quality assessment monitoring programs as defined in the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976 (RCRA); and Interim Status Standards for Owners and Operators of Hazardous Waste Treatment, Storage, and Disposal Facilities, as amended (40 Code of Federal Regulations [CFR] 265). Compliance with the 40 CFR 265 regulations is required by the Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 173-303. This report contains data from Hanford Site groundwater monitoring projects. This quarterly report contains data received between March 8 and May 24, 1993, which are the cutoffmore » dates for this reporting period. This report may contain not only data from the January through March quarter but also data from earlier sampling events that were not previously reported.« less

RR Lyrae stars and the horizontal branch of NGC 5904 (M5)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arellano Ferro, A.; Luna, A.; Bramich, D. M.; Giridhar, Sunetra; Ahumada, J. A.; Muneer, S.

2016-05-01

We report the distance and [Fe/H] value for the globular cluster NGC 5904 (M5) derived from the Fourier decomposition of the light curves of selected RRab and RRc stars. The aim in doing this was to bring these parameters into the homogeneous scales established by our previous work on numerous other globular clusters, allowing a direct comparison of the horizontal branch luminosity in clusters with a wide range of metallicities. Our CCD photometry of the large variable star population of this cluster is used to discuss light curve peculiarities, like Blazhko modulations, on an individual basis. New Blazhko variables are reported.

Measurements of E-mode polarization and temperature-E-mode correlation in the cosmic microwave background from 100 square degrees of SPTPOL data

DOE PAGES

Crites, A. T.; Henning, J. W.; Ade, P. A. R.; ...

2015-05-18

Here, we present measurements ofmore » $E$-mode polarization and temperature-$E$$-mode correlation in the cosmic microwave background (CMB) using data from the first season of observations with SPTpol, the polarization-sensitive receiver currently installed on the South Pole Telescope (SPT). The observations used in this work cover 100~\\sqdeg\\ of sky with arcminute resolution at $$150\\,$GHz. We also report the $E$-mode angular auto-power spectrum ($EE$) and the temperature-$E$-mode angular cross-power spectrum ($TE$) over the multipole range $$500 < \\ell \\leq5000$$. These power spectra improve on previous measurements in the high-$$\\ell$$ (small-scale) regime. We fit the combination of the SPTpol power spectra, data from \\planck\\, and previous SPT measurements with a six-parameter \\LCDM cosmological model. Furthermore, we find that the best-fit parameters are consistent with previous results. The improvement in high-$$\\ell$$ sensitivity over previous measurements leads to a significant improvement in the limit on polarized point-source power: after masking sources brighter than 50\\,mJy in unpolarized flux at 150\\,GHz, we find a 95\\% confidence upper limit on unclustered point-source power in the $EE$ spectrum of $$D_\\ell = \\ell (\\ell+1) C_\\ell / 2 \\pi < 0.40 \\ \\mu{\\mbox{K}}^2$$ at $$\\ell=3000$$, indicating that future $EE$ measurements will not be limited by power from unclustered point sources in the multipole range $$\\ell < 3600$$, and possibly much higher in $$\\ell.$$« less

Calculation of the wetting parameter from a cluster model in the framework of nanothermodynamics.

PubMed

García-Morales, V; Cervera, J; Pellicer, J

2003-06-01

The critical wetting parameter omega(c) determines the strength of interfacial fluctuations in critical wetting transitions. In this Brief Report, we calculate omega(c) from considerations on critical liquid clusters inside a vapor phase. The starting point is a cluster model developed by Hill and Chamberlin in the framework of nanothermodynamics [Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 95, 12779 (1998)]. Our calculations yield results for omega(c) between 0.52 and 1.00, depending on the degrees of freedom considered. The findings are in agreement with previous experimental results and give an idea of the universal dynamical behavior of the clusters when approaching criticality. We suggest that this behavior is a combination of translation and vortex rotational motion (omega(c)=0.84).

Temperature Dependence of Thermodynamic Properties of Thallium Chloride and Thallium Bromide

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kavanoz, H. B.

2015-02-01

Thermodynamic properties as lattice parameters, thermal expansion, heat capacities Cp and Cv, bulk modulus, and Gruneisen parameter of ionic halides TlCl and TlBr in solid and liquid phases were studied using classical molecular dynamics simulation (MD) with interionic Vashistha-Rahman (VR) model potential. In addition to the static and transport properties which have been previously reported by the author [13], this study further confirms that temperature dependence of the calculated thermophysical properties of TlCl and TlBr are in agreement with the available experimental data at both solid and liquid phases in terms of providing an alternative rigid ion potential. The results give a fairly good description of TlCl and TlBr in the temperature range 10-1000 K.

Determination of Optimal Parameters for Dual-Layer Cathode of Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell Using Computational Intelligence-Aided Design

PubMed Central

Chen, Yi; Huang, Weina; Peng, Bei

2014-01-01

Because of the demands for sustainable and renewable energy, fuel cells have become increasingly popular, particularly the polymer electrolyte fuel cell (PEFC). Among the various components, the cathode plays a key role in the operation of a PEFC. In this study, a quantitative dual-layer cathode model was proposed for determining the optimal parameters that minimize the over-potential difference and improve the efficiency using a newly developed bat swarm algorithm with a variable population embedded in the computational intelligence-aided design. The simulation results were in agreement with previously reported results, suggesting that the proposed technique has potential applications for automating and optimizing the design of PEFCs. PMID:25490761

An articulated predictive model for fluid-free artificial basilar membrane as broadband frequency sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ahmed, Riaz; Banerjee, Sourav

2018-02-01

In this article, an extremely versatile predictive model for a newly developed Basilar meta-Membrane (BM2) sensors is reported with variable engineering parameters that contribute to it's frequency selection capabilities. The predictive model reported herein is for advancement over existing method by incorporating versatile and nonhomogeneous (e.g. functionally graded) model parameters that could not only exploit the possibilities of creating complex combinations of broadband frequency sensors but also explain the unique unexplained physical phenomenon that prevails in BM2, e.g. tailgating waves. In recent years, few notable attempts were made to fabricate the artificial basilar membrane, mimicking the mechanics of the human cochlea within a very short range of frequencies. To explain the operation of these sensors a few models were proposed. But, we fundamentally argue the "fabrication to explanation" approach and proposed the model driven predictive design process for the design any (BM2) as broadband sensors. Inspired by the physics of basilar membrane, frequency domain predictive model is proposed where both the material and geometrical parameters can be arbitrarily varied. Broadband frequency is applicable in many fields of science, engineering and technology, such as, sensors for chemical, biological and acoustic applications. With the proposed model, which is three times faster than its FEM counterpart, it is possible to alter the attributes of the selected length of the designed sensor using complex combinations of model parameters, based on target frequency applications. Finally, the tailgating wave peaks in the artificial basilar membranes that prevails in the previously reported experimental studies are also explained using the proposed model.

Effects of detraining on anthropometry, aerobic capacity and functional ability in adults with Down syndrome.

PubMed

Boer, P H

2018-01-01

Structured exercise has shown to improve parameters of functional fitness in adults with Down syndrome (DS). However, few, if any, continue to exercise after exercise intervention studies. Consequently, the purpose of this study was to determine the effects of detraining on anthropometry, aerobic capacity and functional ability of adults with DS. In a previous study, forty-two participants either performed 12 weeks of interval training, continuous aerobic training or no training (CON). After 3 months of detraining, the same participants were tested again for anthropometry, aerobic capacity, leg strength and functional ability. Significant reductions in maximal aerobic capacity, time to exhaustion and both functional test items were reported for both exercise groups compared to CON (p < .05). No significant differences were reported between the exercise groups concerning aerobic and functional capacity reductions. Detraining occurred significantly in both exercise groups regarding parameters associated with aerobic and functional capacity. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Development of a simple chromatographic method for the determination of piracetam in human plasma and its pharmacokinetic evaluation.

PubMed

Barkat, K; Ahmad, M; Minhas, M U; Malik, M Z; Sohail, M

2014-07-01

The objective of study was to develop an accurate and reproducible HPLC method for determination of piracetam in human plasma and to evaluate pharmacokinetic parameters of 800 mg piracetam. A simple, rapid, accurate, precise and sensitive high pressure liquid chromatography method has been developed and subsequently validated for determination of piracetam. This study represents the results of a randomized, single-dose and single-period in 18 healthy male volunteers to assess pharmacokinetic parameters of 800 mg piracetam tablets. Various pharmacokinetic parameters were determined from plasma for piracetam and found to be in good agreement with previous reported values. The data was analyzed by using Kinetica® version 4.4 according to non-compartment model of pharmacokinetic analysis and after comparison with previous studies, no significant differences were found in present study of tested product. The major pharmacokinetic parameters for piracetam were as follows: t1/2 was (4.40 ± 0.179) h; Tmax value was (2.33 ± 0.105) h; Cmax was (14.53 ± 0.282) µg/mL; the AUC(0-∞) was (59.19 ± 4.402) µg · h/mL. AUMC(0-∞) was (367.23 ± 38.96) µg. (h)(2)/mL; Ke was (0.16 ± 0.006) h; MRT was (5.80 ± 0.227) h; Vd was (96.36 ± 8.917 L). A rapid, accurate and precise high pressure liquid chromatography method was developed and validated before the study. It is concluded that this method is very useful for the analysis of pharmacokinetic parameters, in human plasma and assured the safety and efficacy of piracetam, can be effectively used in medical practice. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

Fixation parameter test-retest repeatability of the worse eye in central field loss.

PubMed

Samet, Saba; Tarita-Nistor, Luminita; González, Esther G; Mandelcorn, Mark S; Mandelcorn, Efrem D; Steinbach, Martin J

2018-06-01

Patients with bilateral central field loss develop peripheral retinal loci (PRLs) in the functional eccentric retina. PRL characteristics and visual performance in the better-seeing eye (BE) of these patients have previously been reported. In this study, we determined the test-retest repeatability of fixation parameters, including fixation stability, PRL eccentricity, and PRL span in the worse-seeing eye (WE). Retrospective consecutive case series. Thirty-six patients with bilateral central field loss referred from the Toronto Western Hospital Retina Clinic, who had completed 2 consecutive fixation examinations on the same day. Fixation stability was recorded using the Nidek MP-1 microperimeter (Nidek Technologies Srl., Padova, Italy). For each fixation recording, the following parameters were retrieved: (i) 68.2% bivariate contour ellipse area (BCEA), (ii) PRL span (major and minor axes of the BCEA), (iii) PRL meridian (polar angle), and (iv) PRL eccentricity. Test-retest repeatability for each parameter was assessed using Bland-Altman plots to determine 95% limits of agreement. The mean difference between the fixation trial pairs and the 95% limits of agreement for fixation stability, PRL major axis, PRL minor axis, PRL meridian, and PRL eccentricity were 0.06 ± 0.47 log deg 2 , 0.05° ± 1.42°, 0.07° ± 0.63°, -0.44° ± 66.0°, and -0.23° ±1.56°, respectively. The fixation parameters in the WE showed robust repeatability, comparable to that of the BE as determined from previous studies. The WE's fixation repeatability should be considered in the interpretation of fixation outcome measures subsequent to treatment interventions. Crown Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Prediction and assimilation of surf-zone processes using a Bayesian network: Part II: Inverse models

USGS Publications Warehouse

Plant, Nathaniel G.; Holland, K. Todd

2011-01-01

A Bayesian network model has been developed to simulate a relatively simple problem of wave propagation in the surf zone (detailed in Part I). Here, we demonstrate that this Bayesian model can provide both inverse modeling and data-assimilation solutions for predicting offshore wave heights and depth estimates given limited wave-height and depth information from an onshore location. The inverse method is extended to allow data assimilation using observational inputs that are not compatible with deterministic solutions of the problem. These inputs include sand bar positions (instead of bathymetry) and estimates of the intensity of wave breaking (instead of wave-height observations). Our results indicate that wave breaking information is essential to reduce prediction errors. In many practical situations, this information could be provided from a shore-based observer or from remote-sensing systems. We show that various combinations of the assimilated inputs significantly reduce the uncertainty in the estimates of water depths and wave heights in the model domain. Application of the Bayesian network model to new field data demonstrated significant predictive skill (R2 = 0.7) for the inverse estimate of a month-long time series of offshore wave heights. The Bayesian inverse results include uncertainty estimates that were shown to be most accurate when given uncertainty in the inputs (e.g., depth and tuning parameters). Furthermore, the inverse modeling was extended to directly estimate tuning parameters associated with the underlying wave-process model. The inverse estimates of the model parameters not only showed an offshore wave height dependence consistent with results of previous studies but the uncertainty estimates of the tuning parameters also explain previously reported variations in the model parameters.

Model-independent limits and constraints on extended theories of gravity from cosmic reconstruction techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

de la Cruz-Dombriz, Álvaro; Dunsby, Peter K. S.; Luongo, Orlando; Reverberi, Lorenzo

2016-12-01

The onset of dark energy domination depends on the particular gravitational theory driving the cosmic evolution. Model independent techniques are crucial to test the both the present ΛCDM cosmological paradigm and alternative theories, making the least possible number of assumptions about the Universe. In this paper we investigate whether cosmography is able to distinguish between different gravitational theories, by determining bounds on model parameters for three different extensions of General Relativity, namely quintessence, F(𝒯) and f(R) gravitational theories. We expand each class of theories in powers of redshift z around the present time, making no additional assumptions. This procedure is an extension of previous work and can be seen as the most general approach for testing extended theories of gravity through the use of cosmography. In the case of F(𝒯) and f(R) theories, we show that some assumptions on model parameters often made in previous works are superfluous or even unjustified. We use data from the Union 2.1 supernovae catalogue, baryonic acoustic oscillation data and H(z) differential age compilations, which probe cosmology on different scales of the cosmological evolution. We perform a Monte Carlo analysis using a Metropolis-Hastings algorithm with a Gelman-Rubin convergence criterion, reporting 1-σ and 2-σ confidence levels. To do so, we perform two distinct fits, assuming only data within z < 1 first and then without limitations in redshift. We obtain the corresponding numerical intervals in which coefficients span, and find that the data is compatible the ΛCDM limit of all three theories at the 1-σ level, while still compatible with quite a large portion of parameter space. We compare our results to the truncated ΛCDM paradigm, demonstrating that our bounds divert from the expectations of previous works, showing that the permitted regions of coefficients are significantly modified and in general widened with respect to values usually reported in the existing literature. Finally, we test the extended theories through the Bayesian selection criteria AIC and BIC.

Model-independent limits and constraints on extended theories of gravity from cosmic reconstruction techniques

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

Cruz-Dombriz, Álvaro de la; Dunsby, Peter K.S.; Luongo, Orlando

The onset of dark energy domination depends on the particular gravitational theory driving the cosmic evolution. Model independent techniques are crucial to test the both the present ΛCDM cosmological paradigm and alternative theories, making the least possible number of assumptions about the Universe. In this paper we investigate whether cosmography is able to distinguish between different gravitational theories, by determining bounds on model parameters for three different extensions of General Relativity, namely quintessence, F (Τ) and f ( R ) gravitational theories. We expand each class of theories in powers of redshift z around the present time, making no additionalmore » assumptions. This procedure is an extension of previous work and can be seen as the most general approach for testing extended theories of gravity through the use of cosmography. In the case of F (Τ) and f ( R ) theories, we show that some assumptions on model parameters often made in previous works are superfluous or even unjustified. We use data from the Union 2.1 supernovae catalogue, baryonic acoustic oscillation data and H ( z ) differential age compilations, which probe cosmology on different scales of the cosmological evolution. We perform a Monte Carlo analysis using a Metropolis-Hastings algorithm with a Gelman-Rubin convergence criterion, reporting 1-σ and 2-σ confidence levels. To do so, we perform two distinct fits, assuming only data within z < 1 first and then without limitations in redshift. We obtain the corresponding numerical intervals in which coefficients span, and find that the data is compatible the ΛCDM limit of all three theories at the 1-σ level, while still compatible with quite a large portion of parameter space. We compare our results to the truncated ΛCDM paradigm, demonstrating that our bounds divert from the expectations of previous works, showing that the permitted regions of coefficients are significantly modified and in general widened with respect to values usually reported in the existing literature. Finally, we test the extended theories through the Bayesian selection criteria AIC and BIC.« less

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

Soerensen, M.P.; Davidson, A.; Pedersen, N.F.

We use the method of cell-to-cell mapping to locate attractors, basins, and saddle nodes in the phase plane of a driven Josephson junction. The cell-mapping method is discussed in some detail, emphasizing its ability to provide a global view of the phase plane. Our computations confirm the existence of a previously reported interior crisis. In addition, we observe a boundary crisis for a small shift in one parameter. The cell-mapping method allows us to show both crises explicitly in the phase plane, at low computational cost.

Case-control study of relationship of some biosocial correlates to rectal cancer patients in Belgrade, Yugoslavia.

PubMed

Jarebinski, M; Adanja, B; Vlajinac, H

1989-01-01

This investigation of some biosocial factors such as level of education, profession, tobacco smoking, alcohol and coffee consumption, and previous illnesses, reports on 98 patients with histologically confirmed rectal cancer, and 196 hospitalized and neighborhood-matched controls. Past history of hemorrhoids, polyposis, colitis, diverticulosis and appendectomy, as well as the use of laxatives were significantly more frequent among rectal cancer patients than in their controls. None of the case-control differences related to the other parameters reached statistical significance.

Rotor-Bearing Dynamics Technology Design Guide. Part 8. A computerized Data Retrieval System for Fluid Film Bearings

DTIC Science & Technology

1980-10-01

AFAPL-TR-78-6 ’: Part Vill (U ROTOR -BEARING DYNAMICS - TECHNOLOGY DESIGN GUIDE ¢ Part Vil A Comput eri eval Syteftor Fluid Film Bearings SHAKER...Protection," Task 304806, "Aerospace Lubrication," Work Unit 30480685, " Rotor -Bearing Dynamics Design." The work reported herein was performed during the...the previous issue of the Rotor -Bearing Dynamics Technology Design Guide, - one volume dealt with the calculation of performance parameters and pertur

The Effects of Channel Curvature and Protrusion Height on Nucleate Boiling and the Critical Heat Flux of a Simulated Electronic Chip

DTIC Science & Technology

1994-05-01

parameters and geometry factor. 57 3.2 Laminar sublayer and buffer layer thicknesses for geometry of Mudawar and Maddox.ŝ 68 3.3 Correlation constants...transfer from simulated electronic chip heat sources that are flush with the flow channel wall. Mudawar and Maddox2" have studied enhanced surfaces...bias error was not estimated; however, the percentage of heat loss measured compares with that previously reported by Mudawar and Maddox19 for a

PROTOCOL FOR EXAMINATION OF THE INNER CAN CLOSURE WELD REGION FOR 3013 DE CONTAINERS

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

Mickalonis, J.

2014-09-16

The protocol for the examination of the inner can closure weld region (ICCWR) for 3013 DE containers is presented within this report. The protocol includes sectioning of the inner can lid section, documenting the surface condition, measuring corrosion parameters, and storing of samples. This protocol may change as the investigation develops since findings may necessitate additional steps be taken. Details of the previous analyses, which formed the basis for this protocol, are also presented.

Actometry in measuring the symptom severity of restless legs syndrome.

PubMed

Tuisku, K; Holi, M M; Wahlbeck, K; Ahlgren, A J; Lauerma, H

2005-05-01

In a previous, controlled study we demonstrated that the general lower limb activity measured by three-channel actometry is a promising objective measure of restless legs syndrome (RLS) severity. In the present study we have further evaluated the method in measuring RLS symptom severity in an open, single-day pramipexole intervention with 15 RLS patients. Both our standardized actometric parameters (nocturnal lower limb activity and controlled rest activity) decreased significantly during the intervention in parallel with the subjectively reported relief of RLS symptoms.

Research in Seismology

DTIC Science & Technology

1978-03-31

detailed analysis of the data is made in an attempt to reach more definitive conclusion on that matter. Analysis of Data The largest foreshock (OT-II:22...represented with a trapezoid of unit area defined with three time segments (2.5, 1.0, 2.5 seconds). The same pattern is seen in the foreshock as shown in...parameters were taken to be the same as in the case of the aftershock. In the previous report it was pointed out that foreshock shows a secondary arrival

Guide to Technical Documents. Volume 2. January 1982 through December 1982

DTIC Science & Technology

1982-12-01

and could weigh 600 MN (133 x 10 Ib) submerged. R-11 S.... -- R-854-1 R-850 A Finite Element Head Injury Model, Vol. 1: Theory , Efficiency Study of...winter freezeback has been parameters for the classical theories of plasticity and visco- apparent, this movement is minimal compared to settlement...from 0% to 35%, depending on the structures’ t/D ° ADA089300 and L/D o ratios, from that reported previously. Theory is formulated for effects of an

Electropyroelectric technique: A methodology free of fitting procedures for thermal effusivity determination in liquids.

PubMed

Ivanov, R; Marin, E; Villa, J; Gonzalez, E; Rodríguez, C I; Olvera, J E

2015-06-01

This paper describes an alternative methodology to determine the thermal effusivity of a liquid sample using the recently proposed electropyroelectric technique, without fitting the experimental data with a theoretical model and without having to know the pyroelectric sensor related parameters, as in most previous reported approaches. The method is not absolute, because a reference liquid with known thermal properties is needed. Experiments have been performed that demonstrate the high reliability and accuracy of the method with measurement uncertainties smaller than 3%.

Supplement to the December 1974 Space Investigation Documentation System (SIDS) report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1975-01-01

A listing and brief description of spacecraft and experiments designed to update the December 1974 Space Investigations Documentation System (SIDS) report to March 31, 1975 was presented. The information is given in two sections. In the first, spacecraft and experiment descriptions are sorted by spacecraft common name. Within each spacecraft lising, experiments are sorted by the principal investigator's or team leader's last name. Each spacecraft entry heading contains the spacecraft common name, alternate names, NSSDC ID code, last reported state of the spacecraft, actual or planned launch date, weight, launch site and vehicle, sponsor, orbit parameters, personnel. Each experiment entry heading contains the experiment name, NSSDC ID code, last reported status, the Office of Space Science (OSS) division, the relevant SIDS disciplines, personnel. In the second, all spacecraft and experiment names described in the previous section and in the December 1974 report are sorted out.

Neural Network Training by Integration of Adjoint Systems of Equations Forward in Time

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Toomarian, Nikzad (Inventor); Barhen, Jacob (Inventor)

1999-01-01

A method and apparatus for supervised neural learning of time dependent trajectories exploits the concepts of adjoint operators to enable computation of the gradient of an objective functional with respect to the various parameters of the network architecture in a highly efficient manner. Specifically. it combines the advantage of dramatic reductions in computational complexity inherent in adjoint methods with the ability to solve two adjoint systems of equations together forward in time. Not only is a large amount of computation and storage saved. but the handling of real-time applications becomes also possible. The invention has been applied it to two examples of representative complexity which have recently been analyzed in the open literature and demonstrated that a circular trajectory can be learned in approximately 200 iterations compared to the 12000 reported in the literature. A figure eight trajectory was achieved in under 500 iterations compared to 20000 previously required. Tbc trajectories computed using our new method are much closer to the target trajectories than was reported in previous studies.

Neural network training by integration of adjoint systems of equations forward in time

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Toomarian, Nikzad (Inventor); Barhen, Jacob (Inventor)

1992-01-01

A method and apparatus for supervised neural learning of time dependent trajectories exploits the concepts of adjoint operators to enable computation of the gradient of an objective functional with respect to the various parameters of the network architecture in a highly efficient manner. Specifically, it combines the advantage of dramatic reductions in computational complexity inherent in adjoint methods with the ability to solve two adjoint systems of equations together forward in time. Not only is a large amount of computation and storage saved, but the handling of real-time applications becomes also possible. The invention has been applied it to two examples of representative complexity which have recently been analyzed in the open literature and demonstrated that a circular trajectory can be learned in approximately 200 iterations compared to the 12000 reported in the literature. A figure eight trajectory was achieved in under 500 iterations compared to 20000 previously required. The trajectories computed using our new method are much closer to the target trajectories than was reported in previous studies.

An XRPD and EPR spectroscopy study of microcrystalline calcite bioprecipitated by Bacillus subtilis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Perito, B.; Romanelli, M.; Buccianti, A.; Passaponti, M.; Montegrossi, G.; Di Benedetto, F.

2018-05-01

We report in this study the first XRPD and EPR spectroscopy characterisation of a biogenic calcite, obtained from the activity of the bacterium Bacillus subtilis. Microcrystalline calcite powders obtained from bacterial culture in a suitable precipitation liquid medium were analysed without further manipulation. Both techniques reveal unusual parameters, closely related to the biological source of the mineral, i.e., to the bioprecipitation process and in particular to the organic matrix observed inside calcite. In detail, XRPD analysis revealed that bacterial calcite has slightly higher c/a lattice parameters ratio than abiotic calcite. This correlation was already noticed in microcrystalline calcite samples grown by bio-mineralisation processes, but it had never been previously verified for bacterial biocalcites. EPR spectroscopy evidenced an anomalously large value of W 6, a parameter that can be linked to occupation by different chemical species in the next nearest neighbouring sites. This parameter allows to clearly distinguish bacterial and abiotic calcite. This latter achievement was obtained after having reduced the parameters space into an unbiased Euclidean one, through an isometric log-ratio transformation. We conclude that this approach enables the coupled use of XRPD and EPR for identifying the traces of bacterial activity in fossil carbonate deposits.

Mammalian cell culture process for monoclonal antibody production: nonlinear modelling and parameter estimation.

PubMed

Selişteanu, Dan; Șendrescu, Dorin; Georgeanu, Vlad; Roman, Monica

2015-01-01

Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are at present one of the fastest growing products of pharmaceutical industry, with widespread applications in biochemistry, biology, and medicine. The operation of mAbs production processes is predominantly based on empirical knowledge, the improvements being achieved by using trial-and-error experiments and precedent practices. The nonlinearity of these processes and the absence of suitable instrumentation require an enhanced modelling effort and modern kinetic parameter estimation strategies. The present work is dedicated to nonlinear dynamic modelling and parameter estimation for a mammalian cell culture process used for mAb production. By using a dynamical model of such kind of processes, an optimization-based technique for estimation of kinetic parameters in the model of mammalian cell culture process is developed. The estimation is achieved as a result of minimizing an error function by a particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm. The proposed estimation approach is analyzed in this work by using a particular model of mammalian cell culture, as a case study, but is generic for this class of bioprocesses. The presented case study shows that the proposed parameter estimation technique provides a more accurate simulation of the experimentally observed process behaviour than reported in previous studies.

Mammalian Cell Culture Process for Monoclonal Antibody Production: Nonlinear Modelling and Parameter Estimation

PubMed Central

Selişteanu, Dan; Șendrescu, Dorin; Georgeanu, Vlad

2015-01-01

Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are at present one of the fastest growing products of pharmaceutical industry, with widespread applications in biochemistry, biology, and medicine. The operation of mAbs production processes is predominantly based on empirical knowledge, the improvements being achieved by using trial-and-error experiments and precedent practices. The nonlinearity of these processes and the absence of suitable instrumentation require an enhanced modelling effort and modern kinetic parameter estimation strategies. The present work is dedicated to nonlinear dynamic modelling and parameter estimation for a mammalian cell culture process used for mAb production. By using a dynamical model of such kind of processes, an optimization-based technique for estimation of kinetic parameters in the model of mammalian cell culture process is developed. The estimation is achieved as a result of minimizing an error function by a particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm. The proposed estimation approach is analyzed in this work by using a particular model of mammalian cell culture, as a case study, but is generic for this class of bioprocesses. The presented case study shows that the proposed parameter estimation technique provides a more accurate simulation of the experimentally observed process behaviour than reported in previous studies. PMID:25685797

APOSTLE: 11 TRANSIT OBSERVATIONS OF TrES-3b

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

Kundurthy, P.; Becker, A. C.; Agol, E.

2013-02-10

The Apache Point Survey of Transit Lightcurves of Exoplanets (APOSTLE) observed 11 transits of TrES-3b over two years in order to constrain system parameters and look for transit timing and depth variations. We describe an updated analysis protocol for APOSTLE data, including the reduction pipeline, transit model, and Markov Chain Monte Carlo analyzer. Our estimates of the system parameters for TrES-3b are consistent with previous estimates to within the 2{sigma} confidence level. We improved the errors (by 10%-30%) on system parameters such as the orbital inclination (i {sub orb}), impact parameter (b), and stellar density ({rho}{sub *}) compared to previousmore » measurements. The near-grazing nature of the system, and incomplete sampling of some transits, limited our ability to place reliable uncertainties on individual transit depths and hence we do not report strong evidence for variability. Our analysis of the transit timing data shows no evidence for transit timing variations and our timing measurements are able to rule out super-Earth and gas giant companions in low-order mean motion resonance with TrES-3b.« less

Updated determination of D0- D¯0 mixing and C P violation parameters with D0→K+π- decays

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aaij, R.; Adeva, B.; Adinolfi, M.; Ajaltouni, Z.; Akar, S.; Albrecht, J.; Alessio, F.; Alexander, M.; Alfonso Albero, A.; Ali, S.; Alkhazov, G.; Alvarez Cartelle, P.; Alves, A. A.; Amato, S.; Amerio, S.; Amhis, Y.; An, L.; Anderlini, L.; Andreassi, G.; Andreotti, M.; Andrews, J. E.; Appleby, R. B.; Archilli, F.; d'Argent, P.; Arnau Romeu, J.; Artamonov, A.; Artuso, M.; Aslanides, E.; Atzeni, M.; Auriemma, G.; Baalouch, M.; Babuschkin, I.; Bachmann, S.; Back, J. J.; Badalov, A.; Baesso, C.; Baker, S.; Balagura, V.; Baldini, W.; Baranov, A.; Barlow, R. J.; Barschel, C.; Barsuk, S.; Barter, W.; Baryshnikov, F.; Batozskaya, V.; Battista, V.; Bay, A.; Beaucourt, L.; Beddow, J.; Bedeschi, F.; Bediaga, I.; Beiter, A.; Bel, L. J.; Beliy, N.; Bellee, V.; Belloli, N.; Belous, K.; Belyaev, I.; Ben-Haim, E.; Bencivenni, G.; Benson, S.; Beranek, S.; Berezhnoy, A.; Bernet, R.; Berninghoff, D.; Bertholet, E.; Bertolin, A.; Betancourt, C.; Betti, F.; Bettler, M. O.; van Beuzekom, M.; Bezshyiko, Ia.; Bifani, S.; Billoir, P.; Birnkraut, A.; Bizzeti, A.; Bjørn, M.; Blake, T.; Blanc, F.; Blusk, S.; Bocci, V.; Boettcher, T.; Bondar, A.; Bondar, N.; Bordyuzhin, I.; Borghi, S.; Borisyak, M.; Borsato, M.; Bossu, F.; Boubdir, M.; Bowcock, T. J. V.; Bowen, E.; Bozzi, C.; Braun, S.; Brodzicka, J.; Brundu, D.; Buchanan, E.; Burr, C.; Bursche, A.; Buytaert, J.; Byczynski, W.; Cadeddu, S.; Cai, H.; Calabrese, R.; Calladine, R.; Calvi, M.; Calvo Gomez, M.; Camboni, A.; Campana, P.; Campora Perez, D. H.; Capriotti, L.; Carbone, A.; Carboni, G.; Cardinale, R.; Cardini, A.; Carniti, P.; Carson, L.; Carvalho Akiba, K.; Casse, G.; Cassina, L.; Cattaneo, M.; Cavallero, G.; Cenci, R.; Chamont, D.; Chapman, M. G.; Charles, M.; Charpentier, Ph.; Chatzikonstantinidis, G.; Chefdeville, M.; Chen, S.; Cheung, S. F.; Chitic, S.-G.; Chobanova, V.; Chrzaszcz, M.; Chubykin, A.; Ciambrone, P.; Cid Vidal, X.; Ciezarek, G.; Clarke, P. E. L.; Clemencic, M.; Cliff, H. V.; Closier, J.; Coco, V.; Cogan, J.; Cogneras, E.; Cogoni, V.; Cojocariu, L.; Collins, P.; Colombo, T.; Comerma-Montells, A.; Contu, A.; Coombs, G.; Coquereau, S.; Corti, G.; Corvo, M.; Costa Sobral, C. M.; Couturier, B.; Cowan, G. A.; Craik, D. C.; Crocombe, A.; Cruz Torres, M.; Currie, R.; D'Ambrosio, C.; Da Cunha Marinho, F.; Da Silva, C. L.; Dall'Occo, E.; Dalseno, J.; Davis, A.; De Aguiar Francisco, O.; De Bruyn, K.; De Capua, S.; De Cian, M.; De Miranda, J. M.; De Paula, L.; De Serio, M.; De Simone, P.; Dean, C. T.; Decamp, D.; Del Buono, L.; Dembinski, H.-P.; Demmer, M.; Dendek, A.; Derkach, D.; Deschamps, O.; Dettori, F.; Dey, B.; Di Canto, A.; Di Nezza, P.; Dijkstra, H.; Dordei, F.; Dorigo, M.; Dosil Suárez, A.; Douglas, L.; Dovbnya, A.; Dreimanis, K.; Dufour, L.; Dujany, G.; Durante, P.; Durham, J. M.; Dutta, D.; Dzhelyadin, R.; Dziewiecki, M.; Dziurda, A.; Dzyuba, A.; Easo, S.; Ebert, M.; Egede, U.; Egorychev, V.; Eidelman, S.; Eisenhardt, S.; Eitschberger, U.; Ekelhof, R.; Eklund, L.; Ely, S.; Esen, S.; Evans, H. M.; Evans, T.; Falabella, A.; Farley, N.; Farry, S.; Fazzini, D.; Federici, L.; Ferguson, D.; Fernandez, G.; Fernandez Declara, P.; Fernandez Prieto, A.; Ferrari, F.; Ferreira Lopes, L.; Ferreira Rodrigues, F.; Ferro-Luzzi, M.; Filippov, S.; Fini, R. A.; Fiorini, M.; Firlej, M.; Fitzpatrick, C.; Fiutowski, T.; Fleuret, F.; Fontana, M.; Fontanelli, F.; Forty, R.; Franco Lima, V.; Frank, M.; Frei, C.; Fu, J.; Funk, W.; Furfaro, E.; Färber, C.; Gabriel, E.; Gallas Torreira, A.; Galli, D.; Gallorini, S.; Gambetta, S.; Gandelman, M.; Gandini, P.; Gao, Y.; Garcia Martin, L. M.; García Pardiñas, J.; Garra Tico, J.; Garrido, L.; Gascon, D.; Gaspar, C.; Gavardi, L.; Gazzoni, G.; Gerick, D.; Gersabeck, E.; Gersabeck, M.; Gershon, T.; Ghez, Ph.; Gianı, S.; Gibson, V.; Girard, O. G.; Giubega, L.; Gizdov, K.; Gligorov, V. V.; Golubkov, D.; Golutvin, A.; Gomes, A.; Gorelov, I. V.; Gotti, C.; Govorkova, E.; Grabowski, J. P.; Graciani Diaz, R.; Granado Cardoso, L. A.; Graugés, E.; Graverini, E.; Graziani, G.; Grecu, A.; Greim, R.; Griffith, P.; Grillo, L.; Gruber, L.; Gruberg Cazon, B. R.; Grünberg, O.; Gushchin, E.; Guz, Yu.; Gys, T.; Göbel, C.; Hadavizadeh, T.; Hadjivasiliou, C.; Haefeli, G.; Haen, C.; Haines, S. C.; Hamilton, B.; Han, X.; Hancock, T. H.; Hansmann-Menzemer, S.; Harnew, N.; Harnew, S. T.; Hasse, C.; Hatch, M.; He, J.; Hecker, M.; Heinicke, K.; Heister, A.; Hennessy, K.; Henrard, P.; Henry, L.; van Herwijnen, E.; Heß, M.; Hicheur, A.; Hill, D.; Hopchev, P. H.; Hu, W.; Huang, W.; Huard, Z. C.; Hulsbergen, W.; Humair, T.; Hushchyn, M.; Hutchcroft, D.; Ibis, P.; Idzik, M.; Ilten, P.; Jacobsson, R.; Jalocha, J.; Jans, E.; Jawahery, A.; Jiang, F.; John, M.; Johnson, D.; Jones, C. R.; Joram, C.; Jost, B.; Jurik, N.; Kandybei, S.; Karacson, M.; Kariuki, J. M.; Karodia, S.; Kazeev, N.; Kecke, M.; Keizer, F.; Kelsey, M.; Kenzie, M.; Ketel, T.; Khairullin, E.; Khanji, B.; Khurewathanakul, C.; Kirn, T.; Klaver, S.; Klimaszewski, K.; Klimkovich, T.; Koliiev, S.; Kolpin, M.; Komarov, I.; Kopecna, R.; Koppenburg, P.; Kosmyntseva, A.; Kotriakhova, S.; Kozeiha, M.; Kravchuk, L.; Kreps, M.; Kress, F.; Krokovny, P.; Krzemien, W.; Kucewicz, W.; Kucharczyk, M.; Kudryavtsev, V.; Kuonen, A. K.; Kvaratskheliya, T.; Lacarrere, D.; Lafferty, G.; Lai, A.; Lanfranchi, G.; Langenbruch, C.; Latham, T.; Lazzeroni, C.; Le Gac, R.; Leflat, A.; Lefrançois, J.; Lefèvre, R.; Lemaitre, F.; Lemos Cid, E.; Leroy, O.; Lesiak, T.; Leverington, B.; Li, P.-R.; Li, T.; Li, Y.; Li, Z.; Liang, X.; Likhomanenko, T.; Lindner, R.; Lionetto, F.; Lisovskyi, V.; Liu, X.; Loh, D.; Loi, A.; Longstaff, I.; Lopes, J. H.; Lucchesi, D.; Lucio Martinez, M.; Luo, H.; Lupato, A.; Luppi, E.; Lupton, O.; Lusiani, A.; Lyu, X.; Machefert, F.; Maciuc, F.; Macko, V.; Mackowiak, P.; Maddrell-Mander, S.; Maev, O.; Maguire, K.; Maisuzenko, D.; Majewski, M. W.; Malde, S.; Malecki, B.; Malinin, A.; Maltsev, T.; Manca, G.; Mancinelli, G.; Marangotto, D.; Maratas, J.; Marchand, J. F.; Marconi, U.; Marin Benito, C.; Marinangeli, M.; Marino, P.; Marks, J.; Martellotti, G.; Martin, M.; Martinelli, M.; Martinez Santos, D.; Martinez Vidal, F.; Massafferri, A.; Matev, R.; Mathad, A.; Mathe, Z.; Matteuzzi, C.; Mauri, A.; Maurice, E.; Maurin, B.; Mazurov, A.; McCann, M.; McNab, A.; McNulty, R.; Mead, J. V.; Meadows, B.; Meaux, C.; Meier, F.; Meinert, N.; Melnychuk, D.; Merk, M.; Merli, A.; Michielin, E.; Milanes, D. A.; Millard, E.; Minard, M.-N.; Minzoni, L.; Mitzel, D. S.; Mogini, A.; Molina Rodriguez, J.; Mombächer, T.; Monroy, I. A.; Monteil, S.; Morandin, M.; Morello, M. J.; Morgunova, O.; Moron, J.; Morris, A. B.; Mountain, R.; Muheim, F.; Mulder, M.; Müller, D.; Müller, J.; Müller, K.; Müller, V.; Naik, P.; Nakada, T.; Nandakumar, R.; Nandi, A.; Nasteva, I.; Needham, M.; Neri, N.; Neubert, S.; Neufeld, N.; Neuner, M.; Nguyen, T. D.; Nguyen-Mau, C.; Nieswand, S.; Niet, R.; Nikitin, N.; Nikodem, T.; Nogay, A.; O'Hanlon, D. P.; Oblakowska-Mucha, A.; Obraztsov, V.; Ogilvy, S.; Oldeman, R.; Onderwater, C. J. G.; Ossowska, A.; Otalora Goicochea, J. M.; Owen, P.; Oyanguren, A.; Pais, P. R.; Palano, A.; Palutan, M.; Papanestis, A.; Pappagallo, M.; Pappalardo, L. L.; Parker, W.; Parkes, C.; Passaleva, G.; Pastore, A.; Patel, M.; Patrignani, C.; Pearce, A.; Pellegrino, A.; Penso, G.; Pepe Altarelli, M.; Perazzini, S.; Pereima, D.; Perret, P.; Pescatore, L.; Petridis, K.; Petrolini, A.; Petrov, A.; Petruzzo, M.; Picatoste Olloqui, E.; Pietrzyk, B.; Pietrzyk, G.; Pikies, M.; Pinci, D.; Pisani, F.; Pistone, A.; Piucci, A.; Placinta, V.; Playfer, S.; Plo Casasus, M.; Polci, F.; Poli Lener, M.; Poluektov, A.; Polyakov, I.; Polycarpo, E.; Pomery, G. J.; Ponce, S.; Popov, A.; Popov, D.; Poslavskii, S.; Potterat, C.; Price, E.; Prisciandaro, J.; Prouve, C.; Pugatch, V.; Puig Navarro, A.; Pullen, H.; Punzi, G.; Qian, W.; Qin, J.; Quagliani, R.; Quintana, B.; Rachwal, B.; Rademacker, J. H.; Rama, M.; Ramos Pernas, M.; Rangel, M. S.; Raniuk, I.; Ratnikov, F.; Raven, G.; Ravonel Salzgeber, M.; Reboud, M.; Redi, F.; Reichert, S.; dos Reis, A. C.; Remon Alepuz, C.; Renaudin, V.; Ricciardi, S.; Richards, S.; Rihl, M.; Rinnert, K.; Robbe, P.; Robert, A.; Rodrigues, A. B.; Rodrigues, E.; Rodriguez Lopez, J. A.; Rogozhnikov, A.; Roiser, S.; Rollings, A.; Romanovskiy, V.; Romero Vidal, A.; Rotondo, M.; Rudolph, M. S.; Ruf, T.; Ruiz Valls, P.; Ruiz Vidal, J.; Saborido Silva, J. J.; Sadykhov, E.; Sagidova, N.; Saitta, B.; Salustino Guimaraes, V.; Sanchez Mayordomo, C.; Sanmartin Sedes, B.; Santacesaria, R.; Santamarina Rios, C.; Santimaria, M.; Santovetti, E.; Sarpis, G.; Sarti, A.; Satriano, C.; Satta, A.; Saunders, D. M.; Savrina, D.; Schael, S.; Schellenberg, M.; Schiller, M.; Schindler, H.; Schmelling, M.; Schmelzer, T.; Schmidt, B.; Schneider, O.; Schopper, A.; Schreiner, H. F.; Schubiger, M.; Schune, M. H.; Schwemmer, R.; Sciascia, B.; Sciubba, A.; Semennikov, A.; Sepulveda, E. S.; Sergi, A.; Serra, N.; Serrano, J.; Sestini, L.; Seyfert, P.; Shapkin, M.; Shapoval, I.; Shcheglov, Y.; Shears, T.; Shekhtman, L.; Shevchenko, V.; Siddi, B. G.; Silva Coutinho, R.; Silva de Oliveira, L.; Simi, G.; Simone, S.; Sirendi, M.; Skidmore, N.; Skwarnicki, T.; Smith, I. T.; Smith, J.; Smith, M.; Soares Lavra, l.; Sokoloff, M. D.; Soler, F. J. P.; Souza De Paula, B.; Spaan, B.; Spradlin, P.; Sridharan, S.; Stagni, F.; Stahl, M.; Stahl, S.; Stefko, P.; Stefkova, S.; Steinkamp, O.; Stemmle, S.; Stenyakin, O.; Stepanova, M.; Stevens, H.; Stone, S.; Storaci, B.; Stracka, S.; Stramaglia, M. E.; Straticiuc, M.; Straumann, U.; Sun, J.; Sun, L.; Swientek, K.; Syropoulos, V.; Szumlak, T.; Szymanski, M.; T'Jampens, S.; Tayduganov, A.; Tekampe, T.; Tellarini, G.; Teubert, F.; Thomas, E.; van Tilburg, J.; Tilley, M. J.; Tisserand, V.; Tobin, M.; Tolk, S.; Tomassetti, L.; Tonelli, D.; Tourinho Jadallah Aoude, R.; Tournefier, E.; Traill, M.; Tran, M. T.; Tresch, M.; Trisovic, A.; Tsaregorodtsev, A.; Tsopelas, P.; Tully, A.; Tuning, N.; Ukleja, A.; Usachov, A.; Ustyuzhanin, A.; Uwer, U.; Vacca, C.; Vagner, A.; Vagnoni, V.; Valassi, A.; Valat, S.; Valenti, G.; Vazquez Gomez, R.; Vazquez Regueiro, P.; Vecchi, S.; van Veghel, M.; Velthuis, J. J.; Veltri, M.; Veneziano, G.; Venkateswaran, A.; Verlage, T. A.; Vernet, M.; Veronesi, M.; Vesterinen, M.; Viana Barbosa, J. V.; Vieira, D.; Vieites Diaz, M.; Viemann, H.; Vilasis-Cardona, X.; Vitti, M.; Volkov, V.; Vollhardt, A.; Voneki, B.; Vorobyev, A.; Vorobyev, V.; Voß, C.; de Vries, J. A.; Vázquez Sierra, C.; Waldi, R.; Walsh, J.; Wang, J.; Wang, Y.; Ward, D. R.; Wark, H. M.; Watson, N. K.; Websdale, D.; Weiden, A.; Weisser, C.; Whitehead, M.; Wicht, J.; Wilkinson, G.; Wilkinson, M.; Williams, M.; Williams, M.; Williams, T.; Wilson, F. F.; Wimberley, J.; Winn, M.; Wishahi, J.; Wislicki, W.; Witek, M.; Wormser, G.; Wotton, S. A.; Wyllie, K.; Xie, Y.; Xu, M.; Xu, Q.; Xu, Z.; Xu, Z.; Yang, Z.; Yang, Z.; Yao, Y.; Yin, H.; Yu, J.; Yuan, X.; Yushchenko, O.; Zarebski, K. A.; Zavertyaev, M.; Zhang, L.; Zhang, Y.; Zhelezov, A.; Zheng, Y.; Zhu, X.; Zhukov, V.; Zonneveld, J. B.; Zucchelli, S.; LHCb Collaboration

2018-02-01

We report measurements of charm-mixing parameters based on the decay-time-dependent ratio of D0→K+π- to D0→K-π+ rates. The analysis uses a data sample of proton-proton collisions corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 5.0 fb-1 recorded by the LHCb experiment from 2011 through 2016. Assuming charge-parity (C P ) symmetry, the mixing parameters are determined to be x'2=(3.9 ±2.7 )×10-5, y'=(5.28 ±0.52 )×10-3, and RD=(3.454 ±0.031 )×10-3. Without this assumption, the measurement is performed separately for D0 and D¯ 0 mesons, yielding a direct C P -violating asymmetry AD=(-0.1 ±9.1 )×10-3, and magnitude of the ratio of mixing parameters 1.00 <|q /p |<1.35 at the 68.3% confidence level. All results include statistical and systematic uncertainties and improve significantly upon previous single-measurement determinations. No evidence for C P violation in charm mixing is observed.

Survey of thermal plasma ions in Saturn's magnetosphere utilizing a forward model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wilson, R. J.; Bagenal, F.; Persoon, A. M.

2017-07-01

The Cassini Plasma Spectrometer instrument gathered thermal ion data at Saturn from 2004 to 2012, predominantly observing water group ions and protons. Plasma parameters, with uncertainties, for those two ion species are derived using a forward model of anisotropic convected Maxwellians moving at a shared velocity. The resulting data set is filtered by various selection criteria to produce a survey of plasma parameters derived within 10° of the equator at radial distances of 5.5 to 30 RS (1 RS = Saturn's radius). The previous 2008 work used a simpler method and had just 150 records over 5 orbits; this comprehensive survey has 9736 records over all 9 years. We present the results of this survey and compare them with a previous survey derived from numerical moments, highlighting the differences between the reported densities and temperatures from the two methods. Radial profiles of the plasma parameters in the inner and middle magnetospheres out to ≈22RS are stable year by year, but variable at distances larger than 23 RS near the magnetopause. New results include proton densities increasing in the near magnetopause region, suggestive of plasma mixing; evidence for the global electric field in Saturn's inner magnetosphere extends out to ≈15RS; no evidence for supercorotating plasma nor the middle magnetosphere "plasma cam" feature is present; the thermal plasma β is found to exceed unity at equatorial distances greater than 15 RS.

Review of lattice results concerning low-energy particle physics: Flavour Lattice Averaging Group (FLAG).

PubMed

Aoki, S; Aoki, Y; Bečirević, D; Bernard, C; Blum, T; Colangelo, G; Della Morte, M; Dimopoulos, P; Dürr, S; Fukaya, H; Golterman, M; Gottlieb, Steven; Hashimoto, S; Heller, U M; Horsley, R; Jüttner, A; Kaneko, T; Lellouch, L; Leutwyler, H; Lin, C-J D; Lubicz, V; Lunghi, E; Mawhinney, R; Onogi, T; Pena, C; Sachrajda, C T; Sharpe, S R; Simula, S; Sommer, R; Vladikas, A; Wenger, U; Wittig, H

2017-01-01

We review lattice results related to pion, kaon, D - and B -meson physics with the aim of making them easily accessible to the particle-physics community. More specifically, we report on the determination of the light-quark masses, the form factor [Formula: see text], arising in the semileptonic [Formula: see text] transition at zero momentum transfer, as well as the decay constant ratio [Formula: see text] and its consequences for the CKM matrix elements [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. Furthermore, we describe the results obtained on the lattice for some of the low-energy constants of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] Chiral Perturbation Theory. We review the determination of the [Formula: see text] parameter of neutral kaon mixing as well as the additional four B parameters that arise in theories of physics beyond the Standard Model. The latter quantities are an addition compared to the previous review. For the heavy-quark sector, we provide results for [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] (also new compared to the previous review), as well as those for D - and B -meson-decay constants, form factors, and mixing parameters. These are the heavy-quark quantities most relevant for the determination of CKM matrix elements and the global CKM unitarity-triangle fit. Finally, we review the status of lattice determinations of the strong coupling constant [Formula: see text].

Real-time image restoration for iris recognition systems.

PubMed

Kang, Byung Jun; Park, Kang Ryoung

2007-12-01

In the field of biometrics, it has been reported that iris recognition techniques have shown high levels of accuracy because unique patterns of the human iris, which has very many degrees of freedom, are used. However, because conventional iris cameras have small depth-of-field (DOF) areas, input iris images can easily be blurred, which can lead to lower recognition performance, since iris patterns are transformed by the blurring caused by optical defocusing. To overcome these problems, an autofocusing camera can be used. However, this inevitably increases the cost, size, and complexity of the system. Therefore, we propose a new real-time iris image-restoration method, which can increase the camera's DOF without requiring any additional hardware. This paper presents five novelties as compared to previous works: 1) by excluding eyelash and eyelid regions, it is possible to obtain more accurate focus scores from input iris images; 2) the parameter of the point spread function (PSF) can be estimated in terms of camera optics and measured focus scores; therefore, parameter estimation is more accurate than it has been in previous research; 3) because the PSF parameter can be obtained by using a predetermined equation, iris image restoration can be done in real-time; 4) by using a constrained least square (CLS) restoration filter that considers noise, performance can be greatly enhanced; and 5) restoration accuracy can also be enhanced by estimating the weight value of the noise-regularization term of the CLS filter according to the amount of image blurring. Experimental results showed that iris recognition errors when using the proposed restoration method were greatly reduced as compared to those results achieved without restoration or those achieved using previous iris-restoration methods.

Simulation of Changes in Diffusion Related to Different Pathologies at Cellular Level After Traumatic Brain Injury

PubMed Central

Lin, Mu; He, Hongjian; Schifitto, Giovanni; Zhong, Jianhui

2016-01-01

Purpose The goal of the current study was to investigate tissue pathology at the cellular level in traumatic brain injury (TBI) as revealed by Monte Carlo simulation of diffusion tensor imaging (DTI)-derived parameters and elucidate the possible sources of conflicting findings of DTI abnormalities as reported in the TBI literature. Methods A model with three compartments separated by permeable membranes was employed to represent the diffusion environment of water molecules in brain white matter. The dynamic diffusion process was simulated with a Monte Carlo method using adjustable parameters of intra-axonal diffusivity, axon separation, glial cell volume fraction, and myelin sheath permeability. The effects of tissue pathology on DTI parameters were investigated by adjusting the parameters of the model corresponding to different stages of brain injury. Results The results suggest that the model is appropriate and the DTI-derived parameters simulate the predominant cellular pathology after TBI. Our results further indicate that when edema is not prevalent, axial and radial diffusivity have better sensitivity to axonal injury and demyelination than other DTI parameters. Conclusion DTI is a promising biomarker to detect and stage tissue injury after TBI. The observed inconsistencies among previous studies are likely due to scanning at different stages of tissue injury after TBI. PMID:26256558

Haematology and plasma chemistry of the red top ice blue mbuna cichlid (Metriaclima greshakei).

PubMed

Snellgrove, Donna L; Alexander, Lucille G

2011-10-01

Clinical haematology and blood plasma chemistry can be used as a valuable tool to provide substantial diagnostic information for fish. A wide range of parameters can be used to assess nutritional status, digestive function, disease identification, routine metabolic levels, general physiological status and even the assessment and management of wild fish populations. However to evaluate such data accurately, baseline reference intervals for each measurable parameter must be established for the species of fish in question. Baseline data for ornamental fish species are limited, as research is more commonly conducted using commercially cultured fish. Blood samples were collected from sixteen red top ice blue cichlids (Metriaclima greshakei), an ornamental freshwater fish, to describe a range of haematology and plasma chemistry parameters. Since this cichlid is fairly large in comparison with most tropical ornamental fish, two independent blood samples were taken to assess a large range of parameters. No significant differences were noted between sample periods for any parameter. Values obtained for a large number of parameters were similar to those established for other closely related fish species such as tilapia (Oreochromis spp.). In addition to reporting the first set of blood values for M. Greshakei, to our knowledge, this study highlights the possibility of using previously established data for cultured cichlid species in studies with ornamental cichlid fish.

Do the SRS-22 self-image and mental health domain scores reflect the degree of asymmetry of the back in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis?

PubMed

Cheshire, James; Gardner, Adrian; Berryman, Fiona; Pynsent, Paul

2017-01-01

Patient-reported outcomes are becoming increasingly recognised in the management of patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). Integrated Shape Imaging System 2 (ISIS2) surface topography is a validated tool to assess AIS. Previous studies have failed to demonstrate strong correlations between AIS and patient-reported outcomes highlighting the need for additional objective surface parameters to define the deformities associated with AIS. The aim of this study was to examine whether the Scoliosis Research Society-22 (SRS-22) outcome questionnaire reflects the degree of measurable external asymmetry of the back in AIS and thus is a measure of patient outcome for external appearance. A total of 102 pre-operative AIS patients were identified retrospectively. Objective parameters were measured using ISIS2 surface topography. The associations between these parameters and the self-image and mental health domains of the SRS-22 questionnaire were investigated using correlation coefficients. All correlations between the parameters of asymmetry and SRS-22 self-image score were of weak strength. Similarly, all correlations between the parameters of asymmetry and SRS-22 mental health score were of weak strength. The SRS-22 mental health and self-image domains correlate poorly with external measures of deformity. This demonstrates that the assessment of mental health and self-image by the SRS-22 has little to do with external torso shape. Whilst the SRS-22 assesses the patient as a whole, it provides little information about objective measures of deformity over which a surgeon has control.

The shape parameter and its modification for defining coastal profiles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Türker, Umut; Kabdaşli, M. Sedat

2009-03-01

The shape parameter is important for the theoretical description of the sandy coastal profiles. This parameter has previously been defined as a function of the sediment-settling velocity. However, the settling velocity cannot be characterized over a wide range of sediment grains. This, in turn, limits the calculation of the shape parameter over a wide range. This paper provides a simpler and faster analytical equation to describe the shape parameter. The validity of the equation has been tested and compared with the previously estimated values given in both graphical and tabular forms. The results of this study indicate that the analytical solutions of the shape parameter improved the usability of profile better than graphical solutions, predicting better results both at the surf zone and offshore.

The CHARA Array resolves the long-period Wolf-Rayet binaries WR 137 and WR 138

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Richardson, Noel D.; Shenar, Tomer; Roy-Loubier, Olivier; Schaefer, Gail; Moffat, Anthony F. J.; St-Louis, Nicole; Gies, Douglas R.; Farrington, Chris; Hill, Grant M.; Williams, Peredur M.; Gordon, Kathryn; Pablo, Herbert; Ramiaramanantsoa, Tahina

2016-10-01

We report on interferometric observations with the CHARA Array of two classical Wolf-Rayet (WR) stars in suspected binary systems, namely WR 137 and WR 138. In both cases, we resolve the component stars to be separated by a few milliarcseconds. The data were collected in the H band, and provide a measure of the fractional flux for both stars in each system. We find that the WR star is the dominant H-band light source in both systems (fWR,137 = 0.59 ± 0.04; fWR,138 = 0.67 ± 0.01), which is confirmed through both comparisons with estimated fundamental parameters for WR stars and O dwarfs, as well as through spectral modelling of each system. Our spectral modelling also provides fundamental parameters for the stars and winds in these systems. The results on WR 138 provide evidence that it is a binary system which may have gone through a previous mass-transfer episode to create the WR star. The separation and position of the stars in the WR 137 system together with previous results from the IOTA interferometer provides evidence that the binary is seen nearly edge-on. The possible edge-on orbit of WR 137 aligns well with the dust production site imaged by the Hubble Space Telescope during a previous periastron passage, showing that the dust production may be concentrated in the orbital plane.

The behaviour of stacking fault energy upon interstitial alloying.

PubMed

Lee, Jee-Yong; Koo, Yang Mo; Lu, Song; Vitos, Levente; Kwon, Se Kyun

2017-09-11

Stacking fault energy is one of key parameters for understanding the mechanical properties of face-centered cubic materials. It is well known that the plastic deformation mechanism is closely related to the size of stacking fault energy. Although alloying is a conventional method to modify the physical parameter, the underlying microscopic mechanisms are not yet clearly established. Here, we propose a simple model for determining the effect of interstitial alloying on the stacking fault energy. We derive a volumetric behaviour of stacking fault energy from the harmonic approximation to the energy-lattice curve and relate it to the contents of interstitials. The stacking fault energy is found to change linearly with the interstitial content in the usual low concentration domain. This is in good agreement with previously reported experimental and theoretical data.

Numerical studies of identification in nonlinear distributed parameter systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Banks, H. T.; Lo, C. K.; Reich, Simeon; Rosen, I. G.

1989-01-01

An abstract approximation framework and convergence theory for the identification of first and second order nonlinear distributed parameter systems developed previously by the authors and reported on in detail elsewhere are summarized and discussed. The theory is based upon results for systems whose dynamics can be described by monotone operators in Hilbert space and an abstract approximation theorem for the resulting nonlinear evolution system. The application of the theory together with numerical evidence demonstrating the feasibility of the general approach are discussed in the context of the identification of a first order quasi-linear parabolic model for one dimensional heat conduction/mass transport and the identification of a nonlinear dissipation mechanism (i.e., damping) in a second order one dimensional wave equation. Computational and implementational considerations, in particular, with regard to supercomputing, are addressed.

Dilution jet configurations in a reverse flow combustor. M.S. Thesis Final Report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zizelman, J.

1985-01-01

Results of measurements of both temperature and velocity fields within a reverse flow combustor are presented. Flow within the combustor is acted upon by perpendicularly injected cooling jets introduced at three different locations along the inner and outer walls of the combustor. Each experiment is typified by a group of parameters: density ratio, momentum ratio, spacing ratio, and confinement parameter. Measurements of both temperature and velocity are presented in terms of normalized profiles at azimuthal positions through the turn section of the combustion chamber. Jet trajectories defined by minimum temperature and maximum velocity give a qualitative indication of the location of the jet within the cross flow. Results of a model from a previous temperature study are presented in some of the plots of data from this work.

Crystal field effect in light actinide dioxides and oxychalcogenides-a unified phenomenological description

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gajek, Z.

2004-05-01

The electronic properties of the actinide ions in the series of semi-conducting, antiferromagnetic compounds: dioxides, AnO2 and oxychalcogenides, AnOY, where An=U, Np and Y=S, Se, are re-examined from the point of view of the consistency of the crystal field (CF) model. The discussion is based on the supposition that the effective metal-ligand interaction solely determines the net CF effect in non-metallic compounds. The main question we address here is, whether a reliable, consistent description of the CF effect in terms of the intrinsic parameters can be achieved for this particular family of compounds. Encouraging calculations reported previously for the AnO2 and UOY series serve as a reference data in the present estimation of electronic structure parameters for neptunium oxychalcogenides.

Aqueous geochemical data from the analysis of stream-water samples collected in June and July 2006-Taylor Mountains 1:250,00-scale quadrangle, Alaska

USGS Publications Warehouse

Wang, Bronwen; Mueller, Seth; Stetson, Sarah; Bailey, Elizabeth; Lee, Greg

2011-01-01

We report on the chemical analysis of water samples collected from the Taylor Mountains 1:250,000-scale quadrangle, Alaska. Parameters for which data are reported include pH, conductivity, water temperature, major cation and anion concentrations, trace-element concentrations, and dissolved organic-carbon concentrations. Samples were collected as part of a multiyear U.S. Geological Survey project entitled ?Geologic and Mineral Deposit Data for Alaskan Economic Development.? Data presented here are from samples collected in June and July 2006. The data are being released at this time with minimal interpretation. This is the third release of aqueous geochemical data from this project; aqueous geochemical data from samples collected in 2004 and 2005 were published previously. The data in this report augment but do not duplicate or supersede the previous data release. Site selection was based on a regional sampling strategy that focused on first- and second-order drainages. Water sample site selection was based on landscape parameters that included physiography, wetland extent, lithological changes, and a cursory field review of mineralogy from pan concentrates. Stream water in the Taylor Mountains quadrangle is dominated by bicarbonate (HCO3-), although in a few samples more than 50 percent of the anionic charge can be attributed to sulfate (SO42-). The major-cation chemistry ranges from Ca2+/Mg2+ dominated to a mix of Ca2+/Mg2+/Na++K+. Generally, good agreement was found between the major cations and anions in the duplicate samples. Many trace elements in these samples were at or near the analytical method detection limit, but good agreement was found between duplicate samples for elements with detectable concentrations. All field blank major-ion and trace-element concentrations were below detection.

miRNA Signatures of Insulin Resistance in Obesity.

PubMed

Jones, Angela; Danielson, Kirsty M; Benton, Miles C; Ziegler, Olivia; Shah, Ravi; Stubbs, Richard S; Das, Saumya; Macartney-Coxson, Donia

2017-10-01

Extracellular microRNAs (miRNAs) represent functional biomarkers for obesity and related disorders; this study investigated plasma miRNAs in insulin resistance phenotypes in obesity. One hundred seventy-five miRNAs were analyzed in females with obesity (insulin sensitivity, n = 11; insulin resistance, n = 19; type 2 diabetes, n = 15) and without obesity (n = 12). Correlations between miRNA level and clinical parameters and levels of 15 miRNAs in a murine obesity model were investigated. One hundred six miRNAs were significantly (adjusted P ≤ 0.05) different between controls and at least one obesity phenotype, including miRNAs with the following attributes: previously reported roles in obesity and altered circulating levels (e.g., miR-122, miR-192); known roles in obesity but no reported changes in circulating levels (e.g., miR-378a); and no current reported role in, or association with, obesity (e.g., miR-28-5p, miR-374b, miR-32). The miRNAs in the latter group were found to be associated with extracellular vesicles. Forty-eight miRNAs showed significant correlations with clinical parameters; stepwise regression retained let-7b, miR-144-5p, miR-34a, and miR-532-5p in a model predictive of insulin resistance (R 2  = 0.57, P = 7.5 × 10 -8 ). Both miR-378a and miR-122 were perturbed in metabolically relevant tissues in a murine model of obesity. This study expands on the role of extracellular miRNAs in insulin-resistant phenotypes of obesity and identifies candidate miRNAs not previously associated with obesity. © 2017 The Obesity Society.

Melatonin in autism spectrum disorders.

PubMed

Rossignol, Daniel A; Frye, Richard E

2014-01-01

Melatonin is an endogenous neurohormone produced predominantly in the pineal gland. Recent studies have implicated abnormalities in melatonin physiology and the circadian rhythm in individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). These physiological abnormalities include lower nighttime melatonin or melatonin metabolite concentrations in ASD compared to controls. These abnormalities in melatonin concentrations may be directly attributed to variations in melatonin pathway physiology as both functional and genetic variations in this pathway have been reported in children with ASD. Four studies have observed a correlation between abnormal melatonin concentrations and the severity of autistic behaviors. Twenty clinical studies have reported improvements in sleep parameters with exogenous melatonin supplementation in ASD, including longer sleep duration, less nighttime awakenings and quicker sleep onset. A recent meta-analysis of five randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trials examining exogenous melatonin supplementation in ASD reported significant improvements with large effect sizes in total sleep duration and sleep onset latency compared to both baseline and placebo. Six studies reported that the nighttime administration of exogenous melatonin was associated with better daytime behaviors. Four studies reported improvements with exogenous melatonin supplementation when other sleep medications had previously failed. Adverse effects of melatonin were minimal to none in the twenty treatment studies. These studies indicate that the administration of exogenous melatonin for abnormal sleep parameters in ASD is evidence-based. Further studies examining optimal effective dosing and timing of dosing are warranted.

Refinements in modeling the passive properties of laryngeal soft tissue.

PubMed

Hunter, Eric J; Titze, Ingo R

2007-07-01

The nonlinear viscoelastic passive properties of three canine intrinsic laryngeal muscles, the lateral cricoarytenoid (LCA), the posterior cricoarytenoid (PCA), and the interarytenoid (IA), were fit to the parameters of a modified Kelvin model. These properties were compared with those of the thyroarytenoid (TA) and cricothyroid (CT) muscles, as well as previously unpublished viscoelastic characteristics of the human vocal ligament. Passive parameters of the modified Kelvin model were summarized for the vocal ligament, mucosa, and all five laryngeal muscles. Results suggest that the LCA, PCA, and IA muscles are functionally different from the TA and CT muscles in their load-bearing capacity. Furthermore, the LCA, PCA, and IA have a much larger stress-strain hysteresis effect than has been previously reported for the TA and CT or the vocal ligament. The variation in this effect suggests that the connective tissue within the TA and CT muscles is somehow similar to the vocal ligament but different from the LCA, PCA, or IA muscles. Further demonstrating the potential significance of grouping tissues in the laryngeal system by functional groups in the laryngeal system was the unique finding that, over their working elongation range, the LCA and PCA were nearly as exponentially stiff as the vocal ligament. This paper was written in conjunction with an online technical report (http://www.ncvs.org/ncvs/library/tech) in which comprehensive muscle data and sensitivity analysis, as well as downloadable data files and computer scripts, are made available.

The extrusion test and sensory perception revisited: Some comments on generality and the effect of measurement temperature.

PubMed

Brenner, Tom; Tomczyńska-Mleko, Marta; Mleko, Stanisław; Nishinari, Katsuyoshi

2017-12-01

Relations between sensory perception, extrusion and fracture in shear, extension and compression are examined. Gelatin-based gels are perceived as less firm and less hard than expected based on their mechanical properties compared to polysaccharide gels that have the same mechanical properties at room temperature but melt well above body temperature, underlying the importance of the measurement temperature for gels that melt during mastication. Correlations between parameters from extrusion and compression, extension and shear are verified using mixed polysaccharide gels. We previously reported a high correlation between several sensory attributes and parameters from an extrusion test. The extrusion test showed the most robust correlation, and could be used to assess samples at both extremes of the texture range with respect to elasticity, for example, both samples that could not be extended as their very low elasticity led to their fracture during handling, as well as samples that could not be fractured in compression. Here, we reexamine the validity of the relations reported. We demonstrate the generality of the relations between large deformation tests and extrusion, but the findings underscore the need to take into account the measurement temperature for samples that melt during mastication when correlating instrumental parameters with sensory perception. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Reported Energy and Cost Savings from the DOE ESPC Program: FY 2014

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

Slattery, Bob S.

2015-03-01

The objective of this work was to determine the realization rate of energy and cost savings from the Department of Energy’s Energy Savings Performance Contract (ESPC) program based on information reported by the energy services companies (ESCOs) that are carrying out ESPC projects at federal sites. Information was extracted from 156 Measurement and Verification (M&V) reports to determine reported, estimated, and guaranteed cost savings and reported and estimated energy savings for the previous contract year. Because the quality of the reports varied, it was not possible to determine all of these parameters for each project. For all 156 projects, theremore » was sufficient information to compare estimated, reported, and guaranteed cost savings. For this group, the total estimated cost savings for the reporting periods addressed were $210.6 million, total reported cost savings were $215.1 million, and total guaranteed cost savings were $204.5 million. This means that on average: ESPC contractors guaranteed 97% of the estimated cost savings; projects reported achieving 102% of the estimated cost savings; and projects reported achieving 105% of the guaranteed cost savings. For 155 of the projects examined, there was sufficient information to compare estimated and reported energy savings. On the basis of site energy, estimated savings for those projects for the previous year totaled 11.938 million MMBtu, and reported savings were 12.138 million MMBtu, 101.7% of the estimated energy savings. On the basis of source energy, total estimated energy savings for the 155 projects were 19.052 million MMBtu, and reported saving were 19.516 million MMBtu, 102.4% of the estimated energy savings.« less

Telerobotic control of a mobile coordinated robotic server. M.S. Thesis Annual Technical Report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, Gordon

1993-01-01

The annual report on telerobotic control of a mobile coordinated robotic server is presented. The goal of this effort is to develop advanced control methods for flexible space manipulator systems. As such, an adaptive fuzzy logic controller was developed in which model structure as well as parameter constraints are not required for compensation. The work builds upon previous work on fuzzy logic controllers. Fuzzy logic controllers have been growing in importance in the field of automatic feedback control. Hardware controllers using fuzzy logic have become available as an alternative to the traditional PID controllers. Software has also been introduced to aid in the development of fuzzy logic rule-bases. The advantages of using fuzzy logic controllers include the ability to merge the experience and intuition of expert operators into the rule-base and that a model of the system is not required to construct the controller. A drawback of the classical fuzzy logic controller, however, is the many parameters needed to be turned off-line prior to application in the closed-loop. In this report, an adaptive fuzzy logic controller is developed requiring no system model or model structure. The rule-base is defined to approximate a state-feedback controller while a second fuzzy logic algorithm varies, on-line, parameters of the defining controller. Results indicate the approach is viable for on-line adaptive control of systems when the model is too complex or uncertain for application of other more classical control techniques.

Irradiation control parameters for computer-assisted laser photocoagulation of the retina

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Naess, Espen; Molvik, Torstein; Barrett, Steven F.; Wright, Cameron H. G.; de Graaf, Peter W.

2001-06-01

A system for robotically assisted retinal surgery has been developed to rapidly and safely place lesions on the retina for photocoagulation therapy. This system provides real- time, motion stabilized lesion placement for typical irradiation times of 100 ms. The system consists of three main subsystems: a global, digital-based tracking subsystem; a fast, local analog tracking subsystem; and a confocal reflectance subsystem to control lesion parameters dynamically. We have reported on these subsystems in previous SPIE presentations. This paper concentrates on the development of the second hybrid system prototype. Considerable progress has been made toward reducing the footprint of the optical system, simplifying the user interface, fully characterizing the analog tracking system and using measurable lesion reflectance growth parameters to develop a noninvasive method to infer lesion depth. This method will allow dynamic control of laser dosimetry to provide similar lesions across the non-uniform retinal surface. These system improvements and progress toward a clinically significant system are covered in detail within this paper.

Flexible and self-powered temperature-pressure dual-parameter sensors using microstructure-frame-supported organic thermoelectric materials.

PubMed

Zhang, Fengjiao; Zang, Yaping; Huang, Dazhen; Di, Chong-an; Zhu, Daoben

2015-09-21

Skin-like temperature- and pressure-sensing capabilities are essential features for the next generation of artificial intelligent products. Previous studies of e-skin and smart elements have focused on flexible pressure sensors, whereas the simultaneous and sensitive detection of temperature and pressure with a single device remains a challenge. Here we report developing flexible dual-parameter temperature-pressure sensors based on microstructure-frame-supported organic thermoelectric (MFSOTE) materials. The effective transduction of temperature and pressure stimuli into two independent electrical signals permits the instantaneous sensing of temperature and pressure with an accurate temperature resolution of <0.1 K and a high-pressure-sensing sensitivity of up to 28.9 kPa(-1). More importantly, these dual-parameter sensors can be self-powered with outstanding sensing performance. The excellent sensing properties of MFSOTE-based devices, together with their unique advantages of low cost and large-area fabrication, make MFSOTE materials possess promising applications in e-skin and health-monitoring elements.

Thermal and athermal three-dimensional swarms of self-propelled particles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nguyen, Nguyen H. P.; Jankowski, Eric; Glotzer, Sharon C.

2012-07-01

Swarms of self-propelled particles exhibit complex behavior that can arise from simple models, with large changes in swarm behavior resulting from small changes in model parameters. We investigate the steady-state swarms formed by self-propelled Morse particles in three dimensions using molecular dynamics simulations optimized for graphics processing units. We find a variety of swarms of different overall shape assemble spontaneously and that for certain Morse potential parameters at most two competing structures are observed. We report a rich “phase diagram” of athermal swarm structures observed across a broad range of interaction parameters. Unlike the structures formed in equilibrium self-assembly, we find that the probability of forming a self-propelled swarm can be biased by the choice of initial conditions. We investigate how thermal noise influences swarm formation and demonstrate ways it can be exploited to reconfigure one swarm into another. Our findings validate and extend previous observations of self-propelled Morse swarms and highlight open questions for predictive theories of nonequilibrium self-assembly.

Why are para-hydrogen clusters superfluid? A quantum theorem of corresponding states study.

PubMed

Sevryuk, Mikhail B; Toennies, J Peter; Ceperley, David M

2010-08-14

The quantum theorem of corresponding states is applied to N=13 and N=26 cold quantum fluid clusters to establish where para-hydrogen clusters lie in relation to more and less quantum delocalized systems. Path integral Monte Carlo calculations of the energies, densities, radial and pair distributions, and superfluid fractions are reported at T=0.5 K for a Lennard-Jones (LJ) (12,6) potential using six different de Boer parameters including the accepted value for hydrogen. The results indicate that the hydrogen clusters are on the borderline to being a nonsuperfluid solid but that the molecules are sufficiently delocalized to be superfluid. A general phase diagram for the total and kinetic energies of LJ (12,6) clusters encompassing all sizes from N=2 to N=infinity and for the entire range of de Boer parameters is presented. Finally the limiting de Boer parameters for quantum delocalization induced unbinding ("quantum unbinding") are estimated and the new results are found to agree with previous calculations for the bulk and smaller clusters.

A protocol guided by transpulmonary thermodilution and lactate levels for resuscitation of patients with severe burns.

PubMed

Berger, Mette M; Que, Yok Ai

2013-11-11

Over-resuscitation is deleterious in many critically ill conditions, including major burns. For more than 15 years, several strategies to reduce fluid administration in burns during the initial resuscitation phase have been proposed, but no single or simple parameter has shown superiority. Fluid administration guided by invasive hemodynamic parameters usually resulted in over-resuscitation. As reported in the previous issue of Critical Care, Sánchez-Sánchez and colleagues analyzed the performance of a 'permissive hypovolemia' protocol guided by invasive hemodynamic parameters (PiCCO, Pulsion Medical Systems, Munich, Germany) and vital signs in a prospective cohort over a 3-year period. The authors' results confirm that resuscitation can be achieved with below-normal levels of preload but at the price of a fluid administration greater than predicted by the Parkland formula (2 to 4 mL/kg per% burn). The classic approach based on an adapted Parkland equation may still be the simplest until further studies identify the optimal bundle of resuscitation goals.

Numerical treatment for Carreau nanofluid flow over a porous nonlinear stretching surface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Eid, Mohamed R.; Mahny, Kasseb L.; Muhammad, Taseer; Sheikholeslami, Mohsen

2018-03-01

The impact of magnetic field and nanoparticles on the two-phase flow of a generalized non-Newtonian Carreau fluid over permeable non-linearly stretching surface has been analyzed in the existence of all suction/injection and thermal radiation. The governing PDEs with congruous boundary condition are transformed into a system of non-linear ODEs with appropriate boundary conditions by using similarity transformation. It solved numerically by using 4th-5th order Runge-Kutta-Fehlberg method based on shooting technique. The impacts of non-dimensional controlling parameters on velocity, temperature, and nanoparticles volume concentration profiles are scrutinized with aid of graphs. The Nusselt and the Sherwood numbers are studied at the different situations of the governing parameters. The numerical computations are in excellent consent with previously reported studies. It is found that the heat transfer rate is reduced with an increment of thermal radiation parameter and on contrary of the rising of magnetic field. The opposite trend happens in the mass transfer rate.

Flexible and self-powered temperature-pressure dual-parameter sensors using microstructure-frame-supported organic thermoelectric materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Fengjiao; Zang, Yaping; Huang, Dazhen; di, Chong-An; Zhu, Daoben

2015-09-01

Skin-like temperature- and pressure-sensing capabilities are essential features for the next generation of artificial intelligent products. Previous studies of e-skin and smart elements have focused on flexible pressure sensors, whereas the simultaneous and sensitive detection of temperature and pressure with a single device remains a challenge. Here we report developing flexible dual-parameter temperature-pressure sensors based on microstructure-frame-supported organic thermoelectric (MFSOTE) materials. The effective transduction of temperature and pressure stimuli into two independent electrical signals permits the instantaneous sensing of temperature and pressure with an accurate temperature resolution of <0.1 K and a high-pressure-sensing sensitivity of up to 28.9 kPa-1. More importantly, these dual-parameter sensors can be self-powered with outstanding sensing performance. The excellent sensing properties of MFSOTE-based devices, together with their unique advantages of low cost and large-area fabrication, make MFSOTE materials possess promising applications in e-skin and health-monitoring elements.

The PoGO+ view on Crab off-pulse hard X-ray polarization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chauvin, M.; Florén, H.-G.; Friis, M.; Jackson, M.; Kamae, T.; Kataoka, J.; Kawano, T.; Kiss, M.; Mikhalev, V.; Mizuno, T.; Tajima, H.; Takahashi, H.; Uchida, N.; Pearce, M.

2018-06-01

The linear polarization fraction (PF) and angle of the hard X-ray emission from the Crab provide unique insight into high-energy radiation mechanisms, complementing the usual imaging, timing, and spectroscopic approaches. Results have recently been presented by two missions operating in partially overlapping energy bands, PoGO+ (18-160 keV) and AstroSat CZTI (100-380 keV). We previously reported PoGO+ results on the polarization parameters integrated across the light curve and for the entire nebula-dominated off-pulse region. We now introduce finer phase binning, in light of the AstroSat CZTI claim that the PF varies across the off-pulse region. Since both missions are operating in a regime where errors on the reconstructed polarization parameters are non-Gaussian, we adopt a Bayesian approach to compare results from each mission. We find no statistically significant variation in off-pulse polarization parameters, neither when considering the mission data separately nor when they are combined. This supports expectations from standard high-energy emission models.

THE NuSTAR X-RAY SPECTRUM OF HERCULES X-1: A RADIATION-DOMINATED RADIATIVE SHOCK

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

Wolff, Michael T.; Wood, Kent S.; Becker, Peter A.

2016-11-10

We report on new spectral modeling of the accreting X-ray pulsar Hercules X-1. Our radiation-dominated radiative shock model is an implementation of the analytic work of Becker and Wolff on Comptonized accretion flows onto magnetic neutron stars. We obtain a good fit to the spin-phase-averaged 4–78 keV X-ray spectrum observed by the Nuclear Spectroscopic Telescope Array during a main-on phase of the Her X-1 35 day accretion disk precession period. This model allows us to estimate the accretion rate, the Comptonizing temperature of the radiating plasma, the radius of the magnetic polar cap, and the average scattering opacity parameters inmore » the accretion column. This is in contrast to previous phenomenological models that characterized the shape of the X-ray spectrum, but could not determine the physical parameters of the accretion flow. We describe the spectral fitting details and discuss the interpretation of the accretion flow physical parameters.« less

Three dielectric constants and orientation order parameters in nematic mesophases

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yoon, Hyung Guen; Jeong, Seung Yeon; Kumar, Satyendra; Park, Min Sang; Park, Jung Ok; Srinivasarao, M.; Shin, Sung Tae

2011-03-01

Temperature dependence of the three components ɛ1 , ɛ2 , and ɛ3 of dielectric constant and orientation order parameters in the nematic phase of mesogens with rod, banana, and zero-order dendritic shape were measured using the in-plane and vertical switching geometries, and micro-Raman technique. Results on the well-known uniaxial (Nu) nematogens, E7 and 5CB, revealed two components ɛ1 = ~ɛ| | and ɛ2 = ~ɛ3 = ~ɛ⊥ , as expected. The three dielectric constants were different for two azo substituted (A131 and A103) and an oxadiazole based (ODBP-Ph-C12) bent core mesogens, and a Ge core tetrapode. In some cases, two of the components became the same indicating a loss of biaxiality at temperatures coinciding with the previously reported Nu to biaxial nematic transition. This interpretation is substantiated by micro-Raman measurements of the uniaxial and biaxial nematic order parameters. Supported by the US Department of Energy, Basic Energy Sciences grant ER46572 and by Samsung Electronics Corporation.

Surface order in cold liquids: X-ray reflectivity studies of dielectric liquids and comparison to liquid metals

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

Chattopadhyay, S.; Ehrlich, S.; Uysal, A.

2010-05-17

Oscillatory surface-density profiles layers have previously been reported in several metallic liquids, one dielectric liquid, and in computer simulations of dielectric liquids. We have now seen surface layers in two other dielectric liquids, pentaphenyl trimethyl trisiloxane, and pentavinyl pentamethyl cyclopentasiloxane. These layers appear below T?285 K and T?130 K, respectively; both thresholds correspond to T/Tc?0.2 where Tc is the liquid-gas critical temperature. All metallic and dielectric liquid surfaces previously studied are also consistent with the existence of this T/Tc threshold, first indicated by the simulations of Chacon et al. The layer width parameters, determined using a distorted-crystal fitting model, followmore » common trends as functions of Tc for both metallic and dielectric liquids.« less

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.

Temporal Dynamics of Microbial Rhodopsin Fluorescence Reports Absolute Membrane Voltage

PubMed Central

Hou, Jennifer H.; Venkatachalam, Veena; Cohen, Adam E.

2014-01-01

Plasma membrane voltage is a fundamentally important property of a living cell; its value is tightly coupled to membrane transport, the dynamics of transmembrane proteins, and to intercellular communication. Accurate measurement of the membrane voltage could elucidate subtle changes in cellular physiology, but existing genetically encoded fluorescent voltage reporters are better at reporting relative changes than absolute numbers. We developed an Archaerhodopsin-based fluorescent voltage sensor whose time-domain response to a stepwise change in illumination encodes the absolute membrane voltage. We validated this sensor in human embryonic kidney cells. Measurements were robust to variation in imaging parameters and in gene expression levels, and reported voltage with an absolute accuracy of 10 mV. With further improvements in membrane trafficking and signal amplitude, time-domain encoding of absolute voltage could be applied to investigate many important and previously intractable bioelectric phenomena. PMID:24507604

Biodiversity and density of subtidal benthos of an oceanic tropical island (a comparison within the Pacific Ocean)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sibaja-Cordero, Jeffrey A.; Troncoso, Jesús S.; Cortés, Jorge; Moreira, Juan; Vargas, José A.; Benavides-Varela, Catalina

2016-09-01

The marine macrofauna of the shallow sandy bottom of Isla del Coco, Costa Rica (5°32‧N-87°04‧W) was assessed in April 2010. Comparisons of richness, density and diversity between levels of exposure to ocean influence were carried out. During this study 15,407 specimens with a mean density of 1826 ind m- 2 were found between 3-75 m depth. The specimens were distributed in 267 taxa (29% new additions) with a mean of 55 ± 14 expected taxa m- 2. The values of density, richness and diversity were higher at the exposed coast, whereas they decreased at inner bays due to the influence of freshwater input. These estimates were compared with 40 studies in the Tropical Pacific Ocean (TPO). Taxa and density previously reported from the TPO were dependent on the area and depth range studied. Additionally, these parameters varied according to the sampling gear used. For example, higher densities were reported by using corers or boxcorers. The Shannon-Wiener index was most effective in identifying sediment and geographical patterns of variation along the TPO. Differences in these diversity parameters were also found between islands and mainland studies. Moreover, richness and density values from Isla del Coco were higher than the same parameters reported in studies using grabs in the TPO. At Isla del Coco annelids were dominant in terms of relative abundance (49.6%), followed by crustaceans (10.1%), mollusks (2.8%), and others faunal groups (37.5%). The faunistic composition at Isla del Coco differed when compared to the rest of localities of TPO due to the higher contribution of miscellaneous groups. In conclusion, the comparison with previous studies in the TPO indicate that islands like Isla del Coco have high numbers of taxa and diversity than those of the mainland, but lower density. However, this value is influenced by the sampling methodology. The taxa accumulation curve at Isla del Coco did not reach the asymptote, suggesting that an intensive sampling, especially at deep waters, would increase the number of taxa.

Time- and frequency-domain parameters of heart rate variability and sympathetic skin response in Parkinson's disease.

PubMed

Maetzler, Walter; Karam, Marie; Berger, Monika Fruhmann; Heger, Tanja; Maetzler, Corina; Ruediger, Heinz; Bronzova, Juliana; Lobo, Patricia Pita; Ferreira, Joaquim J; Ziemssen, Tjalf; Berg, Daniela

2015-03-01

The autonomic nervous system (ANS) is regularly affected in Parkinson's disease (PD). Information on autonomic dysfunction can be derived from e.g. altered heart rate variability (HRV) and sympathetic skin response (SSR). Such parameters can be quantified easily and measured repeatedly which might be helpful for evaluating disease progression and therapeutic outcome. In this 2-center study, HRV and SSR of 45 PD patients and 26 controls were recorded. HRV was measured during supine metronomic breathing and analyzed in time- and frequency-domains. SSR was evoked by repetitive auditory stimulation. Various ANS parameters were compared (1) between patients and healthy controls, (2) to clinical scales (Unified Parkinson's disease rating scale, Mini-Mental State Examination, Becks Depression Inventory), and (3) to disease duration. Root mean square of successive differences (RMSSD) and low frequency/high frequency (LF/HF) ratio differed significantly between PD and controls. Both, HRV and SSR parameters showed low or no association with clinical scores. Time-domain parameters tended to be affected already at early PD stages but did not consistently change with longer disease duration. In contrast, frequency-domain parameters were not altered in early PD phases but tended to be lower (LF, LF/HF ratio), respectively higher (HF) with increasing disease duration. This report confirms previous results of altered ANS parameters in PD. In addition, it suggests that (1) these ANS parameters are not relevantly associated with motor, behavioral, and cognitive changes in PD, (2) time-domain parameters are useful for the assessment of early PD, and (3) frequency-domain parameters are more closely associated with disease duration.

Normal fetal posterior fossa in MR imaging: new biometric data and possible clinical significance.

PubMed

Ber, R; Bar-Yosef, O; Hoffmann, C; Shashar, D; Achiron, R; Katorza, E

2015-04-01

Posterior fossa malformations are a common finding in prenatal diagnosis. The objectives of this study are to re-evaluate existing normal MR imaging biometric data of the fetal posterior fossa, suggest and evaluate new parameters, and demonstrate the possible clinical applications of these data. This was a retrospective review of 215 fetal MR imaging examinations with normal findings and 5 examinations of fetuses with a suspected pathologic posterior fossa. Six previously reported parameters and 8 new parameters were measured. Three new parameter ratios were calculated. Interobserver agreement was calculated by using the intraclass correlation coefficient. For measuring each structure, 151-211 MR imaging examinations were selected, resulting in a normal biometry curve according to gestational age for each parameter. Analysis of the ratio parameters showed that vermian lobe ratio and cerebellar hemisphere ratio remain constant with gestational age and that the vermis-to-cisterna magna ratio varies with gestational age. Measurements of the 5 pathologic fetuses are presented on the normal curves. Interobserver agreement was excellent, with the intraclass correlation coefficients of most parameters above 0.9 and only 2 parameters below 0.8. The biometry curves derived from new and existing biometric data and presented in this study may expand and deepen the biometry we use today, while keeping it simple and repeatable. By applying these extensive biometric data on suspected abnormal cases, diagnoses may be confirmed, better classified, or completely altered. © 2015 by American Journal of Neuroradiology.

Posterior lumbar interbody fusion using non resorbable poly-ether-ether-ketone versus resorbable poly-L-lactide-co-D,L-lactide fusion devices. Clinical outcome at a minimum of 2-year follow-up.

PubMed

Jiya, Timothy U; Smit, T; van Royen, B J; Mullender, M

2011-04-01

Previous papers on resorbable poly-L-lactide-co-D,L-lactide (PLDLLA) cages in spinal fusion have failed to report adequately on patient-centred clinical outcome measures. Also comparison of PLDLLA cage with a traditionally applicable counterpart has not been previously reported. This is the first randomized prospective study that assesses clinical outcome of PLDLLA cage compared with a poly-ether-ether-ketone (PEEK) implant. Twenty-six patients were randomly assigned to undergo instrumented posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) whereby either a PEEK cage or a PLDLLA cage was implanted. Clinical outcome based on visual analogue scale scores for leg pain and back pain, as well as Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and SF-36 questionnaires were documented and analysed. When compared with preoperative values, all clinical parameters have significantly improved in the PEEK group at 2 years after surgery with the exception of SF-36 general health, SF-36 mental health and SF-36 role emotional scores. No clinical parameter showed significant improvement at 2 years after surgery compared with preoperative values in the PLDLLA patient group. Only six patients (50%) in the PLDLLA group showed improvement in the VAS scores for leg and back pain as well as the ODI, as opposed to 10 patients (71%) in the PEEK group. One-third of the patients in the PLDLLA group actually reported worsening of their pain scores and ODI. Three cases of mild to moderate osteolysis were seen in the PLDLLA group. Following up on our preliminary report, these 2-year results confirm the superiority of the PEEK implant to the resorbable PLDLLA implant in aiding spinal fusion and alleviating symptoms following PLIF in patients with degenerative spondylolisthesis associated with either canal stenosis or foramen stenosis or both and emanating from a single lumbar segment.

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

Han, Cheongho; Jung, Youn Kil; Bennett, David P.

Recently, the discovery of a Venus-mass planet orbiting a brown-dwarf host in a binary system was reported from the analysis of the microlensing event OGLE-2013-BLG-0723. We reanalyze the event considering the possibility of other interpretations. From this, we find a new solution where the lens is composed of two bodies, in contrast to the three-body solution of the previous analysis. The new solution better explains the observed light curve than the previous solution with Δ χ {sup 2} ∼ 202, suggesting that the new solution is a correct model for the event. From the estimation of the physical parameters basedmore » on the new interpretation, we find that the lens system is composed of two low-mass stars with ∼0.2 M {sub ⊙} and ∼0.1 M {sub ⊙} and located at a distance of ∼3 kpc. The fact that the physical parameters correspond to those of the most common lens population located at a distance with a large lensing probability further supports the likelihood of the new interpretation. Considering that two dramatically different solutions can approximately explain the observed light curve, the event suggests the need for carefully testing all possible lens-system geometries.« less

Kinetic modelling of a diesel-polluted clayey soil bioremediation process.

PubMed

Fernández, Engracia Lacasa; Merlo, Elena Moliterni; Mayor, Lourdes Rodríguez; Camacho, José Villaseñor

2016-07-01

A mathematical model is proposed to describe a diesel-polluted clayey soil bioremediation process. The reaction system under study was considered a completely mixed closed batch reactor, which initially contacted a soil matrix polluted with diesel hydrocarbons, an aqueous liquid-specific culture medium and a microbial inoculation. The model coupled the mass transfer phenomena and the distribution of hydrocarbons among four phases (solid, S; water, A; non-aqueous liquid, NAPL; and air, V) with Monod kinetics. In the first step, the model simulating abiotic conditions was used to estimate only the mass transfer coefficients. In the second step, the model including both mass transfer and biodegradation phenomena was used to estimate the biological kinetic and stoichiometric parameters. In both situations, the model predictions were validated with experimental data that corresponded to previous research by the same authors. A correct fit between the model predictions and the experimental data was observed because the modelling curves captured the major trends for the diesel distribution in each phase. The model parameters were compared to different previously reported values found in the literature. Pearson correlation coefficients were used to show the reproducibility level of the model. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier B.V.

A thin, dense crust for Mercury

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sori, Michael M.

2018-05-01

Crustal thickness is a crucial geophysical parameter in understanding the geology and geochemistry of terrestrial planets. Recent development of mathematical techniques suggests that previous studies based on assumptions of isostasy overestimated crustal thickness on some of the solid bodies of the solar system, leading to a need to revisit those analyses. Here, I apply these techniques to Mercury. Using MESSENGER-derived elemental abundances, I calculate a map of grain density (average 2974 ± 89 kg/m3) which shows that Pratt isostasy is unlikely to be a major compensation mechanism of Mercury's topography. Assuming Airy isostasy, I find the best fit value for Mercury's mean crustal thickness is 26 ± 11 km, 25% lower than the most recently reported and previously thinnest number. Several geological implications follow from this relatively low value for crustal thickness, including showing that the largest impacts very likely excavated mantle material onto Mercury's surface. The new results also show that Mercury and the Moon have a similar proportion of their rocky silicates composing their crusts, and thus Mercury is not uniquely efficient at crustal production amongst terrestrial bodies. Higher resolution topography and gravity data, especially for the southern hemisphere, will be necessary to refine Mercury's crustal parameters further.

Multispectral diffuse optical tomography of finger joints

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lighter, Daniel; Filer, Andrew; Dehghani, Hamid

2017-07-01

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by synovial inflammation. The current treatment paradigm for earlier, more aggressive therapy places importance on development of functional imaging modalities, capable of quantifying joint changes at the earliest stages. Diffuse optical tomography (DOT) has shown great promise in this regard, due to its cheap, non-invasive, non-ionizing and high contrast nature. Underlying pathological activity in afflicted joints leads to altered optical properties of the synovial region, with absorption and scattering increasing. Previous studies have used these optical changes as features for classifying diseased joints from healthy. Non-tomographic, single wavelength, continuous wave (CW) measurements of trans-illuminated joints have previously reported achieving this with specificity and sensitivity in the range 80 - 90% [1]. A single wavelength, frequency domain DOT system, combined with machine learning techniques, has been shown to achieve sensitivity and specificity in the range of 93.8 - 100% [2]. A CW system is presented here which collects data at 5 wavelengths, enabling reconstruction of pathophysiological parameters such as oxygenation and total hemoglobin, with the aim of identifying localized hypoxia and angiogenesis associated with inflammation in RA joints. These initial studies focus on establishing levels of variation in recovered parameters from images of healthy controls.

Sonic horizon formation for oscillating Bose-Einstein condensates in isotropic harmonic potential

PubMed Central

Wang, Ying; Zhou, Yu; Zhou, Shuyu

2016-01-01

We study the sonic horizon phenomena of the oscillating Bose-Einstein condensates in isotropic harmonic potential. Based on the Gross-Pitaevskii equation model and variational method, we derive the original analytical formula for the criteria and lifetime of the formation of the sonic horizon, demonstrating pictorially the interaction parameter dependence for the occur- rence of the sonic horizon and damping effect of the system distribution width. Our analytical results corroborate quantitatively the particular features of the sonic horizon reported in previous numerical study. PMID:27922129

I Will Never Forget: An Analysis of the POW/MIA (Prisoners of War/Missing in Action) Episode in the War in Southeast Asia.

DTIC Science & Technology

1982-05-01

34 .-.. - ’,’,/,,...-,.......". ..... --........-...-..... ".-.-,. account for the extremely low return rate . As evidenced in the report, the analysis included consideration for such parameters as geographic loss...South Vietnam, although supposedly under friendly control, had an appalling rate for accountability. Only five POW returnees were recovered out of Hanoi...At first I attributed this great * deviation from previous year’s capture rate proportions to 4. the more remote areas where the missions were flown

The SM and NLO Multileg and SM MC Working Groups: Summary Report

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

Alcaraz Maestre, J.; et al.

2012-03-01

The 2011 Les Houches workshop was the first to confront LHC data. In the two years since the previous workshop there have been significant advances in both soft and hard QCD, particularly in the areas of multi-leg NLO calculations, the inclusion of those NLO calculations into parton shower Monte Carlos, and the tuning of the non-perturbative parameters of those Monte Carlos. These proceedings describe the theoretical advances that have taken place, the impact of the early LHC data, and the areas for future development.

A Comparison of Mechanical Tetracycline Disinfection of Osseotite and Nanotite Implant Surfaces in a Simulated Model of Peri-implantitis

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-08-14

parameters  used  to   define  disease,  subject  selection  and  the  length  of...disinfection  of  previous  generations  of  implants,   hydroxyapatite -­‐coated  titanium  and  smooth,  machined  surface  implants...of   hydroxyapatite -­‐coated  and   grit-­‐blasted  implants.    They  reported  that  the  different  surfaces  were

Inventory of Shale Formations in the US, Including Geologic, Hydrological, and Mechanical Characteristics

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

Dobson, Patrick; Houseworth, James

2013-11-22

The objective of this report is to build upon previous compilations of shale formations within many of the major sedimentary basins in the US by developing GIS data delineating isopach and structural depth maps for many of these units. These data are being incorporated into the LANL digital GIS database being developed for determining host rock distribution and depth/thickness parameters consistent with repository design. Methods were developed to assess hydrological and geomechanical properties and conditions for shale formations based on sonic velocity measurements.

Interaction of breathing localized solutions for subcritical bifurcations

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

Deissler, R.J.; Brand, H.R.

1995-06-12

We discuss interactions of spatially localized solutions, which breathe in the modulus, for coupled quintic complex Ginzburg-Landau equations. The interaction behavior is much richer than and qualitatively different from that of the fixed-shape solutions reported previously. The outcome of a collision can depend on the initial conditions, and, in particular, {ital sensitively} on the initial conditions for {ital chaotic} solutions, even though parameter values are unchanged. The novelty of these interactions, as compared to those of the fixed-shape solutions and to those of solitons is emphasized.

On the Tetragonal Forms of KMo 4O 6

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McCarroll, W. H.; Ramanujachary, K. V.; Greenblatt, M.; Marsh, Richard E.

1995-06-01

A reexamination of the X-ray diffraction data for the tetragonal form of KMo4O6 prepared by fused salt electrolysis leads to the conclusion that the crystal structure is better described by using space group P 4/mbm and not P4¯ as previously reported. However, refinement in the new space group does not result in any significant changes in the atomic arrangement. Possible reasons for the significant difference between the c lattice parameter of this form of KMo4O6 and that prepared at high pressures are also discussed.

The method of lines in three dimensional fracture mechanics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gyekenyesi, J.; Berke, L.

1980-01-01

A review of recent developments in the calculation of design parameters for fracture mechanics by the method of lines (MOL) is presented. Three dimensional elastic and elasto-plastic formulations are examined and results from previous and current research activities are reported. The application of MOL to the appropriate partial differential equations of equilibrium leads to coupled sets of simultaneous ordinary differential equations. Solutions of these equations are obtained by the Peano-Baker and by the recurrance relations methods. The advantages and limitations of both solution methods from the computational standpoint are summarized.

Waste streams in a crewed space habitat. II

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Golub, Morton A.; Wydeven, Theodore

1992-01-01

An update is presented of a compilation of generation rates and chemical compositions of potential waste streams in a typical crewed space habitat which was reported in the NASA Technical Memorandum. New topics under consideration include data obtained from Soviet literature on life support issues and data on various minor human body wastes not presented previously (saliva, Flatus, hair, finger- and toenails, dried skin and skin secretions, tears and semen). Attention is also given to the latest information on the environmental control and life support system design parameters for SSF.

Modeling Parasitic Energy Losses and the Impact of Advanced Tribological Concepts on Fuel Efficiency - Final CRADA Report

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

Fenske, George

2016-11-28

Our primary task for this project was to perform FMEP calculations for a broad range of parameters including engine type [spark ignition (SI) or compression ignition (CI)], engine size, engine mode (speed and load), lubricant viscosity, asperity friction, surface finish, oil type (mineral or synthetic), and additive (friction modifier), as discussed previously [1–3]. The actual analysis was limited to a large diesel engine and it included both load and speed dependencies as well as lubricant viscosity and speed.

Reparameterization of Solute—Solute Interactions for Amino Acid-Sugar Systems Using Isopiestic Osmotic Pressure Molecular Dynamics Simulations

PubMed Central

Lay, Wesley K.; Miller, Mark S.

2018-01-01

AMBER/GLYCAM and CHARMM are popular force fields for simulations of amino acids and sugars. Here we report excessively attractive amino acid-sugar interactions in both force fields, and corrections to nonbonded interactions that match experimental osmotic pressures of mixed aqueous solutions of diglycine and sucrose. The modified parameters also improve the ΔGtrans of diglycine from water to aqueous sucrose and, with AMBERff99SB/GLYCAM06, eliminate a caging effect seen in previous simulations of the protein ubiquitin with glucose. PMID:28437100

Biaxial strain in graphene adhered to shallow depressions.

PubMed

Metzger, Constanze; Rémi, Sebastian; Liu, Mengkun; Kusminskiy, Silvia V; Castro Neto, Antonio H; Swan, Anna K; Goldberg, Bennett B

2010-01-01

Measurements on graphene exfoliated over a substrate prepatterned with shallow depressions demonstrate that graphene does not remain free-standing but instead adheres to the substrate despite the induced biaxial strain. The strain is homogeneous over the depression bottom as determined by Raman measurements. We find higher Raman shifts and Gruneisen parameters of the phonons underlying the G and 2D bands under biaxial strain than previously reported. Interference modeling is used to determine the vertical position of the graphene and to calculate the optimum dielectric substrate stack for maximum Raman signal.

Toxicological assessment of Ashitaba Chalcone.

PubMed

Maronpot, Robert R

2015-03-01

The plant Angelica keiskei contains two main physiologically active flavonoid chalcones, 4-hydroxyderricin and xanthoangelol. Known as ashitaba in Japan, powder from the sap is widely consumed for its medicinal properties in Asia as a dietary supplement. Limited previously reported mammalian studies were without evidence of toxicity. GLP studies reported here, including a bacterial reverse mutation assay, a chromosome aberration assay, and an in vivo micronucleus assay are negative for genotoxicity. A GLP- compliant 90-day repeated oral gavage study of ashitaba yellow sap powder containing 8.45% chalcones in Sprague Dawley rats resulted in expected known physiological effects on coagulation parameters and plasma lipids at 300 and 1000 mg/kg/day. Ashitaba-related pathology included a dose-related male rat-specific alpha 2-urinary globulin nephropathy at 100, 300, and 1000 mg/kg/day and jejunal lymphangiectasia in both sexes at 1000 mg/kg/day. All other study parameters and histopathological changes were incidental or not of toxicological concern. Based on these studies ashitaba chalcone powder is not genotoxic with a NOAEL of 300 mg/kg in male and female rats. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Retrieving relevant time-course experiments: a study on Arabidopsis microarrays.

PubMed

Şener, Duygu Dede; Oğul, Hasan

2016-06-01

Understanding time-course regulation of genes in response to a stimulus is a major concern in current systems biology. The problem is usually approached by computational methods to model the gene behaviour or its networked interactions with the others by a set of latent parameters. The model parameters can be estimated through a meta-analysis of available data obtained from other relevant experiments. The key question here is how to find the relevant experiments which are potentially useful in analysing current data. In this study, the authors address this problem in the context of time-course gene expression experiments from an information retrieval perspective. To this end, they introduce a computational framework that takes a time-course experiment as a query and reports a list of relevant experiments retrieved from a given repository. These retrieved experiments can then be used to associate the environmental factors of query experiment with the findings previously reported. The model is tested using a set of time-course Arabidopsis microarrays. The experimental results show that relevant experiments can be successfully retrieved based on content similarity.

Structure-activity relationships of pyrethroid insecticides. Part 2. The use of molecular dynamics for conformation searching and average parameter calculation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hudson, Brian D.; George, Ashley R.; Ford, Martyn G.; Livingstone, David J.

1992-04-01

Molecular dynamics simulations have been performed on a number of conformationally flexible pyrethroid insecticides. The results indicate that molecular dynamics is a suitable tool for conformational searching of small molecules given suitable simulation parameters. The structures derived from the simulations are compared with the static conformation used in a previous study. Various physicochemical parameters have been calculated for a set of conformations selected from the simulations using multivariate analysis. The averaged values of the parameters over the selected set (and the factors derived from them) are compared with the single conformation values used in the previous study.

[Evaluation of maternal parameters as risk factors for premature birth (individual and combined effects)].

PubMed

Voigt, M; Briese, V; Pietzner, V; Kirchengast, S; Schneider, K T M; Straube, S; Jorch, G

2009-08-01

We aimed to examine the individual and combined effects of nine maternal parameters (biological, medical, and social) on rates of prematurity. Our objective was to provide obstetricians with a way of screening women for likely premature deliveries. We conducted a retrospective analysis on the data of about 2.3 million pregnancies taken from the German perinatal statistics of 1995-2000. Rates of prematurity were calculated with single and multi-dimensional analyses on the basis of nine maternal parameters (age, weight, height, number of previous live births, stillbirths, miscarriages and terminations of pregnancy, smoking status, previous premature delivery). The following combinations of parameters were investigated in particular: rates of prematurity according to the number of previous stillbirths, miscarriages, and terminations; rates of prematurity according to the number of previous live births and maternal age, height and weight. We also included daily cigarette consumption and previous premature deliveries in our analyses. The rate of prematurity (< or =36 weeks of gestation) in our population was 7.0%; the rate of moderately early premature deliveries (32-36 weeks) was 5.9%, and the rate of very early premature deliveries (< or =31 weeks) was 1.1%. Our multi-dimensional analyses revealed rates of prematurity (< or =36 weeks) between 5.1% and 27.5% depending on the combination of parameters. We found the highest rate of prematurity of 27.5% in women with the following combination of parameters: > or =1 stillbirth, > or =2 terminations of pregnancy and > or =2 miscarriages. A rather high risk of premature delivery (>11%) was also found for elderly (> or =40 years) grand multiparous women as well as small (< or =155 cm) and slim women (< or =45 kg). We have shown that certain combinations of maternal parameters are associated with a high risk of premature deliveries (>10%). The risk table that we present here may assist in predicting premature delivery. Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart.New York.

Radiofrequency denervation of the hip joint for pain management: case report and literature review.

PubMed

Gupta, Gaurav; Radhakrishna, Mohan; Etheridge, Paul; Besemann, Markus; Finlayson, Robert J

2014-01-01

A 55-year-old male presented with severe pain and functional limitations as a result of left hip osteoarthritis. He had failed multiple treatments while waiting for a hip arthroplasty, including physical therapy, medications, and various intra-articular injections. Thermal radiofrequency lesioning of the obturator and femoral articular branches to the hip joint was offered in the interim. To our knowledge, this is the first report to describe an inferior-lateral approach for lesioning the obturator branch, the clinical application of successive lesions to increase denervation area, and outcomes in a patient receiving a second treatment with previously good results. To discuss relevant and technical factors for this specific case, we reviewed previous literature on hip joint radiofrequency and critically evaluated previous anatomic studies in the context of radiofrequency. The first treatment provided significant benefit for a period of 6 months. A second treatment was employed providing only mild to moderate benefit until his joint replacement surgery 4 months later. Literature review revealed studies of low quality secondary to small sample sizes, patient selection methodology, inclusion of patients with heterogenous etiologies for pain, variable needle placement techniques, and lack of measurement of functional outcomes. Case report and low quality studies in existing literature. Hip joint radiofrequency denervation is a promising avenue for adjunctive treatment of hip pain. Further cadaveric studies are required to clarify a multitude of technical parameters. Once these are well defined, future clinical studies should consider pain, functional, and economic outcomes in their design.

Physical activity and body composition changes during military service.

PubMed

Mikkola, Ilona; Jokelainen, Jari J; Timonen, Markku J; Härkönen, Pirjo K; Saastamoinen, Eero; Laakso, Mauri A; Peitso, Ari J; Juuti, Anna-Kaisa; Keinänen-Kiukaanniemi, Sirkka M; Mäkinen, Tiina M

2009-09-01

To examine how body composition changes in different body mass index (BMI) categories among young Finnish men during military service, which is associated with marked changes in diet and physical activity. In addition, this study examined how reported previous physical activity affected the body composition changes. Altogether 1003 men (19 yr) were followed throughout their military service (6-12 months). Height, weight, BMI, waist circumference, and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) were recorded. Previous physical activity was assessed at the beginning of the service by a questionnaire. Body composition was measured by bioelectrical impedance assessments (BIA) at the beginning and at the end of the service. The measured parameters were fat mass (FM), fat percentage (fat %), fat-free mass (FFM), visceral fat area (VFA), lean body mass (LBM), and skeletal muscle mass (SMM). On average, military training decreased weight by 0.7%, FM by 9.7%, fat % by 6.6%, and VFA by 43.4%. FFM increased by 1.3%, LBM by 1.2%, and SMM by 1.7%. The group of underweight and normal-weight men gained weight, FM, and FFM, whereas overweight and obese men lost weight and FM and gained FFM. FM was most reduced in the groups of overweight (20.8%) and obese (24.9%) men. The amount of VFA was reduced in all BMI groups (38%-44%). Among overweight men who reported being inactive previous to the military service, more beneficial changes in body composition were observed compared with those who reported being physically active. The lifestyle changes associated with military service markedly reduce fat tissue and increase the amount of lean tissue. These beneficial changes are prominent among previously inactive subjects with high BMI.

Therapeutic whole-body hypothermia reduces mortality in severe traumatic brain injury if the cooling index is sufficiently high: meta-analyses of the effect of single cooling parameters and their integrated measure.

PubMed

Olah, Emoke; Poto, Laszlo; Hegyi, Peter; Szabo, Imre; Hartmann, Petra; Solymar, Margit; Petervari, Erika; Balasko, Marta; Habon, Tamas; Rumbus, Zoltan; Tenk, Judit; Rostas, Ildiko; Weinberg, Jordan; Romanovsky, Andrej A; Garami, Andras

2018-04-21

Therapeutic hypothermia was investigated repeatedly as a tool to improve the outcome of severe traumatic brain injury (TBI), but previous clinical trials and meta-analyses found contradictory results. We aimed to determine the effectiveness of therapeutic whole-body hypothermia on the mortality of adult patients with severe TBI by using a novel approach of meta-analysis. We searched the PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases from inception to February 2017. The identified human studies were evaluated regarding statistical, clinical, and methodological designs to ensure inter-study homogeneity. We extracted data on TBI severity, body temperature, mortality, and cooling parameters; then we calculated the cooling index, an integrated measure of therapeutic hypothermia. Forest plot of all identified studies showed no difference in the outcome of TBI between cooled and not cooled patients, but inter-study heterogeneity was high. On the contrary, by meta-analysis of RCTs which were homogenous with regards to statistical, clinical designs and precisely reported the cooling protocol, we showed decreased odds ratio for mortality in therapeutic hypothermia compared to no cooling. As independent factors, milder and longer cooling, and rewarming at < 0.25°C/h were associated with better outcome. Therapeutic hypothermia was beneficial only if the cooling index (measure of combination of cooling parameters) was sufficiently high. We conclude that high methodological and statistical inter-study heterogeneity could underlie the contradictory results obtained in previous studies. By analyzing methodologically homogenous studies, we show that cooling improves the outcome of severe TBI and this beneficial effect depends on certain cooling parameters and on their integrated measure, the cooling index.

The effect of mydriasis from phenylephrine on corneal shape.

PubMed

Huang, Ronnie Y C; Lam, Andrew K C

2007-01-01

A previous study reported that pharmacologically-dilated pupils changed the corneal shape. Researchers used mydriatic agents with significant cycloplegic effect. The current study investigates the effect of mydriasis on corneal shape using phenylephrine alone, where phenylephrine has minimal effect on the accommodative system and whether corneal topography can be done after pupil dilation. Forty-four young healthy subjects with one eye randomly selected for mydriasis were used in this study. Twenty-two received one drop of 2.5% phenylephrine (group 1); the other 22 subjects had one drop of 0.4% benoxinate instilled prior to the application of 2.5% phenylephrine (group 2). They were matched for age and refractive error. Anterior chamber depth, pupil size and corneal parameters were compared before and after mydriasis. The corneal parameters included best-fit sphere (BFS), surface asymmetry index (SAI), surface regularity index (SRI) and the axial and tangential powers in the form of flattest and steepest powers, and in the form of M, J(0), and J(45) vector presentation. Group 1 and group 2 subjects had similar pre-mydriatic baseline ocular parameters. The mean (+/- SD) pupil dilation was 1.24 +/- 0.59 mm for group 1 and 1.80 +/- 0.95 mm for group 2. The dilation was significantly larger in group 2 (unpaired t-tests: t = 2.36, p = 0.02). There were no significant changes in corneal parameters from mydriasis in either group. Previous investigations used mydriatic agents, which affected not only the pupil size but also accommodation. The current study found that mydriasis from phenylephrine, with minimal effect on accommodation, did not result in significant corneal alteration, and corneal topography can be measured after pupil dilation with phenylephrine.

The RAVE-on Catalog of Stellar Atmospheric Parameters and Chemical Abundances for Chemo-dynamic Studies in the Gaia Era

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Casey, Andrew R.; Hawkins, Keith; Hogg, David W.; Ness, Melissa; Rix, Hans-Walter; Kordopatis, Georges; Kunder, Andrea; Steinmetz, Matthias; Koposov, Sergey; Enke, Harry; Sanders, Jason; Gilmore, Gerry; Zwitter, Tomaž; Freeman, Kenneth C.; Casagrande, Luca; Matijevič, Gal; Seabroke, George; Bienaymé, Olivier; Bland-Hawthorn, Joss; Gibson, Brad K.; Grebel, Eva K.; Helmi, Amina; Munari, Ulisse; Navarro, Julio F.; Reid, Warren; Siebert, Arnaud; Wyse, Rosemary

2017-05-01

The orbits, atmospheric parameters, chemical abundances, and ages of individual stars in the Milky Way provide the most comprehensive illustration of galaxy formation available. The Tycho-Gaia Astrometric Solution (TGAS) will deliver astrometric parameters for the largest ever sample of Milky Way stars, though its full potential cannot be realized without the addition of complementary spectroscopy. Among existing spectroscopic surveys, the RAdial Velocity Experiment (RAVE) has the largest overlap with TGAS (≳200,000 stars). We present a data-driven re-analysis of 520,781 RAVE spectra using The Cannon. For red giants, we build our model using high-fidelity APOGEE stellar parameters and abundances for stars that overlap with RAVE. For main sequence and sub-giant stars, our model uses stellar parameters from the K2/EPIC. We derive and validate effective temperature T eff, surface gravity log g, and chemical abundances of up to seven elements (O, Mg, Al, Si, Ca, Fe, and Ni). We report a total of 1,685,851 elemental abundances with a typical precision of 0.07 dex, a substantial improvement over previous RAVE data releases. The synthesis of RAVE-on and TGAS is the most powerful data set for chemo-dynamic analyses of the Milky Way ever produced.

Non-blind acoustic invisibility by dual layers of homogeneous single-negative media

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gao, He; Zhu, Yi-Fan; Fan, Xu-Dong; Liang, Bin; Yang, Jing; Cheng, Jian-Chun

2017-02-01

Non-blind invisibility cloaks allowing the concealed object to sense the outside world have great application potentials such as in high-precision sensing or underwater camouflage. However the existing designs based on coordinate transformation techniques need complicated spatially-varying negative index or intricate multi-layered configurations, substantially increasing the difficulty in practical realization. Here we report on the non-blind acoustic invisibility for a circular object in free space with simple distribution of cloak parameters. The mechanism is that, instead of utilizing the transformation acoustics technique, we develop the analytical formulae for fast prediction of the scattering from the object and then use an evolutionary optimization to retrieve the desired cloak parameters for minimizing the scattered field. In this way, it is proven possible to break through the fundamental limit of complementary condition that must be satisfied by the effective parameters of the components in transformation acoustics-based cloaks. Numerical results show that the resulting cloak produces a non-bflind invisibility as perfect as in previous designs, but only needs two layers with homogenous single-negative parameters. With full simplification in parameter distribution and broken symmetry in complementary relationship, our scheme opens new route to free-space non-blind invisibility, taking a significant step towards real-world application of cloaking devices.

Comparison between different sets of suspension parameters and introduction of new modified skyhook control strategy incorporating varying road condition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abul Kashem, Saad Bin; Ektesabi, Mehran; Nagarajah, Romesh

2012-07-01

This study examines the uncertainties in modelling a quarter car suspension system caused by the effect of different sets of suspension parameters of a corresponding mathematical model. To overcome this problem, 11 sets of identified parameters of a suspension system have been compared, taken from the most recent published work. From this investigation, a set of parameters were chosen which showed a better performance than others in respect of peak amplitude and settling time. These chosen parameters were then used to investigate the performance of a new modified continuous skyhook control strategy with adaptive gain that dictates the vehicle's semi-active suspension system. The proposed system first captures the road profile input over a certain period. Then it calculates the best possible value of the skyhook gain (SG) for the subsequent process. Meanwhile the system is controlled according to the new modified skyhook control law using an initial or previous value of the SG. In this study, the proposed suspension system is compared with passive and other recently reported skyhook controlled semi-active suspension systems. Its performances have been evaluated in terms of ride comfort and road handling performance. The model has been validated in accordance with the international standards of admissible acceleration levels ISO2631 and human vibration perception.

Non-blind acoustic invisibility by dual layers of homogeneous single-negative media

PubMed Central

Gao, He; Zhu, Yi-fan; Fan, Xu-dong; Liang, Bin; Yang, Jing; Cheng, Jian-Chun

2017-01-01

Non-blind invisibility cloaks allowing the concealed object to sense the outside world have great application potentials such as in high-precision sensing or underwater camouflage. However the existing designs based on coordinate transformation techniques need complicated spatially-varying negative index or intricate multi-layered configurations, substantially increasing the difficulty in practical realization. Here we report on the non-blind acoustic invisibility for a circular object in free space with simple distribution of cloak parameters. The mechanism is that, instead of utilizing the transformation acoustics technique, we develop the analytical formulae for fast prediction of the scattering from the object and then use an evolutionary optimization to retrieve the desired cloak parameters for minimizing the scattered field. In this way, it is proven possible to break through the fundamental limit of complementary condition that must be satisfied by the effective parameters of the components in transformation acoustics-based cloaks. Numerical results show that the resulting cloak produces a non-bflind invisibility as perfect as in previous designs, but only needs two layers with homogenous single-negative parameters. With full simplification in parameter distribution and broken symmetry in complementary relationship, our scheme opens new route to free-space non-blind invisibility, taking a significant step towards real-world application of cloaking devices. PMID:28195227

A study of application of remote sensing to river forecasting. Volume 2: Detailed technical report, NASA-IBM streamflow forecast model user's guide

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1975-01-01

The Model is described along with data preparation, determining model parameters, initializing and optimizing parameters (calibration) selecting control options and interpreting results. Some background information is included, and appendices contain a dictionary of variables, a source program listing, and flow charts. The model was operated on an IBM System/360 Model 44, using a model 2250 keyboard/graphics terminal for interactive operation. The model can be set up and operated in a batch processing mode on any System/360 or 370 that has the memory capacity. The model requires 210K bytes of core storage, and the optimization program, OPSET (which was used previous to but not in this study), requires 240K bytes. The data band for one small watershed requires approximately 32 tracks of disk storage.

Stochastic resonance in a fractional oscillator driven by multiplicative quadratic noise

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ren, Ruibin; Luo, Maokang; Deng, Ke

2017-02-01

Stochastic resonance of a fractional oscillator subject to an external periodic field as well as to multiplicative and additive noise is investigated. The fluctuations of the eigenfrequency are modeled as the quadratic function of the trichotomous noise. Applying the moment equation method and Shapiro-Loginov formula, we obtain the exact expression of the complex susceptibility and related stability criteria. Theoretical analysis and numerical simulations indicate that the spectral amplification (SPA) depends non-monotonicly both on the external driving frequency and the parameters of the quadratic noise. In addition, the investigations into fractional stochastic systems have suggested that both the noise parameters and the memory effect can induce the phenomenon of stochastic multi-resonance (SMR), which is previously reported and believed to be absent in the case of the multiplicative noise with only a linear term.

Meat and milk compositions of bovine clones

PubMed Central

Tian, X. Cindy; Kubota, Chikara; Sakashita, Kunihito; Izaike, Yoshiaki; Okano, Ryoichi; Tabara, Norio; Curchoe, Carol; Jacob, Lavina; Zhang, Yuqin; Smith, Sadie; Bormann, Charles; Xu, Jie; Sato, Masumi; Andrew, Sheila; Yang, Xiangzhong

2005-01-01

The technology is now available for commercial cloning of farm animals for food production, but is the food safe for consumers? Here, we provide data on >100 parameters that compare the composition of meat and milk from beef and dairy cattle derived from cloning to those of genetic- and breed-matched control animals from conventional reproduction. The cloned animals and the comparators were managed under the same conditions and received the same diet. The composition of the meat and milk from the clones were largely not statistically different from those of matched comparators, and all parameters examined were within the normal industry standards or previously reported values. The data generated from our match-controlled experiments provide science-based information desired by regulatory agencies to address public concerns about the safety of meat and milk from somatic animal clones. PMID:15829585

Refractive Index Seen by a Probe Beam Interacting with a Laser-Plasma System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Turnbull, D.; Goyon, C.; Kemp, G. E.; Pollock, B. B.; Mariscal, D.; Divol, L.; Ross, J. S.; Patankar, S.; Moody, J. D.; Michel, P.

2017-01-01

We report the first complete set of measurements of a laser-plasma optical system's refractive index, as seen by a second probe laser beam, as a function of the relative wavelength shift between the two laser beams. Both the imaginary and real refractive index components are found to be in good agreement with linear theory using plasma parameters measured by optical Thomson scattering and interferometry; the former is in contrast to previous work and has implications for crossed-beam energy transfer in indirect-drive inertial confinement fusion, and the latter is measured for the first time. The data include the first demonstration of a laser-plasma polarizer with 85 %- 87 % extinction for the particular laser and plasma parameters used in this experiment, complementing the existing suite of high-power, tunable, and ultrafast plasma-based photonic devices.

Refractive Index Seen by a Probe Beam Interacting with a Laser-Plasma System.

PubMed

Turnbull, D; Goyon, C; Kemp, G E; Pollock, B B; Mariscal, D; Divol, L; Ross, J S; Patankar, S; Moody, J D; Michel, P

2017-01-06

We report the first complete set of measurements of a laser-plasma optical system's refractive index, as seen by a second probe laser beam, as a function of the relative wavelength shift between the two laser beams. Both the imaginary and real refractive index components are found to be in good agreement with linear theory using plasma parameters measured by optical Thomson scattering and interferometry; the former is in contrast to previous work and has implications for crossed-beam energy transfer in indirect-drive inertial confinement fusion, and the latter is measured for the first time. The data include the first demonstration of a laser-plasma polarizer with 85%-87% extinction for the particular laser and plasma parameters used in this experiment, complementing the existing suite of high-power, tunable, and ultrafast plasma-based photonic devices.

Reference intervals for 24 laboratory parameters determined in 24-hour urine collections.

PubMed

Curcio, Raffaele; Stettler, Helen; Suter, Paolo M; Aksözen, Jasmin Barman; Saleh, Lanja; Spanaus, Katharina; Bochud, Murielle; Minder, Elisabeth; von Eckardstein, Arnold

2016-01-01

Reference intervals for many laboratory parameters determined in 24-h urine collections are either not publicly available or based on small numbers, not sex specific or not from a representative sample. Osmolality and concentrations or enzymatic activities of sodium, potassium, chloride, glucose, creatinine, citrate, cortisol, pancreatic α-amylase, total protein, albumin, transferrin, immunoglobulin G, α1-microglobulin, α2-macroglobulin, as well as porphyrins and their precursors (δ-aminolevulinic acid and porphobilinogen) were determined in 241 24-h urine samples of a population-based cohort of asymptomatic adults (121 men and 120 women). For 16 of these 24 parameters creatinine-normalized ratios were calculated based on 24-h urine creatinine. The reference intervals for these parameters were calculated according to the CLSI C28-A3 statistical guidelines. By contrast to most published reference intervals, which do not stratify for sex, reference intervals of 12 of 24 laboratory parameters in 24-h urine collections and of eight of 16 parameters as creatinine-normalized ratios differed significantly between men and women. For six parameters calculated as 24-h urine excretion and four parameters calculated as creatinine-normalized ratios no reference intervals had been published before. For some parameters we found significant and relevant deviations from previously reported reference intervals, most notably for 24-h urine cortisol in women. Ten 24-h urine parameters showed weak or moderate sex-specific correlations with age. By applying up-to-date analytical methods and clinical chemistry analyzers to 24-h urine collections from a large population-based cohort we provide as yet the most comprehensive set of sex-specific reference intervals calculated according to CLSI guidelines for parameters determined in 24-h urine collections.

A means to estimate thermal and kinetic parameters of coal dust layer from hot surface ignition tests.

PubMed

Park, Haejun; Rangwala, Ali S; Dembsey, Nicholas A

2009-08-30

A method to estimate thermal and kinetic parameters of Pittsburgh seam coal subject to thermal runaway is presented using the standard ASTM E 2021 hot surface ignition test apparatus. Parameters include thermal conductivity (k), activation energy (E), coupled term (QA) of heat of reaction (Q) and pre-exponential factor (A) which are required, but rarely known input values to determine the thermal runaway propensity of a dust material. Four different dust layer thicknesses: 6.4, 12.7, 19.1 and 25.4mm, are tested, and among them, a single steady state dust layer temperature profile of 12.7 mm thick dust layer is used to estimate k, E and QA. k is calculated by equating heat flux from the hot surface layer and heat loss rate on the boundary assuming negligible heat generation in the coal dust layer at a low hot surface temperature. E and QA are calculated by optimizing a numerically estimated steady state dust layer temperature distribution to the experimentally obtained temperature profile of a 12.7 mm thick dust layer. Two unknowns, E and QA, are reduced to one from the correlation of E and QA obtained at criticality of thermal runaway. The estimated k is 0.1 W/mK matching the previously reported value. E ranges from 61.7 to 83.1 kJ/mol, and the corresponding QA ranges from 1.7 x 10(9) to 4.8 x 10(11)J/kg s. The mean values of E (72.4 kJ/mol) and QA (2.8 x 10(10)J/kg s) are used to predict the critical hot surface temperatures for other thicknesses, and good agreement is observed between measured and experimental values. Also, the estimated E and QA ranges match the corresponding ranges calculated from the multiple tests method and values reported in previous research.

Defining a procedure for predicting the duration of the approximately isothermal segments within the proposed drying regime as a function of the drying air parameters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vasić, M.; Radojević, Z.

2017-08-01

One of the main disadvantages of the recently reported method, for setting up the drying regime based on the theory of moisture migration during drying, lies in a fact that it is based on a large number of isothermal experiments. In addition each isothermal experiment requires the use of different drying air parameters. The main goal of this paper was to find a way how to reduce the number of isothermal experiments without affecting the quality of the previously proposed calculation method. The first task was to define the lower and upper inputs as well as the output of the “black box” which will be used in the Box-Wilkinson’s orthogonal multi-factorial experimental design. Three inputs (drying air temperature, humidity and velocity) were used within the experimental design. The output parameter of the model represents the time interval between any two chosen characteristic points presented on the Deff - t. The second task was to calculate the output parameter for each planed experiments. The final output of the model is the equation which can predict the time interval between any two chosen characteristic points as a function of the drying air parameters. This equation is valid for any value of the drying air parameters which are within the defined area designated with lower and upper limiting values.

Bayesian estimation of source parameters and associated Coulomb failure stress changes for the 2005 Fukuoka (Japan) Earthquake

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dutta, Rishabh; Jónsson, Sigurjón; Wang, Teng; Vasyura-Bathke, Hannes

2018-04-01

Several researchers have studied the source parameters of the 2005 Fukuoka (northwestern Kyushu Island, Japan) earthquake (Mw 6.6) using teleseismic, strong motion and geodetic data. However, in all previous studies, errors of the estimated fault solutions have been neglected, making it impossible to assess the reliability of the reported solutions. We use Bayesian inference to estimate the location, geometry and slip parameters of the fault and their uncertainties using Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar and Global Positioning System data. The offshore location of the earthquake makes the fault parameter estimation challenging, with geodetic data coverage mostly to the southeast of the earthquake. To constrain the fault parameters, we use a priori constraints on the magnitude of the earthquake and the location of the fault with respect to the aftershock distribution and find that the estimated fault slip ranges from 1.5 to 2.5 m with decreasing probability. The marginal distributions of the source parameters show that the location of the western end of the fault is poorly constrained by the data whereas that of the eastern end, located closer to the shore, is better resolved. We propagate the uncertainties of the fault model and calculate the variability of Coulomb failure stress changes for the nearby Kego fault, located directly below Fukuoka city, showing that the main shock increased stress on the fault and brought it closer to failure.

Nontraumatic spinal subdural hematoma complicating direct factor Xa inhibitor treatment (rivaroxaban): a challenging management.

PubMed

Dargazanli, Cyril; Lonjon, Nicolas; Gras-Combe, Guillaume

2016-05-01

We report on a 72-year-old male patient who developed a nontraumatic spinal subdural hematoma (SSDH) during rivaroxaban therapy, a relatively new orally administered direct factor Xa inhibitor. The patient sustained a sudden onset of interscapular pain, followed by gait impairment and paraplegia. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the spine demonstrated SSDH from T6 to T8. Laboratory tests revealed a high rivaroxaban level, associated with a major hemorrhagic risk. Surgery was, therefore, performed the following morning, after normalization of coagulation parameters. Determining the time of safe surgery remains challenging when hemorrhagic complications happen with direct factor Xa inhibitor, especially when neurological prognosis is engaged. Spinal subdural hematoma has not previously been reported following rivaroxaban therapy.

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

Casey, Andrew R.; Hawkins, Keith; Koposov, Sergey

The orbits, atmospheric parameters, chemical abundances, and ages of individual stars in the Milky Way provide the most comprehensive illustration of galaxy formation available. The Tycho- Gaia Astrometric Solution (TGAS) will deliver astrometric parameters for the largest ever sample of Milky Way stars, though its full potential cannot be realized without the addition of complementary spectroscopy. Among existing spectroscopic surveys, the RAdial Velocity Experiment (RAVE) has the largest overlap with TGAS (≳200,000 stars). We present a data-driven re-analysis of 520,781 RAVE spectra using The Cannon . For red giants, we build our model using high-fidelity APOGEE stellar parameters and abundancesmore » for stars that overlap with RAVE. For main sequence and sub-giant stars, our model uses stellar parameters from the K2/EPIC . We derive and validate effective temperature T {sub eff}, surface gravity log g , and chemical abundances of up to seven elements (O, Mg, Al, Si, Ca, Fe, and Ni). We report a total of 1,685,851 elemental abundances with a typical precision of 0.07 dex, a substantial improvement over previous RAVE data releases. The synthesis of RAVE-on and TGAS is the most powerful data set for chemo-dynamic analyses of the Milky Way ever produced.« less

The consequences of ignoring measurement invariance for path coefficients in structural equation models

PubMed Central

Guenole, Nigel; Brown, Anna

2014-01-01

We report a Monte Carlo study examining the effects of two strategies for handling measurement non-invariance – modeling and ignoring non-invariant items – on structural regression coefficients between latent variables measured with item response theory models for categorical indicators. These strategies were examined across four levels and three types of non-invariance – non-invariant loadings, non-invariant thresholds, and combined non-invariance on loadings and thresholds – in simple, partial, mediated and moderated regression models where the non-invariant latent variable occupied predictor, mediator, and criterion positions in the structural regression models. When non-invariance is ignored in the latent predictor, the focal group regression parameters are biased in the opposite direction to the difference in loadings and thresholds relative to the referent group (i.e., lower loadings and thresholds for the focal group lead to overestimated regression parameters). With criterion non-invariance, the focal group regression parameters are biased in the same direction as the difference in loadings and thresholds relative to the referent group. While unacceptable levels of parameter bias were confined to the focal group, bias occurred at considerably lower levels of ignored non-invariance than was previously recognized in referent and focal groups. PMID:25278911

Morphology, stoichiometry, and crystal structure control via post-annealing for Pt-ZnO nanograin Schottky barrier interfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chan, Yuet Ching; Yu, Jerry; Ho, Derek

2018-06-01

Nanointerfaces have attracted intensive research effort for advanced electronics due to their unique and tunable semiconducting properties made possible by metal-contacted oxide structures at the nanoscale. Although much work has been on the adjustment of fabrication parameters to achieve high-quality interfaces, little work has experimentally obtained the various correlations between material parameters and Schottky barrier electronic properties to accurately probe the underlying phenomenon. In this work, we investigate the control of Pt-ZnO nanograin interfaces properties by thermal annealing. Specifically, we quantitatively analyze the correlation between material parameters (such as surface morphology, crystallographic structure, and stoichiometry) and Schottky diode parameters (Schottky barrier height, ideality factor, and contact resistance). Results revealed strong dependencies of Schottky barrier characteristics on oxygen vacancies, surface roughness, grain density, d-spacing, and crystallite size. I-V-T data shows that annealing at 600 °C produces a nanograin based interface with the most rectifying diode characteristics. These dependencies, which have not been previously reported holistically, highlight the close relationship between material properties and Schottky barrier characteristics, and are instrumental for the performance optimization of nanostructured metal-semiconductor interfaces in advanced electronic devices.

Nonlinear Viscoelastic Characterization of the Porcine Spinal Cord

PubMed Central

Shetye, Snehal; Troyer, Kevin; Streijger, Femke; Lee, Jae H. T.; Kwon, Brian K.; Cripton, Peter; Puttlitz, Christian M.

2014-01-01

Although quasi-static and quasi-linear viscoelastic properties of the spinal cord have been reported previously, there are no published studies that have investigated the fully (strain-dependent) nonlinear viscoelastic properties of the spinal cord. In this study, stress relaxation experiments and dynamic cycling were performed on six fresh porcine lumbar cord specimens to examine their viscoelastic mechanical properties. The stress relaxation data were fitted to a modified superposition formulation and a novel finite ramp time correction technique was applied. The parameters obtained from this fitting methodology were used to predict the average dynamic cyclic viscoelastic behavior of the porcine cord. The data indicate that the porcine spinal cord exhibited fully nonlinear viscoelastic behavior. The average weighted RMSE for a Heaviside ramp fit was 2.8kPa, which was significantly greater (p < 0.001) than that of the nonlinear (comprehensive viscoelastic characterization (CVC) method) fit (0.365kPa). Further, the nonlinear mechanical parameters obtained were able to accurately predict the dynamic behavior, thus exemplifying the reliability of the obtained nonlinear parameters. These parameters will be important for future studies investigating various damage mechanisms of the spinal cord and studies developing high resolution finite elements models of the spine. PMID:24211612

The Ebola outbreak, 2013–2016: old lessons for new epidemics

PubMed Central

Lindsey, Benjamin; Ghinai, Isaac; Johnson, Anne M.; Heymann, David L.

2017-01-01

Ebola virus causes a severe haemorrhagic fever in humans with high case fatality and significant epidemic potential. The 2013–2016 outbreak in West Africa was unprecedented in scale, being larger than all previous outbreaks combined, with 28 646 reported cases and 11 323 reported deaths. It was also unique in its geographical distribution and multicountry spread. It is vital that the lessons learned from the world's largest Ebola outbreak are not lost. This article aims to provide a detailed description of the evolution of the outbreak. We contextualize this outbreak in relation to previous Ebola outbreaks and outline the theories regarding its origins and emergence. The outbreak is described by country, in chronological order, including epidemiological parameters and implementation of outbreak containment strategies. We then summarize the factors that led to rapid and extensive propagation, as well as highlight the key successes, failures and lessons learned from this outbreak and the response. This article is part of the themed issue ‘The 2013–2016 West African Ebola epidemic: data, decision-making and disease control’. PMID:28396469

Variation of oxygen content in selected potassium fluorido-oxido-tantalate phases

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boča, Miroslav; Moncoĺ, Ján; Netriová, Zuzana; Velič, Dušan; Jerigová, Monika; Nunney, Tim S.; Baily, Christopher J.; Kubíková, Blanka; Šimko, František; Janderka, Pavel

2011-12-01

The compound K 3[TaO 4]•K 3[TaF 4O 2] crystallises in a tetragonal system (space group I-4) with cell parameters a = 6.2220(3) Å and c = 8.7625(34) Å, respectively. The crystal structure consists of two anions, [TaO 4] 3- and [TaF 4O 2] 3- and cations K +. The tantalum atoms lie in special positions and serve as centres of both anions, which are substitution disorders. XPS measurements confirmed the existence of different binding energies corresponding to the different bonds of Ta sbnd O and Ta sbnd F. Oxygen is bound more strongly in [TaF 4O 2] 3-. By combination of single crystal analysis, XRD, SIMS and XPS it was suggested that previously reported cubic phase K 3TaOF 6 is in fact K 3TaO 2F 4 and previously reported tetragonal phase K 3TaO 2F 4 is in fact K 3[TaO 4]•K 3[TaF 4O 2].

Recovering Parameters of Johnson's SB Distribution

Treesearch

Bernard R. Parresol

2003-01-01

A new parameter recovery model for Johnson's SB distribution is developed. This latest alternative approach permits recovery of the range and both shape parameters. Previous models recovered only the two shape parameters. Also, a simple procedure for estimating the distribution minimum from sample values is presented. The new methodology...

Factors influencing the robustness of P-value measurements in CT texture prognosis studies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McQuaid, Sarah; Scuffham, James; Alobaidli, Sheaka; Prakash, Vineet; Ezhil, Veni; Nisbet, Andrew; South, Christopher; Evans, Philip

2017-07-01

Several studies have recently reported on the value of CT texture analysis in predicting survival, although the topic remains controversial, with further validation needed in order to consolidate the evidence base. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of varying the input parameters in the Kaplan-Meier analysis, to determine whether the resulting P-value can be considered to be a robust indicator of the parameter’s prognostic potential. A retrospective analysis of the CT-based normalised entropy of 51 patients with lung cancer was performed and overall survival data for these patients were collected. A normalised entropy cut-off was chosen to split the patient cohort into two groups and log-rank testing was performed to assess the survival difference of the two groups. This was repeated for varying normalised entropy cut-offs and varying follow-up periods. Our findings were also compared with previously published results to assess robustness of this parameter in a multi-centre patient cohort. The P-value was found to be highly sensitive to the choice of cut-off value, with small changes in cut-off producing substantial changes in P. The P-value was also sensitive to follow-up period, with particularly noisy results at short follow-up periods. Using matched conditions to previously published results, a P-value of 0.162 was obtained. Survival analysis results can be highly sensitive to the choice in texture cut-off value in dichotomising patients, which should be taken into account when performing such studies to avoid reporting false positive results. Short follow-up periods also produce unstable results and should therefore be avoided to ensure the results produced are reproducible. Previously published findings that indicated the prognostic value of normalised entropy were not replicated here, but further studies with larger patient numbers would be required to determine the cause of the different outcomes.

Robust evaluation of performance monitoring options for ozone disinfection in water recycling using Bayesian analysis.

PubMed

Carvajal, Guido; Branch, Amos; Michel, Philipp; Sisson, Scott A; Roser, David J; Drewes, Jörg E; Khan, Stuart J

2017-11-01

Ozonation of wastewater has gained popularity because of its effectiveness in removing colour, UV absorbance, trace organic chemicals, and pathogens. Due to the rapid reaction of ozone with organic compounds, dissolved ozone is often not measurable and therefore, the common disinfection controlling parameter, concentration integrated over contact time (CT) cannot be obtained. In such cases, alternative parameters have been shown to be useful as surrogate measures for microbial removal including change in UV 254 absorbance (ΔUVA), change in total fluorescence (ΔTF), or O 3 :TOC (or O 3 :DOC). Although these measures have shown promise, a number of caveats remain. These include uncertainties in the associations between these measurements and microbial inactivation. Furthermore, previous use of seeded microorganisms with higher disinfection sensitivity compared to autochthonous microorganisms could lead to overestimation of appropriate log credits. In our study, secondary treated wastewater from a full-scale plant was ozonated in a bench-scale reactor using five increasing ozone doses. During the experiments, removal of four indigenous microbial indicators representing viruses, bacteria and protozoa were monitored concurrent with ΔUVA, ΔTF, O 3 :DOC and PARAFAC derived components. Bayesian methods were used to fit linear regression models, and the uncertainty in the posterior predictive distributions and slopes provided a comparison between previously reported results and those reported here. Combined results indicated that all surrogate parameters were useful in predicting the removal of microorganisms, with a better fit to the models using ΔUVA, ΔTF in most cases. Average adjusted determination coefficients for fitted models were high (R 2 adjusted >0.47). With ΔUVA, one unit decrease in LRV corresponded with a UVA mean reduction of 15-20% for coliforms, 59% for C. perfringens spores, and 11% for somatic coliphages. With ΔTF, a one unit decrease in LRV corresponded with a TF mean reduction of 18-23% for coliforms, 71% for C. perfringens spores, and 14% for somatic coliphages. Compared to previous studies also analysed, our results suggest that microbial reductions were more conservative for autochthonous than for seeded microorganisms. The findings of our study suggested that site-specific analyses should be conducted to generate models with lower uncertainty and that indigenous microorganisms are useful for the measurement of system performance even when censored observations are obtained. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Viability of Cross-Flow Fan with Helical Blades for Vertical Take-off and Landing Aircraft

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-09-01

fluid dynamics (CFD) software, ANSYS - CFX , a three-dimensional (3-D) straight-bladed model was validated against previous study’s experimental results...computational fluid dynamics software (CFD), ANSYS - CFX , a three-dimensional (3-D) straight-bladed model was validated against previous study’s experimental...37 B. SIZING PARAMETERS AND ILLUSTRATION ................................. 37 APPENDIX B. ANSYS CFX PARAMETERS

Alternative Explanations for Extreme Supersolar Iron Abundances Inferred from the Energy Spectrum of Cygnus X-1

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tomsick, John A.; Parker, Michael L.; García, Javier A.; Yamaoka, Kazutaka; Barret, Didier; Chiu, Jeng-Lun; Clavel, Maïca; Fabian, Andrew; Fürst, Felix; Gandhi, Poshak; Grinberg, Victoria; Miller, Jon M.; Pottschmidt, Katja; Walton, Dominic J.

2018-03-01

Here we study a 1–200 keV energy spectrum of the black hole binary Cygnus X-1 taken with NuSTAR and Suzaku. This is the first report of a NuSTAR observation of Cyg X-1 in the intermediate state, and the observation was taken during the part of the binary orbit where absorption due to the companion’s stellar wind is minimal. The spectrum includes a multi-temperature thermal disk component, a cutoff power-law component, and relativistic and nonrelativistic reflection components. Our initial fits with publicly available constant density reflection models (relxill and reflionx) lead to extremely high iron abundances (>9.96 and {10.6}-0.9+1.6 times solar, respectively). Although supersolar iron abundances have been reported previously for Cyg X-1, our measurements are much higher and such variability is almost certainly unphysical. Using a new version of reflionx that we modified to make the electron density a free parameter, we obtain better fits to the spectrum even with solar iron abundances. We report on how the higher density ({n}e=({3.98}-0.25+0.12)× {10}20 cm‑3) impacts other parameters such as the inner radius and inclination of the disk.

Flucytosine Pharmacokinetics in a Critically Ill Patient Receiving Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy.

PubMed

Kunka, Megan E; Cady, Elizabeth A; Woo, Heejung C; Thompson Bastin, Melissa L

2015-01-01

Purpose. A case report evaluating flucytosine dosing in a critically ill patient receiving continuous renal replacement therapy. Summary. This case report outlines an 81-year-old male who was receiving continuous venovenous hemofiltration (CVVH) for acute renal failure and was being treated with flucytosine for the treatment of disseminated Cryptococcus neoformans infection. Due to patient specific factors, flucytosine was empirically dose adjusted approximately 50% lower than intermittent hemodialysis (iHD) recommendations and approximately 33% lower than CRRT recommendations. Peak and trough levels were obtained, which were supratherapeutic, and pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated. The patient experienced thrombocytopenia, likely due to elevated flucytosine levels, and flucytosine was ultimately discontinued. Conclusion. Despite conservative flucytosine dosing for a patient receiving CVVH, peak and trough serum flucytosine levels were supratherapeutic (120 μg/mL at 2 hours and 81 μg/mL at 11.5 hours), which increased drug-related adverse effects. The results indicate that this conservative dosing regimen utilizing the patient's actual body weight was too aggressive. This case report provides insight into flucytosine dosing in CVVH, a topic that has not been investigated previously. Further pharmacokinetic studies of flucytosine dosing in critically ill patients receiving CVVH are needed in order to optimize pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic parameters while avoiding toxic flucytosine exposure.

Surface order in cold liquids: X-ray reflectivity studies of dielectric liquids and comparison to liquid metals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chattopadhyay, Sudeshna; Uysal, Ahmet; Stripe, Benjamin; Ehrlich, Steven; Karapetrova, Evguenia A.; Dutta, Pulak

2010-05-01

Oscillatory surface-density profiles (layers) have previously been reported in several metallic liquids, one dielectric liquid, and in computer simulations of dielectric liquids. We have now seen surface layers in two other dielectric liquids, pentaphenyl trimethyl trisiloxane, and pentavinyl pentamethyl cyclopentasiloxane. These layers appear below T˜285K and T˜130K , respectively; both thresholds correspond to T/Tc˜0.2 where Tc is the liquid-gas critical temperature. All metallic and dielectric liquid surfaces previously studied are also consistent with the existence of this T/Tc threshold, first indicated by the simulations of Chacón [Phys. Rev. Lett. 87, 166101 (2001)]. The layer width parameters, determined using a distorted-crystal fitting model, follow common trends as functions of Tc for both metallic and dielectric liquids.

The EPR study of Mn(2+) ion doped DADT single crystal produced under high pressure and temperature.

PubMed

Ceylan, Ümit; Tapramaz, Recep

2016-01-05

An EPR study on Cu(2+) and VO(2+) doped di ammonium d-tartrate single crystals has been reported in previous papers, but the same host did not accept Mn(2+) ion at the same reaction conditions in previous trials. In this study EPR study of Mn(2+) ion doped di ammonium d tartrate single crystal, (DADT) [(NH4)2C4H4O6], produced in a reactor under high pressure and high temperature. The electronic transitions were determined by the optical absorption spectrum. Hyperfine splitting and g values of the Mn(2+) ion forming a complex in the lattice were measured from experimental spectra and spin-spin dipolar splitting parameters D and E were found by the spectrum simulation techniques. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Insights into the sequence parameters for halophilic adaptation.

PubMed

Nath, Abhigyan

2016-03-01

The sequence parameters for halophilic adaptation are still not fully understood. To understand the molecular basis of protein hypersaline adaptation, a detailed analysis is carried out, and investigated the likely association of protein sequence attributes to halophilic adaptation. A two-stage strategy is implemented, where in the first stage a supervised machine learning classifier is build, giving an overall accuracy of 86 % on stratified tenfold cross validation and 90 % on blind testing set, which are better than the previously reported results. The second stage consists of statistical analysis of sequence features and possible extraction of halophilic molecular signatures. The results of this study showed that, halophilic proteins are characterized by lower average charge, lower K content, and lower S content. A statistically significant preference/avoidance list of sequence parameters is also reported giving insights into the molecular basis of halophilic adaptation. D, Q, E, H, P, T, V are significantly preferred while N, C, I, K, M, F, S are significantly avoided. Among amino acid physicochemical groups, small, polar, charged, acidic and hydrophilic groups are preferred over other groups. The halophilic proteins also showed a preference for higher average flexibility, higher average polarity and avoidance for higher average positive charge, average bulkiness and average hydrophobicity. Some interesting trends observed in dipeptide counts are also reported. Further a systematic statistical comparison is undertaken for gaining insights into the sequence feature distribution in different residue structural states. The current analysis may facilitate the understanding of the mechanism of halophilic adaptation clearer, which can be further used for rational design of halophilic proteins.

Redshift Space Distortion on the Small Scale Clustering of Structure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, Hyunbae; Sabiu, Cristiano; Li, Xiao-dong; Park, Changbom; Kim, Juhan

2018-01-01

The positions of galaxies in comoving Cartesian space varies under different cosmological parameter choices, inducing a redshift-dependent scaling in the galaxy distribution. The shape of the two-point correlation of galaxies exhibits a significant redshift evolution when the galaxy sample is analyzed under a cosmology differing from the true, simulated one. In our previous works, we can made use of this geometrical distortion to constrain the values of cosmological parameters governing the expansion history of the universe. This current work is a continuation of our previous works as a strategy to constrain cosmological parameters using redshift-invariant physical quantities. We now aim to understand the redshift evolution of the full shape of the small scale, anisotropic galaxy clustering and give a firmer theoretical footing to our previous works.

The relationship between crystal structure and methyl and t-butyl group dynamics in van der Waals organic solids

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Beckmann, Peter A.; Paty, Carol; Allocco, Elizabeth; Herd, Maria; Kuranz, Carolyn; Rheingold, Arnold L.

2004-03-01

We report x-ray diffractometry in a single crystal of 2-t-butyl-4-methylphenol (TMP) and low-frequency solid state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) proton relaxometry in a polycrystalline sample of TMP. The x-ray data show TMP to have a monoclinic, P21/c, structure with eight molecules per unit cell and two crystallographically inequivalent t-butyl group (C(CH3)3) sites. The proton spin-lattice relaxation rates were measured between 90 and 310 K at NMR frequencies of 8.50, 22.5, and 53.0 MHz. The relaxometry data is fitted with two models characterizing the dynamics of the t-butyl groups and their constituent methyl groups, both of which are consistent with the determined x-ray structure. In addition to presenting results for TMP, we review previously reported x-ray diffractometry and low-frequency NMR relaxometry in two other van der Waals solids which have a simpler structure. In both cases, a unique model for the reorientational dynamics was found. Finally, we review a similar previously reported analysis in a van der Waals solid with a very complex structure in which case fitting the NMR relaxometry requires very many parameters and serves mainly as a flag for a careful x-ray diffraction study.

Anterior temporal face patches: a meta-analysis and empirical study

PubMed Central

Von Der Heide, Rebecca J.; Skipper, Laura M.; Olson, Ingrid R.

2013-01-01

Evidence suggests the anterior temporal lobe (ATL) plays an important role in person identification and memory. In humans, neuroimaging studies of person memory report consistent activations in the ATL to famous and personally familiar faces and studies of patients report resection or damage of the ATL causes an associative prosopagnosia in which face perception is intact but face memory is compromised. In addition, high-resolution fMRI studies of non-human primates and electrophysiological studies of humans also suggest regions of the ventral ATL are sensitive to novel faces. The current study extends previous findings by investigating whether similar subregions in the dorsal, ventral, lateral, or polar aspects of the ATL are sensitive to personally familiar, famous, and novel faces. We present the results of two studies of person memory: a meta-analysis of existing fMRI studies and an empirical fMRI study using optimized imaging parameters. Both studies showed left-lateralized ATL activations to familiar individuals while novel faces activated the right ATL. Activations to famous faces were quite ventral, similar to what has been reported in previous high-resolution fMRI studies of non-human primates. These findings suggest that face memory-sensitive patches in the human ATL are in the ventral/polar ATL. PMID:23378834

The impact of work-limiting disability on labor force participation.

PubMed

Webber, Douglas A; Bjelland, Melissa J

2015-03-01

According to the justification hypothesis, non-employed individuals may over-report their level of work limitation, leading to biased census/survey estimates of the prevalence of severe disabilities and the associated labor force participation rate. For researchers studying policies which impact the disabled or elderly (e.g., Supplemental Security Income, Disability Insurance, and Early Retirement), this could lead to significant bias in key parameters of interest. Using the American Community Survey, we examine the potential for both inflated and deflated reported disability status and generate a general index of disability, which can be used to reduce the bias of these self-reports in other studies. We find that at least 4.8 million individuals have left the labor force because of a work-limiting disability, at least four times greater than the impact implied by our replication of previous models. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Untangling the Links among Athletic Involvement, Gender, Race, and Adolescent Academic Outcomes.

PubMed

Miller, Kathleen E; Melnick, Merrill J; Barnes, Grace M; Farrell, Michael P; Sabo, Don

2005-06-01

Although previous research has established that high school sports participation may be associated with positive academic outcomes, the parameters of the relationship remain unclear. Using a longitudinal sample of nearly 600 Western New York adolescents, this study examined gender- and race-specific differences in the impact of two dimensions of adolescent athletic involvement ("jock" identity and athlete status) on changes in school grades and school misconduct over a two-year interval. Female and black adolescents who identified themselves as "jocks" reported lower grades than those who did not, whereas female athletes reported higher grades than female nonathletes. Jocks also reported significantly more misconduct (including skipping school, cutting classes, having someone from home called to the school for disciplinary purposes, and being sent to the principal's office) than nonjocks. Gender moderated the relationship between athlete status and school misconduct; athletic participation had a less salutary effect on misconduct for girls than for boys.

Electrostatic swelling of bicontinuous cubic lipid phases.

PubMed

Tyler, Arwen I I; Barriga, Hanna M G; Parsons, Edward S; McCarthy, Nicola L C; Ces, Oscar; Law, Robert V; Seddon, John M; Brooks, Nicholas J

2015-04-28

Lipid bicontinuous cubic phases have attracted enormous interest as bio-compatible scaffolds for use in a wide range of applications including membrane protein crystallisation, drug delivery and biosensing. One of the major bottlenecks that has hindered exploitation of these structures is an inability to create targeted highly swollen bicontinuous cubic structures with large and tunable pore sizes. In contrast, cubic structures found in vivo have periodicities approaching the micron scale. We have been able to engineer and control highly swollen bicontinuous cubic phases of spacegroup Im3m containing only lipids by (a) increasing the bilayer stiffness by adding cholesterol and (b) inducing electrostatic repulsion across the water channels by addition of anionic lipids to monoolein. By controlling the composition of the ternary mixtures we have been able to achieve lattice parameters up to 470 Å, which is 5 times that observed in pure monoolein and nearly twice the size of any lipidic cubic phase reported previously. These lattice parameters significantly exceed the predicted maximum swelling for bicontinuous cubic lipid structures, which suggest that thermal fluctuations should destroy such phases for lattice parameters larger than 300 Å.

Elucidating fluctuating diffusivity in center-of-mass motion of polymer models with time-averaged mean-square-displacement tensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miyaguchi, Tomoshige

2017-10-01

There have been increasing reports that the diffusion coefficient of macromolecules depends on time and fluctuates randomly. Here a method is developed to elucidate this fluctuating diffusivity from trajectory data. Time-averaged mean-square displacement (MSD), a common tool in single-particle-tracking (SPT) experiments, is generalized to a second-order tensor with which both magnitude and orientation fluctuations of the diffusivity can be clearly detected. This method is used to analyze the center-of-mass motion of four fundamental polymer models: the Rouse model, the Zimm model, a reptation model, and a rigid rodlike polymer. It is found that these models exhibit distinctly different types of magnitude and orientation fluctuations of diffusivity. This is an advantage of the present method over previous ones, such as the ergodicity-breaking parameter and a non-Gaussian parameter, because with either of these parameters it is difficult to distinguish the dynamics of the four polymer models. Also, the present method of a time-averaged MSD tensor could be used to analyze trajectory data obtained in SPT experiments.

A Global Analysis of Light and Charge Yields in Liquid Xenon

DOE PAGES

Lenardo, Brian; Kazkaz, Kareem; Manalaysay, Aaron; ...

2015-11-04

Here, we present an updated model of light and charge yields from nuclear recoils in liquid xenon with a simultaneously constrained parameter set. A global analysis is performed using measurements of electron and photon yields compiled from all available historical data, as well as measurements of the ratio of the two. These data sweep over energies from keV and external applied electric fields from V/cm. The model is constrained by constructing global cost functions and using a simulated annealing algorithm and a Markov Chain Monte Carlo approach to optimize and find confidence intervals on all free parameters in the model.more » This analysis contrasts with previous work in that we do not unnecessarily exclude datasets nor impose artificially conservative assumptions, do not use spline functions, and reduce the number of parameters used in NEST v 0.98. Here, we report our results and the calculated best-fit charge and light yields. These quantities are crucial to understanding the response of liquid xenon detectors in the energy regime important for rare event searches such as the direct detection of dark matter particles.« less

A protocol guided by transpulmonary thermodilution and lactate levels for resuscitation of patients with severe burns

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Over-resuscitation is deleterious in many critically ill conditions, including major burns. For more than 15 years, several strategies to reduce fluid administration in burns during the initial resuscitation phase have been proposed, but no single or simple parameter has shown superiority. Fluid administration guided by invasive hemodynamic parameters usually resulted in over-resuscitation. As reported in the previous issue of Critical Care, Sánchez-Sánchez and colleagues analyzed the performance of a ‘permissive hypovolemia’ protocol guided by invasive hemodynamic parameters (PiCCO, Pulsion Medical Systems, Munich, Germany) and vital signs in a prospective cohort over a 3-year period. The authors’ results confirm that resuscitation can be achieved with below-normal levels of preload but at the price of a fluid administration greater than predicted by the Parkland formula (2 to 4 mL/kg per% burn). The classic approach based on an adapted Parkland equation may still be the simplest until further studies identify the optimal bundle of resuscitation goals. PMID:24229466

Amplitude variations in the sdBV star PG 1605+072: Another beating time scale?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pereira, T. M. D.; Lopes, I. P.

2004-10-01

PG 1605+072 has an unique and complex oscillation spectrum amongst the pulsating members of the EC 14026 stars. It has the longest periods and the richest, most puzzling frequency spectrum. We present a quantitative analysis of the photometric time-series obtained at 1-m telescope of the South African Astronomical Observatory. Thirteen oscillation parameters, frequencies, amplitudes and initial phases were determined from a 45 h time-series. Our work confirm previous observational results. The observed frequencies are within a difference smaller than 2.7% of the theoretical values, and less than 0.1% of other previous studies. We also infer the existence of variation of a periodicity of 4-5 days on the amplitude of the observed modes, similar to the yearly time-scale variation found by previous studies. Furthermore, we found a new frequency of 2133 μ Hz which has not been previously reported, its origin being yet unclear. Based on observations obtained at the South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO). This research was supported by a grant from Fundação da Ciência e Tecnologia, grant No. PESO/P/PRO/40142/2000.

Source Parameters for Moderate Earthquakes in the Zagros Mountains with Implications for the Depth Extent of Seismicity

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

Adams, A; Brazier, R; Nyblade, A

2009-02-23

Six earthquakes within the Zagros Mountains with magnitudes between 4.9 and 5.7 have been studied to determine their source parameters. These events were selected for study because they were reported in open catalogs to have lower crustal or upper mantle source depths and because they occurred within an area of the Zagros Mountains where crustal velocity structure has been constrained by previous studies. Moment tensor inversion of regional broadband waveforms have been combined with forward modeling of depth phases on short period teleseismic waveforms to constrain source depths and moment tensors. Our results show that all six events nucleated withinmore » the upper crust (<11 km depth) and have thrust mechanisms. This finding supports other studies that call into question the existence of lower crustal or mantle events beneath the Zagros Mountains.« less

Longitudinal dielectric function and dispersion relation of electrostatic waves in relativistic plasmas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Touil, B.; Bendib, A.; Bendib-Kalache, K.

2017-02-01

The longitudinal dielectric function is derived analytically from the relativistic Vlasov equation for arbitrary values of the relevant parameters z = m c 2 / T , where m is the rest electron mass, c is the speed of light, and T is the electron temperature in energy units. A new analytical approach based on the Legendre polynomial expansion and continued fractions was used. Analytical expression of the electron distribution function was derived. The real part of the dispersion relation and the damping rate of electron plasma waves are calculated both analytically and numerically in the whole range of the parameter z . The results obtained improve significantly the previous results reported in the literature. For practical purposes, explicit expressions of the real part of the dispersion relation and the damping rate in the range z > 30 and strongly relativistic regime are also proposed.

V2676 Oph: Estimating Physical Parameters of a Moderately Fast Nova

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Raj, A.; Pavana, M.; Kamath, U. S.; Anupama, G. C.; Walter, F. M.

2018-03-01

Using our previously reported observations, we derive some physical parameters of the moderately fast nova V2676 Oph 2012 #1. The best-fit Cloudy model of the nebular spectrum obtained on 2015 May 8 shows a hot white dwarf source with TBB≍1.0×105 K having a luminosity of 1.0×1038 erg/s. Our abundance analysis shows that the ejecta are significantly enhanced relative to solar, He/H=2.14, O/H=2.37, S/H=6.62 and Ar/H=3.25. The ejecta mass is estimated to be 1.42×10-5 M⊙. The nova showed a pronounced dust formation phase after 90 d from discovery. The J-H and H-K colors were very large as compared to other molecule- and dust-forming novae in recent years. The dust temperature and mass at two epochs have been estimated from spectral energy distribution fits to infrared photometry.

Refractive Index Seen by a Probe Beam Interacting with a Laser-Plasma System

DOE PAGES

Turnbull, D.; Goyon, C.; Kemp, G. E.; ...

2017-01-05

Here, we report the first complete set of measurements of a laser-plasma optical system’s refractive index, as seen by a second probe laser beam, as a function of the relative wavelength shift between the two laser beams. Both the imaginary and real refractive index components are found to be in good agreement with linear theory using plasma parameters measured by optical Thomson scattering and interferometry; the former is in contrast to previous work and has implications for crossed-beam energy transfer in indirect-drive inertial confinement fusion, and the latter is measured for the first time. The data include the first demonstrationmore » of a laser-plasma polarizer with 85$-$87% extinction for the particular laser and plasma parameters used in this experiment, complementing the existing suite of high-power, tunable, and ultrafast plasma-based photonic devices.« less

Use of Artificial Neural Networks to Examine Parameters Affecting the Immobilization of Streptokinase in Chitosan

PubMed Central

Modaresi, Seyed Mohamad Sadegh; Faramarzi, Mohammad Ali; Soltani, Arash; Baharifar, Hadi; Amani, Amir

2014-01-01

Streptokinase is a potent fibrinolytic agent which is widely used in treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE) and acute myocardial infarction (MI). Major limitation of this enzyme is its short biological half-life in the blood stream. Our previous report showed that complexing streptokinase with chitosan could be a solution to overcome this limitation. The aim of this research was to establish an artificial neural networks (ANNs) model for identifying main factors influencing the loading efficiency of streptokinase, as an essential parameter determining efficacy of the enzyme. Three variables, namely, chitosan concentration, buffer pH and enzyme concentration were considered as input values and the loading efficiency was used as output. Subsequently, the experimental data were modeled and the model was validated against a set of unseen data. The developed model indicated chitosan concentration as probably the most important factor, having reverse effect on the loading efficiency. PMID:25587327

Validation of enhanced kinect sensor based motion capturing for gait assessment

PubMed Central

Müller, Björn; Ilg, Winfried; Giese, Martin A.

2017-01-01

Optical motion capturing systems are expensive and require substantial dedicated space to be set up. On the other hand, they provide unsurpassed accuracy and reliability. In many situations however flexibility is required and the motion capturing system can only temporarily be placed. The Microsoft Kinect v2 sensor is comparatively cheap and with respect to gait analysis promising results have been published. We here present a motion capturing system that is easy to set up, flexible with respect to the sensor locations and delivers high accuracy in gait parameters comparable to a gold standard motion capturing system (VICON). Further, we demonstrate that sensor setups which track the person only from one-side are less accurate and should be replaced by two-sided setups. With respect to commonly analyzed gait parameters, especially step width, our system shows higher agreement with the VICON system than previous reports. PMID:28410413

Measurements of the ionization coefficient of simulated iron micrometeoroids

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thomas, Evan; Horányi, Mihály; Janches, Diego; Munsat, Tobin; Simolka, Jonas; Sternovsky, Zoltan

2016-04-01

The interpretation of meteor radar observations has remained an open problem for decades. One of the most critical parameters to establish the size of an incoming meteoroid from radar echoes is the ionization coefficient, β, which still remains poorly known. Here we report on new experiments to simulate micrometeoroid ablation in laboratory conditions to measure β for iron particles impacting N2, air, CO2, and He gases. This new data set is compared to previous laboratory data where we find agreement except for He and air impacts > 30 km/s. We calibrate the Jones model of β(v) and provide fit parameters to these gases and find agreement with all gases except CO2 and high-speed air impacts where we observe βair > 1 for velocities > 70 km/s. These data therefore demonstrate potential problems with using the Jones model for CO2 atmospheres as well as for high-speed meteors on Earth.

Production of Low Enriched Uranium Nitride Kernels for TRISO Particle Irradiation Testing

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

McMurray, J. W.; Silva, C. M.; Helmreich, G. W.

2016-06-01

A large batch of UN microspheres to be used as kernels for TRISO particle fuel was produced using carbothermic reduction and nitriding of a sol-gel feedstock bearing tailored amounts of low-enriched uranium (LEU) oxide and carbon. The process parameters, established in a previous study, produced phasepure NaCl structure UN with dissolved C on the N sublattice. The composition, calculated by refinement of the lattice parameter from X-ray diffraction, was determined to be UC 0.27N 0.73. The final accepted product weighed 197.4 g. The microspheres had an average diameter of 797±1.35 μm and a composite mean theoretical density of 89.9±0.5% formore » a solid solution of UC and UN with the same atomic ratio; both values are reported with their corresponding calculated standard error.« less

Seismological investigation of earthquakes in the New Madrid Seismic Zone. Final report, September 1986--December 1992

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

Herrmann, R.B.; Nguyen, B.

Earthquake activity in the New Madrid Seismic Zone had been monitored by regional seismic networks since 1975. During this time period, over 3,700 earthquakes have been located within the region bounded by latitudes 35{degrees}--39{degrees}N and longitudes 87{degrees}--92{degrees}W. Most of these earthquakes occur within a 1.5{degrees} x 2{degrees} zone centered on the Missouri Bootheel. Source parameters of larger earthquakes in the zone and in eastern North America are determined using surface-wave spectral amplitudes and broadband waveforms for the purpose of determining the focal mechanism, source depth and seismic moment. Waveform modeling of broadband data is shown to be a powerful toolmore » in defining these source parameters when used complementary with regional seismic network data, and in addition, in verifying the correctness of previously published focal mechanism solutions.« less

A new method to derive electronegativity from resonant inelastic x-ray scattering.

PubMed

Carniato, S; Journel, L; Guillemin, R; Piancastelli, M N; Stolte, W C; Lindle, D W; Simon, M

2012-10-14

Electronegativity is a well-known property of atoms and substituent groups. Because there is no direct way to measure it, establishing a useful scale for electronegativity often entails correlating it to another chemical parameter; a wide variety of methods have been proposed over the past 80 years to do just that. This work reports a new approach that connects electronegativity to a spectroscopic parameter derived from resonant inelastic x-ray scattering. The new method is demonstrated using a series of chlorine-containing compounds, focusing on the Cl 2p(-1)LUMO(1) electronic states reached after Cl 1s → LUMO core excitation and subsequent KL radiative decay. Based on an electron-density analysis of the LUMOs, the relative weights of the Cl 2p(z) atomic orbital contributing to the Cl 2p(3/2) molecular spin-orbit components are shown to yield a linear electronegativity scale consistent with previous approaches.

Parametric dependence of ocean wave-radar modulation transfer functions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Plant, W. J.; Keller, W. C.; Cross, A.

1983-01-01

Microwave techniques at X and L band were used to determine the dependence of ocean-wave radar modulation transfer functions (MTFs) on various environmental and radar parameters during the Marine Remote Sensing experiment of 1979 (MARSEN 79). These MIF are presented, as are coherence functions between the AM and FM parts of the backscattered microwave signal. It is shown that they both depend on several of these parameters. Besides confirming many of the properties of transfer functions reported by previous authors, indications are found that MTFs decrease with increasing angle between wave propagation and antenna-look directions but are essentially independent of small changes in air-sea temperature difference. However, coherence functions are much smaller when the antennas are pointed perpendicular to long waves. It is found that X band transfer functions measured with horizontally polarized microwave radiation have larger magnitudes than those obtained by using vertical polarization.

Effective Medium Ratio Obeying Wideband Left-Handed Miniaturized Meta-atoms for Multi-band Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hossain, Mohammad Jakir; Faruque, Mohammad Rashed Iqbal; Islam, Mohammad Tariqul

2017-12-01

In this paper, a miniaturized wideband left-handed (LH) meta-atom based on planar modified multiple hexagonal split ring resonators was designed, simulated, fabricated and tested that can maintain a left-handed property. An analysis and comparison of the different array structures were performed that obtained better effective medium ratio (EMR) and wideband (5.54 GHz) for multi band operations in the microwave regime. Finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method based Computer Simulation Technology was implemented to design the meta-atom. The meta-atom showed multi-band response in conjunction with wideband and LH property over the certain frequency bands in the microwave spectra. The EMR was considerably improved compared to previously reported meta-atoms. The measured results showed good agreement with the simulated results. The dimensions, S-parameters and EMR parameters of the proposed miniaturized LH meta-atom are appropriate for L-, S-, C-, X-, and Ku-band applications.

Effective Medium Ratio Obeying Wideband Left-Handed Miniaturized Meta-atoms for Multi-band Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hossain, Mohammad Jakir; Faruque, Mohammad Rashed Iqbal; Islam, Mohammad Tariqul

2018-03-01

In this paper, a miniaturized wideband left-handed (LH) meta-atom based on planar modified multiple hexagonal split ring resonators was designed, simulated, fabricated and tested that can maintain a left-handed property. An analysis and comparison of the different array structures were performed that obtained better effective medium ratio (EMR) and wideband (5.54 GHz) for multi band operations in the microwave regime. Finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method based Computer Simulation Technology was implemented to design the meta-atom. The meta-atom showed multi-band response in conjunction with wideband and LH property over the certain frequency bands in the microwave spectra. The EMR was considerably improved compared to previously reported meta-atoms. The measured results showed good agreement with the simulated results. The dimensions, S-parameters and EMR parameters of the proposed miniaturized LH meta-atom are appropriate for L-, S-, C-, X-, and Ku-band applications.

Determination of Global Stability of the Slosh Motion in a Spacecraft via Num Erical Experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kang, Ja-Young

2003-12-01

The global stability of the attitude motion of a spin-stabilized space vehicle is investigated by performing numerical experiment. In the previous study, a stationary solution and a particular resonant condition for a given model were found by using analytical method but failed to represent the system stability over parameter values near and off the stationary points. Accordingly, as an extension of the previous work, this study performs numerical experiment to investigate the stability of the system across the parameter space and determines stable and unstable regions of the design parameters of the system.

Dynamics and Instabilities of the Shastry-Sutherland Model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Zhentao; Batista, Cristian D.

2018-06-01

We study the excitation spectrum in the dimer phase of the Shastry-Sutherland model by using an unbiased variational method that works in the thermodynamic limit. The method outputs dynamical correlation functions in all possible channels. This output is exploited to identify the order parameters with the highest susceptibility (single or multitriplon condensation in a specific channel) upon approaching a quantum phase transition in the magnetic field versus the J'/J phase diagram. We find four different instabilities: antiferro spin nematic, plaquette spin nematic, stripe magnetic order, and plaquette order, two of which have been reported in previous studies.

Robust rotational-velocity-Verlet integration methods.

PubMed

Rozmanov, Dmitri; Kusalik, Peter G

2010-05-01

Two rotational integration algorithms for rigid-body dynamics are proposed in velocity-Verlet formulation. The first method uses quaternion dynamics and was derived from the original rotational leap-frog method by Svanberg [Mol. Phys. 92, 1085 (1997)]; it produces time consistent positions and momenta. The second method is also formulated in terms of quaternions but it is not quaternion specific and can be easily adapted for any other orientational representation. Both the methods are tested extensively and compared to existing rotational integrators. The proposed integrators demonstrated performance at least at the level of previously reported rotational algorithms. The choice of simulation parameters is also discussed.

Robust rotational-velocity-Verlet integration methods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rozmanov, Dmitri; Kusalik, Peter G.

2010-05-01

Two rotational integration algorithms for rigid-body dynamics are proposed in velocity-Verlet formulation. The first method uses quaternion dynamics and was derived from the original rotational leap-frog method by Svanberg [Mol. Phys. 92, 1085 (1997)]; it produces time consistent positions and momenta. The second method is also formulated in terms of quaternions but it is not quaternion specific and can be easily adapted for any other orientational representation. Both the methods are tested extensively and compared to existing rotational integrators. The proposed integrators demonstrated performance at least at the level of previously reported rotational algorithms. The choice of simulation parameters is also discussed.

Investigating flavour characteristics of British ale yeasts: techniques, resources and opportunities for innovation

PubMed Central

Parker, Neva; James, Steve; Dicks, Jo; Bond, Chris; Nueno-Palop, Carmen; White, Chris; Roberts, Ian N

2015-01-01

Five British ale yeast strains were subjected to flavour profiling under brewery fermentation conditions in which all other brewing parameters were kept constant. Significant variation was observed in the timing and quantity of flavour-related chemicals produced. Genetic tests showed no evidence of hybrid origins in any of the strains, including one strain previously reported as a possible hybrid of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and S. bayanus. Variation maintained in historical S. cerevisiae ale yeast collections is highlighted as a potential source of novelty in innovative strain improvement for bioflavour production. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. PMID:25361168

Shot-noise-limited measurement of sub-parts-per-trillion birefringence phase shift in a high-finesse cavity

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

Durand, Mathieu; Morville, Jerome; Romanini, Daniele

2010-09-15

We report on a promising approach to high-sensitivity anisotropy measurements using a high-finesse cavity locked by optical feedback to a diode laser. We provide a simple and effective way to decouple the weak anisotropy of interest from the inherent mirror's birefringence whose drift may be identified as the key limiting parameter in cavity-based techniques. We demonstrate a shot-noise-limited phase shift resolution previously inaccessible in an optical cavity, readily achieving the state-of-the-art level of 3x10{sup -13} rad.

Stress fractures in elite cross-country athletes.

PubMed

Laker, Scott R; Saint-Phard, Deborah; Tyburski, Mark; Van Dorsten, Brent

2007-04-01

This retrospective and comparative survey investigates an unusual number of stress fractures seen within a Division I college cross-country team. An anonymous questionnaire-designed to observe factors known to increase stress fracture incidence-was distributed to members of the current and previous seasons' teams. Running surface, sleep hours, intake of calcium, and shoe type were among the factors investigated. Eleven lower extremity stress fractures were found in nine athletes. Athletes with stress fractures reported significantly fewer workouts per week on the new track. All other study parameters had no statistically significant effect on stress fractures in these athletes.

Structural and electronic properties of half-metallic rare-earth perovskites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khandy, Shakeel Ahmad; Islam, Ishtihadah; Bhat, Tahir Mohiuddin; Yousuf, Saleem; Gupta, Dinesh C.

2018-05-01

Systemic investigation of structural parameters and electronic properties inclusive of band profiles for BaPaO3 and BaUO3 have been performed. The empirical as well as DFT calculated lattice constants are in agreement with the previously reported results. The critical energy values confirm that the BaPaO3 has lesser migration energy than BaUO3. Both, these materials show a semiconducting, direct band gap in the low spin state with 2.3 eV for BaUO3 and for BaPaO3, its value is 3.9 eV.

Vehicle test report: Jet Industries Electra Van 600

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Price, T. W.; Wirth, V. A., Jr.

1982-01-01

The Electra Van 600, an electric vehicle, was tested. Tests were performed to characterize parameters of the Electra Van 600 and to provide baseline data to be used for comparison of improved batteries and to which will be incorporated into the vehicle. The vehicle tests concentrated on the electrical drive subsystem, the batteries, controller, and motor; coastdowns to characterize the road load and range evaluation for cyclic and constant speed conditions; and qualitative performance was evaluated. It is found that the Electra Van 600 range performance is approximately equal to the majority of the vehicles tested previously.

Influence of polymerization conditions on the refractive index of poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) hydrogels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Zhi Feng; Ma, Xinxian; Wang, Haibin; Ye, Fei

2018-04-01

This paper studies the influences of fabrication parameters on the optical properties of poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate(PEGDA) hydrogels during polymerization, including the irradiation intensity, irradiation time, photoinitiator concentration, and water content. The refractive index of PEGDA hydrogels polymerized under various conditions is measured, with the results shown to be valuable for future research applying PEGDA hydrogels as optical materials. In addition, it is found that the photoinitiator concentration used can be as low as 1.0 wt%, which is severalfold lower than that previously reported, making PEGDA hydrogels more desirable for bioapplications.

The pitch of vibrato tones: a model based on instantaneous frequency decomposition.

PubMed

Mesz, Bruno A; Eguia, Manuel C

2009-07-01

We study vibrato as the more ubiquitous manifestation of a nonstationary tone that can evoke a single overall pitch. Some recent results using nonsymmetrical vibrato tones suggest that the perceived pitch could be governed by some stability-sensitive mechanism. For nonstationary sounds the adequate tools are time-frequency representations (TFRs). We show that a recently proposed TFR could be the simplest framework to explain this hypothetical stability-sensitive mechanism. We propose a one-parameter model within this framework that is able to predict previously reported results and we present new results obtained from psychophysical experiments performed in our laboratory.

Bacterial bioluminescence onset and quenching: a dynamical model for a quorum sensing-mediated property

PubMed Central

Side, Domenico Delle; Nassisi, Vincenzo; Pennetta, Cecilia; Alifano, Pietro; Di Salvo, Marco; Talà, Adelfia; Chechkin, Aleksei; Seno, Flavio

2017-01-01

We present an effective dynamical model for the onset of bacterial bioluminescence, one of the most studied quorum sensing-mediated traits. Our model is built upon simple equations that describe the growth of the bacterial colony, the production and accumulation of autoinducer signal molecules, their sensing within bacterial cells, and the ensuing quorum activation mechanism that triggers bioluminescent emission. The model is directly tested to quantitatively reproduce the experimental distributions of photon emission times, previously measured for bacterial colonies of Vibrio jasicida, a luminescent bacterium belonging to the Harveyi clade, growing in a highly drying environment. A distinctive and novel feature of the proposed model is bioluminescence ‘quenching’ after a given time elapsed from activation. Using an advanced fitting procedure based on the simulated annealing algorithm, we are able to infer from the experimental observations the biochemical parameters used in the model. Such parameters are in good agreement with the literature data. As a further result, we find that, at least in our experimental conditions, light emission in bioluminescent bacteria appears to originate from a subtle balance between colony growth and quorum activation due to autoinducers diffusion, with the two phenomena occurring on the same time scale. This finding is consistent with a negative feedback mechanism previously reported for Vibrio harveyi. PMID:29308273

Prepharmacy predictors of success in pharmacy school: grade point averages, pharmacy college admissions test, communication abilities, and critical thinking skills.

PubMed

Allen, D D; Bond, C A

2001-07-01

Good admissions decisions are essential for identifying successful students and good practitioners. Various parameters have been shown to have predictive power for academic success. Previous academic performance, the Pharmacy College Admissions Test (PCAT), and specific prepharmacy courses have been suggested as academic performance indicators. However, critical thinking abilities have not been evaluated. We evaluated the connection between academic success and each of the following predictive parameters: the California Critical Thinking Skills Test (CCTST) score, PCAT score, interview score, overall academic performance prior to admission at a pharmacy school, and performance in specific prepharmacy courses. We confirmed previous reports but demonstrated intriguing results in predicting practice-based skills. Critical thinking skills predict practice-based course success. Also, the CCTST and PCAT scores (Pearson correlation [pc] = 0.448, p < 0.001) were closely related in our students. The strongest predictors of practice-related courses and clerkship success were PCAT (pc=0.237, p<0.001) and CCTST (pc = 0.201, p < 0.001). These findings and other analyses suggest that PCAT may predict critical thinking skills in pharmacy practice courses and clerkships. Further study is needed to confirm this finding and determine which PCAT components predict critical thinking abilities.

Bacterial bioluminescence onset and quenching: a dynamical model for a quorum sensing-mediated property.

PubMed

Side, Domenico Delle; Nassisi, Vincenzo; Pennetta, Cecilia; Alifano, Pietro; Di Salvo, Marco; Talà, Adelfia; Chechkin, Aleksei; Seno, Flavio; Trovato, Antonio

2017-12-01

We present an effective dynamical model for the onset of bacterial bioluminescence, one of the most studied quorum sensing-mediated traits. Our model is built upon simple equations that describe the growth of the bacterial colony, the production and accumulation of autoinducer signal molecules, their sensing within bacterial cells, and the ensuing quorum activation mechanism that triggers bioluminescent emission. The model is directly tested to quantitatively reproduce the experimental distributions of photon emission times, previously measured for bacterial colonies of Vibrio jasicida , a luminescent bacterium belonging to the Harveyi clade, growing in a highly drying environment. A distinctive and novel feature of the proposed model is bioluminescence 'quenching' after a given time elapsed from activation. Using an advanced fitting procedure based on the simulated annealing algorithm, we are able to infer from the experimental observations the biochemical parameters used in the model. Such parameters are in good agreement with the literature data. As a further result, we find that, at least in our experimental conditions, light emission in bioluminescent bacteria appears to originate from a subtle balance between colony growth and quorum activation due to autoinducers diffusion, with the two phenomena occurring on the same time scale. This finding is consistent with a negative feedback mechanism previously reported for Vibrio harveyi .

Phenomenological crystal-field model of the magnetic and thermal properties of the Kondo-like system UCu2Si2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Troć, R.; Gajek, Z.; Pikul, A.; Misiorek, H.; Colineau, E.; Wastin, F.

2013-07-01

The transport properties described previously [Troć , Phys. Rev. BPRBMDO1098-012110.1103/PhysRevB.85.224434 85, 224434 (2012)] as well as the magnetic and thermal properties presented in this paper, observed for single-crystalline UCu2Si2, are discussed by assuming a dual (localized-itinerant) scenario. The electronic states of the localized 5f electrons in UCu2Si2 are constructed using the effective Hamiltonian known for ionic systems, allowing us to treat the Coulomb, spin-orbital, and crystal-field interactions on equal footing. The space of parameters has been restricted in the initial steps with the aid of the angular overlap model approximation. The final crystal-field parameters, obtained from the refined steps of calculations, are relatively large (in absolute values), which we attribute to the hybridization characteristic of the metallic systems on the verge of localization. The proposed crystal-field model reproduces correctly with satisfactory accuracy the magnetic and thermal properties of UCu2Si2 in agreement also with the transport properties reported previously. Considerable crystal-field splitting of the ground multiplet of 2760 K is responsible for a large anisotropy in the magnetic behavior, observed in the whole temperature range explored.

Characteristics associated with mortality in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)-heart failure coexistence.

PubMed

Plachi, Franciele; Balzan, Fernanda M; Sanseverino, Renata A; Palombini, Dora V; Marques, Renata D; Clausell, Nadine O; Knorst, Marli M; Neder, J Alberto; Berton, Danilo C

2018-02-21

Aim To investigate if cardiac/pulmonary functional tests and variables obtained from clinical practice (body mass index, dyspnea, functional class, clinical judgment of disability to perform an exercise test and previous hospitalization rate) are related to mortality in patients with overlap chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and chronic heart failure (CHF). Although the coexistence of COPD and CHF has been growingly reported, description of survival predictors considering the presence of both conditions is still scarce. Using a cohort design, outpatients with the previous diagnosis of COPD and/or CHF that performed both spirometry and echocardiography in the same year were followed-up during a mean of 20.9±8.5 months. Findings Of the 550 patients initially evaluated, 301 had both spirometry and echocardiography: 160 (53%) with COPD on isolation; 100 (33%) with CHF on isolation; and 41 (14%) with overlap. All groups presented similar mortality: COPD 17/160 (11%); CHF 12/100 (12%); and overlap 7/41 (17%) (P=0.73). In the overlap group (n=41), inability to exercise and hospitalization rate were the unique parameters associated with higher mortality (seven events) in univariate analyses. In conclusion, inability to exercise and hospitalization rate emerged as the unique parameters associated with mortality in our sample.

High-Contrast Imaging of Epsilon Eridani with Ground-Based Instruments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mizuki, T.; Yamada, T.; Carson, J. C.; Kuzuhara, M.; Nakagawa, T.; Nishikawa, J.; Sitko, M. L.; Kudo, T.; Kusakabe, N.; Hashimoto, J.;

Doped calcium manganites for advanced high-temperature thermochemical energy storage

DOE PAGES

Babiniec, Sean M.; Coker, Eric N.; Miller, James E.; ...

2015-12-16

Developing efficient thermal storage for concentrating solar power plants is essential to reducing the cost of generated electricity, extending or shifting the hours of operation, and facilitating renewable penetration into the grid. Perovskite materials of the CaB xMn 1-xO 3-δ family, where B = Al or Ti, promise improvements in cost and energy storage density over other perovskites currently under investigation. Thermogravimetric analysis of the thermal reduction and reoxidation of these materials was used to extract equilibrium thermodynamic parameters. Lastly, the results demonstrate that these novel thermochemical energy storage media display the highest reaction enthalpy capacity for perovskites reported tomore » date, with a reaction enthalpy of 390 kJ/kg, a 56% increase over previously reported compositions.« less

Experimental determination of thermodynamic equilibrium in biocatalytic transamination.

PubMed

Tufvesson, Pär; Jensen, Jacob S; Kroutil, Wolfgang; Woodley, John M

2012-08-01

The equilibrium constant is a critical parameter for making rational design choices in biocatalytic transamination for the synthesis of chiral amines. However, very few reports are available in the scientific literature determining the equilibrium constant (K) for the transamination of ketones. Various methods for determining (or estimating) equilibrium have previously been suggested, both experimental as well as computational (based on group contribution methods). However, none of these were found suitable for determining the equilibrium constant for the transamination of ketones. Therefore, in this communication we suggest a simple experimental methodology which we hope will stimulate more accurate determination of thermodynamic equilibria when reporting the results of transaminase-catalyzed reactions in order to increase understanding of the relationship between substrate and product molecular structure on reaction thermodynamics. Copyright © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

4-N-Hydroxy-4-[1-(sulfonyl)piperidin-4-yl]-butyramides as HDAC inhibitors.

PubMed

Rossi, Cristina; Fincham, Christopher I; D'Andrea, Piero; Porcelloni, Marina; Ettorre, Alessandro; Mauro, Sandro; Bigioni, Mario; Binaschi, Monica; Maggi, Carlo A; Nardelli, Federica; Parlani, Massimo; Fattori, Daniela

2011-11-15

A series of N-substituted 4-alkylpiperidine hydroxamic acids, corresponding to the basic structure of histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors (zinc binding moiety-linker-capping group) has been previously reported by our group. Linker length and aromatic capping group connection were systematically varied to find the optimal geometric parameters. A new series of submicromolar inhibitors was thus identified, which showed antiproliferative activity on HCT-116 colon carcinoma cells. We report here the second part of the strategy used in our research group to find a new class of HDAC inhibitors, namely the SAR study for the compounds bearing a sulfonyl group on the piperidine nitrogen. In the present work, we have considered both sulfonamides and sulfonyl ureas. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

SU-G-IeP3-12: Preliminary Report On the Experience of Patient Radiation Dose Monitoring and Tracking Systems; PEMNET, Radimetrics and DoseWatch

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

Lin, P; Corwin, F; Ghita, M

Purpose: Three patient radiation dose monitoring and tracking (PRDMT) systems have been in operation at this institution for the past 6 months. There are useful information that should be disseminated to those who are considering installation of PRDMT programs. In addition, there are “problems” uncovered in the process of estimating fluoroscopic “peak” skin dose (PSD), especially, for those patients who received interventional angiographic studies and in conjunction with surgical procedures. Methods: Upon exporting the PRDMT data to Microsoft Excel program, the peak skin dose can be estimated by applying various correction factors including; attenuation due to the tabletop and examinationmore » mattress, table height, tabletop translation, backscatter, etc. A procedure was established to screen and divide the PRDMT reported radiation dose and estimated PSD to three different levels of threshold to assess the potential skin injuries, to assist patient follow-up, risk management and provide radiation dosimetry information in case of “Sentinel Event”. Results: The Radiation Dose Structured Report (RDSR) was found to be the prerequisite for the PRDMT systems to work seamlessly. And, the geometrical parameters (gantry and table orientation) displayed by the equipment are not necessarily implemented in the “patient centric” manner which could result in a large error in the PSD estimation. Since, the PRDMT systems obtain their pertinent data from the DICOM tags including the polarity (+ and − signs), the geometrical parameters need to be verified. Conclusion: PRDMT systems provide a more accurate PSD estimation than previously possible as the air-kerma-area dose meter become widely implemented. However, care should be exercised to correctly apply the geometrical parameters in estimating the patient dose. In addition, further refinement is necessary for these software programs to account for all geometrical parameters such as the tabletop translation in the z-direction in particular.« less

SAW parameters on Y-cut langasite structured materials.

PubMed

Puccio, Derek; Malocha, Donald C; Saldanha, Nancy; da Cunha, Mauricio Pereira

2007-09-01

This paper presents results and investigations of several new, man-made piezoelectric single crystal, Czochralski-grown substrate materials for surface acoustic waves (SAW) applications. These materials, langanite (LGN), langatate (LGT), Sr3TaGa3Si2O14 (STGS), Sr3NbGa3Si2O14 (SNGS), Ca3TaGa3Si2O14 (CTGS), and Ca3NbGa3Si2O14 (CNGS), have the same structure as langasite (LGS) and are of the same crystal class as quartz. These compounds are denser than quartz, resulting in lower phase velocities. They also have higher coupling. Unlike quartz and lithium niobate, there is no degradation of material properties below the material melting points resulting in the possibility of extreme high-temperature operation (> 1000 degrees C). This paper gives a summary of extracted SAW material parameters for various propagation angles on Y-cut substrates of the six materials. Parameters included are electromechanical coupling, phase velocity, transducer capacitance, metal strip reflectivity, and temperature coefficient of frequency. Using previously published fundamental material constants, extracted parameters are compared with predictions for LGT and LGN. In addition, power flow angle and fractional frequency curvature data are reported for propagation angles on CTGS and CNGS Y-cut substrates that exhibit temperature compensation near room temperature. Detailed descriptions of the SAW parameter extraction techniques are given. A discussion of the results is provided, including a comparison of extracted parameters and an overview of possible SAW applications.

Digital image processing and analysis for activated sludge wastewater treatment.

PubMed

Khan, Muhammad Burhan; Lee, Xue Yong; Nisar, Humaira; Ng, Choon Aun; Yeap, Kim Ho; Malik, Aamir Saeed

2015-01-01

Activated sludge system is generally used in wastewater treatment plants for processing domestic influent. Conventionally the activated sludge wastewater treatment is monitored by measuring physico-chemical parameters like total suspended solids (TSSol), sludge volume index (SVI) and chemical oxygen demand (COD) etc. For the measurement, tests are conducted in the laboratory, which take many hours to give the final measurement. Digital image processing and analysis offers a better alternative not only to monitor and characterize the current state of activated sludge but also to predict the future state. The characterization by image processing and analysis is done by correlating the time evolution of parameters extracted by image analysis of floc and filaments with the physico-chemical parameters. This chapter briefly reviews the activated sludge wastewater treatment; and, procedures of image acquisition, preprocessing, segmentation and analysis in the specific context of activated sludge wastewater treatment. In the latter part additional procedures like z-stacking, image stitching are introduced for wastewater image preprocessing, which are not previously used in the context of activated sludge. Different preprocessing and segmentation techniques are proposed, along with the survey of imaging procedures reported in the literature. Finally the image analysis based morphological parameters and correlation of the parameters with regard to monitoring and prediction of activated sludge are discussed. Hence it is observed that image analysis can play a very useful role in the monitoring of activated sludge wastewater treatment plants.

Characterization of monoclinic crystals in tablets by pattern-fitting procedure using X-ray powder diffraction data.

PubMed

Yamamura, Shigeo; Momose, Yasunori

2003-06-18

The purpose of this study is to characterize the monoclinic crystals in tablets by using X-ray powder diffraction data and to evaluate the deformation feature of crystals during compression. The monoclinic crystals of acetaminophen and benzoic acid were used as the samples. The observed X-ray diffraction intensities were fitted to the analytic expression, and the fitting parameters, such as the lattice parameters, the peak-width parameters, the preferred orientation parameter and peak asymmetric parameter were optimized by a non-linear least-squares procedure. The Gauss and March distribution functions were used to correct the preferred orientation of crystallites in the tablet. The March function performed better in correcting the modification of diffraction intensity by preferred orientation of crystallites, suggesting that the crystallites in the tablets had fiber texture with axial orientation. Although a broadening of diffraction peaks was observed in acetaminophen tablets with an increase of compression pressure, little broadening was observed in the benzoic tablets. These results suggest that "acetaminophen is a material consolidating by fragmentation of crystalline particles and benzoic acid is a material consolidating by plastic deformation then occurred rearrangement of molecules during compression". A pattern-fitting procedure is the superior method for characterizing the crystalline drugs of monoclinic crystals in the tablets, as well as orthorhombic isoniazid and mannitol crystals reported in the previous paper.

The Dose-Volume Relationship of Small Bowel Irradiation and Acute Grade 3 Diarrhea During Chemoradiotherapy for Rectal Cancer

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

Robertson, John M.; Lockman, David; Yan Di

Purpose: Previous work has found a highly significant relationship between the irradiated small-bowel volume and development of Grade 3 small-bowel toxicity in patients with rectal cancer. This study tested the previously defined parameters in a much larger group of patients. Methods and Materials: A total of 96 consecutive patients receiving pelvic radiation therapy for rectal cancer had treatment planning computed tomographic scans with small-bowel contrast that allowed the small bowel to be outlined with calculation of a small-bowel dose-volume histogram for the initial intended pelvic treatment to 45 Gy. Patients with at least one parameter above the previously determined dose-volumemore » parameters were considered high risk, whereas those with all parameters below these levels were low risk. The grade of diarrhea and presence of liquid stool was determined prospectively. Results: There was a highly significant association with small-bowel dose-volume and Grade 3 diarrhea (p {<=} 0.008). The high-risk and low-risk parameters were predictive with Grade 3 diarrhea in 16 of 51 high-risk patients and in 4 of 45 low-risk patients (p = 0.01). Patients who had undergone irradiation preoperatively had a lower incidence of Grade 3 diarrhea than those treated postoperatively (18% vs. 28%; p = 0.31); however, the predictive ability of the high-risk/low-risk parameters was better for preoperatively (p = 0.03) than for postoperatively treated patients (p = 0.15). Revised risk parameters were derived that improved the overall predictive ability (p = 0.004). Conclusions: The highly significant dose-volume relationship and validity of the high-risk and low-risk parameters were confirmed in a large group of patients. The risk parameters provided better modeling for the preoperative patients than for the postoperative patients.« less

Development and validation of a new population-based simulation model of osteoarthritis in New Zealand.

PubMed

Wilson, R; Abbott, J H

2018-04-01

To describe the construction and preliminary validation of a new population-based microsimulation model developed to analyse the health and economic burden and cost-effectiveness of treatments for knee osteoarthritis (OA) in New Zealand (NZ). We developed the New Zealand Management of Osteoarthritis (NZ-MOA) model, a discrete-time state-transition microsimulation model of the natural history of radiographic knee OA. In this article, we report on the model structure, derivation of input data, validation of baseline model parameters against external data sources, and validation of model outputs by comparison of the predicted population health loss with previous estimates. The NZ-MOA model simulates both the structural progression of radiographic knee OA and the stochastic development of multiple disease symptoms. Input parameters were sourced from NZ population-based data where possible, and from international sources where NZ-specific data were not available. The predicted distributions of structural OA severity and health utility detriments associated with OA were externally validated against other sources of evidence, and uncertainty resulting from key input parameters was quantified. The resulting lifetime and current population health-loss burden was consistent with estimates of previous studies. The new NZ-MOA model provides reliable estimates of the health loss associated with knee OA in the NZ population. The model structure is suitable for analysis of the effects of a range of potential treatments, and will be used in future work to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of recommended interventions within the NZ healthcare system. Copyright © 2018 Osteoarthritis Research Society International. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

GPI Spectra of HR 8799 c, d, and e from 1.5 to 2.4 μm with KLIP Forward Modeling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Greenbaum, Alexandra Z.; Pueyo, Laurent; Ruffio, Jean-Baptiste; Wang, Jason J.; De Rosa, Robert J.; Aguilar, Jonathan; Rameau, Julien; Barman, Travis; Marois, Christian; Marley, Mark S.; Konopacky, Quinn; Rajan, Abhijith; Macintosh, Bruce; Ansdell, Megan; Arriaga, Pauline; Bailey, Vanessa P.; Bulger, Joanna; Burrows, Adam S.; Chilcote, Jeffrey; Cotten, Tara; Doyon, Rene; Duchêne, Gaspard; Fitzgerald, Michael P.; Follette, Katherine B.; Gerard, Benjamin; Goodsell, Stephen J.; Graham, James R.; Hibon, Pascale; Hung, Li-Wei; Ingraham, Patrick; Kalas, Paul; Larkin, James E.; Maire, Jérôme; Marchis, Franck; Metchev, Stanimir; Millar-Blanchaer, Maxwell A.; Nielsen, Eric L.; Norton, Andrew; Oppenheimer, Rebecca; Palmer, David; Patience, Jennifer; Perrin, Marshall D.; Poyneer, Lisa; Rantakyrö, Fredrik T.; Savransky, Dmitry; Schneider, Adam C.; Sivaramakrishnan, Anand; Song, Inseok; Soummer, Rémi; Thomas, Sandrine; Wallace, J. Kent; Ward-Duong, Kimberly; Wiktorowicz, Sloane; Wolff, Schuyler

2018-06-01

We explore KLIP forward modeling spectral extraction on Gemini Planet Imager coronagraphic data of HR 8799, using PyKLIP, and show algorithm stability with varying KLIP parameters. We report new and re-reduced spectrophotometry of HR 8799 c, d, and e in the H and K bands. We discuss a strategy for choosing optimal KLIP PSF subtraction parameters by injecting simulated sources and recovering them over a range of parameters. The K1/K2 spectra for HR 8799 c and d are similar to previously published results from the same data set. We also present a K-band spectrum of HR 8799 e for the first time and show that our H-band spectra agree well with previously published spectra from the VLT/SPHERE instrument. We show that HR 8799 c and d show significant differences in their H and K spectra, but do not find any conclusive differences between d and e, nor between c and e, likely due to large error bars in the recovered spectrum of e. Compared to M-, L-, and T-type field brown dwarfs, all three planets are most consistent with mid- and late-L spectral types. All objects are consistent with low gravity, but a lack of standard spectra for low gravity limit the ability to fit the best spectral type. We discuss how dedicated modeling efforts can better fit HR 8799 planets’ near-IR flux, as well as how differences between the properties of these planets can be further explored.

Aqueous Geochemical Data From the Analysis of Stream-Water Samples Collected in June and July 2005--Taylor Mountains 1:250,000 Scale Quadrangle, Alaska

USGS Publications Warehouse

Wang, Bronwen; Mueller, Seth; Stetson, Sarah; Bailey, Elizabeth; Lee, Greg

2006-01-01

We report on the chemical analysis of water samples collected from the Taylor Mountains 1:250,000-scale quadrangle. Parameters for which data are reported include pH, conductivity, water temperature, major cation and anion concentrations, trace-element concentrations, and dissolved organic-carbon concentrations. Samples were collected as part of a multiyear U.S. Geological Survey project 'Geologic and Mineral Deposit Data for Alaskan Economic Development.' Data presented here are from samples collected in June and July of 2005. The data are being released at this time with minimal interpretation. This is the second release of aqueous geochemical data from this project; 2004 aqueous geochemical data were published previously (Wang and others, 2006). The data in this report augment but do not duplicate or supersede the previous data release. Site selection was based on a regional sampling strategy that focused on first- and second-order drainages. Water sample site selection was based on landscape parameters that included physiography, wetland extent, lithological changes, and a cursory field review of mineralogy from pan concentrates. Stream water in the Taylor Mountians quadrangle is dominated by bicarbonate (HCO3-), though in a few samples more than 50 percent of the anionic charge can be attributed to sulfate (SO42-). The major-cation chemistry ranges from Ca2+/Mg2+ dominated to a mix of Ca2+/Mg2+/Na++K+. In general, good agreement was found between the major cations and anions in the duplicate samples. Many trace elements in these samples were at or near the analytical method detection limit, but good agreement was found between duplicate samples for elements with detectable concentrations. With the exception of a total mercury concentration of 0.33 ng/L detected in a field blank, field blank major-ion and trace-elements concentrations were below detection.

Design of high-efficiency, radiation-hard, GaInP/GaAs solar cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kurtz, Sarah R.; Bertness, K. A.; Kibbler, A. E.; Kramer, C.; Olson, J. M.

1994-01-01

In recently years, Ga(0.5)In((0.5)P/GaAs cells have drawn increased attention both because of their high efficiencies and because they are well suited for space applications. They can be grown and processed as two-junction devices with roughly twice the voltage and half the current of GaAs cells. They have low temperature coefficients, and have good potential for radiation hardness. We have previously reported the effects of electron irradiation on test cells which were not optimally designed for space. From those results we estimated that an optimally designed cell could achieve 20 percent after irradiation with 10(exp 15) cm(exp -2) 1 MeV electrons. Modeling studies predicted that slightly higher efficiencies may be achievable. Record efficiencies for EOL performance of other types of cells are significantly lower. Even the best Si and InP cells have BOL efficiencies lower than the EOL efficiency we report here. Good GaAs cells have an EOL efficiency of 16 percent. The InP/Ga(0.5)In(0.5)As two-junction, two-terminal device has a BOL efficiency as high as 22.2 percent, but radiation results for these cells were limited. In this study we use the previous modeling and irradiation results to design a set of Ga(0.5)In(0.5)P/GaAs cells that will demonstrate the importance of the design parameters and result in high-efficiency devices. We report record AMO efficiencies: a BOL efficiency of 25.7 percent for a device optimized for BOL performance and two of different designs with EOL efficiencies of 19.6 percent (at 10(exp 15) cm(exp -2) 1MeV electrons). We vary the bottom-cell base doping and the top-cell thickness to show the effects of these two important design parameters. We get an unexpected result indicating that the dopant added to the bottom-cell base also increases the degradation of the top cell.

Long-term velaglucerase alfa treatment in children with Gaucher disease type 1 naïve to enzyme replacement therapy or previously treated with imiglucerase.

PubMed

Smith, Laurie; Rhead, William; Charrow, Joel; Shankar, Suma P; Bavdekar, Ashish; Longo, Nicola; Mardach, Rebecca; Harmatz, Paul; Hangartner, Thomas; Lee, Hak-Myung; Crombez, Eric; Pastores, Gregory M

2016-02-01

Gaucher Disease type 1 (GD1) often manifests in childhood. Early treatment with enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) may prevent disease complications. We report the assessment of velaglucerase alfa ERT in pediatric GD1 patients who participated in a long-term extension study (HGT-GCB-044, ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT00635427). Safety and efficacy were evaluated in pediatric patients receiving velaglucerase alfa 30-60U/kg by intravenous infusion every other week. In addition to key hematological and visceral efficacy assessments, exploratory assessments conducted specifically in pediatric patients included evaluation of height, bone age, bone marrow burden, and Tanner stage of puberty. The study included 24 pediatric patients. Fifteen patients were naïve to ERT on entry into the preceding trials TKT032 (12-month trial) or HGT-GCB-039 (9-month trial): in the preceding trials, ten of these 15 patients received velaglucerase alfa and five patients received imiglucerase ERT. Nine patients in the study were previously treated with imiglucerase for >30months and were switched to velaglucerase alfa in the preceding trial TKT034 (12-month trial). Cumulative ERT exposure in the clinical studies ranged from 2.0 to 5.8years. Three serious adverse events, including a fatal convulsion, were reported; none were deemed related to velaglucerase alfa. One patient tested positive for anti-velaglucerase alfa antibodies. An efficacy assessment at 24months showed that velaglucerase alfa had positive effects on primary hematological and visceral parameters in treatment-naïve patients, which were maintained with longer-term treatment. Disease parameters were stable in patients switched from long-term imiglucerase ERT. Exploratory results may suggest benefits of early treatment to enable normal growth in pediatric patients. The safety profile and clinical response seen in pediatric patients are consistent with results reported in adults. Copyright © 2016 Shire Development LLC. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Prevalence and effects of West Nile virus on wild American kestrel (Falco sparverius) populations in Colorado

USGS Publications Warehouse

Dusek, Robert J.; Iko, William M.; Hofmeister, Erik K.; Paul, Ellen

2012-01-01

To assess the potential impacts of West Nile virus (WNV) on a wild population of free-ranging raptors, we investigated the prevalence and effects of WNV on American Kestrels (Falco sparverius) breeding along the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains in northern Colorado. We monitored kestrel nesting activity at 131 nest boxes from March to August 2004. Of 81 nest attempts, we obtained samples from 111 adults and 250 young. We did not detect WNV in sera; however, 97.3% (108/111) of adults tested positive for WNV neutralizing antibodies, which possibly represented passive transfer of maternal antibodies. Clutch size, hatching, and fledging success in our study did not differ from that previously reported for this species, suggesting that previous WNV exposure in kestrels did not have an effect on reproductive parameters measured in the breeding populations we studied in 2004.

Pressure induced Ag 2Te polymorphs in conjunction with topological non trivial to metal transition

DOE PAGES

Zhu, J.; Oganov, A. R.; Feng, W. X.; ...

2016-08-01

Silver telluride (Ag 2Te) is well known as superionic conductor and topologica insulator with polymorphs. Pressure induced three phase transitions in Ag 2Te hav been reported in previous. Here, we experimentally identified high pressure phas above 13 GPa of Ag 2Te by using high pressure synchrotron x ray diffraction metho in combination with evolutionary crystal structure prediction, showing it crystallize into a monoclinic structure of space group C2/m with lattice parameters a = 6.081Å b = 5.744Å, c = 6.797 Å, β = 105.53°. The electronic properties measurements of Ag 2Te reveal that the topologically non-trivial semiconducting phase I andmore » semimetalli phase II previously predicated by theory transformed into bulk metals fo high pressure phases in consistent with the first principles calculations« less

Correlated motion and the effect of distal mutations in dihydrofolate reductase

PubMed Central

Rod, Thomas H.; Radkiewicz, Jennifer L.; Brooks, Charles L.

2003-01-01

Dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) catalyzes the reduction of dihydrofolate to tetrahydrofolate. The catalytic rate in this system has been found to be significantly affected by mutations far from the site of chemical activity in the enzyme [Rajagopalan, P. T. R, Lutz, S., and Benkovic, S. J. (2002) Biochemistry 41, 12618–12628]. On the basis of extensive computer simulations for wild-type DHFR from Escherichia coli and four mutants (G121S, G121V, M42F, and M42F/G121S), we show that key parameters for catalysis are changed. The parameters we study are relative populations of different conformations sampled and hydrogen bonds. We find that the mutations result in long-range structural perturbations, rationalizing the effects that the mutations have on the kinetics of the enzyme. Such perturbations also provide a rationalization for the reported nonadditivity effect for double mutations. We finally examine the role a structural perturbation will have on the hydride transfer step. On the basis of our new findings, we discuss the role of coupled motions between distant regions in the enzyme, which previously was reported by Radkiewicz and Brooks. PMID:12756296

Hidden hyperchaos and electronic circuit application in a 5D self-exciting homopolar disc dynamo

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wei, Zhouchao; Moroz, Irene; Sprott, J. C.; Akgul, Akif; Zhang, Wei

2017-03-01

We report on the finding of hidden hyperchaos in a 5D extension to a known 3D self-exciting homopolar disc dynamo. The hidden hyperchaos is identified through three positive Lyapunov exponents under the condition that the proposed model has just two stable equilibrium states in certain regions of parameter space. The new 5D hyperchaotic self-exciting homopolar disc dynamo has multiple attractors including point attractors, limit cycles, quasi-periodic dynamics, hidden chaos or hyperchaos, as well as coexisting attractors. We use numerical integrations to create the phase plane trajectories, produce bifurcation diagram, and compute Lyapunov exponents to verify the hidden attractors. Because no unstable equilibria exist in two parameter regions, the system has a multistability and six kinds of complex dynamic behaviors. To the best of our knowledge, this feature has not been previously reported in any other high-dimensional system. Moreover, the 5D hyperchaotic system has been simulated using a specially designed electronic circuit and viewed on an oscilloscope, thereby confirming the results of the numerical integrations. Both Matlab and the oscilloscope outputs produce similar phase portraits. Such implementations in real time represent a new type of hidden attractor with important consequences for engineering applications.

Nap sleep spindle correlates of intelligence.

PubMed

Ujma, Péter P; Bódizs, Róbert; Gombos, Ferenc; Stintzing, Johannes; Konrad, Boris N; Genzel, Lisa; Steiger, Axel; Dresler, Martin

2015-11-26

Sleep spindles are thalamocortical oscillations in non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep, that play an important role in sleep-related neuroplasticity and offline information processing. Several studies with full-night sleep recordings have reported a positive association between sleep spindles and fluid intelligence scores, however more recently it has been shown that only few sleep spindle measures correlate with intelligence in females, and none in males. Sleep spindle regulation underlies a circadian rhythm, however the association between spindles and intelligence has not been investigated in daytime nap sleep so far. In a sample of 86 healthy male human subjects, we investigated the correlation between fluid intelligence and sleep spindle parameters in an afternoon nap of 100 minutes. Mean sleep spindle length, amplitude and density were computed for each subject and for each derivation for both slow and fast spindles. A positive association was found between intelligence and slow spindle duration, but not any other sleep spindle parameter. As a positive correlation between intelligence and slow sleep spindle duration in full-night polysomnography has only been reported in females but not males, our results suggest that the association between intelligence and sleep spindles is more complex than previously assumed.

Critical laboratory values in hemostasis: toward consensus.

PubMed

Lippi, Giuseppe; Adcock, Dorothy; Simundic, Ana-Maria; Tripodi, Armando; Favaloro, Emmanuel J

2017-09-01

The term "critical values" can be defined to entail laboratory test results that significantly lie outside the normal (reference) range and necessitate immediate reporting to safeguard patient health, as well as those displaying a highly and clinically significant variation compared to previous data. The identification and effective communication of "highly pathological" values has engaged the minds of many clinicians, health care and laboratory professionals for decades, since these activities are vital to good laboratory practice. This is especially true in hemostasis, where a timely and efficient communication of critical values strongly impacts patient management. Due to the heterogeneity of available data, this paper is hence aimed to analyze the state of the art and provide an expert opinion about the parameters, measurement units and alert limits pertaining to critical values in hemostasis, thus providing a basic document for future consultation that assists laboratory professionals and clinicians alike. KEY MESSAGES Critical values are laboratory test results significantly lying outside the normal (reference) range and necessitating immediate reporting to safeguard patient health. A broad heterogeneity exists about critical values in hemostasis worldwide. We provide here an expert opinion about the parameters, measurement units and alert limits pertaining to critical values in hemostasis.

The effects of Cosmos caudatus (ulam raja) on dynamic and cellular bone histomorphometry in ovariectomized rats

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Cosmos caudatus is a local plant which has antioxidant properties and contains high calcium. It is also reported to be able to strengthen the bone. This report is an extension to previously published article in Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine (doi:10.1155/2012/817814). In this study, we determined the effectiveness of C. caudatus as an alternative treatment for osteoporosis due to post-menopause by looking at the dynamic and cellular paramaters of bone histomorphometry. Methods Forty female Wistar rats were divided into four groups i.e. sham operated, ovariectomized, ovariectomized treated with calcium 1% ad libitum and ovariectomized force-fed with 500 mg/kg C. caudatus extract. Treatment was given six days a week for eight weeks. Results Dynamic and cellular histomorphometry parameters were measured. C. caudatus increased double-labeled surface (dLS/BS), mineral appositional rate (MAR), osteoid volume (OV/BV) and osteoblast surface (Ob.S/BS). C. caudatus also gave better results compared to calcium 1% in the osteoid volume (OV/BV) parameter. Conclusions C. caudatus at the 500 mg/kg dose may be an alternative treatment in restoring bone damage that may occur in post-menopausal women. PMID:23800238

The effects of Cosmos caudatus (ulam raja) on dynamic and cellular bone histomorphometry in ovariectomized rats.

PubMed

Mohamed, Norazlina; Sahhugi, Zulaikha; Ramli, Elvy Suhana Mohd; Muhammad, Norliza

2013-06-24

Cosmos caudatus is a local plant which has antioxidant properties and contains high calcium. It is also reported to be able to strengthen the bone. This report is an extension to previously published article in Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine (doi:10.1155/2012/817814). In this study, we determined the effectiveness of C. caudatus as an alternative treatment for osteoporosis due to post-menopause by looking at the dynamic and cellular paramaters of bone histomorphometry. Forty female Wistar rats were divided into four groups i.e. sham operated, ovariectomized, ovariectomized treated with calcium 1% ad libitum and ovariectomized force-fed with 500 mg/kg C. caudatus extract. Treatment was given six days a week for eight weeks. Dynamic and cellular histomorphometry parameters were measured. C. caudatus increased double-labeled surface (dLS/BS), mineral appositional rate (MAR), osteoid volume (OV/BV) and osteoblast surface (Ob.S/BS). C. caudatus also gave better results compared to calcium 1% in the osteoid volume (OV/BV) parameter. C. caudatus at the 500 mg/kg dose may be an alternative treatment in restoring bone damage that may occur in post-menopausal women.

Hidden hyperchaos and electronic circuit application in a 5D self-exciting homopolar disc dynamo.

PubMed

Wei, Zhouchao; Moroz, Irene; Sprott, J C; Akgul, Akif; Zhang, Wei

2017-03-01

We report on the finding of hidden hyperchaos in a 5D extension to a known 3D self-exciting homopolar disc dynamo. The hidden hyperchaos is identified through three positive Lyapunov exponents under the condition that the proposed model has just two stable equilibrium states in certain regions of parameter space. The new 5D hyperchaotic self-exciting homopolar disc dynamo has multiple attractors including point attractors, limit cycles, quasi-periodic dynamics, hidden chaos or hyperchaos, as well as coexisting attractors. We use numerical integrations to create the phase plane trajectories, produce bifurcation diagram, and compute Lyapunov exponents to verify the hidden attractors. Because no unstable equilibria exist in two parameter regions, the system has a multistability and six kinds of complex dynamic behaviors. To the best of our knowledge, this feature has not been previously reported in any other high-dimensional system. Moreover, the 5D hyperchaotic system has been simulated using a specially designed electronic circuit and viewed on an oscilloscope, thereby confirming the results of the numerical integrations. Both Matlab and the oscilloscope outputs produce similar phase portraits. Such implementations in real time represent a new type of hidden attractor with important consequences for engineering applications.

Improving the quantity, quality and transparency of data used to derive radionuclide transfer parameters for animal products. 2. Cow milk.

PubMed

Howard, B J; Wells, C; Barnett, C L; Howard, D C

2017-02-01

Under the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) MODARIA (Modelling and Data for Radiological Impact Assessments) Programme, there has been an initiative to improve the derivation, provenance and transparency of transfer parameter values for radionuclides from feed to animal products that are for human consumption. A description of the revised MODARIA 2016 cow milk dataset is described in this paper. As previously reported for the MODARIA goat milk dataset, quality control has led to the discounting of some references used in IAEA's Technical Report Series (TRS) report 472 (IAEA, 2010). The number of Concentration Ratio (CR) values has been considerably increased by (i) the inclusion of more literature from agricultural studies which particularly enhanced the stable isotope data of both CR and F m and (ii) by estimating dry matter intake from assumed liveweight. In TRS 472, the data for cow milk were 714 transfer coefficient (F m ) values and 254 CR values describing 31 elements and 26 elements respectively. In the MODARIA 2016 cow milk dataset, F m and CR values are now reported for 43 elements based upon 825 data values for F m and 824 for CR. The MODARIA 2016 cow milk dataset F m values are within an order of magnitude of those reported in TRS 472. Slightly bigger changes are seen in the CR values, but the increase in size of the dataset creates greater confidence in them. Data gaps that still remain are identified for elements with isotopes relevant to radiation protection. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

A Phase 3, multicenter, open-label, switchover trial to assess the safety and efficacy of taliglucerase alfa, a plant cell-expressed recombinant human glucocerebrosidase, in adult and pediatric patients with Gaucher disease previously treated with imiglucerase.

PubMed

Pastores, Gregory M; Petakov, Milan; Giraldo, Pilar; Rosenbaum, Hanna; Szer, Jeffrey; Deegan, Patrick B; Amato, Dominick J; Mengel, Eugen; Tan, Ee Shien; Chertkoff, Raul; Brill-Almon, Einat; Zimran, Ari

2014-12-01

Taliglucerase alfa is a β-glucosidase enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) approved in the US and other countries for the treatment of Gaucher disease (GD) in adults and is approved in pediatric and adult patients in Australia and Canada. It is the first approved plant cell-expressed recombinant human protein. A Phase 3, multicenter, open-label, 9-month study assessed safety and efficacy of switching to taliglucerase alfa in adult and pediatric patients with GD treated with imiglucerase for at least the previous 2years. Patients with stable disease were offered taliglucerase alfa treatment using the same dose (9-60U/kg body weight) and regimen of administration (every 2weeks) as imiglucerase. This report summarizes results from 26 adult and 5 pediatric patients who participated in the trial. Disease parameters (spleen and liver volumes, hemoglobin concentration, platelet count, and biomarker levels) remained stable through 9months of treatment in adults and children following the switch from imiglucerase. All treatment-related adverse events were mild or moderate in severity and transient in nature. Exploratory parameters of linear growth and development showed positive outcomes in pediatric patients. These findings provide evidence of the efficacy and safety profile of taliglucerase alfa as an ERT for GD in patients previously treated with imiglucerase. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as # NCT00712348. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Molecular insights into the colonization and chromosomal diversification of Madeiran house mice.

PubMed

Förster, D W; Gündüz, I; Nunes, A C; Gabriel, S; Ramalhinho, M G; Mathias, M L; Britton-Davidian, J; Searle, J B

2009-11-01

The colonization history of Madeiran house mice was investigated by analysing the complete mitochondrial (mt) D-loop sequences of 156 mice from the island of Madeira and mainland Portugal, extending on previous studies. The numbers of mtDNA haplotypes from Madeira and mainland Portugal were substantially increased (17 and 14 new haplotypes respectively), and phylogenetic analysis confirmed the previously reported link between the Madeiran archipelago and northern Europe. Sequence analysis revealed the presence of four mtDNA lineages in mainland Portugal, of which one was particularly common and widespread (termed the 'Portugal Main Clade'). There was no support for population bottlenecks during the formation of the six Robertsonian chromosome races on the island of Madeira, and D-loop sequence variation was not found to be structured according to karyotype. The colonization time of the Madeiran archipelago by Mus musculus domesticus was approached using two molecular dating methods (mismatch distribution and Bayesian skyline plot). Time estimates based on D-loop sequence variation at mainland sites (including previously published data from France and Turkey) were evaluated in the context of the zooarchaeological record of M. m. domesticus. A range of values for mutation rate (mu) and number of mouse generations per year was considered in these analyses because of the uncertainty surrounding these two parameters. The colonization of Portugal and Madeira by house mice is discussed in the context of the best-supported parameter values. In keeping with recent studies, our results suggest that mutation rate estimates based on interspecific divergence lead to gross overestimates concerning the timing of recent within-species events.

A study revealing the key aroma compounds of steamed bread made by Chinese traditional sourdough*

PubMed Central

Zhang, Guo-hua; Wu, Tao; Sadiq, Faizan A.; Yang, Huan-yi; Liu, Tong-jie; Ruan, Hui; He, Guo-qing

2016-01-01

Aroma of Chinese steamed bread (CSB) is one of the important parameters that determines the overall quality attributes and consumer acceptance. However, the aroma profile of CSB still remains poorly understood, mainly because of relying on only a single method for aroma extraction in previous studies. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine the volatile aroma compounds of five different samples of CSB using three different aroma extraction methods, namely solid-phase microextraction (SPME), simultaneous distillation–extraction (SDE), and purge and trap (P&T). All samples showed a unique aroma profile, which could be attributed to their unique microbial consortia. (E)-2-Nonenal and (E,E)-2,4-decadienal were the most prevalent aromatic compounds revealed by SDE, which have not been reported previously, while ethanol and acetic acid proved to be the most dominant compounds by both SPME and P&T. Our approach of combining three different aroma extraction methods provided better insights into the aroma profile of CSB, which had remained largely unknown in previous studies. PMID:27704748

Interplay between Peptide Bond Geometrical Parameters in Nonglobular Structural Contexts

PubMed Central

Esposito, Luciana; De Simone, Alfonso; Vitagliano, Luigi

2013-01-01

Several investigations performed in the last two decades have unveiled that geometrical parameters of protein backbone show a remarkable variability. Although these studies have provided interesting insights into one of the basic aspects of protein structure, they have been conducted on globular and water-soluble proteins. We report here a detailed analysis of backbone geometrical parameters in nonglobular proteins/peptides. We considered membrane proteins and two distinct fibrous systems (amyloid-forming and collagen-like peptides). Present data show that in these systems the local conformation plays a major role in dictating the amplitude of the bond angle N-Cα-C and the propensity of the peptide bond to adopt planar/nonplanar states. Since the trends detected here are in line with the concept of the mutual influence of local geometry and conformation previously established for globular and water-soluble proteins, our analysis demonstrates that the interplay of backbone geometrical parameters is an intrinsic and general property of protein/peptide structures that is preserved also in nonglobular contexts. For amyloid-forming peptides significant distortions of the N-Cα-C bond angle, indicative of sterical hidden strain, may occur in correspondence with side chain interdigitation. The correlation between the dihedral angles Δω/ψ in collagen-like models may have interesting implications for triple helix stability. PMID:24455689

Interplay between peptide bond geometrical parameters in nonglobular structural contexts.

PubMed

Esposito, Luciana; Balasco, Nicole; De Simone, Alfonso; Berisio, Rita; Vitagliano, Luigi

2013-01-01

Several investigations performed in the last two decades have unveiled that geometrical parameters of protein backbone show a remarkable variability. Although these studies have provided interesting insights into one of the basic aspects of protein structure, they have been conducted on globular and water-soluble proteins. We report here a detailed analysis of backbone geometrical parameters in nonglobular proteins/peptides. We considered membrane proteins and two distinct fibrous systems (amyloid-forming and collagen-like peptides). Present data show that in these systems the local conformation plays a major role in dictating the amplitude of the bond angle N-C(α)-C and the propensity of the peptide bond to adopt planar/nonplanar states. Since the trends detected here are in line with the concept of the mutual influence of local geometry and conformation previously established for globular and water-soluble proteins, our analysis demonstrates that the interplay of backbone geometrical parameters is an intrinsic and general property of protein/peptide structures that is preserved also in nonglobular contexts. For amyloid-forming peptides significant distortions of the N-C(α)-C bond angle, indicative of sterical hidden strain, may occur in correspondence with side chain interdigitation. The correlation between the dihedral angles Δω/ψ in collagen-like models may have interesting implications for triple helix stability.

Observation model and parameter partials for the JPL VLBI parameter estimation software MODEST, 19 94

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sovers, O. J.; Jacobs, C. S.

1994-01-01

This report is a revision of the document Observation Model and Parameter Partials for the JPL VLBI Parameter Estimation Software 'MODEST'---1991, dated August 1, 1991. It supersedes that document and its four previous versions (1983, 1985, 1986, and 1987). A number of aspects of the very long baseline interferometry (VLBI) model were improved from 1991 to 1994. Treatment of tidal effects is extended to model the effects of ocean tides on universal time and polar motion (UTPM), including a default model for nearly diurnal and semidiurnal ocean tidal UTPM variations, and partial derivatives for all (solid and ocean) tidal UTPM amplitudes. The time-honored 'K(sub 1) correction' for solid earth tides has been extended to include analogous frequency-dependent response of five tidal components. Partials of ocean loading amplitudes are now supplied. The Zhu-Mathews-Oceans-Anisotropy (ZMOA) 1990-2 and Kinoshita-Souchay models of nutation are now two of the modeling choices to replace the increasingly inadequate 1980 International Astronomical Union (IAU) nutation series. A rudimentary model of antenna thermal expansion is provided. Two more troposphere mapping functions have been added to the repertoire. Finally, corrections among VLBI observations via the model of Treuhaft and lanyi improve modeling of the dynamic troposphere. A number of minor misprints in Rev. 4 have been corrected.

Systolic blood pressure but not electrocardiogram QRS duration is associated with heart rate variability (HRV): a cross-sectional study in rural Australian non-diabetics.

PubMed

Lee, Yvonne Yin Leng; Jelinek, Herbert F; McLachlan, Craig S

2017-01-01

A positive correlation between ECG derived QRS duration and heart rate variability (HRV) parameters had previously been reported in young healthy adults. We note this study used a narrow QRS duration range, and did not adjust for systolic blood pressure. Our aims are to investigate associations between systolic blood pressure (SBP), QRS duration and HRV in a rural aging population. A retrospective cross sectional population was obtained from the CSU Diabetes Screening Research Initiative data base where 200 participants had no diabetes or pre-diabetes. SBP data were matched with ECG derived QRS duration and HRV parameters. HRV parameters were calculated from R-R intervals. Resting 12-lead electrocardiograms were obtained from each subject using a Welch Allyn PC-Based ECG system. Pearson correlation analysis revealed no statistically significant associations between HRV parameters and QRS duration. No significant mean differences in HRV parameter subgroups across defined QRS cut-offs were found. SBP > 146 mmHg was associated with increasing QRS durations, however this association disappeared once models were adjusted for age and gender. SBP was also significantly associated with a number of HRV parameters using Pearson correlation analysis, including high frequency (HF) ( p  < 0.05), HFln ( p  < 0.02), RMSDD ( p  < 0.02) and non-linear parameters; ApEN ( p  < 0.001) were negatively correlated with increasing SBP while the low frequency to high frequency ratio (LF/HF) increased with increasing SBP ( p  < 0.03). Our results do not support associations between ECG derived R-R derived HRV parameters and QRS duration in aging populations. We suggest that ventricular conduction as determined by QRS duration is independent of variations in SA-node heart rate variability.

Stability, Consistency and Performance of Distribution Entropy in Analysing Short Length Heart Rate Variability (HRV) Signal.

PubMed

Karmakar, Chandan; Udhayakumar, Radhagayathri K; Li, Peng; Venkatesh, Svetha; Palaniswami, Marimuthu

2017-01-01

Distribution entropy ( DistEn ) is a recently developed measure of complexity that is used to analyse heart rate variability (HRV) data. Its calculation requires two input parameters-the embedding dimension m , and the number of bins M which replaces the tolerance parameter r that is used by the existing approximation entropy ( ApEn ) and sample entropy ( SampEn ) measures. The performance of DistEn can also be affected by the data length N . In our previous studies, we have analyzed stability and performance of DistEn with respect to one parameter ( m or M ) or combination of two parameters ( N and M ). However, impact of varying all the three input parameters on DistEn is not yet studied. Since DistEn is predominantly aimed at analysing short length heart rate variability (HRV) signal, it is important to comprehensively study the stability, consistency and performance of the measure using multiple case studies. In this study, we examined the impact of changing input parameters on DistEn for synthetic and physiological signals. We also compared the variations of DistEn and performance in distinguishing physiological (Elderly from Young) and pathological (Healthy from Arrhythmia) conditions with ApEn and SampEn . The results showed that DistEn values are minimally affected by the variations of input parameters compared to ApEn and SampEn. DistEn also showed the most consistent and the best performance in differentiating physiological and pathological conditions with various of input parameters among reported complexity measures. In conclusion, DistEn is found to be the best measure for analysing short length HRV time series.

The structure of binding curves and practical identifiability of equilibrium ligand-binding parameters

PubMed Central

Middendorf, Thomas R.

2017-01-01

A critical but often overlooked question in the study of ligands binding to proteins is whether the parameters obtained from analyzing binding data are practically identifiable (PI), i.e., whether the estimates obtained from fitting models to noisy data are accurate and unique. Here we report a general approach to assess and understand binding parameter identifiability, which provides a toolkit to assist experimentalists in the design of binding studies and in the analysis of binding data. The partial fraction (PF) expansion technique is used to decompose binding curves for proteins with n ligand-binding sites exactly and uniquely into n components, each of which has the form of a one-site binding curve. The association constants of the PF component curves, being the roots of an n-th order polynomial, may be real or complex. We demonstrate a fundamental connection between binding parameter identifiability and the nature of these one-site association constants: all binding parameters are identifiable if the constants are all real and distinct; otherwise, at least some of the parameters are not identifiable. The theory is used to construct identifiability maps from which the practical identifiability of binding parameters for any two-, three-, or four-site binding curve can be assessed. Instructions for extending the method to generate identifiability maps for proteins with more than four binding sites are also given. Further analysis of the identifiability maps leads to the simple rule that the maximum number of structurally identifiable binding parameters (shown in the previous paper to be equal to n) will also be PI only if the binding curve line shape contains n resolved components. PMID:27993951

The effect of reservoir geometry, injection and production parameters and permeability structure on induced seismicity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hosseini, S. M.; Goebel, T.; Aminzadeh, F.

2015-12-01

The recent increase in injection induced seismicity (IIS) in previously less seismically active regions highlighted a need for better mitigation strategies and physics-based models of induced seismicity. Previous models of pressure diffusion and fluid flow investigated the change in Coulomb stress as a result of induced pore-pressure perturbations (e.g. Zhang et al., 2013; Keranen et al., 2014; Hornbach et al., 2015; Segall and Lu, 2015). Here, we consider the additional effects of permeability structure, operational parameters and reservoir geometry. We numerically investigate the influence of net fluid injection volumes; linear, radial, and spherical reservoir geometry; as well as reservoir size. The latter can have a substantial effect on changes in Coulomb stress and subsequent induced seismicity. We report on results from two series of model runs, which explored pressure changes caused by wastewater disposal and water flooding. We observed that a typical water flooding operation that includes production wells and injectors has a lower probability of inducing seismicity. Our observations are in agreement with assessment by National Research Council report on induced seismicity (2012). We developed a third suite of models that investigate the effect of permeability structure on injection-induced seismicity. We examine two cases of wastewater disposal in proximity to active faults: 1) in Central Illinois Basin and 2) in central California. In both cases, we observed that the size of the reservoir, presence of faults, and permeability contrast relative to the host rock, strongly influences the pressure changes with distance and time. These pressure changes vary widely but can easily lead to fault instability and seismic activity at up to 10 km distance from the injection well. The results of this study may help to select safe injection sites and operational conditions in order to minimize injection induced seismicity hazard.

THE TIMING OF NINE GLOBULAR CLUSTER PULSARS

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

Lynch, Ryan S.; Freire, Paulo C. C.; Ransom, Scott M.

2012-02-01

We have used the Robert C. Byrd Green Bank Telescope to time nine previously known pulsars without published timing solutions in the globular clusters (GCs) M62, NGC 6544, and NGC 6624. We have full timing solutions that measure the spin, astrometric, and (where applicable) binary parameters for six of these pulsars. The remaining three pulsars (reported here for the first time) were not detected enough to establish solutions. We also report our timing solutions for five pulsars with previously published solutions, and find good agreement with other authors, except for PSR J1701-3006B in M62. Gas in this system is probablymore » responsible for the discrepancy in orbital parameters, and we have been able to measure a change in the orbital period over the course of our observations. Among the pulsars with new solutions we find several binary pulsars with very low mass companions (members of the so-called 'black widow' class) and we are able to place constraints on the mass-to-light ratio in two clusters. We confirm that one of the pulsars in NGC 6624 is indeed a member of the rare class of non-recycled pulsars found in GCs. We have also measured the orbital precession and Shapiro delay for a relativistic binary in NGC 6544. If we assume that the orbital precession can be described entirely by general relativity, which is likely, we are able to measure the total system mass (2.57190(73) M{sub Sun }) and companion mass (1.2064(20) M{sub Sun }), from which we derive the orbital inclination (sin i = 0.9956(14)) and the pulsar mass (1.3655(21) M{sub Sun }), the most precise such measurement ever obtained for a millisecond pulsar. The companion is the most massive known around a fully recycled pulsar.« less

Male reproductive system parameters in a two-generation reproduction study of ammonium perfluorooctanoate in rats and human relevance.

PubMed

York, Raymond G; Kennedy, Gerald L; Olsen, Geary W; Butenhoff, John L

2010-04-30

Ammonium perfluorooctanoate (ammonium PFOA) is an industrial surfactant that has been used primarily as a processing aid in the manufacture of fluoropolymers. The environmental and metabolic stability of PFOA together with its presence in human blood and long elimination half-life have led to extensive toxicological studies in laboratory animals. Two recent publications based on observations from the Danish general population have reported: (1) a negative association between serum concentrations of PFOA in young adult males and their sperm counts and (2) a positive association among women with time to pregnancy. A two-generation reproduction study in rats was previously published (2004) in which no effects on functional reproduction were observed at doses up to 30mg ammonium PFOA/kg body weight. The article contained the simple statement: "In males, fertility was normal as were all sperm parameters". In order to place the recent human epidemiological data in perspective, herein we provide the detailed male reproductive parameters from that study, including sperm quality and testicular histopathology. Sperm parameters in rats from the two-generation study in all ammonium PFOA treatment groups were unaffected by treatment with ammonium PFOA. These observations reflected the normal fertility observations in these males. No evidence of altered testicular and sperm structure and function was observed in ammonium PFOA-treated rats whose mean group serum PFOA concentrations ranged up to approximately 50,000ng/mL. Given that median serum PFOA in the Danish cohorts was approximately 5ng/mL, it seems unlikely that concentrations observed in the general population, including those recently reported in Danish general population, could be associated causally with a real decrement in sperm number and quality.

Determination of Optimum Operation Parameters for Low-Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound and Low-Level Laser Based Treatment to Induce Proliferation of Osteoblast and Fibroblast Cells.

PubMed

Coskun, Mehmet Emre; Coskun, Kubra Acikalin; Tutar, Yusuf

2018-05-01

The aim of this study was to determine the optimum operating parameters (pulse duration, energy levels, and application time) to promote induction of osteoblast and fibroblast cell proliferation and to maintain cell viability treated with low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) and low-level laser therapy (LLLT). The positive effects of LIPUS and LLLT on cellular activity have been reported in recent years. Comparisons between experimental parameters of previous studies are difficult because scientific studies reported frequencies and the duty cycles of LIPUS and wavelengths and doses of LLLT in a wide range of parameters. However, optimum amount of energy and optimum time exposure must be determined to induce bone and tissue cell proliferation for effective healing process and to avoid cell damage. Fibroblast and osteoblast cell cultures were irradiated with LIPUS (10-50% pulse and continuous mode at 1 and 3 MHz for 1, 3, and 5 min) and LLLT (4, 8, and 16 J at 50, 100, 200, 300, 400, and 500 mW). Cell cultures were analyzed using XTT assay. For both cell types, LIPUS treatment with 10% pulse (1:9 duty cycle), 3 MHz, and for 1 min and LLLT treatment over 100 mV for 4, 8, and 16 J modalities contributed to the growth, and may help bone repair and tissue healing process optimally. Bio-stimulating effects of LLLT irradiation promote proliferation and maintain cell viability better than LIPUS treatment without causing thermal response for both cell types, and the therapeutic modality above 200 mV has maximum effectiveness.

Casting shadows on the prevalence of tanning dependence: an assessment of mCAGE criteria.

PubMed

Schneider, Sven; Schirmbeck, Frederike; Bock, Christina; Greinert, Rüdiger; Breitbart, Eckhardt W; Diehl, Katharina

2015-02-01

Recently more and more studies have reported high prevalence rates for a 'tanning dependence' among tanning bed users. The authors of these studies base their argumentation on a modified (m) version of the CAGE (Cut-down, Annoyed, Guilty and Eye-opener) Criteria, initially used for alcohol addiction. By means of cognitive interviews and a large population survey, we tested the validity of the mCAGE Criteria and the above-mentioned prevalence that was deduced on the basis of rather small collectives. Firstly, it seems that the mCAGE Criteria wording used so far is inconsistent, misleading and intrinsically invalid. Secondly, our population-based data show a much lower percentage (15%) of current sunbed users with potential dependence symptoms than the above-mentioned previously published studies. Thirdly, the usage parameters for most of the supposed 'addicts' do not indicate a substance addiction: 38% of the users with positive scores reported not having visited a tanning studio at all in the previous month, 39% did not use sunbeds regularly and 89% did not show signs of tolerance to UV radiation. The mCAGE Criteria do not seem suitable for assessing tanning dependence.

Evaluating Reported Candidate Gene Associations with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

PubMed Central

Pau, Cindy; Saxena, Richa; Welt, Corrine Kolka

2013-01-01

Objective To replicate variants in candidate genes associated with PCOS in a population of European PCOS and control subjects. Design Case-control association analysis and meta-analysis. Setting Major academic hospital Patients Women of European ancestry with PCOS (n=525) and controls (n=472), aged 18 to 45 years. Intervention Variants previously associated with PCOS in candidate gene studies were genotyped (n=39). Metabolic, reproductive and anthropomorphic parameters were examined as a function of the candidate variants. All genetic association analyses were adjusted for age, BMI and ancestry and were reported after correction for multiple testing. Main Outcome Measure Association of candidate gene variants with PCOS. Results Three variants, rs3797179 (SRD5A1), rs12473543 (POMC), and rs1501299 (ADIPOQ), were nominally associated with PCOS. However, they did not remain significant after correction for multiple testing and none of the variants replicated in a sufficiently powered meta-analysis. Variants in the FBN3 gene (rs17202517 and rs73503752) were associated with smaller waist circumferences and variant rs727428 in the SHBG gene was associated with lower SHBG levels. Conclusion Previously identified variants in candidate genes do not appear to be associated with PCOS risk. PMID:23375202

Characterizating Multi-layered Coastal Aquifer using Pneumatic Slug Tests

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Malama, B.; Abere, M.; Mikenna, M.

2016-12-01

Results of pneumatic slug tests conducted in a monitoring wells of a shallow aquifer on the California Central Coast are presented. The aquifer is in the Los Osos groundwater basin on the California Central Coast, a semi-closed near-triangular groundwater basin bounded to the north and south by impermeable igneousbed rock and to the west by the Pacific Ocean. The groundwater basin is a multi-layered system comprising a perched, near-surface semi-confined, and a deep confined aquifer. The unincorporated community of Los Osos is wholly dependent on the groundwater basin that is threatened with seawater intrusion and nitratecontamination. The slug tests reported here were performed in the perched and semi-confined aquifers as part of a seawater intrusion characterization study. The semi-confined and confined aquifers show evidence of seawater intrusion with upconing in some deep aquifer municipal wells. The upconing has beeninterpreted by previous studies as evidence of preferential flow through a high permeability channel. The objective of the work was to test this hypothesis by mapping the horizontal and vertical spatial variability of hydraulic parameters across the basin and establish the extent of the high permeability unit.Here only preliminary results of slug tests conducted across the basin for vertically averaged hydraulic parameters are reported. The results provide an indication of the horizontal variability of hydraulic parameters. An additional study will be performed to characterize the vertical variability to investigate the probableexistsence of a high permeability channel.

School based oral health promotional intervention: Effect on knowledge, practices and clinical oral health related parameters

PubMed Central

Gauba, Arjun; Bal, Ikreet Singh; Jain, Ashish; Mittal, Hitesh Chander

2013-01-01

Background: No organized school oral health program is existent in India. Aim: The aim of this study is to test the feasibility and efficacy of an economical school oral health promotional intervention with educational and preventive components. Settings and Design: School oral health promotional intervention carried out in one of the randomly selected school and evaluated through short duration prospective model. Materials and Methods: A total of 100 children with an age range of 10-12 years with no previous history of dental intervention were enrolled. Interventions comprised of oral health education (delivered through lecture and demonstrations by an undergraduate dental student) and topical antibacterial therapy (fluoride varnish and povidone iodine). Outcomes consisted of Knowledge and practices (KAP) regarding oral health, clinical oral health related parameters such as plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI) and caries activity as per Modified Snyder's test. These were reported at baseline, 3 weeks and 6 months follow-up examination by a calibrated examiner. Statistical Analysis: McNemar Bowker's test, Student's t-test, Pearson Chi-square tests were used. Results: Highly significant (P < 0.001) improvements in KAP scores, PI scores, GI scores and caries activity were reported at 3 weeks and 6 months follow-up examination. Conclusion: This small economical school oral health program positively influenced oral health related practices and parameters of oral health such as oral cleanliness, gingival health and caries activity. PMID:24403795

Active Aeroelastic Wing Aerodynamic Model Development and Validation for a Modified F/A-18A Airplane

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cumming, Stephen B.; Diebler, Corey G.

2005-01-01

A new aerodynamic model has been developed and validated for a modified F/A-18A airplane used for the Active Aeroelastic Wing (AAW) research program. The goal of the program was to demonstrate the advantages of using the inherent flexibility of an aircraft to enhance its performance. The research airplane was an F/A-18A with wings modified to reduce stiffness and a new control system to increase control authority. There have been two flight phases. Data gathered from the first flight phase were used to create the new aerodynamic model. A maximum-likelihood output-error parameter estimation technique was used to obtain stability and control derivatives. The derivatives were incorporated into the National Aeronautics and Space Administration F-18 simulation, validated, and used to develop new AAW control laws. The second phase of flights was used to evaluate the handling qualities of the AAW airplane and the control law design process, and to further test the accuracy of the new model. The flight test envelope covered Mach numbers between 0.85 and 1.30 and dynamic pressures from 600 to 1250 pound-force per square foot. The results presented in this report demonstrate that a thorough parameter identification analysis can be used to improve upon models that were developed using other means. This report describes the parameter estimation technique used, details the validation techniques, discusses differences between previously existing F/A-18 models, and presents results from the second phase of research flights.

High-pressure behavior of CaMo O4

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Panchal, V.; Garg, N.; Poswal, H. K.; Errandonea, D.; Rodríguez-Hernández, P.; Muñoz, A.; Cavalli, E.

2017-09-01

We report a high-pressure study of tetragonal scheelite-type CaMo O4 up to 29 GPa. In order to characterize its high-pressure behavior, we have combined Raman and optical-absorption measurements with density functional theory calculations. We have found evidence of a pressure-induced phase transition near 15 GPa. Experiments and calculations agree in assigning the high-pressure phase to a monoclinic fergusonite-type structure. The reported results are consistent with previous powder x-ray-diffraction experiments, but are in contradiction with the conclusions obtained from earlier Raman measurements, which support the existence of more than one phase transition in the pressure range covered by our studies. The observed scheelite-fergusonite transition induces significant changes in the electronic band gap and phonon spectrum of CaMo O4 . We have determined the pressure evolution of the band gap for the low- and high-pressure phases as well as the frequencies and pressure dependencies of the Raman-active and infrared-active modes. In addition, based on calculations of the phonon dispersion of the scheelite phase, carried out at a pressure higher than the transition pressure, we propose a possible mechanism for the reported phase transition. Furthermore, from the calculations we determined the pressure dependence of the unit-cell parameters and atomic positions of the different phases and their room-temperature equations of state. These results are compared with previous experiments showing a very good agreement. Finally, information on bond compressibility is reported and correlated with the macroscopic compressibility of CaMo O4 . The reported results are of interest for the many technological applications of this oxide.

Choosing the appropriate forecasting model for predictive parameter control.

PubMed

Aleti, Aldeida; Moser, Irene; Meedeniya, Indika; Grunske, Lars

2014-01-01

All commonly used stochastic optimisation algorithms have to be parameterised to perform effectively. Adaptive parameter control (APC) is an effective method used for this purpose. APC repeatedly adjusts parameter values during the optimisation process for optimal algorithm performance. The assignment of parameter values for a given iteration is based on previously measured performance. In recent research, time series prediction has been proposed as a method of projecting the probabilities to use for parameter value selection. In this work, we examine the suitability of a variety of prediction methods for the projection of future parameter performance based on previous data. All considered prediction methods have assumptions the time series data has to conform to for the prediction method to provide accurate projections. Looking specifically at parameters of evolutionary algorithms (EAs), we find that all standard EA parameters with the exception of population size conform largely to the assumptions made by the considered prediction methods. Evaluating the performance of these prediction methods, we find that linear regression provides the best results by a very small and statistically insignificant margin. Regardless of the prediction method, predictive parameter control outperforms state of the art parameter control methods when the performance data adheres to the assumptions made by the prediction method. When a parameter's performance data does not adhere to the assumptions made by the forecasting method, the use of prediction does not have a notable adverse impact on the algorithm's performance.

Gait deviations in Duchenne muscular dystrophy-Part 2. Statistical non-parametric mapping to analyze gait deviations in children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

PubMed

Goudriaan, Marije; Van den Hauwe, Marleen; Simon-Martinez, Cristina; Huenaerts, Catherine; Molenaers, Guy; Goemans, Nathalie; Desloovere, Kaat

2018-04-30

Prolonged ambulation is considered important in children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). However, previous studies analyzing DMD gait were sensitive to false positive outcomes, caused by uncorrected multiple comparisons, regional focus bias, and inter-component covariance bias. Also, while muscle weakness is often suggested to be the main cause for the altered gait pattern in DMD, this was never verified. Our research question was twofold: 1) are we able to confirm the sagittal kinematic and kinetic gait alterations described in a previous review with statistical non-parametric mapping (SnPM)? And 2) are these gait deviations related to lower limb weakness? We compared gait kinematics and kinetics of 15 children with DMD and 15 typical developing (TD) children (5-17 years), with a two sample Hotelling's T 2 test and post-hoc two-tailed, two-sample t-test. We used canonical correlation analyses to study the relationship between weakness and altered gait parameters. For all analyses, α-level was corrected for multiple comparisons, resulting in α = 0.005. We only found one of the previously reported kinematic deviations: the children with DMD had an increased knee flexion angle during swing (p = 0.0006). Observed gait deviations that were not reported in the review were an increased hip flexion angle during stance (p = 0.0009) and swing (p = 0.0001), altered combined knee and ankle torques (p = 0.0002), and decreased power absorption during stance (p = 0.0001). No relationships between weakness and these gait deviations were found. We were not able to replicate the gait deviations in DMD previously reported in literature, thus DMD gait remains undefined. Further, weakness does not seem to be linearly related to altered gait features. The progressive nature of the disease requires larger study populations and longitudinal analyses to gain more insight into DMD gait and its underlying causes. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Reference values for clinical laboratory parameters in young adults in Maputo, Mozambique.

PubMed

Tembe, Nelson; Joaquim, Orvalho; Alfai, Eunice; Sitoe, Nádia; Viegas, Edna; Macovela, Eulalia; Gonçalves, Emilia; Osman, Nafissa; Andersson, Sören; Jani, Ilesh; Nilsson, Charlotta

2014-01-01

Clinical laboratory reference values from North American and European populations are currently used in most Africans countries due to the absence of locally derived reference ranges, despite previous studies reporting significant differences between populations. Our aim was to define reference ranges for both genders in 18 to 24 year-old Mozambicans in preparation for clinical vaccine trials. A cross-sectional study including 257 volunteers (102 males and 155 females) between 18 and 24 years was performedat a youth clinic in Maputo, Mozambique. All volunteers were clinically healthy and human immunodeficiency virus, Hepatitis B virus and syphilis negative.Median and 95% reference ranges were calculated for immunological, hematological and chemistry parameters. Ranges were compared with those reported based on populations in other African countries and the US. The impact of applying US NIH Division of AIDS (DAIDS) toxicity tables was assessed. The immunology ranges were comparable to those reported for the US and western Kenya.There were significant gender differences in CD4+ T cell values 713 cells/µL in males versus 824 cells/µL in females (p<0.0001). Hematologic values differed from the US values but were similar to reports of populations in western Kenya and Uganda. The lower and upper limits of the ranges for hemoglobin, hematocrit, red blood cells, white blood cells and lymphocytes were somewhat lower than those from these African countries. The chemistry values were comparable to US values, with few exceptions. The upper limits for ALT, AST, bilirubin, cholesterol and triglycerides were higher than those from the US. DAIDStables for adverse events predicted 297 adverse events and 159 (62%) of the volunteers would have been excluded. This study is the first to determine normal laboratory parameters in Mozambique. Our results underscore the necessity of establishing region-specific clinical reference ranges for proper patient management and safe conduct of clinical trials.

Three-dimensional biofilm structure quantification.

PubMed

Beyenal, Haluk; Donovan, Conrad; Lewandowski, Zbigniew; Harkin, Gary

2004-12-01

Quantitative parameters describing biofilm physical structure have been extracted from three-dimensional confocal laser scanning microscopy images and used to compare biofilm structures, monitor biofilm development, and quantify environmental factors affecting biofilm structure. Researchers have previously used biovolume, volume to surface ratio, roughness coefficient, and mean and maximum thicknesses to compare biofilm structures. The selection of these parameters is dependent on the availability of software to perform calculations. We believe it is necessary to develop more comprehensive parameters to describe heterogeneous biofilm morphology in three dimensions. This research presents parameters describing three-dimensional biofilm heterogeneity, size, and morphology of biomass calculated from confocal laser scanning microscopy images. This study extends previous work which extracted quantitative parameters regarding morphological features from two-dimensional biofilm images to three-dimensional biofilm images. We describe two types of parameters: (1) textural parameters showing microscale heterogeneity of biofilms and (2) volumetric parameters describing size and morphology of biomass. The three-dimensional features presented are average (ADD) and maximum diffusion distances (MDD), fractal dimension, average run lengths (in X, Y and Z directions), aspect ratio, textural entropy, energy and homogeneity. We discuss the meaning of each parameter and present the calculations in detail. The developed algorithms, including automatic thresholding, are implemented in software as MATLAB programs which will be available at site prior to publication of the paper.

Use of simulation tools to illustrate the effect of data management practices for low and negative plate counts on the estimated parameters of microbial reduction models.

PubMed

Garcés-Vega, Francisco; Marks, Bradley P

2014-08-01

In the last 20 years, the use of microbial reduction models has expanded significantly, including inactivation (linear and nonlinear), survival, and transfer models. However, a major constraint for model development is the impossibility to directly quantify the number of viable microorganisms below the limit of detection (LOD) for a given study. Different approaches have been used to manage this challenge, including ignoring negative plate counts, using statistical estimations, or applying data transformations. Our objective was to illustrate and quantify the effect of negative plate count data management approaches on parameter estimation for microbial reduction models. Because it is impossible to obtain accurate plate counts below the LOD, we performed simulated experiments to generate synthetic data for both log-linear and Weibull-type microbial reductions. We then applied five different, previously reported data management practices and fit log-linear and Weibull models to the resulting data. The results indicated a significant effect (α = 0.05) of the data management practices on the estimated model parameters and performance indicators. For example, when the negative plate counts were replaced by the LOD for log-linear data sets, the slope of the subsequent log-linear model was, on average, 22% smaller than for the original data, the resulting model underpredicted lethality by up to 2.0 log, and the Weibull model was erroneously selected as the most likely correct model for those data. The results demonstrate that it is important to explicitly report LODs and related data management protocols, which can significantly affect model results, interpretation, and utility. Ultimately, we recommend using only the positive plate counts to estimate model parameters for microbial reduction curves and avoiding any data value substitutions or transformations when managing negative plate counts to yield the most accurate model parameters.

Polarized neutron scattering study of the multiple order parameter system NdB4

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Metoki, N.; Yamauchi, H.; Matsuda, M.; Fernandez-Baca, J. A.; Watanuki, R.; Hagihala, M.

2018-05-01

Neutron polarization analysis has been carried out in order to clarify the magnetic structures of multiple order parameter f -electron system NdB4. We confirmed the noncollinear "all-in all-out" structure (Γ4) of the in-plane moment, which is in good agreement with our previous neutron powder diffraction study. We found that the magnetic moment along the c -axis mc showed diagonally antiferromagnetic structure (Γ10), inconsistent with previously reported "vortex" structure (Γ2). The microscopic mixture of these two structures with q⃗0=(0 ,0 ,0 ) appears in phase II and remains stable in phases III and IV, where an incommensurate modulation coexists. The unusual magnetic ordering is phenomenologically understood via Landau theory with the primary order parameter Γ4 coupled with higher-order secondary order parameter Γ10. The magnetic moments were estimated to be 1.8 ±0.2 and 0.2 ±0.05 μB at T =7.5 K for Γ4 and Γ10, respectively. We also found a long-period incommensurate modulation of the q⃗1=(0 ,0 ,1 /2 ) antiferromagnetic structure of mc with the propagation q⃗s 1=(0.14 ,0.14 ,0.1 ) and q⃗s 2=(0.2 ,0 ,0.1 ) in phase III and IV, respectively. The amplitude of sinusoidal modulation was about mc=1.0 ±0.2 μB at T =1.5 K. The local (0 ,0 ,1 /2 ) structure consists of in-plane ferromagnetic and out-of-plane antiferromagnetic coupling of mc, opposite to the coexisting Γ10. The mc of Γ10 is significantly enhanced up to 0.6 μB at T =1.5 K, which is accompanied by the incommensurate modulations. The Landau phenomenological approach indicates that the higher-order magnetic and/or multipole interactions based on the pseudoquartet f -electron state play important roles.

Resist process optimization for further defect reduction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tanaka, Keiichi; Iseki, Tomohiro; Marumoto, Hiroshi; Takayanagi, Koji; Yoshida, Yuichi; Uemura, Ryouichi; Yoshihara, Kosuke

2012-03-01

Defect reduction has become one of the most important technical challenges in device mass-production. Knowing that resist processing on a clean track strongly impacts defect formation in many cases, we have been trying to improve the track process to enhance customer yield. For example, residual type defect and pattern collapse are strongly related to process parameters in developer, and we have reported new develop and rinse methods in the previous papers. Also, we have reported the optimization method of filtration condition to reduce bridge type defects, which are mainly caused by foreign substances such as gels in resist. Even though we have contributed resist caused defect reduction in past studies, defect reduction requirements continue to be very important. In this paper, we will introduce further process improvements in terms of resist defect reduction, including the latest experimental data.

Band edge engineering of oxide photoanodes for photoelectrochemical water splitting: Integration of subsurface dipoles with atomic-scale control

DOE PAGES

Hikita, Yasuyuki; Nishio, Kazunori; Seitz, Linsey C.; ...

2016-01-22

One of the crucial parameters dictating the efficiency of photoelectrochemical water-splitting is the semiconductor band edge alignment with respect to hydrogen and oxygen redox potentials. Despite the importance of metal oxides in their use as photoelectrodes, studies to control the band edge alignment in aqueous solution have been limited predominantly to compound semiconductors with modulation ranges limited to a few hundred mV. The ability to modulate the flat band potential of oxide photoanodes by as much as 1.3 V, using the insertion of subsurface electrostatic dipoles near a Nb-doped SrTiO 3/aqueous electrolyte interface is reported. Lastly, the tunable range achievedmore » far exceeds previous reports in any semiconductor/aqueous electrolyte system and suggests a general design strategy for highly efficient oxide photoelectrodes.« less

Special analysis of community annoyance with aircraft noise reported by residents in the vicinity of JFK Airport, 1972

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Borsky, P. N.

1975-01-01

During the summer of 1972, about 1500 residents were interviewed twice in 11 communities near JFK airport. Detailed aircraft operations reports were also collected for this period, and an effort has been made to analyze recorded human response data in relation to a number of physical exposure parameters. A series of exposure indexes, based on an arithmetic integration of aircraft operations, were correlated with summated aircraft noise annoyance responses. None of these correlations were as good as the CNR index which assumes a logrithmetic integration of numbers of aircraft exposures and includes a day-night differential weighting of 10:1. There were substantial variations in average annoyance responses among communities with similar CNR exposures, substantiating previous findings that attitudinal and other personal variables also play an important role in determining annoyance differences.

A study of tantalum pentoxide Ta 2O 5 structures up to 28 GPa

DOE PAGES

Stavrou, Elissaios; Zaug, Joseph M.; Bastea, Sorin; ...

2017-05-02

In this study, tantalum pentoxide Ta 2O 5 with the orthorhombic L-Ta 2O 5 structure has been experimentally studied up to 28.3 GPa (at ambient temperature) using synchrotron angle-dispersive powder X-ray diffraction (XRD). The ambient pressure phase remains stable up to 25 GPa where with increased pressure a crystalline to amorphous phase transition occurs. A detailed equation of state (EOS), including pressure dependent lattice parameters, is reported. The results of this study were compared with a previous high-pressure XRD study by Li et al. A clear discrepancy between the ambient-pressure crystal structures and, consequently, the reported EOSs between the twomore » studies was revealed. Finally, he origin of this discrepancy is attributed to two different crystal structures used to index the XRD patterns.« less

A combined ultra-wideline solid-state NMR and DFT study of 137Ba electric field gradient tensors in barium compounds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

O'Dell, Luke A.; Moudrakovski, Igor L.

2013-04-01

Ultra-wideline 137Ba solid-state (SS) NMR spectra have been obtained from a series of five barium compounds (BaSO4, BaMoO4, Ba(CH3COO)2, Ba(OH)2·8H2O and α-Ba2P2O7), using the broadband WURST-QCPMG pulse sequence and magnetic field of 21.1 T. The signals from the two distinct crystallographic sites in α-Ba2P2O7 are resolved, with one of them demonstrating a CQ of 42.3 ± 0.3 MHz, the largest obtained for 137Ba in a powder. The quadrupolar parameters reported in this work are in excellent agreement with the DFT calculations and correlate well with those previously reported by Hamaed et al. (2010) [24].

Automated Surveillance of Fruit Flies

PubMed Central

Potamitis, Ilyas; Rigakis, Iraklis; Tatlas, Nicolaos-Alexandros

2017-01-01

Insects of the Diptera order of the Tephritidae family cause costly, annual crop losses worldwide. Monitoring traps are important components of integrated pest management programs used against fruit flies. Here we report the modification of typical, low-cost plastic traps for fruit flies by adding the necessary optoelectronic sensors to monitor the entrance of the trap in order to detect, time-stamp, GPS tag, and identify the species of incoming insects from the optoacoustic spectrum analysis of their wingbeat. We propose that the incorporation of automated streaming of insect counts, environmental parameters and GPS coordinates into informative visualization of collective behavior will finally enable better decision making across spatial and temporal scales, as well as administrative levels. The device presented is at product level of maturity as it has solved many pending issues presented in a previously reported study. PMID:28075346

Alignment in the transverse plane, but not sagittal or coronal plane, affects the risk of recurrent patella dislocation.

PubMed

Takagi, Shigeru; Sato, Takashi; Watanabe, Satoshi; Tanifuji, Osamu; Mochizuki, Tomoharu; Omori, Go; Endo, Naoto

2017-11-17

Abnormalities of lower extremity alignment (LEA) in recurrent patella dislocation (RPD) have been studied mostly by two-dimensional (2D) procedures leaving three-dimensional (3D) factors unknown. This study aimed to three-dimensionally examine risk factors for RPD in lower extremity alignment under the weight-bearing conditions. The alignment of 21 limbs in 15 RPD subjects was compared to the alignment of 24 limbs of 12 healthy young control subjects by an our previously reported 2D-3D image-matching technique. The sagittal, coronal, and transverse alignment in full extension as well as the torsional position of the femur (anteversion) and tibia (tibial torsion) under weight-bearing standing conditions were assessed by our previously reported 3D technique. The correlations between lower extremity alignment and RPD were assessed using multiple logistic regression analysis. The difference of lower extremity alignment in RPD between under the weight-bearing conditions and under the non-weight-bearing conditions was assessed. In the sagittal and coronal planes, there was no relationship (statistically or by clinically important difference) between lower extremity alignment angle and RPD. However, in the transverse plane, increased external tibial rotation [odds ratio (OR) 1.819; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.282-2.581], increased femoral anteversion (OR 1.183; 95% CI 1.029-1.360), and increased external tibial torsion (OR 0.880; 95% CI 0.782-0.991) were all correlated with RPD. The tibia was more rotated relative to femur at the knee joint in the RPD group under the weight-bearing conditions compared to under the non-weight-bearing conditions (p < 0.05). This study showed that during weight-bearing, alignment parameters in the transverse plane related to the risk of RPD, while in the sagittal and coronal plane alignment parameters did not correlate with RPD. The clinical importance of this study is that the 3D measurements more directly, precisely, and sensitively detect rotational parameters associated with RPD and hence predict risk of RPD. III.

Evaluation of Linking Methods for Placing Three-Parameter Logistic Item Parameter Estimates onto a One-Parameter Scale

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Karkee, Thakur B.; Wright, Karen R.

2004-01-01

Different item response theory (IRT) models may be employed for item calibration. Change of testing vendors, for example, may result in the adoption of a different model than that previously used with a testing program. To provide scale continuity and preserve cut score integrity, item parameter estimates from the new model must be linked to the…

Polarized neutron scattering study of the multiple order parameter system NdB 4 [Polarized neutron scattering study on multiple order parameter system NdB 4

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

Metoki, Naoto; Yamauchi, Hiroki; Matsuda, Masaaki

Neutron polarization analysis has been carried out in order to clarify the magnetic structures of multiple order parameter f-electron system NdB 4. We confirmed the noncollinear “all-in all-out” structure (Γ 4) of the in-plane moment, which is in good agreement with our previous neutron powder diffraction study. We found that the magnetic moment along the c-axis m c showed diagonally antiferromagnetic structure (Γ 10), inconsistent with previously reported “vortex” structure (Γ 2). The microscopic mixture of these two structures with →q 0=(0,0,0) appears in phase II and remains stable in phases III and IV, where an incommensurate modulation coexists. Themore » unusual magnetic ordering is phenomenologically understood via Landau theory with the primary order parameter Γ 4 coupled with higher-order secondary order parameter Γ 10. The magnetic moments were estimated to be 1.8 ± 0.2 and 0.2 ± 0.05μ B at T = 7.5K for Γ 4 and Γ 10, respectively. We also found a long-period incommensurate modulation of the →q 1=(0,0,1/2) antiferromagnetic structure of mc with the propagation →q s1=(0.14,0.14,0.1) and →q s2=(0.2,0,0.1) in phase III and IV, respectively. The amplitude of sinusoidal modulation was about m c=1.0 ± 0.2μ B at T=1.5 K. The local (0,0,1/2) structure consists of in-plane ferromagnetic and out-of-plane antiferromagnetic coupling of m c, opposite to the coexisting Γ 10. The mc of Γ 10 is significantly enhanced up to 0.6μ B at T=1.5 K, which is accompanied by the incommensurate modulations. As a result, the Landau phenomenological approach indicates that the higher-order magnetic and/or multipole interactions based on the pseudoquartet f-electron state play important roles.« less

Polarized neutron scattering study of the multiple order parameter system NdB 4 [Polarized neutron scattering study on multiple order parameter system NdB 4

DOE PAGES

Metoki, Naoto; Yamauchi, Hiroki; Matsuda, Masaaki; ...

2018-05-17

Neutron polarization analysis has been carried out in order to clarify the magnetic structures of multiple order parameter f-electron system NdB 4. We confirmed the noncollinear “all-in all-out” structure (Γ 4) of the in-plane moment, which is in good agreement with our previous neutron powder diffraction study. We found that the magnetic moment along the c-axis m c showed diagonally antiferromagnetic structure (Γ 10), inconsistent with previously reported “vortex” structure (Γ 2). The microscopic mixture of these two structures with →q 0=(0,0,0) appears in phase II and remains stable in phases III and IV, where an incommensurate modulation coexists. Themore » unusual magnetic ordering is phenomenologically understood via Landau theory with the primary order parameter Γ 4 coupled with higher-order secondary order parameter Γ 10. The magnetic moments were estimated to be 1.8 ± 0.2 and 0.2 ± 0.05μ B at T = 7.5K for Γ 4 and Γ 10, respectively. We also found a long-period incommensurate modulation of the →q 1=(0,0,1/2) antiferromagnetic structure of mc with the propagation →q s1=(0.14,0.14,0.1) and →q s2=(0.2,0,0.1) in phase III and IV, respectively. The amplitude of sinusoidal modulation was about m c=1.0 ± 0.2μ B at T=1.5 K. The local (0,0,1/2) structure consists of in-plane ferromagnetic and out-of-plane antiferromagnetic coupling of m c, opposite to the coexisting Γ 10. The mc of Γ 10 is significantly enhanced up to 0.6μ B at T=1.5 K, which is accompanied by the incommensurate modulations. As a result, the Landau phenomenological approach indicates that the higher-order magnetic and/or multipole interactions based on the pseudoquartet f-electron state play important roles.« less

Model-Based IN SITU Parameter Estimation of Ultrasonic Guided Waves in AN Isotropic Plate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hall, James S.; Michaels, Jennifer E.

2010-02-01

Most ultrasonic systems employing guided waves for flaw detection require information such as dispersion curves, transducer locations, and expected propagation loss. Degraded system performance may result if assumed parameter values do not accurately reflect the actual environment. By characterizing the propagating environment in situ at the time of test, potentially erroneous a priori estimates are avoided and performance of ultrasonic guided wave systems can be improved. A four-part model-based algorithm is described in the context of previous work that estimates model parameters whereby an assumed propagation model is used to describe the received signals. This approach builds upon previous work by demonstrating the ability to estimate parameters for the case of single mode propagation. Performance is demonstrated on signals obtained from theoretical dispersion curves, finite element modeling, and experimental data.

An Evaluation of the Potential for Shifting of Freight from Truck to Rail and Its Impacts on Energy Use and GHG Emissions

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

Zhou, Yan; Vyas, Anant D.; Guo, Zhaomiao

This report summarizes our evaluation of the potential energy-use and GHG-emissions reduction achieved by shifting freight from truck to rail under a most-likely scenario. A sensitivity analysis is also included. The sensitivity analysis shows changes in energy use and GHG emissions when key parameters are varied. The major contribution and distinction from previous studies is that this study considers the rail level of service (LOS) and commodity movements at the origin-destination (O-D) level. In addition, this study considers the fragility and time sensitivity of each commodity type.

Electron beams scanning: A novel method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Askarbioki, M.; Zarandi, M. B.; Khakshournia, S.; Shirmardi, S. P.; Sharifian, M.

2018-06-01

In this research, a spatial electron beam scanning is reported. There are various methods for ion and electron beam scanning. The best known of these methods is the wire scanning wherein the parameters of beam are measured by one or more conductive wires. This article suggests a novel method for e-beam scanning without the previous errors of old wire scanning. In this method, the techniques of atomic physics are applied so that a knife edge has a scanner role and the wires have detector roles. It will determine the 2D e-beam profile readily when the positions of the scanner and detectors are specified.

Impact of Including Higher Actinides in Fast Reactor Transmutation Analyses

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

B. Forget; M. Asgari; R. Ferrer

2007-09-01

Previous fast reactor transmutation studies generally disregarded higher mass minor actinides beyond Cm-246 due to various considerations including deficiencies in nuclear cross-section data. Although omission of these higher mass actinides does not significantly impact the neutronic calculations and fuel cycle performance parameters follow-on neutron dose calculations related to fuel recycling, transportation and handling are significantly impacted. This report shows that including the minor actinides in the equilibrium fast reactor calculations will increase the predicted neutron emission by about 30%. In addition a sensitivity study was initiated by comparing the impact of different cross-section evaluation file for representing these minor actinides.

Study of Photon Emission with the Fission Event Generator FREYA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vogt, Ramona; Randrup, Jorgen

2017-09-01

The event-by-event fission model FREYA is employed to study photon observables. The model has been expanded beyond the simple statistical photon emission reported previously to include the discrete RIPL-3 lines. We update these prior results and discuss the sensitivity of the results to the FREYA input parameters sensitive to photon observables. The work of R.V. was performed under the auspices of the U.S. DOE by LLNL Contract DE-AC52-07NA27344, that of J.R. by LBNL Contract DE-AC02-05CH11231. The authors thank NNSA Defense Nuclear Nonproliferation R&D for support.

Millimeter-wave spectroscopy of the SiCl+ ion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takeda, Kazuki; Masuda, Satoshi; Harada, Kensuke; Tanaka, Keiichi

2016-05-01

The millimeter-wave spectrum of the SiCl+ ion in the ground and first excited vibrational states was observed for the two isotopic (35Cl and 37Cl) species. The ion was generated in a free-space absorption cell by a hollow cathode discharge of SiCl4 diluted with He and discriminated from neutral species by the magnetic field effect on the absorption lines. The observed millimeter-wave spectrum was combined with a previously reported diode laser spectrum in an analysis to determine mass-independent Dunham coefficients as well as the mass scaling parameters. The equilibrium bond length of SiCl+ determined is re = 1.943 978(2) Å.

On transonic flow past a wave-shaped wall

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kaplan, Carl

1953-01-01

This report is an extension of a previous investigation (described in NACA rep. 1069) concerned with the solution of the nonlinear differential equation for transonic flow past a wavy wall. In the present work several new notions are introduced which permit the solution of the recursion formulas arising from the method of integration in series. In addition, a novel numerical tests of convergence, applied to the power series (in transonic similarity parameter) representing the local Mach number distribution at the boundary, indicates that smooth symmetrical potential flow past the wavy wall is no longer possible once the critical value of the stream Mach number has been exceeded.

New Exposure Time Calculator for NICMOS (imaging): Features, Testing and Recommendations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arribas, S.; McLean, D.; Busko, I.; Sosey, M.

2004-02-01

A new NICMOS ETC for imaging mode has been developed as part of the Astronomer’s Proposal Toolkit (APT) project. This new tool fully updates the NICMOS performance for Cycles 11+, expands the funtionality of the previous ETC, providing the user more options, and homogenizes the non-instrument specific parameters (i.e. sky background, extinction laws) with other HST-ETCs. This report summarizes its main characteristics, and gives some recommendations to potential users. Details about the tool itself can be found in the documentation linked to the ETC user interface, which can be accessed from the NICMOS web site at STScI.

Dimensional Analysis on Forest Fuel Bed Fire Spread.

PubMed

Yang, Jiann C

2018-01-01

A dimensional analysis was performed to correlate the fuel bed fire rate of spread data previously reported in the literature. Under wind condition, six pertinent dimensionless groups were identified, namely dimensionless fire spread rate, dimensionless fuel particle size, fuel moisture content, dimensionless fuel bed depth or dimensionless fuel loading density, dimensionless wind speed, and angle of inclination of fuel bed. Under no-wind condition, five similar dimensionless groups resulted. Given the uncertainties associated with some of the parameters used to estimate the dimensionless groups, the dimensionless correlations using the resulting dimensionless groups correlate the fire rates of spread reasonably well under wind and no-wind conditions.

Electrical transport properties of individual WS2 nanotubes and their dependence on water and oxygen absorption

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Chaoying; Ning, Zhiyuan; Liu, Yang; Xu, Tingting; Guo, Yao; Zak, Alla; Zhang, Zhiyong; Wang, Sheng; Tenne, Reshef; Chen, Qing

2012-09-01

The electrical properties of WS2 nanotubes (NTs) were studied through measuring 59 devices. Important electrical parameters, such as the carrier concentration, mobility, and effective barrier height at the contacts, were obtained through fitting experimental non-linear I-V curves using a metal-semiconductor-metal model. The carrier mobility was found to be several orders of magnitude higher than that have been reported previously for WS2 NTs. Water absorption was found to decrease the conductivity and carrier mobility of the NTs, and could be removed when the sample was dried. Oxygen absorption also slightly decreased the conductivity of WS2 NTs.

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

He, Xiao; Wu, Linzhi, E-mail: wlz@hit.edu.cn

The previously reported magical thermal devices, such as the thermal invisible cloak and the thermal concentrator, are generalized into one general case named here thermal illusion device. The thermal illusion device is displayed by the design of a thermal reshaper which can reshape an arbitrary thermal object into another one with arbitrary cross section. General expressions of the material parameters for the thermal reshaper are derived unambiguously to greatly facilitate the design of general thermal illusion device. We believe that this work will broaden the current research and pave a path to the thermal invisibility. Numerical simulations show good agreementmore » with the analytical results of the thermal illusion device.« less

New Results from the Search for Low-Mass Weakly Interacting Massive Particles with the CDMS Low Ionization Threshold Experiment

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

Agnese, R.; Anderson, A. J.; Aramaki, T.

2016-02-01

The CDMS low ionization threshold experiment (CDMSlite) uses cryogenic germanium detectors operated at a relatively high bias voltage to amplify the phonon signal in the search for weakly interacting massive particles (WIMPs). Results are presented from the second CDMSlite run with an exposure of 70 kg day, which reached an energy threshold for electron recoils as low as 56 eV. A fiducialization cut reduces backgrounds below those previously reported by CDMSlite. New parameter space for the WIMP-nucleon spin-independent cross section is excluded for WIMP masses between 1.6 and 5.5 GeV/c^2.

Acclimatization of rats after ground transportation to a new animal facility.

PubMed

Capdevila, S; Giral, M; Ruiz de la Torre, J L; Russell, R J; Kramer, K

2007-04-01

This study aimed to assess the time needed by rats, which had not been previously transported, to acclimate to a new environment after 5 h of van transport, using physiological parameters as measures of acclimatization. Animal shipping boxes and transport van conditions were standardized to minimize stress factors that could be associated with transport. Heart rate (HR), body temperature and activity levels were measured in the rats before and after transport using previously implanted radio-telemetry transmitters. Body weight was also recorded. All parameters were changed significantly except for body temperature. Results suggest that rats take three days to acclimate to a new environment, as measured by the physiological parameters of body weight, HR and activity.

A graphical approach to optimizing variable-kernel smoothing parameters for improved deformable registration of CT and cone beam CT images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hart, Vern; Burrow, Damon; Li, X. Allen

2017-08-01

A systematic method is presented for determining optimal parameters in variable-kernel deformable image registration of cone beam CT and CT images, in order to improve accuracy and convergence for potential use in online adaptive radiotherapy. Assessed conditions included the noise constant (symmetric force demons), the kernel reduction rate, the kernel reduction percentage, and the kernel adjustment criteria. Four such parameters were tested in conjunction with reductions of 5, 10, 15, 20, 30, and 40%. Noise constants ranged from 1.0 to 1.9 for pelvic images in ten prostate cancer patients. A total of 516 tests were performed and assessed using the structural similarity index. Registration accuracy was plotted as a function of iteration number and a least-squares regression line was calculated, which implied an average improvement of 0.0236% per iteration. This baseline was used to determine if a given set of parameters under- or over-performed. The most accurate parameters within this range were applied to contoured images. The mean Dice similarity coefficient was calculated for bladder, prostate, and rectum with mean values of 98.26%, 97.58%, and 96.73%, respectively; corresponding to improvements of 2.3%, 9.8%, and 1.2% over previously reported values for the same organ contours. This graphical approach to registration analysis could aid in determining optimal parameters for Demons-based algorithms. It also establishes expectation values for convergence rates and could serve as an indicator of non-physical warping, which often occurred in cases  >0.6% from the regression line.

Angiographic core laboratory reproducibility analyses: implications for planning clinical trials using coronary angiography and left ventriculography end-points.

PubMed

Steigen, Terje K; Claudio, Cheryl; Abbott, David; Schulzer, Michael; Burton, Jeff; Tymchak, Wayne; Buller, Christopher E; John Mancini, G B

2008-06-01

To assess reproducibility of core laboratory performance and impact on sample size calculations. Little information exists about overall reproducibility of core laboratories in contradistinction to performance of individual technicians. Also, qualitative parameters are being adjudicated increasingly as either primary or secondary end-points. The comparative impact of using diverse indexes on sample sizes has not been previously reported. We compared initial and repeat assessments of five quantitative parameters [e.g., minimum lumen diameter (MLD), ejection fraction (EF), etc.] and six qualitative parameters [e.g., TIMI myocardial perfusion grade (TMPG) or thrombus grade (TTG), etc.], as performed by differing technicians and separated by a year or more. Sample sizes were calculated from these results. TMPG and TTG were also adjudicated by a second core laboratory. MLD and EF were the most reproducible, yielding the smallest sample size calculations, whereas percent diameter stenosis and centerline wall motion require substantially larger trials. Of the qualitative parameters, all except TIMI flow grade gave reproducibility characteristics yielding sample sizes of many 100's of patients. Reproducibility of TMPG and TTG was only moderately good both within and between core laboratories, underscoring an intrinsic difficulty in assessing these. Core laboratories can be shown to provide reproducibility performance that is comparable to performance commonly ascribed to individual technicians. The differences in reproducibility yield huge differences in sample size when comparing quantitative and qualitative parameters. TMPG and TTG are intrinsically difficult to assess and conclusions based on these parameters should arise only from very large trials.

Estimation of Saxophone Control Parameters by Convex Optimization.

PubMed

Wang, Cheng-I; Smyth, Tamara; Lipton, Zachary C

2014-12-01

In this work, an approach to jointly estimating the tone hole configuration (fingering) and reed model parameters of a saxophone is presented. The problem isn't one of merely estimating pitch as one applied fingering can be used to produce several different pitches by bugling or overblowing. Nor can a fingering be estimated solely by the spectral envelope of the produced sound (as it might for estimation of vocal tract shape in speech) since one fingering can produce markedly different spectral envelopes depending on the player's embouchure and control of the reed. The problem is therefore addressed by jointly estimating both the reed (source) parameters and the fingering (filter) of a saxophone model using convex optimization and 1) a bank of filter frequency responses derived from measurement of the saxophone configured with all possible fingerings and 2) sample recordings of notes produced using all possible fingerings, played with different overblowing, dynamics and timbre. The saxophone model couples one of several possible frequency response pairs (corresponding to the applied fingering), and a quasi-static reed model generating input pressure at the mouthpiece, with control parameters being blowing pressure and reed stiffness. Applied fingering and reed parameters are estimated for a given recording by formalizing a minimization problem, where the cost function is the error between the recording and the synthesized sound produced by the model having incremental parameter values for blowing pressure and reed stiffness. The minimization problem is nonlinear and not differentiable and is made solvable using convex optimization. The performance of the fingering identification is evaluated with better accuracy than previous reported value.

On the Interplay between Order Parameter Dynamics and System Parameter Dynamics in Human Perceptual-Cognitive-Behavioral Systems.

PubMed

Frank, T D

2015-04-01

Previous research has demonstrated that perceiving, thinking, and acting are human activities that correspond to self-organized patterns. The emergence of such patterns can be completely described in terms of the dynamics of the pattern amplitudes, which are referred to as order parameters. The patterns emerge at bifurcations points when certain system parameters internal and external to a human agent exceed critical values. At issue is how one might study the order parameter dynamics for sequences of consecutive, emergent perceptual, cognitive, or behavioral activities. In particular, these activities may in turn impact the system parameters that have led to the emergence of the activities in the first place. This interplay between order parameter dynamics and system parameter dynamics is discussed in general and formulated in mathematical terms. Previous work that has made use of this two-tiered framework of order parameter and system parameter dynamics are briefly addressed. As an application, a model for perception under functional fixedness is presented. Finally, it is argued that the phenomena that emerge in this framework and can be observed when human agents perceive, think, and act are just as likely to occur in pattern formation systems of the inanimate world. Consequently, these phenomena do not necessarily have a neurophysiological basis but should instead be understood from the perspective of the theory of self-organization.

Practice Parameter for the Assessment and Treatment of Children and Adolescents with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cohen, Judith A.; Bukstein, Oscar; Walter, Heather; Benson, R. Scott; Chrisman, Allan; Farchione, Tiffany R.; Hamilton, John; Keable, Helene; Kinlan, Joan; Schoettle, Ulrich; Siegel, Matthew; Stock, Saundra; Medicus, Jennifer

2010-01-01

This Practice Parameter reviews the evidence from research and clinical experience and highlights significant advances in the assessment and treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder since the previous Parameter was published in 1998. It highlights the importance of early identification of posttraumatic stress disorder, the importance of…

Stability, Consistency and Performance of Distribution Entropy in Analysing Short Length Heart Rate Variability (HRV) Signal

PubMed Central

Karmakar, Chandan; Udhayakumar, Radhagayathri K.; Li, Peng; Venkatesh, Svetha; Palaniswami, Marimuthu

2017-01-01

Distribution entropy (DistEn) is a recently developed measure of complexity that is used to analyse heart rate variability (HRV) data. Its calculation requires two input parameters—the embedding dimension m, and the number of bins M which replaces the tolerance parameter r that is used by the existing approximation entropy (ApEn) and sample entropy (SampEn) measures. The performance of DistEn can also be affected by the data length N. In our previous studies, we have analyzed stability and performance of DistEn with respect to one parameter (m or M) or combination of two parameters (N and M). However, impact of varying all the three input parameters on DistEn is not yet studied. Since DistEn is predominantly aimed at analysing short length heart rate variability (HRV) signal, it is important to comprehensively study the stability, consistency and performance of the measure using multiple case studies. In this study, we examined the impact of changing input parameters on DistEn for synthetic and physiological signals. We also compared the variations of DistEn and performance in distinguishing physiological (Elderly from Young) and pathological (Healthy from Arrhythmia) conditions with ApEn and SampEn. The results showed that DistEn values are minimally affected by the variations of input parameters compared to ApEn and SampEn. DistEn also showed the most consistent and the best performance in differentiating physiological and pathological conditions with various of input parameters among reported complexity measures. In conclusion, DistEn is found to be the best measure for analysing short length HRV time series. PMID:28979215

Glandular radiation dose in tomosynthesis of the breast using tungsten targets.

PubMed

Sechopoulos, Ioannis; D'Orsi, Carl J

2008-10-24

With the advent of new detector technology, digital tomosynthesis imaging of the breast has, in the past few years, become a technique intensely investigated as a replacement for planar mammography. As with all other x-ray-based imaging methods, radiation dose is of utmost concern in the development of this new imaging technology. For virtually all development and optimization studies, knowledge of the radiation dose involved in an imaging protocol is necessary. A previous study characterized the normalized glandular dose in tomosynthesis imaging and its variation with various breast and imaging system parameters. This characterization was performed with x-ray spectra generated by molybdenum and rhodium targets. In the recent past, many preliminary patient studies of tomosynthesis imaging have been reported in which the x-ray spectra were generated with x-ray tubes with tungsten targets. The differences in x-ray distribution among spectra from these target materials make the computation of new normalized glandular dose values for tungsten target spectra necessary. In this study we used previously obtained monochromatic normalized glandular dose results to obtain spectral results for twelve different tungsten target x-ray spectra. For each imaging condition, two separate values were computed: the normalized glandular dose for the zero degree projection angle (DgN0), and the ratio of the glandular dose for non-zero projection angles to the glandular dose for the zero degree projection (the relative glandular dose, RGD(alpha)). It was found that DgN0 is higher for tungsten target x-ray spectra when compared with DgN0 values for molybdenum and rhodium target spectra of both equivalent tube voltage and first half value layer. Therefore, the DgN0 for the twelve tungsten target x-ray spectra and different breast compositions and compressed breast thicknesses simulated are reported. The RGD(alpha) values for the tungsten spectra vary with the parameters studied in a similar manner to that found for the molybdenum and rhodium target spectra. The surface fit equations and the fit coefficients for RGD(alpha) included in the previous study were also found to be appropriate for the tungsten spectra.

Syndromes of collateral-reported psychopathology for ages 18-59 in 18 Societies

PubMed Central

Ivanova, Masha Y.; Achenbach, Thomas M.; Rescorla, Leslie A.; Turner, Lori V.; Árnadóttir, Hervör Alma; Au, Alma; Caldas, J. Carlos; Chaalal, Nebia; Chen, Yi Chuen; da Rocha, Marina M.; Decoster, Jeroen; Fontaine, Johnny R.J.; Funabiki, Yasuko; Guðmundsson, Halldór S.; Kim, Young Ah; Leung, Patrick; Liu, Jianghong; Malykh, Sergey; Marković, Jasminka; Oh, Kyung Ja; Petot, Jean-Michel; Samaniego, Virginia C.; Silvares, Edwiges Ferreira de Mattos; Šimulionienė, Roma; Šobot, Valentina; Sokoli, Elvisa; Sun, Guiju; Talcott, Joel B.; Vázquez, Natalia; Zasępa, Ewa

2017-01-01

The purpose was to advance research and clinical methodology for assessing psychopathology by testing the international generalizability of an 8-syndrome model derived from collateral ratings of adult behavioral, emotional, social, and thought problems. Collateral informants rated 8,582 18–59-year-old residents of 18 societies on the Adult Behavior Checklist (ABCL). Confirmatory factor analyses tested the fit of the 8-syndrome model to ratings from each society. The primary model fit index (Root Mean Square Error of Approximation) showed good model fit for all societies, while secondary indices (Tucker Lewis Index, Comparative Fit Index) showed acceptable to good fit for 17 societies. Factor loadings were robust across societies and items. Of the 5,007 estimated parameters, 4 (0.08%) were outside the admissible parameter space, but 95% confidence intervals included the admissible space, indicating that the 4 deviant parameters could be due to sampling fluctuations. The findings are consistent with previous evidence for the generalizability of the 8-syndrome model in self-ratings from 29 societies, and support the 8-syndrome model for operationalizing phenotypes of adult psychopathology from multi-informant ratings in diverse societies. PMID:29399019

Revised Parameters for the AMOEBA Polarizable Atomic Multipole Water Model.

PubMed

Laury, Marie L; Wang, Lee-Ping; Pande, Vijay S; Head-Gordon, Teresa; Ponder, Jay W

2015-07-23

A set of improved parameters for the AMOEBA polarizable atomic multipole water model is developed. An automated procedure, ForceBalance, is used to adjust model parameters to enforce agreement with ab initio-derived results for water clusters and experimental data for a variety of liquid phase properties across a broad temperature range. The values reported here for the new AMOEBA14 water model represent a substantial improvement over the previous AMOEBA03 model. The AMOEBA14 model accurately predicts the temperature of maximum density and qualitatively matches the experimental density curve across temperatures from 249 to 373 K. Excellent agreement is observed for the AMOEBA14 model in comparison to experimental properties as a function of temperature, including the second virial coefficient, enthalpy of vaporization, isothermal compressibility, thermal expansion coefficient, and dielectric constant. The viscosity, self-diffusion constant, and surface tension are also well reproduced. In comparison to high-level ab initio results for clusters of 2-20 water molecules, the AMOEBA14 model yields results similar to AMOEBA03 and the direct polarization iAMOEBA models. With advances in computing power, calibration data, and optimization techniques, we recommend the use of the AMOEBA14 water model for future studies employing a polarizable water model.

Effects of laser parameters on propagation characteristics of laser-induced stress wave for gene transfer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ando, Takahiro; Sato, Shunichi; Terakawa, Mitsuhiro; Ashida, Hiroshi; Obara, Minoru

2010-02-01

Laser-based gene delivery is attractive as a new method for topical gene therapy because of the high spatial controllability of laser energy. Previously, we demonstrated that an exogenous gene can be transferred to cells both in vitro and in vivo by applying nanosecond pulsed laser-induced stress waves (LISWs) or photomechanical waves (PMWs). In this study, we investigated effects of laser parameters on the propagation characteristics of LISWs in soft tissue phantoms and depth-dependent properties of gene transfection. Temporal pressure profiles of LISWs were measured with a hydrophone, showing that with a larger laser spot diameter, LISWs can be propagated more efficiently in phantoms with keeping flat wavefront. Phantoms with various thicknesses were placed on the rat dorsal skin that had been injected with plasmid DNA coding for reporter gene, and LISWs were applied from the top of the phantom. Efficient gene expression was observed in the rat skin that had interacted with LISWs propagating through a 15-mm-thick phantom. These results would be useful to determine appropriate laser parameters for gene delivery to deep-located tissue by transcutaneous application of LISWs.

Model-based estimation with boundary side information or boundary regularization [cardiac emission CT].

PubMed

Chiao, P C; Rogers, W L; Fessler, J A; Clinthorne, N H; Hero, A O

1994-01-01

The authors have previously developed a model-based strategy for joint estimation of myocardial perfusion and boundaries using ECT (emission computed tomography). They have also reported difficulties with boundary estimation in low contrast and low count rate situations. Here they propose using boundary side information (obtainable from high resolution MRI and CT images) or boundary regularization to improve both perfusion and boundary estimation in these situations. To fuse boundary side information into the emission measurements, the authors formulate a joint log-likelihood function to include auxiliary boundary measurements as well as ECT projection measurements. In addition, they introduce registration parameters to align auxiliary boundary measurements with ECT measurements and jointly estimate these parameters with other parameters of interest from the composite measurements. In simulated PET O-15 water myocardial perfusion studies using a simplified model, the authors show that the joint estimation improves perfusion estimation performance and gives boundary alignment accuracy of <0.5 mm even at 0.2 million counts. They implement boundary regularization through formulating a penalized log-likelihood function. They also demonstrate in simulations that simultaneous regularization of the epicardial boundary and myocardial thickness gives comparable perfusion estimation accuracy with the use of boundary side information.

Drop-on-Demand System for Manufacturing of Melt-based Solid Oral Dosage: Effect of Critical Process Parameters on Product Quality.

PubMed

Içten, Elçin; Giridhar, Arun; Nagy, Zoltan K; Reklaitis, Gintaras V

2016-04-01

The features of a drop-on-demand-based system developed for the manufacture of melt-based pharmaceuticals have been previously reported. In this paper, a supervisory control system, which is designed to ensure reproducible production of high quality of melt-based solid oral dosages, is presented. This control system enables the production of individual dosage forms with the desired critical quality attributes: amount of active ingredient and drug morphology by monitoring and controlling critical process parameters, such as drop size and product and process temperatures. The effects of these process parameters on the final product quality are investigated, and the properties of the produced dosage forms characterized using various techniques, such as Raman spectroscopy, optical microscopy, and dissolution testing. A crystallization temperature control strategy, including controlled temperature cycles, is presented to tailor the crystallization behavior of drug deposits and to achieve consistent drug morphology. This control strategy can be used to achieve the desired bioavailability of the drug by mitigating variations in the dissolution profiles. The supervisor control strategy enables the application of the drop-on-demand system to the production of individualized dosage required for personalized drug regimens.

Normal human gait patterns in Peruvian individuals: an exploratory assessment using VICON motion capture system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dongo, R.; Moscoso, M.; Callupe, R.; Pajaya, J.; Elías, D.

2017-11-01

Gait analysis is of clinical relevance for clinicians. However, normal gait patterns used in foreign literature could be different from local individuals. The aim of this study was to determine the normal gait patterns and parameters of Peruvian individuals in order to have a local referent for clinical assessments and making diagnosis and treatment Peruvian people with lower motor neuron injuries. A descriptive study with 34 subjects was conducted to assess their gait cycle. VICON® cameras were used to capture body movements. For the analyses, we calculated spatiotemporal gait parameters and average angles of displacement of the hip, knee, and ankle joints with their respective 95% confidence intervals. The results showed gait speed was 0.58m/s, cadence was 102.1steps/min, and the angular displacement of the hip, knee and ankle joints were all lower than those described in the literature. In the graphs, gait cycles were close to those reported in previous studies, but the parameters of speed, cadence and angles of displacements are lower than the ones shown in the literature. These results could be used as a better reference pattern in the clinical setting.

Validation of Storm Water Management Model Storm Control Measures Modules

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Simon, M. A.; Platz, M. C.

2017-12-01

EPA's Storm Water Management Model (SWMM) is a computational code heavily relied upon by industry for the simulation of wastewater and stormwater infrastructure performance. Many municipalities are relying on SWMM results to design multi-billion-dollar, multi-decade infrastructure upgrades. Since the 1970's, EPA and others have developed five major releases, the most recent ones containing storm control measures modules for green infrastructure. The main objective of this study was to quantify the accuracy with which SWMM v5.1.10 simulates the hydrologic activity of previously monitored low impact developments. Model performance was evaluated with a mathematical comparison of outflow hydrographs and total outflow volumes, using empirical data and a multi-event, multi-objective calibration method. The calibration methodology utilized PEST++ Version 3, a parameter estimation tool, which aided in the selection of unmeasured hydrologic parameters. From the validation study and sensitivity analysis, several model improvements were identified to advance SWMM LID Module performance for permeable pavements, infiltration units and green roofs, and these were performed and reported herein. Overall, it was determined that SWMM can successfully simulate low impact development controls given accurate model confirmation, parameter measurement, and model calibration.

Ab initio quasiparticle bandstructure of ABA and ABC-stacked graphene trilayers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Menezes, Marcos; Capaz, Rodrigo; Louie, Steven

2013-03-01

We obtain the quasiparticle band structure of ABA and ABC-stacked graphene trilayers through ab initio density functional theory (DFT) and many-body quasiparticle calculations within the GW approximation. To interpret our results, we fit the DFT and GW π bands to a low energy tight-binding model, which is found to reproduce very well the observed features near the K point. The values of the extracted hopping parameters are reported and compared with available theoretical and experimental data. For both stackings, the quasiparticle corrections lead to a renormalization of the Fermi velocity, an effect also observed in previous calculations on monolayer graphene. They also increase the separation between the higher energy bands, which is proportional to the nearest neighbor interlayer hopping parameter γ1. Both features are brought to closer agreement with experiment through the quasiparticle corrections. Finally, other effects, such as trigonal warping, electron-hole assymetry and energy gaps are discussed in terms of the associated parameters. This work was supported by the Brazilian funding agencies: CAPES, CNPq, FAPERJ and INCT-Nanomateriais de Carbono. It was also supported by NSF grant No. DMR10-1006184 and U.S. DOE under Contract No. DE-AC02-05CH11231.

MR fingerprinting using fast imaging with steady state precession (FISP) with spiral readout.

PubMed

Jiang, Yun; Ma, Dan; Seiberlich, Nicole; Gulani, Vikas; Griswold, Mark A

2015-12-01

This study explores the possibility of using gradient echo-based sequences other than balanced steady-state free precession (bSSFP) in the magnetic resonance fingerprinting (MRF) framework to quantify the relaxation parameters . An MRF method based on a fast imaging with steady-state precession (FISP) sequence structure is presented. A dictionary containing possible signal evolutions with physiological range of T1 and T2 was created using the extended phase graph formalism according to the acquisition parameters. The proposed method was evaluated in a phantom and a human brain. T1 , T2 , and proton density were quantified directly from the undersampled data by the pattern recognition algorithm. T1 and T2 values from the phantom demonstrate that the results of MRF FISP are in good agreement with the traditional gold-standard methods. T1 and T2 values in brain are within the range of previously reported values. MRF-FISP enables a fast and accurate quantification of the relaxation parameters. It is immune to the banding artifact of bSSFP due to B0 inhomogeneities, which could improve the ability to use MRF for applications beyond brain imaging. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

MR Fingerprinting Using Fast Imaging with Steady State Precession (FISP) with Spiral Readout

PubMed Central

Jiang, Yun; Ma, Dan; Seiberlich, Nicole; Gulani, Vikas; Griswold, Mark A.

2015-01-01

Purpose This study explores the possibility of using gradient echo based sequences other than bSSFP in the magnetic resonance fingerprinting (MRF) framework to quantify the relaxation parameters. Methods An MRF method based on a fast imaging with steady state precession (FISP) sequence structure is presented. A dictionary containing possible signal evolutions with physiological range of T1 and T2 was created using the extended phase graph (EPG) formalism according to the acquisition parameters. The proposed method was evaluated in a phantom and a human brain. T1, T2 and proton density were quantified directly from the undersampled data by the pattern recognition algorithm. Results T1 and T2 values from the phantom demonstrate that the results of MRF FISP are in good agreement with the traditional gold-standard methods. T1 and T2 values in brain are within the range of previously reported values. Conclusion MRF FISP enables a fast and accurate quantification of the relaxation parameters, while is immune to the banding artifact of bSSFP due to B0 inhomogeneities, which could improve the ability to use MRF for applications beyond brain imaging. PMID:25491018

Practical input optimization for aircraft parameter estimation experiments. Ph.D. Thesis, 1990

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Morelli, Eugene A.

1993-01-01

The object of this research was to develop an algorithm for the design of practical, optimal flight test inputs for aircraft parameter estimation experiments. A general, single pass technique was developed which allows global optimization of the flight test input design for parameter estimation using the principles of dynamic programming with the input forms limited to square waves only. Provision was made for practical constraints on the input, including amplitude constraints, control system dynamics, and selected input frequency range exclusions. In addition, the input design was accomplished while imposing output amplitude constraints required by model validity and considerations of safety during the flight test. The algorithm has multiple input design capability, with optional inclusion of a constraint that only one control move at a time, so that a human pilot can implement the inputs. It is shown that the technique can be used to design experiments for estimation of open loop model parameters from closed loop flight test data. The report includes a new formulation of the optimal input design problem, a description of a new approach to the solution, and a summary of the characteristics of the algorithm, followed by three example applications of the new technique which demonstrate the quality and expanded capabilities of the input designs produced by the new technique. In all cases, the new input design approach showed significant improvement over previous input design methods in terms of achievable parameter accuracies.

The donor star of the X-ray pulsar X1908+075

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Martínez-Núñez, S.; Sander, A.; Gímenez-García, A.; Gónzalez-Galán, A.; Torrejón, J. M.; Gónzalez-Fernández, C.; Hamann, W.-R.

2015-06-01

High-mass X-ray binaries consist of a massive donor star and a compact object. While several of those systems have been well studied in X-rays, little is known for most of the donor stars as they are often heavily obscured in the optical and ultraviolet regime. There is an opportunity to observe them at infrared wavelengths, however. The goal of this study is to obtain the stellar and wind parameters of the donor star in the X1908+075 high-mass X-ray binary system with a stellar atmosphere model to check whether previous studies from X-ray observations and spectral morphology lead to a sufficient description of the donor star. We obtained H- and K-band spectra of X1908+075 and analysed them with the Potsdam Wolf-Rayet (PoWR) model atmosphere code. For the first time, we calculated a stellar atmosphere model for the donor star, whose main parameters are: Mspec = 15 ± 6 M⊙, T∗ = 23-3+6 kK, log geff = 3.0 ± 0.2 and log L/L⊙ = 4.81 ± 0.25. The obtained parameters point towards an early B-type (B0-B3) star, probably in a supergiant phase. Moreover we determined a more accurate distance to the system of 4.85 ± 0.50 kpc than the previously reported value. Based on observations made with the William Herschel Telescope operated on the island of La Palma by the Isaac Newton Group in the Spanish Observatorio del Roque de los Muchachos of the Instituto de Astrofísica de Canarias.Appendix A is available in electronic form at http://www.aanda.org

Statistical prediction of September Arctic Sea Ice minimum based on stable teleconnections with global climate and oceanic patterns

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ionita, M.; Grosfeld, K.; Scholz, P.; Lohmann, G.

2016-12-01

Sea ice in both Polar Regions is an important indicator for the expression of global climate change and its polar amplification. Consequently, a broad information interest exists on sea ice, its coverage, variability and long term change. Knowledge on sea ice requires high quality data on ice extent, thickness and its dynamics. However, its predictability depends on various climate parameters and conditions. In order to provide insights into the potential development of a monthly/seasonal signal, we developed a robust statistical model based on ocean heat content, sea surface temperature and atmospheric variables to calculate an estimate of the September minimum sea ice extent for every year. Although previous statistical attempts at monthly/seasonal forecasts of September sea ice minimum show a relatively reduced skill, here it is shown that more than 97% (r = 0.98) of the September sea ice extent can predicted three months in advance by using previous months conditions via a multiple linear regression model based on global sea surface temperature (SST), mean sea level pressure (SLP), air temperature at 850hPa (TT850), surface winds and sea ice extent persistence. The statistical model is based on the identification of regions with stable teleconnections between the predictors (climatological parameters) and the predictand (here sea ice extent). The results based on our statistical model contribute to the sea ice prediction network for the sea ice outlook report (https://www.arcus.org/sipn) and could provide a tool for identifying relevant regions and climate parameters that are important for the sea ice development in the Arctic and for detecting sensitive and critical regions in global coupled climate models with focus on sea ice formation.

Gait adaptations to awareness and experience of a slip when walking on a cross-slope.

PubMed

Lawrence, Daniel; Domone, Sarah; Heller, Ben; Hendra, Timothy; Mawson, Susan; Wheat, Jon

2015-10-01

Falls that occur as a result of a slip are one of the leading causes of injuries, particularly in the elderly population. Previous studies have focused on slips that occur on a flat surface. Slips on a laterally sloping surface are important and may be related to different mechanisms of balance recovery. This type of slip might result in different gait adaptations to those previously described on a flat surface, but these adaptations have not been investigated. The aim of this study was to assess whether, when walking on a cross-slope, young adults adapted their gait when made aware of a potential slip, and having experienced a slip. Gait parameters were compared for three conditions--(1) Normal walking; (2) Walking after being made aware of a potential slip (participants were told that a slip may occur); (3) Walking after experiencing a slip (Participants had already experienced at least one slip induced using a soapy contaminant). Gait parameters were only analysed for trials in which there was no slippery contaminant present on the walkway. Stride length and walking velocity were significantly reduced, and stance duration was significantly greater in the awareness and experience conditions compared to normal walking, with no significant differences in any gait parameters between the awareness and experience conditions. In addition, 46.7% of the slip trials resulted in a fall. This is higher than reported for slips induced on a flat surface, suggesting slips on a cross-slope are more hazardous. This would help explain the more cautious gait patterns observed in both the awareness and experience conditions. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Equation of state and thermodynamic Gruneisen parameter of monoclinic 1,1-diamino-2,2-dinitroethylene

DOE PAGES

Zhang, Jianzhong; Velisavljevic, Nenad; Zhu, Jinlong; ...

2016-08-05

In situ synchrotron x-ray diffraction experiments were conducted on 1,1-diamino-2,2 dinitroethylene (FOX-7) at pressures up to 6.8 GPa and temperatures up to 485 K. Within th resolution of the present diffraction data, our results do not reveal evidence for a pressureinduce structural phase transition near 2 GPa, previously observed in several vibrationa spectroscopy experiments. Based on unit-cell volume measurements, the least-squares fi using the third-order Birch–Murnaghan equation of state (EOS) yields K 0 = 12.6 ± 1.4 GP and K 0 = 11.3 ± 2.1 for the α-phase of FOX-7, which are in good agreement with recentl reported values formore » the deuterated sample, indicating that the effect of hydrogen–deuteriu substitution on the compressibility of FOX-7 is negligibly small. A thermal EOS is als obtained for the α-phase of FOX-7, including pressure dependence of thermal expansivity (∂α/∂P) T = -7.0 ± 2.0 × 10 -5 K -1 GPa -1, and temperature derivative of the bulk modulus (∂K T/∂T) P = -1.1 × 10 -2 GPa K -1. From these EOS parameters, we calculate heat capacit at constant volume (C V) and thermodynamic Grüneisen parameter (γ TH) as a function o temperature. At ambient conditions, the calculated γTH is 1.055, which is in good agreemen with the value (1.09) previously obtained from density functional theory (DFT). The obtaine C V, however, is 13% larger than that calculated from the first-principles calculations indicating that the dispersion correction in the DFT calculations may need to be furthe improved for describing intermolecular interactions of molecular crystals.« less

Accurate electrostatic and van der Waals pull-in prediction for fully clamped nano/micro-beams using linear universal graphs of pull-in instability

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tahani, Masoud; Askari, Amir R.

2014-09-01

In spite of the fact that pull-in instability of electrically actuated nano/micro-beams has been investigated by many researchers to date, no explicit formula has been presented yet which can predict pull-in voltage based on a geometrically non-linear and distributed parameter model. The objective of present paper is to introduce a simple and accurate formula to predict this value for a fully clamped electrostatically actuated nano/micro-beam. To this end, a non-linear Euler-Bernoulli beam model is employed, which accounts for the axial residual stress, geometric non-linearity of mid-plane stretching, distributed electrostatic force and the van der Waals (vdW) attraction. The non-linear boundary value governing equation of equilibrium is non-dimensionalized and solved iteratively through single-term Galerkin based reduced order model (ROM). The solutions are validated thorough direct comparison with experimental and other existing results reported in previous studies. Pull-in instability under electrical and vdW loads are also investigated using universal graphs. Based on the results of these graphs, non-dimensional pull-in and vdW parameters, which are defined in the text, vary linearly versus the other dimensionless parameters of the problem. Using this fact, some linear equations are presented to predict pull-in voltage, the maximum allowable length, the so-called detachment length, and the minimum allowable gap for a nano/micro-system. These linear equations are also reduced to a couple of universal pull-in formulas for systems with small initial gap. The accuracy of the universal pull-in formulas are also validated by comparing its results with available experimental and some previous geometric linear and closed-form findings published in the literature.

Equation of state and thermodynamic Gruneisen parameter of monoclinic 1,1-diamino-2,2-dinitroethylene

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

Zhang, Jianzhong; Velisavljevic, Nenad; Zhu, Jinlong

In situ synchrotron x-ray diffraction experiments were conducted on 1,1-diamino-2,2 dinitroethylene (FOX-7) at pressures up to 6.8 GPa and temperatures up to 485 K. Within th resolution of the present diffraction data, our results do not reveal evidence for a pressureinduce structural phase transition near 2 GPa, previously observed in several vibrationa spectroscopy experiments. Based on unit-cell volume measurements, the least-squares fi using the third-order Birch–Murnaghan equation of state (EOS) yields K 0 = 12.6 ± 1.4 GP and K 0 = 11.3 ± 2.1 for the α-phase of FOX-7, which are in good agreement with recentl reported values formore » the deuterated sample, indicating that the effect of hydrogen–deuteriu substitution on the compressibility of FOX-7 is negligibly small. A thermal EOS is als obtained for the α-phase of FOX-7, including pressure dependence of thermal expansivity (∂α/∂P) T = -7.0 ± 2.0 × 10 -5 K -1 GPa -1, and temperature derivative of the bulk modulus (∂K T/∂T) P = -1.1 × 10 -2 GPa K -1. From these EOS parameters, we calculate heat capacit at constant volume (C V) and thermodynamic Grüneisen parameter (γ TH) as a function o temperature. At ambient conditions, the calculated γTH is 1.055, which is in good agreemen with the value (1.09) previously obtained from density functional theory (DFT). The obtaine C V, however, is 13% larger than that calculated from the first-principles calculations indicating that the dispersion correction in the DFT calculations may need to be furthe improved for describing intermolecular interactions of molecular crystals.« less

A point-charge force field for molecular mechanics simulations of proteins based on condensed-phase quantum mechanical calculations.

PubMed

Duan, Yong; Wu, Chun; Chowdhury, Shibasish; Lee, Mathew C; Xiong, Guoming; Zhang, Wei; Yang, Rong; Cieplak, Piotr; Luo, Ray; Lee, Taisung; Caldwell, James; Wang, Junmei; Kollman, Peter

2003-12-01

Molecular mechanics models have been applied extensively to study the dynamics of proteins and nucleic acids. Here we report the development of a third-generation point-charge all-atom force field for proteins. Following the earlier approach of Cornell et al., the charge set was obtained by fitting to the electrostatic potentials of dipeptides calculated using B3LYP/cc-pVTZ//HF/6-31G** quantum mechanical methods. The main-chain torsion parameters were obtained by fitting to the energy profiles of Ace-Ala-Nme and Ace-Gly-Nme di-peptides calculated using MP2/cc-pVTZ//HF/6-31G** quantum mechanical methods. All other parameters were taken from the existing AMBER data base. The major departure from previous force fields is that all quantum mechanical calculations were done in the condensed phase with continuum solvent models and an effective dielectric constant of epsilon = 4. We anticipate that this force field parameter set will address certain critical short comings of previous force fields in condensed-phase simulations of proteins. Initial tests on peptides demonstrated a high-degree of similarity between the calculated and the statistically measured Ramanchandran maps for both Ace-Gly-Nme and Ace-Ala-Nme di-peptides. Some highlights of our results include (1) well-preserved balance between the extended and helical region distributions, and (2) favorable type-II poly-proline helical region in agreement with recent experiments. Backward compatibility between the new and Cornell et al. charge sets, as judged by overall agreement between dipole moments, allows a smooth transition to the new force field in the area of ligand-binding calculations. Test simulations on a large set of proteins are also discussed. Copyright 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem 24: 1999-2012, 2003

The ammonia-water system and the chemical differentiation of icy satellites

USGS Publications Warehouse

Hogenboom, D.L.; Kargel, J.S.; Consolmagno, G.J.; Holden, T.C.; Lee, L.; Buyyounouski, M.

1997-01-01

We report the discovery of the first high-pressure polymorphs of ammonia hydrates: ammonia monohydrate II and ammonia dihydrate II. The subsolidus transitions and melting curves of these substances are shown by their volume-temperature functions; uncalibrated calorimetry corroborates these phase changes. From 20 to 300 MPa ammonia dihydrate and ice melt at a eutectic to form water-rich liquids; at lower and higher pressures, ammonia dihydrate melts incongruently to ammonia-rich liquids. The new data are consistent with independently known thermodynamic parameters of the ammonia-water system. These results fill in an important region of pressure-temperature space not previously studied; a body of previous data reported by other investigators covers a complementary region (higher pressures), but in the light of the new data those earlier results now appear to have been misinterpreted. We show that a suitable reinterpretation of the previous data supports the identification of at least one high-pressure polymorph of each compound. The behavior of the system H2O-NH3in many ways follows that of MgO-SiO2, and the roles of ammonia-water in icy satellite evolution may parallel those of magnesium silicates in Earth's structure, volcanism, and deep mantle tectonism. Pressure-related effects, including a pressure influence on the ammonia content of cryomagmas, might be significant in determining some potentially observable aspects of cryovolcanic morphologies, surface compositions, and interior structures of icy satellites. ?? 1997 Academic Press.

Modulation of in vivo distribution through chelator: Synthesis and evaluation of a 2-nitroimidazole-dipicolylamine-(99m)Tc(CO)3 complex for detecting tumor hypoxia.

PubMed

Mallia, Madhava B; Mittal, Sweety; Sarma, Haladhar D; Banerjee, Sharmila

2016-01-01

Previous studies have clearly demonstrated strong correlation between in vivo distribution and blood clearance of radiopharmaceuticals for the detection of hypoxia. Present study describes an attempt to improve the in vivo distribution of a previously reported 2-nitroimidazole-(99m)Tc(CO)3 complex by tuning its blood clearance pattern through structural modification of the ligand. Herein, a 2-nitroimidazole-dipicolylamine ligand (2-nitroimidazole-DPA) was synthesized in a two-step procedure and radiolabeled with (99m)Tc(CO)3 core. Subsequently, the complex was evaluated in Swiss mice bearing fibrosarcoma tumor. As intended by its design, 2-nitroimidazole-DPA-(99m)Tc(CO)3 complex was more lipophilic than previously reported 2-nitroimidazole-DETA-(99m)Tc(CO)3 complex (DETA-diethylenetriamine) and showed slower blood clearance. Consequently it showed higher tumor uptake than 2-nitroimidazole-DETA-(99m)Tc(CO)3 complex. Significantly, despite structural modifications, other parameters such as the tumor to blood ratio and tumor to muscle ratio of the 2-nitroimidazole-DPA-(99m)Tc(CO)3 complex remained comparable to that of 2-nitroimidazole-DETA-(99m)Tc(CO)3 complex. Present study demonstrates the feasibility of structural modifications for improving in vivo tumor uptake of hypoxia detecting radiopharmaceuticals. This might encourage researchers to improve suboptimal properties of a potential radiopharmaceuticals rather than ignoring it altogether. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Development of interatomic potential of Ge(1- x - y )Si x Sn y ternary alloy semiconductors for classical lattice dynamics simulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tomita, Motohiro; Ogasawara, Masataka; Terada, Takuya; Watanabe, Takanobu

2018-04-01

We provide the parameters of Stillinger-Weber potentials for GeSiSn ternary mixed systems. These parameters can be used in molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to reproduce phonon properties and thermal conductivities. The phonon dispersion relation is derived from the dynamical structure factor, which is calculated by the space-time Fourier transform of atomic trajectories in an MD simulation. The phonon properties and thermal conductivities of GeSiSn ternary crystals calculated using these parameters mostly reproduced both the findings of previous experiments and earlier calculations made using MD simulations. The atomic composition dependence of these properties in GeSiSn ternary crystals obtained by previous studies (both experimental and theoretical) and the calculated data were almost exactly reproduced by our proposed parameters. Moreover, the results of the MD simulation agree with the previous calculations made using a time-independent phonon Boltzmann transport equation with complicated scattering mechanisms. These scattering mechanisms are very important in complicated nanostructures, as they allow the heat-transfer properties to be more accurately calculated by MD simulations. This work enables us to predict the phonon- and heat-related properties of bulk group IV alloys, especially ternary alloys.

Kinetics of the Reactions of IO Radicals with NO and NO2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Daykin, E. P.; Wine, P. H.

1997-01-01

A laser flash photolysis-long path absorption technique has been employed to study the kinetics of the reactions of IO radicals with NO and NO2 as a function of temperature and pressure. The IO and NO rate coefficient is independent of pressure over the range 40-200 Torr of N2, and its temperature dependence over the range 242-359 K is adequately described by the Arrhenius expression k(sub 1) = (6.9 +/- 1.7) x 10(exp -12) exp[(328 +/- 71)/T] cu cm/(molecule.s) (errors are 2 sigma, precision only). These Arrhenius parameters are similar to those determined previously for the ClO + NO and BrO + NO reactions. The IO and NO2 association reaction is found to be in the falloff regime over the temperature and pressure ranges investigated (254-354 K and 40-750 Torr of N2). Assuming F(sub c) = 0.4 independent of temperature, a physically reasonable set of falloff parameters which adequately describe the data are k(sub 0) = 7.7 x 10(exp -31)(T/300)(exp -5.0) cm(exp 6)/(molecule(exp 2).s) and k(sub infinity) = 1.55 x 10(exp -11)cu cm/(molecule.s) independent of temperature. The IO + NO2 rate coefficients determined in this study are about a factor of 2 faster than those reported in the only previous study of this reaction.

The Southern Argentina Agile Meteor Radar Orbital System (SAAMER-OS): An Initial Sporadic Meteoroid Orbital Survey in the Southern Sky

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Janches, D.; Close, S.; Hormaechea, J. L.; Swarnalingam, N.; Murphy, A.; O'Connor, D.; Vandepeer, B.; Fuller, B.; Fritts, D. C.; Brunini, C.

2015-01-01

We present an initial survey in the southern sky of the sporadic meteoroid orbital environment obtained with the Southern Argentina Agile MEteor Radar (SAAMER) Orbital System (OS), in which over three-quarters of a million orbits of dust particles were determined from 2012 January through 2015 April. SAAMER-OS is located at the southernmost tip of Argentina and is currently the only operational radar with orbit determination capability providing continuous observations of the southern hemisphere. Distributions of the observed meteoroid speed, radiant, and heliocentric orbital parameters are presented, as well as those corrected by the observational biases associated with the SAAMER-OS operating parameters. The results are compared with those reported by three previous surveys performed with the Harvard Radio Meteor Project, the Advanced Meteor Orbit Radar, and the Canadian Meteor Orbit Radar, and they are in agreement with these previous studies. Weighted distributions for meteoroids above the thresholds for meteor trail electron line density, meteoroid mass, and meteoroid kinetic energy are also considered. Finally, the minimum line density and kinetic energy weighting factors are found to be very suitable for meteoroid applications. The outcomes of this work show that, given SAAMERs location, the system is ideal for providing crucial data to continuously study the South Toroidal and South Apex sporadic meteoroid apparent sources.

Revision of the Li13Si4 structure.

PubMed

Zeilinger, Michael; Fässler, Thomas F

2013-11-06

Besides Li17Si4, Li16.42Si4, and Li15Si4, another lithium-rich representative in the Li-Si system is the phase Li13Si4 (trideca-lithium tetra-silicide), the structure of which has been determined previously [Frank et al. (1975 ▶). Z. Naturforsch. Teil B, 30, 10-13]. A careful analysis of X-ray diffraction patterns of Li13Si4 revealed discrepancies between experimentally observed and calculated Bragg positions. Therefore, we redetermined the structure of Li13Si4 on the basis of single-crystal X-ray diffraction data. Compared to the previous structure report, decisive differences are (i) the introduction of a split position for one Li site [occupancy ratio 0.838 (7):0.162 (7)], (ii) the anisotropic refinement of atomic displacement parameters for all atoms, and (iii) a high accuracy of atom positions and unit-cell parameters. The asymmetric unit of Li13Si4 contains two Si and seven Li atoms. Except for one Li atom situated on a site with symmetry 2/m, all other atoms are on mirror planes. The structure consists of isolated Si atoms as well as Si-Si dumbbells surrounded by Li atoms. Each Si atom is either 12- or 13-coordinated. The isolated Si atoms are situated in the ab plane at z = 0 and are strictly separated from the Si-Si dumbbells at z = 0.5.

Parametrization of DFTB3/3OB for Magnesium and Zinc for Chemical and Biological Applications

PubMed Central

2015-01-01

We report the parametrization of the approximate density functional theory, DFTB3, for magnesium and zinc for chemical and biological applications. The parametrization strategy follows that established in previous work that parametrized several key main group elements (O, N, C, H, P, and S). This 3OB set of parameters can thus be used to study many chemical and biochemical systems. The parameters are benchmarked using both gas-phase and condensed-phase systems. The gas-phase results are compared to DFT (mostly B3LYP), ab initio (MP2 and G3B3), and PM6, as well as to a previous DFTB parametrization (MIO). The results indicate that DFTB3/3OB is particularly successful at predicting structures, including rather complex dinuclear metalloenzyme active sites, while being semiquantitative (with a typical mean absolute deviation (MAD) of ∼3–5 kcal/mol) for energetics. Single-point calculations with high-level quantum mechanics (QM) methods generally lead to very satisfying (a typical MAD of ∼1 kcal/mol) energetic properties. DFTB3/MM simulations for solution and two enzyme systems also lead to encouraging structural and energetic properties in comparison to available experimental data. The remaining limitations of DFTB3, such as the treatment of interaction between metal ions and highly charged/polarizable ligands, are also discussed. PMID:25178644

THE SOUTHERN ARGENTINA AGILE METEOR RADAR ORBITAL SYSTEM (SAAMER-OS): AN INITIAL SPORADIC METEOROID ORBITAL SURVEY IN THE SOUTHERN SKY

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

Janches, D.; Swarnalingam, N.; Close, S.

2015-08-10

We present an initial survey in the southern sky of the sporadic meteoroid orbital environment obtained with the Southern Argentina Agile MEteor Radar (SAAMER) Orbital System (OS), in which over three-quarters of a million orbits of dust particles were determined from 2012 January through 2015 April. SAAMER-OS is located at the southernmost tip of Argentina and is currently the only operational radar with orbit determination capability providing continuous observations of the southern hemisphere. Distributions of the observed meteoroid speed, radiant, and heliocentric orbital parameters are presented, as well as those corrected by the observational biases associated with the SAAMER-OS operatingmore » parameters. The results are compared with those reported by three previous surveys performed with the Harvard Radio Meteor Project, the Advanced Meteor Orbit Radar, and the Canadian Meteor Orbit Radar, and they are in agreement with these previous studies. Weighted distributions for meteoroids above the thresholds for meteor trail electron line density, meteoroid mass, and meteoroid kinetic energy are also considered. Finally, the minimum line density and kinetic energy weighting factors are found to be very suitable for meteroid applications. The outcomes of this work show that, given SAAMER’s location, the system is ideal for providing crucial data to continuously study the South Toroidal and South Apex sporadic meteoroid apparent sources.« less

Experimental Study of Buoyant-Thermocapillary Convection in a Rectangular Cavity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Braunsfurth, Manfred G.; Homsy, George M.

1996-01-01

The problem of buoyant-thermocapillary convection in cavities is governed by a relatively large number of nondimensional parameters, and there is consequently a large number of different types of flow that can be found in this system. Previous results give disjoint glimpses of a wide variety of qualitatively and quantitatively different results in widely different parts of parameter space. In this study, we report experiments on the primary and secondary instabilities in a geometry with equal aspect ratios in the range from 1 to 8 in both the direction along and perpendicular to the applied temperature gradient. We thus complement previous work which mostly involved either fluid layers of large extent in both directions, or consisted of investigations of strictly two-dimensional disturbances. We observe the primary transition from an essentially two-dimensional flow to steady three-dimensional longitudinal rolls. The critical Marangoni number is found to depend on the aspect ratios of the system, and varies from 4.6 x 10(exp 5) at aspect ratio 2.0 to 5.5 x 10(exp 4) at aspect ratio 3.5. Further, we have investigated the stability of the three-dimensional flow at larger Marangoni numbers, and find a novel oscillatory flow at critical Marangoni numbers of the order of 6 x 10(exp 5). We suggest possible mechanisms which give rise to the oscillation, and find that it is expected to be a relaxation type oscillation.

POWER ASYMMETRY IN COSMIC MICROWAVE BACKGROUND FLUCTUATIONS FROM FULL SKY TO SUB-DEGREE SCALES: IS THE UNIVERSE ISOTROPIC?

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

Hansen, F. K.; Eriksen, H. K.; Lilje, P. B.

We repeat and extend the analysis of Eriksen et al. and Hansen et al., testing the isotropy of the cosmic microwave background fluctuations. We find that the hemispherical power asymmetry previously reported for the largest scales l = 2-40 extends to much smaller scales. In fact, for the full multipole range l = 2-600, significantly more power is found in the hemisphere centered at (theta = 107{sup 0} +- 10{sup 0}, phi = 226{sup 0} +- 10{sup 0}) in galactic co-latitude and longitude than in the opposite hemisphere, consistent with the previously detected direction of asymmetry for l = 2-40.more » We adopt a model selection test where the direction and amplitude of asymmetry, as well as the multipole range, are free parameters. A model with an asymmetric distribution of power for l = 2-600 is found to be preferred over the isotropic model at the 0.4% significance level, taking into account the additional parameters required to describe it. A similar direction of asymmetry is found independently in all six subranges of 100 multipoles between l = 2-600. None of our 9800 isotropic simulated maps show a similarly consistent direction of asymmetry over such a large multipole range. No known systematic effects or foregrounds are found to be able to explain the asymmetry.« less

Scaling of Two-Phase Flows to Partial-Earth Gravity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hurlbert, Kathryn M.; Witte, Larry C.

2003-01-01

A report presents a method of scaling, to partial-Earth gravity, of parameters that describe pressure drops and other characteristics of two-phase (liquid/ vapor) flows. The development of the method was prompted by the need for a means of designing two-phase flow systems to operate on the Moon and on Mars, using fluid-properties and flow data from terrestrial two-phase-flow experiments, thus eliminating the need for partial-gravity testing. The report presents an explicit procedure for designing an Earth-based test bed that can provide hydrodynamic similarity with two-phase fluids flowing in partial-gravity systems. The procedure does not require prior knowledge of the flow regime (i.e., the spatial orientation of the phases). The method also provides for determination of pressure drops in two-phase partial-gravity flows by use of a generalization of the classical Moody chart (previously applicable to single-phase flow only). The report presents experimental data from Mars- and Moon-activity experiments that appear to demonstrate the validity of this method.

Physical Parameters, Modeling, and Methodological Details in Using IR Laser Pulses to Warm Frozen or Vitrified Cells Ultra-Rapidly†

PubMed Central

Kleinhans, F.W.; Mazur, Peter

2015-01-01

We report additional details of the thermal modeling, selection of the laser, and construction of the Cryo Jig used for our ultra-rapid warming studies of mouse oocytes (B Jin, FW Kleinhans, Peter Mazur, Cryobiology 68 (2014) 419–430). A Nd:YAG laser operating at 1064 nm was selected to deliver short 1 msec pulses of sufficient power to produce a warming rate of 1 × 107 °C/min from –190°C to 0°C. A special Cryo Jig was designed and built to rapidly remove the sample from LN2 and expose it to the laser pulse. India ink carbon black particles were required to increase the laser energy absorption of the sample. The thermal model reported here is more general than that previously reported. The modeling reveals that the maximum warming rate achievable via external warming across the cell membrane is proportional to (1/R2) where R is the cell radius. PMID:25724528

Untangling the Links among Athletic Involvement, Gender, Race, and Adolescent Academic Outcomes

PubMed Central

Miller, Kathleen E.; Melnick, Merrill J.; Barnes, Grace M.; Farrell, Michael P.; Sabo, Don

2005-01-01

Although previous research has established that high school sports participation may be associated with positive academic outcomes, the parameters of the relationship remain unclear. Using a longitudinal sample of nearly 600 Western New York adolescents, this study examined gender- and race-specific differences in the impact of two dimensions of adolescent athletic involvement (“jock” identity and athlete status) on changes in school grades and school misconduct over a two-year interval. Female and black adolescents who identified themselves as “jocks” reported lower grades than those who did not, whereas female athletes reported higher grades than female nonathletes. Jocks also reported significantly more misconduct (including skipping school, cutting classes, having someone from home called to the school for disciplinary purposes, and being sent to the principal’s office) than nonjocks. Gender moderated the relationship between athlete status and school misconduct; athletic participation had a less salutary effect on misconduct for girls than for boys. PMID:16467902

Comparison of lifestyle and practice patterns between male and female Canadian ophthalmologists.

PubMed

McAlister, Chryssa; Jin, Ya-Ping; Braga-Mele, Rosa; DesMarchais, Beatrice F; Buys, Yvonne M

2014-06-01

To identify sex differences in lifestyle and practice patterns of Canadian ophthalmologists. Web-based national survey. Members of the Canadian Ophthalmological Society. A 48-item questionnaire was sent electronically. Analysis of results was completed using χ(2) and Fisher's exact tests where appropriate. Of 385 respondents (30%), 102 were female and 283 male. Several statistically significant differences exist in lifestyle and practice patterns. Fifty-one percent of females operate less than 2 days per month as compared with 36% of males (p = 0.01) despite similar clinical hours. No statistically significant differences were found in other practice pattern parameters including laser refractive surgery, hospital affiliation, university appointment/rank, and number of peer-review publications. Ninety percent of males and 81% of females report having ≥1 children, but males report greater number of children (p < 0.001). Females are commonly the primary caregiver, whereas males report their partner as primary caregiver (p < 0.001). Fifty-two percent of females are unhappy with the amount of parental leave (p < 0.001). Fifty-one percent of females believe that childbearing slowed or markedly slowed career progress, as compared with 15% of males (p < 0.001). Both female (83%) and male (87%) ophthalmologists report high career satisfaction (p = 0.43). Differences in practice patterns between males and females in our analysis surround surgical time, with no difference seen in other practice patterns or academic achievements. Differences in family patterns surround household and childrearing duties. Despite differences, both males and females report high satisfaction across several professional and personal parameters. Compared with previous studies, this suggests a change in practice patterns over time. Copyright © 2014 Canadian Ophthalmological Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Quantification of aquifer properties with surface nuclear magnetic resonance in the Platte River valley, central Nebraska, using a novel inversion method

USGS Publications Warehouse

Irons, Trevor P.; Hobza, Christopher M.; Steele, Gregory V.; Abraham, Jared D.; Cannia, James C.; Woodward, Duane D.

2012-01-01

Surface nuclear magnetic resonance, a noninvasive geophysical method, measures a signal directly related to the amount of water in the subsurface. This allows for low-cost quantitative estimates of hydraulic parameters. In practice, however, additional factors influence the signal, complicating interpretation. The U.S. Geological Survey, in cooperation with the Central Platte Natural Resources District, evaluated whether hydraulic parameters derived from surface nuclear magnetic resonance data could provide valuable input into groundwater models used for evaluating water-management practices. Two calibration sites in Dawson County, Nebraska, were chosen based on previous detailed hydrogeologic and geophysical investigations. At both sites, surface nuclear magnetic resonance data were collected, and derived parameters were compared with results from four constant-discharge aquifer tests previously conducted at those same sites. Additionally, borehole electromagnetic-induction flowmeter data were analyzed as a less-expensive surrogate for traditional aquifer tests. Building on recent work, a novel surface nuclear magnetic resonance modeling and inversion method was developed that incorporates electrical conductivity and effects due to magnetic-field inhomogeneities, both of which can have a substantial impact on the data. After comparing surface nuclear magnetic resonance inversions at the two calibration sites, the nuclear magnetic-resonance-derived parameters were compared with previously performed aquifer tests in the Central Platte Natural Resources District. This comparison served as a blind test for the developed method. The nuclear magnetic-resonance-derived aquifer parameters were in agreement with results of aquifer tests where the environmental noise allowed data collection and the aquifer test zones overlapped with the surface nuclear magnetic resonance testing. In some cases, the previously performed aquifer tests were not designed fully to characterize the aquifer, and the surface nuclear magnetic resonance was able to provide missing data. In favorable locations, surface nuclear magnetic resonance is able to provide valuable noninvasive information about aquifer parameters and should be a useful tool for groundwater managers in Nebraska.

SEDIDAT: A BASIC program for the collection and statistical analysis of particle settling velocity data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wright, Robyn; Thornberg, Steven M.

SEDIDAT is a series of compiled IBM-BASIC (version 2.0) programs that direct the collection, statistical calculation, and graphic presentation of particle settling velocity and equivalent spherical diameter for samples analyzed using the settling tube technique. The programs follow a menu-driven format that is understood easily by students and scientists with little previous computer experience. Settling velocity is measured directly (cm,sec) and also converted into Chi units. Equivalent spherical diameter (reported in Phi units) is calculated using a modified Gibbs equation for different particle densities. Input parameters, such as water temperature, settling distance, particle density, run time, and Phi;Chi interval are changed easily at operator discretion. Optional output to a dot-matrix printer includes a summary of moment and graphic statistical parameters, a tabulation of individual and cumulative weight percents, a listing of major distribution modes, and cumulative and histogram plots of a raw time, settling velocity. Chi and Phi data.

Predictive Model for the Design of Zwitterionic Polymer Brushes: A Statistical Design of Experiments Approach.

PubMed

Kumar, Ramya; Lahann, Joerg

2016-07-06

The performance of polymer interfaces in biology is governed by a wide spectrum of interfacial properties. With the ultimate goal of identifying design parameters for stem cell culture coatings, we developed a statistical model that describes the dependence of brush properties on surface-initiated polymerization (SIP) parameters. Employing a design of experiments (DOE) approach, we identified operating boundaries within which four gel architecture regimes can be realized, including a new regime of associated brushes in thin films. Our statistical model can accurately predict the brush thickness and the degree of intermolecular association of poly[{2-(methacryloyloxy) ethyl} dimethyl-(3-sulfopropyl) ammonium hydroxide] (PMEDSAH), a previously reported synthetic substrate for feeder-free and xeno-free culture of human embryonic stem cells. DOE-based multifunctional predictions offer a powerful quantitative framework for designing polymer interfaces. For example, model predictions can be used to decrease the critical thickness at which the wettability transition occurs by simply increasing the catalyst quantity from 1 to 3 mol %.

Study on the Optimization and Process Modeling of the Rotary Ultrasonic Machining of Zerodur Glass-Ceramic

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pitts, James Daniel

Rotary ultrasonic machining (RUM), a hybrid process combining ultrasonic machining and diamond grinding, was created to increase material removal rates for the fabrication of hard and brittle workpieces. The objective of this research was to experimentally derive empirical equations for the prediction of multiple machined surface roughness parameters for helically pocketed rotary ultrasonic machined Zerodur glass-ceramic workpieces by means of a systematic statistical experimental approach. A Taguchi parametric screening design of experiments was employed to systematically determine the RUM process parameters with the largest effect on mean surface roughness. Next empirically determined equations for the seven common surface quality metrics were developed via Box-Behnken surface response experimental trials. Validation trials were conducted resulting in predicted and experimental surface roughness in varying levels of agreement. The reductions in cutting force and tool wear associated with RUM, reported by previous researchers, was experimentally verified to also extended to helical pocketing of Zerodur glass-ceramic.

Cosmological constraints on Brans-Dicke theory.

PubMed

Avilez, A; Skordis, C

2014-07-04

We report strong cosmological constraints on the Brans-Dicke (BD) theory of gravity using cosmic microwave background data from Planck. We consider two types of models. First, the initial condition of the scalar field is fixed to give the same effective gravitational strength Geff today as the one measured on Earth, GN. In this case, the BD parameter ω is constrained to ω>692 at the 99% confidence level, an order of magnitude improvement over previous constraints. In the second type, the initial condition for the scalar is a free parameter leading to a somewhat stronger constraint of ω>890, while Geff is constrained to 0.981

Comparison of Measured to Predicted Estimations of Nonpoint Source Contaminants Using Conservation Practices in an Agriculturally-Dominated Watershed in Northeast Arkansas, USA.

PubMed

Frasher, Sarah K; Woodruff, Tracy M; Bouldin, Jennifer L

2016-06-01

In efforts to reduce nonpoint source runoff and improve water quality, Best Management Practices (BMPs) were implemented in the Outlet Larkin Creek Watershed. Farmers need to make scientifically informed decisions concerning BMPs addressing contaminants from agricultural fields. The BMP Tool was developed from previous studies to estimate BMP effectiveness at reducing nonpoint source contaminants. The purpose of this study was to compare the measured percent reduction of dissolved phosphorus (DP) and total suspended solids to the reported percent reductions from the BMP Tool for validation. Similarities were measured between the BMP Tool and the measured water quality parameters. Construction of a sedimentation pond resulted in 74 %-76 % reduction in DP as compared to 80 % as predicted with the BMP Tool. However, further research is needed to validate the tool for additional water quality parameters. The BMP Tool is recommended for future BMP implementation as a useful predictor for farmers.

High-Resolution Rotational Spectrum, Dunham Coefficients, and Potential Energy Function of NaCl.

PubMed

Cabezas, C; Cernicharo, J; Quintana-Lacaci, G; Peña, I; Agundez, M; Prieto, L Velilla; Castro-Carrizo, A; Zuñiga, J; Bastida, A; Alonso, J L; Requena, A

2016-07-13

We report laboratory spectroscopy for the first time of the J = 1-0 and J = 2-1 lines of Na 35 Cl and Na 37 Cl in several vibrational states. The hyperfine structure has been resolved in both transitions for all vibrational levels, which permit us to predict with high accuracy the hyperfine splitting of the rotational transitions of the two isotopologues at higher frequencies. The new data have been merged with all previous works at microwave, millimeter, and infrared wavelengths and fitted to a series of mass-independent Dunham parameters and to a potential energy function. The obtained parameters have been used to compute a new dipole moment function, from which the dipole moment for infrared transitions up to Δ v = 8 has been derived. Frequency and intensity predictions are provided for all rovibrational transitions up to J = 150 and v = 8, from which the ALMA data of evolved stars can be modeled and interpreted.

The discovery and properties of the ultra-soft X-ray transient EXO 1846-031

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Parmar, A. N.; Angelini, L.; Roche, P.; White, N. E.

1993-01-01

We report the discovery of a previously uncataloged ultra-soft X-ray transient EXO 1846-031 which was in outburst during 1985 April to September. The X-ray spectrum consists of an ultra-soft component and a high-energy power-law tail that extends to at least 25 keV. The ultra-soft component may be modeled by either a cutoff power-law or a multicolor blackbody disk model. The latter model allows the evolution in spectrum and intensity observed during the outburst to be accounted for by the change in a single parameter - the temperature at the innermost disk radius. We demonstrate that at least one other accretion disk model is able to account for these changes by the variation of a single parameter. During one of the three EXOSAT observations, EXO 1846-031 exhibited significant intensity variability which probably originates from the power-law component. We derive a position for this unidentified source and present the results of a search for the optical counterpart.

Differential aging of median and ulnar sensory nerve parameters.

PubMed

Werner, Robert A; Franzblau, Alfred; D'Arcy, Hannah J S; Evanoff, Bradley A; Tong, Henry C

2012-01-01

Nerve conduction velocity slows and amplitude declines with aging. Median and ulnar sensory nerves were tested at the annual meetings of the American Dental Association. Seven hundred four subjects had at least two observations. The rate of change in the nerve parameters was estimated while controlling for gender, age, change in hand temperature, baseline body mass index (BMI), and change in BMI. Amplitudes of the median sensory nerve action potentials decreased by 0.58 μV per year, whereas conduction velocity decreased at a rate of 0.41 m/s per year. Corresponding values for the ulnar nerve were 0.89 μV and 0.29 m/s per year. The rates of change in amplitudes did not differ, but the median nerve demonstrated a more rapid loss of conduction velocity. The rate of change for the median conduction velocity was higher than previously reported. The rate of change of median conduction velocity was significantly greater than for the ulnar nerve. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Source levels and call parameters of harbor seal breeding vocalizations near a terrestrial haulout site in Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve.

PubMed

Matthews, Leanna P; Parks, Susan E; Fournet, Michelle E H; Gabriele, Christine M; Womble, Jamie N; Klinck, Holger

2017-03-01

Source levels of harbor seal breeding vocalizations were estimated using a three-element planar hydrophone array near the Beardslee Islands in Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, Alaska. The average source level for these calls was 144 dB RMS re 1 μPa at 1 m in the 40-500 Hz frequency band. Source level estimates ranged from 129 to 149 dB RMS re 1 μPa. Four call parameters, including minimum frequency, peak frequency, total duration, and pulse duration, were also measured. These measurements indicated that breeding vocalizations of harbor seals near the Beardslee Islands of Glacier Bay National Park are similar in duration (average total duration: 4.8 s, average pulse duration: 3.0 s) to previously reported values from other populations, but are 170-220 Hz lower in average minimum frequency (78 Hz).

High-resolution infrared spectrum of triacetylene: The ν5 state revisited and new vibrational states

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Doney, K. D.; Zhao, D.; Linnartz, H.

2015-10-01

New data are presented that follow from a high-resolution survey, from 3302 to 3352 cm-1, through expanding acetylene plasma, and covering the Csbnd H asymmetric (ν5) fundamental band of triacetylene (HC6H). Absorption signals are recorded using continuous wave cavity ring-down spectroscopy (cw-CRDS). A detailed analysis of the resulting spectra allows revisiting the molecular parameters of the ν5 fundamental band in terms of interactions with a perturbing state, which is observed for the first time. Moreover, four fully resolved hot bands (501 1011, 501 1111, 501 1311, and 101 801 1110), with band origins at 3328.5829(2), 3328.9994(2), 3328.2137(2) and 3310.8104(2) cm-1, respectively, are reported for the first time. These involve low lying bending vibrations that have been studied previously, which guarantees unambiguous identifications. Combining available data allows to derive accurate molecular parameters, both for the ground state as well as the excited states involved in the bands.

A new method to derive electronegativity from resonant inelastic x-ray scattering

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

Carniato, S.; Journel, L.; Guillemin, R.

2012-10-14

Electronegativity is a well-known property of atoms and substituent groups. Because there is no direct way to measure it, establishing a useful scale for electronegativity often entails correlating it to another chemical parameter; a wide variety of methods have been proposed over the past 80 years to do just that. This work reports a new approach that connects electronegativity to a spectroscopic parameter derived from resonant inelastic x-ray scattering. The new method is demonstrated using a series of chlorine-containing compounds, focusing on the Cl 2p{sup -1}LUMO{sup 1} electronic states reached after Cl 1s{yields} LUMO core excitation and subsequent KL radiativemore » decay. Based on an electron-density analysis of the LUMOs, the relative weights of the Cl 2p{sub z} atomic orbital contributing to the Cl 2p{sub 3/2} molecular spin-orbit components are shown to yield a linear electronegativity scale consistent with previous approaches.« less

Estimation of Free Radical Ionization Energies by the Kinetic Method and the Relationship between the Kinetic Method and the Hammett Equation.

PubMed

Chen, G; Wong, P; Cooks, R G

1997-09-01

Substituted 1,2-diphenylethanes undergo competitive dissociations upon electron ionization (EI) to generate substituted benzyl cation and benzyl radical pairs. Application of the kinetic method to the previous reported EI mass spectra of these covalently bound precursor ions (data are taken from McLafferty et al. J. Am. Chem. Soc. 1970, 92, 6867)) is used to estimate the ionization energies of substituted benzyl free radicals. A correlation is observed between the Hammett σ constant of the substituents and the kinetic method parameter, ln(k(x)/k(H)), where k(x) is the rate of fragmentation to give the substituted product ion and k(H) is the rate to give the benzyl ion itself. Systems involving weakly bound cluster ions, including proton-bound dimers of meta- and para-substituted pyridines and meta- and para-substituted anilines, and electron-bound dimers of meta- and para-substituted nitrobenzenes, also show good correlations between the kinetic method parameter and the Hammett σ constant.

Magnetic field geometries of two slowly rotating Ap/Bp stars: HD 12288 and HD 14437

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wade, G. A.; Kudryavtsev, D.; Romanyuk, I. I.; Landstreet, J. D.; Mathys, G.

2000-03-01

In this paper we report magnetic field models and basic physical parameters for the slowly rotating Ap/Bp stars HD 12288 and HD 14437. Using new and previously published mean longitudinal magnetic field, mean magnetic field modulus, and hipparcos photometric measurements, we have inferred the rotational periods of both stars (HD 12288: P_rot=34.9d +/- 0.2d HD 14437: P_rot=26.87d +/- 0.02d). From the magnetic measurements we have determined the best-fit decentred magnetic dipole configurations. For HD 12288, we find that the field geometry is consistent with a centred dipole, while for HD 14437 a large decentring parameter (a=0.23 R_*) is inferred. Both stars show one angle in the ambiguous (i,beta ) couplet which is smaller than about 20degr . This is consistent with the observation of Landstreet & Mathys (2000), who point out that almost all magnetic Ap stars with periods longer than about 30 days exhibit magnetic fields aligned with their rotational axis.

Measuring the Refractive Index of a Laser-Plasma Optical System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Turnbull, D.; Goyon, C.; Pollock, B. B.; Mariscal, D.; Divol, L.; Ross, J. S.; Patankar, S.; Kemp, G. E.; Moody, J. D.; Michel, P. A.

2016-10-01

We report the first complete set of measurements of a laser-plasma optical system's refractive index, as seen by an independent probe laser beam, as a function of the relative wavelength shift between the two laser beams. Both the imaginary and real refractive-index components are found to be in good agreement with linear theory using plasma parameters measured by optical Thomson scattering and interferometry; the former is in contrast to previous work and has implications for cross-beam energy transfer in indirect-drive inertial confinement fusion, and the latter is measured for the first time. The data include the first demonstration of a laser-plasma polarizer with 85% to 87% extinction for the particular laser and plasma parameters used in this experiment, complementing the existing suite of high-power, tunable, and ultrafast plasma-based photonic devices. This work was performed under the auspices of the U.S. Department of Energy by Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory under Contract DE-AC52-07NA27344.

Energy levels and optical properties of neodymium-doped barium fluorapatite

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

Stefanos, Sennay M.; Bonner, Carl E. Jr.; Meegoda, Chandana

Energy levels of the 4f{sup 3} electronic configuration of Nd{sup 3+} in barium fluorapatite, Ba{sub 5}(PO{sub 4}){sub 3}F(B-FAP) have been determined from polarized absorption and fluorescence spectra using crystals at 8 K. Experimental energy-level assignments were made initially by comparing the crystal spectra energy levels with those obtained from those previously reported for Nd{sup 3+} in strontium fluorapatite and fluorapatite. The initial crystal-field parameters were calculated by using lattice summation techniques. The crystal-field parameters were varied to obtain a best fit between experimental and theoretical energies and the final values give a root-mean-square deviation of 7.1 cm-1. The odd-fold crystal-fieldmore » components are used to calculate the emission intensities and lifetimes of the Nd{sup 3+} ions in B-FAP. These calculations yield results in good agreement with the experimental measurements of the absorption and emission cross sections and lifetimes. (c) 2000 American Institute of Physics.« less

Retinal blood vessel segmentation in high resolution fundus photographs using automated feature parameter estimation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Orlando, José Ignacio; Fracchia, Marcos; del Río, Valeria; del Fresno, Mariana

2017-11-01

Several ophthalmological and systemic diseases are manifested through pathological changes in the properties and the distribution of the retinal blood vessels. The characterization of such alterations requires the segmentation of the vasculature, which is a tedious and time-consuming task that is infeasible to be performed manually. Numerous attempts have been made to propose automated methods for segmenting the retinal vasculature from fundus photographs, although their application in real clinical scenarios is usually limited by their ability to deal with images taken at different resolutions. This is likely due to the large number of parameters that have to be properly calibrated according to each image scale. In this paper we propose to apply a novel strategy for automated feature parameter estimation, combined with a vessel segmentation method based on fully connected conditional random fields. The estimation model is learned by linear regression from structural properties of the images and known optimal configurations, that were previously obtained for low resolution data sets. Our experiments in high resolution images show that this approach is able to estimate appropriate configurations that are suitable for performing the segmentation task without requiring to re-engineer parameters. Furthermore, our combined approach reported state of the art performance on the benchmark data set HRF, as measured in terms of the F1-score and the Matthews correlation coefficient.

Applicability of the polynomial chaos expansion method for personalization of a cardiovascular pulse wave propagation model.

PubMed

Huberts, W; Donders, W P; Delhaas, T; van de Vosse, F N

2014-12-01

Patient-specific modeling requires model personalization, which can be achieved in an efficient manner by parameter fixing and parameter prioritization. An efficient variance-based method is using generalized polynomial chaos expansion (gPCE), but it has not been applied in the context of model personalization, nor has it ever been compared with standard variance-based methods for models with many parameters. In this work, we apply the gPCE method to a previously reported pulse wave propagation model and compare the conclusions for model personalization with that of a reference analysis performed with Saltelli's efficient Monte Carlo method. We furthermore differentiate two approaches for obtaining the expansion coefficients: one based on spectral projection (gPCE-P) and one based on least squares regression (gPCE-R). It was found that in general the gPCE yields similar conclusions as the reference analysis but at much lower cost, as long as the polynomial metamodel does not contain unnecessary high order terms. Furthermore, the gPCE-R approach generally yielded better results than gPCE-P. The weak performance of the gPCE-P can be attributed to the assessment of the expansion coefficients using the Smolyak algorithm, which might be hampered by the high number of model parameters and/or by possible non-smoothness in the output space. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Alterations in Blood Coagulation and Viscosity Among Young Male Cigarette Smokers of Al-Jouf Region in Saudi Arabia.

PubMed

Almarshad, Hassan A; Hassan, Fathelrahman M

2016-05-01

Hemorheology, a measure of rheological properties of blood, is often correlated with cerebral blood flow and cardiac output; an increased blood viscosity may increase the risk of thrombosis or thromboembolic events. Previous studies have reported a large variation in hemorheological properties of blood among smokers. This prompted us to conduct coagulation experiments to evaluate the effect of cigarette smoking on hematological parameters, like cell counts, and coagulation parameters among young males in Al-Jouf region, Saudi Arabia. The hematological and coagulation parameters were used to relate the changes in viscosity and coagulation to smoking. A total of 321 male participants (126 nonsmokers and 195 smokers) were enrolled into the study as randomized sample. Complete blood count was measured by hematology analyzer, and coagulation tests were performed by coagulation analyzer. Thettest analysis was performed to compare the relationships of variables between the 2 groups. The results confirmed that smoking alters some hematology parameters leading to significant deterioration in blood flow properties. Smoking also increased the hematocrit (HCT), whole blood viscosity (WBV), and plasma viscosity (PV) but decreased the international normalized ratio (INR). The decrease in INR was found to be associated with the increase in WBV, PV, and HCT. Further investigations are necessary to assess the reversibility of such changes in cessation of smoking or other elements of influence. © The Author(s) 2014.

Structural Identifiability of Dynamic Systems Biology Models

PubMed Central

Villaverde, Alejandro F.

2016-01-01

A powerful way of gaining insight into biological systems is by creating a nonlinear differential equation model, which usually contains many unknown parameters. Such a model is called structurally identifiable if it is possible to determine the values of its parameters from measurements of the model outputs. Structural identifiability is a prerequisite for parameter estimation, and should be assessed before exploiting a model. However, this analysis is seldom performed due to the high computational cost involved in the necessary symbolic calculations, which quickly becomes prohibitive as the problem size increases. In this paper we show how to analyse the structural identifiability of a very general class of nonlinear models by extending methods originally developed for studying observability. We present results about models whose identifiability had not been previously determined, report unidentifiabilities that had not been found before, and show how to modify those unidentifiable models to make them identifiable. This method helps prevent problems caused by lack of identifiability analysis, which can compromise the success of tasks such as experiment design, parameter estimation, and model-based optimization. The procedure is called STRIKE-GOLDD (STRuctural Identifiability taKen as Extended-Generalized Observability with Lie Derivatives and Decomposition), and it is implemented in a MATLAB toolbox which is available as open source software. The broad applicability of this approach facilitates the analysis of the increasingly complex models used in systems biology and other areas. PMID:27792726

Facial Vibrotactile Stimulation Activates the Parasympathetic Nervous System: Study of Salivary Secretion, Heart Rate, Pupillary Reflex, and Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy Activity

PubMed Central

Hiraba, Hisao; Inoue, Motoharu; Gora, Kanako; Sato, Takako; Nishimura, Satoshi; Yamaoka, Masaru; Kumakura, Ayano; Ono, Shinya; Wakasa, Hirotugu; Nakayama, Enri; Abe, Kimiko; Ueda, Koichiro

2014-01-01

We previously found that the greatest salivation response in healthy human subjects is produced by facial vibrotactile stimulation of 89 Hz frequency with 1.9 μm amplitude (89 Hz-S), as reported by Hiraba et al. (2012, 20011, and 2008). We assessed relationships between the blood flow to brain via functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) in the frontal cortex and autonomic parameters. We used the heart rate (HRV: heart rate variability analysis in RR intervals), pupil reflex, and salivation as parameters, but the interrelation between each parameter and fNIRS measures remains unknown. We were to investigate the relationship in response to established paradigms using simultaneously each parameter-fNIRS recording in healthy human subjects. Analysis of fNIRS was examined by a comparison of various values between before and after various stimuli (89 Hz-S, 114 Hz-S, listen to classic music, and “Ahh” vocalization). We confirmed that vibrotactile stimulation (89 Hz) of the parotid glands led to the greatest salivation, greatest increase in heart rate variability, and the most constricted pupils. Furthermore, there were almost no detectable differences between fNIRS during 89 Hz-S and fNIRS during listening to classical music of fans. Thus, vibrotactile stimulation of 89 Hz seems to evoke parasympathetic activity. PMID:24511550

Accurate potential energy curves, spectroscopic parameters, transition dipole moments, and transition probabilities of 21 low-lying states of the CO+ cation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xing, Wei; Shi, Deheng; Zhang, Jicai; Sun, Jinfeng; Zhu, Zunlue

2018-05-01

This paper calculates the potential energy curves of 21 Λ-S and 42 Ω states, which arise from the first two dissociation asymptotes of the CO+ cation. The calculations are conducted using the complete active space self-consistent field method, which is followed by the valence internally contracted multireference configuration interaction approach with the Davidson correction. To improve the reliability and accuracy of the potential energy curves, core-valence correlation and scalar relativistic corrections, as well as the extrapolation of potential energies to the complete basis set limit are taken into account. The spectroscopic parameters and vibrational levels are determined. The spin-orbit coupling effect on the spectroscopic parameters and vibrational levels is evaluated. To better study the transition probabilities, the transition dipole moments are computed. The Franck-Condon factors and Einstein coefficients of some emissions are calculated. The radiative lifetimes are determined for a number of vibrational levels of several states. The transitions between different Λ-S states are evaluated. Spectroscopic routines for observing these states are proposed. The spectroscopic parameters, vibrational levels, transition dipole moments, and transition probabilities reported in this paper can be considered to be very reliable and can be used as guidelines for detecting these states in an appropriate spectroscopy experiment, especially for the states that were very difficult to observe or were not detected in previous experiments.

Oocyte-triggering day progesterone levels and endometrial appearance in normoresponders undergoing IVF/ICSI cycles: a hypothesis and a study protocol.

PubMed

Siristatidis, Charalampos; Drakopoulos, Panagiotis; Vogiatzi, Paraskevi; Karageorgiou, Vasilios; Daskalakis, George

2018-05-16

In this report, we propose a study protocol capable of improving IVF outcomes in subfertile women with expected normal ovarian response. This proposal derives from conflicting published data and observations in our daily practice, concerning the negative impact of progesterone (P4) elevation at the day of oocyte triggering on pregnancy outcomes. Our hypothesis points to the combination of two previous "suspects" of reduced success after assisted reproduction techniques (ART) - the endometrium ultrasonographic parameters and P4 elevation at the day of oocyte triggering on their impact on pregnancy outcomes. Up-to-the minute data show that, there is a different impact of elevated P4 in fresh, frozen and donor cycles, whereas there are plenty of reports pointing to a different endometrial gene expression on different P4 measurements. Gaps in the literature are linked with a variation of the measurements of P4, its cycle-to-cycle reproducibility, the different cut-off levels used, the impact of various protocols of ovarian stimulation and the limitations of systematic reviews originating from the initial studies. Our hypothesis states that the combination of P4 values and endometrial ultrasound parameters at the day of oocyte triggering can affect clinical pregnancy rates in normal responders undergoing ART.

Fabrication of graded index single crystal in glass

PubMed Central

Veenhuizen, Keith; McAnany, Sean; Nolan, Daniel; Aitken, Bruce; Dierolf, Volkmar; Jain, Himanshu

2017-01-01

Lithium niobate crystals were grown in 3D through localized heating by femtosecond laser irradiation deep inside 35Li2O-35Nb2O5-30SiO2 glass. Laser scanning speed and power density were systematically varied to control the crystal growth process and determine the optimal conditions for the formation of single crystal lines. EBSD measurements showed that, in principle, single crystals can be grown to unlimited lengths using optimal parameters. We successfully tuned the parameters to a growth mode where nucleation and growth occur upon heating and ahead of the scanning laser focus. This growth mode eliminates the problem reported in previous works of non-uniform polycrystallinity because of a separate growth mode where crystallization occurs during cooling behind the scanning laser focus. To our knowledge, this is the first report of such a growth mode using a fs laser. The crystal cross-sections possessed a symmetric, smooth lattice misorientation with respect to the c-axis orientation in the center of the crystal. Calculations indicate the observed misorientation leads to a decrease in the refractive index of the crystal line from the center moving outwards, opening the possibility to produce within glass a graded refractive index single crystal (GRISC) optically active waveguide. PMID:28287174

Coagulation profiles of healthy Andalusian donkeys are different than those of healthy horses.

PubMed

Mendoza, F J; Perez-Ecija, R A; Monreal, L; Estepa, J C

2011-01-01

Coagulation disorders are frequently diagnosed, especially in hospitalized equidae, and result in increased morbidity and mortality. However, hemostatic reference intervals have not been established for donkeys yet. To determine whether the most common coagulation parameters used in equine practice are different between healthy donkeys and horses. Thirty-eight healthy donkeys and 29 healthy horses. Blood samples were collected to assess both coagulation and fibrinolytic systems by determination of platelet count, fibrinogen concentration, clotting times (prothrombin time [PT] and activated partial thromboplastin time [aPTT]), fibrin degradation products (FDP) and D-Dimer concentrations. PT and aPTT in donkeys were significantly (P < .05) shorter than those of horses. In contrast, FDP and D-Dimer concentrations were significantly (P < .05) higher in donkeys than in horses. The coagulation parameters most commonly determined in equine practice are different in donkeys compared with horses. Thus, the use of normal reference ranges reported previously for healthy horses in donkeys might lead to a misdiagnosis of coagulopathy in healthy donkeys, and unnecessary treatments in sick donkeys. This is the first report of normal coagulation profile results in donkeys, and further studies are warranted to elucidate the physiological mechanisms of the differences observed between donkeys and horses. Copyright © 2011 by the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine.

Precision measurement of the nuclear polarization in laser-cooled, optically pumped 37 K

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

Fenker, B.; Behr, J. A.; Melconian, D.

We report a measurement of the nuclear polarization of laser-cooled, optically pumped 37K atoms which will allow us to precisely measure angular correlation parameters in themore » $${\\beta }^{+}$$-decay of the same atoms. These results will be used to test the V ₋ A framework of the weak interaction at high precision. At the Triumf neutral atom trap (Trinat), a magneto-optical trap confines and cools neutral 37K atoms and optical pumping spin-polarizes them. We monitor the nuclear polarization of the same atoms that are decaying in situ by photoionizing a small fraction of the partially polarized atoms and then use the standard optical Bloch equations to model their population distribution. We obtain an average nuclear polarization of $$\\bar{P}=0.9913\\pm 0.0009$$, which is significantly more precise than previous measurements with this technique. Since our current measurement of the β-asymmetry has $$0.2 \\% $$ statistical uncertainty, the polarization measurement reported here will not limit its overall uncertainty. This result also demonstrates the capability to measure the polarization to $$\\lt 0.1 \\% $$, allowing for a measurement of angular correlation parameters to this level of precision, which would be competitive in searches for new physics.« less

Precision measurement of the nuclear polarization in laser-cooled, optically pumped 37 K

DOE PAGES

Fenker, B.; Behr, J. A.; Melconian, D.; ...

2016-07-13

We report a measurement of the nuclear polarization of laser-cooled, optically pumped 37K atoms which will allow us to precisely measure angular correlation parameters in themore » $${\\beta }^{+}$$-decay of the same atoms. These results will be used to test the V ₋ A framework of the weak interaction at high precision. At the Triumf neutral atom trap (Trinat), a magneto-optical trap confines and cools neutral 37K atoms and optical pumping spin-polarizes them. We monitor the nuclear polarization of the same atoms that are decaying in situ by photoionizing a small fraction of the partially polarized atoms and then use the standard optical Bloch equations to model their population distribution. We obtain an average nuclear polarization of $$\\bar{P}=0.9913\\pm 0.0009$$, which is significantly more precise than previous measurements with this technique. Since our current measurement of the β-asymmetry has $$0.2 \\% $$ statistical uncertainty, the polarization measurement reported here will not limit its overall uncertainty. This result also demonstrates the capability to measure the polarization to $$\\lt 0.1 \\% $$, allowing for a measurement of angular correlation parameters to this level of precision, which would be competitive in searches for new physics.« less

Micro-CT characterization of human trabecular bone in osteogenesis imperfecta

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jameson, John; Albert, Carolyne; Smith, Peter; Molthen, Robert; Harris, Gerald

2011-03-01

Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is a genetic syndrome affecting collagen synthesis and assembly. Its symptoms vary widely but commonly include bone fragility, reduced stature, and bone deformity. Because of the small size and paucity of human specimens, there is a lack of biomechanical data for OI bone. Most literature has focused on histomorphometric analyses, which rely on assumptions to extrapolate 3-D properties. In this study, a micro-computed tomography (μCT) system was used to directly measure structural and mineral properties in pediatric OI bone collected during routine surgical procedures. Surface renderings suggested a poorly organized, plate-like orientation. Patients with a history of bone-augmenting drugs exhibited increased bone volume fraction (BV/TV), trabecular number (Tb.N), and connectivity density (Eu.Conn.D). The latter two parameters appeared to be related to OI severity. Structural results were consistently higher than those reported in a previous histomorphometric study, but these differences can be attributed to factors such as specimen collection site, drug therapy, and assumptions associated with histomorphometry. Mineral testing revealed strong correlations with several structural parameters, highlighting the importance of a dual approach in trabecular bone testing. This study reports some of the first quantitative μCT data of human OI bone, and it suggests compelling possibilities for the future of OI bone assessment.

Protective effects of chebulic acid on alveolar epithelial damage induced by urban particulate matter.

PubMed

Lee, Kyung-Won; Nam, Mi-Hyun; Lee, Hee-Ra; Hong, Chung-Oui; Lee, Kwang-Won

2017-07-19

Chebulic acid (CA) isolated from T. chebula, which has been reported for treating asthma, as a potent anti-oxidant resources. Exposure to ambient urban particulate matter (UPM) considered as a risk for cardiopulmonary vascular dysfunction. To investigate the protective effect of CA against UPM-mediated collapse of the pulmonary alveolar epithelial (PAE) cell (NCI-H441), barrier integrity parameters, and their elements were evaluated in PAE. CA was acquired from the laboratory previous reports. UPM was obtained from the National Institutes of Standards and Technology, and these were collected in St. Louis, MO, over a 24-month period and used as a standard reference. To confirm the protection of PAE barrier integrity, paracellular permeability and the junctional molecules were estimated with determination of transepithelial electrical resistance, Western Blotting, RT-PCR, and fluorescent staining. UPM aggravated the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in PAE and also decreased mRNA and protein levels of junction molecules and barrier integrity in NCI-H441. However, CA repressed the ROS in PAE, also improved barrier integrity by protecting the junctional parameters in NCI-H411. These data showed that CA resulted in decreased UPM-induced ROS formation, and the protected the integrity of the tight junctions against UPM exposure to PAE barrier.

Association between bibliometric parameters, reporting and methodological quality of randomised controlled trials in vascular and endovascular surgery.

PubMed

Hajibandeh, Shahab; Hajibandeh, Shahin; Antoniou, George A; Green, Patrick A; Maden, Michelle; Torella, Francesco

2017-04-01

Purpose We aimed to investigate association between bibliometric parameters, reporting and methodological quality of vascular and endovascular surgery randomised controlled trials. Methods The most recent 75 and oldest 75 randomised controlled trials published in leading journals over a 10-year period were identified. The reporting quality was analysed using the CONSORT statement, and methodological quality with the Intercollegiate Guidelines Network checklist. We used exploratory univariate and multivariable linear regression analysis to investigate associations. Findings Bibliometric parameters such as type of journal, study design reported in title, number of pages; external funding, industry sponsoring and number of citations are associated with reporting quality. Moreover, parameters such as type of journal, subject area and study design reported in title are associated with methodological quality. Conclusions The bibliometric parameters of randomised controlled trials may be independent predictors for their reporting and methodological quality. Moreover, the reporting quality of randomised controlled trials is associated with their methodological quality and vice versa.

Thermodynamic assessment of Ag–Cu–In

DOE PAGES

Muzzillo, Christopher P.; Anderson, Tim

2018-01-16

The Ag-Cu-In thermodynamic material system is of interest for brazing alloys and chalcopyrite thin-film photovoltaics. To advance these applications, Ag-Cu-In was assessed and a Calphad model was developed. Binary Ag-Cu and Cu-In parameters were taken from previous assessments, while Ag-In was re-assessed. Structure-based models were employed for ..beta..-bcc(A2)-Ag 3In, ..gamma..-Ag 9In 4, and AgIn 2 to obtain good fit to enthalpy, phase boundary, and invariant reaction data for Ag-In. Ternary Ag-Cu-In parameters were optimized to achieve excellent fit to activity, enthalpy, and extensive phase equilibrium data. Relative to the previous Ag-Cu-In assessment, fit was improved while fewer parameters were used.

Thermodynamic assessment of Ag–Cu–In

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

Muzzillo, Christopher P.; Anderson, Tim

The Ag-Cu-In thermodynamic material system is of interest for brazing alloys and chalcopyrite thin-film photovoltaics. To advance these applications, Ag-Cu-In was assessed and a Calphad model was developed. Binary Ag-Cu and Cu-In parameters were taken from previous assessments, while Ag-In was re-assessed. Structure-based models were employed for ..beta..-bcc(A2)-Ag 3In, ..gamma..-Ag 9In 4, and AgIn 2 to obtain good fit to enthalpy, phase boundary, and invariant reaction data for Ag-In. Ternary Ag-Cu-In parameters were optimized to achieve excellent fit to activity, enthalpy, and extensive phase equilibrium data. Relative to the previous Ag-Cu-In assessment, fit was improved while fewer parameters were used.

GRODY - GAMMA RAY OBSERVATORY DYNAMICS SIMULATOR IN ADA

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stark, M.

1994-01-01

Analysts use a dynamics simulator to test the attitude control system algorithms used by a satellite. The simulator must simulate the hardware, dynamics, and environment of the particular spacecraft and provide user services which enable the analyst to conduct experiments. Researchers at Goddard's Flight Dynamics Division developed GRODY alongside GROSS (GSC-13147), a FORTRAN simulator which performs the same functions, in a case study to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of the Ada programming language for flight dynamics software development. They used popular object-oriented design techniques to link the simulator's design with its function. GRODY is designed for analysts familiar with spacecraft attitude analysis. The program supports maneuver planning as well as analytical testing and evaluation of the attitude determination and control system used on board the Gamma Ray Observatory (GRO) satellite. GRODY simulates the GRO on-board computer and Control Processor Electronics. The analyst/user sets up and controls the simulation. GRODY allows the analyst to check and update parameter values and ground commands, obtain simulation status displays, interrupt the simulation, analyze previous runs, and obtain printed output of simulation runs. The video terminal screen display allows visibility of command sequences, full-screen display and modification of parameters using input fields, and verification of all input data. Data input available for modification includes alignment and performance parameters for all attitude hardware, simulation control parameters which determine simulation scheduling and simulator output, initial conditions, and on-board computer commands. GRODY generates eight types of output: simulation results data set, analysis report, parameter report, simulation report, status display, plots, diagnostic output (which helps the user trace any problems that have occurred during a simulation), and a permanent log of all runs and errors. The analyst can send results output in graphical or tabular form to a terminal, disk, or hardcopy device, and can choose to have any or all items plotted against time or against each other. Goddard researchers developed GRODY on a VAX 8600 running VMS version 4.0. For near real time performance, GRODY requires a VAX at least as powerful as a model 8600 running VMS 4.0 or a later version. To use GRODY, the VAX needs an Ada Compilation System (ACS), Code Management System (CMS), and 1200K memory. GRODY is written in Ada and FORTRAN.

Correlating mammographic and pathologic findings in clinical decision support using natural language processing and data mining methods.

PubMed

Patel, Tejal A; Puppala, Mamta; Ogunti, Richard O; Ensor, Joe E; He, Tiancheng; Shewale, Jitesh B; Ankerst, Donna P; Kaklamani, Virginia G; Rodriguez, Angel A; Wong, Stephen T C; Chang, Jenny C

2017-01-01

A key challenge to mining electronic health records for mammography research is the preponderance of unstructured narrative text, which strikingly limits usable output. The imaging characteristics of breast cancer subtypes have been described previously, but without standardization of parameters for data mining. The authors searched the enterprise-wide data warehouse at the Houston Methodist Hospital, the Methodist Environment for Translational Enhancement and Outcomes Research (METEOR), for patients with Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) category 5 mammogram readings performed between January 2006 and May 2015 and an available pathology report. The authors developed natural language processing (NLP) software algorithms to automatically extract mammographic and pathologic findings from free text mammogram and pathology reports. The correlation between mammographic imaging features and breast cancer subtype was analyzed using one-way analysis of variance and the Fisher exact test. The NLP algorithm was able to obtain key characteristics for 543 patients who met the inclusion criteria. Patients with estrogen receptor-positive tumors were more likely to have spiculated margins (P = .0008), and those with tumors that overexpressed human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) were more likely to have heterogeneous and pleomorphic calcifications (P = .0078 and P = .0002, respectively). Mammographic imaging characteristics, obtained from an automated text search and the extraction of mammogram reports using NLP techniques, correlated with pathologic breast cancer subtype. The results of the current study validate previously reported trends assessed by manual data collection. Furthermore, NLP provides an automated means with which to scale up data extraction and analysis for clinical decision support. Cancer 2017;114-121. © 2016 American Cancer Society. © 2016 American Cancer Society.

A different rhythm of life: sleep patterns in the first 4 years of life and associated sociodemographic characteristics in a large Brazilian birth cohort.

PubMed

Netsi, Elena; Santos, Ina S; Stein, Alan; Barros, Fernando C; Barros, Aluísio J D; Matijasevich, Alicia

2017-09-01

Sleep is an important marker of healthy development and has been associated with emotional, behavioral, and cognitive development. There is limited longitudinal data on children's sleep with only a few reports from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). We investigate sleep parameters and associated sociodemographic characteristics in a population-based longitudinal study in Pelotas, Brazil. Data from the Pelotas 2004 Birth Cohort were used (N = 3842). Infant sleep was collected through maternal report at 3, 12, 24, and 48 months: sleep duration, bed and wake time, nighttime awakenings, co-sleeping and sleep disturbances (24 and 48 months). Compared to children in high-income countries (HICs), children in Brazil showed a substantial shift in rhythms with later bed and wake times by approximately 2 hours. These remain stable throughout the first 4 years of life. This population also shows high levels of co-sleeping which remain stable throughout (49.0-52.2%). Later bedtime was associated with higher maternal education and family income. Higher rates of co-sleeping were seen in families with lower income and maternal education and for children who were breastfed. All other sleep parameters were broadly similar to data previously reported from HICs. The shift in biological rhythms in this representative community sample of children in Brazil challenges our understanding of optimal sleep routine and recommendations. Copyright © 2017 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Evaporation Kinetics of Polyol Droplets: Determination of Evaporation Coefficients and Diffusion Constants

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Su, Yong-Yang; Marsh, Aleksandra; Haddrell, Allen E.; Li, Zhi-Ming; Reid, Jonathan P.

2017-11-01

In order to quantify the kinetics of mass transfer between the gas and condensed phases in aerosol, physicochemical properties of the gas and condensed phases and kinetic parameters (mass/thermal accommodation coefficients) are crucial for estimating mass fluxes over a wide size range from the free molecule to continuum regimes. In this study, we report measurements of the evaporation kinetics of droplets of 1-butanol, ethylene glycol (EG), diethylene glycol (DEG), and glycerol under well-controlled conditions (gas flow rates and temperature) using the previously developed cylindrical electrode electrodynamic balance technique. Measurements are compared with a model that captures the heat and mass transfer occurring at the evaporating droplet surface. The aim of these measurements is to clarify the discrepancy in the reported values of mass accommodation coefficient (αM, equals to evaporation coefficient based on microscopic reversibility) for 1-butanol, EG, and DEG and improve the accuracy of the value of the diffusion coefficient for glycerol in gaseous nitrogen. The uncertainties in the thermophysical and experimental parameters are carefully assessed, the literature values of the vapor pressures of these components are evaluated, and the plausible ranges of the evaporation coefficients for 1-butanol, EG, and DEG as well as uncertainty in diffusion coefficient for glycerol are reported. Results show that αM should be greater than 0.4, 0.2, and 0.4 for EG, DEG, and 1-butanol, respectively. The refined values are helpful for accurate prediction of the evaporation/condensation rates.

Ventilation-perfusion distribution in normal subjects.

PubMed

Beck, Kenneth C; Johnson, Bruce D; Olson, Thomas P; Wilson, Theodore A

2012-09-01

Functional values of LogSD of the ventilation distribution (σ(V)) have been reported previously, but functional values of LogSD of the perfusion distribution (σ(q)) and the coefficient of correlation between ventilation and perfusion (ρ) have not been measured in humans. Here, we report values for σ(V), σ(q), and ρ obtained from wash-in data for three gases, helium and two soluble gases, acetylene and dimethyl ether. Normal subjects inspired gas containing the test gases, and the concentrations of the gases at end-expiration during the first 10 breaths were measured with the subjects at rest and at increasing levels of exercise. The regional distribution of ventilation and perfusion was described by a bivariate log-normal distribution with parameters σ(V), σ(q), and ρ, and these parameters were evaluated by matching the values of expired gas concentrations calculated for this distribution to the measured values. Values of cardiac output and LogSD ventilation/perfusion (Va/Q) were obtained. At rest, σ(q) is high (1.08 ± 0.12). With the onset of ventilation, σ(q) decreases to 0.85 ± 0.09 but remains higher than σ(V) (0.43 ± 0.09) at all exercise levels. Rho increases to 0.87 ± 0.07, and the value of LogSD Va/Q for light and moderate exercise is primarily the result of the difference between the magnitudes of σ(q) and σ(V). With known values for the parameters, the bivariate distribution describes the comprehensive distribution of ventilation and perfusion that underlies the distribution of the Va/Q ratio.

First measurement of the polarization observable E in the p → (γ → ,π+) n reaction up to 2.25 GeV

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Strauch, S.; Briscoe, W. J.; Döring, M.; Klempt, E.; Nikonov, V. A.; Pasyuk, E.; Rönchen, D.; Sarantsev, A. V.; Strakovsky, I.; Workman, R.; Adhikari, K. P.; Adikaram, D.; Anderson, M. D.; Anefalos Pereira, S.; Anisovich, A. V.; Badui, R. A.; Ball, J.; Batourine, V.; Battaglieri, M.; Bedlinskiy, I.; Benmouna, N.; Biselli, A. S.; Brock, J.; Brooks, W. K.; Burkert, V. D.; Cao, T.; Carlin, C.; Carman, D. S.; Celentano, A.; Chandavar, S.; Charles, G.; Colaneri, L.; Cole, P. L.; Compton, N.; Contalbrigo, M.; Cortes, O.; Crede, V.; Dashyan, N.; D'Angelo, A.; De Vita, R.; De Sanctis, E.; Deur, A.; Djalali, C.; Dugger, M.; Dupre, R.; Egiyan, H.; El Alaoui, A.; El Fassi, L.; Elouadrhiri, L.; Eugenio, P.; Fedotov, G.; Fegan, S.; Filippi, A.; Fleming, J. A.; Forest, T. A.; Fradi, A.; Gevorgyan, N.; Ghandilyan, Y.; Giovanetti, K. L.; Girod, F. X.; Glazier, D. I.; Gohn, W.; Golovatch, E.; Gothe, R. W.; Griffioen, K. A.; Guidal, M.; Guo, L.; Hafidi, K.; Hakobyan, H.; Hanretty, C.; Harrison, N.; Hattawy, M.; Hicks, K.; Ho, D.; Holtrop, M.; Hughes, S. M.; Ilieva, Y.; Ireland, D. G.; Ishkhanov, B. S.; Isupov, E. L.; Jenkins, D.; Jiang, H.; Jo, H. S.; Joo, K.; Joosten, S.; Keith, C. D.; Keller, D.; Khachatryan, G.; Khandaker, M.; Kim, A.; Kim, W.; Klein, A.; Klein, F. J.; Kubarovsky, V.; Kuhn, S. E.; Lenisa, P.; Livingston, K.; Lu, H. Y.; MacGregor, I. J. D.; Markov, N.; McKinnon, B.; Meekins, D. G.; Meyer, C. A.; Mokeev, V.; Montgomery, R. A.; Moody, C. I.; Moutarde, H.; Movsisyan, A.; Munevar, E.; Munoz Camacho, C.; Nadel-Turonski, P.; Net, L. A.; Niccolai, S.; Niculescu, G.; Niculescu, I.; O'Rielly, G.; Osipenko, M.; Ostrovidov, A. I.; Park, K.; Peng, P.; Phelps, W.; Phillips, J. J.; Pisano, S.; Pogorelko, O.; Pozdniakov, S.; Price, J. W.; Procureur, S.; Prok, Y.; Protopopescu, D.; Puckett, A. J. R.; Raue, B. A.; Ripani, M.; Ritchie, B. G.; Rizzo, A.; Rosner, G.; Roy, P.; Sabatié, F.; Salgado, C.; Schott, D.; Schumacher, R. A.; Seder, E.; Seely, M. L.; Senderovich, I.; Sharabian, Y. G.; Simonyan, A.; Skorodumina, Iu.; Smith, G. D.; Sober, D. I.; Sokhan, D.; Sparveris, N.; Stoler, P.; Stepanyan, S.; Sytnik, V.; Taiuti, M.; Tian, Ye; Trivedi, A.; Tucker, R.; Ungaro, M.; Voskanyan, H.; Voutier, E.; Walford, N. K.; Watts, D. P.; Wei, X.; Wood, M. H.; Zachariou, N.; Zana, L.; Zhang, J.; Zhao, Z. W.; Zonta, I.

2015-11-01

First results from the longitudinally polarized frozen-spin target (FROST) program are reported. The double-polarization observable E, for the reaction γ → p → →π+ n, has been measured using a circularly polarized tagged-photon beam, with energies from 0.35 to 2.37 GeV. The final-state pions were detected with the CEBAF Large Acceptance Spectrometer in Hall B at the Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility. These polarization data agree fairly well with previous partial-wave analyses at low photon energies. Over much of the covered energy range, however, significant deviations are observed, particularly in the high-energy region where high-L multipoles contribute. The data have been included in new multipole analyses resulting in updated nucleon resonance parameters. We report updated fits from the Bonn-Gatchina, Jülich-Bonn, and SAID groups.

Retina-V1 model of detectability across the visual field

PubMed Central

Bradley, Chris; Abrams, Jared; Geisler, Wilson S.

2014-01-01

A practical model is proposed for predicting the detectability of targets at arbitrary locations in the visual field, in arbitrary gray scale backgrounds, and under photopic viewing conditions. The major factors incorporated into the model include (a) the optical point spread function of the eye, (b) local luminance gain control (Weber's law), (c) the sampling array of retinal ganglion cells, (d) orientation and spatial frequency–dependent contrast masking, (e) broadband contrast masking, and (f) efficient response pooling. The model is tested against previously reported threshold measurements on uniform backgrounds (the ModelFest data set and data from Foley, Varadharajan, Koh, & Farias, 2007) and against new measurements reported here for several ModelFest targets presented on uniform, 1/f noise, and natural backgrounds at retinal eccentricities ranging from 0° to 10°. Although the model has few free parameters, it is able to account quite well for all the threshold measurements. PMID:25336179

Is Motor Learning Mediated by tDCS Intensity?

PubMed Central

van den Berg, Femke E.; Nitsche, Michael A.; Thijs, Herbert; Wenderoth, Nicole; Meesen, Raf L. J.

2013-01-01

Although tDCS has been shown to improve motor learning, previous studies reported rather small effects. Since physiological effects of tDCS depend on intensity, the present study evaluated this parameter in order to enhance the effect of tDCS on skill acquisition. The effect of different stimulation intensities of anodal tDCS (atDCS) was investigated in a double blind, sham controlled crossover design. In each condition, thirteen healthy subjects were instructed to perform a unimanual motor (sequence) learning task. Our results showed (1) a significant increase in the slope of the learning curve and (2) a significant improvement in motor performance at retention for 1.5 mA atDCS as compared to sham tDCS. No significant differences were reported between 1 mA atDCS and sham tDCS; and between 1.5 mA atDCS and 1 mA atDCS. PMID:23826272

Computational analysis of calculated physicochemical and ADMET properties of protein-protein interaction inhibitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lagorce, David; Douguet, Dominique; Miteva, Maria A.; Villoutreix, Bruno O.

2017-04-01

The modulation of PPIs by low molecular weight chemical compounds, particularly by orally bioavailable molecules, would be very valuable in numerous disease indications. However, it is known that PPI inhibitors (iPPIs) tend to have properties that are linked to poor Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion and Toxicity (ADMET) and in some cases to poor clinical outcomes. Previously reported in silico analyses of iPPIs have essentially focused on physicochemical properties but several other ADMET parameters would be important to assess. In order to gain new insights into the ADMET properties of iPPIs, computations were carried out on eight datasets collected from several databases. These datasets involve compounds targeting enzymes, GPCRs, ion channels, nuclear receptors, allosteric modulators, oral marketed drugs, oral natural product-derived marketed drugs and iPPIs. Several trends are reported that should assist the design and optimization of future PPI inhibitors, either for drug discovery endeavors or for chemical biology projects.

The shape of dark matter haloes - IV. The structure of stellar discs in edge-on galaxies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peters, S. P. C.; de Geyter, G.; van der Kruit, P. C.; Freeman, K. C.

2017-01-01

We present optical and near-infrared archival observations of eight edge-on galaxies. These observations are used to model the stellar content of each galaxy using the FITSKIRT software package. Using FITSKIRT, we can self-consistently model a galaxy in each band simultaneously while treating for dust. This allows us to measure accurately both the scalelength and scaleheight of the stellar disc, plus the shape parameters of the bulge. By combining these data with the previously reported integrated magnitudes of each galaxy, we can infer their true luminosities. We have successfully modelled seven out of the eight galaxies in our sample. We find that stellar discs can be modelled correctly, but we have not been able to model the stellar bulge reliably. Our sample consists for the most part of slowly rotating galaxies and we find that the average dust layer is much thicker than is reported for faster rotating galaxies.

Comparative analysis of the modified enclosed energy metric for self-focusing holograms from digital lensless holographic microscopy.

PubMed

Trujillo, Carlos; Garcia-Sucerquia, Jorge

2015-06-01

A comparative analysis of the performance of the modified enclosed energy (MEE) method for self-focusing holograms recorded with digital lensless holographic microscopy is presented. Notwithstanding the MEE analysis previously published, no extended analysis of its performance has been reported. We have tested the MEE in terms of the minimum axial distance allowed between the set of reconstructed holograms to search for the focal plane and the elapsed time to obtain the focused image. These parameters have been compared with those for some of the already reported methods in the literature. The MEE achieves better results in terms of self-focusing quality but at a higher computational cost. Despite its longer processing time, the method remains within a time frame to be technologically attractive. Modeled and experimental holograms have been utilized in this work to perform the comparative study.

High-quality bulk hybrid perovskite single crystals within minutes by inverse temperature crystallization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saidaminov, Makhsud I.; Abdelhady, Ahmed L.; Murali, Banavoth; Alarousu, Erkki; Burlakov, Victor M.; Peng, Wei; Dursun, Ibrahim; Wang, Lingfei; He, Yao; Maculan, Giacomo; Goriely, Alain; Wu, Tom; Mohammed, Omar F.; Bakr, Osman M.

2015-07-01

Single crystals of methylammonium lead trihalide perovskites (MAPbX3; MA=CH3NH3+, X=Br- or I-) have shown remarkably low trap density and charge transport properties; however, growth of such high-quality semiconductors is a time-consuming process. Here we present a rapid crystal growth process to obtain MAPbX3 single crystals, an order of magnitude faster than previous reports. The process is based on our observation of the substantial decrease of MAPbX3 solubility, in certain solvents, at elevated temperatures. The crystals can be both size- and shape-controlled by manipulating the different crystallization parameters. Despite the rapidity of the method, the grown crystals exhibit transport properties and trap densities comparable to the highest quality MAPbX3 reported to date. The phenomenon of inverse or retrograde solubility and its correlated inverse temperature crystallization strategy present a major step forward for advancing the field on perovskite crystallization.

High-resolution two-photon spectroscopy of a 5 p56 p ←5 p6 transition of xenon

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Altiere, Emily; Miller, Eric R.; Hayamizu, Tomohiro; Jones, David J.; Madison, Kirk W.; Momose, Takamasa

2018-01-01

We report high-resolution Doppler-free two-photon excitation spectroscopy of Xe from the ground state to the 5 p5(P 3 /2 2 ) 6 p [3 /2 ] 2 2 electronic excited state. This is a first step to developing a comagnetometer using polarized 129Xe atoms for planned neutron electric dipole moment measurements at TRIUMF. Narrow linewidth radiation at 252.5 nm produced by a continuous wave laser was built up in an optical cavity to excite the two-photon transition, and the near-infrared emission from the 5 p56 p excited state to the 5 p56 s intermediate electronic state was used to detect the two-photon transition. Hyperfine constants and isotope shift parameters were evaluated and compared with previously reported values. In addition, the detected photon count rate was estimated from the observed intensities.

A Fly-Inspired Mushroom Bodies Model for Sensory-Motor Control Through Sequence and Subsequence Learning.

PubMed

Arena, Paolo; Calí, Marco; Patané, Luca; Portera, Agnese; Strauss, Roland

2016-09-01

Classification and sequence learning are relevant capabilities used by living beings to extract complex information from the environment for behavioral control. The insect world is full of examples where the presentation time of specific stimuli shapes the behavioral response. On the basis of previously developed neural models, inspired by Drosophila melanogaster, a new architecture for classification and sequence learning is here presented under the perspective of the Neural Reuse theory. Classification of relevant input stimuli is performed through resonant neurons, activated by the complex dynamics generated in a lattice of recurrent spiking neurons modeling the insect Mushroom Bodies neuropile. The network devoted to context formation is able to reconstruct the learned sequence and also to trace the subsequences present in the provided input. A sensitivity analysis to parameter variation and noise is reported. Experiments on a roving robot are reported to show the capabilities of the architecture used as a neural controller.

First measurement of the polarization observable E in the p →(y →π +)n reaction up to 2.25 GeV

DOE PAGES

Strauch, Steffen

2015-08-28

First results from the longitudinally polarized frozen-spin target (FROST) program are reported. The double-polarization observable E , for the reaction y →p →→π +n, has been measured using a circularly polarized tagged-photon beam, with energies from 0.35 to 2.37 GeV. The final-state pions were detected with the CEBAF Large Acceptance Spectrometer in Hall B at the Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility. These polarization data agree fairly well with previous partial-wave analyses at low photon energies. Over much of the covered energy range, however, significant deviations are observed, particularly in the high-energy region where high-L multipoles contribute. The data have beenmore » included in new multipole analyses resulting in updated nucleon resonance parameters. Lastly, we report updated fits from the Bonn–Gatchina, Jülich–Bonn, and SAID groups.« less

Maximizing fluid delivered by bubble-free electroosmotic pump with optimum pulse voltage waveform.

PubMed

Tawfik, Mena E; Diez, Francisco J

2017-03-01

In generating high electroosmotic (EO) flows for use in microfluidic pumps, a limiting factor is faradaic reactions that are more pronounced at high electric fields. These reactions lead to bubble generation at the electrodes and pump efficiency reduction. The onset of gas generation for high current density EO pumping depends on many parameters including applied voltage, working fluid, and pulse duration. The onset of gas generation can be delayed and optimized for maximum volume pumped in the minimum time possible. This has been achieved through the use of a novel numerical model that predicts the onset of gas generation during EO pumping using an optimized pulse voltage waveform. This method allows applying current densities higher than previously reported. Optimal pulse voltage waveforms are calculated based on the previous theories for different current densities and electrolyte molarity. The electroosmotic pump performance is investigated by experimentally measuring the fluid volume displaced and flow rate. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Dendritic growth model of multilevel marketing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pang, James Christopher S.; Monterola, Christopher P.

2017-02-01

Biologically inspired dendritic network growth is utilized to model the evolving connections of a multilevel marketing (MLM) enterprise. Starting from agents at random spatial locations, a network is formed by minimizing a distance cost function controlled by a parameter, termed the balancing factor bf, that weighs the wiring and the path length costs of connection. The paradigm is compared to an actual MLM membership data and is shown to be successful in statistically capturing the membership distribution, better than the previously reported agent based preferential attachment or analytic branching process models. Moreover, it recovers the known empirical statistics of previously studied MLM, specifically: (i) a membership distribution characterized by the existence of peak levels indicating limited growth, and (ii) an income distribution obeying the 80 - 20 Pareto principle. Extensive types of income distributions from uniform to Pareto to a "winner-take-all" kind are also modeled by varying bf. Finally, the robustness of our dendritic growth paradigm to random agent removals is explored and its implications to MLM income distributions are discussed.

Reporting of various methodological and statistical parameters in negative studies published in prominent Indian Medical Journals: a systematic review.

PubMed

Charan, J; Saxena, D

2014-01-01

Biased negative studies not only reflect poor research effort but also have an impact on 'patient care' as they prevent further research with similar objectives, leading to potential research areas remaining unexplored. Hence, published 'negative studies' should be methodologically strong. All parameters that may help a reader to judge validity of results and conclusions should be reported in published negative studies. There is a paucity of data on reporting of statistical and methodological parameters in negative studies published in Indian Medical Journals. The present systematic review was designed with an aim to critically evaluate negative studies published in prominent Indian Medical Journals for reporting of statistical and methodological parameters. Systematic review. All negative studies published in 15 Science Citation Indexed (SCI) medical journals published from India were included in present study. Investigators involved in the study evaluated all negative studies for the reporting of various parameters. Primary endpoints were reporting of "power" and "confidence interval." Power was reported in 11.8% studies. Confidence interval was reported in 15.7% studies. Majority of parameters like sample size calculation (13.2%), type of sampling method (50.8%), name of statistical tests (49.1%), adjustment of multiple endpoints (1%), post hoc power calculation (2.1%) were reported poorly. Frequency of reporting was more in clinical trials as compared to other study designs and in journals having impact factor more than 1 as compared to journals having impact factor less than 1. Negative studies published in prominent Indian medical journals do not report statistical and methodological parameters adequately and this may create problems in the critical appraisal of findings reported in these journals by its readers.

Needle parameter variation of mature black spruce families displaying a genetic x environment interaction in growth

Treesearch

John E. Major; Kurt H. Johnsen; Debby C. Barsi; Moira Campbell

2013-01-01

To examine soil moisture stress, light, and genetic effects on individual needle parameters and investigate total needle contribution to productivity, individual and total needle parameter variation were quantified in 32-year-old black spruce from five crown positions from four full-sib families studied previously for drought tolerance and differential productivity on...

Reading and lexical-decision tasks generate different patterns of individual variability as a function of condition difficulty.

PubMed

Zoccolotti, Pierluigi; De Luca, Maria; Di Filippo, Gloria; Marinelli, Chiara Valeria; Spinelli, Donatella

2018-06-01

We reanalyzed previous experiments based on lexical-decision and reading-aloud tasks in children with dyslexia and control children and tested the prediction of the difference engine model (DEM) that mean condition reaction times (RTs) and standard deviations (SDs) would be linearly related (Myerson et al., 2003). Then we evaluated the slope and the intercept with the x-axis of these linear functions in comparison with previously reported values (i.e., slope of about 0.30 and intercept of about 300 ms). In the case of lexical decision, the parameters were close to these values; by contrast, in the case of reading aloud, a much steeper slope (0.66) and a greater intercept (482.6 ms) were found. Therefore, interindividual variability grows at a much faster rate as a function of condition difficulty for reading than for lexical-decision tasks (or for other tasks reported in the literature). According to the DEM, the slope of the regression that relates means and SDs indicates the degree of correlation among the durations of the stages of processing. We propose that the need for a close coupling between orthographic and phonological processing in reading is what drives the particularly strong relationship between performance and interindividual variability that we observed in reading tasks.

Rational application of adenosine deaminase activity in cerebrospinal fluid for the diagnosis of tuberculous meningitis.

PubMed

Parra-Ruiz, Jorge; Ramos, V; Dueñas, C; Coronado-Álvarez, N M; Cabo-Magadán, R; Portillo-Tuñón, V; Vinuesa, D; Muñoz-Medina, L; Hernández-Quero, J

2015-10-01

Tuberculous meningitis (TBM) is one of the most serious and difficult to diagnose manifestations of TB. An ADA value >9.5 IU/L has great sensitivity and specificity. However, all available studies have been conducted in areas of high endemicity, so we sought to determine the accuracy of ADA in a low endemicity area. This retrospective study included 190 patients (105 men) who had ADA tested in CSF for some reason. Patients were classified as probable/certain TBM or non-TBM based on clinical and Thwaite's criteria. Optimal ADA cutoff was established by ROC curves and a predictive algorithm based on ADA and other CSF biochemical parameters was generated. Eleven patients were classified as probable/certain TBM. In a low endemicity area, the best ADA cutoff was 11.5 IU/L with 91 % sensitivity and 77.7 % specificity. We also developed a predictive algorithm based on the combination of ADA (>11.5 IU/L), glucose (<65 mg/dL) and leukocytes (≥13.5 cell/mm(3)) with increased accuracy (Se: 91 % Sp: 88 %). Optimal ADA cutoff value in areas of low TB endemicity is higher than previously reported. Our algorithm is more accurate than ADA activity alone with better sensitivity and specificity than previously reported algorithms.

Biaxial Response of Passive Human Cerebral Arteries

PubMed Central

Monson, Kenneth L.; Barbaro, Nicholas M.; Manley, Geoffrey T.

2008-01-01

The cerebral circulation is fundamental to the health and maintenance of brain tissue, but injury and disease may result in dysfunction of the vessels. Characterization of cerebral vessel mechanical response is an important step toward a more complete understanding of injury mechanisms and disease development in these vessels, paving the way for improved prevention and treatment. We recently reported a large series of uniaxial tests on fresh human cerebral vessels, but the multi-axial behavior of these vessels has not been previously described. Twelve arteries were obtained from the surface of the temporal lobe of patients undergoing surgery and were subjected to various combinations of axial stretch and pressure around typical physiological conditions before being stretched to failure. Axial and circumferential responses were compared, and measured data were fit to a four parameter, Fung-type hyperelastic constitutive model. Artery behavior was nonlinear and anisotropic, with considerably greater resistance to deformation in the axial direction than around the circumference. Results from axial failure tests of pressurized vessels resulted in a small shift in stress-stretch response compared to previously reported data from unpressurized specimens. These results further define the biaxial response of the cerebral arteries and provide data required for more rigorous study of head injury mechanisms and development of cerebrovascular disease. PMID:18855141

Suppression of turbulent energy cascade due to phase separation in homogenous binary mixture fluid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takagi, Youhei; Okamoto, Sachiya

2015-11-01

When a multi-component fluid mixture becomes themophysically unstable state by quenching from well-melting condition, phase separation due to spinodal decomposition occurs, and a self-organized structure is formed. During phase separation, free energy is consumed for the structure formation. In our previous report, the phase separation in homogenous turbulence was numerically simulated and the coarsening process of phase separation was discussed. In this study, we extended our numerical model to a high Schmidt number fluid corresponding to actual polymer solution. The governing equations were continuity, Navier-Stokes, and Chan-Hiliard equations as same as our previous report. The flow filed was an isotropic homogenous turbulence, and the dimensionless parameters in the Chan-Hilliard equation were estimated based on the thermophysical condition of binary mixture. From the numerical results, it was found that turbulent energy cascade was drastically suppressed in the inertial subrange by phase separation for the high Schmidt number flow. By using the identification of turbulent and phase separation structure, we discussed the relation between total energy balance and the structures formation processes. This study is financially supported by the Grand-in-Aid for Young Scientists (B) (No. T26820045) from the Ministry of Education, Cul-ture, Sports, Science and Technology of Japan.

Analysis of the shrinkage at the thick plate part using response surface methodology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hatta, N. M.; Azlan, M. Z.; Shayfull, Z.; Roselina, S.; Nasir, S. M.

2017-09-01

Injection moulding is well known for its manufacturing process especially in producing plastic products. To measure the final product quality, there are lots of precautions to be taken into such as parameters setting at the initial stage of the process. Sometimes, if these parameters were set up wrongly, defects may be occurred and one of the well-known defects in the injection moulding process is a shrinkage. To overcome this problem, a maximisation at the precaution stage by making an optimal adjustment on the parameter setting need to be done and this paper focuses on analysing the shrinkage by optimising the parameter at thick plate part with the help of Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and ANOVA analysis. From the previous study, the outstanding parameter gained from the optimisation method in minimising the shrinkage at the moulded part was packing pressure. Therefore, with the reference from the previous literature, packing pressure was selected as the parameter setting for this study with other three parameters which are melt temperature, cooling time and mould temperature. The analysis of the process was obtained from the simulation by Autodesk Moldflow Insight (AMI) software and the material used for moulded part was Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS). The analysis and result were obtained and it found that the shrinkage can be minimised and the significant parameters were found as packing pressure, mould temperature and melt temperature.

Practice Parameters for the Treatment of Narcolepsy and other Hypersomnias of Central Origin An American Academy of Sleep Medicine Report

PubMed Central

Morgenthaler, Timothy I.; Kapur, Vishesh K.; Brown, Terry; Swick, Todd J.; Alessi, Cathy; Aurora, R. Nisha; Boehlecke, Brian; Chesson, Andrew L.; Friedman, Leah; Maganti, Rama; Owens, Judith; Pancer, Jeffrey; Zak, Rochelle

2007-01-01

These practice parameters pertain to the treatment of hypersomnias of central origin. They serve as both an update of previous practice parameters for the therapy of narcolepsy and as the first practice parameters to address treatment of other hypersomnias of central origin. They are based on evidence analyzed in the accompanying review paper. The specific disorders addressed by these parameters are narcolepsy (with cataplexy, without cataplexy, due to medical condition and unspecified), idiopathic hypersomnia (with long sleep time and without long sleep time), recurrent hypersomnia and hypersomnia due to medical condition. Successful treatment of hypersomnia of central origin requires an accurate diagnosis, individual tailoring of therapy to produce the fullest possible return of normal function, and regular follow-up to monitor response to treatment. Modafinil, sodium oxybate, amphetamine, methamphetamine, dextroamphetamine, methylphenidate, and selegiline are effective treatments for excessive sleepiness associated with narcolepsy, while tricyclic antidepressants and fluoxetine are effective treatments for cataplexy, sleep paralysis, and hypnagogic hallucinations; but the quality of published clinical evidence supporting them varies. Scheduled naps can be beneficial to combat sleepiness in narcolepsy patients. Based on available evidence, modafinil is an effective therapy for sleepiness due to idiopathic hypersomnia, Parkinson's disease, myotonic dystrophy, and multiple sclerosis. Based on evidence and/or long history of use in the therapy of narcolepsy committee consensus was that modafinil, amphetamine, methamphetamine, dextroamphetamine, and methylphenidate are reasonable options for the therapy of hypersomnias of central origin. Citation: Morgenthaler TI; Kapur VK; Brown T; Swick TJ; Alessi C; Aurora RN; Boehlecke B; Chesson AL; Friedman L; Maganti R; Owens J; Pancer J; Zak R; Standards of Practice Committee of the AASM. Practice parameters for the treatment of narcolepsy and other hypersomnias of central origin. SLEEP 2007;30(12):1705-1711. PMID:18246980

Improved test of Lorentz invariance in electrodynamics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wolf, Peter; Bize, Sébastien; Clairon, André; Santarelli, Giorgio; Tobar, Michael E.; Luiten, André N.

2004-09-01

We report new results of a test of Lorentz invariance based on the comparison of a cryogenic sapphire microwave resonator and a hydrogen-maser. The experimental results are shown together with an extensive analysis of systematic effects. Previously, this experiment has set the most stringent constraint on Kennedy-Thorndike type violations of Lorentz invariance. In this work we present new data and interpret our results in the general Lorentz violating extension of the standard model of particle physics (SME). Within the photon sector of the SME, our experiment is sensitive to seven SME parameters. We marginally improve present limits on four of these, and by a factor seven to ten on the other three.

Three site Higgsless model at one loop

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

Chivukula, R. Sekhar; Simmons, Elizabeth H.; Matsuzaki, Shinya

2007-04-01

In this paper we compute the one loop chiral-logarithmic corrections to all O(p{sup 4}) counterterms in the three site Higgsless model. The calculation is performed using the background field method for both the chiral and gauge fields, and using Landau gauge for the quantum fluctuations of the gauge fields. The results agree with our previous calculations of the chiral-logarithmic corrections to the S and T parameters in 't Hooft-Feynman gauge. The work reported here includes a complete evaluation of all one loop divergences in an SU(2)xU(1) nonlinear sigma model, corresponding to an electroweak effective Lagrangian in the absence of custodialmore » symmetry.« less

Hierarchic models for laminated plates

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Szabo, Barna A.; Actis, Ricardo L.

1991-01-01

The research conducted in the formulation of hierarchic models for laminated plates is described. The work is an extension of the work done for laminated strips. The use of a single parameter, beta, is investigated that represents the degree to which the equilibrium equations of three dimensional elasticity are satisfied. The powers of beta identify members in the hierarchic sequence. Numerical examples that were analyzed with the proposed sequence of models are included. The results obtained for square plates with uniform loading and homogeneous boundary conditions are very encouraging. Several cross-ply and angle-ply laminates were evaluated and the results compared with those of the fully three dimensional model, computed using MSC/PROBE, and with previously reported work on laminated strips.

Incoherence-Mediated Remote Synchronization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Liyue; Motter, Adilson E.; Nishikawa, Takashi

2017-04-01

In previously identified forms of remote synchronization between two nodes, the intermediate portion of the network connecting the two nodes is not synchronized with them but generally exhibits some coherent dynamics. Here we report on a network phenomenon we call incoherence-mediated remote synchronization (IMRS), in which two noncontiguous parts of the network are identically synchronized while the dynamics of the intermediate part is statistically and information-theoretically incoherent. We identify mirror symmetry in the network structure as a mechanism allowing for such behavior, and show that IMRS is robust against dynamical noise as well as against parameter changes. IMRS may underlie neuronal information processing and potentially lead to network solutions for encryption key distribution and secure communication.

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

Barlow, B. N.; Dunlap, B. H.; Clemens, J. C.

We report the discovery of oscillations in the hot subdwarf B (sdB) star JL 166 from time-series photometry using the Goodman Spectrograph on the 4.1 m Southern Astrophysical Research Telescope. Previous spectroscopic and photometric observations place the star near the hot end of the empirical sdB instability strip and imply the presence of a cool companion. Amplitude spectra of the stellar light curve reveal at least 10 independent pulsation modes with periods ranging from 97 to 178 s and amplitudes from 0.9 to 4 mma. We adopt atmospheric parameters of T {sub eff} = 34,350 K and log g =more » 5.75 from a model atmosphere analysis of our time-averaged, medium-resolution spectrum.« less

Fluid transport in partially filled porous sol-gel silica glass

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

D'orazio, Franco; Bhattacharja, Sankar; Halperin, William P.; Gerhardt, Rosario

1990-10-01

Measurements of low-frequency ac electrical conductivity of a porous glass filled with different amounts of a saline solution are compared with the self-diffusion coefficient of water measured in the same sample, reported previously [F. D'Orazio et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 63, 43 (1989)]. The two transport parameters are consistently related through the Einstein relation under saturation conditions. A more complex picture is revealed for the unsaturated sample, since the presence of a vapor phase enhances the self-diffusion coefficient. Conductivity experiments allow an independent assessment of the contribution to self-diffusion from the liquid phase. However, a comparison between the two experiments indicates that the role of the vapor phase is not well understood.

Electrohydrodynamic printing for scalable MoS2 flake coating: application to gas sensing device

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lim, Sooman; Cho, Byungjin; Bae, Jaehyun; Kim, Ah Ra; Lee, Kyu Hwan; Kim, Se Hyun; Hahm, Myung Gwan; Nam, Jaewook

2016-10-01

Scalable sub-micrometer molybdenum disulfide ({{MoS}}2) flake films with highly uniform coverage were created using a systematic approach. An electrohydrodynamic (EHD) printing process realized a remarkably uniform distribution of exfoliated {{MoS}}2 flakes on desired substrates. In combination with a fast evaporating dispersion medium and an optimal choice of operating parameters, the EHD printing can produce a film rapidly on a substrate without excessive agglomeration or cluster formation, which can be problems in previously reported liquid-based continuous film methods. The printing of exfoliated {{MoS}}2 flakes enabled the fabrication of a gas sensor with high performance and reproducibility for {{NO}}2 and {{NH}}3.

Magnetic Anisotropy and Chemical Order of Artificially Synthesized L10-Ordered FeNi Films on Au-Cu-Ni Buffer Layers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kojima, Takayuki; Mizuguchi, Masaki; Koganezawa, Tomoyuki; Osaka, Keiichi; Kotsugi, Masato; Takanashi, Koki

2012-01-01

L10-FeNi films were grown by alternate monatomic layer deposition on Au-Cu-Ni buffer layers at several substrate temperatures (Ts), and the relation between the uniaxial magnetic anisotropy energy (Ku) and the long-range chemical order parameter (S) was investigated. A large Ku of (7.0 ±0.2) ×106 erg/cm3 and S of 0.48 ±0.05 were obtained. The value of Ku was larger than those reported previously for artificially synthesized FeNi films. It was first found that both Ku and S increased with Ts, and Ku was roughly proportional to S.

Aerodynamic Design of Axial-flow Compressors. Volume III

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnson, Irving A; Bullock, Robert O; Graham, Robert W; Costilow, Eleanor L; Huppert, Merle C; Benser, William A; Herzig, Howard Z; Hansen, Arthur G; Jackson, Robert J; Yohner, Peggy L;

Structures of two intermediate phases between the B1 and B2 phases of PbS under high pressure

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

Li, Yanchun, E-mail: liyc@ihep.ac.cn, E-mail: liuj@ihep.ac.cn; Lin, Chuanlong; Li, Xiaodong

2014-12-15

The structural transitions of PbS were investigated at pressures up to 50 GPa using synchrotron powder and single crystal X-ray diffraction (XRD) methods in diamond anvil cells. We found two intermediate phases between the B1 phase under atmospheric pressure and the B2 phase at 21.1 GPa, which is different to previous reports. The structures of these two intermediate phases were indexed as B27 and B33, respectively. Their structural parameters were investigated using density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Our results provide a new insight into understanding the transition pathway between the B1 and B2 phases in PbS.

Brillouin gain enhancement in nano-scale photonic waveguide

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nouri Jouybari, Soodabeh

2018-05-01

The enhancement of stimulated Brillouin scattering in nano-scale waveguides has a great contribution in the improvement of the photonic devices technology. The key factors in Brillouin gain are the electrostriction force and radiation pressure generated by optical waves in the waveguide. In this article, we have proposed a new scheme of nano-scale waveguide in which the Brillouin gain is considerably improved compared to the previously-reported schemes. The role of radiation pressure in the Brillouin gain was much higher than the role of the electrostriction force. The Brillouin gain strongly depends on the structural parameters of the waveguide and the maximum value of 12127 W-1 m-1 is obtained for the Brillouin gain.

Gene cloning and overexpression of a geranylgeranyl diphosphate synthase of an extremely thermophilic bacterium, Thermus thermophilus.

PubMed

Ohto, C; Ishida, C; Koike-Takeshita, A; Yokoyama, K; Muramatsu, M; Nishino, T; Obata, S

1999-02-01

A geranylgeranyl diphosphate (GGPP) synthase gene of an extremely thermophilic bacterium, Thermus thermophilus, was cloned and sequenced. T. thermophilus GGPP synthase, overexpressed in Escherichia coli cells as a glutathione S-transferase fusion protein, was purified and characterized. The fusion protein, retaining thermostability, formed a homodimer, and showed higher specific activity than did a partially purified thermostable enzyme previously reported. Optimal reaction conditions and kinetic parameters were also examined. The deduced amino acid sequence indicated that T. thermophilus GGPP synthase was excluded from the group of bacterial type GGPP synthases and lacked the insertion amino acid residues in the first aspartate-rich motif as do archaeal and eukaryotic short-chain prenyltransferases.

Enhancement of the fibrinolytic activity in plasma by oral administration of nattokinase.

PubMed

Sumi, H; Hamada, H; Nakanishi, K; Hiratani, H

1990-01-01

The existence of a potent fibrinolytic enzyme (nattokinase, NK) in the traditional fermented food called 'natto', was reported by us previously. It was confirmed that oral administration of NK (or natto) produced a mild and frequent enhancement of the fibrinolytic activity in the plasma, as indicated by the fibrinolytic parameters, and the production of tissue plasminogen activator. NK capsules were also administered orally to dogs with experimentally induced thrombosis, and lysis of the thrombi was observed by angiography. The results obtained suggest that NK represents a possible drug for use not only in the treatment of embolism but also in the prevention of the disease, since NK has a proven safety and can be massproduced.

High pressure/temperature equation of state of gold-silver alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Evans, W. J.; Jenei, Zs.; Sinogeikin, S. V.; Yang, W.; Shebanova, O.

2010-03-01

It has been reported previously (McKeehan Phys.Rev. 20 p424) that gold-silver alloys crystallize in face centered cubic structures, like their constituant pure elements and the cell parameter of the alloy has a linear relationship with the ratios of Ag/Au in the alloy. We investigate the high-pressure/temperature behavior of gold-silver alloys with different Au/Ag ratios. Powder x-ray diffraction experiments performed at HPCAT/Advanced Photon Source confirm the stability of the alloy's fcc structure to pressures/temperatures exceeding 100 GPa/1000 K. We will present isothermal EOS of the alloys from ambient temperature up to 1000 K, discuss the thermal expansion and its variation with pressure.

[Raman, FTIR spectra and normal mode analysis of acetanilide].

PubMed

Liang, Hui-Qin; Tao, Ya-Ping; Han, Li-Gang; Han, Yun-Xia; Mo, Yu-Jun

2012-10-01

The Raman and FTIR spectra of acetanilide (ACN) were measured experimentally in the regions of 3 500-50 and 3 500-600 cm(-1) respectively. The equilibrium geometry and vibration frequencies of ACN were calculated based on density functional theory (DFT) method (B3LYP/6-311G(d, p)). The results showed that the theoretical calculation of molecular structure parameters are in good agreement with previous report and better than the ones calculated based on 6-31G(d), and the calculated frequencies agree well with the experimental ones. Potential energy distribution of each frequency was worked out by normal mode analysis, and based on this, a detailed and accurate vibration frequency assignment of ACN was obtained.

Tracking control of concentration profiles in a fed-batch bioreactor using a linear algebra methodology.

PubMed

Rómoli, Santiago; Serrano, Mario Emanuel; Ortiz, Oscar Alberto; Vega, Jorge Rubén; Eduardo Scaglia, Gustavo Juan

2015-07-01

Based on a linear algebra approach, this paper aims at developing a novel control law able to track reference profiles that were previously-determined in the literature. A main advantage of the proposed strategy is that the control actions are obtained by solving a system of linear equations. The optimal controller parameters are selected through Monte Carlo Randomized Algorithm in order to minimize a proposed cost index. The controller performance is evaluated through several tests, and compared with other controller reported in the literature. Finally, a Monte Carlo Randomized Algorithm is conducted to assess the performance of the proposed controller. Copyright © 2015 ISA. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

New results from the search for low-mass weakly interacting massive particles with the CDMS low ionization threshold experiment

DOE PAGES

Agnese, R.

2016-02-17

The CDMS low ionization threshold experiment (CDMSlite) uses cryogenic germanium detectors operated at a relatively high bias voltage to amplify the phonon signal in the search for weakly interacting massive particles (WIMPs). Our results are presented from the second CDMSlite run with an exposure of 70 kg days, which reached an energy threshold for electron recoils as low as 56 eV. Furthermore, a fiducialization cut reduces backgrounds below those previously reported by CDMSlite. Lastly, new parameter space for the WIMP-nucleon spin-independent cross section is excluded forWIMP masses between 1.6 and 5.5 GeV/c 2.

ETFDH mutations as a major cause of riboflavin-responsive multiple acyl-CoA dehydrogenation deficiency.

PubMed

Olsen, Rikke K J; Olpin, Simon E; Andresen, Brage S; Miedzybrodzka, Zofia H; Pourfarzam, Morteza; Merinero, Begoña; Frerman, Frank E; Beresford, Michael W; Dean, John C S; Cornelius, Nanna; Andersen, Oluf; Oldfors, Anders; Holme, Elisabeth; Gregersen, Niels; Turnbull, Douglass M; Morris, Andrew A M

2007-08-01

Multiple acyl-CoA dehydrogenation deficiency (MADD) is a disorder of fatty acid, amino acid and choline metabolism that can result from defects in two flavoproteins, electron transfer flavoprotein (ETF) or ETF: ubiquinone oxidoreductase (ETF:QO). Some patients respond to pharmacological doses of riboflavin. It is unknown whether these patients have defects in the flavoproteins themselves or defects in the formation of the cofactor, FAD, from riboflavin. We report 15 patients from 11 pedigrees. All the index cases presented with encephalopathy or muscle weakness or a combination of these symptoms; several had previously suffered cyclical vomiting. Urine organic acid and plasma acyl-carnitine profiles indicated MADD. Clinical and biochemical parameters were either totally or partly corrected after riboflavin treatment. All patients had mutations in the gene for ETF:QO. In one patient, we show that the ETF:QO mutations are associated with a riboflavin-sensitive impairment of ETF:QO activity. This patient also had partial deficiencies of flavin-dependent acyl-CoA dehydrogenases and respiratory chain complexes, most of which were restored to control levels after riboflavin treatment. Low activities of mitochondrial flavoproteins or respiratory chain complexes have been reported previously in two of our patients with ETF:QO mutations. We postulate that riboflavin-responsive MADD may result from defects of ETF:QO combined with general mitochondrial dysfunction. This is the largest collection of riboflavin-responsive MADD patients ever reported, and the first demonstration of the molecular genetic basis for the disorder.

Identification of two clinical hepatocellular carcinoma patient phenotypes from results of standard screening parameters

PubMed Central

Carr, Brian I.; Giannini, Edoardo G.; Farinati, Fabio; Ciccarese, Francesca; Rapaccini, Gian Ludovico; Marco, Maria Di; Benvegnù, Luisa; Zoli, Marco; Borzio, Franco; Caturelli, Eugenio; Chiaramonte, Maria; Trevisani, Franco

2014-01-01

Background Previous work has shown that 2 general processes contribute to hepatocellular cancer (HCC) prognosis. They are: a. liver damage, monitored by indices such as blood bilirubin, prothrombin time and AST; as well as b. tumor biology, monitored by indices such as tumor size, tumor number, presence of PVT and blood AFP levels. These 2 processes may affect one another, with prognostically significant interactions between multiple tumor and host parameters. These interactions form a context that provide personalization of the prognostic meaning of these factors for every patient. Thus, a given level of bilirubin or tumor diameter might have a different significance in different personal contexts. We previously applied Network Phenotyping Strategy (NPS) to characterize interactions between liver function indices of Asian HCC patients and recognized two clinical phenotypes, S and L, differing in tumor size and tumor nodule numbers. Aims To validate the applicability of the NPS-based HCC S/L classification on an independent European HCC cohort, for which survival information was additionally available. Methods Four sets of peripheral blood parameters, including AFP-platelets, derived from routine blood parameter levels and tumor indices from the ITA.LI.CA database, were analyzed using NPS, a graph-theory based approach, which compares personal patterns of complete relationships between clinical data values to reference patterns with significant association to disease outcomes. Results Without reference to the actual tumor sizes, patients were classified by NPS into 2 subgroups with S and L phenotypes. These two phenotypes were recognized using solely the HCC screening test results, consisting of eight common blood parameters, paired by their significant correlations, including an AFP-Platelets relationship. These trends were combined with patient age, gender and self-reported alcoholism into NPS personal patient profiles. We subsequently validated (using actual scan data) that patients in L phenotype group had 1.5x larger mean tumor masses relative to S, p=6×10−16. Importantly, with the new data, liver test pattern-identified S-phenotype patients had typically 1.7 × longer survival compared to L-phenotype. NPS integrated the liver, tumor and basic demographic factors. Cirrhosis associated thrombocytopenia was typical for smaller S-tumors. In L-tumor phenotype, typical platelet levels increased with the tumor mass. Hepatic inflammation and tumor factors contributed to more aggressive L tumors, with parenchymal destruction and shorter survival. Summary NPS provides integrative interpretation for HCC behavior, identifying two tumor and survival phenotypes by clinical parameter patterns. The NPS classifier is provided as an Excel tool. The NPS system shows the importance of considering each tumor marker and parameter in the total context of all the other parameters of an individual patient. PMID:25023357

Total hip arthroplasty after a previous pelvic osteotomy: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

Shigemura, T; Yamamoto, Y; Murata, Y; Sato, T; Tsuchiya, R; Wada, Y

2018-06-01

There are several reports regarding total hip arthroplasty (THA) after a previous pelvic osteotomy (PO). However, to our knowledge, until now there has been no formal systematic review and meta-analysis published to summarize the clinical results of THA after a previous PO. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of results of THA after a previous PO. We focus on these questions as follows: does a previous PO affect the results of subsequent THA, such as clinical outcomes, operative time, operative blood loss, and radiological parameters. Using PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library, we searched for relevant original papers. The pooling of data was performed using RevMan software (version 5.3, Cochrane Collaboration, Oxford, UK). A p-value<0.05 was judged as significant. Standardized mean differences (SMD) were calculated for continuous data with a 95% confidence interval (CI) was reported. Statistical heterogeneity was assessed based on I 2 using standard χ 2 test. When I 2 >50%, significant heterogeneity was assumed and a random-effects model was applied for the meta-analysis. A fixed-effects model was applied in the absence of significant heterogeneity. Eleven studies were included in this meta-analysis. The pooled results indicated that there was no significant difference in postoperative Merle D'Aubigne-Postel score (I 2 =0%, SMD=-0.15, 95% CI: -0.36 to 0.06, p=0.17), postoperative Harris hip score (I 2 =60%, SMD=-0.23, 95% CI: -0.50 to 0.05, p=0.10), operative time (I 2 =86%, SMD=0.37, 95% CI: -0.09 to 0.82, p=0.11), operative blood loss (I 2 =82%, SMD=0.23, 95% CI: -0.17 to 0.63, p=0.25), and cup abduction angle (I 2 =43%, SMD=-0.08, 95% CI: -0.25 to 0.09, p=0.38) between THA with and without a previous PO. However, cup anteversion angle of THA with a previous PO was significantly smaller than that of without a previous PO (I 2 =77%, SMD=-0.63, 95% CI: -1.13 to -0.13, p=0.01). Systematic review and meta-analysis of results of THA after a previous PO was performed. A previous PO did not affect the results of subsequent THA, except for cup anteversion. Because of the low quality evidence currently available, high-quality randomized controlled trials are required. Level III, meta-analysis of case-control studies. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of the low-level laser therapy application parameters for skin burn treatment in experimental model: a systematic review.

PubMed

Brassolatti, Patricia; de Andrade, Ana Laura Martins; Bossini, Paulo Sérgio; Otterço, Albaiza Nicoletti; Parizotto, Nivaldo Antônio

2018-05-05

Burn is defined as a traumatic injury of thermal origin, which affects the organic tissue. Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has gained great prominence as a treatment in this type of injury; however, the application parameters are still controversial in the literature. The aims of this study were to review the literature studies that use LLLT as a treatment in burns conducted in an experimental model, discuss the main parameters used, and highlight the benefits found in order to choose an appropriate therapeutic window to be applied in this type of injury. The selection of the studies related to the theme was carried out in the main databases (PubMed, Cochrane Library, LILACS, Web of Science, and Scopus in the period from 2001 to 2017). Subsequently, the articles were then chosen that fell within the inclusion criteria previously established. In the end, 22 were evaluated, and the main parameters were presented. The analyzed studies presented both LLLT use in continuous and pulsed mode. Differences between the parameters used (power, fluence, and total energy) were observed. In addition, the protocols are distinct as to the type of injury and the number of treatment sessions. Among the results obtained by the authors are the improvements in the local microcirculation and cellular proliferation; however, a study reported no effects with LLLT as a treatment. LLLT is effective in accelerating the healing process. However, there is immense difficulty in establishing the most adequate protocol, due to the great discrepancy found in the applied dosimetry values.

REVISITING THE ISN FLOW PARAMETERS, USING A VARIABLE IBEX POINTING STRATEGY

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

Leonard, T. W.; Möbius, E.; Heirtzler, D.

2015-05-01

The Interstellar Boundary Explorer (IBEX) has observed the interstellar neutral (ISN) gas flow over the past 6 yr during winter/spring when the Earth’s motion opposes the ISN flow. Since IBEX observes the interstellar atom trajectories near their perihelion, we can use an analytical model based upon orbital mechanics to determine the interstellar parameters. Interstellar flow latitude, velocity, and temperature are coupled to the flow longitude and are restricted by the IBEX observations to a narrow tube in this parameter space. In our original analysis we found that pointing the spacecraft spin axis slightly out of the ecliptic plane significantly influencesmore » the ISN flow vector determination. Introducing the spacecraft spin axis tilt into the analytical model has shown that IBEX observations with various spin axis tilt orientations can substantially reduce the range of acceptable solutions to the ISN flow parameters as a function of flow longitude. The IBEX operations team pointed the IBEX spin axis almost exactly within the ecliptic plane during the 2012–2014 seasons, and about 5° below the ecliptic for half of the 2014 season. In its current implementation the analytical model describes the ISN flow most precisely for the spin axis orientation exactly in the ecliptic. This analysis refines the derived ISN flow parameters with a possible reconciliation between velocity vectors found with IBEX and Ulysses, resulting in a flow longitude λ{sub ∞} = 74.°5 ± 1.°7 and latitude β{sub ∞} = −5.°2 ± 0.°3, but at a substantially higher ISN temperature than previously reported.« less

D-malate production by permeabilized Pseudomonas pseudoalcaligenes; optimization of conversion and biocatalyst productivity.

PubMed

Michielsen, M J; Frielink, C; Wijffels, R H; Tramper, J; Beeftink, H H

2000-04-14

For the development of a continuous process for the production of solid D-malate from a Ca-maleate suspension by permeabilized Pseudomonas pseudoalcaligenes, it is important to understand the effect of appropriate process parameters on the stability and activity of the biocatalyst. Previously, we quantified the effect of product (D-malate2 -) concentration on both the first-order biocatalyst inactivation rate and on the biocatalytic conversion rate. The effects of the remaining process parameters (ionic strength, and substrate and Ca2 + concentration) on biocatalyst activity are reported here. At (common) ionic strengths below 2 M, biocatalyst activity was unaffected. At high substrate concentrations, inhibition occurred. Ca2+ concentration did not affect biocatalyst activity. The kinetic parameters (both for conversion and inactivation) were determined as a function of temperature by fitting the complete kinetic model, featuring substrate inhibition, competitive product inhibition and first-order irreversible biocatalyst inactivation, at different temperatures simultaneously through three extended data sets of substrate concentration versus time. Temperature affected both the conversion and inactivation parameters. The final model was used to calculate the substrate and biocatalyst costs per mmol of product in a continuous system with biocatalyst replenishment and biocatalyst recycling. Despite the effect of temperature on each kinetic parameter separately, the overall effect of temperature on the costs was found to be negligible (between 293 and 308 K). Within pertinent ranges, the sum of the substrate and biocatalyst costs per mmol of product was calculated to decrease with the influent substrate concentration and the residence time. The sum of the costs showed a minimum as a function of the influent biocatalyst concentration.

COHERENT NETWORK ANALYSIS FOR CONTINUOUS GRAVITATIONAL WAVE SIGNALS IN A PULSAR TIMING ARRAY: PULSAR PHASES AS EXTRINSIC PARAMETERS

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

Wang, Yan; Mohanty, Soumya D.; Jenet, Fredrick A., E-mail: ywang12@hust.edu.cn

2015-12-20

Supermassive black hole binaries are one of the primary targets of gravitational wave (GW) searches using pulsar timing arrays (PTAs). GW signals from such systems are well represented by parameterized models, allowing the standard Generalized Likelihood Ratio Test (GLRT) to be used for their detection and estimation. However, there is a dichotomy in how the GLRT can be implemented for PTAs: there are two possible ways in which one can split the set of signal parameters for semi-analytical and numerical extremization. The straightforward extension of the method used for continuous signals in ground-based GW searches, where the so-called pulsar phasemore » parameters are maximized numerically, was addressed in an earlier paper. In this paper, we report the first study of the performance of the second approach where the pulsar phases are maximized semi-analytically. This approach is scalable since the number of parameters left over for numerical optimization does not depend on the size of the PTA. Our results show that for the same array size (9 pulsars), the new method performs somewhat worse in parameter estimation, but not in detection, than the previous method where the pulsar phases were maximized numerically. The origin of the performance discrepancy is likely to be in the ill-posedness that is intrinsic to any network analysis method. However, the scalability of the new method allows the ill-posedness to be mitigated by simply adding more pulsars to the array. This is shown explicitly by taking a larger array of pulsars.« less

Spectroscopic Investigation of TW Dra: Improved Stellar and System Parameters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tkachenko, A.; Lehmann, H.; Mkrtichian, D.

2010-12-01

We investigate the Algol-type system TW Dra by means of the new computer program Shellspec07_inverse which is specially designed for the fine-tuning of stellar and system parameters of eclipsing binaries. We derive precise atmospheric and system parameters of TW Dra with an accuracy comparable to that expected from photometric data, and give a short comparison of our results with previous determinations.

Passing from Mesoscopy to Macroscopy. The Mesoscopic Parameter \\bar k

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maslov, V. P.

2018-01-01

In previous papers of the author it was shown that, depending on the hidden parameter, purely quantum problems behave like classical ones. In the present paper, it is shown that the Bose-Einstein and the Fermi-Dirac distributions, which until now were regarded as dealing with quantum particles, describe, for the appropriate values of the hidden parameter, the macroscopic thermodynamics of classical molecules.

Multivariate classification with random forests for gravitational wave searches of black hole binary coalescence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baker, Paul T.; Caudill, Sarah; Hodge, Kari A.; Talukder, Dipongkar; Capano, Collin; Cornish, Neil J.

2015-03-01

Searches for gravitational waves produced by coalescing black hole binaries with total masses ≳25 M⊙ use matched filtering with templates of short duration. Non-Gaussian noise bursts in gravitational wave detector data can mimic short signals and limit the sensitivity of these searches. Previous searches have relied on empirically designed statistics incorporating signal-to-noise ratio and signal-based vetoes to separate gravitational wave candidates from noise candidates. We report on sensitivity improvements achieved using a multivariate candidate ranking statistic derived from a supervised machine learning algorithm. We apply the random forest of bagged decision trees technique to two separate searches in the high mass (≳25 M⊙ ) parameter space. For a search which is sensitive to gravitational waves from the inspiral, merger, and ringdown of binary black holes with total mass between 25 M⊙ and 100 M⊙ , we find sensitive volume improvements as high as 70±13%-109±11% when compared to the previously used ranking statistic. For a ringdown-only search which is sensitive to gravitational waves from the resultant perturbed intermediate mass black hole with mass roughly between 10 M⊙ and 600 M⊙ , we find sensitive volume improvements as high as 61±4%-241±12% when compared to the previously used ranking statistic. We also report how sensitivity improvements can differ depending on mass regime, mass ratio, and available data quality information. Finally, we describe the techniques used to tune and train the random forest classifier that can be generalized to its use in other searches for gravitational waves.

DNA Barcodes for the FIshes of the Narmada, One of India’s Longest Rivers

PubMed Central

Khedkar, Gulab Dattarao; Jamdade, Rahul; Naik, Suresh; David, Lior; Haymer, David

2014-01-01

This study describes the species diversity of fishes of the Narmada River in India. A total of 820 fish specimens were collected from 17 sampling locations across the whole river basin. Fish were taxonomically classified into one of 90 possible species based on morphological characters, and then DNA barcoding was employed using COI gene sequences as a supplemental identification method. A total of 314 different COI sequences were generated, and specimens were confirmed to belong to 85 species representing 63 genera, 34 families and 10 orders. Findings of this study include the identification of five putative cryptic or sibling species and 43 species not previously known from the Narmada River basin. Five species are endemic to India and three are introduced species that had not been previously reported to occur in the Narmada River. Conversely, 43 species previously reported to occur in the Narmada were not found. Genetic diversity and distance values were generated for all of the species within genera, families and orders using Kimura’s 2 parameter distance model followed by the construction of a Neighbor Joining tree. High resolution clusters generated in NJ trees aided the groupings of species corresponding to their genera and families which are in confirmation to the values generated by Automatic Barcode Gap Discovery bioinformatics platform. This aided to decide a threshold value for the discrimination of species boundary from the Narmada River. This study provides an important validation of the use of DNA barcode sequences for monitoring species diversity and changes within complex ecosystems such as the Narmada River. PMID:24991801

DNA barcodes for the fishes of the Narmada, one of India's longest rivers.

PubMed

Khedkar, Gulab Dattarao; Jamdade, Rahul; Naik, Suresh; David, Lior; Haymer, David

2014-01-01

This study describes the species diversity of fishes of the Narmada River in India. A total of 820 fish specimens were collected from 17 sampling locations across the whole river basin. Fish were taxonomically classified into one of 90 possible species based on morphological characters, and then DNA barcoding was employed using COI gene sequences as a supplemental identification method. A total of 314 different COI sequences were generated, and specimens were confirmed to belong to 85 species representing 63 genera, 34 families and 10 orders. Findings of this study include the identification of five putative cryptic or sibling species and 43 species not previously known from the Narmada River basin. Five species are endemic to India and three are introduced species that had not been previously reported to occur in the Narmada River. Conversely, 43 species previously reported to occur in the Narmada were not found. Genetic diversity and distance values were generated for all of the species within genera, families and orders using Kimura's 2 parameter distance model followed by the construction of a Neighbor Joining tree. High resolution clusters generated in NJ trees aided the groupings of species corresponding to their genera and families which are in confirmation to the values generated by Automatic Barcode Gap Discovery bioinformatics platform. This aided to decide a threshold value for the discrimination of species boundary from the Narmada River. This study provides an important validation of the use of DNA barcode sequences for monitoring species diversity and changes within complex ecosystems such as the Narmada River.

Bilirubin Level is Associated with Left Ventricular Hypertrophy Independent of Blood Pressure in Previously Untreated Hypertensive Patients

PubMed Central

Ayaz, Teslime; Kocaman, Sinan Altan; Durakoğlugil, Tuğba; Erdoğan, Turan; Şahin, Osman Zikrullah; Şahin, Serap Baydur; Çiçek, Yüksel; Şatiroğlu, Ömer

2014-01-01

Background and Objectives Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), a sign of subclinical cardiovascular disease, is an important predictor of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. The aim of our study was to determine the association of left ventricular mass (LVM) with possible causative anthropometric and biochemical parameters as well as carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) and brachial flow-mediated dilation (FMD) as surrogates of atherosclerosis and endothelial dysfunction, respectively, in previously untreated hypertensive patients. Subjects and Methods Our study included 114 consecutive previously untreated hypertensive patients who underwent echocardiography and ultrasonography to evaluate their vascular status and function via brachial artery CIMT and FMD. Results Among all study parameters, age, systolic blood pressure (BP), diastolic BP, pulse pressure, plasma glucose, uric acid, total bilirubin, direct bilirubin, hemoglobin, and CIMT were positively correlated with the LVM index. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that office systolic BP, age, male gender, and total bilirubin were independent predictors of LVH. Conclusion Bilirubin seems to be related to LVM and LVH. The positive association of bilirubin with these parameters is novel and requires further research. PMID:25278987

Conflicts Within the Family and Within the Couple as Contextual Factors in the Determinism of Male Sexual Dysfunction.

PubMed

Boddi, Valentina; Fanni, Egidia; Castellini, Giovanni; Fisher, Alessandra Daphne; Corona, Giovanni; Maggi, Mario

2015-12-01

The deterioration of a couple's relationship has been previously associated with impairment in male sexual function. Besides a couple's dystonic relationship, other stressors can unfavorably influence dyadic intimacy. A largely neglected etiopathogenetic factor affecting couple sexuality is the frustration caused by conflicts within the family. To evaluate the possible associations between male sexual dysfunction (SD) and conflictual relationships within the couple or the family. A consecutive series of 3,975 men, attending the Outpatient Clinic for SD for the first time, was retrospectively studied. Conflicts within the family and within the couple were assessed using two standard questions: "Are there any conflicts at home," and "Do you have a difficult relationship with your partner?" respectively, rating 0 = normal relationships, 1 = occasional quarrels, and 2 = frequent quarrels or always. Several clinical, biochemical, and psychological (Middlesex Hospital Questionnaire) parameters were studied. Among the 3,975 patients studied, we observed a high prevalence of conflicts within the family and within the couple (32% vs. 21.2%). When compared with the rest of the sample, subjects reporting both type of conflicts showed a higher prevalence of psychiatric comorbidities. Hence, all data were adjusted for this parameter and for age. Family and couple conflicts were significantly associated with free floating anxiety, depression symptoms, and with a higher risk of subjective (self-reported) and objective (peak systolic velocity at the penile color Doppler ultrasound <35 mm/sec2) erectile dysfunction and hypoactive sexual desire. Female sexual function parameters, as reported by the patient, retained a significant association with both type of conflicts. This study indicates that the presence of often unexplored issues, like conflicts within the family or within the couple, can represent an important contextual factor in the determinism of male SD. © 2015 International Society for Sexual Medicine.

SU-F-T-234: Quality Improvements in the Electronic Medical Record of Patients Treated with High Dose-Rate Brachytherapy

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

Diener, T; Wilkinson, D

Purpose: To improve workflow efficiency and patient safety by assessing the quality control documentation for HDR brachytherapy within our Electronic Medical Record System (Mosaiq). Methods: A list of parameters based on NRC regulations, our quality management program (QMP), recommendations of the ACR and the American Brachytherapy Society, and HDR treatment planning risks identified in our previous FMEA study was made. Next, the parameter entries were classified according to the type of data input—manual, electronic, or both. Manual entry included the electronic Brachytherapy Treatment Record (BTR) and pre-treatment Mosaiq Assessments list. Oncentra Treatment Reports (OTR) from the Oncentra Treatment Control Systemmore » constituted the electronic data. The OTR includes a Pre-treatment Report for each fraction, and a Treatment Summary Report at the completion of treatment. Each entry was then examined for appropriateness and completeness of data; adjustments and additions as necessary were then made. Results: Ten out of twenty-one recorded treatment parameters were identified to be documented within both the BTR and OTR. Of these ten redundancies, eight were changed from recorded values to a simple checklist in the BTR to avoid recording errors. The other redundancies were kept in both documents due to their value to ensuring patient safety. An edit was made to the current BTR quality assessment; this change revises the definition of a medical event in accordance with ODH Regulation 3701:1-58-101. One addition was made to the current QMP documents regarding HDR. This addition requires a physician to be present through the duration of HDR treatment in accordance with ODH Regulation 3701:1-58-59; Paragraph (F); Section (2); Subsection (a). Conclusion: Careful examination of HDR documentation that originates from different sources can help to improve the accuracy and reliability of the documents. In addition, there may be a small improvement in efficiency due to elimination of unnecessary redundancies.« less

Is There a Clinical Role For Smartphone Sleep Apps? Comparison of Sleep Cycle Detection by a Smartphone Application to Polysomnography.

PubMed

Bhat, Sushanth; Ferraris, Ambra; Gupta, Divya; Mozafarian, Mona; DeBari, Vincent A; Gushway-Henry, Neola; Gowda, Satish P; Polos, Peter G; Rubinstein, Mitchell; Seidu, Huzaifa; Chokroverty, Sudhansu

2015-07-15

Several inexpensive, readily available smartphone apps that claim to monitor sleep are popular among patients. However, their accuracy is unknown, which limits their widespread clinical use. We therefore conducted this study to evaluate the validity of parameters reported by one such app, the Sleep Time app (Azumio, Inc., Palo Alto, CA, USA) for iPhones. Twenty volunteers with no previously diagnosed sleep disorders underwent in-laboratory polysomnography (PSG) while simultaneously using the app. Parameters reported by the app were then compared to those obtained by PSG. In addition, an epoch-by-epoch analysis was performed by dividing the PSG and app graph into 15-min epochs. There was no correlation between PSG and app sleep efficiency (r = -0.127, p = 0.592), light sleep percentage (r = 0.024, p = 0.921), deep sleep percentage (r = 0.181, p = 0.444) or sleep latency (rs = 0.384, p = 0.094). The app slightly and nonsignificantly overestimated sleep efficiency by 0.12% (95% confidence interval [CI] -4.9 to 5.1%, p = 0.962), significantly underestimated light sleep by 27.9% (95% CI 19.4-36.4%, p < 0.0001), significantly overestimated deep sleep by 11.1% (CI 4.7-17.4%, p = 0.008) and significantly overestimated sleep latency by 15.6 min (CI 9.7-21.6, p < 0.0001). Epochwise comparison showed low overall accuracy (45.9%) due to poor interstage discrimination, but high accuracy in sleep-wake detection (85.9%). The app had high sensitivity but poor specificity in detecting sleep (89.9% and 50%, respectively). Our study shows that the absolute parameters and sleep staging reported by the Sleep Time app (Azumio, Inc.) for iPhones correlate poorly with PSG. Further studies comparing app sleep-wake detection to actigraphy may help elucidate its potential clinical utility. A commentary on this article appears in this issue on page 695. © 2015 American Academy of Sleep Medicine.

INNOVATIVE INSTRUMENTATION AND ANALYSIS OF THE TEMPERATURE MEASUREMENT FOR HIGH TEMPERATURE GASIFICATION

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

Seong W. Lee

2004-10-01

The systematic tests of the gasifier simulator on the clean thermocouple were completed in this reporting period. Within the systematic tests on the clean thermocouple, five (5) factors were considered as the experimental parameters including air flow rate, water flow rate, fine dust particle amount, ammonia addition and high/low frequency device (electric motor). The fractional factorial design method was used in the experiment design with sixteen (16) data sets of readings. Analysis of Variances (ANOVA) was applied to the results from systematic tests. The ANOVA results show that the un-balanced motor vibration frequency did not have the significant impact onmore » the temperature changes in the gasifier simulator. For the fine dust particles testing, the amount of fine dust particles has significant impact to the temperature measurements in the gasifier simulator. The effects of the air and water on the temperature measurements show the same results as reported in the previous report. The ammonia concentration was included as an experimental parameter for the reducing environment in this reporting period. The ammonia concentration does not seem to be a significant factor on the temperature changes. The linear regression analysis was applied to the temperature reading with five (5) factors. The accuracy of the linear regression is relatively low, which is less than 10% accuracy. Nonlinear regression was also conducted to the temperature reading with the same factors. Since the experiments were designed in two (2) levels, the nonlinear regression is not very effective with the dataset (16 readings). An extra central point test was conducted. With the data of the center point testing, the accuracy of the nonlinear regression is much better than the linear regression.« less

Revision of the Li13Si4 structure

PubMed Central

Zeilinger, Michael; Fässler, Thomas F.

2013-01-01

Besides Li17Si4, Li16.42Si4, and Li15Si4, another lithium-rich representative in the Li–Si system is the phase Li13Si4 (trideca­lithium tetra­silicide), the structure of which has been determined previously [Frank et al. (1975 ▶). Z. Naturforsch. Teil B, 30, 10–13]. A careful analysis of X-ray diffraction patterns of Li13Si4 revealed discrepancies between experimentally observed and calculated Bragg positions. Therefore, we redetermined the structure of Li13Si4 on the basis of single-crystal X-ray diffraction data. Compared to the previous structure report, decisive differences are (i) the introduction of a split position for one Li site [occupancy ratio 0.838 (7):0.162 (7)], (ii) the anisotropic refinement of atomic displacement parameters for all atoms, and (iii) a high accuracy of atom positions and unit-cell parameters. The asymmetric unit of Li13Si4 contains two Si and seven Li atoms. Except for one Li atom situated on a site with symmetry 2/m, all other atoms are on mirror planes. The structure consists of isolated Si atoms as well as Si–Si dumbbells surrounded by Li atoms. Each Si atom is either 12- or 13-coordinated. The isolated Si atoms are situated in the ab plane at z = 0 and are strictly separated from the Si–Si dumbbells at z = 0.5. PMID:24454148